Marathon Weekly

Helping

BREATHE IN WHAT’S NEXT

Located just offshore from Big Pine Key, this oceanfront lot (just under an acre) on the eastern tip of Cook Island provides the ability to custom-build your have-it-all island home or vacation getaway! The beachy homesite conveys with the 7.7 acres behind it. Home to protected flora and fauna, the 7.7 acres cannot be developed and provide tons of exploration and complete privacy. Exclusive Cook Island is home to about 15 oceanfront residences, all independently and successfully using solar power, cisterns, septic, and WiFi (no county utilities). Accessible by boat only and peacefully remote, Cook Island is about a ten-minute boat ride offshore and is only 29 miles from Key West and a few hours from Miami. With not a neighbor in sight, the coastal landscape is home to famous Key Deer and the surrounding waters offer some of the best kayaking, boating, SUP-boarding, jet-skiing, snorkeling, fishing, lobster-hunting and crab-trapping in the Florida Keys! A short boat ride will get you to the historic American Shoal Lighthouse or to the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, a stunning snorkeling and diving coral reef! The home that was on the site was recently destroyed in a fire. The site is mostly cleared, and the pier requires repair.

COOK ISLAND | $985,000 | Listing ID: 605921

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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Members of

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

Per the Monroe County Supervisor of Elections, there are 50,820 active, registered voters in the Florida Keys as of Aug. 1. Of the voters, 22,740 are Republicans, followed by Democrats, 14,896, and those in other parties, 13,184.

KEY COLONY BEACH RESIDENT FILES PETITION FOR INJUNCTION

Citizens against rebuild will pursue a referendum vote

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

The prolonged battle between Key Colony Beach residents and city officials over the construction of a new city hall building is not over yet, according to a petition for temporary injunction filed on July 27.

Signed by attorney Matthew Hutchinson of Hershoff, Lupino & Yagel LLP on behalf of KCB resident Laurie Swanson, one of the main voices in the ongoing debate, the petition challenges the outcome of a vote by the KCB City Commission at its July 20 meeting.

With a 3-2 split, Mayor Patti Trefry, Vice Mayor Beth Ramsay-Vickrey and Secretary/Treasurer Tom Harding voted to award a contract for construction of a new city hall building to Hands On Builders, LLC at a preliminary price tag of $8.375 million. Commissioners

IN

CITY HALL DECISION

Joey Raspe and Freddie Foster, along with several residents in attendance, spoke strongly against the decision. An agenda item requested by Raspe that would have called for a discussion and possible vote to pursue bids to repair the existing city hall was removed following the split decision.

“Although Key Colony Beach made some repairs to the (old damaged city hall) so that city officials could resume operations, the city never meaningfully pursued an option to make permanent repairs to the existing building and,

instead, focused exclusively on the construction of a new city hall building,” the petition reads.

The document states that Swanson intends to “submit a referendum petition to reject the City Commission’s July 20, 2023 vote to move forward with demolition of the existing city hall building and construction of a new city hall building, and further intends to submit an initiative that the city pursue bids for the repair of the existing city hall building.” If the petition for injunction is granted, it would prevent the city from moving forward with demolition or construction activities for the time being.

Key Colony’s code of ordinances contains provisions by which its voters may reject a measure passed by the city commission via a referendum vote. A petition for such a referendum must be dated no more than 10 days after the July 20 vote, and must be returned to the city clerk within 45 days after official petition documents are issued.

If it is signed by 25% of KCB’s registered electors, the petition may serve

To read about the Key Colony Beach City Commission’s vote to award the city hall project, scan here: continued

The proposed new Key Colony Beach city hall project, awarded on July 20 to Hands On Builders LLC at an initial price tag of $8.375 million, is facing another challenge by a group of KCB residents. LIVS ASSOCIATES/Contributed

Tyler Hill, left, Hunter and Blakeleigh Pingleton get the full hands-on demonstration from the MCSO Bomb Squad at National Night Out. See page 24. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

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The Marathon City Council dove straight into dollars and cents at its July 25 special call meeting, setting a preliminary millage for the city’s 2023-24 budget – but most council members acknowledged there is still significant work to be done.

Finance Director Jennifer Johnson presented the proposed maximum millage rate of 2.72 mills – $2.72 paid per $1,000 of assessed property value. Although the millage is the same as the city’s 2022-2023 budget, due to property value increases, the proposed millage is 11.12% greater than the rollback rate, defined as the millage required to raise the same revenue as the previous year (2.4477 mills). Homesteaded properties would not see the full brunt of this proposed increase, however, as their tax increase is capped at 3% per year.

Notable increased expenditures in the proposed budget include health benefit increases of at least 15% for city employees, as well as merit increases and a 9% cost of living adjustment. The city is proposing to add up to 21 new employees – one full-time code position, up to 13 new firefighters, one fulltime and one part-time position in parks and recreation, four new positions in public works and a new vacation rental specialist position. Increased insurance and communication costs, as well as adjustments to pension contributions, round out the increases.

The proposed budget would see roughly $1 million added to the city’s reserves – above the city’s $20.5 million in budgeted expenses – leaving Marathon with about 13.5 months’ worth of reserve funds, 44 days above its 12-month target.

Upcoming meetings to discuss the 202324 budget may lower the proposed millage, but not raise it. Councilman Jeff Smith encouraged his fellow council members to “sharpen their pencils,” questioning multiple aspects of the budget including the proposed cost of living adjustment, fire rescue contract numbers with the city of Key Colony Beach that have remained mostly static for multiple years, and the added cost of numerous extra staff positions.

“I’m not all that happy with doubledigit tax increases,” he said. “We may look at homesteaded properties, but the fact of the matter is that you still have the excess burden going on commercial property owners and all

your rental properties. All your tenants are going to get burdened by this increase.”

The preliminary millage was unanimously approved by the council. Public hearings for the proposed budget are set for Tuesday, Sept. 12 and Tuesday, Sept. 26, both at 5:05 p.m. at Marathon City Hall.

In Other News

• At the invitation of councilman Lynn Landry following Marathon’s temporary closure of its Harbor Drive boat ramp during mini-season week, the council heard from resident Mark Martins, who lives across from the ramp. Martins described the daily “chaos” at the ramp, which sees high traffic and no available parking on a residential street. City staff diligently worked the ramp throughout the mini-season week, establishing a loop traffic pattern to eliminate two-way congestion, but Martins said more action is needed to address the unsafe area. Smith expressed concern with diverting the Aviation Boulevard traffic through residential streets, advocating instead for an increased fee for visitors for use of the Harbor Drive ramp relative to the city’s other ramps to make it less attractive to use. The council will revisit plans for the ramp as an agenda item for its August meeting.

• Reviewing a sample residential lighting ordinance from the city of Sanibel, Florida presented by Planning Director Brian Shea, the council discussed a need for an ordinance that would, among other provisions, prevent lights from residential properties from shining onto neighboring properties and residences. Real estate agent Josh Mothner cautioned the council to consider the safety elements provided by additional lighting in parking lots and multi-unit developments. The council will revisit the topic at a future meeting after providing Shea with comments and suggestions on adapting the sample ordinance to Marathon’s needs.

• Similarly, the council at a future meeting will explore changes to Marathon’s parking ordinances. Tuesday’s discussion of parking requirements throughout the city was a

follow-up to concerns raised at the council’s first July meeting, which saw a clash between the Sister’s Creek Townhomes and Marathon Auto & Marine Service over parking in rightof-ways on 25th Street Ocean. While councilman Kenny Matlock advocated for a blanket ban on parking in right-of-ways other than those immediately adjacent to an individual resident’s own property, the other four council members said they would rather see cases handled individually with tow-away zones or similar measures in problematic areas.

• Though no action was taken, the council discussed Marathon’s current Transferable Building Right (TBR) transfer fees. Currently set at $40,000, Smith expressed concern that with Building Permit Allocation System (BPAS) allocations dwindling, particularly for affordable housing units, the current fee would not be enough to discourage developers from using existing building rights formerly used to provide long-term residences as a way to build additional vacation rental properties – thereby further reducing Marathon’s low long-term housing stock. Matlock asked City Attorney Steve Williams to explore a mechanism by which the city could provide an incentive for transferable allocations to remain as homesteaded residences.

• Code Director Ted Lozier provided an update on efforts in vacation rental enforcement. Lozier said about half of roughly 50 existing violations are due to lapsed licenses, while the other half stem from properties that never registered as a rental. The department brought 18 cases to hearing in July, with 24 cases scheduled for hearing in August. He said the city has added about 150 new vacation rental properties since last July.

• The council approved a contract to hire Mothner’s Haven Business Solutions Inc. to provide housing coordinator services for the city. Mothner already performs qualifications for the city’s First Time Home Buyer Assistance Program, and will now oversee and maintain Marathon’s pool of affordable and workforce housing properties through income verification.

MAKING ‘CENTS’ OF MARATHON’S DOLLARS City council opens budget discussions, sets preliminary millage

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

WATER PIPE PROJECT REACHES HALFWAY POINT

Crews have reached the halfway mark about two months ahead of schedule on the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority’s (FKAA) Islamorada Transmission Main Replacement Project. With 11,000 linear feet of the new 36-inch transmission main installed between MM 80 and MM 82, crews are continuing to move north toward MM 84.

“I want to thank the top-notch crew we have working 24/7, Monday through Friday on this legacy project that will ensure access to clean drinking water for many years to come,” said Greg Veliz, FKAA executive director. “Their continuous commitment to support the business community, residents and visitors is such an integral part of the success of this project.”

While traffic has been flowing steadily without major delays along U.S. 1, a rolling lane closure of 1,000 to 1,500 feet has been in effect at the work zone, which is currently near MM 82. To support the businesses and those traveling, the rolling lane closure is being suspended for major holidays and events, like July 4th and lobster mini-season.

Last April, crews began installing the new transmission main via open-cut trench installation along U.S. 1. Additionally, 900 feet of new transmission main has been installed underwater at Tea Table Relief bridge crossing via horizontal directional drill (HDD), to protect it from high winds and storm surges. An additional main will be installed via HDD at the Whale Harbor bridge crossing.

This project is being funded with $35 million in grants and $7 million through low-interest loans. To abide by the grant requirements, materials have been sourced from U.S.-based companies, including the American spiral-welded steel pipe from South Carolina and the iron and steel butterfly valves.

The water main project is slated for completion in February 2025, but traffic impacts are expected to lessen after March 2024.

— Contributed

MORE REVENUE MEANS MORE SPENDING School Board Approves Tentative Budget

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Atentative Monroe County School District spending plan totaling nearly $300 million seeks to raise even more property tax dollars than the previous year — and that’s despite a slight drop in the proposed millage rate. This comes as the school district grapples with some 28 vacant teacher positions as students return to the classroom Aug. 10.

Monroe County school board members unanimously approved a tentative 2023-2024 budget following a public hearing at Coral Shores High School on Aug. 1. A tentative millage rate of 2.8960, which is expected to generate some $120 million in property tax dollars, was also approved by the board. Last year, the school board adopted a 2.9620 millage rate that gathered around $108.7 million in property taxes.

A budget breakdown shows dayto-day operational expenses totaling $149.20 million for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Capital projects account for $89.85 million, followed by debt service, $20.65 million.

Dustin Tran, school district comptroller, said an additional $12 million in spending this year will largely go toward teacher raises, $4.8 million, and pay hikes for other school district personnel, $3.2 million.

Property values in Monroe County have soared since the COVID pandemic saw many people desiring a home on the islands. Along with new construction coming online, the county’s assessed tax roll has eclipsed $52 billion this year — up from $44 billion the previous year.

“Before COVID-19, our average

increase on our property value was around 6%. Last year, we experienced a 32% increase in our property (value),” Tran said.

And while property tax collections for the school district continue to increase, Tran said state funding for schools has largely remained the same since 2013. Tran said the school district is expected to receive around $12 million in state funding.

Homesteaded properties are limited to a 3% increase per the Save Our Homes amendment. Such homes also qualify for a $25,000 homestead exemption, which lowers the assessed value of the home by $25,000.

Homesteaded properties will see a roughly $12 increase on their tax bills, while homes with no homestead exemption could see an increase of $111.80 from the previous year.

While school board member John Dick supported the budget, he shared concerns about the 28 vacant teacher positions. Dick said teachers in classrooms are important for academic success.

“Hopefully that number changes, (but) that’s a big problem to me,” he said. “Who’s going to be in front of those classrooms? And where I think the problem arises, and we have to see this because the future is not looking bright, fewer people are going into college to be teachers.”

Dick said the district should also examine and reduce its 72 administrators as a way to give more money to teachers.

“I think we can condense that and get a couple more thousand dollars into everybody’s pocket,” he said.

A budget workshop is set for Aug. 22 at Marathon High School. A public hearing on the final budget is set for Sept. 5 in Key West.

The Monroe County School Board examines the tentative 2023-2024 budget during an Aug. 1 meeting at Coral Shores High School. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

New water transmission pipe is placed into the ground in Islamorada. FKAA/Contributed

WELCOME TO THE ‘SCRUB HUB’

It isn’t a secret that many teachers are switching careers as of late. Low pay, student behavior issues, stress and disrespect from students are all factors influencing many of these recent career changes.

Rebekah Norgaard is a former teacher who has done just that. After a music education career spanning more than 20 years, she joined the ranks of other disgruntled educators who chose to pursue a different path.

Norgaard has loved both music and the water ever since she was a little girl, she told the Weekly. As a practicing divemaster, the ocean has always fascinated her, but her career path was with music education, not commercial diving.

“I’ve always loved the ocean. I consider myself to be a mermaid,” she said. “That’s why I chose a mermaid to represent my business. If I could have a superhero power, it would be to breathe underwater.”

Things began to change for Rebekah during the pandemic. Wanting a different life, she looked into colleges where she could blend her love for construction, the medical field and the ocean. She found a perfect fit at the Commercial Diving Technologies Institute (CDT) in Hudson, Texas to learn more about the underwater world. As she completed her education, she was recruited down to the Florida Keys to begin her new career.

Besides being a divemaster, Rebekah is certified in underwater oxy-arc cutting, has her hyperbaric and diving medic technician certifications, and graduated CDT as an Unrestricted Surface Supplied Diver (USSD). She worked on restructuring power lines from the 7 Mile Bridge down to Sugarloaf Key for a while, and then came up with the idea of starting her own business: Scrub Hub Diving Services.

Already well-versed in many aspects of commercial diving, she came up with the idea for Scrub Hub because she saw the need for vessel maintenance in the Keys.

“Boat maintenance may be the most difficult aspect of owning a boat,” she said. “I serve my clients in maintaining not only their vessels, but their seawalls and boat lifts as well. It’s a complete package.

“The Florida Keys have everything I’ve always wanted: warm, crystal-clear water, beautiful coral reefs and most importantly, sunshine. It’s the perfect place for me to pursue my lifelong dream of being an entrepreneur.”

Scrub Hub’s services include type I and II seawall and vessel surveying, which includes the inspection of a vessel, photos, videos and measurements. Other offerings include piling cleaning and protective wraps, dock maintenance, boat lift pressure washing, zinc anode replacement and hard growth removal. She’ll even tackle boat cleaning and detailing from top to bottom, propeller pull outs, salvaging old boat parts, welding both above and below the water, and any other underwater technical diving needs. And she’s always open to trying something new.

“We offer many services, so please just ask me and I’ll let you know if I can provide that,” she said. “If I can’t, I’ll make sure I refer you to someone who can.”

While her current career path may be very male-dominated, Norgaard said, “I’m not afraid of a challenge.”

“I understand that this isn’t the typical career path for women, but I’d like to change that,” she added, saying her next goals are to expand Scrub Hub’s community partnerships throughout Monroe County. “I’m definitely excited about the opportunities to grow my business. I’d like to start working with schools and colleges that have technical and underwater welding programs, such as the College of the Florida Keys, and offer internships and diving experience. I’m excited for what the future holds.”

More information is available at scrubhubdivingservices.com, by email to rebekah@scrubhubdivingservices. com or by phone at 305-622-3131.

Right, as a practicing divemaster, Rebekah Norgaard checks her gear before starting dock maintenance.

Diving services company was born from a music teacher’s career change JEN ALEXANDER

Photos by KINSEY BECK/Oceanfilm

IT’S HARD OUT THERE FOR A HAWK

The wing fluttering was the giveaway, the way the one hawk sidled up to the other on the branch with its wings low and quivering, as if trying to perform a forgotten dance from the 1920s or imitate a very anxious penguin.

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

Ellen Westbrook said something about how the bird seemed to be favoring one leg, but birds stand on one leg all the time, so I didn’t think much about it.

The wing fluttering, though – that was a confirmation of something I’d suspected for quite a while.

Short-tailed hawks are Florida birds. One will stray occasionally from Mexico across the border into Texas or Arizona, but in the U.S., if you want to try to see one, come to Florida. They are pretty common in Central and South America, but there are only an estimated 250 breeding pairs in this state. They tend to breed in the northern two thirds of the peninsula in the summer, where they spread out and can be very hard to find, then winter in the southern two thirds of the peninsula. A number of them migrate into the Keys every fall – last year the counters at the Florida Keys Hawkwatch recorded 71 passing by Curry Hammock State Park, which is a pretty big segment of the population.

With land so finite here, there are a good number of short-tails in a relatively compressed area. If I ride my bike around in the winter, or walk the dog, or look out the window, I tend to see them three or four times a day. They come in both light and dark phases, so I know I’m not seeing the same bird over and over. Some days I’ll see two dark phases or two light phases at the same time. For a lot of visiting, out-of-state birders, short-tails are at the top of their mustsee list of Florida birds. The fact that I get to see them so often can feel like an embarrassment of riches.

Short-tails completely disappear from the Keys in the summer, though, heading north to their breeding territories. Or at least they used to completely disappear. Over the last couple of years I’ve begun seeing them at odd and random intervals during the months they’re supposed to be gone – June, July and August. Which made me wonder if maybe they were breeding here.

A couple summers ago someone told me about a hawk nest near Passover Lane. They said there’d been a lot of activity and a lot of noise from the hawks and that maybe I should check it out. It took me a couple days to get over there, and when I did, the nest was empty. I stopped by again several times and the nest remained empty. (Birds don’t tend to stick around the nest once the chicks have fledged.)

It might have been a short-tailed hawk nest. Or it might have been some other unexpected hawk species. Red-shouldered hawks nest in the Keys, but they tend to eschew the hustle and bustle of Key West. A pair of Cooper’s hawks nested in town a few years ago, but do not seem to have returned (which is odd, because Cooper’s hawks really like chicken, and we have so, so many.)

So when Ellen called me a few weeks ago and told me she was looking at a short-tail in a tree on Ashe Street, I hurried over. As I understand it, the bird had been on the ground, making loud calls, over by the cemetery and someone had called the Key West Wildlife Center. Debbie Babich had gone over, seen the hawk, called Ellen, and followed it when it flew off to Ashe Street. At least I think that’s what my notes said.

The short-tail in the tree was definitely a young bird. Mature, white-phased short-tails have very pristine white breasts and bellies. This bird was more tawny, and you could see scalloping on the edges of its scapulars, the tracts of feathers that overlap the longer flight feathers.

We watched the bird for about 10 minutes when another short-tail, an adult light phase, landed a few branches up. Then the young bird hopped up to the branch the adult was standing on and started to wing flutter, the universal sign in bird world for a fledgling wanting to be fed by a parent.

So we were looking at what I believe is the first and only short-tailed Hawk to hatch in the Florida Keys.

Three weeks later Ellen texted me that the short-tail was sitting in a tree in the cemetery just off Frances Street. I stopped by and closed the car door with a soft click so as not to scare it. The bird was on the low branch of a mahogany tree just over the fence, seemingly nonplussed by the two people staring at it and all the scooter and car traffic passing close by. I ran home to get my camera, and pulled up again just as the bird leaped up and flew deeper into the cemetery. I was downhearted to miss the shot, but glad I might get to see this bird more around the neighborhood.

Sadly this was not to be the case.

A few days later, the Key West Wildlife Center received another call about the young hawk on the ground. They went over and caught it easily, something you can’t generally do to a healthy hawk.

Turns out Ellen was right about there being something not right about the foot. There were burn marks on it, meaning the bird had most likely been electrocuted on a power line. And there was a good deal of necrotic, or dead, tissue.

Peggy Koontz treated the bird, cleaning out the dead tissue. Ellen said she fed the bird several times (frozen white mice), and it ate well. But then the necrosis spread further. The bird stopped eating and the decision was made to euthanize it.

It’s a sad story, tinged with a little hope. There’s a chance the short-tails might try again next year. And short-tails usually lay a clutch of two eggs, so it is possible there is a sibling that survived.

I really would love to be able to see shorttails in the Keys year round. It would be an even greater embarrassment of riches.

A fledgling short-tailed hawk seen a few weeks ago in Old Town Key West. MARK HEDDEN/Keys

MARK HEDDEN

‘BREAST IS BEST’

AUGUST IS NATIONAL BREASTFEEDING MONTH

CAROLYN DEPAULA www.keysweekly.com

For thousands of years, mothers have breastfed their infants. It is a well-proven strategy which has nurtured our ancestors and is still relevant, optimal and ideal today.

Scientists are studying its remarkable adaptive abilities, its newly-discovered properties and its continual positive effects on both infant and maternal health. However, this doesn’t mean breastfeeding, although simple, is always easy for every mom.

Thousands of years ago, moms had their own mothers and extended family who knew about breastfeeding from a store of collective knowledge, passed down from generation to generation. Regrettably, some of this knowledge has been lost in certain cultures and needs to be regained.

As societies advance, we realize some things never change — breast is still best. Formula has its rightful place, medically as a last resort, and as a choice for those who have extenuating circumstances, for those who can’t and for those who won’t. Given the chance to receive education and support, most moms would like to breastfeed when they realize the benefits not only to their babies but to themselves. For example, once breastfeeding is wellestablished within the first few weeks, it is possible for moms to exclusively provide breastmilk to their babies while also working full-time through the modern invention of the breast pump.

An excerpt from the National Library of Medicine, published in September 2021, states that “Extensive data demonstrate that breastfed children have a lower incidence of many acute or chronic diseases, such as otitis media, acute diarrhea, lower respiratory tract infections, sudden infant death syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, juvenile leukemia, diabetes, obesity, asthma and atopic dermatitis. It is known that exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of age lowers mortality against infectious diseases by 88% and lowers the possibility of death compared to partial breastfeeding as a dose dependent effect.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics caused a stir last year when it amended its breastfeeding recommendations to reflect the increasing body of research which supports breastfeeding past the 12-month mark. The new recommendations, updated in June 2022, support continued breastfeeding until 2 years or beyond, as mutually desired by mother and child. This recommendation, made in light of new research, indicates that prolonged breastfeeding, well into toddlerhood, has a positive effect on mothers’ health and lowers the risk for cervical cancer and breast cancer.

Breastfeeding is also not solely for nutrition, as its auxiliary positives include built-in skin-to-skin contact, which nurtures trust, closeness and secure attachment. By its very nature, breastfeeding promotes ideal heart rate, temperature regulation and

respiration in newborns. Exclusive breastfeeding also lowers the risk for postpartum depression.

Why are we talking about breastfeeding? The question ought to be flipped: Why are we not talking about breastfeeding? Observed since 2011, August is National Breastfeeding Month, established by the U.S. Breastfeeding Committee (USBC). World Breastfeeding Week (WBW), is celebrated Aug. 1 through Aug. 7.

Each week in National Breastfeeding Month is dedicated to raising awareness on specific topics: Week 1, World Breastfeeding Week; Week 2, Indigenous Milk Medicine Week; Week 3, Asian American/Native American and Pacific Islander; Week 4, Black Breastfeeding Week; and Week 5, Semana de la Lactancia Latina (Week of Latin Lactation). The 2023 World Breastfeeding Week overarching theme is “Enabling Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents.”

We all have heard the popular phrase “it takes a village.” This is as true for breastfeeding as it is for raising children in general. Many mothers feel they don’t have the resources — whether they be financial, physical or emotional — to breastfeed, because they lack support. Mothers need support — from their families, healthcare providers and communities at large.

In Monroe County, the Florida Department of Health’s Women, Infants and Children (WIC), private lactation consultants, and organizations such the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition

help mothers get off to a good start in their breastfeeding journey. With the goal of good health for all the Florida Keys front and center, breastfeeding is the foundation for its youngest members, their mothers and their families. This radiates outward to benefit us all. More information on the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition is at keyshealthystart.org. Information on WIC Monroe is at monroe.floridahealth. gov/programs-and-services/wellnessprograms/wic/index.html.

— DePaula is a breastfeeding peer counselor coordinator/breastfeeding expert for the Florida Department of Health - Monroe County WIC Program.

Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition compiled a list of businesses committed to a family-friendly environment by supporting working mothers who need to pump and feed their babies.

Florida Keys mother Yrenia Salas feeding her baby, Stellan, on Smathers Beach, nine months and 21 days into his breastfeeding journey. ALLISON STEEDLY/A. Elena Photography

RUNNIN’ DOWN A RAINBOW

City’s first-ever color run is this weekend

The city of Marathon’s Parks and Recreation Department and HapynKeys Running invite the public to participate in the city’s first-ever color run on Saturday, Aug. 5 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Marathon Community Park. This isn’t a race, but an experience: participants will be soaked with a water hose and then showered with powder while circling the ball and soccer fields at the park.

A color run is a fun run event where participants are showered with brightly-colored powder or paint at various points along the route. They are doused in vibrant hues of red, blue, green, yellow and pink, creating a colorful and festive atmosphere. These color powders are non-toxic, making them safe for both the runners and the environment.

“Every so often there will be a water station, followed by a paint station,” said Parks and Recreation’s Jennifer Ward. “It’s fun for the kids and everyone.”

The run (or walk) starts behind the amphitheater. The adult course is six laps of the ball and soccer fields, and the kids make two laps.

Online registration has closed, but participants can sign up at the park before the start. The cost is $30 for the first registrant, with discounts for multiple participants, and funds raised stay local. Registration includes a race shirt, goodie bag, medal, food and drink. Members of the community have organized to provide music, food and drinks, and the city’s Fire Rescue staff will be present to ensure everyone’s safety.

— Contributed

CITY ISSUES BUILDING PERMIT FEE REFUNDS OF $256K SO FAR

but stressed it is the responsibility of the homeowner to apply.

Since April, the city of Marathon has received more than 700 building permit fee refund applications. The city is set to refund up to $2.2 million to homeowners who paid for city building permits between Dec. 14, 2020 and March 14, 2023.

The refunds – and a 42% decrease in building permit fees that was approved at the March meeting of the Marathon City Council – are to correct the current balance of the city’s building department, which exceeds the limits set by Florida statute.

The city is processing the refund applications in the order in which they are received, said City Manager George Garrett. City staff reports that $256,952 of building permit fees and state surcharges have been refunded to 300 applicants. The city estimates that 3,000 applicants are eligible for refunds, for one or more permit applications.

The largest refund issued so far is $20,618.11 and the smallest is $2.50.

About 60 applications have been rejected, according to Joanna Williams of the city’s building department. She said either the application referenced a project outside of the approved refund dates, or the refund was ineligible because the building permit fee collected was the minimum amount due — $93.50, the base amount for permit fees at City Hall.

Marathon City Council directed staff to send out courtesy emails to homeowners in the affected time period regarding the available refunds,

• Homeowners who paid for city of Marathon building permits between Dec. 14, 2020 and March 14, 2023 are eligible to apply.

• The amount of the partial refund will be limited to the difference between the building permit fees paid during that time period ($30 per $1,000 of stated project cost) and the current building permit fees ($17.50 per $1,000 of stated project cost). For example, a homeowner who applied for permits for a $500,000 project would have paid $15,000 in permit fees, and is now entitled to a $6,250 refund.

• Refunds will be made payable to the property owner of record at the time the building permit fee was paid and should not be payable to: any contractor; assignee; or the current owner if the property has since been sold.

• Building permit fees filed by a corporation, LLC or trust must still be owned by the named entity in order to be eligible for a refund. The person signing the refund application must be either the president or treasurer of the entity.

The deadline to apply is Sept. 30, 2023. After the deadline has passed, unclaimed funds will remain in the building permit fee fund and directed toward charitable endeavors.

Those who believe they are eligible must submit an application, which is available on the city’s website (www. ci.marathon.fl.us) under the “What’s Happening” tab, or in hard copy at City Hall. Completed forms can be emailed to refunds@ci.marathon.fl.us.

About 2,700 eligible residents have not yet applied

Participants will be showered with brightly-colored powder or paint as they make their way around the color run course.

A course map for this weekend’s color run around Marathon Community Park. CONTRIBUTED.

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

FHSAA IS LOOKING FOR A FEW GOOD MEN AND WOMEN

Referee shortage spurs lack of home games, cancellations

With fall sporting events beginning in less than a month, coaches and athletes are busy preparing for competition, but there is one key element which they do not control and cannot compete without: officials. Without them, games cannot be played, and the number of men and women qualified to officiate prep sports has dwindled over time with very few new recruits to take the places of those who have moved or retired.

The lack of officials has put a strain on the few still available. It also takes its toll on athletic directors, who must now take into consideration the availability of a handful of qualified and willing bodies to work games when they are scheduling home matches.

Traveling to Miami or further takes its toll on students and coaches alike, making home games something to look forward to, but without enough officials, catching a game will become an automatic trip to the mainland. Athletic directors and coaches already have a difficult time finding teams willing to make the trip to the Keys, and the added worry of available officials makes the job all the more complicated.

The shortage affects Key West and Marathon the most, as Coral Shores often draws officials from Dade County due to its proximity to the mainland. Fall sports are lacking in numbers of available referees, but soccer season became a dire issue last year.

Justin Martin, athletic director at Key West High School, was forced to juggle rescheduling, relocating and even canceling matches last winter due to the shortage.

“It has been a lot of give and take,” he said last November after a long series of game changes and relocations. A rescheduled match sets off a domino effect at the school level, altering everything from exams to transportation.

So what happened to the officials who presided over the games and matches in years past? “The officials in Key West have mainly aged out or moved away,” said Lance Martin, athletic director at Marathon High. “The naval base used to have a lot of guys do some officiating on the side, but that is not the case anymore. It is very difficult to get new ones due to the low pay and the verbal abuse they take at times from spectators.”

Indeed, fans can be troublesome, and parents even worse at times, but those issues can be controlled, to a degree, at the school level. All three Keys schools have administrators on duty at home games, and often the school resource officer is also present. At football games, there are often multiple officers, and the Florida High School Athletic Association has stressed sportsmanship from players and fans as of late, making the belligerent fan in the stands hurling profanities and insults far less common than in the past.

This leaves the issue of pay. While it would be impossible to make a living in Monroe County by refereeing alone, the job could make a great side hustle for an avid sports fan. Football officials make $111 per game. Volleyball and soccer referees make $79 and baseball and softball umpires’ pay stands at $85. The pay scale is set by the FHSAA and can include travel expenses as well, making it a decent deal for a few hours of work for someone who enjoys sports.

If you are interested in becoming an official, you can find all the information at fhsaa.com. To be a regular official, the first step is to register with a local officials association. A good start would be to check out midkeysofficials.com or contact the president of the Middle Keys Officials, Casey Scheu at 305-360-3054. You must be 18 years old to serve as a referee; 16- and 17-year-olds, while they can’t be head refs, can become junior officials.

Prospective officials can study materials supplied by the FHSAA and then take an untimed online exam and undergo a background check. In addition to enjoying on-field sports action and earning some extra money, you would be helping keep prep sports alive in the Florida Keys.

NATHAN SHIVELY/Unsplash

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

AND THEY’RE OFF!

Fall Practices

Officially Open For Keys Varsity

After a two-month hiatus, prep sports teams returned to their respective fields, courts and pools to open the 20232024 school year this week. Official seasons begin to open in just three weeks, making practices prior to the opening of school a necessity.

Beginning July 31, varsity teams were cleared to begin practicing for the upcoming fall season. Indoor sports such as volleyball can enjoy the benefits of air-conditioning and be worryfree about late-summer downpours and lightning strikes, but teams using outdoor venues are not so lucky. Fortunately for the athletes and coaches who must endure what seems to be the hottest summer in recent history, schools have heat acclimatization and heat illness prevention procedures in place to keep our student athletes safe while they prepare for their upcoming seasons.

Football tends to be the sport in the news most regarding athletes having negative reactions to the blistering summer temperatures, so it is not surprising that it also has the most heat acclimatization rules to help prepare athletes for the weather gradually. Gone are the days of two-a-day practices in the brutal heat of the summer.

Football begins in shorts outdoors and takes steps every few days, adding helmets, then pads and finally moving to full equipment and full contact practices on Aug. 5. The time spent outdoors is also monitored for athlete safety, and cold water immersion tubs, ice sponges and electrolytes are on hand in case of emergency. Coaches and athletes are trained to recognize the symptoms of heat illness and stroke, how to avoid them and what to do if the symptoms appear.

Football preseason classics can begin on Aug. 14, and official games kick off on the 25th. All three high schools will play their preseason contests on Aug. 18. Marathon hits the road to play

at Varela at 4 p.m., while Coral Shores and Key West will play at home. The ’Canes play Somerset Silver Palms and the Conchs play Trinity Catholic, with both games kicking off at 7 p.m.

Cross country runners also hit the road this week to begin preseason practices. Teams are taking advantage of morning and evening respites from the heat by holding their workouts early in the morning or after the midday heat subsides. Their preseason races may begin as early as Aug. 14, with the official season opening on the 21st. Swimming, volleyball and golf follow the same preseason and official season dates as cross country.

Incoming senior Alex Cruz, left and freshman Dylan Williams work on their online classes July 31 at Marathon. Athletes must complete safety courses prior to taking the field each year. CONTRIBUTED

Marathon assistant coach Sean Roussin goes over some basics on opening day of practice. CONTRIBUTED

Incoming senior setter Reese Elwell practices a drill at the first day of tryouts at Marathon High School. CONTRIBUTED

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

BROOKE BISKUPICH

Senior, Key West Competitive Cheerleading

Incoming senior Brooke Biskupich takes her role on Key West High School’s competition cheerleading team seriously, and her efforts show in their incredible performances. Perfectly-timed stunts, difficult tumbling and crowd-pleasing choreography does not simply happen; it takes months of planning and practice to execute a short routine to perfection. Biskupich puts in the work to make it all happen for the Conchs while also taking the initiative to guide her teammates. Coach Tiffany Hughes said, “She has also shown great leadership skills throughout the summer workouts by mentoring the younger athletes.”

For her hard work and dedication to her sport and the willingness to go above and beyond to lead and inspire her fellow teammates, Brooke Biskupich is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

“Brooke has shown tremendous work ethic this offseason. She attacks our conditioning sessions with passion and intensity.”

– Tiffany Hughes, Key West cheer coach.

Marathon’s Elena Eubank works on blocks during the Fins’ tryout practice on July 31. CONTRIBUTED

The Key West girls cross country team finishes a 7 a.m. workout on July 31. From left: Briana Nodal, Violet Jangraw, Ava Gonzalez, Mia Steer, Caylaa Makimaa, Rose Delice. CONTRIBUTED

Coral Shores volleyball coach Sam Ovalle addresses his team on the first day of practice. CONTRIBUTED

Marquisha Abraham practices her serves at Marathon’s tryout practice on July 31. CONTRIBUTED

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

BY THE NUMBERS: MCSO

• 541 vessel stops/resource/safety inspections

• 0 physical arrests

• 2 mandatory notice to appear in court citations for wildlife violations

A SAFE SEASON

BUG - HUNTING SCRAMBLE MARRED BY BAD WEATHER SEES NO DEATHS OR PHYSICAL ARRESTS

While winds, rain, lightning, rough seas and limited visibility in milky water were less than ideal for bug hunters throughout both days of the Florida Keys’ 2023 mini-season, law enforcement officials enjoyed a relatively normal period during the normally hectic two-day scramble.

“Overall, the 2023 lobster mini-season was typical – though a bit slower in some areas perhaps due to weather – for the Sheriff’s Office,” an MCSO press release said. “Most people were in compliance and the number of vessel stops, notice-to-appear in court citations and arrest figures were normal compared to recent years.”

YOU CAN’T DO THAT…

Although the Keys’ mini-season was relatively quiet, things were a little different in Broward County, where FWC officers on Wednesday reported three fishermen allegedly in possession of 138 lobsters – 102 over their legal limit, as hunters may keep 12 lobster per person per day outside of the Keys. According to an FWC press release, the officers saw a commercial vessel with a dive flag flying while the boat was underway. Stopping the vessel to speak to the operator about the incorrect use of the dive flag, they conducted a routine fisheries inspection, discovering the 138 lobsters.

RAMSAY & GUERRA TO THE RESCUE

On the second day of mini-season Sheriff Rick Ramsay was driving down U.S. 1 in Marathon around 3 p.m. when he spotted five men aboard a sinking center console boat near the Old Seven Mile Bridge. Ramsay alerted the Sheriff’s Office 911 communications specialists, who relayed the information to marine deputy Willie Guerra. Arriving at the scene in minutes, Guerra was able to safely bring the men ashore in Marathon, where no life-threatening injuries were reported. FWC and the U.S. Coast Guard also responded to the scene, and FWC is investigating the cause of the vessel sinking.

MCSO deputies Jennifer Hughes, second from left, and Nicholas Galbo, right, report a compliant group at the Key Haven boat ramp. MCSO/Contributed

console boat submerges off the Old Seven Mile Bridge.

Two FWC officers pose with 138 lobster discovered aboard a commercial fishing vessel during lobster mini-season – 102 over the limit for the three men on board. FWC/Contributed

Upper Keys lieutenant Charlene Sprinkle barely needs a gauge for Anthony’s Wednesday catch.

Marine deputy Willie Guerra, left, responded to the scene in minutes, safely transporting all five passengers to shore. MCSO/Contributed

City of Marathon City

Council Agenda

9805 Overseas Hwy., Marathon

Tuesday, August 8, 2023 5:30 P.M.

(*Denotes Item Is Passed By Consent Upon Approval of Agenda) Public Comments taken on all items and at 6:30pm time certain for items not on the agenda or as soon as possible thereafter.

City Council Items

*A. Approval of Minutes

B. Workshop Discussion Items (Councilmember Smith)

C. FIRM Funding Contribution Discussion (Councilmember Smith)

D. Request To Hold A Lighted Bicycle Parade In December (Mayor Gonzalez)

E. Disposition of the Code Board" (Councilmembers Landry and Smith)

F. Bus Stop in Front of Winn Dixie / K-Mart Discussion (Vice Mayor Still)

City Manager Report

* A. MCSO Marathon Substation Report

* B. Grants Update

* C. Public Works Report

* D. Park and Recreation Report

* E. Marathon Fire Rescue Report

* F. Marina Report

* G. Code Report

* H. Wastewater Utilities Report

* I. Building Report

J. Approval of Cyber Security Invoice in the Amount of $56,052.00

K. New Not To Exceed Amount for MT Causley

Quasi-Judicial Public Hearings:

A. Resolution 2023-66 Consideration Of A Request By Marathon LLC 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 Climate Controlled Storage Facility and Sixteen (16) Single Family Residential Units Consisting Of Five (5) Parcels Located At 775 107th Street Ocean Which Is Legally Described As Township 66 Range 33 Key Vaccas Part Government Lot 1 and Part Government Lot 2 Part Parcel 3 And Adjacent Bay Bottom South Of And Adjacent Part Government Lot 1; 796 106th St Ocean Which Is Legally

Described As Section 6 Township 66 Range 33 Key Vacca Part Government Lot 2 Part Parcel 3; 797 106th Street Which Is Legally Described As Section 6 Township 66 Range

33 Key Vaca Part Government Lot 2 Parcel 2; 630 107th Street Which Is Legally Described As Section 6 Township 66 Range 33 Key Vaca Part Government Lot 1, And Vacant Land 107th Street Which Is Legally Described As Section 6 Township 66 Range

33 Key Vaccas Part Government Lot 1, Monroe County, Florida, Having Real Estate Numbers 00104260-000000, 00104430-000300, 00104430-000200, 00104240-000400 and 00104240-000100. Nearest Mile Marker 53.

B. Resolution 2023-67, Consideration Of A Request By H & R Marathon LLC 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 Group Home Including Ten (10) Residential Units And Four (4) Affordable Housing Units, Dining Hall, Fitness Center, Storage And Commercial Kitchen; Which Is Legally Described As Section 5 Township 66 Range 33 Fat Deer Key Part Lot 3 And Part Government Lot 3 (AKA Part Of State Road No 5 (US 1)) And Section 5 Township 66 Range 33 Fat Deer Key Part Lot 3 (Part Old State Road), Monroe County, Florida, Having Real Estate Numbers 00100540-000000 And 00100640-000000. Nearest Mile Marker 53.

Resolutions for Public Hearing and Adoption

A. Resolution 2023-68, Impose And Provide For Collection Of Wastewater Special Assessments For Service Areas 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 And 7 (Including The Supplemental Assessment Program) For Fiscal Year Commencing October 1, 2023; Approving The Assessment Roll; Providing For Collection Of The Assessments; And Providing For An Effective Date.

B. Resolution 2023-69, Imposing The Annual Stormwater Utility Special Assessments For Fiscal Year Commencing October 1, 2023; Approving The Assessment Roll; Providing For Collection Of The Assessments; And Providing For An Effective Date.

Ordinances for Final Public Hearing and Adoption

A. Ordinance 2023-12, Amending Chapter 107, Article 2 Entitled “Transfer Of Building Rights”, Specifically Section 107.17. Entitled “General Provisions”, Of The City Of Marathon Land Development Regulations; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Economic Opportunity; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Economic Opportunity In Accordance With State Law.

B. Ordinance 2023-13, Amending Chapter 108, Article 2 (“Nonconforming Structures”) By Deleting A Portion Of Section 108.15 Titled “Additional Standards For Nonconforming Sexually Oriented Businesses.”; Specifically, Subsection B Part 2 To Comport With Modern Constitutional Constraints; Providing For The Repeal Of All Ordinances Or Parts Thereof Found To Be In Conflict; Providing For Severability; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Economic Opportunity After Final Adoption By The City Council; Providing For Inclusion In The Code Of Ordinances And Providing For An Effective Date.

Ordinances for First Public Hearing

A. Ordinance 2023-14, Amending Chapter 103 “Zoning Districts”, Article 3 “Use And Intensity Tables”, Updating Table 103.15.1 “Uses By Zoning District”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code Of Ordinances, City Of Marathon, Florida; And Providing An Effective Date.

B. Ordinance 2023-15, Amending Chapter 104 “Specific Use Regulations”, Article 1 “General Provisions”, Updating Section 104.25 “Hotels Or Motels”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code Of Ordinances, City Of Marathon, Florida; And Providing An Effective Date.

C. Ordinance 2023-16 Amending The Future Land Use Map (FLUM) From Residential Medium (RM) To Mixed Use Commercial (MU-C) For Property Described As Lots 1 Through 4 Of Block 6 And Lot 4 Of The Amended Plat Of Gulfstream Shores Of Marathon Plat #2 As Recorded In Plat Book 3-142, Having Real Estate Numbers 00100890-000000 And 00349440-000000; Providing For Severability; Providing For The Repeal Of Conflicting Provisions; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Economic Opportunity; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The State Department Of Economic Opportunity.

D. Ordinance 2023-17 Amending The Zoning From Residential Medium (RM) To Mixed Use (MU) For Property Described As Lots 1 Through 4 Of Block 6 And Lot 4 Of The Amended Plat Of Gulfstream Shores Of Marathon Plat #2 As Recorded In Plat Book 3-142, Having Real Estate Numbers 00100890-000000 And 00349440-000000; Providing For Severability; Providing For The Repeal Of Conflicting Provisions; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Economic Opportunity; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The State Department Of Economic Opportunity.

Resolutions For Adoption

*A. Resolution 2023-70, Approving And Accepting A Warranty Deed For The Conveyance Of Land From Marathon Sunsation LLC; Having Real Estate Number 00368920-000000; Authorizing Its Recording In The Public Records Of Monroe County, Florida; And Providing An Effective Date.

*B. Resolution 2023-71 Authorizing A Purchase Pursuant To The City’s Purchasing Policies And Procedures And Approving The Purchase of one (1) 2023 New Vac-Con Sewer combination Cleaner From Southern Sewer Equipment Sales, In An Amount Not To Exceed at total of $639,508.00; Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into Agreements In Connection Therewith, Appropriating And Expending Budgeted Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date.

*C. Resolution 2023-72, Approving A Second Amendment To The Contract Between The City And The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office For Local Police Services In An Amount Not To Exceed $2,529,891 For FY 2023-2024; Authorizing The City Manager And City Attorney To Finalize The Terms And Conditions Of The Contract; Authorizing The Mayor To Execute The Amendment And Expend Budgeted Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.

*D. Resolution 2023-73, Approving A Standard Local Agency Program Agreement Between The City Of Marathon And The Florida Department Of Transportation To Receive Federal Funds For The Design Services Related To The Replacement Of the 116th 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.

*E. Resolution 2023-74, Accepting the Ranking and Recommendation of the City’s Evaluation Team For a Continuous Service Contract for a Construction Manager At Risk; Authorizing The City Manager And City Attorney To Negotiate Contracts With The Top Two Ranked Firms of Chris-Tel Construction, and Keystar, Inc; And providing for an Effective Date and Providing For An Effective Date.

*F. Resolution 2023-75, Accepting The Responsible Bid And Approving A Contract Between The City And Cortez Heating & Air. In An Amount Not To Exceed $248,953.00 For The Replacement Of The A/C System At City Hall; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Contract And Appropriate Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.

*G. Resolution 2023-76, Authorizing A “Piggy-Back” Purchase Pursuant To The City’s Purchasing Policies And Procedures And Approving The Purchase Of a Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Vehicle Under The State of Florida Motor Vehicle Contract No. SA22-VEL30.0 From Garber Fleet Sales In An Amount Not To Exceed $36,770.00; Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into Agreements In Connection Therewith, Appropriating And Expending Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date.

*H. Resolution 2023-77, Approving A Sixth Amendment To The Lease Agreement No. 4547 With The Board Of Trustees Of The Internal Improvement Trust Fund Of The State Of Florida For The Management Of Properties With The City Of Marathon Purchased For The Purpose Of Conservation; Authorizing The Mayor To Execute The Amendment To The Agreement; And Providing 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.

ASTRID RAMERIZ

305.509.0619

Astrid@Islandbreezerealty.com

12220 Overseas Highway, Marathon

IslandBreezeRealty.com

MARATHON COMMUNITY CHURCH

THE

SUNDAY SERVICES

10AM IN THE SANCTUARY

Pastor Mary Ashcraft

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying "This is the way, walk in it" — Isaiah 30:21

Financial Strength is PARAMOUNT.

Financial strength is a pillar to a successful company. Having a strong financial partner in an uncertain economy is paramount to success.

Centennial Bank’s patience, perseverance, commitment, and resilience have created a fortress balance sheet.

BASHFUL

2.5-month-old female domestic shorthair.

Looking for: A nice quiet house with some people that love me.

Turnoffs: I mean, come on … look at my name.

SWIPE RIGHT

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

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

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

FOBBIT

4-month-old female domestic shorthair.

Looking for: A home for me and my brother (I’m the gray one).

Turnoffs: Loud noises and new things scare me a little.

VINCENT

2-year-old male Texas heeler.

Looking for: Someone to keep my mind and body occupied.

Turnoffs: People like my looks, but sometimes not my energy.

SOME PRETTY ‘BOMB’ SQUADS

National Night Out showcases elite military and law enforcement units

Tuesday night put those who protect and serve our island home on full display, from Key Largo to Key West, as the Florida Keys celebrated 2023’s National Night Out. Representatives from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and Key Colony Beach Police, U.S. Coast Guard, FWC, Florida Highway Patrol, Border Patrol and Fire Rescue crews brought helicopters, boats and even bomb squad robots to showcase their skills –even letting visitors take some of their specialized gear for a test drive.

An annual favorite for kids around the Keys, the goal of National Night Out is to bring the community together and spark conversations about how to make our neighborhoods safer, cleaner and more secure.

— Alex Rickert

The Marathon community filled the Sheriff’s Office aviation hangar at the Marathon Airport on Tuesday night to visit with nearly a dozen military, law enforcement and community partners for National Night Out. Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

When historic and harmful ocean temperatures began ravaging the reefs and coral nurseries, Keys Marine Laboratory (KML) and coral practitioners stepped up to the challenge. Together, they’re working at a breakneck pace to safeguard hope, despite this record heat.

Coral restoration science actually began over a decade ago in the Keys with Mote Marine Laboratory and Coral Restoration Foundation (CRF) pioneering different restoration techniques. Since then, our local scientists and restoration practitioners have continued to push the forefront of this new scientific sector.

Under normal environmental conditions, offshore nurseries allow practitioners to grow corals en masse and under more optimal conditions. Over the years, dozens of coral nurseries have been established throughout the Keys to support restoration efforts; until recently, these were all full of endangered and important coral species, being grown out for eventual outplant back onto our degraded reefs.

Then June and July happened.

An unprecedented marine heat wave settled upon the waters. Ocean temperatures at this time of year are typically 85 degrees Fahrenheit; however, recent readings hit between 92 and 97, and a buoy in Manatee Bay –northwest of Key Largo – broke a world record by registering a jacuzzi-like 101 degrees. Our coral reef – the third largest barrier reef in the world and the lynchpin of our local economy – is suffering under this extreme heat, with many corals bleaching and dying. This includes wild and corals of all species,

CORAL RESCUE AND RECOVERY

Layton’s Keys Marine Laboratory Works To Save Endangered Corals

as well as coral fragments in in situ ocean nurseries.

The marine heat wave forced all restoration groups to act fast to save as many corals as possible; most decided to bring bleached and stressed corals from offshore nurseries to landbased facilities to save them from the extreme temperatures.

One of the safe havens is Florida Institute of Oceanography’s Keys Marine Laboratory (KML) in Layton. Hosted by USF, the scientific research field station supports researchers from various organizations and universities by providing marine biology expertise, saltwater raceways, boats and scientific divers. During this crisis, they’ve become the triage station for thousands of corals coming in hot and hurting from offshore nurseries.

“It is obviously disheartening to see all of this happening, especially in such a short amount of time. It's painful to see, but we’re trying to see the silver lining,” said Emily Becker, Tavernier resident and KML’s seawater systems manager. “By providing this

service for people to bring in coral and keep them in this facility where we can maintain optimal conditions, it brings me more hope.”

KML recently added new, stateof-the-art systems and raceways to its facilities. The field station now boasts 60 seawater tables, ranging from 40 to 4,000 gallons. They de-gas, sterilize and manipulate the temperature of raw seawater before it hits their tables. This eliminates large particles, bacteria and other pathogens, Becker said. The system also allows KML to mimic normal offshore reef temperatures, meaning the KML team can optimize their systems for temperature, pH and salinity to provide stable conditions for corals and other animals in their care.

“Ideally, we would’ve been able to test each component of our new system one-by-one, but this event made us test it all at once – and I am so happy to see all components doing what they’re meant to,” Becker said. “It’s allowed us to serve this critical role at this really devastating time.”

Currently, KML is holding roughly 1,500 corals from various coral restoration groups in its tanks; Becker estimates they have the ability to hold 3,500. Practitioners are also bringing corals up to the mainland to other facilities and using innovative transportation methods like CRF’s new “coral bus.”

The seawater systems expert noted with pride how practitioners will breathe a sigh of relief once they get corals out of the hot water and into KML’s tanks. “Because we’re here and we have these systems, they can take a breath, reassess and know that everything in the tables is okay,” she said. “They can make plans for the future. That’s been a huge positive.”

The eventual goal is to rehabilitate the corals in these controlled systems until temperatures drop and the reef is safe for them again. And, it’s working. When the Keys Weekly visited KML last week, Becker discussed pillar coral that came in stressed from CRF’s Tavernier nursery. The coral pieces came in paled and bleached on a Saturday; by Thursday, a few had regained their characteristic coral color – and, importantly, their symbiotic algae that give them this hue and the majority of their energy. Pillar coral is one of the most endangered corals on our reefs, so this is a great sign.

“These corals we have here, no matter how pale they are when they come in, if we can get them to a healthy point in the next weeks and months, this is the hope for the future of the reef,” added Cynthia Lewis, KML director. “This is what practitioners will be growing, restocking their offshore nurseries with and eventually outplanting. This is hope, right here in our raceways.”

These corals from CRF’s ocean nursery are recovering in KML’s land-based systems; the darker specimens have recovered their zooxanthellae and are getting healthier under KML’s care. FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF OCEANOGRAPHY/Contributed

An ultra-rare pillar coral plug recovered its color – and its symbiotic algae – with care from KML. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

FWC’s coral nursery stock bleached due to the extreme heat; in KML’s tanks. FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF OCEANOGRAPHY/ Contributed

KML’s small but mighty team has been housing and rehabilitating corals rescued from in water nurseries. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

MARATHON WORKING ON MASTER PLAN FOR COMMUNITY PARK

Design to include updated skate park, pickleball courts and possible mangrove boardwalk

Earlier this summer, the city of Marathon completed a survey of Marathon Community Park in order to render a design for public input. Reece & Associates’ professional survey notes the parcel’s boundaries and infrastructure, an important first step in the park redesign.

“The survey has been handed over to the Platform Group to render designs for the redevelopment of Marathon Community Park, the city’s largest and most important piece of community infrastructure,” said City Manager George Garrett.

The city has instructed the designer to incorporate features such as pickleball and bocce courts, a new skate park and possibly a walking path suitable for adults or parents with children in strollers.

The design also includes space for phased, long-term development. Future phases of construction could include a boardwalk through the mangroves fronting Boot Key Harbor and a multi-story building that would incorporate office space, public bathrooms, storage and community space geared towards giving Parks and Recreation youth campers an inside gathering spot.

“One of our priorities is to ensure that the Marathon Community Park retains its ability to provide space for soccer practice and games and the ability to host our much-loved festivals such as Brew BQ and the Seafood

Festival,” said Anthony Paul Davis, the city’s Parks and Recreation director.

Platform Group is the same entity that presented designs to the city of Marathon for a new skate park in January 2023. The Tampa-based firm provides professional park designs in the U.S., with projects underway in Louisiana, South Carolina, California, Vermont, Maine, New York and Florida. The local nonprofit The Florida Keys Community Center, headed by Matt Sexton, sponsored the initial skate park design. The comprehensive master plan for Marathon Community Park is just a piece of the city’s plan to refresh all its recreational assets.

In addition to the master plan refresh, the city has secured full funding for a new parking lot at Coco Plum Beach ($119,000) and new playground equipment at Sombrero Beach Park ($245,250). The funds are grants from the Tourist Development Council FY24 for capital improvement projects that will be ratified at the October meeting of the Monroe County Commission.

— Contributed

The city of Marathon is working on a redesign of Marathon Community Park, imagined some 20 years ago shortly after the city’s incorporation. The design will include a new skate park to replace the one currently shuttered due to safety concerns. CITY OF MARATHON/Contributed

To read Keys Weekly’s coverage of January’s skate park redesign meeting, scan the QR code:

GREATER MARATHON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

305.743.5417

1.800.262.7284

12222 Overseas Highway info@floridakeysmarathon.com ww w.floridakeysmarathon.com

AFTER HOURS

August

Who: Marathon Community Theatre & Cinema

When: Wednesday, August 9th 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Where: 2101 Overseas Hwy

What: Great networking, food & beverages; come promote your business and meet Marathon business owners, executives, and leaders!

MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON

August 15th 12pm - 1pm

When: Tuesday, August 15th 12pm - 1pm

Where: Key Colony Inn

700 W Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach

Speaker: Leah Stockton, Area President, United Way of Collier County & the Keys

Topic: New ALICE Report: data & cost of living in the Keys

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – SPACE IS LIMITED

KAREN NEWFIELD

First and foremost a reader, she has reviewed hundreds of books on her blog www. readingandeating. com. And, more recently, this new Keys resident has also begun writing.

ASIAN AMERICAN VOICES

The cutthroat world of publishing, a KoreanAmerican family searching for answers and a female physician in 15thcentury China: Literature continues to spark conversations about diversity, stereotypes and rich cultural history.

YELLOWFACE

By R. F. Kuang

#WORTHWATCHING: “Always Be My Maybe” on Netflix. Laughout-loud romantic comedy about childhood sweethearts who reconnect after 15 years. Starring outspoken, talented and hilarious comedian Ali Wong.

June and Athena attended Yale together. They weren’t best friends but shared a dorm and some classes. Years later they find themselves reconnecting in D.C. While June published one book to a minimal audience, beautiful Athena Liu continues to write bestseller after bestseller. It bewilders June why this successful woman would befriend her, but Athena makes a concerted effort to maintain the relationship. Secretly drowning in jealousy, June cannot resist sharing Athena’s spotlight. One evening after too many drinks, the women find themselves in Athena’s apartment. A shocking accident occurs and Athena is dead. June witnesses this tragedy – and she also witnesses Athena’s latest manuscript lying nonchalantly on her desk. June swipes the unfinished masterpiece and calls 911. After properly mourning her friend, she completes the novel. June’s agent creates a frenzy and it shoots to the top of the rankings. Now Athena’s ghost is stalking her, and June must decide how long she can tolerate this elaborate scheme. Narrated in first person, this story focuses on diversity, racism and the horrors of the social media mob mentality. Reader, you will not put this one down.

HAPPINESS FALLS

By Angie Kim

The pandemic wasn’t easy for anyone – but not calling the police right away was the biggest mistake of Mia’s life. She’s home from college, slightly bored and perpetually annoyed with her family. Her twin, John, antagonizes her constantly while her younger brother, Eugene, needs a lot of support due to his combined diagnosis of autism and a rare genetic disorder called Angelman Syndrome. One day Eugene returns home after an outing with their father Adam to River Falls Park. Eugene is surprisingly alone and agitated. His clothes are dirty, and he has blood under his fingernails. Normally over-analytical, Mia ignores what is right in front of her. John and their mom get home from work and Eugene, who cannot verbally communicate, becomes more distraught throughout the day. Her father is missing, and his family will do anything to find him. As detectives and experts get involved, Mia dives into online sleuthing to track his last location and every lead they can decipher. Deeply immersed in the world of linguistics, they slowly uncover emotional and scientific clues that ultimately shape this fast-paced mystery.

LADY TAN’S CIRCLE OF WOMEN

By Lisa See

Yunxian is a child when her mother passes and she is sent to be raised by her paternal grandparents. As her father travels to work for the Imperial Dynasty, her grandmother prepares her to be a female healer, as she herself is famously known. Yunxian is devastated when she is matched for marriage and must leave the family residence. As women rarely venture from their compound, she misses her loved ones and especially her closest friend, Meiling, daughter of the midwife. In her new home, the Garden of Fragrant Delights, Yunxian is lonely and conceals her special talents. She must be the elite wife her mother-in-law expects. Yearning to care for others while she awaits the birth of a son, Yunxian finds ways to treat the numerous women in their home and teach her daughters many traditions. This magnificent work of fiction takes the reader to the Ming Dynasty during the 15th century. A novel of friendship, family and motherhood, it shines a light on the true story of a remarkable female physician who practiced Chinese medicine. A fascinating record of history.

FILLING A 40-MILE GAP

AUTOMOBILE FERRIES & KEY VACA ROAD CONNECTED ISLANDS

The Key West Extension of Henry Flagler’s Florida East Coast Railway did not bring loads of tourists to the island chain. The building of State Road 4A, the original Oversea(s) Highway, hoped to rectify that.

BRAD BERTELLI

is an author, speaker, Florida Keys historian and Honorary Conch. His latest book, “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli, Volume 1,” shares fascinating glimpses into the rich and sometimes surprising histories of the Florida Keys.

The original highway plan envisioned a complete system, not a road that traveled from the mainland south and abruptly ended at Lower Matecumbe Key — the road picked up again at No Name Key. From there, cars could drive the rest of the way to Key West. The 40-mile-gap between Lower Matecumbe and No Name required an automobile ferry to navigate.

According to a series of newspaper articles that either quote or evoke the words of local politicians, the original plan was to have the road extend beyond Lower Matecumbe Key, cross to Long Key via a bridge of viaduct design, then travel across the island. From there, a viaduct would link Long Key to Grassy Key, where the Vaca Key Road would travel down the Middle Keys to Knights Key. A viaduct would connect Knights Key to No Name Key.

After it was understood that building the bridges would take two years and $13,500,000, authorities came up with another plan. That plan was to bridge the 40-mile highway gap between Lower Matecumbe Key and No Name Key with automobile ferries — the county purchased three vessels for $120,000.

The ferry system was problematic. Beyond natural forces like wind and tide that could make the trip across the open water a challenging passage, it was not uncommon for people driving from the mainland, over the bumpy and dusty road to Lower Matecumbe Key, to discover the ferry was filled to capacity.

In an article published in the Jan. 24, 1928, edition of the Miami Herald, the day before the official opening of the highway and six months after it unofficially opened to public transit, Dr. Fons Hathaway, chairman of the state road department, who was also speaking for Governor Martin, assured the citizens of Monroe County that the state had plans to construct a series of automobile bridges to connect Lower Matecumbe to No Name Key.

In the meantime, the promise of a road to Key West prompted the Cuban government to jump on the highway bandwagon. Anticipating an influx of tourists driving to Key West, “the Cuban government appropriated one million dollars to build highways deep into the heart of the interior and President Machado announced that ferries will be built by the government to transport automobile tourists across the 90 miles of gulf separating Havana and Key West (Miami Herald, Jan. 25, 1928).”

Still, plans were underway to build a road through the Middle Keys. According to the Jan. 24, 1928, edition of the Miami Herald, engineers thought additional road work over Key Vaca, Crawl Key and Grassy Key would be completed within a few months. The conduit was referred to as the Key Vaca Road.

The Key Vaca Road project was awarded to the Jenners Brothers after they submitted a bid of $167,000 to build 12 miles of road across Grassy Key, Crawl Key and the Vaca Keys — as well as the bridges necessary to complete the project. According to at least one story, the job

was supposed to be completed by Nov. 22, 1928 (and the actual number of dollars it took was quoted as $166,844).

By all accounts, the Jenners Brothers fulfilled their agreement and built the Key Vaca Road on time. By Oct. 15, 1928, a public request for bids to build two ferry slips, one at Hog Key and one at Grassy Key, was making the rounds in local newspapers.

Shortly after completion, however, a tropical storm of some degree blew over the Middle Keys and damaged the Key Vaca Road, and it was not until 1931 that the road was repaired and opened to traffic. The ferry terminals were addressed in the April 15, 1931, edition of the Miami News: “Building the approaches and repairing the slips necessary to put the Grassy Key – Key Vacas ferry route in condition.”

The new route through the Middle Keys opened in early to mid-April. An article from the Feb. 17, 1931, edition of the Key West Citizen announced that the new ferry system eliminated 1 hour and five minutes from the route between Key West and Miami. According to Carl Bervaldi, chairman of the county commissioners, “The change, just inaugurated, will make travel over the highway more popular since the former 40-mile ferry trip is divided and its monotony relieved by the driver over the Key Vacas road.”

The article added that the inaugural use of the road and ferries in the Middle Keys had been done in contrary weather and that the new additions to the route could save even more time when conditions improved.

The automobile bridges connecting the mainland to Key West were eventually built. That version of the highway, the Overseas Highway 2.0, opened in 1938, and when it did, the ferries were no longer required.

Monroe County ferry launched at Jacksonville in 1927. GIFT OF DR. HERMAN MOORE/ Florida Keys History Center

Covering All The Keys From Key Largo To Key West

COMMERCE CORNER

Established in 2023, the Owl Library and Bookstore is a haven for book lovers young and old. The bookstore includes new books, gently used books and a "borrow, one bring one" section that includes fiction, non-fiction and local books. The Owl Library also provides information to join Dolly Parton's Imagination Library and has a special kids corner. Customers are welcome to take a peek at some of the rare books from owner Alexia's Mann collection and she has plans to create a scholarship through the bookstore to benefit local young adults who are looking to start their own dream business.

Contact: Alexia Mann

Location: 11400 Overseas Hwy, Ste 103 in Town Square Mall

Phone: 404.988.2259

Theowllibrary1@gmail.com

OUT TO SEA

An octopus has what…?

Kids can say the darnedest things. They can write some amazing things as well. And when kids grow up in a seaside community, the nearness of the ocean has a decidedly wonderful effect on them. From learning to swim at a very young age, to knowing more about boats and fishing and the water than 99% of the rest of the world, seaside kids can have a great perspective on life. The sea teaches many valuable lessons.

For some of the younger kids, the sea can be a source of endless amusement for themselves – and the adults who read their writings. The following pieces of literature authored by some young Hemingway wannabees were forwarded to me by a friend, and I couldn’t resist sharing them with you this week –enjoy!

From Kelly, age 6: “This is a picture of an octopus. It has eight testicles.”

From James, age 6: “Oysters’ balls are called pearls.”

From Wayne, age 7: “If you are surrounded by sea you are an island. If you don't have sea all around you, you are incontinent.”

From Kylie, age 6: “Sharks are ugly and mean, and have big teeth, just like Emily Richardson. She's not my friend no more.”

From Billy, age 8: “A dolphin breathes through an a--hole on the top of its head.”

From Mille, age 6: “My uncle goes out in his boat with pots, and comes back with crabs.”

From William, age 7: “When ships had sails, they used to use the trade winds to cross the ocean. Sometimes, when the wind didn't blow, the sailors would whistle to make the wind come. My brother said they would have been better off eating beans.”

From Helen, age 6: “I like mermaids. They are beautiful, and I like their shiny tails. And how on earth do mermaids get pregnant? Like, really?”

From Amy, age 6: “I'm not going to write about the sea. My baby brother is always screaming and being sick, my Dad keeps shouting at my Mom, and my big sister has just got pregnant, so I can't think what to write.”

From Christopher, age 7: “Some fish are dangerous. Jellyfish can sting. Electric eels can give you a shock. They have to live in caves under the sea where I think they

have to plug themselves into chargers.”

From Kevin, age 6: “When you go swimming in the sea, it is very cold, and it makes my willy small.”

From Becky, age 8: “Divers have to be safe when they go under the water. Two divers can’t go down alone, so they have to go down on each other.”

And from Julie, age 7: “On vacation my mom went water skiing. She fell off when she was going very fast. She says she won't do it again because water fired right up her fat a--.”

As you can see, seaside kids have a unique perspective on life, one that is denied their landlubber cousins. Adult writers also have things to say about the sea, like Dave Barry: “There comes a time in a man's life when he hears the call of the sea. If the man has a brain in his head, he will hang up the phone immediately.”

From Libba Bray: “You can’t believe how bleeding scary the sea is! There’s, like, whales and storms and s--t! They don’t bloody tell you that!”

From Margot Datz: “Darwin may have been quite correct in his theory that man descended from the apes of the forest, but surely woman rose from the frothy sea, as resplendent as Aphrodite on her scalloped chariot.”

And, finally, this from John F. Kennedy: “And it is an interesting biological fact that all of us have, in our veins, the exact same percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean, and, therefore, we have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears. We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch it, we are going back from whence we came.”

— Catch John live every Monday at Boondocks, Wednesdays at Brutus Seafood and Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing. Find his music anywhere you download or stream your music. www.johnbartus.com • johnbartus. hearnow.com

Matt Pitcher

John Bartus is a singer-songwriter and the former mayor of Marathon.

JOHN BARTUS

KEY COLONY BEACH

Just what you have been waiting for. Direct ocean building, 2 bedroom & 2 bath. First level corner unit. Nicely updated and furnished. Just steps to Tiki and pool.

$650,000 MLS #605922

FACTS FROM THE TAX COLLECTOR

Sam Steele monroetaxcollector.com

305.295.5000

AUGUST

• Specialty license plates and vouchers may be purchased on our website.

• The second 2023 property tax installment bills will be mailed on August 31 and are due by September 30.

SEA ISLE AT KEY COLONY BEACH

990 sq. ft. direct ocean building, fully furnished 2BR, 2BA unit. Gorgeous pool, ocean view from balcony. Booked Dec 11 through March 31. Great investment property. $567,000

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Local pawn shop. Located in central Marathon. $175,000 ML605021

Questions 305.743.2300 Karen Farley-Wilkinson, Bill Wilkinson

• Local business tax renewals must be paid by September 30.

• Any property that is being rented for six months or less must have a tourist development tax account.

• All rental properties are required to pay a local business tax regardless of how long they are being rented.

• If you suspect a fraudulent property rental, you may report it on our hotline at 1-855-422-4540.

• Congratulations to all the nominees and winners of the 2023 Bubba Awards and thank you for the honor of receiving the award for BEST ELECTED OFFICIAL! It is a privilege to serve you!

Follow us on for more important tax information.

BRIEFLY

Supervisor of Elections: Resubmit vote-by-mail requests

Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin reminds Monroe County voters that they must request a voteby-mail ballot each election cycle if they wish to vote by mail. As of July 27, Griffin’s office had received a total of 6,763 vote-by-mail requests – for comparison, on Feb. 12, 2020, the office had 11,831 requests. To request a vote-by-mail ballot, visit keyselections,org/voters/vote-bymail-request. To view your vote-bymail status, visit keyselections.org/ voters/my-vote-by-mail-status.

Two men arrested for alleged human smuggling

Two men were arrested July 26 for alleged human smuggling in Marathon, in violation of state law. Oreste Carvajal Gonzalez, 33, of Miami-Dade County, Florida, and Roberto Carlos Medina Moreno, 19, of Lakewood, Florida, were both charged with 23 counts of smuggling. Warrants were obtained for their arrest following an incident on July 21, 2023, in which a go-fast vessel with 23 Cuban migrants ran out of gas in waters near Marathon in which Carvajal Gonzalez and Medina Moreno were also on board. The vessel was known to the Sheriff’s Office from previous interactions with law enforcement as a suspected migrant smuggling vessel. The State Attorney’s Office, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations, U.S. Border Patrol, and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations assisted in the investigation. Carvajal Gonzalez and Medina Moreno were booked into jail.

Marathon youth flag football registration is now open

Registration is open for the Marathon Parks and Recreation youth flag football league. Four divisions will compete in this year’s league: 6U, 8U, 10U and 14U. Registration is open until Friday, Sept. 22 and practices will start on Monday, Oct. 2. For more information and to register, visit https://clubs.bluesombrero.com/cityofmarathonparksandrec.

Come take a class at the Marathon library

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

from page 4

to suspend the effective date of the July 20 vote. Speaking with the Weekly on July 28, Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin confirmed that number as 650 at the current date, meaning 163 signatures will be required.

According to the code, if a complete petition with the required signatures is returned in time, the city commission will be required to order an election on the item in question, taking place between 30 and 45 days from the day the referendum petition is deemed sufficient by city clerk Silvia Gransee.

“We’re not asking for a huge ask,” Hutchinson told the Weekly on July 28. “We’re just asking (the judge) to give the voters just enough time to put together their petition.

City of Marathon: register newly-purchased cars, trailers

Purchased

a new or used car or trailer since June 1, 2023?

Residents or property owners in the city of Marathon who have purchased a vehicle since June 1 must register the vehicle or trailer with the city of Marathon to qualify for free parking and boat launch at city facilities. The city pairs its registry with Department of Motor Vehicle information twice a year – in June and in January. To cover the gap –and ensure ticketless, free parking and launching – new car and trailer owners in Marathon and Key Colony Beach must register. Fill out the form by scanning the QR code, visiting https://www.ci.marathon. fl.us/.../launching-and-parking... or visiting Marathon City Hall.

“The legal part of this is such a small part. All the legal system is doing is providing the time frame so that the will of the voters can be heard. But this is really a political question to go to the citizens.”

Speaking with the Weekly on July 31, Swanson confirmed she had been in contact with city staff to initiate the petition for a referendum vote, but said she was frustrated thus far with the process of obtaining what she believed to be the correct number and type of petition “blanks.”

With tight deadlines spelled out in KCB’s code of ordinances and both parties dealing with an infrequently-used process, she said she was concerned the back-and-forth could prevent the petition’s success on a date-related or other technicality, going as far as to call the communication “harassment.”

“The language is wrong, the format is impossible, and they expect us to hand-write the ballot issue on every sheet of 200 or more petitions,” Swanson also wrote in an email to Hutchinson.

Hutchinson was more optimistic in a follow-up call on July 31.

“There are thousands of pages of ordinances, and this is one that they don’t deal with a whole lot,” he said, confirming that he had been in contact with KCB City Attorney Dirk Smits that day and that the two “will get it worked out, I’m pretty sure.”

“We’re working through it, and I don’t anticipate it in the long term being a big problem,” said Hutchinson. “I think it’s more just cracking the law book and seeing what it says.”

Speaking with the Weekly on July 28, Trefry said she was not yet aware of the petition for temporary injunction and could not yet offer a comment pending review of the document. In a follow-up call on July 31, she said she could not offer further comment as litigation was ongoing.

As of Aug. 1, Monroe County’s Clerk of the Court website listed the case as assigned to judge Mark Jones. There was no date listed yet for a hearing.

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of X-Mill-Inc. located at 5030 5th Ave, Unit 16, Key West, FL 33040, intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: X=Stream Millennium

Publish:

August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

Inc.

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of PEACEFUL WATERS located at 23930 Overseas Highway, Summerland Key, FL 33042, intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Diane E. Prince

Publish:

August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of BENNETTS

BEACH ESTATE located at 95490 Overseas Highway, Monroe County in the City of Key Largo, Florida 33037-2024, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Key Largo, Florida this 27th day of July, 2023.

By: JOYCE BENNETT LLC

Publish:

August 3, 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 RESERVED

PUBLIC SALE AT 9:00AM THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES TO SATISFY LIEN PURSUANT TO CHAPTERS 713 .585/713.78/677.209/677.210/328/

17 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES.

2009 WEL VS WELGLA02A809

DATE OF SALE: AUG. 28,2023 at 9:00AM LOCATED AT: 36 E SECOND ST, KEY LARGO, FL 33037

P# 305-852-2025

OWNER/LIEN HOLDER: HUGO J ACOSTA / GEMB LENDING OWNER/LIENHOLDER MAY RECOVER VEHICLE WITHOUT INSTITUTING JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS BY POSTING A BOND AS PER FLORIDA STATUTE 559.917

ANY PERSON(S) CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE ABOVE VEHICLES/ VESSELS SHOULD CONTACT: BEST LIEN SERVICES, 6800 SW 40 ST, SUITE #279, MIAMI, FL 33155 (1-866-299-9391)AT LEAST 1 WEEK PRIOR TO THE LIEN SALE.

Publish:

August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Pursuant Florida Statute 713.585

F.S., United American Lien & Recovery as agent w/ power of attorney will sell the following vehicle(s) to the highest bidder; net proceeds deposited with the clerk of court; owner/lienholder has right to hearing and post bond; owner may redeem vehicle for cash sum of lien; all auctions held in reserve.

Inspect 1 week prior @ lienor facility; cash or cashier check; any person interested ph 954-5631999.

Sale date August 25, 2023 @ 10:00 am 3411 NW 9th Ave Ft Lauderdale FL 33309

38258 2016 Ford VIN#:

1FA6P8TH0G5245342

Lienor: Key West Ford 1618 N Roosevelt Blvd Key West 305-294-5126

Lien Amt $814.95

Licensed Auctioneers FLAB422

FLAU 765 & 1911

Publish:

August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 08/25/2023 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.

1FTBF2A64CEC91115 2012 FORD

1FTCR14X2VPA12035 1997 FORD

1G1FB3DX6L0121142 2020 CHEV

Publish:

August 3 & 10, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice of Seizure - Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statutes 83.805/83.506, Tavernier Mini Storage Inc, 135 Hood Avenue, Tavernier, FL 33070 will sell or otherwise will dispose of the personal contents of the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien.

All Contents in:

Unit D-55 Tim O’Brien

Sale of all goods will be 8/14/23 at 10:00 am at 135 Hood Avenue, Tavernier, FL 33070. Tavernier Mini Storage Inc reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids.

Publish:

July 27 & August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statutes 328.17, 713.78, 715.109, J.C.

Rentals LLC, claims a Notice of Possessory Lien, Foreclosure of Lien, to satisfy the line for the amount owed for storage services and administrative fees for the following Vessel described as a 1997 20’ Aquasport Boat VIN

# AQABBG04B797 & 2013 Trailer

VIN# 1M5BA2015D1E78314

owner William Stephens. Vessel & trailer to be sold on 8/14/2023 at 10:00 am at 92425 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070. J.C.

Rentals LLC reserves the right to accept or reject any and/all bids.

Publish:

July 27 & August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH

NOTICE OF CONTINUANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, THAT THE PLANNING & ZONING BOARD HEARING ON JULY 19, 2023, HAS BEEN CONTINUED UNTIL: NEW DATE/TIME:

Planning & Zoning Hearing:

August 16th, 2023, 9:30 a.m.

City Commission Public Hearing:

September 21, 2023, 9:30 a.m.

LOCATION:

City of Key Colony Beach

Temporary Meeting Place at the Key Colony Inn Banquet Room, 700 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051

THE FOLLOWING AGENDA ITEMS HAVE BEEN CONTINUED:

Agenda Item 7. Appeal of Building Permit Denial Permit Application #B23-000027 1295 Coury Drive: Applicant appeals the decision of the Key Colony Beach’s Building Official pursuant to Sec. 2-2, Sec. 6-14, and Sec. 101-170, for the denial of a building permit for the property located at 1295 Coury Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051.

8. VARIANCE REQUEST(s):

a. 521 9th Street – Owners: Jane & Jim Walther: Applicant requests a variance to the City of Key Colony Beach Code of Ordinances Chapter 101, Section 26 (11), to allow the installation of a pool within the 10’ setback to 5’ on one side of the lot. Current setback requirements are 10’ feet.

b. Sunset Park Tiki Hut – Owner: City of Key Colony Beach: Applicant requests a review and confirmation of no variance requirements to the City of Key Colony Beach Land Development Regulations Article III, Section 101-19, for the replacement of the current Tiki Hut with dimensions of 9’ x 9’, to a

with the dimensions of

line must read as follows:

Park, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051

9. Review of Pool Side Setback

Requirements to apply to all Zones of Key Colony Beach

The

DATE/TIME:

Planning & Zoning Hearing:

Wednesday, August 16, 2023, 9:30 A.M.

City Commission Public Hearing:

Thursday, September 21, 2023, 9:30 A.M.

LOCATION:

City of Key Colony Beach

Temporary Meeting Place at the Key Colony Inn Banquet Room, 700 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051, to hear a Variance Request from Charlie Petersen, agent to Jennifer Goldstein, owner of the property located at 160 13th 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 Land Development Regulations Article IV. Sec. 101-26 (2), to allow the installation of a tiki hut with a maximum floor area of 192 square feet. Current maxim floor area: 80 square feet with maximum roof overhang of 18 inches. 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, August 16, 2023, or Thursday, September 21, 2023, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to 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:

August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at 9:00 A.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will open sealed responses for the following:

2nd Round Capital Applications for DACS II and III

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 5:00 P.M., on Tuesday, September 19, 2023. Your subject

2nd Round Capital Applications, DACS II & III, 09-20-23 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 9:00 A.M., on September 20, 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:

August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

STATE OF FLORIDA FLORIDA BOARD OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS

FEMC Case No.: 2022043254 FLORIDA BOARD OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS, Petitioner, vs. DAVID HEMMEL, P.E., Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION

TO: David Hemmel, P.E. Post Office Box 4255 Key West, Florida 33041 UNLICENSED ACTIVITY

The Florida Board of Professional Engineers has filed an Administrative Complaint against you, a copy of which may be obtained by contacting, Rebecca Valentine, Legal Department, Florida Board of Professional Engineers, 2400 Mahan Dr., Tallahassee, Florida 32308, (850) 521-0500 ext. 106.

If no contact has been made by you concerning the above by September 14, 2023, the matter of the Administrative Complaint will be presented at a hearing pursuant to 120.57(2), F.S. before the Florida Board of Professional Engineers.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the individual or agency sending notice not later than seven days prior to the proceeding at the address given on the notice. Telephone: (850) 257-6097; 1-800-955-8771 (TDD) or 1-800955-8770 (v), via Florida Relay Service.

Publish:

August 3, 10, 17 & 24, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF ACTION RE: MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC MONROE County, Florida

NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE PROCESS

LEGAL NOTICES

C 101/23

$5,619.22

Gideon Eidelbaum 22 Teller Street Rehevot, Israel 76444

E 102/51

$4,680.93

Ray Epstein C/O Brad Epstein 388 Bridge Street #39A Brooklyn, NY 11201

E 101/31

$4,680.93

Richard Fevang 245 Sunnyridge Avenue, Apt 6 Fairfield, CT 06824-4643

C 102/25

$6,671.90

Francis M Flynn and Rhoda K Radow 4621 Hollywood Blvd Hollywood, FL 33021

C 102/30

$6,516.30

C 102/31

$6,516.30

Jason Godown P.O. Box 814 Hobe Sound, FL 33475-0814

A 201/23

$5,609.22

George Klaus 4875 NW Second Street, Apt B Delray Beach, FL 33445

A 201/33

$4,447.31

Frank Lynn Providenti and Jenna

Lynn Providenti 3922 Roseland Drive West Windsor, ON N9G 1Z5 Canada

E 202/05

$3,605.88

Jeffrey Scott Silen and Doris Silen 10422 Kirby Smith Road Orlando, FL 32832

B 202/42

$6,701.46

B 202/43

$6,701.46

D 102/41

$6,701.46

E 102/44

$6,701.46

Vista Holdings, Inc

C/O Deena Birenbaum 5408 Legacy Oaks Place Asheville, NC 28803

C 202/08

$4,641.43

Lee Wanous 7236 E Lanai Street Long Beach, CA 90808

B 102/18

$7,732.19

David Williams 235 S Lake Avenue Lake Butler, FL 32054

D 101/20

$5,108.18

A 201/39

$5,108.18

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED of an action for non-judicial foreclosure of timeshare units on the Claims of Lien on the following described real property, located in Monroe County, Florida, to-wit:

writing to:

Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire TRUSTEE FOR MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC.

201 Fletcher Street, 2nd Floor Sarasota, FL 34237 within 30 days of the first date of publication of this Notice.

If you do not object to the use of the trustee foreclosure procedure, you will not be subject to a deficiency judgment even if the proceeds from the sale of your timeshare interest are insufficient to offset the amounts secured by the lien.

Dated this 20th day of JULY, 2023.

Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire, TRUSTEE TRUSTEE for MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB ASSOCIATION, INC

Publish:

August 3 & 10, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY CASE NO. 44-2020-CA-45-K

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 21st day of August, 2023 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit:

AN UNDIVIDED 1/104TH INTEREST

AS A TENANT IN COMMON WITH OTHER OWNERS IN THE RESORT FACILITY (1 TIME SHARE INTEREST), ACCORDING TO THE TIME-SHARING PLAN THEREOF, RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS

BOOK 1047, PAGES 1785

THROUGH 1856, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA (PLAN). TOGETHER WITH THE RIGHT TO OCCUPY, PURSUANT TO THE PLAN, UNIT 701, DURING UNIT WEEK 50.

Pursuant to AMENDED DEFAULT FINAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE OF TIMESHARE

LIEN ON COUNT XI entered in a case pending in said Court, the 1st day of August, 2023.

Syle of which is: THE BANYAN TREE OF KEY WEST CONDOMINIUM AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC., A FLORIDA CORPORATION

Plaintiff v. MELANIE SCHELL, ET. AL.

Defendant

Florida, to wit:

CONDOMINIUM UNIT NO. 501 OF UNIT WEEK 32, OF BANYAN TREE OF KEY WEST, CONDOMINIUM, TOGETHER WITH AN UNDIVIDED INTEREST IN COMMON ELEMENTS, ACCORDING TO THE DECLARATION THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 988, AT PAGE 1510, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA.

Pursuant to DEFAULT FINAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE OF TIMESHARE LIEN ON COUNT I entered in a case pending in said Court, the 5TH day of July 2023

Syle of which is:

THE BANYAN TREE OF KEY WEST CONDOMINIUM AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC., A FLORIDA CORPORATION

Plaintiff v.

WARFIELD M. LEWIS Defendant And the Docket Number of which is 44-2020-CA-45-K (Count I, Unit 501, Week 32) WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 26TH day of July 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod

Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish:

August 3 & 10, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY

CASE NO. 44-2020-CA-45-K

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 21st day of August, 2023 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit:

River, IL 60021

A 102/03

$3,592.23

Kai Cremata

14900 East Orange Lake Blvd Kissimmee, FL 34747

Annual Timeshare Periods as set forth above in MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB CONDOMINIUM II, according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof, recorded in Official Records Book 859, at Page 786, as amended in Official Records Book 874, at Page 2169, all of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and all subsequent amendments and exhibits thereto. has been filed against you. If you fail to cure the default as set forth in this notice or take other appropriate action with regard to this foreclosure matter, you risk losing ownership of your timeshare interest through the trustee foreclosure procedure established in Section 721.855, Florida Statutes. You may choose to sign and send to the trustee an objection form, exercising your right to object to the use of the trustee foreclosure procedure. If you would like an Objection form, you should contact the undersigned Trustee, Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire, in writing. Upon the trustee’s receipt of your signed objection form, the foreclosure of the lien with respect to the default specified in this notice shall be subject to the judicial foreclosure procedure only. You have the right to cure your default in the manner set forth in this notice at any time before the trustee’s sale of your timeshare interest. Objections must be made in

And the Docket Number of which is 44-2020-CA-45-K (Count XI, Unit 701, Week 50)

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 1st day of August, 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA

Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Riza Hall

As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish:

August 3 & 10, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY

CASE NO. 44-2020-CA-45-K

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 21st day of August, 2023 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County,

AN UNDIVIDED 1/416TH INTEREST AS A TENANT IN COMMON WITH OTHER OWNERS IN THE RESORT FACILITY (1 TIME SHARE INTEREST), ACCORDING TO THE TIME-SHARING PLAN THEREOF, RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 988, PAGES 1510 THROUGH 1580, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA (“PLAN”). TOGETHER WITH THE RIGHT TO OCCUPY, PURSUANT TO THE PLAN, UNIT 503, DURING WEEK 41.

Pursuant to DEFAULT FINAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE OF TIMESHARE LIEN ON COUNT XII, entered in a case pending in said Court, the 5TH day of July 2023 Syle of which is:

THE BANYAN TREE OF KEY WEST CONDOMINIUM AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC., A FLORIDA CORPORATION

Plaintiff v. MEREDITH PEACE Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is 44-2020-CA-45-K (Count XII, Unit 503, Week 41) WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 24TH day of July 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA

Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod

Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: August 3 & 10, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY

CASE NO. 44-2020-CA-45-K

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 21st day of August, 2023 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit:

AN UNDIVIDED 1/416TH INTEREST

AS A TENANT IN COMMON WITH OTHER OWNERS IN THE RESORT FACILITY (1 TIME SHARE INTEREST), ACCORDING TO THE TIME-SHARING PLAN THEREOF, RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS

BOOK 988, PAGES 1510 THROUGH 1580, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA (PLAN). TOGETHER WITH THE RIGHT TO OCCUPY, PURSUANT TO THE PLAN, UNIT 506, DURING

WEEK 34.

Pursuant to DEFAULT FINAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE OF TIMESHARE

LIEN ON COUNT IX, entered in a case pending in said Court, the 5TH day of July 2023

Syle of which is:

THE BANYAN TREE OF KEY WEST CONDOMINIUM AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC., A FLORIDA CORPORATION

Plaintiff v. RORY N. HORTON

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is 44-2020-CA-45-K (Count IX, Unit 506, Week 34) WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 24TH day of July 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA

Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod

Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish:

August 3 & 10, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY CASE NO. 44-2020-CA-45-K

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 21st day of August, 2023 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit:

AN UNDIVIDED 1/416TH INTEREST

AS A TENANT IN COMMON WITH OTHER OWNERS IN THE RESORT FACILITY (1 TIME SHARE INTEREST), ACCORDING TO THE TIME-SHARING PLAN THEREOF, RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 1003, PAGES 1806 THROUGH 1877, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA (“PLAN”). TOGETHER WITH THE RIGHT TO OCCUPY, PURSUANT TO THE PLAN, UNIT 606, DURING WEEK(S) 35.

Pursuant to DEFAULT FINAL

SUMMARY JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE OF TIMESHARE

LIEN ON COUNT XV, entered in a case pending in said Court, the 5TH day of July 2023

Syle of which is:

THE BANYAN TREE OF KEY WEST CONDOMINIUM AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC., A FLORIDA CORPORATION

AMIR ESFANDYARI Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is 44-2020-CA-45-K (Count XV, Unit 606, Week 35) WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 24TH day of July 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA

Clerk of the Circuit Court

Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod

Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish:

August 3 & 10, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY CASE NO. 44-2020-CA-45-K

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 21st day of August, 2023 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit:

AN UNDIVIDED 1/416TH INTEREST AS A TENANT IN COMMON WITH OTHER OWNERS IN THE RESORT FACILITY (1 TIME SHARE INTEREST), ACCORDING TO THE TIME-SHARING PLAN THEREOF, RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 988, PAGES 1510 THROUGH 1580, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA (PLAN). TOGETHER WITH THE RIGHT TO OCCUPY, PURSUANT TO THE PLAN, UNIT 507, DURING WEEK 33.

Pursuant to DEFAULT FINAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE OF TIMESHARE LIEN ON COUNT X, entered in a case pending in said Court, the 5TH day of July 2023

Syle of which is: THE BANYAN TREE OF KEY WEST CONDOMINIUM AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC., A FLORIDA CORPORATION

Plaintiff

v. JUDITH A. BETTERIDGE

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is 44-2020-CA-45-K (Count X, Unit 507, Week 33)

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 24TH day of July 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA

Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod

Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: August 3 & 10, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH

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 SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE 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: August 3, 2023.

Personal Representative: Douglas A. Frievalt 13 Palm Beach Road Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal

Representatives:

URBAN J. W. PATTERSON, ESQ.

Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com

Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@ yahoo.com

Florida Bar No. 382035

Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783

Islamorada, Florida 33036

Telephone: 305-664-5065

Publish:

August 3 & 10, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-000146-K

IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN C. IMBUS

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of JOHN C. IMBUS, deceased, whose date of death was January 8, 2023, is pending in the Monroe County Courthouse-Key West, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

Telephone: 305-789-3200

E-mail: sdixon@stearnsweaver. com

Publish:

July 27 & August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-000148-K IN RE: ESTATE OF LIZABETH ANN MOODY Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Lizabeth Ann Moody, deceased, whose date of death was May 19th, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

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

The date of first publication of this notice is: July 27, 2023.

Personal Representative: Lynn Howell 6266 10th Avenue South Gulfport, FL 33707 Attorney for Personal

Representative: KIMBERLY A. COLGATE, P.A. Attorneys for Personal Representative 6981 CURTISS AVENUE, SUITE 2 SARASOTA, FL 34231 Telephone: 941.927.2996 Florida Bar No. 875661 Email address: kcolgate@fllawyer. com

Publish:

July 27 & August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2023-DR-33-P IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION OF:

T.A.G. DOB 09/08/11

D.O.B.F. DOB 01/11/13

Minor Child NOTICE OF ACTION (JOINT PETITION FOR STEPPARENT ADOPTION)

TO: THOMAS G. GALLAGHER

LEGAL NOTICES

CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE JOINT PETITION FOR STEPPARENT ADOPTION. IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR ON THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED, YOU MAY LOSE ALL LEGAL RIGHTS AS A PARENT TO THE CHILD OR CHILDREN NAMED IN THIS NOTICE.

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, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040, 305-2923562 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 WITNESS my hand as Clerk of said Court and the Seal thereof, this 26th day of June, 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, as Clerk of Court

By: Jennifer Havengar

Deputy Clerk

Publish:

July 13, 20 & 27 and August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 23-DR-518-K YAMILET ORTUETA Petitioner, and, JOSE A. KLEPASKI, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT)

TO: JOSE A. KLEPASKI RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: UNKNOWN YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on YAMILET ORTUETA, whose address is 529 PARK DRIVE, KEY WEST, FL 33040 on or before AUGUST 14, 2023, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

and, CLAUDIA SUSANA ALMEIDA CHACON, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT)

TO: CLAUDIA SUSANA ALMEIDA CHACON

RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN

ADDRESS: 112 PEARY COURT, UNIT B, KEY WEST, FLORIDA

33040

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on JUAN FELIPE JARA GALLEGUILLOS, whose address is 112 PEARY COURT, UNIT B, KEY WEST, FLORIDA 33040 on or before AUGUST 14, 2023, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FLORIDA 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE

Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.)

Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: July 11, 2023

Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Riza Hall

Deputy Clerk Publish:

July 13, 20 & 27 and August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY

CIVIL ACTION NO.: 23-DR000497-K FAMILY DIVISION IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF ELZBIETA TERESA DORVILLE and JOSE ANIBAL DORVILLE NOTICE OF ACTION CONSRUCTIVE SERVICE (NO PROPERTY)

NOTICE FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE

TO: JOSE ANIBAL DORVILLE

(ADDRESS UNKNOWN)

2023. Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Riza Hall

Deputy Clerk

Publish:

July 20 & 27 and August 3 & 10, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED

AUTOS ALL YEARS!

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

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED;

HOUSEHOLD MANAGER

Live in household manager/ caregiver. Single or couple. Private apartment and auto provided. 7 months in N Key Largo and 5 months in Canada (Ontario)Salary based on skills and experience. Reply to: safd12@aol.com

NOW HIRING - Full Time

Seafood Packers/Graders and Receivers. Competitive Wage and benefits. Apply in person at Keys Fisheries Fish House, 3390 Gulfview Ave, Marathon. EOE DFWP

Coast to Coast Pizza Company in Marathon is looking for Full and/ or Part-time Cashiers to join our team! Fulltime with a potential to become our Front of House Assistant Manager. Salary commensurate with experience and includes tips and 401k. Please call Nicole at 305433-0515 or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.

S.S. Wreck and Galley Grill on Grassy Key is looking for Servers– full or part time; includes tips and 401k. Please call Nicole at 305433-0515 or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com

Zero Dress Code Boutique Hiring sales personnel in Islamorada & Ocean Reef Club. Competitive pay, discounts and great atmosphere. Send resume to zerodresscode@gmail. com or call 305-393-4445

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time line cook. Responsible for food and kitchen prep. Competitive pay at a private club, opportunities to advance. Flexible afternoon/evening hours Wednesday –Saturday. Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 2023-CP-76-P IN RE: ESTATE OF JOYCE LEE FRIEVALT

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of JOYCE LEE FRIEVALT, deceased, whose date of death was May 20, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

The date of first publication of this notice is: July 27, 2023.

Personal Representative:

STEPHEN C. GINN

5517 NE 31 Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308

Attorney for Personal Representative: SHARON QUINN DIXON Florida Bar No. 350311

Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson, P.A.

Attorneys for Personal Representative

2200 Museum Tower 150 West Flagler Street Miami, Florida 33130

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that Michael Stevens & Renee D. Foster, has filed a Joint Petition for Adoption by Step-Parent for the following children: T.A.G., born on September 8, 2011 and D.O.B.F., born on January 11, 2013. A copy of the Petition is on file with the Clerk of the Court. You are hereby commanded to appear on August 16, 2023, at 10:45 am, before the Honorable Magistrate Sandra Taylor, at the Plantation Key County Courthouse, 88770 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070, by zoom with a zoom meeting ID 967-4668-8252 and passcode 207718 for an ADVISORY HEARING. Answer due August 14, 2023.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: July 6, 2023

Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Riza Hall Deputy Clerk

Publish:

July 13, 20 & 27 and August 3, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

CASE NO.: 23-DR-520-K

JUAN FELIPE JARA

GALLEGUILLOS Petitioner,

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a Petition for Dissolution of your Marriage has been filed and commenced in this court and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Malgorzata J. Kon, Esq., Attorney for Petitioner, whose address is KON & ASSOCIATES, LLC, 2131 Hollywood Blvd., Suite 507A, Hollywood, FL 33020 and file the original with the clerk of the above styled court on or before August 21, 2023; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief prayed for in the complaint or petition.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, require certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal of striking of pleadings.

WITNESS my hand and the seal of said court at Monroe County, Florida on this 13 day of July

City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Administrative Asst. Fire Department and Right of Way Technician. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

Boat rental company in Marathon needs an Outboard Mechanic. Some general marina work, and boat experience a plus. Call 305-481-7006

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

Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder now hiring Guest Service Representativeresponsibilities include assisting guests at our Key Largo and Islamorada locations, making reservations and/or answering questions over phone and in-person, taking and processing photos, and checking-in and out guests visiting our facility. To apply, please send your resume to andreaw@dpmmr.org.

Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder is hiring an overnight Security Guardresponsibilities include but are not limited to observing marine mammals to ensure quality care, the ability to follow written instructions, and follow protocol and procedures as directed.

Candidates must be able to lift 50 lbs and must be able to stay awake and alert for a 13 hour shift (6:00pm7am). DPMMR is a drugfree workplace. To apply, please send your resume to nancyc@dpmmr.org.

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: HVAC Maintenance Mechanic, Personal Care Aide, Resident Assistant, Cook, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker), Med Tech (Caregiver), and Grounds Caretaker. 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.,

PERSONAL CHEF FULL-TIME

A beautiful private property in Islamorada is looking for a professional, experienced, friendly, clean & organized, knowledgeable and practices food safety procedures full-time personal chef. Competitive salary and great benefits. Must pass a background check & drug test.

Please email resume to Apply4APREI@gmail.com

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR

The Advocate DUI Program is hiring for part time positions. DUI instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

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.

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 404219-3359 and ask for Dave.

Place your Employment Ad here for $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

3BR/2BA NEW HOUSE, MM87, Islamorada. Homeowner's boat ramp. Lawn service. Exterminator monthly. $4,400/monthly F/L/S 305394-4360 305-522-2014

2 Bedroom 1 Bath house in Marathon. Tile floor, appliances, gated property. No pets. $2,700/ mo. incl. electric, water, sewer. 305-610-8002

Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, fully furnished in Marathon. $2,000/month includes electric, water, sewer, cable, internet. Available November 1st. No Pets. 305-610-8002

MARINA FOR SALE

FOR SALE IN MARATHON: Marina & Storage on US

1 Frontage, 1.5 acre, 3211 sq. ft. repair shop, 150 ft. dockage on 640' X 240' deeded BB, ready for expansion under existing dock permit, electric & sewer in. MU zoning. $3.499 million 305-928-9057

NOW HIRING Operations Manager

Responsibilities include

• Managing 7,500 sq. ft. facility, ensuring regular equipment and exhibit maintenance

• Financial operations including banking, records management and payroll

• Manages training for and implementation of staff duties in their various roles and responsibilities and provides institutional leadership

• Serves as primary point of contact between the Board and the staff

• Represents the organization for member organizations including chambers of commerce and business development groups

Annual salary $70,000.

Visit www.keysdiscovery.com/foundation-staff for more information.

Keys History & Discovery Center, 82100 Overseas Highway, Islamorada.

TRANSFER STATION OPERATOR

MONROE COUNTY SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT is looking for a responsible applicant for the Cudjoe Key Transfer Station, MM 21.5. The primary function of this position is to weigh vehicles in and out of transfer station and maintain transfer station property.

Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED, working knowledge of computers and other office equipment, and a Florida Driver’s License Class B CDL within 6 months of hire. This position is designated as a safety sensitive position. An employee in this position is subject to the mandatory Department of Transportation drug testing program which involves random drug testing. Starting salary: $40,188.94 plus benefits.

Application available at: www.monroecounty-fl.gov via the position link on our employment page. For more information, contact Human Resources at: Careers@monroecounty-fl.gov or call 305-292-4554. Veteran’s Preference Available; E.O.E.

NOW HIRING FT FRONT OFFICE ASSISTANT MARATHON, FL

NOW HIRING DIVE INSTRUCTOR

Please contact April at 305.407.3262 or april@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com for more information.

11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON

SUNSET

GRILLE IS

• Bussers

EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIANS AND HELPERS NEEDED

Experience is required. Must have a valid driver’s license. We offer 401K, medical insurance, paid holidays and paid vacation. Positions available in Key West and Marathon. 305-292-3369

Duties to include invoice and inventory entry, booking airline shipments, creating and filing paperwork for international shipments, scheduling inspections needed for international shipments, customer communication and tracking, creating and maintaining customer accounts and some customer service. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel. This position requires high attention to detail and the ability to multitask. Compensation will be dependent on experience.

Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Please send cover letter and resume to sales@dynastymarine.net for consideration. No phone calls please. dynastymarine.net

• Waitstaff

• Bartenders

• Bar Backs

• Line Cooks

• Dishwashers

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Executive Department:

TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION T&D ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $108,332/annually$111,365/annually

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.

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on quali cations and experience: $40.35/hr. - $45.19/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.

LOOKING FOR A NEW CAREER?

COURT ADMINISTRATION IS NOW HIRING PROBATION OFFICER

The 16th Judicial Circuit is seeking applicants for full-time Probation Officer in KEY WEST.

This is responsible and professional work that ensures the effective supervision of defendants placed on misdemeanor probation and diversion supervision.

Salary is $40,000 annually, plus Monroe County benefit package, which includes State of Florida Retirement System Plan. See complete job description at www.Keyscourts.net.

Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter and State of Florida Application to Personnel@Keyscourts.net or Personnel, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040. State of Florida applications can be found at www.Keyscourts.net.

The successful applicant will be required to pass a complete background check. Applications are being accepted until position is filled. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, disability or sexual orientation. EOE. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application/selection process, please notify us in at advance at 305-292-3423; to make call through the Florida Relay Center, you can dial 7-1-1.

GCC offers excellent benefits for full-time employment, but we realize some would prefer part-time to enjoy the Florida Keys lifestyle more. All positions can be considered for full or part-time unless notated. Apply at westcare.com and enter your availability.

KEY

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Case Managers (Adult, Forensic)

MARATHON

Driver (CDL required) Care Coordinator

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) RNs/LPNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem) Maintenance Specialist *Behavioral Health Technicians 3 shifts (also Per Diem) Peer Support Specialist *Support Worker – Assisted Living *No experience required for these positions. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Volunteer Resources

Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Human Resources Assistant (Part-Time, Permanent)

BOAT RENTAL STAFF

FLEXIBLE

Need to have experience driving boats and a working knowledge of the Islamorada area by water. Duties include taking reservations, giving captains lessons and routine boat maintenance.

Email Ma at eliteboatrentalsma @gmail.com. Please include contact information and any relevant experience.

Accounting Director (Full-Time, Permanent)

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

Full job descriptions available at www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities

6575 OCEANVIEW AVENUE MARATHON | $1,049,000

Modern sanctuary with endless ocean views! Beautifully updated, with an airy open concept and loads of natural light. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances, sleek quartz countertops, subway tile backsplash, and abundant storage. Entertain guests and dine al fresco on a sizable 464 sq. ft. open back deck, overlooking turquoise waters and famous Keys sunrises and sunsets. Nestled in a peaceful neighborhood but walkable to shopping, restaurants, grocery stores, and beaches in town!

OPEN HOUSES

Stunning, move-in ready home on a deep-water canal with resort-style amenities! Enjoy a custom in-ground pool enveloped by lush tropical landscaping, creating a private Keys oasis! An angler’s paradise, the property boasts 12K boatlift and quick access to enviable boating and fishing in Boot Key Harbor and the Atlantic. This sprawling, turn-key home boasts 5 generous bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, providing comfortable accommodation for family and guests.

THE LISA FERRINGO GROUP COLDWELL BANKER SCHMITT

O ce: 305.872.5261

Cell: 305.797.1221

lisaferringo@gmail.com

LisaFerringo.com

927 GULF DRIVE

SUMMERLAND KEY | $2,399,000

Brand-New masterpiece situated on a deep water canal with direct ocean access! Magnificent three story beauty featuring chef's kitchen boasting top of the line stainless-steel appliances, and two master suites with luxuriously finished ensuite bathrooms. Open ocean views from the rooftop deck looking down on the exquisitely landscaped back yard retreat. A sparkling pool with sundeck and summer kitchen to maximize your poolside entertaining. 40' dock and new 20,000’ boat lift!

Bright and spacious Summerland Key retreat, on a peaceful corner lot, with endless turquoise Water Views! This prime location is ideal for the avid boater, with approximately 189' of water frontage and enviable ocean access within minutes. Entertain guests on the spacious open back porch, overlooking the well-maintained yard and canal below. Nestled within a tranquil, established neighborhood, while just minutes to shops and restaurants in town!

FEATURED PROPERTY

At $694 price per square foot for an amazing 6 bedroom home boasting 75' canal frontage with 7 day rentals allowed, this property is the ultimate investment opportunity, and boasts fantastic rental potential of over $175,000 a year! 75' of concrete dockage and a boat lift, and plenty of entertaining spaces including a sprawling Porch overlooking the water. Room for a pool, tiki and all of your toys and just minutes to world-class fishing and diving!

80

SUGARLOAF KEY | $799,000

Build your dream home prestigious Sugarloaf Shores, just 20 minutes outside of Key West! Oversized 17,625 Sq.Ft. on a crystal-clear canal with approximately 578 Sq Ft dock in place o ering excellent boating. Active building permit through December 2024 for an 1,800 Sq.Ft. 3BR 2BA home with a 312 Sq.Ft. Porch and a 284 Sq.Ft. storage enclosure. Permit, water and sewer fees have been paid for!

SOUTH POINT DRIVE

1082 BAY DRIVE SUMMERLAND KEY | $829,000

110 WEST BRUCE COURT MARATHON | $1,799,900

800 CAMINO REAL MARATHON | $2,499,999