Marathon Weekly 23-1116

Don’t be no jive turkey this close to Thanksgiving.

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BILLS FOR NO BUILDS?

Evacuation model changes have hefty financial implications | P.6

DUNN DEAL

Scholarship honors beloved Marathon vet | P.8

STILL GETS THE GAVEL Marathon installs new mayor; Wyland’s wall preserved | P.4

Regularly scheduled garbage pick-ups for Thursday 11/23 (Thanksgiving Day) will be on Friday 11/24

wishes you a

No Recycle pick-ups on Thursday 11/23 (Thanksgiving Day) Pick-ups will resume the following week

Please call 305-743-5165 with any questions.

¢

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

WE’VE SOLD MORE PROPERTIES OVER THE PAST 20 YEARS THAN THE NEXT FOUR COMPANIES COMBINED CALL US TO FIND OUT HOW • 305.743.5181 JUST SOLD! CONGRATULATIONS TO MY BUYER!

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Helping Keys Residents since 2002. The Coldwell Banker Schmitt Charitable Foundation was created in April 2002, and is dedicated to helping Keys’ residents whose critical needs are not being met through other means. The funds are donated to the Foundation through the generous hearts of the Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate agents, staff, associates, business partners, and the public. www.gooddeedsinthekeys.org

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

2023 THANKSGIVING AT SUNSET GRILLE • AVAILABLE 11AM - 10PM • $27.99 PER PERSON • RESERVATIONS ARE EXTREMELY LIMITED AND WALK-INS ARE HIGHLY ENCOURAGED 305-396-7235

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HERB ROASTED TURKEY served with herb stuffing and giblet gravy, fresh cranberry sauce, mashed sweet potatoes, and homemade green bean casserole SPIRAL CUT HAM honey pineapple glaze, mashed sweet potatoes, and green bean casserole

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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

3M

AAA projects more than 3 million Floridians will travel 50 miles or more during the Thanksgiving holiday travel period. This year’s forecast is the second highest on record (after 2005), with an expected 87,000 (3%) more holiday travelers than last year.

Newly-elected Marathon Mayor Robyn Still, left, takes her gavel from outgoing Mayor Luis Gonzalez on Tuesday night. With a unanimous selection, Still will lead the city council until November 2024 along with Vice Mayor Lynn Landry. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Marathon Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Digital Editor / Gwen Filosa gwen@keysweekly.com

Artists Wyland and Guy Harvey’s “Whaling Wall #87 - Florida’s Radiant Reef” will be preserved in its entirety. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

‘INTACT, IN PLACE, AS IS’

Director of Sales

Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

Business Development Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com

Retailer SurfStyle pledges complete preservation of Wyland and Guy Harvey’s Whaling Wall #87; Still takes mayor’s gavel

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design

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

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

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ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

A

standing-room-only crowd at the Marathon City Council’s Nov. 14 meeting found their concerns assuaged within minutes. Opening as one of the meeting’s first topics, beachwear retailer SurfStyle announced a pivot in its plans for Marathon’s former Kmart building – and pledged to preserve the iconic Wyland and Guy Harvey mural Whaling Wall #87.

The mural originally was slated to be partially demolished to create a new doorway and otherwise covered with new graphic metal panels.

But SurfStyle managing partner Gilad Ovaknin said the company would change course following two weeks of public contact and pressure.

“The Wyland mural is going to remain untouched,” said Ovaknin, prompting loud applause. “Hearing the strong sentiment of the public, and not only hearing but understanding that this has value as public art that has been here for 30 years, we understand that we made a mistake.”

“Sometimes the newest and the biggest is not necessarily the best, and we are all about bringing content and value to the area, so we’re going to go back to our drawing boards and redesign the elevation to incorporate the existing mural and expand the remainder of the facade,” he said. “We did not act because of the pressure, we acted

because (the community’s) approach was the right approach.”

“I just want to confirm that the current mural will be preserved intact, in place, as is,” said Mary Stella, co-author of an online petition to save the mural that had garnered more than 6,000 signatures as of Wednesday morning.

“I applaud that, and I truly believe that this will help to make your business in this community a success,” she added upon Ovaknin’s confirmation.

“I’m responsible for bringing that wall to Marathon 30-some-odd years ago,” said Dolphin Research Center COO Mandy Rodriguez. “I just spoke to Wyland and Guy Harvey a few minutes ago, and I thank you. We will be behind you 100%.”

“I appreciate everyone and the effort to protect the public art,” Wyland told the Weekly in a text message following the decision. “I believe the mural could be a major asset to whatever business decides to move in there. I love our Keys community and Marathon.”

Quay property headed for more discussion Admitting that, as he was on the losing end of a previous vote, it was not within his power to move for reconsideration of the council’s direction to staff regarding a redesign of the Quay property at its Oct. 24 workshop, councilman Luis Gonzalez asked Vice Mayor Lynn Landry and councilmen Jeff Smith and Kenny Matlock to re-

SurfStyle managing partner Gilad Ovaknin addresses the Marathon City Council to promise a redesign of his company’s newest retail outlet in Marathon’s former Kmart building. The updated design will include full preservation of artists Wyland and Guy Harvey’s iconic mural on the building’s facade. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

open discussions regarding direction for the property.

“Emotions were tested, and probably got the better of me,” he said.

“Since that meeting, the community outcry has been overwhelming.”

Though talks at the October workshop pointed toward a partial pivot in the property’s direction from its initial park concept, Landry clarified that his intention, and that of his fellow councilmen, was never to eschew the park continued on page 31

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Free Gift Bags for the Kids!

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

MILLIONS IN LAWSUITS UNDERSCORE KEYS EVACUATION MODEL WEBINARS Updated simulations, evac times could result in thousands of additional building allocations

By Alex Rickert, Jim McCarthy & Gwen Filosa

A

t a time when the Florida Keys are grappling with frequent neighborhood flooding and aging bridges, the Florida Department of Commerce (Florida Commerce), formerly known as the Department of Economic Opportunity, wants to explore modifications to hurricane evacuation models that could add up to 8,000 new building permit allocations to the island chain.

The Keys’ rumor mill went to work on Nov. 8 shortly after the conclusion of the Board of County Commissioners’ monthly meeting, prompting some government officials to indicate that Florida Commerce was prepared to award thousands of new allocations following the 2024 Florida state legislative session. Within hours, the hype of the original message had scaled back considerably.

“It’s an option,” Monroe County Administrator Roman Gastesi told the Keys Weekly that afternoon. “There are a lot of options, a lot of moving parts and (Florida Commerce) want(s) to hear from us.”

Two webinars were planned for Nov. 14 and Thursday, Nov. 16, for Florida Commerce staff to “inform local governments on updates to the Hurricane Evacuation Modeling and draft results.” The current models, based on population data and a simulation of evacuation using the Keys’ roads before a disaster, form the basis for the “cap” on building allocations in the Keys.

According to state statutes governing the Keys as an Area of Critical State Concern, total building allocations must still allow for a complete evacuation of the Keys’ permanent residents in no more than 24 hours. Modifications of this model – upping the evacuation to 30 or 36 hours, for instance – based on 2020 census data and updated simulations, could theoretically allow for thousands of additional allocations.

At present, there are an estimated 7,950 buildable lots left in the Keys. But there are nowhere near that number of building permits, given out through the Rate of Growth Ordinance (ROGO)/Building Permit Allocation System (BPAS). Marathon has just 10 allocations to give (four market rate allocations, four owner-occupied, and two affordable), and if the current distribution schedule is followed, those will run out in the summer of 2024. Islamorada has already exhausted its supply of permits, and on Nov. 9 passed a resolution to impose a moratorium on market rate BPAS applications.

At present, only additional “administrative relief” allocations and two affordable housing allocations remain for the village.

KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO.

Who Pays the Bill if the Keys Can’t Build?

The complete expiration of building allocations will soon open the floodgates for regulatory takings cases, a longtime cause for concern among Keys officials. Under U.S. constitutional law, these cases occur when governmental regulations – such as the ACSC statutes for the Keys – limit the use of private property to such a degree that the landowner is essentially deprived of all economically reasonable use and value of their property. It’s the plight that the owners of otherwise buildable lots who failed to secure building allocations will soon face – and it’s a massive price tag on the table for either the state or Keys governments.

In the years leading up to 2023, questions began to arise as to which entities — the state, county or local municipalities — would foot the bill in cases when those property owners were successful in court and owed damages.

In 2019, then-state Rep. Holly Merrill Raschein and then-state Sen. Anitere Flores introduced legislation proposing the state be held responsible and provide half the compensation to property owners who won their cases. The other half would come from local municipalities in the Keys.

While legislation received support from all municipalities in Monroe County, bills in the House and Senate never reached the floors for a vote.

Flores, who introduced the bill in the Senate in 2019, said at the time that it would formalize a “handshake agreement” that existed for years between the state and Monroe County. The legislation followed examples set by previous takings cases in Big Pine Key in 2004, in which the county and state “split the bill” over denial of building permits. As for the 50-50 split on judgments, Flores says there’s a case that the state should bear more of the cost.

“We’re in the kind of situation because of them,” Flores told Keys Weekly in 2019. “There’s financial implications with that though, and getting a bill passed out of the legislature with a higher threshold for the state would be challenging.”

Impacts of Additional Permits are Paramount County officials and current state Rep. Jim Mooney stressed to the Keys Weekly that this week’s webinars are simply meant for sharing information, and that state officials have yet to make any recommendations for upping evacuation times.

“That needs to be emphasized. At this point it’s data sharing,” Mooney said.

“They’re telling us they’re not going to shove anything down our throats – I even used those terms with the state,” said county administrator Roman Gastesi. “They were adamant that’s not how it’s going to work.”

Gastesi said, “They’ll explain what their findings are and ask municipalities and the county what the options are. They range from doing nothing to the potential of having thousands of extra units if we start tweaking the evacuation times.”

Even still, the impact of additional allocations in an environmentally sensitive island chain with aging infrastructure and one major highway cannot be overstated.

That makes the first question, Gastesi said, “What can the Keys handle as far as infrastructure and roads?”

Mooney shared similar questions and concerns during an hours-long meeting with officials from Florida Commerce on Nov. 7.

Mooney asked the representatives if they factored in the state of infrastructure in the Keys and what more building permits could do to the ecosystem.

“Look at the water issues we have. Saltwater intrusion is an issue,” Mooney said. “The entire design of the Florida Keys Area of Critical State Concern was to preserve the ecosystem.”

Additional allocations would unquestionably affect the real estate market in the Keys, from home and empty lot prices to the value of Transferable Building Rights (TBRs), currently worth roughly $200,000 apiece as they become increasingly scarce.

Speaking to the Weekly on Nov. 9, County Commissioner Michelle Lincoln said that while still early in the process, it’s vital for Keys residents to stay informed and monitor the ongoing discussions.

“This is just as important, if not more, than the court consolidation discussion,” she Scan code for webinar Thursday, Nov. 16, 2 p.m. said

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

34 MIGRANTS RESCUED BY COAST GUARD FROM SINKING VESSEL AFTER KCB CHARTER CAPTAIN’S CALL

Dr. Mike Dunn, left, with Becky Godchaux and her corgi Nanette.

ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

LEAVING A LEGACY Veterinary scholarship honors Marathon’s Dr. Mike Dunn ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

T

he name of Marathon’s 13-time Best Vet is getting a national spotlight, thanks to a full scholarship funded by a longtime client.

Created by Marathon resident Becky Godchaux and named after the locally-beloved head honcho at Keys Animal Hospital, the Mike Dunn, DVM Veterinary Student Scholarship will award two veterinary medicine students pursuing companion animal practice with up to $35,000 per year for four years of veterinary school – a whopping $280,000 total commitment.

“I started thinking about what’s most important to me, and both of my dogs are very important,” she said.

“Mike has been my veterinarian for many, many years, and I just admire him.”

Early conversations with Dunn, in which the vet described the impact of his own scholarship to Cornell University, soon developed into further leads through Godchaux’s neighbor. A retired veterinarian himself, Don Wilson pointed her in the direction of the VIN Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to “cultivating a healthy veterinary community by providing veterinary colleagues support at the defining moments of their career.”

“This is under (the foundation’s) umbrella,” Godchaux said. “I had a veterinary scholarship in mind, I just

had no idea how I was going to do it.

They have been unbelievable in giving me the background to be able to do something like this.” She said she arrived at the total dollar amount in consultation with VIN by averaging the cost of schools across the country.

“I believe in scholarships for people who are going to contribute to their community, whoever they may be,” she added. “I think especially since COVID, the veterinary world is a profession that’s in crisis.”

Godchaux said she and her evaluation committee from the VIN Foundation received 180 applicants for the scholarship’s inaugural year, with each applicant’s personal statement and resume set for reading and scoring by two separate teams within the committee. Finalists will participate in a video interview and must show proof of acceptance in a qualifying school for fall 2024.

“Especially since this is the first year, we want to make sure we get it right,” she said. “If it all goes well, it definitely will continue.”

“I am still in shock with Becky’s level of generosity,” said Dunn. “It is so nice to know that we, as veterinarians, make such an impact on people’s lives.”

Godchaux’s final words of praise for Dunn to the Weekly echoed those of hundreds of his clients past and present, along with nearly 200 reactions and comments on the hospital’s Facebook post sharing the news.

“Mike’s compassion and his ability to communicate, it’s just admirable what he does,” Godchaux said. “That’s without much thought that I’m saying this. There’s so much more to be said.”

Video footage and stills provided by captain Marty Lewis of Main Attraction Sportfishing Charters show the scene as Coast Guard crews arrive to rescue 34 migrants aboard a sinking vessel Friday morning. MARTY LEWIS/Contributed

ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

T

hirty-four migrants aboard a sinking vessel are now in the hands of the U.S. Coast Guard, thanks to a Key Colony Beach charter captain’s watchful eye.

Captain Marty Lewis was 11 miles offshore in the Atlantic on a trip for his fishing charter company when he discovered the vessel barely at the surface the morning of Nov. 10.

“Marty was the first one on the scene,” Lewis’ wife Katie, who co-owns Main Attraction Sportfishing Charters with her husband, told the Weekly that afternoon. “He did what he was supposed to do and called it in to the Coast Guard, and they sent the boats, cutters, helicopters and planes. He told me, ‘I’m staying with them until (the Coast Guard) gets here.’”

“We saw something floating in the distance, and it didn’t look like a raft – it looked like a tree floating, so I told the guys to put the lines out,” Marty told the Weekly after the incident. “I’m staring at it, and I saw some splashes like fish jumping. I got a little closer and saw hands in the air, arms swinging back and forth, and I said ‘Oh God. This is a raft.’”

The boat was largely submerged, he said, with the stern mere inches out of the water. Passing bottled water to the migrants, Marty and his crew stayed nearby, ready to take passengers aboard if they began to struggle while the Coast Guard made its way out.

“I’ve seen a lot of Cuban rafts offshore with a lot of people on them,

but never this bad,” he said. “Usually, you see them out there and they don’t want you to even help them – they want to make it to shore. These guys were like, ‘Yes. Please call the Coast Guard. We need help.’”

“They literally stuffed their shirts with … whatever they could find floating,” he recalled. “My mate that day (Steve Fitzgerald) could speak Spanish, and he asked them how long they’d been out there. They said ‘four days,’ and for two of those they were sunk. I can’t even imagine being in the water for two whole days. I’d imagine by the end of that day, they would no longer be with us.”

“I guess we’re kind of numb to this, only because we’ve seen it so many times,” Katie added. “To be honest, it hasn’t happened in a long time, but we’ve also had calmer weather lately, so they saw their window, I’m sure.”

All migrants aboard the sinking vessel were accounted for with no reported injuries, according to a Coast Guard report later in the day. Their country of origin was not immediately released, although they identified themselves to the Main Attraction crew as Cubans. The Coast Guard’s standard policy for interdictions at sea near the Keys is to repatriate migrants to their country of origin or return them to the country from which they departed, officials said. These migrants may be declared ineligible for legal immigration parole options.

“We were in the right place at the right time,” Marty concluded. “If I had been looking left instead of right, we would have never seen them.”

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

KEYS MOSQUITO CONTROL COMMISSIONER PASSES AWAY

SEVEN HATS IN THE RING FOR KCB COMMISSION APPOINTMENT

CPA WAS 77

Former Mayor Patti Trefry’s seat could head to special election ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

T

he meeting of the Key Colony Beach City Commission on Thursday, Nov. 16 will carry more than a little extra weight, as the commission may choose to appoint its fifth member from a pool of at least seven residents who have applied for the honor.

Following the sudden resignation of Mayor Patti Trefry last month, a majority vote of the remaining four commissioners – Mayor Pro Tem Beth Ramsay-Vickrey, Secretary/Treasurer Tom Harding and Commissioners Freddie Foster and Joey Raspe – is needed to fill the fifth seat on the dais.

Selection of the city’s new mayor, vice mayor and secretary/treasurer would then occur at the commission’s organizational meeting in December.

If the four cannot reach a consensus, the Nov. 16 agenda packet states, candidates must qualify between Dec. 4 at noon and Dec. 8 at noon for a special election conducted in tandem with Florida’s presidential primary on March 19, 2024.

“In reviewing the applications, I see we have a strong candidate who has the community knowledge, involvement, support and the city experience necessary to fill this vacancy,” RamsayVickrey said in a statement to the Weekly on Tuesday. “The electorates will decide three seats in November, but the expensive costs involved to hold a special election in March are an unnecessary expenditure that is simply not in the best interest of our city. Therefore, it is my sincerest hope we reach consensus and seat our fifth commissioner on Thursday.”

Though the city set Nov. 9 as its self-imposed deadline for residents to submit applications to fill Trefry’s seat, the commission may consider additional applicants at the meeting on a case-by-case basis.

Key Colony Beach could see a newly-appointed commissioner as early as Thursday morning. JASON KOLER/Keys Weekly

The seven current candidates include: • Thomas DiFransico, a retired engineer and 11-year KCB resident with more than seven years of service with the city’s utility board, code enforcement and planning and zoning board. Touting more than 40 years of engineering, construction and management experience in his application, DiFransico said his “education and experience allow (him) to make fair and well-reasoned decisions” and that “understanding contracts and construction methodology will be useful for future projects.”

• Joseph Schmidt, a retired mechanical contractor and 22-year KCB resident with experience on the city’s utility board. A master plumber license holder in multiple states, Schmidt stated he will “bring sanity and return KCB back to ‘the gem of the Florida Keys.’” Pledging to “open ears that will hear the voices of citizens,” Schmidt also listed his “PhD in common sense.”

• Fred Swanson, a 16-year KCB resident and retired oil industry engineer. “I have spent hours and days familiarizing myself with what is and has been happening in KCB following Hurricane Irma through reviewing meeting minutes, financial records, budget and audit reports and talking to people,” Swanson wrote in his application. “I am not gregarious. I tend to listen more than speak. But I can promise you that I will work tirelessly to right this city.”

• John Dalton, a 37-year resident of KCB with experience in code enforcement and as the chair of the city’s utility board. In his application, Dalton cited his experience as the president of his own corporation in Massachusetts as well as two years of work as an inspector for engineering firm Mittauer & Associates Inc.

• Patricia Conkling Benton, an attorney and mediator who recently became a full-time KCB resident after 12 years of part-time residency. “I planned to run as a candidate next fall when several terms expire,” she wrote in a letter to commissioners in her application. “Although I have not yet lived in KCB year-round, I believe, given the current political climate, this is advantageous because I have not aligned myself with any one group and as such will approach decisions with objectivity.”

• Douglas Colonell, a builder and developer who purchased a home in Key Colony Beach in April 2020. Outlining 42 years of building construction, business management and experience in construction law through two development and commercial building companies, Colonell wrote in his application that “in addition to my commercial contracting experience and general business background, I have the skills necessary to be a valuable commission member.”

• Mario Di Gennaro, a 30-year KCB resident and former Monroe County commissioner from 2006-2010.

In addition to submitting 10 letters of recommendation, ranging from Sheriff Rick Ramsay and current Monroe County Mayor Pro Tem Jim Scholl to several current and former state legislators, Di Gennaro outlined his role in the sinking of Key West’s Vandenberg wreck and expansion of the Key West airport. “My previous business and government experience and knowledge can be very beneficial to bringing our community together,” he wrote.

Thursday’s meeting is set for 9:30 a.m. at the Key Colony Inn, with the appointment votes set as the first item of business. Application materials, as well as online broadcast information, are available in the commission’s Nov. 16 agenda packet at keycolonybeach.net.

Florida Keys Mosquito Control District Commissioner Tom McDonald passed away on Nov. 9 after suffering injuries in a bicycle accident six days Tom McDonald. earlier while visiting FKMCD/Contribfamily out of state. uted He was first elected to the mosquito control board in 1995 and served through 1998 for District 5 in Key Largo. He was re-elected in 2015 and served ever since. McDonald recently served as treasurer and secretary for the board.

“FKMCD offers heartfelt condolences to Commissioner McDonald’s family and friends and deeply appreciates his dedicated service,” said Chad Huff, FKMCD public information officer.

Monty Davis, former Keys resident who lives in Ocala, was friends with McDonald after they met at church years ago. Davis said McDonald always helped him take care of his taxes.

“Coming back from a vacation in Cayman I brought him a box of Cuban cigars. He said, ‘Monty, I’m an officer of the law and these are illegal.’ I told him I’d take them back and he said, ‘No way,’” Davis said.

“We spent hours hashing over the political scene and about Jesus.”

Stan Zuba, local pediatrician who also serves on the mosquito control board, said he was in shock upon learning the news.

“Not seeing you next to me at the Mosquito Control board meeting will not be easy,” he wrote on Facebook. “You made me laugh and you were an amazing public servant.”

The Monroe County Republican Party offered its condolences after learning the news of McDonald’s death, asking that family and friends be given privacy to grieve through this time.

“Please pray for comfort in this time of need,” the party said in a statement via Facebook.

A service is being planned for the first weekend in December.

11

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

NEXT EVACUATION WEBINAR SET FOR NOV. 20 GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

M

onroe County commissioners have quite possibly the policy decision of their careers looming: What do Florida Keys residents want in a hurricane evacuation plan?

And that decision about public safety during an emergency also comes with development strings attached. It determines how many building permits the state could offer the environmentally fragile island chain, where frequent road flooding and aging bridges await years of repairs and replacements.

“They gave us six scenarios,” county administrator Roman Gastesi told Keys Weekly on Nov. 15, the day after a Florida Department of Commerce (formerly called the Department of Economic Opportunity, or DEO) presented online several available updates to the Keys evacuation model.

“The question is, do we have to pick one of those six or can we do something else?”

Gastesi said.

The scenarios unveiled Tuesday ranged from zero allocations to 7,954, which is the number of lots remaining in the Keys. “That scenario is all lots get a permit,” Gastesi said.

“The question is will it be 10 years or 20 years?”

In response to the state’s “webinars,” with the last of two scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 16, at 2 p.m., the Board of County Commissioners will hold an online public meeting of their own at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 20. Details will be posted on the county’s website and on keysweekly.com “I’m calling it a community conversation,” said Gastesi, who on Wednesday morn-

ing was putting together a list of questions for the agency inspired by Tuesday’s presentation.

The online meeting was a glimpse into boilerplate state government work – but those running the meeting knew to read the room.

“First and foremost, we are committed to public safety,” said Meredith Ivey, who was the acting DEO secretary until being named deputy secretary of community development.

“Ensuring safe and timely evacuation of residents in an emergency is part of our responsibility pursuant to (Florida state statutes).”

Ivey said it’s not her department’s job to decide how many building permit allocations the Keys could get.

Evacuation modeling is about counting vehicles, which breaks down the number of permanent residents, tourists, mobile home and RV residents and people in vacation rentals.

Barbara Powell, the Department of Commerce’s deputy bureau chief of community planning and growth, talked about the agreement state agencies made with the local governments in the Keys in 2012.

That agreement included an analysis of the maximum buildout capacity for the Keys, and was meant to stick with the requirement to maintain the 24-hour evacuation. It also established 3,550 residential building permit allocations available for distribution through 2023. Everything was based on 2010 census data.

Tuesday’s online meeting lasted an hour, with the state employees taking the first 40 minutes for their presentation – reading from prepared notes.

Recordings of the state’s public workshops held in the Keys earlier this year are posted on www.floridajobs.org.

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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One of Marathon’s best signs of the holiday season will pair with a bevy of opportunities to shop for gifts from local retailers when Faro Blanco Resort hosts its annual lighthouse lighting together with the Marathon BPW’s Sip & Shop this Friday, Nov. 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. Attendees can peruse a variety of handmade items while listening to live music to celebrate the start of the holidays in island style. The Sip & Shop will take place in the hotel lobby, with the lighthouse lighting scheduled on the back lawn of Lighthouse Grill at 7 p.m. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

13

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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17

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023 TIFFANY DUONG tiffany@keysweekly.com

‘NOW THEY GET TO GO BACK HOME’ CORALS RESCUED FROM HISTORIC HEAT WAVE RETURNING TO OCEAN-BASED NURSERIES

“T

his is the good news story everyone needs,” said a smiling Cindy Lewis, the director of Florida Institute of Oceanography’s Keys Marine Laboratory (KML) in Layton. “We bustled the corals onshore and protected them, and now they get to go back home.”

Hosted by University of South Florida, KML served as a refuge for thousands of endangered corals during a historic marine heat wave. Ocean waters in June and July typically register at 85 degrees Fahrenheit; this year, readings hit a blistering 92 to 97.

The corals took a beating. Mass bleaching on a scale never before witnessed and coral loss in several offshore coral nurseries and outplanting sites forced Florida Keys coral restoration organizations to make the unprecedented decision to move their coral stocks, from which NOAA’s Mission: Iconic Reefs and other critical restoration efforts draw, into land-based tanks and deepwater nurseries.

Most leaned on KML as their land-based partner to help safeguard their most important genotypes and broodstock. Since their rescue, these corals have been recuperating and rehabilitating in KML’s state-of-the-art seawater systems and raceways. Now, the corals are finally ready to return to their offshore nurseries.

Several milestones still have to occur before the thermally-stressed corals can be outplanted, including: • Sustained ocean temperatures on the reef below 86.9 degrees Fahrenheit for at least one week; this likely did not occur in the Keys before Oct 15.

• Removal of all dead and/or diseased corals from nurseries and preparation of such to receive rescued corals.

• In-person inspection of all corals held in land-based facilities by an approved coral health veterinarian within 30 days of proposed relocation.

• 30-day quarantine in nurseries with continued monitoring and reporting to FWC before

2 1

any outplant activities to the wild reef.

Right now, organizations are returning their first few batches of rescued corals back to the ocean. “This move represents renewed hope for the future of coral reefs in the face of the extraordinary environmental challenges presented by climate change,” noted a Coral Restoration Foundation (CRF) blog post. Close to 1,000 CRF corals remain at KML, with returns to the Tavernier nursery hopefully scheduled for Nov. 20-30.

Except for a “small handful” of corals that didn’t pass inspection, Reef Renewal USA has moved all its KML corals back to their Looe Key nursery, said founder Ken Nedimyer. In August, Reef Renewal also moved much of its stock to novel, pop-up nurseries in deeper water to beat the heat. They’ve begun moving some of these ropes full of coral stock back to shallower nurseries to monitor their response. In total, they have 60 ropes of Acropora coral and six trees of mixed species that need to migrate shallower. Pending good weather, they plan to do so within the next week.

“We’re glad we were able to preserve the genetic diversity we have spent so much time collecting and propagating,” Nedimyer said.

Once cleared of quarantine, the rescued and returned corals can rejoin restoration programs, eventually getting grown out and fragmented to produce more stock that will supply outplant efforts, said I.CARE founder Kylie Smith.

In the meantime, her organization is getting creative. “Sea water temperatures have finally come down to a level that is no longer stressful for corals, which ended the moratorium on outplanting,” said Smith. So as of Nov. 11, I.CARE officially resumed transplanting trips, using coral fragments which were reared at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa. These never experienced thermal stress, so the return protocols

3

1. Reef Renewal USA rescued corals at KML about to be transferred back to offshore nurseries. REEF RENEWAL USA/Contributed 2. CRF corals rehabilitated at Keys Marine Laboratory being prepped for return to the CRF Coral Tree Nursery in Tavernier. CORAL RESTORATION FOUNDATION/Contributed 3. Passing coral trays to Reef Renewal USA divers at their Looe Key off-shore nursery to be re-installed on coral trees. REEF RENEWAL USA/Contributed

don’t apply to them.

“It feels so great to be able to get corals in divers’ hands again and start the process of rebuilding our reef. After such a heartbreaking summer, it feels amazing to work with healthy corals and to see the color coming back to the reef,” Smith said. I.CARE currently has about 900 fragments from five different species to transplant over the coming months while waiting for rescued corals to clear quarantine.

“There will be a need again,” Lewis concluded. “It is not if, but when, the next thermal stress and bleaching event occurs. And we anticipate that they will happen at increasing frequency due to climate change.”

To be prepared, she and others emphasized lessons learned: proactively moving small subsets of corals in June, “well before the heat of summer arrives,” Nedimyer said; optimizing restoration efforts with corals that show more resistance to heat stress, he and Smith added; increasing capacity to house corals, cementing a strong network of collaboration with all restoration partners and finding funding sources for all partners for emergencies, Lewis said.

18

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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24

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

NO TIMEOUTS, NO SUBSTITUTIONS As this paper is being printed, 28 of the fastest feet in the Keys are making the annual trek to Tallahassee to compete in the 2023 FHSAA state cross country championships. Marathon High School’s top seven boys runners – Vance, Tony and Jakub Bursa, Dillon Shelar, Mason Buxton, Allan Taylor and Adrien Holdinga – will appear in the meet for the school’s ninth consecutive time, while the Lady Fins — with a top seven of Ella Dunn, Mikkel Ross, Rain Banks, Maeve Merryman, Sara Robinson, Madelyn Thornton and Rebecca Merryman — will make a fifth straight appearance. Pictured are both teams at MHS’ team sendoff on the morning of Nov. 14. TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly

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 at 10550 Aviation Blvd. For the month of November, adoption fees are waived for all senior pets age 6 and up.

BABY 10-year-old female domestic shorthair.

Looking for: An adopter.

This month my adoption fee is waived.

Turnoffs: When people think 10 is old. I’m not old.

GREGG 3-year-old male pit bull mix.

Looking for: I like the quiet, and lots of one-onone time.

Turnoffs: Cats. Oh boy, I do not like cats.

TALOOS 3-month-old male domestic shorthair.

Looking for: I would like a home with other cats, or even a dog.

Turnoffs: None. I’m just a baby.

25

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS Understanding Cholesterol: Unraveling Mysteries of the Heart

C

A Pharmaceutical Approach Statin drugs, such as atorvastatin and simvastatin, are widely prescribed to lower cholesterol levels. They work by inhibiting an enzyme involved in the liver's cholesterol production, consequently reducing LDL cholesterol.

While statins are effective, their usage requires careful consideration of potential side effects, emphasizing the importance of medical supervision.

holesterol, often associated with heart health, is a vital component of our body, playing a crucial role in various physiological functions. While it is essential for several bodily processes, an imbalance in cholesterol levels can pose significant health risks.

Unraveling the Dichotomy Cholesterol exists in two main forms: dietary cholesterol obtained from the food we consume and endogenous cholesterol produced by our liver.

While dietary cholesterol is present in animal-based foods like meat, eggs and dairy products, our body is adept at producing its own cholesterol to meet essential needs, even if dietary intake is minimal. The body's cholesterol production is a highly regulated process influenced by genetic factors.

The Family Connection Genetics plays a significant role in determining an individual's cholesterol levels. Familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition, can lead to elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly known as "bad cholesterol." Understanding family history can provide valuable insights into potential cholesterol-related health risks, guiding preventive measures and early interventions.

HDL, LDL and Triglycerides Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream bound to lipoproteins, and there are two main types: high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). HDL is often referred to as "good cholesterol" as it helps remove excess cholesterol from the blood vessels, preventing plaque buildup. Meanwhile, LDL, often referred to as "bad cholesterol," can contribute to plaque formation, potentially leading to atherosclerosis (a condition where the arteries become narrowed and hardened due to buildup of fats in the artery wall).

Triglycerides, another type of blood fat, are crucial, but elevated levels are associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Factors influencing these levels can include a lack of exercise, dietary choices such as high saturated fat and added sugar intake, excessive drinking or smoking, and certain medications and chronic conditions, among others.

Striking a Balance Maintaining optimal cholesterol levels is crucial for heart health. According to the American Heart Association, desirable total cholesterol levels are below 200 mg/dL, with LDL levels less than 100 mg/dL and HDL levels above 60 mg/dL. Triglyceride levels should ideally be below 150 mg/dL. Striking a balance among these components is essential for cardiovascular well-being.

The Omega-3 Connection A healthy diet is a cornerstone in managing cholesterol levels. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, and in walnuts and flaxseeds, play a pivotal role in reducing triglyceride levels and promoting heart health. Including these foods in a balanced diet can contribute to an overall improvement in lipid profiles.

Navigating the Cholesterol Landscape Understanding cholesterol involves recognizing the intricate interplay between genetics, diet and lifestyle. Optimal cholesterol levels are essential for heart health, and a holistic approach, incorporating a balanced diet, regular exercise, and, when necessary, medications like statins, can significantly contribute to maintaining cardiovascular well-being.

References: American Heart Association. (n.d.). Cholesterol Levels. https://www.heart.org/ en/health-topics/cholesterol/aboutcholesterol/cholesterol-levels National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2018). High Blood Cholesterol. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/high-blood-cholesterol

JENNIFER BOLTZ HARVEY ...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC. jenniferlynnboltz@gmail.com

27

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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29

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Marathon and Key Largo Elections Offices • Be proficient in basic computer knowledge – data entry, email, internet.

• Employees must be able to occasionally carry/lift voting equipment and boxes (30 – 40 lbs).

• Must be able to maintain a working knowledge of the Elections Laws, Rules, Opinions, and Office Policy.

• Work with the public in a responsive, courteous, and professional manner. Work well with others.

• Commitment to continuous learning. Laws change daily.

• Must sign a “do not smoke” affidavit for the county.

• This office will use E-Verify once a job has been offered and has been accepted.

• FDLE Criminal History check will be done once a job has been offered and has been accepted.

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30

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

1

PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN

2

3

Stanley Switlik hosts annual Red, White and Blue Day

A

sea of red, white and blue filled Stanley Switlik Elementary’s cafeteria on Nov. 9 as the school honored veterans, first responders and the U.S. with its annual Red, White and Blue Day celebration. Along with musical performances by each grade and student essays thanking those who risk their lives to keep us safe, the day included an address from Marine Corps staff sergeant Michael Sessler and a singalong rendition of “God Bless the USA” from former Marathon Mayor John Bartus.

— Alex Rickert

6 4

5

1,5 .A sea of flags wave in the air around the cafeteria.

2. The U.S. Coast Guard color guard posts the colors.

3. Switlik Principal Linda Diaz welcomes guests.

4. The first grade class sings ‘There Are Many Flags.’

6. Switlik student council president Orlando Roache, right, and vice president Ian Reyes serve as masters of ceremony.

7. Switlik kindergarteners sing ‘You’re a Grand Old Flag.’

8. Third-grader Jordan Spalten reads a Statue of Liberty quote.

Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

7

8

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023 from page 4

The Marathon City Council delivers a proclamation recognizing the 20th and final year of the SMART Ride, a 165-mile fundraising bicycle ride for HIV/AIDS service organizations. The ride is set to take place on Nov. 17 and 18. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

concept in favor of an additional boat ramp, but rather to reimagine the area with a new park that simultaneously alleviated boat trailer congestion with an additional or widened ramp.

“We just gave direction to staff to put a pause on it and let us know if it’s possible,” Landry said. “I’d like to see the data and then open it up for discussion. Once staff has some data for us, we’re obviously going to debate it again, I’m sure.”

With unanimous approval following a motion by Landry, the council elected to revisit the topic following a more detailed presentation from city staff at its January meeting.

Code update zeroes in on vacation rental compliance Code Director Ted Lozier provided an updated code compliance report. With 225 additional vacation rentals in the city in the last year, Lozier said the city has initiated 128 code cases for vacation rental violations since January, 83 of which went to a hearing with special magistrate Jeff Vastola. The majority, he said, concerned lapsed licenses and prohibited short-term rentals of less than seven days. The department has also initiated more than 250 trash service violations in 2023.

“I think the community deserves to see how much work is being put forth in this,” said Smith. “We have over a 300% increase in our code cases. … And the purpose of code is obviously just to get compliance.”

Matlock again raised concerns with the lack of a code department cell phone contact on the city’s website for after-hours and weekend incidents, to which City Manager George Garrett replied that the number would be added with additional direction to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office for late-night complaints.

In Other News: • Former Vice Mayor Robyn Still will serve as Marathon’s mayor for 2023-24, with Landry to serve as vice mayor. Both were the only candidates nominated and were approved unanimously.

• With the council’s November and December workshop meetings canceled due to the holidays, Still said that among other items, she would like to see a council workshop scheduled in 2024 to outline the responsibilities and capabilities of both the city council and individual city departments.

• Unanimously approved at its second public hearing, ordinance 2023-20 adds, among other items, a new tow-away zone along the right-of-way of 25th Street. Parking concerns in the area have been an extensive bone of contention between local businesses and the Townhomes of Sister Creek, a development on the street’s west side.

• Also unanimously approved at its second reading, ordinance 2023-21 amends the city’s First Time Homebuyer assistance program to extend eligibility to those currently living in multifamily affordable homes built by Habitat for Humanity.

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32

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

CLOSED THANKSGIVING DAY

COME BY BOAT, BIKE, FOOT OR CAR! Monday: Closed | Tuesday - Sunday: 11:00am - 10:00pm

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Holiday Items for Sale

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SPECIALS Monday: Closed Tuesday: Jumbo Gumbo Bowls Tacos and Tequila LIVE MUSIC: ROGER JOKELA Wednesday: Wine Time Wednesday ($15-$20 bottles) Thursday: Prime Rib Night LIVE MUSIC: JOHN BARTUS Friday: Abstract Radio LIVE MUSIC: ABSTRACT RADIO Saturday: Brunch BOGO Mimosas & Sparkling Wine COLLEGE FOOTBALL Sunday: Brunch BOGO Mimosas & Sparkling Wine

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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34

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

THAT’S A WRAP

Marathon Youth Club concludes soccer season

3 1

4 8

2

9

5 6 1. Driftwood Pizza’s 6U team.

2. Marathon Garbage Service’s 6U team.

3. Keyz Boats’ 6U team.

4. Coral Construction’s 6U squad.

5. Coral Construction’s 8U team.

6. Marathon Seawalls & Docks’ 10U team.

7. Keys Car Wash’s 8U squad.

8. D’Asign Source’s 8U team.

9. Wolfe Stevens PLLC’s 8U team.

10. Keys Car Wash’s 10U team.

11. Keyz Boats’ 8U crew.

Not pictured: D’Asign Source’s 6U squad, Wolfe Stevens PLLC’s 10U squad, two 12U teams (received trophies before end-ofseason ceremonies). Photos by MARATHON YOUTH CLUB/Contributed. See more team photos at keysweekly.com.

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7

T

he 2023 Marathon Youth Club (MYC) youth soccer season is in the books, with 15 locallysponsored squads taking the fields this fall for friendly competition.

MYC extends its thanks to the following team sponsors for their unwavering support throughout the season: D’Asign Source, Keys Car Wash, Marathon Seawalls & Docks, Keyz Boat Rentals, Coral Construction Company, Small Town Marine LLC, Wolfe Stevens PLLC, Marathon Garbage Service, Campbell Engineering Consultants, American Coastal Vacation Rentals, the Keys Weekly Newspapers, Sweet Savannah’s of the Florida Keys, the Manz Law Firm, Driftwood Pizza, Pasta & Subs and GA Contractors Inc. The club also extends its thanks to: • US1 Graphics for beautiful trophies.

• The league’s go-to MC, Jason Koler.

• Barry Gaukel for his time and talent producing team and player photos for the season • The Mid Keys Booster Club for their grilling and fundraising – specifically Luis Gonzalez, Gerard and Sandy Roussin, Ed Sims, Robyn and Chris Still, Lynn Landry and Ryan Frederick • Referee volunteers Tom, UB, Shannon Wiley, Rafael, Elena and Thomas • The Hrytzay family for keeping concessions running smoothly and providing cold drinks and food to players and families, and all the parents who stepped up and helped in shifts for concessions throughout the season.

• All coaches and assistant coaches.

• DJ Trae Dae for always covering club events.

— Contributed

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

RECONNE CT WITH NATURE • 63 ACRES OF TROPICAL HARDWOOD HAMMOCK • 1.4 MILES OF WALKING TRAILS • NATURAL FISH PEDICURE STATION • BUTTERFLY GARDENS

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37

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023 OBITUARY

RAVEH MARIE UNDERWOOD 1994-2023 Raveh was born in Key West on Feb. 1, 1994 to Bill and Zandra Underwood of Ramrod Key. She was their second child and their first daughter, which brought them great joy. Her family attended the Keys Vineyard Community Church, and Raveh began pre-K there. She was raised up in that church family and was baptized on Sept.

23, 2006.

Raveh attended Sugarloaf Elementary School from second through eighth grade and went on to graduate from Key West High School in 2012. She then attended Florida Keys Community College and graduated with an associate in arts degree in 2016.

Her sparkling personality made her the perfect server and bartender in establishments from Key West to Marathon, doing her best to bring a smile and brighten customers’ days.

Her joys in life were her family, her friends and her music. She was always singing, and she performed at every opportunity, often with her younger sister, Mecaya, both in her church and in public.

Raveh was a singer, songwriter, composer and rhythm guitar player. She also had a company called “DJ RAVEH” and delighted all with the music choices and her ability to seamlessly blend songs together. Raveh was bold and fearless and she was always so creative.

Raveh crossed the veil into eternal peace on Oct. 28. She will be missed by all who loved her.

She leaves behind her parents, Bill and Zandra; her older brother, Caleb Underwood; and her younger sister, Mecaya Doerfel, along with many loving aunts, uncles and cousins.

There will be a memorial service on Saturday, Nov. 18, at 3:30 p.m. at the Keys Vineyard Community Church located at 100 County Road, Big Pine Key.

BRIEFLY Large weekend bicycle ride may affect traffic The SMART Ride (Southernmost AIDS/HIV Ride) is a 165-mile bicycle ride from Miami, Florida to Key West, Florida set for Friday and Saturday, Nov. 17-18. Hundreds of bicyclists are expected to take part in this event. The riders will not be riding in a pack but will be spread out the length of the route. They will begin leaving south Miami at 6:30 a.m. on Nov. 17 and will enter Monroe County via the 18Mile Stretch. Riders will use the traffic light in Islamorada at MM 90.4 to cross U.S. 1. They will stop at Hawks Cay the first night, resuming the next morning at 7 a.m. en route to Key West High School on Flagler Avenue. Though traffic is not expected to be impeded on U.S. 1 for this event, motorists should expect slow traffic in spots and plan accordingly.

tion. According to detectives, the juvenile was seen on social media brandishing a handgun, a shotgun and various forms of ammunition. The Sheriff’s Office investigation began when detectives received information regarding illegal gun sales in Marathon. He joins four others arrested since October. Those arrested previously were: Jorge Efren Gonzalez, 17, charged with dealing in stolen property, selling a firearm with an altered/removed serial number, illegal open carry of weapons and conspiracy; Mikele Rocafort Carciani, 19, charged with conspiracy and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Andrew Jonathan Pena, 22, charged with conspiracy and contributing to the delinquency of a minor; and Martin Luther Kilbourne, 19, charged with making threats to law enforcement, resisting arrest and breaking law enforcement equipment.

Salvation Army seeks volunteers for kettle drive The Salvation Army Red Kettle annual fundraiser has been an American icon for 125 years around the world with collections running through the holidays. The organization is seeking volunteers to “ring the bell” during this holiday season. Volunteers are needed for locations in Marathon and Key West. Shifts are two hours beginning Nov. 24 through Dec. 23, and volunteers may sign up for one or multiple shifts. All funds collected stay in the Keys community and help to provide food, shelter, disaster relief and much more to individuals and families in crisis. Visit registertoring.com to sign up. If you have questions, contact Loretta at 813-892-3342.

Marathon traffic stop leads to two drug arrests A traffic stop in Marathon led to the arrest of a man and woman for alleged drug violations. The Sheriff’s Office stopped a Chevrolet sedan near 115th St. in Marathon on Nov. 11 just before midnight. There was a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, deputies said. The passenger, Angeline Oramas, 41, of Marathon, Florida, was charged with possession of fentanyl with the intent to distribute, possession of crack cocaine with the intent to distribute, possession of controlled substances without a prescription, possession of drug paraphernalia and smuggling contraband into a jail facility. About 7 grams of fentanyl, 12.6 grams of crack cocaine and 1.8 grams of powder cocaine were subsequently found inside Oramas’ body at Lower Keys Medical Center on Stock Island following a body scan and search by Sheriff’s Office corrections deputies prior to her entry to the jail. The driver, Aaron Robert Neurath, 37, of Big Pine Key, Florida, was charged with possession of 1.9 grams of fentanyl with the intent to distribute, as well as possession of drug paraphernalia.

Care package donations sought for overseas troops The nonprofit Monroe Marauders are preparing to ship care packages to troops deployed overseas during the holiday season.

The group is looking for addresses for anyone wanting their family members to receive care packages for the holidays, as well as donations of items to include in care packages and volunteers to help box and ship the packages.

Donations may be dropped off at 506 Southard St. in Key West or at the Marathon Baptist Church, 10875 Overseas Hwy. in Marathon and may include: toiletries, personal care products, reading material, word games and puzzles, batteries, phone cards, writing material, food and candy, and letters and cards to boost morale.

Donations will be accepted until Dec. 2. Potential volunteers may call 305-731-6040.

Weekly Al-Anon meetings at St. Columba Church Alcoholics Anonymous (Al-Anon) offers meetings for friends and relatives of alcoholics in Marathon. Meetings are held Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. at St. Columba Church, 451 52nd Street Gulf in Marathon. For questions, please contact 989-627-8859.

Second Marathon juvenile arrested in ongoing gun case A 15-year-old Marathon male was arrested Nov. 14 for alleged illegal firearm possession as part of an ongoing Sheriff’s Office investiga-

More than one pound of marijuana found in traffic stop A 61-year-old Marathon man was arrested Nov. 13 following a traffic stop in which 1.2 pounds of marijuana was found. Leonardo Perez Serrano was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. The Sheriff’s Office stopped a southbound Chevrolet pickup truck on U.S. 1 near MM 69 around 1 p.m. There was a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle and the marijuana was found in a bag inside the truck, deputies said.

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.

38

MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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Lic#SP-3562

Licensed & Insured

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

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

SPALLING EXPERTS

(Across from Beall’s Outlet)

289-3019

President

BUiLDiNG iNSPECTiONS & PLAN REViEW PRiVATE PROViDER

Broker Associate

WiLL CAMPBELL - PRESiDENT

Cell: 305-363-8330 Office: 305-735-4626 will@cecflk.com www.CECFLK.com

P.E. Lic. No: 79269 5800 Overseas Hwy. Unit 32 Marathon, FL. 33050

The Florida Keys 305-481-5156 Brenda@KeysIslandSales.com KeysIslandSales.com

Michael Kiraly

Mortgage Lender Supervisor NMLS# 675432 MKiraly@My100Bank.com Direct: (305) 942-1756 Office: (305) 676-3019 11400 Overseas Hwy, Suite 214 & 215 Marathon, FL 33050 MY100BANK.COM | Centennial Bank

James Nagy james.finish.paint@gmail.com

239.250.4055 Interior & Exterior Painting Drywall Repair & Texture Stucco Repair & Texture

Concrete Staining Pressure Washing Fence Staining & Refinishing

Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports.

SUV, Van & Limousine options available Call us for special events.

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

Rachel Keller

SALES & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Rachellynnes94@gmail.com 305.393.3076

Proud member of:

INTERNATIONAL

CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE

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MARATHON WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 16, 2023