Marathon Weekly 25-1016

ROCKING &ROLLING

AFFORDABLE HOUSING, AGAIN Council debates free build | P.4 CANDIDATE CRUNCH TIME Election hopefuls lay out plans | P.10

9709 Overseas Hwy.

Marathon, FL 33050

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5.08

Downpours last Friday, Oct. 10 set a new daily rainfall record for Marathon, with 5.08 inches of rain accumulating by 4 p.m. The previous record for the day was 1.44 inches, set in 1994. The day now ranks as the fourth-wettest October day on record in Marathon, according to NWS Key West.

Homecoming court members Daysi Williams, left, and Shamar Wright wave to onlookers in the 2025 Marathon High School Homecoming parade. See page 12. NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly

The site

AFFORDABLE HOUSING … AGAIN

Marathon City Council debates 19-unit gift project from county

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

With just 21 days remaining before the Marathon City Council’s 2025 election, drastically different visions for how to handle the city’s affordable and workforce housing crises is one of several items separating candidates. Those views earned the spotlight on the dais at the council’s Oct. 14 session, sparked by a potential 19-unit affordable housing development on 63rd Street at the site of Monroe County’s old Emergency Operations Center.

Resolution 2025-97, pulled off the meeting’s consent agenda for discussion before approval in a 4-1 vote, allows for a transfer of 19 early-evacuation affordable housing units from Monroe County to Marathon for the build.

Funding for the project on the

county-owned property would come from a $35 million surplus of Tourist Development Council revenues, approved by the state Legislature in 2024 for use in workforce housing projects benefiting tourism-related businesses.

The transfer was immediately challenged by councilman Kenny Matlock, an outspoken advocate for prioritizing single-family or duplex builds to answer affordable housing needs, not multifamily developments. His was the lone “no” vote on the resolution.

“At what point do we just stand back and go, we’re built out?” he said. “At some point you have to say no, because everyone who raises their hand for affordable housing, they’ll put 100 units on every street. … It’s not going to fix the problem, but it’s running our locals out of here.

“I don’t look at (affordable housing) as a favor. I look at it as, throw them on a plantation, because we need workers.”

Directly challenged by Matlock, Mayor Lynn Landry questioned the feasibility of replacing larger multiunit builds with single-family homes in an island chain with limited land and few remaining building rights.

“You’re an investor in construction. I’m a contractor. We both know

and fully understand what the cost of those single-family homes are,” he said. “So, you think just building single-family homes is going to be the answer to solving our affordable housing?”

“When I was on the workforce housing committee, (an FIU study) stated we needed roughly 1,600 units here in Marathon, and we built 1,000 units,” said Vice Mayor Jeff Smith. “When that study was done, we had 650 vacation rentals, which are now double that. So that housing stock has also gone offline to house our workers.

“That economic incentive is going to continue to take away the affordable housing stock, and our TBR (transferable building rights) process is going to continue to put pressure,” he added. “Where are we going to address the ability for these people to live in our community? The purpose of saying ‘I can’t build my way out’ (of the affordable housing crisis) was quite simply, I didn’t have units. These are units that exist in the community. We’re just saying, let’s move them on in here.”

of Monroe County’s old Emergency Operations Center in Marathon will be used for a 19-unit workforce housing project, paid for by a surplus of Tourist Development Council revenue and a transfer of building rights from the county to Marathon. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

KEY WEST CORRUPTION CHARGES CONTINUE

Raj Ramsingh & local contractor indicted for conspiracy & official misconduct

AMonroe County grand jury this week returned an eight-count superseding indictment against Rajindhar Ramsingh, the former chief building official for the city of Key West, and against local contractor Max Yael Heller, who was associated with MTM Building & Roofing Contractors, according to state business records.

When the Keys Weekly called the listed phone number for the company and asked for Max Heller, the man who answered told the newspaper it was the wrong number and added, “Good luck with that guy.”

The most recent indictments follow an extensive and continuing joint investigation by the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office in cooperation with the FBI.

The superseding indictment charges Ramsingh and Heller with four counts of conspiracy to commit official misconduct and charges Ramsingh with four additional counts of official misconduct.

The four counts of conspiracy to commit official misconduct against Ramsingh and Heller mean that both men are charged together for conspiring to falsify, conceal or alter city building-permit records. The remaining four counts for Ramsingh charge him individually for the acts of official misconduct he is alleged to have committed while serving as chief building official. Ramsingh faces eight total charges — four that overlap with Max Heller, which are new charges, and four that he already faced on his own.

The indictments allege that between November 2021 and January 2024, Ramsingh and Heller conspired to manipulate official city records and building permit data to the detriment

of the city of Key West, and/or provide unlawful advantages to MTM Building and Roofing, Strykker-Avery Homes LLC, which is owned by Ramsingh, and/or the property owners at the following Key West addresses:

• 1504 18th Street.

• 510 Fleming Street.

• 1114 Olivia Street.

• 1101 Simonton Street.

The owners of properties that are the subject of questionable permitting activities have not been charged with any wrongdoing and may not have been aware of the actions of Ramsingh or the contractor.

The superseding indictment against Ramsingh replaces earlier charges to incorporate new evidence and additional counts developed through the joint state-federal investigation.

Circuit Judge Mark Wilson on Oct. 14 signed a court-issued warrant directing law enforcement to arrest or summon Heller on four counts of conspiracy to commit official misconduct with bond set at $100,000. A new warrant was not sought for Ramsingh for the new conspiracy charges, as he remains under the jurisdiction of the court for his prior pending charges.

“When a public official abuses their position for personal or financial gain, it erodes the community’s faith in government,” said State Attorney Dennis Ward. “Our office, working closely with the FBI, will continue to ensure that those entrusted with public responsibilities uphold the law — not violate it.”

Major Crimes prosecutor Colleen Dunne presented the cases to the Monroe County Grand Jury and will serve as the lead prosecutor when the grand jury indictments proceed to trial.

— Keys Weekly staff report

SCHOOL DISTRICT PROJECTS ADVANCE

Superintendent reports drop in enrollment

FRANK DERFLER www.keysweekly.com

Updates on two notable projects in Key West and Islamorada and a new contract with the local teachers union were among the topics before the school board on Oct. 7 in Key West.

Patrick Lefere, district executive director of operations and planning, discussed the coordination with the Village of Islamorada over the Founders Park baseball field project and described changes to the plan that eliminated a multiuse building in favor of modifying an existing building at the end of the third base line.

The delivery of construction documents in March will be the next phase. After approval of those documents, a developer will provide a guaranteed maximum price. The current project estimate is about $5.6 million without the cost of modifying the existing locker room building. This is down from an estimate of $6.1 million, because the multiuse building was removed.

If the final project plans are approved by both the school district and the village, construction would start in April.

In response to questions from the board, Lefere described how the planning for the press box and concession stand behind home plate was guided by the desire to keep the existing footprint and trees.

Lefere also presented detailed images of the proposed Reynolds school renovation project. The final design documents will be available to support a request for qualification to contractors in November and construction documents will come near the end of January. The planning budget for this project, which is key to the proposed construction of housing for school staff in Key West, is $11 million.

Board chair Mindy Conn expressed a concern about the one-at-a-time project planning for three building projects in Key West. She cited a reduction in the number of students in Key West and the need to take a strategic look at all the projects underway in Key West.

Lefere discussed the need to move administrative staff in an orderly way. Board member John Dick supported Conn and observed, “All the communication is done by computer. You don’t

need to walk down the hall to get somebody to sign a piece of paper.”

Schools Superintendent Ed Tierney reported that the district has 181 fewer students than last year. Of those, 118 students left the district, and there are 48 fewer students in kindergarten. There has been a drop in the number of English as a second language learners.

“The money In Florida follows the students, so we must continue to be fiscally responsible,” Tierney said.

School board member Sue Woltanski said kindergarten enrollment is down across the state. She wondered if the lower enrollment was due to the school voucher program paying for home schooling. Tierney replied that 52 students in the district claimed school vouchers and the staff is researching grade levels.

Diana Walker, president of the United Teachers of Monroe, thanked the board for the teamwork and open exchange of information during the recent contract negotiations. Later in the meeting, the board voted to approve a contract between the teachers’ union and the district. The agreement, after seven collective bargaining sessions, includes significant improvements in pay, including the highest starting teacher salary in the state of $62,700. The agreements are retroactive to July 1, 2025.

“This achievement is a testament to the professionalism, collaboration and shared commitment to our students that guided the bargaining process,” Tierney said.

In an update on the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority pipeline replacement project, Lefere reported there is a weekly meeting among the project consultants, FDOT, MCSO and the school board. Construction is getting close to Coral Shores and Plantation Key school zones. The major concern will be at the crossing of U.S. 1 and Woods Avenue in the second week of November. He anticipates changes to the PKS dismissal process and the way buses exit PKS during that time. Buses and parent pickup traffic will have to alternate.

“We’re not saying it’s going to be easy. There will be delays. But the significant portion of the delays will be within a three- to five-day period,” Lefere said.

Two parents, Alex Dorisca and Marie Brevil, were recognized under the Great Educational Moments for Students program for their work in organizing, supporting and translating for parents at schools in Key West.

COMMUNITY FOCUS

• Challenged 11 Bedroom Vacation Rental displacing 3 workforce rentals.

• Radar speed signs in high traffic neighborhoods.

• Adopted owner occupied workforce housing definition and accepted $6Million TDC funding for workforce housing in our community.

• Code enforcement focus on improving compliance and revenue.

GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY

• Building Department restructure in staffing and fees

• Initiated formal staff evaluations and compensation process.

• Monthly council workshops for public engagement and input regarding community issues.

• Resident feedback process via website and portal.

FINANCIAL DILIGENCE

• No tax increase for 3 consecutive years with enhanced services through detailed analysis of City Budgets.

• Refunded excess building permit fees to residents rather than subsidizing new developers.

• Implemented alternative revenue sources to pay for enhanced services.

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Congratulations to my wonderful buyers on finding their slice of paradise — a place where sunrises and sunsets, boating, and waterfront memories await. 㓘✨

Thinking about buying or selling in the Florida Keys? Let me help you unlock your dream.

IN THEIR WORDS Marathon

City Council candidates lay out their visions

Each week, in an effort to provide greater familiarity and communication between the seven Marathon City Council candidates and our readers, the Marathon Weekly has printed candidates’ answers to a series of questions in editions leading up to the Nov. 4 election. Three seats on the council will be filled by the candidates with the highest vote totals, joining council members Kenny Matlock and Lynny Del Gaizo on the dais.

The Keys Weekly will reprint one question from our Oct. 1 forum in the Oct. 16, 23 and 30 issues, along with one new question given to candidates each week. Answers from our forum are direct quotes, trimmed for length. Other answers are printed exactly as submitted by candidates, with responses limited to 100 words.

1. Forum question: Marathon has a strong manager/weak council form of government where the city manager serves as the de facto CEO of Marathon. The current manager’s contract was renewed last year for three years with very little discussion or a formal review process. Candidates have expressed strong opinions about the performance of the city manager. If elected, what process or procedures would you put in place to review the manager and city attorney’s job performance?

2. New question: In the forum, candidates across the board spoke about improving the quality of life for Marathon residents by using code enforcement to regulate vacation rentals. What is another initiative or service you believe Marathon could provide for its residents to increase quality of life, not related to vacation rentals or code enforcement?

GREG ROBINSON

1. The first thing that I would do is create a framework for actual performance evaluation. I've been an executive consultant for over 20 years, and I've never seen a role over $200,000 with no performance outcomes whatsoever. I would look to enforce accountability by creating this framework, which specifically ties key performance indicators (KPIs) to both the city manager and the assistant. I would evaluate whether an assistant is actually needed. I would also look to ensure that those KPIs are also transformed department by department, such that the city manager is held accountable to producing on outcomes relative to all subordinates’ KPIs, and that the council reviews all those KPIs and performance in relation to what the city manager does.

2. We deserve accountability in how the city is run, and this is how quality of life improves. Too often, City Council and the City Manager approve major spending without clear report-

ing or putting residents first. Ongoing drainage failures and excessive administrative compensation highlight a lack of oversight. My proposal is a Resident Accountability Dashboard to track city spending, projects, and services in plain language. Updated weekly by department heads, it ensures the City Manager is held to measurable benchmarks. Residents will see results – not vague promises, overspending, and no evaluations. Our quality of life depends on real accountability at City Hall.

JEFF SMITH

1. I guess we did renew (the contract). However, there was a review process in place for George at the time for city manager, and he was reviewed. It hasn't been done on an annual basis – I think we need to hold his feet to the fire on making that accountability. There's some salary incentives for him to do that, which he decided he did not want to enforce and take advantage of the city. So he didn't do it last year, but we do need to do it on an

annual basis, as well as with Mr. Williams. Both their contracts specify their compensation based on those reviews, so I would encourage us to follow what's in the contracts.

2. Marathon should pursue traffic relief initiatives to improve residents’ quality of life. With the recent airport runway relocation allowing larger aircraft, the city should work with Monroe County to attract airline services and reduce automobile-driven tourism. This would offer residents more convenient travel options without long drives to other airports. Additionally, promoting alternative ground transportation for visitors can ease local traffic. Reducing congestion will enhance safety and mobility throughout the community.

ROBYN STILL

1. We do have a performance evaluation that we do for George. It could probably use some improvement. It's basic, but there is a review process. I think we could make some

improvements in that, but there is a review process that is in place.

2. Affordable housing should remain top priority, but depends on multiple variables beyond city control and requires long-term solutions. We can deliver immediate quality-of-life improvements with programs already in place. Our Parks and Recreation Department provides activities for all ages — after-school programs, summer camps, family movie nights, and youth sports leagues. These activities keep families and kids engaged, active, and connected to our community. They provide affordable opportunities for residents to gather, build relationships, and feel more connected to each other — at little or no cost. Strong communities are built by bringing families together, and that's something we can do now.

DEBBIE STRUYF

1. I was a little upset when I found out that they renewed the contract for three years without much review, and if there was a review, it wasn't publicly known. My first move would be to ask for a resolution to move a strong city council back into place, remove some of the power that George has until we can decide how we're going to handle the situation, and put more back in the council's hands. That would include all the heads of all departments as well. The council needs to be more involved in all the decisions that are going on.

2. Marathon is the heart of the Florida Keys, our waters are what define our beautiful island. The reason many of us choose to live and visit here. Over time, development, and human activity have taken a toll on our water. I would like to leverage our lobbyist to find a way to work with our government agencies to prioritize the cleanup in Boot Key Harbor, canals and local beaches. Identify funding opportunities and work to preserve what makes Marathon special. We can also add green spaces, and update ones with equipment to add shade for our children to play safely.

GERRIT HALE

1. It's really pretty simple. If it's in the contract that he's supposed to have an annual review, he should have an annual review. That's a failure of the council, not the city manager. If the council is not doing their job, then

that needs to be looked at. But the city manager should have a review. The city attorney should have a review. Any department head has an annual review on their performance, and that performance is how they’re either getting their merit pay or if they continue with their employment.

2. The most impactful step Marathon can take is investing in clean water and resilient infrastructure. Healthy water supports our economy, property values, tourism, and daily life. In the short term, canal restoration, drainage, and stormwater upgrades reduce flooding, odors, and pollution. Long term, deep well systems, mangrove restoration, and modern stormwater management protect reefs, fisheries, and neighborhoods from rising seas and storms. Clean water is not just an environmental goal — it’s the foundation of Marathon’s health, economy, and identity. Protecting it ensures a sustainable, vibrant future for residents and generations to come.

LYNN LANDRY

1. The city manager works at the will of the council at any time. Whether he has a three-year contract or not, if there are three city council members that no longer want his employment, he can be terminated. However, there is a buyout clause in his contract as well. There is a review process in place, I meet with George on a regular basis, and we do review him. However, I haven't done a formal review process since (my) first year. We did push for an assistant so that we could have George working at 20,000 feet, helping writing policy and legislation because that's where his strong points are. And we brought in an assistant city manager to help him run the dayto-day operations. As far as going to a strong mayor form of government, absolutely not, because by the time you get elected as a strong mayor and you learn what's going on, it's time to be re-elected.

2. Community, it’s the feeling we get when we can enjoy time with our local friends and neighbors. Bringing the community together is a priority. The Community Events Committee is an important part of this, promoting events and partnerships. The food tuck jamboree, movies in the park and the float in movie Jaws at the Lagoon is just the start. Marathon already has

some of the best parks and beaches in the Keys. Coming soon we will have the skate park and the splashpad. I will continue to support events and partnerships that promotes community in the City of Marathon.

DAVE PERRY

1. You said a weak council. While all these on council are my friends, at that moment that night, I thought they were weak. Another councilman asked to table it and talk about it, and they didn't even listen to it, they didn't give him a chance. I think the five councilmen up there, to be a strong council, they have to all work together. You never hear of a (city) manager getting three years. It's always one year, evaluate his job, give him another year. How he got three is beyond me, without discussing it with everybody in the city. We should have had a choice on that, not just let the council go ahead and give it to him. His salary is up there, so you need to hold him accountable for everything he has done wrong, and he has done some things wrong.

2. In my three months of campaigning for City council, the biggest complaint I’ve heard from the people of Marathon is the lack of timely communication from the City. How do we rectify this? I know we have a fantastic City staff. I’ve spoken with a majority of the employees and they are all responsive. We need to find a way to be more responsive and available to our residents.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CANDIDATES:

Gerrit Hale: www.gerrit4marathon.com

Lynn Landry: www.lynnlandrymcc.com

David Perry: “Dave Perry for Marathon City Council” on Facebook

Greg Robinson: www.gregformarathon. com

Jeff Smith: “Jeff Smith Marathon City Council” on Facebook

Robyn Still: “Robyn Still for Marathon City Council” on Facebook

Debbie Struyf: “Debra Tyner Struyf for Marathon City Council” on Facebook

Greg Robinson Debbie Struyf David Perry Jeff Smith Lynn Landry Robyn Still

Gerrit Hale

TRAVERSING THE TIMELINE

and Christina Belotti, the Homecoming court waved to onlookers from their convertibles in between convoys of sports teams. Boom boxes, Rubik’s cubes and drive-in movie theaters filled larger-than-life decade-themed floats built by the classes of 2026 through 2029.

Mother Nature held back her deluges long enough for Marathon High School to celebrate a successful Homecoming parade and football game on Oct. 9 and 10.

Parading down U.S. 1 on Thursday and escorted by first responders, local dignitaries and grand marshals Tina

The field may have been soaking wet, but a downpour from above stopped in time for a Friday Night Lights matchup with Mount Dora Christian Academy. At halftime, spectators crowded the school gym to see Eddie Garcia and Natalie Rodriguez crowned Homecoming King and Queen by principal Christine Paul, assisted by the 2024 King and Queen, Jay Marshall and Elena Eubank.

1,11. Switlik kids eagerly await the Homecoming festivities on U.S. 1.

2. Forget just one piece of candy – volleyball coach Kelley Cruz has plenty to go around

3. The freshman class takes home top marks on the judges’ scorecards for their 1990s display.

4. Members of the MHS Champions for Change club toss candy to waiting kids.

5. Middle and high school football cheerleaders board the Pigeon Key Express for the parade festivities.

6. Sophomores build a 1980s smorgasbord of video games, music and ‘Back to the Future’ for their float.

7. Drive-in movies and plenty of ‘snaks’ make up the junior class’ 1950s float.

8. The senior class takes on the dawn of social media, iPods and more in a 2000s float.

9.

2025 Homecoming King and

The

Queen Eddie Garcia, left, and Natalie Rodriguez show off the Marathon ‘M.’

10. Miss Sophomore Amelia Perdomo smiles for the camera.

Photos by Natalie Danko and Alex Rickert. Full gallery at keysweekly.com.

One of several special awards in the Marathon Fire Rescue Benevolent Wahoo Tournament will honor the memory of Ben Segard, who passed away in 2024 at the age of 13. CONTRIBUTED

GET THOSE LINES READY

Inaugural Marathon Fire Rescue Benevolent Wahoo Tournament is around the corner

The Marathon Fire Rescue Benevolent Association is hosting an inaugural wahoo tournament on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 7 and 8, with anglers competing for wahoo, tuna and kingfish. Money raised will outfit the city’s new fire boat with a fire pump, offsetting costs to taxpayers.

A captain’s meeting kicks off the tournament at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at the Oceanfront Park tiki hut, behind Marathon City Hall at 9805 Overseas Highway. Fishing starts at 7 a.m. Saturday, with lines out at 3 p.m.

The weigh station at Oceanfront Park is open from 3 to 5:30 p.m., with the banquet following, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. All Keys waters, from Key West to Ocean Reef, are open to fishing.

With over $5,000 in cash and prizes, the awards banquet at Oceanfront Park will include special categories

honoring local legends – the “George Steinmetz First Responder” category, the “Jenni Cameron Lady Angler” category, and the “Ben Segard Junior Angler” category.

Early registration is $600 per boat and closes Oct. 24. Regular registration is $700 per boat. First, second and third-place prizes for the largest wahoo are set at $2,000, $1,000 and $500, with additional $500 prizes each for the biggest tuna and kingfish.

To register a team or see the rules and regulations, please visit marathonfirerescue.org/fishing-tournament. The Marathon Fire Rescue Benevolent Association is a nonprofit, and is not affiliated with the city of Marathon. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are still available. More information is available from Brandi at 305-942-6921 or via email to marathonfirerescuebenevolent@gmail.com. — Keys Weekly staff report

WELCOME SNOWBIRDS

STATE SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS DEATH SENTENCE

Steven Wolf was convicted in 2023 of murder & sexual assault

The Florida Supreme Court recently affirmed the conviction and death sentence of Steven Matthew Wolf, now 65, who was found guilty in January 2023 of the murder and sexual assault of Michelle Osborne. Wolf’s conviction and sentence, imposed by Circuit Judge Mark H. Jones after a unanimous jury recommendation, will now stand as the court issued its mandate.

The case began on Nov. 21, 2018, when Osborne’s body was discovered near Vaca Cut Bridge in Marathon. Investigators quickly tied Wolf to the crime through DNA evidence, his van and his own admissions of cleaning and disposing of evidence. After a six-day trial, a Monroe County jury found Wolf guilty of first-degree murder, two counts of sexual battery with force likely to cause injury and tampering with physical evidence.

The jury also unanimously found that the murder was committed while Wolf was engaged in the commission of a sexual battery and that the crime was especially heinous, atrocious or cruel. Trial testimony revealed that Osborne endured extreme injuries and strangulation while still alive, circumstances that underscored the cruelty of the attack.

At sentencing, Judge Jones said: “The court has identified, analyzed and weighed all the aggravating factors and mitigating circumstances.

In balance, the aggravating factors outweigh the mitigating circumstances by an overwhelming margin, which means the scales of justice tip unquestionably to the side of death. The murder of Michelle Osborne is among ‘the worst of the worst,’ making it one of those cases for which the death penalty is reserved. You have not only forfeited your right to live among us, but under the laws of Florida you have forfeited your right to live at all. May God have mercy on your soul.”

“This decision brings closure to a long and painful case and affirms the hard work of so many dedicated professionals,” said State Attorney Dennis Ward. “This was an extraordinary effort by multiple agencies, and their teamwork made it possible to secure justice for Michelle Osborne and her family. The court’s decision ensures that the jury’s verdict and Judge Jones’ sentence will stand.”

— Contributed

TRON: ARES

EARLY VOTING FOR NOVEMBER 4, 2025 CITY OF MARATHON ELECTION

Starts: Monday Oct. 20, 2025

Ends: Friday Oct. 31, 2025

Closed on weekend

Early voting site will open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Early Voting Locations Supervisor of Elections o ce

VOTACIÓN ADELANTADA PARA LA ELECCIÓN DEL 4 DE NOVIEMBRE DE LA CIUDAD DE MARATHON

Inicia: lunes 20 de octubre del 2025

Termina: viernes 31 de octubre del 2025

Cerrado el n de semana

El centro de votación adelantada se abrirá de las 8:30 a.m. a las 5:00 p.m.

Lugar de votació adelantada

O cina del Supervisor Electoral

Steven Wolf. CONTRIBUTED

What do you do for fun in the Keys and why do you love living here? There’s so much to enjoy here! I love kayaking, paddle boarding, walking, cycling, snorkeling, the sun, the beach and all the community activities. I’m originally from Indiana but I’m an island girl through and through. Being so near the water soothes my soul, body and mind.

What are you passionate about right now and why? Obviously I love what I do and where I live, but I find so much joy in learning new ways to create beautiful art. I crochet, macrame, sew, sketch, paint, sculpt and more. Most everything I make, I give as gifts or donate to nonprofit organizations to auction off to raise money.

What is the weirdest thing someone has donated to the ReStore? Used boxer shorts and a rubber chicken, in the same bag. Ewwww!

What is your favorite flower and why? I love lilies, every kind, for obvious reasons.

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 Lily Doglione-Williamson, who manages the Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys ReStore. She truly believes that she is doing what she was called to do and every day she puts God’s love into action by serving the community of Marathon.

LILY DOGLIONEWILLIAMSON Habitat ReStore

How long have you been in the Keys and what brought you here?

My husband and I came to the Keys for a vacation 6-1/2 years ago. I should’ve known something was up because next thing I knew, our house was sold, he had a new job and new home for us here, and we’ve never looked back.

What’s the best concert you’ve ever been to? In 1995, with my second son’s due date only a couple of days away, I went to a Boys II Men concert. The loud bass from the music induced contractions 10 minutes apart and we thought I’d give birth in the nosebleeds. My son loves the band now too and at his wedding this past Saturday, the groom/mother dance was to “A Song for Mama” by Boys II Men. We both cried.

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in life? To trust in the Lord, my God.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? My father was in the Air Force, my grandfather and great-grandfather were in the Navy; so I had planned to join the military as well. When I saw “Top Gun,” I dreamed of being a fighter pilot, but my eyesight is terrible. I did participate in Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps and Civil Air Patrol in high school, but am now very content to support my oldest son who is in the Space Force.

What are three things people don’t know about you?

1. I worked as a professional decorative artist and faux finisher for 10 years in over 1,000 mansions in San Diego County.

2. I have two black belts in karate and taekwondo.

3. I have three amazing adult children and two lovely grandchildren with more soon to be on the way.

Know someone who would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?” Email keysweeklyjen@gmail.com.

THE REEF, REFRAMED

Crane Point, Mote Marine

exhibit in new partnership

There’s a new world for ocean lovers to explore in the museum at Crane Point Museum and Nature Center. Gathering business and nonprofit leaders with local dignitaries on Oct. 6, the center debuted its reimagined exhibit in partnership with Mote Marine Laboratory, showing off phase one of Mote’s Mangrove to Reef Exhibit.

The entirely refreshed museum, originally built in 1954, serves as Mote Marine’s 10th campus, with interpretive displays and interactive kiosks – check out the infinitely fun “Draw Alive” aquarium display – to offer engaging looks at the connections between the Keys’ coral reef, mangrove and seagrass ecosystems. Funding for the museum project was made possible by the Monroe County TDC.

“We stripped it – we took everything out,” said Crane Point CEO Charlotte Quinn. “We redid the wiring, redid the tower, just started over. And then after we got that finished, I looked at the gift shop and thought it didn’t match any more. So we tore that apart and redid it too.

“I hope people come and see it. I’m proud to be a partner with Mote, and I thank the TDC for the grant.”

1.

Marathon City Manager George Garrett, Mayor Lynn Landry and Mote’s Florida Keys advisory council chair Peter Rosasco.

2. John Bartus shows off his stingray creation for addition to the virtual tank.

3. Guests marvel at the exhibit’s Draw Alive aquarium,

scans drawings on paper to bring them to digital life under the waves.

4.

Photos by NATALIE DANKO/Contributed

Crane Point CEO Charlotte Quinn, left center, and Mote Marine Lab president and CEO Michael Crosby cut the ribbon to officially open the Mangrove to Reef Exhibit. Also pictured, from left: Marathon Vice Mayor Jeff Smith,

which

Mote Marine Laboratory’s Erin Muir, left, and Katie Cleek show off the reimagined space at Crane Point with Monroe County Commissioner Holly Raschein.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY BRUNCH 11am - 2:30pm

Regular menu available and BRUNCH items including chorizo breakfast burrito, guava French toast, crab benedict and BOGO mimosas & glasses of sparkling wine

Rotary Report

Building Tomorrow’s Leaders: Marathon High School Interact Club

In its first monthly Rotary Report (coming back from a break), the Marathon Rotary Club is proud to highlight its ongoing sponsorship of the Marathon High School Interact Club. The club is a dynamic group of students who are making a big impact in the community while learning the values of service, leadership, and teamwork.

The Interact Club is made up of 48 high school students who take the Rotary moמּo, “Service Above Self,” to heart. Throughout the year, these energetic young leaders volunteer their time at community cleanups, local events, and service projects that make a visible difference in the Middle Keys. From organizing beach cleanups to organizing Rotary picnics and community events, the Interact students are always ready to roll up their sleeves and get involved.

“The partnership gives the students hands-on leadership experience and also helps develop the next generation of community-minded citizens who will carry forward the spirit of Rotary service,” said Marathon Rotary President Mary Ann Royse. “Watching these students take initiative, come up with creative ideas, and work hard to help others gives us a lot of hope for the future.”

The Interact club has elected the following officers for this school year: Mylana Loza as President; Justice Lee Isom as Vice President; Sophia Hutchins as Secretary; Nivi De La Torre as Treasurer; and Ashley Rasmussen as Historian. Michelle James is their school sponsor.

The Interact Club meets regularly at Marathon High School, and all Marathon High School students are welcome to join. The Interact leadership team also sometimes aמּends the Rotary Club's lunch meetings to provide updates. Together, Rotary and Interact continue to make Marathon a stronger, cleaner, and more connected community.

For more information on what we do and how you can join the “Irresistible Marathon Rotary Club”, visit our website Marathonrotary org or scan the QR Code.

GRILLING FOR GOOD

Ale House fundraiser supports Shriners in honor

of ‘Salty John’

JEN ALEXANDER

www.keysweekly.com

On Saturday, Oct. 25, the Marathon Grill and Ale House will host a heartfelt tribute and fundraiser in honor of “Salty” John Johnson, a local legend at the bar remembered for his eccentric appearance and big-hearted generosity.

The benefit, which runs from 11 a.m. until closing, is organized by Ale House bar manager Andy Sharf. The community is invited to enjoy a Carolina-style pork barbecue plate for $20 and purchase raffle tickets to win a $5,000 golf cart. All proceeds will support Shriners Children’s Pediatric Hospital.

“When I first met Salty, I honestly thought, ‘Who is this guy?’” Sharf recalled. “But the classic cliché held true: He was a great guy, and you really can’t judge a book by its cover.

“He’d sit outside the bar I used to work at every day drinking his PBRs, and anytime someone walked past the Shriners’ bucket, he’d challenge them, saying, ‘I’ll match whatever you want to put in.’ Ultimately, he became the number one individual moneyraiser for the Shriners’ buckets in all of Florida, which is a truly remarkable feat.”

Salty’s lighthearted approach to fundraising had real results, once shocking the Shriners when they discovered $2,000 in their donation bucket. Salty passed away in June 2022, but the memory of his enthusiasm and generosity remains strong. Sharf was inspired to organize the barbecue benefit to channel that same spirit of giving.

Shriners Children’s Hospital is the philanthropic arm of Shriners International, a global men’s fraternity built on the principles of freemasonry and known for its distinctive red fez. The health care system provides specialized pediatric care for children with orthopedic conditions, burn injuries, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lips and palates, giving all services regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

“The money raised will be donated to the Shriners Hospitals for Children and will be used to help children in need of surgeries and for transportation to the hospital,” said Joe Stickney, vice president of the Marathon Shrine Club. “This is an organization that really does what they say they are going to do, which is rare in this day and age.”

The fundraiser is built around the food, the golf cart raffle and to honor Salty John.

“I’ve got 30 pork butts that are going to be smoked Carolina-style with all the fixings,” said Sharf. “Every dollar, from the barbecue plates to the raffle tickets for the golf cart, is going directly to the Shriners.”

A unique element of the event is the story behind a painting of Salty, created by local artist Jessica Teel.

“I took a picture of Salty on a boat trip we were on in the middle of a scary storm because his eyes were filled with such resolved sadness,” Teel told the Weekly. “My dad insisted I paint it, and two years later, I did. When John saw the portrait, he declared, ‘That painting is going to make me infamous.’ I’m so proud to say I think he was right.”

The painting was almost lost during a change in restaurant ownership, but has since found a new home at Castaway, another cherished local venue and one of Salty’s favorites.

“John Mirabella, the owner of Castaway, was very ecstatic to take possession of it,” says Sharf. “He has it hung up real high, and nobody loves it more.”

For more information about the Oct. 25 event or to purchase raffle tickets, community members are encouraged to visit the Marathon Grill and Ale House or check out their Facebook page. Sharf said he hopes the benefit will serve as a true celebration of community, generosity and the enduring legacy of “Salty John,” a man who proved that sometimes the most unassuming people can make the biggest difference.

From top: ‘Salty’ in the flesh at his usual seat at Overseas Pub and Grill.

Betsy and Andy Sharf, left and Joe Stickney, right, present Castaway Waterfront Restaurant owner John Mirabella with the recently-rediscovered painting of Salty.

A stool permanently marked for ‘Salty John’ marks his favorite spot to heckle bar patrons for Shriners donations.

Photos contributed

from page 4

AFFORDABLE HOUSING … AGAIN

Housing comes down to three things: the land, the units and the money. is is a case that almost never happens where we have all three.”

FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS

JENNIFER HARVEY

STILLNESS IS THE NEW FLEX

IMarathon Chamber of Commerce CEO Daniel Samess, who spoke in favor of the transfer during the meeting, later told the Weekly the project represented a rare opportunity, paid for by tourist dollars.

“Housing comes down to three things: the land, the units and the money,” he said. “This is a case that almost never happens where we have all three.”

In other news:

• Resolution 2025-94, extending the contract of city public information officer Carlos Garcia for one year at up to $100,000, was unanimously approved. Several council members praised Garcia’s work with video outreach and expanding the city’s social media channels, while Matlock questioned why the contract was extended four months into a six-month initial agreement and asked for updates on the city’s website upgrades.

• Ordinance 2025-06, also unanimously approved at its second hearing, provides slight changes to regulation of docks and waterfront walkways. Per the revised regulations, boat lifts may extend up to a maximum of eight feet above the dock’s walking surface. Fish cleaning tables, covered or uncovered, may also reach a maximum of eight feet above the dock, with one fish cleaning table allowed per slip at a maximum length of 9.5 feet.

• A development agreement for four single-family affordable homes built by QOF Inc. near 701 91st Street was tabled for further questioning and clarification regarding the need for the agreement.

• Ordinances 2025-07 and 2025-08, each approved 4-1 with revisions at their first reading, deals with the administration of designated early-evacuation affordable housing units. As initially proposed, the ordinance would allow developments owned by governments or housing authorities to circumvent a requirement of on-site property management. At the direction of the council, the ordinance will be changed to also allow privately-owned developments to use certified off-site property managers. Matlock was the lone “no” vote.

• Due to potential conflicts with Halloween festivities, the council elected to cancel its Oct. 28 workshop session.

...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC. Hello@highlymotivatedfc.com

f I had a dollar for every time someone told me they were so busy, I’d have enough for a week’s stay at a silent retreat — which, at this point in my life, sounds a hell of a lot better than adding another thing to my to-do list. Speaking of to-do lists (they’re great, BTW) — they can also become a full-time job if you let them. Being organized is great, but being over-managed, even if it’s by your own doing, is not.

Here’s the thing: somewhere along the line, we started treating busyness like a badge of honor. The fuller the calendar, the more successful we must be, right? Wrong. Constant motion doesn’t equal meaningful progress — it just means you’re tired, distracted and probably one more “urgent” email away from snapping at your loved ones.

Stillness is the new flex. It’s the quiet confidence of not rushing to fill every space. It’s choosing presence over productivity, calm over chaos. It’s pausing long enough to feel your own life instead of sprinting through it like it’s another box to check.

When your nervous system is overworked, it’s like your body’s internal alarm clock never shuts off. You’re constantly on “high alert” — maybe you can’t fall asleep even when you’re exhausted, your patience is paper-thin and your heart seems to beat faster than it should during simple tasks. Scientifically speaking, this is your sympathetic nervous system (your fight-or-flight response) doing overtime while your parasympathetic nervous system — the one responsible for rest, digestion and recovery — barely gets a word in.

Over time, this imbalance creates a storm of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline that flood your system. You might call it anxiety, irritability or “just being busy,” but your body knows it as survival mode. And survival mode isn’t

meant to be a lifestyle. It keeps your muscles tense, your digestion sluggish, your immune system weaker and your brain foggy.

Here’s where the magic of saying no comes in — especially when what you’re saying no to doesn’t feel aligned. Every time you set a boundary that protects your peace, your nervous system gets the signal: we’re safe. That safety cue activates the vagus nerve, which helps flip you back into parasympathetic mode — lowering your heart rate, deepening your breath, improving digestion and even boosting moodstabilizing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

In other words, “no” isn’t rejection — it’s regulation. It’s your body’s way of whispering “thank you for listening to me.” Actually, not all will whisper. Somebody’s body out there is definitely going to scream “it’s about damn time.” (If you laughed at this, it’s going to be yours, I promise.)

So maybe this week, instead of sprinting from sunrise to sunset, you let the nervous system do what it’s been begging for — rest. Take that “no” as permission to actually live where you live. Sip your coffee slowly enough to watch the light change on the water. Let the wind, not your calendar, set the pace for a minute. Because the truth is, even paradise loses its magic when you’re too stressed to feel it. Sometimes the most elevated thing you can do for your health — and your happiness — is to sit still long enough to hear the waves remind you: You’re already right where you need to be.

— Chamber of Commerce CEO Daniel Samess

FRIDAY, OCT. 17

2:00 pm: Pre-seminar social

2:00 pm: Pre-seminar social 98380 Overseas Hwy. Key Largo, FL 33037

2:30 pm: Tracking Shark and Ray Sightings Across the Caribbean, presented by Brendan Talwar, Ph.D.

4:00 pm: Participatory Science: A valuable tool for biodiversity research, presented by Corey T. Callaghan, Ph.D.

6:00 pm: Why I Cave Dive When There’s No Fish: An introd to the world of cave diving, presented by Nat Gibb

SATURDAY, OCT. 18

2:30 pm: Can Reef Tanks Save Coral?

Hobbyists and the future of the healthy ocean, presented by Sam Muka, Ph.D.

3:30-4:00 pm: Oceans Under Glass book signing with Sam Muka More details at www.REEF.org/REEFfest

rese Carib RI :00 th or :00 ean, ries rod :00 p wit

Scan to view talk summaries and speaker bios

ALL-INCLUSIVE WINS

Special Olympics athletes deliver for Monroe County

Special Olympics Florida – Monroe County athletes delivered outstanding performances at the 2025 South Region Fall Classic at Nova Southeastern University on Oct. 5, bringing home numerous medals across powerlifting and pickleball events. Representing schools and community programs from Key West to Key Largo, athletes showed determination, strength and sportsmanship on the regional stage.

In powerlifting, Coral Shores High School’s Heyden Michael Fenney captured first place in the male combination lifts with a total lift of 900 pounds. Classmate Gordon Gomila earned first place in the male deadlift, lifting 254 pounds.

Hailing from the Middle Keys, Marathon High School’s Cindy Augustin secured first place in Female Combination 2, lifting 210 pounds of total weight between her bench press and squat. Tony Barrera lifted his way to first place in Male Combination 2 for his weight class, pushing 295 pounds in the same lifts. Luis “Alex” Chavala took first place in Male Combination 2 with 265 pounds total weight, while Angel Pierce and Billy Roberts earned silver medals in their weight classes for the same combination (195 and 200 pounds lifted, respectively).

Monroe County athletes also excelled on the pickleball court, a fastgrowing sport in the region.

Christopher Gregory from Key West High School and Alicia Di Giuseppe from Horace O’Bryant School teamed up to claim first place in Unified Doubles, in which a special needs athlete is partnered with a neurotypical teammate. The pairs of Monae Hylor and Reyna Bogins and Laila Jones and Lauren Anderson, all from the College of the Florida Keys, took second and third place in the Unified Doubles matches.

Ray Moreno from the Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens (MARC) program shone in individual skills, finishing in second place with 178 points. Kenny Ayers from the MARC program brought home sixth place in individual skills with 133 points.

Youth athletes also stood out, with Abraham Nava-Magdaleno and Evan Dickens from Horace O’Bryant School earning third place in Unified Doubles.

From the Upper Keys, Treasure Village Montessori’s young unified teams demonstrated skill and teamwork.

County athletes show off their

Greyson Mack and Nicolai Mihalciuc earned first place in Unified Doubles (8–11 year old division). Anthony Mestre and Emmett Willis also claimed first place in their Unified Doubles bracket. Emma Rodriguez and Serenity Magee earned second place in Unified Doubles, and Brody Lint and Greyson Hawthorn also finished with secondplace medals in their division.

“These results reflect the dedication of our athletes, coaches, and families,” said Ruth Coleman, sports training and competition director for Special Olympics Florida – Monroe County. “From record lifts in powerlifting to the teamwork displayed in pickleball, Monroe County athletes continue to inspire our community through inclusion and perseverance.”

The Fall Classic once again highlighted the spirit of Special Olympics, where ability, friendship and determination take center stage. Monroe County will now set its sights on upcoming state competitions, where many of these athletes will continue their quest for gold.

Statewide games for the Fall Classic will take place Nov. 13-16 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando, featuring flag football, powerlifting and pickleball. The county expects representation from Key Largo School, Coral Shores High School, Key West High School, Marathon Middle/ High School, Treasure Village Montessori, the MARC program and the College of the Florida Keys, Coleman said.

For more coverage of Special Olympics athletics, see next week’s edition of the Keys Weekly.

— Keys Weekly Staff Report

CONTRACTORS GIVE THE FINS NEW WHEELS

The Golfin’ Dolphins and their coach Mary Coleman-Sayer, center, have some fancy new wheels to use on the course this season, courtesy of a golf cart donation by the Florida Keys Contractors Association. Members of the association purchased raffle tickets for the cart in a fundraiser this past summer organized by Marathon Grill & Ale House bar manager Andy Sharf to benefit cancer research through the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. When their ticket was pulled, association president Armand Messina, right, and vice president Charlie Brown knew just where they wanted the cart to go. Already painted blue to match Marathon’s school colors, the cart got some custom gold lettering this summer to complete the look. CONTRIBUTED

KEY DEER STATUE ‘SHELLY’ FINDS A HOME AT ISLA BELLA

The Florida Keys received another tribute to one of the island chain’s most endangered residents on Oct. 9, as artist Jane Witmer unveiled her painted Key deer statue, named ‘Shelly,’ at Isla Bella Beach Resort’s marketplace on Knights Key. Created in partnership with the nonprofit Save Our Key Deer, which conducts public education initiatives, cleanups, disease monitoring and more to preserve the tiny deer, ‘Shelly’ is one of 13 Key deer statues placed throughout the Middle and Lower Keys in public spaces. The statues serve to remind the public of the threats the deer face on a daily basis as they fight to sustain an estimated population of 700 to 800 individuals. A staunch supporter of Save Our Key Deer with prior donations and cleanups, Isla Bella Beach Resort general manager Justin Nels presented Save Our Key Deer president Valerie Preziosi with an additional $10,000 donation to further fuel the group’s mission. ALEX RICKERT/keys Weekly

Athletes from Marathon and Coral Shores High School secure a bevy of medals in Special Olympics powerlifting competition.

Monroe

medals from Unified Doubles competition in pickleball. CONTRIBUTED

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MARK HEDDEN

... 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.

The roseate spoonbill was way high up there, the only pink thing in the sky. It reminded me of a balloon loosed at a parade. Ellen Westbrook would later say, “It was like she had glitter on her wings.”

There was a purity about her, this radiant thing alone in a bright blue sky. She drifted toward the shoreline and in front of a disorganized, swirling kettle of raptors that included peregrine falcons, broadwinged hawks, American kestrels, sharp-shinned hawks, northern harriers and probably a species or two I missed.

She drifted back away from them and slid in front of a flock of 25 anhingas that had shown up, all making the same gentle turns in the sky with the precision of a ballet troupe, their wings flashing from dark (the underside) to light (upperside) in synchronicity as they spun through their wide circles.

For a few minutes the distinct groups – the anhingas, the raptors, the spoonbill – merged into the same aerospace, a highly kinetic melange of avian forms.

“There’s something you’ll only see at the Florida Keys Hawkwatch,” said Jeff Bouton, who works for Kowa Sporting Optics, and who has been one of the stalwarts supporting and organizing the count for years.

The raptors and the anhingas reached the top of the thermals and began to stream south. The spoonbill flew out over the ocean, next stop Cuba, we assumed.

Two days before had been Oct. 10, which has statistically been the best day to see the most peregrines at the hawkwatch. Peregrine falcons are the fastest animals on the planet. And more of them are counted every year at the Florida Keys Hawkwatch than at any other count site on the planet.

We’ve been calling Oct. 10 “Dia de los Peregrinos” or “Day of the Peregrines” for several years. The folks at Curry Hammock State Park in Marathon, where the count is located, had planned a small birding festival around it this year. But it stormed heavily on the 10th, a total palmetto pounder, and the bird walks had to be canceled. (The hawkwatch crew did faithfully stay at their station, lightning be damned, and counted a total of 21 migrating raptors.)

Ellen and I, along with Richard Whitcomb, were supposed to go up on Oct. 11 to help with a bird walk, but the forecast said more rain, so we decided to hold off until Sunday. Which may have been a mistake.

Looking at the numbers they posted, things were slow at the hawkwatch in the morning, but after one last midday band of rain, the cork came out of the bottle. All of a

FELLOW TRAVELERS OF THE IMPROBABLE KIND

sudden there were big groups of raptors – 165 broad-winged hawks in one hour, 107 American kestrels the next. By the time they left at sunset, they’d counted a total of 2,081 birds of prey.

I was a little worried we’d missed all the action as we drove up on Sunday.

It was relatively crowded when we made it up to the platform around 11:30 a.m. There were probably about 20 people there, which was a lot for the space. Most had binoculars; several had cameras with long lenses.

The count site is actually the elevated campground bathhouse at Curry Hammock. Mariah Hryniewich and Luis Gles were anchoring the count on the smaller deck on the south side, an array of clickers laid out along the railings. A mixed crew of people were keeping a watch on the more expansive north side deck, trying to give them a heads up as to what was coming.

It sounded a bit like a busy kitchen during the dinner rush, with people calling out things like, “You’ve got a low peregrine coming in gulfside,” and “There’s a kettle of broad-wings starting to stream out down the middle.”

Any worries I’d had about the migration slowing down were quickly proved unfounded. There seemed to be big numbers of the dozen or so species that regularly migrate through the Keys.

Most of the birds were pretty high up. Whether it was 500 feet or 1,000 was hard to say. They were somewhat easy to spot when there was a cloud for a backdrop, but murder when it was all blue sky. I spent a lot of time zig zagging my binoculars through the emptiness, trying to snag on something in the field of view, and occasionally doing so.

Learning to identify hawks in flight is a little bit like learning to read a new alphabet. It can be frustrating for a while, but usually, eventually, something clicks. The long, straight wings of the northern harrier become unmistakable, as do the osprey’s long wings with a crook in them.

You learn the pointy-winged raptors are falcons, then figure out how to distinguish the

three species we get here – peregrine falcons, merlins and American kestrels – from one another.

Turkey vultures are big and dark and always have that v-shape to their wings. The wings of a bald eagle are so board-straight that you realize why they appeal so much to folks in the military.

The species that seemed to be carrying the day, numerically, were the sharp-shinned hawks. The crew had counted about 600 of them before we arrived, and they just kept coming. There looked to be a handful of them sprinkled into every kettle, and a bunch of lone individuals moving past to boot.

In breeding season sharpies are considered to be secretive assassins, with well-hidden nests and a tendency to be seen primarily when they are hunting, often taking songbirds at feeders. They have comparatively short wings and long tails, which makes them highly maneuverable, and allows them to move through heavy cover while touching nary a branch.

Migration is thought to be the best, or at least easiest, time to see them.

They ended up counting 1,812 sharpies that day – a record one-day count at the Florida Keys Hawkwatch. I saw maybe half of them.

The thing I couldn’t stop thinking about, though, was the roseate spoonbill, who apparently thought better of crossing the Florida Straits and came back over land. I was watching it from the south deck when a peregrine came in and dove at it. The spoonbill twisted and veered out of the way, and the peregrine, who was probably just trying to entertain himself midway through a long journey, broke off, which was probably for the better, as a spoonbill is about twice the weight of a peregrine.

Before I could even process such an unlikely interaction, though, a second peregrine dove at the spoonbill, with the spoonbill juking again, and the second peregrine breaking off in the same manner of the first.

Things seemed to calm down after that. But there’s no saying what happened once they were all out of sight.

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

FRED ROTH 1944-2025

Fred Helmut Roth, age 80, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in San Pedro, Belize on Oct. 8. A resident of Marathon for 47 years, he could be found most days at his store, Fred’s Beds, telling stories about his life.

He was born in Germany to Wilhelm and Florentine. Fred immigrated to America through Ellis Island at the age of 8 along with his three siblings, Edward, Josef and Maria. He spent his youth in New York and later moved to Connecticut where his three children, Renee, Laura and Fred, were born.

Fred was preceded in death by the sunshine of his life, his wife of 33 years, Eleanor. Fred leaves behind his sister; three children; seven grandchildren, Alicia, Justin, Kassandra, Nicholas, Breanna, Annabelle and Freddy; as well as three great-grandchildren, Scarlett, Freya and Flynn. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

You could bump into Fred at a local yard sale, easily recognized by his colorful tropical shirts. They matched his personality and outlook on life. While beginning his long career in kitchen cabinets, he built his first house at the age of 18. He went on to build many more, not only in Connecticut, but the Keys and Belize, eventually moving to the Keys with his wife and young child to pursue his dream of living on the beach in 1979. With the help of his friend Charlie Bragan, he built the shopping plaza that houses Fred’s Beds today.

You may have noticed the giant conch shell in front of Fred’s Beds. It graced the cover of the Keynoter in 1985 when he, his wife and son were putting the final touches on it in front of their gift shop of 30 years.

“To make a long story short,” he was an international real estate investor, a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and a local institution. He is known for helping those in need wherever he went. He touched the lives of many people around the world and will be missed and remembered by his family, friends and community.

A celebration of Fred’s life will be held at an undetermined date in November. If you would like to attend his celebration of life, please stop in or call Fred’s Beds for the details. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to KAIR in his memory.

STEVE D. ODLE 1956 - 2025

It is with a heavy heart that the family of Steve D. Odle announces his passing on Sept. 17. Steve went on to join his family in heaven – Mom, Smitty and sister Trish. Steve left behind his son Steven (Nicole), daughter Sara (Kevin) and six grandchildren; his loving partner and soulmate Louise (Weezie); his brother Larry (Janet); his sister Judy Dahlfues (Don); and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Steve was a long-standing member and former commander of the Marathon American Legion. Please join us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, Nov. 1 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the American Legion Post 154, 4115 Overseas Highway in Marathon.

BRIEFLY

Yacht club fundraiser supports cancer walk

The Marathon Yacht Club (MYC) invites all mah jongg lovers to a fundraiser supporting the RFL Florida Keys Hope Walk to end cancer on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 11 a.m. in the MYC clubhouse. Play will pause from 12:15 to 1 p.m. for lunch, and resume at 1. There will be royal, regular and learning tables. Play mah jongg with friends, enjoy a meal and help raise money for a great cause. Donation of cash or a check made out to the American Cancer Society is the entry fee, with the lunch buffet set at $20 plus tax and tip (credit card payment only for non-MYC members). Please RSVP by Oct. 19 to the MYC office, office@ marathonyachtclub.com or by calling 305-743-6739.

Two Marathon residents arrested for shoplifting

Two Marathon residents were arrested on Oct. 11 for allegedly stealing $400 worth of merchandise from a Key Largo retail store. Doljelys Collazo Rodriguez, 40, and Nieskeret Santos Roque, 41, were charged with theft. Collazo Rodriguez was also charged with possession of anti-shoplifting devices. More charges may be pending. The sheriff’s office was called to Bealls in Tradewinds Plaza around 6 p.m. after an employee reported two suspects were stealing. Collazo Rodriguez was found to be in possession of multiple stolen items with the retail tags still attached. Items used to defeat anti-theft security devices were also found, MCSO said. The investigation is ongoing. Both suspects were taken to jail.

Keys Democrats invite public to monthly meeting

The public is invited to attend the monthly meeting of the Keys Democrats on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 5:30 p.m. at the Marathon library. The meeting will be a hybrid Zoom and inperson meeting. For more information, including a link to attend virtually, email mid-keys@keydems.com.

Free line-dance classes at Big Pine Community Park

Monroe County Parks and Beaches will host free line-dancing classes at Big Pine Key Community Park every Monday and Wednesday starting Oct. 20. Classes are open to all levels and led by volunteer instructor Maryse Hill. Participants must sign a waiver. Each session is broken into skill levels so everyone can learn at their own pace: Steps from 1 to 1:30 p.m., beginner from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m., improver from 2:15 to 3 p.m. and intermediate from 3 to 4:30 p.m. No registration is

required. More information is available from 305-453-8748 or via email to ParksandBeachesFun@MonroeCountyFL.gov.

Volunteers needed for Joy on the Rock festival Marathon’s annual Joy on the Rock Family Festival is back on Saturday, Nov. 8 from noon to 6 p.m. at Marathon Community Park. This free, family-friendly event features live Christian music, food vendors, local nonprofits and plenty of activities for all ages. Volunteers are needed to help with parking, merchandise tents and general event support. More information is available via email to joyontherock@ nlkeys.church or by scanning the QR code here:

Submit your artwork for Anne McKee Fine Art Auction

The Anne McKee Artists Fund of the Florida Keys Inc. announces a call to artists for the 2026 fine art auction. The vintage Key West-themed auction will be held on Friday, Feb. 27 at The Studios of Key West. The call to artists and submission for artwork opened Wednesday, Oct. 1 and closes on Friday, Oct. 31 at 5 p.m. Applications and accompanying photo(s) can be submitted at www.mckeefund.org. Artists will be notified of acceptance no later than Dec. 1. The art dropoff is Jan. 31 with the auction preview hosted at The Studios of Key West from Feb. 5 through 26. Each participating artist receives 50 percent of the proceeds from the sale of their work, while the McKee Fund receives the remainder to award to other Keys artists. The auction raises money for grants to Keys visual, literary and performing artists. Attendees can bid on original paintings, sculpture, photography, fiber art, ceramics, mixed media, jewelry and more. More information is at www.mckeefund.org.

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.

Founded by Betty Debnam

Conjure Up a Spooky Party

Mini Fact: Americans buy about 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins at Halloween!

Halloween trick-or-treating is lots of fun, but this kid-friendly holiday is also a great time to host a party! Talk to your family about how many guests to invite. With your parents’ help, you will want to plan the:

Your invitations can be made by hand or on a computer. For a fun twist, you might dress in a costume and hand-deliver them!

HAUNT YOUR OWN HOUSE!

As your guests come in, tell them that you are taking them one by one on an eerie adventure.

• Big boxes taped together make an ideal witches’ maze to wander through.

• Music playing too slow or too fast creates a scary mood.

• Make up a group ghost story. Sit in a circle. Everyone adds a sentence to the story as you go around the circle.

WHAT’S THAT?!

• Blindfold your guests and guide them as they walk around a table and describe what icky things they are feeling.

You might use: (clean) chicken bones = witches’ fingers dried apricots = dried-up tongues cooked spaghetti = brains pantyhose = hanging vines peeled grapes = eyeballs

FUN ACTIVITIES

• “Bob” for apples. String a clothesline across a corner of the room and hang apples with string. Each person takes bites of their apple without using their hands. The first one done is the winner.

• Decorate pumpkins. Ask each guest to decorate a small pumpkin using cut paper and markers. Give awards like “scariest” or “fanciest.”

• Play musical chairs. Use spooky music!

• Play pass the orange. Get in a line or circle. Try passing an orange from person to person without touching it with your hands.

• Do a mummy wrap race. Divide into teams. Each team wraps one member with toilet paper like a mummy. The first team to complete their mummy wins.

• Do your best monster moves with a freeze dance. When the music stops, strike your best monster pose. Anyone who’s still moving is out.

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

DANCE, DECORATION, FOOD, FUN, GAMES, GUEST, HALLOWEEN, HAUNT, INVITATION, MONSTER, MUMMY, MUSIC, PARTY, PUMPKIN, SAFETY, SCARY, STORY, TREAT, TRICK.

TRICK-OR-TREAT SAFETY QUIZ

Unscramble these things that you’ll need to have a safe and fun Halloween.

And don’t forget to say “thank you” for each treat!

1. Using aumpke on your face is best.

A mask can block your view of traffic and other kids.

2. Your ustmoec should be made of a light color or trimmed with tape that shines in the dark.

3. Your family should look over your estart before you dig in.

4. Carry a lhalftgsih if you’ll be out after dark.

5. Your essoh should be comfortable and easy to walk in.

Your answers

Don’t forget

• Stay in neighborhoods you know.

• Go trick-or-treating with a group.

• Cross the street only at an intersection. Don’t run between parked cars.

• Don’t go into strangers’ homes, even if you’re invited in.

RESOURCES

On the Web:

• bit.ly/4fVPWno

At the library:

• “Plinky Witch and the Happy Haunted House” by Liz Cooper

ECO NOTE

A meteorite that crashed through the roof of a Georgia home on June 26 is estimated to be 4.56 billion years old, making it older than Earth. Researchers at the University of Georgia confirmed the age of the cherry tomato-sized rock using microscopic analysis of 23 grams of fragments recovered from the site in McDonough. The meteorite, part of a group of asteroids believed to have originated from a breakup event 470 million years ago, rattled homes and was widely visible as it fell.

Answers: 1. makeup; 2. costume; 3. treats;

4. flashlight; 5. shoes

Overseas Hwy, Marathon Liz Samess

Decorating, Drafting, & More…

CELL: (954) 801-7883 Email: interiordesignbyliz@gmail.com

FL 33050

ready to house hunt across the Keys! Our Fantasy Fest Parade of Homes MEGA Open House event is back and BIGGER, featuring almost 40 open proper ties from Key Largo to Key West

3 or more homes during the Parade of Homes to

to our Big Bad Wolf Par ty on Duval Street for the 2025 Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade!

GREEN GAME

Golfers keep the home faceoffs rolling | P.10

6 - 11

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Team Sport Opponent

Basilica Volleyball Key West 10/6 L, 3-0

Key West Volleyball Marathon 10/7 W, 3-0

Coral Shores Volleyball Keys Gate 10/7 W, 3-0

Coral Shores Volleyball Marathon 10/9 W 3-0

Marathon Football Mount Dora Christian Academy 10/10 L, 49-0

Coral Shores Football Archbishop Carroll 10/10 L, 26-0

Key West Football Miami Northwestern 10/11 L, 56-0

WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS OCT. 16 - 23

Date School Sport Opponent Start Time

10/17 Key West Football Lehigh 7 p.m.

10/17 Coral Shores Football ABF Academy 7 p.m.

10/17 Marathon Football LaBelle 7 p.m.

10/18 Key West Swimming Barbara Goleman 11:30 a.m.

10/20 All Keys teams Golf @ Marathon 1 p.m.

10/21 All Keys teams Cross Country @ Sugarloaf Trail TBA

10/21 Coral Shores Swimming Districts @ Belen 6 p.m.

10/22 Key West Swimming Districts @ Belen 4:30 p.m.

10/22 All Keys teams Golf Key West 2 p.m.

HEINRICHS

Senior, Key West Volleyball

She has been playing with a lot of confidence and she is really serving andattacking well. In practice and in matches she has been lighting it up.”

– Kim Butler, Lady Conchs’ head coach

16

kills serving aces This season

Adriana Heinrichs had an outstanding week on the court – and according to head coach Kim Butler, Heinrichs has an outstanding week every week when it comes to motivating her teammates to be the best they can be, too. “She has a great attitude and is always positive,” said Butler of her standout senior. Heinrichs amassed 20 kills last week in matches against Marathon and Basilica. She was credited with 11 digs and picked up a pair of aces as well. Her leadership and encouragement will be crucial in the Conchs’ postseason run this year. For her excellent play on the court paired with inspirational optimism, Adriana Heinrichs is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Golfing in the Keys means familiar opponents working to improve their games together, like Coral Shores’ Scout Oliver and Marathon’s Max Childress. See page 10. Photos by Natalie Danko and Doug Finger

Adriana

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.

sean mcdonald

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

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

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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.

FEELING THE BURN

Marathon freshman brings the heat to Fast Times meet

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050

Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

Marathon traveled to Miami on Oct. 8 to participate in the annual Fast Times cross country meet hosted by Miami Country Day at Greynolds Park. Freshman Lucian Burns won the race in 16:55. Sophomore Antonin Bursa was third overall, finishing in 17:51 and senior Caleb Shelar cracked the top 10 with a 19:25. Anthony Vargas and Allan Taylor helped the team capture first place in the team competition. The Fins averaged 18:51 to finish first out of nine teams at the event.

Molly Joly was the first Lady Fin to cross the line. Joly was eighth overall, running the course in 24:15. Mylana Loza was second for Marathon with a 25:38 finish time, and Ariella Dworniczak was the third Fin finisher in 27:51. Kayla Skaarup and Danaica Bessy rounded out the top five for Marathon.

Runners from throughout the county will meet on Oct. 21 on Upper Sugarloaf for a fast-paced race and a great chance to set personal records. Districts will occur the first week of November.

tracy mcdonald

Molly Joly was the first Lady Fin to cross the finish line at the Fast Times cross country meet in Miami on Oct. 8. Freshman Lucian Burns won the boys race at the same event. NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly

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CONCHS FASTEST ON THE DRAW IN DUALS

Key West outswims

Coral Shores and others at Founders

Coral Shores swimmers and divers hosted Key West, True North, Braddock and Varela on Oct. 9 for a five-team meet at Founders Park. In dual-meet scoring, Key West outscored the rest of the field in combined scores, with wins against all but Braddock in boys competition, where they were just five points shy of a total sweep. The Lady Conchs outswam all except True North. Coral Shores’ girls logged a win against Braddock.

The Hurricanes started strong with a win in the 200yard medley relay, led by Layne Smith, Parks Dunn, Sofia Figueredo and Larkin Dunn. The same team placed third in the 200 freestyle relay. Figueredo went on to win the 200 individual medley and Smith did the same in the 500 freestyle event. Stella Hodder captured third place in the 100-yard breaststroke.

Aaron Lykins was first in the boys 1-meter diving event. Also notable for the Coral Shores boys was the 200 freestyle relay team of Mark Porter, Jace Jackson, Mason Osipov and Tony Khioni, who came in third in the race.

For Key West, Amelia Korzen won the 100 breaststroke race, then placed third in the 200 individual medley (IM). Mary Searcy was third in the 200 free and 100 backstroke events. Colbie Turner was third in the 100 butterfly event and Christina Rice was third in the 100- and 50-yard freestyle races. Rice also teamed up with Molly Martinez, Morgan Kennedy and Tess Hughes for a third-place finish in the 400 freestyle relay.

Santiago Gonzalez won the individual 200 freestyle event, then captured second in the 100 freestyle event. Jacob Perez went the distance to win the 500 free race, with teammate Haven Andrade in second. The Conchs’ other winner was Hugo Blinckmann, who raced to a first in the 50 free event. Owen Lindley came in third in the same event. Blinckmann and Kieran Smith finished second and third, respectively, in the 100 breaststroke event. In the 200 IM, Andres Aguero was third.

In boys relay events, Key West had multiple respectable finishes. Smith, Blinckmann, Aguero and Wesley Farrer took second in the 200 medley relay, while Gonzalez, Lindley and Max and Hugo Blinckmann swam to a second in the 200 free relay. Max Blinckmann, Perez, Sebastian Camargo and Gonzalez finished second in the 400 free relay and Lindley, Aguero, Johnny Picco and Jackson Way took third in the same relay event.

The meet concluded Coral Shores’ regular season. Key West closes out its regular season against Barbara Goleman Oct. 18 for the annual Senior Day race at the CFK pool before turning attention to districts later in the week. Both teams dive into districts Oct. 22. The Conchs, classified as 2A, compete at Belen in the afternoon. 1A Coral Shores will meet at Belen that same morning with the exception of Lykins, who will compete at the diving event held at St. Andrews School on Oct. 21.

1. A Key West swimmer heads down the lane in a freestyle race.

2. Andres Aguero swims in a freestyle race.

Jace Jackson awaits the start of a race.

A Key West swimmer dives off the starting block.

Aaron Lykins tucks in the 1-meter diving competition.

A Key West swimmer grabs a breath in a butterfly race.

A Coral Shores swimmer enters the pool.

Larkin Dunn takes a breath mid-stroke.

Lane Smith cruises with a big lead in the 500 free race. JACKSON GARCIA/Keys Weekly

1. The Lady Conchs await their district semifinal opponent after earning a bye in the quarters.

2. Marathon’s Daysi Williams and Coral Shores’ Coralyn Frimpter battle it out at the net.

3. Niveah Howard guards the net for Coral Shores.

4. Coralyn Frimpter winds up for a hard hit against Marathon.

Photos by Tracy McDonald and Maicey Malgrat

GO TIME

Apair of wins last week brought the Hurricanes of Coral Shores to a 13-6 regular season record and secured a home match for their quarterfinal district contest. The Hurricanes defeated Keys Gate 3-0 on Oct. 7, led by a hard-hitting front that never quit. Keys Gate managed to take the ’Canes to extra points in the third set, but ultimately, the Knights were outmatched. Celene Walker had 10 kills, Coralyn Frimpter had eight kills and eight aces and Maddie Jordan picked up three aces. Niveah Howard was clutch at the net with six kills and three blocks.

Two nights later, the Hurricanes traveled to Marathon for both teams’ final match of the regular season. Frimpter had eight kills with fellow freshman Jillian Thiery adding seven. Walker and Howard had six kills apiece and Shelby Lynn served up five aces to overpower the Fins.

The Hurricanes earned the No. 4 seed in FHSAA’s 3A District 16 bracket. They hosted Carrollton School, seeded fifth, Oct. 14 in the quarterfinals (results not available at press time). A win would send them to the semifinal match the following night, most likely against top-ranked Gulliver Prep. An upset in that battle would pave the way for a shot at the district championship on Oct. 17.

Teams face stiff competition in volleyball district brackets

The Marathon Dolphins, now 2-13, also earned a home match for their FHSAA 1A Rural district quarterfinal contest. The Fins, ranked fourth in the class, played fifth-ranked Glades Day Oct. 14 (results not available at press time). A win against the Gators would send Marathon to Moore Haven the following day. Moore Haven is the top seed in their grouping, and should Marathon prevail in that matchup, they could play for a district championship Oct. 17.

Key West finished 15-10 on the regular season with the addition of two in-county wins last week. They started with Basilica School on Oct. 6, defeating the Mariners 3-0. The entire Lady Conch lineup was strong against Basilica. Audrey Smith recorded 15 kills and a pair of blocks in the win. Gabby Garcia added nine kills and Tess Wright had six kills and a pair of blocks. Cat Van Staden had two blocks, then picked up three aces, recording a 90% serve percentage to spark the Conch offense. Adriana Heinrichs had 16 digs with Journey Lamb adding 15 more. Molly McKnight recorded 28 assists in the win.

The following night, Key West celebrated their seniors in the final regular-season home match of the year. Coach Kim Butler was very pleased with the play of her most seasoned athletes.

“All did a wonderful job on their last season home match,” she said.

The team’s seven seniors played the entire match for Key West, with Smith leading the way in kills with 10. Garcia added six and Heinrichs recorded three plus a pair of aces. Van Staden had two kills and another four aces. Wright had three kills and three aces and McKnight had four aces and 17 assists. Butler also praised Savannah Ventimiglia for a solid all-around performance in the team’s victory.

Key West’s strength of schedule helped boost their district rankings, giving them the No. 2 seed and a quarterfinal bye. They awaited the winner of an Oct. 13 Miami Northwestern versus Miami Central match for their next opponent. The Conchs played the winner of that match on Oct. 15 at home (results not available at press time). A win there gives them a shot at the 4A District 16 title. The top-ranked team in that pool is St. Brendan, a team Key West narrowly lost to on Sept. 26, making a run at regionals a realistic endeavor. Basilica’s season ended with their Oct. 6 loss to Key West. The team, 8-14 this season, plans to join the FHSAA next year to be eligible for playoffs in 2026.

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1. Coral Shores quarterback Sterling Keefe (16) looks to pass.

2. Coral Shores defender Glade Harrelson (7) puts pressure on the Archbishop quarterback.

3. Coral Shores back John Oughton (19) runs upfield.

4. Coral Shores takes on Archbishop Carroll at home on Oct. 10. Archbishop Carroll went on to win 26-0.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

BLANK-ET STATEMENT

Keys teams face uphill battles against permissive recruiting rules

For the first time in at least 20 years, Monroe Country’s three football teams failed to score a single point against their respective opponents last weekend – and while there are a handful of weeks in which Keys teams all lose, a triple-blanking is unheard of. If the FHSAA’s open transfer policy remains as it stands, last week’s anomaly may become more commonplace.

In 2016, Florida House Bill 7029 allowed students to transfer to any public school of their choice, and the FHSAA’s bylaws were changed to accommodate the bill. This opened doors for limited roster changes, and in its early stages, student-athletes typically used the legislation to transfer for academic reasons, with a slower shift in dynamics for athletics.

Less than a decade later, transfers for athletics-only purposes are commonplace, with students able to play on teams out of their jurisdiction and even schools they do not physically attend. This has led to “super teams” dominating Florida’s football landscape, making it increasingly difficult for teams like Coral Shores, Marathon and Key West to compete.

“We’re geographically isolated,” said Key West coach Johnny Hughes, whose Conchs faced defending state champion Miami Northwestern last week. “We have who we have. That’s not what we were looking at against Northwestern.”

Hughes said his team looked across the line of scrimmage and saw a “football factory.”

“I wouldn’t call it a football team; they’ve only been together a few months. It was a collection of talent. They were loaded,” he said. Indeed, the

Conchs faced a quarterback who played at Ransom last year, a North Fort Myers transfer committed to Texas who did not even play, and a bevy of similar talent who likely never set foot on campus beyond their practice schedule. “Personnel was a major issue,” said Hughes.

Even when the Conchs had glimmers of greatness last week, the personnel mismatch was evident. “One of their defensive players, a guy committed to FAU, blew his coverage and we got positive yardage,” said Hughes. “The players started to yell to get him out of the game and they replaced him with a guy committed to FIU instead.”

Coaches across Florida are more and more becoming talent scouts, and recruiting has surpassed coaching in the priorities of many programs. To keep their programs stocked with the best talent, coaches must appease their stars to avoid transfers – even mid-season.

“The starting quarterback never came out,” said Hughes, “not even when they were ahead by over 40.”

For Coral Shores, the situation was similar.

“It’s an unfair playing field for sure,” said coach Ed Holly, whose Hurricanes lost 26-0 last week to a stacked Archbishop Carroll. The ’Canes resorted to some unusual playcalling to try to overcome the Bulldogs. Holly praised Sterling Keefe for completing four of seven passes, something completely out of the ordinary for the run-heavy Hurricanes. David Beltran ran eight times for 42 yards, earning each one the hard way, but despite the best trickery in play-calling and grittiest of athletic feats, it was not enough to down the Dogs.

“We know year to year who will be on our rosters,” said Holly, speaking about not just his team, but Marathon and Key West as well.

“All three teams have to do an unbelievable job of developing talent, investing in our futures and doing it the traditional way,” he said. “In bad years, we develop the next group and in good years, we have good records. The teams with the most seniors are usually the most successful, then they go and we start over.”

But the struggle of Coral Shores to develop a group of underclassmen takes years, including teaching fundamentals, building camaraderie and a brotherhood, and building size and strength in the weight room. Mainland schools need only recruit ready-made players to dominate schools unwilling or unable to recruit, and those schools are left with gaping holes on their rosters when the powerhouses pluck away talent developed elsewhere.

And while Holly did not mince his words on open transferring and recruiting, he was also adamant that he would not trade his situation with that of teams that can produce an all-star roster overnight.

“I wouldn’t change what we have,” he said. “Our community is so special because our kids play, come back and volunteer and support us, no matter what. I wouldn’t change it for anything. What is our main goal? It’s to make better fathers, sons, husbands and brothers using football as a tool to do this. Recruiting doesn’t accomplish this.”

Between Key West and Coral Shores, Marathon is also feeling the pain of schools that can fill roster spots with a phone call rather than put

the work in for years. The Dolphins have not won a game this season, and yet the Fins come to practice daily with good attitudes and a willingness to get better and support one another every day, according to coach Sean McDonald.

“Our guys know what we’re facing each week,” he said. “We don’t just develop kids from freshman year, we do it from middle school on. For them to have the patience and tenacity to endure a season like this one and put themselves out there against a team that has obvious advantages we cannot control is a testament to the character of this team.”

Marathon, with just over 400 high school students, consistently plays schools with triple or quadruple their enrollment. They reclassified as 1A Rural last season, a move that pits them against like-rostered schools in the postseason. But to see more evenly-matched contests, the Fins will have to make it to the postseason, and an 0-8 record against larger opponents will not accomplish that.

Now that the floodgates to transferring and recruiting are open, there is likely no closing them, but Keys teams are not the only ones frustrated with competing against super teams. The FHSAA is working to find a happy balance between the obligation to follow the letter of the law as far as school transfers go and the advantages used by some squads.

To do this, the FHSAA added the Florida Invitational Tournament, or FIT, an extra postseason bracket for teams not qualifying for playoffs in the traditional format. The FIT will include 16 teams beyond the 32 qualifying for playoffs now.

But even the addition of FIT will not stop the Wild West of open transfers and unbalance – it merely awards a consolation prize to teams that don’t quite qualify for playoffs.

Next week, Coral Shores faces ABF Academy, a team far more talented than their 2-4 record lets on. Against similar opponents, ABF holds the advantage, but a road trip and the run grind of the Hurricanes could even up those odds. Key West faces 7A Lehigh, an unfamiliar team which, despite a 3-4 record, looks good on film, according to Hughes.

“We need this one,” he said, regarding the Conchs’ hopes of earning home field advantage for round one of the playoffs.

Up next for Marathon is the undefeated Cowboys of LaBelle, a 3A team four hours north. Though the records and rosters are lopsided, the teams both had a desire to rekindle a wellmatched and respected rivalry from the past. For decades, Marathon and LaBelle played one another in the final game of the season, a rivalry that is well-remembered by both sides despite not having the longstanding rivalry game since the mid-’90s.

“It was always a pretty physical and hardfought game,” said LaBelle assistant coach Hal Bennett. He played in some of the final seasons the teams met in what was then referred to as the “end-of-year classic,” when Cowboy players looked forward to traveling to the Keys for a football game.

Bennett described "vivid memories of warming up in the end zone and seeing fiddler crabs

5. Marathon’s Curren Nicolay (2) and a Mount Dora player scramble for possession of an onside kick in sloppy conditions on Oct. 10.

6. Marathon and Mount Dora slip and slide in an attempt to secure possession.

7. Jesus Gonzalez (4) brings down the Mount Dora ball carrier.

8. Eduardo Garcia assists the referee after a collision with a Mount Dora player.

TRACY MCDONALD/Keys Weekly

scurrying away,” adding that some teammates were a bit unnerved that the entire end zone seemed to move due to the crabs.

He quickly named some of Marathon’s roster who made an impression on him and his teammates. He recalled “a small guy on Marathon’s team that was missing his arm from the elbow down, and how much respect they had for how hard and physical he played.”

Another was Dosey Robbins. “You don’t forget 260-pound tailbacks,” Bennett said. "He may not have weighed that much, but he sure looked like he did!”

Marathon coach Andra Garvey confirmed Bennett’s analysis of Robbins – “yes, he was 250” – and identified Derick Jones as the player with the missing arm. Garvey played against LaBelle when he was a middle school student on the varsity team. It was five years before Garvey was named Florida Player of the Year, but he remembered the games against the Cowboys.

Garvey described the Cowboys as matching Marathon in speed at the time, but being bigger in size. He also remembered plenty of cowbell noise from the fans, and something a bit more unusual the Cowboys packed on the bus. LaBelle fired off a cannon to signify a touchdown. “Every time they scored, it went off,” Garvey said.

Bennett assures that there will be no cannon Friday night in Marathon, and despite the lopsided records the teams have this season, both coaching staffs hope to rekindle the yearly game.

Keys golfers met at the prestigious Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo to play nine holes on Oct. 7, where Marathon’s Roco Piscetello and Coral Shores’ Scout Oliver tied for first with 39. Piscetello birdied on hole 17 while Oliver’s consistency helped him outshoot the pack. In third was another tie between Key West’s Geo Twyman and Marathon’s Max Childress. Childress and Twyman, who also birdied on 17, each scored 41.

Key West’s Mason Titensor was next, followed by Marathon’s Emmett Merryman and Coral Shores’ Brock Bynum in a tie for sixth. Jacob Bohnstedt of Coral Shores and Aiden Richard tied for seventh and Luca Picariello and Cullen Coleman-Sayer tied for 10th place. Marathon won the team

From left: Justice Lee

Melanie Estevez

Roco Piscetello

Scout Oliver

Photos by Natalie Danko and Doug Finger

TIES ON THE TEES

Golfers share scores in close matches

competition, with Coral Shores taking second on their home course.

In the girls competition, Coral Shores’ Valerie Gabriel and Marathon’s Justice Lee kept the ties coming. Both golfers turned in score cards with 60 to share first place. Makenna Haines of Marathon was third and Melanie Estevez finished fourth.

Golfers have less than two weeks before district competition begins. This season, 1A Marathon and Coral Shores are slated to play at Crandon Golf Course in Key Biscayne on Oct. 28. Key West, classified as 2A, plays the following day. The boys team will compete at Redland Golf and Country Club while the Lady Conchs will travel to Eagle Trace Golf Club for the start of their postseason play.

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Defendant, NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY given that pursuant to a amended Writ of Execution issued in the Circuit Court, of Monroe County, Florida, on the 7th day of October, 2025, in the cause wherein Premier Capital, LLC is Plaintiff and Carolyn M. Delgado and William J. Delgado was defendant, being Case No.

2025-CA-129-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: Legal Description(s) –On the Island of Key West, Monroe County, Florida, and known on William A. Whitehead’s map delineated in February A.D. 1829, as part of Tract 11 but better known as part of Lot 3, Square 9, Tract 11 according to Charles W. Tift’s Map of said Island recorded in Deed Book “L” Page 564, of the Public

PUBLIC KICK-OFF MEETING

Card Sound Road Bridge

Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study

Financial Project ID: 453765-1-22-01

Efficient Transportation Decision Making (ETDM) Number: 14539

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will host a Public Kick-off Meeting for the Card Sound Road Bridge PD&E Study. The limits of this project extend from south of Milepost 5 to Milepost 6.242 along County Road (CR) 905A/Card Sound Road in Monroe County. The purpose of this project is to evaluate alternatives that will address the structural degradation and substandard design elements of the existing Card Sound Road Bridge, including improved emergency evacuation/response times, and the need for bicycle/pedestrian facilities. This meeting is an opportunity to learn about the project, become familiar with the study process, and provide feedback. The meeting will be held simultaneously in person and virtually.

Tuesday, October 28, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Presentation starting at 6 p.m

Virtual Option: To participate virtually from your computer, tablet, or smartphone, please register using the following link https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/429b4a0b-5375-41e1a547-2ef167b0b223@4cf2e5a9-7553-47d9-b3c4-b29299a853a9 or scan the QR code provided

Phone Option: Call in by dialing (833) 566-1407 and enter access code 891 743 780#

In-person Option: Murray Nelson Government Center, BOCC Room, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status. Persons who need special assistance under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 or who need translation services (free of charge) should contact Dat Huynh at 305-470-5201 or in writing to Florida Department of Transportation, 1000 NW 111 Avenue, Miami, FL 33172 or by email at Dat.Huynh@dot.state.fl.us at least seven days prior to the meeting. Your attendance is encouraged and appreciated. If you would like further information about this project, please contact the FDOT Project Manager, Claudia Gutierrez, P.E., at 305-470-5268 or by email at Claudia.Gutierrez@dot.state.fl.us. You may also visit the project website at www.SouthFLRoads.com/CardSoundBridgePD&E.html.

The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried out by FDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. § 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated May 26, 2022, and executed by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and FDOT.

Records of Monroe County, Florida and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: Commencing at the intersection of the Southwesterly right of way boundary line of Duval Street with the Northwesterly right of way boundary line of United Street and run in a Southwesterly direction along the said right of way

boundary line of United Street a distance of 100 feet to the Point of Beginning of the parcel of land herein described, thence at right angles in the Northwesterly direction 84.17 feet to a point; thence at right angles in a Southwesterly direction 26.3 feet to a point; thence at right angles in a Southeasterly direction 84.17 feet to a point in the Northwesterly

REUNIÓN PÚBLICA

Card Sound Road Bridge

Estudio de Desarrollo y Medio Ambiente (PD&E) ID de Proyecto Financiero: 453765-1-22-01

Número de toma de decisions de transporte eficiente (ETDM): 14539

El Departamento de Transporte de Florida (FDOT) organizará una reunión pública de lanzamiento para el estudio PD&E del puente de Card Sound Road. Los límites de este proyecto se extienden desde el sur de Milepost 5 hasta Milepost 6.242 a lo largo de County Road (CR) 905A/Card Sound Road en el condado de Monroe. El propósito de este proyecto es evaluar alternativas que aborden la degradación estructural y los elementos de diseño deficientes del puente de Card Sound Road, incluyendo mejores tiempos de evacuación/respuesta de emergencia, y la necesidad de instalaciones para bicicletas/peatones. Esta reunión es una oportunidad para aprender sobre el proyecto, familiarizarse con el proceso de estudio y proporcionar comentarios. La reunión se llevará a cabo simultáneamente en persona y virtual Martes, 28 de octubre, 2025, de 5:30 p.m. a 7:30 p.m. Presentación a partir de las 6 p.m

Opción Virtual: Para participar virtualmente desde su computadora, tableta o teléfono inteligente, regístrese utilizando el siguiente enlace https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/429b4a0b-5375-41e1a547-2ef167b0b223@4cf2e5a9-7553-47d9-b3c4-b29299a853a9 o escanee el código QR proporcionado.

Opción de teléfono: Llame marcando (833) 566-1407 e ingrese el código de acceso 891 743 780#

Opción en persona: Murray Nelson Government Center, BOCC Room, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

Se solicita la participación pública sin distinción de raza, color, origen nacional, edad, sexo, religion, discapacidad, o estado familiar. Las personas que necesiten asistencia especial bajo la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades del 1990 o que necesiten servicios de traducción (sin cargo) deben comunicarse con Dat Huynh al 305-470-5201; o por escrito al Departamento de Transporte de la Florida, 1000 NW 111 Avenue, Miami, FL 33172; o por correo electrónico a Dat.Huynh@dot.state.fl.us al menos siete días antes de la reunión

Su participación es bienvenida y apreciada. Si desea más información sobre este proyecto, por favor, póngase en contacto con el Gerente de Proyecto del FDOT , Claudia Gutierrez, PE, al 305-470-5268 o por correo electrónico a Claudia.Gutierrez@dot.state.fl.us. También puede visitar el sitio web del proyecto en www.SouthFLRoads.com/CardSoundBridgePD&E.html

La revisión ambiental, la consulta y otras acciones requeridas por las leyes ambientales federales aplicables para este proyecto están siendo, o han sido, llevadas a cabo por el FDOT de conformidad con 23 U.S.C. § 327 y un Memorando de Entendimiento de fecha 26 de mayo de 2022, y ejecutado por la Administración Federal de Carreteras (FHWA) y FDOT.

Murray Nelson Government Center Hampton Inn

Murray Nelson Government Center

Hampton Inn

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

I shall offer this property for sale, at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters building located at 5525 College Road Key West, Florida 33040 in the County of Monroe, State of Florida, on the 25th day of November, 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 or cashiers check. 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 8th day of October, 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: October 16, 23 & 30 and November 6, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 25-CP-385-K IN RE: ESTATE OF EILEEN M. QUINN

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Eileen M. Quinn, deceased, whose date of death was May 10, 2025, 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. 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. 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 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: October 9, 2025.

Personal Representative: John R. Quinn

31279 Avenue G Big Pine Key, Florida 33043

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: October 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-443-K

DIVISION: LOWER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF BRUCE A. BUSH

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Bruce A. Bush, deceased, whose date of death was September 13, 2025, 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.

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.

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 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: October 9, 2025.

Personal Representative: Sara Marie Rehfeld

12211 Valley Drive Goshen, Kentucky 40026

Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134

RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6022

Fax: (305) 743-6216

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2022-CC-315-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 212, Week 3, Sunset Harbor Resort, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1376, Page 1093, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (hereafter the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025

Style of which is: SUNSET HARBOR RESORT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA

Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST LOIS A BIENLIEN, DECEASED; PATRICIA ANN SHUFELT, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO LOIS A. BIENLIEN; AND GEORGE WILLIAM SHUFELT, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO LOIS A. BIENLIEN

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2022-CC315-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

CASE NO.: 2024-CC-42-K

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE

SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT

COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for

CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5123, Week 3, Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) VII entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. MARY KATHERINE BIVINS, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO WILLIAM SAMUEL BIVINS AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST WILLIAM SAMUEL BIVINS, DECEASED

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC42-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk

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

Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-48-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE

SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit E31, Week 18, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

JACQUELINE S. BLOOM, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS TRUSTEE OF THE BURT BLOOM FAMILY TRUST; ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST BURT R. BLOOM, DECEASED; PRASHANT A. MARATHAY, TRUSTEE OF THE MARATHAY LIVING TRUST, DATED AUGUST 21, 2000; LEENA P. MARATHAY, TRUSTEE OF THE MARATHAY LIVING TRUST, DATED AUGUST 21, 2000; AND BROOKE ALYSON BLOOM, AS TRUSTEE OF THE BURT BLOOM FAMILY TRUST Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC48-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-74-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 531, Week 36, Sunset Harbor Resort, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1376, Page 1093, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (hereafter the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: SUNSET HARBOR RESORT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. BRISTOL HOSPICE-GEORGIA, LLC, AS HEIR TO WILLIAM CAWLEY CHANDLER; BRENDA RADOSEVICH, AS HEIR TO WILLIAM CAWLEY CHANDLER; SCOTT LOUIS CHANDLER, AS HEIR TO WILLIAM CAWLEY CHANDLER; CHRISTOPHER WILLIAM CHANDLER, AS HEIR TO WILLIAM CAWLEY CHANDLER; AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY,

THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST WILLIAM CAWLEY CHANDLER, DECEASED Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC74-K

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025

KEVIN MADOK

Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod

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

Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-42-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5722, Week 17, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST TAMORA ANN DENNIS, DECEASED; PAULA DENNIS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO TAMORA ANN DENNIS; AND TERRY DENNIS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO TAMORA ANN DENNIS Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC42-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-272-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5834, Week 25, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT AS TO COUNT(S) I, II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff vs. KATHLEEN A. WELLINGTON Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC272-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-48-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit F21, Week 39, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE

FLORIDA Plaintiff

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST KRISTEN ELIZABETH REDDING, DECEASED; ED DAVIS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO KRISTEN ELIZABETH REDDING; AND SUSAN DAVIS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO KRISTEN ELIZABETH REDDING Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC48-K

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025

KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

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

Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-48-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit B12, Week 22, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST NORMAN CHARLES RICKER, DECEASED

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC48-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025

KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk

Florida Statute

45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property

owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-42-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5114, Week 9, Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA

Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MARY-ELLEN ROSENBERRY, DECEASED; AND JOHN MONNES, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARYELLEN ROSENBERRY; JEFF MONNES, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARY-ELLEN ROSENBERRY; AND MELANIE GREELEY, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARYELLEN ROSENBERRY

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC42-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025

KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

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

Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

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

CASE NO.: 2024-CC-42-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock

a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale

LEGAL NOTICES

and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5411, Week 46, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) VI entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025

Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MARILYN J. VECCHIO, DECEASED AND DAVID VECCHIO, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARILYN J. VECCHIO

Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC42-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025

KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-42-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5714, Week 5, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) V entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MARILYN J. VECCHIO, DECEASED; AND DAVID VECCHIO, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARILYN J. VECCHIO

Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC42-K

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-292-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE

SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5614, Week 23, Even Year Biennial Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I, II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3RD day of October 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Plaintiff vs. MANUEL VICENTE GONZALEZ ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MARIA CRISTINA GONZALEZ, DECEASED

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC292-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 3RD day of October 2025

KEVIN MADOK

Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod

Deputy Clerk

Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-425-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5822, Week 24, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE

AFTER DEFAULT entering in a case pending in said Court, the 3RD day of October 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Plaintiff vs. ROSE RAMIREZ

Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC425-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 3RD day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED

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

BOATS FOR SALE

GREAT DEAL: Key Largo 21' Deep V Center Console w/trailer. New 150hp motor & electronics. $15,000 Located in Marathon. 201-696-8906

17' Montauk Whaler, 90hp Yamaha-50 hours only, GPS, Depth Finder, Radio, Aluminum Trailer, excellent condition. Located in Marathon. $11,000 OBO 305-849-5793 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!!

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

Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-610-8002

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

EMPLOYMENT

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/

Boat rental company in Marathon looking for help with boat detailing & boat cleaning. Call 305-481-7006

The SS Wreck & Galley Grill (mile marker 59) is looking for a fulltime prep and dishwasher person. Self-motivated, will train, experience very helpful, quick learner, and team player. Salary includes 401k match up to 6%. Please call Nicole at 305-4330515 or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.

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.

PAVER DAVE INC. is now hiring in the Lower Keys. Must have Driver’s License. Bobcat driver experience helpful. Pay depends on experience. Call 305-304-3966 HIRED IN LESS THAN 4 WEEKS!!!

PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-417-0871 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

Key Largo - like new fully furnished private ground floor studio. Includes utilities, cable TV, internet. rental application required. $1,800/ mo - 786 258 3127

HOUSING FOR RENT VACATION RENTAL

3 BR/2 BA home for rent in Key Colony Beach. 75' premium dock. $4,000/ month + utilities. F/L/S 786-229-0228

2BR/1BA house for rent in Marathon. Completely remodeled. All appliances. No pets. $2700/mo for 2+ ppl.- $2,500/mo if less, incl. electric only. F/L/S Dock available for sep. fee. 305-610-8002

UNFURNISHED 2/2 HOUSE FOR RENT ON CANAL, MM27, Ramrod Key, recently refurbished and painted, w/d, utilities paid by owner, $2,500/month, fenced yard, available now. Pete 786-649-9833 or pprm1119@aol.com RENTED!!!

2BR/1BA with outdoor patio for rent in Marathon. $2,100/month F/L/S Taking applications. 305-849-5793 RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!!

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

MISCELLANEOUS

FREE: Leather L-shaped sectional sofa with two manual working recliners. Off white/ tan color. Left side recliner section has worn leather & a tear. All other sections in good condition. 4 separate pieces total. FREE - Must pick up - located at MM61 in the Middle Keys. Call 305-417-0871.

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

YARD SALES

PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-417-0871 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com

FREE: Leather L-shaped sectional sofa with two manual working recliners. Off white/ tan color. Left side recliner section has worn leather & a tear. All other sections in good condition. 4 separate pieces total. FREE - Must pick up - located at MM61 in the Middle Keys. Call 305-417-0871.

Old Wooden Bridge Resort & Marina

NOW HIRING

Front Desk Clerk

(Under new management)

Stop in for an application at 1791 Bogie Drive Big Pine Key, FL 33043 305-872-2241

NOW HIRING

DOCK HAND

We are looking for a Dock Hand with excellent customer service to join our team. You would assist with the daily operations of our marina. Responsibilities include assistance with the daily marina tasks including helping guests arrive and depart from their dock, guiding guests over the radio, navigation, marina amenity cleaning, pressure-washing, assisting guests with golf cart rides and requests, and maintaining the marina.

Send resume to captpips@aol.com or come in the of ce to ll out application. 1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050

TREASURE HARBOR MARINA IN ISLAMORADA

NOW HIRING

Maintenance Person

Apply in person at: Treasure Harbor Marina 200 Treasure Harbor Drive Islamorada

SKILLED HEAVY CIVIL EQUIPMENT OPERATORS

We are hiring Skilled Heavy Civil Equipment Operators. 3 yrs or more experience required. Monday-Friday with overtime possible.

Please apply in person at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc., 129 Toppino Industrial Drive, Key West. Or contact Cheryl at 305-296-5606 ext 126 or cheryl@charleytoppino.com

EXPERIENCED HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

We are hiring Experienced Heavy Equipment Operators. 1 yr or more experience required. Monday-Friday with overtime possible.

CAPTAIN PIP’S IS AN AWESOME PLACE TO WORK, WE TREAT OUR EMPLOYEES GREAT. COME JOIN OUR TEAM! IMMEDIATE

TECHNICIAN

Experience preferred. CDL required.

Applicant must apply in person at:

MARATHON ELECTRIC SIGN & LIGHT 10690 Aviation Boulevard Marathon, Florida 33050

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS COORDINATOR

Join a workforce where innovation and teamwork provide support to the employees, retirees, community and citizens of Monroe County! The Employee Benefits Coordinator handles the eligibility of all participants in the MC BOCC’s health, pharmaceutical, life, dental and visions plans, including enrollment, dependent coverage, terminations, and retirement. Monroe County offers an excellent benefits package and is a member of the Florida Retirement System (FRS). Onsite position in Key West, 40 HPW. Annual salary range: $58,121.73 - $90,088.69, based on experience.

To view job descriptions and apply, visit: www.monroecounty-fl.gov/jobs For questions, contact Human Resources at: Careers@MonroeCounty-FL.gov or 305-292-4554. Deadline – Open until filled. Veteran’s Preference Available; E.O.E.

Email: info@keysboatrental.com Call for more information: 305-664-9943

NOW HIRING!

FACILITIES MAINTENANCE APPRENTICE (Full-Time, Permanent)

GUEST SERVICES STAFF (Full-Time, Permanent)

VOLUNTEER RESOURCES ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT (Full Time, Permanent)

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) organization specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals. DRC provides for the well-being of its employees with a competitive package including: a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays/vacation/sick days, an employee assistance program, in addition to, life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee. EOE

JOIN THE FAMILY! Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

Please apply in person at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc., 129 Toppino Industrial Drive, Key West. Or contact Cheryl at 305-296-5606 ext 126 or cheryl@charleytoppino.com

We are hiring Experienced Construction Laborers. 2 yrs or more experience required. Monday-Friday with overtime possible.

Please apply in person at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc., 129 Toppino Industrial Drive, Key West. Or contact Cheryl at 305-296-5606 ext 126 or cheryl@charleytoppino.com

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 Therapist (CAT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)

KEY WEST

Case Manager (Children, Adult) (FT)

Prevention Specialist

Advocate

MARATHON

Advocate Care Coordinator (PT)

Driver (CDL not required) (PT)

Driver (CDL required) (FT)

RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (FT, PT)

*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (PT)

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

*Night Monitor (Assisted Living – Free Housing)

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

Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP

EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

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

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

- Medical Assistant, LPN, EMT or Paramedic, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus

- Patient Access Associate, Tavernier, $1k Bonus

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST

- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C) Medical Oncology, Per Diem

- Pool Radiation Therapist

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- AC Mechanic, Facility Operations

- Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus

- Cook, Dietary, $5k Bonus

- Director of Respiratory Services, Respiratory Therapy, $25k Bonus

- Exercise Physiologist, Mariners Wellness Center, Per Diem

- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT Scan, $50k Bonus

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Echocardiography, Per Diem

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

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, MRI, $50k Bonus

- Nurse Supervisor, ICU, $20k Bonus

- Pool Clinical Pharmacist, Per Diem

- Pool Group Exercise Instructor, Per Diem

- Pool Medical Technologist

- Registered Nurse, Cardiac Rehabilitation, Per Diem

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Per Diem

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Emergency Department Team Coordinator, FT & Per Diem

- Inventory Control Administrator, Keys/Marathon Supply Chain

- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 2, (MRI & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus

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

- Patient Scheduler 3, Surgery, PT

- Pool Occupational Therapist

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $15k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Per Diem

- Registered Nurse, PACU, $15k Bonus

- Registered Respiratory Therapist, PT, $12,500 Bonus

- Respiratory Therapist, Per Diem

- Security Officer, FT & Per Diem