Marathon Weekly 25-0522

The moment is now

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9709 Overseas Hwy.

Marathon, FL 33050

Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

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Locals left their competition eating dust in the Keys 100 ultramarathon team relay on May 17, winning the race with an average pace of 6:15 per mile. From left: Bucky Wile, Vance Bursa, Jakub Bursa, Adam Matyi, Aydan Child, Tony Bursa and Owen Allen. CONTRIBUTED

SPEEDY SEVEN

Local distance running standouts demolish Keys 100

Take a few former 7 Mile Bridge Run champs, combine them with extreme triathletes, and toss in a few more runners who perennially sit atop race leaderboards in Monroe County – put another way, assemble the Keys’ own Avengers of distance running. Then, tell them to go run 100 miles as fast as they can, and enjoy the show.

On May 17, first-place squad PeaK Pulse left no doubt in the team relay of the Keys 100 ultramarathon, keeping the pedal to the metal from Key Largo to Key West and completing the course in 10 hours, 26 minutes and 20 seconds.

We’ll save you the calculator –that’s an AVERAGE of 6 minutes, 15 seconds per mile, all done in mid-80s temperatures without a cloud in the sky. The team arrived in Key West nearly 28 minutes before their next competitors, smashed their “kind of brutal” goal of 11 hours – their words, not ours – and

topped the winning relay time from 2024 by more than an hour.

“Honestly, I just wanted to make as stacked a team as possible,” said Aydan Child, the 2019 Marathon High graduate and 2018 7 Mile Bridge Run champ who hatched the idea for PeaK Pulse’s squad with Marathon triathlete John “Bucky” Wile. Recruiting fellow triathlete Adam Matyi, the crew added Key West native and 2025 bridge run champ Owen Allen before turning to the Bursa brothers, Big Pine-based distance phenoms.

Fresh off their Marathon High School outdoor track season, the roster initially included younger brothers Vance and Tony, but a foot fracture sidelined Vance just days before the race, forcing a last-minute step-in by elder brother Jakub.

No longer involved in competitive racing since his 2024 graduation, Jakub told the Weekly he’d been running only eight miles per week, with most of his recent workouts replaced by distance cycling. And with essentially zero training fitting the nature of the race, the oldest Bursa brother turned in what his teammates called an “MVP performance,” nearly equaling his pace from high school races to match the team average during his 13 assigned miles.

“We didn’t know what to expect, and he came in and absolutely crushed it – the same (pace) as Bucky and I,” said Child. “Jakub stepping up and being able to hang in there and put that much heart and effort into it – that was crazy to see.”

Bursa wasn’t alone in gutting out a technically sound and blazing fast performance. Taking on the bridge he conquered just one month earlier, Allen gladly traded a heavy headwind from April for the heat of May, reportedly lighting up the seven-mile span in less than 40 minutes and dropping his pace below his championship-winning speed by more than 20 seconds per mile.

Taking advantage of nearly every opportunity to pass the baton, the team was the picture of consistency, hitting the 50-mile mark in exactly 5 hours and 13 minutes. And although some 50-mile relay teams had already reached the Seven Mile Bridge as PeaK Pulse passed through “downtown” Marathon, by the time they hit Key West, the crew had left even that race’s top finishers behind.

While he couldn’t pound the pavement as one of the team’s fastest projected runners, his teammates had high praise for Vance’s role in facilitating the entire 100-mile effort. “I was water boy, transition boy, fueling boy, hydration boy,” laughed Vance.

“It was a whole system, and we trusted each other,” said Tony. “We were all into it. It’s not like a race where it’s just you against you – you use the whole team, and it’s a lot more entertaining.”

“It was nothing but a great time,” said Child. “Vance was in a boot, but he had water, ice packs, keeping everything sorted and orderly. Having everything come to fruition and accomplishing our goals, and just all being there together at the end was really nice.”

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

MHS graduate and 2018 7 Mile Bridge Run champion Aydan Child leads team PeaK Pulse across the finish line in Key West to complete the Keys 100. CONTRIBUTED

MESSAGE SHERIFF FROM THE

NEW KEY WEST AIRPORT TERMINAL SOARS

County officials cut ribbon to open Concourse A

The new terminal at Key West International Airport has been open for more than a month, but county officials officially cut the ribbon on May 20. And what a difference from the old downstairs departure area that made waiting at the DMV feel like a pleasure.

The new Concourse A has sky-high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and even allglass jetways connect the planes to the gates, replacing the drab tunnel-like structures at most airports.

The new Chili’s bar and restaurant is open, and its bar was packed the morning of the recent grand-opening ceremony. The seating is comfortable and abundant, with work stations and charging ports for laptops and tablets. And the bathrooms are beautiful.

“It looks like a real airport,” one of the contractors said proudly before the ribboncutting.

But the new Concourse A is more, much more. It’s state of the art. The glass wall panels

can be switched from clear to opaque and withstand 200 mph winds. The dots on the glass are there to prevent birds from seeing their reflection — and heading straight into the glass.

Now, if we can just get the new baggage claim area up and running, the Key West International Airport will be a perfectly finished product. Don’t worry, that phase of construction is next and should be up and running this next year.

1. Monroe County Mayor Jim Scholl joins businessman Robert Spottswood at the May 20 ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Concourse A at the airport. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

2. The new Concourse A at Key West International Airport offers eight gates, vaulted ceilings and floor-toceiling glass walls. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

3. What a difference from — and improvement over — the old and overcrowded departure area at Key West airport. BRITT MYERS/Keys Weekly

4. The new Chili’s at the airport offers a takeout counter as well as dining room and bar seating. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

KEY COLONY COMMISSION TACKLES WASTEWATER, STORMWATER ASSESSMENTS

City’s hotels will face the largest hikes

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

The Key Colony Beach City Commission moved through some hefty housekeeping in its May 15 session, addressing wastewater and stormwater charges, a vehicle purchase and a potential reopening of the city’s boat ramp among a laundry list of administrative items.

Changes coming for wastewater, stormwater

Changes will be coming in next year’s tax assessments for KCB’s business and residential wastewater and stormwater charges, after separate discussion of each by the commission.

A minimum wastewater charge of $64 per month for commercial properties will increase to $71 per month, in line with the fee assessed on residential properties. The change, the commission said, will have the largest effect on two hotels within the city – the Key Colony Beach Motel and Glunz Ocean Beach Club – as each will eventually be charged based on their water usage or the minimum commercial fee multiplied by each property’s number of rental units.

The city’s shopping center on Sadowski Causeway will also see a noticeable increase from its $240-permonth flat fee to a rate of $426 per month, reflecting the center’s six unique commercial shops. Changes will take effect in October to align with the city’s new fiscal year.

“Please make sure that we are very clear that this is an error that has been going on for years, and they have benefited,” said Mayor Freddie Foster. “If they think they’re being punished, they actually benefited for many, many years.”

Stormwater rates, admittedly more difficult to assess as rainwater flowing from a property is not measured, will remain the same – but some commercial properties will also see overdue adjustments in the stormwater “units” assessed per property.

Revenue raised from stormwater assessments covers maintenance costs for the city’s systems designed to handle rainwater and prevent runoff into canals, commissioner Tom Harding said. However, the roughly $130,000 collected each year by the city in stormwater assessments is inadequate

to bolster reserves and complete any major stormwater projects, increasing the city’s reliance on grants, he said.

Residential units within the city, are currently assessed at $80 per household, while commercial accounts are billed at $165 per unit – both rates were raised in 2024.

Similar to wastewater assessments, Harding said, larger multi-unit hotels have long paid a disproportionately low share of stormwater fees. In 2024, two 46- and 40-unit hotels paid $660 and $330, respectively, for four and two assessed commercial units, versus $4,080 paid by a 51-unit condo complex.

Harding said that while he couldn’t justify a rate increase for the coming year, the number of units assessed per commercial property merited a closer look. Moving individually through each commercial property in the city, the commission readjusted billed units, also set to take effect in October. Glunz Ocean Beach Club, the Key Colony Beach Motel and Causeway Shopping Center will see the most significant increases, in line with their individual rental units and commercial storefronts.

In other news:

• Anonymous letters and comments sent without specific resident names attached, received by the city on a regular basis, will be retained for public record, but will not be discussed in future meetings, the commission announced. “They are public record, because they are sent to us, but you can give them the weight that you would an unsigned document,” City Attorney Dirk Smits said.

• A new Polaris Utility Terrain Vehicle, approved for purchase in the amount of $22,898, will assist the city’s building department and should serve as an asset for maneuvering trailers in the city’s storage lots as well as potential post-storm operations.

• Following a resident request and brief discussion, the commission agreed to explore reopening the city’s boat ramp, set behind City Hall on 7th Street. The ramp is used in very limited capacities by law enforcement agencies. Resident suggestions included allowing access only to Key Colony homeowners, an idea the commission said would prove difficult as Marathon allows KCB residents free access to its three public boat ramps.

BLEACHWATCH NEEDS ‘EYES ON THE WATER’

Summertime in the Florida Keys is when local coral reefs may begin to show signs of heat-driven bleaching, a stress response which increases susceptibility to disease, predation and mortality. Mote Marine Laboratory, in partnership with Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, is seeking volunteers to monitor and report on reef conditions throughout the Keys.

Mote and the sanctuary will host BleachWatch training sessions to engage volunteer divers and snorkelers. BleachWatch provides critical monitoring data before, during and after coral bleaching events in the sanctuary.

As a community-based reporting program, BleachWatch relies on a large network of trained observers to be “eyes on the water,” providing regular reports on actual coral conditions. This field observation data is synthesized with NOAA’s monitoring data to provide scientists, resource managers and the public summaries of current conditions on Florida reefs. The data is also essential to inform future restoration strategy.

Mote’s BleachWatch program has operated since 2005 in partnership with the sanctuary, part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). BleachWatch receives funding from the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation and from the Protect

Our Reefs grants program, which distributes funds from sales of Florida’s Protect Our Reefs specialty license plate.

How to participate in Florida Keys BleachWatch: Recreational and professional divers and snorkelers can get involved by attending an upcoming training session led by Mote. Sessions last about 90 minutes. No scientific background is needed.

• Tuesday, May 27: 6 p.m. at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, 35 Quay Road, Key West.

• Thursday, May 29: 6 p.m. at Mote’s International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration, 24244 Overseas Highway, Summerland Key.

• Saturday, June 7: 10 a.m. at Marathon City Hall, 9805 Overseas Highway, Marathon.

• Monday, June 9: 6 p.m. at the Keys History & Discovery Center, 82100 Overseas Highway, Islamorada.

• Sunday, June 15: Noon at Reefhouse Resort Conference Center, 103800 Overseas Highway, Key Largo.

Pre-registration is requested at mote.org/bleachwatch. Online training is also available at mote. org/bleachwatch. More information is available from Holly Stanton via email to bleachwatch@mote. org or at 305-587-3402.

— Contributed

Healthy, sexually mature staghorn colonies at Eastern Dry Rocks near Key West in 2022. MOTE MARINE LAB/File Photo

Revive Awareness Day

JOIN US

The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County invites the public to attend this year’s Revive Awareness Day event to learn more about how to spot the signs of an overdose, how to use naloxone to reverse the effects of an overdose, and what resources and programs are available to support individuals with substance use disorder.

Friday, June 6, 2025

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Key Largo Library, 101485 Overseas Highway, Key Largo Islamorada Library, 81830 Overseas Highway, Islamorada Marathon Library, 3490 Overseas Highway, Marathon Key West Library, 700 Fleming St., Key West

WHAT IS NALOXONE?

Naloxone is a medication that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose by attaching to receptors in the brain and reversing and blocking the effects of the drug.

HOW CAN I HELP?

If you know someone in need, carry naloxone and learn to administer safely. Locate naloxone providers in your area and additional resources for community support.

MEMORIAL WEEKEND

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• Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

• Bacon Wrapped Scallops

• Barbecue Baby Back Ribs

• Grilled Ribeye Sandwiches

• Blackened Dolphin Sandwiches

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• Grilled Bratwurst

TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN GRADUATES 81

Students earned $2 million in scholarships

The flagship program of the Monroe County Education Foundation, Take Stock in Children, celebrated a banner year of graduations on May 17 at the Marathon High School Performing Arts Center.

Escorted by their mentors, a record class of 81 Take Stock scholars took the stage – representing 12% of the Class of 2025 in the Keys – to commemorate years of determination and hard work in earning more than $2 million in awarded scholarships.

Take Stock in Children is dedicated to providing scholarships and mentorship to low-income students in Monroe County, ensuring that they have the opportunity to pursue higher education. Through community support and partnerships, the program empowers students to overcome barriers and achieve their academic and career goals. To learn more about Take Stock, contact Chuck Licis-Masson at chuck. licis@monroecountyedfound.com or call 305-293-1546.

1. Take Stock graduates and staff capitalize on one final photo op for the Class of 2025.

2. Kathryn Norris, left, and Aundrea Wagner of the Key West Women’s Club congratulate KWWC’s named scholar, Laira Anaya.

3. Marathon High School Take Stock success coach Traci Driscoll celebrates the 2025 MHS Take Stock graduates.

4. Graduates Yoel Perez Gonzalez, left, Hailey Pena, Shane Miller and Dakota Mertyris await their turn on stage.

GOLDEN AGAIN

athletes statewide competing in seven sports.

“It’s amazing to witness our county’s widespread success,” said Marathon head coach Cathy Warner.

program is all about giving children with intellectual or physical disabilities a chance to play sports and experience a sense of normalcy, especially if they don't typically get that opportunity in a traditional school setting."

Marathon High School stands out for its commitment to equal recognition for all athletes. As part of the Unified Champion Schools program, MHS’ unified athletes, like those in other participating schools, can compete in sports including bowling, flag football, basketball, tennis and track. This means that unified soccer players, both with and without intellectual disabilities, have the opportunity to earn recognition as varsity athletes. MHS reinforces this inclusivity with welcome-home ceremonies for their Special Olympics gold medalists – and this week was no exception. On May 19, the soccer team received a firetruck escort to school, where they walked into a courtyard full of music and their cheering classmates.

award because there are probably 80 to 100 partners within our county, and she won,” said Warner. “She is incredibly deserving of this honor as she assists with goals, helps with sprained ankles, gets water for everyone and is a genuinely great kid. I am so very proud of her.”

“I was so surprised when I got the award,” said Strama. “It really feels good to be a part of the program because I get to help kids that normally wouldn’t get a chance to play soccer.”

Unified teams throughout the Keys are shining examples of a unique partnership between Special Olympics Florida and the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA). This collaboration allows students of all abilities to compete at an elite level, representing their schools in their own Unified Division at FHSAA State Championships.

These sports experiences, especially the memorable unified soccer competitions, provide invaluable moments of leadership, friendship and teamwork that students will cherish forever.

More information is at specialolympicsflorida.org

JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com

For the second time in as many years, Marathon High School's unified soccer team clinched gold at the 2025 Special Olympics Summer Games in the Level III Junior Division.

The victory was part of a remarkable showing for the Florida Keys, which saw all five unified soccer teams that competed bring home gold medals from the state championship tournament on May 16-17. Joining Marathon in their triumph were two teams from Horace O'Bryant School in Key West, one from Coral Shores High School and one from Key Largo School.

The championships, held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort and the United States Tennis Association national campus in Orlando, celebrated inclusion and ability, with over 2,500

“All of us coaches work together and encourage each other all the time. There were seven soccer teams in the Keys this year and five of them made it to states. The multiple divisions allow more kids the opportunities to play, which is so great.”

A Special Olympics unified soccer team is a unique and inspiring sports model that pairs athletes with intellectual disabilities with neurotypical “partners” on the same team. It's a cornerstone of the Special Olympics' Unified Sports program, designed to promote social inclusion, understanding and friendship through the power of sport. The fundamental idea is to foster inclusion by creating teams where individuals of diverse abilities can train and compete together. This direct interaction helps break down stereotypes and build genuine connections between teammates.

"On our unified team, we're dedicated to ensuring our athletes are the ones scoring goals, with partners focused on assisting," said Warner. "This

Athletes and partners often receive awards for sportsmanship, including county-level awards selected by Ruth Coleman, Special Olympics Florida’s sports, training and competition manager for Monroe County. One such partner is MHS student Ashley Strama, selected from dozens of partner athletes as Monroe County’s Inspirational Partner of the Year.

“This was a really prestigious

All of us coaches work together and encourage each other all the time. There were seven soccer teams in the Keys this year and five of them made it to states. The multiple divisions allow more kids the opportunities to play, which is so great.”

— Marathon head coach Cathy Warner

The Marathon unified soccer team at the championship in Orlando. From left: Ashley Strama, Chloe Rodriguez, Adrian Garcia, Sebastian Zurek, coach Cathy Warner, Tony Barera, Cindy Augustin, Angel Pierce and Alex Chavala. CONTRIBUTED

Escorted by Marathon Fire Rescue, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and City of Marathon officials, the unified soccer team arrives at school in style on May 19.

Marathon unified soccer player Ashley Strama, who won the ‘Inspirational Partner of the Year’ award for Monroe County.

$7 Menu

• Chicken wings, chicken livers and More!

• 32 beers on tap 1/2 off 2pm - 3pm

* $2 Pints of Yuengling and Bud Light!

BREAKFAST SERVED UNTIL 2PM

• Unique & interesting menu

• $3 Mimosas • $5 Breakfast Shots

LUNCH & DINNER

• New Sandwich Options

• Diver Speared Local Fish

• Prime Rib • Lobster

• Cook Y • Great Seafood Selections

SUSHI • Toro

Lionfish

Fresh Uni arrives

Jody & Lynn Represented the Sellers of: 417 Harbour Drive, Duck Key Sold for

OPEN MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION, INC.

TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2025, AT 1:00 P.M.

FKEC TAVERNIER HEADQUARTERS, BOARD ROOM

GRAPPLING WITH SUCCESS

Marathon wrestler Costa Tuttle takes the national stage

JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com

Most teenagers in the Florida Keys might be hitting the beach after school, but Marathon’s Costa Tuttle is more likely to be found on the wrestling mat. The 13-year-old has been dedicated to the sport since the age of 4, and when he’s not hitting the mats for Coral Shores’ school squad, he hones his skills at IsleStyle Wrestling Club under the guidance of head coach Dante Jiovenetta and assistant coach Zachary Sherman.

Tuttle recently competed in the 50th annual Father Devine tournament in Venice, Florida, a significant event that also serves as the Florida National Team qualifier for the Florida Amateur Wrestling Association (FAWA).

On May 3, Tuttle’s skill and determination were on full display as he dominated the 14-and-under 110-pound freestyle division, winning a gold medal. The first-place finish earned the young athlete a coveted spot on the 14-U Florida National Team, setting the stage for his participation in the national championships in Oaks, Pennsylvania June 10-14.

Tuttle’s coaches had high praise for the talented wrestler, telling the Weekly they’ve continued to witness sheer determination through the ups and downs of the sport.

“This is the first time since the opening of Isle Style Wrestling Club in 2021 that it has had a Florida National Team member,” said Jiovenetta. “Costa Tuttle is a great wrestler, but more importantly, he is an extraordinary young man who is a leading example for our wrestling program and the community. He can finally enjoy the fruits of his labor.”

Hosted by USA Wrestling, the 14-U National Dual Championships serve as a proving ground for state wrestling teams from across the country. The intense competition pits teams against each other in dual meets, with the goal of establishing which state possesses the most formidable collection of young wrestlers.

wrestler Costa Tuttle poses with head coach Dante Jiovenetta, left, and assistant coach Zachary Sherman of IsleStyle Wrestling Club. CONTRIBUTED

“If I know anything about Costa Tuttle, I know he has already moved on from the accomplishment and is focused on the next task,” said Jiovenetta. “We are proud to have him represent IsleStyle on the national stage.”

In 2011, the year Tuttle was born, his coaches were on the 14-U Florida National Team together. Jiovenetta and Sherman developed a friendship that’s lasted more than a decade and has now produced their first National Team athlete as coaches.

“It is almost like the stars aligned, but it would not be possible without Costa’s unrelenting work ethic,” said Sherman. “This experience will be invaluable for Costa because he will make some lifelong friends on this trip, just like we did.”

“This was a huge accomplishment and great honor for such a young wrestler,” Sherman continued. “To represent the state of Florida and to have the opportunity to test his skills against the toughest wrestlers in his age group from all around the country is something he has been training hard for, and he is prepared to make big waves on the national level.”

IsleStyle Wrestling Club is based in Islamorada. More information is on Facebook at IsleStyle Wrestling or at islestylewrestling.com.

Marathon youth

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FOUR AIRLIFTED AFTER BOAT STRIKES SEVEN MILE BRIDGE

FWC still investigating cause of the crash

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Four young adults from the Middle Keys were airlifted to Miami after a boat they were in struck the Seven Mile Bridge in the early afternoon hours of May 17.

Seven passengers were aboard the 1976 Mako center console, operated by 17-year-old Harlie Daniels, when it collided with the bridge around 2 p.m., according to initial information released by FWC spokeswoman Arielle Callender. All of the victims were rescued from the water and transported to land by a good Samaritan, where they were later accounted for by investigators, FWC said.

On the day of the crash, FWC Capt. David Dipre told the Weekly that while some victims were transported to Miami-area hospitals, none of their injuries was believed to be life-threatening. A full report, including the cause of the crash, was not available as of May 20, Callender said, and the investigation is ongoing.

MARATHON CINEMA

Frank Woll is the local owner of the Molasses Keys, off the south side of the Seven Mile Bridge. He was on his way from the preserve to the boat ramp at the bridge’s west end when officers on land approached and asked him to take them to the scene of the crash, he said.

“We turned out to be the first boat there, except for the people who rescued the injured,” he said. “It was kind of eerie when we first arrived – just the boat was there, nobody around, and debris everywhere.”

Conducting a preliminary search for victims in the water, Woll said the attention soon turned to picking up debris from the wrecked vessel.

“We found the GPS and things like that, important stuff that we thought could help the investigation,” he said. “It just seemed like an accident –maybe people going too fast.

“I’m so careful when I’m driving along that bridge – my eyes are always looking in between (the pilings) to see any boats, because they come out so fast. I’m just happy because there were no bodies or other injured people there.”

City Council Special Call Meeting

Tuesday, May 27, 2025 5:30 P.M.

City Council Items

A. City Funding of Nonprofit Organizations

B. Safe Streets 4 All (SS4A) Presentation and Public Input

Resolutions For Adoption

*A. Resolution 2025-50, Waiving The City’s Purchasing Policies And Procedures And Approving A Sole Source Purchase Of Wastewater Vacuum Sewer Collection Tank For Service Area 3 Wastewater Treatment Facility From FLOVAC, In An Amount Not To Exceed $217,972.65; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute Purchase

Orders Expend Budgeted Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.

*B. Resolution 2025-51, Awarding Project Specific Agreement for Area 3 WWTP Vacuum Tank Replacement to Weiler Engineering Corporation.; Approving A Not To Exceed Amount Of $123,757.50; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Contract And Expend Budgeted Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date. This Work May Qualify For Reimbursement Through A Grant.

The wreckage of a Mako center-console vessel floats off the Seven Mile Bridge after the boat struck the bridge with seven passengers aboard on May 17. FRANK WOLL/Contributed

A BACKSTAGE LOOK AT LAW ENFORCEMENT

MCSO celebrates 10th Citizens Police Academy graduates

On May 14, community leaders throughout the Florida Keys celebrated their twomonth “degrees” in law enforcement operations at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office 2025 Citizens Police Academy graduation ceremony.

In separate academies in the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys, students attended weekly evening sessions throughout April and May that cast a wide educational net in law enforcement topics. Classes included an introduction to patrol procedures; a tour of jail facilities; introduction to weapons: Simunitions and Taser; traffic/felony stops; crime scene investigations, including a hands-on mock crime scene; building searches; and introduction to specialty units: Bomb, Dive, SWAT, Major Crimes and Special Investigations.

“It was so important for many of you who didn’t know the sheriff’s office to come to know us,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “If you come to know us, you’re probably going to like us, trust us and respect us. We want to continue to build these partnerships and relationships with our citizens, who we’re here to work for.”

The Citizens Police Academy is now in its 10th year. Applications for each year’s academy typically open in January, with classes held throughout the spring.

Photos by ROSS SMITH/Keys

Weekly

Alan M. Nieder, MD

Nicholas Smith, MD

FOOD FOR BLOOMS

Stanley Switlik students feed worms while learning composting

What’s the best thing to do with food waste? Feed the worms. That’s precisely what Michael Sessler’s science students at Stanley Switlik Elementary School have been doing — and the results are blooming.

In October, the school launched a worm composting project to tackle food waste from the cafeteria. The goal is to reduce what ends up in the landfill and show students how waste can be recycled into something extraordinary.

MELODY TUSCHEL

is the Monroe County recycling coordinator and outreach liaison.

By January, the students had a rich supply of worm castings — also known as worm poop — ready to harvest. These nutrientpacked castings were added to the school’s raised garden beds, helping grow a vibrant mix of vegetables and herbs.

“Worm castings are like gold for plants,” said Sessler. “They’re full of nutrients that help our garden thrive — and it all came from food we didn’t throw away.”

This hands-on science project is an excellent example of a circular food waste cycle, in which waste is transformed into a valuable resource instead of being sent to the landfill.

From worms to gardens … to pickles

The garden is thriving, and the students are harvesting more than science skills. With their fresh cucumbers growing, the class is taking their project to the next level: making pickles.

Students are learning how compost supports healthy plants and how to preserve food, reduce waste and enjoy the tasty rewards of their hard work.

Stanley Switlik launched a worm composting project to tackle food waste from the cafeteria last October. By January, the students had a rich supply of worm castings for the school’s raised garden beds, helping grow a mix of vegetables including cucumbers and herbs. CONTRIBUTED

What can you feed the worms?

Want to try worm composting at home or in your classroom? Feed your worms:

• Raw fruit and vegetable scraps.

• Egg shells.

• Coffee grounds and filters.

• Tea bags.

• Avoid feeding them meat, dairy or oily foods — those can upset the worm bin.

Don’t send food waste to the landfill

Composting with worms doesn’t just teach kids about science; it also builds environmental awareness and encourages habits that support a healthier planet.

So next time you peel a banana or crack an egg, think like a Switlik student: Feed the worms — and grow something beautiful. And maybe … even make pickles!

Keep an eye on the Monroe County events calendar for composting workshops throughout the Keys. The next event, a DIY worm composting bin workshop, is set for Saturday, June 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Banyan Tree in Islamorada. Learn how compost supports a healthy garden — organically — while you shop.

FORMER MANGROVE MIKE’S RESTAURANT BOOKKEEPER CHARGED FOR ALLEGED DEFRAUDING SCHEME

Aformer bookkeeper to the late restaurateur and county commissioner Mike Forster was arrested for allegedly making tens of thousands of dollars in unauthorized purchases against his estate.

According to the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office, 71-year old Susanne Bloy was arrested on May 17 and charged with a first-degree felony of scheme to defraud. Officials say a detailed investigation revealed she allegedly spent $50,000 for online purchases through a casino gaming app with money from Forster’s estate. In September 2021, Forster passed away following a battle with COVID-19. He served on the Islamorada Village Council for a number of years before running for and being elected as Monroe County commissioner. He was widely known throughout the community as “Mangrove Mike” from all his years running Mangrove Mike’s Restaurant in Islamorada.

In the aftermath, Bloy — his trusted bookkeeper since 1998 — was appointed by family members to manage “Mangrove Mike’s Enterprises” while the estate underwent probate. However, in early 2024, prosecutors say, suspicions of financial misconduct surfaced when Forster’s niece, Paige Keil, discovered recurring Apple.com charges that had no connection to the business operations.

The probe, led by Roy Bogue, State Attorney’s Office senior investigator, revealed that from February 2022 through September 2023, Bloy allegedly used debit cards tied to Mangrove Enterprises Inc. to make repeated online purchases through a casino gaming app, Cash Frenzy - Slots Casino. The charges, amounting to over $50,000, were linked to Apple IDs and devices under Bloy’s control, including an iPad later renamed “Susanne’s iPad.” The Cash Frenzy - Slots Casino app doesn’t offer opportunities for real money gambling or the chance to win real money; more, it’s a social casino game for entertainment purposes only.

Through a subpoena issued to First State Bank and records obtained from Apple and Yahoo, investigators were able to verify Bloy was responsible for hundreds of in-app purchases charged to the Mangrove Enterprises business account. A search warrant for the email account associated with these purchases was signed by Judge Luis Garcia on April 2, 2024. Evidence showed Bloy updated the Apple ID account, changed the billing information to her name and later attempted to delete the account days before the business was transferred to the Keil family.

“This case deeply impacts the Upper Keys,” said State Attorney Dennis Ward. “Mike Forster dedicated his life to public service and generosity. During the darkest days of COVID, his restaurant kept people fed and connected. To discover that someone he trusted is accused of stealing from his legacy is absolutely unacceptable.”

“Thanks to the persistence and courage of Paige Keil, who came forward with this information, and the tireless work of Investigator Bogue, we were able to track the misuse of funds and confirm the digital trail,” said Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield.

On May 14, Judge James Morgan signed an arrest warrant for Susanne Bloy, setting bond at $50,000. She was arrested at her home by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and booked into the county jail. She posted bond and has been released pending trial. — Keys Weekly staff report

Susanne Bloy. MCSO/ Contributed

ROCKY

3-year-old male terrier mix.

Looking for: All the activities, let’s gooooo!

Turnoffs: No small kids, they aren’t my jam.

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.

See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800 or visit 10550 Aviation Blvd.

WINSLOW

12-year-old male domestic shorthair.

Looking for: A retirement home — no more life on the streets for me.

Turnoffs: When people judge me by my face. I swear I’m a sweet boy.

SAND DOLLAR

2-month-old male kitten. Looking for: Everything. I’m just a happy-go-lucky baby. Turnoffs: The FKSPCA doesn’t have enough fosters. Can you help?

We

are so proud to announce

another 80 New 2025 Graduates in Monroe County!

Ron Saunders President, Monroe County Education Foundation

On behalf of the Monroe County Education Foundation, I congratulate this year’s Take Stock in Children Class of 2025. This remarkable group of 80 exceptional scholars, representing 12% of the total graduates in Monroe County schools, are prepared to begin their next chapter in education with a Florida Prepaid college scholarship.

This monumental achievement coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Take Stock in Children program in Monroe County, marking a significant milestone in the organization's commitment to education and community support.

Over the past quarter-century, Take Stock in Children has transformed the lives of 1,082 academically and economically eligible students, with the resources and mentorship necessary to pursue their educational dreams.

This year, the Monroe County Education Foundation is awarding a remarkable $2 million in Florida Prepaid tuition scholarships, empowering these graduates as they embark on their higher education journeys.

The Monroe County Education Foundation is so very proud of this year's Take Stock graduating class, and we are very appreciative of the outstanding community support from Key Largo to Key West. We are also very thankful for our dedicated mentors who have met with the students each week during the school year, culminating in this celebratory day!

Take Stock Monroe Class of 2025!

Gabriela Aguero Londono Jamie Strunk

Laira Anaya Lori Kelly

Pablo Anaya Tanya Litz

Amanda Azard Sharon Jones

Juliette Blanchard Marie Adams

Gabriel Cervantes-Mena Alexander Fierro

Rony Deleon Maldonado David Smith

Tricia Desroches Michael Klitenick

Rose Desire Megan McDowell

Nathalie Espinoza-Salgado Halley Haack

Ruth-Shelca Floriant Carla Tynes

Danna Gonzalez Delgado Vicky Lynn Anthony

Aniya Gunn William Jones

Jeremiah Harvey Esneider Gomez

Jerven Louis Persephone Summers

Dylan Martinez Nancy Masry

Shane Miller Sam Kaufman

Liz Paiz Miriam Bedrick

Andrea Acosta Robin Crampton

David Aviles Thomas McCabe

Yoselin Conde Thomas Bray

Jeffrey Dowling III John Griffin

Deanna Gumarova Mercier Amber Acevedo

Nina Manresa Rebecca Bray

Wilbens Pierre Elizabeth Regoli

Milodjina Pierrilus Karlena Wilson

Jayma Pravia Michelle Gibson

Josue Quiche Christine Smith

Nayely Sanchez Jessica Bastien

Kennith Sargent Jr. Mona Clark

Josue Thanus Raymond Casamayor

Benjamin Thene Jeff Frost

Alexander Torna Nicholas Trovato

Jose Torres Tim Maloney

Ashley Urbina Guevara Teodora Masters

Alisha Valeus Christine Trovato

Zachary Antonelli Angel Jones

Amya Barreto Milaydis Perez

Kaety Cinto Martinez Traci Driscoll

Braulio Garcia Matthew Pitcher

Daniela Gonzalez Michelle Lincoln

Gabriela Gutierrez Cathy Walters

Jefferny Pierre Dana Vega

Emily Pucuhuaranga Elizabeth Chamberlain

Shusmita Shawlin Elizabeth Liz

Samantha Torna Paige Bethel

Dumel Voltaire Dev Craig

Marisol Diaz Sherry Alana

Justin Tran Michael deBettencourt

Carlos Lezcano III Frank Westerband

Dakota Mertyris John Bartus

Hailey Peña Kristine Schluter

Yoel Perez Gonzalez Franco D'Ascanio

Celene Remis Blanco Toni Appell

Keylor Rodriguez Diaz Brian Shea

Brayan Suarez Diaz Efrain Marin

Zyan Wiggins Sarah Bartus

Angeline Zambrano Margaret Pinkus

Jennille Arias Lisa Brown

Keagan Beeler Mary Houston

Jazmyn Blassio Maureen Mueller

Teagan Eriksen Lisa Feliciano

Akeelah Gaston Laura Koeblitz

Kelmer Gomez Matthew Koval

Saharra Hernandez Esther Lerner

Ivy Hong Matthew Koval

Sarina Huerta-Isidor Peg Laron

Melany Herrada Rodriguez Kelly Vaughn

Leandro Perez Castro Scott Williamson

Alexia Stip Marissa Sivyer

Ethan Arias Henry Menendez

Micah Carr

Liam Rodriguez, Robert Murray

Liana Gomez Carolyn Wightman

Mentor

John Flynn

Stephen Franks

Gisselle Garcia

Landon Gardner Scott Gruenauer

David Hartnett

Ashley Henriquez

David Henriquez

Victoria Jones Jill Kuehnert

Jacob Kyer

Jessica Lariz Cornelia Laverty O'Connor

Ashley McMahan

Christy Meier

Andrew Morawski

Jaylin Morawski

Tanisha Multy

Derek Norman

David Parker

Amanda Rodriguez

Kelly Shaw

Jeffrey Smith

Biandrea Swire

Tyler Grant Tyson

Theressa Vergara

Paul Bean

Kinsey Black

Frank Bellido de Luna

Edward Bortree

Spenser Bryan

Sean Cambridge

Alison Joy Cipri

Rebecca Cobo

Alexandra Conn

Anthony Davis

Tisa Del Valle

Jessica Doll

Heather Durden

Savanna Edwards

Zayra Fosse

Tiffany George

Alberto Gonzalez Novoa

Andersen Harrill

Jose Hernandez

Allison Hill

Mary Houston

Melinda Hudson

Kim Jones

Jaime Kulaga

Jeffrey Lapierre

Victoria Leonard

Linda Mcleod

Alejandra Meneses

Nancy Mesinger

Maryam Middlebrook

Nicole Nored

Ayesha Osborne

Barbara Pearson

Desiree Perez

Chelsey Perry

Erin Seale

Joseph Siemens

Brian Smith

Cynthia Smith

Daniel Valdez

Marcus Varner

Michael Vaughn

Carlo Vernieri

Edward Waldorf

Miranda Acevedo

Madelin Alvarez

Ashley Arrabal

Kawana Ashe

Tami Baker

Syndi Barrera

Tyrell Bell

Christina Belotti

Alexis Bourcier

Leon Bourcier

Julie Brown

Lissette Castillo

Daniel Clark

Charlene Connell White

George Crume, Sr.

Christie Curie

Ada Del Rio

Allen Dennis

David Dornseif

Deanna Duell

Katharine Egan

Kathy Elmore

Jeanette Farinas

Mark Finigan

James Garcia, Jr

Kathleen Gillis

Crystal Hendricks

Dominique Hickory

Suzanne Holmquist

Carrie Howe

Terry Huff

Jennifer Hughes

Bailey Johnston

Brandi Jordan

Ashley Keeney

Chuck Licis-Masson

Penny Maun

Steve Miller

Leidy Monteagudo

Scott Naz

Ariel Poholek

Roma Rispoli

Ybelisse Rodriguez

Irina Rozhdestvina

James Seale

Megan Smith

Michele Staroba Rodriguez

Kirk Steputis

Bailey Sullivan

David Thompson

Terry Thompson

Amber Valdes

Rita Walton

Amanda Whalen

Boyd Williams

Monica Woll

Robert Zoba

Mitchell Akullian

Dayra Albernas

Ruth Antonowich Jill Baker

Sarah Bartus

Danette Baso Silvers

Deborah Batty

David Black

Toby Blacow

Samantha Blyer

Marilyn Brew

Shirley Brown

Jocelyn Cabrera

Ivette Chao

Jessica Connell

Anais Cuervo

Michael deBettencourt

Rosa Diaz

Jennifer Dutton

Francina Edwards

Karelys Fernandez Perez

Anita Garcia

Venus Garcia

George Garrett

Stacie Gleason

James Hager

Zully Hemeyer

Jennifer Hernandez

Roberto Hernandez

Marissa Heskett

Rachael Kaiman

Tara Kennedy

Amanda Lee

Peter Liashek

Wilmarie Lopez

Yoandra Lopez

Juan Lopez Atavia Lopez Dor

Jacqueline Luhta

Juan Martinez

Dudley Mason

Jenny Murphy

Kathryn Norris

Lynn Obringer

Timothy O'Connell

Cagle Ann Petit

Jason Rafter Laura

Rice Clara Rife Christopher Rivett

Riana Sargent Kelsey Shannon

Linda Signorelli Melissa Simmons Sharon Smith Simone Stanton Irevi Troncoso

Sharon Troncoso Meredith Tyminski

Claire Vienhage

Katelyn Weber

Ethel Westphal

Paris Winter

Kristen Winters

Dianne Wischmeier

Michele Zofchak

Stacey Bean

Juan Benitez

Alvin Bentley Evelyn Betancourt

Patricia Biagi

Daniel Carrico Christina Cory

Covington

Alyson Crean Diane Culver

Jody Del Gaizo

Frank Derfler

Darlene Eslick

Angela Ewing

Marianne Finizio

Michelle Franck Liz Goldstone

Mayredys Gonzalez

Samantha Grizzle

Krystin Guerra Catherine Guinovart Brad Hager

Doris Hawkins

Clarinda Hefner

Elizabeth Herrera

Jonathan Ingham

Julie Johnson

Angel Jones Jeanne Keefe

Keller

Bradley Kerns

Judie Klitenick

Carol Kurz

Natasha Lane

James Leonard

Lombardo Ann Lynch Robert Maykut Megan McDowell Salome McIntosh

Mendez Lopez Dawn Michelini

Michael Millard

Katrin O'Marah Anthony Pappion Corey Perloff Christopher Ramos

Colleen Reed

John Rhode

Darryl Robinson

Martin Runyon

Raymond Ruzek

Denise Santiago

Daylin Starks

Sam Steele

Robyn Still

Jamie Strunk

Krystal Thomas

Velazquez Kirsten Walsh Jennifer Ward

Katrina Wiatt

Shannon WIley

Daniel Wise

Zainya Zimmerer

Suzanna Mendoza Isis Majeska

Jhonathan Mesa Lance Hernandez

Iyali Ornelas-Sandoval Erin Shattuck

Alexia Poveda Marlene Sun-Sternberg

Paulina Soca Mary Beth Harris

Victor Espinosa-Rosello Jay Baker

Andiris Ledsma Martinez Yani Gilmore

Madyson Pons Lindsay Rehmann

SWITLIK CROWNS KICKBALL CHAMPS

Akickball tournament among the fourth- and fifth-grade classes at Stanley Switlik Elementary School already looks to be a kid-favorite event, judging by the faces of students in the second annual contest. Winners for 2025 included Kim Thompson’s fifth graders, pictured, and Trayce Zander’s fourth-grade class. ‘The difference in the early practice sessions and the final game is amazing,’ said teacher Kaia Miller, whose fifth graders won last year’s inaugural tournament. ‘Even reluctant players find themselves feeling more confident and enjoying the thrill of running the bases while their classmates cheer them on. Mr. (Bill) Eller does an amazing job at teaching them the importance of good sportsmanship and the power of communication, something these kids need both on and off the kickball field.’ Up next for the school is an ‘All-Star game’ of sorts, pitting handpicked teams against one another in a fourth-versusfifth-grade clash. CONTRIBUTED

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Announcing New Business Hours

Sun 11-1

KEYS COMMUNITY CELEBRATES THE LIFE OF MERRICK DUNN

FRANK DERFLER

www.keysweekly.com

It was a somber crowd in a beautiful setting. There were handshakes, hugs and sad smiles on long faces.

On the evening of May 16, people throughout the Upper Keys community and Homestead attended a memorial service at Harry Harris Park for Merrick James Dunn.

Dunn, a 15-year-old student at Coral Shores High School, died in a rollover crash on May 5. A memorial of flowers remains at the site of the accident near the Tavernier Towne Shopping Center.

Pastor Tony Hammon, of the Island Community Church, led the event. He talked about Merrick’s participation in athletics and his great attitude. Hammon gave credit to our community for its support.

“There is no denying the pain. But, look around you at the sharing and the love. This is what makes this community a great place,” he said.

Born on Aug. 7, 2009, Merrick was the cherished son of John Patrick Dunn and Lauren Hoefert Dunn, wonderful big brother to Colin Dunn, and a proud lifelong “Keys kid.” He was a sophomore at Coral Shores High School, where he shined as an AP student, a member of the National Honor Society, and a natural athlete on the Hurricanes swim & dive and tennis teams.

The attendees spanned all ages. There were strollers and wheel chairs.

Many of Merrick’s fellow Coral Shores students were in attendance, and there was strong support for the Dunn family who, according to Coral Shores High School’s Rich Russell, “has been part of the Keys community for four generations.”

Merrick was a cadet technical sergeant in the Homestead Air Reserve Base Civil Air Patrol Squadron — where he demonstrated leadership, commitment, and a passion for learning and service. Members of the squadron, in uniform, stood solemnly in ranks during the service. Hammon introduced Maj. Joseph Finn, Civil Air Patrol chaplain, who delivered a homily. He described Dunn as a willing student and student pilot who was enthusiastic about classes in leadership and citizenship.

Laura Lietaert, Coral Shores High School principal, followed Finn. She delivered an original poem titled “A Phone Call from the Principal’s Office.” The theme of the poem is that Merrick isn’t in school, yet he is. The poem spanned many stanzas, ending:

We turned the corner in the hallway and stood there for a while.

The bulletin board was full of pictures, all with Merrick’s smile.

They’ve created a beautiful video in remembrance of your son.

There’s a new mural in the courtyard with a sunset, almost done.

I’m leaving you this message, no need to return my call.

We’ve found Merrick in our

school spirit, it lives in the Coral Shores halls.

As Hammon was closing the memorial, a Piper Cub aircraft flew over the park. Flower petals floated down from the airplane. Local instructor pilot and builder Brett Ekblom and copilot Jake Pinder did the flyby to honor Merrick Dunn. Ekblom said, “My heart is broken for this young boy.”

Islamorada Fire Chief Terry Abel estimated the gathering at well over 1,000 people and as many as 1,400. “Five hundred people are in chairs and there are at least that many standing under the trees or in the sand. There are cars parked on both sides for the full quarter-mile of First Street.”

1: Members of the Homestead Air Reserve Base Civil Air Patrol Squadron attend the celebration of life for Merrick Dunn. 2: A large photo of Merrick Dunn is positioned in front of a stage.

3: Coral Shores Principal Laura Lietaert reads a poem she wrote in memory of Merrick Dunn. Also pictured is Pastor Tony Hammon.

4: Pastor Tony Hammon and Johnny Dunn, Merrick’s father.

5: Merrick’s parents, Johnny and Lauren, receive hugs. Also pictured is Merrick’s younger brother, Colin.

Family, friends and community members gather at Harry Harris Park Beach to attend the memorial service for Merrick Dunn, the 15-year-old Coral Shores High School student who was killed in a single-vehicle rollover accident on the evening of May 5. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

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

I’ve never trusted the word sublime, at least not enough to use it on the regular. I’ve always taken it to convey a sense of snobbery, of superior and likely condescending taste. The root of my issues, I believe, is Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” where the King and the Duke, two ne’er-do-well characters, use the word repeatedly to describe their scamming, fake-English theatrical productions. In my recollection of the book they were just irritating characters, bordering on comic foils, there to create a kind of narrative friction to deepen the sense of adventure, but it’s been 30 years since I read it. I did recently read Percival Everett’s “James,” a deft and razor-sharp retelling of the story written from the enslaved Jim’s perspective in which the King and the Duke were insidious racist villains, giving the novel a darker pull, though I don’t believe they used the word sublime. (Everett’s Pulitzer Prize is well deserved.)

As anyone who lived through the ’90s knows, there is also a band called Sublime, but I was never much for third-wave bro ska.

The word invited itself into my head again the other day when I stopped by the Key West Botanical Garden. It was around 2 p.m., generally a terrible time to look for birds, but I’d seen a report of a purple gallinule in the pond and wanted to check it out. At the edge of the pond a small armada of turtles paddled slowly toward me, but there were no birds to be seen, purple or otherwise, other than the occasional common grackle or white-crowned pigeon gliding across the open space.

I decided I might as well check out the back part of the pond, so I said hi to Cindy as I went through the gate and followed the boardwalk back.

Summer has been slowly turning up the throttle in recent weeks, so I kept to the shadows. When the back end of the pond proved emptier than the front, I wandered down onto the dirt paths to Desbiens Pond.

I’d heard three or four northern cardinals singing along the way, which was a nice sign that they are probably breeding in the park. For some reason, despite their love of suburbia and urbanized areas all over the rest of the continent, we don’t see a lot of cardinals in Key West. But maybe if they breed on Stock Island they’ll start wandering over to Key West more often.

In another locale, Desbiens Pond might not be considered a pond. It’s small and shallow and crossed with low trees and brush, maybe 8

SUBLIMATING THE SUBLIME

inches deep. I’d say it’s kind of a fancy puddle, but puddles are temporary and I don’t think I’ve ever seen it empty. I’m not sure a better word exists, so I’ll not argue with its official pond designation.

The first bird I saw there was a tri-colored heron behind several layers of branches and trunks. It was too deep to get a decent picture, or to even really see clearly, so I moved along the path.

I took a seat on the platform before I noticed the green heron low on one of the branches, inches above the water, frozen in its posture.

Green herons usually have two responses to people getting near them. More often than not, they will take off with a craggy note of complaint, often pooping when they do this, inspiring two of their early names – the shitepoke and the chalk-line. (They are not the only bird species that does this. And it’s a good way to dissuade predators from following you.)

Sometimes, often in places like parks and marinas, where they might get habituated to humans, they will simply continue to go about their business and not flush. Which was the path, or lack of path, this bird chose.

Green herons are on the small end of the heron size spectrum and are shape-shifters. In their default position, they crouch and keep their neck tucked in and look something like sleeker, more aerodynamic footballs. Which was what this bird was doing.

On the occasions they unfurl their neck, they add a solid third to their length.

The unfurling occasionally happens when they fly, are climbing around the mangroves or are curious about something. More frequently, when they are hunting. The unfurling happens faster than you would think, and almost faster than you can see. Sleight of head, I guess.

No doubt in their more compact posture their neck is folded into an S shape, like most herons, though their feathers hide that really well. When they extend it to catch a fish, it’s hard to believe it is not cocked and spring-loaded, like a spear gun. They’ll plunge their bill down into the water and come back up in an instant. A little more than half the time (57%) they will hold a wriggling fish or other aquatic creature in their bill.

A heron’s patience will regularly outlast mine, but I wasn’t aiming to see a strike. I was more transfixed by the bird’s coloring, the way it was lit in patches by the rays that made it through the canopy.

Birds are not named for their dominant characteristics so much as their dominant distinctive characteristic, the thing that distinguishes them from other species.

Green herons are green, but not distinctly so. They have this sort of mineral green in their cap and wings that comes off as a sort of vermilion wash over a darker slate-like tone, but not something you immediately think of as green.

Their dominant color is the dark mauve in their neck, dangerously close to maroon, puce if you want a four-letter word. It’s not a hue that screams at you with intensity, but a color whose appreciation may take a while to impress you. Especially here in Florida, where you don’t get a lot of subtlety.

That lack of subtlety in Florida is why I was probably a little spellbound by a palette that seemed so subtle, so contrarian. And probably why that word came into my head.

Sublime.

Fine. Whatever. Call me a snob.

A green heron at the Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

MARK HEDDEN

THE GREAT FLORIDA KEYS ROAD TRIP: THE TORCH KEYS

Torchwood, an 1876 homestead and the Bern and Betty brothers

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.

Torchwood is a tree that grows in South Florida, the Keys, Mexico and the Caribbean. It reaches about 15 feet, though it can grow a little taller.

A member of the citrus family, torchwood blooms with small clusters of fragrant white flowers that give off a strong perfume. The fruit is a drupe, a fleshy fruit like a cherry or an apricot that turns purplish black when it ripens. Birds love torchwood fruit. People can eat it, too.

Amyris elemifera is called torchwood because it is highly resinous and burns well. Before there were lamps and flashlights, torchwood was burned and used as, well, a torch. Also, torchwood is one of two food sources for the endangered Schaus’ swallowtail butterfly.

Neither the butterfly nor the tree is as prevalent as they once were in the Florida Keys, due largely to development.

The tree is also the namesake of the Torch Keys, which include Little Torch, Middle Torch and Big Torch Key. Driving down the Overseas Highway, after crossing the Seven Mile Bridge and Big Pine Key, there is still the North Pine Channel Bridge, a line of railroad fill, and the South Pine Channel Bridge to cross before reaching Little Torch Key.

Some of the early stories told about the islands do not differentiate among Little, Middle and Big, and just refer to Torch Key. According to a story from the Miami Herald dated March 17, 1922, Dexter Hubel from Michigan arrived in the Florida Keys circa 1876. He made a homestead claim of 160 acres on Torch Key. The story stated, “The principal means of a livelihood on Torch Key in those early days were the raising of limes, guavas, mangoes,

sapodillas, teas or egg fruit, and the burning of charcoal.”

It also said that Hubel sold his land in 1901 for $400 and bought 30 acres on No Name Key. The family island-hopped. However, change was coming to the Florida Keys. First came Henry Flagler’s train. Next was a road for cars to drive from the mainland to Key West. Progress was captured in a story printed by the Miami Tribune on Feb. 3, 1925. “A unique proposition in the way of a subdivision on Big Torch Key, called Rainbow Beach, has called the attention of anglers and investors since it recently went on sale. The name was suggested by the opalescent waters that surround Big Torch Key.

“Rainbow Beach is an old homestead that has been subdivided and put on the market at low prices and terms. Citrus fruits, pineapples, sweet grapes, two crops a year, with bunches weighing from four to five pounds each, melons and vegetables of all varieties, honey-bees and date palms yield abundantly, according to agricultural reports. ... The Overseas automobile highway, under construction, will connect Miami and Key West and which, when completed, will afford a wonderful, direct highway to Rainbow Beach. It is contemplated to build a city on Big Torch Key which will undoubtedly be one of a chain of cities that extend over the Florida Keys, within a few years.”

The highway was officially called State Road 4A. The first version of it traveled a much different path than its modern counterpart. While the road did not officially open until 1928, it was operational by the summer of 1927. The Palm Beach Post, on April 28, 1927, noted: “From Key West to Torch Key, a distance of 33 miles, in one hour and ten minutes is the record made with all ease by Chief Engineer Joseph Watkins in his automobile. At White Street on Flagler Avenue, he set his speedometer on zero, and when a stop was made at Torch Key, 33 miles had been ticked off.”

Both the original path and the modern path of the highway crossed Little Torch Key, but not Middle or Big Torch, making some of the narratives

about the cluster of islands confusing. When Watkins drove 33 miles from Flagler Avenue, he arrived at Little Torch Key 70 minutes later. Thankfully, it doesn’t take that long now.

Little Torch has a story or two to tell, and one of them is about Bern and Betty Brothers, who moved to the island in the 1950s. Their small property had a lagoon, marina, home and three rental cottages. As the story is told, one day, a dolphin swam into their lagoon, returned day after day, and, according to Betty, decided to stay. They named the dolphin, a female, Dal. Also, after a while, they gated off the entrance to the lagoon.

A few years later, a wild dolphin was caught in a fishing net, and Grassy Key’s Milton Santini sold the dolphin to the Brothers, who wanted a companion for Dal. The male dolphin was named Suwa. Dal and Suwa lived together in the lagoon for 20 years. Also, the lagoon’s gate was not always closed.

Betty Brothers wrote several books, including “Dolphins Love Our Florida Keys Home.” The property became known as Dolphin Marina and is today home to the welcome center and ferry launch for those departing for a bit of escape to Little Palm Island. Unless you are turning to the oceanside and checking in at Little Palm, two opportunities will be presented moving forward. The first turn to the gulfside takes you to old State Road 4A and travels up Little Torch and just past Lobster Tail Trail, where the road veers to the right before it ends. In 1928, the road led to a wooden bridge that led to the end of Watson Boulevard on Big Pine Key. State Road 4A won’t be the only sightseeing detour the Torch Keys offer. On the other side of Torch Channel is a road that leads to Middle Torch Key named Middle Torch Road. Going south/west, if you take the right and drive down the road, before it comes to an end, it connects to Dorn Road, also called Big Torch Key Road. The Rainbow Beach community or a city never took hold on the island. There are no stores or restaurants, just a few homes, and a view of the Florida Keys as they really look.

Betty Brothers Motel on Little Torch Key, a photo taken by the federal government on Oct. 7, 1987. WRIGHT LANGLEY COLLECTION/Florida Keys History Center

SARAH BRAWER BARTUS

How long have you been in the Keys and what brought you here? My grandparents lived on Sugarloaf and I was a “sunbird kid.” I moved down full-time in 1998 to care for my mother, and never left.

What do you do for fun in the Keys and why do you love living here? I love to go kayaking and spending time on the water has been my first passion. Going to community events around town would be a close second. I love living here because we are such a great community, and it never gets any better than spending time on our beautiful water.

What actress would play you in a movie about your life? Definitely Sandra Bullock. She resembles me but she has also been through a lot like I have.

What would the title of that movie be? “One Thing is Certain: Something Will Happen”

What is your favorite salad dressing and why? Oil and vinegar if I’m being healthy and ranch on the side if I’m not.

JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com

No matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to present our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue.

Our neighbor of the week is Sarah Brawer Bartus. She is a psychotherapist, also known as a talk therapist, and she uses various methods to help individuals understand and change their thoughts, feelings and behaviors – especially fitting for Mental Health Awareness Month. She is married to John Bartus, a local musician, writer and city administrator for Key Colony Beach.

What kid’s movie is scary to you and why? “Bambi.” That is just too much emotional turmoil and loss.

What part of the human face is your favorite and why? Definitely the eyes because they tell you so much.

If you could perform with any musician who would it be and what would you play? John Bartus of course! I would play piano with him on guitar, but mostly I love to sing with him.

What’s one thing people don’t know about you? I lived in Trinidad until I was 6 years old, and it was during their revolution.

Know someone who would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?”

Email keysweeklyjen@gmail.com.

CHRIS McNULTY

is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com

The sun has entered the sign of Gemini, ushering in a month that highlights our curiosity, sociability and love of learning.

Gemini season reminds us that we are social creatures, designed to interact with one another in order to expand beyond the confines of our singular experience. We can get more done when we collaborate. We can create worlds when we share our ideas. We can grow when we learn. When the sun is in Gemini, dive into that topic you’ve been wanting to explore and get real nerdy about it. Meanwhile, Saturn is making a big move this weekend as it leaves Pisces, where it has been since March 2023, and enters Aries. Saturn in Pisces helped us sort through beliefs, dreams and ideals, and chances are you now have a clearer sense of where you stand. With Saturn in Aries, the energy shifts. Saturn is the planet of structure, boundaries and long-term growth, and in Aries it encourages us to apply what we have learned by taking bold steps forward. This is a time to act on your wisdom, to build something meaningful through courage and steady effort.

Here are your horoscopes for Saturn entering Aries. Read for your rising and sun signs.

GEMINI

May 21 - June 20

Happy birthday season to our brilliant, engaging Geminis. Under this sky, it is time to start getting really clear about what your hopes and dreams are. We can not achieve every flighty fancy that we think of, so start prioritizing your goals and cutting out the fat. As you focus your list of potential achievements, the people who will help you get there will start coming out of the woodwork. Find your teachers.

CANCER

June 21 - July 22

There are many versions of you out there in the world. In some ways, there are as many versions of you as there are people paying attention to you. With Saturn moving into Aries, though, it is time to start taking some control over your reputation. Really get clear on what it is you do in the public sphere. What is your vocation? Are you fulfilling it? What will your legacy be?

LEO

July 23 - Aug. 22

You have 360 degrees of horizon at your disposal, and you can start walking in any direction to see what lies beyond. In reality, though, you need to decide which direction to take your first step. Under this sky, it is time to hone in on what you want to explore. A new continent? A new field of academia? A new belief system? You can’t do it all at once, so focus on one at a time.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 - Sept. 22

Not everything can be planned for, but some things absolutely must be. The next chapter asks you to take a closer look at what you share with others and what you keep for yourself. This might mean money, trust, intimacy or power. You are learning how to navigate agreements with a new sense of clarity. Set boundaries with care. Say yes with your whole chest or not at all

LIBRA

Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

The mirror is getting clearer. You are starting to see the difference between what you want and what you actually commit to. This moment calls for a different kind of attention to your relationships. Consider what roles you take on by default. Notice which patterns repeat. Then start changing the script. A new kind of partnership is possible if you are willing to show up differently.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 - Nov. 21

Discipline is a form of devotion, and now it is time to apply that insight to the less glamorous parts of your life. Think schedules, maintenance, the small things that add up. The daily minutiae of life offer constant opportunities to practice reverence. Saturn is asking you to take your well-being seriously. If something needs adjusting, fix it. If something needs support, ask for it. This is how you build a life that lasts.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

The spark is real, but it is not enough on its own. You are being asked to take your creativity seriously. That means carving out time for it. That means not waiting for inspiration to strike. Make a plan for your joy. Whether this is about art, love, children or just feeling more alive, you are being invited to turn pleasure into something sustainable.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

You have carried a lot on your shoulders and you have done it with grace. Now the work is shifting closer to home. Your attention is being drawn to your foundation like family, roots, and the structures that support your daily life. What needs to be repaired? What deserves to be celebrated? You are allowed to want comfort, so make space for it.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

What do you say, and what do you leave unsaid? The words you choose now have staying power. Be thoughtful with your language, both with others and with yourself. If there is a skill you want to sharpen or a topic you need to master, this is the time to start. Small conversations could lead to big opportunities, especially if you are willing to listen as much as you speak.

FOCUS YOUR ACTIONS

PISCES

Feb. 19 - March 20

It is time to get real about what you need to feel safe and secure. That might mean budgeting, setting financial goals or saying no to things that drain your energy. You are learning to define value on your own terms. This is not about deprivation. It is about making choices that actually support the life you want. Treat your time and resources like they matter.

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

This is your cue to step into the spotlight, but only if you are ready to take responsibility for what comes with it. You are entering a long moment of self-definition. Who are you becoming? What kind of example do you want to set? This is not about pleasing others. It is about taking your own growth seriously. Show up for yourself in a way you never have before.

TAURUS

April 20 - May 20

Rest is not a reward. It is a requirement. You may find yourself craving more solitude than usual, or needing extra time to process what you have been through. Honor that. Reflection is not the same as avoidance. Let your dreams guide you. Let silence speak. The more you slow down, the more clearly you will hear what actually matters.

WATERFRONT RESTAURANT

RETAIL

BRIEFLY

Lake Wales man arrested after 100-mph motorcycle chase

A 27-year-old Lake Wales, Florida man was arrested May 17 after reportedly driving faster than 100 mph on U.S. 1 and fleeing from the sheriff’s office on a motorcycle. Jade Curtis Monday faces a litany of charges including fleeing and eluding with property damage, reckless driving, burglary, criminal mischief and others. The sheriff’s office attempted to stop Monday around 12:30 a.m. in Islamorada, but he fled south at high speed. Later, a Marathon resident reported a suspicious person riding a motorcycle in their yard. The sheriff’s office arrived and saw Monday and the motorcycle wedged against a fence that had been knocked down. Monday attempted to flee again and struck a patrol vehicle. He was shocked with a Taser, fell from the motorcycle and surrendered without further resistance. Monday admitted to fleeing and stated he entered the private property looking for gas to refuel the motorcycle. He was taken to jail.

Visit Florida Keys to host hurricane workshop

The annual Florida Keys tourism industry hurricane preparedness workshop is scheduled for Thursday, May 29 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Zoom. The workshop is recommended for hotel, attraction and other tourism employees with a focus on being prepared and staying informed in advance of storm-related impacts to the Florida Keys. The meeting will include presentations from National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan; National Weather Service meteorologists Chip Kasper and Jon Rizzo; and Monroe County Emergency Management deputy director Cory Schwisow. It will cover topics including how to understand and interpret storm watches and warnings; how to prepare for possible storm impacts; and best practices for when and how to get back to business once storm threats have passed. Register by scanning the QR code.

Fair Insurance Rates for Monroe seeks board members

The board of directors of Fair Insurance Rates for Monroe (FIRM) is accepting nominations of individuals interested in serving on its board. FIRM, a grassroots organization formed in February 2006, is composed of homeowners and residents united to fight against excessive, discriminatory and unaffordable residential, condominium and commercial property insurance rates. Information on FIRM membership and activities can be found at www.firmkeys.org. Responsibilities include monthly board meetings held in Key West and participation in committee work. Middle and Upper Keys residents are encouraged to submit their interest as meetings can be attended via Zoom. Areas of expertise that are particularly relevant to board make-up include but are not limited to fundraising, communications, engineering/construction, real estate and floodplain management. Those interested should send a letter of interest and resume to FIRM at info@firmkeys.org by May 31.

Parks and Beaches art contest extended

Monroe County Parks & Beaches invites all Florida Keys students in kindergarten through 12th grade to participate in the 2025 “Protect Our Parks & Beaches” art contest. In celebration of July’s Parks and Recreation Month, students are encouraged to submit a unique artwork or mascot design that raises awareness about protecting the environment and natural spaces in Monroe County. First-place winners will have their art displayed at selected Monroe County parks and beaches and will be featured on county social media and promotional materials. Entries are due by June 9. For contest rules and applications, email ParksAndBeachesFun@monroecounty-fl.gov or call 305-453-8726.

Come take a class at the Marathon library

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

COMMERCE CORNEr

Casa Feliz Florida Keys is a premiere luxury vacation rental property on quiet Grassy Key. Here you will enjoy a comfortable, well-designed place to stay with friends, family, and loved ones. We have thought of all the little details so our guests don’t have to.

Casa Feliz is like a private retreat. With a secluded and lushly landscaped property, a private resort-style pool, and a private beach

with a 148’ pier and 3 floors of balconies for endless Atlantic Ocean viewing, guests will be immersed in the American Caribbean during their stay. Our 4 bedrooms have en suite bathrooms and guests will appreciate the extras of an office working space, a movie room, and a private library. Our guarantee: You will be wowed in our delivery of your desired experience or we will make it right – always!

Casa Feliz is not just a place to stay, it is a true getaway. We put the guest first in decisions made about the property. We want them to be delightfully surprised at the quality of the home and the things made available to them for their stay. The details are important to us and it shows. We look forward to welcoming you to Casa Feliz!

Email: experiencelife@casafelizfloridakeys.com

Website: www.casafelizfloridakeys.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/casafelizfloridakeys

Facebook: www.facebook.com/casafelizfloridakeys

UNCOVERING THE PAST

RECOGNIZING MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH THROUGH STORIES OF MEMORY, LOSS AND RESILIENCE

THE TELL

By Amy Griffin

Amy Griffin spent her early years on the track team in Amarillo, Texas. She ran and ran. It calmed her. In college she ran, and in later years as a busy working mother, she continued to pound the pavement through New York City. The question that always lurked behind the miles: What was she running from? In her search for the underlying source of her constant anxiety, Griffin underwent MDMA-assisted therapy — a groundbreaking and controversial treatment approach — during which she uncovered memories of childhood abuse that had been buried for most of her life. Slowly, visions and fragmented stories surfaced, each one urging Griffin to dig deeper. With the unyielding support of her husband and family, Griffin puts the pieces of her life together and confronts the horrifying truth that shaped her inner world for decades. With raw honesty and unflinching vulnerability, Griffin describes her innermost thoughts and shares her story with the world. Hopefully, Griffin’s words — Well written but sad and often hard to read — help others experiencing similar pain to understand they are not alone, and that healing is possible.

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

By Karen Thompson Walker

A young, single mother, Jane enjoys her work at the New York Public Library in Brooklyn and mostly keeps to herself. One day she is found in the park, lying in the grass with absolutely no memory of the last 25 hours. Frantic with worry about her year-old son, she quickly contacts his daycare provider and learns they kept him overnight and he is fine. The police investigate to assure Jane there was no outside involvement, and she contacts the only psychiatrist she knows, who treated her very briefly at 17 years old. When Jane begins therapy with Dr. Byrd, she reveals a recent hallucination which, combined with a troubling lapse in memory, is terrifying — especially for someone like Jane, who has lived her entire life with hyperthymesia. Jane can recall an abnormally large number of life experiences in vivid meticulous detail. Narrated by both Dr. Byrd and Jane, we witness a kind, compassionate psychiatrist’s desperate attempt to help a woman who may or may not be telling the truth. The story takes its time, but its originality and superb writing make it well worth the journey.

By Gail Honeyman

When Eleanor meets Raymond, she doesn’t understand why he is being so nice to her. Raymond works in I.T., and Eleanor never imagined her small request for assistance would be the beginning of an actual friendship — she doesn’t have any of those. At almost 30, Eleanor goes to work, gets food and goes home. Her phone chats with mummy and bottles of weekend vodka are the highlight of her week. Raymond introduces Eleanor to his mother, and soon, she begins to trust him. An autodidact, Eleanor is highly intelligent, with an extensive vocabulary stemming from years of reading in isolation. Raymond encourages Eleanor to seek the medical help she needs. When her secrets are slowly revealed, Eleanor’s unlikely friendships with Raymond and Sammy, an old man whose life she helped save, provide a glimpse of her true character. To her own surprise, Eleanor learns she is capable of caring for others. As the story unfolds — sad, captivating and funny — we are cheering for this woman to defeat her demons and live a more fulfilling life. This novel sensitively illuminates the realities of PTSD, addiction, suicide and abuse, making it a powerful read for Mental Health Awareness Month.

#WorthWatching: “My Dead Friend Zoe” follows Merit, an Afghanistan war veteran grappling with PTSD and survivor’s guilt after the loss of her best friend, Zoe. Haunted by Zoe’s presence, Merit faces the psychological scars of war, challenges of reintegration into civilian life, and the importance of confronting memories to find resilience and hope. On Prime Video.

THE STRANGE CASE OF JANE O.

ELEANOR OLIPHANT IS COMPLETELY FINE

KAREN NEWFIELD

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

Founded by Betty Debnam

Head to Ohio

Our 17th state, Ohio was home to Native Americans for thousands of years. Its name comes from the Seneca people and means “great river.”

FAMOUS OHIOANS

• LeBron James plays for the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers. “King James” was born in Akron, Ohio, in 1984. Along with many other titles, he has won two gold medals playing for the U.S. men’s national Olympic basketball team.

The LeBron James Family Foundation is based in Akron.

It became a state in 1803. It was one of the main stops on the Underground Railroad, offering safety to fleeing slaves.

Ohio borders five other states along with Lake Erie. Its capital and largest city is Columbus, but Cleveland and Cincinnati are also large metro areas. Almost 12 million people live in the state. Ohioans are known as Buckeyes, named after the buckeye tree that grows there.

WORKING IN OHIO

• Marblehead Lighthouse on the shore of Lake Erie was first lighted in 1822. It’s the oldest light continually in use on the U.S. side of the Great Lakes.

• Eight presidents came from Ohio: William Henry Harrison, Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, James A. Garfield, Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, William H. Taft and Warren G. Harding.

VISITING THE BUCKEYE STATE

• Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and his older brother, former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, grew up in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. They both played football for the University of Cincinnati.

While manufacturing has declined in Ohio in the 21st century, the state has become a leader in “green” industries such as solar energy, technology and electric vehicles.

The state is also a center for health care, finance, shipping and distribution of retail goods. Farms cover roughly half the state, with corn and soybeans the main crops. Forests cover about a third of the state.

MADE IN OHIO

• The Goodyear Blimps are made in Suffield, Ohio.

• Life Savers candy was invented in 1912 by a chocolate-maker in Cleveland.

The Millennium Force steel roller coaster at Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio, is one of the tallest and fastest rides in the world, with a 300-foot drop and speeds of up to 93 mph.

Football fans enjoy the exhibits at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, including the Lamar Hunt Super Bowl Gallery and artifacts from the most recent football season.

• Ohio is the seventh-largest state by population.

Ohio is home to two Major League Baseball teams and two NFL teams, along with soccer, hockey and NBA teams.

In Kirtland, Ohio, plant lovers can visit the Holden Arboretum, one of the largest in the United States with more than 3,600 acres.

ARMSTRONG, BLIMP, CANDY, CINCINNATI, CLEVELAND, COLUMBUS, ERIE, FARM, FOOTBALL, FORESTS, GREEN, JAMES, KELCE, LAKE, OHIO, PRESIDENTS, RHINOS, RIVER, SENECA, ZOO.

• Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon, was born in Wapakoneta, Ohio, in 1930. His family lived in 16 different Ohio towns before Armstrong turned 14 years old.

RESOURCES

On the Web:

• bit.ly/MPOhio

At the library:

• “Step by Step: How the Lincoln School Marchers Blazed a Trail to Justice” by Debbie Rigaud and Carlotta Penn

The Cincinnati Zoo is a leader in breeding eastern black rhinoceroses, a critically endangered species.

Words that remind us of Ohio are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

Warming ocean waters due to climate change appear to be an important factor behind a number of large-scale die-offs of farmed salmon. But disease outbreaks have also been well documented as the cause of numerous deaths. With the die-offs becoming more frequent and larger in scale, salmon farms are now under renewed review. Farmed salmon “are plagued by sea lice and disease, suffer from stressful handling and treatments, and live a monotonous life in barren, crowded cages,” said OneKind spokeswoman Kirsty Jenkins.

photo by Christina Spicuzza

The Millennium Force climbs the big hill at Cedar Point.

photo by Levdr1lp

photo by Coasterman1234

Travis Kelce Jason Kelce

Neil Armstrong

photo by Erik Drost

photo by Joe Glorioso

Meet the Keys’ boys tennis and lacrosse all-stars | PGS. 8 & 10

HERE’S TO THE STANDOUTS

As the Sports Wrap approaches its final issue for the 2024-25 school year on May 29, we took a moment to look back at all of our Athletes of the Week from the last 10 months. Along with our All-Keys teams and weekly coverage, each one of the names listed below made a mark from Key Largo to Key West with a standout performance on or in the field, court, or pool.

Aug. 22: Noah Mercer

Aug. 29: Braulio Garcia

Sept. 5: Ali Wheatley

Sept. 12: A.J. Putetti

Sept. 19: Caylaa Makimaa

Sept. 26: Fabbianho Louis Jeune

Oct. 3: Shelby Lynn

Oct. 10: Jaden Fox

Oct. 17: William Forster

Oct. 24: Tanner Ross

Oct. 31: Jayden Gist

Nov. 7: Aaron Lykins

Nov. 14: Naima Thomas

Nov. 21: Josh Johnson

Dec. 5: Grace Goodwin

Dec. 12: Vance Bursa

Dec. 19: James Osborne

Jan. 9: Alfredo Corrales

Jan. 16: Jack Chapman

Jan. 23: Sonny Bowden

Jan. 30: Ella Evans

Feb. 6: David Beltran

Feb. 13: Daysi Williams

Feb. 20: Ian Newton

Feb. 27: Donovan Thiery

March 6: Eva Drozdetskaia

March 13: Kaitlyn Piloto

March 20: Caden Pichardo

March 27: Breanna Brenner

April 3: Brock Bynum

April 10: Eddie Holly

April 24: Vinny Moline

May 1: Justice Lee Isom

May 8: Josh Johnson

May 15: Shylo Sanchez

Meet the 2025 All-Keys boys tennis and lacrosse teams, and their MVPs Brock Bynum, left, and Adrien Holdinga. See pages 8 and 10. Photos by Joy Smith and Barry Gaukel.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

THIS WEEK

Maicee made great adjustments in her at-bat. She looked for a certain pitch in a certain spot and did not miss it – a no-doubter of a shot.”

– Jason Garcia, Conchs head coach

batting average

home run against Archbishop McCarthy

When sophomore Maicee Gage stepped up to the plate against a top-notch Archbishop McCarthy pitcher last week, the outfielder had nine hits, all singles, to her name. With two outs and no runs on the board yet for the Lady Conchs, Gage made her first varsity home run count, batting in both of the team’s runs with a single swing of the bat.

“Maicee is a very competitive young lady. When the opportunity arises, she always steps up,” said coach Jason Garcia. Gage batted .385 this season, second for the Conchs, and her .467 on base percentage is tied for the No. 2 spot. For her patience at the plate, unwavering determination and coming in clutch when it mattered the most for her team, Key West’s Maicee Gage is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Maicee

Sophomore, Key West Softball Outfielder

Photo by: MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys

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.

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.

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned 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.

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

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 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.

GATORS CHOMP FINS

Marathon finishes spring football season with 35-21 road loss against Glades Day

The Marathon Dolphins’ annual spring football game, a culmination of what amounts to a mini-season on the gridiron to prepare for fall, was scheduled a bit early this year. Marathon played the spring contest May 15 at Glades Day School. The Dolphins made the long trip just south of Lake Okeechobee to test their offensive and defensive schemes against the Gators.

Marathon’s biggest concern heading into their spring football season was the staffing of their ball handlers. The Dolphins were taxed with replacing their entire starting offensive backfield. Due to the inexperience of the team’s new ball carriers, head coach Sean McDonald was not surprised with a pair of fumbles which dampened their hopes of winning the team’s spring contest.

“When a player is new to running with the ball, he usually has a fumble or two,” McDonald said. “That’s to be expected. It isn’t ideal, but it’s not something I was shocked by.”

Despite the miscues, Marathon managed three touchdowns against the Gators.

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

“Many of our guys know the system and even though they were in new roles, they had a good understanding of what we do,” said McDonald of the team’s single-wing offense. “We run the single wing because it works well for our kids. A lot of them don’t have a long background in playing football. A lot of the time they come out for their first season as freshmen. It also matches our disposition. We are tough and like to be physical. The team is gritty and with the single wing, kids like ours can have more success than with what everyone else is running.”

tracy mcdonald

sean mcdonald

Scoring for the Fins was Steven Stotts, the team’s center during his junior campaign. Stotts carried the ball on touchdown runs of seven and 13 yards.

“Only in Marathon can you go from playing offensive line to running back,” said McDonald. “He carried the ball well. Stotts did not fumble, and he’s big and strong and hard to bring down.”

Freshman Khoa Nguyen accounted for the other Marathon score. Nguyen ran the ball in for a six-yard score and Elliott Greenmaki, another freshman, was good for all three points-after. Greenmaki’s kicks showed marked improvement.

“He’s been working with coach Wise in the off-season,” said McDonald, referencing longtime Key West kicking guru Judd Wise.

McDonald expressed confidence in his team’s ability to score points this fall, and the trio of TDs against Glades Day backed up his beliefs. What the Fins will need to work on, however, is their defense.

“It’s a concern. Our guys are green and our system on offense is something we can follow for most scenarios, but defense is another story. We are going to continue to teach individual skills and continue to emphasize proper tackling and get the kids more confident,” said McDonald.

“The more they understand their individual positions and the more experience they have, the better they will get.”

McDonald felt that the spring season helped bolster the players’ repertoire of skills, but also exposed some areas of weakness, which he and the rest of the Fins’ coaching staff will address in preparation for the upcoming season.

“We had 38 players dress. Seven were eighth graders and that is huge for our program to have so many athletes involved and finish out the spring,” said McDonald. “The coaching staff has a good handle on who can do what come fall.”

Key West and Coral Shores play their spring contests this week. The Conchs play Thursday, May 22 at Somerset Silver Palms at 1:30 p.m. in lieu of their typical Red and White intrasquad scrimmage. The Hurricanes test their plays at home the same day in their annual Spring Football Jamboree, which will begin right after their senior parade scheduled for 6 p.m. The Hurricanes will play one half of football against St. Brendan School, then another against Miami Beach High.

1. Marathon’s offense lines up and readies for the snap.

2. Khoa Nguyen (3) hands the ball to wingback Charlie Apollony (15).

3. Marathon ball carrier Khoa Nguyen fights through a wall of Gators.

4. Marathon’s cheerleaders Yetzaily Cruz, left, and Mia Oliva get the crowd going at the spring football game.

5. Eduardo Garcia (55) tries to get to the Gators’ QB.

6. Shamar Wright rolls out with the ball against Glades Day. Photos

“Very wellpitched game … great defense with timely hitting.”

—

MIXED RESULTS

Lady

Conchs

triumph in semifinals,

but reach end of the road against strong Patriot squad

The Lady Conchs reached the Elite Eight round of the FHSAA 4A state playoffs after a hard-fought pitching duel against the Mavericks of Archbishop McCarthy on May 13.

After a lopsided victory in the regional quarterfinals earlier this month, Key West made a road trip for the FHSAA 4A Region 4 semifinals. The Mavs earned the home field advantage with the No. 2 seeding for the region while the Conchs were ranked one behind. The teams were as well-matched as it gets, with both sides offering phenomenal pitching in what became a defensive battle.

McCarthy got on the board first with a pair of doubles in the bottom of the second that scored one run. The score remained 1-0 in favor of the Mavericks until the fifth frame. With two away and hopes of advancing dwindling, Kaleaya Dickerson drew a walk. Dickerson then made it to second on a passed ball, but her efforts were not necessary. On the next pitch, Maicee Gage sent a fly ball over the center-field fence to score two.

The Lady Conchs then put their all into a collective defensive effort, rallying behind their ace, Brianna Brenner, who was yet again masterful in the circle. Brenner struck out 11, walked one and gave up three hits and a single run to keep the Conchs in the hunt for a state championship.

Gage ended the night with a pair of hits, which amounted to half the team’s total. Vera Rodger accounted for the other two. The 2-0 win placed the Conchs in the Elite Eight with a shot at a regional championship against a powerful American Heritage team on May 15 – the same school that knocked out Key West’s baseball team in late April. Head coach Jason Garcia described the contest as a “very exciting game, one of the best games I’ve been a part of as a coach. These young ladies never gave up and continued to fight in a very well-pitched game.”

The Patriots, ranked first in Region 4 with a loaded pitching staff and a bevy of heavy hitters, took an early one-run lead in the first frame and never looked back. Key West’s bats were unusually quiet against the Patriots’ ace, an eighth-grader with a 0.92 ERA, 14 wins and .200 on-base average. The Lady Conchs managed four hits, with two from Shylo Sanchez, who singled and doubled; Aaliyah Mcleod and Alexa Condella had one single apiece. Brenner struck out three, walked one and gave up a dozen runs over six innings of work in the circle.

The Patriots’ hits included a trio of home runs to make it 21 and counting this season. After their 9-0 victory, the Pats now move on to the Final Four, while the Conchs face the end of the road. Their 16-8 season included a district title and plenty of returning talent in the coming seasons.

Jason Garcia, Lady Conchs head coach on the win over Archbishop McCarthy

Left: Alexa Condella is one of just three Lady Conchs to log a hit against a very talented American Heritage pitcher.

Center: Shylo Sanchez’s stats include a pair of hits against American Heritage in the regional championship game May 15.

Below: Aaliyah McLeod has three seasons of eligibility left after logging 19 hits during her freshman season.

Photos by MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly

Brock Bynum

JUNIOR | CORAL SHORES GOALKEEPER

1 11

Junior Brock Bynum led the district in every single statistic for keepers this season, and his presence on the field gave the Hurricanes the confidence needed to roll over a dozen teams – two by shutout. His 223 saves equated to a .701 save percentage and his 5.5 goals against average was 10th in 1A, 18th in Florida and 83rd in the nation. His save percentage was 40th nationally, 11th in the state and fifth in Florida’s 1A. Bynum won the team MVP award and the respect of every opponent Coral Shores faced. “His season was highlighted with some big-time saves at the biggest moments,” said coach Chris Carrow. “One of the top seasons for a goalie in our program history. We expect him to be even better his senior year.”

MEET THE 2025 ALL-KEYS BOYS LACROSSE TEAM

Rivals trade wins, share similar fate in districts

Key West and Coral Shores both enjoyed hardfought successes this season, each winning their home game against their Keys competitor. Both had winning records, Coral Shores finishing 12-6 while Key West ended 9-7. The teams took different routes in the district brackets, setting up what could have been an epic battle for the title, but both fell in the semifinals, giving fans a bit of a wait before the squads face off again.

Photos by Jim McCarthy and Juliana Clawson

JUNIOR | KEY WEST

Captain Mateo Lopez logged 218 saves in goal for the Conchs, registering a 56.6% save percentage. Lopez added 33 ground balls to his stats and is revered on his team for his demeanor and work ethic. “The goalie position is arguably the toughest role on the field,” said coach Alberto Piceno, adding that Lopez is “the only one on our team capable of handling its demands, both mentally and physically.”

Mateo Lopez

GOALKEEPER

SENIOR | CORAL SHORES MIDFIELDER

Described as the heart of the Hurricanes’ program, Carballo suffered a season-ending injury, cutting his senior campaign short. Carballo still managed to score 22 goals, assist on 11 more and pick up 30 ground balls. “He was a big-time playmaker and lived for the big moments,” said Carrow. “We will miss him tremendously.”

SENIOR | KEY WEST ATTACKMAN

As the only returning senior for the Conchs, Pellicier led by example. The team captain scored 45 goals, assisted on 23 more, picked up 36 ground balls and caused a dozen turnovers during his senior campaign. “I’m excited to see what Brooks will accomplish at the next level, and I’ll genuinely miss his presence, leadership and heart on this team,” said Piceno.

SENIOR | CORAL SHORES MIDFIELDER

Carrow described midfielder Yandel Chaguaseda as the team’s workhorse, saying it is “hard to find a player who works as hard as Yandel does.” Chaguaseda picked up 100 ground balls, scored 20 goals and assisted on eight others during his senior campaign.

SOPHOMORE | KEY WEST MIDFIELDER

Junior Zack Payne netted 39 goals and 16 assists this season, adding 30 ground balls and nine caused turnovers.

“His ability to create scoring chances in transition proved just how valuable he was all over the field,” said Piceno.

“His teammates recognized this as well, voting him team captain, which says a lot.”

JUNIOR | CORAL SHORES MIDFIELDER/DEFENSE

Praised for going 100% at all times, Carrow said, “You can play (McDonough) at any position and he will excel. He has a motor that doesn’t shut off.” McDonough scored five goals, assisted on six, picked up 76 ground balls and was credited with 35 takeaways. Carrow added that the team will lean heavily on him next season.

SOPHOMORE | KEY WEST MIDFIELDER

Virginia transplant Carlo Vernieri was “the most complete player on our team,” Piceno said, “not just in terms of stats like goals and assists, but in his overall impact on every aspect of the game.” Vernieri scored 37 goals, assisted on 25 more, caused 20 turnovers and picked up 68 ground balls this season, and the tenacious sophomore’s game IQ and field vision will serve the Conchs well in the coming seasons.

SENIOR | CORAL SHORES ATTACKER

Reed Tudor netted 31 goals and assisted on 13 more this season for the ’Canes. “He was a senior leader who had some big games for us this year,” said Carrow of his team’s top scorer.

JUNIOR | KEY WEST MIDFIELDER

Praised for his defensive skills and ability to clear the ball quickly, midfielder Kieran Smith caused 19 turnovers and scooped 72 ground balls. Offensively, he scored 15 goals and was credited with six assists. Smith won 78 faceoffs for a 55.3% win percentage. “Kieran was the kind of player you wanted on the field at all times because when he was out there, you knew we were in good hands,” said Piceno.

Senior

MEET THE 2025 ALLKEYS BOYS TENNIS TEAM

Gentlemen ace the season with skill and sportsmanship

The local courts were full of competition and camaraderie this season, with each Keys tennis team finding a level of incounty success. Coral Shores finished with a 5-7 record after sweeping the Conchs in their three meetings this year and defeating Marathon twice. Marathon went on to finish 4-6, with two wins each against Key West and Coral Shores. Key West went 2-8, picking up their two wins against Marathon. Throughout the season, players took on new roles and filled in where necessary while they showed impeccable sportsmanship to their competitors.

Marathon senior Adrien Holdinga has held the No. 1 singles spot for five seasons. “He is one of the hardestworking athletes I have ever coached,” said head coach Kevin Freeman. “He wants to get better at every practice and every game.” Praised for his play, which included a 6-2 record, and his leadership, Holdinga’s hard work paid off. He will play for Embry Riddle University in Daytona Beach next year.

Marathon’s Carlos Lezcano won a pair of singles and trio of doubles matches this season at Marathon’s No. 3 spot, which is not too shabby considering he did not pick up a racket until his junior year. “His athletic ability has allowed him to learn the game rather quickly and get better with every match,” said Freeman. “Carlos is a great teammate and always did what was asked of him.”

Key West’s Andrei Lehene showed talent at the No. 1 spot for the Conchs this season, amassing six wins in his first year of varsity play. “His backhand and court coverage is some of the best we saw all season,” said coach Justin Martin. “He embraced the high school level and had the best freshman season we have seen at Key West in a long time.”

Coral Shores’ Aidan Althouse posted six wins in the No. 1 doubles spot for the Hurricanes this season, plus another three in singles. Coach Andrew Dutton awarded Althouse the team’s MVP award and said, “Aidan was a grinder with a fast serve that kept his opponents on their toes. The team leader at practices and matches, Aidian totally presents himself as a competitive player.”

With six wins to his credit this season, Key West’s John Picco was an asset in both singles and doubles play. Martin praised Picco, saying he was “encouraging and motivating his teammates all year. On the court, he has an outstanding serve and has great consistency in his groundstrokes.”

Senior Zachary Bolano earned seven wins at the No. 2 doubles spot and two more in singles. Praised for his serious approach to the game and being a tough competitor, Bolano won the Most Improved Player award for the Hurricanes with extra hours on the court. “Zachary kept really busy in the offseason with tons of tennis play,” said Dutton.

Adam

In The Bleachers

Brevity

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Fiscal Fitness Online located at 15 Emerald Drive, Key West, Florida 33040, intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, FL.

By: Southernmost Financial Corp

Publish: May 22, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

AMENDED NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH

JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY CASE NO: 24-CA-000594-K Darreth Dellagnese Plaintiff, Vs William H. Foster Defendant,

AMENDED NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that pursuant to a Writ of Execution issued in the Circuit Court, of Monroe County, Florida, on the 16th day of July, 2024, in the cause wherein Darreth Dellagnese is Plaintiff and William H. Foster was defendant, being Case No. 24-CA-000594-K in said court, I, Richard A. Ramsay, Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida have levied upon all right, title, and interest of the defendant, in and to the following described real property to wit: SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: From the warranty deed that states the following described land, situate, lying and being in Monroe County, Florida to-

wit (With certain exceptions):

Legal Description(s) –The southerly 15 feet of Lot 30, WHISPERING PINES PLAT NO. 3, according to the map or plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 4, Page 59 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida.

PARCEL B – “LESS AND EXCEPT” – (AUTHORED BY THE UNDERSIGNED PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY TONY ANDRE)

A portion of Lot 30, WHISPERING PINES PLAT NO. 3, according to the map or plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 4, Page 59 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and being more particularly described as follows:

Commencing at the Southeasterly corner of the said Lot 30 and run thence S89°53'00"W along the Southerly boundary line of the said Lot 30 for a distance of 99.00 feet to the Easterly face of an existing pool coping, said point also being the Point of Beginning of the parcel of land hereinafter described; thence N0°01'48"E along the said Easterly face of an existing pool coping for a distance of 0.78 feet to the Northeasterly corner of the said existing pool coping; thence N89°58'12"W along the Northerly face the said existing pool coping for a distance of 21.77 feet to the Northwesterly corner of the said existing pool coping; thence S0°01'48"W along the Westerly face of the said existing pool coping for a distance of 0.83 feet to a point on the said Southerly boundary line of the said Lot 30; thence N89°53'00"E along the said Southerly boundary line of the said Lot 30 for a distance of 21.77 feet back to the Point of Beginning. (Containing 45.15 Sq. Ft +/-)

Copy of Exhibit A available upon request from the Sheriff’s Office and on the date of sale.

SPECIFIC LOCATION OF REAL PROPERTY:

Vacant Sands Road, Big Pine Key, FL 33040

All bidders must have a valid Driver’s License with them and must register with clerk at location of sale prior to start time of sale.

I shall offer this property for sale, at Monroe County Court House located at 500 Whitehead Street Key West, Florida 33040 in the County of Monroe, State of Florida, on the 18th day of June, 2025, at the hour of 10:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible. I will offer for sale all of the said defendant’s right, title, and interest in the aforesaid real property at public auction and will sell the same subject to all taxes, prior liens, encumbrances and judgments, if any, to the highest and best bidder for CASH IN HAND. The proceeds to be applied as far as may be to the payment of costs and the satisfaction of the above described execution.

Dated at Key West, Monroe County, Florida this 1st day of May, 2025. Richard A. Ramsay Sheriff of Monroe County, By: Donald Stullken Deputy Sheriff In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Civil Division no later than seven says prior to the proceeding at (305)8093041.

Publish:

May 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

Effective April 17, 2025, Francis Fraboni, M.D., is no longer practicing with Baptist Health Primary Care at the following location: 3303 Overseas Highway, Suite 100, Marathon, FL 33050.

Patients who wish to receive copies of their medical records may log into our patient portal at myBaptistHealth.net, call 305-434-1400 or fax 305-743-0962 to request a records release.

Publish: May 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI

Notice is hereby given that on June 9th, 2025, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold.

The names of whose units will be sold are as follows:

Date: June 9, 2025 at 8:00 a.m.

Location: 103530 Overseas

Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

Truffa, Richard 1501

Trent, Cheryl 1180, 1203

Schofield, Brian 1270, 1316

Castillo, Alexander 1678

Valverde, Nathan 1341

Murgas, Alex 1580

Publish:

May 22 & 29, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

BEST LIEN SERVICES: 7290 SW 41 ST, MIAMI, FL 33155

WILL SELL AT A RESERVED PUBLIC SALE AT 9:00 AM THE VEHICLES LISTED BELOW AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS TO SATISFY LIEN PURSUANT TO SECTION 328.17 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES.

DATE: JUNE 13, 2025 AT 9:00

AM

LOCATION: CATAMARAN B. Y.

INC., 36 EAST SECOND ST, KEY LARGO, FL 33037

P#:305-8522025 2022 SPG VS SMNME111I122

OWNER/LIEN HOLDER: MICHAEL RAYMOND

HOST/NONE

ANY PERSON(S) CLAIMING ANY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE VEHICLES SHOULD CONTACT: BEST LIEN SERVICES (1-866299-9391) AT LEAST 1 WEEK PRIOR TO THE LIEN SALE.

Publish:

May 22 & 29, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

CITY OF MARATHON, FLORIDA REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

RFP #2025-09

Sealed proposals to provide emergency management consulting services for the City of Marathon will be received by the City Clerk, City of Marathon, 9805 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050, until 3:00 PM (EST) on Monday, June 16, 2025 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS – PLEASE REFER TO RFP DOCUMENT FOR DETAILED INFORMATION Emergency management consultant services to be provided may include, but not be limited to the following: emergency management and disaster recovery services, continuity of operations (COOP) and continuity of government (COG) planning, all hazard training, planning and preparedness, incident management support teams, public adjusting services (as allowed), technical, administrative and training support to assist the City with damage assessment, disaster recovery project estimation, project worksheet development, grant management, appeals, FEMA force account and small and large project document assembly, and federal procurement requirements review, etc.

The City intends to award a contract to the best qualified firm that offers a proposal that is deemed to be in the City’s best interest. The City is not responsible for expenses incurred prior to award. The City reserves the right to reject any and all responses and to waive any irregularities or informalities. Information and proposal documents can be obtained by downloading from www.

demandstar.com.

Please direct questions to Diane Clavier, City Clerk, at: cityofmarathon@ci.marathon. fl.us; 9805 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050.

Publish: May 22, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 2025-CP-130-P

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARY HILTON MENDEZ, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of MARY HILTON MENDEZ, deceased, whose date of death was November 25, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 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 served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this Notice is: May 15, 2025.

Personal Representative: MELANIE E. VALLE 986 Shaw Dr. Key Largo, FL 33037

Attorney for Personal Representative: Urban J. W. Patterson, Esq. Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com

Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@yahoo.com Florida Bar No. 382035

Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P. O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036

Telephone: 3056645065

Publish: May 15 & 22, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2025-CP-141-K IN RE: ESTATE OF CHRISTINA LEE CLIFFORD Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Christina Lee Clifford, deceased, whose date of death was December 13, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a

copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: May 15, 2025.

Personal Representative: Jack C. Clifford 8101 Mission Road, Apt. 422 Prairie Village, Kansas 66208

Attorney for Personal Representative: Gregory D. Davila, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 886998

Law Office of Gregory D. Davila, P.A. 1111 12th Street, Suite 411 Key West, Florida 33040 Telephone: (305) 293-8554

Fax: (305) 294-9913 E-Mail: E-Filing@ keywestlawoffice.com

Secondary E-Mail: gdavila@ keywestlawoffice.com

Publish:

May 15 & 22, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 25-DR-527-K VINCENT DUFOUR, Petitioner, and PENNEL GRACE SORIANO SANTORIA QUINTONG, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: PENNEL GRACE SORIANO SANTORIA QUINTONG RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN

ADDRESS: 632 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Vincent William Dufour, whose address is 2013 Fogarty Avenue, Key West, FL 33040 on or before June 14, 2025, 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: N/A 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: May 9, 2025 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: May 15, 22, 29 and June 5, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

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

AUTOS FOR SALE

1972 MGB Convertible White w/tan, 4-speed Turn-key survivor. Garage kept. Located in Homestead. $14,000 305-972-4055

PLACE YOUR AUTO FOR SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Pease call 305-4170871 or email Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

19’x40’ slip in Marathon, could handle somewhat larger boat with approval from dockmaster. Desirable location in marina, easy in, easy out. Available 1 May 25 thru Oct 25, possibly long term lease. $1,400/ mo. Please contact Vern Rozier, 904 626 5279, or 904 626 8224 and leave call back info. Or email vrrozier@yahoo.com.

Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-6108002

ALL KEYS GUTTER HIRING INSTALLERS $25/$35hr - Holidays Off -BenefitsTavernier. Apply: call or text Jay 305-587-1581

Night Monitor – FREE Private Room in exchange for overnight availability at our Assisted Living Facility. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am plus weekly stipend, Drug & background screen required. www.westcare. com/join-our-team/

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring for the following positions: Resident Care Supervisor with min. 3 yrs. experience of an LPN, Housing Manager- FTMarathon, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: wrightk@kwha.org or 305-296-5621 ext. 224. 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.

HELP WANTED: Two Conchs in Marathon is now hiring a Full Time Retail Sales Person in our Tackle Shop/ Marina. Competitive wages. Contact George 305-289-0199

Fantastic part-time Housekeeper position available in Key Colony Beach! Immediate start date. Primarily on weekends, with excellent pay for the right candidate. Reach out to Continental Inn Beachside at Vivian 952-208-2850 or Cheryl 305-505-8747

Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/ Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Pease call 305-4170871 or email Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

Studio House with Queen size bed available in Marathon. Furnished, kitchen, dining, newly renovated. No pets. $1,299 + utilities F/L/S 305-610-8002

1BR/1BA Upstairs adorable condo for rent on 8th Street in Key Colony Beach. $2,300/mo + $150 credit/background check fee. Avail. June 1st. Call 630-330-1610

3BR/3BA fully furnished home for rent in Marathon. Avail June-Jan. $5,500/mo. 618-559-9143

Studio rental in Marathon, long-term, fully furnished, price includes water, electric, internet, gas, pest, and lawn @ $2200 all in. Call or text 3054330515. RENTED IN LESS THAN A MONTH!

PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Pease call 305-4170871 or email Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com

VACATION RENTAL

Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/night. Sweet CarolineSeaport.com

Key Colony Beach7 night min., 2BR/1BA, max. 3 guests per rental agreement. Starting $175/night + cleaning fees & taxes. 786-285-9476 fjvillegascpa@gmail.com

YARD SALES

FISHING SALE - SAT. MAY 24, 8AM-1PM, 706 Copa D'Oro, Flamingo Isle, Marathon. Deep drop elec. reels, rods, spin rods & reels, weights, anchors, line, yard tools & misc. stuff.

YARD SALE Rain or Shine Sat. May 24 & Sun. May 25 8:00 am to 1:00 pm 116 Avenue E, Marathon (off Coco Plum Drive) Clothing (adults & kids), household items & more.

PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Pease call 305-4170871 or email Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com

ACCOUNTING PERSON

Must have experience with Excel. We are willing to train the right candidate.

Send resume to admin@cbtconstruction.com Or call 305-852-3002

FOR SALE

2003 FORD EXPLORER 174k miles. Runs great, A/C works. $3,500 OBO Located in Middle Keys. 305-417-0169

CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES ASSISTANT, CNA (FT)

Assisting our clients with dental, medical and transportation appts. Act as liaison between clients, families and support staff. Requires some on-call responsibility. Min. requirement - Florida certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant.*

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER (FT)

Must be well-versed in all areas of Human Resource Administration- payroll, benefits, recruitment, onboarding, personnel files, employee relations, WC, FMLA. etc. Must be computer proficient (Access, Excel, Word, Adobe) and possess high level of interpersonal skills to handle sensitive and confidential situations. Position reports directly to Executive Director. Experience is a must with a minimum of an associate degree.*

DIRECT CARE STAFF – NIGHTS/WEEKENDS – GROUP HOMES 24/7 (FT)

These positions are available at our Windsor and Von Phister Group Homes. Providing direct-care services and support to our clients in their home. Must be willing to work flexible shifts including overnights. This position requires a minimum of high school completion or GED and 1 year of experience with care giving or 30 hours of college coursework.*

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

This position is available at our Adult Day program. Providing direct care service and support for our clients in the day program. Requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. Prefer experience with caregiving or working with adults with disabilities*

*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS: Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. EOE

Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32

e Turtle Hospital in Marathon wants you to join their team!

Full and part-time. Public speaking and & retail sales experience helpful. $19/hour to start. Send resume to: turtlehospital@turtlehospital.org

LIVE IN PARADISE AND SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) Corporation specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.

We have the following openings available. Scan the QR code to visit the careers page on our website.

FACILITIES MAINTENANCE

APPRENTICE

(Full-Time, Permanent)

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

(Full-Time, Part-Time, Permanent)

DRC seeks to provide for the well-being of its employees by offering a competitive total package. DRC currently offers a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays, vacation, sick and an employee assistance program. DRC also provides life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee.

COME

JOIN THE FAMILY!

Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

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

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available.

Accounts Payable Specialist

D’Asign Source is seeking a detailoriented and organized Accounts Payable Specialist to join our dynamic team. Ideal candidates should have prior experience in accounts payable or general accounting and be proficient with accounting software and Excel. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits in a supportive work environment.

Landscape Designer/Sales

Project Foreman

For complete details and to apply, please visit: DAsignSource.com/careers

PROJECT ENGINEER

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!

JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS!

We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.

KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)

KEY WEST

Case Manager (Children Forensic, Adult) (FT,PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)

Prevention Specialist

Front Desk Specialist

Advocate

MARATHON

Care Coordinator (PT)

Driver (CDL not required) (PT)

RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (FT,PT)

Maintenance Specialist

*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT,PT)

*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT,PT)

*Night Monitor (Assisted Living - Free Housing)

*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.

and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP

EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org

Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip

DUI FRONT DESK CLERK & EVALUATOR/INSTRUCTOR

The Advocate Program DUI school is hiring for part time positions.

Front desk: 3 days a week, high school diploma and computer data entry skills required.

DUI instructors and evaluators: 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required.

Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

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

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C)Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier

- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C), BHMG Multispecialty - Marathon, $5k Bonus

- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus

- Medical Assistant, Upper Keys-Gastro, $5k Bonus

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST

- Radiation Therapist, $12k Bonus

- Medical Assistant, Medical Oncology, $5k Bonus

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Cook, Dietary

- Radiology Technologist 1, Imaging-MRI, $40k Bonus

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $25k Bonus

- ED Team Coordinator 1, Emergency Department

- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, Ultrasound/Vascular with Echo, $50k Bonus

- AC Mechanic-Licensed

- Registered Nurse, ICU

- Cook, Per Diem

- Environmental Tech, $5k Bonus

- Manager Imaging Services

- Pool Medical Technologist

- Pool Registered Nurse, Cardiac Rehab

- Patient Access Associate, Primary Care, $5k Bonus

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus

- Social Work Case Manager, Case Management, $10k Bonus

- Pool Pharmacy Tech 2

- Pool Occupational Therapist

- RRT, Respiratory Therapy

- Sr. Phlebotomist

- Security Officer, FT, Weekends

- Supervisor Patient Access Operations

THEME: SOUNDTRACK SONGS

ACROSS

1. Potato chip, in U.K.

6. ____ capita

9. “____ the night before Christmas...”

13. Popular garden perennial 14. George Gershwin’s brother 15. *”Follow the Yellow ____ Road” 16. Brickowski of “The LEGO Movie”

17. Pick up a perpetrator

18. Hindu sage 19. *”Flashdance... What a ____”

21. *”Stayin’ Alive” band 23. Actress Gasteyer 24. Windshield option

25. Undergarment

28. Teenager’s woe

30. *SolfËge-themed “The Sound of Music” song

35. Capital of Latvia

37. Pilgrimage to Mecca

39. India bigwig

40. Fusses or stirs

41. Belted starman

43. Charged particles

44. Binturong’s cousin

46. Type of salmon

47. Sol, or la, or ti

48. *Eponymous 1978 Franki Valli song

50. To, archaic

52. *Ryan Gosling’s 2023 “I’m Just ____”

53. Part of a jousting outfit

55. Tax pro, acr.

57. *”I Will Always Love You” of “The Bodyguard” singer

61. *”(I’ve Had) ____ ____ of My Life” of “Dirty Dancing”

65. Desert wanderer’s hope

66. Morning condensation

68. Waterwheel

69. Rosetta Stone, e.g.

70. U.N. working-conditions agcy.

71. Perform in a play

72. Through, to a poet

73. First responders’s acronym

74. Force units

DOWN

1. Carmy in “The Bear”

2. “Emily in Paris” new location

3. *”This ____ ____” of “The Greatest Showman”

4. #69 Across, alt. sp.

5. Green layer on copper

6. Contact on social media

7. E in B.C.E.

8. Torah teacher

9. H.S. math class

10. Solomon-like

11. Advil target

12. Sleigh runners

15. Poet and “Surrealist Manifesto” author AndrÈ ____

20. Jack Black’s Libre

22. Tight one, in football

24. Tiresome

25. Health food pioneer of liquid aminos fame

26. Peter Fonda in 1969 role

27. In the past

29. DEA agent

31. *Prince’s “Purple ____”

32. Digital tome

33. ____ Carlo

34. “A Doll’s House” playwright

36. Away from port

38. *”The Lion King” composer

42. Ax mark

45. Sleeping sickness vector

49. Kind of trip

51. Not closed

54. Not mainstream

56. Lack of muscle tension

57. Terry Crews on “America’s Got Talent”

58. The Hippocratic one

59. ____-friendly

60. Farmer’s storage

61. Scarce bills

62. Formerly Persia

63. Three blind ones

64. Chows down 67. Freddy Krueger street

Proudly serving Key West to Islamorada as the ONLY locally owned and operated concrete company in the Florida Keys.

Whether you’re building a large commercial building, FDOT bridge, or a customdesigned home, we have concrete mix designs for every project. Thanks to decades of experience, our team can create custom mixes with high-quality additives for specific project needs. We offer the largest variety of materials and operate the only FDOT-certified ready-mix plants in the Florida Keys. Call us for all ready-mix concrete, block, aggregate, rebar and bagged good needs.