GERRIT C. HALE FOR MARATHON CITY COUNCIL
As we come to the end of this campaign, I want to speak directly and honestly about what matters most to me; the truth, the health of our community, and the future of Marathon.
There have been accusations and rumors surrounding City Manager George Garrett. I took the time to look into those claims personally, and I found no credible evidence to support them. If there were, why has it not been acted on? Destroying a person's reputation after years of dedication to the community is not fair and not my style. I’ve heard a lot of talk but never any hard evidence. I’ve read the employment contract the city agreed and negotiated with Mr. Garrett. What I did find is a deeper problem, a failure of oversight by the City Council. Accountability starts at the top, and Marathon deserves leadership that doesn’t pass the buck or hide behind politics. We need transparency, not turmoil.
I live here full time. This is not a vacation home, it’s my home. I retired at 58 because I was smart and disciplined enough to plan well, work hard, and succeed. That same determination and analytical approach is exactly what I’ll bring to City Hall. I know how to manage complex budgets, evaluate projects, and make
data-driven decisions that benefit the whole community, not just a few.
One of our greatest challenges is housing. The truth is, there simply isn’t enough available land, and what land we do have is priced out of reach for working families.
Add to that the state-imposed ROGO and BPAS systems, and Marathon faces an uphill battle just to maintain a local workforce. We need creative, balanced solutions, partnerships with nonprofits, public-private collaborations, and adaptive reuse of underutilized properties to make sure the people who serve this community can afford to live here. Without affordable housing, we risk losing the very people who make Marathon run; our teachers, police officers, nurses, and service workers.
Equally important is protecting the very thing that makes Marathon special, our natural environment. We must return our waters to pristine condition. That means enforcing responsible stormwater management, improving canal restoration projects, supporting deep-well injection to protect our nearshore waters, and holding both public and private entities accountable for keeping our island clean. Clean water is not just an environmental issue,
I’M GERRIT HALE, AND I’D BE HONORED TO HAVE YOUR SUPPORT. TOGETHER, LET’S KEEP MARATHON THE COMMUNITY WE’RE ALL PROUD TO CALL HOME.
it’s an economic one. Our fishing, tourism, and property values depend on it.
You may have noticed I haven’t blanketed U.S. 1 with campaign signs. That’s by choice. I’m not here to add more clutter to our beautiful island. I’m here to protect and enhance it. It wouldn’t make sense to campaign on beautifying the Highway 1 corridor while contributing to its visual pollution. I’d rather earn your vote through integrity and ideas, not yard sign saturation.
Marathon is moving forward but we have to do it responsibly, with a clear eye toward affordability, accountability, and sustainability. My commitment is simple: to preserve and protect what makes Marathon a world-class destination and a truly
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5
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm on Oct. 28. Jamaica has never taken a hit from a Category 5 hurricane. The storm proceeded to Cuba, where evacuations were ordered on Oct. 28 in Santiago de Cuba, the second-most populated province. The storm won’t threaten the continental U.S.
Youngsters flock to Sombrero Beach to get their share of treats at the city of Marathon’s Trick or Treat at the Beach on Oct. 21. See page 12. ROSS
SMITH/Keys Weekly
STATE LEGISLATORS FILE PROPERTY TAX RELIEF PROPOSALS
Resolutions safeguard funding for schools, law enforcement
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Arecent legislative committee week in Tallahassee brought a flurry of proposals related to the reduction or elimination of property taxes in Florida.
By Oct. 16, seven Florida House Republicans filed joint resolutions, which would require a three-fifths majority vote of the Legislature in order for them to appear on the 2026 ballot. They would then need 60% support from state voters in order to pass.
A majority of the proposals filed in the House maintain property taxes for local K-12 schools. For local governments, however, ad valorem dollars would either be reduced or outright gone.
Property taxes are paid based on the millage rate set by the municipality’s governing body and the property’s assessed value. The money goes to general fund operations of governments and schools. They support operational expenses of fire rescue and police and various departments.
A variety of tax exemptions are offered in Florida, including the homestead exemption that lowers the property’s taxable value up to $50,000. There’s also the Save Our Homes amendment, which caps the amount property taxes rise per year to no more than 3% regardless of property value changes. Exemptions are also in place for active duty military members and veterans.
But state leaders are finding more ways to relieve the property taxpayer’s burden.
A majority of the proposals preserve funding for law enforcement but not fire rescue. A majority of non-school property tax dollars in the Florida Keys and throughout the Sun-
shine State go toward fire rescue and law enforcement. For instance, a little more than 69% of unincorporated Monroe County ad valorem dollars, or $117 million, goes to public safety.
One proposal, filed by state Rep. Kevin Steele of Pasco County, would exempt homestead property from all ad valorem taxation besides K-12 school district levies. His proposal also prohibits counties and municipalities from reducing the total funding for law enforcement beginning with the 2027-28 fiscal year.
“The total funding provided by each county and municipality for law enforcement services may not be less than such jurisdiction’s total budgeted amount for law enforcement services in either the 2025-2026 or 2026-2027 local fiscal year, whichever was higher,” reads Steele’s bill.
State Rep. Monique Miller’s filed resolution proposes to increase the homesteaded property exemption by $100,000 annually during a 10-year period. By 2037, the property would be exempt from property taxes, other than school district levies. Miller’s bill also prevents local municipalities from reducing law enforcement funding.
A proposal by state Rep. Juan Carlos Porras, of Miami-Dade County, would only give homestead property tax exemptions to those over the age of 65. His bill, too, would safeguard law enforcement funding. Another bill brought forth by state Rep. Shane Abbott would add a homestead exemption for levies, other than school district levies, equal to 25% of the remaining assessed value after applying existing exemptions.
Rep. Demi Busatta’s resolution would increase the exemption for homestead properties with property insurance by $100,000 from all ad valorem taxation, besides school district levies. Rep. Toby Overdorf’s bill would increase the Save Our Homes benefit, while a proposal by Rep. Philip “Griff” Griffiths would modify limitations on assessment increases for homestead
and nonhomestead property.
On top of the House joint resolutions is one bill filed in the House by state Rep. Jon Albert to limit millage rate increases from the previous year, unless the local municipality’s council or board approves it via two-thirds vote. Unlike the House joint resolutions which need legislative and voter approval, Albert’s bill would need approval from the Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis.
A staunch advocate for the elimination of property taxes in homesteaded properties, DeSantis has made numerous statements that Floridians who bought property shouldn’t constantly face taxation. He called the House proposals a “political game” and not a serious attempt to get it done for the people.
On the other side, House Speaker Danny Perez has criticized DeSantis for failing to release a detailed plan on how to eliminate property taxes.
While stating his support for measures to relieve some of the property tax burden, especially for those over 65, state Rep. Jim Mooney said he doesn’t believe eliminating property tax is feasible. If any measure makes it to the ballot in 2026, Mooney said, legislators must clearly explain to the voters the positives and negative sides to such a move.
“If property taxes get eliminated down the line, I don’t know how governments are supposed to operate. I like the fact our parks look good and our roads are paved,” he said.
If anything, Mooney said, the discussion surrounding the possible elimination of property taxes drew local governments to scrutinize and reduce their spending for the current budget cycle.
“Maybe that’s what needs to be done ultimately,” he said.
The legislative session in Tallahassee begins Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude March 13.
JIMMY GAGS VINDICATED
Charges
dropped against Marathon charter captain, mate
Marathon charter captain
James “Jimmy Gags” Gagliardini won’t go down in history as a felon. And he says the “dock pets” at his home base behind Bluegreen Resort are thankful.
In late July, news of Gagliardini’s arrest – complete with charges of assault, interfering with fishermen and reckless operation of a vessel –shocked those who knew him. Even wilder than his charges, picked up after confronting vacationing kayak fishermen casting their lines where he tosses his fish carcasses after charters, were the versions of the story painted by certain news outlets.
If you didn’t know better, reading the initial reports, you might think Jimmy Gags finally earned the venerable title of “Florida Man” – High Caliber Sport Fishing’s deranged captain, protecting a resident school of tarpon, grouper and sharks, churning up a whirlpool and soaking kayakers with his outboard. But as he tells it, that’s not exactly what happened.
“Most of the time (when people are fishing in the marina), I walk up to the bow and say ‘Guys, please don’t fish here. You’re not doing anything illegal, I’m just asking you as nicely as I can.’ 98% of the time, they say ‘all right.’ These guys fired off at me with both barrels.”
“I read the police report, and after reading it, if I didn’t know any better, I was siding with the kayakers,” said Gagliardini. “But that’s not what happened. They told me that it was public water and they could do whatever they wanted. So, I jumped in my skiff, idled around, and went between them and the dock. Then, I put the bow against the finger pier and just put it in gear.”
According to police reports, the kayakers told officers they feared for their lives as Gagliardini attempted to capsize them. According to him, he’s not that creative.
made the natural career transition from dolphin trainer to newspaper editor after six years at Dolphin Research Center. His passions include running, watersports, and civil disagreements with sharks while spearfishing.
“I didn’t get anyone wet or anything,” he said with a laugh. “I didn’t even think of anything cool like that.”
And after viewing the footage and speaking with defense attorney Hal Schuhmacher, Gagliardini said, prosecutors eventually agreed, dropping all but one misdemeanor citation according to Monroe County court records.
Charges for High Caliber captain Eric Wink, involved in the altercation as well, were also dropped.
“I agreed that I was interfering with fishermen,” Gagliardini said. “That’s exactly what I was doing.”
Now, he told the Weekly, he’s rallying support for a local ordinance that would ban fishing within 100 feet of a commercial dock. He plans to start a formal petition with signatures to present to the Marathon City Council.
“It’s one of the few places where tourists can get up close and personal with the local wildlife,” he said. “Let’s prevent this from ever happening again.”
When all is said and done, Gagliardini said, his reward for the ordeal greets him every day as he walks to his boat.
“My ‘dock pets’ thank me every day,” Gagliardini laughed, a call back to a phrase quoted ad nauseum in initial media reports. “I told them they should – I went to jail for them.”
A TASTE OF KINDNESS
Jadeyn Holmes’ charity lemonade stand sweetens the Keys
JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com
In Key Colony Beach, a community known for its laid-back tropical atmosphere, a splash of citrus and a huge dose of compassion are making a big difference. At just 9 years old, Jadeyn Holmes is proving that generosity and heart can be poured into every single cup.
For the third consecutive summer, Holmes has set up Jadeyn’s Lemonade, a vibrant stand that has become a cherished part of the local landscape. This is far more than a typical roadside venture. With every hand-squeezed lemon, Jadeyn is stirring up something powerful: a mission to support the vulnerable animals of the Florida Keys.
Her stand draws a loyal following not just for its noble cause, but for the quality of the product itself. The lemonade is made with a signature technique that ensures a distinctly refreshing and flavorful drink – she personally peels the lemons to remove the bitter pith, a step that makes all the difference.
“My lemonade is good because I first peel the lemons, and then I put them in a bowl with sugar and put them into the fridge for 24 hours,” the young entrepreneur told the Weekly, graciously revealing the secret to her sweet success. This dedicated, overnight maceration allows the sugar to draw out the bright, clean essence of the lemon before she hand-squeezes them.
She’s up early, diligently preparing
her stand, complete with thoughtful touches like free lollipops and Lemonheads for her two-legged customers, and even more crucially, dog treats for all the furry visitors who stop by. Jadeyn’s warmth and dedication keep people coming back for the experience of supporting a young entrepreneur so full of heart.
What makes Jadeyn’s colorful stand extraordinary is its charitable mission. Each year, she dedicates her profits to a specific cause. Last year she raised funds for St. Jude Children’s Hospital; this year, her focus is on helping animals at the Florida Keys SPCA (FKSPCA), a shelter close to her heart.
“I will donate to SPCA because I love animals and I want them all to have a good home,” said Holmes. The proceeds earned from every transaction go directly to support the FKSPCA's work in rescuing, caring for and rehoming animals in need, providing essential medical care, food and housing.
“Jadeyn has always had a big heart,” said her mother, Jasmyn Holmes. “When she was 2 years old she would clean the beach to save the sea turtles. Her love for the environment and animals is a big part of her life. A lemonade stand to raise money for the community just seemed like the next thing for her to do.”
Locals and visitors are encouraged to stop by Holmes’ stand, and see her dedication firsthand, on Sunday, Nov. 2 at 211 2nd Street in Key Colony Beach. Regular updates on her hours and location are posted on the “Key Colony Beach Facebook Group.”
In a world that could always use a little more sweetness, 9-year-old Jadeyn is providing it, one heartfelt, hand-squeezed cup at a time.
Equipped with a lemonade stand given to her by Santa Claus, Jadeyn Holmes is making a difference in her community of Key Colony Beach. CONTRIBUTED
Captain James ‘Jimmy Gags’ Gagliardini won’t face felony prosecution after nearly all charges from a summer altercation were dropped earlier this month. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
ALEX RICKERT
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.
The Florida Keys just launched a brand-new website that uses high-tech tools to promote the low-key luxury that defines the island chain. The new site also comes with a more user-friendly web address — visitfloridakeys.com.
As of this week, the uncomplicated visitfloridakeys.com is the Florida Keys’ official tourism website — no more fussy punctuation or abbreviations that were part of the decades-old fla-keys.com.
But visitors will find plenty of familiar images and features on the new website, which still showcases each region of the Florida Keys with activities, lodging options, special events and more.
“We wanted the new site to be different and unique, but not jarringly unfamiliar,” said Jeanne Quinn, the TDC’s senior vice president of partnerships and technology. “We have a lot of great content from the original site, which is still featured on the new site, so there’s still a familiar twinge.” Embracing AI technology
“Building the new site from the ground up let us focus on AI and digital-first innovation from the start,” said Quinn. “We now have a best-inclass platform that will continue to evolve to keep the Florida Keys and our tourism partners at the forefront of visitors’ minds, however and wherever they are doing their travel planning.”
Perhaps most significantly, the new website is completely optimized for artificial intelligence (AI), which is changing the way people plan their trips, choose their vacation spots, book their hotels and schedule their activities.
“When you think about online search results these days, more and more, you’re getting AI-generated overviews in paragraph form, at the top of the results,” Quinn said. “And as AI changes the way people plan their travel, we had to build the site so it works for both people — with pretty images and engaging descriptions — and for the machines (AI).”
Quinn said the data and information on the site has to be easily accessible and included in specific formats, so an AI chatbot can find whatever a person asks it for. And when a website’s goal is to bring tourists to a destination, then that website has to ensure the destination is discoverable and visible to the AI bots, Quinn said.
That AI optimization was designed throughout the entire website, which now features free, AI-optimized and highly discoverable listings for 2,000 local businesses and organizations — a significant increase from the 300 or so
HIGH-TECH HOSPITALITY: FLORIDA KEYS UNVEILS NEW TOURISM WEBSITE
business listings on the original website, Quinn said.
“Plus, the new Keyswide events calendar is fatter and more robust. We can update the business listings and event information in seconds. And, of course, they’re all AI-optimized to show up in those search results,” Quinn said, adding that the site features its own chat bot.
The “Conch-cierge” is a virtual travel assistant that helps visitors plan their trips. It’s fluent in over 45 languages, and instantly and intuitively helps travelers uncover hidden gems, local insights and the best ways to experience the community, making the Florida Keys more accessible than ever to a global audience.
Webcams: Real views in real time
In addition to videos from special events, beach days and fishing boats featured throughout the site, visitfloridakeys.com also features live webcams streaming unedited footage from nearly 60 locations throughout the island chain. Watch sunrises and sunsets over the water, check out the day’s catch at busy marinas or pick out a pool chair at the hotel before you come down. The webcams offer a front-row seat to island life, streaming 24/7, with more locations being added soon.
Next-generation digital marketing
“The new platform represents a major leap forward in how visitors can plan, explore and experience the Keys, with powerful new tools designed to benefit both travelers and tourism partners,” states a press release from the TDC. The organization worked with MMGY Global to develop the new website, which took seven months and cost about $400,000.
“The new website positions the Keys for the next generation of digital marketing and represents a new standard for how destinations can engage the modern traveler,” said Kara Franker, the TDC’s president and CEO. “The new website is part of our growing focus on artificial intelligence and data innovation. As travel planning shifts from search engines to AI chatbots like ChatGPT, the new site ensures Florida Keys businesses remain discoverable when travelers ask AI where to go. This is because the website acts as the primary source of verified information that AI agents and travel platforms can draw on, helping Keys businesses and experiences remain visible in an AI-powered future.”
Any businesses that want to add/ update their free website listing can email partners@fla-keys.com.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1
10 AM - 2 PM
CFK KEY WEST CAMPUS
Live entertainment | Children’s activities FREE food & drinks
Academic showcases | Salute to veterans
CFK Historical Exhibit | FREE t-shirts
Food drive for Tuga Shelves food pantry
Please keep your fur buddies at home. No pets allowed.
David & Annette Curry
James Rifkin & Jane Packard
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.
Early voting has begun, with Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 4. For more information and polling locations, visit votemonroeflkeys.gov. This week, we asked all seven candidates to give their final message to Marathon’s voters. Responses are printed exactly as submitted, limited to 250 words.
ROBYN STILL
Three years ago, you trusted me to serve on Marathon’s City Council. I’m asking for your vote again because I’ve delivered real results.
My husband and I own our home here, run our business here, and raised one of our sons here. This community isn’t just where I serve; it’s where I’ve built my life alongside you.
My record speaks for itself. When residents demanded transparency, I took immediate action — starting Facebook Live updates during major city events. I fought for and secured our dedicated Public Information Officer and today our communications reach over 200,000 views, and we’ve brought back monthly workshops specifically to address your concerns.
I’ve fought hard to protect our neighborhoods. We dramatically strengthened vacation rental enforcement, collecting hundreds of thousands in fines. I helped implement visitor fees at Sombrero Beach and our boat ramps, so tourists pay their fair share.
For three consecutive years, we’ve met tax rollback — one of only five Florida municipalities to achieve this — while increasing services and maintaining strong financial reserves. That’s fiscal responsibility that works for residents.
I have 22 years of law enforcement
We asked: What is your final message to Marathon voters ahead of election day?
experience, a Bachelor of Science degree, and a Master’s degree. I’ve earned Florida League of Cities certification and graduated from Leadership Monroe County. I think education and experience matter. I’ve invested in education because serving you well matters.
I’m not a career politician — I’m your neighbor who shows up and gets things done. I understand your challenges because they’re mine too.
JEFF SMITH
City Council requires qualified individuals with the experience and knowledge to identify challenges, propose effective solutions, and work collaboratively to implement positive change. I bring legacy knowledge of how and why City policies were adopted and understand where unintended consequences must now be addressed. I have engaged community members with diverse expertise to gather input and develop action plans to guide our City through growth management, capital projects, and ongoing litigation.
During my tenure, I have led efforts to establish defined compensation and performance review processes for staff, refund excess building department fees, and challenge developments—such as vacation rentals, TBR transfers, and mixed-use projects—that conflict with
our community’s established character. I have also worked with staff and fellow council members to strengthen communication with state and local governments, addressing legal issues, growth challenges, and strained relationships. We have launched community workshops and public information initiatives to improve transparency and increase civic engagement. I have provided responsible fiscal oversight, enhancing services through alternative revenue sources without increasing property taxes.
I am proud of the substantial progress we’ve made over the past three years on key community issues and remain committed to completing ongoing initiatives. My actions on the Council reflect the skills, integrity, and dedication needed to serve effectively. I would be honored to continue representing our residents and respectfully ask for your vote for re-election.
DEBBIE STRUYF
I’m running for City Council to bring more transparency and accountability to our local government. I will be your voice — listening to your concerns and working hard to address the issues that matter most to our community. Together, we can fix what’s not working and build a better future for our city.
GERRIT HALE
As this campaign ends, I want to speak directly about what matters most. The truth, accountability, and the future of Marathon.
There have been accusations about City Manager George Garrett. I personally reviewed those claims and found no credible evidence. If there were, action would have been taken. Destroying someone’s reputation after years of service isn’t fair and it’s not my style. What I did find was a deeper problem: a lack of oversight by the City Council. Leadership means taking responsibility, not pointing fingers. Marathon deserves transparency, not turmoil.
I live here full time this is my home. I retired at 58 because I was smart and disciplined enough to plan well, work hard, and succeed. I don’t owe allegiance to anyone. I’ve taken no campaign contributions. My only obligation is to the people of Marathon.
Our greatest challenges are housing and the environment. Limited land, high prices, and state restrictions make affordability difficult for working families. We need creative, balanced solutions, partnerships, adaptive reuse, and practical planning to keep local workers in our community.
We must also restore our waters to pristine condition through stormwater control, canal restoration, and environmental accountability. Clean water sustains our economy, tourism, and way of life.
Marathon is moving forward. Let’s do it responsibly with affordability, accountability, and sustainability.
I’m Gerrit Hale, asking for your vote to keep Marathon the community we’re all proud to call home.
DAVID PERRY
I am running for council for my kids and the future generations of this City. I was born and raised here. My kids and grandkids live here and they want to continue doing so. However, at the rate the City is being built out and the current cost of living, it will be near impossible for the younger generations to afford to live here.
Some of our issues right now include traffic, low water pressure, sewer system failures and low inventory in our grocery stores. Continuing to build out will only magnify these issues.
Not to mention, the affordable housing qualifications are not complimentary to the working class. I understand this needs to be addressed with
the State, and I believe that the council needs to apply more pressure to the State to adjust the guidelines.
It’s time for City council to have new members and fresh ideas. We need to make some hard, necessary changes and that’s why I am running. Please vote for me November 4th if you want to see change in the City.
GREG ROBINSON
Marathon is at a crossroads. We can continue with the same short-term thinking and insider politics, or we can demand accountability, planning, and city services that truly work for all residents, not an elite inner circle.
We need leadership that measures performance, evaluates results, and holds itself accountable. The lack of evaluation, transparency, and effectiveness within city management has cost residents both trust and money. It’s time to insist on higher standards and leadership that Listens, Learns, and Delivers.
Our budget should be a reflection of our priorities: better drainage, smarter spending, and stronger neighborhoods. We deserve a clear understanding of how our tax dollars are used and assurance they are being optimized to serve the people who live and work here. We should not continue collecting city revenue only to let it sit unused, like the $4.1 million currently idle in the Affordable Housing Fund. That is a failure of leadership that must be corrected.
My focus is on results:
• Eliminate flooding and drainage failures through planning and prioritized spending
• Optimize the city budget to reduce unnecessary taxes and fees
• Support small and mid-sized businesses to expand Marathon’s economic base
• Strengthen affordability so our workforce and next generation can live and thrive here
Marathon’s future depends on accountable leadership, effective management, and data driven decision making. We can fix what’s broken, protect what matters, and build a city that works for everyone. Learn more at GregForMarathon.com and God Bless America!
LYNN LANDRY
Experience matters!
30 years in the construction industry, 9 years on the planning commission, 3 years on council and the last year serving as Mayor.
No learning curve: I already know
the job. In 2022 I ran on change and delivered on promises. Vacation rental compliance and finding a new revenue stream. Brought back 300 affordable allocations through legislation with 191 already built and renting. Added workshops for community input and education. Hired a full time Public Information Officer for transparent, timely information.
No new taxes for last three years while increasing services and finding new revenue streams. Increased first time home buyer program up to $20,000. I proposed and received support on a common-sense residential lighting ordinance. I am very proud to have brought in 19 affordable allocations from the county to build on county owned land in Marathon with tourist tax dollars. The trifecta for building affordable housing. (Land, Allocations, Money) New community events committee, bringing the community together.
Moving forward and what we are not really talking about. We settled The Federal Clean Water Act lawsuit and are now building a deep well for the wastewater utility.
We are essentially out of building allocations. Senate bill 180 gives more allocations but is currently being challenged in court. Without these allocations, Marathon is the first to run out of building rights. We would be the first to deal with takings cases/lawsuits.
I will continue to fight for truly workforce affordable housing needed in our community.
WATCH THE FORUM:
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
TRICKS, TREATS & TINY WAVES
City of Marathon’s candy spectacular moves to Sombrero Beach
In a move befitting an island community only a stone’s throw away from the water at any point, Marathon pivoted its city-sponsored trick or treat to the scenic sidewalks of Sombrero Beach on Oct. 21. Forgoing the popular “trunk or treat” made popular in the years since the pandemic, local businesses, nonprofits and community groups still brought the displays, decorations and tons of candy for hundreds of costumed youngsters. With such a strong response to the event, city officials told the Weekly they plan to bring the festivities back to Sombrero Beach next year.
Dinosaurs, minions, sharks and even a miniature Hulk Hogan make their way around to visit dozens of booths staffed by local vendors at the city of Marathon’s Trick or Treat at the Beach. ROSS SMITH/Keys Weekly
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Monday: Closed | Tuesday - Sunday: 11:00am - 10:00pm
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
DAILY SPECIALS
MONDAY Closed TUESDAY Jumbo Gumbo Bowls Tacos and Tequila WEDNESDAY Wine Time Wednesday ($15-$20 bottles)
Brunch 11am - 2:30pm
Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
PINK PARADE
Florida Keys Hope Walk unites Marathon against cancer
ALEX RICKERT
alex@keysweekly.com
When it comes to a cancer diagnosis, while everyone’s journey may look different, no one walks alone. And in Marathon, they walk with hundreds in a sea of pink, as seen along U.S. 1 in the 2025 Hope Walk on Oct. 25. Returning to its high-visibility route, a throng of survivors and supporters followed Marathon Fire Rescue members down the Overseas Highway, raising awareness and plenty of cash to benefit the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.
Emceed by Armand Messina and Mike Puto, with guest speaker Robin
SWEETS & SCARES AT SWITLIK
Elementary school throws annual Halloween carnival
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
In pursuit of sweet treats, high scores, or sending one of their teachers into the drink, kids and their families slung hundreds of tickets at Stanley Switlik Elementary School’s Halloween carnival on Oct. 26. Games sponsored by community groups filled the school courtyard, along with bounce houses and a dunk tank, while the brave-hearted explorers visited the school’s “haunted hallway.” In the school’s cafeteria, sweets were piled high for lucky winners who heard their number called in a perpetually-rotating cake-walk game, an annual favorite at the carnival.
Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
Best and music provided by Kris Bonilla, the morning’s proceedings concluded as Jerry Mayette cut the ceremonial ribbon to unleash the pink wave on the sidewalk. A cancer patient himself at Baptist Health South Florida, Mayette served as the event’s Gold Sponsor in honor of his late wife, who passed away one year ago after her own courageous battle with cancer. Donations to support the Hope Walk and Relay for Life in 2025 are accepted until the end of the calendar year. Scan the attached QR code to donate.
plans for
new
KEYS MARINE LABORATORY
LANDS $50,000 GIFT FOR NEW MARINE FIELD STATION
The Keys Marine Laboratory (KML) announced its first major gift — a $50,000 lead donation from the Lookout Foundation of Summerland Key — toward its $60 million phased campaign to build a cutting-edge facility for marine research, education and restoration.
“We are thrilled to help kick off the KML building campaign,” said Nancy Noblitt, of the Lookout Foundation. “It’s exciting to see Keys Marine Laboratory grow and expand. Their continued support of education, research and restoration into unwavering protection for marine life is essential for Florida’s ecosystems and beyond.”
The campaign will fund the development of a storm-resilient marine field station designed to train marine and oceanographic science leaders and advance a sustainable blue-ocean economy.
The project’s timeline includes:
• Phase one: Funds will support architectural and engineering plans to make KML shovel-ready for construction of short-term researcher and student housing at Keys Marine Laboratory.
• Phase two: Modernize and expand on-site housing accommodations with new suite-style housing, increasing capacity and flexibility for students, faculty and researchers. Currently, KML’s on-site housing consists of retrofitted buildings from the 1950s, limiting capacity, collaboration and growth.
• Future phases: The vision includes a storm-hardened, multipurpose academic and research facility with flexible classrooms, conference and multimedia rooms, state-of-theart teaching and research laboratories and office space for visiting research-
ers and agencies. This expansion will increase KML’s capacity from hosting one academic/research group at a time to three to five groups simultaneously, better serving the scientific community and KML’s demands.
“We are deeply grateful for the generosity and vision of the Noblitt family, who have been among the first to recognize the vital role KML plays in the state of Florida as well as nationally and globally,” said Cindy Lewis, KML director. “Their investment underscores the importance of providing resilient infrastructure and support for visiting research, restoration and education groups dedicated to addressing critical environmental challenges facing our oceans.”
For more than 30 years, KML has served as a regional hub for supporting academics, marine science education, research and restoration.
“The Lookout Foundation’s generous lead gift sets a powerful example for others to join our campaign. Their commitment allows us to expand our capacity to serve even more researchers, educators and restoration leaders dedicated to protecting and restoring our precious marine ecosystems. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future of Florida’s oceans and blue economy,” said Kim Gregory, KML director of development.
Marine science education and research support technological advancements and create new opportunities for economic development and environmental stewardship.
More information is available from Gregory at kimberlygregory@usf.edu. The Florida Institute of Oceanography at the University of South Florida is exploring a range of public-private and government funding opportunities.
— Contributed
Keys Marine Laboratory’s
a
$60 million marine research and education facility received $50,000 from the Lookout Foundation of Summerland Key. CONTRIBUTED
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MAKING WAVES IN MARATHON
After long wait, Surf Style opens its doors
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Forget what you think you know.
After nearly three long years, what was once a blighted retail space is now unrecognizable in the best way, as the doors of Surf Style opened last week.
While some departments are still coming online over the next few weeks, store manager Bruce Blevins told the Weekly he envisions the space as not only a one-stop shop for a typical day in the Keys, but also a place to gather and spend time in the evenings.
Surf Style is, first and foremost, an apparel retailer, with racks stretching as far as the eye can see from the front entrance. Around 60% of the gear is marked with Surf Style’s own brand, but the back of the store is filled with all the familiar logos from beach and boat days – Salt Life, O’Neill, Under Armour, Columbia and Huk, to name just a few.
It’s a stark contrast from gear found on the brand’s website, which boasts collections of shimmering neoncolored pieces that might feel more at home in mainland locations like Miami.
“Most of our stores don’t carry all the brands, because they’re just too small,” Blevins said. “Because this is our flagship store, we’re going to have every brand, anything that any Surf Style sells.”
A gifts, accessories and toys section accompanies the clothing selec-
tions, and a fishing section with gear, kayaks, frozen bait and a massive TV display is nearing completion at the back of the store.
“We carry a lot of stuff that people really didn’t think of,” said Blevins. “Saturday when we opened, I did meet-and-greets all day at the front, talking to locals. I told them, ‘go walk around, then come back and see me.’ I just loved the ‘wow’ look on their faces when they walked in.”
If shopping brings customers through the door, Surf Style’s flagship attraction will give them a reason to stay a while: a FlowRider system, using high-powered pumps to provide a perpetual wave for guests to body board and surf in an island not exactly known for its perfect barrels.
Guests are admitted to the attraction in groups of six, available for $40 by reservation or walk-in, and cycle through turns riding the wave over a 30-minute interval, Blevins said. For other guests waiting and watching, a gelato and candy bar is situated right outside the FlowRider’s doors, along with a stocked convenience store.
“We want this to be the place to come at night and have a good time,” Blevins said, adding that the store and FlowRider attraction are scheduled to stay open until 11 p.m. or possibly midnight during busy tourist seasons. Current store hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Blevins said he plans to push his opening to 6 a.m. once the store has a fully-stocked fishing and bait selection.
The staff at Surf Style is ready to welcome guests to the sprawling brand-new store.
A massive retail floor includes the ‘usual suspects’ of apparel brands found in the Keys, plus a huge selection of Surf Style’s own brand. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
Coming
a FlowRider attraction gives visitors a chance to catch the perfect perpetual wave.
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COMMERCE CORNEr
KRISTI FERRISE Marathon High School
How long have you been in the Keys and what brought you here? In 2002 I left my corporate job at TIAA to follow my dream to work at the Dolphin Research Center.
What do you do for fun in the Keys and why do you love living here? For fun, I volunteer at Payton’s Promise Sanctuary. I love my community. I live in paradise with my amazing dog, Maggie.
Describe your most bizarre life experience thus far. My life has been full of experiences. My most bizarre? Going through evacuation and returning after Hurricane Irma. This community stands together and I saw how much we support each other during difficult times.
If your life was a movie, what would the title be and who would play you? “Still Standing in the Sun.” Sandra Bullock would play me because she brings humor, grit, heart and a quiet strength. She can show the scars and the sparkle and she’d make the audience laugh through the tears.
If you won the lottery what would you spend the money on? I would set myself up financially first, then rebuild the most amazing sanctuary for Payton’s Promise. This place is near and dear to my heart. Magic happens here every day.
Established in 2024, The Barnacle Boys is your local solution for keeping elevator boat lifts clean and functional. Founded by two lifelong Big Pine Key residents, we understand firsthand the challenge of maintaining boat lifts in the Florida Keys. As boat owners ourselves, we used to struggle with lift malfunctions caused by barnacle and algae growth. That experience drove us to create The Barnacle Boys so we could help others avoid those same problems. We’re two young entrepreneurs who grew up in the Keys and care deeply about our community and environment. We use eco-friendly, manual cleaning methods that avoid harmful chemicals — protecting the ocean and the boats we love. We offer single-time and scheduled cleaning and maintenance for homeowners and absentee owners alike. Our services include complete underwater barnacle and algae removal, high-pressure greasing, zinc cleaning and replacement, and electrolysis inspections. We take pride in delivering honest, dependable work and making sure every lift we service is ready for action. Give us a call today and let The Barnacle Boys keep your lift clean, safe, and looking its best!
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 Kristi Ferrise, who is a teacher in the Monroe County School District. She has taught Kindergarten; elementary, middle and high school art; and now teaches seventh-grade ELA at Marathon Middle and High School.
If you were a flavor of ice cream, what flavor would you be and why? Peanut butter cookie dough because I’m sweet, a little nutty, full of surprises and guaranteed to make everyone laugh before melting into a hug.
Which three famous people would you invite to a dinner party and why? Mel Robbins, Bashar (if you know, you know) and Trump. Sounds like the conversation could go anywhere.
How would your best friend describe you in three words? Loyal, funny, intuitive.
What is the funniest thing one of your students has said to you while teaching? “Wait. You didn’t have cell phones when you were little?”
What is something people don’t know about you? I’m an author and a life coach.
Know someone that would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?” Email keysweeklyjen@gmail.com.
FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATD WELLNESS
RISE, REST, REPEAT: THE HIDDEN CLOCK RUNNING YOUR BODY
Ijoke with my clients all the time that life is one big set of “wash, rinse, repeat.”
But when it comes to our bodies, it’s really more like “rise, rest, repeat.” Every single day, your hormones are doing a carefully-choreographed dance, and whether you realize it or not, you’re following the beat.
We all have a built-in 24-hour timer called the circadian rhythm — our body’s natural clock that manages when we wake, eat, move, think and sleep. This isn’t just woo-woo wellness talk; it’s hard-wired biology. The circadian rhythm is influenced by sunlight, temperature and behavior, and it helps regulate hormones like cortisol, melatonin, insulin and testosterone on a tight daily schedule.
Think of it like this: In the morning, cortisol rises to get you out of bed — not to stress you out, but to literally wake you up. Around midday, testosterone and alertness peak, making this the best time for productivity or a solid workout. In the evening, melatonin kicks in, signaling that it’s time to slow down and rest.
So yes, when you’re staring at a sunset, you’re actually participating in hormone therapy — the natural kind, complete with a side of salt air.
But here’s where it gets interesting. While everyone runs on this 24-hour clock, not everyone only runs on this clock.
Men’s hormonal patterns repeat every single day, rising and falling predictably within that circadian rhythm. Women, however, are operating under two clocks — the same 24-hour daily cycle, and a second one called the infradian rhythm, which spans roughly 28 days.
If the circadian rhythm is your body’s “daily schedule,” the infradian rhythm is the “monthly calendar” — and it’s the reason women can feel like completely different versions of themselves throughout the month. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone fluctuate in phases, influencing energy, metabolism, mood and, yes, strength.
Let’s talk about that, because this one hits home for a lot of women who think they’ve suddenly “lost progress.”
One day you are deadlifting 200 pounds. You are feeling unstoppable, on top of the
...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC. Hello@highlymotivatedfc.com
world. Five to seven days later, you are lucky to be able to lift your toothbrush for the recommended full two minutes.
That’s not inconsistency — that’s biology. During the follicular phase (the first half of the cycle), estrogen is higher, driving energy, motivation and muscle strength. But once the luteal phase sets in, progesterone takes the wheel. You might feel heavier, slower or more fatigued — your body’s way of asking for recovery, not punishment. It’s not weakness. It’s wisdom.
When you sync your workouts to these hormonal shifts, you stop fighting your physiology. That means scheduling your hardest workouts during your follicular and ovulatory phases and leaning into mobility, Pilates or gentle strength work during your luteal phase. The magic? Progress without burnout.
Men benefit from understanding their rhythm, too. Theirs just happens every single day. Knowing that testosterone and alertness peak mid-morning, for example, makes that the best window for lifting heavy or tackling mentally demanding tasks. By late afternoon, cortisol naturally declines — which is why caffeine at 4 p.m. is an uphill battle against your biology.
The more you understand your internal timing, the easier it is to support it. Morning sunlight exposure (yes, even through the Keys’ humidity), consistent meal timing, mindful movement and proper wind-down routines all help your circadian rhythm stay balanced. For women, respecting both clocks means learning when to push and when to rest — not as a sign of giving up, but of working smarter.
We’re taught to grind harder, sleep less and “push through.” But your hormones don’t care about hustle culture; they care
A comparison of the circadian and infradian rhythms governing women’s bodies. JENNIFER HARVEY/Contributed
about rhythm. And when you fight that rhythm, you end up tired, irritable and wondering why paradise feels more like pressure. Living in the Keys gives us a front-row seat to nature’s timing — the rise and fall of tides, the consistent sunrises and sunsets, the unspoken rhythm that reminds us everything moves in cycles. Our bodies are no different. So maybe the secret to health isn’t about doing more — it’s about syncing up. Rise with the sun. Rest when it sets. And repeat, knowing your body’s clock is doing the heavy lifting, toothbrush and all.
JENNIFER HARVEY
NEVER ENDS
NEVERSUMMERENDS
THANKSGIVING DAY AT HAWKS CAY!
Thursday, November 27th
Open to the Public
Turkey Trot 5K | 7am
Starting at Angler & Ale, the course winds through the scenic beauty of Duck Key, offering the perfect way to get moving before indulging in your Thanksgiving feast.
Register by November 9th
Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet
12pm-4pm
Let us handle the cooking & clean up while you make the memories. Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving feast with a few Key’s favorites.
Mutiny on the Fairway Golf Scramble
Presented by
Saturday, November 15, 2025
Florida Keys Country Club Bloody Mary Bar Compliments of Mutiny Vodka
Looking for Sponsors! All proceeds benefit the Marathon Rotary Club local scholarships as well as supporting local charities in the Florida Keys that serve the community and its residents.
Sponsorship Levels
Captain | $1,000
Includes video spotlight shared on social media, a large banner prominently displayed, and name on all literature
Quartermaster | $750
Includes video spotlight shared on social media, a large banner prominently displayed, and name on all literature
Master of Arms | $500 Includes social media recognition, banner displayed, and name on all literature
Master
Boatswain | $250 Includes banner and name on all literature
Sailing Master | $100 Includes sign placed on course and name on all literature
Reserve your table early!
Donations of gift certificates and items to be raffled are greatly appreciated. Sponsor marketing items are welcome and will be distributed to golfers.
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.
We were moments away from several thousand bikeriding zombies rolling past us and swarming across the island when my friend Rob asked, “Hey, is it true all the turkey vultures we see here are from Ohio?”
For some reason the question threw me. Possibly because I was focused on taking photos of the rolling zombies as they pedaled by, and partly because I wasn’t totally sure of the answer.
I mean, all the turkey vultures we see in the Keys are definitely not from Ohio. But some could be. And I remember hearing something about them being from Ohio when I first moved to the Keys in the early 1990s, before I was into the whole birdwatching thing. Was there any basis to the notion?
Geoff Tomb lives in Key West, but spent many years on the mainland working for the Miami Herald. I seemed to recall him occasionally working the “Oh my God, the turkey vultures are back” beat. So I texted and asked him.
Turns out Geoff did cover the story several times, referring to the yearly story as “an annual winter bright.”
“Something about Cuyahoga,” he texted.
Then he sent me a link from a website called Ohio Traveler about the town of Hinckley, where the turkey vultures are said to return every March 15, and where thousands of people show up to welcome them as harbingers of spring.
It should be noted that a lot of writing about turkey vultures refers to them as buzzards, which, in a taxonomic sense, is wrong. Buzzard is an Old World term for several species of soaring hawks. It was bastardized in North America as a term for vultures, a bastardization enhanced by the character Beaky Buzzard in the old Warner Brothers cartoons.
Rather than getting into a pedantic snit about people using inaccurate terms to describe wildlife, I’m going to take a few breaths, recite my secret mantra, and try to accept the term buzzard as fun slang for vulture, if not an accurate scientific term.
Anyhow, the story from Ohio Traveler states that, “Every March 15, like clockwork, the buzzards return to Hinckley after their winter vacations.”
It attributes this to the Great Hinckley Hunt of 1818, when, on one December day, the locals, deciding the wildlife was the enemy of agriculture, surrounded a 25-acre plot of woods, drove all the wildlife to the middle, and shot everything they could. According to one historical account, “21 bears, 17 wolves, 300 deer and untold numbers of turkeys, foxes and raccoons” were shot.
ARE OUR TURKEY VULTURES FROM OHIO? AN IN - DEPTH REPORT ( SORT OF )
What people didn’t bring home for food was left to freeze, then thaw in the spring.
“When the buzzards arrived in the spring, the feast apparently was so overwhelming that the event was imprinted on the inherent part of their brains because they’ve come back every year since,” the website states.
Which is all a bit of homespun hooey. It’s doubtful a species of birds would return to the same site every year for close to two centuries because their ancestors once had a good meal. Also, modern research shows that turkey vultures won’t eat anything that’s been dead longer than four days. Most likely they come because the rocky bluffs above the nearby lake are perfect nesting sites.
Hinckley Buzzard Day has honored their return on March 15 every year since 1957, drawing up to 5,000 people. There’s a pancake breakfast, people in vulture costumes and an official counter to point out the first returning vulture of the year. The fact that turkey vultures are regularly reported in the park weeks before March 15 shouldn’t get in the way of a good time.
While they arrive in the north every spring, the turkey vultures arrive in Florida every autumn. The Florida Keys Hawkwatch has counted a little over 1,500 so far this year. I’ve also seen a couple posts on Facebook of the “They’re ba-aack” variety with photos of kettles of them in the blue sky. One post said it was now okay to take down your hurricane shutters. (The same lore applies to the klee klee call of the American kestrel. Though in 2005, I both heard the klee klee and saw turkey vultures before Hurricane Wilma hit, so maybe wait until they burn the hurricane flag to take down the shutters.)
They get far more TVs in downtown Miami, where many of them famously perch on the roof of the courthouse.
On Oct. 23, 1979, an Associated Press story contrasted the attitudes of the folks in Hinckley about their return in the spring, which were
mostly pro-vulture, with the attitudes of Miamians in the fall, which were mostly anti-vulture.
They quote Sam Griffith, the building superintendent of the Dade County Courthouse, saying, “To my knowledge, no one ever gave a whoop about them,” and, “They’re an awfully rotten-looking piece of equipment when you view them up close.”
A misunderstood narrative seems to have formed, because after that you see several newspaper columnists writing with solid authority that the turkey vultures in Miami all come from Hinckley, Ohio, although I’m not entirely sure how the linkage between Hinckley’s turkey vultures and Miami’s developed.
A correction came in late January 1980, in a story from United Press International under the no-subtext headline “Dade’s Turkey Vultures Aren’t From Hinckley.” Another headline over the same story was, “Hinckley, Ohio cleared in Miami buzzard woes.”
The story reported on the work of Sheila Gaby, a Miami-based biologist who was researching and writing a doctoral dissertation entitled “Urban Research Utilization by Migrant Turkey Vultures in South Florida.”
Gaby told the wire service that she had tagged about 300 TVs over three years, and “I have never had any evidence that they are from Hinckley.”
“I have received reports of my tagged birds being spotted in southern Ohio, West Virginia, New York, New Jersey and Ontario, but never Hinckley,” she said.
After that there’s something of a fork in the turkey vulture road, with some reporters repeating the Hinckley angle, and some noting Gaby’s research.
So the short answer is, it’s theoretically possible that an individual turkey vulture flew down from Ohio, but it’s definitely not all of them.
Also, maybe be wary about getting your information about wildlife from people who write for newspapers.
A pair of turkey vultures feeding on a fish carcass off Stock Island. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!
Mon - Fri 11am to Close | Sat & Sun 10am to Close
Relay for Life Hope Walk of the Florida Keys would like to THANK our sponsors, Fundraisers, teams, Donors, Volunteers, Hope Walkers and SURVIVORS as well as honor those that have lost the battle.
In Loving Memory of Clara Mayette • Ribbon Cutter: Jerry Mayette • Guest Speaker Robin Best for her inspiring story about Relay for Life
Kris Bonilla • Guest Musician
Emcees • Armand Messina and Mike Puto with Florida Keys Contractors Association
$7 Menu
• Chicken wings, chicken livers and More!
• 32 beers on tap 1/2 off 2pm - 3pm
uengling
* $2 Pints of Yuengling and Bud Light!
BREAKFAST SERVED UNTIL 2PM
• Unique & interesting menu
• $3 Mimosas • $5 Breakfast Shots
LUNCH & DINNER
• New Sandwich Options
• Diver Speared Local Fish
• Prime Rib • Lobster
• Cook Y
• Great Seafood Selections
SUSHI
• Toro • Lionfish • Poke • Hamachi collar
• Fresh Uni arrives on
Baptist Health | Marathon Lumber | City of Marathon | First Horizon Bank | Sunmasters Elite Travel | Florida Keys Contractors Association | Keys All Area Roo ng | Million Air
Fantastic fund-raisers
Marathon Yacht Club and CM Bishop | Holly Kepcha of Hollies Follies with Charlotte Quinn of Crane Point | Island Plates with Brandi Card | Marathon Moose
Marathon Fire and Rescue and Monroe County Sheri 's O ce A HUGE thank you for your help!
AM Volunteers
Jack Lytle, James Thomas and City of Marathon Trish Worthington, Joy Wilson at check in and Sheri Sciortino for everything!
A huge thank you to the TEAMS, without you showing up to walk and support us we could not exist!
Big Thanks to
Lisa Vaccaro, Dockside, Marathon Grill & Ale House, Hanks Hair of the Dog in Key West for Kick o events and the great bars, restaurants, hotels, that support American Cancer Society e orts.
Media Sponsors
Keys Weekly Newspapers, Time Out Magazine and Cli Rydell of TV 88! Cli never fails us with all the promos. We Thank You Cli !
This has been a great year for HOPE WALK ! Thanks to all - CANCER WON'T WIN and WE WILL NOT STOP!
Look for us October 24th 2026!
SANDRA GETS A NEW STUDIO
Sandra Lee Photography and Art Studio celebrates a new home in Gulfside Village with an official ribbon-cutting on Oct. 15. Formerly located in Town Square Mall, the new office offers a combined creative and retail space with prints, originals, jewelry and more at 5800 Overseas Highway, Unit 33. Gathering together with local officials and supporters, Marathon Chamber of Commerce CEO Daniel Samess, councilwoman Robyn Still and county commissioner Michelle Lincoln praised studio owner Sandra Lee’s resilience after losing her husband Allen to a sudden illness earlier this year. ‘You go through tragedy, and you feel very alone,’ Lee told guests. ‘Having all of you support me, and everyone who’s helped, that’s the only thing that’s put Band-Aids on my heart and helped me get through this.’ CONTRIBUTED
FANTASY FEST 2025: SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT
Announcing 2026 theme: ‘Musical Icons & Iconic Musicals’
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
Why waste time with a bunch of words, when photos tell the true story of another Fantasy Fest in Key West?
Tens of thousands of costumed revelers took the theme to heart and brought to life the 2025 theme of “Bedtime Stories and Magical Monsters.” Peter Pan flew above the parade crowd. A pony was transformed into a winged dragon. Dozens of little pigs danced down Duval and, as always, the local favorite Masquerade March reminded us all of Key West’s magic. Now, for the photos…
A NEW PRESIDENT OF ‘PRESENTS’
Presents In Paradise, the not-for-profit corporation dedicated to bringing Christmas to working families in the Keys, announces that Kenneth Wolfe will serve as the organization’s new president and Elf-in-Chief. Ken is a husband and father, a 10year Army veteran, the head coach of Marathon High School Wrestling, and is the laboratory administrative director at Fishermen’s Community Hospital. “Presents In Paradise really embodies the spirit of the Keys — a community that cares for others and works together for their betterment,” said Wolfe. “I’m honored to lead this great organization doing great things for our community.” Presents In Paradise provides clothing, toys, bicycles, sports equipment and learning tools to the children of working families. The group’s annual fundraiser is this Saturday, Nov. 1 at the Elks Lodge in Marathon. Raffles, prizes, a silent auction and live music from the 79th Street Band and John Bartus are on tap. The easiest way to support the group’s efforts is by texting the word “PRESENTS” to 44321. More information is available from Bartus at 305-731-1177. CONTRIBUTED
A selection of photos from the Pet Masquerade, Masquerade March and Deep Eddy Fantasy Fest Parade. Photos by LARRY BLACKBURN & CAROL TEDESCO
Having Fun in the Middle Keys
WILLIAM FRANCIS KELLY 1935-2025
William Francis Kelly passed away on Sunday, Oct. 12 in Miami. He was born in Jersey City, New Jersey on Sept. 11,1935 to William Kelly and Ann Bittner. Later the family moved to Kearney, where he attended school. Marrying Barbara Whalen, his high school sweetheart, they raised two sons, William "Bill" and Thomas.
He served in the New Jersey National Guard from 1953 to 1960, with an honorable discharge as a Sergeant First Class. An electrician by trade, he soon entered into partnership with his father at the Kelly Insurance and Realty Company until 1971. An avid fisherman, they moved to Seaside Park, where he again took up the electrician trade and was also a home renovator.
But cold weather and a vacation trip to the Florida Keys convinced him that paradise was far south of New Jersey, and they made the move in 1972. Working at several jobs, Lindsley Lumber first, he then joined Monroe County Public Works, and became supervisor of the Marathon office. He retired in 1999 after his wife of 47 years passed away.
Working several years with his friend Alan of A&B Exterminator Company, he then joined the Guidance Care Center in the transportation department for 10 years, making two trips a day to Key West.
In 2005 he married a life-long resident of Marathon, Melody, and in 2008 they attended a ceremony at the cathedral in Miami for him to receive the highest award the Catholic Church gives to a lay person: the Primum Regnum Dei. He was chief usher at San Pablo Church for almost 30 years.
In retirement, his favorite hobby was growing orchids in the large greenhouse he built.
His son Bill gifted him with four incredible grandchildren, who then created the "Kelly Clan" with seven great-grandchildren.
William leaves behind his son Bill; his wife Melody of 20 years; his "adopted" daughter Joyce; four grandchildren, Jodi, Sherry, Tara and Billy; and seven great-grandchildren, Madeline, Jonathan, Bella, Courtney, Dylan, Lilly and Brooks. He also leaves behind his New Jersey family, the Atwells and numerous friends in the Keys.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to Baptist Fishermen's Hospital, the paramedics and the Trauma Star team in Marathon for their service, and the Jackson South Cardiac ICU team.
A memorial Mass at San Pablo Catholic Church will be held at a later date.
BRIEFLY
Pets for Vets seeks qualified fosters
The nonprofit Pets for Vets is seeking volunteers in the Middle Keys to serve as foster homes for animals in training. Pets for Vets is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional health care and holistic supplemental treatment options. The group uses specifically selected and trained rescue pets to enhance care for veterans struggling with daily challenges and who could benefit from a well-trained companion animal or service animal. The primary role of a foster home is to provide a safe, stable and caring temporary home for an animal prior to joining their chosen veteran’s home. While in foster care, animals will be trained by the staff at Dolphin Research Center on Grassy Key. Fosters will work closely with their trainer to prepare the animal for its new home with a veteran. This can include house training, leash manners, house manners, basic obedience skills and more advanced behaviors when necessary. Potential foster homes will need to submit an application and be interviewed prior to housing a Pets for Vets animal. All costs are covered for foster homes including food, supplies, veterinary care and reasonable grooming. For more information, email sarah.ivkovich@dolphins.org
CFK spring scholarship applications are open
The College of the Florida Keys is accepting applications for spring semester scholarships for new and returning students. Students must be admitted to the college and registered for spring 2026 semester classes to qualify. The deadline to apply is Sunday, Nov. 2. Thousands of dollars in scholarships are available across a wide range of academic programs and backgrounds. Scholarship descriptions and eligibility requirements are at cfk.edu/discover/ cfk-foundation/scholarship-info/. The spring semester begins Jan. 10. More scholarship information is available from Shania DuarteVera, coordinator of scholarships and donor relations, at foundation@cfk.edu or 305-809-3153, or from cfk.edu/paying-for-college/.
Community Day scheduled at CFK
The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) will hold its 11th annual Community Day on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the Key West campus. The free, family-friendly event will feature a variety of attractions, including academic showcases and interactive exhibits from partner organizations and government agencies. There will be live performances, children's activities and free food and T-shirts. This year, in honor of the college’s 60th anniversary, CFK will unveil an exhibit featuring historical facts, rare photos and memorabilia. The college will collect nonperishable food items at the event for the Tuga Shelves food pantry for students experiencing food insecurity. Pets are not permitted on the CFK campus.
Seeking volunteers for tax season
United Way of Collier & the Keys is looking for residents in Monroe County to help with a free tax preparation program. Greeters and tax preparers are needed for the upcoming tax season. Training is free. Call 305-5631470 or email vita@uwcollierkeys. org.
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 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:
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
Valuable Service
Nov. 11 is Veterans Day, when we honor those who have served our country in the military. Did you know that dogs work with our troops to help save lives? Military working dogs help keep our servicepeople safe and perform specific jobs.
This week, The Mini Page finds out more about these loyal dogs serving our troops.
DOGS
OF WAR
Military forces have used dogs in wars for thousands of years. Ancient Greeks and Romans put collars with razor-sharp spikes on attack dogs and sent them to battle enemy soldiers.
In the American Revolutionary War, dogs helped carry supplies for U.S. troops.
During World War I, German and French armies used about 50,000 trained dogs as sentries, or guards, scouts and carriers of ammunition and messages.
Later, during World War II, the U.S. Army formed the Army Canine (K-9) Corps. The unit began with nine dogs trained by a civilian group, Dogs for Defense Inc.
By the end of the war, the K-9 Corps had a force of more than 10,000 dogs. They were used as sentries, scouts, messengers and to find mines and booby traps.
SAVING LIVES
Handlers say military working dogs save lives every single day. Dogs not only detect explosive materials and drugs, but they also can tell if someone is acting suspiciously. If their team is under attack, dogs will protect their people.
The most common military working dogs are German shepherds and Belgian Malinois (mal-un-WAH). They have the best combination of strong senses of smell and hearing, strength, courage, intelligence and the ability to adapt to different climates.
Other breeds, such as golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers, are excellent search dogs.
PROTECTING DOGS
Missions can be hard on military working dogs. They might walk four to five miles in the hot desert and then still have to search an area and protect a team member.
They wear booties to protect them from glass, sand, heat and rugged land.
They also wear bulletproof vests that weigh about 15 pounds.
Words that remind us of military working dogs are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: BOOTIES, BREEDING, CANINE, DETECT, DOG, DUTY, HANDLER, HONOR, MALINOIS, MESSAGES, MILITARY, PROTECT, RETIRE, SCOUTS, SENTRIES, SHEPHERD, VEST, VETERAN, WORKING.
MINI FACT: Today, there are about 1,600 dogs serving on active duty around the world.
CARING FOR CANINES
Military working dogs have to stay fit. The long flights to their base, the amount of weight they have to carry, and the long hours of work make for a physically demanding job.
TRAINING MILITARY DOGS
The Department of Defense has a military working dog breeding program at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in Texas. The program is responsible for training between 50 and 90 puppies each year.
Until they’re about 6 months old, puppies are raised by a foster family. They then return to the base to begin training.
TIME FOR RETIREMENT
Dogs may work for anywhere from four to 13 years before retirement. In 2000, President Bill Clinton signed a bill setting up a retirement program for military working dogs.
Today, when a military dog is too old to work or has been injured, every effort is made to find it a good home. Some retired military dogs go to work for police or fire departments. Former handlers have the first chance to adopt their dog partners.
This puppy is ready to enter the military working dog program at Lackland Air Force Base.
RESOURCES
ON THE WEB
bit.ly/MPwardogs AT THE LIBRARY
• “Whitey’s Journey: A Four-legged Soldier in the Second World War” by Kelsey Lonie
ECO NOTE
Scientists have found a massive freshwater aquifer beneath the Atlantic Ocean off the northeastern U.S. coast, raising hopes for easing global water shortages. The International Ocean Drilling Program drilled off Cape Cod and extracted 13,200 gallons of water, some of drinking quality, suggesting the supply could rival major aquifers on land. Researchers believe such “secret fresh water” deposits may exist off coasts worldwide, from South Africa to Indonesia. But questions remain about the water’s age, renewability, ownership and ecological risks if tapped.
Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Todd Frantom, courtesy U.S. Navy
Photo by Derek Kaufman, courtesy U.S.
Force
A scout dog leads a patrol during the Vietnam War.
Scott, a Belgian Malinois military working dog, wears protective gear: goggles, booties and a bulletproof vest.
Photo by Senior Airman
Christopher Griffin, courtesy U.S. Air Force
