Upper Keys Weekly 25-1002

October 2, 2025

KEYS INVENTOR TAKES ON MARINE GIANTS

The man behind Sea Swivel says they ripped his patent off | P. 6

PLANTING MORE UPGRADES

Rowell’s Park phase two upgrades include more trees | P. 5

HEALTHY SPONGES

Grant geared to revive vital natural resource in Florida Bay | P. 14

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An adult ticket price at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Orlando cost just $3.50 when it opened on this date in 1971. Fast forward to 2025, and the one-day ticket price (age 10 and up) is $119 to a place many Disney enthusiasts say is the most magical place on Earth.

GOING WITH THE FLOW

A 36-inch pipe positioned alongside U.S. 1 on Plantation Key. JIM MCCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Crews continue new water pipe installation; work will near schools later this month

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Installation of the new and larger water transmission main continues as crews work day and night near MM 89 on Islamorada’s Plantation Key.

As of Sept. 26, contractors for the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority had installed 18,336 feet of new drinking water pipe into the ground along U.S. 1 from Snake Creek Bridge to MM 89.

Earlier in the year, crews placed 2,100 feet of new water main underwater at Tavernier Creek Bridge. The installation came with traffic disruptions on the northbound lane of U.S. 1 through upper Plantation Key for about a month-and-a-half.

FKAA says they expect the 34,000 feet of new pipe, from Snake Creek Bridge to Julep Road in Tavernier, will be in the ground by March 2026.

Cutler said they’ve worked with the Florida Department of Transportation to get an approved traffic control plan. He said months were spent shifting where the pipe will be installed to appease FDOT’s requests to mitigate traffic issues.

“We’ve actually redesigned and shifted alignment on a lot of our pipes just to make sure we can facilitate the least amount of traffic impacts as possible,” Cutler said.

Cutler added FDOT requested one northbound lane remain open, or else the project could get shut down.

“Without that they were basically saying we’d have to go back to the drawing board and find another

The inventor of the Sea Swivel, Key Largo’s Mark Berta, is challenging three companies in federal court for allegedly ripping off his patent. Read more on page 6. CONTRIBUTED

way to do this,” he said. “A lot of this is cost-driven. It would cost millions to do it as slow as they wanted us to do it.”

Traffic congestion could look similar to when crews were installing the pipe into the ground earlier in the year. Two southbound lanes on U.S. 1 were open, while one northbound lane was shut down to allow room for the crews.

“October will be a tough traffic situation, similar to what (motorists) had to deal with in May and April,” Cutler said.

If all goes as planned, the work to place new 36-inch water main into the ground from the high school to Tavernier Creek Bridge could be completed by Thanksgiving.

The current pipeline varies in age throughout its 150-mile length in the Keys, but generally the pipe is 40 to 60 years old. Stress from pressure on the old pipe has led to deterioration or corrosion in many areas and increases the chances of potential failures. The existing drinking water pipe in Plantation Key has exceeded its useful lifespan, making it vulnerable to failures and breaks.

With the new pipeline, the combination of steel construction and cathodic protection, which prevents corrosion through electrochemical technology, improves reliability and flow capacity while reducing the risk of leaks or breaks.

The work goes for 24 hours a day, Monday through Friday, pausing for major holidays, events and inclement weather.

Members of

Aaron Cutler, project manager, told Islamorada council members last month that crews will approach the area of Woods Avenue and Coral Shores High School in late October. Instead of installing pipeline underwater, which was completed in May, crews will now be placing new water transmission main into the ground along U.S. 1 to Tavernier Creek Bridge.

MORE IMPROVEMENTS AT ROWELL’S WATERFRONT PARK

County says phase two will see more than 100 new trees planted

Rowell’s Waterfront Park in Key Largo is undergoing more upgrades. In 2022, phase one of improvements included shared use paths, lighting, construction of a new bathroom and parking lot. The second phase includes regrading and resodding the multi-use field, adding sidewalks and renovating the lower parking lot. MONROE COUNTY/Contributed

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

More improvements are on the way at one of Monroe County’s crown jewel parks in Key Largo.

Located at MM 104.5 bayside, the 8-acre Rowell’s Waterfront Park recently underwent several upgrades, including a new bathroom, parking lot, lighting and shared use paths, thanks to a $3 million grant from the state.

Phase two of the park’s improvements, which crews went to work on beginning Sept. 15, entail regrading and resodding the multi-use field, adding sidewalks and renovating the lower parking lot. There will be added lighting, walking paths and drainage. The $2.9 million in improvements are funded through a grant.

Questions from the public began to arise over the reported removal of trees at the park. The county said some large trees unfortunately had to be removed to allow for construction of the new parking lot and a required stormwater management system.

“But we promise we are not paving paradise to put up a parking lot,” read a Facebook post by Monroe County.

In total, 112 new trees and landscaping are coming to Rowell’s

Park as part of phase two upgrades. Around the parking lot, 7,243 square feet of landscaping, which is above the required 5,905 square feet, will be planted with 15 canopy trees and 15 understory trees in addition to shrubs and groundcovers.

Along the park’s southern boundary, crews will plant 23 new canopy trees and 10 understory trees to create a lush buffer. Additional canopy trees will be planted throughout the site after major construction is finished.

Native species include gumbo limbo, slash pine, Jamaican dogwood, West Indian mahogany, buttonwood and wax myrtle. All trees were chosen for shade, habitat value and resilience. The entire landscaped area will have irrigation to help the new trees thrive.

County officials say several dozen new native canopy trees and native vegetation were also installed during phase one of upgrades to Rowell’s Waterfront Park in 2022. They were planted as a buffer zone adjacent to the properties to the north and south ends of the park.

Rowell’s Waterfront Park’s new parking lot, beach and bathroom will remain open. The park is open daily from 7:30 a.m. until one-half hour after sunset.

VILLAGE OFFICIALS’ LEGAL EXPENSES REIMBURSED IN SUNSHINE INVESTIGATION OVER FORMER MANAGER

State attorney closed the matter in July

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

Acomplaint alleging a Sunshine violation among Islamorada officials in the resignation of former manager Rob Cole, and the subsequent approval by the council of a severance package, was dismissed in July following an investigation by Monroe County State Attorney Dennis Ward’s office.

No evidence supported questions raised in early January whether council members had improper discussions outside a publicly-noticed meeting over Cole, concluded Ward’s investigation. Cole resigned from his post during a Jan. 7 meeting. An investigation into the complaint began in March as Ward’s office requested communications and records from village officials.

“We pursued this investigation with the highest level of scrutiny and, after extensive interviews, document reviews and analysis of communication records, we found no violation of Florida’s Sunshine Law,” Ward said. Sunshine laws require that officials conduct business at scheduled meetings and not by consultation out of public view.

With the investigation closed, village officials who expended funds for legal representation will get reimbursed. Per the code, the village council “shall reimburse any official for his/her legal expenses incurred in successfully defending any criminal, civil, ethics and/or administrative legal action brought against the official for any action taken by the official while acting within the scope of his/her duties.”

In September, council members approved reimbursements totaling $20,000 for the five council members and two village attorneys. Councilwoman Deb Gillis spent $5,000 for legal services provided by the law

offices of Rayme L. Suarez, while Vice Mayor Don Horton spent $3,750 for legal representation through Robertson & Hunter LLP.

John Quick and Alison Smith, attorneys representing the village, each spent $3,000 for legal services through Gelber, Schacter & Greenberg, P.A. Mayor Sharon Mahoney spent $2,500 for legal services through Hal Schumacher P.A. And former councilman Buddy Pinder will get reimbursed $3,000 for legal expenses he incurred during the investigation. Pinder, who was on the council when Cole resigned, stepped down from his seat on Jan. 10.

“It’s a shame it came to this,” Horton said before the council approved a resolution via 5-0 vote. “It’s a shame it’s on the taxpayers’ back that they’re going to pay $20,000 for a complaint that was maybe made out of demagoguery, maybe it was made out of innocence … I think it was the first.”

An investigation led by Roy Bogue revealed no unlawful coordination was discovered. No evidence of prohibited private meetings or communications among council members were found.

Records revealed only routine holiday greetings or unrelated matters discussed. And phone and email records matched carrier-subpoenaed data, confirming the integrity and accuracy of the submitted information.

The investigation revealed several council members expressed concerns about Cole’s management performance leading up to the Jan. 7 meeting. Per the state attorney’s office, evidence revealed council members were “planning to issue poor performance evaluations of Cole and intended to vote against renewing his contract in March.”

FLORIDA KEYS INNOVATOR TAKES ON MARINE INDUSTRY GIANTS

Mark Berta’s Sea Swivel mount infringed, per complaint filed in federal court

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Longtime Key Largo resident and Sea Swivel mount creator Mark Berta is taking on some marine industry giants for allegedly infringing on his patent design.

The invention has transformed trolling motor technology while keeping anglers safer on the water.

“I never planned on being a creator of this product; that just came on itself,” Berta said. “I always built things and tinkered, and it led to new business.”

In 2023, Berta’s flagship innovation — the original Sea Swivel mount — began to launch in the Upper Keys.

Before the product came to life, Berta graduated from Coral Shores High School and entered the marine mechanics industry. He spent 16 months at the Marine Mechanics Institute in Orlando. There, he became certified in Mercury, Yamaha, Seven Marine and Suzuki.

After obtaining his certification, Berta said, one of his first jobs was pulling engines from offshore race boats in North Miami Beach. He eventually came back to the Florida Keys, working at Plantation Boat Mart as its lead technician for seven years. He was also manager at SeaHunter Boats in Key Largo.

“Being in the boating industry most of my life, I constantly see things changing and new products,” Berta said. “I saw these big trolling motors coming out. I basically had an idea that if this thing can swivel you can put it where you want.”

The Sea Swivel addresses potential safety problems by providing a swiveling mounting plate compatible with leading manufacturer trolling motors. Berta’s creation made it so anglers could mount their trolling motor upward facing the gunnel of the boat, avoiding exposing themselves to the dangers

by boarding the bow of the boat to deploy or retract the trolling motor shaft.

The Sea Swivel rotating mount allows a trolling motor to pivot laterally without removing the mount from the deck, enabling users to redirect motor thrust and stow the motor without removal or disassembly.

Early on, Berta began building a few by hand for some customers. From there, he posted his creation to various social media channels. Berta said everyone started asking him to make them a Sea Swivel mount.

“Hundreds of people were asking,” he said. “I went to my wife, Sam, and said, ‘It’s weird, I post all the time and never gotten this much response from something so simple. We should look into doing something with this.’”

Berta decided to get it patented and filed in September 2023. The patent was officially issued by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in March 2025, giving Berta the right to recover damages for infringement.

The product is so popular that it’s now found at CWR Wholesale Electronics, West Marine, Wintron Electronics Wholesale, Boat Outfitters, Port Supply and other dealers throughout the country.

Even with the patent, some companies reportedly created a similar product to Berta’s Sea Swivel. Berta received a call from a client who was having issues with what was originally thought to be a Sea Swivel mount. As Berta was helping the person troubleshoot the product, Berta realized it was not his product, but rather a competitor’s knock-off version.

“I said, ‘What a minute, it’s ShuttleSlide.’ I still helped him because I know the product,” Berta said.

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RHONDA LOPEZ & SHERRI HODIES CLEARED IN ELECTION FRAUD COMPLAINT

Issue concerned Republican committee’s endorsement

Acomplaint of election fraud, filed in September 2024 against Rhonda Rebman-Lopez, chair of the county’s Republican executive committee, and Sherri Hodies, who was then a candidate for supervisor of elections, has been dismissed by the state attorney who investigated the matter.

“There is insufficient evidence to prove Rhonda Rebman-Lopez or Sherri Hodies had the requisite criminal intent to misappropriate or make an unlawful expenditure of Monroe County Republican Executive Committee funds,” states the document concluding the investigation.

The issue started in the summer of 2024, when the Republican executive committee (REC), under Rebman-Lopez’s chairmanship, voted to endorse Hodies for supervisor of elections, despite the presence of another Republican candidate. That endorsement came with a $20,000 campaign donation. Some members of the committee and other county Republicans claimed the vote did not clear the required threshold for an endorsement.

Key West resident and Republican voter Phyllis May filed a complaint with State Attorney Dennis Ward.

“Endorsements require approval of at least 60% of the executive committee members present and voting,” May wrote in her complaint. “At the time of the vote there were 63 members of the REC. A majority of the full committee would have been 32 members voting to endorse. The vote was 20 to endorse; 18 not to endorse. The vote fell short by 12 to endorse.”

When asked by the Keys Weekly in the summer of 2024 about the votes not meeting the threshold, and some REC members’ complaints about the endorsement, Lopez said, “The vote tallies and total were taken to the highest levels of the Republican Party of Florida by me and they told me that as chair, to make the call, and I did.”

State Attorney Dennis Ward, who represents Monroe County’s 16th Judicial Circuit, transferred the complaint for investigation by another district’s state attorney because he is a member of the REC.

State Attorney Amira Fox, in the 20th Judicial Circuit, investigated and last week released her office’s findings.

In the conclusion, clearing Lopez and Hodies, investigators write, “Monroe County REC membership had distinct and opposing interpretations of (the rule governing votes for endorsement). Witnesses interviewed provided evidence that the Executive Board articulated their interpretation and planned use of (the rule) prior to the vote held on April 20, 2024. No members of the MCREC questioned, argued, or debated the Executive Board’s interpretation of or use of (the rule) until the ballots were counted and results of the vote announced. The evidence is clear that different members of the MCREC had different interpretations of (the rule) and members had little to no experience with (it).

“(The rule) controls Republican Executive Committees endorsements of candidates. It does not govern financial contributions to

campaigns of candidates. Financial expenditures only require a simple majority vote,” the conclusion states. “The MCREC did not need to comply with (the rule) for a financial contribution to Sherri Hodies’ campaign. Had the MCREC simply proceeded with a majority vote for the financial distribution, as the organization had always done in the past, the allegation of misappropriation of funds may have been avoided.

“Based on the totality of the evidence, the conflicts in the evidence and circumstances pertaining to this complaint, the state attorney’s office cannot prove a violation of criminal law beyond a reasonable doubt. …There is no basis for further action by this office. This matter is closed.”

In a press release announcing the ruling this week, Lopez writes, “Today brings vindication. On Sept. 20, 2025, the Office of the State Attorney officially cleared Republican Supervisor of Elections Sherri Hodies and Monroe County Republican Chairwoman Rhonda RebmanLopez of all allegations associated with the politically motivated complaint.”

She says, “the complaint — pushed by State Attorney Dennis Ward and his political allies — was a transparent attempt to confuse voters and give Democrat Ron Saunders an unfair advantage. … This was a political attack from the start,” Lopez writes. “Ward’s efforts to slander loyal Republicans failed. … Despite Ward’s interference, Monroe County voters elected Sherri Hodies as their Supervisor of Elections — choosing accountability and integrity over partisan smear tactics.

“The record is now clear: Dennis Ward’s smear campaign collapsed, Ron Saunders (Hodies’ Democratic opponent, who is now village manager of Islamorada) was defeated, and the truth prevailed,” Lopez writes.

First Friday concert series at library

The Amigos. CONTRIBUTED

The Key Largo library will host the start of the First Friday concert series on Friday, Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. The Amigos, a rock/blues/pop band from Key Largo, will perform with an energetic style to bring a smile to their audience. The concert series is free and funded by the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys.

League of Women Voters session examines redistricting

The Upper Keys League of Women Voters will host a mid-cycle redistricting event on Saturday, Oct. 4 from 11 a.m. to noon at Doc’s Diner in Key Largo. Florida is pursuing efforts to redraw the Congressional maps outside of the regular redistricting cycle. The UKLWV says there are a number of solid reasons to say “no” to mid-cycle redistricting in Florida. Democracy works best when voters choose their leaders, not the other way around. Stop by Doc’s Diner and let your legislators know via postcards and social media that you reject mid-cycle redistricting. UKLWV is a nonpartisan group that educates on issues.

Classical guitar concert set for Oct. 18 in Islamorada

Classical guitarist Mateo will perform a concert of original works on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 6 p.m. at St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church in Islamorada. Admission is free, with donations accepted at the door. Mateo has toured internationally as a concert guitarist and composer. He lives and teaches classical guitar in the Florida Keys. For more information, please call 305-852-8468.

Orchid club brings Davidsons to Key Largo

The Florida Keys Orchid Club will host Jim and Melana Davidson on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 6 p.m. at the Key Largo Civic Club. “Conversations with my orchids: I talk to them and they talk back” is an entertaining and educational topic. Raffles and refreshments will be available. The public is welcome.

BOAT GOES ABLAZE IN KEY LARGO

On Aug. 8, Berta’s Sea Swivel Inc. filed a federal lawsuit in the Southern District of Florida against Melbourne, Florida-based ShuttleSlide, Sarasota-based Rhodan Marine Systems and Glenwood, Iowa-based T/6 Marine. The complaint accuses these companies of selling copycat versions of a product Berta created in the Florida Keys. All are accused of mirroring Sea Swivel’s patented design (U.S. Patent No. 12,258,111).

A 15-page complaint filed by Sea Swivel in court alleging patent infringement seeks a complete stop to the defendants’ “ongoing misappropriation of valuable intellectual property.” The lawsuit states the three companies are making, using and offering to sell swiveling troll motor mounts that “brazenly infringe on Sea Swivel’s patent.” The complaint says that allows the major companies to reap the benefits of Berta’s innovation they neither conceived nor earned.

The lawsuit states Rhodan’s SRQ brackets, ShuttleSlides’s SS-7.5R and SS 9.5R mounts and T6’s BOSS 360 and Mini BOSS 360 trolling motor mounts all incorporate rotating or pivoting mechanisms, which facilitate secure attachment and directional adjustment of bow-mounted trolling motors similar to Sea Swivel’s patent design. These products continued to be marketed and sold throughout the U.S., according to the complaint.

“The products are believed to infringe one or more claims of the ’111 patent based on their structural and functional characteristics, including mechanisms that allow for rotational movement or directional adjustment of trolling motors,” states the complaint.

Sea Swivel is not only demanding damages and a full accounting of sales, but the business is also seeking permanent injunctive relief under the Patent Act to ensure the companies can no longer trade on the strength of Sea Swivel’s ingenuity. Sea Swivel’s lawsuit is seeking a jury trial.

Albert Sabater, senior associate at Miami’s EPGD Business Law and lead attorney for Sea Swivel, said the patent provides protections for Berta.

“One (company) can’t just look at an idea or invention and say, ‘It’s fantastic, I’ll create something similar,’” he said. “With Rhodan, it was more deliberate. They knew this product existed and decided to make it for half the price.

“Mark built this product from scratch. He poured all his savings into filing the patent. He did everything right,” Sabater continued.

Sabater said the lawsuit not only intends to make Berta whole monetarily, but also seeks recognition that the product was patented and thus protected from being infringed.

“Just because you have the means and resources to trump the product doesn’t make it right,” Sabater said. “It’s more the fact they knew better and they decided to rip off Mark’s product.”

“It was one of those things that these companies make one product, trolling motors and accessories, and yet they never have been in the mounting business, ever,” Berta said. “Now all of sudden they made a mount. It was a little bit of a punch in the gut.”

The plaintiffs have until Oct. 14 to respond to the complaint. On Sept. 25, the Keys Weekly reached out to the three companies named in the complaint and was awaiting response.

Florida Keys first responders were dispatched to the report of a vessel fire in Key Largo on the afternoon of Sept. 23. Key Largo Fire Rescue and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office responded to the boat blaze behind a home on Pimlico Lane at 4:12 p.m. Firefighters extinguished the approximately 35-foot boat fire. The residence was reportedly vacant. There were no reported injuries. MCSO/Contributed

SHERIFF HONORS

ISLAMORADA BUSINESS LEADER

Ma certificate of appreciation for

The business donates/loans equipment such as portable lights for events and assists with cleanups at no cost. MCSO/Contributed

NONPROFIT PROFESSIONALS GATHER IN MARATHON

More than 100 leaders explore resilience in challenging times

Over 100 nonprofit professionals from across the Florida Keys convened on Sept. 10 at Marathon City Hall for the fourth annual Florida Keys Nonprofit Day. This year’s theme, “Resiliency in Uncertain Times,” addressed how organizations can strengthen their operations to tackle challenges while positioning themselves for future success.

The annual gathering is organized by the Florida Keys Funders Alliance, a partnership of the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, Ocean Reef Community Foundation and United Way of Collier and the Keys.

This year’s event centered around a keynote presentation by Sara Gibson, founder of Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit consultancy 20 Degrees. Gibson’s leadership experience includes award-winning service organizations such as Miriam’s Kitchen, AppleTree Institute for Education Innovation and Sitar Arts Center.

Named a 2021 Washington Business Journal Woman Who Means Business, she specializes in building equitable, financially-

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resilient organizations and is recognized for her innovative approaches to nonprofit finance and sustainability.

The program included a speednetworking session connecting nonprofit leaders from Key Largo to Key West, followed by a panel discussion moderated by Elizabeth Brown, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys.

Panel experts included Bonnie Barnes, consultant with the Florida Small Business Development Center at FIU; Wendy Gentes, assistant vice president of development at Baptist Health Foundation; Scott Pridgen, executive director of A.H. Monroe, Inc.; and Gibson. Together, they tackled topics including financial sustainability, strategic collaboration, organizational mergers, sector trends and adaptive strategies for navigating uncertainty.

First State Bank of the Florida Keys sponsored the networking reception, which featured cuisine prepared by locally-acclaimed Chef Heather of Marathon.

VETERANS, MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAM HOST SAYS GOODBYE

Dear editor,

Over the course of my life your publication and staff have provided us with an opportunity to create events for our beloved community, which recognized and honored the devoted service and sacrifice made by our nation’s veterans.

Unable to adequately process my combat wounds, along with witnessing horrible injuries and death suffered by my fellow United States Marines, I sought escape and an opportunity to heal upon returning home.

Clawing my way back toward some semblance of normalcy, via the love and kindness of others, I moved beyond the grasp of the madness that once consumed me.

Your publication, along with the magnificent support given by our veterans and the many bedrock institutions and organizations that sustain our lives and culture, are the driving forces behind the long tenure of Monroe County’s many Veterans Day and Memorial Day programs.

Collectively, we’ve illuminated the inordinate trauma endured by our returning veterans, as their suffering is finally being recognized and addressed. Twenty-two veterans a day had been committing suicide. Untreated, they were driven to commit this ultimate act of self-destruction each day. Their suicide rates have decreased by 18%.

The enthusiasm and gratitude generated across the board by our amazing Florida Keys’ citizens established a blueprint upon which we were able to create events that honor and remember the sacrifices endured by our nation’s veterans.

After a lifetime of service in many venues, I’m stepping down from my duties as an organizer and host for our Veterans Day and Memorial Day programs. Before I depart, please know how close and dear to my heart I will forever hold each one of you. I shall always remember your loving kindness and unrelenting beauty.

— John Donnelly, Key Largo

KAYAKERS RESCUED IN KEY LARGO

Coast Guard takes to the sea and air

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

Two kayakers were rescued off Key Largo by crews with the U.S. Coast Guard Station Islamorada and Air Station Miami on Sept. 29.

Coast Guard Sector Key West watchstanders issued an urgent marine information broadcast after receiving an initial report of two overdue kayakers at about 6 p.m.

At 7:45 p.m., the aircrew located one individual in the water clinging to navigational post. A boat crew arrived and brought the person aboard.

Fifteen minutes later, the aircrew

found the second missing person, who was stranded on the flats of Baker Cut. The aircrew lowered a rescue swimmer, who was able to transfer the man safely aboard the Coast Guard boat.

Both kayakers were uninjured. According to the Coast Guard, the kayak overturned, leaving the two people in the water.

“This incident highlights the importance of our training and teamwork in order for us to help save lives in difficult conditions,” said Cmdr. Jared Harlow, search and rescue coordinator with Coast Guard Sector Key West.

The full agenda is available at www.klwtd.com or scan here

To provide public comment prior to the meeting, send an email to clerk@klwtd.com.

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In addition to membership in the Key Largo Chamber, they are members of other chambers including the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce and Ocean Reef Chamber of Commerce.

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EPA GRANT AIMS TO RESTORE SPONGE POPULATIONS IN FLORIDA BAY

Agrant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will support a pioneering project aimed at restoring sponge populations in Florida Bay through a genetics-based approach.

The five-year, $720,446 EPA grant was awarded to Andia ChavesFonnegra, associate professor of biology at Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College.

Florida Bay is a shallow body of water between the southern tip of mainland Florida and the Florida Keys. It is part of Everglades National Park, which supports important marine life like sponges, fish and spiny lobster.

tant or charismatic animals, but they support a multimillion-dollar lobster fishery in South Florida. In addition, two of the sponge species in the study are commercial bath sponges, which, on their own, also supported the highly successful sponge fishery industry before the introduction of plastic sponges and the collapse of their populations. The degradation of sponge communities has had cascading impacts on both the sponge and lobster fisheries, as well as on the broader ecosystem services that sponges provide.

Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in restoring sponge populations through transplantation programs that use asexual cuttings. These efforts, spearheaded by a coalition of scientists, state agencies and community partners, have helped to reestablish sponge cover in areas heavily affected by disease, phytoplankton blooms and cold-water events. However, because these transplants are clonal, they lack genetic diversity, limiting the resilience of restored populations to environmental stressors and reducing their capacity to adapt to shifts in weather patterns.

The project marks the first genetic assessment of sponge restoration efforts in the region and seeks to build long-term ecological resilience in one of the nation’s most vulnerable marine environments.

Contact: Marissa Owens, Manager of Recruitment at recruiter@cfk.edu or 305-809-3207

Sponges are a vital component of benthic, hard-bottom communities throughout Florida Bay and the Florida reef tract. These organisms perform essential ecological functions — filtering vast volumes of water, cycling nutrients such as nitrogen, stabilizing seafloor sediments and providing habitat for a variety of marine species.

Among the most economically important is the spiny lobster, which depends on sponge-rich environments as nursery grounds. People may not think of sponges as impor-

Chaves-Fonnegra’s research will address this critical limitation by integrating population genetics into restoration strategies. Her team will analyze the genetic structure and diversity of four key sponge species currently used in Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) restoration programs: Spongia Barbara, a type of bath sponge known for its soft textures; Spongia graminea, referred to as the grass sponge; Ircinia campana, known as the vase sponge because of its shape; and Spheciospongia vesparium, commonly called the loggerhead sponge.

The researchers will evaluate genetic diversity, inbreeding levels, clonality and reproductive success in nursery and outplant sites. This project will also examine the degree to which restored sponges are reproducing sexually with wild populations and whether their offspring are genetically diverse enough to withstand the pressures of a warming ocean.

FALL FISHING BRINGS COLOR CHANGE TO FLORIDA BAY Florida Keys FISH REPORT

Fall fishing is underway in the Florida Keys. While the leaves may be changing colors up north, Florida Bay is also having its own color change.

Mullets of all sizes have returned to the bay in large numbers, creating giant muds that provide food and covert feeding opportunities for snook, redfish and tarpon. Find the birds, find the bait, find the fish!

With the water temps cooling down, fishing has been picking up oceanside. We’re seeing longer, faster runs, and bonefish have only become more fun. Larger bonefish can be caught this time of year, making it one of my favorite months to guide as well as fish myself.

FISH TIP

Permit, permit, permit: We’re seeing them from Florida Bay to the oceanside cruising high in the water column or tailing on the flats. They test every skill you have as an angler. Taken by fly or with bait, sight-fishing permit on the flats will either leave you smiling or dreaming for more.

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Focus on shallow, structure-rich areas like grass flats or mangrove shorelines for redfish. Target them with live baits like shrimp, pinfish and crabs or artificial lures such as jigs and spoons.

FISH FACT

Permit have a specialized plate at the back of their mouth that helps them crush hard-shelled animals such as clams and crabs. They feed on small fishes and invertebrates.

CAPTAIN JOE HALL RESTS AT SEA

Friend and fixture in community remembered

Hi friends. Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report”.

The waters off Key Largo carried a powerful tribute on Sept. 27. Family, friends and customers of the Sailors Choice party fishing boat set out to lay boat captain Joe Hall to rest on the ocean he loved so deeply.

REEF THE FOX

Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.

A fleet of boats formed a moving procession to White Banks Reef, where Joe had proposed to his wife, Devi, years earlier. More than 100 people gathered as his ashes were lowered into the water in a biodegradable urn, a fitting farewell to a man whose life was inseparable from the sea.

Hall wasn’t just a captain; he

was a friend, a helper and a fixture in our community. He would stop by the sanctuary to lend a hand whenever we needed it, even taking drone footage of our fox enclosures when the insurance company requested it. That was Joe — kind, funny and always willing to help without hesitation. His life was stolen far too soon in a senseless act of violence, and the loss ripples through everyone who knew him.

The man accused of taking Joe’s life, Jaden Alexander Harris, is scheduled for arraignment on Oct.

7. As we remember Joe, I’m asking readers to join me in a united, respectful call for justice. You can help by sending a brief email to Judge Melanie Chase’s assistant, urging that Harris not be granted bond while awaiting trial.

Hall lived every day as an example of compassion and service. Let’s honor his memory not only with our words, but with action. Together, we can help ensure justice for captain Joe Hall.

CHANCE

Chance is a sweet 1-year-old, 20-pound pup. He is healthy and happy. His front right paw doesn’t quite work like the others. But the veterinarian did confirm there’s nothing broken, and it’s likely a birth defect. Chance will need an adopter who is patient, gentle and willing to give time to feel safe and loved, just as his wonderful foster mom has done. Because of his “perfectly imperfect paw,” he may not be the best fit for long walks or strenuous activity, but he’s still playful, happy and ready to share his love. Fill out an application at mprescues.org/adoption-application/ to meet him.

SAVE THE DATE

Thursday, Oct. 2

• MarrVelous Pet Rescue’s “Yappy Hour” from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Catch, Key Largo. Dogs should be vaccinated, leashed and wellsocialized.

Friday, Oct. 3

• Tavernier 5 movie theater reopening, featuring $5 movies, at 5:30 p.m. at 91218 Overseas Highway.

• First Friday concert series welcomes the Amigos, a rock, blues and pop band from Key Largo, at 6 p.m. at the Key Largo library.

Saturday, Oct. 4

• Upper Keys League of Women Voters hosts a mid-cycle redistricting forum from 11 a.m. to noon at Doc’s Diner, Key Largo.

Oct. 7-8

• JOY Center activities from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Plantation Key Community Center, 53 High Point Road.

Wednesday, Oct. 8

• Florida Keys History & Discovery Center’s lecture series welcomes Willie Drye for a talk on hurricanes Hazel and Andrew and inspirations behind writing a book at 6 p.m. at the center. Register at keysdiscovery. com.

Oct. 9-11

• The Key Players present “War of the Worlds: The Radio Show that Changed the World” and “They Came from Earth” at 7:30 p.m. at the Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center, Key Largo. Tickets $20 online and at the door. Learn more at thekeyplayers.org.

Saturday, Oct. 11

• Guided tours through the History of Diving Museum at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Learn more at divingmuseum.org.

• Good Health Clinic presents “Tomorrowland for Health” and Big Kahuna celebration at 7 p.m. at Founders Park beach. Learn more at goodhealthclinic.org/bigkahunachallenge.

FROM FINEST FISHERMEN’S CLUB TO NATURAL PARK

Plantation Key Yacht Harbor underwent several ownership changes

FLORIDA

KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

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

Plantation Key Yacht Harbor was developed by Dr. J. M. Renedo and Thomas Renedo. The brothers were born in Key West. On Dec. 15, 1940, the Miami Herald printed a story about its opening and stated that it was managed by Frank Paskewich, “whose record in athletics at the University of Miami is well known to thousands of Floridians.” He was a star football player from 1937 to 1939.

The advertisement read: “Drop Anchor At Plantation Key Harbor! Plantation Key Yacht Harbor Opens Today! ‘For the vacationist the lovely cabins, splendidly appointed, give privacy and comfort. The scenic effect, over Gulf waters, is superb. There are launches, outboard skiffs, a splendid pier, and a club house that has no superior in appointments and charm.’”

The resort closed at some point between 1942 and 1944. The Dec. 20, 1944, edition of the Miami Herald printed: “Plantation Key Yacht Harbor now is open. Closed for several years during wartime, it recently was purchased by Leonard E. Billman. Under his direction and with the new manager, Jim Quinnan, on the job, the entire place has been refurbished and put in condition to receive angling guests.”

The following year, Clyde E. Holland was managing the property, clearly appealing to an upscale crowd. The Feb. 5, 1948, edition of the Chicago Tribune advertised: “Live and Loaf at the Plantation Key Club. Only 50 guests. References Required. Write to Club or Robert S. Warner Associates, 77 W. Washington, Chicago, Ill.”

At some point, the property was owned by the Reynolds Metals Company of Richmond, Virginia. The Sept. 4, 1949, edition of the Miami Herald announced: Yacht Harbor Sold to Head. “The 21-acre resort cottage colony on Plantation Key was sold by the Reynolds Metals Company to J. G. Head for a reported $110,000.”

Head is identified as a real estate developer and broker based in Fort Worth, Texas, and Miami. According to the 1949 article, the property consisted of “10 guest cottages – 22 living units, club-

Plantation Key’s Plantation Yacht Harbor, a ‘Sportsman’s Paradise,’ as depicted in a postcard from the Jerry Wilkinson Collection. CONTRIBUTED

house, dining room and lounge, double fireplace of natural coral rock. Head plans to add: yacht club, yacht harbor, swimming pool, and about 100 modern guest cottages. Stores and restaurants along the highway front.”

As advertised, Head improved the property, or at least someone did. In the Dec. 24, 1950 edition of the Miami Herald, the newly reopened resort boasted, “Quarter million just spent on this property.” The Dec. 31 edition advertised: “Now Open To The Public. The Finest Fisherman’s Club in Florida. Plantation Yacht Harbor ‘The Sportman’s Paradise.’ Introducing Paul DuVall, Famous Chef de Cuisine. New Management: J.G. Head, Owner, J. Neil Stebbens, Manager.”

There are discrepancies regarding ownership of the property. However, the owner is mentioned in the March 6, 1952, edition of The News. “Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Edwards and Mr. and Mrs. Naugle were staying at Plantation Key Yacht Harbor, (Tavernier, Fla.) recently, where Mr. and Mrs. Spinella of Patterson, former Wyckoff residents, are spending the winter.”

Eighteen months later, on Sept. 6, 1953, a headline in the Miami Herald read: “Spinella Linked To Keys Resort.” Mike Spinella, the former rackets figure recently deported to Italy, is the real owner of the lush $500,000 property. … There was strong indication that Spinella’s junior partner in the operation is Meyer Lansky, who just finished a three-month jail term, bought into the Plantation Key Properties Inc. in 1951, but nothing has ever shown up in public court and government records to reveal their connection.”

The swank resort facility was incorporated in Florida in May 1951, under the name Plantation Key Properties. Joseph A. Varon, Hollywood attorney, handled the incorporation and has served as the nominal president-treasurer ever since. But Varon said Saturday he isn’t the owner and “I don’t know who the owners are.” He declined to comment when asked if Spinella and Lansky had an interest in the company.

“I was paid in 1951,” Varon stated, “to set up the corporation. Ever since then I have been the nominal head – nothing more. I don’t even sign the checks.”

Varon said he was originally retained by Larry Knohl, president of the Atlantic Investors Inc. of Washington, D.C., an oil firm, when Knohl purchased the place from a Miami real estate firm. The reported purchase price was $150,000. Knohl ap-

parently stepped out of the picture shortly thereafter when it became known that he was convicted of embezzlement about 17 years ago. He denies he ever got any money out of the deal.

Subsequently, Knohl figured prominently in the income tax scandals that rocked the Internal Revenue Bureau during the Truman administration and, in October 1952, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Washington, D.C. on charges of making false statements to the Reconstruction Finance Corp.

Knohl’s former ties with the Key Largo Motel and Yacht Harbor have never been revealed. His name came into the congressional investigation of T. Lamar Caudle, former assistant attorney in charge of tax cases, in connection with an airplane sale of which Caudle received a $5,000 commission. Khohl sold out to Spinella who has already poured in excess of $200,000 in the place. Spinella added 32 air-conditioned units to the motel, which contained 18 when he bought it. There also is a swimming pool, restaurant, cocktail lounge, fishing facilities and docks.

Lansky, who still maintains a home in Hollywood and formerly operated three luxurious gambling houses in Broward County, has been a good friend of Spinella and reportedly joined him in the Plantation Key deal to the extent of at least $50,000. Reliable sources close to Spinella said he and Lansky put their money into Plantation Key properties as a “sound legitimate business investment.”

Lansky was a childhood friend of Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel and later a friend of Charles “Lucky” Luciano. Actors Ben Kingsley, Patrick Dempsey, Dustin Hoffman and Harvey Keitel have played Lansky in movies. According to FBI documents, “Meyer Lansky has been reported to be an overlord of international racketeers and gangsters; to have national connections in gambling circles; and a close associate of the most notorious gangsters and racketeers in the United States; and is considered among this element to be a leader.”

The property has been bought and sold several times since the Spinella and Lansky years. Though recognized as the “Mob’s Accountant,” Lansky remained relatively untouched by the law. He was living in Miami Beach when he died from lung cancer on June 15, 1983. He was 80.

On Feb. 24, 1999, the Village of Islamorada purchased the 40-acre Plantation Yacht Harbor. It is now home to Founders Park.

CELEBRATION AND CONNECTION

JOY celebrates National Senior Center Month

On Sept. 24, the Monroe County Parks and Beaches celebration of National Senior Center Month highlighted Just Older Youth, or JOY, Center programming and created awareness of area organizations that support our “mature majority.”

Visitors had an opportunity to learn about services from numerous agencies, enjoy refreshments — thank you. Centennial Bank, Ralph Ros and all the cookie elves — and musical entertainment from Roy Bogue. There were also opportunities to socialize and win prizes.

Not only did visitors walk away with information and bags heavy with giveaways, but some lucky winners also took home beautiful ceramic pieces from Cindy King at Old Road Gallery, an air fryer, an indoor grill, wine basket, coffee press with snacks basket, blood pressure monitors and many more gifts made possible by generous contributors.

Behind-the-scenes work made the event fun. Thanks to Cindy Walters for creating the slide shows that were highlighted in each room hosting organizations. Naomi Pagidas, Dawn

WESLEY HOUSE SEEKS SPONSORS FOR HOLIDAY CAMPAIGN

Wesley House is seeking sponsors for its Holiday Adopt-a-Family gifting campaign.

Adopt-a-Family is a specific gift drive for the clients of Wesley House: children who are in foster care, families who are intact but at-risk, and families in the Healthy Families program.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for parents to include their children in giving back to those less fortunate or a larger group or business to give collectively,” said Grace Epperly, Wesley House development coordinator.

DeBrule, Maria Uribe, Bob Spencer and Reece Dean helped create a welcoming space for everyone. Also, the Oneblood bus was on site all day collecting much-needed blood donations.

We are sure Holly Raschein was happy to stop by, as she won one of the prizes. Thanks to John Allen, parks and beaches director, for celebrating the wonderful partnership JOY has with Monroe County Parks and Beaches.

Feedback from visitors and vendors has highlighted that the event provided opportunities for raising awareness and networking.

JOY is a nonprofit organization in the Upper Keys dedicated to creating a community center that expands and improves the life experiences of adults. This center provides a venue to develop new and old friendships. The groups is welcoming with programs and services to sharpen the mind, improve physical and emotionatl well-being and empower seniors to remain active, independent assets in the community.

To learn more, visit justolderyouthinc.org.

Wesley House asks the children for specific gift requests and provides each sponsor with their clothing and shoe sizes as well as some items for the caregiver or caregivers. The sponsor decides on the number of people to help and how much to spend.

This year, the number of families has doubled. Wesley House has 301 families in need.

More information, including how to sign up to sponsor a family, is at wesleyhouse.org/christmas, or from Epperly at 305-809-5000. The deadline to sponsor a family is Oct. 17.

HISTORY OF DIVING MUSEUM WELCOMES BLUE STAR FAMILIES

Military-themed tours set the next two Saturdays

Each year, more than 600,000 military families move to new communities. Blue Star Welcome Week is a national week of activation to ensure military families feel welcome and community members are inspired to do their part in supporting them.

The History of Diving Museum is one of many institutions across the country that will be participating.

Each year, the museum, located at MM 83 in Islamorada, participates in Blue Star Museums. Free admission is offered to active-duty members of the military year-round, through Sunday, Oct. 5. This complimentary admission will once again extend to up to five members of their families.

On Saturday, Oct. 4 and Saturday, Oct. 11, guided tours included with admission will be offered to all History of Diving Museum guests. Tours take place at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and will feature highlights of military divers and their heroic, often dangerous work. October’s tours will coincide with the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy. — Contributed

STATE REP. MOONEY, NEW OCEANOGRAPHY INSTITUTE DIRECTOR VISIT KML

The Keys Marine Laboratory staff recently welcomed the interim director for the Florida Institute of Oceanography (FIO) as well as the Florida Keys’ representative in the state House.

David Naar became FIO’s interim director on Aug. 15 while serving as associate dean and professor of the University of South Florida’s College of Marine Science. Naar is a familiar figure at the University of South Florida (USF); he has held key positions at the College of Marine Science during his 35-year tenure. Holding a doctorate from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, he brings extensive expertise in seafloor mapping and plate tectonics.

Naar has more than 46 years of experience in geological oceanography and has been on countless research expeditions utilizing FIO’s research vessels for the past 35 years. His earlier research involved the analysis of marine magnetics, bathymetry, backscatter and earthquake data to study mid-ocean ridge processes, microplate processes and their interactions with hotspot volcanism. He used freezing wax analog models of seafloor spreading to gain insight on how major plate boundary reorganizations occur.

systems, updates on funding progress for the pre-planning construction phase and new housing for students and researchers, and pre-planning for Ocean’s Day at the state capitol.

“We were delighted to welcome Dr. Naar to KML to experience firsthand how the laboratory functions as a critical hub for the scientific and restoration community,” said Cynthia Lewis, KML director. “This was also a unique opportunity for Dr. Naar to visit with Representative Mooney, who not only champions the value of KML but also recognizes its vulnerability in a changing climate.”

For more than 30 years, KML has offered a unique location, dedicated on-site scientific support and a comprehensive full-service marine field station. KML is a satellite campus of the University of South Florida (USF) operated by the state Institute of Oceanography. Surrounded by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the facility spans 8 acres on Long Key in Layton. With easy access to Florida Bay, Everglades National Park, Florida’s Coral Reef and the Atlantic Ocean, KML supports vital research on the subtropical and tropical marine and terrestrial ecosystems of the southeastern United States.

The History of Diving Museum in Islamorada welcomes Blue Star families through Sunday, Oct. 5. Military-themed guided tours through the museum will take place the next two Saturdays, Oct. 4 and 11, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. FILE PHOTOS

His more recent research has involved acoustic multibeam mapping of paleoshorelines, fish benthic habitats, artificial reefs, coral reefs, inert mines and hydrothermal vents. These research interests have led to oceanographic mapping expeditions to the Gulf, Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans.

State Rep. Jim Mooney and his legislative aide Lee Young engaged with the entire KML team. Highlights included a tour of the seawater

KML facilitates college-level education and research for institutions and stakeholders at local, state, national and international levels. Its primary purpose is to function as a hub facilitating a wide range of classes, research and restoration. More than 244 organizations from more than 42 states and 53 organizations from 28 countries, have benefited from the services and resources provided by KML since its inception in 1992.

CITY OF WASHINGTON DESCENDS BENEATH THE SURFACE

Time has not been kind to the steamship found at Elbow Reef

THOMAS SCOTT

www.keysweekly.com

Editor’s note: This is the final in a two-part series on the City of Washington steamship.

Several months following the disaster, after the outbreak of the Spanish-American War, the City of Washington was again called upon to serve the country, this time as a troop transport, carrying American soldiers into battle against Spain during the invasion of Cuba. The ship was under charter to the U.S. Army from April to September 1898.

Today, a portion of one of the Maine’s masts, along with her broken bell, remains as a memorial at Arlington National Cemetery, along with the remains of 165 of her crew. Twenty-four more – 17 unidentified – are buried at Key West, where a second memorial site was built, albeit without a mast section. A concrete monument is inscribed, “In memory of the victims of the disaster of the U.S. battleship ‘Maine’ in Havana Harbor Feb. 15, 1898, Erected by the citizens of Key West, Fla.” The remainder of the casualties were most likely unrecovered.

History has not been as kind to the City of Washington. Although well-documented, her involvement in the Maine tragedy has been largely passed over in the history books. No monuments mark the passing or the actions of the heroic crew on that dark night so long ago.

After the war, the City of Washington continued to serve on the New York-to-Cuba route. During the next several years the ship safely carried thousands of American tourists to the newly liberated island nation. On Aug. 7, 1905, the ship was reported to have grounded on Triumph Reef off Miami but was safely refloated with the aid of the wrecking schooner Two Brothers and nine other wrecking vessels.

In 1908, the steamer, now old and outmoded, was removed from service and laid up at Brooklyn, New York. On June 9, 1911, the steamship was sold to the E.F. Luckenbach Company of New York. The superstructure and machinery were removed and the ship was placed into service as a schooner-barge. Although the ship retained masts and rigging, it was unable to sail on its own, and was towed into ports where it had once proudly steamed. As a barge, the displacement was listed as 2,410 tons. The primary cargo was coal.

In early July 1917, the City of Washington, under the command of Capt. McKay with a crew of five, left Norfolk, Virginia under tow for Port Tampa, Florida to load phosphate. According to notes found in the files of the Atlantic Mutual Insurance Company, the City of Washington, along with the barge Seneca and the tug Luckenbach No. 4, ran aground on Key Largo’s Elbow Reef on July 10, 1917.

On July 14, the City of Washington broke apart on the reef. The ship is said to have become “a total loss in few (sic) minutes.” The long and distinguished career was at its end. The crew was rescued by the vessels Halifax and Magnolia. The Luckenbach No. 4 and Seneca were refloated and arrived safely at Key West on July 15. In a newspaper article describing the City of Washington’s final loss, 19 years after the U.S.S. Maine disaster, there is no mention of her involvement.

The wreck of the City of Washington lies on the northern end of the Elbow Reef, between mooring buoys E9 and E10. On a calm, clear day the outline of the hull is easily seen from the surface; the massive size and still graceful lines recall former glories.

Time, like history, has also not been kind to the City of Washington. Although the ship’s outline survives, the wreck is badly broken up. Large sections of the hull and deck plating are scattered throughout the area. Moray eels now inhabit the twisted beams. Few recognizable features remain. In the stern section of the wreckage, propeller shaft bearings, along with measurements taken at the site, support the identification of this wreck as that of the City of Washington. The bearings prove beyond doubt that the vessel was originally a screw steamer.

The City of Washington is an easy dive, within the capabilities of divers of nearly any skill level. Depth range is from 20 to 25 feet. Currents are generally mild. The area surrounding the wreck is primarily sandy bottom with little reef growth in the immediate vicinity. For these reasons, the City of Washington wreck is often used as a diver training site by local instructors.

Access to the site is generally easily arranged. Most local dive operators run regular trips to this wreck. A few phone calls should quickly determine, on any given day, which boats will visit the City of Washington.

Boaters wishing to visit this site on their own should moor to one of the two mooring buoys provided. The wreck site lies several hundred feet to the northeast of the Elbow Reef light tower. GPS coordinates are 25° 08.786N, 80° 15.354W.

Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.

What: “Bull Durham” (1988) Why: It’s hard to take any professional athlete’s interview seriously once you’ve watched veteran catcher Crash Davis (Kevin Costner) lecture young phenom pitcher Nuke Laloosh (Tim Robbins) to “learn the cliches” he should spout in his interviews (“We’ve got to play them one day at a time. … I’m just happy to be here – hope I can help the ballclub”). But this romcom set at the minor league Durham Bulls baseball team is more than romance or comedy, even though it fulfills both extremely well. It’s an homage to baseball and the rewards of longstanding effort. Crash may not get the riches and acclaim of a major leaguer but he’s honorable and hardworking and, unlike Laloosh at the beginning, he respects the game. That is its own reward, as viewers recognize – along with local English professor and, er, superfan of the Durham Bulls Annie Savoy (Susan Sarandon). Costner won an Oscar for Best Director for “Dances With Wolves” and he recently dominated TV screens on “Yellowstone” but for my money, this is the role that will live on in people’s hearts.

Where: This film is available on DVD and on Kanopy, the library’s streaming service.

How: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? keyslibraries.org/ contact-us.

Recommended by: Nancy Klingener, community affairs manager.

See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/post/reel-recs.

LOOKING FOR A PULSE

Pulse coral. DIEGO DELSO/myfwc.com

Wildlife officials need commercial trappers’ help in seeking nonnative coral

We are looking for commercial trappers and recreational stone crabbers to be on the lookout for a possible new invasive underwater species. It is a soft coral called pulse coral, which is common in the aquarium trade where it is known as pulsing xenia or pom-pom xenia.

Just like the invasive lionfish, it is native to the Red Sea and the IndoPacific Ocean. Pulse corals can smother coral reefs and seagrasses because they grow rapidly and have no known native predators.

Since the temperatures in the Florida Keys are similar to their native range, there is good reason to believe that if they arrive, they could be very successful at spreading rapidly if not controlled immediately. Pulse corals were introduced illegally in Venezuela 20 years ago and the invasion there has devastated thousands of acres of coral reef and seagrass meadows.

A likely aquarium release in Pearl Harbor has spread to 90 acres, covering and smothering the seafloor. Since 2022, another species of pulse coral was found in northern Cuba and Puerto Rico. It is of concern because it has been present in northern Cuba just south of the Dry Tortugas and two years ago it was found in Puerto Rico.

As of spring 2025, there are three invasive pulse corals in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. Like all underwater invaders, eradication is very difficult once it arrives. These pulse corals spread very easily and attach to manmade and natural substrates.

Unfortunately, it is very possible these noxious invaders could arrive in the Florida Keys. Early identification and eradication is the only way to

is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension Florida Sea Grant Agent.  Shelly is a marine biologist and provides sciencebased education about coastal environments.

prevent a full-scale invasion. Common native soft corals in the U.S. are sea fans, sea whips and sea pens. Corky sea finger is the closestlooking soft coral in the Florida Keys. The pulse corals can be identified apart from our native soft corals because the polyps are much larger and the polyps are constantly opening and closing to feed in a pulsing rhythm.

The local stony corals like brain corals, star corals, elkhorn and stag corals are distinguished by having six tentacles and secrete a hard calcium carbonate skeleton that creates the three-dimensional structure of a coral reef.

What to look for

• White to pink long stalks with polyps at the end that have eight feathery tentacles.

• Form “mats” that cover the bottom on rocks, corals, seagrasses and manmade substrates like traps and boat bottoms.

• Known for its dance-like or “pulse” movements in ocean currents as it is unable to retract but constantly opens and closes, hence the name pulse corals.

In Puerto Rico, these invasive pulse corals were first found in 200 feet of water. This is the reason we think that commercial trap fishers may find them

first. If you see it, please do not touch it or pressure-wash the traps, since small fragments easily break off and float away to regrow in new areas. Please pull the trap into the boat and bring the trap back to shore. Take photos.

The Theodolite app for smartphones is a terrific resource to have on your phone — it takes photos with the GPS coordinates automatically embedded.

The Monroe County Extension Service is working with state and federal partners on an action plan should these pulse corals arrive in South Florida. The FWC has a great webpage at MyFWC, “Invasive Pulse Corals.” In the meantime, early reports are vital. Please send all reports to the U.S. Geological Survey Nonindigenous Aquatic Species “report a sighting” tool by scanning the QR code here or to the Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment Unomia Learning Exchange portal. Scuba divers and snorkelers should also be on the lookout. Seafan.net is another resource to report invasive species, coral bleaching and marine life in distress.

All of these sites have maps to drop a pin with latitude and longitude information and a place to upload photos. Wherever you report your findings, all the people who monitor these reporting tools are involved in the response.

The Monroe County Extension is working closely with all partners, and you can always call our office at 305292-4501 or email monroe@ifas.ufl. edu with reports.

Founded by Betty Debnam

Flying South

As the weather turns colder, do you sometimes wish you could just fly away to somewhere warm and sunny? That’s exactly what many species of birds do every fall.

You may have noticed waterfowl, such as geese, ducks and cranes, flying overhead in large groups. Did you notice which direction they were going? Birds that fly south for the winter are called migratory birds.

LONG-DISTANCE TRAVEL

Some migrating birds fly amazing distances on their seasonal journeys. Those that spend the summer in the south of North America don’t have as far to go — maybe only 300 miles or so.

But birds that summer in the northern United States and Canada might travel as far as 10,000 miles! Most of them fly during the night and rest and feed during the day. At night, temperatures are cooler, and the air is calmer.

LOOKING FOR FOOD

We may think that birds are trying to avoid the cold weather when they migrate. In fact, they’re moving to areas with more food.

The blackpoll warbler spends its summers in Alaska and Canada. When it’s time to move south, it first heads east toward New England and the eastern coast of Canada. Then it flies south over the Atlantic Ocean toward South America. Its migration of up to 2,500 miles includes about 90 hours over water, without stops for rest or food.

Swainson’s hawk flies up to 7,500 miles during its migration from the western U.S. and Canada to Brazil and Argentina.

Many migratory birds eat insects, which are a great source of the protein they need when raising their young. During the summer in the U.S. and Canada, where the birds breed, there are many insects. But when the weather turns cold, this food source disappears. The birds must then fly south to find the food they need until it’s time to return the following spring.

DANGERS

Birds may be vulnerable, or open to harm, during their migration. For example, after a whole night of flying, a tired bird may alight in a backyard, only to be spotted by a house cat. Some cats hunt and kill birds.

In large cities, tall lighted buildings can confuse birds flying at night. They can fly into the buildings, or the lights can make them disoriented so that they keeping flying until they’re exhausted and fall to the ground.

Birds also can fly into power lines, or, when flying low, they can collide with moving cars. Even wind turbines can be a hazard for migrating birds.

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

BIRDS, DANGER, DISTANCE, FALCULTATIVE, FOOD, HAWK, HUMMINGBIRD, INSECTS, LIGHTS, MIGRATION, OBLIGATE, OSPREY, PECTORAL, SOUTH, VULNERABLE, WARBLER, WATERFOWL, WINTER.

HOW DO THEY KNOW?

Birds fall into two types of migrants. Some birds are obligate migrants. This means they are genetically programmed to migrate — they are obligated to fly south.

Others are facultative migrants. This means they migrate only if the weather makes it hard for them to find food.

For instance, you may see Canada geese all year long. They would migrate if necessary, but in many areas they find plenty to eat in fields where crops have been harvested or in city parks.

BULKING UP

After breeding, a ruby-throated hummingbird weighs about the same as one penny. But before it flies south for some 24 hours over the Gulf of Mexico, it doubles its weight.

Before they leave for their winter homes, birds’ behavior changes. “They transform into superbirds,” an expert said.

This begins with putting on a lot of fat. Fat is used for energy during the long trip. Their pectoral, or chest, muscles become larger. They eat more fruit. Some species will flock together or fly in formation to make the journey easier.

RESOURCES

On the Web:

• bit.ly/1rzhjpS

At the library:

• “Arctic Terns: A Migration Story” by Lisa Amstutz

• “Migration” by Gail Gibbons

ECO NOTE

Seven volcanoes have begun erupting at the same time on Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, in a “parade” of eruptions not seen in almost 300 years. Bezymianny, Kambalny, Karymsky, Klyuchevskoy, Krasheninnikov, Mutnovsky and Avachinsky volcanoes began to spew lava and ash following the massive earthquake off southern Kamchatka during the previous week. Six of the eruptions followed the surprise awakening of the Krasheninnikov volcano, which saw lava flow for the first time in nearly 600 years.

OUR COMMUNITY FOOD & DRINK THE BUSINESSES

Festival/Event

Sunset

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Place to Take a Date

Place to Take the Kids

Local Celebrity

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All

NOMINATIONS

Thursday, Sept. 18, 12 noon to Sunday, Oct. 5, 11:59 p.m.

FINAL VOTING

Thursday, Oct. 16, 12 noon to Sunday, Nov. 2, 11:59 p.m.

*New categories in red.

Medical Doctor

Jewelry Store

Marina

Dive Shop

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O shore Fishing Charter Boat

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WINNERS & AWARDS

Friday, Nov. 14, 6-9 p.m.

BATTLE OF THE KEYS LVI

Annual showdown is Friday night | P.8

Coral Shores Football Palmer 9/22 L, 23-0

Coral Shores Volleyball Basilica 9/22 W, 3-1

Marathon Volleyball Franklin Academy 9/22 L, 3-2

Basilica Volleyball Marathon 9/24 W, 3-0

Marathon Volleyball Mater Bay 9/25 W, 3-0

Coral Shores Volleyball Key West 9/25 W, 3-2

Marathon Football Moore Haven 9/26 L, 26-0

Key West Football St. Brendan 9/26 W, 36-14

Coral Shores Football Florida Christian 9/26 L, 41-3

Basilica Volleyball The Greene School 9/26 W, 2-0

Basilica Volleyball Glades Day 9/26 W, 2-0

Key West Volleyball Mater Lakes 9/26 L, 2-0

Key West Volleyball St. Brendan 9/26 L, 2-0

Marathon Volleyball Archimedean 9/26 L, 3-0

Basilica Volleyball Berean Christian 9/27 L, 2-0

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

TITENSOR

10/3

Mason has shot in the high 30s and low 40s consistently in every match. He has been a teacher to his teammates at practice and will stay late to work on his skills after practice has ended.”

– Josh Bassett, Conchs golf coach

Last week on the greens, Key West’s Mason Titensor logged two wins and a second place in three matches. Driven by a love for the game, Titensor left his third round with the Conchs last week and headed to Fort Myers, where he played in a Junior PGA tournament. The sophomore has displayed remarkable consistency all season, in great part due to his exceptional work ethic and attention to detail. Titensor’s approach to the game and his teamfirst mentality have improved his game as well as those around him. His guidance, focus and personal accountability have made him a force on the course and the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

The Marathon Dolphins and Coral Shores Hurricanes are ready to do battle this Friday night in the 56th annual Battle of the Keys. Clockwise from top left: Jesus Gonzalez, Leo Acosta, Matthew Delgado and Austin Vogt. Photos by Natalie Danko and Doug Finger

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.

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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.

SCORECARD STALEMATES

Marathon’s Max Childress tied for first on his home course Sept. 22. NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly

Ties and narrow margins make for exciting golf competition

Local golfers enjoyed a tour of the Keys last week, playing on three courses spanning Key Largo to Key West. The first match was Sept. 22 at Florida Keys Country Club in Marathon, where Max Childress of Marathon and Mason Titensor of Key West tied for first place with 37 strokes. Childress birdied on three holes and Titensor on one to finish one over par.

Following them was a three-way tie for third. Key West’s Jakub Krytinar and Marathon’s Emmett Merryman and Roco Piscetello each scored 39. Geo Twyman finished sixth with a 40 for Key West, then Cullen Coleman-Sayer and Luca Picariello tied for seventh. Key West’s Chad Stolka and Marathon’s Jackson Millard rounded out the top 10 scorecards for the day. Marathon won the home-course match, outshooting the Conchs 158-161, with Coral Shores finishing third.

In the girls competition, Lexi Finigan finished first for Key West with a 53. Marathon’s Justice Lee was two strokes back in second, followed by Key West’s Mary Alice Davila, Marathon’s Makenna Haines and Key West’s Berkeley Tripp.

Two days later, golfers completed nine holes in Key West. Krytinar was the solo winner, fueled by a birdie on hole three for a score of 40. Titensor was second with a 42, followed by Coral Shores’ Scout Oliver, Twyman and Coral Shores’ Dylan Lindmar, who were separated by a single stroke each. Marathon took the next five spots, secured by Merryman, Childress, Piscetello, Coleman-Sayer and Picariello. Key West was the top team at the home meet, beating the Fins 182-195 with Coral Shores in third again.

Finigan was the top golfer again in the girls competition with a 53, followed by teammate Claudia Steling with 59. Davila and Lee tied for third at 62, Haines and Estevez tied for fifth and Tripp finished in seventh place.

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

The final match of the week occurred at Key Largo’s Ocean Reef course on Sept. 26. Key West won again, this time by a more significant margin. The Conchs’ team score was 165, with the Fins scoring 186 and the Hurricanes in a close third at 188. Krytinar shared the win at Ocean Reef with Oliver and Titensor. All three athletes finished at 39. Twyman was in fourth, followed by Merryman, Piscetello, Stolka, Lindmar, Coleman-Sayer and Key West's Ty Hill. All of the top 10 finished under 50.

The girls’ match also ended in a three-way tie. Steling, Finigan and Lee all finished with a 48 on their scorecards with Davila in fourth, Coral Shores’ Valerie Gabriel in fifth, and Tripp, Haines and Estevez in close succession.

The scores continue to fall as golf has officially surpassed the regularseason halfway point. Keys golfers will continue to hone their skills on all three courses as they prepare for their district matches, which begin the final week of October.

HOME MEETS HIGHLIGHT STANDOUT SWIMMERS

Conchs, ’Canes host high-caliber competition and hold their own

After multiple cancellations due to inclement weather, the Hurricanes of Coral Shores finally had a chance to compete on Sept. 23, when they hosted Doral Academy at their home pool at Founders Park. The Firebirds of Doral brought a highly-successful swim program to the Keys, where the 1A ’Canes tested the waters against the much larger 4A Doral program.

Sofia Figueredo swam away with the only first for the girls, winning the 200 individual medley in 2:35. Figueredo also claimed second in the 100 breaststroke event. Parks Dunn finished second in the 200 and 500 freestyle races. Larkin Dunn was second in the 50 free and third in the 100 freestyle race.

Diver Aaron Lykins impressed the judges, earning 237.5 points and the team’s only first in boys competition. Tony Khioni finished second in the 50 free and third in the 100 free individual events.

Key West hosted Wellington Sept. 28 at the College of the Florida Keys pool. The 4A Wolverines outswam the 2A Conchs, but Key West had plenty of success against the larger competition.

The boys 200-meter relay team of Sebastian Camargo, Kieran Smith, Andres Aguero and Hugo Blinckmann had the first win of the day. Blinckmann also won the individual 50 free event in 24.56 seconds, then swam to a third-place finish in the 100-meter breaststroke. Santiago Gonzalez claimed first place in the 200-meter freestyle race, finishing in 1:59.77. Gonzalez was second in the 100 freestyle race.

After his win in the relay, Smith earned a second in the 100 breaststroke, while Jackson Way took second in the 100 backstroke event. Owen Lindley was second in the 50 freestyle race and Max Blinckmann took third for a Conch sweep of that event. Haven Andrade and Jacob Perez each placed third at the meet. Perez had his success in the 500 freestyle race and Andrade in the 100 butterfly, a PR for the sophomore.

In the girls competition, Christina Rice had the only first place, winning the 50 freestyle event in 27.52 seconds. Rice finished second in the 100 free as well. Ashlyn Picco claimed a pair of thirds, one in the 50 free and the other in the 100 backstroke event. Mary Searcy was second in the 100 backstroke race and third in the 200 freestyle. Amelia Korzen took second in the 100 breaststroke and third in the 200 IM and Colbie Turner was third in the 100 butterfly event.

This week, Coral Shores hosts True North on Friday, Oct. 3. Key West will travel to Ocala for the 47th annual FSPA meet, where the Conchs will see some of the best competition this season. The FSPA event is held at the same location as this season’s state meet, which takes place in early November. Districts will be held Oct. 22 for both teams, with 2A Key West traveling to Belen and 1A Coral Shores heading to Carrollton.

MONROE ’CANE COUNTY

’CANE COUNTY

Coral Shores picks off two neighbors in one week

The Hurricanes improved to 9-5 last week after a pair of in-county volleyball wins. On Sept. 22, the team took on Basilica School, beating the Mariners 3-1 in Tavernier. Basilica came out fired up and took an early lead on the first set, upsetting the Hurricanes 25-23, but the ’Canes settled down and went to work, winning the next three.

winning ways after the loss to Coral Shores. On Sept. 24, they traveled to Marathon, where they defeated the Dolphins 2-0. After picking up an in-county win, the Mariners put two more marks in the win column in tournament action against the Greene School and Glades Day, giving them a respectable 8-11 record. Basilica school closes out its season Oct. 8 against Key West. The three public high schools head into their respective district tournaments beginning Oct. 13.

It

Celene Walker earned 16 kills and added 13 digs and an ace. Coralyn Frimpter had 15 kills, three aces and six digs as one of four Lady ’Canes to achieve a perfect serve percentage. Maddie Jordan, Ivy Tiedemann and Abby Leigh also served up perfection against the Mariners. Tiedemann added two dozen digs and five assists while Lynn earned 19 assists, 10 digs, five aces and a pair of kills. Leigh killed it nine times and added an ace, 13 assists and nine digs to the books. The entire team was fired up after their slow start, and their focus didn’t falter three days later when Key West paid a visit.

After losing 3-0 to the Conchs on Aug. 28, the ’Canes were unwilling to

lose another match to an in-county rival. Key West pulled ahead early, winning the first set 25-20, but Coral Shores battled back and the teams fought to extra-point territory, with set two going to the Hurricanes 27-25. Key West fired back to win set three, but a fourth-set Coral Shores win commanded a tie-breaker, which the ’Canes won by a strong 15-5

ners. Tiedemann added two in-county rival. Key West ahead the first set 25-20, but Coral margin.

“It was a great game,” said Hurricane coach Sam Ovalle. “The girls are adjusting and they’re getting in the rhythm of playing together. We played with heart and we had discipline and passion for the game and it showed.”

Walker and Jordan had a 100% serve percentage against Key West. Walker was all over the court,

achieving 18 kills, 24 digs, a block, two assists and an ace. Jordan had 13 assists, four digs and an ace to her credit. Tiedemann was clutch on the ’Canes’ defense with 27 digs, while Lynn kept control of the tempo with 29 assists and 16 digs. Lynn served up four aces to give the offense a boost as well. Basilica School didn’t waste any time reclaiming its

was a great game,” said Hurricane coach Sam Ovalle. “ e girls are adjusting and they’re getting in the rhythm of playing together. We played with heart and we had discipline and passion for the game and it showed.”

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

CONCHS SILENCE SABRES

Key West wins fourth straight

Key West won their fourth straight football game Sept. 26 when they handed the visiting Sabres of St. Brendan School a 36-14 loss. The win boosted the Conchs in their district bracket and proved that despite a sparser bench than coach Johnny Hughes would like, they have the stamina to persevere.

“We wore them down in the second half,” said Hughes. The score was 14-all at halftime, but St. Brendan seemed to run out of steam precisely when Key West was just hitting its stride.

Walson Morin ran for 217 yards against the Sabres. “He had a strong night,” said Hughes. “They had a tough time stopping him.” Morin carried two possessions into the end zone for the Conchs.

Jeff Dejean scored two touchdowns of his own, amassing 98 yards off 16 carries. Reef Guyet was responsible for the other score as Roman Van Loon connected with Guyet for an 18-yard touchdown reception. Key West added three two-point conversions, one from Dejean and two from Morin.

The Conchs have a few sidelined athletes, most notably Josh Johnson, whose size and athleticism are crucial to Key West’s scheme on both sides of the ball. Fortunately for the Conchs, they have a week to recover. After their bye week this Friday, Key West will face the toughest test so far this season. The Conchs travel to Miami to take the Miami Northwestern Bulls by the horns in another district matchup. The Bulls, always a fearsome opponent, have multiple D1 commits, particularly at the wide receiver position.

To counter the depth Northwestern has at wideout, the Conchs will be working on defending the pass-happy Bulls. “Open-field tackling is going to be paramount against those guys,” said Hughes. “We’ve got to be able to put points on the board and control the clock. We want to keep their offense off the field as much as possible.”

If the Conchs protect the ball and eliminate mistakes and miscues, they might just upset the highlyranked Bulls. It is unlikely that Northwestern has played against another team with a ground-heavy offense since they faced the Conchs last season, and if their recent opponents are any measure, Key West’s offense is brutal by quarter four and can wear down the best of opponents.

1. Walson Morin breaks through a wall of defenders.

2. Jeff DeJean, left, and Walson Morin celebrate a Key West touchdown.

3. Coral Shores kicker William Judson #4 kicks a field goal to put 3 points on the board against Florida Christian. The kick would be the only points for the Hurricanes on Friday night.

Sept. 26.

On the same night, Marathon made the long drive to Moore Haven to take on the Terriers. A familiar scene unfolded before halftime as both teams were sent to the locker rooms to wait out a bout of distant lightning. The remainder of the game was never played, sending the Fins back to Marathon with a 26-0 loss as there was no logistical way the teams could meet and complete the game before the end of the season.

Coral Shores hosted a powerful Florida Christian. William Judson got the Hurricanes on the board with a 34-yard field goal, but it would not be enough to topple the Patriots in a 41-3 loss. The ’Canes, like their closest rival, now turn toward a date circled on both schools’ calendars for quite some time.

BATTLE OF THE KEYS LVI

Dolphins battle Hurricanes in rivalry tradition

This week, Marathon and Coral Shores will meet in Marathon for the 56th Battle of the Keys, the longest-running in-county sports rivalry in Monroe County. Coral Shores has won the past six contests and holds a 30-25 edge over Marathon in the series, but both teams have had nice runs and, regardless of teams’ records, a MarathonCoral Shores game almost always delivers for eager fans on both sides.

Coral Shores fixture Rich Russell has seen it all when it comes to the Battle, serving the Hurricanes as player, coach and athletic director. Russell’s favorite meeting of the teams was the 1989 21-6 Coral Shores victory that served as the team’s final game of the season.

“It allowed us to finish 9-1 and avenged our only loss in 1988,” he recalled. That loss was a 19-7 win for the Fins.

Marathon athletic director Lance Martin was the team’s head coach for the year he pinpointed as the most memorable meeting of the rivals. In 2004, the Dolphins lost their starting quarterback to an injury in a loss to Key West a week prior.

“Then during the Coral Shores game the following week, we lost two more QBs by the second quarter,” he recalled. “We played the rest of the game with our running backs taking shotgun snaps and running off tackle every play. We kicked four field goals to win.” Ryan Paros’ leg won that game for Marathon. He was named to the first state team at the end of the season and kicked at FAU.

Both current head coaches have watched the games through various lenses, including as parents of the players. Hurricane head coach Ed Holly’s oldest sons Eddie and Johnny have graduated and are playing collegiate football now, and his youngest, Billy, is a sophomore who will suit up against the Fins this week. Sean McDonald’s oldest, Jackson, played collegiately as well, and coached the Dolphins’ middle school team in 2024. His youngest, Maverick, is on the Fins’ middle school squad and will serve as ball boy as he awaits the spring football season when Marathon’s eighth graders can join the varsity ranks.

McDonald’s fondest Battle of the Keys was in 2017.

“Hurricane Irma hit us midseason. It wiped out our field and a lot of our kids’ homes,” he said. “We didn’t know if we would play again that season, and some of our guys and their families lost everything. Some people thought we should scrap the

season, but we wanted to give the kids some sense of normalcy, so we called everyone and crossed our fingers that they would come back from wherever they all evacuated to.

“They all returned. Even the guys without houses came back. We had maybe a week of practice and went up there because our field was gone. We had to practice at Switlik and the community park. When we won, it meant a lot more than a football game.”

The score of that Battle was 43-28. McDonald’s oldest son, then a junior, amassed 307 all-purpose yards with two rushing TDs and another pair in the air. Esteban “Stevie” Sainz caught one of those passes and Thad Goodwin reeled in the other. Landon Bish had a sack and seven solo tackles, including four for a loss. Dequian Youngblood had a pick six and Peder Bidonne recovered a fumble and took it to the house.

Holly remembered playing both teams when he was a high school athlete at Archbishop Curly in Miami. Holly says he knew of the rivalry and first experienced it as a fan, and his most memorable meeting of the two schools was during his first year coaching with the Hurricanes.

“It was 2011, I believe, and Lance (Martin) was still coach,” Holly said. “We played on the old field and it was a muddy mess. The officials kept accusing the center of moving the ball, but it was really just floating in a puddle,” he added.

Coral Shores won that game with some trickery. “We ran a double pass to Andre Whitehead on the sideline to win the game,” Holly reminisced, adding, “Andrew Garcia was our running back. He was all of 160 pounds and ran the ball over 20 times that game. He put the team on his back and asked for the ball and carried us that game.”

Holly and McDonald both remarked about the importance of the rivalry to the communities. The game brings fans from both schools out in numbers and is a talking point for weeks leading up to the contest. And while both acknowledge the weight of the game on their teams’ seasons, they also recognize that at the final whistle, many players, fans and both coaches are friendly for 51 weeks out of the year.

Kickoff for Battle of the Keys LVI is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. in Marathon.

MIDDLE GROUND

Keys runners storm the beach in Marathon

Keys cross country teams met in the middle on Sept. 24 in Marathon. Runners started and finished at Sombrero Beach on a flat, fast out-and-back course that hosted runners from all three Keys high schools as well as students from Florida Christian and Sugarloaf School.

In the girls 5K race, Coral Shores sophomore Ali Wheatley was the winner, crossing the line in 20:26. Wheatley ran a lonely race, with the next finisher more than three minutes behind. That runner was seventh-grader Molly Joly of Marathon, who had enough juice left to run a 23:02, despite running and winning the 3K race less than an hour prior. Coral Shores’ Kate King was third. In fourth through seventh place were Brenda Cabauy, Valentina Caballo, Anjul Balart and Gabby Gondora of Florida Christian School. In eighth was Violet Jangraw of Key West with teammate Emma Bradshaw close behind. Tess Hill was 10th with fellow Hurricane Aria Booton. Kayla Skaarup of Marathon was 13th, and Isabelle Jacobs and Olive Welch of Coral Shores rounded out the top 15 female 5K finishers.

In the 3K race, Joly beat out Sugarloaf’s Emily Moore for first. Joly finished in 13:05 while Moore crossed in 13:53. A pair of Florida Christian runners were next with Kendyl Francis and Teghan Driskell taking fifth and sixth place.

In the boys 5K race, Marathon swept the podium. Lucian

Burns was first in 16:48, followed by Tony Bursa in 17:26, then Allan Taylor, who took third in 18:45. Prometheus Delacerda of Key West came in fourth, breaking the 20-minute mark in 19:53. Marathon senior Caleb Shelar was fifth, followed by Key West’s Sawyer Hill. Coral Shores took the next three spots with Tristan Rios, Jamie Cary and Alaric Rodriguez finishing seventh through ninth. Alejandro Caridad of Key West rounded out the top 10.

In the boys 3K race, Marathon’s Anthony Vargas was first in 11:28. Sugarloaf’s Noah Taylor was third and Cameron Coletti of Marathon rounded out the top six with Florida Christian runners claiming second, fourth and fifth place.

Two days after the meet in Marathon, Coral Shores and Sugarloaf headed to Larry & Penny Thompson Park for the Larry Wooten Invitational.

Monroe County runners are scheduled for various races in the coming weeks, with plans in the works for another meet up in Marathon or in Key West to replace weather-cancelled contests from earlier this season. All three teams are scheduled for the 305 Classic on Oct. 24 at Larry and Penny Thompson Park in Miami for one last common meet prior to districts, when Marathon will participate in the 1A race and Key West and Coral Shores will toe the line with other 2A schools.

NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statute 328.17, Robbies of Key West, LLC claims a possessory lien on the following described vessels: Owned by VH4669 LLC / (Donald Rhomberg – Title Manager) for unpaid storage fees: a 1984 Gibson 42’ Houseboat HIN: GBN42768M84K

Sealed bids will be accepted on October 9th, 2025 at Robbies of Key West, 7281 Shrimp Rd, Key West, FL 33040. Robbies of Key West, LLC reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

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September 25 & October 2, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the Zoom meetings or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com

Membership Committee

Meeting

October 1,8,15, 22 & 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/ 83426481409?pwd= bAa02HW6udj7Mpw

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Meeting ID: 834 2648 1409 Passcode: 287548

Art In Public Places

Committee Meeting October 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/ 84337677352?pwd= 38ChO6USI1YcZcGt

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Meeting ID: 843 3767 7352 Passcode: 217150 Board of Directors MeetingZoom Only October 30, 2025, at 3:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/ 89699362421?pwd= k7RvbS5gpOBRoUb Q6o8hVeSR2t50lc.1

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Publish: October 2, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

The Pigeon Key Foundation is requesting proposals for Professional Engineering Services for our Storm Hardening and Preservation Projects. Interested parties should email pigeonkey@aol. com for details related to the proposals with the subject line: ENGINEERING SERVICES. Proposals will be accepted for 14 days after publication.

Publish: October 2, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

The Pigeon Key Foundation is requesting proposals for its assistance to Paint Forman’s Walls Project. Interested parties should email pigeonkey@aol.com for details related to the proposals with the subject line: PAINT FORMAN’S WALLS. Proposals will be accepted for 14 days after publication.

Publish: October 2, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

The Pigeon Key Foundation is requesting proposals for its Storm Shutter Project. Interested parties should email pigeonkey@aol.com for details related to the proposals with the subject line: STORM SHUTTERS. Proposals will be accepted for 14 days after publication.

Publish: October 2, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA MIDDLE KEYS PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 2025-CP-347-M IN RE: ESTATE OF DORIS JEAN BICKNELL, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of DORIS JEAN BICKNELL, deceased, whose date of death was May 27, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. 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. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: October 2, 2025. Personal Representative: James S. Bicknell IV c/o Wolfe Stevens, PLLC 5800 Overseas Highway, Suite 3 Marathon, Florida 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative: Dale R. Coburn III Florida Bar No. 88981 Wolfe Stevens, PLLC 5800 Overseas Highway, Suite 3 Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-9858 – Telephone 305-743-7489 – Facsimile

Primary email: coburn@ marathonlaw.com

Secondary email: reception@ marathonlaw.com

Publish: October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

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

PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 25-CP-288-M IN RE: ESTATE OF VICTOR C. DE CREMER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of VICTOR C. DE CREMER, deceased, whose date of death was March

9, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. 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. 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 2, 2025.

Personal Representative: MICHAEL WALSH 87851 Old Hwy, Apartment P5 Islamorada, FL 33036

Attorney for Personal Representative: Victoria Miranda, Esq. Fl Bar No. 1015363 Hershoff, Lupino & Yagel, LLP 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 (305) 852-8440 – Telephone (305) 852-8848 – Facsimile VMiranda@HLYlaw.com –Primary SWilliams@HLYlaw.comSecondary Publish: October 2 & 9, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2025-CP-000389-P DIVISION: HELMS IN RE: ESTATE OF CATHERINE C. PATTERSON, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of CATHERINE C. PATTERSON, deceased, whose date of death was May 22, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The name and address of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorneys are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's Estate on whom a copy of this Notice is required to be served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF

THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's Estate must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME 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 September 25, 2025.

Personal Representative: FIRST HORIZON BANK (f/k/a Gibraltar Private Bank and Trust Company) 35 Ocean Reef Drive Suite 100 Key Largo, FL 33037

Attn: Janice K. Snyder, Vice President Attorneys for Personal Representative: DUNWODY WHITE & LANDON, P.A.

John J. Grundhauser, Esq.

Florida Bar No. 0705373

Candice J. Maya, Esq. Florida Bar No. 118840

550 Biltmore Way, Suite 810 Coral Gables, FL 33134

Telephone: (305) 529-1500

Fax: (305) 529-8855

E-Mail: jgrundhauser@dwllaw.com cmaya@dwl-law.com

Secondary e-mail: ralvarez@ dwl-law.com karmas@dwl-law.com

Publish: September 25 and October 2, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-395-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF LINDA M. KOHOUT, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Linda M. Kohout, deceased, whose date of death was July 30, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED

WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: September 25, 2025.

Personal Representative: Wendy L. Frederick 1625 Harbor Drive

Marathon, Florida 33050

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:

September 25 & October 2, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA

KEY WEST DIVISION IN ADMIRALTY CASE NO.: 4:25-cv-10067-DSL IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPLAINT OF KEY WEST JETSKI, INC. AS OWNER OR A 2025 11’8” YAMAHA WATERJET POWERCRAFT, HIN NO. YAMA1040G425, AND APPURTENANCES, Petitioner, NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS OF PETITION FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

Notice is given that the above named Petitioner, Key West Jetski, Inc. ("Limitation Petitioner") has filed a Petition/Complaint for Exoneration from or Limitation of Liability, pursuant to 46 U.S.C. § 30501 et seq., ("Limitation Petition") for all claims for any damages or injuries, arising out of, or occurring as a result of an incident on the navigable waters of the United States on or about May 9, 2025, allegedly involving a 2025 11’8” Yamaha Waterjet Powercraft, HIN No. YAMA1040G425 and Appurtenances ("Limitation Vessel"), as more fully described in the Limitation Petition.

All persons having such claims must file their respective claims, as provided by Supplemental Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, with the Clerk of Court in writing and must serve a copy thereof on attorneys for Limitation Petitioner on or before October 30, 2025 or be defaulted. Personal attendance is not required. Any claimant who desires to contest either the right to exoneration from or the right to limitation of liability shall file and serve on attorneys for Limitation Petitioner an answer to the Complaint, on or before the aforesaid date, unless the claim includes an answer, so designated, or be defaulted.

DONE AND ORDERED this 10th day of September, 2025. Angela E. Noble UNITED STATE DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OT FLORIDA By: Lisa T. Streets Deputy Clerk Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 25-DR-1011-K ELENA VISSER, Petitioner, and KEITH RAYMOND VISSER, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE TO: KEITH RAYMOND VISSER RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 912 POHALSKI ST. APT. D, KEY WEST, FL 33040 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on ELENA VISSER, whose address is 1621 JOSEPHINE ST. APT. 2, KEY WEST, FL 33040 on or before October 18, 2025, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: September 15, 2025 Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-1320-K DIVISION: FAMILY STACY ANNE PAULWELL Petitioner, and TAVERES DENARD WATLEY Respondent, NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: TAVERES DENARD WATLEY 2821 Windsor Forrest Ct, College Park, GA, 30340 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on STACEY ANNE PAULWELL, whose address is C/O Law Office of Wayne Dapser, 300 Southard St, Suite 208, Key West, FL 33040 on or before October 11, 2025, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property

should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: September 5, 2025

Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: September 11, 18 & 25 and October 2, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-26

Notice is hereby given that, BLUE LOCKER HOLDINGS LLC, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2019/1493 Date of Issuance: June 01, 2019 Account Number: 8557965 Parcel ID: 00489050-000200

Description of Property: 26 62 38 PT LOT 8 BLK 3 BLUEWATER TRAILER VILLAGE SEC 2 PB5-124 OR807-1744 Name in which assessed: VINCENTE G SANCHEZ, GLADYS M SANCHEZ

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed. com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025 Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this 12th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish:

September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-28

Notice is hereby given that, BEAMIF A LLC, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate No: 2022/290

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1103357

Parcel ID: 00090500-000100

Description of Property: 5 62 39 ISLAND OF KEY LARGO PT GOV LOTS 1 & 3 (4 AC PER SURVEY) OR795-1307-1309 OR806-2183E OR806-2187Q OR8611511/1513Q/C OR8611514/1516 OR861-1517/1519 OR863-1946/1948Q/C OR879882/884Q/C OR1363171/75MER OR1516-1060/62

Name in which assessed:

KAWAMA HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION INC

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 11th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2025-29

Notice is hereby given that, SCOTT V MORTON, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2019/920

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2019

Account Number: 1406171

Parcel ID: 00331061-009100

Description of Property:

BK 4 LT 31 & PT OF SANDY AVE

SEA-AIR ESTATES VACA KEY

PB6-91 (AKA BAYBTM) OR847768 RES NO 373-1981

Name in which assessed:

SEA-AIR ESTATES INC C/O GOSS RICHARD

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 11th day of August, 2025 KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-30

Notice is hereby given that, SCOTT V MORTON, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate No: 2019/919

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2019 Account Number: 1406163

Parcel ID: 00331061-009000

Description of Property:

BK 4 LT 30 & PT OF SANDY AVE

SEA-AIR ESTATES VACA KEY PB6-91 (AKA BAYBTM) OR847768 RES NO 373-1981

Name in which assessed: SEA-AIR ESTATES INC C/O GOSS RICHARD All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such

certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 11th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-31

Notice is hereby given that, SCOTT V MORTON, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2019/922

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2019

Account Number: 1406198

Parcel ID: 00331061-009300

Description of Property: BK 4 LT 33 & PT OF SANDY AVE

SEA-AIR ESTATES VACA KEY PB6-91 (AKA BAYBTM) OR847768 RES NO 373-1981

Name in which assessed:

SEA-AIR ESTATES INC C/O GOSS RICHARD

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 11th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-32

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2022/664 Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1288730

Parcel ID: 00221510-000000

Description of Property: BK 2 LT 23 WINDWARD BEACH

ESTATES LITTLE TORCH KEY PB4-131 OR455-280-281 OR592-807 OR732-749 OR2525-1126D/C OR25251127/28

Name in which assessed: OCONNOR LESLIE JACK REV TR 8/30/2010

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 12th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-33

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate No: 2022/666

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1288896

Parcel ID: 00221670-000000

Description of Property: BK 2 LT 39 WINDWARD BEACH ESTATES LITTLE TORCH KEY PB4-131 OR455-280/281 OR592-807 OR7891809 OR1041-1844QC

Name in which assessed: F N A S BUILDERS

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 12th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy

Clerk

Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2025-34

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2022/667 Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1288926

Parcel ID: 00221700-000000

Description of Property: BK 2 LT 42 WINDWARD BEACH ESTATES LITTLE TORCH KEY PB4-131 OR532-713 Name in which assessed: ELTON T NAYLON, MERLE A NAYLON

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2025-35

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2022/668

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1288985

Parcel ID: 00221760-000000

Description of Property: BK 3 LT 6 WINDWARD BEACH ESTATES LITTLE TORCH KEY PB4-131 OR560-584

Name in which assessed: MARGARET TORRES

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2025-36

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate No: 2022/702 Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1328103

Parcel ID: 00256360-000000

Description of Property: LT 13 LINDA-LOMA SUB PB419 BIG PINE KEY OR123-282283 OR429-276 OR16981812/13EST/ORD

Name in which assessed: RHODES BETTY

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-37

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which

it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate No: 2022/669

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1289086

Parcel ID: 00221860-000000

Description of Property: BK 3 LT 16 WINDWARD BEACH ESTATES LITTLE TORCH KEY PB4-131 OR427-983

Name in which assessed: CHARLES L HORSTKAMP,LORRAINE HORSTKAMP

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed. com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-38

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2022/660 Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1289141

Parcel ID: 00221920-000000

Description of Property: BK 3 LT 22 WINDWARD BCH EST LITTLE TORCH KEY PB4131 OR534-998 OR758-453 OR1296-191

Name in which assessed: YIU WEI MAK

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed. com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-39

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2022/673 Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1289302

Parcel ID: 00222080-000000

Description of Property: BK 3 LT 38 WINDWARD BEACH ESTATES LITTLE TORCH KEY PB4-131 OR339-127 897-2394 Name in which assessed:

CALLENDER JANET

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy

Clerk

Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-40

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate No: 2022/1056

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1457019

Parcel ID: 00373940-000000

Description of Property: CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS 24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E LOT 3 SQR 54 G30-189/190 OR900-2496 OR1331-184 Name in which assessed: GORMAN JOSEPH E All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed. com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025 Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-41

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2022/1055 Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1457001

Parcel ID: 00373930-000000

Description of Property: CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS 24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E LOT 2 SQR 54 G30-189/190 OR900-2496 OR1331-184

Name in which assessed: GORMAN JOSEPH E All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder

on www.monroe.realtaxdeed. com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-42

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2022/1054

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1456993

Parcel ID: 00373920-000000

Description of Property: CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS 24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E LOT 1 SQR 54 G30-189/190 OR900-2496 OR1331-184 Name in which assessed: GORMAN JOSEPH E All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed. com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy

Clerk

Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-43

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2022/1058 Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1457035

Parcel ID: 00373960-000000

Description of Property: CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS 24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E LOT 5 SQR 54 G30-189/190 OR900-2496 OR1331-184

Name in which assessed: GORMAN JOSEPH E All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed. com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025 Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this 13th day of August, 2025 KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY,

FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy

Clerk

Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2025-44

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate No: 2022/1057

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1457027

Parcel ID: 00373950-000000

Description of Property: CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS 24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E LOT 4 SQR 54 G30-189/190 OR900-2496 OR1331-184

Name in which assessed:

GORMAN JOSEPH E

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy

Clerk

Publish:

September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-46

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2022/1062

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022 Account Number: 1457108 Parcel ID: 00374030-000000 Description of Property: CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY

OR900-2496 OR1331-184

Name in which assessed: GORMAN JOSEPH E

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-47

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate No: 2022/1063

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1457116

Parcel ID: 00374040-000000

Description of Property: CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS 24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E LOT 13 SQR 54

G30-189/190 OR900-2496 OR1331-184

Name in which assessed: GORMAN JOSEPH E

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2025-48

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate No: 2022/1064

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1457124

Parcel ID: 00374050-000000

Description of Property:

CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY

KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS 24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E LOT 14 SQR 54

G30-189/190 OR900-2496 OR1331-184

Name in which assessed: GORMAN JOSEPH E

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2025-49

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2022/1065 Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1457132

Parcel ID: 00374060-000000

Description of Property:

CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS 24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E LOT 15 SQR 54 G30-189/190 OR900-2496 OR1331-184 Name in which assessed: GORMAN JOSEPH E All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such

certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed.

com Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am.

Dated this 13th day of August, 2025

KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2025-50

Notice is hereby given that, MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate No: 2022/1066

Date of Issuance: June 01, 2022

Account Number: 1457141

Parcel ID: 00374070-000000

Description of Property: CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS 24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E LOT 16 SQR 54 G30-189/190 OR900-2496 OR1331-184

Name in which assessed: GORMAN JOSEPH E

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.realtaxdeed. com

Sale Date: October 29, 2025

Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this 13th day of August, 2025 KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: September 18 & 25 and October 2 & 9, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

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

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 SLIP FOR RENT

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

PLACE YOUR BOAT SLIP FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-417-0871 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 305433-0515 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

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

Luxury rental - vacation or long term. 2BR/2BA at 1800 Atlantic, Key West. Pool, beach, zacuzzi. $4,000/mo. 773-421-0332

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

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 305-417-0871 or email Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com

VACATION RENTAL

Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA.

MARINA CASHIER

Looking for a friendly, dependable team member who can handle a busy retail environment with a great a itude. Customer service experience and willingness to learn our sales system is ideal. Duties include assisting customers, restocking, placing orders, and keeping the store clean and organized.

This is an hourly position with pay based on experience. Flexible hours with a consistent weekly schedule. Morning and a ernoon shi s available.

Please respond by email (Ma at islamarinama @gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.

We’re HIRING!

s Key West

IMMEDIATE OPENING FOR SIGN

TECHNICIAN

Experience preferred. CDL required. Applicant must apply in person at:

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

NOW HIRING PART-TIME ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:

APPRENTICE SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $33.25/hr - $37.24/hr. For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com. KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.

DOCK HAND

Marathon Boat Yard is looking for a Part-Time Administrative Assistant to perform the following duties: Answering the phone, basic bookkeeping, basic data entry and some customer service. Basic computer and email skills are required. QuickBooks experience is a plus. Bilingual is also a plus. Pay will be based on experience.

MARATHON BOAT YARD 2059 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY

MARATHON, FL 33050, 305-735-4594

MARATHONBOATYARDLLC@GMAIL.COM

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

NOW H I RI NG!

wants you to join their team! ONLINE

Full or Part-time. $19/hour to start. EMAIL resume to: Bette@TurtleHospital.org

APPLY in person: 2396 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL

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 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.

req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip

DUI FRONT DESK CLERK & EVALUATOR/INSTRUCTOR

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

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

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

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

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We are now hiring for the following positions:

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers

CDL Drivers

Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

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

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

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

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

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST

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

- Pool Radiation Therapist

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus

- Cook, Dietary, $5k Bonus

- 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

- Medical Technologist, Laboratory, $20k Bonus

- Pool Clinical Pharmacist, Per Diem

- Pool Medical Technologist

- Pool Registered Nurse, Cardiac Rehab

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department

- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, PT

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- 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 Care Nurse Supervisor, PT, Nights

- Patient Scheduler 3, Surgery, PT

- Pool Occupational Therapist

- Pool Pharmacy Tech 2

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $15k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Per Diem

- Registered Nurse, PACU, $15k Bonus

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

- RRT 2, Respiratory Therapy, Per Diem

- Security Officer, Per Diem

THEME: KIDS' BOOKS ACROSS

1. *The Big Bad Wolf: “I’ll ____ your house down”

5. Edgar Rice Burroughs’ Kerchak or Kala

8. Cosine’s buddy 12. Target of grand theft 13. Influencer’s journal 14. Food-grinding tooth 15. Bear’s hang-out 16. Like a maxi skirt 17. Get up 18. *Robert McCloskey’s “Make Way for ____” 20. March Madness org.

21. Expenditure, in the olden days 22. *”Four and twenty blackbirds baked in a ____”

23. Turn pale

26. Lachrymatory agent (2 words)

30. Swimmer’s distance

31. Rinse and ____

34. Consequently

35. Join forces

37. Bruin legend Bobby

38. Jury duty event

39. Per person

40. Hockey player, e.g.

42. Approximated landing time

43. What naughty children do

45. Fortification made of wagons

47. Preceding month

48. Unnecessary embellishment

50. Customs document

52. *He had a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day

56. Popular pie nut

57. Not final

58. Just a little

59. Choice dish

60. ____-do-well

61. Sudden and brilliant success

62. Doofus

63. Is, in France

64. Fail to mention

DOWN

1. Like a certain eagle

2. Oahu shindig

3. Related to ear

4. Exert persuasive powers (2 words)

5. Jennifer Aniston’s movie “____ Came Polly”

6. *Canine father in Dodie Smith’s “The Hundred and One Dalmatians” 7. *Dr. Seuss: “I do not like green ____ and ham”

8. *Philosopher in American edition of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”

9. Hipbone

10. U.S. space agency, acr.

11. *”I heard him exclaim, ____ he drove out of sight, Merry Christmas...”

13. Not serious

14. Bipolar disorder phase

19. Filthy cabbage

22. Favorite student

23. Protected steel from rust with coating

24. Hawaiian veranda

25. Long stories

26. *The Queen of Hearts baked more than one of these

27. “In the Hall of the Mountain King” composer Edvard ____

28. Popular gemstone

29. Type of renewable energy

32. *Janette Sebring Lowrey’s “The ____ Little Puppy”

33. Pitcher’s stat

36. *”One ____ and One Nights”

38. ____-____-la refrain

40. Group of exercise reps

41. a.k.a. philosopher’s stone

44. Flavorless

46. Aluminum+nickel+cobalt, magnetic alloy

48. What time does

49. Button on electrical outlet

50. Bride’s cover

51. International Civil Aviation Organization

52. *Green Gables resident ____ Shirley

53. Gloom’s partner

54. Evening purse

55. Wholly engrossed

56. Pipe material, acr.