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Get him a goat for Father’s Day | P.15
Marathon’s Ivan Aldama Jr. soars | P.36
YES 2 VALHALLA
New resort planned for Crawl Key | P.4
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
PRICE ADJUSTMENT
Welcome to “Contemporary Keys Haven”, the epitome of a secure Florida Keys estate for divers, boaters, and sunset-lovers positioned behind a custom gated entry. This breathtaking oceanfront compound and smart home is cloistered on almost an acre of meticulously maintained grounds with over 6,100 sf of interior living, 4 bedrooms, 6.5 bathrooms, and a sophisticated list of details between the main home and guest quarters. Most notably, the 25k gallon snorkel aquarium (featured on Nat Geo's Fish Tank Kings), majestic sunset views, Chef's kitchen, his-and-her master bathrooms, elevator, rooftop deck, 4 car garage, pristine concrete pool, tiki, and sandy beach plus 260 ft of canalfront dockage with 2 boat lifts, jet dock and more make this haven ideal for those focused on detail.
BIG PINE KEY | $5,750,000 | Listing ID: 595724
305.735.4095 | oceansir.com
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
NUMBER OF THE WEEK
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A little more than 70% of Earth’s surface is covered by oceans, according to the Permaculture Research Institute. The largest ocean — the Pacific — covers 30% of the Earth’s surface on its own. This expanse and depth accounts for roughly 97% of all the water on the planet.
ON THE COVER Ivan Aldama Jr. is soaring through the ranks of the motocross sport to the top echelon of the sport. See story, page 36. DAVID LANDO/Contributed
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VALHALLA RESORT IS APPROVED The resort will feature a mix of accommodations from small studios to two-story homes with four bedrooms and four baths. CONTRIBUTED
SARA MATTHIS
sara@keysweekly.com
110-unit resort to be located at MM 57
T
he Valhalla Island Resort passed the City of Marathon’s approval process with flying colors on June 8. At the Marathon City Council meeting, the board unanimously approved the development plan for Crawl Key (between Marathon and Grassy Key) after a lengthy presentation by Johnny Morris’ Floridian Holdings company. Morris is the founder of Bass Pro Shops, which also owns Cabela’s sporting stores and some resorts in the Midwest. “Johnny Morris grew up fishing in the Middle Keys. His folks had a place on 7th Street in Key Colony Beach. He and his children have fished here, and soon his grandchildren will fish here,” Bob Ziehmer told the Marathon City Council. Ziehmer is the senior director of conservation for Bass Pro Shops and lead director of the Johnny Morris Foundation. The 110-unit development, when complete, will be among the largest resorts in the Florida Keys and has been in the works for more than 15 years. Property records show that Floridian Holdings LLC bought up most of the properties where the resort is planned in 2005. At the time, there were a handful of houses accessible by Banana Boulevard off Overseas Highway. Now only one of those parcels is privately owned by someone else. The council asked only a few questions of the development team: protection for the homeowners mentioned above, whose home will be surrounded by resort amenities; affordable housing for its employees; and the locals’ love for the oceanside sandbar that fronts the site of Valhalla Resort. Amadeo D’Ascanio and David Daniels, private citizens with no relation to the developers, spoke in support of the project and reminded the council of previous lost opportunities. “If memory serves, Johnny Morris intended to build World Wide Sportsman in Marathon, but Monroe County denied the zoning change needed,” said D’Ascanio, of a time before Marathon incorporated into a city, “and so it was built in Islamorada. Let’s not make this mistake again.”
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
Daniels also remembered. “Yes, it was back in 1977,” he said, also voicing his support for the development. “In fact, I think we should hold all developers to the same standard.” Bass Pro’s holdings include two Johnny Morris Signature Resorts in the Midwest that are billed as nature conservation destination resorts. Indeed, the plans for Crawl Key are very conservationminded and high tech. The resort parcel is 66 acres on Crawl Key, at MM 57. The developers will build the resort on just 26 acres, leaving the rest of the area in its natural state. The plans call for 29 standard hotel rooms in the proposed lodge, and the rest split among 50 villas, cottages and homes. The resort has eight different stand-alone unit configurations ranging from studios with 379 square feet of interior space to two-story homes with four bedrooms and four baths of 3,700 square feet. All of the models have at least one porch and most have an outside shower. The different models are scattered throughout the resort, so as not to have clusters of large homes stacked together, but a range of options side by side. The development will have its own sewer system and will build its own infrastructure to include guest parking shaded with solar panels. Guests will move around the resort on golf carts, traversing permeable paving. “We are using a carbon neutral toolbox to promote conservation, renewables and offsets,” said an engineer for the project. “We are going to pour some tech into this thing to make sure our systems don’t consume energy.” The resort plans call for a 12,000-square-foot spa that includes retail space, a hair salon, jacuzzi, steam rooms, saunas and “cold pools.” There is also a women’s locker room and men’s lounge. The one-story building is a courtyard design, with a long pool in the center. The proposed lodge is three stories tall with 29 rooms. It’s a 30,000-square-foot space, which also includes a 1,000-square-foot service yard. In addition, there’s a plan for a fitness building to occupy 3,400 square feet with space for free weights and cardio. Marathon Councilman John Bartus was the first to ask about employee housing. According to documents from the city’s planning department, the developer has already bought multiple momand-pop hotels to convert to workforce housing. The city requires lodging developments to provide employee housing equal to 20% of the approved floor area in rooms for guests. Bart Smith, a Key West attorney representing Floridian Holdings, said the developer plans to arrange for the workforce housing first, in order to house the construction workers who will build the resort. He also said the resort will be offering shuttle service for employees, not only to and from work, but also to the grocery store and possibly the mainland for workers who live there. The hotel room building rights from the small mom-and-pop hotels — which will become workforce housing — have been transferred to the resort. That’s an important distinction for Mayor Luis Gonzalez. “The developer has already transferred the 100 rights to the resort? These are not new building rights, they have been purchased from motels and hotels already in place in this town?” asked Gonzalez. “I don’t want people to think we have created new building rights for this hotel, that we have bags of units to hand out.” Because the Keys are a state Area of Critical Concern, almost no new hotel rights have been awarded to the city since the late ’80s, to slow new development and encourage redevelopment with the aim of protecting the environment. Vice Mayor Mark Senmartin brought up the popular oceanside locals sandbar in front of where the resort will be built. “We’re not talking about ‘some’ boaters on the sandbar, just one or two off the resort beach,” he told Smith. “And the reason I bring it up is that’s because it’s located past your bay bottom, past your control. The city isn’t going to put up no parking zones on the sandbar, or make special accommodations for the resort.” Smith said he understood the sandbar is within the jurisdiction of the sheriff and Coast Guard. “Our whole goal is peaceful coexistence,” Smith said, “the idea is that we should all be able to enjoy it.”
Valhalla Resort has one interesting quirk. The resort will be built around an existing, privately owned home referred to in the presentation as the “outparcel.” The homeowners attended the council meeting and were represented by Tavernier attorney James Lupino. “That ‘outparcel’ is actually a home. Conditions have to be met to protect these people and their continuous, quiet enjoyment of the property they intend to live in for the rest of their lives. They nailed those boards, they built the house,” Lupino said. Resort plans call for the home to be bordered on one side by tennis courts and across from a nature trail. Lupino told the council that the agreement between the homeowners and the resort developer is mostly complete, but that no legal documents have been signed to ensure the homeowners have uninterrupted utilities, protection from noise and light intrusion, and access to their home for themselves and their guests. “I am asking you to vote on this project, with the contingency that this issue needs to be resolved,” Lupino said. The council expressed support for the homeowners’ situation and promptly voted unanimously in favor of the resort by passing two resolutions annulling the city’s existing plat and roadways for the resort site and the conditional use and development agreement, and two zoning and flood map changes.
The centerpiece of the Valhalla Resort — located on Crawl Key — will be the main lodge. CONTRIBUTED
The zoning changes were the sticking point for the Marathon Planning Commission that met at the end of April and denied the project 4-1. The City of Marathon’s Planning Board only makes recommendations; the final authority rests with the Marathon City Council. The planning commission’s rejection was mentioned several times during the regular council meeting on June 9, and Planning Director Brian Shea assured the elected council that the resort has the support of staff. With the council’s vote, the zoning was changed from conservation to mixed use on both the zoning and Future Land Use Map (FLUM) maps for only the front portion of the project near U.S.1. The city staff noted that the conservation area had been “disturbed,” meaning it has previously been cleared and/or filled. Most likely the disturbance has to do with its proximity to Overseas Highway and Banana Boulevard. The rest of the property — where the villas and lodge will go — is already properly zoned. Now, with the council’s approval, the resort’s “operations” will be located on the 4.8-acre rezoned parcel next to Overseas Highway. That will include guest check-in, guest parking, utilities and space for functions like housekeeping and other services. Morris founded Bass Pro in 1971 in Springfield, Missouri. Currently, the company’s holdings include Bass Pro Shops and its flagship shop known as Outdoor World. In 2017, Bass Pro bought Cabela’s, another outdoor retailer, for $5.5 billion. Forbes estimates Morris’ net worth at about $4.1 billion. There are about 170 retail shops — including Bass Pro shops and Cabela’s — in the U.S. and Canada. Bass Pro’s holdings also include two resorts and a nature preservation area, also in Missouri. Big Cedar Lodge and the Lodge at Top of the Rock were built within the past decade. Bass Pro Shops also owns White River Marine Group, which manufactures and distributes boats under nine brand names, including Mako, which is popular in Florida. Bass Pro also owns the Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, where guests pay admission to enjoy daily adventures.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
SUZY: OUR VERY OWN CASTAWAY Marathon local paddles every year for a cancer cure
M
SARA MATTHIS
sara@keysweekly.com
They are bonded together by one core belief: “Light a any years, she’s the only woman on this team of candle instead of cursing the darkness,” a sentiment that origiintrepid paddlers that tackle a 160-mile, 7-day adnates with O’Brien, who lost his mother to cancer. venture that spans the waters from Key Biscayne Castaways supporters, whose numbers are legion, can (near Miami) to Key West. On Saturday, June 12, elect to support an individual paddler (like Curry), or donate to Suzy Curry will set out for the 22nd annual Castaways Against the entire team. It’s all done digitally, via the group’s website Cancer paddle. castawaysagainstcancer.com. For the Marathon local, it will be her seventh year particiFor many years, Castaways Against Cancer participated pating. She will be celebrating 10 years cancer-free. in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life fundraiser. In “This year in June, at the start of our trip, I will be a 10-year 2021, the Castaways have breast cancer survivor,” Curry said. “This mission has partnered with the Sylvesbeen so inspiring to me, kayaking with people who are ter Comprehensive Cancer so dedicated to ending cancer. It’s also a time of soul FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Center of the University of searching; I’ve spent many hours on the water contemMiami. The cancer facility plating things and praying for those fighting cancer and How far out to sea do you go? matches every dollar the for those we have lost.” Our route through the Keys Castaways donate, and the Curry said she’s dedicating this paddle to all cancer takes us through back bays, chanmoney is directed toward survivors and victims, but especially a dear childhood nels, and out into the Atlantic. The specific research projects friend of her husband and Marathon’s Bonnie Cucchi. furthest we ever get from land is that resonate with not only “She is so strong, fighting so valiantly,” Curry said of only a couple of miles. However, the paddlers, but also the Cucci. on the first day of the journey, we donors. In 2017, Curry did the whole 160-mile paddle. Now, are actually 5 to 10 miles from any “We kayak. You doshe “just” does 110 miles — with the group for the cerhelp or civilization. nate. It’s that simple,” said emonial start, then peeling off and driving back to the Why do we see the team salute O’Brien. “And we all pray for Keys and joining the group when they reach Key Largo. with their left hand? a cure.” The paddlers travel up to 24 miles a day, stopping Your left hand is closest to The kayakers will arrive for breaks and sleep. They camp out the first night, but your heart and your right hand on Smathers Beach in Key the rest of the time they stay in donated hotel rooms in should be holding a drink. At least, West on Friday, June 18 the Florida Keys and are supported by a land crew that that’s what we learned from the at 2 p.m. This year, some travels ahead to prepare for their arrival. They are due Conch Republic Navy. In 2011, the cyclists will also be making to arrive in Key West on Friday, June 18. CRN realized that the team of misa trek of their own from It’s a special adventure and a special mission: to fits that invaded their waters each the mainland. They will be fund cancer research. Since its inception 22 years ago, summer for over 10 years was not arriving on the same day the group has raised $1.2 million dollars. Yes, million. giving up the fight and gave the at Barbary Beach Hotel at The group was founded by Steve O’Brien, and PatCastaways the official designation about 5 p.m. At 7 p.m., both rick Linfors and Greg Trainor have also been involved of: Flotilla of the Northern Tergroups will converge at from the beginning. In 2021, there will be 14 paddlers, ritories. Smathers Beach for a final including Curry. Although the roster varies from year to How do you go to ceremony. year, they define themselves as a “rag-tag group of seathe bathroom? hippie friends,” who come from all walks of life — teachSome things will just have to ers, firefighters, lawyers, bankers, scientists, former remain a mystery. For now, we'll restaurant owners (that’s Curry), etc. say ... very carefully.
Suzy Curry, instantly recognizable by her signature bucket hat, pulls her kayak onto a beach during the 2020 Castaways Against Cancer paddle. CONTRIBUTED
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
CONGRATULATIONS To our BUYERS & SELLERS. We hope you enjoy your new homes.
Jody & Lynn represented the Sellers of: 224 W. Seaview Circle, Duck Key, FL 33050
And now these three remain, Faith, Hope & Love, but the greatest of these is Love.
A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC
Jody Owen 305.923.1902 jodyowen@me.com
www.KeysRealEstate.com
Lynn B. Lucas 305.393.0559 lynn@keyshomehunter.com
NEW SUMMER SERVICE HOURS All are welcome 10:00 am under The Abbey Don't forget The Incredible Fruit Stand Saturdays 9:00 am! May the Peace of the Lord be always with you
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
ESTATE SALE 302 Banyan St. Duck Key
Fri., June 11 & Sat., June 12 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days ABOUT THIS SALE: Vintage fishing rods and
Sara’s Estate Sales LLC 305.240.0074 like us on Facebook @sarasestatesales
reels, rod holders, lures and tools. Brand new A/C and used compressor, plus two used hydraulic trap hauling rigs. Lots of orchids, clay pots, 2 twin beds, 1 full bed, dressers and dining table. Prices are low and items are designed to move. Don’t be late to this sale.
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8
MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
GRAND OPENING OF LA ISLA TACO GRILL BRINGS TASTE OF MEXICO TO MARATHON
From tasty tacos to a tiki bar, this new spot has it all
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1 2
ANTHONY GUNTERT/Keys Weekly 1. Owners Oscar Solis and Jerry Rojas, center, cut the ceremonial ribbon flanked by JoAnn Wagner, Dave Peck and Patrick Stevens, members of the Marathon Chamber of Commerce board.
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2. Jerry Rojas strikes a proud pose in front of his new food truck. 3. Bartender Andrew Lawyer, at the Tropical Cottages tiki bar adjacent to the taco truck, serves up some good-lookin’ margaritas.
4. Mariachi group “Mexico Fantasy” lines up to show off their traditional outfits and prepare for a rollicking night of hand-clappingly popular Mexican music.
W FULL FUNDING
Gov. DeSantis meets with Monroe County Commissioners in January. Florida’s FY22 budget was signed today and includes the full appropriation of Stewardship Act funding for the Florida Keys environment. KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County
Keys to receive $25 million for nearshore water improvements, land acquisition
arly on the night of June 8, a lively crowd of excited Marathoners gathered along 61st Street Gulf at the new La Isla Taco Grill for a spread of deliciously fresh, classic Mexican cuisine accompanied by the melodies of a mariachi band and a tiki bar that slung a constant stream of refreshing margaritas. After an official ribbon cutting opening from owners Oscar Solis and Jerry Rojas along with representatives from the Marathon Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, a raffle got started and the music struck back up. As the band played on, locals and visitors alike ate, danced and made merry, with many lining back up at the truck throughout the night for seconds and thirds. If the community’s roaring endorsement from Tuesday night is anything to go by, La Isla Taco Grill will become a Marathon staple for years to come. — Weekly staff report
hen Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the fiscal year 2022 state budget, it included record Florida Keys Stewardship Act funding benefiting Monroe County. The county received the full appropriation of $20 million in Stewardship Act funding and $5 million for land acquisition. “This is the first year the county secured the entire $25 million request for stewardship,” said Monroe County Administrator Roman Gastesi. “This is record funding from the governor and delegation for the protection of the Florida Keys.” In addition to the Stewardship Act funding, the state budget includes $1 million for Monroe County’s vessel pump-out services that help protect the Florida Keys marine environment. “I am so pleased the governor signed the budget, which includes critical funding for Monroe County,” said Monroe County Mayor Michelle Coldiron. “In addition to the funding for Everglades restoration, this budget shows us DeSantis is invested in our economic stability and the future of the Florida Keys.” The state legislature enacted the Florida Keys Stewardship Act in 2016. This one-of-a-kind legislation acknowledges the importance of protecting the Florida Keys’ unique and fragile resources, including its coral reef, seagrass beds and mangroves. Florida Keys communities use the funding to implement water quality projects to protect these resources. — Contributed
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
MANDY MILES has been living in and writing about Key West and the Florida Keys since 1998. She lives in Old Town with her husband, Capt. Stan Miles, a longtime charter fisherman.
PULL UP A CHAIR
CITY LISTENS, RECONSIDERS OUTDOOR SEATING FEES
W
hoa, wait a second. What just happened? Did a whole bunch of Key Westers just manage to agree on something? Did city government employees, politicians and business owners just sit down, on the same level, without tirades or time limits, and realize they all want the same thing — a classy and attractive outdoor dining scene? It happened June 8 at City Hall, where 30 or so people met to discuss the city’s popular Sidewalk Cafe program that, since COVID, has allowed restaurants to place tables on city sidewalks at no cost to the restaurants. The city now plans to start enforcing the program’s regulations — and charging restaurants to participate — come Oct. 1.
Key West officials and restaurant owners are working together on a Sidewalk Cafe program. CONTRIBUTED
Many restaurant owners said they are willing to pay for the right to use the city sidewalks, but the fees the city initially proposed — $500 per seat per year, plus a onetime impact fee of $592 per seat spread out over five years — were impossibly high for all but two upscale restaurants that signed on. A dozen or so restaurant owners respectfully made their case Tuesday when meeting with City Manager Patti McLauchlin and Assistant City Manager Todd Stoughton, as well as Commissioners Greg Davila, Jimmy Weekley, Clayton Lopez and Mayor Teri Johnston. The owners reminded officials they can’t use outdoor seats all the time due to rain and heat. They also pointed out that they don’t make any additional money on outdoor seats unless the indoor tables are completely full. Otherwise, they’ve just relocated, rather than added seating. Johnston understood the distinction and said, “If the restaurants aren’t adding any seats, but just relocating them outside, then does there even need to be an impact fee?” she asked attorney Ron Ramsingh. “Because they’ve already paid an impact fee for each existing seat.” Ramsingh is now in the process of researching what impact fees the city can legally waive or reduce. There is greater flexibility in the annual licensing fee that will likely be reduced from the $500 per seat per year.
“The purpose of this meeting is to make this program better for you,” Stoughton told the business owners. “We didn’t have this much input from the business community when we were coming up with this program before, so we’re glad to have it now. Give us your input and we’ll take it back to make this better for residents, guests, businesses, everyone.” Stoughton and McLauchlin emphasized, “The city is not looking at this as a revenue generator.” “We’re going to make sure we’ve captured your concerns,” McLauchlin said. The mayor also asked a small group of owners to meet with the city to help determine reasonable fees and bring them into line with other Florida cities, which charge from nothing to $200 per seat per year, compared to Key West’s $500 fee. “I think the business community and our local government have a little bit of a fractured relationship, and I think this is a very good way to heal that fracture,” said Bill Lay, owner of La Trattoria restaurant on Duval Street. Tuesday’s hour-long meeting was a civil and respectful exchange of ideas among reasonable, rational adults — and they did it without a single frenzied Facebook group. Imagine.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
CORAL DISEASE REACHES THE DRY TORTUGAS
CORAL RESPONSE TEAM ‘ENTIRELY PREPARED’ TO ACT TIFFANY DUONG
tiffany@keysweekly.com
S
tony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) — an infectious, water-borne coral disease that has devastated Florida’s Coral Reef and others around the world — has been found in Dry Tortugas National Park. The park’s coral response team has begun treatment and still holds hope for the future of these endangered species. SCTLD started near Miami in late 2014. It moves rapidly, affecting hard coral species and decimating entire reefs in a matter of weeks or months. By 2016, the disease had spread north to Palm Beach County and south to Lower Matecumbe. In May 2018, reports of disease events had reached the Lower Keys, and it became clear that this was an “unprecedented” disease outbreak, both in its broad geographic range, as well as its extended duration, high rates of mortality and number of coral species affected. Scientists weren’t initially sure about what caused the disease. They now hypothesize that bacteria likely plays a role, because antibiotic treatments have proven effective. In August 2018, the “mystery killer” was finally given a name. It continued to spread south to Key West and the Marquesas. It was observed off Rebecca Shoal Channel in August 2020, and the Dry Tortugas were the only section of reef in the Keys that remained unaffected. With discovery of the disease at the national park, SCTLD has now been confirmed throughout the entirety of Florida’s Coral Reef and sections of the Caribbean. “We knew it was inevitable, that it was just a matter of time,” said Florida Sea Grant agent Shelly Krueger. “There’s still a sense of heaviness because the Dry Tortugas are so far removed from land-based activities. You think about this area as pristine, but we’re all connected by the water, and this connectivity is why we knew it was basically inescapable.” Krueger’s agency collaborates with state, local and university partners in the
A biologist on the NPS Coral Response Team treats a coral infected with Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease. RACHEL JOHNS/National Park Service
A coral within the Dry Tortugas treated with an antibiotic paste to combat Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE/Contributed
disease response. The coral response team first observed SCTLD on 11 coral colonies within the park on May 29 during a routine disease survey. A May 6 survey of that same location had shown no evidence of the disease. Several highly susceptible corals in the same area still appear to be healthy, and the park service estimates that only 3% of susceptible colonies in the area are affected. The disease appears “concentrated” in one area of the park 2.5 miles east of Fort Jefferson. “Until now, Dry Tortugas National Park was the only remaining section of Florida’s Coral Reef to not show signs of the disease,” said Pedro Ramos, superintendent of Everglades and Dry Tortugas national parks. “Finding it early is significant, because without treatment, the disease has the potential to destroy the park’s underwater gardens, as affected corals have a nearly 100% mortality
rate.” SCTLD manifests as white patches where the disease has consumed live coral tissue, exposing bright white coral skeleton. While only “stony corals” are affected, these species of coral are critical to Florida’s Coral Reef and underpin its structure and health. Near Fort Lauderdale, an iconic and gigantic coral head lovingly known as “Big Mama’’ had survived for more than 300 years; it succumbed to SCTLD in just four months. Rachel Johns, coral biologist and lead of the Coral Response Team, told the Weekly, “When we found the first colony (in the Dry Tortugas) with SCTLD, the stark, white lesions of disease, which expose patches of the coral animal’s bare skeleton, seemed to glare back at us. SCTLD is distressing to observe, so I felt motivated to do everything possible for that colony, and I was thankful that our coral response team was entirely prepared for that moment.” The Dry Tortugas has the largest and most active coral response team of any organization throughout the Keys, Johns said. Her team trained in SCTLD intervention methods and has been actively surveying the park for disease since September 2020. “To say we were ready is an understatement. If there was ever an opportunity to beat SCTLD, it’s now,” Johns said. Johns and her team treated infected corals with the most effective treatment available: an antibiotic paste using amoxicillin. This slows the spread of the disease and increases coral survival. The team will focus treatment efforts on “high priority” corals, including threatened species, large and reproductive corals, and areas with high coral cover and biodiversity. The team will also increase reconnaissance surveys to confirm where and how severe any outbreaks are within the park. “Besides continuing disease reconnaissance and treatments, our coral response team along with our state and federal partners are committed to monitoring Dry Tortugas reefs through the course of SCTLD and beyond, documenting and studying any changes we find along the way,” Johns said. Johns and Krueger both anticipate a shift from disease response to large-scale reef restoration in the coming years, especially with NOAA’s Mission: Iconic Reefs efforts well underway. “Personally, I have hope because of the incredible team of individuals I work alongside. There are intelligent, caring people both inside and outside the NPS who are committed to ecological stewardship and service,” Johns said. “So long as they exist, the corals have hope.”
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021 SARA MATTHIS
sara@keysweekly.com
OLIVIA BROOKS, WHERE ARE YOU?
LOCAL FINDS 17-YEAR-OLD MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE OFF MARATHON
S
eeking: 22-year-old United Kingdom woman named Olivia Brooks, who vacationed in Marathon in September of 2003 as a little 4-year-old girl. That’s the mystery that Daniel Lonergan of Caribbean Kayaking wants to solve. “I found it in early September of 2020, floating at the junction of Whiskey Creek and Sisters Creek in Marathon,” said Lonergan. “It” is the Keys version of a unicorn — a legit message in a bottle. Lonergan found the bottle while he was working; he owns and operates a kayak and paddle tour company in the Middle Keys. As is his habit, he collects trash every chance he gets. Except this wasn’t trash. “I found it and then forgot about it because of the whole COVID-19 thing. But now I want to see if I can find her,” Lonergan said. The message was written in 2003 and has some compelling details — her full name, her address, her age, and the fact that she was staying at a now defunct resort, Crystal Bay (sic) Resort. Olivia (or
her parents) gave all the necessary information, and she signed her name to the note that came out of the green bottle in childish script. The family even enclosed $2 for postage so the finder could send word that the bottle had been found. But 17 years have elapsed. Lonergan said he did a couple searches of the property — 47 The Uplands, Loughton, Essex, England — and found web advertising that suggests the house has since changed hands. Twice. “I’ve run out of clues,” said Lonergan. “I want to put this out there now. I hope I find her.” He ends on a poetic note: “This message in a bottle has been just floating on the Marathon tides waiting to be found for 17 years.”
In 2003, a 4-year-girl from the U.K. launched a message in a bottle. Seventeen years later, a local picked it up. Do you know Olivia Brooks? CONTRIBUTED
Daniel Lonergan found the message in a bottle when he was working; he owns and operates Caribbean Kayaking in the Middle Keys. CONTRIBUTED
In the 1500s, Queen Elizabeth I of England created an official position, “Uncorker of Ocean Bottles.” Anyone in England finding a bottle with a message was to bring it directly to the crown. The English had figured out ocean currents enough to use them as a conveyance for messages from spies. “Uncorker of Ocean Bottles” is also the name of a children’s book by Michelle Cuevas, published in 2016.
“Hi my name is Olivia (Brooks). I am a little girl. I am 4 years old. I am in America on holiday. The day I sent this is 27 September 2003. Please send me a postcard to tell me you found it. I have enclosed 2 dollars for a stamp.”
13
MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021 SARA MATTHIS
sara@keysweekly.com
WEIRD FATHER’S DAY GIFTS
6 sketchy gift ideas for the family man
L
et this article serve as a reminder that Father’s Day is right around the corner — Sunday, June 20. Start planning now. Also, the Keys Weekly will be full up on photos of Dad and family in the Keys Weekly Newspaper issue publishing on June 17. So, send your pictures to mandy@keysweekly. com in Key West; sara@keysweekly.com in the Middle Keys; and jim@keysweekly.com in the Upper Keys. Photos must be submitted by Monday, June 14 and emails must include contact information. Getting your dad’s pic in the paper will earn you some serious brownie points, possibly negating the need to buy one of the ridiculous gifts listed below. DAD SHOES Seriously, type “dad shoes” into Google and an image of these white leather New Balance shoes comes up. (Which stings a little bit, because, well, we MIGHT have someone in our lives — who’s male and a dad — cough, Mark, cough — who wears these exclusively.) Not sure when these became the ultimate symbol of fatherhood, but here we are. They cost about $60, and are best paired with jorts or cargo shorts. THERAGUN What is this? Is it a car repair tool? A clamp? No, no. It’s a “theragun” — like a massage tool. Specifically, a “percussive therapy deep tissue muscle treatment massage.” Okay, fine. And whose dad doesn’t do a little complaining about aches and pains? It’s 400 bucks, though, so he better like it. If he doesn’t, rest assured his progeny will weaponize the device. SAINT CANDLE All dads are good dads, but some more than others. Commission an Etsy artist to make a saint candle emblazoned with his face. The candle can be lit when he is in need (“How am I gonna pay this hecking water bill? What, are your showers one hour long?”) or when he is in need of a miracle (“My wife and two daughters are all currently menstruating.”) About 20 bucks, or almost free if you DIY.
PORTRAIT Oh, hell YES! Celebrate dad by commissioning his portrait in a ridiculous costume of a third-world, despotic tyrant. Hang it in the living room. Get copies for his children to hang in their homes. The only reason not to buy this is because it might go to his head, enforcing some king-like behaviors, such as eating too much rich food and getting gout. Then, no. Prices vary.
MEAT BOUQUET Say it with salami. Order online, or assemble from your local deli or grocery, a fantastic arrangement of not just meat, but cured meat! If salami isn’t your guy’s thing, then get some super good steaks for the guy and a chance to show off his grilling skills on Father’s Day. Prices vary.
BABY GOAT Hear us out. Does he NEED a goat? Probably not. But does he WANT a goat? Also, no. But will a goat make his life BETTER? Again, no. But will it effectively deflect his ire from the human subjects in his home? Oh, yes. We have no idea if it’s legal or advisable to own a goat in the Florida Keys. However, no matter what you get dad for Father’s Day, you can always tell him what you almost got him, a goat, and he will be grateful for what he got because it’s not a goat. You’re welcome, dad. Costs range from $100 to $800, and do not include veterinary bills, divorce lawyer fees or goat food.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Second place finisher Natalie Ardis and husband Josh Ardis at the Mother’s Day Dolphin Tournament. CONTRIBUTED
Thanks, anglers! And just like that ... it's a wrap. So many anglers “fished for a cause” during the 15th annual Mother’s Day Dolphin Tournament presented by Keys All Area Roofing. It was a wonderful success for Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys. We were unable to hold the captain's meeting and awards banquet yet again due to COVID-19, but we were able to fish and support Habitat. Thank you to our anglers, captains, mates, sponsors and volunteers who took the proper safety precautions during our weigh-in on May 8. Thank you to Key Colony Inn for partnering with us to provide meal vouchers to use safely in their own time, in lieu of gatherings. Anglers still received vouchers equal to what they would have had if the events were inperson for their registration donation. The 15th annual Mother’s Day Dolphin Tournament attracted 140 anglers and 45 boats. Anglers weighed their heaviest dolphin catch at Curly's Coffee and Marina in Marathon. We are so grateful that we raised $60,000 for Habitat Middle Keys, which will be used directly toward our mission, which includes the building of 11 new affordable home units in 2022-2023 which are purchased by hard working families in Marathon at a 0% interest loan. HERE ARE THE TOP ANGLERS: 1st Place Lady Angler: Makaela Kunstler 2nd Place Lady Angler: Natalie Ardis 3rd Place Lady Angler: Paige Dillistin 1st Place Junior Angler: Kiki Hewlett 1st Weekend Warrior Angler: Joseph McDonnell 2nd Weekend Warrior Angler: Rich Thompkins 3rd Weekend WarriorAngler: Stan Stokes 1st Place Pro Angler: Casey Taylor 2nd Place Pro Angler: Spencer Deno 3rd Place Pro Angler: Sean Burrows Sincerely, Chris Todd Young, Executive director, Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys
RIBBON CUTTING
Top corporate executives of City Electric Supply joined members of the Marathon Chamber of Commerce on June 1 to cut the ribbon on the newly opened supply house in Marathon. It is the second CES location in the Florida Keys. The event also raised funds for Make A Wish and guests had the opportunity to win raffle items. SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly
MOOSE ON THE MOVE Marathon Moose members delivered numerous boxes of food, some pictured here, to Keys Area Interdenominational Resources (KAIR) and will continue to do so throughout the summer. Members said they stepped up when they heard the annual postal workers’ food drive was canceled in 2021. CONTRIBUTED
17
MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
FITZPATRICK WORE MANY HATS IN KEY WEST Early settler helped set county boundaries, created salt ponds and served as town’s auctioneer
I
f you have ever purchased a pair of one of the Southernmost City’s premier cultural contributions, Kino sandals, you have been within a coconut’s throw BRAD of Fitzpatrick Street. The same could be BERTELLI said if you had ever ... is the curator had a cold beverfor Islamorada’s age at Capt. Tony’s Keys History & Saloon, though it Discovery Center. A published auwould take a stronthor of six books, ger throw. Richard his favorite subFitzpatrick is the jects are Indian street’s namesake. Key and skunk Born circa 1792 to a apes. wealthy plantation family in Columbia, South Carolina, Fitzpatrick was one of Key West’s early, early residents. By the time he arrived circa 1822, he was working as a lawyer. In Key West, in addition to his law practice, he served as the island’s auctioneer when it came time to sell off, among other things, cargoes salvaged during wrecking operations. In 1830, he entered the salt game — a valuable commodity. Fitzpatrick leased 100 or so acres on the southeastern side of the island from William Whitehead. The land was subject to saltwater intrusion and the perfect place to create salt ponds. He developed his operation by dividing the land into individual pools measuring 100 feet long and 50 feet wide. Each pool, or pen, was corralled by two-foot-tall rock walls. Wooden flood-gates interconnected each pen, and when they opened, each flooded.
Approximate boundary between Monroe and Miami-Dade counties, 1836-1866. JERRY WILKINSON COLLECTION/Keys History & Discovery Center
When the gates were closed, the water was trapped, and evaporation became its only escape. When the water was all gone, salt crystals remained. Those measuring one-eighth to one-quarter of an inch in size were harvested for sale. Salt baron, auctioneer and lawyer were not his only titles. Following in his father’s footsteps, Fitzpatrick also worked to become a plantation owner. On Dec. 1, 1830, he purchased a Miami River homestead for $400. Before he was done, he would own four square miles along the Miami River and one square mile around the New River (Fort Lauderdale). In 1830, he also threw his hat into the political ring and was elected to represent Monroe County as its state senator in the Territorial Council for the 1830-1832 congressional sessions. It was during this term that a bill was introduced to create the North American Salt Company. Not only would it be established on Key West, but it would compete with Fitzpatrick’s own production company. Fortunately, he held a position of power and argued against the idea in front of the men elected to vote. The vote against the formation of the North American Salt Company fell in favor of Fitzpatrick. His salt ponds remained the only significant active source of salt produced on the island.
He was elected to a second term to represent the best interests of the people of Monroe County as a state representative in the Territorial Council. During the 1835-1836 session, Fitzpatrick was elected president of the Legislative Council. In the early days of January 1836, Fitzpatrick presented a bill that, when it passed, was going to blow the good people of Key West away. The bill proposed the creation of Pinckney County. It was accompanied by a supporting petition signed by 133 residents of the three major territorial communities outside of Key West, Indian Key, Key Vaca, and Cape Florida, as well as those outposts that had been established along the Miami and New rivers. One argument in favor of the bill involved the civic obligation of jury duty. Because Key West was the county’s most populous city, it served as the county seat and, therefore, the center around which all government affairs would travel. The court system, for instance, was located in Key West. When the county’s citizens were called for jury duty twice yearly, they were summoned to Key West. One of the reasons the bill passed was that it was determined that traveling to Key West was too big a burden for those living in Monroe County’s northern settlements. The bill passed in no small part due to Fitzpatrick’s efforts. However, by the time it was officially approved, on Jan. 28, 1836, the new county’s name had been changed to honor Major Francis L. Dade, killed weeks prior in an exchange sometimes identified as the spark igniting the second escalation of the Seminole War. The new Dade County started north of Bahia Honda and stretched to Lake Okeechobee. With a new county, a new county seat was needed. Because Indian Key was the largest community in Monroe County not named Key West, and the largest in the newly formed Dade County, it was declared the county seat. Court proceedings, however, would not be solely limited to Indian Key. At least once a year, the county court would be scheduled to convene at the Cape Florida community on Key Biscayne. As a last note, the jury duty argument presented by Fitzpatrick in 1836 still resonates. As an Upper Keys resident, being called to jury duty in Key West is still inconvenient, and now there are cars and the Overseas Highway, and the trip is only two hours, more or less, each way.
19
MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021 A Stygian owl seen in Key West in 2018. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
THE AFTERNOON THAT NEVER ENDED
I
t was mid June and hot as Hades and I was on the sidewalk outside of Harpoon Harry’s after lunch. This was three years ago. The heat was that all-encompassing, shirt-soaking, spirit-abusing heat that made you wonder how, exactly, you were going to make it through the next five months. I looked at my phone and saw that Em had tagged me in a short video on Facebook. MARK “Mark Hedden, what the hell is this??? Sounds like HEDDEN a Tarzan movie!!!” She said it was some place over on Seminary Street. ... is a photograIf it was someone else I might have waited to look pher, writer, and semi-professional at it on a bigger screen in a room with suitably arctic air birdwatcher. He conditioning. But Em was Emalyn Mercer, considered has lived in Key by many of us to be something close to a real world West for more than 25 years and saint, famous, at least among my Key West crowd, for her kindness and her cheese grits, for the gaggle may no longer be employable in of other people’s kids she loved to take care of on the real world. He Saturday nights, for her honey-smooth drawl and her is also executive uproarious laugh, for her willingness to chain herself to director of the Florida Keys Audu- the occasional tree that she didn’t think the city should chop down, and for the fact that every time this one bon Society. well-known homeless man went off his meds and got arrested she would go out to the jail and put money in his canteen account to make sure he could buy cigarettes. She’d survived a bout of breast cancer and seemingly decided she wasn’t going to waste a minute of her life after that. She was one of those people who made you want to be a better person, and you didn’t even resent her for it, largely because she was also hilarious. If Em asked you a question about a bird, you wanted to answer it. That day on the sidewalk there was too much glare to really see what was going on in the video, but I could hear a bird screaming that sounded kind of like a hawk, which got me curious. We see a lot of wintering hawks in the Keys, but they’re usually long gone by June. But Cooper’s hawks, once known as chicken hawks due to their fondness for barnyard poultry, had been expanding their range down the Florida peninsula, and it seemed logical, given Key West’s overabundance of chickens, that they would take up breeding here eventually. When I parked on Seminary Street I perhaps slammed the car door too loud, as two birds that were, in fact, Cooper’s hawks took off and disappeared into the middle of the block. I sighed, and considered how long I was willing to stand there sweating to see if the hawks came back. Which is when I noticed the dark brown shape deep in the leaves of one of the trees. I was pretty sure it was a bird. I kept an old pair of binoculars in the car, but the car was such a mess I couldn’t find them, so I had to drive the six blocks home for my Swarovskis and my camera. With my binoculars I could see it was an owl – tall, dark, and skinny, with long ear tufts on top of its head and unsettling bright yellow eyes. I took a couple pictures, thinking briefly it might be a long-eared owl, which I’d only seen once before, and which would be very rare in these parts. But the long-eared owl had orange patches in its face, and the bird I was looking at was a more uniform chocolate brown. I flipped through my Sibley app and realized it didn’t match any of the other North American owls, either. I called some other local birders I knew, then ran home again for my Cuban and Caribbean field guides, and for my scope and my tripod.
Mark Whiteside and Ellen Westbrook arrived and we puzzled it out to be a Stygian owl, a species hard to find even in its native South American and Caribbean habitat. But a bird that rare makes you nervous to report it, just in case you’re having some cognitive misfire and misidentifying something much more common or obvious, so I sent pictures out to people more familiar with the species. And yes, it was a Stygian. The species had only been seen in North America twice before during a pair of brief single-day sightings in Texas in the 1990s. I posted pictures of the bird on Facebook, knowing what I was triggering. For anyone hoping to add Stygian owl to their life list, this was probably a once-in-a-lifetime chance. Birders would be buying last-minute plane tickets, birders would be jumping into cars and driving overnight. There would be a small crowd at sunrise the next morning. But for anyone who didn’t live here, such efforts were for naught. The bird was gone by nightfall. In the time before it left, though, we set up a spotting scope and had the chance to show the bird to about 20 people, including the mailman, a passing landscape architect, my wife, the people who lived in the house whose yard the tree was in, several local birders, and one neighbor who was convinced we didn’t know what we were talking about – he saw Stygian owls all the time. At one point Emalyn stopped by, parking her convertible VW by the curb. I told her it wasn’t the bird in the video she posted, but it was what the bird in her video was screaming about. (Owls are notorious nest predators and nobody likes them in their breeding territory.) She spent some time looking through the scope, and she was laughing as she got back into her car, seemingly pleased to have triggered the finding of such a rare bird, or, more likely, to have triggered the finding of a little more happiness in the world. I got one of those Facebook “3 Years Ago Today” reminders of all this last week, even though I didn’t need it. That afternoon comes back to me every time I walk or ride my bike through that neighborhood, even though there are new people living in that house, and the place has been totally renovated, and the tree the owl was in has disappeared. And even though Emalyn is gone now too, the cancer coming back and taking her faster than anyone thought imaginable, leaving a pretty gaping hole in the lives of a lot of people. Because if you keep moving and you don’t think about it too hard, that afternoon is still happening.
20
MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
BRITT MYERS
britt@keysweekly.com
GOP WHIP VISITS KEYS Q&A WITH STEVE SCALISE
Steve Scalise. CONTRIBUTED
W
ithin the ever-shifting ranks of power that is the United States Congress, the majority and minority whips remain atop the hierarchy of influence within their respective parties. Netflix’s hit series “House of Cards,” sensationalized the position of whip in contemporary culture, following as it did a fictional congressman, Frank Underwood, on his exploitative rise to power. New Orleans native Steve Scalise, who represents Louisiana’s 1st District in the U.S. House and serves as the real-life minority whip for the Republican Party, chuckles at the comparisons he and his Democratic counterpart, majority whip Jim Clyburn, receive from the hit show. Scalise’s influence within the Republican party is undeniable. After serving 12 years in the Louisiana House of Representatives, he made his way to D.C., where he was quickly anointed majority whip of the Republican House — a position he held until Republicans lost their majority in 2018. He was named minority whip in January 2019. Today, for those who serve in the nation’s capital, no one is equidistant from the growing divide of opposing political ideologies. Scalise is constantly thrust into the public eye on every major news network across the nation, tasked with vocalizing the Republican Party’s agenda and talking points. But no matter what side of the aisle one subscribes to, the intrigue and respect for Scalise’s influence on his party is well documented in politi-
cal circles. The House minority whip visited Key West this past week, alongside U.S. Congressman Carlos Gimenez, who represents the Keys and Florida’s 26th Congressional District in the U.S. House. During his stay, the Keys Weekly caught up with Scalise, who fielded questions about some of the nation’s most contentious issues. From his recent opposition to a formal inquiry on the Capitol riots, to his remarkable recovery following the 2017 shootings at a congressional baseball game, Scalise offered us full access on a range of notable topics. Below are excerpts from the full interview, which can be read in entirety at www.keysweekly.com KW: For those who only know the “whip” from watching “House of Cards,” how do you explain what you really do? S.S.: (laughing) If you watch “House of Cards,” you are very afraid of crossing me (continuing to laugh). As much as I hate to burst everybody’s bubble, the real job is not like that. The best part of the job of being whip is you work with all of the members of the Republican conference. I’m the Republican whip. And every now and then I work with the Democrat whip, Jim Clyburn. He and I have a very good relationship. The main job is to bring everyone together on items that you are either supporting or opposing as a conference. I spend a lot of time helping educate members on questions about part of a bill they either support, want to change or oppose. You work a lot of policy and you build a lot of relationships. That’s what I love about it most. KW: In recent years and months, we’ve had many prominent Republican leaders visit Key West, including Mick Mulvaney and John Boehner. Are Key West and the Florida Keys becoming a strategic political location for the
party? S.S.: Well, Florida is wide open right now and you still have a lot of states like New York and California that are mostly closed. If you are planning events it’s a lot easier to come down to Florida because you know it’s open. I just got in (to Key West) yesterday and I leave tomorrow. But it’s just beautiful down here. You’ve got great weather, you’re right at the southernmost tip of the country with a really well run state. It’s just nice to be here. KW: You said something interesting regarding the good relationship you have with your Democratic counterpart, Jim Clyburn, that offers a good segue. The wound that seems to be deepening is the polarity of American politics. Can we heal this problem and is there an answer to our differences? S.S.: It’s really unfortunate that we are at such a toxic and divided point in our nation’s history. We’ve been here before, but it’s not often and we need to get back to building those relationships to find common ground. And what I’ve always found is that we all have differences with each other. But in politics today I feel that too many people are making their differences personal. And once you start attacking someone personally because of a political difference, that’s when things break down. And I think we need to tone down the rhetoric. KW: Everyone is talking about the Capitol riots right now and an investigative commission that you voted against. I want to ask you, why not a commission? And if not, what is the appropriate response? S.S.: There are many criminal investigations already going on and hundreds of arrests, as there should be, on the people that illegally broke into the Capitol that day. They need to be held accountable and many are already being held accountable and there are trials going on.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise returns for the 57th Congressional Baseball Game for Charity at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., a year after being shot during a congressional baseball game in 2017. CONTRIBUTED
But one of the things we raised concerns about long before Jan. 6 was the violence we were seeing throughout our country. Every major city was having violent outbreaks. There were riots. They burned buildings down. Cops were murdered. Civilians were murdered during protests. Some might have been peaceful, but many were violent and deadly and there has been no investigations into that. So we wanted to broaden the scope to look at all forms of political violence that we have seen in this last year. And it seems like (House Speaker Nancy) Pelosi wants to turn a blind eye to all of those other things that happened. KW: It now seems that both sides are starting to ask more questions around a theory that COVID-19 originated in a lab in Wuhan, China. Can you tell us more about this theory, whether you are receiving credible information and what it means if this ends up being a credible claim? S.S.: Many of us have been calling for an investigation for more than a year because we were hearing early in 2020 the virus was started in a lab and there was not a normal bat-to-human transfer, which is what we were being told at the time. Just in the last few days, some shocking and revealing emails have come out from Dr. Fauci that shows that even he was made aware that the virus was possibly made in a lab. And he didn’t share that with the president’s coronavirus task force, from people I’ve spoken to. And many people were calling us conspiracy theorists just for promoting the
suggestion it might have been started in a lab — and it turns out now that it may be true. And even now Speaker Pelosi won’t call a hearing on this. I’ve been very vocal, as many others have, that Speaker Pelosi needs to have a full investigation into the origin of this virus that has killed hundreds of thousands of people in America and millions of people locally — that it may have actually been engineered in that lab in Wuhan and we ought to know about that and get those answers. And she and President Biden should want to know about that. KW: Inflation seems to be looming over us as a nation as prices rise on everyday consumer items. What is being done, at least from your side, to protect Americans from this threat and can we avoid a repeat of the inflation we faced in the late ’70s? S.S.: Unfortunately President Biden is bringing a lot of the failed policies from the 1970s back here to America in the way of gas lines and higher prices at the pump. If you’re trying to build a house right now it’s 25 to 30% more. Lumber alone is 400% higher than it was a year ago. Even if you go to the grocery store, just basic food items are more expensive. And President Biden has pushed policies that are paying millions of people not to work right now when there are millions of job openings and that’s really disrupted the supply chain and made things more expensive for people. And we’ve got to get back to a normal, traditional economy and stop printing money like it’s going out of style, because that’s what’s making inflation higher.
KW: It’s impossible to speak to you and not ask about your horrifying experience in June 2017, when you were shot at a congressional baseball game. Did that change your approach to politics and how did it affect your view on life outside of politics? S.S.: The shooting in 2017 was nearly catastrophic. The shooter wanted to kill every Republican on that ball field and had the weapons to do it. And fortunately, we had a lot of miracles that day, and we had two brave Capitol Police officers with me as part of my security detail as majority whip (David Bailey and Crystal Griner) who are the textbook definition of true heroes. They both got shot during the shootout and took the shooter down. But in terms of my outlook, I spent the next two months fighting for my life and having to learn how to walk again and it really put into perspective the things that are really important in life. For three and a half months, I was in the hospital and I couldn’t even go to work. But I had to put all of my energy into what was important during that time and it was spending time with my family, who gave me incredible strength. And prayers from people all across the country gave me strength. I have a strong faith and it probably sharpened my faith and sharpened my focus on the things that are really important in life. You know, each day you can wake up and find 10 things that are bad, and really focus on that…or you can focus on the blessings that we do have that are good. Visit www.keysweekly.com for more of this interview.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
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Brandt and her students hold a small ball between their knees, working on ‘micromovements’ to exercise and exhaust muscles.
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O
n a recent morning, all of the women present at Island Pilates & Barre chimed in on the question, “What is barre?” Heather Brandt: “It’s a mix of pilates, dance and yoga that features micromovements.” Christy Johnson: “It’s like ballet and fitness. It’s about exhausting one muscle group, before moving on to another.” Shannon Butler: “Barre is for strengthening and toning, which is like pilates. But I find that barre has a little more cardio.” Brandi Card: “Barre is for tightening and sculpting. It does wonderful things for balance too.” Brandt is the instructor of the barre classes at Island Pilates & Barre, owned by Card. The classes incorporate a ballet barre and students perform classic ballet moves like plies, combined with floor work. Brandt said she’s careful to offer modifications to suit the abilities of every student. “Barre is an opportunity to get that ‘dancer’s body,’ that is toned and sculpted,” Brandt said. The 45-minute classes are offered four times a week — at 7 a.m. on Monday and Wednesday and at 8 a.m. on Tuesday and Thursday. Island Pilates & Barre uses the MindBody app for students to book classes. The studio is located in the Townsquare Plaza at 11400 Highway Suite, Marathon. The phone number is 305-9426921.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
Anchored to your health and our community.
Larry and Marianne Benvenuti Life Photographers
The care you deserve, right in your neighborhood. A new and improved Fishermen’s Community Hospital is now open and will continue to be an anchor of health and wellness in the heart of the Florida Keys. The original hospital, built in 1962, was founded by compassionate residents who understood that a quality hospital was necessary for a successful community to grow. When the hospital was severely damaged by Hurricane Irma in 2017, Baptist Health stayed committed to the Florida Keys, approving an entirely new hospital to meet the community’s needs, now and into the future. Built from the ground up on the foundation of the original hospital, the new Fishermen’s Community Hospital is designed to withstand wind speeds of a Category 5 hurricane.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
The state-of-the-art facility offers the specialized services you need, brought to you by the most trusted healthcare provider in the region, including: • 24/7 emergency care with on-site helipad • Diagnostic imaging • Inpatient care
• Intensive care unit • Outpatient laboratory • Rehabilitation
Services including oncology care, surgery and endoscopy, will be available at a later date. And telestroke services are available to give stroke patients 24/7 emergency access to board-certified neurologists. Additional services are offered at Mariners Hospital in Tavernier, also part of Baptist Health.
Learn more at BaptistHealth.net/Fishermens
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
Wishing my husband Patrick D’Amico (and our son Luke) a happy first Father’s Day. JEANINE D’AMICO/Contributed
RD Goodman is the father to Hurley Dale & River Marie as well as the charter captain of the Huntress. The best part about being a dad: Hoping one day Hurley can throw the cast net for me, and hearing River say, ‘Daddy, I love you!’ ERIKA GOODMAN/Contributed
My dad has always encouraged me to live life to the fullest while simultaneously reminding me that everything works out the way it should. We both enjoy the outdoors, live music, long distance running, cowboy boots and red wine. If I was home for Fathers Day, we would probably be sharing a bottle of red wine over a charcuterie board while watching a tennis match after a day of fishing. Happy Father’s Day to my dad and all the other dads out there! Live Large! HAYLEY BURLESON/Contributed
Having visited Key West for the time in 1996, (my wife Julia Davis and I) moved here in 1999 and were immediately accepted and loved by the gay — and straight — community. That is Key West Pride to us. EDIE HAMBRIGHT/Contributed
I don’t have a coming-out story because I’ve always known I was different. I never hid it. I was never ‘in.’ In first grade, I discovered red bubble gum candy could be used as a lipstick, so I put it on my lips — at an all-boys Catholic school. MAYA MONTATA/Contributed
Jim Dad, the man that supports all my crazy adventures near and far, thank you for your unconditional love and support always. There’s no one else I’d rather share this wonderful life with. Happy Father’s Day, Daddy. WHITNEY WEMETT/Contributed
TIFFANY DUONG
tiffany@keysweekly.com
O
ur themes for JUNE are PAPAS and PRIDE. June is Pride Month, so show us what it means to have pride in the Keys (we’re looking at you, Key West). Father’s Day is June 20. Send a tribute to the dad in your life, or tell us what your favorite thing about being a dad is! Photos, captions and photo credit can be emailed to tiffany@keysweekly.com.
Rules, schmules: All photos must be original work and feature something in the Keys. Photos can be images that have been published before. No third party may own or control any materials the photo contains, and the photo must not infringe upon the trademark, copyright, moral rights, intellectual rights, or rights of privacy of any entity or person.
Any person agrees, by submitting photos, that photos submitted can be used by the Keys Weekly for any and all purposes, including but not limited to advertising, charity work, sales, future editorial, print in the newspapers or online or on social media posts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and any other social media platforms as may come about.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021 BRIEFLY
Governor DeSantis announces 2021 Florida Python Challenge Governor Ron DeSantis has announced the opening of registration for the 2021 Florida Python Challenge, which will be held July 9-18, 2021. Registration is now open and members of the public can then compete to remove invasive Burmese pythons from the wild. Interested participants are required to take a 30-minute online training session and take a quiz at FLPythonChallenge.org before registering and paying the $25 fee. Viewers will learn about many rules, including: registrants must select one of two categories, professional or novice; pythons must be humanely killed at the designated competition location at which they are found (there are seven designated locations) and turned in dead at the nearest accessible check station; the use of firearms is prohibited. To learn about these rules and many more, go to FLPythonChallenge. org. “Since taking office, I have been focused on protecting, restoring and preserving the Everglades for future generations,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “As a part of my focus, I’ve charged FWC with dedicating more resources and taking innovative approaches to removing invasive Burmese Pythons. … As a result of our efforts, FWC had a record year for python removal in 2020, and has now removed more than 13,000 pythons since 2000.” Burmese pythons are not native to Florida and harm native species. They are found primarily in and around the Everglades ecosystem in south Florida where they prey on birds, mammals and other reptiles. A female Burmese python may lay 50 to 100 eggs at a time. Since 2019, more than 5,250 pythons have been removed from the state, and overall more than 13,000 Burmese pythons have been removed since 2000. For more information on Burmese pythons, visit MyFWC.com/ Python.
BAD BOYS’ SONGS What-cha gonna do?
B
ad boys, bad boys… what-cha gonna do when they name a song after you? Let’s explore some of the more hideous and repulsive songs with boys’ names in the title — and thank you again, Mike Howie! “Jessie’s Girl” – Rick Springfield. First off, the Jessie in this song spells his name like a girl. Second, the song features some of the most insipid rhymes and god awful lyrics to ever grace the Top 40. “You know I feel so dirty when they start talking cute / I wanna tell her that I love her, but the point is probably moot.” And how about this couplet: “I’ve been funny; I’ve been cool with the lines / Ain’t that the way love’s supposed to be?” Really, truly deep. In its favor, the music is catchy and the song is instantly recognizable — which makes it super easy to change the radio channel immediately after the song starts. And I’m sure this song had nothing to do with… “Jesse” – Carly Simon. She won’t cut fresh flowers for you. She won’t make the wine cold for you. She won’t change the sheets for you. So no flowers, warm wine, and dirty sheets await the male romantic interest who captivates the singer’s interest — but who at least spells his name in a more masculine fashion. “I’m Henry VIII, I Am” – Herman’s Hermits. Spelled H-E-N-R-Y but pronounced ’Enery, this song is just plain stupid. A guy marries the widow next door, whose previous seven husbands were all named Henry. And now the singer is the eighth Henry. Someone please tell me what this Henry could possibly be thinking … and if he truly believes that he’s going to survive this marriage. The point of this exercise in musical bowl-swirling inexplicably must have borne repeating: “Second verse, same as the first!” “Joey” – Bob Dylan. This track from the Desire album, co-written by Jacques Levy, painted a very sympathetic portrait of an otherwise murderous mobster. Rock critic Lester Bangs pronounced the song “repellent romanticist bulls**t.” The original recording goes on for 11 minutes and 5 seconds, which is approximately 11 minutes and 4 seconds too long. When Dylan toured with the Grateful Dead in the 1980s, Jerry Garcia persuaded Dylan to play this song with them — and no one knows why. Even their live version, however, only lasted a bit over nine minutes. For the Dead, a live version that’s shorter than the original recording is really saying something.
“Louie Louie” – The Kingsmen. No matter how many people call this song a classic, it still doesn’t change the fact that it’s an abomination of the highest order. Give inebriated frat boys enough guitars and a keg of beer, and this is what happens. The drunken slurring of otherwise inconsequential lyrics prompted an FBI investigation into alleged obscenity (no charges were ever filed). It just goes to show how different the world was in 1963, and JOHN just what I know — this song went to NumBARTUS ber 2 the same year that John Glenn orbited the Earth. A bit of trivia: there actually is a is a City of Maradropped F-bomb in the song! At 0:56 into the thon councilrecording, you can hear the drummer curse man. He also is a musician who after he dropped a stick! performs around “Ben” – Michael Jackson. A song about town. For more the bromance between a boy and his rat, this see johnbartus. beautiful melody was nominated for the Acadcom emy Award and won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song in a movie in 1972. “Ben” reached Number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and I don’t believe any other rodent ever got that high on the charts. Ben (the rat) was the main character in the sequel to “Willard,” the first killer rat movie. A bit of trivia: the song was originally written for Donny Osmond to sing. Osmond was on tour and unavailable to record, so the future King of Pop got to wrap his velvety vocals around rat fur and snarls and teeth. “Hey Mickey” – Toni Basil. A truly obnoxious song; the less time spent writing about it, the better. Let’s move on. “Mike The Headless Chicken” – various artists. In one of those too-weird-to-make-up stories, there was a chicken named Mike that survived (and thrived) for 18 months after being beheaded in 1945. Mike made the cover of Life magazine, and the chicken’s hometown of Fruita, Colorado hosts a Mike The Headless Chicken Festival every year. There’s even a sculpture of Mike in downtown Fruita. I swear that this is all true; look it up yourself. Needless to say, people wrote songs about Mike the headless chicken. I’m not sure if any of them belong in the bad song category, but the absolute strangeness of this fowl story demanded that any song with this title be included here. While there are no guys’ names in the titles of the songs on my new CD, After The Storm, it is officially online and available on major download and streaming services. For previews and links, just point your browser to johnbartus.hearnow.com to find out more! — Catch John Wednesdays at Herbie’s, Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, Friday on Facebook Live, Saturday afternoon at Boondocks, Saturday night at the Key Colony Inn, and Sunday brunch at Bongos. Music wherever you get your streaming or downloads. www.facebook.com/john.bartus
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
WHAT THE STARS HAVE IN STORE
REDA WIGLE The summer solstice arrives June 20, bringing the year’s longest day and briefest night. At high noon our shadows will appear shorter than at any other point this year. However, thanks to the lingering stationing of Mercury retrograde, the shadow side of our selves is casting itself long. The only way out is through. Retrogrades work to our advantage when we seek to honestly heal our past rather than force our future forward.
LEO July 23 to Aug. 22 Leo Hubert Selby Jr. was a high school dropout riddled with TB and leaning on an opiate addiction when he became a writer. Told he didn’t have long to live, Selby eschewed grammar, skipped quotation marks and replaced apostrophes with forward slashes (they were closer on the typewriter). He wanted nothing to edge between the words in his head and the page in his hands. Even, and especially if, it means shaking loose tradition, let nothing separate your mind from your message. Notable Leo: Marcus Garvey/ Aug. 17, 1887
GEMINI May 21 to June 20 Apology derives from the Greek apologia, “a speech made in selfdefense.” The Latin mea culpa translates to “through my fault.” In the Roman Rites of Catholic Mass, the Latin phrase was repeated three times and accompanied by the penitent beating their heart with their fist. In this tradition, atonement begins with the admission of failure and a prayer for, not an expectation of, forgiveness. May every “sorry” you speak sound more like deference than defense. Notable Gemini: Jose Riza/ June 19, 1861
VIRGO Aug. 23 to Sept. 22 As Mercury is your ruling planet, its retrograde is likely to heighten your emotions. High highs and low lows are forecasted for the Virgo ilk during this transit. Feelings and fears must rise to the surface before they can ultimately, and blessedly, be released. A healthy balance of rollicking joy and crippling despair can be found by seeking small, quiet moments and practicing gratitude for simple graces. Notable Virgo: Anne Bancroft/ Sept. 17, 1931
is a middle child and Taurus Fire Tiger named after a stigmatic saint. She divides her time and affections between New Orleans and Key West.
CANCER June 21 to July 22 Taskmaster astronaut Saturn is in Aquarius and taking up space in your eighth house of intimacy for the next 18 months. Saturn is the mean dad who wants what’s best for you, and this positioning suggests what’s best is an inner circle of people as powerfully connected in the world as they are wholly dedicated to your causes. To align with that personal best, you may have to cut ties with those who don’t, or renegotiate your standards of belonging to include the rogue and the risky. Notable Cancer: Roald Amundsen/July 16, 1872
LIBRA Sept. 23 to Oct. 22 You are adept at anticipating the needs of others, often at the expense of clearly identifying your own. Take very good, very consistent care of your animal self: eat well, sleep deep, take your body for a walk and your mind for a clearing. Do not confuse self-care with overindulgence and do your best to avoid petty distractions, cheap charms, expensive liquor, empty calories and mindless conversation. Notable Libra: George Floyd/ Oct. 14, 1973 SCORPIO Oct. 23 to Nov. 21 In his novel, “The One Inside,” late, great Scorpio Sam Shepard writes
of running barefoot alongside a half grown horse and a galloping herd of cattle. “I feel as strong as I’ll ever be.” Whether you are running wild through the streets or standing still in your mind, I hope the same feeling finds and fortifies you. Notable Scorpio: Julia Agrippina/ Nov. 6, 15 A.D. SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22 to Dec. 21 Doomed Romantic and fellow Sagittarius William Blake has a thing or two to teach you about rigidity and receptivity. “The man who never alters his opinion is like standing water, and breeds reptiles of the mind.” Whatever is suggested to, spoken or asked of you in the weeks ahead, keep the river of possibility flowing free and beware the crocodile of a closed mind. Notable Sagittarius: Scott Joplin/Nov. 24, 1868 CAPRICORN Dec. 22 to Jan. 19 Capricorn Stephen Hawking writes, “If the rate of expansion one second after the Big Bang had been smaller by even one part it would have re-collapsed before it reached its present size. On the other hand, if it had been greater by a part in a million, the universe would have expanded too rapidly for stars and planets to form.” Consider the singular miracle of timing in your own life. Revere what you have done with yours, rather than lament what you haven’t. Notable Capricorn: Paul Revere/Jan. 1, 1735 AQUARIUS Jan. 20 to Feb. 18 This week your two ruling planets, strict daddy Saturn and punk rock Uranus, form a square. You will likely feel this tension as a pull between stability and impulsivity. In regard to love, astrologist Kate Rose explains, “Saturn looks like an obligation, but Uranus appears as a conscious choice.” This squaring calls you to choose, however
terrifying, that which feels warm and right rather than dutifully continuing on with anything that doesn’t. Notable Aquarius: Farrah Fawcett/Feb. 2, 1947 PISCES Feb. 19 to March 20 My friend Max, a multifaceted gem of a man and a fellow Pisces, recently advised that we would all be better served by serving our instinctual selves. “Trust in lust” is his creed. Take up his mantle and move in the direction of whatever or whomever brings heat to your cheeks, sweat to your palms and an insistent quickening to your pulse. Notable Pisces: Madame Mao/March 19, 1914 ARIES March 21 to April 19 This week your ruler, warrior planet Mars, moves out of breezy Gemini and into the bold land of Leo and your fifth house of games and gratification. The time is nigh to get what you want but with Mercury in retrograde, asking requires more diplomacy than you are accustomed to. Personal requests, like handshakes, hand jobs and handmade furniture should be firm yet inviting. Notable Aries: Henry Ossian Flipper/March 21, 1856 TAURUS April 20 to May 20 Chain-smoking, cocaine-sniffing Taurus daddy Sigmund Freud assures us, “Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.” Nothing is more offensive to the people of the bull than allowing vulnerability to pull itself up from under their stoic hooves and defensive horns. As every two-bit shrink will tell you, you can’t be known until you are seen and you can’t be seen as strong or otherwise until you are willing to reveal what has, can or could harm you. Notable Taurus: Glenda Jackson/May 9, 1936
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021 241 Sombrero Beach Rd #1
Congratulations to our Sellers and Buyers! Buying or Selling in Paradise? The Grego Team is here to help! Let our experience work for you.
THIS WEEK’S
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
BRIEFLY
OBITUARY
To our BUYERS & SELLERS. We hope you enjoy your new homes.
Fishermen’s Community Hospital plans ribbon-cutting Baptist Health’s Fishermen’s Community Hospital is inviting the public to a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, July 1, at 10:30 a.m. to celebrate the grand opening of the new facility. The hospital, which has been caring for the Florida Keys since 1962, was closed in September 2017 when Hurricane Irma swept through the area and damaged the hospital. The new hospital is designed to withstand the wind speeds of a Category 5 hurricane. It offers 24/7 emergency care with telestroke services to give stroke patients immediate access to a board-certified neurologist, an on-site helipad, six inpatient beds including two intensive care beds with 24/7 monitoring, nine emergency department beds, five additional recovery beds, diagnostic imaging, rehabilitation and laboratory services. Additional services including oncology care, surgery and endoscopy will be available at a later date. Fishermen’s Community Hospital is located at 3301 Overseas Highway, Marathon.
OBITUARY
EDWARD McGRAW A celebration of life will be held for Edward Glenn McGraw on Saturday, June 12 at the Key Colony Inn from 3 to 5 p.m. The family invites all who knew and loved him to join in his final Happy Hour and Last Call at The Inn.
CONGRATULATIONS
Karen represented the Sellers of: 200 12th Street, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC
Karen Raspe, PA | 305.393.9010 | karenraspe@bellsouth.net
COMMERCE CORNER TIMOTHY JOSEPH ALDACOSTA AND PERK JOSEPH ALDACOSTA On Monday, June 14, the Aldacosta family is celebrating the lives of cousins Timothy Joseph Aldacosta and Perk Joseph Aldacosta. Their ashes will be scattered off the dock of the family home in the Middle Keys, where the two spent many happy times. Both men served in the Vietnam War, and their families, including Tim’s sister Melody and Joe’s sister Delores, have chosen Flag Day to honor them. They ask friends to take a moment to remember the men on that day.
Jennifer Chaney is a realtor and designer in one. With a rare combo of hustle and smarts, she specializes in staging services, custom design services, and selling/buying from Key West to Marathon through her business Chaney Homes and as a realtor with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services. “I bring to my clientele nearly 20 years of style success stories, backed by over $200 million in career real estate sales,” said business owner and realtor Chaney. “I am experienced and educated with a master’s degree in marketing and a bachelor’s in finance. I have a passion for my craft and an appreciation for the opportunity to sell and/or create each client’s vision of ‘home.’ “I’m honored to be a Keys local and to bring my passion and vision to paradise. The loving reception I’ve received serves as reminder of the reason I fell in love with the Keys from the beginning — peace and love.” Phone: 305-395-1147 Email: chaneyinthekeys@gmail.com Website: www.ChaneyInTheKeys.com
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021 BRIEFLY
AT SEA, STEERING LOSS IS A DISASTER
P
Once You’re Aware
problems can be icture this: It’s first thing in dealt with, but the morning and I’m topside loss of steering is looking out over Bonefish the most dangerBay in Bimini, Bahamas. ous event on a Bimini is a short 50 or so miles from boat. If you can’t the Florida coast and attracts a lot control the course of fishermen from mainland U.S. of the boat, you looking for bonefish. My fly rod has are truly in a fix. already been loaded with an extra CAPT. MIKE Very few boats 50 yards of backing in anticipation of BARBER have an altertheir famous 100-plus yards of run. native steering In the middle of all my dreaming and Capt’n Mike has system. waiting on the tide to change, I see a an undergraduate Diesel engines Hatteras boat coming up the channel degree in marine are fairly straightlike a drunken sailor. I mean, he’s all technology and forward and over the place and in danger of hit50 years of sailing problems almost ting docks or running aground. the oceans of the world. Currently, always point to With a lot of assistance, the boat he visits the a malfunction in is eventually tied up on the outer Florida Keys reefs the fuel delivery. I dock and I go back to my coffee and conducting eco dragged my tools anticipating my day, and it is a great tours. over and in short day. Mud flat bonefishing is a fantasorder we found tic side quest from off-shore fishing. a stuck relay in his emergency fuel Well after dark, the owner of cutoff line. Once repaired, the port the Hatteras is on the dock fuming engine roared to life and his hydrauinto his phone. He obviously has lic steering was restored. mechanical problems that include He was irritated that for the not being able to steer the boat and money he spent on that boat, it did hasn’t had a great day. I introduced not have a redundant steering sysmyself and asked what the problem was. He informed me that he has lost tem on the other motor. Correcting that would be his first order of busihis port side engine and hydraulic ness after getting his picture taken steering. This explained his drunken with a huge bonefish on the line. sailor approach to the dock. ManuHaving paid a lot of money for ally steering a Hatteras of that size your boat will not exempt you from with its twin, 6-foot rudders is a equipment failures out here. I knew Herculean task. As I see it, the real problem is not an old English teacher whose admonishment was, “It’s all there once the steering, engine, or the fact that things break. The real problem is that you’re aware.” So the question is how many possible equipthis captain owns a boat ment failures are you and has sailed offshore Loss of steering is the aware of on your boat? without any of the even most dangerous event How many possible rudimentary tools or on a boat. If you can’t redundant systems or working knowledge of control the course of solutions do you have for his shipboard systems the boat, you are truly trip ending failures? needed to get home in a fix. again. Onboard fires can be put out, holes in a hull can be plugged, motor
Marathon parks and rec starts flag football league The City of Marathon Parks and Recreation Department is starting an NFL Flag Football league for ages 5 to 14. NFL Flag Football is a five-versus-five, noncontact, recreational co-ed game for children ages 5 to 14. Teams will be limited to eight players to maximize playing time. This program is geared towards first-time players who want to learn football fundamentals, and for players who may want to continue to enhance their skills before taking the leap into tackle football. Registration is $80, which includes a double-sided NFL team jersey, belt and team shorts. Early registration runs through June 11 ($10 off — $70 total); regular registration is June 12 to June 25 ($80 total); late registration is June 26 to July 2 ($10 added — $90 total). The divisions will be broken down as follows: ages 6 and up, coed; ages 8 and up, boys and girls teams; ages 10 and up, boys and girls teams; ages 12 and up, boys and girls teams; and ages 14 and up, boys and girls teams. For more information, or if you are interested in coaching a team or being a referee, please contact Coach Davis at davisa@ ci.marathon.fl.us or 305-743-6598. Child advocate agency offers virtual information session The guardian ad litem program is offering a volunteer virtual information session on Thursday, June 10, 2021 at 5 p.m. Guardian ad litem is a state agency that advocates for the best interest of the children alleged to be abused, abandoned or neglected who are involved in court proceedings. The program uses a team approach to advocate for the children through volunteers, child advocate coordinators and attorneys. Attendees of the virtual session will find out what a volunteer does and participate in a question and answer session. Participants can access the meeting online at https://global.gotomeeting.com/ join/865473381. Alternatively, attendees can dial in using a phone at 866-899-4679 or 571-317-3116 with access code 865-473-381. More information about the meeting is available from Mark Coleman at 305-998-8690 or by email to mark.coleman@gal.fl.gov. More information on the program is at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/ gal.
Sanctuary Advisory Council welcomes new members New and returning members of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council will be welcomed during a virtual meeting on Tuesday, June 15. New members to the advisory council include: Kelly Cox, alternate, conservation and environment; Lucja Rice, alternate, diving - Lower Keys; Shelly Krueger, member, education and outreach; Jeff Turner, alternate, fishing - marine life/tropical. During the June meeting, the council will recognize outgoing members, including Jessica Dockery (education and outreach member), Rachel Bowman (citizen at large - Middle Keys alternate), Tracy Allen (conservation and environment alternate) and Kara Rauch (fishing marine life/tropical alternate). An agenda for the June meeting is available at floridakeys.noaa.gov/ sac. County hosts virtual meetings on maps for sea-level rise/flooding Monroe County will host three virtual public meetings on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, June 22, 23 and 24 regarding example adaptation action area maps and example comprehensive plan policies. This work is part of a resilience planning grant received by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which included an update to the county’s vulnerability assessment and the development of example comprehensive plan goals, objectives and policies. Adaptation action areas are a tool authorized by state law that allows local governments the option to develop maps and goals, objectives and policies to target funding for adaptation projects and/or identify the need for more detailed adaptation planning to address sea-level rise or other storm-related flooding in the most vulnerable areas in the county. The example adaptation action areas include designations for residential neighborhoods, infrastructure and assets and natural resources. The meetings are Tuesday, June 22 at 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 23 at 5:30 p.m. and Thursday, June 24 at 2 p.m. The meetings will include the opportunity for public comment. Registration links can be found at www.monroecounty-fl.gov under the County Meetings Calendar.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
MULTI USE WAREHOUSE SPACE FOR RENT Karen
KEY TO THE KEYS REAL ESTATE
Bill
EXPERIENCE ISN’T EXPENSIVE…IT’S PRICELESS
New Construction • Storage space above flood • Metal Building Rated to 180 MPH • Bay is approx. 40x24 on interior. Garage door is 15ft wide • Centrally located in Marathon at 7010 Overseas Highway $1,400 monthly rental • Call Dave for details 760-917-1367
Covering All The Keys From Key Largo To Key West Upper Keys Weekly 91760 O/S Hwy, Ste 3 Tavernier, FL 33070 305.363.2957
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
DUCK KEY GET-A-WAY One bedroom 1 bath w/fabulous ocean view. Boat ramp, marina and restaurant within walking distance. ML592653 $330,000
KEYS BY THE SEA 1BR/1BA waterfront mobile with addition. 28’ft dock. Boat ramp, bath house, laundry facilities and oceanfront tiki. Near restaurants, shopping, banks and two miles to beach. $347,500. ML595918
HALF DUPLEX 2 bedrooms, 1 bath 900 sq ft unit. Truly affordable living or great investment. Near banks, restaurants, 2 miles to the beach. ML585142 $238,000
BONEFISH MARINA DOCK Live aboard deeded slip in private marina. 25’X 51’220 volt/50 amp service, water, cable TV/WiFi. Pump out at slip, workshop, fish cleaning stations, tiki bar, showers, bathrooms, laundry on site dock master. Direct ocean access. ML593893 $310,000
Call with your Questions
305-743-2300
Karen Farley-Wilkinson, Bill Wilkinson
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
CHARLOTTE TWINE
charlotte@keysweekly.com
Transgender high school graduate receives love and support during Pride Month
‘BE YOURSELF’ A small scholarship ceremony took place on June 2 at the beginning of Pride month. This was not an unusual occurrence, considering that Florida Keys’ high schools held similar celebrations a few days prior. But this gathering at Keys Weekly’s Tavernier office was intimate, with little fanfare and just four attendees: scholarship recipient and Coral Shores High School graduate Brent Johnson; his mother Priscilla Johnson; Monroe County Commissioner Mike Forster; and Alexis Alba, chief operating officer of Tiki Water Sports. As Alba and Forster gave Brent checks worth a combined total of $2,500, Forster looked at the young man. “Everybody speaks very highly of you,” Forster said. “Your former culinary teacher, Corie Abel … college counselor Chris Harris … Ms. Z (Zofchak) the drama teacher,” Forster ticked through a long list of names. “We are embracing the community and letting others know they are not alone,” Forster continued. “I saw a bigger story. I felt I needed to offer that to you because it is of value to you, the Keys and the community. It’s Pride Month. You’re going to have your haters. I have haters, and that’s OK. I don’t engage with them. I’m excited for you and your future.” Eighteen-year-old Brent Johnson does have haters. Yes, he’s a scholarship recipient. Yes, he’s a future aeronautical space engineering major at the University of Central Florida. Yes, he’s a theater group member and a euphonium player in the high school band. But Brent was also born as a girl named Brianna, and is currently transitioning to become a man. Brent, who was adopted into Priscilla Johnson’s family, said, “I’m extremely lucky I grew up around here, where it is extremely accepting.” “I first questioned my gender identity at the end of seventh grade,” he explained, describing his years of self-discovery as “harsh. It took years, with lots of crying, to get the confidence to be sure.” With his mother, he researched the difference between homosexuality and gender dysphoria. Mom Priscilla said she always supported his search for his authentic identity. “Your own gender identity has nothing to do with sexuality,” Brent said. “I don’t have a preference for gender in terms of sexuality. I feel discomfort seeing myself as a girl with a
High school graduate Brent Johnson received a combined $2,500 in scholarship money from Monroe County Commissioner Mike Forster and Alexis Alba, the chief operating officer of Tiki Water Sports. From left: Forster; Brent’s mother, Priscilla Johnson; Brent; and Alba. CHARLOTTE TWINE/Keys Weekly
girl’s voice and breasts. One day, when someone called me ‘Sir,’ it felt good.” Gender dysphoria is defined by the American Psychiatric Association as “clinically significant distress or impairment related to a strong desire to be of another gender, which may include desire to change primary and/or secondary sex characteristics.” Very few people are diagnosed with gender dysphoria. According to the APA’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, about 0.005% to 0.014% of males at birth and 0.002% to 0.003% of females at birth have gender dysphoria. After much deliberation, he changed his name from Brianna to Brent in the ninth grade. He wants to start the physical journey to manhood with “top surgery” for gender confirmation, in which the breasts are removed. He is still deciding on whether he should do the “bottom surgery.” But Priscilla said she is firm that he must consult with doctors to make sure he is “mentally checked” before he gets such serious surgeries. Brent has also been in counseling for anxiety and depression, though mostly unrelated to his gender discovery process. Brent said he knows about five other kids in the Upper Keys who are wrestling with their gender identity, and they have come to him for advice on how to physically resemble a boy, such as lowering their voices or flattening their breasts. “I’m an open book,” Brent said. “I absolutely don’t mind answering any type of questions.” Since Brent suffers from anxiety, when it came time to fill out scholarship applications for college, he felt mentally blocked. “One scholarship required an essay about how his involvement affected someone else positively,” Priscilla said, looking at her son. “My child finds that difficult.” Brent missed the deadline on all the scholarship applications. Brent’s father, Chris Frails, reached out to Forster for help, explaining his son’s situation. Forster had gotten to know the family during
the pandemic, when he rallied together the community to distribute food to those in need. Frails and his family were some of Forster’s volunteers. Forster immediately offered up $2,000 from his own pocket, to be repeated every year if Brent keeps up a B average at UCF. And Alba, Frails’ employer at Tiki Water Sports, gave Brent $500. “I was over the moon,” said Priscilla, a wide smile on her face. She recalled with emotion the times when money was tight while she was going to nursing school. She couldn’t afford to give Brent singing lessons. “But my kid’s going to Orlando and is going to stay in dorms,” she said, shaking her head in disbelief and wiping tears from her face. Meanwhile, Brent’s goal is to fly planes, whether for the Navy or a commercial airline. He does not see his transgender identity as an impediment, though the road in front of him may not be a smooth one, and future surroundings may not always be as accepting as that of the Florida Keys. “I have not experienced any bullying,” Brent said. “It happened once, and he apologized to me later. But I’ve seen it done to other people.” A recent Human Rights Campaign press release said, “2021 has already seen at least 27 transgender or gender non-conforming people fatally shot or killed by other violent means.” The HRC describes itself as “America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) people.” “If you’re not sure of your identity, it’s not set in stone,” said Brent. “Even in your 30s, 40s or 50s, you don’t have to know. There are places on the internet you can connect with worldwide. You are not alone. Go at your own pace. Be yourself. There are people in the world who are going to hate yourself for being yourself. But your attention should go toward the people who love you.”
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
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62 YTD | #sellitwithsam Sam Williams
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http://www.realestatefloridakeys.com ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. and SM are registered trademarks licensed to Estate Corporation. An equal opportunity
All rights reserved. ®,TM Coldwell Banker Real company. Equal housing
TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY | LUNCH 11-2:30 | DINNER 5 -10
TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY 4:20 -11
Two Great Agents, One Result SOLD! 71K above the asking price! Thank you Sellers for Choosing our Buyers! Congratulations Frank and Cherie! The next time you're in a conversation with a friend, family member, or neighbor and they mention that they would like to buy/sell/, We know you wouldn't want them to miss out on the kind of benefits We've helped you get, so who comes in mind first! 305-395-0814/305-481-3317
WEDNESDAY THRU SUNDAY | LUNCH 11- 2:30 | DINNER 5 -10 LUNCH | BRUNCH SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11- 2:30 ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved. ®,TM and SM are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An equal opportunity company. Equal housing opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
CHARLOTTE TWINE
charlotte@keysweekly.com
Motocross champion ‘proud to be Cuban and proud to be from Marathon’
S
The Cuban Missile flies during the Ricky Carmichael Daytona Amateur Supercross championship. DAVID LANDO/Contributed
hortly before the Loretta Lynn’s Amateur National Motocross Championship regional qualifier in the spring, 16-yearold competitor Ivan Aldama Jr. crashed his bike and suffered a groin injury. The injury was severe enough that a typical teen probably would have taken the summer off on the couch to play video games, and the average adult would have rushed to fill out medical disability papers to stay home from work and recover. Instead, Ivan Jr. got himself stitched up and six days later hopped on his bike to win the qualifier. Meet The Cuban Missile. Aggressive. Fast. Focused. And at times, a little erratic. Ivan Jr.’s trainer, Matt Walker, is a retired professional motocross racer who owns Moto X Compound in Georgia, where Aldama currently practices his sport, a form of off-road racing held on enclosed dirt courses. Walker gave Ivan Jr. the nickname when he was younger, to boost his morale. “He was Cuban and fast,” he recalled with a laugh. “And then the name took off. Now he’s grown into it. We’re going to get Ivan to be a national champion. He hasn’t even scratched the surface of his true ability. We’re going to work on his patience, reading the track and slowing things down.” Ivan Jr. has so many trophies that his family has built a separate house on their Marathon property with a special mancave to display his collection — at last count, he had about 1,000 trophies, awards and medals from all the races he’s competed in since he was 8 years old.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
His father, Ivan Aldama Sr., showed Keys Weekly some awards stored in plastic bins that they no longer have room for in the man cave. “He signs the awards now and gives them away at the races,” Ivan Sr. says. Ivan Sr. was a champion motocross racer in Cuba in the early ’80s, then stopped competing once he had a family and established a life in America. He rarely spoke of his former sport to his children. Then one day, out of the blue, Ivan Jr. said, “I want a dirt bike.” “My friend Alex Perez got a dirt bike, and he used to beat me,” Ivan Jr. explained. “I used to get so mad. That made me want to work harder to beat him.” His father was only too happy to help train his son. But where to train with dirt bikes in the Keys? That was the problem. Ivan Sr. said they used to find vacant lots of dirt on the side of the road in Grassy Key to train. He winced at the memory of trespassing on a property, but he stands by his decision to do what he could to support his son’s interest in his sport. While Ivan Jr. has sponsors today like Monster Energy, Answer Racing and Ethika underwear, which makes bearing the cost of the sport easier, his father speaks of the days when they were just starting, when they made do with used equipment. “The cost for this sport is $200,000 a year, easy,” Ivan Sr. said. Today, the father drives his son’s bikes and gear to the competitions in an RV. In order to train, Ivan Jr. will use facilities with professional-grade courses in Orlando and, most recently, in Georgia at Moto X Compound. He rides a KTM bike, and competes in the age 12 to 17 division in two classes: Schoolboy 1 and 125cc. The goal is to win races to get points, and once competitors get enough points, they turn pro. Ivan Jr. would like to be pro within two to three years. “Motocross is the most physically demanding sport — it’s real tough,” he said. “I can barely ride 20 minutes. It’s so mental. I have to work out and think about nutrition. It’s also lonely.”
Top: Aldama’s amateur motocross career is a family affair; from left: father Ivan Aldama Sr., Ivan Aldama jr., and mother Daymis Aldama. CHARLOTTE TWINE/Keys Weekly
Right: The Cuban Missile negotiates a turn at the Ricky Carmichael Daytona Amateur Supercross championship. DAVID LANDO/Contributed
He explained he’s rarely home in Marathon, as he spends most of his time at the training facilities in Georgia or Orlando, or at the competitions. He only has time to relax at night. When asked how he relaxes, his face turns blank. “Oh, I listen to Michael Jackson a lot,” he answered with a smile. His sport is definitely a family preoccupation, as evidenced by all the members’ contributions: Ivan Sr. takes time off from his tile shop to accompany his son to the races; his sister Chavely designed the trophy room; and mom Daymis described the days when she would pressure-wash his bikes. Daymis confessed that she worries about “the big crash” one day. Ivan Sr. jumps up and shows a photo collage of all of his son’s injuries, “It’s part of the sport,” he says. For now, the Cuban Missile has the Loretta Lynn National Championship to train for, to be held in Tennessee in August. Forty-two riders will be competing. He takes inspiration from his hero, James Stewart Jr., the first African-American to achieve a high level of success in motocross. Ivan Jr. pointed that to his knowledge, he’s the only Cuban currently competing in motocross in the United States. “I’m proud to be Cuban, and I am proud to be from Marathon,” he said.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021 y Just sa
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NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning and Zoning Committee and the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida will hold public hearings on the request for variances as to side and shoreline setbacks and height for the development of the property, which is legally described as Ocean Front Apts Condo, units 1-22, recorded in the Official Records of Monroe County, Florida, Book 304, Page 239/261; and Book 1642-684/706 (AMD), having Monroe County, Florida Real Estate Number: 00078380-000000; consisting of Monroe County, Florida Real Estate Numbers: 00078410-000000, 00078480-000000, 00078550-000000, 00078420-000000, 00078590-000000, 00078460-000000, 00078470-000000, 00078490-000000, 00078540-000000, 00078560-000000, 00078430-000000, 00078450-000000, 00078600-000000, 00078580-000000, 00078500-000000, 00078390-000000, 00078570-000000, 00078440-000000, 00078530-000000, 00078400-000000, 00078510-000000, and 00078520-000000. Applicant: JJO, LLC and Ocean Front Apts., Inc. Project Address: 721 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051 Date of Hearing: June 14, 2021 for Planning and Zoning Committee; June 24, 2021 for City Commission Time of Hearings: 9:30 AM Location of Hearing: 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach, FL 33051. Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84022395141 Location Map:
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Interested parties may appear at the public hearing and be heard with respect to the request. Members of the public who wish to attend may join Zoom Meeting https://us02web. zoom.us/j/84022395141. Members of the public who wish to attend may email cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net for further instructions on attending via Zoom Meetings. Copies of the request and proposed agreement are available at 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 Monday thru Friday between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Planning and Zoning Commission or the City Commission with respect to any matter considered at such hearing or meeting, one will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose that person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made; such record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. If you are unable to attend the Hearing but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Commission, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net and your comments will be entered into the record. CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH Publish: June 10, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of StorQuestKey West located at 13 Calle Tres, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. By: Big Coppitt Storage, Ltd. Publish: June 10, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers
representation or guarantee of mechanical condition. All sales are, as is, no warranty. All sales are final. Publish: June 10 & 17, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice of Seizure Tavernier Mini Storage Inc, will sell or otherwise dispose of the contents on the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien: All contents of unit: B-22 Catherine Regan To be sold on June 28, 2021 at 10:00 am at Tavernier Mini Storage Inc, 135 Hood Ave, Tavernier, FL 33070. Tavernier Mini Storage Inc reserves the right to accept or reject any and/all bids. Publish: June 10 & 17, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF SALE Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Notice of Sale of Surplus Vehicles The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office will be selling a number of surplus vehicles by sealed bids. All bids must be received by 10:00am on Wednesday, June 30th, 2021. The bids will be opened publicly on Wednesday at 10:30am on June 30th, 2021. A list of vehicles to be sold may be viewed on our website; www.keysso.net. Bidding instructions and required bid forms are available on the website or can be picked up at the Sheriff’s Office Headquarters building 1st floor reception, or by contacting: Michael Cabot 305-293-7477 305-797-0115 Michael Griffin 305-292-6832 Monroe County Sheriff’s Office 5525 College Rd, Key West, Fl. 33040 The Property to be sold is open to the public for inspection at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Headquarters building at 5525 College Rd., Key West, Fl. 33040 22 – VEHICLES On the following dates and times: June 22nd, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am June 24th, 2021 2:00pm – 4:00pm The Sheriff’s Office makes no
LEGAL NOTICE Pursuant to the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), the South Florida Local Emergency Planning Committee (SoFlaLEPC) announces the availability of the following information: Hazardous Chemical Inventory (Tier2) Forms, Hazards Analyses for Facilities with Extremely Hazardous Substances, SoFlaLEPC Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan, How-to-Comply Information for Hazardous Materials Users and other public education materials. The SoFlaLEPC serves Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe Counties. To obtain information, please contact the SoFlaLEPC Coordinator at (954)924-3653. Publish: June 10, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@ keysarts.com Cultural Umbrella Committee Meeting Tuesday, June 15, 2021, 11:00 AM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 824 9010 5110 Passcode: 113825 Art in Public Places Committee Meeting Tuesday, June 22, 2021, 04:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 864 0442 6197 Passcode: 094421 Board of Directors Meeting Thursday, June 24, 2021, 04:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 812 5179 2085 Passcode: 166309
LEGAL NOTICES Publish: June 10, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on June 16, 2021, at 1:30 P.M., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider the adoption of the following County ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 21 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE, PROVIDING FOR CORRECTIONS TO THE MONROE COUNTY CODE SECTIONS REFERENCED, PROVIDING FOR REVISIONS TO THE NOTICE REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMERCIAL RATES AND PROVIDING FOR REVISIONS TO THE NOTICE REQUIREMENTS FOR NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS TO CONFORM WITH F.S. 197-3632; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION INTO THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES; Please note that public participation in these meetings may be conducted via Communications Media Technology (“CMT”). The connection information for members of the public who wish to attend or participate in the Public Hearing(s) via a Zoom virtual platform will be posted on the Monroe County website at @ http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx. Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such hearings or meetings, he will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30a.m.—5:00p.m., prior
Randy Fink, MD, practicing at 8700 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 208, Miami, FL and 103301 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL will be ending his medical practice in Florida effective July 3, 2021. Patients of the practice are invited to continue their care with other providers at these locations, and records will continue to be stored there. Medical records can also be transferred to any provider of your choosing upon request. For information, please contact 305-515-5425 or email info@miamiobgyns.com. Publish: June 3, 10, 17 & 24, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers
305.743.0844
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
to the scheduled meetings; if you are hearing or voiceimpaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners. Dated at Key West, Florida, this 2nd day of June, 2021. KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: June 10, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers
Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: June 10, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers
2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of the first publication of this notice is June 10, 2021. Personal Representative: JUDITH DELUCIA 339 Third Road Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: RODOLFO SUAREZ, JR., ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 013201 Suarez Law 2950 SW 27th Avenue, Suite 100 Miami, FL 33133 Telephone: (305) 448-244 E-Mail: rudy@suarezlawyers. com Publish: June 10 & 17, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers
All creditors of the decedent and any other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is served within three months after the date of the first publication of this notice must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS, DEMANDS AND OBJECTIONS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of the first publication of this Notice is June 3, 2021. Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN CAMPBELL Florida Bar # 443972 CAMPBELL & MALAFY 10887 Overseas Highway Suite #201 Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-2492 305-743-2432 (fax) Personal Representative: JOHN CAMPBELL Care of: CAMPBELL & MALAFY 10887 Overseas Highway Suite #201 Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-2492 305-743-2432 (fax) Publish: June 3 & 10, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on June 16, 2021, at 1:30 P.M., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider the adoption of the following County ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 19-4 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE PROVIDING FOR REVISED TOLL RATES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION INTO THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Please note that public participation in these meetings may be conducted via Communications Media Technology (“CMT”). The connection information for members of the public who wish to attend or participate in the Public Hearing(s) via a Zoom virtual platform will be posted on the Monroe County website at @ http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ Citizens/Default.aspx. Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such hearings or meetings, he will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30a.m.—5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meetings; if you are hearing or voiceimpaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners. Dated at Key West, Florida, this 2nd day of June, 2021. KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-000043-P IN RE: ESTATE OF VICTOR S. FALK, III, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of VICTOR S. FALK, III, deceased, whose date of death was February 9, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, Florida 33070. The name and address of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorneys 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 June 10, 2021. Personal Representative: LINDA R. FALK 7 Angelfish Cay Drive Key Largo, Florida 33037 Attorneys for Personal Representative: DUNWODY WHITE & LANDON, P.A. William T. Muir, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0319074 Jeremy P. Leathe, Esq. Florida Bar No. 983268 550 Biltmore Way, Suite 810 Coral Gables, FL 33134 Telephone: (305) 529-1500 Fax: (305) 529-8855 E-Mail: wmuir@dwl-law.com E-Mail: jleathe@dwl-law.com Secondary e-mail: aacosta@ dwl-law.com xnunez@dwl-law.com mstreet@dwl-law.com Publish: June 10 & 17, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-000042-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF HELEN L. CAMPBELL, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of HELEN L. CAMPBELL, deceased, whose date of death was September 8,
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 2021-CP-010-M IN RE: ESTATE OF DOUGLAS STRIPP, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of DOUGLAS STRIPP, Deceased, Date of Death: December 31, 2020, File Number 2021-CP-010-M, is pending in the 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 INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All persons of whom this notice is served and who have objections that challenge the validity of the will, the qualifications of the petitioner, venue, or jurisdiction of this Court are required to file their objections with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-000138-K IN RE: ESTATE OF TAMMY DALE KNOTT, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Tammy Dale Knott, deceased, whose date of death was January 18th, 2021, 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 ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES this notice is: June 3, 2021. Personal Representative: Anthony Wayne Knott Mailing Address: P.O. Box 6642, Key West, FL 33041 Attorney for Personal Representative: JOE MIKLAS, P.A. 88765 OVERSEAS HWY TAVERNIER, FL 33070 (305) 852-7225 Florida Bar No. 163915 Email Addresses: joe@ flkeyslawoffice.com admin@flkeyslawoffice.com Publish: June 3 & 10, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 21-DR-372-K Division: Family IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF JUDY KAY SMITH, Petitioner/Wife, And FRANTISEK FRYSTACKY, Respondent/Husband. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT_ - CONSTRUCTIVE SERVICE TO: FRANTISEK FRYSTACKY Whose Last Known Address Is: 11117 N. Wolverine Road, Palmer, Alaska 99645 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Judy Kay Smith, whose address is 604 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040, on or before July 12, 2021, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: June 1, 2021 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall Deputy Clerk Publish: June 10, 17, 24 & July 1, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that
305.743.0844
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
YARD SALES
YARD SALES
the undersigned. Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will on the 22ND day of June 2021, at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: A tract of land in a part of “PARRISH SUBDIVISION”, as recorded in Plat Book 2, at Page 18, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: Commencing at the intersection of the West line of Section 9, Township 66 South, Range 32East, and the Southerly right-of-way line of U.S. Highway No. 1, bear North 85 degrees and 15 minutes East, along said right-of-way 1850 feet; thence bear South, 230.27 feet; thence bear South 85 degrees and 15 minutes West, 115.03 feet; thence bear South, 630 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING of the tract of land hereinafter described; thence continue South 90 feet; thence bear East, 144.29 feet; thence bear North 90 feet; thence bear West, 144.29 feet, back to the POINT OF BEGINNING. Plus Boat Slip # 25 A one-twenty-fifth undivided interest in a tract of land and water in “PARRISH SUBDIVISION”, as recorded in Plat Book 2, at Page 18, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: Commencing at the intersection of the West Line of Section 9, Township 66 South, Range 32 East and the Southerly right-of-way line of U.S. Highway No. 1, bear North 85 degrees and 15 minutes East, along said rightof-way, 1850 feet; thence bear South, 200.17 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING of the tract of land and water hereinafter described; from said POINT OF BEGINNING, bear South 85 degrees and 15 minutes West, 289.62 feet; thence bear South, 719.95 feet; thence bear West, 110 feet to the West line of Block 1 of PARRISH SUBDIVISION, extended South; thence bear South, 593 feet, more or less; thence bear East, 428.29 feet; thence bear North, 583 feet, more or less, to a point that is 962.26 feet South from the Southerly right-of-way line of U.S. Highway No. 1; thence bear West, 144.29 feet; thence bear North, 720.00 feet; thence bear North 85 degrees and 15 minutes East, 115.03 feet; thence bear North, 30.10 feet, back to the POINT OF BEGINNING, LESS the following described tract of land a tract of land in a part of PARRISH SUBDIVISION, as recorded in Plat Book 2, at Page 18, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: Commencing at the intersection of the West Line of Section 9, Township 66 South, Range 32 East, and the Southerly right-of-way line of U.S. Highway No. 1, bear North 85 degrees and 15 minutes East, along said right-of-way line, 1850 feet; thence bear South 230.27 feet; thence bear South 85 degrees and 15 minutes West, 145.13 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING of
the tract of land hereinafter described: from said POINT OF BEGINNING, continue bearing South 85 degrees and 15 minutes West, 114.39 feet; thence bear South, 720.00 feet; thence bear East, 114 feet; thence bear North, 729.47 feet, back to the POINT OF BEGINNING. Pursuant to DEFAULT FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AGAINST DEFENDANTS, TU BALU GROUP, LLC, A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, F/K/A, ELITE SKY HOLDINGS, LLC, A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, ADMINISTRATIVELY DISSOLVED AND SUBSEQUENTLY REINSTATED WITH IMMEDIATE CHANGE OF NAME ON 11/22/19 AND UNKNOWN TENANT IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY entered in a case pending in said Court, the 10TH day of May 2021 Style of which is: JUDITH SILVA Plaintiff VS. TU BALU GROUP, LLC, et. al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 44-2020-CA101-M WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 12TH day of May 2021 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming as interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: June 10 & 17, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers
Help wanted - Big Time Discount Bait and Tackle in Marathon- competitive wages and working 2535 hrs a week. Contact George 305-289-0199
Serve/Bartend on the ocean FT/PT Ocean front private swim club is seeking customer service oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Full time/Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at Cabana Club, 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call April (305) 393-0631.
Yard Sale #5 of 6 - SAT. JUNE 12 from 8am-1pm RAIN OR SHINE. Getting closer to moving – all new items. Picnic table, pictures, lamps, mirrors, rugs (assorted sizes), cowhide rug, counter stools, bar stools, side table, fishing gear, some floor tile & many other items. 1134 Bulevar De Palmas, Marathon (Take Sombrero Beach Rd. to beach approx. 2 miles then turn right on Avenida Primiceria and follow the s i g n s . )
SARA’S ESTATE SALE: Fri. and Sat., June 11&12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days. 302 Banyan Street, Duck Key. Vintage fishing rods and reels, rod holders, lures and tools. Brand new A/C and used compressor, plus two used hydraulic trap hauling rigs. Lots of orchids, clay pots, 2 twin beds, 1 full bed, dressers and dining table. Prices are low and items are designed to move. Don’t be late to this sale.
AUTOS WANTED ALL YEARS! Junk or Used. Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483
AUTOS FOR SALE 2001 Dodge Caravan, Silver, 90,000 miles, cold A/C. Located in Marathon. $2,500 OBO 305-417-0871
BOATS FOR SALE 1999 World Cat 27' with twin 175 Suzuki motors. Runs good. Dual stations. Located on Duck Key. $40,000 OBO 305-481-1316 Place your Boat For Sale ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and Sell Your Boat! 1993 Hewes Redfish 18' - 115 hp - newly rewired Yamaha 2-stroke, Lowrance HDS8 Chart Plotter, Minn Kota remote trolling motor and Trailer. Located in Marathon. $14,000 OBO 970-331-4511 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!! BOAT SLIP FOR SALE Indoor / Dry Boat Storage Rack / 155 Wind Code The Boat House Marina Condo - Marathon, FL. 36.5L X 12.7W X 16.2H Max Boat Size. $225K / FSBO/ No Realtors / Avail. Now. RGC2RGC@yahoo. com (M) 412-848-1272
EMPLOYMENT
The Marathon Yacht Club is looking to hire someone for serving and bartending. The position pays $12/hr and a guaranteed 20% gratuity in our tip pool. Hours are approximately 3pm to 9pm Tuesday through Saturday and the occasional Sunday. Please apply in person at 825 33rd Street, Gulf, Marathon, FL from 11am2pm Tuesday-Friday. Immediate openings for experienced plumbers and helpers (with or without experience - we will train the right person). Must have a valid driver's license & clean driving record. Please apply in person at 10700 5th Avenue Gulf, Marathon or email resume to: eerpinc@gmail.com Experienced Electricians & Low Voltage Techs wanted immediately TOP PAY! Email: admin@ checkelectricllc.com Call: 305-292-3369
Place your Employment ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and get the job filled! Help WantedLawn Maintenance Drug-Free, Apply in Person at Dot Palm 5200 Overseas Hwy, Marathon FL 33050 305743-3090 HIRED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!! Pool service hiring PT 4/days a week cleaning pools & water testing. Marathon area. Call 305-395-0000 HIRED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!
The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club, is seeking a part time line cook. Club is open 10am - 7pm daily. Located in Key Colony Beach. Hourly pay commensurate with experience. Beautiful environment, small friendly staff, open year round. Apply in person, email resume or call 305 393-0631 ask for April
HOBBIES/COLLECT.
Charter Captain/Mate Busy fishing charter business in Marathon looking for experienced fishing Captain/Mate. Busy boats and location. Offshore, Inshore, Reef/ Wreck. Also part-time Boat Cleaner needed for afternoons. Send text or call 305-481-3259
Place your Housing For Rent ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
Come Join Our Family and Have Fun At Work! Hiring: Host, Hostess & Servers Full &/or part-time. AM & PM Shifts. Apply in person at Castaway Restaurant, end of 15th Street, Oceanside, Marathon or email: lobstercrawl@gmail.com. NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for all shifts. Please apply in person at 8919 Overseas Highway in Marathon. Full-time Construction Workers needed. Superintendents, Carpenters, Painters and Laborers. Top dollar for the right individuals. Start tomorrow. Apply in person, Dooley Construction, MM 88.5 Oceanside or call 305-852-8000 Fl Keys Diesel - Marathon now hiring: Diesel Technician -Competitive compensation package. Exp in the marine field preferred but not necessary. Exp w/ Caterpillar and Cummins Marine Engines a plus. Diesel Mechanic Assistant position available. Motivated candidate willing to learn a new trade or expand current skills. Company willing to train. Qualified applicants please call 305-2892070 or email resume to neil@allkeysdiesel. com . Drug Free and valid Drivers License a must.
PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
HOUSING FOR RENT
HOUSEKEEPER WANTED Full-time reliable housekeeper needed for household in Key Colony Beach. Permanent employment – 6 days/week. Must have transportation. Hablamos Espanol. Call 305-731-1133
MM96 Buttonwood Bay 2BR/2.5BA furn. townhome. $2750/mo F/L/S app fee $60. No pets/smoking. Tropic Homes year lease. Debbie Taylor 305-394-9787 RENTED IN LESS THAN 2 WEEKS!!
LOT FOR SALE LOT FOR SALE 100' x 100' - Venetian Shores, MM 86, Snake Creek Bridge views. Asking $1.3 Million. Call 561-579-8399 Place your Lot For Sale ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and sell your lot!
OFFICE SPACE Beautiful Office Space available for rent now on US1 in Tavernier @MM92. Call 305-394-0530 1,082 SF office space. Renovated Corner Unit for rent in Islamorada. $ 3 , 0 0 0 / m o n t h Call 305.712.8888 Place your Office Space For Rent ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available. For full details & additional openings, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers
Interior Designer Landscape Designer An outdoor design specialist that works well with clients— producing designs, selections, and processing sales.
Lead AV Technician
SERVICES OFFERED
AV and Home Automation installations. Knowledge of electrical/ electronic components.
Mobile Boat Detailing from Key Largo to Key West - Chauffeur Tim 305-902-9135
Warehouse & Delivery Crew
YARD SALES
Must have reliable transportation, be on time and organized. Must have a valid driver’s license. CDL a plus.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •
SEEKING SECURITY GUARDS IN MARATHON FT & PT avail. $16-$18/hr Must have D License
Ralons Security 786-615-5522 Lic# B1500167
NOW HIRING
We’re on a path to better healthcare.
FT Maintenance Supervisor 3 pm – 11 pm Great Pay, Health Benefits & Room Discounts
Join us. Career Opportunities for:
Registered Nurses (RN) Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
FLORIDA KEYS MOSQUITO CONTROL DISTRICT
$5,000 Sign-On Bonus for Full-Time RNs & LPNs!
FIELD INSPECTORS
New Enhanced Compensation Rates! Full-Time, Part-Time and PRN, Day and Night Shifts Available
is accepting applications for the following position: Lower Keys Full-Time
IT ASSISTANT For more information visit Current Openings at: keysmosquito.org/current-openings/
305.743.0844
Apply online at: http://joinwellpath.com/keywest Dynasty Marine Associates, Inc. www.dynastymarine.net
BOAT WIRING/RIGGING ASSISTANT Kahuna Boat Wiring & Rigging, located in Marathon, is looking for a boat wiring assistant to help wire and rig boats. Great opportunity to learn a new trade which is in high demand in The Keys. Starting wage is $15 per hour and no experience necessary. 305-304-2600
NOW HIRING: Hosts Waitstaff Bartenders Bar Backs Bussers Line Cooks Dishwashers
Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon
Currently seeking a qualified SALES REPRESENTATIVE to fill a new full time position. This is an excellent opportunity to grow with an existing business in an interesting field. The successful applicant will have sales experience to build on existing accounts. A background in marine biology, or a working knowledge of marine animals, would be preferred. This position will primarily consist of in-house sales to existing and new wholesale customers around the world. Methods of customer communication will mainly be email but phone calls and the occasional site visit are also required. Compensation will be a combination of hourly and commission. A major bonus opportunity will exist by growing current and new accounts. Dynasty Marine will guarantee a higher hourly rate for the first 39 weeks to allow time for the representative to progress into their new position. Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Email resume to sales@dynastymarine.net No phone calls please.
SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop
is now hiring for Afternoon & Evening Shifts. Please Apply In Person 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
Monroe County School District
Salary $17.15 – $24.15/hour Key West, Sugarloaf, Marathon and Upper Keys (4 work locations) No Experience Required, Benefits, CDL Training Provided – work as a Bus Aide while training, Full Time or Flexible, Part Time Hours - 6 to 9 am or 1 or 2 to 5 pm Apply online: www.keysschools.com
Apply in person at: Courtyard by Marriott 2146 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 305-289-2100 Or E-mail: jtyson@shanercorp.com
NOW HIRING:
F/T and P/T Bartenders & Servers for BlueWaters Pool Bar and Wedding Event Bartenders $10/hour Great Tips Health Benefits & Room Discounts Sign-on bonus Poolside setting with Gulf View Apply in Person, Start Today! Courtyard Marriott Marathon 2146 Overseas Hwy • 305-289-2100
CoCo’s General Store
NOW HIRING: Full-time & Part-time Deli and/or Retail Sales. Must be available on weekends. Apply in person at 50 Coco Plum Drive, Marathon 305-743-7743
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
RECONNECT WITH NATURE
NOW HIRINGrs Educato
• 63 ACRES OF TROPICAL HARDWOOD HAMMOCK • 1.4 MILES OF WALKING TRAILS • NATURAL FISH PEDICURE STATION • BUTTERFLY GARDENS • NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM • THE HISTORIC ADERLY HOUSE • BEAUTIFUL VIEWS OF THE BAY
OPEN for programs MEET SEA TURTLES AT THE TURTLE HOSPITAL
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. CALL 305-743-2552 FOR RESERVATIONS. 2396 Overseas Highway Gulf, Marathon Now accepting online reservations
www.turtlehospital.org
CRANE POINT
Museum & Nature Center
305.743.9100 • 5550 Overseas Highway • Marathon MM50 at the stoplight • Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat Noon to 5 p.m. Sundays • cranepoint.net
Come Fish with Us!
MARATHON LADY DOCKS U.S.1 at Vaca Cut Bridge Mile Marker 53, Marathon
8:30am - 12:30pm 6:30pm - Midnight
305.743.5580
Marathon Lady • 73’ Party Boat Please make sure to call ahead for reservations.
www.MARATHONLADY.net
be part of the florida keys history at pigeon key DISCOVER THE ENGINEERING TRIUMPH OF THE 8TH WONDER OF THE WORLD! GUIDED HISTORY TOURS, SNORKELING, MUSEUM AND FISHING PIER CATCH THE FERRY AT FARO BLANCO 305.743.5999 | PIGEONKEY.NET
POSTCARD PIGEON KEY IN THE 1930’S
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAN Location: Middle Keys – Lower Keys
OPEN POSITIONS AT BAPTIST HEALTH SOUTH FLORIDA • Clinical Partner (CNA), $3K Sign-On Bonus • Medical Assistant, $3K Sign-On Bonus • Medical Staff Asst • Fitness Center Manager • Phlebotomist, $2K Sign-On Bonus • Physician Practice Patient Representative, $1.5K Sign-On Bonus
Join the winning Technical Services Dept team at the FKAA for future growth opportunities and an excellent working environment
MUST HAVE an active Journeyman Electrician License. Duties: Install, inspect, test, repair, and maintain all new and existing generators, motors, transformers, motor controllers, and associated equipment throughout our system, with base location in the middle keys. Minimum qualifications: Journeyman’s License, emphasis on electronics, industrial electrical, pneumatics, controls, building automation, fire alarm and HVAC systems, load calculations, conduit requirements, thorough knowledge of NEC requirements, minimum 6 yrs experience. Must be able to operate and use computers with various software applications, including Microsoft Office Suite. Must have a valid Florida driver’s license. Must be able to communicate and comprehend the English language. $55,876. - $88,506. DOQ On-line app: http://www.fkaa.com/employment.htm Deadline: Open until filled. EEO, VPE, ADA
• Patient Experience Advocate • Patient Flow Coordinator • Patient Scheduler • Environmental Tech (Housekeeping), $5K Sign-On Bonus • Floor Technician, $5K Sign-On Bonus • Mechanic • Food Service Worker, $5K Sign-On Bonus • First Cook, Dietary, $1K Sign-On Bonus • Security Officer Apply and learn more: careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507
TEMPORARY MARINE PUMPOUT WORKER KEY WEST 40 hours per week • $27.00 per hour Monroe County BOCC is seeking an applicant with a dynamic personality and who is quick to adapt, a competent multi-tasker, and can communicate effectively for a new temporary position. Primary function is to assist marine captains with pump-out services for anchored vessels. Qualifications: Florida driver’s license, fluent in English (Spanish fluency helpful), and 1 to 2 years boating experience (USCG Captain’s License helpful). Must be able to swim. To apply, please contact Monroe County HR at: Careers@monroecounty-fl.gov. APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE AT: WWW.MONROECOUNTY-FL.GOV. 305-292-4557. Veteran’s Preference Available; E.O.E
Busy Key Largo Dive Center has immediate openings for Shell World Key Largo, seeking engaging, dependable, experienced person(s) to work with the team at Mile Marker 97.5, Full-time and part-time opportunities available, some weekend and evening hours. Opportunities for advancement, great benefits, competitive salary and flexible hours. Please stop by and fill out application or Fax resume to 305-852-9639.
NOW HIRING Floor Manager Daytime Host Experienced Servers Experienced Bartenders High volume restaurant in Key Largo. Apply in person at Snooks Bayside, 99470 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL
BOAT CAPTAINS $1,500 SIGNING BONUS
Experience Required. Paid per trip plus tips & sales commission. Send resume to resumes@rainbowreef.com
NOW HIRING: Housekeeping Room Attendants – wages vary Cooks – wages vary
***Sign on bonus of $500 after 30 days of full-time employment & an additional $500 after 90 days Please apply online for our positions: islabellabeachresort.oasisrecruit.com or call # 786 638-8046 and ask for Human Resources 1 Knight’s Key Blvd (MM 47) Marathon, FL 33050
EOE • M/F/Vet/Disability
Part time & Full time Opportunities! Engineer
General Maintenance
Valet Parking Attendant Front Desk Agent Guest Services Manager Front Office
Housekeeping Room Attendant Line Cooks F & B Supervisor-Manager Food Runner/Barback Sunset Pier Server Reservations Agent Relief Night Security LMT, Nail Tech, Esthetician Sign on Bonus Offered!
Apply online at: www.noblehousehotels.com/careers Apply in person at: Zero Duval St.
Great pay, amazing benefits, & an awesome team! Ocean Key Resort and Spa is EOE.
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
NOW HIRING! SIGN ON BONUS UP TO $ 1,500 NEEDED: INSTALLERS, APPRENTICES AND SERVICE TECHNICIANS PAY RANGE: $15 $30 PER HOUR BASED ON EXPERIENCE LOOKING FOR A LONGTERM CAREER? COME JOIN OUR TEAM, WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING: Competitive pay | Work Life Balance Continued Training | Opportunity for advancement Paid time off | Medical | 401K Apply via email: Joey@ellingtonac .com Call to schedule a meeting for employment 321.482.3158
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844
NOW HIRING BOGIE & BACALL'S SEA SENOR Restaurant Host Servers Bartender Food Runner
KeysBank.com
58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching... Learning...Caring
KITCHEN TEAM Sous Chef Line Cook Baker
Dolphin Research Center is Hiring!
HOUSEKEEPING TEAM
Visual Communications Staff
OPERATIONS TEAM
DRCTI Registration and Enrollment Specialist (Full-Time/Permanent) HR Assistant (Part-Time/Permanent)
Houseman Room Attendant Turndown Attendant
Bellman Watersports Reservations Agents
Apply At: bungalowskeylargo.com/careers Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE
Join Our Team!
DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER
(Full-Time/Permanent)
Key West Information Technology Technician Maintenance Technician Full Time Teller Part Time Floating Teller Accountant Treasury Management Representative Big Pine Full Time Teller Marathon
Benefits include medical, life & disability insurance, 401(k) plan, paid vacation, sick time & holidays.
Full Time Teller Branch Management
Full job descriptions available at
Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers
Email cover letter, DRC application and & resume to drc-hr@dolphins.org EOE
We offer 401k, profit sharing, educational reimbursement, health/dental plans, life insurance, holidays and paid time off for full time employees.
www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities
Member FDIC
EOE-M/F/V/D
Equal Housing Lender
The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of
“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”
THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.
IS HIRING! KEY LARGO
Behavioral Health Counselor Substance Abuse Counselor (PT)
KEY WEST
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) Housekeeper (PT) Peer Support Specialist Crisis Counselor Case Manager (Adult, Forensic) Motivational Support Specialist (base location flexible) Substance Abuse Counselor Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Engagement Specialist (Suicide Prevention) Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult) FL LCSW,LMHC, LMFT
MARATHON Care Coordinator
Maintenance Specialist Housekeeper Engagement Specialist (Suicide Prevention) Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) Advocate (PT) *Assisted Living Direct Care Worker (PT/FT) *Behavioral Health Technicians (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) *No experience necessary. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands required. Ability to work some evening or weekend shifts a plus. If you’ve wanted to get into the medical field but don’t have the education, this is the job for you!
Background and drug screen req.
COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Check out all available positions at: www.westcare.com EEOC/DFWP
NOW HIRING
Marathon, Big Pine Key & Stock Island Locations $15 per hour to start FT Employees are eligible to participate in our health, dental, vision, Life Insurance. PTO and Profit Sharing is available to every member of our team (conditions apply). HOW TO APPLY: Go to mytomthumb.com or call Cleveland (786) 295-5307.
The Turtle Hospital in Marathon IMMEDIATE OPENINGS:
FULL or PART-TIME EDUCATION PROGRAM GUIDES GIFT SHOP SALES Public Speaking & Retail/Sales Experience Helpful
FULL or PART-TIME OFFICE ASSISTANT Experience with QuickBooks POS preferred
Send resume to: turtlehospitalmarathon@gmail.com
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.743-0844 Licensed & Insured Contractor # CACO53827
ARTIC TEMP, INC.
Leslie Christensen
Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
OWNER
phone 305-743-6881 AmericanCoastalRentals.com Leslie@AmericanCoastalRentals.com 9141 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
Residential, Commercial & Marine Ice Machine - Sales - Service Phone: (305) 743-5288
Fax: (305) 743-6887
Sportfishing Adventures
SOLAR DONE RIGHT!
info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com
When it comes to solar and power storage for your home in the Florida Keys, turn to the Florida Keys Local Experts at SALT Energy.
Dolphin-Tuna-Wahoo-Billfish-Snapper-Grouper-Shark Deep Sea –Off Shore-Reef-Wrecks-Gulf
305-481-3259
CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE
A division of SALT Service, serving The Keys since 1989
305-289-1150
Keys Fisheries Market & Marina Mile Marker 48.5, Marathon End of 35th Street Bayside
www.saltenergy.net 2992 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050
Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734 Florida Electrical Contractor EC13008657
Barbara Sanchez
Tewes ewes Mortgage
Home & Offices Expertly Cleaned Fast Dependable Service
Your local, residential lending expert!
Call 305.495.6000
“We Clean Your Place, Like it Was Our Place”
for a FREE Consultation
Brian Tewes
Excellent References Upon Request
Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com
NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org
www.TewesMortgage.com
Liz Samess Interiors
Design, Decorating, Drafting, & More…
Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports. SUV, Van & Limousine options available Call us for special events.
Serving Key Largo to Key West
305-743-7454
fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com
Will Campbell President
Liz Samess Interior Designer
(954) 801-7883 Email: interiordesignbyliz@gmail.com CELL:
Marathon, FL 33050
P.E. Lic. No: 79269 5800 Overseas Hwy. Unit 32 Marathon, FL. 33050
Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here
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
TEAM SCHUTT ANNA J SCHUTT
REALTOR® | Luxury Specialist
305.923.9226 BUTCH "BLAST" SCHUTT REALTOR® 305.743.1979 Cell: 305-363-8330 Office: 305-735-4626 will@cecflk.com www.CECFLK.com
305-766-0819 305-924-0179
11050 Overseas Hwy, Marathon keyswaterfrontspecialist@gmail.com teamschutt.realestatefloridakeys.com Each office is independently owned and operated
The Weekly Newspapers www.KeysWeekly.com
305-743-0844
Kitchen Cabinets Sales REAL Wood Cabinets at Particle Board Prices KitchenKorner/Fred's Beds 1333 O/S Hwy, MM 53.5 • 305-743-7277
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021
LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.743.0844 MARATHON • KEY COLONY OWNERS
START EARNING 305 3902315
WWW.KEYSRENTALSONLINE.COM OFFER YOUR ENJOY EXPERT MAXIMIZE GUESTS A VIP PROPERTY YOUR INCOME EXPERIENCE MAINTENANCE POTENTIAL
y’s www.KeysSlidingGlassDoorRepair.com And Sliding Glass Door Repair Roller Maintenance Track Maintenance Door Alignment Security Pins Safety Locks Handles
Petersen Repair & Maintenance • Flooring • Inside Trim Work • Door Replacement • Landscaping • Fencing
• Plastering & Stucco • Masonry & Spalling Repair • Waterproof & Roof Painting • Interior & Exterior Painting • Parking Lot Striping
Karen Raspe
Realtor 305-393-9010 karenraspe@bellsouth.net
SP# 4434, 4435, 4436, 4437, 4438. 4439. 4448, 4449, 4450, 4451
Charlie Petersen 920-371-3107 | PetersenRepair@yahoo.com Licensed & Insured #SP33799
Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here
ALL KEYS GLASS
We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors
305-998-8953 Insured • Professional • Reliable
Authorized Dealer
305-743-7800
9141 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 www.karenraspe.com
Sales & Installation • Tub & Shower Enclosures Safety & Tempered Glass • Mirror & Mirror Walls Plexi-Glass & Lexan
GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS
When It Rains It Pours! Need 7” Gutters? We have 6” & 7” Seamless • Copper Specialists
Key West 305-292-2666
MARATHON
305-743-0506
KEY LARGO
305-852-5356
rainsavergutters@gmail.com
Appliance and Air Conditioning
Sales - Service - Installation 1700 N. Roosevelt Blvd #2, Key West 305-294-0090 • www.kolhages.com
Sewer Connections 305
872-1876
• New Construction • Remodeling • Irrigation
Floor & Wall Tiles Porcelain/Planks Marble Carpets Quartz & Granite Countertops
305
Rachellynnes94@gmail.com 305.393.3076
SALES
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Lic## RF11067168
EXPERTS
Proud member of:
INTERNATIONAL
CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE
We Do Installations! Licensed & Insured
FREE ESTIMATES U.S.1 & 109th St, Marathon (Across from Beall’s Outlet)
289-3019
2728 North Roosevelt Blvd. Overseas Market Key West
QUICK & RELIABLE OPEN WATER MARINE SERVICES JARED FRANK
OWNER
(305) 289-1551 towboatusmarathon.com
Butch and Barbara Hewlett
AIMEE
KORNETTI REALTOR ®
Cell 305-600-9726 aimeekornetti@gmail.com
www.KeysWeekly.com
305-743-0844
SPALLING
PC 606
Lic# ENG II 305E
The Weekly Newspapers
296-BLUE
• Heavy Equipment • Solar
Lic#SP-3562
Rachel Sanderson
NOW HIRING!
keycolonybeachproperties.com
305-394-5530 bnbfishing@comcast.net 3900 Overseas Hwy, Marathon FL 33050
Key Colony Beach Realty, Inc.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 10, 2021