




















Designed for real Florida Keys living, this stilted two bedroom, two bath concrete home offers direct ocean access with protected dockage for up to a 35 ft boat. Covered outdoor living area with decked above ground pool and fully equipped BBQ area. Located on a quiet, dead-end street with protected hammock across the way. Nicely updated and upgraded! Ocean views from the upstairs, open air balcony. Gated driveway with parking for multiple vehicles and boat trailer storage. Can be rented weekly per the City of Marathon with proper licensing.
MARATHON | $1,195,000 | Listing ID: 603475
Jo Ann Cook, Managing Broker Each office is independently owned and operated.
9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com
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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.
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According to the U-Haul Growth Index, Florida was ranked the No. 2 growth state, behind Texas, for the second straight year. U-Haul analyzed customer moves to the state during 2022. It found that do-it-yourself movers accounted for 50.7% of all U-Haul truck traffic arriving in the Sunshine State.
a reduction and prevent the city’s building department from showing an impermissible profit. Council members briefly debated if, and to what extent, the reduction could work retroactively before postponing any official action.
A preliminary site plan for ‘Caroline’s on the Water,’ a proposed waterfront development behind the existing Gulfside Village plaza. CONTRIBUTED
The council will also consider two conditional use permits approved at a Dec. 19 planning commission meeting. The first, a proposed five-home development dubbed “Shipman Point” behind the newly-completed Crystal Cove apartments between 47th and 50th Street Gulf, drew concerns from several commissioners over upkeep of the private road that would be required to access the new development, a seemingly small turn-around area for waste management and fire rescue vehicles, and continued issuance of conditional use permits with severely limited remaining building allocations.
Others contended that allowing the large property to be divided and developed with five singlefamily homes was the “lesser of two evils” and would prevent a potential larger condominium or apartment complex from creating even more congestion and access issues in the area. The development was eventually unanimously recommended for approval.
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.comRepeated discussions from the Marathon City Council’s final meeting of 2022 are set to headline the council’s first meeting of 2023, scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 5:30 p.m. at Marathon City Hall.
Members will discuss for a second time a potential reduction in fees for the Building Permit Allocation System. Raised by councilman Jeff Smith in December, the potential reduction could be made in an effort to aid local residents currently waiting for permits who are unable to secure higher priority in the system by spending money to increase their scores. The council last month asked city staff to bring data to substantiate the city’s current fees to better inform the discussion.
Vice Mayor Robyn Still will lead a renewed discussion of the city’s desire to provide grant funding to local nonprofits on a yearly basis. Discontinued after Hurricane Irma, the city’s prior program awarded $90,000 per year raised from ad valorem taxes. With some council members expressing concern around the city’s decision to donate taxpayer dollars to specific causes and asking to better understand Monroe County’s procedures for similar awards, the item was tabled at December’s meeting.
Also tabled from the same meeting was a discussion of temporary building permit fee reductions in Marathon for a period of 12 to 18 months. City staff told the council in December that revenues collected from fees involved with large projects around the city – especially Grassy Key’s upcoming Valhalla Resort – would allow for such
A second development, named “Caroline’s on the Water” in initial plans, would include a restaurant or bar, limited boat dockage, retail space, a small office space and 10 affordable housing units behind the current Gulfside Village plaza.
The commission voted 3-1 to recommend approval of the project with a condition that rents in the affordable housing units should follow formulas outlined in the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program. The development will also be required to construct an opaque barrier between itself and the adjacent Crane Point Museum and Nature Center property. Planning commission chair Matt Sexton, who advocated for tighter restrictions to provide lower rents in the affordable units, was the lone nay vote.
On Jan. 2 at 8 a.m., Dry Tortugas National Park temporarily closed to public access while law enforcement and medical personnel evaluated, provided care for and coordinated transport to Key West for about 300 migrants who arrived in the park over the past couple of days. The closure, which was expected to last several days, is necessary for the safety of visitors and staff because of the resources and space needed to attend to the migrants. Concession-operated ferry and seaplane services were temporarily suspended.
Like elsewhere in the Florida Keys, the park has recently seen an increase in people arriving by boat from Cuba and landing on the islands of Dry Tortugas National Park. Park first responders provide food, water and basic medical attention until the Department of Homeland Security arrives and takes the lead.
While the park is closed, vessels may seek safe harbor in the designated areas within the one nautical mile anchoring zone around Garden Key, including Bird Key Harbor.
There will be no visitor services available while the closure is in effect and emergency services will be extremely limited.
All closures will remain in place until further notice. Please check “Alerts” on the park website for current information.
In other migrant news…
The U.S. Office of Customs and Border Protection on Jan. 1 reported that 169 migrants had come ashore in the Florida Keys, separate from the 300 in the Dry Tortugas.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office was assisting federal law enforcement agents, given the spike in Cuban refugee arrivals since Dec. 31 and continuing into the morning of Jan. 2.
“Refugee arrivals require a lot of resources from the Sheriff’s Office as we help our federal law enforcement partners ensure the migrants are in good health and safe,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “Residents may see an increased amount of law enforcement and emergency responders throughout the county as we continue to respond to these landings.”
The Sheriff’s Office has been told by the U.S. Border Patrol that some migrant landings may have to wait for federal resources to arrive until the following day, aggravating the mass migration crisis in the Keys.
“This shows a lack of a working plan by the federal government to deal with a mass migration issue that was foreseeable,” said Ramsay.
If residents see an arrival occurring, they should notify the Sheriff’s Office and provide a location.
low-lying area of U.S. 1 near Bahia Honda at MM 37 is one of six targets for U.S. 1
On Dec. 23, President Joe Biden signed into law authorization of a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) $2.6 billion coastal storm and sea-level rise infrastructure resiliency project in the Florida Keys. Appropriations for the project will require annual approvals by Congress.
The county also secured a nearly $1 million initial appropriation, approved in the omnibus spending bill, to fund the planning, engineering and design of six U.S. 1 stabilization projects in the Keys, the first phase of the plan. The plan includes 5,500 feet of the road at Mile Markers 79.5, 70, 70.9, 67, 37, and 34.5, identified as vulnerable to erosion and wave energy. Estimates for the completion of the construction phase of the U.S. 1 stabilization project are $16 million.
With the board of county commissioners’ support, Chief Sustainability Officer Rhonda Haag and Legislative Affairs Director Lisa Tennyson worked with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and local stakeholders for five years to put this project together, including numerous public meetings. Then they worked to move the project authorization and appropriation through Congressional approval.
Based on the development of a three-year USACE coastal storm risk study, the project plans for the economic, environmental and social effects of coastal storms and sea-level rise and addresses the hardening of U.S. 1, dry floodproofing of critical infrastructure and
private commercial buildings, and elevating residential residences. The study did not address the resiliency of locally-maintained roads, which Monroe County completed under a separate study.
Future appropriations will allow for the voluntary elevations of up to 4,698 vulnerable residential homes and the dry floodproofing of 1,052 commercial and 53 critical infrastructure buildings susceptible to storm surge damage throughout the Keys. Dry floodproofing allows for essential services to resume more quickly after a storm surge.
The total project, including the dry floodproofing and elevations, is estimated at $2.6 billion, to be split 65 percent federal ($1.7 billion) and 35 percent ($893 million) non-federal . Non-federal funds can come from the state, county, municipalities, residents and other non-federal entities. The county is coordinating with the Florida Department of Transportation for the non-federal match for the U.S. 1 stabilization phase. The county also intends to sign sub-agreements with the five municipalities to authorize and fund work within the cities.
“We are committed to making Monroe County as resilient as possible against the effects of future storms and sea-level rise,” said Monroe County Administrator Roman Gastesi. “This partnership with USACE allows us to tap into federal money to help offset resiliency costs to Florida Keys residents.”
Anew year brought new laws in Florida. Legislation approved by state officials in the House and Senate in 2022, and taking effect in 2023, aim to keep some more money in motorists’ pockets. Other laws seek to cure issues related to workers at apartment complexes and rising insurance costs.
State legislators were called back twice for special sessions to confront Florida’s property insurance industry problems. Bills addressed a number of issues, which included ending the ability for homeowners to sign over their claims to contractors who pursue payments from insurers. An analysis for Senate Bill 2-A stated that insurers complained about contractors who had property owners sign over their benefits and submitted bills to insurance companies for repair work that, on average, were 30% higher than estimates from vendors without an assignment of benefits. With vendors seeking to extract higher settlements from insurers came more litigation over the vendors’ invoices. Backers of the property insurance bill hammered a statistic that, with roughly 7% of nationwide claims, 76% of homeowners’ lawsuits in the U.S. were filed in Florida.
Florida motorists who frequently pass through toll facilities will see some relief, per Senate Bill 6-A. A vehicle with a SunPass tag that records 35 or more transactions per month will be eligible for a 50% credit. State toll facilities include Florida’s Turnpike, which many Upper Keys residents use to drive to airports, stores and hospitals. It also includes the Card Sound Bridge toll that’s used by many workers who live outside the Keys. The state provided $500 million for the program, which goes through Dec. 31, 2023.
Better known as “Miya’s Law,” apartment complexes must now run background checks on prospective custodians, repairmen and other employees before they’re hired. Applicants found guilty or who plead no contest to certain offenses, including violence and disregard for safety, wouldn’t be allowed to work at the facility. Approval of Senate Bill 898 stems from a Sept. 24, 2021 incident involving Valencia College student Miya Marcano. She went missing from her Orlando apartment where she also worked at the front office. She was later found dead miles from her apartment. Orange County Sheriff’s Office investigators said Marcano was taken from her apartment by Armando Caballero, who was a maintenance worker at the same apartment complex. It’s alleged that he had a master key fob for the complex, which allowed him to enter her apartment. Caballero was found dead by apparent suicide days after Marcano went missing.
Legislation also changed the time a landlord must give a tenant some kind of notice to conduct repair work, from 12 hours to 24 hours. And apartments must all maintain a log book for issuance of dwelling unit keys.
Hospitals and other state-licensed birthing facilities must now test newborns for congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV), should the infant fail a screening for hearing loss before the newborn is 21 days old. For babies born at home or in a licensed birth center, the bill requires the newborn’s primary health care provider to refer the infant for a CMV test seven days after birth if he or she fails a hearing test. Cytomegalovirus is a common virus for people of all ages; however, a healthy person’s immune system usually keeps the virus from causing illness. In the United States, nearly one in three children are already infected with CMV by age 5. Some babies with congenital CMV infection have health problems that are apparent at birth or that develop later during infancy or childhood. In the most severe cases, CMV can cause the death of an unborn baby (pregnancy loss).
House Bill 7049 gives governments the choice to publish legal notices on a publicly accessible website of a county instead of a print newspaper under specified conditions. However, local governments with fewer than 160,000 people must hold a public hearing to determine whether its residents have sufficient access to the internet before going fully electronic. In November, Monroe County commissioners and County Attorney Bob Shillinger discussed whether it should make the move. Commissioners were open to the idea, but nothing has been locally approved yet.
Public officials won’t be able to lobby during office and six years after leaving office. The amendment to the state constitution was approved by Florida voters in 2018. It took effect Dec. 31, 2022 and affected a number of elected officials across the state. Elected officials in Miami-Dade and Palm Beach filed a lawsuit in an effort to block the new law, according to the Miami Herald. That request was denied, but arguments are expected to be heard Jan. 27.
House Bill 1467 increases the transparency and accountability for selecting and using instructional materials and library materials in schools. It forces certain school district instructional material review committee meetings to be noticed and open to the public. It also mandates school district personnel who are involved in reviewing and selecting certain instructional materials and library materials to complete training developed by the Department of Education on selecting quality, age-appropriate books, prior to making selections.
As we enter a milestone year for Monroe County in 2023, our commissioners and staff continue to enhance the quality of the lives of our citizens, business owners and visitors. I am honored to serve as Monroe County Administrator for the past 14½ years, and I am proud of the remarkable accomplishments of our commissioners and 623 part-time and full-time employees in 2022.
Since the creation of Monroe County on July 3, 1823, transportation and the environment have been at the forefront of our citizen’s minds, and it still rings true today. This year, the County hired a transit director with a three-year plan to work with the municipalities on transportation woes throughout the Florida Keys. With resident participation, Planning and Environmental Services submitted the top transportation priorities to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), with many of the ideas incorporated into FDOT’s five-year work plan.
The Sustainability Office and our commissioners continue to lead the country in climate change and sea-level rise adaptation conversations. The recently completed Roads Elevation Study came in with a $1.6 billion price tag for county-maintained road adaptations subject to sea-level rise by 2045. With Legislative Affairs’ successful utilization of our lobbyists and close collaboration with our state and federal delegation, several “big-picture” long-term projects were approved. For example, Congress recently approved authorization and initial funding of a $2.6 billion U.S. Army Corps of Engineers program in the Florida Keys to improve resiliency by reducing damage and risk from impacts of storms and to guard against potential damage from sea-level rise.
With the help of Other People’s Money, as I like to say, we will continue to chase grants and other funding sources. This year we secured $30 million in state and federal appropriations and numerous additional grants for water quality, bridge replacements, and storm risk mitigation. We will continue to push forward with canal restoration efforts, supporting the health of our nearshore waters. Code Compliance reached an 80 percent connection rate to the central sewer system, with hopes to have all of unincorporated Monroe County hooked up in the next 18 months – another giant leap toward improved water quality in the Florida Keys. Passage of the federal coral reef protection bill authorizing $45 million in annual funding bill caps off our environmental successes this year.
Budget and Finance produced the $519.7 million FY23 budget, which boasts the lowest property tax rate in Florida for another year. Key West International Airport broke ground on a new concourse project that will improve service to the more than one million passengers who pass through the terminal. Project Management completed the Plantation Key Courthouse and Detention Center, the Pine Channel Nature Park, and repaired many of the county’s properties damaged in previous storms. Parks and Beaches, a relatively new department, is outfitting beaches with mobility mats and sand wheelchairs and adding accessible swings at playgrounds, taking us one step closer to making recreational opportunities truly for everyone. The Permitting Department successfully implemented an all-online permitting system earlier this year, creating a more streamlined process.
To make the community safer, the new Emergency Operations Center in Marathon will be home to Emergency Management, Fire Rescue headquarters, and the Sheriff’s Office dispatch center. Emergency Management activated for two storms in 2022, and 18 of our firefighters, our public information officer, and I deployed to help our northern neighbors in DeSoto County after Hurricane Ian.
Engineering and Roads focused on completing bridge projects and significant road improvements in Key West and throughout the county. Monroe County Fire Rescue’s Trauma Star provided a record number of life-saving flights to the mainland while transporting our residents with no out-of-pocket costs. The fifth “Hot Shots” firefighter training class graduated – a program that waives tuition for residents. Unincorporated Monroe County continues to hold on to one of the best ratings in the Community Rating System, saving flood insurance policyholders millions of dollars annually in the Florida Keys.
Solid Waste championed a “Put a Lid on It” event in endangered Key Deer areas, and staff collected about 1.8 million pounds of locally produced debris in three weeks by Ian. Strategic Planning gathered new information on community priorities to incorporate into a refreshed 2023 strategic plan. Veterans Affairs secured more than $5 million in annual disability payments for local Veterans, and Social Services and Guardian ad Litem advocated for our most vulnerable residents, from our youngest to our oldest. For those with a green thumb, the Extension Service guided residents in learning about local flora, fauna and other vital Keys resources.
Happy New Year! We hope 2023 will be a great year for everyone.
…is a fifth-generation Floridian and second-generation fishing captain who owns and operates Ana Banana Fishing Company in Marathon. His passions include fishing, hunting and spending time with his family.
Grouper season is closed from Jan. 1 to April 30. This closure includes red, black, gag, red hind, scamp and yellowedge grouper. Most of our bottom fishing efforts will be focused on mutton snapper, amber jack and cobia.
Many clients who come down to the Florida Keys want to get enough meat to fill a cooler, and some want enough meat to fill a dinner plate. Since most of the groupers we would target are now out of season, we’ll focus a lot of our “meat hunts” on mangrove, yellowtail and lane snapper trips. We have several spots up and down the Seven Mile Bridge to target these species of snapper and also catch yellow jack, muttons, permit, pompano, mackerel and grunts.
The best tide for fishing the Seven Mile Bridge is a slack or slack-ish outgoing tide on the gulf side or slack or slack-ish incoming tide on the Atlantic side. We like to fish with our baits drifting away from the bridge rather than into the bridge, and we chum a LOT. If you see Bermuda chubs come into your chum line, that means the snapper bite will turn on – but no chubs means that not many hungry snapper will show up.
We like to flat line with appropriately weighted larva hooks or jig heads with a live shrimp tipped on the hook. We like to hook the shrimp under the chin, through the head, in front of the brain and make the hook even with the horn of the shrimp’s head. This keeps the shrimp lively and streamlined so as it goes with the flow through the water column it looks like it’s swimming naturally to the game
fish. Bait hooking techniques, light knots and light line all matter when trying the tough task of fooling Mother Nature.
Try to pick spots near the bridge that have ledges and holes. Yellowtail snapper season is open year round. They have to be 12 inches or bigger to keep, measured, like all snapper and grouper, from the tip of the bottom lip to the tip of the pinched tail down the lateral line of the fish. A quick helpful tip: most 5-gallon buckets have a 12-inch diameter, so many times we put a yellowtail’s nose on one edge. If its tail hangs over the opposite edge of the top diameter, we know it’s a keeper. The yellowtail limit is 10 per person per day, not to exceed a boat aggregate of 50.
Mangrove snapper limits get a little more complicated. If you’re harvesting mangrove snapper on the gulf side, you can keep up to five fish per person per day at 10 inches or bigger. The Atlantic side is up to 10 fish per person at 12 inches or bigger. So if you’re targeting mangrove snapper, start in the gulf, transfer to the Atlantic, and get pulled over with 10-inch mangrove snapper, you are breaking the law. On the other hand, if you start in the Atlantic and you transfer to the gulf, get pulled over, and have more than five mangrove snapper per person, you’re also breaking the law. I’ve never been able to get a good answer for this dilemma, but just know it’s an issue.
Have an awesome 2023!
To book a charter with Ana Banana, call or text Capt. Joel at 813-267-4401 or Capt. Jojo at 305879-0564, or visit anabananafishing. com.
The Monroe County School District has had an amazing year with a number of accomplishments to share.
Notably, the school district has an interim agreement with SPGL to build 90 units of affordable housing for teachers and staff on Trumbo Point in Key West. Although there are still a number of hurdles to jump, it’s a great start. It has taken hours of work to get to this point and we hope to have shovels in the ground sometime in 2023.
The school board granted each teacher an unprecedented $5,000 raise in November. (This was in addition to the raise they received in August, which amounted to about $2,800 per teacher, for an overall total raise of $7,800). All other employees received an additional $2,600 in November and nearly the same amount in August. I applaud the board for endeavoring to help bridge the gap between the annual median income in Monroe County, which is $100,500, and teachers’ starting salary of $56,800. These efforts must continue if we are going to hire and retain qualified staff.
One of the best things going forward is the district’s new and well-developed strategic plan. This took the last six months of 2022 to complete. The plan was developed in hours of meetings with all stakeholders, many of whom participated virtually to ensure everyone had a voice in the process. It is a flight plan for the future and will ensure our success. The completed plan will be housed on our website at keysschools.com. The board and the community will receive regular updates on progress.
The school district also unveiled a new smartphone app known as “My MCSD” that offers all the information anyone needs to navigate the school system. Parents can check their students’ grades, schedules and attendance. They can access calendars for all school events and lunch schedules. Push notifications will notify them of any emergency issues. If they have students in two different schools, they can get all the information in the same app by toggling to the other school. Student information is available to parents through their FOCUS log-in; however, all other information about the district is available to community members as well.
Our focus on environmental education is another great plus for the district. We have developed a curriculum to educate all students (pre-K through 12th grade) on the importance of protecting our natural resources. The curriculum was developed with the help of the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, but our partnerships extend to others, including the Coral Reef Restoration Foundation, NOAA, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, United Way and Reef Relief.
Another school enhancement occurred with the addition of a much-needed elementary wing at Sugarloaf School, where I spent 20 years of my career.
The school board members toured the new facility on Dec. 6 and were thrilled to see the classrooms and other amenities that will benefit students and teachers.
The Monroe Occupation and Vocational Experiences (MOVE) program has expanded and continues to grow. Through our partnerships with local businesses, district students are finding opportunities to learn important workplace skills. Through the MOVE program, businesses can train prospective employees before they enter the workforce, reducing the costs of new employee training and employee turnover.
Our sports programs were stellar throughout the year and achievements are too multiple to name here. The Keys Weekly’s Sports Wrap reporters Tracy and Sean McDonald have masterfully covered our athletes and programs.
But I would like to thank each of our athletic directors and coaches for their relentless efforts to coordinate all of our teams.
Lastly, the class of 2022 received community scholarships in the amount of $2.6 million. Hats off to our community for its support of students. I know scholarship money comes from multiple fundraisers throughout the year and hours of dedicated work by volunteers. We are beyond grateful for this support. In addition, these same students received other scholarships totaling $4.5 million, for a grand total of $7.1 million.
We enjoy our work in providing educational services for the students in Monroe County and the school district staff plans to actualize our new mission statement each day in the coming year:
“Working together to inspire and bring excellence to every student every day.”
Happy New Year!
Theresa Axford Superintendent Monroe County School District9805 Overseas Hwy., Marathon Tuesday, January 10, 2023 5:30 P.M.
(*Denotes Item Is Passed By Consent Upon Approval of Agenda)
Public Comments taken on all times and at 6:30pm time certain for items not on the agenda or as soon as possible thereafter of after the last agenda item; whichever comes first.
*A. Approval of Minutes
B. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service
C. BPAS Fee Discussion (Councilmember Smith) (Continued from December 13, 2022)
D. Non-Profit Grants Discussion/County’s Procedures (Councilmember Still) (Continued from December 13, 2022)
*A. MCSO Marathon Substation Report
*B. Grants Update
*C. Building Report
*D. Park and Recreation Report
*E. Marathon Fire Rescue Report
*F. Marina Report
*G. Code Report
*H. Wastewater Utilities Report
*I. Public Works Report
J. Council Update And Request For Specific Direction Concerning The Amendment Of The City’s Building Permit Fee Schedule (Continued Discussion From December 13th Meeting)
K. Permission To Develop A Scope Of Work And Estimated Costs, Seek Bids, And Develop Contracts Intended To Replace The Air Conditioning System At City Hall.
Quasi-Judicial Public Hearings:
A. Resolution 2023-01 Consideration Of A Request For A Conditional Use Permit For A Plat And Site Plan Approval As Submitted By QOF, Inc. For A Plat Pursuant To Chapter 102, Article 10 Of The City Of Marathon Land Development Regulation (LDRS) Entitled “Subdivision Of Land/Plats And Re-Plats,” Particularly, 4800 Overseas Hwy Unit 14 Which Is Described As Thompson And Adams Subdivision PB2-24, Part Lot 4 And Adjacent Filled Bay Bottom And Adjacent Bay Bottom (A/K/A Parcel D & Bay Bottom Parcel A), Section 10, Township 66 South, Range 32 East, Key Vaca, Marathon, Monroe County, Florida, Having Real Estate Number 00327140-000200. Nearest Mile Marker 50.
B. Resolution 2023-02 Consideration Of A Request By David Crum For A Conditional Use Permit, Pursuant To Chapter 102, Article 13 Of The City Of Marathon Land Development Regulations (“the Code”) Entitled “Conditional Use Permits”, Authorizing The Development Of A Restaurant/Bar, Marina/Boat Rentals, Retail Shop/Convenience Store, and Affordable Housing Units At The Property Located At Vacant Land Overseas Highway, Which Is Legally Described As 11 66 32 Key Vaccas Part Government Lot 2 and Bay Bottom North Of And Adjacent To Part Lot 2, Marathon, Monroe County, Florida, Having Real Estate Number 00103770-000000. Nearest Mile Marker 50.
A. Ordinance 2023-01, Amending The City’s Code Of Ordinances, Chapter 26, “Streets, Sidewalks, And Other Public Places.” In Order To Modify A Portion Of The Chapter, To Add A New Article Iv, And Renumber Articles And Sections; Accordingly, And Providing For An Effective Date.
Resolutions For Adoption
*A. Resolution 2023-03 Authorizing The Purchase Of Cancer Decontamination Equipment And Installation Fees For Station 14, In An Amount Not To Exceed $37,995.00.; Authorizing The City Manager To Appropriate Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.
*B. Resolution 2023-04 Awarding The Contract For Modification The Area 3 Vacuum Main To Reynolds Construction, LLC In An Amount Not To Exceed $39,890.00; Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into Agreements In Connection Therewith, Appropriating And Expending Budgeted Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date.
C. Resolution 2023-05, Adopting A Fee Schedule For The Donation Of Moneys Either For The Land Acquisition Or For Affordable Housing As Provided In Section 107.09 1. And 2. “Lot Dedication Or Cash In-Lieu Of Dedication,” As Part Of The BPAS Scoring System; Providing For An Effective Date.
*D. Resolution 2023-06, Approving The Professional Service Agreement Between The City And Bermello Ajamil & Partners, Inc. For Civil Engineering Design Services Associated With The Re-Development of the Quay Property In An Amount Not To Exceed $99,910.00; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Contract And Expend Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.
*E. Resolution 2023-07, Approving The Professional Service Agreement Between The City And Cummins Cederberg Costal & Marine Engineering. For Marine Engineering Design Services Associated With The Re-Development of the Quay Property In An Amount Not To Exceed $129,400.00; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Contract And Expend Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.
*F. Resolution 2023-08, Approving A Standard Local Agency Program Agreement Between The City Of Marathon And The Florida Department Of Transportation To Receive Federal Funds For The Replacement Of the 117th Street Bridge; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Agreement And Expend Budgeted Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.
*G. Resolution 2023-09, Approving A Lease Agreement Between The City Of Marathon And The Florida Department Of Transportation For The Utilization Of Property Owned By FDOT within The Limits Of The Seven Mile Marina Property; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Agreement And Expend Budgeted Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.
*H. Resolution 2023-10, Approving A Change Order To The City’s Contract With Brightview Landscape Services In the Amount of $132,592.42 For The Renovation/Restoration Of The North And South Baseball/Softball Fields At Community Park As Required To Accommodate The Junior And Senior Divisions Of The Little League Program; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Agreement And Expend Budgeted Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.
*I. Resolution 2023-11, Approving A Lease Agreement Between The City Of Marathon, Florida And Pigeon Key Foundation For A Term Of Three Years With Rights Of Lease Extensions In Three-Year Increments; Providing For Term, Rent, Utility Considerations, Use Provisions And Restrictions; Providing For Lessor And Lessee Responsibilities; Providing For Indemnification And Insurance Requirements; And Providing For An Effective Date.
K. Resolution 2023-12, Approving A Resolution And Settlement Agreement Between The Parties Identified As The City Of Marathon, Florida, The Florida Department Of Economic Opportunity, And Boat Works Investments LLC Concerning The Project Known As Boatworks; And Providing For An Effective Date.
Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Council with respect to any matter considered at such hearing or meeting, one will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose that person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made; such record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. ADA Assistance: Anyone needing special assistance at the City Council hearing due to disability should contact the City of Marathon City Attorney at (305) 289-4130 at least five days prior thereto. Please contact the City Clerk at clavierd@ci.marathon.fl.us if you would like to receive any of the items on the agenda by email.
If you’ve ever watched the feats of strength at any Highland games – even right here in Marathon – and thought, “I could do that,” this weekend is your chance to put up or shut up.
This Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 7-8 will mark the return of the Florida Keys Celtic Festival to the Marathon Community Park. Canceled in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival roared back to life in 2022, and organizers have worked to add several major additions as it celebrates its 10th year in 2023. As always, proceeds from the festival will benefit the Hammock House at St. Columba Episcopal Church, a free after-school and camp program for Marathon residents.
Beloved staples of the festival will return, of course –from Friday’s kickoff party at Dockside Boot Key Harbor to Saturday’s sheep dog herding demonstrations and an ongoing Ladies of the Keys Highland athletics competition, one of the only events in the country to feature female Celtic games athletes.
Performances by renowned returning musicians Albannach, the Screaming Orphans, the Byrne Brothers and more will rotate sets at the park’s amphitheater from open to close each day, with special additions by the Police Pipe & Drum of Florida and Drake Irish Dancers. A special “can’t-miss” caber toss event will close Saturday’s festivities at the conclusion of the live music.
But the second day of the festival will take on an entirely new life in 2023. Rebranded as the Celtic Sunday Family Fun Day, Sunday’s main event is a Highland games competition open to Marathon locals ready to test their Celtic mettle as they compete for cash prizes in four events. In partnership with Highland games organizer Bob Gourlay, the truly bold can even sign up for a Caber toss clinic – for the uninitiated, that’s the one that looks like throwing a telephone pole.
A “Zero K” Nessie Fun Run – shooting off at noon, with an afterparty scheduled for exactly one minute later – and a pet parade are both new additions to Sunday’s festivities, while a Celtic Crossroads area will feature a revolving door of culturally-themed activities from Celtic bingo to a children’s didgeridoo construction class with Albannach’s “DidgeriDrew.” And in a nod to the festival’s heritage, its final day will open with a Celtic contemporary worship led by St. Columba.
“I’m still most excited to see the people,” St. Columba’s Rev. Debra Maconaughey told Keys Weekly. “It’s such a great experience to see everybody gathered like that. We are really just trying to experiment a little bit.”
The festival will run from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets purchased online in advance are $10 for one day or $15 for two days ($12 and $17 at the gate). Children 12 and under are free with a paying adult. Those interested in the local Highland games may register at Friday’s kickoff party at Dockside from 5 to 7 p.m., while “Zero K” fun runners can register by scanning the QR code here. For more information, including ticket sales, visit floridakeyscelticfestival.com.
Friday, Jan. 6 at Dockside Boot Key Harbor
5-7 p.m. - Kickoff Party with West of Galway Duo and Police Pipe and Drum
Saturday, Jan. 7 at Marathon Community Park
• 10 a.m. - Women’s Highland Athletic Competition
• 10:15 a.m. - West of Galway
• 11:15 a.m. - The Byrne Brothers
• Noon - Opening Ceremonies & Parade Led By Police Pipe & Drum of Florida
• 12:15 p.m. - Albannach
• 1 p.m. - Drake Irish Dance
• 1:30 p.m. - Screaming Orphans
• 2 p.m. - Make a Didgeridoo with Albannach’s DidgeriDrew
• 2:15 p.m. - Police Pipe and Drum of Florida
• 2:30 p.m. - West of Galway
• 3:30 p.m. - Drake Irish Dance
• 4 p.m. - Police Pipe & Drum of Florida
• 4:15 p.m. - The Byrne Brothers
• 5:15 p.m. - Albannach
• 6 p.m. - Athletic Awards Presentation Ceremony
• 6:15 p.m. - Screaming Orphans
• 7 p.m. - Special Caber Toss Event on the Game Field
• 7:30 p.m. - Community Candlelight Compline
ONGOING THROUGHOUT THE DAY
Ladies of the Keys Highland Athletics Competitions
Sheep Dog Herding Demonstration by Craigmalloch Farm Bingo in the Celtic Crossroads Tent
Sunday Jan. 8 at Marathon Community Park
• 9:30 a.m. Celtic Contemporary Worship
• 11 a.m. - Gates Open
• 11:45 a.m. - Police Pipe & Drum of Florida
• Noon - Zero K Nessy Fun Run
• 12:15 p.m. - West of Galway
• 1 p.m. - Pet Parade
• 1:15 p.m. - Drake Irish Dance
• 2 p.m. - The Byrne Brothers
• 3 p.m. - Albannach
• 4 p.m. - Screaming Orphans
ONGOING THROUGHOUT THE DAY Bingo in the Celtic Crossroads Tent Children’s Celtic Games Sheep Dog Herding Demonstration
... a veteran sports columnist, says the only sport he doesn’t follow is cricket. That leaves plenty of others to fill his time.
ralphmoro1936 @gmail.com
hile you were celebrating the new year at midnight on Saturday, tears were collecting on my cheeks because of what was happening in Atlanta. It was the national semifinal of the College Football Playoffs called the Peach Bowl.
Ohio State had led most of the game, and starting the fourth quarter, it was 38-24 in favor of the Buckeyes. My friend, Brad in North Carolina, and I were both feeling cautiously optimistic. But as the contest was clicking toward the finish, University of Georgia slipped ahead by a point, 42-41.
With seconds left, the Buckeyes had a chance. They got the ball back and slowly but surely, quarterback CJ Stroud got the ball into field goal range with a few seconds left.
It wasn’t a gimme. In fact, it was more than 50 yards, well within Buckeye kicker Noah Ruggles’ distance, but too far for normal kickers. Ruggles had delivered at that distance before, and I felt he could do it this time as well.
I watched intently as Ruggles’ right foot came forward. It was what will become known in Buckeye lore as “Wide Left” because that’s what it was. It wasn’t close. The final score was the same as it was when Ruggles had lined up his kick, 42-41 Georgia.
Georgia now faces Texas Christian University (TCU) for the national championship on Monday, Jan. 9 and is favored by 13 points. My advice? Don’t bet it either way.
Prior to the Ohio State game, TCU defeated favored Michigan.
WHEN I WAS A KID, probably in the pre-teen era, I became an avid college sports fan, first football, then basketball, followed by baseball. As I lived in southeastern Ohio, it was all Ohio State. My favorite player was Dick Schnittker, who starred as a football end (now called a wide receiver) and a basketball forward, for which he was an all-American and later a pro forward with the Minneapolis Lakers.
As an Ohio State fan back then, my football postseason loyalties
WBuffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, seen in 2019 while playing college football for Pitt, collapsed on the field from cardiac arrest on Jan. 2 during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. He was listed in critical condition. WIKIPEDIA/ Contributed
went strictly with the Rose Bowl, which attracted the champions of the Big Ten and whatever the Pacific conference was called 70 or so years ago. That winner would be the national champion.
There was a year in which the two combatants in the Rose Bowl were Ohio State and Stanford. The latter won. And like Saturday night, I was saddened. My solace back then was that I would just have to wait a year, win the Big Ten, win the Rose Bowl and claim the national championship.
Now, a team must win enough and be named to the college playoffs, then win.
But if Ohio State isn’t at the top, I will be very disappointed.
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
SOMETIMES
ARE ANYTHING
FUN TO WATCH. Such was the case Monday night, when the Buffalo Bills were to play the Cincinnati Bengals. They had played nearly a quarter. The Bengals were ahead 7-3. Damar Hamlin, a safety for Buffalo, had tackled Tee Higgins of the Bengals. Hamlin stood up after the tackle, then collapsed to the ground.
It immediately became apparent that this was very serious. And it was. As an unconscious Hamlin lay on the field being treated with CPR, the game was suspended, then the other players from both teams gathered, many in prayer and many in tears. Within an hour, Hamlin, still unconscious and accompanied by his mother, who was at the game, was taken by ambulance to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
He was listed in critical condition following cardiac arrest as of the following afternoon, Jan. 3 — while a nation prayed.
Andre Otto will take his talents to Tallahassee next year.
ELLA HALL/ Keys Weekly
Conchs wrestling
Whether he is on the gridiron, track or wrestling mat, Christopher Andre Otto makes a huge impact for the Conchs. The multisport, multitalented student athlete was highly recruited by Division 1 teams across the country. On Dec. 21, he made the choice to further his academic and athletic career in Tallahassee, playing for the Florida State Seminoles. The star lineman is currently transitioning to wrestling, where his coach says, “He’s a leader by example. His work ethic and attitude are contagious. Most importantly, he’s just a great soul.”
A dedicated athlete who pays attention to the little things, Otto says he will spend next year studying all aspects of the Seminole offense while he continues his studies of film and digital design. For his amazing accomplishments in Conch athletics and his positive attitude toward all he does, Christopher Andre Otto is this week’s Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
“Andre works hard in all aspects of his life and is dedicated to excellence.”
-
coach Chaz Jimenez
On Dec. 21, Key West took on Spanish River High School, battling it out in a close game. Kameron Roberts scored 14 points and Leandro Batista dropped in 13, but the Conchs ultimately lost by 4, falling 62-58. Key West did add a win to their record over the holiday break, beating Jensen Beach the following day. Batista had a game-high 14 points in the victory.
The Conchs played two more over the break, losing to South Fork and Gig Harbor (Washington) on Dec. 28 and 29, respectively. Batista had the high scores for both games with 11 against South Fork and 15 against Gig Harbor. Watson Chery added 11 to the Gig Harbor score.
The Conchs play again on Saturday, Jan. 7 at home against Boca Raton, then face Coral Shores at home on Tuesday, Jan. 10 for Monroe County bragging rights.
Coral Shores traveled to Orlando over the holiday break to take on some of the best competition on the east coast in the KSA basketball tournament. The ’Canes played Pennsylvania’s 5A state champion Cathedral Prep to a 58-27 loss early in the tournament, then turned their efforts to Pingree (Massachusetts). Coach Jarrod Mandozzi said his squad “didn’t play well the first game,” but after a loss to Pingree, they regrouped and went on to play the Massachusetts team again, winning the second game 54-50. Matt St. Aubin was selected as the team MVP in the tournament and made the all-tournament team for the ’Canes’ bracket.
Upon their return to the Keys, the Hurricanes shifted their efforts to the west coast, playing Gig Harbor in Tavernier. Despite having all-county guard Isaac Rivera back from knee surgery, Coral Shores was still shorthanded in the game, with multiple starters out of town for the break. After a close 9-9 first quarter, the Hurricanes’ hopes for a win slowly ebbed away.
“We really struggled with turnovers and some uncharacteristic mistakes in the second quarter that really did us in, as they ultimately beat us 69-37,” said Mandozzi. “I would have loved to have played them at full strength, but there were still some positives.”
Coral Shores opens up the second half of their season against Obridge Academy in Palm Beach on Jan. 6 to begin a five-game road stint for the ‘Canes.
Marathon did not play any games over the holiday break. The Fins play Boca Raton on Friday, Jan. 6 at home to open the second half of their season.
Clockwise from top left: Amauri ButlerBailey, Kameron Roberts, Watson Chery, Roberts, James Osborne, Leandro Batista, Kevon Mills. ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly
Senior, Marathon
“Fisher brought a lot of golf knowledge, leadership and experience to our program this season and a work ethic that is beyond impressive. As a result of his hard work and dedication to the sport, he will be continuing his golf career in college and we are excited to watch his growth there as well.” – Marathon coach Mary Coleman-Sayer
Twyman was a consistent player for Key West, making the leaderboard multiple times this season. As a senior, he was praised by Conchs coach Joshua Bassett for his work with improving the underclassmen and preparing them for the future.
As just a first-year golfer, Highsmith lit up the links with solid play, scoring a 43 in his top round this season. “He played well for us, maintained a positive can-do attitude, and is one of the most respectful young men I’ve had the pleasure to work with,” said Conchs coach Joshua Bassett.
Sophomore,
Just a sophomore, Carroll shot a 44 at the Hammock at Ocean Reef and led the Hurricanes multiple times throughout the season. Coach Danielle Thomas added, “I look forward to having Preston on the team for the next few years.”
“Billy improved quite a bit this season in his attitude and focus on the course, and provided leadership to our team,” said Marathon coach Mary ColemanSayer. “Billy always came to play with a positivity that was energizing to the rest of the group.”
Sophomore, Coral Shores
Irons’ season-best round was a 49 at the Hammock at Ocean Reef. "Tanny had a solid year and birdied at districts,” said Hurricanes coach Danielle Thomas. “He is an amazing player.”
With only a few courses dotting the island chain, prep golf in the Florida Keys can be challenging. Key West, Marathon and Coral Shores make it work by hosting one another often throughout the season, and the players and coaches have a long-standing camaraderie that epitomizes sportsmanship. Throughout the season, athletes traded spots for the top golfers in both the boys’ and girls’ divisions, making the selection of an All-Keys team and an MVP very difficult. Many of this year’s top-performing athletes are underclassmen, providing some excitement for future seasons.
From the staff at the Sports Wrap, congratulations to the 2022 Keys Weekly All-Keys Golf Team.
Sophomore, Coral
Junior, Coral Shores
Hurricanes junior Mattie Johnson honed her skills this year with a season-best round of 69 at International Links in Miami. “Mattie improved tremendously throughout the season and I can't wait to see her play again for us next year,” said Hurricanes coach Danielle Thomas.
Sophomore,
“Savannah Oropeza was our most experienced golfer,” said Key West coach Joshua Bassett, “and she posted her best round of 51 twice this year while balancing the demanding schedule of both band and golf.”
Thomas led the Lady ’Canes in most matches this season and her game continues to improve. She is an asset to her team far beyond her solid scores, though. “Gabby is a leader on and off the course,” said Coral Shores coach Danielle Thomas. “When she is at practice she helps the other golfers with their swing and stances. She always tries to better herself by practicing and watching videos of other golfers.”
“Summer worked extensively on her game this year and has been able to eliminate several strokes from her overall match play last year as a sophomore,” said Marathon coach Mary Coleman-Sayer. “She was more focused in matches this season in an effort to continue lowering her score. She provided much needed leadership, especially to our ‘newbies’ to the team.”
Sterling has shown steady improvement in her game this season, and as just a freshman, she should do great things on the course the next three years. Sportsmanship, maturity and integrity are the top qualities Conchs coach Joshua Bassett looks for on his team, and Sterling ticks those boxes.
With a returning cast of Marianne Benvenuti as Louise, Donna Nussenblatt as Norma, Mary Ann Wimmer as Great Grandma Carolyne and Larry Garrison as Tommy, the gang includes only one recast member (Young) and one new character (Andrews). Nevertheless, the new additions say they had no problem integrating into the heavily familiar group, just as the returning cast picked up where they left off with the characters they developed in early 2022.
“We fell right back in, because we knew where we were at the end of the last one,” said Jim Zimmerman.
The cast of ‘Return to Sunset Village.’ Front row, from left: Sharon Young, Ashley Andrews. Second row, from left: Larry Garrison, Marianne Benvenuti, Joanne Zimmerman, Jim Zimmerman, Donna Nussenblatt, Mary Ann Wimmer.
Think, if you would, of a stereotypical protest scene. The picket signs. The raised voices. The marches for a unified cause.
Now, let us ask: In that image, did you picture a bunch of outraged seniors in their underwear?
Your answer just may change after a viewing of Michael Pressley Bobbitt’s “Return to Sunset Village,” taking the stage for three weeks at the Marathon Community Theatre.
When the exploits of greedy developer Curtis Morsey (Ashley Andrews) push the community of Sunset Village — modeled after the exact community you’re thinking of – to the brink of environmental collapse, with sinkholes literally swallowing up their friends, the senior residents resolve to turn disgust into action as they vow to destroy Morsey and his company, RELCO.
Just one small issue: unbeknownst to the livid “girl gang,” one of their own, Mikayla (Sharon Young) is newly smitten with Morsey, and finds out more with each day that RELCO’s boss may not be the evil emperor the others imagined.
Though the play is a stand-alone sequel to Bobbitt’s “Sunset Village,” which graced the MCT stage just last year, the second chapter of the seniors’ story takes a touching look at their changing love lives, including the struggling flame between Edna (Joanne Zimmerman) and Mr. Midnight (Jimmy Zimmerman).
“Everyone except (Andrews) and (Young) had their scripts for about eight or nine months,” said director Jackie O’Neil. “Sharon had hers for two weeks or so before rehearsal.”
“And she still learned it faster than the rest of us,” laughed Andrews.
And though last year’s installment may focus on more of the hijinks in Sunset Village, the sequel examines the evolution of each resident’s personality and takes a deeper dive into a strong relationship from the first show that finds itself suddenly on the rocks.
“I don’t see how Jimmy and Joanne can do some of these scenes,” said Benvenuti. “I couldn’t do that with my husband without feeling something come up that I may have wanted to say at some point. … The dialogue is real.”
“When we get into our back-andforth dialogue, I have to reach back to my first marriage,” said Jim. “It was … oh my God. But that helps.”
The cast praised the efforts of stalwart director O’Neil along with assistant director and stage manager Maresa Casey, who O’Neil described as “impossibly wonderful.”
“She worked her ass off for the Rocky Horror show, which was such a difficult show, and she made it so much easier for everybody,” said Andrews. “And then she jumped right into a harder situation with this one.”
Another cast member credited Casey as the best stage manager she’d had in more than 20 years at MCT.
“Return to Sunset Village” opens on Thursday, Jan. 5 and runs on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. until Jan. 21, with a special matinee on Sunday, Jan. 15 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $28 and are available at www.marathontheater.org or by calling 305-743-0994. The show contains adult themes and is recommended for mature audiences.
‘ReturnWhen sinkholes begin devouring homes and friends in their community, the residents of Sunset Village resolve to ‘Burn It Down’ outside real estate developer RELCO’s office. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
FRIDAY, JAN. 6
Key Largo to Islamorada
Start: 8:30 a.m. from VFW Post 10211 Break: 9:30 a.m. Coral Shores High School End: 10:30 a.m. Post Card Inn
Marathon to Big Pine Key Start: 1:30 p.m. from Marathon Fire Station across the 7 Mile Bridge End: 2:30 p.m. Veterans Memorial Beach
SATURDAY, JAN. 7
Key West and Boca Chica
Start: 10:30 a.m. from Boca Chica Naval Base to the Welcome Ceremony: Noon at Bayview Park City of Key West Guided Community Ride: 12:45 to 2 p.m. Start and end at Bayview Park
Who: Crane Point Hammock Museum & Nature Trail
When: Wednesday, January 11th 5:30pm - 7:30pm Where: 5550 Overseas Hwy (Meet at Service Gate across from McDonalds)
What: Great networking, food & beverages; come promote your business and meet Marathon business owners, executives, and leaders!
be printed and distributed via mailing requests and key locations in Marathon. Guides are also available for free download on our website.
Advertising Deadline: January 20th
Publication Date: February, 2023 Contact Laura at 305.743.5417 or membership@floridakeysmarathon.com
City Council
Luis Gonzalez, Mayor
Robyn Still - Vice Mayor
Lynn Landry, Councilmember
Kenny Matlock, Councilmember
Jeff Smith, Councilmember
City Manager
George Garrett
City Attorney Steve Williams
City Clerk
Diane Clavier
www.ci.marathon.fl.us/calendar
1/10/23 • 5:30pm • Marathon City Hall, Council Chambers 9805 Overseas Hwy.
1/19/23 • 2:00pm • Marathon City Hall, Council Chambers 9805 Overseas Hwy.
1/23/23 • 5:30pm • Marathon City Hall, Council Chambers 9805 Overseas Hwy.
1/24/23 • 5:30pm • Marathon City Hall, Council Chambers 9805 Overseas Hwy.
Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Council with respect to any matter considered at any meeting or workshop noted herein, he or she will need a record of the proceedings and for such purposes 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. The City of Marathon complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a disabled person requiring special accommodations or assistance, please notify the City ADA Coordinator at (305) 289-5022 of such need at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance. 11/10/22hp
This year, the Marathon Yacht Club’s holiday Giving Tree project focused on the KAIR food pantry. Members provided $4,000 in food staples and financial contributions to the KAIR food pantry during the holiday season. Pictured are MYC Commodore Sandy Yenik, left, with KAIR’s Phyllis Michaelis and the club’s Giving Tree. CONTRIBUTED
BINGO
1-year-old female Dutch dhepherd mix.
Looking for: Someone to match my energy! I’m intelligent, energetic, young and athletic. Can you keep up with me?
Turnoffs: Fences, cats, and when the volunteers only walk me and don’t run me.
Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption “match” at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus – complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit.
DOT 3-month-old rabbit.
Looking for: This place I hear about called “home.” I was born and then brought to the shelter at only a day old with my siblings. I’ve never had one of those “homes” before.
Turnoffs: I really don’t have any complaints.
For the first time since 2008, the Domestic Abuse Shelter will host the return of its “Paws for a Cause” dog walk fundraiser on the Old Seven Mile Bridge. On Saturday, Jan. 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., walkers will team up with their companions for a walk to Pigeon Key and back, and donation pledges secured by each walker will go to support the Domestic Abuse Shelter in its efforts to rebuild the Middle Keys shelter destroyed by Hurricane Irma. Register in advance by scanning the attached QR code. Walkers who raise $100 in sponsorships will have their $25 registration fee waived, and the walker who raises the most money will win a two-night stay at Isla Bella Beach Resort. Walkers who wish to participate but don’t have a four-legged teammate of their own may volunteer to walk a shelter dog from the Marathon SPCA. Contact 305-849-6236 with questions. Pictured are volunteers and their happy pack at the first-ever walk in 1999. CONTRIBUTED
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people. The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC.
See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800 or visit the campus at 10550 Aviation Blvd.
2.5-year-old male domestic shorthair.
Looking for: I’m a super friendly, playful guy. I love kittens, I don’t mind the dogs, and people are my favorite.
Turnoffs: Can you believe that I’m allergic to litter? I have to have special pine litter, so I really need to be adopted.
Starbucks (StarTouch One LLC holds the license)
StarTouch One is opening its 8th store for Starbucks in Marathon at Mile Marker 47.6 at Captain Pip's Marina & Hideaway. Pablo Hoberman, CEO of StarTouch One, emphasizes the importance of this new opening, “We are very happy to become part of the community. We look forward to meeting the locals and tourists that visit this beautiful island” said Hoberman. Starbucks Coffee Company opened its first store in Seattle in 1971. Since then, thanks to the commitment of its founders and employees, Starbucks has become one of the most recognized and valued brands in the world. Today the company has more than 34,317 stores in 84 countries.
keysstarmanager@startouch1.com
The Marathon Sail and Power Squadron is starting off the new year by offering a nationally certified (NASBLA) boating course necessary to obtain the required Florida State Boater ID Card. America’s Boating Course teaches the basic skills of boat handling and seamanship, boating regulations, safety skills, aids to navigation, charting, weather, radio operation and the Florida Boating Regulations. As a bonus, participants will learn to use flares, tie some knots, and learn facts about local waters.
The course will be on Saturday, Jan. 7 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 8 from 8 a.m. to noon. The cost for a non-member is $70, or $85 for two students sharing materials. Squadron members pay $30, or $45 for two members sharing materials. The class will be held at America’s Boating Club Building, 5205 College Road, Stock Island. To reserve a place in this class, call 305-296-1126.
Habitat for Humanity to hold applicant information sessions
Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys will be holding meetings for residents of the Middle Keys interested in applying for the new homes at Bell Haven. The next meeting is Saturday, Jan. 7 from 9 to 10 a.m., at Marathon Garden Club, 5270 Overseas Hwy. Applicants are highly encouraged to attend one of these two meetings before applying for the homes. The application period for these homes will open on Tuesday, Jan. 3. Contact 305-743-9828 or email fsm@habitatmiddlekeys.org with questions. Spanish translators will be at the meetings. Equal Housing Opportunity.
The Marathon Library has a wide variety of class offerings, ranging from photography to book clubs, robots, virtual reality and more. Scan the QR code here to see the schedule and get involved.
The Wounded Warrior Project’s Soldier Ride takes place Friday, Jan. 6, and Saturday, Jan. 7, in the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys. Residents and visitors are encouraged to cheer on and support the warriors or join them for the community ride on Saturday in Key West.
“The Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride is an opportunity for those who honorably serve or have served our nation to build confidence and strength from wounds incurred in service,” said Monroe County Veterans Affairs Director Cathy Crane, who is also a coordinator of the event. “We enthusiastically welcome these warriors as they ride through the Florida Keys.”
Motorists should take extra time to get to their destination during the ride times. U.S. 1 will remain open for the Soldier Ride, but motorists should be patient, use caution and note there may be rolling lane shifts in traffic.
Registration is open for youth baseball, softball and tee ball
Registration is now open for the Marathon Youth Club’s 2023 spring season of youth baseball, softball and tee ball. Children ranging in age from 4.5 (birth date on or before May 31, 2018) to 12 can register to play. Tee ball is free and sponsored by the Miami Marlins. Baseball and softball are $55 per child (plus a $3 transaction service fee). Registration closes on Saturday, Jan. 28. Evaluations will be held the week of Feb. 6 at the community park baseball fields. Practices will begin Monday, Feb. 13 with games starting the week of March 6. Register at MYC’s new online registration link by scanning the QR code here. Follow MYC on Facebook at “Marathon Youth Sports'' or send questions via email to marathonyouthclub305@gmail. com.
Well, we survived our first real cold snap of the winter. Yep, it was bloody awful. The Christmas weekend nighttime low temperatures actually dipped to 52 degrees Fahrenheit one early morning — luckily, while most of us were asleep. We all walked around bundled up in layers of whatever remnants of cold-weather clothing we might still own, complaining bitterly about how freezing it was, as if there were icicles hanging from the palm fronds.
Flash back to this past August and September and October and November (or August, Parts I - IV). All around us, people were complaining about just how hot the summer had been – hotter than any of us ever remembered. Oh, the humidity!
Our constant complaining about the temperatures has left me with just one conclusion: we here in the Keys are Weather Wimps.
Consider the evidence: on days when the high temperatures are in the upper 60s or low 70s, the kind of days that people in North Dakota refer to as summer, we stay inside bundled up near our space heaters, fingers wrapped around a freshly nuked cup of hot tea and muttering about frostbite. If we have evenings when the nighttime lows dip to the low- to mid-60s, the kind of weather that has northerners throwing all the windows of the house open for great sleeping weather, we curse the damn luck that we don’t have a big St. Bernard dog to crawl into bed and keep us warm. If, God forbid, the temperatures dip into the 50s or (gasp!) upper 40s (saints preserve us), all bets are off.
Of course, I exaggerate. It probably wouldn’t be so bad except for the fact that most Keys buildings have no heat whatsoever (except for space heaters and open oven doors).
WARNING! LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT OFFICIALS STRONGLY DISCOURAGE THE USE OF OPEN OVEN DOORS TO HEAT ONE’S HOME. WE NOW RETURN YOU TO THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED COLUMN.
I remember the first really cold snap I experienced in an older Keys house. When the temperature dipped to 50 outside, it was 55 in the house. The thermostat that controlled the central air had a switch position labeled “HEAT.” I remember standing under the freezing air blowing from the ductwork and waiting for the nonexistent heat to arrive. It was a cold hard lesson learned: just because the thermostat has a heat button doesn’t mean the house has heat.
Those of us lucky enough to live in a house with heat still have to put
up with that nasty smell emanating from the heating coil the first time the heat is switched on. All the dust, hair, rat turds and other particulate matter that has settled on the coil all spring, summer and fall are now toasted into an aroma akin to what one might experience at a campfire fueled by dust, hair, rat turds and other particulate matter.
Weather Wimps we may be, but there’s still no other place I’d like to spend winters in North America. There are those extra special days between cold fronts, and those are the ones worth the price of admission. The temperatures have crept back up, the winds have died down and the humidity has not yet returned. These are the days when our weather is the most perfect weather on Planet Earth. These are also usually the days when we have to spend all day inside at work, and they virtually never happen on the weekends.
If you get a chance, if you have an awesome boss, if you are the boss, or even if you work for a slave driver like I do (I’m self-employed), when one of those perfect days comes around, take some time and play hooky. Go fishing or golfing or just spend some quality time out of doors. Appreciate the good weather, for the next cold front is coming, and summer’s heat and humidity are just around the corner.
* * * * *
It is with sadness that I note the passing of local musician Tim Dee. Tim was a beloved musical figure in Marathon, and was always working onstage — either solo, or with his longtime partner Jim Hill. Tim wrote some fine Keys songs, and was as kind and bighearted as a person can get. We were both huge Beatles fans and we both got a kick out of the fact that people would occasionally confuse us for each other (I’d always say that he was the one with the tattoos). Tim left Marathon a couple of months ago for his hometown of Buffalo to get some better medical treatment, but passed away on Dec. 29. Rest in peace, Tim — and I hope you got to meet John and George.
— Catch John each Monday at Boondocks, Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the Key Colony Inn and Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing. Find his music anywhere you download or stream your music. www.johnbartus.com
Actually, it wasn’tJohn Bartus is a singer-songwriter and the former mayor of Marathon. JOHN BARTUS
MM 1 - Inez Martin Child Care Center (C16M0012)
1100 Varela St., Key West, FL 33040
Contact: Christine Patterson • 305-809-5055 • christine.patterson@wesleyhouse.org Vacancies: 3 teachers
MM 2 - Sunbeam Christian School (C16MO0034)
1311 5th St., Key West, FL 33040 Contact: Jerlyn Matthews • 305-2946018 • sunbeam@fsbckw.org Vacancies: 3 teachers
MM 5 - Lighthouse Christian Academy (C16MO0014) 5580 MacDonald Ave, Key West, FL 33040 Jennifer Sisco • 305-292-5582 • lcaoffice@cwckw.org Vacancies: 1 floater
MM 22.9 - Banana Cabanna Academy Inc. (C16MO0054) 22673 Pieces of Eight Rd, Cudjoe Key, FL 33042
Contact: Roxanne Rosado • 305-745-1400 • banana.cabanna@att.net Vacancies: 2 teachers
MM 47 - Kreative Kids Christian Academy (X16MO0001)
4711 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050
Contact: Maria Vaillant • 305-743-7165 Kreativekidsca@bellsouth.net • vaillantmaria@yahoo.com Vacancies: 2 teachers
MM 49 - Grace Jones Community Center, Inc. (C16MO0048) 230 41st Street Gulf, Marathon, FL 33050 Kelly Ullrich • 305-743-6064 • gjcckids@gmail.com Vacancies: 3 teachers
MM 87.5 - St. James Children’s Center (C16MO0033) 87500 Overseas Hwy, I slamorada, FL 33036
Contact: Sue Ellen Bennett • 305-852-2161 • childrenscenter@stjamesthefisherman.org Vacancies: 1 teacher
MM 92 - Burton Memorial CDC (C16MO0018) 93001 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070
Contact: Nilda Bernaldez • 305-852-0250 • acabar11@yahoo.com Vacancies: 2 part-time floaters
MM 99 - First Baptist Church Jack Hill Child Care (C16MO0021) 99001 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037
Contact: Leeanna Woods • 305-451-2125 • fbcjhccc@yahoo.com Vacancies: 1 teacher
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of MIGHTY COCK located at 633 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
Dated at Key Colony Beach, Florida this 22nd day of December, 2022.
By: Kathleen Island Price Publish: January 5, 2023
Dated at Sugarloaf Key, Florida this 22nd day of December, 2022.
By: Your Roofers LLC Publish: January 5, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
FICTITIOUS NAME
THE FOLLOWING WILL SELL AT: 1503 AQUEDUCT LN, KEY LARGO,FL 33037 P#:786-3289393
By:MC BBQ KEY WEST, a Florida limited liability company
Publish: January 5, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of ISLAND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT located at PO BOX 510157, Monroe County in the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051-0157, intends to
The Weekly Newspapers
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of MRF COMMERCIAL ROOFING SPECIALIST located at 320 S POINT DR, Monroe County in the City of Sugarloaf Key, Florida 33042-3506, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of ANCHORS AWAY ART & ANTIQUES located at 33 Buttonwood Drive, Key Largo, FL 33037 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
By: Lisa Jansen Publish: January 5, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of YEA BABY CHARTERS located at 1500 Ocean Bay Drive, Unit R3, Key Largo, FL 33037 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
By: Palm Coast 3D Epoxies, LLC Publish: January 5, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
BEST LIEN SERVICES INC. LOCATED AT: 7290 SW 41 ST MIAMI, FL 33155, WILL SELL AT A RESERVE PUBLIC SALE AT 9:00 AM THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES AT SAID LOCATION TO SATISFY LIEN PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 713.585 OF THE FLORIDA STATUES.
DATE OF SALE: JAN.16,2022 at 9:00 AM 2014 TAOT MS L9NTEACB2E1115106 1992 MZ MC 2600268 2018 INFI 4D
JN1EV7AP1JM354165 2006 HOND UT 5FNYF28656B036251 2013 AUDI CV WAUJFAFH3DN010033 2007 VOLV TR 4V4NC9GHX7N450348 2015 KIA 4D KNDJP3A58F7138221 2013 KIA 4D KNDJT2A54D7586216 1974 MZ MC 3572864
OWNER/LIENHOLDER MAY INSPECT/RECOVER VEHICLE BY CONTACTING: BEST LIEN SERVICES, 7290 SW 41 ST, MIAMI,
FL 33155 (1-866-299-9391) AT LEAST 1 WEEK PRIOR TO THE LIEN SALE, ALL SALES ARE WITH RESERVE 20% BUYERS PREMIUM.
Publish: January 5, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC NOTICE TO SELL
Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 1/26/2023 at 10:00 am, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees allowed pursuant to Florida statute 713.78. Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.
YV1SW59V942404292 2004 VOLV Publish: January 5 & 12, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC NOTICE TO SELL
Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 1/27/2023 at 10:00 am, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees allowed pursuant to Florida statute 713.78. Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.
5NMZT3LBXJH057000 2018
HYUN Publish: January 5 & 12, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF SECOND/FINAL CODE AMENDMENT HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida will hold a Second and Final Public Hearing on Thursday, January 19, 2023, at 9:30 a.m., Key Colony Beach City Hall Annex Trailer, 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051, to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.
The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is Ordinance 2021-469, entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH FLORIDA, AMENDING THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ARTICLE III – DISTRICT REGULATIONS, REPEALING CONFLICTING ORDINANCES, PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.”
Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. This meeting will be available virtually via ZOOM Meetings. Members of the public who wish to attend may contact the City Clerk for a Zoom Meeting ID. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach.
The City Commission requests an amendment to the City’s Land Development Regulations in order to guide and control the future development of the City to preserve, promote, and protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare in order to comply with the changes in flood maps being proposed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) and the National Flood Insurance Program (“NFIP”).
This proposed amendment is required by Florida law to aid in the harmonious, orderly, and aesthetically pleasing and socially beneficial development taking place within the City.
Interested parties may attend the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested code amendment.
If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding 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 SECOND/FINAL Public Hearing on Thursday, January 19, 2023, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Clerk, P.O. Box. 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@keycolonybeach. net and your comments will be entered into the record.
City Clerk, City of Key Colony Beach
Publish: January 5, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
The City of Key Colony Beach will be holding Public Hearings on: Planning & Zoning Hearing: Wednesday, January 18th, 2023, 9:30 A.M.
City Commission Public Hearing: Thursday, February 16, 2023, 9:30 A.M.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Planning & Zoning Hearing on Wednesday, January 18th, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., and a City Commission Public Hearing, on February 16, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., at Temporary City Hall located at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida, 33051, to hear a Variance Request from Chad O’Rourke, 68 7th Street, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051. This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings.
Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may email cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net or call 305-289-1212, Ext. 2 for further instructions on attending via Zoom Meetings.
Applicant requests a variance to the City of Key Colony Beach Code of Ordinances Chapter 101, Section 26 (11), to allow the rebuilding of a currently installed pool to be installed within the 10’ setback to 5’ from the neighboring property line at 66 7th Street. The current setback requirements are 10’ feet.
Interested parties may attend the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.
If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach 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 Hearings on Wednesday, January 18th, 2023, or Thursday, February 16th, 2023, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@keycolonybeach. net . and your comments will be entered into the record.
Publish: January 5, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings & workshop
The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following 2 meetings & 1 workshop via
Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform: the Annual meeting will meet in person at Pigeon Key. The access points to view the meetings and workshop or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@ keysarts.com
Grant Panel Review Session
Thursday, Jan 5, 2023, at 10:00 AM
Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 893 8243 5563 Passcode: 950333
Art in Public Places Committee Meeting Tuesday, Jan 17, 2023, at 12:00 PM
Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 811 8173 7184 Passcode: 896006
County Art in Public Places
WORKSHOP for APPLICATION PROCESS Friday, Jan 20, 2023, at 4:00 PM
Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 850 1713 9957 Passcode: 121014
Board of Directors & Annual
Members Meeting Thursday January 26, 2023, at 11:00 am
Pigeon Key, Marathon - RSVP required to Director@keysarts.com for transportation arrangements Publish: January 5, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for
the following:
Card Sound Road Resurfacing Project
Monroe County, Florida
Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.
Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon request.
Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids electronically. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted.
The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M., on Thursday, February 23, 2023. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:
Card Sound Road Resurfacing Project 2-23-2023 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s
sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.
The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, February 23, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:
Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156
Meeting ID: 4509326156
One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York)
+16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose)
Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose)
Publish: January 5, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:
Perform Removal, Refloating and/or Demolition and Disposal of Derelict Vessels, Floating Structures, and Marine Debris Monroe County, Florida
Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.
Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon
Eduardo Gonzalez-Blanco, M.D. Key West Urology Associates PA 1111 12th Street, Suite 108 Key West, Florida 33040
Dr. Eduardo Gonzalez-Blanco will be retiring and will no longer be practicing at Key West Urology Associates PA e ective December 29, 2022.
Patients’ medical records will remain at Key West Urology Associates PA, 1111 12th Street, Suite 108, Key West, Florida 33040 under the custodianship of Dr. Taweh Beysolow and his sta . Patients wishing to pick up their records may do so starting February 1, 2023.
Publish: January 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
request.
Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids electronically. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted.
The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M., on Wednesday, February 22, 2023.
Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:
Perform Removal, Refloating and/or Demolition and Disposal of Derelict Vessels, Floating Structures, and Marine Debris 2-22-2023
Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.
The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on February 22, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:
Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156
Meeting ID: 4509326156
One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose)
Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose) Publish: January 5, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at 3:00 P.M. Eastern Time, the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Art in Public Places – Biannual Request for Qualifications Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon request.
Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids electronically. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted.
The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M. Eastern Time, on Tuesday, February 7, 2023. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:
Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.
The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Tuesday, February 7, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156
One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose)
Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose) Publish: January 5, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 22-CP-151-P IN RE: ESTATE OF NADINE SEDON-LAHTI, Deceased.
The administration of the estate of NADINE SEDONLAHTI, deceased, whose date of death was February 25, 2022, File Number 22-CP-151-P is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Plantation Key Government Center, 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 has been 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 TIME 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 SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: January 5, 2023.
Personal Representative: GLENN LAHTI 139 Gulfview Drive Islamorada, FL 33036
Attorney for Personal Representative: JOE A. CATARINEAU
Florida Bar Number: 0517291 91750 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
Telephone: (305) 852-4833
Publish: January 5 & 12, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 22-CP-000145-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF IRMA DIAZ, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Irma Diaz, deceased, whose date of death was January 5, 2021, 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 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 January 5, 2023.
Personal Representative: Evelin Meltz 157 NE 104th Street Miami Shores, Florida 33138
Attorney for Personal Representative: Rodolfo Suarez, Jr., Esq. Attorney Florida Bar Number: 013201 Pilar V. Vazquez, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 115839 Suarez Law 9100 South Dadeland Blvd., Ste. 1620 Miami, FL 33156 Telephone: (305) 448-4244 Fax: (305) 448-4211
E-Mail: rudy@suarezlawyers.com
Secondary E-Mail: eca@ suarezlawyers.com
Publish: January 5 & 12, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CIVIL DIVISION Case#: 2012-CA-000363-K Federal National Mortgage Association Plaintiff, -vs.Joseph Patrick Clements a/k/a Joseph P. Clements and Debra Lynn Clements a/k/a Debra L. Clements a/k/a Debbie L. Clements; Branch Banking and Trust Company, Successor by Merger to Republic Bank; Iberiabank; Unknown Parties in Possession #1, If living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants; Unknown Parties in Possession #2, If living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants
NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant
to order rescheduling foreclosure sale or Final Judgment, entered in Civil Case No. 2012-CA-000363-K of the Circuit Court of the
Judicial Circuit in and for Monroe County, Florida, wherein Federal National Mortgage Association, Plaintiff and Joseph Patrick Clements a/k/a Joseph P. Clements and Debra Lynn Clements a/k/a Debra L. Clements a/k/a Debbie L. Clements are defendant(s), I, Clerk of Court, Kevin Madok,CPA, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash AT THE MONROE COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040, AT 11:00 A.M. on January 18, 2023, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to-wit:
LOT 23, BLOCK 2, AMENDED PLAT OF COPPITT SUBDIVISION, (A RE-SUBDIVISION OF PLAT BOOK 3, AT PAGE 116) LOCATED IN GOVERNMENT LOT 5, SECTION 27, TOWNSHIP 67 S., RANGE 26 E., BIG COPPITT KEY, MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AS RECORDED INP LAT BOOK 4, AT PAGE 50, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA.
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 NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. Florida Rules of Judicial Administration Rule 2.540 Notices to Persons With Disabilities If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Cheryl Alfonso, ADA Coordinator, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.
SPANISH: Si usted es una persona discapacitada que necesita alguna adaptación para poder participar de este procedimiento o evento; usted tiene derecho, sin costo alguno a que se le provea cierta ayuda. Favor de comunicarse con Cheryl Alfonso, Coordinadora de A.D.A Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 por lo menos 7 días antes de que tenga que comparecer en corte o inmediatamente después de haber recibido ésta notificación si es que falta menos de 7 días para su comparecencia. Si tiene una discapacidad auditiva ó de habla, llame al 711.
KREYOL: Si ou se yon moun ki kokobé ki bezwen asistans ou aparêy pou ou ka patisipé nan prosedu sa-a, ou gen dwa san ou pa bezwen péyé anyen pou ou jwen on seri de èd. Tanpri kontakté Cheryl Alfonso, Co-ordinator ADA, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652O'mwen 7 jou avan ke ou gen pou-ou parèt nan tribunal, ou imediatman ke ou resevwa avis sa-a ou si lè ke ou gen pou-ou alé nan tribunal-la mwens ke 7 jou; Si ou pa ka tandé ou palé byen, rélé 711.
Kevin Madok, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Monroe County, Florida
By Shonta McLeodPublish: December 29, 2022 & January 5, 2023
Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483
Boat Trailer Spaces Available. $100 per week. Boat dockage available $100 per week. Easy access to the Atlantic and lighthouse. Boat length 32’ or less! Dockage is eighty feet long with good depth for boats. Phone 336-4088140 or 336-287-3345.
Night Monitor – FREE Private Room in exchange for overnight coverage at an Assisted Living Facility. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am with weekly stipend Drug and background screen required. Apply at www.westcare.com
Join the Ocean Dayz Team! We are accepting applications for a Sales Associate in Islamorada. Must be outgoing, detail oriented and willing to work weekends. Experience a plus. Starting pay dependent upon qualifications. Apply in person at Island Dreamz, 84001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada or submit resume to: csteele@oceandayz.com
The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a Customer-Service Oriented Server for the pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a Part-Time Line Cook. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Small friendly staff. Hourly pay commensurate with experience. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
SS Wreck and Galley Grill on Grassy Key is looking for line cooks, full or part time. Please call Nicole at 305-4330515, or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.
CDL Drivers needed. Must have a clean record & drug free. We are offering competitive wages. Please apply in person at Discount Rock & Sand, 10500 Aviation Blvd, Unit 2, Marathon
Boat rental company in Marathon needs an Outboard Mechanic. Some general marina work, and boat experience a plus. Call 305-481-7006
All Keys Yamaha hiring a Technician Marine Repair specializing in Yamaha outboard engines. Hours M-F 8a5p. Apply in person at 2001 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-743-3530
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
Immediate positions at the Grassy Key Marina. Under new ownership and looking for smiling faces. Full-time or parttime available. Pay rates are commensurate with experience but we are willing to interview those with no experience who have an interest in working in a marina environment. Please call Randall Glass to schedule an interview at 305-465-1491.
City of Marathon
Current Job Openings: WW Operator/Controls Trainee, Support Services/ Logistics, Paralegal, Utilities Maintenance, Recreation Specialist, and Right of Way Technician. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us
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
NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for multiple positions: Cashier - must be 16 yrs or older, Full-time Baker & Part-time Baker's Assistant. Stop by for an application at 8919 Overseas Highway, Marathon or email: info@ sweetsavannahs.com
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker), Med Tech, Resident Activities Coordinator, Grounds Keeper. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha. org or 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.
COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
HOUSING FOR RENT
LONG TERM Key Largo - 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community $3200/ month 786-258-3127
Key Colony Beach - 1 BR 1/2 duplex long term rental. Newly remodeled. $1,900/month. No Pets, No Smoking. 910-382-7818
LUXURY CONDO FOR RENT IN MARATHON. Seawatch Condos. 2 BR, 2 Bath, Den. 1650 sq ft plus 350 sq ft open balcony. Beautiful water view. Full gym, pool, tennis, fishing. Adults only. No pets. $4750 per month plus utilities F/L/S [first, last, and security deposit]. 800-324-6982.
STUDIO APT FOR RENT - Furnished Studio Apt w/patio, like new, W/D, off street parking. Key West. $2,300/month including util. F/L/S Owner/Agent Douglas Miller 305-747-1700
Place your HOUSING FOR RENT ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
RV FOR SALE - 2017 Thor Citation RV, 24ft Mercedes V6 Diesel, 2 slides, Cummings Diesel Generator, Low Mileage, Many Upgrades, Call Richard 305-363-8021
Large RV Waterfront Lot with Dockage for rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $2000.00/month plus utilities. 305-731-5042
Place your RV LOT FOR RENT ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
The City of Marathon, City Attorney’s Office is seeking a motivated LEGAL ASSISTANT/PARALEGAL with relevant experience to support the City Attorney’s Office.
Please visit the City of Marathon Job Openings webpage at: ci.marathon.fl.us for further details and to complete an application.
EOE, Drug Free Workplace. Veteran preference given.
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on quali cations and experience: $30.64/hr. - $34.32/hr.
For more information, including job duties and required quali cations, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being lled.
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on quali cations and experience: $38.43/hr. - $43.04/hr.
For more information, including job duties and required quali cations, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being lled.
MUST HAVE an active Journeyman Electrician License. Duties:
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $19.82/hr. - $22.20/hr.
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
LOCATION: CUDJOE KEY & DUCK KEY
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $27.17/hr. - $30.43/hr.
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW
The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority’s WASTEWATER DIVISION IS GROWING, and we need (3) WWTP Operators with a Florida “C” license or higher. You will perform skilled/ technical work involving the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant. This requires technical knowledge and independent judgment to make treatment process adjustments and perform maintenance on plant equipment, machinery, and related control apparatus in accordance with established standards and procedures. Benefit package is extremely competitive! Salary Range: $54,645.98 - $98,454.90. Apply online at www. aa.com/employment
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.
& Outreach Curriculum Specialist (Full-Time, Permanent)
Visual Communications
(Full-Time/Part-Time, Seasonal or Permanent) Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)
Education Registration & Enrollment Specialist (Full-Time, Permanent)
Gift Shop Staff (Part-Time, Permanent) Trainer (Full-Time, Permanent)