Marathon Weekly 24-0111

“True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice.” - Martin Luther King Jr.

1¢

Jan. 11, 2024

CHARTING A NEW COURSE? Marathon Council ponders county referendum | P.4 EVERYONE’S IRISH Scenes from the Celtic Festival | P.22

SIXTH-FLOOR SHENANIGANS ‘Barefoot in the Park’ takes the stage at MCT | P.8

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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

0

º

There won’t be a lot of warmth at Arrowhead Stadium for the AFC Wild Card game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins on Saturday, Jan. 13.

The gametime temperature is expected to be 0 degrees. Wind chills could make it feel colder.

The Marathon Community Theatre kicks off 2024 with the comedy of Neil Simon in “Barefoot in the Park,” opening this Thursday and running for three weeks. See page 8. LARRY BENVENUTI/Contributed

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Monroe County Attorney Bob Shillinger addresses the Marathon City Council on Jan. 9 regarding an upcoming charter county referendum. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

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

Director of Sales

Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

Business Development Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

BACK TO BUSINESS

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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Members of

Marathon City Council opens hefty agenda with charter county talk & bus stop change ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

D

evelopment rights and zoning discussions dominated the second half of a lengthy Marathon City Council meeting on Jan. 9 – but not until the first half brought a conclusion to the city’s most oft-discussed bus stop debate and significant insight on a pivotal charter county referendum.

Sheriff Rick Ramsay spoke to open the meeting about ongoing issues with Marathon’s Kmart plaza bus stop, advocating for its removal. In recent months, the stop has become a miniature homeless encampment, something Ramsay said was fueled by a perfect combination of nearby conveniences and a larger shaded tiki hut structure – despite efforts by the city to discourage prolonged occupation with the installation of leaning posts in the sheltered area.

Likening the stop to a former stop in front of the nearby Brass Monkey bar and liquor store, which he said at one time produced 875 calls for service in a single year, Ramsay clarified that his stance was “not anti-homeless,” even supporting the city’s facilitation of the controversial 20th Street encampment as a preferred alternative to the bus stop.

“I don’t think there’s a solution to solve the problem as long as the structure exists,” he said. “What we see on a regular basis is people who are not using it because they

can’t get into it. It’s difficult, but it’s the quality of life for everyone … and what we want taxpayers, citizens and visitors to see from Marathon.”

In contrast to prior meetings, Ramsay’s statements found widespread agreement from City Manager George Garrett and the council, who spoke of the stop’s disproportionate drain on city and law enforcement resources.

“The question is about who we are serving, and that’s the general public,” said Garrett. “We’ve tried everything, and it simply hasn’t worked.”

At the council’s direction, Garrett said the tiki structure will be removed.

Charter county questions With Monroe County considering pursuit of a charter county referendum vote, County Commissioner Michelle Lincoln and County Attorney Bob Shillinger spoke on the vote’s implications, zeroing in largely on the charter’s potential for preemption of local ordinances.

Shillinger reiterated that the primary goal would be to fund road and bridge improvements and maintenance along with a transportation system via an additional localized one-cent sales tax, which is currently impossible in the absence of a county charter.

While the county maintains 311 miles of roads, Shillinger said roughly half are projected to have impacts from sea level rise over the next 30 years, carrying an expected price tag of more than $1.6 billion. At a yearly sum of $56 million across the county, the revenue projection from the 30-year tax would approach $1.68 billion – a sum that would be theoretically shared with the Keys’ municipalities, as all would be subject to the tax. continued on page 17

5

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

NEW ELECTION LAW FOLLOWS THE MONEY City-level candidates & incumbents now subject to full financial disclosure MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

D

o you know how much your city commissioner still owes on his or her home? Or how many rental properties they own and how much income those yield? Do you know which stocks your mayor owns, or how much money is in their checking account and 401(k)?

Floridians soon will have access to these and other details about the mayors and elected city officials in their cities, towns and villages.

Enacted Jan. 1, a new Florida elections law that touts increased transparency expands the state’s full financial disclosure requirements to include elected mayors and city commissioners, who were previously subject to less detailed financial reporting.

Now, mayors and city commissioners, as well as candidates for those offices, must file what’s known as Form 6 with the Florida Commission on Ethics by July 1.

Florida’s county- and state-level elected officials and candidates have been subject to the Form 6 requirement for decades, but many city-level politicians have dubbed the new requirement “invasive” and “onerous” for local offices, many of which pay less than $10,000 per year.

The new law has prompted scores of mayors and city council members across the state to resign or decline to seek reelection, including 15 officials in Pinellas County and more than a dozen in the Tampa Bay area, according to reports from NewsChannel 8 in Tampa.

As of Jan. 9, no elected official in the Florida Keys had resigned over the new Form 6 requirement, but Key West City Commissioner Sam Kaufman, who will be term-limited out this year, told the Keys Weekly, “the resignations are understandable.”

Kaufman will have to file Form 6F — a “final” version of the form for officials leaving office — by July 1 despite not seeking reelection; he recently watched a webinar about the new requirement.

“Form 6 is tough,” he said. “I have a feeling a lot of officials don’t

yet know what they’re in for.

Some may not comply fully with its requirements, hoping no one looks too closely — until someone with an ax to grind complains to the Commission on Ethics. Personally, I don’t have any fear or worries about disclosing, but I can see how some people don’t want others to know what businesses they’ve invested in, or how heavily.”

Jimmy Weekley, a longtime Key West city commissioner, former mayor and business owner, agreed, telling the Keys Weekly on Jan. 9, “As a business person, do I want my employees to know my net worth and all those details?”

Florida State Rep. Spencer Roach, who championed the new law, told NewsChannel 8 that the annual salary of the elected office was not the issue, but rather the millions of dollars in taxpayer money that these local officials control.

“Officials who are making procurement decisions, that are letting out millions, in some cases billions, of dollars of contracts using taxpayer money. This way the public knows whether they have a financial interest in the companies they’re using taxpayer dollars to do business with.”

Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin has sent emails to incumbent elected officials in Key West, Marathon, Layton, Key Colony Beach and the Village of Islamorada, alerting them to the new requirements and the July 1 deadline.

“If they were in office on Dec. 31, 2023, they have to file Form 6,” Griffin said. “Even if they quit now, they have to file the Form 6F - the final version.”

According to the Florida Commission on Ethics, candidates must file Form 6 at the time of qualifying, which in Monroe County occurs in June. Incumbent officials must file annually by July 1. Those who don’t file Form 6 by Sept. 3 will be fined $25 for each day it’s late, up to $1,500. Failure to file could also result in removal from public office, disqualification from being on the ballot, or a civil penalty up to $10,000.

WILL YOUR BALLOT COME IN THE MAIL? ARE YOU SURE?

Vote-by-mail requests expire after elections; reregistration is required MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

F

lorida voters who grew accustomed, in the pandemic years, to receiving their election ballots in the mail won’t get what they’re expecting this year if they haven’t reregistered for the vote-by-mail option.

“A request to receive a vote-by-mail ballot covers all elections from the date a request was submitted through the end of the calendar year for the next ensuing, regularly scheduled, general election,” states the Florida Division of Elections website. “A request must then be renewed thereafter if the voter wishes to continue to receive a vote-bymail ballot after the expiration of each time period thereafter.

“If a vote-by-mail ballot is returned undeliverable during any election, it will cancel a request on record. If the voter requests a ballot thereafter, the voter must provide or confirm his or her current residential address before being able to get a ballot,” the website states.

Don’t worry, it’s easy to reregister for the vote-by-mail option, but Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin remains concerned that voters aren’t aware that their requests expire.

Griffin has been keeping track of the number of vote-bymail requests in recent years and emailing regular updates and reminders to voters, tinged with a bit of humor.

On Dec. 21, 2023, Griffin wrote in an email: “Good Afternoon: Only Republicans will be voting on the March 19, 2024 Presidential Preference Primary (PPP). At this time we have 3,773 Republican vote-by-mail requests for the March 2024 election. As of now, we have 23,365 Republicans in Monroe County.

“As of today, Dec. 21, 2023, the number of vote-by-mail requests we have for the August 2024 election from all parties is 8,772 — 3,682 requests from Democrats and 3,966 requests from Republicans.

“On Feb. 12, 2020 we had 11,831 requests for vote-bymail ballots. What does this mean? In my mind, this means 3,059 voters will be very upset with me when they don’t receive their vote- by-mail ballot.

“Please help us get the message out that the law changed, and every voter who wants a vote by mail ballot must request one each election cycle. Request now for all of 2024, or check your voteby-mail status at the following links: “Request a vote-by-mail ballot: keyselections.org/Voters/Vote-by-Mail-Request “Check your vote-by-mail status to determine whether a ballot is coming in the mail: keyselections.org/Voters/MyVote-by-Mail-Status.

“For all other local election and candidate information, visit keyselections.org.”

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

SIXTH-FLOOR SHENANIGANS

‘Barefoot in the Park’ opens at MCT

What happens on the sixth floor of a brownstone New York City apartment building – and in the attic above – may not stay there for long in the Neil Simon comedy “Barefoot in the Park,” opening this weekend at Marathon Community Theatre.

When newlyweds Corie and Paul Bratter make the ascent up six flights of stairs, they soon realize they’re in for more than they bargained for – or less, in the case of their overpriced apartment with backwards plumbing and a hole in the roof.

While straight-laced lawyer Paul thinks it’s his time to shine with new career milestones, Corie’s more concerned with getting Paul to loosen his necktie – literally and figuratively – and help her set her buttoned-up mother up on a date with their dead-broke kook of an upstairs neighbor, Victor Velasco. Added to the mix is a telephone repairman who always seems to answer the “call” of duty at the worst possible time.

In a first for MCT, no two nights of the show will feature identical casts, as a rotating troupe of 12 Marathon celebrities from county commissioners to real estate agents and veterinarians – most of whom will make their theatrical debuts – play the cameo role of the “delivery guy.”

“One of the best parts about MCT is that it puts members of our island community from all walks of life on a single stage together, and nowhere is that more evident than with the guest appearances in this show,” said MCT president Joanne Zimmerman. “Combine that with a Tony Award-winning show, a record-breaking script and a seasoned cast and crew, and we can’t wait to share it with everyone.”

“Barefoot” is the first MCT mainstage production with complete creative control for director Allison Sayer, who previously assisted her late father Les White in his one and only

MCT show – 2020’s musical “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.” With more than 60 shows to his name, White directed “Barefoot” twice, with a third run playing the role of Paul. Sayer said it was her mission to honor his legacy with a cast and production crew she considered family.

“Directing my first show with this group was the ideal situation,” she said. “Our bond is what keeps bringing me back to do theater. The show was a favorite of my late father’s, and I had to do it justice. I know he would be proud of me.”

Paying homage to beloved family and mentors is a theme for the “Barefoot” gang, though in a way few would notice; multiple costume pieces, props and set items belonged to White as well as other former MCT directors and relatives of the cast and crew.

“All of these people – Marilyn Tempest, my dad, our stage manager Karen Witte’s mother – had a huge impact on our lives and journeys at MCT,” said Sayer. “They’ve passed on, but parts of them are still with us in every act of ‘Barefoot.’ It’s extra motivation to put on a show they’d love.”

“Barefoot in the Park” runs on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from Jan. 11-27 at 8 p.m. with a matinee on Sunday, Jan. 21 at 3 p.m. Tickets are available at marathontheater.org or by calling 305-743-0994. All ages are welcome.

— Contributed

MEET THE CAST & CREW: Corie Bratter - Michelle Macoskey Paul Bratter - Alex Rickert Mrs. Banks - Karen Shotwell Victor Velasco - John Schaefer Telephone Repairman - Brian Witte Delivery Guys (& Gal) - George Garrett, Luis Gonzalez, Michelle Lincoln, Mike Puto, Jason Koler, Mike Dunn, Freddie Bye, Paul Petek, Josh Mothner, John Hunt, Shannon Wiley, Sean Sayer.

Newlywed life isn’t all married bliss for Paul and Corie Bratter in Neil Simon’s ‘Barefoot in the Park,’ now on stage at Marathon Community Theatre. Along the way, audiences meet Corie’s buttoned-up mother, a wacky neighbor in the attic and a telephone repairman who finds himself in the middle of all the wrong situations. Photos by LARRY AND MARIANNE BENVENUTI/Contributed

Director - Allison Sayer Producer - Jackie O’Neil Stage Manager - Karen Witte Tech Director - Karen Diehl

9

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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10

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

4 POLITICIANS PLAN TO SEEK REELECTION

KEYS MARINE SANCTUARY SEEKS 11 ADVISORS Council needs reps from fishing, diving, environmental worlds

Diving is a popular activity in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which is accepting applications until Feb. 15 for 11 seats on its advisory council. FKNMS/Contributed

Property appraiser, tax collector, two county commissioners want to stay MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

F

our elected officials in the Florida Keys formally announced on Wednesday their intention to seek reelection in the 2024 election.

Joyce Griffin, the Monroe County supervisor of elections, announced that Property Appraiser Scott Russell, Tax Collector Sam Steele, District 3 County Commissioner Jim Scholl and District 1 County Commissioner Crag Cates all filed paperwork on Jan. 3 to seek reelection.

“This means they have officially announced their intent and can start raising money and getting petitions signed,” Griffin told the Keys Weekly.

Other previously announced countywide candidates include Ron Saunders, a Democrat, and Sherri Hodies, a Republican, who

both are running for Griffin’s supervisor of elections post.

Griffin announced more than a year ago that she is retiring and won’t seek reelection.

Yvette Mira-Talbott is running for the school board District 2 seat being vacated

by Andy Griffiths, who won’t seek reelection.

Jose Peixoto is running for the county commission District 5 seat currently held

by Holly Raschein.

And in Key West, Danise “Dee Dee” Henriquez is running for mayor. Current Mayor Teri Johnston has not yet announced whether she intends to seek another term.

Thaddeus Cohen is running for the District VI city commission seat currently held by clayton Lopez, who is termlimited out. Former police chief Donie Lee plans to file

T

he Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary seeks applicants for 11 seats on its Sanctuary Advisory Council (SAC).

Three citizen-at-large seats are among the 11 openings in the latest round of recruitment for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council. The council ensures public participation in the management of the sanctuary by acting as a liaison between the Florida Keys community and sanctuary superintendent and staff.

Council members provide advice about sanctuary operations and projects, while striving to represent the diverse user groups that make up the sanctuary community. Those user groups include fishermen, divers, charter operators, environmentalists and conservation advocates, along with citizens at large who are unaffiliated with a particular marine industry.

Council members provide expertise on both the local community and sanctuary resources, strengthen connections with the community, and

help build increased stewardship for sanctuary resources.

The council is accepting applications for the following seats: - Citizen at large: Middle Keys (primary).

- Citizen at large: Lower Keys (primary and alternate).

- Conservation and environment: Seat 1 of 2 (primary).

- Diving: Upper Keys (alternate).

- Diving: Lower Keys (primary and alternate).

- Education and outreach (primary).

- Fishing: Charter flats (primary).

- Fishing: Commercial marine life/tropical (primary and alternate).

Application materials including seat descriptions are posted at floridakeys.noaa.gov.

Applications are due by Feb. 15 and will not be considered if they are not received electronically or postmarked by Feb. 15. For more information, contact the council coordinator at Elizabeth.Trueblood@noaa. gov or 305-434-9372.

— Contributed

11

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

Karen

KEY TO THE KEYS REAL ESTATE

FACTS FROM THE TAX COLLECTOR Bill

EXPERIENCE ISN’T EXPENSIVE…IT’S PRICELESS

LARGE WATERFRONT HOME

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

1,920 sq ft, 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 160' of dockage on the ocean side of Marathon. $999,999 MLS# 606254

Sam Steele

monroetaxcollector.com 305.295.5000

JANUARY • Save 2% on your property tax by paying in January.

• All rental properties must also have a local business tax regardless of how long they • As of January 8, 2024, the tax roll is are being rented.

81% collected, or $340,947,039.80.

• All our offices will be closed • Any property that is being rented on Monday, January 15, 2024, for six months or less must have a in observance of Martin Luther tourist development tax account.

King Jr. Day.

MARINA & STORAGE

TOWNHOUSE IN GATED COMMUNITY 3BR , 2BA, steps to swimming pool, covered parking. Two covered balconies. Convenient location. $599,000 ML607510

One plus acres with two plus acres of Bay bottom. Currently used for storage, lease expires in August 2024. Owner has plans for 300 boat storage on Racks and approx. 50 in wet storage using the bay bottom. There is a 150 foot dock on the property now. The sewage connection is to the property and paid for. $3,900,000 MLS#607041

• As a reminder, online rental platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.)

DO NOT remit the 5% tourist development tax to our office. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure the tax has been remitted.

• Please visit our website and follow us on Facebook for helpful information, forms, applications, and important announcements.

Call with your Questions

305.743.2300

Karen Farley-Wilkinson, Bill Wilkinson

Follow us on

for more important tax information.

City Council Robyn Still, Mayor , Lynn Landry, Vice Mayor Luis Gonzalez, Councilmember Jeff Smith, Councilmember Kenny Matlock, Councilmember

The Florida Keys Celtic Festival would like to thank

our volunteers, sponsors and everyone that attended our festival!

We will see you January 11th & 12th, 2025!

May the peace of the Lord be always with you WE OFFER A COMMUNITY OF PEACE, LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING.

St. Columba Episcopal Church 451 West 52nd St, Marathon Fl

City Manager George Garrett City Attorney Steve Williams City Clerk Diane Clavier

SUBJECT: Code Compliance Hearing 1/18/24 2:00pm Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy. City Council Workshop 1/22/24 5:30pm Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy. Marina Storage Loft Invitation of Bid Due 1/26/24 3:00pm Marathon City Hall, 9805 Overseas Hwy. City Council Meeting 2/13/24 5:30pm Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy. Code Compliance Hearing 2/15/24 2:00pm Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy. Planning Commission Meeting 2/26/24 5:30pm Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy. City Council Workshop 2/27/24 5:30pm Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy. Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Council with respect to any matter considered at any meeting or workshop noted herein, he or she will need a record of the proceedings and for such purposes he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made; which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. The City of Marathon complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a disabled person requiring special accommodations or assistance, please notify the City ADA Coordinator at (305) 289-5022 of such need at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance.

12

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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17

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

BACK TO BUSINESS from page 4

Briefly outlining several distinctions in the charter that he said would give Keys voters more power over their county commission and voter initiatives, as well as establishing stronger home rule, Shillinger quickly dialed in on its potential to preempt local municipalities’ ordinances, saying the county commission’s priority is to leave the structure of existing government virtually intact while allowing for addition of the tax.

Language included in the draft charter and shown by Shillinger provides that municipal ordinances will prevail over county ordinances. But with a charter change possible in future years with a vote of a new-look county commission, he said recent additions would make that change as difficult as legally possible.

“People say, ‘Great, you put (the local ordinance language) in there. But what’s going to stop a future county commission from trying to change that?’” Shillinger said.

“In recognition of that reality … (that) section may only be amended after a unanimous vote of the county commission to place the question on the ballot for referendum.”

Another option floated in early discussions would entirely remove such an amendment from the county commission’s power, requiring a voter initiative instead.

The charter county proposal and additional tax would each require majority approval in separate referendum votes. If the charter vote is successful in the November 2024 general election, the county would be required to submit the additional taxation program, including formulas for division among municipalities, to state auditors for review, analysis and an eventual report by early May 2026 in order to be included on that November’s ballot.

Councilman Jeff Smith questioned the unsolidified revenue split among municipalities, saying the $1.6 billion in revenue projections would not cover total costs once expenses for municipal roads were added.

“One of your sentences was ‘if’ we come to an agreement on sharing. ‘If’ really scares me, especially if I’m going to be asked to put a tax on my constituents,” he said. “It’s probably a much higher price tag countywide.”

“That’s why we’re not relying solely on this (tax) to address that problem,” said Shillinger. “(The $1.6 billion) doesn’t include bridges, that doesn’t include the transportation services. … (But) think about it. Roughly 50% of the voters in this county live within municipalities. So if we can’t come to an agreement, if we’re just going to take the money and not share it, it’s never going to pass.”

In addition to monthly discussion at county commission meetings, public hearings for the potential charter are set for March 20 in Key Largo, April 17 in Marathon and May 15 in Key West before a final hearing on July 17 in Marathon.

For further coverage of the Jan. 9 meeting, see keysweekly.com or the print edition of the Jan. 18 Marathon Weekly. To watch the meeting, scan the QR code:

SECOND ARREST MADE IN MARATHON CHILD SEX ABUSE CASE Detectives with the Monroe Former liveaboard County Sheriff’s Office Major resident of Boot Crimes division began investigating the case in December 2023 Key Harbor in after an undercover federal agent custody said he found a user on the Kik GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

A

34-year-old Wisconsin woman was arrested in her home state on Jan. 9 on charges of aggravated child abuse and child sexual battery, following a federal investigation in Marathon that began in December 2023.

Kia Lynn Cadogan faces multiple charges for child abuse that the FBI said took place in Marathon in 2023 while Cadogan lived on a boat at Boot Key Harbor City Marina.

On Jan. 10, she was in a Wisconsin jail being held without bond, La Crosse County jail records show. She faces extradition back to Monroe County, said Sheriff’s Office spokesman Adam Linhardt in a statement.

That means she will join Eric Cadogan, 39, in facing federal child abuse charges. His case is at U.S. District Court in Key West. No cases on Jan, 10 came under her name in online federal records.

But in Monroe County court records there is a 2024 case lodged against Kia Lynn Cadogan for a felony sex offense. The affidavit in the case is sealed.

MCSO did not provide details of the allegations Kia Cadogan faces.

It’s unclear whether the two Cadogans are married, but Eric Cadogan’s Facebook page posts suggest they were a couple in 2023 raising several children while living in Marathon. His page shows photos of a group of young children apparently in his care.

“Did u get the kiddos back?” someone commented on a photo of Kia Cadogan and a young girl on a Facebook page filled with selfies of Kia Cadogan. The account’s name is “Phoenix Rizin,” and says she is a singer-songwriter.

There is no reply to the comment.

message app offering child pornography for sale and shared explicit images with the agent upon request.

In court records, the FBI said they later identified the Kik user as Eric Cadogan, who was living in Boot Key Harbor at the Kia Lynn Cadogan time when the illegal images were shared with the undercover agent.

“I have 100 of videos (and) pictures,” Cadogan typed in online messages with the undercover agent, as he shared several videos of undressed female children in explicit poses and being used in sexual acts, the FBI said. Cadogan may have done more than possession and distribution of child pornography, FBI agents said.

Agents reported finding evidence that they say identifies Cadogan as the man in a video raping a girl and that he may have forced a woman into a sexual act with an 8-year-old boy.

Both Eric and Kia Cadogan were arrested in LaCrosse, Wisconsin.

Eric Cadogan on Jan. 10 was in federal custody in a Miami detention center, according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

In an interview with an FBI agent on Dec. 7, a woman identified in the criminal complaint only as “K.C.” said that in 2020, Eric Cadogan forced her to have intercourse with an 8-year-old boy on Cadogan’s boat at the Marathon marina.

When the FBI filed a criminal complaint in December 2023 accusing him of child pornography possession and distribution, Cadogan was in La Crosse, Wisconsin with a pending domestic battery case against him.

18

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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22

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

EVERYBODY’S IRISH 5

Florida Keys Celtic Festival returns with superb turnout

M

1 2

6 7

arathon Community Park had no shortage of beer, kilts, Irish and Scottish tunes and feats of strength as it played host to the Florida Keys Celtic Festival on Jan. 6 and 7.

Now in its 10th year since its inception in 2014, festival organizers said crowds and vendor participation were among the highest they had ever seen – even despite weather forecasts that threatened to derail the festivities.

“The turnout for Saturday was impressive, especially considering the forecast,” said Cathy Walters, one of the festival organizers. “The rain on Sunday caused a short delay, but the show went on for those who stuck it out.”

“We are grateful to our amazing volunteers who come back year after year to help us out, as well as the support of our many sponsors,” she added. “Thanks to everyone who volunteered, sponsored and attended the festival as well as the city of Marathon, the Parks and Rec. Department, Marathon Electric Sign and Light, the Marathon Fire Department and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. We hope everyone had a great time.”

3

8 9

4

1. Athletes competing in the women’s Highland Games take turns attempting a caber toss, flipping a massive pole end-over-end.

2. The Police Pipe and Drum Corps of Florida performs. The band and color guard are composed of 51 active and retired police officers.

3. The ladies of the Drake School of Irish Dance give a lesson for youngsters in attendance.

4. Food trucks line the fields at Marathon Community Park for the biggest Celtic Festival yet.

5. A community candlelight compline ends Saturday’s festivities with prayer.

6. Once the professional ladies showed the crowd how it’s done, it was time for Marathon’s strongmen and women to try their hands at a locals Highland Games.

7. A Marathon festival isn’t complete without a small army of volunteers who get the job done. From left: Cheryl Campbell, Bill Lorimer, Jim Culver, Tim Argie, Jill Argie, Lynn Kirby.

8. St. Columba’s Rev. Debra Maconaughey addresses the crowd as the Byrne Brothers prepare for their set.

9. Four-sister group the Screaming Orphans close Saturday’s musical lineup.

Photos by SANDRA LEE PHOTOGRAPHY/ Keys Weekly

23

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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24

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

THE ANGLER’S OUTLOOK

ETHICS & ETIQUETTE PAY LONG-TERM DIVIDENDS

W

hen we’re out enjoying a day on the water, more often than not we encounter other boaters and anglers. You might find yourself wondering, how close is too close to another fishing group? Who has the right of way when trolling a weed line? If a boat is drifting on a wreck, is there room for two? How many fish are too many to harvest, regardless of regulations? As the Florida Keys swing into our busy season, I wanted to tackle some of these ethics and etiquette topics.

We all love fishing the reef, and during specific times of the year, certain areas produce more fish. It is a big ocean and there is plenty of reef to go around. If you see a boat fishing in an area you had your sights set on, write it off and head to your next spot. When moving between spots, keep in mind that most boats fishing the reef have a chum bag and chum slick out behind their vessel. Running through someone’s chum slick will result in unfriendly hand gestures and vulgar language being shouted in your direction.

When you’re offshore targeting mahi and cross paths with an oncoming vessel on a weed line, don’t be hardheaded. Use common sense, be the bigger person and just go around the other boat. It isn’t worth getting into a heated argument on the vast ocean over a few hundredfoot span of weed line. If another boater is drifting over your favorite wreck, get in line with the drift. Give the other vessel plenty of room and by all means, do not cut them off on their drift. Remember, mutton snapper don’t necessarily hold tight to a wreck. They commonly patrol the sand on the outskirts of the wreck, so don’t get fixated on staying directly on the structure.

No matter where you call home, I guarantee there has been a significant decline in the fishery that you grew up fishing. Growing up in the Northeast, the fishery was so abundant that we would catch dozens of fluke on a daily basis. We didn’t keep every fish we landed, which helped boost the local populations and led to tons of action on our next fishing adventure.

Unfortunately, now it is almost impossible to catch two legal fluke in a day just 30 years later. The story here in the Florida Keys is no different. Catches are getting smaller and less frequent. If you don’t believe me, just speak to one of the many local captains who were born and raised here and they will tell you the same tale. They will tell you of the days when they would catch bull mahi on a daily basis and mutton snapper on every wreck.

No matter where you call home, I guarantee there has been a significant decline in the fishery that you grew up fishing.

The winter months can be a great time to dial in on mutton snappers near wrecks. BILL GILIBERTI/Contributed

Lately, there is growing concern and frustration among our local angling community regarding the harvest of the underregulated yellow jack fishery on charters. As many of us know, this time of year the bridges throughout the Middle and Lower Keys are thriving with yellow jacks.

CAPT. BILL There is no size limit on these fish, GILIBERTI and anglers are theoretically allowed up to 100 pounds per person per day, is the owner and as is the case with any “unregulated” operator of Top species.

Notch Sportfishing This is where the ethical issue in Marathon. His arises of how many fish you should passions include keep.

Just because they are biting, scuba diving and enjoying the natu- doesn’t mean you need to harvest ral beauty of the all 100 pounds of a certain species Florida Keys. to have a good day on the water. If we want a healthy fishery in the future, now is the time to catch our dinner and release the rest to grow and continue to spawn. If you can’t reasonably filet, preserve and/or eat the fish you’re pulling out of the ice box after a charter with your recreational party, you don’t have any business taking that many. There’s no need to “sink the boat” just for a picture.

Just like many charter fishermen in this town, I want to ensure that our fishery can support the trade for my children and grandchildren. And if you doubt where the road leads if anglers take advantage and over-harvest a species, the list of examples goes on and on, everywhere in the world. Here in the Keys, look at the case of goliath grouper, hogfish or blackfin tuna, just to name a few.

From all of us here in the Florida Keys, help us protect our valuable resources and ensure the fishery is sustainable for future generations. As you head out on your next trip, remember to be respectful of other boaters and anglers and consider what it takes to keep a sustainable fishery. And as always, enjoy the fight our fish have to offer.

25

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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26

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

SEACAMP ANNOUNCES EDUCATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS, UNITED WAY GRANT Initiatives aim to bolster marine science learning

Monroe County fifth-graders at Seacamp learn about the anatomy and behavior of hermit crabs.

Key West High School science teacher Shannon Duffy gathers water quality data with a student using a YSI meter.

SEACAMP/Contributed.

T

he Newfound Harbor Marine Institute at Seacamp Association Inc. in Big Pine Key has been working with Monroe County fifth-graders throughout the Florida Keys since the start of the school year by inviting them to participate in half-day programs at no charge. Programs are spent in and around the water to encourage knowledge of our local marine environments. From Key West High School to Key Largo School, Seacamp staff have worked with students to provide new opportunities that allow them to learn about and interact with the aquatic organisms and environments around them.

“It’s quite fascinating to witness the inspiration children acquire from the ocean and nature as a whole, (and) for them to develop a love and passion for it,” said Seacamp science instructor Lucy Wiedmar.

Monroe County teachers customize their students’ trip and educational goals by selecting programs that correlate with their classroom curriculum. Students learn about mangrove ecology, coastal ecosystems, hermit crabs, algae, Cassiopea jellyfish and more.

The hope is that these experiences will help students grow and explore new interests and previously unknown career paths.

Seacamp has provided education about marine science for 58 years and has educated countless numbers of students who have continued to spread the organization’s mission: “For all the sea has to teach us and all the fun in learning it.”

Grant funds water testing Seacamp also recently received a grant from United Way of Collier and the Keys with the goal of purchasing a YSI meter and required accessories. With this water quality monitoring technology, students and teachers who attend marine science-focused programs at Seacamp will explore high-resolution data to better understand and manage water resources.

Seacamp’s YSI meter can be used to determine levels of pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature and salinity in surrounding waters.

Seacamp requested the funds to purchase the YSI Meter. It will be used to collect data on local water samples to gain knowledge and create awareness of the complex and fragile marine world. The goal is to foster critical thinking and informed decision making about our use of natural resources. In addition, Seacamp is sharing the data collected with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to study long-term water quality monitoring.

United Way of Collier and the Florida Keys is dedicated to improving the education, health and financial stability of the Collier and Monroe County communities through encouraging sustainability and positive change.

Founded in 1966, Seacamp Association Inc. has opened up the world of marine science exploration, scuba diving and sailing to create awareness of the complex and fragile marine world and to foster critical thinking and informed decision making about man’s use of natural resources. The Big Pinebased group provides experiential education in marine studies to students aged 10 to 21 years old. More information is at seacamp.org.

— Contributed

‘NEVER WANNA LEAVE THE FLORIDA KEYS’ If you haven’t already, meet Tony Manfredi SHANNON PAUL WILEY

I

www.keysweekly.com

t is unlikely you’ll visit local restaurants or watering holes in the Marathon area without getting a small “taste” of musical talent alongside your meal. From steel drums to guitar chords and vocals, the sounds of paradise are as much a part of island living for some as the majestic sunsets and vibrant teal waters.

One rising star on the local music horizon is self-taught guitarist and singer-songwriter Anthony “Tony” Manfredi, who has called the rock his home for more than four years.

“One thing I like most is not having to leave,” he said. “Every time I am forced to venture outside the area, I just can’t wait to come home again.” Manfredi feels so strongly about this that he even used the hook “I never wanna leave the Florida Keys” in one of his most popular songs.

Manfredi’s connection with the island of Marathon is truly a love affair. He and his wife Michelle visited several years back for a Valentine’s Day vacation celebrating their wedding anniversary. He fell in love with the Keys and in an instant vowed to return, which the couple did on multiple occasions while laying the groundwork to relocate. They moved down in short order, saying goodbye to Stuart, Florida and a Treasure Coast lifestyle to make the Keys their forever home.

Along the way, he says, he’s met some colorful locals calling Galway Bay home, a group that inspired one of his signature tunes.

“I absolutely love these folks at Galway Bay, and I am inspired by that crew as well as all the wildly unique characters you meet here,” he said. “I love to not only play for folks but write songs about them and the whole atmosphere of the Keys. The simple truth is nothing beats living on a little rock in the middle of an ocean.”

His story echoes that of so many musicians with a flair for lyrical songs. While strumming his six-string and singing John Denver, Tom Petty and Buffett favorites, or while happily singing the many story-songs he has penned himself, Manfredi smiles through it all.

You will often find him playing at Overseas Bar and Grill, Dockside on Boot Key Harbor, and occasionally down the road at Looe Key and Boondocks. His aptly named album "Livin’ the Dream” can be found on Apple Music and Spotify, with details on Manfredi’s music and his upcoming gigs available on Facebook or at www.tonymanfredi.com

27

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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28

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

1 2

A RIDE TO REMEMBER

3

5

Wounded veterans pedal through the Keys

R

4

oughly 40 veterans hopped on their bikes on the morning of Jan. 5 at VFW Post 10211 in Key Largo, pedaling down the Keys to the Southernmost City for the annual Wounded Warrior Project’s Florida Keys Soldier Ride.

Some men and women who valiantly served their country and were injured in combat pedaled on adaptive bicycles. Participants made several stops along the two-day journey, including Coral Shores High School, Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina

and Marathon Fire Station, where they were met with cheers by members of the public waving flags and wearing red, white and blue. On Jan. 6, warriors were joined by community members for an island ride with stops at historic Key West military sites. On Jan. 7, the group visited Marathon’s Dolphin Research Center. The Soldier Ride is organized annually by the Wounded Warrior Project to raise public awareness and support for the needs of severely injured members of the military.

1. About 40 Wounded Warrior riders take to the Seven Mile Bridge on Jan. 6.

2. Young students show off posters they made for wounded veterans partaking in the ride during a stop at Coral Shores. 3. Wounded Warrior cyclists arrive at Coral Shores High School on Jan. 5. 4. Warriors get in the water with Tanner at Dolphin Research Center. 5. Cyclists celebrate their arrival to the Southernmost City following a two-day biking excursion through the Florida Keys. Photos by Larry Blackburn, Jim McCarthy, Dolphin Research Center and Andy Newman. Full gallery at keysweekly.com.

29

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECAPS BUSY 2023 2024 challenges include transportation & development

Monroe County Administrator Roman Gastesi. MONROE COUNTY/Contributed

T

he year 2023 was one of celebration as Monroe County marked its 200th anniversary, and today, our commissioners and staff continue to enhance the quality of life of our citizens, business owners and visitors. I am proud of our commissioners and employees’ remarkable accomplishments in 2023.

Department highlights from this past year include: • Legislatively, Monroe County received $20 million in Florida Keys Stewardship Act funding, which supports the health of our nearshore waters, $6.25 million to complete our new Emergency Operations Center at Marathon airport, $1.6 million for mooring field development, and state and federal funds for other essential projects like resilience against sea-level rise, storm risk mitigation, and bridge replacements.

• Sustainability applied for and received notice of grant awards from the Resilient Florida state resilience program for partial funding of four road adaptation projects with an estimated cost of $186 million.

• Engineering received approval from FEMA for the engineering, design and permitting phase of up to $178 million in hazard mitigation grant program funds for county roads and sea-level rise adaptation projects.

• We received $10 million from the state for the creation of a new artificial

reef program, kicking off in 2024.

• Monroe County Transit completed its year-long existing conditions study to determine exactly how transit services are being delivered throughout the county, taking us one step closer to making transportation in the Florida Keys safer and more efficient.

• Code Compliance reached an almost complete connection rate to the central sewer system — another giant leap toward improved water quality in the Florida Keys. The department worked with the remaining 1,400 property owners who had yet to complete their connection.

• Budget and Finance produced the $667 million, fiscal year 2022-3 budget, which boasts Florida’s lowest property tax rate for another year.

• Parks and Beaches’ new Recreation Division developed the Keys Kids Swim and summer camp program and added two new community centers to help our community positively and meet recreation needs for all ages.

• Key West International Airport continues to construct its new terminal, which services more than 1 million passengers annually.

• Solid Waste held illegal dumping offenders accountable for their actions in several areas, making our streets cleaner and safer.

• Project Management completed the supervisor of elections buildout and is almost finished with the public defender’s office in Key West.

• Information Technology continued supporting multiple departments by introducing new and modern software products while ensuring security, performance, and costeffectiveness.

• Veterans Affairs assisted local veterans in receiving more than $6.9 million in new annual disability payments, an increase of $1.4 million over last year.

• The library system’s electronic collection of e-books, e-audiobooks, and digital magazines saw unprecedented usage, amassing over 105,000 circulations for the year, a 36 percent increase from the previous year, and continues to add cutting-edge technology at the five branches.

• Employee Services resumed the employee health and wellness fairs with recordbreaking attendance for county and constitutional officer employees.

• Building and Permitting improved the online permitting and plan review process with user feedback.

• Fire Rescue strengthened its emergency medical services program to complement the BOCC’s approval of three new medical helicopters. Trauma Star continues to provide a record number of lifesaving flights to the mainland while transporting our residents with no out-of-pocket costs. The sixth “Hot Shots” firefighter training class graduated — a program that waives tuition for residents.

• Guardian Ad Litem represented 100% of children involved in dependency proceedings through its professional child welfare team.

• For those with a green thumb, the Extension Service taught residents about local flora, fauna and other vital Florida Keys resources.

Also, it began offering first aid and CPR certifications to the community.

• Strategic Planning is beginning to gather new information on community priorities to incorporate into a refreshed strategic plan.

• The Fleet Department received ASE blue seal awards for each garage for its high standards in maintaining county vehicles.

• Facilities Maintenance and Public Works worked to help others in the community following unnamed storms that affected many islands throughout the Keys.

• The County Attorney’s Office celebrated the recommendations that Monroe County’s 16th Judicial Circuit not be combined with Miami-Dade’s circuit.

2024 will be a year for communitywide courageous communication as we navigate through many critical challenges that will shape the future of the Florida Keys, from our Rate of Growth Ordinance and hurricane evacuation modeling to transportation issues and more.

For the past 15.5 years as Monroe County administrator, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners has been committed to creating a better life, every day, for everyone in the Florida Keys. We will continue to have open discussions and workshops about our future, and we will strive to make our island home a safe and enjoyable place to live, work and play.

Roman Gastesi Monroe County administrator

31

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024 Exhibit “A” TO MEMBERS OF FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOC., INC. NOTICE OF ELECTION OF TWO DIRECTORS

Karen Represented the Sellers of: 590 11th Street, Key Colony Sold for $1,025,000

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The Board of Directors of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. (FKEC) has set the following date(s) for the District Elections for two positions on the Board of Directors: District 1 March 14, 2024

Key Largo area northeast of the section line common to Sections 6 and 7, TWP-62S, R. 39E, southerly of Mandalay Subdivision - Dade/Monroe County Line on U.S. 1 (including Ocean Reef) to Mile Marker 97.7

District 2 March 14, 2024

Tavernier area southeast of the section line as established southerly of Mandalay Subdivision and northeast of Snake Creek

The incumbent directors of the two districts have decided to stand for re-election. In the event only one qualified member from a district for each position is so nominated, that member shall be declared elected.

Elections may be conducted on the designated election date, by mail ballot, and/or by electronic means.

The notice of election and the election ballot and informational materials shall be mailed to every member residing or doing business in the district not less than fifteen (15) days prior to the election date. All ballots returned by mail must be received by the Cooperative or the Cooperative’s contracted third-party election management provider no later than one day prior to the official election date.

Directors elected at the district elections shall serve for a period of three years and will take office at the first regular or special meeting to be held on or after Saturday, April 13, 2024.

Members interested in becoming candidates and placing their names in nomination for membership on the Board of Directors are hereby notified of the qualifications and election procedures prescribed by the Bylaws of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. A candidate for director must be a member of FKEC and a bona fide resident of the district he/she represents and have 12 months of residency in the area served by the Cooperative. The candidate must not be a minor. No candidate may in any way be employed by or have a substantial financial interest in a competing enterprise or a business selling electric energy or supplies to FKEC or be the incumbent for an elective public office in connection with which a salary or compensation is paid.

Candidates must submit a nominating petition with fifteen (15) or more signatures of members residing in the voting district no less than forty-five (45) days prior to the date of the district election specified above. Nominating petitions for District 1 must be received by FKEC by Noon on Monday, January 29, 2024, and petitions for District 2 must be received by FKEC by Noon on Monday, January 29, 2024.

(Please allow time for verification of signatures).

Nomination petition forms may be obtained from the FKEC Tavernier Headquarters.

A copy of the FKEC bylaws may be obtained from FKEC offices.

The election will be given widespread publicity prior to the election date.

By Order of the Board of Directors Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc.

32

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024 A pied-billed grebe seen recently on Summerland Key. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

S

ome days you just wake up with the idea of a place in your mind, and a strong desire to go there.

You don’t know why. You just do. This particular morning it was a place called Lake Margaret up on SummerMARK land Key. HEDDEN It’s possible the urge came from the insane crowd ... is a photographer, writer, and that has packed Key West semi-professional for the last few weeks – an birdwatcher. He island so infuriatingly full has lived in Key of people that every time West for more than 25 years and you leave the house you may no longer run the chance of getting be employable in into a shouting match with the real world. He someone in a car about is also executive how maybe they shouldn’t director of the Florida Keys Audu- be menacing people in the bon Society. crosswalk. It’s possible, now that the holidays are over, that, like a gopher popping his head above ground after Bill Murray failed to annihilate it, you inevitably crave a little nature, a little peace, a little non-humanity. It’s also possible that you find you’re writing about yourself in the third person for two paragraphs for reasons that are also a little unclear.

I didn’t beeline for Lake Margaret when I left the house. I didn’t want to squander the effort. I stopped along the way, scanning the edge of salt ponds on Boca Chica and Rockland Key, scanning from the boat ramps, and the old bridges in the Saddle Bunches. I even drove all the way down Sugarloaf Boulevard to Sammy Creek Landing, where I sat under the bridge for a while like a troll, hoping to see something cool.

There were birds – a lofty brown pelican here, a great egret in the mangroves there – but there weren’t so many and they were generally far away.

I have never managed to write down the address of Lake Margaret, so I could put it in my phone and find it easily. I typically arrive after driving down various same-looking side streets that all look kind of right until I find the one that actually is. This trip I somehow managed to drive straight there, getting out of the truck and closing the door quietly so as not to scare any potential birds.

The name Lake Margaret is a bit grand.

Pond Margaret might be more apt, but doesn’t scan as well. It’s an old borrow pit, maybe 30 yards across, 50 yards long, full of brownish water, lined with mangroves and the ghostly gray snags of buttonwoods killed off in Hurricane Irma. There isn’t any tidal flow from the ocean, except when the tide gets high, and rain seems to leave it somewhere between a brackish and freshwater lens.

I climbed carefully over the guardrail and sat on the sky-blue, two-plank bench that someone had kindly installed, and settled in. As I half expected, there weren’t really any birds

LAKES, PONDS, TURTLES, GREBES AND GULLS

to be seen. A turkey vulture flew low over the edge of trees. The wind came up and scuffed the surface of the water.

A turtle – a red-eared slider – kept sticking its eyes and nostrils up above the water near me, then sinking down below the surface whenever I lifted my camera. We played a slowspeed, cat-and-mouse/celebrity-vs.-paparazzi game for a while until I managed a decent shot.

Immediately afterward, another turtle came from behind to bite him in the back of the neck, and they both sank into the murk into a slowpaced world of turtle-on-turtle violence.

I saw my first bit of avian wildlife somewhere over in the deadwood – a little flicker I first thought was a warbler – maybe a palm or a Louisiana waterthrush. But when I lifted my binoculars it was actually a small brown bird in the water, a thing called a pied-billed grebe.

Grebes are adorable little birds that spend nearly all their time in the water. They live lives very similar to ducks, but are not ducks. Instead of webbed feet they have lobed toes to propel them through the water. Instead of looking somewhat comedic when they walk on land, they look incredibly awkward and generally only do it if they are being chased, and then they’ll run with their body nearly vertical, their bill barely forward of their chest, like a cartoon bear that can’t keep up with its legs.

The not-so-great-on-land thing is largely a product of evolutionary specialization. They are so all-in on swimming that their legs stick out the back of their body, more like propellers than feet, as if drawn by a kid who doesn’t know where a bird’s legs should go.

They are hardly ever seen in flight because, if approached by a predator, they have a much better chance of escaping underwater. And when they migrate, they do so at night, landing in whatever lake or pond they can find just before sunup.

The name “pied” has nothing to do with baked goods, or smashing baked goods into people’s faces. It means having two different colors. In breeding season, pied-billed grebes get a strongly contrasting black band around their mostly pale, almond-shaped bill. In nonbreeding season (winter), their bill just looks more like an almond.

Pied-billed grebes’ tendency to dive underwater, disappear for a good number of seconds, then pop up in some other random part of the lake is one of the things I like most about them.

They generally do this when feeding, trying to catch fish, shrimp, crabs and whatever else they can. But trying to track them is not unlike a free range version of Whack-a-mole, sans mallet.

This grebe had apparently had his fill, though, and was mostly just floating like a bathtub toy.

Outside of breeding season, pied-billed grebes tend toward the solitary. I once wrote something about how this was always the case — about how you never saw more than one pied-billed grebe in any body of water — and ever since it was printed in ink on paper, every time I’ve seen a pied-billed grebe, there have been one or two others in the same body of water, though in their own little territory. It just shows the danger of declarative sentences when writing about wildlife.

Last week I wrote something about how Bonaparte’s gulls are pretty rare in the Keys, and as if to drive home the point about declarative sentences, as I was sitting there, another Bonaparte’s gull came fluttering in and landed a few feet from the grebe.

I suppose I could take it personally that the universe seems to enjoy unraveling things I say with any confidence, but then, if the universe keeps showing me cool birds, I’ll take it.

33

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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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.

STORMY 2-year-old female pit bull mix.

Looking for: I like to be around people, and cats too.

Turnoffs: Being lazy.

35

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

Karen Represented the Buyers of: 1001 W Ocean Dr #1-204, Key Colony Sold for $740,000

JUST SOLD Tracy Chacksfield 312-350-4601 Cell 305-743-7636 Office Tracy@thebeautifulkeys.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

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36

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

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37

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

LIFE IS SHORT Make time for the really special moments

A

friend of ours gave Sarah the best dish towel ever. It reads, “Life is Short… take the trip, buy the shoes, eat the cake, sleep with the Guitar Player.” Sound advice.

It’s advice we took recently for a family event that could have simply just passed us by. I have two younger sisters, and the middle sibling — Cecilia — just celebrated her 60th birthday. The easy thing to do would have been a phone call, card and gift.

But 60 is a big milestone, worthy of a real celebration. So Sarah and I flew up, and my youngest sister Carol flew down to South Carolina. Our chief coconspirator was Cecilia’s wife, Sue, who arranged on-site details in Spartanburg and got the birthday girl where she needed to be. Sue, it should be known, can really keep a secret.

The surprise on Cecilia’s face when she walked into the restaurant and saw us sitting there was real. Her joy at having her family there for her special birthday was beautiful and contagious, and set the stage for the entire wonderful weekend. Sarah is no stranger to the birthday surprise — she did the same for one of my birthdays by having my two sisters show up and surprise me in Gatlinburg a few years back, and assembled a surprise gathering of good friends here in the Keys for my 60th.

The birthday weekend with my sisters inspired this column. Special events and wonderful people hopefully populate certain corners of all our lives. The everyday, however, can often eclipse and get in the way of the truly special things, and it’s so easy to let these special things slip away.

It may not be family in everyone’s lives — it can be really good friends, an old college roommate, or shared events with someone you met on a trip or at an event. While it’s easier to keep up with distant friends and family members these days through social media and modern tech, nothing compares to spending time actually (not virtually) together, in the same space.

Back in the summer of 2020, when the world was slowly emerging from the total lockdown of the COVID pandemic, Sarah and I took a trip to

a mountain cabin in Blue Ridge, Georgia. Two other couples joined us — Dusty and Linda (who used to own a music store JOHN I worked at in BARTUS Marathon back John Bartus is a in the 1980s), singer-songwriter and Regina and the former and Matamba mayor of Mara(I worked with thon.

Regina at a summer camp back in 1980).

We had an absolute blast in the mountains, enjoying the natural wonders around us as well as the good company we were keeping. While we still stay in touch through social media, nothing compares to the experience of sharing good times in the same space.

In my song, “Captain of His Own Destiny,” I paraphrase a bit of old wisdom in this line: “Seek no more your journey’s end, the destination won’t matter as much as the journey, my friend.” While we all get focused on a goal, destination or end result, the steps and stops we take on our journeys are just as important. And when the destination is reached or the goal is accomplished, the journey to get there is just as significant.

Stop and smell the roses. Take the trip. Eat the cake.

And by all means, sleep with the guitar player. ******* While this isn’t the big official thank you (look for that soon in these pages), the recent Presents In Paradise season was our biggest ever. Hundreds of local families — 720 children total — were the beneficiaries of your generous donations and the efforts of the Presents In Paradise board of directors and volunteers. It was a 28% increase over last year, and the elves are currently resting after the busy season. Look for some announcements about some cool new things happening with Presents in the upcoming year, and thanks to everyone for your support!

— John’s Perpetual Island Tour stops this Wednesday at Brutus Seafood, Thursday at Sparky’s Landing, Friday at Porky’s Bayside, and Sunday at Skipjack Tiki Bar. Check out John’s music anywhere you stream or download your music! Or point your browser to: johnbartus.hearnow.com

BRIEFLY KCB’s Coconut Crawl Returns Saturday, Jan. 20 The Key Colony Beach Community Association’s Coconut Crawl will be Saturday, Jan. 20 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. benefiting the KCB and Marathon communities. The Coconut Crawl is a combination poker run and pub crawl, with all locations easy to walk to in or near Key Colony Beach. Entrants receive a Coconut Crawl 2024 T-shirt, a light meal at the awards afterparty and a chance to win prizes for best and worst poker hands, best themed costume and best team spirit. Pre-register online at KCBCA.org or in person at the KCB post office on Monday, Jan. 15 from 2 to 4 p.m. or Saturday, Jan. 20 from 9 to 11 a.m. The cost is $30 for KCBCA members, $35 for non-members and $40 for day-of registration.

Marathon Community Church resumes drive-through hot dog sale The Marathon Community Global Methodist Church will resume their drive-thru hot dog sale this Saturday, Jan. 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. A $5 donation buys a grilled hot dog, chips, cookies and cold water. The church building needs continued repairs to its infrastructure and any money raised will be used to meet these costs. The church serves the entire Marathon community by providing housing for not only its own services but also KAIR, the Haitian church, Polish Catholic church and numerous community groups. The hot dog sales will continue the second Saturday of each month during the season.

‘Paws for a Cause’ supports domestic abuse shelter The Domestic Abuse Shelter will host the return of its “Paws for a Cause” dog walk fundraiser on the Old Seven Mile Bridge. On Saturday, Jan. 13 at 9 a.m., walkers will team up with their companions for a walk to Pigeon Key and back, and donation pledges secured by each walker will go to support the DAS in its efforts to rebuild the Middle Keys shelter destroyed by Hurricane Irma.

Register in advance by scanning the attached QR code. On-site registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Walkers who raise $100 in sponsorships will have their $25 registration fee waived, and the walker who raises the most money will win a two-night stay at Isla Bella Beach Resort. Contact 305-849-6236 with questions.

Marathon Garden Club announces January Jamboree The Marathon Garden Club will hold its annual January Jamboree on Saturday, Jan. 27 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 5270 Overseas Hwy. Local plant experts will be on hand to answer questions. There will be plants and orchids for sale, local vendors, jewelry, pottery, a huge rummage sale and food. The jamboree is a chance to buy plants grown in the Keys that are specifically geared to the islands’ climate and soil conditions.

Coast Guard Auxiliary offers safe boating classes The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will host a safe boating class on Saturday, Jan. 20 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Coast Guard Station Marathon. Upon successful completion of the course, students will receive a Coast Guard Auxiliary completion certificate, a Coast Guard Auxiliary boating safety card and a Florida state boater education ID card. Most insurance companies will discount boat insurance up to 15% with these certifications. The fee for course materials is $20, payable at the door. Course materials are free for students under 18. Contact Bob Carew at carewbob@gmail.com to register.

Students should bring a bag lunch to class.

Marathon man arrested for alleged painkiller trafficking A 36-year-old Marathon man was arrested Jan. 8 for allegedly trafficking prescription painkillers. Macarthur Junior Sheppard was charged with trafficking 180 Oxycodone pills weighing 18.1 grams and possession of 3.1 grams of marijuana. Sheppard was stopped on U.S. 1 around 4 p.m. near 49th Street in Marathon for a license plate violation and possible illegal window tint. There was an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, deputies said. K9 Coral alerted to narcotics in the vehicle. The drugs were found in the subsequent search.

Homestead man arrested for stealing, using credit card A 43-year-old Homestead man was arrested Jan. 8 for allegedly using another person’s credit card. Roy Lee Franklin was charged with multiple counts of fraud. The Sheriff’s Office began investigating the case after Franklin was stopped in a vehicle that had been reported stolen. The vehicle had many recently purchased merchandise items inside, deputies said.

Franklin was found to be in possession of credit and identification cards that did not belong to him. Investigation showed he used that card to buy more than $200 worth of items at a store.

38

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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Leslie Christensen OWNER

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39

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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

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40

MARATHON WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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January 11, 2024

MASTERS OF THEIR FIELD Meet the All-Keys Football Team | P.8

3

JANUARY 11, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

JAN. 11

THE SCOREBOARD

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Key West

Boys Basketball

Marathon

1/4

W, 68-57

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Barbara Goleman

1/5

L, 88-67

Key West

Boys Basketball

Boca Raton

1/5

W, 61-59

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Boca Raton

1/6

L, 82-35

Key West

Boys Basketball

Miami Christian

1/6

L, 70-55

THIS WEEK

James THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

JAN. 11

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

1/11

Key West

Girls Basketball

Coral Shores

4 p.m.

1/11

Key West

Wrestling

Regional Duals Home

4:30 p.m.

1/11

Key West

Boys Soccer

Silver Palms

4 p.m.

1/11

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

@ MAST Academy

5:30 p.m.

1/12

Coral Shores

Girls & Boys Soccer

Marathon

4 & 6 p.m.

1/12

Key West

Wrestling

Battle at the Bay Tournament

3 p.m.

1/12

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Downtown Doral

7 p.m.

1/12

Coral Shores

Wrestling

@ Doral Duals

TBD

1/12

Marathon

Girls Basketball

NSU University School

4 p.m.

1/12

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Keys Gate

5 p.m.

1/12

Key West

Boys Basketball

Coral Shores

7 p.m.

1/12

Key West

Girls Soccer

Gulliver

7 p.m.

1/12

Key West

Wrestling

Battle at the Bay Tournament

9 a.m.

1/12

Key West

Girls Basketball

Ransom

4 p.m.

1/13

Key West

Boys Basketball

@ Westminster Academy

5 p.m.

1/13

Key West

Boys Soccer

Bolles

1 p.m.

1/13

Marathon

Girls Basketball

Ransom

2 p.m.

1/13

Key West

Girls Basketball

Archbishop McCarthy

1:30 p.m.

1/16

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

@ Ransom

4 p.m

1/16

Coral Shores

Girls Soccer

South Dade High School

5 p.m.

1/16

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Horeb Christian

5 p.m.

1/16

Marathon

Boys Soccer

Key West

6 p.m.

1/16

Key West

Girls Basketball

Marathon

5:30 p.m.

1/17

Key West

Girls Weightlifting

Coral Shores

3 p.m.

1/17

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

Key West

5 p.m.

ON THE COVER In an isolated county with massive barriers to competition, the Keys still boast a collection of gridiron greats like AJ Putetti, top, Eddie Garcia, left, and Clerff Alexandre. Meet the 2023 All-Keys Football Team on page 8. Photos by Doug Finger, Barry Gaukel and Mark Hedden.

OSBORNE

Sophomore, Key West Basketball

We see nothing other than him continuing to grow as a player and as a leader of our team.”

— Conchs head coach Dexter Butler

58 193 points at New Year’s Classic

points this season

Key West’s James Osborne may be only a sophomore, but he is already shouldering a large portion of the Conchs’ leadership duties, and he is doing it flawlessly. Coach Dexter Butler was clear that Osborne is held to the highest standards, and the young athlete has been delivering.

“James is a player that we have made it clear to him that expectations for him will be high his entire career at KWHS,” said Butler.

“He has answered the bell to every challenge put in front of him, and his strong start to this season is proof of that.”

Further proof was his performance at the Atocha Island New Year’s Classic, at which he scored 58 points for the Conchs, helping to deliver the team to the finals. This season he leads the team in points per game with 17.5. He also leads in assists and steals and is second in rebounding. The versatile hoopster has 193 points to his name this season and he is just warming up. For his stellar performance on court and willingness to do what it takes to take his team to the next level, James Osborne is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Photo by: GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly

4

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 11, 2024 SPORTS WRITER

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locallyowned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.

TRACY MCDONALD fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.

PODCAST HOST

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Director of Sales

Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

Business Development

Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready

SEAN MCDONALD grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.

MARKET EDITORS

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

1

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.

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

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

2

5

JANUARY 11, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

K

ey West hosted the Atocha Island New Year’s Classic from Jan. 4-6. On the opening night of the tourney, Marathon and Key West played one another in a Monroe County showdown. Key West toppled the Fins 68-57 for their first win of the event. James Osborne scored 18 points, with half of them from the 3-point line, and added 7 rebounds and 4 steals. DeMarcus Deroche scored 15 points, pulled down 17 rebounds and blocked 4 shots for the Conchs, and Tramane Scott had a dozen each of points and rebounds. Leandro Batista pitched in 9 and Kameron Roberts scored 8 while stealing the ball from Marathon four times.

The Fins didn’t roll easily for Key West, however; Marathon’s seniors worked hard for a win that was not to be. The upperclassmen scored 42 of Marathon’s 57 points, with 19 of those rolling off the hands of Adrian Cruz. Fellow seniors Yaniel Garcia and Xavier Grant scored 14 and 9 points, respectively. Grant also added 10 rebounds. Sophomore Daeshawn Holmes helped out with 7 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocks for the Fins.

Next up for the Conchs was Boca Raton High School.

Key West bested the Bobcats 61-59 on Jan. 5. Osborne and Roberts scored 17 points each. This time it was Roberts who was hot from three, going 3-3 on the evening.

Deroche had a doubledouble with 12 points and 10 rebounds plus 5 blocks in the close win.

On the same night, 3A Marathon faced the 7A Gators of Barbara Goleman, losing 88-67. Cruz had the hot hand for the Fins, scoring 22, with 14 more from Garcia. Holmes registered a double-double with 10 points and rebounds. The high-scoring action was not enough to overcome the sharp-shooting Gators, who sank a total of 17 threes, most of which came from the NBA distance.

Jan. 6 would be the final night of competition, pitting Marathon against another 7A school. The Bobcats of Boca Raton High School made short work of the game, outscoring the Fins 82-35. Unlike their prior two games, Marathon relied on the younger side of their bench in the lopsided matchup.

Eighth grader Andrew Suarez had the team high score with 8 points, with Cruz and eighth-grader Jack Chapman sinking 7 apiece. The next-gen Fins played for almost a half, earning their stripes plus some valuable experience in the loss.

Key West’s two wins put them into the final against Miami Christian High School. Key West lost the game 70-55 to capture the runner-up spot in the tournament. Osborne scored 23 points with three steals. Deroche led in rebounds with 14. Scott had 11 points with 3 steals and David Aviles scored 8 in the final game of the series.

The Conchs play Coral Shores in Key West on Friday, Jan. 12 for a rematch of their Dec. 21 game, during which Key West came out on top. Marathon hosts Downtown Doral the same night. Both tipoffs are scheduled for 7 p.m.

3 4

CONCHS COME CLOSE TO GOLD AT ATOCHA ISLAND CLASSIC Key West wins two of three in home tournament 1. Xavier Grant (11) battles through the Conch defense.

2. Tramane Scott (21) goes vertical in the lane.

3. James Osborne shoots a free throw.

4. Yaniel Garcia at the foul line.

5. Adrian Cruz inbounds the ball.

Photos by GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly. See more tournament photos at keysweekly.com.

5

6

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 11, 2024

OLYMPIANS DESCEND UPON KEY WEST Pole Vault in Paradise draws local and international athletes to Southernmost City

1. Key West senior Suharevskis NiksDavis with his third-place medal.

2. Kat Stefanidi bends the bar in her final vault of the afternoon at the Pole Vault in Paradise event Jan. 6.

3. Olympic gold medalist Aikaterina Stefanidi.

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4. Canadian Olympian Anicka Newell successfully clears the bar at Pole Vault in Paradise on Jan. 6.

Photos by TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly

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ey West High School was officially still on holiday break on Jan. 6, but it wasn’t apparent from the activity on campus. While the Conchs were busy hosting a basketball tournament indoors at Bill Butler Gymnasium, outdoor enthusiasts enjoyed a special show in The Backyard. Key West Track and Field Club hosted the annual Pole Vault in Paradise event, moved from its prior location at the beach to avoid heavy traffic from the Wounded Warrior Soldier Ride. The new location gave fans a chance to catch some high-flying feats of athleticism.

Several high-caliber athletes made a pit stop in paradise on their journeys toward the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

Extra effort was put into the event this year to make it an official Olympic qualifier, which helped draw in some of the biggest names in the world in pole vaulting. Included in those seeking Olympic gold this summer was former Texas Bobcat athlete Anicka Newell, a two-time Olympic qualifier who represented Canada in 2016 and again in ’21 (after the 2020 games were postponed due to the pandemic). Her Canadian mother’s citizenship makes her eligible to represent Team Canada, which she hopes to do in 2024.

But perhaps the most exciting athlete to grace the runway last week was Greek-born Stanford graduate Aikaterina “Kat” Stefanidi, the winner of the Olympic gold medal in pole vaulting in 2016. The three-time Olympic Games qualifier took fourth in Tokyo in 2021 and is on track to qualify for her fourth games this summer in Paris. Though no athletes qualified via the event, Newell and Stefanidi have a high probability of representing their countries this summer.

And just what does an Olympic gold medalist do while in the Keys? Stefanidi said after landing late Thursday night, she and husband/coach Mitchell Krier spent some time on the beach at Fort Zachary Taylor, then headed to the track for a “shake out” to prepare for the event Saturday.

After the competition, she offered some solid advice for anyone interested in having a go at pole vault.

“The most important part is you have to really like it. I think that’s true for anything, but especially for pole vault,” she said. For those wondering whether a seasoned veteran like Stefanidi finds the event at all terrifying, she admitted it can be a bit unnerving.

“There’s fear involved and you have to work so hard for three or four days in the year, so you have to really enjoy the process and find positives in the bad days,” she said.

“You just have to really love pole vaulting. You can’t just love success or love to go to the Olympics – you have to love pole vaulting. That’s your number one motivator.”

Unfortunately for Stefanidi, Fort Zach will be just about the only fun enjoyed on the trip; she had to switch to an earlier flight home to Colorado because she was summoned to report for jury duty on Monday morning. Asked if she plans to return to the Southernmost City for Pole Vault in Paradise next year, she said, “I think so, yes, hopefully. It will be nice

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JANUARY 11, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

CONGRATULATIONS MIRIAM ON YOUR

YOUR WELL-DESERVED RETIREMENT!

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Miriam Marin-Morejon, a loyal employee, for nearly 20 years, will be missed by clients and co-workers alike!

She was quick to smile and loved sharing Cuban coffee. after an Olympic year.” With any luck, she will return with another Olympic medal for a bit of a longer stay.

Not every competitor in the annual showcase is a decorated, world-renowned vaulter – at least, not just yet. The event draws amateur athletes as well, including Key West High School senior and 2023 FHSAA silver medalist Suharevskis Niks-Davis. Niks-Davis took third in his age group with a vault just about an inch shy of his personal best, achieved at his peak last season.

Now with just about a month to go before the official track and field season opens in Florida, Niks-Davis is on track to bring home the gold this spring.

“Last year, best year,” he said of his hopes for the upcoming season. Niks-Davis is putting it all in to achieve his goal of an FHSAA gold medal and claiming the school record for himself. His top vault, 13’9.25”, is just over half a foot shy of Zack Lightfoot’s record of 14’6”, but Niks-Davis isn’t aiming at 14’7”. He plans to shatter the record.

“My goal is 16 feet.” he said.

Niks-Davis and the rest of the Keys athletes participating in track and field will begin official team practices Jan. 29.

Meets start Feb. 22, and the state championships, held in Jacksonville at the University of North Florida this year, are set for May 15-18.

Your retirement is not an ending, but the start of a new chapter. We wish you joy, relaxation and fulfillment.

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8

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 11, 2024

MEET THE 2023 ALL-KEYS FOOTBALL TEAM Monroe County gridiron stars tackled challenges and held their own this fall

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eys football teams faced an uphill battle this season, with opponents who took advantage of a more open transfer policy, allowing numerous mainland teams to recruit large pools of talent. Geographically incapable of much open transferring, Monroe County teams played with the athletes they had and still managed quite a bit of success against teams spanning from Fort Myers to Miami.

Coral Shores was the only school to boast a winning record this year, going 6-4 including a win against Marathon.

The ’Canes had an arsenal of weapons on both sides of the ball and managed to outscore their opponents 319-202.

Coral Shores graduates multiple seniors, many of whom were key this season, but returns plenty of talent for the 2024 season.

Key West ended its season 3-7, going 1-2 in a district that spans a five-hour driving radius. The Conchs had a full schedule of FHSAA District 16 2S (Suburban) action and did not play against another Monroe County team this season.

They graduate numerous multi-year varsity athletes, including their quarterback and star kicker, but should be able to heal in the offseason to reinvigorate their depth chart, which suffered due to a multitude of injuries. When fully healthy, the Conchs look to be a strong contender next fall.

Marathon went 2-8 this season as they fought hard to hang with larger schools and rosters with greater experience.

The young team graduates just two seniors, and the vast amount of playing time the underclassmen experienced will certainly help them next fall. The Fins showed tenacity and an unwillingness to back down whatever the odds. Look for Marathon to improve in each of their next three seasons – 11 of their 31 rostered athletes were freshmen.

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JANUARY 11, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

MVP

2

AJ Putetti

JUNIOR, CORAL SHORES RUNNING BACK/FREE SAFETY

Coral Shores’ AJ Putetti stacked up 735 yards on the ground with 9 rushing touchdowns, 14 receptions for 172 yards in the air and 1 receiving touchdown. Quick and agile, Putetti’s greatest quality might be his physicality. When opponents caught him, they had a lot of trouble bringing him down. When the quarterback went down with an injury, Putetti went 3 for 5 in passing, adding the new role to his repertoire.

Defensively, Putetti had 42 solo tackles, 21 assists, 6 pass breakups, 1 forced fumble and 3 interceptions, two of which he took to the house.

5

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JUNIOR, CORAL SHORES WIDE RECEIVER/LINEBACKER

Davis was an adept receiver on a team full of offensive weapons. He managed to shine brightest on defense with 50 solo tackles, 29 assists and 19 pressures of the opposing QB. Davis sacked the quarterback 11 times this season and recovered a fumble as well.

JUNIOR, CORAL SHORES QUARTERBACK/LINEBACKER

The starting signal caller for Coral Shores saw action in eight games this season before an injury sidelined him.

Moreno amassed 356 passing yards and 161 rushing yards and had 5 touchdowns credited to him. His ability to break a tackle and go the extra distance on offense, coupled with his ability to deliver hits on defense, made Moreno an asset for the Hurricanes.

50 Jamoris Davis

Yemcel Moreno

Eddie Holly

JUNIOR, CORAL SHORES OFFENSIVE LINEMAN/LINEBACKER

Holly, a 6’3”, 220-pound lineman, proved that the big guys can also move. He was credited with 83 solo tackles, had part of 51 more and added pressure to the opposition all season long. Holly’s stats include 3 sacks and a forced fumble in his role as linebacker. Offensively, his blocking was crucial to the ’Canes’ scoring this season.

10

Robert “RJ” Dube

SENIOR, CORAL SHORES RUNNING BACK/LINEBACKER

Offensively, Dube rushed for 101 yards this season and had five catches for 51 yards and a pair of TDs. Defensively is where he had the greatest impact, though. Dube chalked up 61 solo tackles and was part of 25 others.

He wreaked havoc with his pass-rushing by breaking up 6 passes, blocking 2 punts, causing a fumble and catching an interception.

1

Dantay Diorio

JUNIOR, CORAL SHORES WIDE RECEIVER/LINEBACKER

At wide receiver, Diorio had 9 receptions for 170 yards and 2 touchdowns.

He rushed 80 times for 750 ground yards and 14 rushing TDs, totaling 920 all-purpose yards this season. Diorio’s stats do not end there; on defense he racked up 39 solo tackles, 9 assists, 3 tackles for losses, a pair of pressures, 5 blocked passes, a sack and an interception.

Much to the dismay of his opponents, Diorio returns next season for the ’Canes.

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 11, 2024

Isaac Holmes

SENIOR, CORAL SHORES WIDE RECEIVER/LINEBACKER

Holmes was responsible for a total of 8 touchdowns for the ’Canes in his senior season. He had 8 catches for 202 yards and two receiving touchdowns. He rushed for 383 yards on the ground, scoring four TDs on his feet, and was 12 for 27 passing, hooking up with other receivers for a pair of passing touchdowns. Holmes was also credited with a 2-point conversion.

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Adrian Mira

SENIOR, KEY WEST QUARTERBACK/LINEBACKER

Key West’s signal caller chalked up 284 passing yards this season, connecting for 7 touchdowns in the air, but speed and brutish running were Mira’s strong suit this season. He ran for 689 yards and 5 touchdowns on the ground, giving Key West a dual-threat QB.

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Eddie Moline

SENIOR, KEY WEST OFFENSIVE TACKLE/LINEBACKER

Senior lineman Eddie Moline created wide swaths of real estate to help the Conchs rush for nearly 3,500 yards this season. His stats include 43 tackles, three of which were for a loss.

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Noah Mercer

SOPHOMORE, KEY WEST TIGHT END/DEFENSIVE END

Just a sophomore, Key West’s Noah Mercer disrupted opposing teams with 48 tackles, seven for a loss, plus a pair of sacks to his credit.

Offensively, the tight end had two receptions, both for touchdowns and a total of 56 receiving yards this season. Mercer returns for two more seasons to further develop his skills with the Conchs.

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Walson Morin

JUNIOR, KEY WEST RUNNING BACK

Morin rushed for 966 yards this season. The agile junior averaged 11 yards per carry, resulting in 11 touchdowns.

A truly stealthy athlete with plenty of speed, Morin returned one kickoff 95 yards for a Conch TD. Morin returns next season for more action with Key West.

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Marco Davila

SENIOR, KEY WEST KICKER

In his three years on Key West’s roster, senior kicker Marco Davila has been consistent, making the point-after attempts an afterthought for the Conchs.

This season he tacked on 31 in 32 attempts. He booted the ball into the end zone 23 times on kickoffs this season alone, setting a new career record for Key West (43).

Multiple colleges are wooing Davila in hopes of adding the dynamic kicker to their rosters.

1

Clerff Alexandre

SENIOR, KEY WEST RUNNING BACK/CORNERBACK

Clerff Alexandre helped lock down the Conchs’ defense with 30 tackles this season. The senior running back rushed for 524 yards, averaging over 10 yards per carry. Using his explosive speed, Alexandre crossed the goal line twice this season for a pair of TDs.

6

Jaden Fox

JUNIOR, KEY WEST RUNNING BACK/LINEBACKER

Truly a workhorse, Key West’s Jaden Fox rushed for 507 yards this season, despite missing multiple games due to a series of injuries.

The junior running back refused to go down, earning extra yards for the Conchs with each carry. He racked up four touchdowns for Key West this season, averaging 6.8 yards per carry. On defense, he registered 27 tackles, two of which were for losses.

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JANUARY 11, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

11

Braulio Garcia

JUNIOR, MARATHON B-BACK/LINEBACKER

Garcia was a two-year lineman for Marathon and made the transition to Bback and linebacker appear effortless. He improved each game, becoming one of the Fins’ deadliest threats on the ground. The honor student is described as tough and with good instincts, which helped him amass 392 yards on the ground and 7 touchdowns this season. Defensively, he had 22 tackles, 13 of which were solo.

2

Fabbianho Louis Jeune

JUNIOR, MARATHON WINGBACK/ SAFETY/KICKER

A jack of all trades, Louis Jeune never left the field this season. Offensively, he rushed for 344 yards and received another 301. Defensively, he boasts 50 tackles plus 2 interceptions. As the Fins’ kicker, he had 9 extra points and 1 field goal, splitting the uprights at 51 yards out for a new school record.

His team looks to him as a leader and Fins fans look to him as a playmaker, knowing that when “Fab” has the ball, anything can happen.

5

Tanner Ross

JUNIOR, MARATHON FULLBACK/LINEBACKER

Fins fullback Tanner Ross ran for 311 yards for Marathon this season, using his speed and physicality to break tackles and move the chains. He used his intellect to find success for Marathon otherwise hopeless situations. The hard-working junior gives 100% effort, 100% of the time. His coach says his greatest asset is his heart and that he conducts himself in a manner which inspires others on and off the field.

77

Matthew Delgado

SOPHOMORE, MARATHON LINEMAN

Delgado anchored the offensive line at Marathon this season, playing outside tackle in the single wing offense, a position described as the “tip of the spear.” The Fins’ entire running game hinged on Delgado’s ability to do his job, and he did not disappoint. Just a sophomore, he improved each game and has been putting in the work this offseason to lay the groundwork for a solid junior campaign.

1

Carlos Lezcano

JUNIOR, MARATHON TAILBACK/LINEBACKER

Marathon’s go-to man on offense, Lezcano is a dependable passer and rusher.

The dual-threat tailback led the Fins in both this season, passing for 371 yards and rushing for 558 for 929 allpurpose yards for Marathon.

Lezcano is a dedicated athlete who was praised for never missing a single practice all season and always showing up ready to work.

55

Eduardo Garcia

SOPHOMORE, MARATHON LINEMAN

Just a sophomore, Ed Garcia is already a staple for Marathon’s offensive and defensive lines. Garcia spent the summer in the weight room preparing for his sophomore season, and his hard work proved worthwhile, helping him register 6 solo tackles and a sack while holding the line for Marathon. He is described as an excellent student athlete who is dependable and hard-working with an unstoppable motor.

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 11, 2024

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

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FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Florida Keys Therapy located at 143 Atlantic Circle Drive, Tavernier, Florida 33070 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Jacqueline Ravelo, LCSW LLC Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 3:00 p.m., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/83842542220 Meeting ID: 838 4254 2220 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 83842542220# US +13017158592,, 83842542220# US (Washington DC) All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

phoning 305-292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

81465578367# US All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

at 9:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider adopting the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, DESIGNATING THE MONROE COUNTY SHERIFF AS THE CHIEF CORRECTIONAL OFFICER OF MONROE COUNTY PURSUANT TO F.S. 951.061(1) RETROACTIVE TO MARCH 1, 2009, AND RATIFYING ALL ACTIONS TAKEN BY THE MONROE COUNTY SHERIFF AS CHIEF CORRECTIONAL OFFICER SINCE MARCH 1, 2009; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION INTO THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The proposed ordinance may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by viewing the agenda packet for the January 31, 2024 meeting, which will be posted beginning on January 23, 2024 at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/citizens/default.aspx.

The ordinance may also be viewed at the Monroe County Attorney’s office at 1111 12th St. Ste. 408 Key West, FL 33040.

The public can participate in the January 31, 2023 meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, FL by attending in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link can be found in the agenda at http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30a.m.—5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voiceimpaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners.

Dated at Key West, Florida, this 5th day of January, 2024.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Ex Officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that The Pigeon Key Foundation located in Marathon, Florida is seeking bids on the Pigeon Key Flooring Project.

Interested parties should email pigeonkey@aol.com for details related to bids and the project with the subject line: PIGEON KEY FLOORING PROJECT Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED 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: JANUARY 11, 2024.

Co-Personal Representatives: KIMBERLY K. CLARK 253 W Shenandoah Street Tucson, Arizona 85737 SUSAN M. KAZMAIER 51 Plainfield Road Concord, Massachusetts 01742 Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0147273 Turner & Lynn, P.A. 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com Publish: January 11 & 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Ceremonies by the Sea Wedding & Events located at 7200 Aviation Blvd., Marathon, Florida 33050 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Notary by the Sea LLC Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Phil’s Canvas Key West located at 7281 Shrimp Road, Key West, Florida 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Phantom Assets LLC Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meeting & Committee Workshop The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings in person.

The access points to attend for members of the public to provide public input will be: Art in Public Places Committee Workshop Tuesday, Jan 16, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Time RSVP required to director@ keysarts.com Board of Directors and Annual Meeting Thursday January 25, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Time Crane Point, Marathon Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District I Advisory Committee (DAC I) of the Monroe County Tourist

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/87846809256 Meeting ID: 878 4680 9256 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 87846809256# US +19292056099,, 87846809256# US (New York) All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District III Advisory Committee (DAC III) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/87426116508 Meeting ID: 874 2611 6508 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 87426116508# US +13126266799,, 87426116508# US (Chicago) All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/81465578367 Meeting ID: 814 6557 8367 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 81465578367# US +16469313860,,

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District V Advisory Committee (DAC V) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/81500910239 Meeting ID: 815 0091 0239 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 81500910239# US +13092053325,, 81500910239# US All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on January 31, 2024,

SUDOKU SOLUTION

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that The Pigeon Key Foundation located in Marathon, Florida is seeking bids on the Paint Foreman Dorm re: Roof Project.

Interested parties should email pigeonkey@aol.com for details related to bids and the project with the subject line: PAINT FOREMAN DORM RE ROOF PROJECT Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS INVITATION TO BID All interested parties are hereby notified that the City of Marathon is accepting sealed bids for the “CITY OF MARATHON, City Marina Storage Loft.”

The construction of this project consists of labor, materials and equipment necessary to complete the installation of an elevated deck, railing, and stairs for additional storage as per plans.

Bid documents may be examined at City Hall, 9805 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida. Bid documents may also be examined online at www.demandstar.com. All bids must be submitted in sealed envelopes to the City Clerk on or before January 26th at 3:00 pm local time.

Any bids received after 3:00 pm on said date will not be accepted and will be returned unopened. Bids submitted will be opened publicly and read aloud at this time in City Hall located at 9805 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida, on the same date. The City assumes no responsibility for bids not properly marked.

A non-mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on Tuesday January 16th, 2024 at 10:00 am beginning at Marathon City Marina, located at 800 35th St Ocean, Marathon, Florida.

The purpose of the Pre-Bid Conference is to discuss the contents of this Invitation to Bid and Bidder’s inquiries and view the work site.

Prospective Bidders shall not contact or otherwise communicate with City staff or City officials except as set forth in the Instructions to Bidders.

The City reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive informalities, except timely submission of bids, in any bids received, to readvertise for bids or to take any other such actions that may be deemed in the best interests of the City.

Publish: January 11, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 23-CP-000141-PK IN RE: ESTATE OF PATRICIA H. KAZMAIER Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of PATRICIA H. KAZMAIER, deceased, whose date of death was October 19, 2023; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 23-CP-000141PK, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 23-CP-000142-PK IN RE: ESTATE OF PHYLLIS E. DALIA Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of PHYLLIS E. DALIA, deceased, whose date of death was December 6, 2023; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 23-CP-000142-PK, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070.

The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

13

JANUARY 11, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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: JANUARY 11, 2024.

Personal Representative: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: SANDRA T. LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 827177 Turner & Lynn, P.A. 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 sturnerlynn@gmail.com Publish: January 11 & 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-7-K DIVISION: FAMILY SHANIN OURADA Petitioner, and, ROBERT OURADA, JR. Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE TO: ROBERT OURADA, JR. RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 19442 CANAL DRIVE, SUGARLOAF KEY, FL 33042 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 Shanin Ourada, whose address is 50 Sands Road, Big Pine Key, FL 33043 on or before February 10, 2024, 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.

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: January 5, 2024 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: January 11, 18 & 25 and February 1, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 23-CP-000123-P IN RE: ESTATE OF BARBARA MARY PRIESTMAN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of BARBARA MARY PRIESTMAN, deceased, File Number 23-CP-000123-P, whose date of death was April 23, 2023 and whose social security number is XXX-XX-8225, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Ste.2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: January 11, 2024.

Signed on January 3, 2024.

Personal Representative BRADLEY PRIESTMAN, Petitioner Attorney for Personal Representative: VINCENT J. OWOC, ESQ. Florida Bar Number 794449 Attorney for Petitioner Vincent J. Owoc, P.A. 4801 S. University Dr., Ste. 203 Davie, FL 33328 Telephone: (954) 680-8000 Email: vincentowoc@msn.com Publish: January 11 & 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED

AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks.

Runs or Not. $CASH 305-332-0483 BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-610-8002 Place your BOAT SLIP FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305743-0844 today!

CAMPING SITE

Camping site at marina available in Marathon.

305-610-8002

COMMERCIAL

SPACE FOR RENT New warehouses for rent in the Upper Keys.

4 units avail., 600 sq ft each, 20 ft. high ceilings, ½ bath in each unit. $2,500.00/month. 3059 2 4 - 0 5 9 3 EMPLOYMENT Pigeon Key in Marathon is seeking a Customer Service Rep/ Ramp Attendant. to join our island team.

Position includes greeting customers, giving information and taking admissions.

Outgoing professionals can contact p i g e o n k e y @ a o l. co m for additional details.

Hiring: Lead Gutter Installer - EXPERIENCE REQUIRED – valid Driver’s License - must be comfortable with heights - located in Tavernier. To apply, please call or text Jay 305-587-1581.

Looking for happy personality with good customer service skills to complete staff in fun Keys Gift Shop in Marathon. Part time to start. Call 305 731 6947 for appointment.

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 Marathon Auto Air looking for Shop Help - full or part-time. Pay based on experience.

Apply in person at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-289-9884 Boat rental company in Marathon needs an Outboard Mechanic.

Some general marina work, and boat experience a plus.

Call 305-481-7006 The Housing Authority Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: PT Receptionist, Assistant to Director of Housing, Housing Assistant-Key West, Occupancy & Admissions AssistantKey West, Protective Service Aide, Housing ManagerMiddle Keys, HVAC Maintenance Mechanic, and Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker). To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621 Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

305.743.0844

HOBBIES/COLLECT. P R I V A T E C O L L E C T O R WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & W a t c h e s .

Call 305-743-4578 HOUSING FOR RENT

2 BR/2.5 BA, Key Largo, furnished, boat slip included up to 28' boat, dockage right behind the unit. Long term or vacation rental. $4,800/ month 305-202-1030 LONG TERM Key Largo 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access.

Very nice community. $ 3 5 0 0 / m o n t h 786-258-3127 Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, fully furnished in Marathon.

Available now. $2,000/month includes electric, water, sewer, cable, internet.

No Pets. 305-610-8002 2 Bedroom 1 Bath house in Marathon.

Tile & carpet floors, new appliances, gated property. No pets.

305-610-8002 Place your Housing For Rent ad here. $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.

PERSONALS

BEACH HOUSE VACATION! Caretaker couple needed for Bahamas Beach House for 3-4 months. Call or text 305-439-9991

CS FIELD REPRESENTATIVE LOCATION: MARATHON

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for a Customer ServiceField Rep. to work out of our Marathon Office. This position acts as a liaison between the FKAA and customers out in the field and at the customer’s property. Work involves managing meter reading data and minor repairs to the water distribution system.

Must have a High School; Diploma or GED and valid Florida Driver’s License. Must obtain a FDEP Level 3 license w/within 18 mos. of hire date. Salary: $50,376.48 annually. Excellent benefits.

Apply online at www.fkaa.com/212/opportunities EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS LOCATION: MARATHON

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for Distribution System Operators to perform semi-skilled work, involving the repair and maintenance of FKAA water distribution and transmission systems. We provide on the job training for qualified applicants. Requires a High School, Diploma or GED and valid Florida Driver’s License. Salary: $48,909.19. Excellent benefits and opportunities for advancement.

Apply online at www.fkaa.com/212/opportunities EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

$$$ OFFICE ASSISTANT $$$

DYNASTY MARINE ASSOCIATES, MARATHON, FL

Large RV Waterfront Lot with Dockage for rent in Marathon.

Full hook up. $1950/ month plus utilities.

F/L/S 305-731-5042

Duties to include invoice and inventory entry, 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.

Competitive compensation plus benefits.

Large RV Lot for Rent in Marathon.

Full hook up. $1600/ month plus utilities.

F/L/S 305-731-5042

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

RV LOT FOR RENT

VACATION RENTAL

Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum.

Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to S c h o o n e r Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/ n i g h t .

SweetCarolineSeaport. c o m YARD SALES

Place your YARD SALE ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

HAPPY NEW YEAR from The Keys Weekly Newspapers!

WE ARE HIRING! PLANT STORE/NURSERY ASSOCIATE (PT) SAT – MONDAY 9AM – 5 PM Position requires a min. of high school completion and 1 yr exp. Must be knowledgeable in tropical plants and have good social/business skills, above average computer skills (knowledge of POS a plus). Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. FL driver’s license w/good driving record, references and background screening required.

DIRECT CARE STAFF /DRIVER AT ADULT DAY TRAINING PROGRAM KW (FT/PT)

This position is available at our Adult Day program. This position provided direct care service and support to our clients in the day program. This position requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. FL Driver’s license w/clean driving record, English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Pre-employment training online and in person required.

MARC | 1401 Seminary St, Key West | www.marchouse.org

Come join our family! EOE

14

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 11, 2024

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 PAPA JOE’S WATERFRONT in Islamorada is in final stages of construction and looking forward to an end-of-January opening!!

Work with the BEST!

• Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance • Tuition Reimbursement • Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Time • 401K Employer Match • Quarterly Cash Profit Sharing • Fun, Fast-Paced Environment • Great Hours

Voted Best Bank 2014 - 2023 Key West

Now accepting applications via email for the following positions: Admin/Office-Manager Assistant General Manager Restaurant/Floor Manager(s) Beverage/Bar Manager Sous Chef(s) Kitchen Manager/Supervisor(s)

Full Time Teller Customer Service Representative/ Online Banking

Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers

Member FDIC

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

EOE-M/F/V/D

• Bussers • Hosts • Line Cooks • Waitstaff • Bartenders • Dishwashers • Bar Backs Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

We are now beginning to assemble our management team.

If you’re interested in any of these listed employment opportunities, please email your resume to FrankS@PapaJoesWaterfront.com Please be sure to attach your resume, contact info, & position(s) of interest.

Please No calls, No walk-ins at this time.

Thank you.

SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING

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 field required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Office located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

Equal Housing Lender

HEAVY DIESEL MECHANIC We are hiring a heavy diesel mechanic with experience working on John Deere, Caterpillar, Kubota, etc.

Monday-Friday with some overtime available.

Please apply at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc. 129 Toppino Industrial Dr, Key West – ask for Cheryl 305-296-5606 extension 126

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE We are now hiring for the following positions:

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

15

JANUARY 11, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 OPENINGS AVAILABLE TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL - Customer Service Coordinator - Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Medical Technologist, Laboratory - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Ultrasound, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - MH Multiplace Hyperbaric Tech - Pool Group Exercise Instructor - Pool Physical Therapist - Registered Nurse, $25k Sign-on Bonus*

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL - Cook, Dietary, $5k Sign-on Bonus* - Emergency Department Team Coordinator - Environmental Tech, $5k Sign-on Bonus* - Manager Food Service - Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Care Manager, Emergency Department, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Experience Advocate - Pharmacy Tech, $4k Sign-on Bonus* - Phlebotomist, Laboratory - Pool Physical Therapist - Registered Nurse, Oncology-Outpatient, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Security Officer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. *Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.

APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals.

Overtime and benefits are available.

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

Network Administrator

Ensure the stable operation of the computer networks. This includes planning, developing, installing, configuring, maintaining, supporting, and optimizing all network hardware, software, and communication links.

Pool & Landscape Technician Experienced in landscaping, hardscape install, irrigation and lighting systems. Competitive compensation plus benefits.

Construction Foreman

Coordination and participation in the day-to-day on site construction process, to the highest quality standards.

THEME: YEAR-IN-REVIEW

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

IS HIRING! Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Facilities Maintenance Apprentice (Full-Time, Permanent)

Education Program Host (Full-Time, Permanent)

Staff Photographer

(Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal)

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

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

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 LARGO

Advocate (PT) Behavioral Health Counselor (Child)

KEY WEST

Peer Support Specialist Prevention Specialist Advocate Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) Behavioral Health Counselor (Child) Case Manager (Adult)

MARATHON

Housekeeper Prevention Specialist Admission Specialist Care Coordinator (PT) Driver (CDL) Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) RNs/LPNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem) Peer Support Specialist *Support Worker – Assisted Living (PT) *Behavioral Health Technicians 3 shifts (also Per Diem)

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

*No experience required for this position. Will train.

A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Teaching... Learning... Caring

Background and drug screen req.

COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

Check out all available positions at: www.westcare.com (search by zip code) EEOC/DFWP

58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL

ACROSS 1. *Herald, Idalia or Ophelia 6. Do this in the bud 9. Parts of play 13. Cocoon dwellers 14. Paleozoic or mesozoic, e.g.

15. Alexandre Duma’s “The Black ____” 16. Concerning, archaic 17. Talking Heads’ “And She ____” 18. Give a speech 19. *2023 World Series winners 21. *Imploded submersible’s destination 23. *Kali Uchis’ “I Wish ____ Roses” 24. Don’t step on it twice!

25. *Ryan Gosling’s #48 Across role 28. Winter window picture 30. Imprisons 35. Aphrodite’s son 37. Hindu serpent deity 39. Toughness 40. Angler’s hope 41. Stephen Curry, e.g.

43. Opposed to 44. Tastes like lemon 46. Seven-year desire 47. Turf alternative 48. *Highest-grossing 2023 movie to-date 50. Chris Hemsworth’s repeating role 52. Auction batch 53. Cheese on Peloponnese 55. Kombucha, e.g.

57. *Retired media magnate 61. *King Charles III’s Royal House 65. On the radio (2 words) 66. *Ryder Cup 2023 runner-up 68. 1000 kilograms 69. “Beat it!”

70. Lake, in France 71. Manila hemp 72. Foot digits 73. Freudian topic 74. Runner

DOWN 1. Joust verbally 2. Cat food flavor 3. Word before sesame 4. Gangly 5. Type of shower 6. *Company from which #57 Across retired, ____ Corp 7. Nest egg, acr.

8. Trattoria staple 9. Sign of a saint 10. Kin group 11. South American monkey 12. Design detail, for short 15. Sacred objects on a pole 20. Bitterly regretting 22. Dwight D. Eisenhower 24. Boat race 25. Meat on a stick 26. “Fear of Flying” author Jong 27. Post-it user 29. *Site of tragic wildfires 31. Objectivity preventer 32. Declare invalid 33. Like 1950s style, today 34. *”The Eras Tour” star 36. Balkan native 38. St. Louis attraction 42. Hindu garment 45. Combining two forms 49. What kneecap and leech have in common 51. Airbnb offering 54. Northernmost land, to the ancients 56. a.k.a. adobar or carne de vinha d’alhos 57. Lion’s share 58. Beyond natural, in U.K. 59. Steak preference 60. Days, in Havana 61. *Showtime’s “____: The Aftermath” 62. Certain social media message 63. A third of thrice 64. Infantry’s last rows 67. *____-AFTRA