17 1201 mk

Entire Weekly staff fired for inappropriate behavior. No paper next week.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Julie Tong, center, puts the finishing touches on the tree with Kim Portner, left, and Virginia Lee. It’s one of about 40 trees on display at the Sombrero Beach Country Club and open to the public for viewing. See story, page 17. SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly

11

¢

2

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

Here Today, Here Tomorrow.

Your Local Roofer!

We are here to help our friends and neighbors.

Call us when you are ready & we will be there for you.

MASTER INSTALLER FOR FIRESTONE ROOFING PRODUCTS Tile • Metal • TPO • Shingle • Flat Commercial & Residential Repairs Maintenance Program Follow us on Facebook

Marathon 12690 Overseas Highway DionAllAreaRoofing@gmail.com

305-743-4400

Visit us at www.keysallarearoofing.com Licensed.Insured.Bonded. CCC#1326177

Key West 5511 5th Avenue • Stock Island DionAllAreaRoofing@gmail.com

305-743-4400

3

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

• Carpet/Tile/Laminate/Wood/Vinyl • Tens of thousands of feet of flooring ready for immediate installation • Area’s largest stocking flooring superstore • Now featuring vanities!

• Kitchen cabinet designs available

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DELIVERY AVAILABLE! 101961 Overseas Highway • Key largo 305-451-0585 • JustADollarFloor.com Open Monday – Saturday 8 am – 6 pm

99¢ Why Pay More?

4

KEYS GIVING

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

COLDWELL BANKER SCHMITT CHARITABLE FOUNDATION 9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

Publisher

Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Partner

Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Editor

Sara Matthis sara@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor

Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Sales & Marketing

Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Account Executives

FLORIDA KEYS SPCA MARATHON CAMPUS The Florida Keys SPCA is dedicated to promoting the humane treatment of all animals through care, adoption, education, population control and humane law enforcement. The Marathon campus currently has 14 dogs, 41 cats, 4 birds and 2 gerbils available for adoption. It is funded

by Monroe County via its contract to provide animal control services, and private donations.

WEB: fkspca.org

Lesley Aaron lesley@keysweekly.com

Since its inception in April 2002, the Coldwell Banker Schmitt Charitable Foundation has raised more than $2 million and assisted more than 800 individuals and local organizations. Through the generosity of Coldwell Banker Schmitt real estate agents and partners, it helps residents unable to bridge a financial gap caused by some unfortunate, yet temporary, situation. All contributions stay in the Keys, and no funds are used to support the fund’s administration. Gifting is based on need and each request for funds is reviewed before it reaches the board for a vote. It recently distributed $250,000 collected by the Ocean Reef Community Foundation to help those personally impacted by Hurricane Irma.

WEB: www.gooddeedsinthekeys.org

Hollie Will hollie@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

Kristen Livengood kristen@keysweekly.com Hays Blinckmann hays@keysweekly.com Gabriel Sanchez gabriel@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Office Manager

Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

SEASON

One of the best things about the Florida Keys is our volunteer-heavy community.

Almost everybody volunteers for something, and they are organized under a staggering number of nonprofits formed for the purpose of helping homeless, or animals, or cancer patients, or even homeowners facing crippling insurance bills. In this issue of the Keys Weekly, we are highlighting organizations that make the Keys a better place to live.

— Weekly Staff report

Design / Web Master

Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Design / Pre-Press

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Classifieds

Luis Bouzon luis@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

Keys Weekly Newspapers (ISSN 1944-0812) are a community newspaper group published every Friday by Keys Weekly Newspapers, 9709 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050.

Subscription rates are $100.00 per year outside of Monroe County. Please call for all other subscription rates including overseas mail.

Periodicals postage pending at Marathon, FL and additional mailing offices. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

POSTMASTER:

Send address changes to Keys Weekly Newspapers 9709 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050.

News Deadline

Tuesday Noon

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

KAIR MM50 RELIEF PROJECT MM50 Relief is a new organization, created after Hurricane Irma by a Marathon High School graduate living on the mainland. She’s teamed up with six other alumni to serve the children and young adults of the Middle Keys, collecting gift baskets, gift certificates and gift cards for the PTO’s silent auction on Saturday, Dec. 2 from 8 a.m. to noon at Stanley Switlik Elementary. In January, the group will make the high school’s postponed homecoming dance more beautiful with donated makeup. Details on the group’s Facebook page.

WEB: mm50reliefproject@gmail.com

For more details about other

nonprofits and charities Keyswide, please visit keysweekly.com.

The Keys Area Interdenominational Resources does so many things. It runs a food pantry, provides assistance for medical and dental and eye care, and emergency funds for utility bills or even bus tickets. It distributes clothing and housewares for free, holiday dinners to needy families, and even school supplies for area students. It serves neighbors who need help after an illness, job loss, family separation or other unplanned circumstance. Some elderly and disabled residents need help when their limited income doesn’t cover an unplanned emergency. It is the go-to crisis center in the Middle Keys.

WEB: kaironline.net

5

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

NOW OPEN FOR DINNER!

Serving our Regular Menu & Nightly Specials

Your Nightly Hosts: Brayan, Johnny & Toby!

Don't fear, Jackie and George are still here!

Our Seafood and Meat Market is open, too.

Don't forget to order & reserve your Holiday Party Platters and Meat early...

Monday-Friday 11am - 8:30pm (closed Saturday & Sunday) 11711 Overseas Highway, Marathon Fl (Mile Marker 53) • 305-743-9196 We accept...Visa, Mastercard, American Express & now Discover

www.floridalobster.com

NEED DRYWALL?

CALL TODAY!

Great jobs with great pay do exist in the Keys.

We are growing and looking for talented people to join our team.

Email your resume to britt@keysweekly.com.

(305) 684-7848

I.D.B. CUSTOM BUILDERS CGC 1513656 DRYWALL & PAINTING • DOORS & TRIM

Locally owned and operated since 2003.

6

KEYS GIVING

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

INJURED? Advertisement

-

-

Personal Injury Workers Compensation Malpractice Wrongful Death Motor Vehicle Accidents Representing Clients throughout the Keys for over 20 years.

Committed to getting the best results for clients.

Call Dirk Smits, Esq., Managing Attorney of Vernis & Bowling located in Islamorada, Florida at (305) 664-4675 for your free consultation.

The hiring of an attorney is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.

Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

To be the church, St. Columba keeps our eyes and ears open to the people around us, and tries to show them love in whatever way we can. This is evident if you stop by our new campground "Camp Columba". May our impact within the community be felt far beyond our Sunday gatherings.

INDEPENDENCE CAY This is the only homeless shelter in the Middle Keys and just this week reopened after a renovation and expansion, courtesy of Hurricane Irma. The Independence Cay kitchen also reopened and serves a hot meal at 12:30 p.m. every day to all comers, organized by volunteers from local churches. It has transitional housing for more than a dozen men as they make changes to get their lives back on track.

Other homeless can make use of the shelter’s laundry and shower facilities. The shelter is located at 1669 Overseas Highway, behind the former Royal Furniture.

WEB: kaironline.net/id39.html

HAMMOCK HOUSE St. Columba Episcopal Church has many missions in Marathon, but the one most near and dear to parishioners’ hearts is the Hammock House. It offers free after-school care to about two dozen children year-round as well as popular summer and theme camps. The church uses revenues from its Nearly New Thriftshop in Gulfside Village and proceeds from the annual Florida Keys Celtic Festival, as well as private donations, to support the children. It seeks to create a space where children thrive emotionally, artistically, intellectually and spiritually.

WEB: www.stcolumbamarathon.org

INCREDIBLE FRUIT STAND For 17 years, Peter and Marie Pittman have been operating the Incredible Fruit Stand. Locals and residents know it as the place to get fresh fruit and vegetables every Saturday from 9 a.m. in front of the Crane Point Museum. What many don’t know is how the stand supports local causes including ballroom dancing classes at the high school, scholarships, and even the Incredible Lobster Trap Tree.

WEB: Educationcoalition.org

All are welcome every Sunday!

9am Traditional Service with Sunday School 11am Contemporary Service featuring our " Contemporary Band" Worship with our awesome praise band!

Youth Group Wednesday's 5:30pm-7:30pm

HANDEL’S Messiah

COMMUNITY WIDE CHOIR & CHAMBER ORCHESTRA A Musical GIFT to the Community SUNDAY, DEC. 10TH AT 7:00PM WE OFFER A COMMUNITY OF PEACE, LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING.

St. Columba Episcopal Church 451 West 52nd St, Marathon Fl 305 743-6412 • www.stcolumbamarathon.org

In the Middle Keys, there are many more social clubs and industry groups that do much to support local causes, including Zonta, Business and Professional Women, Marathon Chamber of Commerce, American Legion, the Moose Lodge, Disabled American Veterans, Organized Fishermen of Florida, Elks Club, Marathon Rotary Club, the Shriners, Marathon and Lower Keys Association of Realtors and the Growing Hope Initiative. By joining these groups, or attending their events, you support the Keys as a whole.

7

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

• Builders and Installers of Modular Homes able to withstand 180 MPH Winds.

• Replace your Hurricane Damaged Home or Structure.

• TAX TALK • TAG TALK •

DEC

• Several Floor Plans available.

Call for Consultation Appointment and Details

Conch Homes LLC (305) 522-1511

Travis W. Bennett, DMD

102965 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

• Mobile home owners. Your BLUE decal will expire on December 31, 2017. Your new ORANGE decal should be affixed to the lower left corner of the window closest to the street or road providing access to the residence.

305-451-2616

• The third installment payment for taxes is due. Taxes paid in December will receive a 3% discount.

90290 Overseas Hwy, Suite 108, Tavernier, FL 33070

• Mrs. Henriquez and her staff wish everyone a very Happy Holiday. Our offices will be closed on December 25, 2017. The offices will be open on December 29, 2017 until 4:45pm.

Sandy M. Brito, DMD

305-852-5099 www.EveryoneLovesaGentleDentist.com 305-853-1788 91555 Overseas Hwy. #2 Tavernier, FL 33070 MM 91.5 Oceanside www.thegoodhealthclinic.org

FREE medical care for uninsured residents of the Florida Keys OUR SERVICES: Urgent Care • Women’s Health • Wellness/Preventative Care • Chronic Illness Management • Advanced Medical Services • Diagnostic testing and labs • Rx Assistance •

• Coupons for the Tourist Development Tax will be mailed out this month. Taxpayers not registered online can register at www.monroetaxcollector.com.

Application process req’d, apply today. Your health is important!

HAS YOUR

HURRICANE INSURANCE CLAIM BEEN DENIED OR UNDERPAID?

Se habla español!

FREE Pro Bono Legal Advice for How to Process,

Protect and Maximize Your Claim

Call Patrick Russell, Esq. (305) 608-2977

Hurricane Lawyer and Keys Property Owner More than 2 Decades of Florida Insurance

Law Experience that Began with Hurricane Andrew THE MISSION IS TO EDUCATE. INFORMATION IS FREE, MISTAKES ARE COSTLY.

8

KEYS GIVING

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017 Over the holiday season, the Weekly will feature stories of locals who need help this holiday season. Following Hurricane Irma, the need is greater than ever. They are stories that tug at heartstrings; and locals and visitors can help in meaningful ways. Their identities have been concealed to maintain the dignity and privacy of the givers and the givees.

Property & Business Owners: Problems Trying to Rebuild?

Come to PART 3 of Our Recovery Workshop.

Get the Assistance You Need to Move On

11am to 1pm Saturday, December 9th Courtyard Marriott 2146 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

Has your insurance claim been denied? Delayed? Underpaid?

Are your wind and flood companies blaming each other or making unfairly low offers?

Still waiting for your adjuster?

Get expert input from legal and insurance specialists.

Concerns about Building Code?

Get on-site clarification from City & County representatives.

Suffering economic loss from your business or rental property?

You may qualify for assistance you are not aware of.

Ask specialists from the SBA.

Event Questions? Email keyslocals@gmail.com

A HAND UP

Local family needs the essentials

I

SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

magine being a single mom of three children, ages 9 to 14.

Imagine a hurricane named Irma.

Imagine having your possessions reduced from a household to a small stack in a friend’s garage. Imagine losing your place to live, finding a small guesthouse through the generosity of friends. Imagine trying to rebuild an entire life.

The Keys Weekly learned of a 36-year-old Marathon woman who needs help with life’s essentials. Not luxuries, essentials. For example, she has two twin mattresses but needs a bunk bed to put them in. She has a queen bed frame, but no mattress.

The Marathon High School graduate (2002) was living in Grassy Key in a home being renovated when Hurricane Irma hit. Tragically, the vast majority of their possessions were being stored on the main floor. After they were able to return to the Keys, they spent three agonizing weekends going through their belongings and chucking most of them.

“I’m kind of glad that my kids are a little bit older,” she said. “They are humble and resilient. These are good kids.”

With the help of her mom and her best friend, she’s cobbled together a sort of mashed-up lifestyle. She’s working two jobs and already has saved up the down payment on a two-bedroom rental home — as soon as she can find one.

“When I moved back to the Keys the housing crisis was already happening, and now …” she trailed off, with a wry smile.

She gets a distant look in her eye and smile on her face when she talks about her children. Her oldest, at 14, is a good student. She needs a laptop sooner rather than later. She loves cheerleading and is a budding Francophile (a lover of all things French). Her middle child, a boy, “probably lost the most.” All of his sporting equipment was rusted beyond repair — a bike, skateboard, and something called a “green machine.” Her youngest lost all of her stuffed animals and her prized collection of Judy Moody books.

This year, the mom and kids are content with a tabletop Christmas tree.

They are waiting on the new rental, remember, and think it would be too

hard to move a full-sized holiday decoration. They need other basics, too, like a crockpot to replace the one that rusted, and new wooden spoons.

“Some of our things that were in the boxes on top were okay,” she said.

“Other times I’d pick up a box and it would just fall apart in my hands.”

Presents in Paradise, a 15-year local organization (see sidebar), is helping to coordinate a bright holiday for this family.

The act of giving without the expectation of something in return is the true definition of kindness.

PRESENTS IN PARADISE Though 15 years old, Presents in Paradise isn’t officially a nonprofit as it still awaits its formal 501(c)(3) designation from the Internal Revenue Service.

That doesn’t stop it, however, from doing good works.

“We are way about stealth,” said spokesperson Sarah Brawer. This year, she said, has been especially tough.

People who normally help the organization are in need of help themselves.

Suggesting that, though, is traumatic for both sides.

“I called this one woman and we just both broke down in tears,” Brawer said. This year the group is focusing on the needy between Marathon and Sugarloaf.

“But we don’t say ‘no’ to anybody,” she said.

Presents in Paradise can be reached at 305-304-6794. It also has a donation account at First State Bank.

9

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

M – Sun 11 AM – 2AM

Full Menu Available 11 AM Until 2 AM *Early Bird BOGO 4-6 PM

*Order Online

Marathongrillandalehouse.com Full Menu Available 11 AM – 2 AM

*Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials

Taco Tuesday

WE ARE OPEN!

$2 Each for Beef, Chicken or Pork 6 – 10 PM

Wednesday

Ladies Ladies Night Night Team Trivia 9 PM Now Serving Liquor -

Friday Prime Rib Saturday

10 PM Late Night Dance Party Presented by

DJ Maja

Try our great MOJITOS

The Real Keys

Waterfront Dining Experience

Best in FL Keys

Open Daily

7 AM - 11 AM (Breakfast) 11 AM - 10 PM (Lunch/Dinner)

10% Local

Homemade BBQ and Fresh Local Seafood

Thursday Thursday WING WING NIGHT NIGHT 6 – 10 PM • 35¢ Wings

Discount

BBQ Smoked Daily on premises

Live Entertainment Nightly 6-9 PM Daily Specials Locals Discount!

Pet Friendly

100 Craft Beers 30 On Tap

Late Night Everynight!

Full Menu Till 2 AM Happy Hour 10-Midnight

NFL Sunday Food & Drink Specials

Happy Hour 3-6 PM Daily

Homemade Desserts

Beer/Wine/Well Drinks/Mojitos Rum Punch and Happytizers

PorkysBaysideBBQ.com

Facebook.com/PorkysBaysideBBQFLKeys MM 47.5 Bayside in Marathon • 305-289-2065

5800 Overseas Highway • Gulfside Village Plaza MM 50

Marathon • 305-743-5888

10

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

REALTOR AND GENERAL CONTRACTOR

READY TO LIST? LIST WITH ME. I HAVE QUALIFIED BUYERS.

Most Major Insurance Companies Accepted

BRENDA SYMONDS PA • 305-394-7882 RE/MAX ALL KEYS REAL ESTATE • (LIC CGC-1511458 AND SL-3242833)

Full Bar | Happy Hour 4:20-6:30 | Raw Bar Live Music | Grilled Oysters 16 Taps – 150 Bottled & Canned Beers Open 4:20 – Midnight Tues – Sat

LOCALS APPRECIATION!

420 Lounge

December 1st – 16th

K! 25% OFF ENTIRE CHEC and Please show your support TO COME PLEASE TELL EVERYONE EAT AND DRINK WITH US!

D

SMOKED, BAKED & FRIE My Favorite Joint

...because two joints are

better than one

We Offer A Full Array of Services to Help You Maintain Healthy Teeth Ranked #1 Restaurant in the Florida Keys on

Only a quick Uber or Lyft ride from Key West to My New Joint! See you soon!

Voted Best Seafood Three Years In A Row and Best Lunch in the People’s Choice Awards of the Lower Keys and Key West!

$10 Blue Plate Special Lunch | Cocktails Fresh Local Seafood | Daily Specials

305-745-8880 | MM 22.5 Oceanside, Cudjoe Key Lunch 11-2:30 • Dinner 5-10

• Veneers • Crowns • Implants • Fillings • Root Canals • Whitening Christopher D. Golden, D.M.D. Big Pine Key • 305-872-4272 & www.keysdentist.com

11

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

We Can Help Mammograms Scholarships Literacy Victim Assistance Career Guidance / Mentoring Need Help… or Want to Help?

Please Contact Us

305.390.0567

Estamos Aqui Para Ayudarte Mamografías Becas Asistencia para aprender a leer Apoyo a mujeres que son víctimas de crímenes Asesoria para seleccionar carreras y oficios/Tutorias Necesitas ayuda?

O quieres formar parte de nuestra organización?

Por favor contactanos al número

305.390.0567

(you will be asked to leave a number where we can best reach you)

(Deberá dejar un numero telefónico para poder contactarlo(a))

By email at: info@zontaclubofmarathon.com

Para comunicaciones por correo electrónico: escribe a: info@zontaclubofmarathon.com

www.zontaclubofmarathon.org

www.zontaclubofmarathon.org

12

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

Starting at $25 Per Foot

!

S M I T C I V E N A C I R R U H G N I V R E S NOW

COMPANIES

CGC1521939

New Constructions Remodels/Additions Kitchens/Bath Impact Windows

EC 13005589

Residential & Commercial

Our Office will be closed for Employee Appreciation December 2nd – December 6th

Locally owned and operated 305-735-4042 • 6677 Overseas Hwy

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

PLAZA GRILL

13

By Chef Heather MacDonald

Featuring Local Seafood • Great Variety of Small Bites • Great Steaks

Reasonably Priced in an Elegant Setting $5 per Glass House Wines • Full Bar – Great Wine List Open for Dinner, Tuesday – Saturday 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m 5101 Overseas Highway • MM 50 – Marathon, FL • Reser vations Suggested • 305-743-7874

MARATHON LIQUORS

BOAR’S HEAD &

DELI

NOBODY SELLS FOR LESS!!

Philly Cheese Steak

$7.99 Special BETWEEN 5:00 AND 7:00 P.M.

YOUR CHOICE Titos Vodka, Absolut Vodka, J&B Scotch, Dewars Scotch, Johnnie Walker Red & Tanqueray Gin

$27.99

p/bottle 1.75 L

Sonoma Cutrer Chardonnay Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio Meiomi Pinot Noir

E HUG SALE

Supermarket Prices on B o a r ’s H e a d M e a t & C h e e s e Example:Ham – All Types - $6.99 lb

14” Party Pizza

$7.99

Smirnoff

$15.99 p/bottle 1.75 L Coupon must be presented • Expires Dec 6, 2017

Bacardi or Captain Morgan Spiced Rum

$19.99 p/bottle 1.75 L Coupon must be presented • Expires Dec 6, 2017

Coupon must be presented • Expires Dec 6, 2017

YOUR CHOICE Y VABL ELIE UNB RICED P

SAVE $3 - $4 Off

Coupon must be presented • Expires Dec 6, 2017

$15.99

p/bottle 750 ml L

Robert Mondavi Woodbridge Wines & Barefoot Wines

$7.99 p/bottle 1.5 L

Coupon must be presented • Expires Dec 6, 2017

Ketel One Vodka or Bombay Sapphire

$32.99 p/bottle 1.75L Coupon must be presented • Expires Dec 6, 2017

Kendall Jackson Chardonnay

$9.99

Coupon must be presented • Expires Dec 6, 2017

Gordon’s Gin or Vodka

$14.99

p/bottle 1.75 L

Coupon must be presented • Expires Dec 6, 2017

Crown Royal or Jack Daniels

$39.99 p/bottle 1.75 L Coupon must be presented • Expires Dec 6, 2017

5101 Overseas Highway • MM 50 • Marathon • 305-743-6350 Liquor Store Hours: Mon-Sat 8 AM – 9 PM • Sun 9 AM – 8 PM • Deli Hours: Mon-Sat 8 AM – 7:30 PM • Sun 9 AM – 6:30 PM

14

KEYS GIVING

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

WESLEY HOUSE FAMILY SERVICES

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF THE FLORIDA KEYS

Wesley House’s mission is to promote and enhance the safety, well-being and development of children by educating, supporting and meeting the needs of families. Its roots date back to the beginning of the 1900s as a program to help Cuban-speaking kindergartners learn English and transition into public school easier. In the mid-1940s, the nonprofit started focusing on professional childcare for working parents, opening the Inez Martin Childcare Center in Key West in 1971. The agency also encompasses all aspects of dependency care, including family support and prevention services, foster and adoptive families, and promotion of healthy families in Monroe County. www.wesleyhouse.org

Established in 1996, the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys’ goal is to make the Florida Keys a better place to live now and in the future, by encouraging philanthropy and matching acts of caring to community needs. The nonprofit is known for strengthening other local nonprofits.

After Hurricane Irma, it started a Florida Keys Emergency Relief Fund, which funded service organizations throughout Monroe County. The organization also holds the annual Unsung Heroes luncheon, the next of which will take place Jan. 26 at Key West Marriott Beachside. www.cffk.org

UNITED WAY OF THE FLORIDA KEYS Touted as the leader in community caring, United Way of the Florida Keys advocates for increased social consciousness while actively fighting for strong working families in the Florida Keys. The local organization does campaigns that include Stuff the Bus before students return to school; Imagination Library, which gives families access to books; Summer Literacy Kits for Kids, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, childcare scholarships, and the ALICE community impact report. The organization also partners with other community-minded organizations to help out residents in need. After Hurricane Irma, United Way of the Florida Keys also donated grocery store gift cards in the hardest hit areas, and financially helped those in need after the storm. www.keysunitedway.org

FIRM

VNA/HOSPICE

Fair Insurance Rates Monroe County is a grassroots organization that started in 2006 to fight for property owners’ rights in Tallahassee and Washington, D.C. In addition to advocacy, the group keeps the community in the know with events like flood mitigation workshops. The next events take place Jan. 16 in Marathon, Jan. 17 in Key Largo, and Jan. 18 in Key West. The group, which has 3,700 members and is free to join, has a monthly e-newsletter to keep members upto-date with flood and wind news. www.firmkeys.org

For more than 30 years, the Visiting Nurses Association/Hospice has been supporting families with in-home healthcare, palliative care, and hospice care needs in the Florida Keys.

Fundraising events include Taste Around the World, taking place Feb. 18, the Queen Mother pageant, which will take place in May, and the Fourth of July Picnic in Key West. The events raise funds for grief support and counseling and health education. www.vnahospicekeys.org

SEASON MONROE COUNTY NONPROFITS

AMERICAN RED CROSS OF GREATER MIAMI AND THE FLORIDA KEYS The American Red Cross doled out needed financial aid to 24,000 Keys residents, more than a million bulk items and had more than 7,000 volunteers in the wake of Hurricane Irma.

While helping with hurricane disaster relief in the Keys, the organization is also vital for blood donation, CPR training, and services for people who experience other disasters like home fires. The American Red Cross Gala takes place Jan. 24 at Key West Marriott Beachside, honoring philanthropist Kate Miano as Humanitarian of the Year. www.redcross.org

MONROE COUNTY EDUCATION FOUNDATION FLORIDA KEYS CHILDREN’S SHELTER The goal of Florida Keys Children’s Shelter is to provide safety to children, create strong families, and keep a healthy community. Programs include an emergency shelter in Tavernier, a group home for children in Key West, and Project Lighthouse, a drop-in center in Key West for runaway, at-risk, or homeless youths. Placement can be short- or longterm. After Hurricane Irma, the center also opened up beds for children who had nowhere to sleep. The annual Mayor’s Ball, which takes place in January at the Casa Marina in Key West, is one of the major fundraisers for the shelter. www.fkcs.org

Established in 1996, the nonprofit is dedicated to improving educational experiences for students in Monroe County. The organization provides financial support and sponsors several programs to broaden student educational experiences. The organization supports Take Stock in Children, Experiment in International Living, leadership training for students, and financial incentives for students who complete Monroe Computes. The foundation has also been responsible for allocating funding to students and teachers affected by Hurricane Irma. www.monroecountyedfound.com

15

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

- KEYS

GREAT FOOD & LIVE MUSIC Marathon is unsinkable.

THE LIQUOR STORE IS OPEN! NOON T0 8 PM EVERY DAY!

Karen

TO THE KEY REAL ESTATE (SINCE 1990)

Bill

OPPORTUNIT Y!!

KEY COLONY BEACH Occupy today! Huge (2,464 sq ft) half duplex.

4BR/3BA, covered patio, mini office, impact windows, near tennis, golf, charter dock, restaurants. Great family OR RENTAL retreat. $499,999 ML 573862

FLAMINGO ISLAND 2,450 sq ft secluded poured pre-stressed concrete house (including the roof) on over ½ acre peninsula.

3 bedrooms and 3 baths. Deep water dockage for very large boat and 8 minutes to the ocean. Permit for additional dockage in hand. Beautiful lake view.

Paver drive. In area of fine homes. $1,339,000 ML 576396

LOTS

HOLIDAY SPECIAL – SPEND $50 GET A FREE DRINK AT THE PUB AND GRILL

Key Colony Beach 15,000 sq ft Open Water $1,590,000 Marathon NON-WATERFRONT LOT $65,000 WORK FORCE HOUSING OPPORTUNITY Re-develop or repair this 3-unit property.

Workforce housing is in great demand in Marathon. $275,000 ML 572475

Big Pine Key Waterfront for only $84,000

(305) 743-2300

Karen Farley-Wilkinson, Bill Wilkinson

16

WEEKLY INTERVIEW SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

arjorie “Marge” Roberts is probably the most unassuming person in Marathon. Her humble demeanor belies her very important work as the head of both Independence Cay and Keys Area Interdenominational Resources (KAIR). The first is a shelter for men and a soup kitchen, recently reopened and expanded (thanks, Irma!). The second is a crisis center and food pantry, helping local residents get back on their feet.

KAIR will celebrate its 20-year anniversary in just a few months. Started with seed money from a St. Columba parishioner, the idea was to unite local churches in giving and eliminate both those who sought to cheat the system by double dipping, or worse, locals whose needs were going unmet. A nonprofit was formed.

Roberts took the KAIR job in 2005, just after moving to the Keys, but pre-Hurricane Wilma.

“Before, we were just a little food pantry, giving out some medicine, a little bit of emergency funds,” said Roberts. “After, it was about keeping people functioning in the community.”

It hasn’t stopped. Since Irma, Roberts said, she has seen many new faces, clients different from those she normally serves.

“These are people reeling from the storm,” she said. “They had good jobs, but lost them. And I think the problem is even bigger than we think. Many people are living with friends until they figure things out … but how long will that last?”

At KAIR, the help is varied. About 40 to 45 come every day for groceries or clothing.

KAIR helps people pay utility bills and navigate the system to receive social benefits.

Sometimes the best help is a ticket out of the Keys, away from the high cost of living.

“I tell clients, they wouldn’t have considered moving to Beverly Hills or Manhattan, but the Keys are just as expensive; it’s not paradise for everyone,” Roberts said.

Some get a bus ride home where they can find support from family, or repairs to a boat so they can return to a marina in the panhandle of Florida. For those who are deeply embedded in the community, whose support system is here, Roberts works hard to find a way to help them stay.

Independence Cay was started in 2009. It was recently expanded to accommodate 18 men, up from about a dozen. The majority of the men in the shelter have full-time jobs. It is also a seven-day soup kitchen serving one hot meal a day, and a place for homeless to do laundry. Staff can assess needs and help them arrange follow-up care at KAIR. The two agencies are not linked by anything other than the executive director (Roberts), and function as separate entities.

Roberts and her husband, Kevin, a contractor, are originally from New York state and Delaware, respectively. They have four children together and four grandkids.

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

MARGE IN CHARGE Head of KAIR, Independence Cay serves most vulnerable

Full name? Marjorie Roberts.

Is filling out grant applications as hard as it looks? Actually, it’s harder getting the money once you’ve been approved. Sometimes the documentation takes up entire binders.

If not this, what would be your ideal job?

Librarian.

What is your guilty pleasure? Bad television.

You have a bit of a “sideline;” can you tell us about it? I volunteer with hospice, so I think about death a lot, what it is to be a tiny piece of the universe. Sometimes my work involves giving emotional support; sometimes I help clients figure out funerals, wills and estates.

What would people be surprised to learn about you? I am NOT “The Church Lady.”

What would people be REALLY surprised to learn about you? My original college plan was to study piano. But I figured out I didn’t like to perform in front of crowds or teach. But social work was a natural for me.

As a kid, I worried about the people that didn’t have winter coats.

So, what kind of music do you like? I like jazz, indie, classical. I do NOT like trop rock or ’80s music. (Kevin, we believe that last bit was directed at you!)

Nerdiest passion? I watch a lot of documentaries. Right now I’m watching Ken Burns’ “Vietnam.”

What is your life motto? Err on the side of grace. Some people think we are “over-serving” our clients, but it is always better to give more than not enough.

What are your top two Christmas wishes? I would like a new volunteer to sign up every day, and we need a van for Independence Cay. It doesn’t have to be new, but something in the $5,000 to $10,000 range would be a wonderful gift for our nonprofit.

Is there a lesson to be learned from Hurricane Irma? Yes, there is. I think that people who are resilient in the face of these disasters have the responsibility to help those who are not.

If you could be invisible for a day, what would you do? I would listen in on government officials’ decision-making.

Last, but most important, question: is the race on? Yes, we will have the annual Sombrero Beach Run on March 3, 2018. It is our biggest fundraiser of the year.

KEYS GIVING

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

17

SEE THE TREES

Raffle benefits Zonta Club

S

SEASON MONROE COUNTY NONPROFITS SPECIAL OLYMPICS FLORIDA – MONROE COUNTY Special Olympics hosts competitions in a variety of Olympic-type sports for the intellectually or developmentally disabled. The organization provides coaches and training year-round to help develop physical fitness. Athletes and parents are able to participate in the program free of charge; anyone who meets eligibility criteria can join. Activities are tailored for all ability levels. Special Olympics athletes are able to experience excitement and joy after dedicating themselves to training and leadership development. Monroe County has 151 athletes competing in seven sports. www.specialolympicsflorida.org/monroe/

1 2

SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly 1. Eileen Burke, left, and Marianne Biffel get decorating tips from little Issac.

2. Jessica Vandervoort and Sheila Cook decorate The Art Studio’s tree with the most beautiful hand-glazed ornaments.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY The main goal of the Habitat for Humanity organizations is to provide affordable homeownership for families who demonstrate need and have a willingness to partner with the organization. PostHurricane Irma, the organizations have been focusing on helping families repair their Habitat homes, while building community partnerships for future affordable homes in the area. www.habitatlowerkeys.org www.habitatmiddlekeys.org www.habitatupperkeys.org

3. Sisters Jeanne Desautels-Rice and Denise Desautels-Bodnar are loading their tree with sparkly frames worth more than $1,000 in redeemable accessories from The Optical Shoppe.

4. Sylvie Stoll is usually on the other side of the camera. Her ornaments are actually beautiful pieces of original art.

3 4

SALVATION ARMY The thrift stores in Big Pine Key and Key Largo aren’t operational yet due to Hurricane Irma damage, but the Key West store is able to periodically take donations – those donations are then distributed throughout the Keys. At presstime, a command center is in Big Pine Key for food and clothing. Salvation Army has been helping in hard hit areas since two days post-storm. The staff has stayed on the payroll through the disaster relief program and has been working to get the stores operational. When not in a storm situation, the Salvation Army provides services, food, and clothing to those in need regardless of disaster situations. Ways you can help during the holidays: be a bell ringer. www.salvationarmyflorida.org/keywest

o many trees. So many.

About 40 artificial trees, ranging from tabletop to towering, have been decorated to the utmost. They are on display from 5 to 9 p.m. through Thursday, Nov. 30 and lucky locals vote with donations, placing their raffle tickets in receptacles in front of the tree they wish to win. The drawing takes place on Friday, Dec. 1 from 5 to 9 p.m. during the Zonta Club of Marathon’s annual gala. It is a fundraiser for the club that supports women and children in Marathon. Tickets to the gala ($50 each) are going fast.

—Weekly Staff report

18

COMMUNITY NEWS

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

Mr. and Mrs. Claus! We know them!

Mr. and Mrs. Claus (Charlotte Quinn and John Grouten) greet the crowds gathered this past Sunday to see their holiday heroes at the Holiday Lights event at Marathon Community Park. Hundreds turned out to chat with the North Pole residents, visit with friends and have some treats. FELIX HILARY/Contributed

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MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

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20

KEYS LIFE

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

CLEANUP CREW Making the Lower Keys Beautiful Again KRISTEN LIVENGOOD kristen@keysweekly.com

S

quare Grouper bartender Lenore Baker used to spend her weekends relaxing on the boat at offshore sandbars – that is, until Hurricane Irma wreaked havoc on her island home. After months of not seeing anything get done, she took matters into her own hands. “I started waking up in the middle of the night having nightmares about trash piles,” she said.

She was seriously tired of looking at it and worried about the health of the nearshore waters, “So I put on Facebook that I was going to start cleaning from this point to that point and if you want to join me, come on.”

The first week, 17 people showed up. Last weekend, 35 came out and collected 15,000 pounds of debris. “Imagine what we could do with 100 people,” she said. Three members of the Key West Rotary showed up last weekend to help and donated gloves to the cause. “We might even have a few trailers this week to take the debris straight to the dump, rather than piling it on the side of the road,” she said.

Lower Keys construction companies Pinewood and Botsford were quick to help out, donating time, equipment and dump trucks for the cleanup efforts.

Chris Thommes of Pinewood said he’s disappointed in the amount of trash on the side of the roads and in the mangroves.

“Lenore called me and asked me to help out, and it’s a good cause and needs to be done,” he said.

Since the cleanups started, Baker and those who have come out to help have cleaned Big Pine Key from Breezy Pines Estates to the Pine Channel Bridges … on both side of U.S. 1. On Sunday, they are tackling Summerland Key. “It’s a group effort,” she said.

“We are all in this together.”

Not shy of calling out the Board of County Commissioners and the governor, Baker said she will continue cleaning every weekend until the islands look beautiful again. “But, can we at least get them to pick up the piles we are making? We are doing most of the work for them,” her Facebook posts read.

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, Nov. 30 • Extended deadline for SDBC Bridge Loan application.

• Zonta Festival of Trees from 5 to 9 p.m. at Florida Keys Country Club, Marathon.

“Never doubt a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

–Margaret Mead, scientist

WANT TO JOIN THE CLEANUPS? Lenore Baker will have her black Tahoe parked in front of Sea Boots on Summerland Key from 9 a.m. to noon on Sunday, Dec. 3.

(Come for an hour, or come for the whole time.) She said she will be busy cleaning, but to help yourself to waters, gloves, and trash bags. She will be concentrating on the southbound side of the street. “This is a self-starter kind of thing,” she said. “Pick a spot and just start cleaning.”

A like-minded group of cleaners will also be doing a cleanup on Saturday, Dec. 2 at 9 a.m. on Cudjoe Key. Volunteer cleaners tackled areas on the Torches and Ramrod keys and a group has also organized in Key Largo.

If you have trash bags, waters, and gloves, it will save time to bring your own and be able to jump right into helping.

Top to bottom: A group of cleaners pull Hurricane Irma debris out of the mangroves on Big Pine Key. CONTRIBUTED FOUND: Motor cover for a Mercury outboard.

Piles of trash pulled from sensitive wetlands are ready to go to the dump.

Friday, Dec 1 • Zonta Festival of Trees from 5 to 9 p.m. at Florida Keys Country Club, Marathon.

• Holiday Fest (with snow mountain and parade) at 7:30 p.m. at Founders Park, Islamorada.

Saturday, Dec. 2 • Holiday workshop and pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon at Stanley Switlik school, Marathon.

• See Santa at Coldwell Banker Schmitt at 5:30 p.m. in Marathon.

• Southernmost Half Marathon and Marathon at 7 a.m. in Key West.

Expect delays at the triangle.

• Zonta Festival of Trees gala at 6 p.m. at Florida Keys Country Club, Marathon.

Sunday, Dec. 3 • Story Slam: Funniest Story Ever at 7 p.m. at Marathon Community Theatre.

Dec. 7-10 • Reef Fest 2017. Visit REEF.org/ REEFfest Saturday, Dec. 9 • Key Largo Boat Parade at 7:30 p.m. at Blackwater Sound, Key Largo.

Sunday, Dec. 10 • Key Colony Beach Christmas Boat Parade, 6 p.m. 7th Street canal, KCB. Spectators urged to watch from Sadowski Causeway or behind City Hall.

• Marathon Lighted Bike Ride to benefit Wesley House Family Services from 7 to 9 p.m. from Marathon airport. Helmet fitting, meet Santa and check-in starting at 6 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 6 and Sunday, Jan. 7 • Florida Keys Celtic Festival at Marathon Community Park.

21

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

THANK YOU MARATHON!

I am honored and grateful to be voted Best Realtor and I pledge to continue offering you the best service.

ATTENTION SELLERS/HOMEOWNERS: If you see an ad like this…

NEED TO SELL YOUR STORM DAMAGED PROPERTY?

We represent a group of CASH investors that can act FAST. NO FEES/NO COMMISSIONS OR CLOSING COSTS TO OWNER/SELLER.

…it might sound good, but please know that our real estate market is strong and prices have not gone down. I don’t want to see sellers in my market underselling their property because they are convinced that selling without a realtor to a cash investor with no closing costs will net them the most amount of money. I have the official reports available on the fly so PLEASE call or email me anytime. Please have a conversation with me about the market BEFORE commi ing to a price. My goal is to get you the highest and best price and just because we had a hurricane, doesn’t mean our market is in the tank. We have fewer properties for sale today than we did before Irma. Demand is strong and people still want to be here.

I’ve lived here 16 years and have closed over 400 transactions in my career. I study the market and inventory every single day of my life. If you’d like to have a conversation about the market or selling your property, contact me anytime.

Thanks and talk soon,

If you are considering to sell your property, please call Sam Williams at 305-289-6559.

Office 305-289-6559 Fax 305-946-0172 Email: Sam.Williams@ColdwellBanker.Com www.BestFloridaKeysProperty.com

Sam Williams, PA (GCREP-GL) (SFR) (REO)

Realtor/Rotarian 11050 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050

22

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

SUNDAY FUNDAY IS BACK!!

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POOL & BEACH PARTY

ALLY KELLEY

THREE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY-EIGHTH WEEKLY SUNDAY FUNDAY DECEMBER 3, 2017

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MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

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FURNITURE & INTERIOR DESIGN

Call 305-481-1790 to schedule a complimentary in-home consultation.

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So far, we have written donation checks to these Keys organizations:

WE’RE HERE TO HELP AFTER HURRICANE IRMA

We are donating a portion of all sales to local charities, and offering FREE DELIVERY anywhere in the Keys.

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24

KEYS DISEASE

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

“it's amazing that something so simple can make you feel so good.” - Jeff C.

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Monday-Friday 11am-2pm Friday & Saturday

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THE CASE FOR GIVING Local not-for-profits struggle to meet real needs

I

’m writing this column on my deadline day, which just happens to be Giving Tuesday.

This special day, following Cyber Monday and Black Friday, is at least some small attempt at redemption after a weekend overstuffed with crass consumerism. But if it helps worthwhile causes and people in need, I’m all for it. I just think we should have more than one Giving Tuesday a year.

JOHN Our local not-for-profits need help. Local BARTUS governments’ resources have been stretched past the breaking point in dealing with the is a City Council aftermath and cleanup of Irma. Combine the member and a disaster’s effects with the trend of reduced govformer Mayor of ernment support for non-profits over the past 30 the City of Marathon. John is also years, and it’s easy to see that there’s a real crisis a musician who brewing. performs around USA Today published a list of the most giving town at various states in the union on Giving Tuesday. The most establishments. giving state was Utah, followed by Maryland and Minnesota. Where did Florida show on the list?

Believe it or not, we were all the way down at number 44. Only six states were less charitable, and those states also seem to have a lot of human need as well. Texas, Arizona, Louisiana, Nevada, and Rhode Island were worse givers, with the island state of Hawaii bottoming out the list.

The rankings weren’t just about financial support — charitable was defined in the report as “volunteering and service” and “charitable giving.” “Utah ranked first for highest volunteer rate, highest percentage of donated income and highest percentage of population who donate time,” according to the USA Today article.

Looking at the overall definition, I am confident that our Keys communities are right up there with Utah in charitable giving.

When there is need, we find a way to meet it. When our neighbors need help, we’re there. There are so many groups and foundations in the Keys dedicated to making our islands a better place. And that is what Giving Tuesday is all about. But we need more than just one day a year.

So if you are one of the few people here in the Keys who hasn’t donated time or money to a good cause, now really is a good time to start. Amy Peterson on FamilyShare.com writes about why you should give time and money. “You’ll feel rich — giving to others increases your capacity for love. It makes you realize that even if you don’t have much, you have enough to share with others.

“Join a cause — foundations need research money to discover ways to cure diseases. Other non-profit organizations help different groups of people with specific needs. A lot of this money is raised through donations.

“In the United States, the money you donate to charity can be taken as a deduction on your tax return. Although this isn’t the main reason I’d suggest donating to charity, it is a nice bonus. Keep records of money or property you donate so you can itemize correctly on your tax forms.”

As I mentioned before, the Keys are blessed with some amazing not-for-profits, and people who freely donate their time and money. Now more than ever, these not-for-profits need our help.

Let’s make Giving Tuesday a regular part of our lives.

••• John Bartus performs Friday and some Sunday evenings at the Lighthouse Grill at Faro Blanco, and Saturday at the Key Colony Inn. www.johnbartus.com

COMMUNITY NEWS

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

25

BIG CHECK HELPS WITH HURRICANE RELIEF The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys donated $156,650 to Marathon area nonprofits to help the Hurricane Irma relief. The check was presented to the nonprofits by foundation board member Jason Koler at the recent Marathon Chamber luncheon at Florida Keys Country Club. Sizable checks were donated to nonprofits in the Lower and Upper Keys, too. KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Keys Weekly

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26

KEYS LIFE

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

KRISTEN LIVENGOOD kristen@keysweekly.com

W

hile sitting around the table at the Wesley House Family Service’s Adoption Day luncheon in November, Kelley Porter shared her Hurricane Irma evacuation story. Her two children, Lance, 11 and Kassie, 12, added funny little anecdotes along the way.

“When we saw the satellite photos of our house, I knew we weren’t coming home until we could provide a safe roof over their heads,” said Kelley, nodding to the siblings, whom she and her husband, Carl, adopted Nov. 15, 2016. The roof failed over the master bedroom and office area and Kassie’s room’s hurricane shutter was blown off, breaking the window. “Shards of glass were stabbed into her mattress,” said Kelley. “She lost about 99 percent of her stuff.”

What started off as an easy evacuation chased the family (two parents, two kids, one grandma, three dogs, six birds and a cat, in two vehicles!) all the way to Gatlinburg, Tenn. “The trip wasn’t bad,” she said. “The whole town had free events for Florida evacuees, so we got to go to a comedy show, bowling and the county fair.”

But after the storm passed, reality set in. They needed a place to live while they repaired their Big Pine Key home.

The Porter family flees Hurricane Irma, but looks forward to being back in their home before Christmas. CONTRIBUTED

HOME FOR CHRISTMAS The Porter family relives Irma

“We seriously test drove 15 RVs on the way back to the Keys,” she said.

They settled on a 30-footer the kids quickly nicknamed the rolling turd.

Right after buying, 15 miles away, the RV blew a tire. After that was fixed, 10 more miles down the road, another one blew. “Just give me all new tires,” Kelley said, exhausted.

George Sheldon, of Our Kids, the funding partner of Wesley House, was sitting at the table while Kelley was telling their story. “After hearing stories like this, I really realize the critical condition the Keys are in,” he said.

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Kelley and Carl married six years ago, on Sept. 10, you know, D-Day for Irma. They spent their anniversary keeping their mind off the hurricane by exploring the Smoky Mountains.

“Irma was nothing,” she said. “When we married, Carl was diagnosed with cancer four months later.” He is now in remission, but the medical issues led them to look into adoption.

Lance and Kassie moved in with them in April 2016 and completed their family. The one thing they are learning from the storm: “It’s teaching the kids to be resilient, that’s for sure.”

As for the holidays, Kelley expects they will be back in their home midway through December, just in time for Christmas. They spent last weekend painting, with tile and carpeting coming next week. And she said she heard Santa is bringing the kids a super special surprise this year, but we won’t spoil the news.

“We have been so blessed and helped by so many people,” she said.

“But, this RV is feeling smaller every day, so we really can’t wait to be back in the house.”

Their sense of humor and perpetual optimism keep them going. When asked if they needed anything, Kelley just said they were doing really, really well and if their story inspires anyone, to make a donation to Wesley House, Sugarloaf School, Girls Scout Troop 9 or Boy Scout Troop 573.

MHS STUDENT OF THE WEEK

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017 The Marathon Weekly is proud to partner with Marathon High School faculty and students in choosing “The Student of the Week.” Recipients are chosen on qualifications including academic standing, athletics, outstanding achievements, community involvement, individuality and moral fortitude. We thank our future leaders and MHS for allowing us to share in a weekly dose of “Fin Pride.”

What organizations and activities are you involved with at MHS and why are they important to you? I’m involved in the Take Stock in Children program.

This is very important to me because this program is giving me a chance to go to college for free.

What three things would you like to accomplish before your 10-year reunion? Loving myself for the way I am, having a healthy lifestyle, and having good grades in high school.

Do you think you will make the Keys your permanent home?

No, I don’t want to live in the same place my whole life.

Finish this sentence: Living in the Keys has taught me … there’s nice people out there. When you are struggling, there’s light at the end of the tunnel.

This Saturday, December 2nd, 8am - 12pm

Body Language Dance 8:30am

KIDS CRAFTS • CAKEWALK • FACE PAINTING • SHOPPING

HOLIDAY BASKETS & SILENT AUCTION GREAT GIFT ITEMS

BOOK FAIR IN MEDIA CENTER Stanley Switlik Elementary School 3400 Overseas Highway, Marathon

DAILIANYS GONZALEZ FRESHMAN

If you had to build a time capsule to be opened in 100 years, what would you place inside? I would put money and things like that in it — someone who needs it could have it.

Workshop & Pancake Breakfast breakfast served while supplies last

Which class or teacher has best prepared you for life after high school? Ms. Buhyoff teaches us about behavior, and colleges and gives us advice about life.

What advice would you give underclassmen? Get involved with a lot at school, don’t slack off, and behave.

What do you hope to be remembered for at MHS? I hope to be remembered as a student therapist, someone who helps anybody who needs it.

What are your plans after high school? I plan to go to University of Florida for four years, maybe more!

SWITLIK’S HOLIDAY

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COMMUNITY NEWS

IT’S UP!

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

Josh and Chris Gratton, left, Marathon Mayor Michelle Coldiron, Vice Mayor John Bartus, Willie Gonzalez and Mike Puto celebrate the construction of the annual Lions Club Christmas tree tent in the Kmart parking lot. The lumber was donated by Dale Baker of Marathon Lumber and the labor was donated by Keys Contracting Services. Come get your trees! CONTRIBUTED

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MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

DON’T BLOW OFF YOUR HEALTH With so much to worry about after the storm it’s easy to blow off taking care of yourself.

The Hurricane Irma Recovery Fund is a ray of sunshine if you’re under the weather or want to keep feeling right as rain. Funded by local foundations and some allweather friends, The HIR Fund covers the costs of family planning, gynecology, primary care, birth control and other medications. It’s a silver lining for women and men who have been financially damaged by the storm.

It’s a breeze to call for more information or to get an application.

Womankind: here for you, come rain or come shine.

Funded by:

Americares, Edward B and Joan T Knight Foundation, Justin & Eileen Kawaler, Larry Dion Foundation, M&J Levine, Ocean Reef Community Foundation, The Sunlight Time Foundation, ThirdLove Bras, and United Way of the Florida Keys.

J Morrell, JM Weatherhead, L McNamara-McGraw, S Fox, S Higgs, and Taylor Family Fund.

1511 Truman Avenue across from Bayview Park 305.294.4004 /WomankindKeyWest womankindkeywest.com

Health care for everyone

Protect your active lifestyle.

Treat joint problems now, before they get worse.

Don’t wait until surgery is your only option for relief. If you’ve noticed early signs of joint problems, such as stiffness after sitting, discomfort when running or kneeling, or popping sounds when you walk, now is the time to treat them. Many options are available that can help you before the problem gets worse. Board-certified orthopedic specialists Christopher Bensen, M.D., and Robert Loeffler, M.D., will customize the plan that’s right for you, with options that may include exercise, physical therapy, medication, preventive care and more.

To schedule your appointment, call 305-295-3477 or request an appointment at KeysMedicalGroup.com.

Members of the Medical Staff at Lower Keys Medical Center

1111 12th Street, Suite 201 Key West, FL 33040 305-295-3477

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MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

305.853.5370 MM 93 BAYSIDE

93160 O/S Hwy, Tavernier f uniquemarine

Thomas M. Kiefer, DMD, PA WE’VE MOVED! We’re back and well at a new location: 9713 Overseas Highway (Olde Towne Centre) Same Phone Number

(305) 743-3410

Built better than any boat in its class.

Call us for all of your dental needs.

New Patients Welcome! www.thomasmkieferdmd.com

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Covering All The Keys From Key Largo To Key West Upper Keys Weekly 91831 O/S Hwy, Ste 3 Tavernier, FL 33070 305.743.0844

Marathon Weekly 9709 O/S Hwy Marathon, FL 33050 305.743.0844

Key West Weekly 5450 MacDonald Ave, Ste 5 Key West, FL 33040 305.453.6928

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Dive into savings with fast local service and NO PAYMENTS FOR 90 DAYS on Keys Boat and Engine Only Loans.† Apply Today!

Call 305-293-6000

Go to KeysFCU.org

Visit any branch in Key West, Big Pine or Marathon † Subject to credit approval. Restrictions may apply. Finance charges still apply. Offer ends 12/31/17. *Close a new Keys Auto or Boat Loan from 11/24/17 to 12/22/17 to be automatically entered for a chance to win a $250 Publix Gift Card. Members will be notified on Fridays from 12/1/17 to 12/22/17. No purchase necessary.

Visit KeysFCU.org for details.

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU...

Messiah Handel’s

COMMUNITY WIDE CHOIR & CHAMBER ORCHESTRA Musical Gift to the Community Sunday, Dec 10th, 7:00 pm

IS YOUR GRASS HIGH? The higher the grass, the more ex t e n s i v e t h e r o ot s y s t em .

G r a s s w i t h d e e p e r r o ot s i s m o r e d r o u g h t - r e s i s t a nt .

Tap Water, The BEST Drink in Town!

Find out more: FKAA.com or 305-296-2454

Qui�ng Tobacco isn’t easy. Finding help should be. Tobacco Free Florida offers free tools & services to help you get started.

Classes Available: Key West 3401 Northside Drive Marathon 5800 Overseas Hwy, #38 Tavernier 50 Highpoint Road Žr all to Schedule Your Worksite Program www.ahectobacco.com

Qui�ng Has Never Been Easier

No Cost Nico�ne replacement patches, gum and lozenges.* *While supplies last and if medically appropriate.

No Cost Community, worksite and clinic groups offered Programs cover all forms of tobacco.

To Register or Learn More Call 305-296-8868 Toll free 1-877-848-6696

St. Columba Episcopal Church 52nd Street, Marathon, Fl

305-743-6412 • www.stcolumbamarathon.org

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MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

walk in and Create Art with Us!

Join us for breakfast starting this Sunday at 8 am

-Workshops-Pottery-Glass-Painting Pottery-

BREAKFAST COMING SOON! SERVING LUNCH & DINNER • Full Sushi Menu

STR COF ONG FEE

• Lunch and Dinner Menu • No Reservations • Come Around Back

Open 9-6pm Mon.-Sat. - 305-289-9013 12535 Overseas Hwy - keysartstudio.com

1406 Oceanview Ave. • Marathon

Key West's Finest Steakhouse

#Florida Keys Strong The character and resilience of Florida Keys’ business community is symbolic of a county that is not only rebuilding—but ready to flourish. As our locals return home, here is a list of some of your favorite spots that are open for business and getting back to work with you and the community we love. So be sure to support one another, dine out a few extra times this week —and leave a few extra dollars of love on the tables. Because together, we are FLORIDA KEYS

NEW HOODIES NEW DRINK TANKS NEW HATS NEW LONG SLEEVE SHIRTS 200 MORADA WAY, ISLAMORADA MM81.6

STEAKS • MARTINIS • SEAFOOD • WINE

www.primekeywest.com 951 Caroline St, Key West • (305) 296-4000

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MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

CLASSIFIEDS & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 Rewarding stable jobs with excellent benefits!!!

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc, a division of

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IN MARATHON

• Direct Care Worker/BHT • Behavioral Health Tech (PT/FT) • Peer Support Specialist (PT) • CSU/Detox Program Coordinator • Driver (CDL required) • Registered Nurse (PT/FT) • LPN • Care Coordinator • Maintenance Coordinator • Maintenance Specialist

for the following positions:

Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Diesel Mechanics Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

IN KEY WEST

• Clinical Director • Driver (CDL required) • Psychiatrist (PT, Contract) • Client Advocate

Air Conditioning Service Technician / Installer

KEYS WIDE

Appliance Service Technician

• Crisis Counselors & Administrative support for Disaster Relief Efforts (9 mo. w/benefits) Apply at www.careers.westcare.com www.guidancecarecenter.org EEOC/DFWP, Bilingual a plus; Drug & background screening required.

THEME: PEARLS OF WISDOM ACROSS 1. “No way” partner 6. Lending letters 9. Basketball star Nowitzki 13. “Love,” ‡ Paris 14. ____ date 15. Kind of chisel 16. Infamous Ford model 17. Stuff in a tray?

18. Romanov’s edict 19. Bony chest plate 21. *It makes the heart grow fonder 23. *You can’t make an omelet without breaking one 24. Border 25. Prune 28. Block of granite, e.g.

30. Whacko one 35. Eye layer 37. Author Murdoch 39. Paparazzo’s quest 40. Common allergens 41. *Sure sign of fire 43. Like nay-sayers 44. Rid of obstructions 46. Done to trouble 47. Asian weight unit 48. Cold sore, e.g.

50. Object of worship 52. 9 to 5, e.g.

53. Not of the cloth 55. Famous frat house 57. *Louder than words 61. *They can’t be choosers 65. Allocated quantity 66. Famous T-Rex 68. Cereal killer 69. Prodded 70. *”No ____ crying over spilt milk” 71. Recycle, in a way 72. H or O in H2O, e.g.

73. *”You can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ____” 74. Make tea, e.g.

DOWN 1. Midday slumbers 2. Fail to mention 3. Use a whetstone 4. Grossly unconventional 5. *Two of these do not make a right 6. Genesis man 7. Pimple fluid 8. ____ center for help 9. Home of Blue Devils 10. Ali Khamenei’s domain 11. CISC alternative 12. Genuflecting joint 15. Serious quarrel 20. Tangerine-grapefruit hybrid, pl.

22. Ballerina’s do 24. Non-living 25. *No such thing as a free one 26. Egg cell 27. ____ Cottontail 29. Picture on a coat?

31. Not this 32. Actor Hill 33. Weasel’s aquatic cousin 34. *A watched pot never does this 36. Hurry up!

38. Row of vagrants 42. With a jagged margin 45. Follows aim and shoot 49. ____ Diego 51. They’re usually golden or amber 54. Question in dispute 56. White heron 57. Caribbean color 58. Like a short reply 59. Burkina Faso neighbor 60. Big-ticket ____ 61. Duff in Springfield, e.g.

62. Flu symptom 63. Kate Winslet in “Titanic” 64. *Beginning of a thousand mile journey 67. “This land is your land...”

Competitive wages & benefits 100% medical • Matching 401K Vacation • Paid Holidays

Drug Free

Apply at:

2735 Overseas Highway Marathon 305-289-1748

FULL-TIME TELLER Marathon Responsible for opening accounts, teller transactions, balancing cash and handling foreign currency. Must enjoy working with people and have strong customer service skills. One year cash handling experience preferred.

OFFICE ASSISTANTTOURIST INFORMATION OPERATOR

Please visit our career center at www.iberiabank.com

For more information please visit www.keywestchamber.org EOE

EEO/M/F/D/V

F/T at the KWCC

F/T Experienced Medical Receptionist Immediate opening for a HVAC Service Technician Upper & Middle Keys.

Great Pay • Paid Holidays • Sick Pay • Medical Insurance • Paid Vacation

Apply in person 171 Hood Ave • MM 91.5 • Tavernier p 305-852-2960 • f 305-852-0656

for busy Medical Office in Tavernier.

Bilingual a plus but not required.

Benefits provided.

Please send resume to remotedatapro@gmail.com

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MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES The Hammocks at Marathon

Teller Customer Service Representative Administrative Assistant Maintenance Technician Vacation, Sick and Holiday Pay for F/T employees; Comprehensive Health/Dental Plans; Short/Long Term Disability; 401K, 401A & Profit-Sharing; Plans Free Life Insurance; Educational Reimbursement.

www.keysbank.com/careers

FULL TIME JOB OPPORTUNITIES $250 Sign-On Bonus!

• Front Desk Clerk-relief Audit • Maintenance Supervisor • Maintenance Shift Technician • Activities Supervisor

GREAT BENEFITS: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, 4 weeks’ vacation, 401k match & much more.

TO APPLY:

Online: jobs.bluegreenvacations.com In Person at The Hammocks: 1688 Overseas Highway, Gulf Side, Mile Marker 48, Marathon Or Call Carlos 305-743-9009

Member FDIC/Equal Housing Lender EOE-M/F/V/D

CLASS A CDL DRIVER

K EY COLONY INN

Must have Current Medical Card

OPEN JOB POSITIONS:

Job Openings

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR (305) 394-5530 Mid Keys Sand and Rock Inc. Marathon

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is seeking an Accreditation Specialist.

Position requires communications skills, attention to details, organization and must exhibit a high degree of accuracy editing & proofing documents. Responsible for working with all divisions within our organization to ensure compliance with standards set forth by Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies and Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation and/or Florida Corrections Accreditation Commission Responsibility includes inspections process, used to evaluate quality of our agency’s operations. In addition, specialized training in all aspects of Law Enforcement and or Corrections Accreditation is required within the first year. High school diploma or equivalent.

is now hiring for Afternoon & Evening Shifts.

Please Apply In Person 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

We Buy Gold Locally!

Applicants must fill out the MCSO online preliminary application at www.keysso.net

Cash Flow Jewelry and Pawn

Please email resumes to cslebodnick@keysso.net or fax to (305) 292-7159. Salary $36,794.00.

EOE/AAP.

Townsquare Mall Marathon

Office Assistant Part Time Temporary 30hrs/week at the Keys Marine Laboratory, Layton, FL.

RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

Restaurant Manager Wait Staff • Kitchen Staff Bartenders

The KML supports research and academic programs conducted by scientists and students from universities and colleges throughout Florida, the US, and Internationally.

Duties include: greet scientists, faculty and students; answer phones; prepare for group arrivals; track and prepare billable charges; accounts payable processing; receive and prepare correspondence; data entry and report preparation; courier and delivery services; assist w/scheduling of facilities.

Apply in person or call for details: Key Colony Inn-Marathon (305) 743-0100

To apply visit http://www.usf.edu/administrative-services/ human-resoures/careers/browse-apply-for-job-openings.aspx and search job ID 14885

Marathon area Companion

KEY LARGO PARADISE

Outside Sales Representative Seeking self-motivated, dynamic individual for the position of Treasury Management Sales Representative II. Responsibilities include sales and servicing of Credit Card Processing, Remote Deposit, ACH, Online Banking and additional Business Banking products. Sales experience a must. Reliable transportation required.

Apply online at KeysBank.com/careers Member FDIC

eoe

Accreditation Specialist

Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop

EOE•M/F/V/D

Position P/T M-F with travel Background screening and references needed.

Call Corinne at (305) 432-8384

42 Sexton Cove Rd. 4/3 Open water views of Blackwater Sound, open floor plan, 75' dock. $1,125,000.

YVETTE TOLEDO-BASTE Horizon Homes Realty Corp (786) 472-0626

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MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844 AUTOS WANTED

EMPLOYMENT

LEGAL NOTICES

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. 3 0 5 - 3 3 2 - 0 4 8 3

for Self MotivatedReliable Person to Work Outdoors, Must Have Vehicle.

Call (305) 304-7995

grantees, creditors and all other parties claiming by, through, under, or against him; and all unknown natural persons if alive, and if dead or not known to be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, and creditors, or other parties claiming by, through or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees, or any other person claiming by, through, under, or against any corporation or other legal entity named as a Defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under the above named or described defendant or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property and all others whom it may concern;

KEY WEST KIA A Wellings Automotive Company

2826 North Roosevelt Blvd.

Key West, FL (305) 295-8646 www.KeyWestKia.com

WELLINGS AUTOMOTIVE 9200 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL (305) 509-7499 www.KeyWestKia.com

Call us and SAVE, SAVE, SAVE 2016 Chevy Impala Fully loaded full power $14,990.

2013 Nissan Juke SI Fully loaded only 35000 miles $14,990.

2011 Toyota Avalon limited 38000 miles $15,490.

2014 KIA Cadenza Beauty!!! $16,490.

Service Department

NOW OPEN 2016 Jeep Renegade Limited Fully loaded low miles $17,590.

2016 Toyota Tacoma 4dr pickup 34000 miles $23,890.

2014 Chevy 1500 Silverado 1500LT 29000 miles $27,990.

2017 Dodge Ram 2500 4x4 SLT Fully loaded pickup 18000 miles $34,990.

All with low miles and ready for quick delivery!

Tax, tag and DOC fee not included in sale price.

KEY WEST KIA A Wellings Automotive Company 2826 North Roosevelt Blvd.

Key West, FL (305) 295-8646 www.KeyWestKia.com

WELLINGS AUTOMOTIVE 9200 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL (305) 509-7499 www.KeyWestKia.com

Call us and

SAVE SAVE SAVE

EMPLOYMENT Open Job Positions: Restaurant Manager, Wait Staff, Bartenders, Kitchen Staff, Apply in person or call for details: Key Colony Inn - Marathon (305) 743-0100 Sands of Islamorada Hotel has immediate openings for a Housekeeper and Front Desk Person.

Call for Details and Appointment Interview: 305 962-5243 SE BUSCA-Sra. De Limpieza para hotel en Islamorada. (305) 962-5243 E x p e r i e n c e d Electrician and Helper-Keys Wide.

Valid FL Drivers License a Must. Call for details (305) 7430399 Waiters & Waitresses.

All Shifts. Apply in Person, no phone calls.

Frank’s Grill, Town Square Mall, 11400 O/S Hwy, Marathon.

EXPERIENCED MANAGERS-Needed.

KEYS FISHERIES R E S TA U R A N T Marathon. Good Pay and Benefits Apply Within. EEO & Drug Free-3390 Gulfview Ave. P/T Medical Assistant needed for lower Keys offices. (305) 853-5151 for more info. Fl Ankle & Foot Institute.

DRIVERS, RIDERS & LABORERS NEEDED, Southernmost Furniture – Stop in at 905 U.S. 1, Big Coppitt, MM 10.5 from 9:30 – 5:30 No Phone Calls Please.

Now Hiring: SWEET SAVANNAH’S is now hiring for Afternoon and Evening shifts.

Please apply in person 8919 Overseas Hwy. Marathon Eperienced Help Only needed for all positions.

Apply in person Mon-Fri 10-11am at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, Knights Key Blvd. Marathon Get Well Trained.

Paid and Looking

HOMES FOR RENT DUCK KEY STILT HOME 3BR/2BA on dry lot. Long term.

Approx. $2200.00/ month.

305-481-1316 RENTED HOMES FOR SALE DUCK KEY - BRAND NEW 3BR, 2BA on dry lot. Consider owner finance, offers and/ or trades. 305-4811316 HOUSING WANTED

Female Senior Citizen displaced

by Hurricane Irma with Monroe County Housing Voucher seeks apartment anywhere in the Keys. Have 3 clean cats that are family.

Will supply excellent references (305)3992560 MARINAS WANTED

Simply Marinas. We Sell Marinas: Over 70 marinas transactions and 12,000 marina investors; low competitive rates. Visit our website: www. simplymarinas.com.

Let’s discuss your marina. Call me today: Michelle Ash, Broker, 305-439-9581

LEGAL NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO. 17-CA000235-M SYDNEY HOLDINGS, LLC, Plaintiff, vs.

B.C. LONES, DECEASED ALMA LONES, DECEASED, THE HEIRS OF B.C.LONES AND ALMA LONES, Defendant(s).

NOTICE OF ACTION To Defendants: B.C. LONES, DECEASED, ALMA LONES, DECEASED, THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF B.C. LONES AND ALMA LONES, if alive, and if dead his unknown spouses, heirs, devisees,

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to quiet title to the following property in Monroe County, Florida: LOT 13, IN SQUARE 26, CRAIN’S SUBDIVISION OF CASEY KEY, ACCORDING TO PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 1, PAGE 51, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. Tax Parcel No.00369 680000000246533 Property Address: Vacant/Corner of Overseas Highway/ Grassy Key has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to Robert Peters, Esquire, 28 South 10 th Street, Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034, the Plaintiff’s attorney, within 30 days after the first publication date or on January 10, 2018 and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on the plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or

LEGAL NOTICES petition.

DATED on November 21, 2017.

KEVIN MADOCK, CPA, Clerk Clerk of Court BY: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Publish: December 1, December 8, December 15 and December 22, 2017 The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES The Weekly Newspapers are in full compliance with Chapter 50 of the Florida State Statutes on Legal and Official Advertisements. The Weekly Newspapers are distributed from Key Largo to Key West. Call (305) 743-0844, Fax (305) 743-0866 or E-mail: anneke@ keysweekly.com.

www.ci.marathon.fl.us

We Buy Gold Locally!

Cash Flow Jewelry and Pawn Townsquare Mall Marathon

www.ci.marathon.fl.us

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN an Evaluation Committee of the City of Marathon will meet at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, December 5th, at the City offices located at 9805 Overseas Highway, in Marathon to review, evaluate and make a recommendation to the City Council concerning the proposals received in response to the RFP for Term Contract for Disaster Proposals. Pursuant to section 286.0105 of Florida Statutes, if a person decides to appeal any decision made by any board, commission, or council with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing, he or she will need a record of the proceedings, and that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons needing assistance to participate in this meeting should contact the city at (305) 743-0033 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

36

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

Accepting applications for all shifts Apply in person at

Marina, Bar & Grill Now hiring:

HOST/HOSTESS PREP/LINE COOKS CASHIER-DOCKHAND • Medical benefits available for full time • Paid vacation after one year

Apply in Person: 1200 Oceanview Avenue (Off 15th Street)

Castaway Waterfront Restaurant 1406 Oceanview Ave, Marathon

Marathon (305) 743-5317

CAPTAIN FOR DIVING OPERATION

44 yrs. Established Diving Center and Vocational School has Immediate opportunity for a USCG licensed individual. Full or part time positions are available. Responsibilities include vessel operation, scheduling, maintenance and customer relations. USCG Master License required. Dive master certification preferred or will train.

HALLS DIVING CENTER AND CAREER INSTITUTE –MARATHON CALL 305-743-5929 For application and to arrange interview with Bob Brayman or Randy Botteri

Want to work for an EXCITING, MISSION DRIVEN ORGANIZATION, come apply with WESLEY HOUSE FAMILY SERVICES: • Family Support Worker/Transporter-Marathon Office • Bilingual Case Manager-Key West Office • P/T or F/T Family Therapist-Key West Office

AMERISTAR CONTRACTING GROUP, GENERAL CONTRACTORS are seeking

qualified and skilled tradesmen with verifiable experience in carpentry, drywall and painting.

Immediate openings with excellent pay.

Please email qualifications, contact information and references to brielle@ameristargroup.com or fax them to 732 862 1143.

PUZZLE SOLUTION

Wesley House Family Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug Free Workplace.

We offer competitive salaries and excellent benefits.

Interested candidates can email resume to HR@wesleyhouse.org

TWO FULL-TIME POSITIONS OPEN IN THE KEY WEST AREA: • Executive Administrative Assistant • Lower Keys Community Liaison/ Program Director Starting salary is $38,000 annually plus benefits, depending on experience.

Go to KeysHealthyStart.org for details.

Public Auction

Tuesday, December 5th @ 11AM 2171 N Dixie Hwy., Pompano Beach, FL 33060 Moved for convenience of sale.

Contents of 3 Restaurants @ 1 Location Mostly BRAND NEW EQUIPMENT – Still in the crates!

18’ Captive Air Complete Hood System, 36” Griddle, Axis Convection Oven, 3 Door Glass Cooler & Freezer, Assorted Coolers & Freezers, Fryers still in the box, 5’ Curved Glass Deli Case, Outdoor Tables, Equipment Stands, Assorted Prep Tables, Large Quantity of Small Wares in addition to White China & Kosher Utensils, PLUS MORE...

Toby Neverett Auctioneers 561-706-7218 • au872 ab628

Join our group of Insurance Professionals LICENSED COMMERCIAL LINES ACCOUNT MANAGER/CSR. Minimum 3 years experience, motivated, responsible individual with the ability to multi task in a fast paced Insurance Agency.

New office location in the Overseas Market in Key West. Personal growth is guaranteed as Agency grows. Salary will commensurate with experience.

Keys Insurance is an equal opportunity employer with excellent benefits, including Group Life & Health Insurance, 401K Plan, PTO and paid Holidays.

Please send your resume to gbetancourt@keysinsurance.com or fax it to (305) 743-0582.

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER

MARATHON, FLORIDA We are looking for a Structural Engineer with: • • • •

5+ years of experience BS or MS degree PE preferred Marathon, FL

If you are eager to work with a great team in a fun and encouraging environment, K2M is your place!

For more info and to apply, visit:

k2mdesign.com/structural-engineer-florida-keys

Now Hiring for Breakfast

37

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

Keys Auto Center is now part of the Warren Henry Auto Group “Automotive News’ Best Dealership to Work For” for four years in a row!

We are now hiring for the following positions: Sales Consultant • Service Consultant • Finance & Insurance Parts Consultant • Receptionist/Cashier • Billing/Accounting Clerk Automotive Technician • Office Manager Apply online at: careers.warrenhenryauto.com We offer health, dental, vision, life, disability & 401K contribution!

Put your career in gear!

EOE/ADA 1618 N. Roosevelt Blvd • Key West, FL 33040 • 305-294-5126

JOB OPENINGS MAINTENANCE ENGINEER SECURITY GUARD ROOM ATTENDANTS AYS AGENT NIGHT AUDITOR Excellent Benefit Package EOE M/F/D/V

Scan for Job

Apply on line at Spottswood.com/careers

Plantation Key Nursing Center

located in Tavernier, is seeking

C.N.A.

12 HR Shifts-Nights

$500 Sign On Bonus to All New CNA Applicants

F/T & P/T LPN and RN F/T Dietary Technician

We offer a competitive wage and benefits program.

To apply for position, Please submit your Resume to

BOL@PLANTATIONKEYNC.COM

Sales Associates Full Time & Part Time/Set Schedules Starting Wage $12.00 per hour

Receiving/ Inventory Clerk Full Time/Set Schedules Starting Wages $13.00 per hour

Great Benefits!

Fun Work Environment Apply: www.ronjonsurfshop.com EOE/DFWP

COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE MARATHON

Audio/Video/Electrical Technician D’Asign Source is seeking a professional with experience in high-end residential electrical systems. Installation of low-voltage and high-voltage electrical experience required.

Must have excellent computer and organization skills. Overtime and benefits available.

Visit DAsignSource.com/careers for details.

Is looking for

Waiters & Waitresses

9 office spaces varying sizes, available immediately $750.00 per unit or $6,500.00 for all. Elevator access, public bathrooms. Water and garbage included.

Apply in person, no phone calls.

3 One thousand sq ft offices with street access, ground level, bath. $2,000.00/mo.

Frank’s Grill, Town Square Mall 11400 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

CALL KRISTEN BRENNER, BROKER FLORIDA KEYS RE CO. 305-664-1453

All Shifts

SUDOKU SOLUTION

Detention Records Assistant: Applicants required working various shifts, including weekends and Holidays at the Monroe County Detention Facility. Job requirements: Type 25 wpm and clerical skills and ability to multi-task.

Starting salary $31,046.00. Applicants must fill out the online preliminary application at: www.keysso.net Applicants may contact Charles Slebodnick at (305) 292-7044. EEO/AAP

We're Looking to Hire

Brilliant

Bartenders n

Meticulous

Dishwashers Apply in Person Key Largo - MM 102 Bayside

38

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

let’s do business - (305) 743-0844

Angel Lewis

VACATION RENTALS

305-390-2315 WWW.KEYSRENTALSONLINE.COM

Tewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000 for a FREE Consultation

Kitchen Cabinets Sales

Brian Tewes

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

REAL Wood Cabinets at Particle Board Prices

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org

KitchenKorner/Fred's Beds 1333 O/S Hwy, MM 53.5 • 305-743-7277

www.TewesMortgage.com

MARCH HARE MARINE SERVICES CERTIFIED MARINE SURVEYS MASTER MARINE SURVEYOR SERVING ALL THE KEYS

office: cell: e-mail:

305-743-3368 305-240-4487 mhms@juno.com CAPTAIN DAVID A. FOLEY

Home & Offices Expertly Cleaned Fast Dependable Service “We Clean Your Place, Like it Was Our Place”

Great Prices, Good Service, Good People Licensed & Insured Lic # CAC056987

Call the Experts!

Excellent References Upon Request

305-289-1748

2735 OVERSEAS HWY MARATHON, FL 33050

ARTIC TEMP, INC. Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Residential, Commercial & Marine Ice Machine - Sales - Service Phone: (305) 743-5288

Fax: (305) 743-6887

Barbara Sanchez

“SHUT YOUR WINDOWS, SHUT YOUR DOORS, YOU AIN’T GONNA BE HOT NO MORE”

Joel & Bonnie Cadbury

Licensed & Insured Contractor # CACO53827

305-766-0819 305-924-0179

Nails by Ivis

Manicures • Pedicures Acrylics • Gelish • Facials • Waxing

5177 Overseas Highway

(Between Office Depot & Main Post Office)

Marathon, FL 33050 305-289-1631

www.marathonhairandnailsalon.com

Floor & Wall Tiles Porcelain/Planks Marble Carpets Quartz & Granite Countertops

We Do Installations!

Licensed & Insured

FREE ESTIMATES U.S.1 & 109th St, Marathon

Lic#SP-3562

(Across from Beall’s Outlet)

289-3019

LEARN HOW TO DANCE Ballroom & Latin Dance Private & Group Lessons First Lesson Free!

Theo & Ganine’s DANCE CENTER 305-766-3428 Gulfside Village #40

Gift Certificates Available

39

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

WHY SHOP LOCAL? 8 pm After Party with Howard Livingston Trio

10. Local stores are more likely to carry locally produced items.

9. Local business owners contribute to more local fundraising and 501(c) 3’s.

8. Local businesses provide a majority of jobs and job retention.

Deluna’s Bar & Grill

7005 Shrimp Road

Hogfish Bar & Grill @ Safe Harbor Marina 6810 Front Street. No cover, full bar & menu

7. Local businesses support other local businesses.

6. The business community becomes reflective of this community’s unique culture.

5. The sales taxes you pay support this community and county: fixing roads, maintaining recreational facili& Grill ties,Deluna’s fundingBarschools and infrastructures.

7005 Shrimp Road 4. Our hometown is more important than a cheap pair of sunglasses bought on the internet.

3. Shopping local reduces your carbon footprint.

2. Local business owners invest in the community and have a vested interest in the future of this community.

1. Every dollar that is spent locally is recirculated locally - on average 7 times.

Hogfish Bar & Grill @ Safe Harbor Marina 6810 Front Street. No cover, full bar & menu

Find great retailers online at www.floridakeysmara-

thon.com/advantagecard/

2017/18

305-743-5417

www.floridakeysmarathon.com

40

MARATHON WEEKLY / DECEMBER 1, 2017

COME AND SEE US ABOUT THE IRMA RELIEF PROGRAM

2017 Kia Forte LX $18,200

HIGHEST RANKED COMPACT CAR IN INITIAL QUALITY The Kia Forte received the lowest number of problems per 100 vehicles reflecting higher quality among compact cars in the J.D. Power 2017 U.S. Initial Quality Study based on 77,419 total responses, evaluating 189 models, and measures the opinions of new 2017 vehicle.

2018 Kia Optima LX $22,500

2018 Kia Sportage LX $23,500

2018 Kia Sorento LX $27,100

2018 Kia Soul $16,100

New & Used Car Sales & Service WELLINGS AUTOMOTIVE

9200 Overseas Hwy (across from airport) Marathon

305-509-7499

KEY WEST KIA

2826 North Roosevelt Blvd.

305-295-8646

www.KeyWestKia.com

A Wellings Automotive Company