Marathon Weekly 21-0624

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Marathon’s new library opens on Saturday!

2021>2019 Keys economy better than ever | P.10

VOTING LAW

Changes affect the Keys, too | P.8

OUR OFFICE IN MARATHON IS MOVING! We begin services at the new location June!

11400 Overseas Highway Town Square Mall Suite #209 (second floor- take the elevator next to Frank’s grill up to the second floor)

Scan this on your phone to connect directly with CALL TO START YOUR HEARING JOURNEY! MIAMI 17670 NW 78th Avenue #201

Marathon, FL 33050

(305) 403-9325

Where can you go to get qualified hearing healthcare?

Schedule your appointment with Dr. Michelle and her team today!

A comprehensive hearing evaluation is essential in promoting healthy hearing. It can help detect hearing loss early enough to treat it successfully!

www.hear4uaudiology.com www.heardrmichelle.com

KEY WEST 513 Fleming Street, Suite 11 (2nd floor accessible via elevator)

(305) 809-6041

MARATHON 11400 Overseas Highway - Suite 209 Town Square Mall

(305) 747-7750

HOMESTEAD Towers Professional Plaza 151 NW 11th St., Ste. W-301

(305) 809-7663

TAVERNIER 93911 Overseas Hwy., Ste. 5 (2nd Floor) Tavernier, FL 33070

(305) 247-8227

2

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

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SUNDAY, JULY 4 TH World Key Lime Pie Eating Championship & Key Lime Pie Hop

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3

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

NOTHING COMPARES

Fantastic water views in this turnkey vacation rental with over $33k in future bookings. Steps to the pool, bay, pool, Gulf, grounds and dock views with private tree-shaded balconies. Quality interior updates include flooring, baseboards, stainless appliances w/new dishwasher and refrigerator, bath updates, Smart Home features and more. Washer and dryer in unit. Updates in sought-after Gulf-front, 20-unit community on private peninsula include metal roof, impact windows/sliders, electrical, paint, spalling repair. Gorgeous dock at Vaca Cut offers superb fishing, first-come, first-serve dockage, amazing sunsets. Heated pool, designated two-car carport. 7-day rentals allowed, a rare find. Live the dream with this lovely Keys escape!

MARATHON | $699,000 | Listing ID: 596477

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4

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

$300

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

Publisher

Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner

Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Marathon Editor

This week marks the end of the $300 federal unemployment benefit paid to residents of Florida, in addition to state benefits.

ON THE COVER Nine-year-old Cub Scout Alex Joya launches his lure into the Atlantic Ocean recently off Scout Key. Increasingly, visitors are flocking to the Keys while cruise ships are stuck in port and international travel is all but stalled. See story, page 10. FLORIDA KEYS NEWS BUREAU/Contributed

PARKING FINES ON COUNTY ROADS INCREASE TO $200 PER TICKET Outside the fence at Harry Harris Park, in front of a No Parking sign, this man attempted to avoid any penalty by putting a boot on his tire.

Officers gave this man a $20 parking ticket anyways. He accepted the $20 ticket and spent all day in the water on his boat. These are the types of situations that the county would like to avoid by raising the fee to $200.

MONROE COUNTY BOCC/Contributed

Sara Matthis sara@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com Charlotte Twine charlotte@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor

Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Account Executive

Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Office/Circulation Manager Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Design / Pre-Press

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com

Design / Web Master

Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Director of Digital Media

Chanice Dos Santos chanice@keysweekly.com

Classifieds

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR

BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

POSTMASTER:

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

News Deadline

Tuesday Noon

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

BOCC decision takes aim on parking congestion in Upper Keys residential neighborhoods with public beaches CHARLOTTE TWINE

I

charlotte@keysweekly.com

t’s no secret: Locals know that parking is at a premium on Monroe County roads to tourist-crammed public-access parks and beaches, especially in Key Largo. Often, a driver who is anxious to get on the water will park willy-nilly on a residential road in front of a no parking sign close to a beach or boat ramp and accept the $20 fine.

To deter this illegal parking, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) increased the fines from $20 to $200 at its June 16 meeting. The fines are a noncriminal civil penalty, and the increase took effect immediately.

At another recent BOCC meeting, Commissioner Mike Forster showed various pictures and videos of areas where parking violations with No Parking signs on county roads regularly occur. Many violators are happy to accept a relatively cheap $20 ticket in exchange for a day of parking and guilt-free boating and/or fishing. For example, per timeout.com, parking in Miami Beach costs $4 an hour.

Forster showed photos of a man parked outside the fence at Key Largo’s Harry Harris Park, in front of a no parking sign. The man had attempted to avoid any penalty by putting a boot on his tire. Officers gave this man a $20 parking ticket anyway. He accepted the $20 ticket and spent all day on the water on his boat. These are the types of situations that the county would like to avoid by raising the no parking fee to $200.

Keys Weekly requested a record search by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office to provide the total number of parking tickets that were given out so far in 2021.

The total number of parking tickets given out by deputies for all parking of-

fenses in unincorporated Monroe County — including such violations as parking in handicap spots or in front of a driveway, etc. — was 673.

The total number of tickets given to violators in front of signs on county roads close to a park or a beach — the type of ticket that will now cost $200 — was 388.

This number is more than half of the total amount of parking tickets that were given out in Monroe County in 2021.

Forster said the hotspots for parking fines are Harry Harris Park, Sunset Point Park 2 and Card Sound Road. “We have to put teeth into it and change the culture of acceptance,” he said.

“And it’s a burden on the sheriff’s office,” he said. He’s been told that, for example, a deputy will give a ticket to someone on Card Sound Road, the violator will leave, then the deputy will see another car pulling right in.

To level out this burden, Forster said he would like to see parks and recreation employees get trained to hand out parking tickets.

“It’s something we deal with in the Upper Keys — we are a daytripper destination,” he said.

5

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

JUST SOLD LISTINGS! CONGRATULATIONS TO MY BUYER!

LOTS 1 & 2, MARATHON

230 15TH CIRCLE, KEY COLONY BEACH

SAM WILLIAMS, REALTOR

305.289.6559

swilliams.realestatefloridakeys.com

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY BUYER!

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AMY PUTO, REALTOR

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR BUYER & SELLER!

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305-289-6526 | CFOSTER.REALESTATEFLORIDAKEYS.COM

(305) 481-3317 natalie@cbschmitt.com

WWW.AMYPUTO.COM

SAM WILLIAMS, REALTOR

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY BUYER!

swilliams.realestatefloridakeys.com

LELA ASHKARIAN,

P.A, CRS, GRI, e-PRO

(305) 395-0814 lela@cbschmitt.com

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY SELLER!

224 S ANGLERS DRIVE, #301, MARATHON

WANDA BROCK, REALTOR ®

(305) 304-8862

wbrock.realestatefloridakeys.com

WE SELL MORE PROPERTIES THAN THE NEXT 6 COMPANIES COMBINED. CALL US TO FIND OUT HOW 11050 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY MARATHON, FL 33050

305-743-5181

7

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

FLOODED RESIDENTS PUT PRESSURE ON BOCC Monroe County applying for state grant money to raise roads CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

T

he Board of County Commissioners has voted to go after a pot of state grant money to pay for raising roads in Monroe County neighborhoods that face constant flooding, such as Key Largo’s Twin Lakes and Stillwright Point.

The county commissioners and staff are under pressure from residents who are frustrated about driving through saltwater to get into their homes.

Several public speakers from those neighborhoods stood up to vent about their situation. “It’s time to take action,” said Emilie Stewart of Stillwright Point, the MM 105 neighborhood in Key Largo. She said that in 2019, the streets around her home were under water for 94 consecutive days.

The Resilient Florida Grant Program, just approved by the state, authorizes the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to provide funds to local governments to protect communities from high tides and flooding issues. The state has set aside about $126 million annually for five years to be divvied up among Florida’s 67 counties, and the Monroe County commissioners have decided that they have a good shot at winning a part of that grant.

These matters were discussed at a special June 21 special meeting that was specifically scheduled to hear presentations on sea level rise and how it affects Monroe County neighborhoods.

Experts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) showed data that suggests the seas will rise about a foot in the next century, or an inch every eight years.

To apply for the Resilient Florida Grant Program, counties have to use the NOAA data in order to show how vulnerable their neighborhoods are to rising water over the next few decades.

Judith Clarke, director of engineering for Monroe County, and engineering consultant Emilio Corrales, also showed a presentation with detailed maps using NOAA data with sea level rise plus king-tide level predictions for Monroe County neighborhoods for up to the year 2045. The data shows that 60 neighborhoods up and down the

Keys, with 120 miles of road, will have flooding issues and become potential engineering projects. The breakdown of potential projects was as follows: 68.7 percent in the Lower Keys, 25.86 percent in the Upper Keys and 5.4 percent in the Middle Keys.

And, Clarke said, making just one street flood-resilient is expensive. Raising the roads and installing a pump station and injection wells in the Twin Lakes MM 103 neighborhood will cost $7.9 million.

This is where the Resilient Florida Grant Program comes in. The state will be accepting applications from July 1 through Sept. 1, and Monroe County will have to provide a 50 percent match of funds as well as vulnerability studies using NOAA data and other paperwork.

The $126 million in grant money is actually divided in different pots, and the FDEP decides which pot the project the counties are applying for go in.

For example, one pot has $100 million for infrastructure projects that are shovel-ready with engineering designs and paperwork already completed, while another smaller pot is designed for projects that are still in planning phases. Such a pot might be more appropriate for the Stillwright Point road-raising project, which still needs to be designed.

“I’m disappointed in that $100 million a year because I thought it was more than that,” said Commissioner David Rice. “We have 67 counties in Florida. What we could expect to pull down from $100 million is not expected to be a significant percentage.”

County Administrator Roman Gastesi replied, “To put it in perspective, just 10 years ago, just five years ago, the state wasn’t having these conversations (about grants) at all. As time goes on, maybe they’ll fund it more.”

Whitney Gray, administrator of the Florida Resilient Coastlines Program in the FDEP, added, “Within those 67 counties, there are also local governments at significantly varying degrees of readiness” to apply for these grants.

Mayor Michelle Coldiron agreed, and said the county has a great shot at getting approval for its grant applications because it already has done adaptation-areas and vulnerability studies and being shovel-ready with specific projects, like Twin Lakes.

“We are already ahead of the game,” she said.

MARATHON'S NEWEST BOUTIQUE

• Casual & Career Wear • Certified Fair Trade & Designer Brands • Sizes XS to 3X • Plus Swimwear • Jewelry & Accessories 65 53rd Street, Marathon (next to Publix) SUMMER HOURS: MON * TUES * THURS * FRI * SAT 10am-6pm. Closed Wednesdays & Sundays

COMMERCE CORNER Established in 2020, Aqua Find Leak Detection specializes in finding water leaks underground, as well as under concrete, pools and water distribution/irrigation systems. The company serves residential, commercial, and municipal properties throughout the entire Keys.

“The key to our success is excellent customer service and punctuality,” said owner Eric Dunford. “We live in the Keys, but we don’t run on ‘Keys time.’

And with over 50 years combined experience in the plumbing trade, we use cutting edge technology and methods to find your leak.”

Aqua Find Leak Detection is former military- and paramilitary-owned, and will continue to build, solid relationships with contractors and real estate agents in order to provide the best customer service keyswide.

Location: Based in Marathon, but services the entire Keys Phone: 305-781-5896 Website: www.aquafindaleak.com Email: Aquafindleakdetect@gmail.com

8

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

WHY ARE WE CHANGING FLORIDA VOTING LAW?

‘IF IT’S NOT BROKE, DON’T FIX IT’ F

lorida’s 67 supervisors of elections, including Monroe County’s Joyce Griffin, objected to SB 90 before it passed and was signed into law

by Gov. Ron Desantis. Immediately after, supervisors from all Florida counties convened in Tampa this past week to raise questions not only about implementing the law, but how to implement it, given there are four separate legal challenges.

Griffin was present.

Broadly speaking, she said, the changes don’t make sense.

“These changes are being suggested by people who have run for office, but never run an election. They may perceive there’s a problem, but there’s not,” Griffin said. “Listen, people are angry with Georgia and other states, but they are not angry at Florida. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.”

Griffin said former President Donald Trump praised the state’s election process after the general election and said that all states should follow Florida’s lead.

“Governor Ron DeSantis said after the general election in November, look at us; we did it right,” she said. “So now the election law is being changed and it just doesn’t make sense.”

Much of the new law pertains to registering voters; how the volunteers need to communicate the process and when they need to deliver the voter registrations to the office. In other words they must not promise a guaranteed voter registration, then not deliver by deadline, and sow confusion and distrust among voters.

There are also criminal penalties for election officers — $25,000, for example, for leaving a vote drop box unattended.

Here are a few of the changes to the election law that are currently proposed.

However, the legislation is facing legal challenges and Griffin said many procedures won’t be set in stone until the cases are heard.

Both the cities of Marathon and Layton have elections scheduled for November 2021.

New law: Limits the use of drop boxes to early voting hours; i.e. 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the prescribed days of early voting.

Previously: In some counties using drop boxes, voters could cast a ballot 24 hours a day. Some boxes had video surveillance; others were watched by law enforcement.

What it means for the Keys: No change. Last year, Monroe County had wheeled boxes that were moved just outside the three election offices at the beginning of the work day, and brought in before the close of business. The boxes were located at all three offices, plus two early-voting locations.

New law: Requires voting drop boxes be monitored in person.

Previously: In Florida, every supervisor of elections handled it differently.

Some had workers watching the boxes, others used video surveillance, and some even hired law enforcement to watch the boxes around the clock.

What it means for the Keys: No change. Employees of the supervisor of elections office monitored the boxes that were only available during business hours in 2020.

New law: Requires voters to annually renew their request for vote-by-mail ballots and provide more identification information like the last four digits of a social security number or a driver’s license number to get one. (Voters who have already requested absentee ballots for 2022 are grandfathered under the old law.)

Previously: Voters requested and received vote-by-mail ballots to cover two general election cycles, or four years. In order to receive a vote-by-mail ballot, voters answered questions about previous addresses and requests.

What it means for the Keys: Because voters must renew vote-by-mail ballot requests every year, instead of every four years, it will increase labor and mailing costs for the elections office.

New law: Limits the number of ballots individuals can possess to turn in to the supervisor of elections office to two ballots per election, plus his or her own, plus those belonging to an immediate family member — wife, husband, sister, brother, child, grandchild, grandparent.

Previously: Individuals could drop off any number of vote-by-mail ballots.

What it means for the Keys: Generally, there are not mass drops of ballots in the Keys. However, the new law doesn’t specify how to identify a family member.

For example, how do you prove a sibling’s relationship if they have a different, married surname?

9

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

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10

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

GRAVY TRAIN

The bed tax dollars keep pouring into post-pandemic coffers

By Sara Matthis, Jimmy McCarthy and Mandy Miles

H

oteliers are highlighting two columns on the fourpenny tax spreadsheet — 2019, when the Keys was almost fully recovered from Hurricane Irma and the economy was humming along, and 2021. The trend looks really good. Consider: in 2019, Monroe County collected $39.8 million in bed taxes; and, in the first six months of 2021, it has already collected $24.9 million.

Bed tax collection is one of the best indicators of the Keys tourismbased economy and represents the amount of taxes collected on Keys hotel rooms or vacation rentals that stays local. In a normal year — without a hurricane or a pandemic — The Tourist Development Council uses the funds to advertise the Keys as a vacation destination or finance brick-and-mortar facilities or local event advertising.

Most are comparing 2021’s monthly numbers to 2019, and completely skipping over the dismal pandemic year of 2020 when tourism ground to a halt. Even when compared against 2019, the Keys’ best year ever for tax collection, the numbers are still up. Way up: As high as 58% in the Lower Keys to a 40% increase in Islamorada for the month of March.

Sean Bacon, director of revenue management for Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada, said the Florida Keys have always been fortunate to enjoy nearly year-round vacation interest from domestic travelers seeking a Caribbean experience inside the United States. Historically, both market rates and occupancy trend lower during the summer season as the demographic is primarily south Florida drive-in guests.

This summer however, he said destination resorts in the Florida Keys such as Cheeca Lodge & Spa and Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort are seeing stronger demand.

“COVID-19 test requirements continue for travelers re-entering the United States following a trip abroad, as well as the Florida Keys being a popular alternative to those who have historically taken a cruise as their annual summer vacation,” he said. “The increase in demand for the Florida Keys together with an increase in demand for destination style resorts is yielding much stronger rates and at higher occupancies than in years past.”

Bacon said this increase in

demand is even extending into the historically low season periods of late summer August and September, which carry the burden of school returning to session and being peak hurricane season.

That’s a huge turnaround from this time last year. Then the Keys Weekly Newspaper reported that TDC officials expected a $13 million deficit for 2020.

“We’re now entering the longest period of no tourism that we’ve ever experienced,” Tourist Development Council director Stacey Mitchell said in May 2020.

The TDC’s District Advisory Councils (DACs) responded to the pandemic’s effect on tourism by moving money around. For example, in the Middle Keys, the DAC moved money from the capital project fund to the capital resource disaster account.

Fortunately, the pandemic didn’t have the ruinous effect many feared. Monroe County collected about $32 million in 2020, or $7.8 million less than it did in 2019.

However, local hoteliers and vacation rental owners are keeping a close watch on the cruise industry, surmising that the increase in Keys visitors is due to the complete shutdown of the industry during the pandemic.

After a 15-month shutdown, the first ship set sail from a Florida port on June 20 on a test cruise populated by volunteer employees of the Royal Caribbean cruise line.

On June 18, a federal judge sided with the state of Florida, which is pushing for cruise ships to resume sailing, against the Centers for Disease Control, which had issued an order for travelers to avoid all cruise ship travel. The CDC has since stepped back the order and now only “encourages” travelers to get vaccinated before traveling.

“When you consider the number of passengers aboard a cruise ship, and their ability to sail from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Tampa … well, that’s going to affect us when cruise ships resume sailing,” said Michael Weber of the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott in Marathon. “We hope it will only impact us in a small way.”

There’s hope, he said, that the pandemic has brought “new” visitors to the Keys who will come again to enjoy the Fairfield Inn & Suites that was rebranded and renovated in 2020.

Jodi Weinhofer, president of the Lodging Association of the Florida Keys & Key West, also has watched occupancies and room rates skyrocket in the wake of the pandemic. But, she said, all her member lodging properties and their general managers — “have all been warned, plus they already knew this won’t last,” Weinhofer said, adding that once the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe reopen, and once cruise ships start sailing again throughout the world, the demand for and occupancy of Keys hotels, guesthouses and other accommodations will drop significantly.

FOUR-PENNY REPORT FOR MARCH Bed taxes are collected on hotel rooms and vacation rentals in the Florida Keys to fund the Tourism Development Council’s efforts to promote the islands as a tourist destination.

District I Key West II Lower Keys III Middle Keys IV Islamorada V Upper Keys

2019 $2,782,351 $339,689 $878,995 $570,213 $888,541

2021 % increase $3,213,120 15.40% $539,628 58.80% $1,347,630 53.80% $802,786 40.70% $1,177,618 32.50%

Visitors to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo prepare for an afternoon on the water. Tourism is recovering in leaps and bounds in the Florida Keys. FLORIDA KEYS NEWS BUREAU/Contributed

11

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

Anchored to your health and our community.

Bettye Chaplin Community Historian and Retired Businesswoman

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 state-of-the-art facility offers the specialized services you need, brought to you by the most trusted healthcare provider in the region, including:

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.

• 24/7 emergency care with on-site helipad • Diagnostic imaging • Inpatient care

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.

• 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

12

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021 905 S Emerald Dr., Key Largo

Congratulations to our Buyers!

Buying or Selling in Paradise?

The Grego Team is here to help!

Let our experience work for you.

Call us today!

David Grego, Realtor® OWNER, BROKER, GRI

Carly Herman, Realtor® Lauren Bacon, Realtor® 305-743-8328 David@Islandbreezerealty.com

Florida Keys

www.islandbreezerealty.com

July 17. & 18, 2021 .

Saturday 11am- 10pm Sunday noon 5pm

Mouth watering BBQ Amateur BBQ Competition Live Entertainment Kids Activities Shopping

M a r at h o n C o m m u n i t y P a r k 200 OCEAN, 36TH ST, MARATHON

MARATHON COMMUNITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH THE PERFECT CHURCH FOR THOSE WHO AREN'T

Pastor: Mary Ashcraft Office Hours: T, W, Th 10AM - 2PM Sunday Service: 10AM Wear a mask • UV Filter Light Zoom: Facebook.com/MarathonUMC In Christ we, though many, form one body and each member belongs to all the others. - Romans 12:5

3010 Overseas Highway

305-743-5107

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

ROCKETS’ RED GLARE Keys communities plan for Fourth of July celebration

G

uess who’s pitching in for local firework shows in 2021? The answer is the Key West International Airport enterprise revenue fund. (Yeah, we didn’t see that coming either.) It will be used to sponsor Independence Day celebrations and fireworks displays throughout the Florida Keys.

“Coming out of COVID-19, our local rotaries and chambers had difficulties fundraising for firework displays, and this is one way for everyone to enjoy Florida Keys displays and celebrate our independence,” said Monroe County Mayor Michelle Coldiron. Locally, many clubs are also funding the fireworks in addition to resources from the enterprise fund.

The enterprise revenue funds are paid for by user fees at the airport and are set aside specifically for promotional activities.

KEY WEST Fireworks start: Sunday, July 4 at 9 p.m.

Fireworks visible from: Oceanside, near Higgs Beach Earlier in the day: There’ll be food and music at Edward B. Knight Pier beginning at 4 p.m.

A VIP Fireworks Dinner will also be taking place at the Indigenous Park on White Street with music, a private bar and a special view of the fireworks (tickets are $100) starting at 6 p.m.

For more details: keywestrotary.com or 305-304-5181 BIG PINE KEY Fireworks start: Saturday, July 3 at 9 p.m.

Fireworks visible from: Gulfside near Big Pine Community Park, MM 31 Earlier in the day: Festivities start on Saturday, July 3 at 5 p.m. at the park with vendors, food, beverages, games, family activities and entertainment. Admission is free. No pets, coolers or personal fireworks.

MARATHON Fireworks start: Sunday, July 4 at 9 p.m.

Fireworks visible from: Oceanside, near Sombrero Beach Earlier in the day: A full day of beachside activities begins with a patriotic parade from Marathon High School to Sombrero Beach starting at about 10:30 a.m. Food, games, and entertainment are planned. Boaters like to line up outside the swim line in front of Sombrero to get a unique water view of the fireworks. Admission is free.

ISLAMORADA Fireworks start: Sunday, July 4 after sunset Fireworks visible from: Gulfside, near MM 87 The Upper Keys Rotary Club and the Village of Islamorada will be holding a 4th of July celebration from 6 to 10 p.m. at Founders Park. Parking will be available with a suggested donation of $10; viewers are encouraged to bring their own seating. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. No outside food, glass bottles or coolers will be permitted.

KEY LARGO Fireworks start: Sunday, July 4 at 9:30 p.m.

Fireworks visible from: Gulfside, near MM 104 at Rowell’s Waterfront Park The Key Largo Chamber of Commerce will host its annual July 4 parade starting at 10 a.m.

Themed “Celebrating Freedom,” the parade will begin at mile marker 98.2 in front of Anthony’s Clothing Store. Rowell’s Waterfront Park opens at 6:30 p.m., at MM 104.5, for fireworks viewing.

Visit web.keylargochamber.org/ events or call 305-451-1414 for more details.

— Weekly staff report

13

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

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15

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021 Rotary Club of Marathon and the City of Marathon are the main drivers of the Fourth of July celebration at Sombrero Beach. The year before COVID-19 struck, in 2019, the beach and waters were packed with spectators waiting for the fireworks show. WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

ROTARY CONTINUES TO THRIVE I

Nationally and internationally, club supports ‘service above self’

t’s the end of another year — the Rotary Year! Our years run from July 1 until June 30, when new presidents and boards assume leadership of local clubs, governors begin to lead their districts, and a new president of Rotary International starts his or her year of service under their theme for the year.

The theme for Rotary year 2021-22 is Serve To Change Lives. It pretty much sums up Rotary’s mission of Service Above Self. Our Rotary Club of Marathon turns 60 years old this year, and we’re excited about the year gone by as well as the new Rotary year ahead.

Local Realtor Sam Williams served as president throughout the pandemic lockdown and our gradual reopening. He has done a stellar job guiding our club through what could have been a much more difficult year. His goal of attracting new members provided our club a shot in the arm, and we have several new younger members to provide some fresh energy alongside some of us old-timers.

Additionally, as many nonprofits have struggled raising funds during this trying year, our club has thrived with a successful golf tournament and a record-breaking upcoming July 4th celebration. A large majority of the money we raise goes to scholarships — for the past few years, we’ve given $45,000 a year to local students for their higher education, including sponsoring a complete full-ride Take Stock in Children scholarship for a deserving Marathon High School graduate. We’ve been able to do that even through the pandemic year thanks to wise money management and the generosity of our community.

Our biggest fundraiser each year is our Independence Day Celebration at Sombrero Beach. In cooperation with the City of Marathon, the Rotary Club serves up burgers, dogs, beer, water and soda to all who come to our “little community party” at the beach. Because of generous sponsorships from local businesses and individuals, all money raised (including the vast majority of sponsor dollars) goes directly to our scholarship fund. We ask you to leave the coolers at home and come hungry and thirsty — buy a burger, send a kid to college!

Other fundraising events we do throughout a normal year are our golf tournament, co-sponsoring the Best of Marathon Awards with this newspaper, assisting with beer and wine sales at Key Colony Beach Day, and raffling off a “chest of cheer” at the Seafood Festival. As we get closer to resuming normal, you’ll see a lot of Rotarians volunteering time and talents to these events. We work with our high school’s InterAct Club to help clean Coco Plum Beach. And we’ll be serving beer at the upcoming Florida Keys BrewBQ July 17-18, so please be generous with your tips to your beer servers!

Our Rotary Club is also working with the city to upgrade and improve Rotary Children’s Park at the top of 75th Street. Marathon Rotary spearheaded the effort to create and build the park, and we look forward to volunteering in its recreation and rebirth during the city’s next fiscal year.

One of the main reasons people become Rotarians is that our club really is fun! In addition to the knowledge that as a Rotarian you’re giving back to JOHN our community, our weekly meetings really are a BARTUS hoot. We have a fun and diverse group of people of different ages from different walks of life, and we is a City of Maraenjoy these meetings. During the pandemic year, thon councilwe met mostly via Zoom. Beginning in July, our club man. He also is returns to live in-person meetings. During July, we’ll a musician who performs around meet at the Hampton Inn here in Marathon — each town. For more Wednesday at noon. see johnbartus.

Our incoming president is local broadband guru com Duane Webster, and he and his board of directors look forward to our new Rotary year with a sense of optimism. As well as the local projects mentioned here, Rotary is an international organization. Through a concerted worldwide effort, and with the assistance of matching grant funding, Rotary has almost completely eradicated polio from the planet. Additionally, we come to the aid of other Rotarian communities in our own international district — local Rotary clubs provided assistance and relief to Grand Bahama Island after the devastation of Hurricane Dorian — just as other clubs came to our aid after Irma. Our District 6990 encompasses South Florida and some of the Bahamas, and the fellowship and cultural exchanges are wonderful.

If you would like to find out more about Rotary, you can always find me at a gig … or contact any Rotarian you’ll see on July 4th at the beach.

Stop by a meeting, get to know us, and you just might find yourself becoming a Rotarian one day!

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, Sunday brunch at Bongos, and Sunday night at Havana Jack’s.

Music wherever you get your streaming or downloads. www.facebook.com/ john.bartus

16

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

By Charlotte Twine and Mandy Miles

THIRD-GRADE READING SCORES DOWN; COVID PROBABLE CAUSE ‘ROBUST’ SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM IS TO GET KIDS BACK ON TRACK

T

he state has released its 2020-21 school year reading scores for Monroe County third graders, and they indicated a “decrease in achievement,” according to a presentation from Dave Murphy, executive director of assessment & accountability, at the school board meeting on June 22. But the board members and staff are not surprised, taking into account the disruptions that COVID caused in the school year.

School board member Mindy Conn said, “It’s not great, but it’s not horrible considering what these kids went through the prior years.”

Third grade reading scores are an important benchmark. Until third grade, students are learning to read. After third grade, they must read to learn, and if they can’t read satisfactorily by the end of third grade, they’re at risk of falling progressively further behind each year.

Students who can’t read at grade level by the end of third grade can be required by the state to repeat third grade unless they can demonstrate they are capable of being successful in the fourth grade.

In Monroe County schools, including charter schools, the number of third graders who can read at or above their grade level dropped by 11.4% compared to 2019 scores, Murphy reported.

In addition, the number of third graders reading at the lowest level increased by 6%.

“But some of the data, when you look at the percentages, can be misleading,” he said, explaining that large percentage drops in small schools are the result of a very small number of students changing performance levels.

In addition, board member Sue Woltanski told Keys Weekly that the reading scores that are being compared are from 2019 and 2021, two very different groups of children, with the pandemic obviously being at least one huge difference.

But Horace O’Bryant School and Sigsbee Charter School were two bright spots that saw an increase in the number of third graders who were reading at or above their

In Monroe County schools, including charter schools, the number of third graders who can read at or above their grade level dropped by 11.4% during COVID disruptions. CONTRIBUTED

grade level despite the COVID disruptions, said Murphy.

As for the students who are not reading at their grade level, Woltanski said state officials are not strictly demanding proof that students can handle fourth grade as they would in a normal year.

This year, because of COVID, “Mandatory retention will be on a child-by-child basis with discussion with parent and teacher,” she said. “I don’t know how many kids will fall into that. We have a robust summer school program. Ideally, we’ll have the supports for the kids to get caught up. We’d prefer not to retain kids.”

In addition, the board discussed that the district had been doing progress monitoring throughout the year that accurately predicted these reading scores, so staff members were prepared for the drop. Thus, officials had planned a more extensive summer school.

Woltanski said more kids than ever are participating in summer school, and they are having a great time.

“I walked into a fourth-grade class at Plantation Key School, and they were reading ‘Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing.’ And they said, ‘This is the best day I’ve had in school.’ I hope that carries over into the school year. That’s what school should be like,” she said.

EMPLOYEE HOUSING Also at Tuesday’s meeting, the board voted to ask the city of Key West to set aside 237 building permits for employee housing at the school district’s headquarters on Trumbo Road.

City, school district and housing authority officials had met on June 8 to tour the property and discuss how to move forward on the long-discussed housing.

The building permits and an exception to the city’s height restrictions emerged as two of the top priorities.

Buildings are being crunched between FEMA’s new floodplain rules that mandate higher building elevations, and the city’s height restrictions, losing usable space without a loosening of height limits.

“I spoke with (Key West) Mayor Teri Johnston today, and I met with the Key West Chamber’s economic affairs committee,” Superintendent Theresa Axford told the board.

“They are 100% behind on this, so I don’t think we’ll meet with any resistance, but we need to be sure we have our ducks in a row.”

17

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

CONGRATULATIONS To our BUYERS & SELLERS. We hope you enjoy your new homes.

Jody & Lynn represented the Sellers of: Lots 12 & 13 Goodley Street, Marathon, FL 33050 A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

Jody Owen 305.923.1902 jodyowen@me.com

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18

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

STATE GIVES KEYS $1M FOR PUMP-OUT PROGRAM

M-POOP

Facilities with 10 or more live-aboard slips must install pump-out systems

T

he Monroe County Board of County Commissioners approved the Marina Pump-Out Outfitting Program (MPOOP) recently to reduce pollutant discharges from liveaboard vessels by expanding the number and use of sewage pump-out facilities.

The program can help local marinas with navigating how to install required vessel sewage pump-out systems. County code requires marine facilities with 10 or more slips or one or more liveaboard slips be sent an official notification that an on-site fixed pump-out system is required to be installed. Once notice is sent, that facility will have 12 months to complete the installation. Once installed, the equipment must be kept operational to ensure that pump-out service is available to all customers. Regardless of size, all marinas must provide educational signs to inform boaters about the importance of pumping out and locating pump-out stations.

Prior to setting deadlines, the MPOOP program is available to assist marine facilities that wish to voluntarily install the required pump-out equipment on their property before the notices are sent out. No date has been set for when official noticing will begin.

“There are nearly 500 marine facilities in Monroe County with about 500 to 1,000 liveaboard vessels at these locations,” said Celia Hitchins of Monroe County’s Marine Resources Office. “Less than a third of these facilities have the required on-site vessel sewage pump-out equipment.”

When notice is sent, facilities without the required systems will have a 12-month implementation period, but there is up to 75 percent funding assistance available from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Clean Vessel Act (CVA) grant program to come into compliance. The CVA program can cover costs associated with the purchase, installation, operation and maintenance of pumpout equipment, as well as other miscellaneous costs like signage.

“Designing and installing pump-out systems can be a daunting infrastructure project, especially for small mom-and-pop marinas since it can take significant time and resources to implement,” said Monroe County Mayor Michelle Coldiron. “I am pleased that there is substantial grant money available to offset the cost and that our Monroe County Marine Resources office is here to assist the marinas in navigating the funding process to help them come into compliance.”

Additional information, an educational video, step-by-step permitting guidance, contact information, and sample projects and costs can be found at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/mpoop or by calling 305-289-2500.

“The program supports the Florida Keys No Discharge Zone that protects Monroe County’s fragile natural resources,” said Hitchins.

“By assisting our local facilities, marina owners and operators can move forward in a proactive way to help protect and enhance our nearshore water quality.”

— Contributed

S

tate Rep. Jim Mooney and State Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez, who both represent Monroe County in Tallahassee, presented the Board of County Commissioners with $1 million for the local mobile vessel pump-out program. The program provides free mobile weekly vessel pump-outs at no charge throughout the Florida Keys.

Monroe County implemented a large-scale mobile vessel pump-out service in 2013 to discourage illegal sewage discharges and help local and transient boaters protect the entirety of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary from sewage discharge. The state recognized the contribution of the county’s pump-out program and passed legislation allowing the County to require vessels show proof of pumpout.

Program achievements: Performed more than 163,000 pump-outs since 2013.

Serviced more than 700 weekly customers in 2020 (with 4,000 boaters registered in the program since 2013).

Diverted and properly disposed of more than 2.4 million gallons since 2013.

Operated the largest program in the State serving more than 100 miles of Florida Keys on both the Gulf and Ocean sides.

Monroe County also uses its local Boating Improvement Funds and can also secure Clean Vessel Act funding to support the program and other pump-out initiatives like the Marina Pump-Out Outfitting Program (MPOOP).

“The State of Florida has always demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting the quality of Florida Keys’ waters,” said Monroe County legislative affairs director Lisa Tennyson. “We are appreciative of our delegation’s advocacy and the Legislature’s recurring appropriations to support this program.”

Rep. Jim Mooney and Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez join the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners, Monroe County Marine Resources Administrator Celia Hitchins, and Monroe County legislative affairs director Lisa Tennyson to present $1 million to the county’s mobile marine vessel pump-out program. The program supports nocharge sewage pump-outs for vessels in Monroe County.

19

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

MARATHON COMMUNITY THEATRE & CINEMA IS OPEN AND READY TO ENTERTAIN YOU! M A R A T H O N 5 1 0 1

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MARATHON COMMUNITY THEATRE

JUNE 26 & 27, 2021 OPEN AUDITIONS

For Upcoming Murder Mystery DATES: SATURDAY JUNE 26TH SUNDAY JUNE 27TH TIMES: 12:00 PM TO 3:00 PM WHERE: MCT Dance Studio 5101 Overseas Hwy, Marathon Writer/Director Charla Garrison is seeking: 3 Males, 4 Females - ages 18 and up for her Murder Mystery "INVITATION TO MURDER" SHOW DATES: August 20 & 21 and 28 & 29 REHEARSALS: Begin July 18th For further information please email the director directly at floridagal1717@gmail.com or call the Box Office 305.743.0994

MARATHON COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS

MARATHON COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS

A Directed by Jimmy Zimmerman

Presented by special arrangement with PLAYSCRIPTS, INC. www.playscripts.com

Starring: Donna & Jerry Nussenblatt

This performance has been made possible by ArtAge Senior Theatre Resource Center www.seniortheatre.com

Starring: Charla Garrison Dayanara Terpos & Joanne Zimmerman

20

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

HE’S THE STAR JJ Mills to host Drag Show Bingo in Marathon SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

S

tarting Sunday, July 11, and occurring every two weeks, Marathon Community Theatre will present Drag Queen Bingo. The star is JJ Mills, a Marathon local. He’s been a resident of the Keys for 12 years, dragged down to the island chain by two good friends, and makes his living as a hairdresser and makeup artist.

In 2019, he starred in MCT’s production of “La Cage Aux Folles” as Albin, in his first scripted, traditional show. (“Well, it wasn’t too far a stretch for me,” he said, laughing.) Now, Mills, 59, has been drafted to host MCT’s new, twice-monthly drag queen bingo. Yes, in Marathon.

It’s going to be a blast.

I did my first drag show at 17 years old in Cleveland. For me, it was always an artistic outlet. I’m not transexual, though I have many transexual friends and sympathize with their plight. I think the best way I can explain it is to paraphrase a line in the movie “To Wong Foo” — “Drag Queens are just too fabulous for one gender.”

But I don’t just love drag, I love all types of costume and makeup — horror, goth, vampire creatures, prosthetics. You should see my living space; it looks like a college kid’s dream room.

Drag has always been my secondary fun. I’ve spent my career in the hospitality and beauty business — as a maitre d’, selling MAC cosmetics, and doing hair. Back in the day, I worked at the biggest gay club in Cleveland, U4ia. I would spend two nights on the stage with the other girls, and two nights behind the bar.

I’m single. Honey, I’m the Blanche Devereaux (“Golden Girls”) of gay men. I was with my high school sweetheart for 17 years. He passed in the mid-’90s. It’s hard for everyone to meet people in the Keys and I blame social media. Listen, I’ll be 59 next month. Meeting someone … if it happens, it happens.

You have to be quick-witted to emcee anything — whether that’s a bingo game or a drag show. I play off what’s happening around me. My mother had an outrageous sense of humor. Even when she was being serious, I always thought she was hilarious. It was her delivery. I inherited that. I’ve been doing a little practice, coming up with cues for certain numbers. And we’ll do a dry run before the first bingo night at MCT. We’re going with a USO, ’40s theme for the drag queen bingo and I’m going to open with Bette Middler’s “Stuff Like That There.” I’ll have that big, rolled up hair. Under my dress, I’ll have two pairs of Danskin tights, sheer to the waist, and a pair of Spanx, cut high on the legs with a high waist. Then we’re good to go.

Pride Month has made the whole world more aware, more understanding and accepting. For me, Pride is just the struggle that gay people have gone through since the beginning of history.

I remember when it all began — when the drag queens fought back against police raids in the riots at Stonewall Inn in New York City. It was right after Judy Garland died, our hero. We were all just heartbroken and devastated.

I’ve done a thousand drag shows, all for the cause. It’s always a great thing, assisting and helping with the hospice center and AIDS outreach during that crisis. It was a way I could give back.

Back then, only rich white boys got treatment. Blacks and latinos didn’t have a chance.

Is Marathon ready for drag show bingo? I think so, yes. And like Ru Paul says, “We’re all born naked; the rest is drag.” Listen, there’s nothing sexual about a drag show. It’s not about that. It’s about artistry and dropping the ego and having a little fun. Laughter will get us through the worst of times. So, is Marathon ready?

I feel like I have a little question mark over my head. But ready or not, here I come!

UPCOMING MCT EVENTS AUDITIONS On Saturday and Sunday, June 26-27, MCT will be holding open auditions for Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre. The auditions are from noon to 3 p.m. both days, and director Charla Garrison is looking for three males and four females to cast (ages 18 and up). The show dates are the last two weekends in August and rehearsals will begin on July 18. Please contact the director Charla Garrison directly for additional information at floridagal1717@gmail.com or call the box office at 305-7430944.

READINGS Mark the calendars for Friday and Saturday, July 9-10. Jimmy Zimmerman directs two, oneact readings — “Just a Song at Twilight,” and “Relative Strangers.” Tickets are $15 each (available at 305-7430994 or www.marathontheater.org). The shows highlight the talents of Donna and Jerry Nussenblatt, Charla Garrison, Dayanara Terpos and Joanne Zimmerman.

DRAG QUEEN BINGO Starting Sunday, July 11, and occurring every two weeks, MCT will present Drag Queen Bingo with host JJ Mills. Admission is $5 and includes one bingo card; additional cards for $1 each. Beverages and snacks will be sold and seating is limited to 40 per show (book ahead). This adult-only show raises money for the theater’s operating costs and scholarship programs.

21

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

CONGRATULATIONS To our BUYERS & SELLERS. We hope you enjoy your new homes.

Karen represented the Buyers & Sellers of: 320 9th 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

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay, right, presents Joseph Stickney III of Marathon with the Florida Sheriff’s Association’s Distinguished Service Award recently for his 25 years of donations and support to the FSA, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement. CONTRIBUTED 159 S BAHAMA DRIVE

BRIEFLY Yoga Fun Day series offered at Marathon Community Park A new set of monthly full-moon yoga and meditation events will be offered on ‘Yoga Fun Day,’ a gathering founded and run by Marathon resident Sam Grout. Taking place at the Marathon Community Park from 6 to 9 p.m. on June 24, July 23 and Aug 22, this event is open to all ages. A variety of musical talent, dancing, intention setting, sound healing and creative movement will be on the schedule.

Bringing a journal and personal essential oils is highly encouraged, and tickets can be reserved on yogafunday. com. For those interested in volunteering or being a vendor, contact Grout at 561-506-1108.

Mango Fest celebrates fifth year in Key West This year is the fifth annual Key West Mango Fest, which will start Thursday, June 24, and continue through Sunday, June 27. Beginning with the Mango Fest Kick-Off Party at Tavern n Town on Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., the fruit-themed events keep on rolling with mango-flavored specials at new restaurant Milagro from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Friday. On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the

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Mango Mania Vendor Village at Bayview Park will feature mango-related items and experiences. On Sunday from 10 a.m. till 2 p.m., the Marvelous Mango Brunch in LL’s Test Kitchen at the Stock Island Yacht Club & Marina will offer a buffet brunch, an à la carte selection, mango mimosas and bloody marys for $55 per person.

Webinar is all too ‘mulch’ at Extension Service The University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/ IFAS) Extension Monroe County is offering a webinar called Florida Friendly Lunch-and-Learns: Benefits of Mulch on Friday, June 25, from noon to 1 p.m.

Mulch helps retain soil moisture, protects plants, inhibits weed growth, and more. All are invited to this free online discussion on how mulch benefits plants and yards and best practices for incorporating it into a landscape. This class is free; pre-registration is required. A Zoom link and password will be sent via email the day before the meeting. Call 305-292-4501 or email monroe@ifas.ufl.edu to register.

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22

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021 The silhouette of a short-tailed hawk, a species that may or may not have nested recently in Key West. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

MYSTERY NESTS AND DEAD-END LANES

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

I

got the message from Rob, a guy who played in the trivia game I used to host. He asked if I’d take a walk down one of the lanes near the cemetery and look up into the tamarind tree. There was a nest there, he said, some kind of hawk, maybe a shorttailed hawk. A couple times a day, he said, the nest got really noisy.

A short-tailed hawk nest in Key West seemed possible, but unlikely. They’ve never been known to nest here before, and they’re not known to nest in urbanized areas. (Key West is a very small town, but it is still urbanized in an ecological sense.) I was thinking they might be Cooper’s hawks, like the one that nested over by City Hall in 2018.

Cooper’s hawks seem less disturbed by the presence of humans.

They seem less disturbed than other hawks about everything.

Maybe it was the same pair from 2018. Maybe it was some of that pair’s offspring.

Whether it was a Cooper’s or a short-tail, it would be good to document either of them nesting here. But the only way to do that was to see one actually sitting on the nest.

I didn’t get over there right away. It took a day or two.

It was a narrow, dead-end lane, one you couldn’t drive down.

It was behind the house that’s getting renovated by the singer whose name I can never remember from the boy band whose name I also can’t remember. Saws were running. Hammers were pounding. A small Bobcat was pushing dirt around and beeping loudly every time it backed up. It seemed like a lot of chaos and disturbance for a place a hawk might breed.

When I got to the end of the lane I recognized it as a place I’d been years ago for a New Year party.

There was a nest there, just as Bob had said, an oblong oval of twigs about a foot-and-a-half across, high up, surrounded by those big, weird seed pods tamarinds have.

I stood and stared at it for a while. There might have been eggs in the nest. If it was occasionally noisy, I thought it was more likely there would be chicks, but if they were there, they were sleeping. If there was an adult tending to things, most likely there would be a tail sticking out over the edge of the nest somewhere, but I couldn’t see that, either.

Then I heard a noise behind me and found Joan, who also played in the trivia game I hosted, and who’d hosted that New Year’s party however many years ago.

She asked what I was up to. I told her I was trying to figure out what was going on in that nest up there. She said it had been quite noisy a few hours before.

We both stared for a while, then Joan offered to text me when she saw them again.

She texted later that afternoon to say she hadn’t seen any adults back at the nest, but she had seen one of the adults flying over the cemetery as if it were flying back to the nest.

I stopped by the next morning, then the next afternoon. Persistence solved these mysteries. Ninety percent of life is just showing up.

I kept trying, stopping once a day, sometimes twice, always at different times.

Joan texted a couple days later to say she could see and hear one, and I headed that way, but before I could get there she texted to say things had gone quiet.

One afternoon I parked the car in the cemetery and made myself sit there for half an hour, engine running to keep the AC going, which didn’t exactly feel close to nature, but it did provide a good view of a lot of a horizon untroubled by hawks.

All this time I was vacillating between whether it would turn out to be a Cooper’s hawk or a short-tailed hawk, the answer just waiting to be confirmed. I was leaning heavily toward Cooper’s, because of the nest three years ago and because they seemed more likely to nest in the middle of a block of houses. But then I was putting up blinds in my wife’s studio one morning and a short-tailed hawk, getting mobbed by a pair of gray kingbirds, flew right by the window.

It could have been one of the hawks from the nest. But it also could have been a non-breeding hawk that just decided to stay here for the summer.

Patience, I thought. Persistence. Keep putting one foot in front of the other and eventually you will get your answer.

Finally, one afternoon, looking up in the tree, I saw something that let me know my quest was over. It was a white-crowned pigeon, one of the jumpiest, most cautious, easiest-to-spook birds in the Florida Keys. It was sitting there, minding its own business, occasionally looking off in different directions, but not looking particularly concerned about its safety.

If the jumpiest bird I knew was sitting 3 feet from the nest, the hawks were no doubt long gone. No calling cards, no forwarding address.

Got a bird question you’re Some mysteries you’re dying to ask, or even just just stuck with. At least until mildly curious about? next year.

Email “Ask the Bird Geek” at mark@markhedden.com.

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

1

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

SMALL BUT MIGHTY KEY WEST GYMNAST TRAINS FOR U.S. NATIONAL TEAM WITH EYE ON 2028 OLYMPICS

1. Mia Puig offers an impromptu gymnastics demonstration in front of the Coast Guard Cutter Ingham at Truman Waterfront. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly 2. Mia isn’t the only one devoted to her gymnastics. Mom, Myra Puig, lets her daughter’s drive determine how far she’ll go.

2

W

ho would’ve thought a Key West’s Children’s Day — always held on that hungover Sunday after the Fantasy Fest parade — would produce a world-class gymnast with her eye on the 2028 Olympics?

Mia Puig was 4 when she saw a tumbling demonstration during Children’s Day at Bayview Park.

“That’s when I knew this was what I wanted to do,” said Mia, who’s now 11 and about to enter sixth grade while training with the U.S. national team in Indianapolis.

Her mom, Myra Puig, knew it as well when she saw her daughter’s drive for gymnastics.

“When she was 4, I was coaching her little soccer team, and she wouldn’t listen to me about soccer; she only did cartwheels.”

By the time Mia was 6, her family was planning to leave Key West for a few years in Miami, where Mia’s dad had better work opportunities. The family wasn’t overly excited about leaving the Keys, “so I promised Mia that when we moved, we’d find her a good gym for gymnastics.”

The coaches at the first gym they tried are now eating their words, and kicking themselves.

“They told me I was too chubby and not very talented,” Mia recalled on Monday at Truman Waterfront Park, where she performed a tumbling demonstration that made it obvious how wrong that first gym was.

“Then we tried a second gym, International Gymnastics, and after an hour there, Mia walked up to me and said, ‘I’m never leaving this gym,’” her mom said.

And they haven’t. Coaches Yanelda and Fernando Veliz, who coached Cuba’s national gymnastics team, have become the Puigs’ extended family, even coming home with them to the Keys to stay with Myra’s brother, Bill Lay and his wife, Amy, who own Key West’s La Trattoria, Virgilio’s martini bar and La Trattoria Oceanside.

“It was great when we competed against that first gym less than a year later, and Mia killed it,” Myra Puig said with the passion of a proud mother.

“Everyone kept asking, ‘Is that Mia?’ It felt so, so good.”

But Myra Puig is far from the hyper-competitive mom who pushes her daughter to the brink.

“No way, this is all her,” Myra Puig said. “Every year, I ask her, ‘Do you still want to do this?’ Because once she decides to retire, we can move back to the Keys. But I can tell how dedicated she is from her drive.

She wanted to spend two hours in the gym, then four hours, then five.

She’s been a virtual student since first grade, because she spends so much time training. Her brother, Julian, is two years older than her and plays ice hockey. So my husband and I divide and conquer.”

The drive has paid off for Mia, who is currently a Level 10 gymnast hoping to enter the Elite level, and currently training in Miami and Indianapolis, where Team USA trains for the Olympics.

“Most Level 10 gymnasts are 15 or so and hoping to be recruited for college, so she still has some time, and you have to be 16 to compete in the Olympics, so she’ll still be too young in 2024,” Myra Puig said.

“Every Level 10 gymnast wants to make Nationals, and I didn’t expect her to make it at all. I told her just to have fun trying.”

Then, in 2018, Mia made the National B Team and “worked her butt off to make it up to the A team,” Myra Puig said. “She was ultimately chosen as an alternate for the A team and competed in Nationals in May. A week later, she got an invitation to attend the USA Gymnastics Camp in Indianapolis, so now she spends a week every month or so training there, in the same gym as her heroes, Simone Biles and Laurie Hernandez, train. It’s been an amazing experience.”

Mia attends virtual school from 8 to 10 a.m., then trains from 10 a.m to 1 p.m., has lunch, trains from 2 to 5 p.m. and then finishes school from 5 to 6:30 p.m. She and other gymnasts do their schoolwork in a classroom Myra Puig, a teacher by trade, set up in an upstairs room at the gym, where she acts as a multi-grade teacher to provide a more traditional classroom experience for the gymnasts.

“But again, this is all her,” Myra Puig emphasized. “As soon as she’s finished, we’re finished — and we’re coming home to the Keys. But until then, we’re behind her 100%.”

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

T

‘WATER AND COLOR’ The art of Ann Irvine

SHANNON P. WILEY Shannon Wiley is a native Floridian born in Hialeah, Florida. He’s an artist, muralist, graphic designer, teacher and coach.

He currently lives in Marathon with his two children.

Besides painting, he enjoys all the wonders of the Florida Keys.

he Florida Keys are embodied by water and, of course, color.

We are surrounded by water and the places and personalities are unimaginably colorful, no matter which island you call home. Key West’s Ann Irvine has a seemingly endless collection of subjects she renders in watercolor. Irvine is completely selftaught as an artist and illustrator. She has a style unlike most painters, and her artwork captures the feeling and emotions of life in the Keys perfectly.

Her formal education is in criminology, in which she earned both undergraduate and master’s degrees from Florida State University. She was unable to find the position she once hoped for in the FBI. (The 1960s left little room for females in that field.) As a result, Ann joined the “Cayo Hueso” crowd back in 1965 when she first moved to the Keys.

“I surrounded myself with talented local artists from the very beginning and although I started with acrylic painting, I really took to watercolor years later,” said Irvine. “We painted outside all the time back then.”

This plein air style of painting (observational painting outdoors) is how many great artists began and it is still common to see artists in Key West painting in the parks or at local beaches. Irvine has local houses, hotels, hot-spots, landscapes, seascapes, and many iconic Key West landmarks in her extensive inventory of originals and prints. She uses a loose style with an edgy twist in both linework and color, making her work unique and extremely well sought after by collectors.

She and her husband and fellow artist Ron are two of the team of owners of Guild Hall Gallery located at 614 Duval Street in Old Town. She proudly partners with her son Capt. Scott Irvine (Time Flys Fishing), who is a guide and professional fly fisherman and a fellow artisan. Scott’s hand-made flies are often combined into Ann’s colorful flats fishing scenes brilliantly displayed in shadow box frames.

Irvine shows and sells her paintings at Guild Hall Gallery where she offers originals from $100 to $600.

She has hundreds of prints available as well, and these often sell for about $75. Her prints and paintings make great souvenirs, reminders of what life is like here in paradise.

“My favorite thing about being an artist is just being an entrepreneur and supporting myself with my art,” Irvine said. “I like to think it also makes me a good role model for my kids and for my grandkids.”

Irvine’s work ethic serves to complement the talent she has with water, color, and a little (brush) stroke of genius.

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

BRIEFLY

Marathon recipients: Island Community Church scholarship recipients from Marathon stand on the podium following graduation: Katia Nikiforova, left, Sara Gonzalez, Mary Ryder and Anthony Machado. CONTRIBUTED

ISLAND BOAT SHOW HELPS LAUNCH GRADUATES’ DREAMS

I

sland Community Church recently awarded $50,000 in college scholarships to deserving students in the Middle and Upper Keys. The scholarships are funded by proceeds of the 2021 Island Boat Show.

During the recent graduation events for Marathon and Coral Shores high schools, 27 high school seniors were announced as recipients of the Island Community Church Scholarship. In addition, 20 returning college students were awarded scholarships.

The awards, ranging from $500 to $2,000, will help students in their pursuit of a college education in the upcoming academic year. Recipients are invited to apply for scholarships again next year.

This is the second of what Island Community Church envisions as an ongoing scholarship program funded by the Island Boat Show, which is the largest in-water boat show in the Keys. With more than 90 boats, exhibitor booths and a silent auction, the 2021 show at Hawks Cay was the sixth consecutive event, and the most successful.

“We were blessed by the financial success of this year’s boat show,” said Pastor Trevor Mann. “One hundred percent of the proceeds are used for local scholarships and global and local missions and ministries. We are honored to give back to the community by investing in the future of our youth through the Island Community Church Scholarship.”

Qualifying for the scholarship required a comprehensive application and a virtual interview with the scholarship review team. Island Community Church pastor emeritus and review team member Tony Hammon said it was a pleasure getting to know the candidates.

“All were so engaging and showed such promise. I wish we could have awarded even more,” Hammon said. “From what I can tell from our interviews, the future is in very capable hands.”

The church intends to offer the scholarships again in 2022 and will use the 2022 Island Boat Show, scheduled for Jan. 21-23, 2022 at Hawks Cay, as the primary source of funding.

Island Community Church offers a worship service at 10 a.m. every Sunday morning, in person at 83250 Overseas Hwy or online via Facebook or YouTube. More information is at www.islandcommunitychurch.org. More about the Island Boat Show is at www. islandboatshow.com.

— Contributed

Facebook raffle to benefit Wesley House Family Services Wesley House Family Services is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and nurturing children and strengthening families throughout Monroe County with offices and service areas in Key West, Marathon and Key Largo. This Friday, June 25, a raffle benefiting Wesley House’s services will be held live on Facebook at noon. The tickets are $20 each with no maximum purchase level. The three prizes have up to a $3,250 value, including a two-night stay for two at the Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa, a two-night stay at Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo and a hand-painted kick bike by local artist Koz. FEMA approves grants worth over $6 million for Monroe County The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved a grant of $1,444,269 for the State of Florida to help Monroe County defray the costs of emergency response to Hurricane Irma in 2017. In addition, FEMA has approved a grant of $4,711,161 for the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative (FKEC) to mitigate erosion and substantially reduce the vulnerability of its transmission line to future storms.

FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse the county for donated resources provided by nonprofit and charitable organizations, including equipment, meals, water, clothing, hygiene kits and other supplies. The county also utilized more than 23,000 hours of donated labor to assist with the disaster response. Under the Public Assistance program, eligible donated resources may be credited toward the nonfederal share of FEMA grant costs.

Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal

by FKEC after Hurricane Irma in 2017. The grant covers the relocation and replacement of 37 transmission poles and three distribution pole structures over a twomile area in the Sea Oats area, on Lower Matecumbe Key in the Village of Islamorada.

The HMGP is an important source of federal disaster assistance. Program funding may become available after the president declares a major disaster, with a goal of strengthening communities by improving buildings and critical infrastructure. A 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that one dollar spent on hazard mitigation saves more than six dollars of recovery and rebuilding costs.

United Way funds SOS Foundation food distribution Star of the Sea Foundation (SOS) has announced a donation of $18,750 from United Way of Collier and the Keys (UWCK) toward 2021-22 Monroe County Healthy Food Recovery and Distribution efforts. The county simultaneously boasts the highest food cost index and highest cost of living in the entire state, leaving many “asset limited, income constrained, employed” (ALICE) families unable to afford healthy food.

By working with non-profit Farm Share and local grocers such as Publix and Winn Dixie, SOS redirects perfectly edible fresh produce, proteins, and staple food items each week from dumpsters and landfills to the tables of thousands of families, children, and seniors across the Keys. The funding granted by UWCK will furnish 75% of Farm Share capacity-building agreement.

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

HONORARY CONCH

Mayor Michelle Coldiron presents the Monroe County Honorary Conch certificate to Keys resident Sandy Riegor, right. Riegor has lived on Duck Key since 1993. She has been a home care physical therapist in the Keys for 25 years, helping patients following illness, injury or surgery. She was a member of the Zonta Club of Marathon for 20 years and devoted many years in serving their mission to empower women and children. CONTRIBUTED

GRAND OPENING

Melissa Reed, second from left, cuts the grand opening ribbon at her new Marathon boutique, Curvy Conch Clothing. She is flanked by Marathon Chamber of Commerce CEO Daniel Samess, chamber president Karen Thurman and chamber ambassador Sandra Bradshaw. The new boutique is located adjacent to Publix in Marathon. CONTRIBUTED

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

1

2

3

PADDLES & PEDALS PAIR UP TO FIGHT CANCER

CASTAWAYS AGAINST CANCER KAYAK & BICYCLE FROM MIAMI TO KEY WEST

T

hey did it again. Cancerfighting kayakers with the Castaways Against Cancer paddled 160 miles over seven days from Miami to Key West. Covering 18 to 27 miles a day, this year’s event raised more than $160,000 for cancer research at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at University of Miami, which matches every dollar donated.

A team of cyclists joined the challenge this year, going the same distance and adding tens of thousands of dollars to this year’s fundraising total.

High school teacher Steve O’Brien created the event in 2000 after losing both his parents to cancer and finding solace in his new kayaking hobby. He enlisted three teacher friends from Christopher Columbus High School in Miami and their first trip raised $10,000 for the American Cancer Society. The first team camped each night of their

trip, battling fatigue, mosquitoes, wind and currents.

More than 20 years later, the Castaways have supportive sponsors that provide hotel rooms each night throughout the Keys. Among the paddlers is Marathon’s Suzy Curry, who paddles “just” 110 miles of the trip along the Keys island chain.

The event has now raised $1.2 million for cancer research.

The team left Miami’s Castaway Beach at dawn on June 12 this year and arrived at Key West’s Smathers Beach at 2 p.m. Friday, June 18, exhausted but exhilarated.

“Cancer affects all of us. Cancer leaves scars – physical and emotional – on its victims and their loved ones. And too often, people we love die from cancer. We paddle for every person who has heard the words, ‘You have cancer,’” states the Castaways’ website at castawaysagainstcancer.com.

— Weekly staff report

4

1. Fourteen paddlers were happy to leave their kayaks behind and join the celebration on Smathers Beach Friday, June 18. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly 2. Paddler Paul Kumer celebrates the end of the ‘toughest trip he’ll ever love.’

3. Anthony Berger said he paddles in honor of his parents, both of whom died of cancer.

4. Paddler Roger Dabdab receives a warm welcome, celebrating more than 20 years of the Castaways Against Cancer’s kayak trip from Miami to Key West.

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

THINK OF BLOOD PRESSURE LIKE IT’S PLUMBING

Hypertension is akin to pipes under too much pressure

R

ecently, a patient and I were discussing blood pressure and medications to treat it. At the end of the visit, the person mentioned reading my columns in the Keys Weekly newspaper.

I asked what topic to cover next and my patient immediately replied, “Blood pressure, what the heck?!”

What is the big deal with blood presDR. JOHN sure? In a nutshell, your circulatory system, WOLTZ specifically the arterial-oxygen delivery side, is similar to your water pipes in your house. … is a preventative The pipes have a rated maximum pressure; health physithe appliances they deliver water to have cian with Baptist been designed to handle up to a certain Health Primary Care in Marathon. amount of pressure as well.

What would happen if Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority decided to increase the pressure above the max? Some people may enjoy the increased pressure coming from their shower head, the irrigation system may finish a little quicker and reach a little bit farther, but then, like a horror movie … occasionally a dishwasher would fail, a pipe would break, etc. Sooner or later, everyone would start to experience failures, either in the pipes or the appliances. Eventually we would all be without fresh water as the system itself would fail.

It is the same thing with blood pressure. Our “pipes” and “appliances’’ are designed to function in a certain range of blood pressure. The highest recorded pressure in a study of power lifters was 480/350 mmHg, but that was a transient maximum and quickly dropped. Recently the American Heart Association published the “2020 International Society of Hypertension Global Hypertension Practice Guidelines” which defines hypertension as systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or more, and/or diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or more. It is recommended to get multiple blood pressure readings and not to diagnose based on a single day’s blood pressure reading. Your provider may even have you collect blood pressure readings at home or obtain a 24-hour ambulatory study, which is the most accurate.

But, what’s the big deal? Going back to the pipe/appliance analogy, it isn’t fun to have your pipe break in your house, and it also isn’t fun to have your arteries break! Briefly, the wide ranging effects of sustained hypertension are artery damage, aneurysm development, coronary artery disease, enlarged heart muscle, heart failure, TIA, stroke, vascular dementia, cognitive impairment — and those are considered the macrovascular effects. The microvascular effects include kidney damage, kidney failure, retinal damage, fluid under the retina and optic nerve damage. Last but not least, men can experience erectile dysfunction.

Ironically, the same things I seem to mention in almost every column also help with blood pressure control: healthy diet, exercise, maintain a good weight, sleep, keep stress low and get outside and experience nature. It won’t hurt to see your primary care provider at least once a year for a physical.

Have a great week, and be healthier today than you were yesterday!

— Do you have a health topic to suggest to the doctor? Email sara@keysweekly.com.

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

1912: THE ARRIVAL OF HENRY FLAGLER, KEY LIME PIE, AND THE COMPLETION OF THE OVER-SEA RAILROAD

BRAD BERTELLI ... is the curator for Islamorada’s Keys History & Discovery Center.

A published author of six books, his favorite subjects are Indian Key and skunk apes.

Henry Flagler arrives by rail in Key West on Jan. 22, 1912. CONTRIBUTED

H

istory is interesting. Well, history can be interesting. Indeed, some people find it more interesting than others. Reading a list of dates associated with specific, generally notable events is not very interesting. However, garnish those dates like a Michelin star-rated chef presents a perfectly toasted grilled cheese sandwich, and that list of dates is going to appear as something of note. Sprinkling in a few facts helps. Pictures add something. Connect a date with an event in the context of a larger story, and it might elicit a few historical oohs and aahs.

That’s what we’re going to do here. The date will be 1912, a year when several notable historical events occurred. The Boston Red Sox’s home field, Fenway Park, was just opened. The Girl Scouts of America were founded, the Titanic sank after it struck an iceberg on April 14, the Dixie Cup was invented and Zane Grey published “Riders of the Purple Sage.” However, fans of the Key West Extension of Henry Flagler's Florida East Coast Railway might recognize 1912 as the first time Flagler rode his train from mainland Florida to Key West.

The Jan. 22, 1912 event is well-documented, with newspaper accounts and pictures showing thousands of people gathered around the train tracks to celebrate.

Flagler’s arrival on that Monday morning is undoubtedly the most celebrated event in the history of the train line.

One of the people in attendance that day was 12-yearold Marvin Thompson, the son of the man who founded Key West’s Thompson Cigar Company. The company, established in 1915, remains today the oldest mail-order cigar company in the world.

Marvin would record his memories of that day in a story called “The First and Last Trains” that appeared in the Key West Citizen’s March 6, 1967 edition. His observation about the food that was served that day provides some interesting details about the culinary history of the Keys. He wrote, “Many tents had been erected on the man-made desert that was Trumbo for the comfort of the thirsty and hungry throngs. Baked ham and pork sandwiches were consumed as fast as the church ladies could turn them out. Wooden wine barrels filled with Key lime juice mixed with sugar, syrup and cooled with chunks of ice made a limeade that could not be equaled.

Guava pie and fresh coconut ice cream also hit the spot.

Other raters on the menu were turtle stew, crawfish enchiladas and conch chowder, topped off with genuine Key lime pie.”

Focusing, for a moment, on his mention of Key lime pie, in 1912, the sweetly tart dessert synonymous with the Florida Keys would have simply been called lime pie.

The addition of “Key” to modify the lime’s identification was essentially a marketing ploy established in 1939 to draw attention to limes grown along the island chain. By 1969, when Thompson wrote the article, the common term for the pie had become Key lime pie. Whatever it was called, the lime pie was a popular staple in the Florida Keys that dates back, at the very least, to 1912.

Stella Parks questioned the origins of the quintessential Florida Keys dessert in her 2017 book “BraveTart: Iconic American Desserts.” She claims the Conch Republic’s national pie was invented in 1931. Her more outrageous claim was that Key lime pie was created in a New York test kitchen! Clearly, she was mistaken. However, the Key lime narrative, engaging as it seems (at least to me), is not the reason to focus on the arrival of Henry Flagler aboard his private rail car in Key West on Jan. 22, 1912.

At first glance, the 1912 arrival date seems to indicate the completion of what had been dubbed “Flagler’s Folly” by his detractors. However, when Flagler arrived on that Monday morning, the Over-Sea Railroad was still not technically finished. Because his health was failing, there was a push to finish enough of the railroad for him to be able to experience the dream ride of his life aboard his train from the mainland to the southernmost terminus at Key West.

However, in 1912, the train used several temporary bridges, including the Channel 2 and Channel 5 bridges that connected Lower Matecumbe to Craig Key. When the Flagler Special rocked, rolled, clicked and clacked over these two wooden trestle bridges, the permanent concrete Channel 2 and Channel 5 bridges were still under construction. Though the train continued to travel back and forth between Key West and the mainland daily, it would not be until 1916 that the last of the permanent bridges were completed and the Key West Extension of Henry Flagler’s East Coast Railway was officially completed. Henry Flagler would pass away at the age of 83, on May 20, 1913.

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

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veryone’s definition of “patriotic” differs, but when it comes to American cinema, there are plenty of movie choices that embody the spirit of Independence. From war films to stories of freedom, cinema has long celebrated the Fourth of July as a holiday to commemorate blockbuster movies. This week we break away from our attempt at humorous anecdotes and offer 10 films leading up to July 4. Here are some of our staff’s picks for:

PATRIOTIC MOVIES FOR JULY 4TH 10. “Lincoln” (2012) — Why? Because Spielberg, Daniel DayLewis and other legendary cast members recreate one of the most defining moments in American history. The story of Lincoln’s struggles, from the battlefield to his own cabinet; eradicating slavery and unifying a divided nation — is perhaps the most defining story of our nation’s past.

9. “Born on the Fourth of July” (1989) — Why? Because Oliver Stone’s anti-war depiction offers a raw look inside the atrocities of the Vietnam War and the horrors so many soldiers brought home.

8. ”Glory” (1989) — Why? Because this is one of the most powerful war movies ever made. And it is the film that announced the brilliance of Denzel Washington.

7. “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington: (1939) — Why? This is our Key West publisher’s favorite.

And the political lessons within the movie are just as relevant in 2021 as they were nearly a century ago.

6. “Forrest Gump” (1994) — Why? The soundtrack alone places this film on the list. And the fact that it’s regarded as one of the greatest movies in history doesn’t hurt.

5. “Independence Day” (1996) — Why? The title says it all. Even before CGI and green screens were enhanced, this sci-fi classic offered everything that should be on a summer blockbuster’s resume.

4. “Band of Brothers” (miniseries) HBO (2001) — Why? Regarded as one of the most accurate depictions of World War II in screen history. In our opinion, it should be required viewing for any American 18 or older.

3. “Top Gun” (1986) — Why? Why not? Tom Cruise stars in an epic high-adrenaline blockbuster that defined blockbusters. Prepare for the sequel.

2. “Moonrise Kingdom” (2012) — Why? Because this Wes Anderson classic is a coming-of-age tale set in the mid ‘60s, tackling the difficult themes of sexuality, mental health and social change in an evolving nation.

34

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

WHAT THE STARS HAVE IN STORE

REDA WIGLE The tides of psychic intuition, acute sensitivity and passive aggressive tendencies have come ashore with Cancer season.

Cancer governs the realms of domesticity and familiarity. With its ties to the eternal past and the nostalgic totems of it, its season reminds us that objects hold energy that can bolster or bind us.

The tension that exists in Cancer folk and their ruling season is a pull between the steady need to be needed and the waxing and waning modalities of the human experience.

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 On her 50th birthday, fashion icon Iman received her AARP card in the mail. “I hurled it in the trash, put on something fabulous and had a decadent meal. The thought of putting it in my wallet felt like a concession.” Should anyone threaten to define you, reject their boundary lines by being swiftly, wantonly and unapologetically yourself.

Notable Cancer: Larry David/ July 2, 1947 LEO July 23 to Aug. 22 Chef, butter advocate and fellow Leo Julia Child advised, “You’ll never know everything about anything, especially something you love.” I encourage you to cheerfully and vigorously investigate without threat of total discovery.

To know what you love and to stand in the sun of its mystery is a privilege in itself.

Notable Leo: Isabel Allende/ Aug. 2, 1942

VIRGO Aug. 23 to Sept. 22 Cancer season illuminates your 11th house of friendship, community and belonging. Self-anointed outsiders, Virgo folks tend to fend for themselves and take pride in their hard-won survival. But look to those around you for insight in how to structure your life to maximize your time and reap radical joy. It’s not enough to make it through, you must enjoy the going.

Notable Virgo: Yvonne de Carlo/ Sept. 1, 1922 LIBRA Sept. 23 to Oct. 22 Controversial Romanian writer and fellow Libra Mihail Sebastian writes, “You will face yourself again in a moment of terror and will learn once again that old lesson you keep forgetting, that you can escape from anywhere, but you cannot flee your own self.”

Rather than think of solitude and stillness as things to avoid, try instead to make of your own self a place that will warmly, indelibly welcome you home.

Notable Libra: Gottfried Heinwein/Oct. 8, 1948 SCORPIO Oct. 23 to Nov. 21 Late physicist, rancher, barkeep, brewer, millionaire and Scorpio George Stranahan grew up rich and lonely and viewed science as a passage for objective understanding. May all of your observing and unraveling be done in the pursuit of absolute understanding.

Notable Scorpio: RuPaul/ Nov. 17, 1960 SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22 to Dec. 21 Brazilian writer and fellow archer Clarice Lispector notes, “Everything in the world began with a yes. One molecule said yes to another molecule and life was born. But before prehistory there was the prehistory of prehistory

and there was the never and there was the yes.” In honor of all beginnings and as an affront to every never was, initiate your next fresh start with a bright, clear, fresh plucked from the plains of the possible, yes.

Notable Sagittarius: Sinead O’Connor/Dec. 8, 1966 CAPRICORN Dec. 22 to Jan. 19 Conflict creates opportunity, Capricorn. As a cardinal earth sign, difficult conversations and trying interactions may have led to severance rather than evolution in past relationships. It need not be so. With the sun moving through your seventh house of partnership, discord will at best build respect between you and your significant other and at minimum create an adversarial and intoxicating kind of sexual tension. No one loses if everyone gets laid.

Notable Capricorn: Paul Bezos/ Jan. 12, 1964 AQUARIUS Jan. 20 to Feb. 18 Trust does not come easily to you, water bearer, but current planetary placements and the lunar pull of Cancer season are conspiring to build your faith in the stranger that is yourself. Whether it’s the soft knot of intuition, a fresh ache or a corporeal craving, answer the call and heed the warning. Listen to your knowing, it will tell you no lies.

Notable Aquarius: Sam Cooke/ Jan. 22, 1931 PISCES Feb. 19 to March 20 My new favorite Pisces said, “Benevolence comes from abundance.” Cancer season activates your fifth house of gambling, the exalted inner child and joie de vivre. It also positions you to collect all manner of abundance.

Your ability to be kind and to give of yourself is in direct proportion to your ability to receive what you wholly deserve and acknowledge

the riches you already possess.

Notable Pisces: Wyatt Earp/ March 19, 1848 ARIES March 21 to April 19 Hot tip: You can’t be hateful and grateful at the same time, my fire babies. Surrender the petty tallying and grudges that have grown old. Holding on to an idea of what you have lost inhibits you from accepting what could yet be yours. Lay down your weapons of defense and leave your hands open to receive.

Notable Aries: Angus Young/ March 31, 1955 TAURUS April 20 to May 20 Artist Keith Haring’s preferred medium was drawing in snow. The immediate erasure of the images freed him to create more authentic, spontaneous work. “When you know the work you’re creating is temporary, you realize you are reacting instead of acting. Responding instead of contriving.” In the grand scheme, all of our lives are melting snow. May the knowledge of your destined disappearance push you to respond and create without fear or hesitation.

Notable Taurus: Luther Vandross/April 20, 1951 GEMINI May 21 to June 20 Lisa del Giocondo’s name is not as familiar, but her face was the model for DaVinci’s Mona Lisa.

The duality of her expression and the secret behind her eyes have haunted observers for the better part of five centuries. I was thus unsurprised to learn that Giocondo was a Gemini. Who but your ilk could hold the pose of pain and hope in the same space? See yourself made whole in the image of this woman who was, as she appears, the totality of rich and disparate factions.

Notable Gemini: Azealia Banks/ May 31, 1991

35

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

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36

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

My daughter, Jeri, makes me so proud. She is so smart and loving, and I cherish every moment we get to spend together. MIKE GOLDBERG/Contributed

I had to go back in the closet to serve my country in the U.S. Navy.

But luckily, during my first year, they repealed Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and I no longer had to live a lie. CHRISTIAN PROBST/Contributed

Kids make you see things in a different way. KELLI McCLINTOCK/Contributed Great day of diving with a father and son duo Ira and Russel. “We caught a ton of bugs, and Russel shot his personal best snapper. Dad also showed the lionfish who’s boss.”

TONY YOUNG/Contributed

I was bullied, chased home from school, called names and had many other experiences, all because I wasn’t ‘normal.’ Normal doesn’t even exist. By my 16th birthday, I wanted to do something special, something big. That night I transitioned. I remember going to Rainbow in Searstown and trying on my first dress and feeling beautiful. CHARLII CLARK/ Contributed

My son was 10 when his friends, including a boy named ‘Z,’ came over. Z saw my room full of tutus and rainbows and his eyes widened.

He asked his mom if he could try one on. ‘Only if Miss Jenn says it’s OK,’ his mom answered. I just asked, ‘What color?’”

Ten minutes later Z emerged wearing a rainbow tutu, heels and carrying a showbiz cane, announcing himself as Black Mamba. My son and the other boys were outside playing ball.

My son yelled into the house, ‘Come on, Black Mamba, we’re waiting on you.’ Kids don’t see differences, they learn them. And that exchange was one of my proudest moments. The smile on Z’s face is what Key West Pride means to me. JENN POITIER/ Contributed

Miracles do happen. MICHAEL ABBAS/ Contributed

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

O

ur themes for JUNE are PAPAS and PRIDE. In JULY, we’re highlighting what SUMMER means to you.

We’re thinking: BBQs, sandbar trips, scenes from diving, family vacations and even a hurricane party or two. Send us the shots that make you smile and think about this sunny season.

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.

37

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

1140 Bulevar De Palmas Marathon, Florida Keys

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TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY | LUNCH 11-2:30 | DINNER 5 -10

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Congratulations to our buyers on the completion of this transaction!

Energy & experience sets our team apart.

We get your property SOLD; NOT just listed. Give US a call today!

Rick Servais & Monica Barrett Team REALTORS® Rick - 305.731.5010 | rservais@cbschmitt.com Monica - 305.433.0349 | monica@cbschmitt.com 11050 Overseas Highway. Marathon FL 33050

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 24, 2021

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39

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

Residential Middle Keys Key/Island 2021 % TOTAL ACTIVE Marathon 136 -47 Key Colony 35 -59 Duck Key 32 -44 Conch Key 1 -85 Long Key 1 -94 TOTALS 205 -52

CHARITY OF THE MONTH

Congratulations to the Middle and Lower Keys Association of Realtors (MLKAR) 2021 scholarship recipients Katerina Nikiforova, left, Sara Gonzalez, Jonathan Pitchford, and Kiera Wicht (not pictured).

The awards — totalling $6,000 — were presented on class night by president Lisa Joseph and directors Crystal Gutierrez and Laurie Keiling. CONTRIBUTED

2021 % NEW LISTINGS 49 40 11 -21 11 83 0 0 071 25

May 2021

2021 % NUMBER SOLD 51 410 16 433 13 1200 0 0 1 -66 81 376

2021 % AVG. SALES PRICE 764,762 21 690,788 34 833,808 38 0 0 565,000 44 713,590 34

Residential Lower Keys May 2021 Key/Island 2021 % TOTAL ACTIVE Big Pine Key 38 -63 No Name Key 0 Big Torch Key 0 Middle Torch 1 + Little Torch 21 -30 Ramrod Key 19 -9 Summerland 30 -30 Sugarloaf Key 21 -55 Big Coppitt 24 -33 TOTALS 154 -47

2021 % NEW LISTINGS 18 63 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 100 9 350 5 -16 5 -16 9 28 54 50

2021 % NUMBER SOLD 19 171 0 0 0 0 0 11 1000 7 133 3 + 5 -28 10 233 55 139

2021 % AVG. SALES PRICE 648,276 -5 0 0 0 0 0 723,328 41 781,429 48 961,667 + 927,800 -7 705,800 57 791,383 28

TABLE KEY: % indicates percentage increase/decrease over 2020 data

40

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of PopeScarbrough Architects located at 610 White Street, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Thomas E. Pope, President on behalf Thomas E. Pope, P.A., a Florida for profit company Publish: June 17, 2021 and June 24, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of MARC located at PO Box 428, Key West, FL 33041 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Monroe Association For Retarded Citizens, Inc. Publish: June 24, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Stone Crab Outlet located at 38 Coco Plum Drive, in the County of Monroe, in the City of Marathon, Florida 33050 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated on this 28th day of May, 2021 at Marathon, FL. By: D & D Seafood Corporation Publish: June 24, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of The Jerk located at 508 Southard Street, Suite 101, Monroe County in the City of Key West, Florida 33040-6989 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Key West, Florida this 23rd day of June, 2021.

By: Munchie Factory Llc Publish:

LEGAL NOTICES June 24, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING: MONROE COUNTY CONTRACTORS EXAMINING BOARD MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Notice is Hereby Given To Whom it may concern, that on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB) will hold a scheduled meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida commencing at 9:30 A.M. This meeting is to hear the following: any person(s) to come before the board; any reports from Monroe County Assistant Attorney; any reports from Monroe County Building Official; any reports from Staff.

The Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (“CEB”) will review Certificate of Competency Trade Applications and public participation in this meeting may be conducted via Communications Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform, during the scheduled meeting.

Zoom Webinar information will be made available on the Monroe County Web Calendar.

PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTE SECTION 286.0105, be advised that, if a person decides to appeal the decision made by the Contractors’ Examining Board with respect to any matter considered at today’s hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special recommendations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

NOTICE: It shall be the responsibility of each

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

Respondent or other person addressing the Board to have an interpreter if the party is not able to understand or speak the English language.

Rick Griffin, Building Official/ Board Secretary Maria Partington, Senior Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building Department Publish: June 24, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH Publish: June 24, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE CASE NO.: 2020-CP-000198-K IN RE: ESTATE OF NIDIA FUENTES BORDERS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of NIDIA FUENTES BORDERS, deceased, whose date of death was April 30, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 302 Fleming 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 this notice is: June 24, 2021.

Co-Personal Representatives: Athena Skellion Borders 11005 Pete Carr Ridge Road Silver Point, TN 38582 Joanna Hoffman Borders 9507 SW 118th Court Miami, FL 33186 Attorney for Personal Representative: IRAMA VALDES, P.A. IRAMA VALDES, ESQUIRE Florida Bar No. 85543 11020 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 204 Miami, FL 33176 T (305) 477-1111 (786) 4414404 ivaldes@probatelawmiami. com Publish:

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF VARIANCE HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning & Zoning Board of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Public Hearing on Wednesday July 21, 2021 at 9:30 A.M., Key Colony Beach City Hall commission room, to hear a Variance Request from Michael & Elizabeth Raymond owners of 261 11th Street.

Social distancing and other Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Florida Department of Health (FDOH) guidelines pertaining to COVID-19 will be followed and observed. This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings. Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may join the Zoom Meeting https://us02web. zoom.us/j/82313476504.

Applicant requests a Variance to Code of Ordinance Chapter 5, Section 50 and 51 for the installation of a new sheet pile seawall in front of existing collapsing seawall.

Interested parties may appear at the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose 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.

If you are unable to attend the Hearing on Wednesday July 21, 2021 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.

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

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF VARIANCE HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday July 22, 2021 at 9:30 A.M., Key Colony Beach City Hall commission room, to hear a Variance Request from Michael & Elizabeth Raymond owners of 261 11th Street. Social distancing and other Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Florida Department of Health (FDOH) guidelines pertaining to COVID-19 will be followed and observed. This meeting will also be available virtually via Zoom Meetings. Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may join the Zoom Meeting https://us02web. zoom.us/j/84166388095.

Applicant requests a Variance to Code of Ordinance Chapter 5, Section 50 and 51 for the installation of a new sheet pile seawall in front of existing collapsing seawall.

Interested parties may appear at the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose 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.

If you are unable to attend the Hearing on Thursday July 22, 2021 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 24, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY,

LEGAL NOTICES June 24 & July 1, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-000044-M IN RE: THE ESTATE OF FRANCES J. GOHEEN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of FRANCES J. GOHEEN, deceased, whose date of death was June 27, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, File No.: 2021-CP-000044-M, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is June 24, 2021.

Co-Personal Representatives: Howard M. Goheen, III David L. Goheen Angela D. Goheen Estate of Frances J. Goheen c/o Cynthia F. Civil, Esq. CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A.

Meeting Notice Monroe County Land Authority The Monroe County Land Authority Advisory Committee will meet in the Monroe Regional Service Center (State Building) located at 2796 Overseas Highway, Suite 104, Marathon, Florida on June 30, 2021 beginning at 9:00 a.m. The agenda is available online at www.monroecounty-fl.gov or by contacting the Monroe County Land Authority office at 305-295-5180.

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 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

LEGAL NOTICES 5196 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050 (305) 743-5884 cfc@ccivillaw.com Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives: CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, ESQ. Florida Bar No.: 0082988 CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A. 5196 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-5884 Email: cfc@ccivillaw.com Publish: June 24 & July 1, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-000119-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF LOUISE M. EDWARDS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of LOUISE M. EDWARDS, deceased, whose date of death was February 24, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, File No.: 2021-CP-000119-K, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is June 24, 2021.

Personal Representative: Cindy Baker Estate of Louise M. Edwards c/o Cynthia F. Civil, Esq. CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A. 5196 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050 (305) 743-5884 cfc@ccivillaw.com Attorney for Personal Representative: CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, ESQ. Florida Bar No.: 0082988 CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A. 5196 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-5884 Email: cfc@ccivillaw.com Publish:

41

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES June 24 & July 1, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO. 21-CP-000069-K JUDGE KOENIG IN RE: ESTATE OF GORDON FRIIS-PETTITT, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Gordon Friis-Pettitt, deceased, whose date of death was February 15, 2021, and the last four digits of whose social security number are -8797, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court 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 24, 2021.

Personal Representative: Debra Friis-Pettitt Attorney for Personal Representative: Amy C. Kelley, Esq. Fla. Bar No. 119148 KELLEY & KELLEY, P.L. 43 Cincinnati Avenue St. Augustine, FL 32084 Tel: (904) 819-9706 Fax: (904) 819-9707 sean@kelleyandkelley.com amy@kelleyandkelley.com pleadings@kelleyandkelley. com Publish: June 24 & July 1, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-000019-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF FELIPE JESUS DIAZ, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of FELIPE JESUS DIAZ, deceased, whose date of death was April 21, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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 24, 2021.

Personal Representative: EVELIN MELTZ 157 NE 104 Street Miami Shores, Florida 33138 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 Secondary E-Mail: eca@ suarezlawyers.com Publish: June 24 & July 1, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

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 24, 2021.

Personal Representative: Curtis M. Pesanka 4001 Fairfield Avenue Munhall, PA 15120 Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony A. Velardi, Esq. Florida Bar No. 113917 Patricia Gessel, Esq. Florida Bar No. 84328 Patricia Gessel, PL 99530 Overseas Hwy., Suite 2 Key Largo, FL 33037 Tel: (305) 453-5277 Fax: (305) 453-4985 E-Mail: anthony@keylargolaw. com & alonso.at12@aol.com Publish: June 24 & July 1, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

FOREVER BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: June 17, 2021.

Person Giving Notice: R. Thomas Ward P.O. Box 2954 Aspen, CO 81612 Attorney for Person Giving Notice: James J. Dorl, Esq. Florida Bar No. 618403 JAMES J. DORL, P.A. 5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 12 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: 305-743-6565 Publish: June 17 & 24, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE FILE NO.: 21-CP-000064-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ANITA PESANKA, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ANITA PESANKA, deceased, whose date of death was December 12, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Hwy., Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-043-M IN RE: ESTATE OF DAVID ALAN WARD, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS (SUMMARY ADMINISTRATION) TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE: You are hereby notified that an Order of Summary Administration has been entered in the estate of DAVID ALAN WARD, deceased, File Number 2021-CP-043-M, by the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050; that the total cash value of the estate is $12,545.00, and that the names and addresses of those to whom it has been assigned by such Order are: R. Thomas Ward P.O. Box 2954 Aspen, CO 81612 ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All creditors of the decedent and 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 estate of the decedent must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-53-P DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF HELEN M. BRAGASSA Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Helen M. Bragassa, deceased, whose date of death was May 5, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 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 first publication of this notice is: June 17, 2021.

Personal Representative: Robert C. Wagner P.O. Box 1422 Islamorada, FL 33036 Attorney for Personal Representative: RICHARD E. WARNER Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: June 17 & 24, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES 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 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 7th day of July, 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: LOT 7 AND THE WEST ½

LEGAL NOTICES

BOATS FOR SALE

OF LOT 8, BLOCK 13, OF PLANTATION KEY COLONY ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 3, PAGE 182 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. Pursuant to ORDER GRANTING PLAINTIFF’S MOTION TO RESCHEDULE FORECLOSURE SALE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 12th day of April 2021 Style of which is: THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALT, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2006-OC4, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006OC4 Plaintiff VS. JOSE COTO, et. al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 44-2019-CA64-P WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 23rd day of June, 2021.

KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an 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 24 & July 1, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

1999 World Cat 27' with twin 175 Suzuki motors.

Runs good.

Dual stations. Located on Duck Key. $40,000 OBO 305-481-1316

AUTOS WANTED ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483 AUTOS FOR SALE 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan Sport, Silver, 90,000 miles, runs great, cold A/C. Located in Marathon. $2,300 OBO 305-417-0871 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!

Place your Car For Sale ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and Sell Your Car!!

BOATS FOR SALE 2004 Pro Kat CC twin 115 hp Yamaha hard T top re powered 2011 then low hours out of water since 2017 outriggers electronics radar 2 gps 400 + local fishing marks fish finder with side scan and down imaging.

Needs minor repairs and TLC to bring boat back to fantastic fishing boat it used to be. Looking for offers over $15,000.

Email for more details and viewing in Marathon. rdngd@aol.com.

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 a Fulltime and Part-time Office Assistant.

Computer and people skills required.

Accounting/ Bookkeeping experience desired. Please call for an interview appointment 8 4 3 - 6 9 6 - 5 2 1 7

Help wanted - Big Time Discount Bait and Tackle in Marathon- competitive wages and working 2535 hrs a week. Contact George 305-289-0199 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 i m m e d i a t e l y TOP PAY! Email: admin@ checkelectricllc.com Call: 305-292-3369 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

42

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOUSING FOR RENT

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

tips. Apply in person at Cabana Club, 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call April (305) 393-0631.

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!!

Come Join Our Family and Have Fun At Work!

Hiring: Host, Hostess & Servers - Full &/or parttime. AM & PM Shifts.

Apply in person at Castaway Restaurant, end of 15th Street, Oceanside, Marathon or email: lobstercrawl@gmail.com.

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!

NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for all shifts. Please apply in person at 8919 Overseas Highway in Marathon.

LOT FOR SALE

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.

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 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

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!!

HOBBIES/COLLECT. PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches.

Call 305-743-4578 HOUSING FOR RENT Place your Housing For Rent ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

2 BR / 1 BA Unfurnished home available in Marathon. Long term. $2,200.00/month First/ Last 305-417-0346 RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!

LOT FOR SALE 100' x 100' - Venetian Shores, MM 86, Snake Creek Bridge views.

Asking $1.3 Million. Call 5 6 1 - 5 7 9 - 8 3 9 9

305.743.0844

Senior Male Looking for Studio/1 Bedroom apartment in the Key Largo - Tavernier area for Jan., Feb. and March 2022. No Kids, No Pets, Non-Smoker, No Visitors, Quiet Guy. Contact Dick at 607-624-3570 or dfroiseth@gmail.com

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!

YARD SALES

FULL TIME OPENING CUS TOMER S ERV I CE RE PRE S ENT A T I V E Coordinate aircraft transactions with customers and the line service technicians

HOUSEKEEPER WANTED

Professional customer service skills and the ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and overtime as needed, are required

Full-time reliable housekeeper needed for household in Key Colony Beach. Permanent employment – 6 days/week.

Must have transportation.

Hablamos Espanol.

Pay rate $17-$19/hr depending on experience, excellent benefits, and a fun work environment

Call 305-731-1133

Contact Will Zimdars will@marathonaviation.com EOE/Drug-free workplace

Fri,June 25 & Sat, June 26 from 9am-2pm. Furniture, various household items, counter-top kitchen appliances, clothing and misc. items. Everything must go! 1250 A 25th Street Ocean, Marathon Rain or Shine Saturday, June 26, 2021 8:00am to 3:00pm 116 Avenue E Marathon, FL 33050 (off Coco Plum Drive) Place your YARD SALE ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and Sell Your Stuff!

PT CASHIER PT DOCKHAND Apply in person Pancho’s Fuel 1280 Oceanview Avenue, Marathon

305-743-2281

SUDOKU DIRECTOR OF MUSIC MINISTRY The Basilica of Saint Mary Star of the Sea is looking for someone who will continue to ignite the hearts of parishioners with the fire of Christ's love through the gift of music. The Music Minister performs all duties and responsibilities in alignment with the mission, vision and values of the Catholic Archdiocese of Miami.

Requirements for Candidates: Minimum of Bachelor’s Degree in Music or equivalent. Previous employment as part or full-time Director of Music Ministries preferred.

Experience as a part-time or volunteer musician may be considered. Fluency in Spanish is preferred. For complete job description go to: www.miamiarch.org/CatholicDiocese.php?op=Job_Openings To apply: Send resume with cover letter to Rev. John Baker, Pastor, at stmary@stmarykeywest.com.

Subject line should read: Parish Director of Music Ministry.

Deadline to apply: July 8, 2021.

SOLUTION

FULL TIME OPENING L I NE SERV I CE P E RSONNE L Greet and fuel aircraft Prior aviation experience preferred Clean driving record required Pay rate $17-$19/hr depending on experience, excellent benefits, and a fun work environment

Contact Will Zimdars will@marathonaviation.com EOE/Drug-free workplace

43

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

CES KEY WEST & MARATHON

NOW HIRING

Is hiring for all FULL-TIME positions:

Warehouse / Driver Counter Sales Branch and Operation Managers with Electrical/Distribution Experience

To apply please contact us or email resume to: CES Key West Ph. (305) 783-5135 Em. Keywest0628@Cityelectricsupply.Com CES Marathon Ph. (786) 652-2542 Em. Marathon0542@Cityelectricsupply.Com

BE A PART OF KEYS HISTORY Pigeon Key Foundation seeks part time historic tour guide. Upbeat, friendly and confident professional with ability to multi task and work outdoors in all seasons. Pigeon Key is a drug free work place. Please complete application at pigeonkey.net or email chris@pigeonkey.net.

SEEKING SECURITY GUARDS IN MARATHON Ralons Security 786-615-5522

Dynasty Marine Associates, Inc. www.dynastymarine.net 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.

Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

Please apply in person at

Aquarium Encounters 11710 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

NOW HIRING:

Apply in Person, Start Today!

Courtyard Marriott Marathon 2146 Overseas Hwy • 305-289-2100

Lic# B1500167

Hosts Waitstaff Bartenders Bar Backs Bussers Line Cooks Dishwashers

Responsible for safely guiding guests through in-water encounters.

Must enjoy working with people and have a passion for marine life.

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

FT & PT avail. $16-$18/hr Must have D License

NOW HIRING:

Full or Part Time Dive Instructor

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

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

44

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals.

Overtime and benefits are available.

For full details & additional openings, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers

We’re on a path to better healthcare.

Join us.

Landscape Designer Career Opportunities for:

Architects - All Levels Draftsperson Finish Carpenter Interior Designer Junior Interior Designer Landscape Designer Lead AV Technician Warehouse & Delivery Associate

An outdoor design specialist that works well with clients— producing designs, selections, and processing sales.

Registered Nurses (RN) Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Lead AV Technician

AV and Home Automation installations. Knowledge of electrical/ electronic components.

$5,000 Sign-On Bonus for Full-Time RNs & LPNs!

New Enhanced Rates!be MustCompensation have reliable transportation,

Warehouse & Delivery Crew on time and organized. Must have a Full-Time, Part-Time valid driver’s license.

CDL a plus.and

PRN, Day and Night Shifts Available Apply online at: http://joinwellpath.com/keywest

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 Housekeeping Room Attendant Laundry Attendant Line Cooks F & B 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 LONGTERM 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

45

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAN Location: Middle Keys – Lower Keys

NOW HIRING

Join the winning Technical Services Dept team at the FKAA for future growth opportunities and an excellent working environment

BOGIE & BACALL'S SEA SENOR

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

Restaurant Host Servers Bartender Food Runner

KITCHEN TEAM Sous Chef Line Cook Baker

HOUSEKEEPING TEAM Houseman Room Attendant Turndown Attendant

OPERATIONS TEAM Bellman Watersports Reservations Agents

Apply At: bungalowskeylargo.com/careers Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER 58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching... Learning...Caring

Dolphin Research Center is Hiring!

Accounting Manager (Full-Time/Permanent)

Visual Communications Staff (Full-Time/Permanent)

Human Resources Manager (Full-Time/Permanent)

Human Resources Assistant (Part-Time/Permanent)

Guest Services Staff

(Full-Time/Part-Time, Temporary/Permanent)

Benefits include medical, life & disability insurance, 401(k) plan, paid vacation, sick time & holidays.

Full job descriptions available at

www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities

Email cover letter, DRC application & resume to drc-hr@dolphins.org EOE

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) 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

On-line app: http://www.fkaa.com/employment.htm Deadline: Open until filled. EEO, VPE, ADA

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.

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

46

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 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

47

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.743.0844 MARATHON • KEY COLONY OWNERS

START EARNING 305 3902315

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.

48

MARATHON WEEKLY / JUNE 24, 2021

220 Sunset Rd. | Big Pine Key Natural lighting shines throughout this custom built 3 Bedroom 3 Bathroom 2235 sq. ft. home set on a double lot totaling 13,050 sq. ft.. Featuring an open floorplan with soaring ceilings and a bonus loft. The dine in kitchen and large great room are perfect for entertaining. Upstairs features a huge ensuite master with cathedral ceilings and sky lights. A catwalk leads to the spacious loft – perfect for a home office! Situated on a serene, double corner lot surrounded by National Wildlife Refuge. $675,000

OPEN HOUSE SAT MAY 26 | 10AM-12PM

THE LISA FERRINGO GROUP THE LISA FERRINGO GROUP COLDWELL BANKER SCHMITT Office: 305.872.5261 Cell: 305.797.1221 lisaferringo@gmail.com LisaFerringo.com

16540 Old State Rd. 4A | Sugarloaf Key Exceptional Oceanfront home on 3 lots totaling over 65,000 sq. ft. for extreme privacy! 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths and a Bonus Room create a gated Private Retreat with over 2,700 Sq. Ft. of living space. Large Master Suite with private screened balcony and spa-like bathroom featuring walk-in shower, soaking tub, and double vanity. Plus, 3 additional Bedrooms including a Full Jack and Jill Bathroom! 18ft Wood-planked Cathedral Ceilings, Elevator, Security System, Two Garages, Two Screened Balconies, and more! $1,899,000

OPEN HOUSE SAT MAY 26 | 10AM-12PM