Marathon Weekly 25-0130

HOMELESS CAMP CLEARED FDOT orders 20th Street emptied | P.4 THE FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD MARKET

Grassy Key Land & Sea has premium meats | P.12

Flag football teams rack up wins in Key West | P.14

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Distance runners hoping to race the 2025 7 Mile Bridge Run had a taller task than ever this year. Registration for the run, capped each year at 1,500 entrants, sold out in a mere three minutes on runsignup.com on the morning of Jan. 28, setting a new record for the race registration crew.

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ORDERS CLEARING OF 20TH STREET CAMP

Homeless residents must leave by Friday

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Residents of a homeless camp on 20th Street in Marathon will be forced to vacate the area after a new request from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), numerous city and county officials announced on Jan. 28.

For years, the camp has served as a lightning rod for debate over how best to handle and serve Marathon’s homeless population. However, as city officials have repeatedly stated, though it falls within the confines of the city, the 20th Street road and right of way are FDOT property.

The new decision, relayed by City Attorney Steve Williams at Marathon’s Tuesday workshop session and confirmed through a Jan. 29 press release from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, means camp residents will have until Friday, Jan. 31 to leave the property, as sheriff’s office deputies began distributing 48-hour notices to vacate on Wednesday morning.

A memo sent from FDOT District 6 Secretary Stacy Miller to Sheriff Rick Ramsay on Jan. 27 authorized sheriff’s office personnel to order camp residents to leave, along with “No Trespassing” signs to be installed by the city of Marathon.

As of Tuesday night, two city-supplied portable restrooms and a Dumpster had been removed from the camp, along with the installation of the signs. By Wednesday morning, one bathroom had been replaced at the camp.

“The sheriff’s office is going to be enforcing the no trespassing, and then Marathon is going to clean up the site,” FDOT District 6 public information officer Maria Higgins Fallon told the Weekly by phone on Jan. 28.

A long-term maintenance protocol for the area has yet to be determined, as conflicting communications from city, county and FDOT officials obtained by the Weekly have questioned

Ashley Strama and the Marathon Mermaids made short work of their competitors en route to a shutout win in the junior championship of the Kelly McGillis Classic in Key West. See page 14. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

A new request from FDOT will spell the end of a homeless encampment on 20th Street in Marathon. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

the entity responsible for day-to-day management of the property.

“We will honor (FDOT’s) request in a way that is legal, efficient and humane,” said Ramsay in a press release, adding that deputies will provide campers with information pamphlets and contact information for available local resources.

The clearout comes just days after the filing of a lawsuit, signed by nearly 40 Marathon residents and businesses, against the city of Marathon for alleged violations of HB-1365, a new 2024 law that essentially banned homeless camping throughout the state of Florida.

According to the law, cities may designate properties for homeless camping for one-year periods, but must certify the area through the Florida Department of Children and Families by satisfying a laundry list of conditions, many of which by definition would rule out most properties in Marathon.

“The lawsuit filtered its way through the channels and made it up to FDOT, and allegedly all the way to the governor’s office,” Williams told the city council on Tuesday night, later confirming to the Weekly by phone that city staff will assist with the immediate cleanup of the area.

Marathon captain Morgan Gotti, the principal author of the suit, told the Weekly by phone on Wednesday morning that she expected roughly half of the suit’s plaintiffs to withdraw their names once the camp is removed.

“Simply removing the encampment is part of what we want,” she said. “But we do want to see the city take some responsibility and help these people. Let’s help them do whatever

continued on page 24

CONTRACTORS WHO HIRED ILLEGAL FOREIGN WORKERS SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS

Operation RoomKey targets owners of illegal staffing companies

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

Ayears-long federal investigation into illegal staffing companies that brought undocumented foreign workers into the United States and got them jobs at Key West and Florida Keys hotels, bars and restaurants continued this week when two Ukrainian men received lengthy prison sentences.

Oleg Oliynyk and Oleksandr Yurchyk were sentenced to 15 years each for conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

According to court documents, Oliynyk, Yurchyk and others owned and operated a series of laborstaffing companies in South Florida — Paradise Choice, Paradise Choice Cleaning, Tropical City Services and Tropical City Group — from at least April 2008 and August 2021.

“Through these staffing companies, Oliynyk, Yurchyk and co-defendants Oleksandr Morgunov, Mykhaylo Chugay and Volodymyr Ogorodnychuk facilitated the employment of non-resident aliens in the hospitality industry who were not authorized to work in the United States and helped evade the assessment and collection of more than $25 million of federal income and employment taxes,” states a press release from the Department of Justice.

The staffing companies provided illegal foreign workers to multiple hotels and restaurants in Key West and Marathon.

In addition to the prison terms, U.S. District Court Judge Jose E. Martinez ordered Oliynyk and Yurchyk to each serve three years of supervised release, pay $10.8 million in restitution to the United States and to forfeit $11 million.

Oliynyk and Yurchyk are the latest defendants sentenced as part of Operation RoomKey, a

joint criminal investigation led by the U.S. Department of Justice Tax Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, Homeland Security Investigations and IRS Criminal Investigation.

The investigation and resulting indictments began in August 2021 and eventually resulted in a dozen convictions and prison sentences that ranged from two to 24 years.

Co-defendant Chugay was convicted at trial in June 2022, and sentenced to more than 24 years in prison. Co-defendants Morgunov and Ogorodnychuk each pleaded guilty and were sentenced to eight years and four years in prison, respectively.

The investigations related to Operation RoomKey are ongoing.

In August 2021, when four of the suspects were federally indicted, their staffing companies — and others that were concerned about similar legal trouble — shut down, leaving hundreds of illegal workers without income and often without their employer-provided housing.

Those indictments and the shutdown of staffing agencies also led to crippling labor shortages at Florida Keys hotels and restaurants that rely on the foreign workers. The situation left dozens of Keys hotels without housekeepers, dishwashers and other crucial positions.

A Marathon hotel employee who asked to remain anonymous told the Keys Weekly in August 2021 that when she signed with the labor agency, no one explained U.S. labor laws or asked her for any identification or proof of her eligibility to work in the United States.

Read the Keys Weekly’s story from August 2021 by scanning the QR code here:

MARATHON CAPITOL RIOTER GOES FREE AFTER TRUMP PARDONS

Bryan Bishop served less than five of his 45-month sentence

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

AMarathon man who admitted to assaulting law enforcement officers during the Jan. 6, 2021 U.S. Capitol riots was among those to walk free when President Donald Trump issued more than 1,500 pardons to rioters on his first day in office.

Originally arrested in August 2023, Bryan Bishop pleaded guilty in April 2024 to a felony charge of assaulting, resisting or impeding officers after video footage from the Jan. 6 riots captured him spraying a Metropolitan Police Department officer in the face with a chemical irritant before entering the Capitol.

On Sept. 3, Bishop was sentenced to 45 months in prison, along with three years of supervised release and a $2,000 restitution payment by U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly. Following Trump’s pardons, he served less than five months of that sentence.

A month before Bryan’s plea, his wife Tonya Bishop also pleaded guilty to lesser misdemeanor charges after entering the Capitol during the riots. She was later sentenced to 24 months of probation and $500 in restitution.

A search of the Federal Bureau of Prisons database confirmed Bryan Bishop’s release. Multiple sources confirmed to the Weekly that the Bishops had returned to their boat in Boot Key Harbor, and the couple hold an active mooring reservation with the city of Marathon.

Trump’s day-one pardons were paired with commuted sentences of 14 defendants associated with the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, previously convicted of seditious conspiracy.

“This is a big one,” Trump said of the “full, complete and unconditional” pardons that drew condemnation from Democratic lawmakers and even a few Republicans.

Calling them a “truly unthinkable attempt to erase the facts of that day,” Democratic Sen. Patty Murray introduced a resolution requesting unanimous consent to condemn the pardons, but that resolution was blocked by Senate Republicans on Jan. 28.

“It is a betrayal of the law enforcement that protected all of us that day and a dangerous endorsement of political violence, telling criminals that you can beat cops within an inch of their lives as long as it’s in service to Donald Trump,” Murray said.

Though Trump had for months promised to grant clemency to many Jan. 6 defendants, some still questioned prior to Inauguration Day whether the pardons would include violent offenders during the riots.

In a Jan. 12 interview with Fox News, Vice President JD Vance stated that those who committed violence on Jan. 6 “obviously shouldn’t be pardoned,” causing backlash from right-wing supporters. Vance quickly walked back his position in an interview with CBS on Jan. 26, seeking to separate the actions of violent rioters from what he called “denied constitutional protections in the prosecutions” for defendants under former Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Seen here at the courthouse in Key West after his August 2023 arrest, Bryan Bishop was among more than 1,500 Capitol rioters pardoned by President Donald Trump. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

JUDGE FINDS DANIEL WEISBERGER GUILTY IN STABBING DEATH OF HIS YOUNGER BROTHER

Sentencing set for Feb. 27

McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Seven days of witness and expert testimony in the Daniel Weisberger sibling murder trial culminated in Circuit Judge Mark H. Jones delivering a guilty verdict inside a Key West courtroom on the afternoon of Jan. 23.

Following a few hours of deliberation in the bench trial, Jones found Weisberger guilty of second-degree murder in the stabbing death of his brother, 14-year-old Pascal, inside their Islamorada home during the early morning of May, 7 2020. Weisberger, who was 17 at the time of the attacks, was also found guilty of first-degree attempted murder in the stabbing attack on his dad, Ariel Poholek, shortly after killing Pascal.

The case was originally expected to go to a jury trial in the Upper Keys last fall. Delays, however, forced the case to a new judge and location following Judge Luis Garcia’s retirement last November.

A gallery of family members and staff with the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office were silent as they watched and listened to Jones read the verdict. The charges carry a possible life sentence for Weisberger, who was held at the county jail on Stock Island during the trial. He was transported to the South Florida Evaluation and Treatment Center, where he’s been receiving treatment for several years, following the trial. Daniel will learn of his sentence when he returns to the courtroom on Feb. 27.

State Attorney Dennis Ward declined to comment following the verdict, saying he would comment following the sentence hearing.

Prosecutors say Daniel stabbed his younger brother Pascal to death in a bedroom they shared at their Executive Bay home in Islamorada during the early morning hours of May 7, 2020. Prosecutors say Daniel also attacked his father, Ari Poholek, shortly afterward, stabbing him in the neck and strangling him. Daniel held his father hostage for roughly two hours before eventually fleeing; his father managed to escape and get help from a neighbor.

A massive hunt ensued by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and neighboring agencies in MiamiDade 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.

Daniel’s defense counsel, Diane Ward and Ed O’Donnell, were seeking a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. They brought several experts to the stand to testify, one being Dr. Pamela Scannell. She saw Daniel on several occasions at the South Florida Evaluation and Treatment Center. A licensed clinical psychologist specializing in forensic psychology, Scannell believed Daniel was suffering from a psychotic illness, schizophrenia, at the time of the attacks on May 7, 2020.

The defense also called psychiatric expert Dr. Mark Mills, who visited Daniel several times between July 2021 and January 2022. He, too, said Daniel suffered from schizophrenia. The trial also brought to light Daniel’s diagnosis of ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder and conduct disorder during his younger years.

Ward also recalled a timeline just hours before the attack as Poholek sought help for Daniel. Poholek attempted to contact Daniel’s therapist, expressing grave concern for his deteriorating mental state — he was locking doors and hiding knives. He even began to stab furniture.

There were also verbal and physical altercations between Daniel, Pascal and Poholek hours before the tragedy. Poholek also attempted to call a mobile crisis number. The help Daniel needed didn’t come in time, however, as the attacks began during the morning of May 7, 2020. Ward said Daniel’s situation needed more attention than it was getting from his therapist.

“He was a person coming unglued and needing help,” defense counsel Diane Ward said during closing statements.

Prosecutors Colleen Dunne and Trey Evans, of the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office, refuted the claim that Daniel was psychotic during the stabbings. They pointed to a note Daniel wrote stating his reasons for his attack. Prosecutors also said a message on the back of that note was “apologetic” in nature.

“Someone who doesn’t realize what they did was wrong doesn’t need to ask for forgiveness,” said

assistant state attorney Trey Evans during closing statements.

Poholek, who attended the full trial in support of his son, said the state attorney’s office “ensured that we suffered as much additional emotional distress as possible throughout the trial, and even before.” Poholek maintains Daniel wasn’t in a rational state of mind when he attacked Pascal and himself.

“My family and I are profoundly disappointed by the judge’s decision,” Poholek said in a statement to Keys Weekly. “We, and all who are familiar with both of the boys, including Pascal’s closest friends, know that Daniel greatly loved Pascal and could have never committed the acts he did unless he was in an altered mental state, as I personally experienced him being when the events of that day unfolded.”

Poholek was also critical of the State Attorney’s Office in the way they conducted the case for the past four-and-half years, everything from trying to silence the family through a gag order, orchestrating the change in trial location and having expert witnesses excluded.

“They didn’t just present the facts and let them stand for themselves, they used every legal maneuver and strategy available to undermine Daniel’s defense in order to win the case. That, not the actual truth being known, was their goal.”

Poholek said he hopes Judge Jones takes into account his family’s wishes to focus on mental health treatment as opposed to decades behind bars. A number of letters sent by members of the community who knew Daniel and the family are also urging Jones to spare Daniel more time in jail.

“Daniel indeed had mental health issues which I addressed to the best of my ability,” said Dr. Stan Zuba in a letter to Jones. “I also referred him to several mental health providers. As you are likely aware, mental health services in the Keys are badly lacking.”

Delays were seen in Daniel’s case after the court determined whether he was competent to stand trial. In 2022, the court declared Daniel incompetent to stand trial following a series of mental and neurological evaluations. By July 2023, the South Florida State Hospital filed an evaluation stating Daniel was competent to stand trial.

JIM

Far left: Ari Poholek said his sons, Pascal, left, and Daniel Weisberger loved one another. CONTRIBUTED

Far right: The scene outside Executive Bay Club on May 7, 2020. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Daniel Weisberger

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Grassy Key Land and Sea Market opens with fresh, flavorful food and friendly local feel

Astorefront familiar to locals in the heart of Grassy Key right off Jimmy Buffett

Memorial Highway has officially opened its doors as the Grassy Key Land and Sea Market. Previously the Grassy Key Outpost, and before that, the Dairy Bar, the building was shuttered for seven years following Hurricane Irma.

Owner Matt Sexton has had his eye on the market for years – even as he operated his family of businesses including Grassy Flats Resort and Beach Club and the Rhum House (located directly behind the store), as well as Keys Cable Park and Bongo’s. He welcomes all to a community market that houses a butcher shop, fish house, bakery, deli and grocer, and Grassy Grinds — a coffee program with espresso and coffee beverages.

“If you want a packed breakfast burrito before you go fishing all day, we’ve got you covered; if you want a homemade breakfast with high-end pork, we’ve got that too,” Sexton said. “We work hard to offer a fair price for quality products, and shopping here allows customers to have a relationship with staff. This is your neighborhood market.”

The 3,000-square-foot market “soft opened” around the holidays and its staff has seen a steady stream of locals and vacationers make their way through. Sexton has lived in the Florida Keys for 14 years and said he leverages his community connections to bring the freshest locally-caught seafood to his market.

“I’m very transparent with our customers,” he said. “I’m able to tell them that this fish was caught in the Florida Keys, where it was caught in the Florida Keys, the name of the guy

who caught it, and sell that out of our market today or sell it out of one of our restaurants tonight. We have the ability to do that between Bongo’s, the Rhum House and the Grassy Key Land and Sea Market. The quality we’re putting out is the old-fashioned way of doing it. ‘This was caught locally, this was sourced here. This was a relationship and a handshake.’”

When you walk through the front door, one of the first people likely to greet you will be Mike Shaner. Sexton is thrilled to have his longtime friend from St. Petersburg join him in the Keys as the market’s meat connoisseur.

A third-generation butcher, Shaner grew up working and learning from his father in their family meat market, Shaner Land and Sea Market, on PassA-Grille Beach.

When Sexton lived in St. Pete Beach while attending college nearly 20 years ago, he would frequent Shaner’s family market down the street for sandwiches. The relationship he forged with the Shaner family left an indelible impression on his life.

“After I moved down to the Keys, Mike would visit, and I would say to him, ‘You know, one day, if your family sells Shaner Land and Sea Market, we could open a Grassy Key Land and Sea Market, and keep the spirit of your family’s market alive down here in the Keys,’” Sexton said.

This dream recently became a reality, and in the summer of 2024, Shaner was offered the job to be head butcher at Grassy Key Land and Sea Market. He jumped at the opportunity.

“I love it here. I am living out my dream to run a butcher shop and with creative freedom,” Shaner said, standing in front of an old photo of his family’s business that hangs on the wall. “Coming from a family of butchers, this is something I take great pride in. There’s a great trust between Matt

and I. I believe in his vision and value his work ethic.”

The butcher shop boasts a wide range of premium quality beef from classic steaks to pork, poultry and seasonal game meats. The market offers all the accoutrements as well, including spices, salts, butters and sauces. Shaner’s beef tallow has already established a reputation and has sold out quickly. Sexton also hired longtime friend Areta Brucic to be head of operations.

“A bunch of us are setting up roots again,” Sexton said. “This is the Marathon I moved into 14 years ago and I watched it slowly get chipped away at and destroyed. This is the year we put all the right people in all the right places and we grow into our shoes.“

Breakfast and lunch will be served at Grassy Key Land and Sea Market. If you’re just trying to get caffeinated, you can order a hand-crafted espresso beverage or latte. And if you want a pastry to go with that, you can expect to take a bite out of fresh, quality pastries prepared by the Rhum House’s pastry chef Hailey Pacyna, who moved her operations down to the market. In the market, you can pick up anything from pancake mix and protein powder to craft beers from all over the state. Always a great pair with premium meats, a broad selection of wine from multigenerational family vineyards is available.

The market is located at 58152 Overseas Highway and is open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. The shop’s butcher and coffee operations are up and running, and Sexton said he hopes to begin offering meals and pastries in the coming weeks. Learn more about Grassy Key Land and Sea Market at grassykeylandandseamarket.com.

ALLISON MORGAN www.keysweekly.com

Dayra Albernas serves up a fresh hit of caffeine.

Third-generation butcher Mike Shaner is the man behind the meats at Grassy Key Land and Sea Market. ALLISON MORGAN/ Keys Weekly

Grassy Key Land and Sea Market’s offerings include an assortment of premium meats, locally-sourced fish and readyto-grill dinner options.

Owner Matt Sexton, right, and butcher Mike Shaner are the masterminds behind Grassy Key Land & Sea Market. CONTRIBUTED

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GROUND GAME

While their international counterparts tore up the fields, flag football teams with some of the Keys’ finest young athletes made a mark of their own at the 33rd annual Kelly McGillis Classic in Key West from Jan. 24 to 26. Competing with a crew that’s already made waves in national tournaments, the Marathon Mermaids clinched a 12-0 shutout over Sugarloaf in the junior championship, while young ladies from Sigsbee Charter School claimed the girls division championship with an 18-6 win over Gerald Adams Elementary. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

SCHOOL BOARD DOES LONG-TERM PLANNING AMID TURMOIL

FRANK DERFLER

www.keysweekly.com

The Jan. 28 Monroe County School Board meeting was marked by careful studies of longterm plans and literally secondby-second changes to critical funding categories announced by the administration for President Donald Trump.

The long-term plans under consideration included the cost of insuring the buildings, activities and staff of the school system. The school buildings in the county, generally built to category 5 storm standards, are eligible for favorable insurance rates.

But what if, the question was raised, there is damage to some buildings that is not fully covered by insurance? Would the Federal Emergency Management Agency look favorably on the district’s insurance plan and provide supplemental disaster funding? And, it was asked, what if there was no FEMA? There was a lengthy but initial discussion of insurance alternatives.

The meeting convened at 5 p.m. That’s exactly the time that a funding freeze went into effect for a broad range of federal benefit programs. The school board staff reported that some salaries and other expenses were on the books by 5 p.m., but the status of federal funds for Head Start and school lunch programs was unclear. Then, cell phones started to go off. Government agencies were providing clarifications. The Federal Office of Management and Budget reported that Head Start funds would not be frozen. But the U.S. Depart-

ment of Agriculture, which manages school lunch funding programs, wasn’t clear if school lunch funding would be limited.

Then, text messages delivered the news that a federal judge ordered a stay of the funding freeze.

As of press time on Wednesday, the judicial freeze on the presidential freeze was in effect until at least Monday, Feb. 3. A hearing is set for Monday morning as federal agencies are scrambling to assure the public that a large number of “direct benefit” programs, everything from Social Security to Meals on Wheels, Head Start, student loans, SNAP/EBT cards, VA benefits and school lunch were not included in the freeze. It does not seem there will be any direct effect on the school district. Other organizations receiving federal money within the county might come under more scrutiny.

At a workshop earlier in the day, there was discussion about the search for a replacement for Superintendent Theresa Axford, who plans to retire on July 31.

The board has hired consultants to conduct a nationwide search for a replacement and to collect input from the public concerning the expectations for the position. Community forums inviting comments on the search will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 11 at Coral Shores High School; on Wednesday, Feb. 12 at Marathon High School; and on Thursday, Feb. 13 at Key West High School. All the forums will begin at 6 p.m.

Outside drug dealers caused 20th Street danger

I want to take this opportunity to clarify the situation on 20th Street and make a clear distinction between the camp residents and the dangerous activity caused by external individuals. It is important to understand the context of the issues that arose in September 2024 and why the area was described as dangerous during that time, as well as the concerns raised in January 2025.

In September of last year, 20th Street became a hotspot for external drug dealers who were said to have set up operations in the area. These individuals were alleged to have sold dangerous street drugs, leading to multiple overdoses and an alarming number of ambulance calls to the street.

This was a serious and immediate public safety issue. The statement made in September about 20th Street being dangerous referred specifically to the alleged drug activity and violence attributed to these dealers.

It is important to emphasize that the camp residents were not responsible for these problems; in fact, they were among those most directly harmed by the unsafe conditions created by these outside individuals. After several people raised these concerns at a city council meeting, law enforcement took swift and thorough action to address the problem.

By January, the focus shifted to ensuring that the support provided to camp residents is helpful and wellorganized. Donations such as tents and blankets to help residents deal with the elements are fantastic and muchneeded efforts that make a meaningful difference.

However, the concern lies with uncoordinated duplicate services already provided by well-established programs like KAIR and Independence Cay. These programs are working effectively to provide critical resources and assistance. When uncoordinated duplicate services are introduced, they can unintentionally create health and other issues for the homeless residents and the neighboring public. Strengthening and supporting these existing efforts is the best way to ensure homeless residents receive the help they need in a safe and sustainable manner.

We must keep in mind that the majority of our homeless residents are people just looking for a hand out of a tough life situation. It’s important that all of these efforts are coordinated to maximize the benefit, fortify the existing established programs, and focus on just doing the next right thing.

Sincerely,

Lorenzo Chiango Cudjoe Key

1620 BUTTONWOOD DRIVE

BIG PINE KEY | $665,000

Nestled in Key Deer Refuge, this charming 1,020 sq ft, 2-bed, fully fenced concrete canal front home features a private on-site small vessel boat ramp, a private boat basin, spacious bedrooms and is conveniently located in a quiet setting near shopping, restaurants and the Big Pine Community Park.

281 W INDIES DRIVE

RAMROD KEY | $2,750,000

Spectacular 3-bed, 3.5-bath, oceanfront pool home with panoramic ocean views! Enjoy year-round temperate weather, this property o ers a concrete dock. Nestled on a private sandy beach. Boasting over 2,900 sq ft of luxurious living space, ideal for entertainment. Beautifully landscaped 1⁄2 acre lot featuring a circular driveway for ample open parking and sprawling covered carport for additional shaded parking.

OPEN HOUSES

271 W INDIES DRIVE

RAMROD KEY | $2,299,000

Brand-new 4-bed, 3.5-bath pool home with breathtaking open water views! Features a chef’s kitchen with premium appliances, quartz countertops, and high-end finishes throughout. Walls of glass open to a spacious veranda overlooking the pool and turquoise ocean. Set on a manicured lot with lush native landscaping in a quiet neighborhood.

791 W INDIES DRIVE

This 1,578 sq ft coastal retreat on a 21,250 sq ft lot features 3-bed, 2-bath , stunning open water views, a private sandy beach, and a rooftop deck. Highlights include a split floor plan, a luxurious primary suite, a chef’s kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and multiple balconies for outdoor living.

MARATHON $1,799,000

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!

RAMROD KEY $1,350,000

Gorgeous ocean views from this 4-bed, 2-bath home in Breezeswept Beach Estates. Enjoy a waterfront pool set within a beautifully landscaped and well-maintained lot. With impact doors and windows, along with a durable metal roof, this home o ers both safety and longevity.

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ORDERS CLEARING OF 20TH STREET CAMP

they need to do to recover or move on in life. … There are different solutions for every person in this world.”

Other conflicting communications provided to the Weekly by Gotti and Williams called into question whether all of the suit’s plaintiffs knew that they were signing onto a formal lawsuit, rather than a more informal petition to remove the camp.

One such email, read by Williams to the council on Tuesday night, stated that one of the suit’s plaintiffs “agreed to be a witness, or better yet to provide support,” but that she was “not interested in being a plaintiff,” before requesting withdrawal of her name. However, copies of an email sent from Gotti to interested parties prior to the suit requested signatures “as a plaintiff” for the complaint.

Cudjoe Key resident Lorenzo Chiango, a longtime volunteer and advocate for 20th Street’s residents, applauded the work of city and MCSO staff in recent months to maintain order in the camp, but blasted the lack of “a solid plan” to accommodate residents leaving the street, even in light of legal restrictions that constrain the city’s response.

“You were given a direction from the governor that was impossible,” Chiango said. “(But) we can’t just turn our eyes and say ‘Thank God the state got involved and now we don’t have to deal with this.’ … Are you guys going to tell me that there’s nothing we can do, nothing we’re capable of, no resources that we can use, to make sure we don’t treat these people like yesterday’s bath water?”

“You can do whatever you’d like,” said Williams.

“You’ve heard our attorney talk about this, and this is a conversation that everyone of us has had internally,” said Mayor Lynn Landry.

“It’s not our property, it’s not our decision, and the legalities that fall behind supporting it far surpass what I think you can imagine it would be,” said councilman Kenny Matlock.

To our readers:

In response to John Bartus’ latest column, we apologize for the lack of oversight. As the only locally owned community newspaper covering the entire Florida Keys, there is no place for plagiarism, fraud or A.I.-generated content in our publications and digital platforms. And while we realize the growing issues and challenges in the face of artificial intelligence and technology, our pledge to readers is to present creative and informative original news from local journalists — who intimately know and understand the communities we serve.

Many of our contributors have served our readers for many years, and all of them are well-respected in our communities. Because of this, there is mutual respect and understanding that we share the same core principles of journalism, which include: truthfulness, accuracy and fact-based communications, independence, objectivity, impartiality, fairness and respect for others.

While our editors noted a difference in tone in Mr. Bartus’ Jan. 16 column, put quite simply, due to our professional relationship, it never crossed our mind to question the authenticity of the piece.

Our media, staff and community support can only be as strong as our credibility. And while we appreciate Mr. Bartus for his disclosure, we sadly announce this will be his final column in our papers. In addition, we will explore stronger safeguards and tools to detect and protect against automated content.

Thank you, Monroe County, for your readership and support. We are proud to serve this community we call home, alongside each of you.

— Jason Koler and Britt Myers, publishers

THE INSIDIOUSNESS OF A.I. Plus 41st anniversary concert this Sunday

Confession time.

For those of you who read last week’s column about Marjory Stoneman Douglas and pythons in the Everglades — under my byline — I must let you in on the truth.

I didn’t write that column.

In fact, nobody did. No actual human created those sentences and paragraphs. It was an experiment I tried using the artificial intelligence application known as ChatGPT. Sarah and I were discussing some what-if scenarios, and the idea to submit a column totally created by ChatGPT arose in the discussion. I decided to use a topic with some local environmental concerns, added in a historical figure, and tasked ChatGPT with a quandary about what exactly Douglas would think about the python infestation in her beloved Everglades. What you read last week, while not incorrect in its structure and grammar, was not writing. It took less than 60 seconds for the text to magically appear on the screen.

As I read it over prior to submitting it, I was mortified at the lack of emotion, character and — for lack of a better word — soul contained in the words on the screen. There was none of the writer’s personality, because neither a writer nor personality existed in that column. I thought that it would be totally obvious that I was perpetuating literary fraud.

I received no comments, positive or negative, about the column. No one seemed to notice that I had committed a mortal sin among writers. Alex Rickert and Mike Howie, we should get together and have a lengthy discussion about this over good rum, whiskey and cigars.

What this little exercise has shown me is just how insidious this A.I. technology can be. Studies show that reliance on these technologies can hinder critical thinking and creativity in those who use it. There are no guards against bias from unreliable sources. Programs like ChatGPT promote superficial understanding of complex issues. They are a danger to the development of traditional academic skills and basic competency.

Plus, AI-written articles and essays are absolutely no fun to read.

I think about the writing styles of my favorite authors and writers. A.I. has yet to create the worshipful descriptive language that Pat Conroy

uses to bring the South Carolina Low Country to life on a page. It can’t produce the social commentary and humorous turns of the word like Carl Hiaasen or Dave Barry have done for decades. It certainly can’t write lyrics with imagery, characters and stories the way Bob Dylan has done since 1962.

When it comes to music, there is some scary A.I. technology out there. Apps exist in which one can submit the premise of a song, the musical style and accompaniment for the song, and how the vocals should sound. The result is a completely produced song file that many aren’t able to tell apart from actual recordings. The same exists with graphic and visual arts. Again, there is a complete lack of emotion and soul. Hopefully, humanity will pull back from the dystopian brink and place value once again in real human creativity. We’re already seeing the possible alternative future that awaits: one in which our art, our music, our writing is produced by machines. And no one cares.

* * * * * *

Please join me this Sunday at 4 p.m. for my 41st Anniversary Concert at Sunset Park in Key Colony Beach. I’ll be celebrating the 41st anniversary of my first show in the Keys, and my concert will feature my original music as well as some choice cover songs. Admission is free; bring a blanket or lawn chairs and your favorite beverages and enjoy an afternoon of music in a gorgeous island setting. See you there!

— John’s Perpetual Island Tour stops next Wednesday at Dockside, Thursday at Sparky’s Landing, Saturday at Brutus Land & Sea, Sunday morning at Ground Conch Day at Aquarium Encounters, and Sunday afternoon at John’s 41st Anniversary Concert at Sunset Park in Key Colony Beach. Check out John’s music anywhere you stream or download your music. Or point your browser to: johnbartus.hearnow.com

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

JOHN BARTUS

STORIES THAT SPEAK

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH THROUGH LITERATURE

THE REFORMATORY

By Tananarive Due

When Robert Stephens Jr. was sentenced to six months at the Gracetown School for Boys for kicking a white boy, his sister Gloria vowed she would do whatever it took to save him. At 16, Gloria has been Robert’s guardian since their mother passed away. Twelve-year-old Robert is terrified. Advised to stay out of trouble by becoming invisible, Robert’s talent for seeing haints (ghosts) quickly puts him in the spotlight. First, Gloria tries the legal route, questioning the sheriff, the powerful white landowner and the NAACP. With no time to lose, she finally turns to her godmother, Miz Lottie, a mighty old woman who has never let their family down. Together they devise a plan to free Robert before it is too late. Gracetown is based on the Dozier School for Boys, an actual reform school in the Florida Panhandle built in 1900. Despite the abominable rumors, it wasn’t until an investigation in 2009 that officials finally closed the facility. In 2012, a team of forensic anthropologists from USF uncovered 55 burials and nearly 100 unexplained deaths. This shocking novel set in the 1950s explores racism, injustice and the power of family.

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 Charmaine Wilkerson

At 10 years old, Ebby Freeman’s life was shattered when she witnessed the brutal murder of her brother — a tragedy her family has never fully healed from, even after years of therapy. Now approaching 30, Ebby faces another devastating blow: being left at the altar by Henry, the man she thought would help her start anew. The weight of her pain, privilege and family’s expectations sends her spiraling, and she flees the comfort of her parents’ New England home for the charm and solace of a picturesque French village. In this journey across oceans and centuries, Ebby begins to chronicle the remarkable story of her family’s rise from slavery to prominence in Massachusetts. From the backbreaking toil of plantation life to daring escapes on whaling ships, her ancestors — artists, inventors and carpenters — built a legacy of resilience and excellence. Through a vibrant cast of characters, both past and present, Ebby’s story becomes a powerful tale of survival, heartbreak and triumph. In her third stunning novel, Charmaine Wilkerson weaves together threads of Black history, familial bonds and the complexities of relationships into an unforgettable saga of freedom and forgiveness. A thoughtful, captivating read.

By Sadeqa Johnston

Bubbles Jones could not imagine handing over her baby. Sequestered in a home for unmarried girls, Bubbles refuses to give up or give in to her Southern Baptist minister father who does not practice what he preaches. She finds a way to escape with a little help from a friend. These girls, one white and one Black, are frowned upon by a hypocritical society that has hidden them away in a shameful attempt to put their babies up for adoption. In segregated 1950s Virginia, the entire community has turned its back on girls in “trouble,” forcing them to believe they have no options except to let the adults in charge take advantage of their naivete and put them to work. The girls don’t have many options, but they are strong and determined to build a life they can be proud of. This short story from Amazon Original Blaze series is free for Prime members and easy to download. Similar to this author’s last two novels, “The Yellow Wife” and “The House of Eve,” it is expertly crafted and filled with characters you will be thinking of long after the final page.

#WorthWatching:

“The Six Triple Eight.” A war drama based on the American 6888th Battalion, the only Women’s Army Corps unit of color to serve during World War II. Their mission was to organize 17 million backlogged letters during the war, a task everyone assumed was impossible. Don’t miss this well-done, heartfelt true story on Netflix.

GOOD DIRT

FALLEN GRACE

KAREN NEWFIELD

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.

TINY TIGER

2-month-old female tiger.

Looking for: Non-negotiable: I want someone to watch TikTok with.

Turnoffs: None. I’ve been raised by dogs, cats and humans. I love it all!

SWIPE RIGHT

Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA

Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption “match” at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus – complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit.

From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.

See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800 or visit 10550 Aviation Blvd.

FREDDY

4-month-old domestic shorthair.

Looking for: Me, you, another cat or two.

Turnoffs: It sucks being the very last kitten that nobody adopted.

KIKI

4-month-old male guinea pig.

Looking for: I’m searching for another guinea pig – for friendship only, not romance.

Turnoffs: My old life wasn’t great, but I’m ready to move on with someone like you.

SHERIFF’S OFFICE ANNOUNCES CITIZENS

POLICE ACADEMY

CONTRIBUTED

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office will hold its next Citizens Police Academy starting April 2025, and is looking for people who are interested in learning more about law enforcement and the sheriff’s office.

Classes will begin in April and will continue through May. There will be three separate academies — one each in the Lower, Middle and Upper Keys. Attendees will be asked to commit to spending one night a week from 6 to 9 p.m., in addition to a graduation ceremony in Marathon.

Classes will be held in the individual district holding the academy and each will include about 15 attendees. In the Upper Keys, classes will meet on Tuesdays at the Roth Building on Plantation Key. In the Middle Keys, classes will meet on Wednesdays at the Sheriff’s Office Aviation Hangar in Marathon. In the Lower Keys, classes will meet on Thursdays at the Sheriff’s Office headquarters on Stock Island. Sessions will include an orientation and introduction to patrol procedures; a tour of jail facilities; introduction to weapons: Simunitions and Taser; traffic/felony stops; crime scene investigations, including a hands-on mock crime scene; building searches; introduction to specialty units: Bomb, Dive, SWAT, Major Crimes, and Special Investigations.

Space is limited, so anyone interested should contact the captain in the area where they wish to attend. Applications are due by March 1, 2025. Contact Capt. Spenser Bryan, 305-853-3211 or sbryan@keysso.net; or Capt. Lissette Quintero, 305-664-6480 or lquintero@keysso.net for classes in the Upper Keys. For the Middle Keys, contact Capt. Derek Paul at 305-2892430 or dpaul@keysso.net and for the Lower Keys, call or email Capt. David Smith at 305-745-3184 or desmith@ keysso.net. — Contributed

Elks Lodge to host Casino Night fundraiser

On Saturday, Feb. 8, the Marathon Elks Lodge will host its second annual Casino Night fundraiser to benefit veterans, student scholarships, youth camps and children’s therapy services. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and games begin at 6:30 p.m. A $35 ticket includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, entertainment and $20 in playing chips, with additional chips available for purchase. The night will feature game tables with roulette, blackjack, poker and Texas Hold‘’Em along with a 50/50 raffle, silent auction and prize wheel.

LIVENGOOD/Monroe County

Lincoln elected chair of regional planning council

On Jan. 27, Monroe County Mayor Pro Tem Michelle Lincoln was elected chair of the South Florida Regional Planning Council. Commissioner Craig Cates is also a council member.

“I feel very comfortable turning over my chair to Michelle,” said Steve Geller, outgoing chair from Broward County. “She has shown her leadership in many ways throughout South Florida and the state.” Lincoln said she looks forward to continuing to support the council’s mission to make communities in South Florida more resilient and safer. “As always, I am excited that Monroe County continues to have an important seat at this table,” she said. The South Florida Regional

Planning Council’s mission is to provide state and local policymakers with the information they need to build a better future for South Floridians. To learn more about the council, visit https://sfregionalcouncil.org/.

Crime rate drops in Monroe County

The National Incident-Based Reporting System for crime statistics collected by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement showed a significant decrease in crime last year in Monroe County. Overall crime is down by 13 percent, with 1,665 overall crimes being reported in 2023 and 1,448 reported in 2024. Some of the significant drops included aggravated assault, which dropped from 134 in 2023 to 93 in 2024. There were 389 reported batteries in 2023 and 323 in 2024. There was also a decrease in narcotics violations — from 309 in 2023 to 260 in 2024. “This overall decrease in crime is a strong testament to the hard work put in by the men and women of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, our strong working relationships with all law enforcement … and those irreplaceable community partnerships with our amazing citizens who I consider an extension of the sheriff’s office and without whom none of this would be possible,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. More information on crime data is at www.fdle.state.fl.us

Presbyterian Women’s Association

hosts Valentine’s Day dinner

On Valentine's Day, Friday, Feb. 14 from 6 to 8 p.m., the Presbyterian Women's Association at Kirk of the Keys is offering a dinner where they will be serving spaghetti and meatballs, sausage and peppers, salads, bread and desserts. Tickets are $40 per couple and can be purchased at Kirk of the Keys, 8877 Overseas Highway, via phone at 305-743-4256, at kirkofthekeys. org, by emailing kirkofthekeys@ gmail.com, or by texting 305-2409776. Tickets and reservations are required by Feb. 10.

State-sponsored grants to aid in housing, utility cost struggles

The state of Florida, through the Department of Children and Families, has provided financial grants to several local social

service agencies including Keys Area Interdenominational Resources (KAIR). These grants are potentially available through June 2025. If you are struggling with basic housing or utility needs, these agencies may be able to help. They also can help with medical costs, daycare, car costs or other basic needs on a caseby-case basis. Those in need of help may contact KAIR at 3010 Overseas Hwy. in Marathon or by calling 305743-4582.

Sponsors sought for Sombrero Beach Run

Keys Area Interdenominational Resources (KAIR) is seeking 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.

Come take a class at the Marathon library

The Marathon library has a wide variety of class offerings, ranging from photography to book clubs, robots, virtual reality and more. Scan the QR code here to see the schedule and get involved.

Michelle Lincoln with Steve Geller, outgoing chair of the Florida Regional Planning Council. KRISTEN

Members of the sheriff’s SWAT team show equipment during a session in the Upper Keys.

KEYS FISHERIES RESTAURANT MARKET & MARINA

WATERFRONT RESTAURANT

Enjoy our daily specials like Homemade Soup or Chowder, Fresh Fish Sandwich or One of our Daily Specials while overlooking Florida Bay! Open for Lunch & Dinner Every Day!

RETAIL STORE

Fish, Soups and Chowders & Key Lime Pie!

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

BETTY JEAN (PARKHURST) RONDEAU

1931-2025

Betty was born in Deerfield Beach on July 28, 1931 to Byron “Parky” and Thelma Parkhurst. In 1941, they came to Key West, where her father could work in the construction trade. In March 1943, “Parky” got a job building Marathon’s airport. During that time, Betty and her brother, Jimmy, would climb the water tower at the south end of town and look for enemy ships off our shores. She received a special medal as a “spotter” and the community was involved with the war effort with rationed food and gas.

Marathon was a small village of about 300 people in those days and she went to a one-room schoolhouse. In 10th grade, she boarded at the Convent of Mary Immaculate in Key West, coming back in the summers to swim and paint. She began painting at the age of 12, and that became her passion and her life’s work.

Her father became a captain and had one of the first charter boats in Marathon, fishing many famous clients. Her mother was also a captain and mated for him on the boat for many years. Betty spent many days on the boat and around the docks, and they were her favorite things to paint. Betty and her husband, Ronnie Rondeau (deceased 2006), raised four children and during those years, she began working with pastels. Soon she was well known for her portraits of people and occasionally their pets. She set up out by the pool at the Buccaneer Lodge in Marathon and did many portraits for the tourists there, sometimes receiving photos in the mail to do as well.

In 1980, she and nine other artists formed the Florida Keys Watercolor Society to promote art to the public and invite other artists to participate in annual shows. For many years after that, she won many ribbons for her paintings in their juried shows. In 1983, Betty and Ronnie joined Joseph and Meri-Lynn Britz in building and opening Coconuts, a bar and package store on Big Pine Key, and it is still in business almost 42 years later.

Betty fell in her home in 2016, losing the use of her left side, but she continued to paint. The watercolor society called her the “Queen of Clouds.” Her paintings over these last 10 years have been sold at Shady Palm Gallery and at 93, she was still delighted to learn that another one sold.

Betty peacefully passed away on Jan. 10, 2025. She joins her love, Ronnie and her son, Joel (deceased 2022). She leaves behind her daughter, Meri-Lynn (Joseph) Britz; her daughter, JuliAnne England; and her son, retired Col. Ron Rondeau (Victoria); seven grandchildren and eight greatgrandchildren. Betty’s memorial service will be on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 3 p.m. at the Keys Vineyard Church, 100 County Rd., Big Pine Key with a Celebration of Life immediately following at Coconuts, 30535 Overseas Hwy., Big Pine Key.

MAUREEN E. CUMMINS

1936-2025

Maureen E. (nee Kenneally) Cummins, 88, of Marathon, and a longtime resident of Manasquan, New Jersey, passed away Jan. 24 at the home of her son in Manasquan, surrounded by her loving family.

Maureen was born in the Bronx, New York to the late Daniel and Ellen (nee Madden) Kenneally. She resided in Manasquan for many years before moving to Marathon over 50 years ago. Maureen was a devout Catholic and as a Manasquan resident, she was an active member and daily communicant of St. Denis Parish and San Pablo Church in Marathon.

Maureen was a real estate agent for several years, but her greatest joy in life was taking care of her six sons and their extended loving families.

She was predeceased by her parents; her dear husband Martin J. Cummins Jr. on Oct. 5, 2023; her two cherished sons, Patrick as a baby in 1964 and Brian, who was a victim of terrorism on Sept. 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center; and her two sisters, Theresa McCaffery and Kerry Michaels.

Surviving are her four beloved sons and their spouses: Martin and Karen Cummins of Vero Beach; Michael and Catherine Cummins of Austin, Texas; John and Kate Cummins of Manasquan; Brendan and Lois Cummins of Vero Beach; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

A visitation was held on Jan. 28 at St. Denis Church in Manasquan, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial on Jan. 29 at the church. Interment will be held in the Cummins family plot in Madonna Cemetery, Fort Lee, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in memory of Maureen to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee, 38105.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the O’Brien Funeral Home in Wall, New Jersey. To offer condolences to the family, please visit www. obrienfuneralhome.com.

Terrific Teeth

Experts recommend seeing a dentist twice

Do you take good care of your teeth?

Good tooth care is very important for your health. In recent years, more kids are avoiding dental problems, such as tooth decay. Experts say this is because more kids are:

• using toothpaste with fluoride

• brushing properly

• visiting the dentist.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. In this issue, The Mini Page takes a good look at teeth.

WHAT IS A CAVITY?

A cavity is a hole, or a space where part of a material has been removed. A cavity in your tooth is a hole in your tooth.

Cavities are caused by bacteria, sugar and plaque (PLAK). Plaque is sticky stuff that builds up on your teeth. You may have noticed it after you eat or when you wake up in the morning.

Dentists can fill cavities, but it’s better not to get them in the first place. It’s not hard to take care of your teeth. Just follow these simple steps:

• Use toothpaste with fluoride. Fluoride is a material that helps harden the protective enamel on your teeth. It can also kill the bacteria that cause cavities.

• Limit your sweets.

• Drink water and milk instead of soda pop, juice or drinks like Kool-Aid. These drinks have a lot of sugar.

TRY ’N’ FIND

BACTERIA, BRUSH, CARE, CAVITY, CEMENTUM, DECAY, DENTAL, DENTIST, ENAMEL, FLOSS, FLUORIDE, GUMLINE, HEALTH, JAWBONE, PLAQUE, PULP, SUGAR, TEETH.

Founded by Betty Debnam

• Brush and floss. Brush at least twice a day, in the morning and at night. Floss at least once a day.

Experts say neglecting your teeth can result in bad nutrition, poor appearance and pain. Untreated tooth decay can make it hard for kids to sleep, eat or pay attention in school.

TOOTH CARE TIPS

It is important to spend two whole minutes brushing your teeth each time — one minute on the top teeth and one minute on the bottom. Keep a timer or clock in the bathroom and time yourself. If you don’t, you may not brush long enough.

Gently brush the fronts, backs and biting surfaces of your teeth. Gently brush your tongue, too. This helps prevent bad breath. Flossing helps get out food particles that may be stuck between your teeth. Pull the floss up and down. Don’t slide it from the front to the back.

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

WHAT’S

IN A TOOTH?

• Enamel (eh-NA-muhl) is the white outer cover on your teeth. It is the hardest substance in the human body, even harder than bone. Enamel, made of minerals and protein, protects your teeth.

• Dentin is the next layer of the tooth. It is the second-hardest substance in the body. About two-thirds of each tooth is dentin. It is made up of calcium and other minerals and is similar to bone.

• Pulp makes up the inside of the tooth. Blood vessels and nerves live inside the pulp. If the tooth gets infected, this area is what hurts. Pulp is a kind of gel substance.

• Cementum (si-MEN-tum) is a rough substance that attaches the tooth to the jawbone. You can’t see cementum, since it is below the gumline. It’s one of the few substances that actually sticks to teeth.

RESOURCES

On the Web:

• bit.ly/MPcavity

• bit.ly/MPdentalcare

At the library:

• “Open Wide: Tooth School Inside” by Laurie Keller

ECO NOTE

A single bottlenose dolphin wandering for the last three years through the Baltic Sea appears to be screaming into the void, desperate to connect with other members of its species. Researchers say they aren’t sure why the marine mammal, dubbed Delle, is making “sounds typically considered communicative,” but they suggest the dolphin may be engaging in “self-talk,” using its cries as a substitute for interactions with other dolphins.

The Mini Page® © 2024 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Mini Fact:

each year.

photo by Senior Airman Francis Lalic, courtesy U.S. Air Force

THE SCOREBOARD

Team Sport Date Result

Coral Shores Boys Basketball Goleman 1/21 L, 71-50

Key West Girls Basketball St. Brendan 1/21 L, 54-31

Marathon Boys Basketball Palm Glades Prep 1/21 W, 65-44

Coral Shores Girls Basketball Shelton Academy 1/22 W, 62-16

Marathon Girls Soccer South Homestead 1/22 L, 8-1

Coral Shores Boys Basketball MAST Academy 1/22 W, 61-42

Key West Girls Soccer St. Brendan 1/22 L, 1-0

Coral Shores Boys Soccer Silver Palms 1/22 L, 1-0

Marathon Boys Basketball Goleman 1/23 W, 56-53

Key West Girls Basketball Somerset Prep 1/23 L, 93-22

Coral Shores Girls Soccer Keys Gate 1/23 W, 5-1

Marathon Boys Soccer Archbishop Carroll 1/23 L, 4-0

Key West Boys Soccer TERRA Environmental 1/24 W, 2-1

Key West Girls Basketball Hallandale 1/24 L, 32-30

Marathon Girls Basketball Coral Shores 1/24 W, 43-39

Key West Boys Basketball Hallandale 1/24 L, 65-59

Marathon Boys Basketball Coral Shores 1/24 W, 53-42

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

1/30

JAN. 30

1/30 Coral Shores Girls & Boys Basketball @ Ransom Everglades 6 p.m.

1/31 Coral Shores Boys Basketball Lake Worth Christian 5 p.m.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

ON THE COVER

EVANS

Ella put in a lot of extra work in the offseason and she’s been slowly gathering steam throughout the regular season. She’s hitting big numbers for her weight class, but I know she’s still got some left in the tank.”

— Jessie Schubert, Marathon head coach

At just 125 pounds, Ella Evans is a tiny powerhouse. The junior powerlifter has quietly made gains in the gym with an all-out approach to improving her form and adding plates to her lifts. Last week, Evans brought home two golds at FHSAA’s District 16 1A championships and helped Marathon win the team title. The double district champ was also the top lifter in the traditional event. Her coach emphasized her strong work ethic as well as the intensity she brings to her team. For her strong accomplishments in the gym and willingness to put in the extra hours to improve for herself and team, Marathon’s Ella Evans is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

THIS WEEK Ella

Junior, Marathon Girls Weightlifting

Photo by BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

Gold medals at districts

Carlos Lezcano, left, Daeshawn Holmes, Briggs Roberts and the Marathon Dolphins closed out a three-win week with a rivalry victory over Coral Shores on Jan. 24. See page 4. BARRY GAUKEL/ Keys Weekly

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

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

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

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

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Business Development

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Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

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Graphic Design Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

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Se habla español

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

All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

tracy mcdonald

sean mcdonald

FINS CATCH FIRE

Win over Coral Shores makes it three in a row for Marathon

Marathon improved to 8-13 with a three-game at-home win streak last week, starting Jan. 21 against Palm Glades Prep. The freshmen led the charge, with 22 points coming from Jack Chapman, 13 from Taylor Huff and seven from Drew Suarez in the 65-44 win.

On Jan. 23 it was the upperclassmen’s turn. Junior Daeshawn Holmes scored 19 points, grabbed 15 rebounds and had four blocks against the Gators of Goleman. Senior Carlos Lezcano scored 13 and junior Briggs Roberts had a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. The game required extra minutes for a decision, and the win went to the Fins, 56-53 in overtime.

The next night, the Dolphins honored their lone senior, Lezcano, with a Senior Night celebration. The opponent, Keys rival Coral Shores, had no intentions of letting the Fins walk away with win number three of the week. The Hurricanes got off to an early lead and continued to press the Fins, who trailed at the half. Then Marathon began to chip away at Coral Shores’ lead, finally gaining the upper hand in quarter three.

Coral Shores closed to within three points in quarter four, but Marathon enjoyed a series of shots that just could not miss and pulled away to a 53-42 win. Chapman had the game-high total of 17, with Holmes scoring 16 and Roberts 15. For the ’Canes, Austin Vogt put up 16 points while Donovan Thiery scored 14 and Ayden Lane added 10.

1. Briggs Roberts sets up the Marathon offense.

2,3. Jack Chapman soars for lay-ins against the Goleman Gators.

4. Briggs Roberts goes for three.

5. Andrew Suarez goes vertical for a jumper against Coral Shores.

6. Daeshawn Holmes meets the teeth of the Hurricane defense.- Drew Suarez gets a shot off prior to drawing a foul.

7. Andrew Suarez walks down a Hurricane defender.

HARDWARE HAUL

Lady lifters make their mark at districts

Strong women across the Keys may feel weighed down this week – in the best possible way.

Marathon and Coral Shores each won a team title in the FHSAA 1A District 16 girls weightlifting championships. Marathon won the traditional event, which combines athletes' total lifted weights in the bench press and clean and jerk lift. Coral Shores was first in Olympic, edging out Marathon by a single point in combining the snatch and clean and jerk lifts. Each school won the runner-up trophy in the event they did not win outright, making the Keys a girls weightlifting stronghold in South Florida.

The Fins and ’Canes traveled to AIE Charter on Jan. 25 for the district meet. Both schools needed some extra room in the school vans for their winners’ hardware on the way home. Coral Shores had two double district champs. Jennille Arias (169 pounds) and Sydney Eysenbach (unlimited) won both the traditional and Olympic events in their weight classes. Teammates Karla Gutierrez (169) and Vanessa Gabriel (unlimited) secured runner-up medals in both events as well.

In traditional lifts, Rachel Rusch is the new district champ at 110 pounds. Her sister Julia was second, then went on to win her own district title in Olympic lifts. At 139 pounds, Julianna Rodriguez claimed the top spot in Olympic lifts and was the runner-up in traditional. Abigail Bergeron did the same at 154. Kali Gomer (129) and Lainey Kerns (199) each brought home a pair of secondplace medals in their weight classes.

Marathon had four dual district champs. Rilynn Richards (119), Ella Evans (129), Justice Lee (183) and Sabrina Schofield (199) each brought home a pair of golds. Ella Dunn (101) was first in Olympic lifts and second in traditional. Ayme Maradiaga (101) edged out Dunn for gold in the traditional event. Ava Merryman (139) and

The Lady Fins’ van was a bit heavier on the way home from the FHSAA 1A District 16 girls weightlifting championships.

Brizni Vargas (154) were first in their classes in traditional lifts. Vargas also claimed silver in Olympic. Other silver medalists from Marathon were Alexia Stip (119) in traditional and Katriya Wright (110) and Tinashay Cunningham (139) in Olympic.

In addition to their dual titles, Evans and Lee were awarded for having the top performances overall for 1A D16. Top Lifter honors are bestowed on the athletes whose performances are mathematically formulated along with their body weight to even the field. Evans won the Top Lifter award in the traditional event while Lee captured the same honor in Olympic. Both athletes are lifting more than their own body weight in the clean and jerk and bench. Lee is the owner of all of the Dolphin school records, and she inches closer to state records with each week.

Lady Conchs Jazzy and Keily Cardona

CONTRIBUTED

In order to move on from districts to regionals, and later from regionals to states, many athletes played the waiting game. Only the champ in each event at each weight moves on automatically. The remaining 19 spots are filled at large with the top-performing lifters in the entire state. It would be a rarity for a second-, thirdand even fourth-place finisher not to advance, and it is not unheard of for places as deep as sixth or seventh to move on.

In addition to the aforementioned athletes, Marathon’s Autumn Wolfe (110), Bella Childress (129), Samantha Schofield (199) and Nivi De La Torre (unlimited) plus Coral Shores’ Mallory Hughes (119), Emily Hurt (119), Leticia Lima (119), Grace Patterson (154) and Karla Gutierrez (169) will join their teammates at regionals.

Key West traveled to Park Vista on Jan. 25 for the 2A competition, where they placed fourth as a team in Olympic lifting and fifth in traditional. The Southernmost City has their own dual district champ in Aaliyah McCloud in the 199-pound category. Althea Olson was the second-place finisher in Olympic lifts at 101. McCloud’s first-place finishes gave her the all-clear for regionals where she will be joined by Olsen, Alexa Condella (154), Jazlyn Lyons (183) and Sophia Nafere (unlimited) at the next level of competition.

The coaches and athletes who made the cut will have a quick turnaround for regionals, slated for all three schools on Saturday, Feb. 1. Key West heads back to Dr. Joaquin Garcia, while Marathon and Coral Shores will meet at Keys Gate for the final step before states. Qualifying state contenders will travel to Lakeland to the RP Funding Center for the FHSAA State Championships Feb. 14 and 15.

The Coral Shores Lady Hurricanes show off their district medals.

Lyons, Althea Olsen, Aaliyah McCloud, Alexa Condella with their district medals.

Melane Estevez exploded for 29 points against Shelton Academy.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

LADY ’CANES PICK UP STEAM

Underclassmen light up the hoop in Keys rivalry matchup

With district playoffs just days away, the Coral Shores Lady Hurricanes found their rhythm on the court with a pair of victories last week.

The first was a home match Jan. 22 where the ’Canes secured a resounding 62-16 win over Shelton Academy. Melanie Estevez dropped 29 points on Shelton, including four baskets from behind the 3-point line. London Atkis added 11 points, eight rebounds and five blocks in the lopsided win. Anna Barrow scored eight with 10 rebounds and Alex Burson added seven. But their biggest win of the season followed on Jan. 24 when the Hurricanes traveled to Marathon to face the Lady Fins.

Coral Shores spoiled the Dolphins’ Senior Night, leading the entire game by a narrow margin, then hanging on for the win despite a Marathon comeback in the final quarter. Estevez had the hot hand again, sinking 16 points while Atkins added 10. Estevez and Atkins, both freshmen, have made the transition from middle school to varsity play. Marathon’s Shaina Robinson is also making that transition smoothly, but she is still in middle school. The seventh-grader’s trio of three-pointers contributed to her total of 14 points against Coral Shores while teammate Elena Eubank, a senior, had Marathon’s high of 15.

TRACY McDONALD/Keys

1. The Lady Hurricanes’ London Atkins sets up for a free throw. 2. Coral Shores’ Melanie Estevez drives toward the hoop. 3. Marathon’s Shaina Robinson goes for three. 4. Alex Burson (11) looks for an open Hurricane teammate.

Weekly

IN IT

Conchs knock out Wolves for shot at district title

As this paper is rolling off the press, the Key West Conchs are one win away from a district championship.

To begin the playoffs, Key West’s small district and solid ranking sent them directly to the semifinals for a Jan. 24 overtime showdown against Terra Environmental Research Institute. The Conchs entered the match outranked by the Wolves, but managed to pick them off to earn a spot in the FHSAA 4A District Championships against top-ranked Belen Jesuit, scheduled for Jan. 28 (results not available at press time).

In what head coach Nic Farrar called a hard-fought win, Key West took a 1-0 lead in the first half. Emmanuel Innocent sent a beautiful cross toward Sonny Bowden, who sent the ball into the net with a left-footed shot that cruised past the goalie into the bottom corner of the cage.

The Conchs’ DJ Barrett used his head to assist Sonny Bowden’s game-winning goal last week.

Sonny Bowden scored twice for Key West in their district semifinal match.

The Wolves struck back with a goal off of a penalty to even up the game at 1-1 at the end of 80 minutes of regulation play. Key West held their composure and patiently awaited their chance, which came with just three minutes of extra time on the clock. That’s when Sebastian Camargo sent a free kick toward DJ Barrett, who set up a close-range opportunity via a header. Bowden closed in and finished, making it 2-1 Conchs for a win and a chance for a district title.

The 10-3-3 Conchs faced Belen on Tuesday in the championship game, and despite their rankings, a win was well within Key West’s reach.

The Hurricanes used two prior matches as preparation for their FHSAA 3A District 16 quarterfinal game. Ranked sixth, the team faced thirdseeded Somerset Silver Palms, a squad they had lost to 7-0 and 7-1 in the regular season.

“We changed the formation of the team on the field,” said head coach Jorge Bosque, adding that the Hurricanes shifted toward a more defense-heavy style of play.

Bosque’s adjustments were successful, as the ’Canes held off a Somerset score for 33 minutes. At that mark, the Stallions scored with a header that redirected a ball being cleared out for the lone goal of the match.

Despite losing 1-0 and ending the season, Bosque had lots of praise for the team.

“Overall I’m very pleased with the players and the commitment it took for the new formation,” he said. “The team played extremely well considering the field conditions.” Those conditions, including 52-degree temperatures coupled with rain, made Somerset’s brand-new turf field treacherous for a team acclimated to the extreme heat of the Keys and natural grass surfaces. Coral Shores finished the season 8-14.

Marathon’s season also ended in the quarterfinals. The Fins, a District 16 2A participant, played at Archbishop Carroll Jan. 23, losing 4-0 to the Bulldogs. Marathon finished the season with a 3-12-1 record.

JANS’ HAT TRICK PUSHES LADY ’CANES PAST KNIGHTS

Fins, Conchs out of playoff contention; Coral Shores’ season ends in semis

In girls soccer district action last week, Key West and Marathon found themselves at the end of the road with losses in their first match of postseason play. For the Dolphins, that loss came in the form of an 8-1 defeat handed to them by Somerset South Homestead in the quarterfinals of the 2A District 16 playoffs. The Fins prevented a shutout with a goal by seventhgrader Ashley Strama, assisted by sophomore Maeve Merryman. Marathon completed its season at 4-11-1.

For Key West, the small size of District 16’s 4A division sent the Conchs directly into the semifinals, where they lost 1-0 to the Sabres of St. Brendan. Key West finished with a record of 8-10.

One Keys team was able to boast a playoff win this season; Coral Shores took on the Knights of Keys Gate on Jan. 23 and came away with a 5-1 quarterfinal win, boosting the ’Canes into the semifinals. Senior Sofia Jans’ hat trick led the team in scoring, while freshman Bayley Cartineau scored two more in a game dominated by Coral Shores. The 3A Hurricanes’ next opponent was Gulliver Prep in a match scheduled for Jan. 27.

Head coach Zach Owens told the Weekly he had all the faith in the world in his team and was confident that if the Lady ’Canes do what he knows they are capable of, they could come away with the upset and a shot at a district title against the most likely opponent: LaSalle. But District 3A is no joke, and Gulliver is perennially a strong contender.

“We can play with Gulliver. The name intimidates people, but I say let’s just go play the game,” said Owens of the higher-ranked Raiders. “We have a team that can do it.”

The teams have similar records and, against like opponents, both had comparable results this season, making for an exciting semifinal match. Unfortunately, the Raiders proved to be the end of the road for the Lady ’Canes, as their season came to a close with a 5-0 loss.

Sofia Jans, left, and Bayley Catarineau. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

STATES-BOUND

Lady Conchs will represent Keys in Lakeland

For the second consecutive year, head coach Ariana Corsi and the Lady Conchs competitive cheer squad will make the drive to Lakeland’s RP Funding Center for the FHSAA state tournament.

The Conchs, who compete in the popular small non-tumbling division, were sixth overall in their division at the 1A Region 4 finals. Key West’s division has the most participants, and only the top two places in each region automatically qualify for the state finals. The Lady Conchs’ routine, judged on technical aspects such as difficulty, execution and crowd

Key West’s competition cheer team made the cut to the state finals. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly

appeal, scored well enough to advance them to the preliminary competition for another round of scoring prior to the finals.

The at-large bid to states gives the Lady Conchs little time to make any necessary adjustments and polish their routine before the Jan. 31 competition.

“The team hit their mini-pyramid two-man stunt with perfection,” Corsi said, adding that the execution and difficulty of the stunt bolstered the Conchs’ total to help seal their bid. “We will be working on cleaning up our ending pyramid this week as we leave for Lakeland.”

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI

Notice is hereby given that on February 10th, 2025, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows:

LOCATION: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 Knight, John 0016 Robertson, Jeremy 1162 Bangert, Philip 1670 Cafarella, Deborah 1191

Murgas, Alex 1580 Cox, Michael 1426 Fellhauer, Amy 1023 Trent, Cheryl 1180, 1203 Adkins, Taylor 1561 Chamberlain, Sheila 1167

Publish: January 23 & 30, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statute 328.17, Silent Hunter Boat Yard, LLC dba-Marathon Boat Yard claims a possessory lien on the following described vessel:

Owned by Darryl Wayne Hansen, deceased, for unpaid storage fees: a 1981 Formosa 51’ 6” vessel by Formosa Boat Bldg Co., “Dragonfly”, Florida Registration # FL4642RH and HIN #FBB510330481.

Sealed bids will be accepted on February 3, 2025 at Marathon Boat Yard, 2055 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. Silent Hunter Boat Yard, LLC dba Marathon Boat Yard, reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

Publish: January 23 & 30, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice of Seizure that in accordance with Florida Statutes 83.805/83.506, Upper Keys Commerce Center, 97300 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 will sell or otherwise dispose of the personal contents of the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien.

All contents in:

Unit 73 – Margaret Edwards

Sale of all goods will be 2/10/25 at 10:00 am at 97300 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo Florida 33037. Upper Keys Commerce Center reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids.

Publish: January 23 & 30, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice of Seizure that in accordance with Florida Statues 83.805 / 83.506, Tavernier Mini Storage, 135 Hood Ave., Tavernier, Florida 33070 will sell or otherwise will dispose of the personal contents of the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien.

All Contents in:

Unit D-56 –Robert Entwistle Sale of all goods will be 2/10/25 at 10:00 am at 135 Hood Ave., Tavernier, Florida 33070. Tavernier Mini Storage reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids.

Publish: January 23 & 30, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-000464-K

DIVISION: PROBATE IN RE: ESTATE OF PHILIP TENNEY, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of PHILIP TENNEY, deceased, whose date of death was July 14, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES 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 the first publication of this Notice is: January 30, 2025.

Personal Representative:

JED TENNEY

629 William Street Key West, FL 33040

Attorney for Personal Representative:

KARLEEN A. GRANT, ESQUIRE

Fla. Bar No: 324531

Law Offices of Karleen A. Grant

1033 Flagler Avenue Key West, FL 33040

Telephone: (305) 292-4929

Publish: January 30 & February 6, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 24-CP00079-M

FLORIDA BAR #980810

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MURIEL BEAUMONT

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of MURIEL BEAUMONT, deceased, whose date of death was July 23, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050.

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

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

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

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

The date of first publication of this notice is: January 23, 2025.

Persons Giving Notice: Stephan Beaumont 311 2nd Street Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051

Attorney for Persons Giving Notice:

Christopher B. Waldera, P.A.

Christopher B. Waldera, Esq.

Florida Bar No: 980810

Attorney for Personal Representative 5800 Overseas Highway, Suite 7

Marathon, Florida 33050

Telephone: (305) 289-2223

Facsimile: (305) 289-2249

email: cwaldera@aol.com

Publish: January 23 & 30, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL ACTION CASE NO.: 24-CA-000958-K CANDANCE ILENE VALLADARES Individually Plaintiff, vs. Equity Link, INC. A California Incorporated Company NuView IRA, Inc. f/k/a/ Entrust Administration Services, Inc. A Florida Profit Corporation Warren Lloyd Holtzman IRA, MINDY SILVERSTEIN, Individually JOSE MIRANDA, Individually Defendants _____________/

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR PUBLICATION

To: MINDY SILVERSTEIN

Last known address: 16 Spring Street, Pleasantville, New York, 10570-2713

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to Quiet Title and to remove the cloud from title of the real property described as: PART OF LOT 51 ACCORDING TO MCDONALD’S SURVEY OF PART OF STOCK ISLAND RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 1, PAGE 55 OF MONROE COUNTY PUBLIC RECORDS AND IS MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

FROM THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID BLOCK 51, GO WESTERLY ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF THIRD AVENUE A DISTANCE OF 250 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES AND NORTHERLY A DISTANCE OF 200 FEET TO A POINT; WHICH POINT IS THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUE NORTHERLY ALONG THE PROLONGATION OF THE PREVIOUSLY DESCRIBED COURSE A DISTANCE OF 70 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES AND WESTERLY A DISTANCE OF 125 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES AND SOUTHERLY A DISTANCE OF 70 FEET; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES EASTERLY A DISTANCE OF 125 FEET BACK TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA with a physical address of: 6430 Sunshine Street, Key West, FL 33040. Folio Number: 00126510-000000 has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it, on Eric J. Sanchez PA, Attorney for Plaintiff, whose address is 4960 SW 72nd Avenue, Suite 206, Miami, FL 33155, (786) 408-9681 on or before March 3, 2025, a date which is within thirty (30) days after the first publication of this Notice in The Keys Weekly and file the original with the Clerk of this Court at Freeman Justice Center, 302 Fleming Street., Key West, FL 33040, either before service on Plaintiff's attorney or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default and judgment will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

Dated: January 27, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA, Clerk CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT By: Shonta McLeod

Deputy Clerk Publish: January 30, February 6, 13 & 20, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No. 2024-CA-000841-K HEATHER STAPLES, Plaintiff, vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/ OR BENEFICIARIES OF CATHERINE KNOWLES; and the UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/OR BENEFICIARIES OF ROBERT KNOWLES JR.; and the UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/ OR BENEFICIARIES OF MINNIE JUNE KNOWLES; and the UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/OR BENEFICIARIES OF BERNARD “BERNIE” STAPLES, Defendants. ________________/ NOTICE OF ACTION BY PUBLICATION TO THE FOLLOWING DEFENDANTS WHOSE RESIDENCES ARE UNKNOWN: CATHERINE KNOWLES, DECEASED, THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE KNOWLES, DECEASED AND ANY UNKNOWN SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS BY AND THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST, SAID DEFENDANT ROBERT KNOWLES JR., DECEASED, THE ESTATE OF ROBERT KNOWLES JR., DECEASED AND ANY UNKNOWN SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS BY AND THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST, SAID DEFENDANT MINNIE JUNE KNOWLES, DECEASED, THE ESTATE OF MINNIE JUNE KNOWLES, DECEASED AND ANY UNKNOWN SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS BY AND THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST, SAID DEFENDANT BERNARD “BERNIE” STAPLES, DECEASED, THE ESTATE OF BERNARD “BERNIE” STAPLES, DECEASED AND ANY UNKNOWN SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS BY AND THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST, SAID DEFENDANT

one (41) feet and three (3) inches; thence at right angles in a Southwesterly direction Eighty-nine (89) feet and four (4) inches; thence at right angles in a Northwesterly direction Forty-one (41) feet and three (3) inches; thence at right angles in a Northeasterly direction Eighty-nine (89) feet and four (4)inches to the place of beginning. AND you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to the complaint, upon DAVID BERMAN, ESQ., 1331 N Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803, attorney for the Plaintiff, on or before thirty (30) days from the first day of publication herein and file the original with the Clerk of the abovestyled court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint.

DATED on 01/24/2025. Kevin Madok As Clerk of the Court By: Marissa Lockwood As Deputy Clerk

Publish: January 30 and February 6, 13 & 20, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED

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

AUTOS FOR SALE

1964 Ford Galaxy, 427 Big Block, 5-speed, located in Key Largo. PRICE REDUCED!! $45,000 954-445-6647

BOATS FOR SALE

2000 21' Hydra Sport Center Console w/200hp Johnson, trailer, cover, potty, jackets +. Located in Big Pine. Runs well. $7,400. 919-621-0544

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

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 above named Defendants are believed to be dead and, if dead, the unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, assignees, lienors, creditors, trustees, or other claimants, by, through, under or against said Defendants and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property described below.

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED of the institution of the abovestyled quiet title proceedings by the Plaintiff, HEATHER STAPLES, upon the filing of a complaint to quiet title for other relief relative to the following described property: On the Island of Key West and known as W.A. Whitehead's map of the City and Island of Key West, delineated on February 1829, as Tract (3), better described on a diagram of Part of Tract Three, which diagram is duly recorded in Deed Book "N", Page 554, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, as subdivision Eight; Commencing at a point on William's Alley distant from the corner of Olivia Street and said Alley, Eight-two (82) feet and six (6) inches and running thence along said Alley in a Southeasterly direction Forty-

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

EMPLOYMENT

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

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/

Specialty Hardware of Marathon is looking for a full time person, hardware knowledge a must. Apply in person at 10730 Overseas Hwy Marathon. 305-743-3382

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

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

Serve/Bartend

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

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

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

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

2 BR / 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!!

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

RV FOR SALE

2018 40’ Phaeton X5H, Factory ordered, 450hp Cummins, Diesel Pusher 10kw w/Onan Generator, 39k miles, 4 Slides, 4 TVs. Loaded with extras. Can be seen by appointment in Marathon, FL. Asking $225,000. Call or text Jerry at 305-664-1286 Email: LC1082@comcast.net SOLD!!!

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

VACATION RENTAL

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

FISHING SALE - SAT. FEB. 1, 8AM-1PM, 706 Copa D'Oro, Flamingo Isle, Marathon. Deep drop elec. reels, rods, spin rods & reels, weights, anchors, line, 2 shotguns, yard tools & misc. stuff.

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

FULL-TIME POSITION ASSISTANT CITY CLERK

Serves as the Assistant to the City Clerk. Provides financial services, including processing accounts payable, revenue collections, and accounts receivables, multiple bank reconciliations, and deposit coding, including funding federal deposits and filing quarterly reports, credit card reconciliations, fixed assets administration, and monthly financial statements. Assistant to the City Clerk to attend Commission & Board meetings and record and transcribe minutes of proceedings.

Salary: $75,000 to $81,000 DOQ

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.

IN HOME SUPPORT LIVE-IN CARETAKER (FT) – Key West

Seeking a full-time, live-in, 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 with hours in the morning and the evening. We can be flexible on the hours but must be available to work both days and evenings as needed. *

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

Benefits include Medical, Dental, and Life Insurance, Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, Holidays, and Retirement.

Qualifications: Business-related Associate Degree; requires a high level of financial/accounting skills; must have excellent knowledge of QuickBooks and Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; exceptional customer service skills; ability to multitask; ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; requires a high degree of work ethics; ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with commission, staff, and the public.

Application forms can be found at www.keycolonybeach.net; see “I WANT TO” then “APPLY FOR A JOB.” Equal Opportunity Employer

Submit resume and application by mail or in-person to:

City of Key Colony Beach

Attn.: City Clerk

P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

Or email Cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net

The City of Key Colony Beach is seeking a full-time Public Works Foreman. The Foreman position is hands-on and works alongside the Public Works crew while assisting the Public Works Department Head in accomplishing department objectives and goals. The foreman is responsible for overseeing and working with a crew of three workers within the Public Works Department, coordinating daily operations, assigning tasks, and ensuring the safe and efficient maintenance and repair of public infrastructure such as roads, right of ways, stormwater systems, parks and facilities.

Salary: $75,000 to $85,000 DOQ

Benefits include Medical, Dental, and Life Insurance, Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, Holidays, and the Florida Retirement System (FRS). Application forms can be found at www.keycolonybeach.net; see “I WANT TO” then “APPLY FOR A JOB.” Equal Opportunity Employer

Submit resume and application by mail or in-person to: City of Key Colony Beach

Attn.: Michael Guarino P.O. Box 510141

Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

Or email Michael.guarino@keycolonybeach.net

Previous

BEACH ATTENDANT

Previous hospitality experience required. Job types: Full-time

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 Advocate (FT) Front Desk Specialist

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)

KEY WEST

Case Manager (Adult PT, Child FT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)

MARATHON

Care Coordinator (PT)

Driver – PT (CDL not required)

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

*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 receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

*Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based

APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net

THEME: SUPER BOWL

ACROSS

1. Bungle

5. Cause of a trip?

8. Dao, alt. sp.

11. Between marquess and viscount

12. Super garb?

13. Inlet in Norway

15. Cogito ____ sum

16. Long story

17. Deprived of a limb

18. *Half-time headliner

20. Ice, dark or middle ____

21. *Cindy Crawford wore “____ Dukes” in a Super Bowl ad

22. Flightless bird

23. *Last year’s Super Bowl winners

26. A cheap, run-down motel

30. “____ the fields we go”

31. Merry

34. Actor’s part

35. Expensive

37. Not him

38. Cell phone bill item

39. Civil Rights icon

40. *David Tyree’s ____ Catch

42. Letters of distress

43. What rule follower does

45. Get cozy

47. Greed, biblically-speaking

48. Grieve for the dead

50. Time period

52. *Team with most Super Bowl appearances

55. 3600 seconds, pl.

56. Casino chip

57. Salmon’s output

59. En ____, all together

60. Like Piper of Hamelin

61. Uber alternative

62. ____ Robinson

63. Acronym, abbr.

64. “Come Sail Away” band

DOWN

1. Service charge

2. Songbird

3. Craving

4. Marilyn Monroe, e.g.

5. ____ lazuli

6. Hot

7. 52 cards

8. Hefty volume

9. Greek god of war

10. 1, e.g.

12. Cherry red

13. Post vitriol

14. *Team with no Super Bowl appearances

19. Looney Tunes duck

22. Architectural add-on

23. Meat of coconut

24. Roman king of Judea

25. Like certain whiskey

26. Grow crop

27. Brag

28. Algorithmic language

29. Ganders’ companions

32. Tom Jones’s “____ a Lady” 33. Rolodex abbr. 36. *____ Superdome 38. Wombs 40. Lady lobster 41. Hardened

44. Follows wash

46. Pig sounds

48. Bouncing off the walls

49. Weasel’s aquatic cousin

50. Fly like an eagle

51. Boot-wearing kitty

52. Mama Bear’s husband 53. To perfection (3 words) 54. *Justin Timberlake’s “____ Back,” sung in Super Bowl show 55. Expression of doubt 58.

*Steelers’ number of Super Bowl trophies

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

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