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1:59:30
On April 26, Kenyan runner Sabastian Sawe became the first man ever to break the twohour marathon barrier in an official race. Completing the London Marathon in 1:59:30, he smashed the previous record held by Kelvin Kiptum of 2:00:35. Second-place finisher Yomif Kejelcha also broke two hours in London, running 1:59:41.
A celebration of America’s 250th anniversary kicks off this week in Big Pine Key. For a full rundown, see below. CONTRIBUTED
‘PADDLEBOARD PROCLAMATION’ KICKS OFF AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
Events to continue through November in the Keys
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
The United States of America’s 250th birthday won’t happen until July 4, but in the Florida Keys, celebration of the nation’s semiquincentennial – say that five times fast – will last all summer and into the fall.
Monroe County public information officer Kristen Livengood outlined the island chain’s plan for the board of county commissioners earlier this month, starting with Mayor Michelle Lincoln testing her balance on a paddleboard as she signs a proclamation on May 4 in Big Pine Key.
“Based on what the state and federal government have been doing, they have been doing a lot of fun things to celebrate America and our 250th birthday,” Livengood said. “We figured this would be a great way to get our visitors, our residents and all of us back involved to celebrate our anniversary.”
Lincoln’s Paddleboard Proclamation celebration for National Travel and Tourism Week will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Old Wooden Bridge Marina at 1791 Bogie Drive. The public is invited to join the mayor and other local officials and community leaders on the water with their own paddleboards. The event will feature live music, food trucks and a conch horn call.
On June 14, flag day, businesses along U.S. 1 throughout the Keys will be asked to display American flags, keeping them out if possible throughout the week. Later that month, the city of Key West will host a Duval Street parade and party at the Truman Waterfront on June 27.
On the Fourth of July itself, municipalities throughout the Keys will continue beloved local celebrations and fireworks displays, some of which are supported by funds from the Key West International Airport.
In November, a 9/11 memorial exhibit will visit Islamorada and Big Pine Key on Nov. 17 and 21, respectively, with a veterans party and drone show in Islamorada followed by student tours the following day on Nov. 18. As the exhibit travels from Founders Park to Big Pine, it will receive an escort from the sheriff’s office. The exhibit’s Big Pine display will coincide with another drone show, daytime party and picnic and the Tunnel to Towers 5K run honoring 9/11 first responders and military heroes.
Other events in the works include an event in Key Largo on Sept. 12 –potentially a red, white and blue boat parade – and a sunset celebration at the Old Seven Mile bridge on Oct. 10 reminiscent of the county’s bicentennial celebration in 2023.
“Hopefully, because of the timeline of events, that will bring some
A Florida Keys celebration of the USA’s 250th birthday will begin May 4, when Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln will sign a ‘Paddleboard Proclamation’ in full business attire in Big Pine Key. CONTRIBUTED
tourism down on quieter times in November and early October,” Livengood said.
A $400,000 unappropriated fund balance available from the Tourist Development Council (TDC) would largely fund the America 250 events, spread across the Keys’ five districts. In some cases, funds will be distributed to coordinating municipalities to put on their local events, such as the city of Key West for a Duval Street parade.
“This is just wonderful that we're partnering with the Tourist Development Council to be able to celebrate with not only our community, but with our tourists,” said Lincoln. “It's always important that we do things that make our residents feel a sense of pride for where we live.”
More information is at monroecounty-fl.gov/250.
CHAD HUFF
Florida Keys Mosquito Control District
How long have you been in the Keys and what brought you here? I have lived in Florida for 25 years, the last six of which have been in the Florida Keys. I came down here to work for FKMCD. They had a need for a “seasoned” communications manager and I fortunately fit their needs. What is your favorite thing about living in the Keys? The people. They are absolutely different from anywhere else I have been in Florida. To me, they are focused on the things that matter and don’t tend to get mired down in the “small stuff” that consumes so many of us.
Describe your most bizarre life experience thus far. In a previous career I worked in local television news in Oklahoma City. Having a front-row seat for MAJOR (old) stories like the Oklahoma City Bombing in 1995 and the execution of convicted mass murderer Timothy McVeigh in 2001 seem surreal to me, even 30 years removed from the actual incident.
What Netflix series are you binge watching and why? I have recently been able to get into the “The Pitt” reruns on Sling and I’m addicted. Probably because I was a huge ER fan back in the day and Noah Wylie’s character feels like the spiritual successor to the kid he played back then.
If you could go back in time and change one thing, what would that be and why? I would have learned much younger that my perception of things that happen to me personally are often a hell of a long way from reality.
What is an unpopular opinion you hold but you don’t care? Electric vehicles have no soul!
What’s a secret about you that people might be surprised to learn? Fresh out of college, with a bachelor’s degree in broadcasting, after landing my first job in TV news, I came extremely close to fulfilling a childhood dream and becoming a firefighter at the age of 22. It was really, really close – much to the chagrin of my folks, who had just sent me to college for 4.5 years.
Know someone who would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?” Email keysweeklyjen@gmail.com.
JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com
No matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to present our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue.
Our neighbor of the week is Chad Huff, who is the public information officer for the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District. He handles the district’s internal and external communication needs as well as public outreach and advertising activities. In his spare time he likes spending time with his family and working on DIY or automobile projects as well as spending time outdoors walking, fishing or attending various sporting events.
What are three essential items you pack in your suitcase when going on vacation? A portable fan, bottle opener and a flashlight. What is your least favorite type of mosquito? Without any doubt the yard dwelling mosquito, Aedes aegypti, is my least favorite. She is a master in spreading several diseases including dengue fever, zika, yellow fever and chikungunya.
How would your best friend or significant other describe you in three words? Loyal. Sentimental. Genuine.
What is your favorite sports team and why? Oklahoma State University Cowboys, my alma mater. I love an underdog and every fan of the Cowboys is a true fan – there are no bandwagon fans that just latch on, unlike another school in Oklahoma.
What is your favorite part of the day and why? Sunrise. I loathe getting up early in the morning, but the few minutes just before and just after sunrise always make it worthwhile.
Why do you think mosquitoes were put on the earth? I’m far from being qualified enough to answer this, but few folks know that mosquitoes are actually pollinators. The males don’t take blood meals at all and the females only do so to reproduce, so it could be said that mosquitoes teach us that you can always find the good if you look hard enough.
What is the most bizarre thing in your refrigerator? Fifteen different brands and varieties of hot sauce.
KEENEY, PANNELL AMONG THE BEST IN THE BAND
In early April, two students from Marathon Middle School were chosen to participate in the Florida Music Education Association District 20 Honor Band. Flute player Holli Keeney, left, and clarinet player Aariyona Pannell were part of a group of students from the Keys and beyond to meet for their first rehearsal at Coral Shores High School on April 10, and barely 24 hours later, the two groups presented a concert. All participating students are considered among the best from their respective schools, and among the best in the South Florida area. CONTRIBUTED
GLO PICKLEBALL PARTY
MYC Summer Membership May 15 - October 15
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Enjoy our NEW Summer Membership and experience all the fun, great food, and social events MYC has to o er! This membership allows you to "sea trial" your community Yacht Club before commi ing to a full membership
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Dining & Bar | Pool Access | Parties | Special Events | Dock Space as available and more!
5 Month Membership $1,000 + tax ($300 club credit applied toward purchases a er registration)
Application Bonus
Love the club? If you convert to Active Membership before October 15, the application fee will be waived and you will receive $700 o your initiation fee! Limited Availability so act Fast!
Simulated car crash headlines Safe and Sober Prom event at Marathon High School
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
arathon High students exited the school’s doors to a grisly scene on April 28, as the school’s Champions for Change club hosted its annual Safe & Sober Prom demonstration. Watching as first responders extracted their “injured” classmates from a simulated drunk-driving crash, students spent the rest of the morn-
ing in educational presentations and stations to illustrate the dangers and lifelong legal consequences of seconds of poor decision-making and substance abuse on prom night. Students starred in all aspects of the demonstration, from Drama Club actors caked in gory makeup as the crash victims to fire rescue cadets aiding in dismantling the car and stabilizing its occupants. Photos by TRACY McDONALD/Contributed
COMMERCE CORNEr
Established in 2023, Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters, led by Captain Tony, offers unforgettable fishing adventures throughout the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys, including Big Pine Key and Bahia Honda. Specializing in bridge, backcountry, reef, and offshore fishing, each trip is customized to match the experience level and goals of every guest—from beginners and families to seasoned anglers. Known for his patient, friendly approach and passion for teaching, Captain Tony creates hands-on, personalized experiences while guiding guests through some of the Keys’ most productive fishing grounds.
Captain Tony’s success is built on creating memorable days on the water. His local knowledge, dedication to safety, and ability to connect with guests of all ages help make every trip enjoyable and rewarding—whether it’s a first-time catch or a lifelong passion.
Guests choose Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters for a family-friendly, personalized experience with a knowledgeable local captain. Each trip is thoughtfully tailored to ensure guests feel comfortable, confident, and excited from start to finish. Families especially enjoy the opportunity to introduce kids to fishing and create lasting memories together in the Florida Keys.
$7 Menu
• Chicken wings, chicken livers and More! • 32 beers on tap 1/2 off 2pm - 3pm
$2 Pints of Yuengling and Bud Light! BREAKFAST SERVED UNTIL 2PM • Unique & interesting menu
$3 Mimosas • $5 Breakfast Shots
LUNCH & DINNER • New Sandwich Options
SUSHI
THE GOLDEN ROAD LEADS HERE
Sayer family opens ‘elevated but affordable’ women’s shop in Marathon
ALEX RICKERT
alex@keysweekly.com
Stanley Switlik’s former music teacher is trading tunes for trends.
Though she successfully tested the waters throughout the Keys’ peak tourist season in early 2026, Allison Sayer’s Golden Road opened with an official ribbon-cutting on April 22 together with the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce.
The upscale women’s clothing and accessories shop might seem like an abrupt switch for a local who made her mark in Marathon as a fish wholesaler before joining the elementary school to teach music for the last five years.
But as her store’s name suggests, Sayer says the new venture is a return to her original passion after a decadeslong detour.
After spending time in college studying retail and fashion, Sayer said, she worked for vendors in New York City before winding up in Miami with a men’s wholesale company. When she met her husband Sean, a move to the Keys meant a pivot from her original career track – at least, until her current location at 8903 Overseas Highway opened up.
“I’ve always wanted to do this; I just kind of took a 15-plus-year hiatus,” she laughed.
“This unit came available, and we would only have executed this business plan in this building,” added Sean.
Golden Road’s offerings range from single-digit prices for hair clips and accessories to upscale $400 dresses for special occasions. Rotating through different styles and pieces as fast as they sell – “if you see something you like, get it, because the next time you come back it won’t be here,” Allison said – she stocks her fixtures with favorite brands like Nation, Emerson Fry, Hale Bob and Z Supply.
Sayer’s stock is designed with all price ranges in mind. Want to dress to impress for an awards ceremony? She has it. Want a more affordable dress for under $100? She keeps a full rack of those, too. Sizes typically range from small to large – she doesn’t carry
petites or extra larges for most pieces in-store, but has access to larger sizes through distributors if customers fall in love with a particular style or print.
“People want to go shopping,” she said, “and I wanted to provide them with an elevated shopping experience but still have affordable and fashionable clothing. She said she’s relished the chance to educate buyers on the quality and reasoning behind their garments’ construction and pricing. “It’s everything from loungewear to something to wear on the boat over a swimsuit to a cute little sundress.”
Extra offerings like jewelry, candles, hats and handbags – many handcrafted in the Keys – fill the shelves to provide options from head to toe. Art pieces from Key West-based oil painter Katlin Spain line the walls for decoration or purchase.
She described her “perfect scenario” over spring break, where a 75-yearold grandmother, 40-year-old mother and teenage daughter all came in to shop together. When they left the store, all three had bags in their hands. And in a small town, she’s got the
locals covered, even going so far as calling former customers to ensure no two ladies would show up at the same event wearing the same dress.
The store’s name? A combination of unforgettable sunsets along the Overseas Highway with the winding path that’s led to Sayer opening her doors.
“(The sunset) is kind of where we got the logo idea – it’s like a golden road driving down here,” she said.
“But I feel like my life has been this crazy path, and I'm thankful for all the different parts of it. I started in
fashion, then I went to fish, then I got to teach my kids music. So it’s a golden road I’ve been on. It’s cheesy, but it’s really kind of true.”
Golden Road is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. For more information, visit goldenroadflkeys.com or follow Golden Road on Facebook or @goldenroadflkeys on Instagram.
1. The shop’s goal is to offer an ‘elevated but affordable’ shopping experience, as curated by owner Allison Sayer.
2. Golden Road is the realization of Allison Sayer’s dream, brought to life with the support of her family including husband Sean and their daughters Landry and Sutton. Also pictured is Marathon Mayor Lynny Del Gaizo.
3. Fashionistas Anthony Piscetello, left, and Nick Borraccino examine some threads while wondering aloud where to find the men’s section.
4. Pilates instructor and real estate agent Riley Woodstock models one of Golden Road’s hats during the grand opening celebration.
Photos by Alex Rickert and Jason Koler
GROUPER OPENER
at the Marina
Fri May 1 • 5pm - 9pm
Kick off grouper season as Hawks Cay Marina transforms into the ultimate waterfront party in the Florida Keys
Enjoy pony rides, vendors, nonprofit booths, police horses and more
Leadership Monroe County (LMC) invites the public to its Keys Together Spring Festival on Saturday, May 2 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Oceanfront Park in Marathon.
The event will feature music, food trucks, games, artisan vendors, a kids’ zone, pony rides, the Key West Police Department’s horses, more than 40 Monroe County nonprofit booths, a Leadership Monroe
County Class XXXIII raffle supporting Keys AHEC and more. Admission is free; donations will be accepted.
LMC is an educational, nonpartisan, nonprofit community organization that brings together existing and emerging leaders to build constructive alliances in the Keys. More information is at leadershipmonroecounty.org or 305-394-3804. — Contributed
Lynn Landry, Councilmember
Kenny Matlock, Councilmember
Robyn Still, Councilmember
City Council Meeting
05/12/26 5:30 pm Marathon Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy.
Marathon Fire Special Pension Board Meeting
05/13/26 9:00 am Fire Station 14, 8900 Overseas Hwy.
Code Compliance Meeting
05/14/26 2:00pm Marathon Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy.
Planning Commission Meeting
05/18/26 5:30 pm Marathon Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy..
Agendas can be found here https://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/meetings
Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Council with respect to any matter considered at any meeting or workshop noted herein, he or she will need a record of the proceedings and for such purposes he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made; which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. The City of Marathon complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a disabled person requiring special accommodations or assistance, please notify the City ADA Coordinator at (305) 289-5022 of such need at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance.
FROM OUR BOATS TO YOUR PLATE!
KEYS FISHERIES RESTAURANT
WATERFRONT RESTAURANT
World Famous Lobster Reuben, house-made soups and chowders, fresh fish sandwiches, and rotating daily specials — all served with front-row views of Florida Bay. Open daily for lunch and dinner.
RETAIL STORE
Fresh fish, house-made soups/chowders, and our famous Key lime pie — ready to take home.
PHILANTHROPY MATTERS
... is president and CEO of the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys.
Tax season is a good time to give; one donor turns stock options into scholarships
We almost didn’t write this column. Not because there isn’t anything to say, but because we kept asking ourselves how to make a conversation about taxes and charitable giving feel even remotely interesting.
But then we thought about the people we’ve been working with this week, and it’s really not just about taxes.
Now that we’re past the April filing deadline, many are coming up for air after gathering documents and crunching numbers. Maybe you’re even feeling that familiar “tax hangover.” And around now, the questions start. What could I do differently next year? Is there a smarter way to plan ahead?
One donor had been holding stock for years. It had done well, but had grown into a larger position than they wanted to keep. They were thinking about selling, but didn’t love the idea of a large tax bill. At the same time, they cared deeply about supporting youth enrichment through arts, culture and athletics.
Instead of selling, they donated a portion of that stock to establish a donor-advised fund through the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys. Recently, they recommended a grant to a local youth sports organization, helping ensure more kids can participate without financial barriers. They’re having an effect, and doing it in a tax-efficient way.
Another conversation we often have is with retirees adjusting to required minimum distributions from a retirement account. They may not need all of the income and are concerned about moving into a higher tax bracket. Through qualified charitable distributions, they can direct those funds to organizations they care about while potentially reducing their taxable income.
We’re also hearing more from business owners who are preparing
for a transition, whether that’s selling a business or stepping into a new chapter. Charitable planning can play a meaningful role here, too. In some cases, donating a portion of business interests or sale proceeds can help offset taxes while also reinvesting in the community. These are more complex strategies, but they can be incredibly effective with the right planning.
Even if none of these scenarios feels familiar, there are plenty of simple ways to give back.
It could be a one-time gift. It could be the establishment of a scholarship to help a local student years from now. It could simply be taking advantage of the new abovethe-line charitable deduction — up to $1,000 for individuals or $2,000 for couples — and making a commitment to give in whatever way you can.
In a place like the Keys, those gifts matter. They stay here. They ripple outward through more than 200 nonprofits working every day to care for our neighbors, protect our environment and strengthen our community.
If you already know the causes you care about, this is a good moment to think about how to support them in a way that fits your life.
And if you’re not sure where to begin, that’s part of why the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys is here. We spend our days connecting people to work being done throughout the Keys to make our community a better place to live now and in the future.
We also hope you’ll join us as we celebrate our 30th anniversary at our meeting on May 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Tennessee Williams Theatre in Key West. It’s an opportunity to hear more stories like these and see local philanthropy in action.
This column may have started as a conversation about taxes, but it’s really an invitation – to plan a little earlier, to give a little more intentionally and to see yourself in the stories that shape this community. To learn more, reach out to us at cffk@ cffk.org.
JUST A REMINDER: HUMANS ARE AWESOME
In case you forgot…
made the natural career transition from dolphin trainer to newspaper editor after six years at Dolphin Research Center. His passions include running, watersports, and civil disagreements with sharks while spearfishing.
This month, I got a good reminder that humans are absolutely insane – in the best way possible. It’s refreshing to say that, because for what seems like a decade, it feels like every other headline would just stop at the word “insane.”
But on April 20, I had the honor of running the Boston Marathon for the second time – and I got a healthy serving of humble pie from athletes who are, quite frankly, on another planet.
Let’s start with Boston’s 2026 winner, John Korir. On a 40-degree day with ideal racing conditions, Korir absolutely smashed the Boston course record, going 70 seconds faster than any athlete before him to break the tape in 2:01:52. I’ll save you the calculator; that’s a pace of 4:39 per mile. If we ran a race, the guy would lose me in, no exaggeration, less than half a lap on the track – and that’s if I was having a good day.
Even crazier: On a course that features almost exclusively downhill running for its first half before transitioning to brutal hills in miles 16-21, he negative-split the race. As in, he ran FASTER over the punishing second half – by nearly two full minutes.
Two days earlier, as I was picking up my registration and race number, the Boston Marathon Expo treated visitors to another ridiculous feat.
Having already set the women’s 100-mile world record two months earlier, 44-year-old Ashley Paulson set up a treadmill in the middle of the expo and proceeded to demolish the women’s 100-mile treadmill record. She started running at 3:46 a.m. and continued throughout the entire expo, chatting with guests as she maintained a 7:40 pace and finished in 12 hours, 47 minutes and 10 seconds.
The previous record was nearly 90 minutes longer.
Not to be outdone, the London Marathon on April 26 sent even more records through the shredder. For the first time in an official marathon, not one, but TWO athletes broke the two-hour barrier, with Sabastian Sawe averaging an absurd 4:33 per mile to finish in 1:59:30 and Yomif Kejelcha crossing second in 1:59:41.
These accomplishments are incredible, and 10, 20, 30 years from now, I’ll be thrilled to say I remember watching them happen. But you know what’s even cooler to see?
Headlines and social media feeds that are now full of clips showing off the very best side of humanity, instead of the latest doom-andgloom apocalypse-adjacent incident. Yeah, I’m aware this is because my phone is listening to me, watching my recent searches and tailoring my every interaction online. Right now, whatever – I don’t care.
Take, for instance, a runner who injured her leg around mile 25 of the Boston Marathon, but absolutely refused to drop out. Instead, she crawled on her backside, using one foot and her hands – FOR A MILE –to turn the corner on Boylston Street and follow an electrified crowd to the finish.
I saw plenty of famous faces take on the famed 26.2-mile course, from former Boston Bruins captain Zdeno Chara to Chelsea Clinton and formerly-stranded astronaut Sunita Williams.
Finally, I saw the story of Aaron Beggs of Northern Ireland and Robson de Olivera of Brazil, who teamed up and put aside dreams of their own personal-best times to help fellow racer Ajay Haridasse, a Northeastern University student (go Huskies!) who’d just collapsed, through the last 1,000 feet of the race.
Take it from a guy whose job is to report the news each week. THESE are the stories this world needs. And I’m so glad they’re back on my phone.
ALEX RICKERT
SCAN ME!
RALLY AT CITY HALL
1-3. Demonstrators gather in Oceanfront Park behind Marathon City Hall in a show of support for the Middle Keys’ immigrant population.
4. Organizer Laurie Swanson welcomes guests to a demonstration on April 28 against violent enforcement methods employed by ICE agents.
5. Roughly a dozen speakers, including Mary Ackroyd, address
the crowd to share their own personal experiences with immigration enforcement.
6. Vladimir De La Torre, a legal worker in the U.S., addresses the crowd after a Customs and Border Patrol agent allegedly held a gun to his head and accused him of entering the country illegally the previous week.
Crowd backs immigrants, blasts ICE tactics after alleged gun incident in Marathon
ALEX RICKERT
alex@keysweekly.com
One week after a Customs and Border Patrol agent reportedly held a gun to the head of a legal worker in Marathon, Middle Keys residents gathered behind Marathon City Hall to reaffirm support for the city’s immigrant population – and denounce the tactics employed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The gathering replaced the group’s intent to address the Marathon City Council in a scheduled April 28 workshop session, asking the council to sign a resolution in support of the island’s immigrant population. The city later canceled the session, citing a lack of agenda items for discussion.
In January, the group made the same request to the council ahead of staff and council members’ advocacy trip to Florida Keys Day in Tallahassee the following month.
A crowd of around 60 attended the demonstration in Oceanfront Park, with roughly a dozen speakers following organizer Laurie Swanson in relaying
their own personal experiences with friends and neighbors deported in sweeping roundups across the Keys.
“When they posted about this rally, there were a lot of cruel, hateful comments – some of whom were my neighbors,” said Mary Ackroyd. “But then I thought, my fear is nothing compared to yours – the fear of getting detected, detained, deported, when you’ve done all the right things, filled out all the forms, paid the huge fees and showed up for every hearing while building a life in this community.”
Vladimir De La Torre recounted his story in the alleged April 21 incident with agent Bruno Cabral, which resulted in a federal complaint filed against Cabral by local construction company Design Center.
“He went in (to our jobsite), saying that we were illegals,” De La Torre said. “When I tried to record it, he took out his gun, and he put it to my head. I couldn’t record it, because I was scared for my life. I couldn’t do anything.”
“I feel like we’re good enough to help, to be at a retail store, to sell you something, but we’re
not good enough to stay in this country,” another speaker said. “I do a lot of immigration paperwork, and 90% of these people … were at a border and inspected, and this country gave them a legal entrance.
“There’s good and bad everywhere, and there’s good and bad here that we can’t deport. The criminals aren’t out there trying to work knowing they’re going to get caught. The criminals are at home hiding.”
Speaking to the Weekly on April 28, interim city manager Steve Williams said the cancellation was unrelated to the protest. Since workshop meetings were reinstated in January 2023, the council has forgone its second monthly session roughly 10 times. The council’s May 2026 workshop, originally set for May 26, is also canceled due to proximity to the Memorial Day holiday.
“We have canceled workshops before, and there were no agenda items to proceed with,” Williams said.
Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
WHY NO ONE TEACHES YOU HOW TO NAVIGATE THE HEALTH-CARE SYSTEM
Ihave been wanting to write this article for a very long time, but every time I think I am ready, another more trending topic comes up and pushes this one to the back burner.
I can’t wait any longer, because in the last month I have had three clients become absolutely lost in the health-care system, and it’s not okay. I also know it’s not just them or just in the systems we have here. I hear this from my 72-year-old mother back home in Buffalo. I have spent plenty of time working in a hospital to know that it isn’t always easy to understand how to navigate the medical world.
When I first started working for a hospital, I had to go through two days of onboarding. Different employees would talk to us about their departments, what they did, how they operated, where they fit in.
It honestly felt like I was getting secret and sacred information.
One higher-up executive came in and started talking about how often hospitals can have “silos,” where each department operates independently and doesn’t always communicate with the others. And that’s when patient care can start to diminish. This particular hospital was working very hard to never have silos.
As I worked there longer, I found myself in meetings with department heads, learning who was who, who did what and where to go if a patient needed something specific. I mean, I learned a lot. So much so that I eventually forgot what it felt like not to know what I now knew.
When I was working there, if a personal training client of mine was having an issue, it was so easy for me to guide them. I knew who to tell them to talk to. I knew where to send them.
Now that I’m outside of that system and on my own, I don’t have that same access.
Most people have never had that kind of inside knowledge. They’ve never been taught how to navigate their own health care.
It’s actually alarming how uneducated most people are when it comes to managing their own health. And I want to be very clear: This is not their fault.
Doctors, hospitalists, nurses, APRNs, they are all incredibly overworked. The system is busy. Communication isn’t always seamless. And patients are often left trying to piece everything together on their own.
But I do believe I can help you – even if it’s just a little – feel more confident when dealing with multiple appointments,
JENNIFER HARVEY
...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC.
health concerns and different providers.
So here is my downand-dirty list of things that I think will help.
And this list is for everyone, no matter your age. Actually, the younger you are, the better it is to start.
Step 1: Compile a medication list. Write down all medications you are taking. Include dosage, how long you’ve been on them, the prescribing physician and a simple oneto-two sentence note about what the medication is for (that part is really for you).
Step 2: Write out your full medical history. Do the best you can. Include procedure dates, diagnoses and the physician who performed or diagnosed them. Go as far back as you can remember. It doesn’t matter if you’re 83 years old and were diagnosed with AFib at 40. Even if it feels like old news, it still needs to be part of your record.
Step 3: List all your providers. Primary care, cardiologist, pulmonologist – everyone. Include phone numbers. If you’re working with a mental health provider, they need to be on that list too. If you see an acupuncturist regularly, add them. It does not hurt to be thorough.
Step 4: Make copies. Make as many copies as you have providers, plus one for yourself. Keep the document somewhere
you can easily update it. I know it sounds like a pain to hand this out, but not all hospital systems communicate regularly, or at all. And sending records can be a slow process. This way, you have your information ready the next time you see a physician.
Step 5: Find a primary care provider. If you don’t have one, I urge you to find one. I like to think of my primary as a maestro, a conductor. Someone who sees the big picture and knows what all the other “players” are doing. Any time something changes in your health, like an ER visit or a new diagnosis, you call your primary and update them. Do not assume they will automatically get that information.
Step 6: Use a social worker. This is one of the most useful, and most underused, resources. Social workers are there to help you navigate the system. They have access to resources you don’t even know exist. Let them help you. They truly want to. Anyone who goes into social work does it because their heart is the size of an elephant.
Navigating health care is a skill. And most of us were never taught it. So no, you’re not “too much” for asking questions. You’re not difficult for wanting clarity. You are trying to take care of your body in a system that doesn’t always make that easy. And while the system may not change overnight, the way you move through it can.
A little more organized. A little more informed. A little more confident.
And sometimes, that’s the difference between feeling completely lost and finally feeling like you have a say in your own health.
UNSPLASH.
SATURDAY & SUNDAY BRUNCH 11am - 2:30pm
Regular menu available and BRUNCH items including chorizo breakfast burrito, guava French toast, crab benedict and BOGO mimosas & glasses of sparkling wine
Baptist Health South Florida employees and donors pause for a photo op at Baptist Health Foundation’s ‘Evening
BAPTIST HEALTH FOUNDATION’S ‘EVENING OF GRATITUDE’ CELEBRATES MAJOR DONORS TO FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
Event raises $324,000
Nearly 200 guests attended ‘An Evening of Gratitude’ benefiting Baptist Health Fishermen’s Community Hospital, on April 10 at Oceanfront Park in Marathon. The event raised over $324,000 as Baptist Health Foundation honored its Giving Society members and other donors to Fishermen’s Community Hospital. All proceeds from the evening will support the hospital’s Center for Excellence in Nursing program.
The event, presented by Geraldine and William Weir, featured a cocktail hour, dinner, live auction and live band. Speakers included Aleta Williamson, Baptist Health Foundation Fishermen’s council chair; Drew Grossman, Mariners Hospital and Fishermen’s CEO; and Alex Villoch, foundation CEO. The program also featured remarks by Diego Torres-Russotto, chair of neurology and the distinguished endowed chair in neurology at Baptist Health Miami Neuroscience Institute; and Pang Xiong, emergency department director at Fishermen’s.
“Fishermen’s Community Hospital is proud to serve as a source of high quality, compassionate care for the Florida Keys,” said Grossman. “Our goal is to ensure our community has access to essential health care services close to home — delivered with expertise and a personal touch. Our nurses are the heart of this hospital, and we are grateful to our community for supporting them.”
“Fishermen’s Community Hospital is truly something special – a hospital with a rich history of caring for the community, and a community that has cared for this hospital with incredible generosity, time and time again,” said Villoch. “We thank our Keys donors for their trust in us.”
Bougainvillea Gold sponsors of the event included Nan and Philip Coon, Lookout Foundation, Media Counselors, Small Hospital Innovations, Rosemary Thomas and Maria and Rick Wesslund. Bird of Paradise Silver sponsors included Joan & Kelley Bergstrom, Dee & Don Swatik, Charley Toppino and Sons Inc. and Aleta and Dean Williamson. Orchid Bronze sponsors included First State Bank, Radiology Associates of South Florida, Trane Technologies, Lynn Voit and Sue and Dave Williamson. Hibiscus Copper sponsors included Cat Cay Club, Mallory Pinto, Keys Ocean Realty, Mary and David Rice, Susan Ruck and Colin Parker and Ventas.
Located in Marathon, Fishermen’s is a state-of-the-art 22-bed facility that was built from the ground up with community support. It opened in the summer of 2021, providing critical services close to home, including a 24/7 emergency department, intensive care unit, inpatient rooms, laboratory, imaging services, oncology services, surgery and pharmacy.
of Gratitude’ on April 10. From left: Dr. Jack Ziffer, Dr. Derek Papp, Dr. Diego Torres-Russotto, Jane Packard, Janice Roehl-Anderson, Linda Coggins, Aleta Williamson, Sue Williamson, Dennis Russell, Nancy Hershoff, George Neugent and Don Swatik. CONTRIBUTED
A rendering of the new $52.5 million visitor center and aquarium. CONTRIBUTED.
PENNEKAMP STATE PARK REIMAGINES EXPLORATION WITH $52 MILLION VISITOR CENTER
Project includes aquariums, working Mote coral nursery
Anew $52.5 million attraction is coming to Key Largo’s John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park with the reimagining of the existing visitor center, aquarium and auditorium. The new, state-of-the-art Discovery Center & Aquarium will include interactive exhibits, several saltwater aquariums holding a combined 43,000 gallons of saltwater, and wildlife observation areas, as well as a coral restoration nursery overseen by Mote Marine Laboratory.
The project officially broke ground on April 22, Earth Day, during a ceremony with more than 100 elected officials, community leaders, partners and state park staff in attendance.
“This was a vision for a long time,” Chuck Hatcher, Florida state parks director, said. “When I first toured Pennekamp 10 years ago, I knew we had to do better. In addition to the new center, we are putting in a new parking lot, reconfiguring roads and replacing the seawalls.”
The Florida State Parks Foundation – with an infusion of capital from the Department of Environmental Protection and Florida State Parks – lends
financial support in planning and design. Private support is from the Batchelor Foundation and from Friends of Pennekamp, a nonprofit organization with members who raise money, plan events and volunteer at the park.
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council recently committed $2 million to support the record-breaking project, the largest in state park history.
“Pennekamp is an economic engine for Monroe County,” said Kara Franker, TDC president & CEO. “We are thrilled to provide this beautiful gift to Monroe County. I’m thrilled by the TDC board’s decision to invest in this project.”
The project will include interactive exhibits and displays with storytelling, soundscaping, thematic lighting and environmental imagery. The aquari-
and enjoy the beach. My son would come with me, first in a stroller, then a wagon and now on a bike. My kid’s neighborhood park is this place. How cool is that! It is a place that holds so many memories for us and our extended family.”
Ann Helmers, president and founding member of Friends of Pennekamp and Dagny Johnson state parks, shared her experiences in forming the group in late 2019.
“We aimed to help the parks flourish and started with installing an underwater webcam at Pennekamp, followed by a marine boat to be used to help stranded manatees, and adding a native plant nursery,” she said. “With nearly 500,000 visitors in the past year, this park is a base for everyone, whether you live here or visit here. We have chosen to make our home here and together are making our little corner of the world the very best.”
Construction is expected to conclude by late 2028. In the meantime, Shane Zigler, park manager said, “the park is going to remain operational during construction and the existing fish and underwater species currently being housed will be safely moved. We aim for limited interruptions.”
John Pennekamp State Park’s new visitor center will feature several saltwater aquariums, as shown in these renderings.
ums will be filled with native Florida marine species and wildlife observation areas will be included.
Mote Marine Laboratory will conduct coral restoration research. Visitors will experience the coral nursery and its research as biologists work toward their conservation goals. The coral grown at the park nurseries will be planted on Pennekamp Coral Reef to replace those that have suffered from human activity and coral bleaching.
“How appropriate that we are here celebrating on Earth Day,” said County Commissioner Holly Raschein. “I used to live a couple blocks away from the park and came here numerous times a week to walk, explore
Zigler said the landscape will be expanded from its current state using native species that the Friends group has been growing on site for several years.
America’s “first undersea park,” Pennekamp Park has welcomed millions of visitors since its founding in 1960, connecting people from all over the world to the only living coral reef along the coast of North America.
Created in response to growing concern about Florida’s coral reef in the 1950s, the park is named for John D. Pennekamp, a former editor at the Miami Herald who led efforts to protect the reef and helped rally public support for its conservation.
“Decades ago, my grandfather took me and my siblings (to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park) when it was first dedicated,” said Tom Pennekamp, vice president of the park service foundation board and a member of the park’s Friends board. “I remember his proud face and I hope I have that same face today, 50-plus years later still keeping the Pennekamp family active through its support of this park and the state park system. This new facility will be simply stunning and become a part of lifelong memories.”
Daily park fees, established by the state, are not anticipated to increase. A vehicle with one occupant costs $4.50; with more than one person, $8 plus 50 cents per person up to eight; pedestrian and bicyclist fees are $2.50.
JILL MIRANDA BAKER
Managing
Please contact me today for a consultation Nicole Irwin Financial Advisor
Bette Zirkelbach, manager of the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, sends Nutella off at Sombrero Beach on Earth Day, April 22 as more than 200 spectators look on. The juvenile green sea turtle spent more than four months in treatment before her return to the waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. NATALIE DANKO/Florida Keys News Bureau
TURTLE HOSPITAL SENDS NUTELLA HOME ON EARTH DAY
Rehabbed juvenile suffered from tumors, swallowed fishing line
Four months ago, this sea turtle arrived at the Turtle Hospital in the Florida Keys barely alive. The doctors weren't sure she'd make it.
On Earth Day, more than 200 people gathered on a beach in the Florida Keys to watch her – now named Nutella – beat the odds.
Rescuers found the juvenile green sea turtle off Key Largo last December.
"Nutella was a long shot," said Bette Zirkelbach, manager of the Turtle Hospital. "And she is one that I seriously did not think was going to make it. In addition to having horrific fibropapilloma tumors on her body and her eyes, she was entangled in fishing line to the point that she almost lost the flipper due to lack of circulation and had ingested a lot of fishing line."
The team massaged her flipper back to life with a sweet and unlikely treatment — honey and laser therapy. Surgeons removed the tumors in two separate procedures. And over the next few weeks, Nutella was able to pass the fishing line she swallowed.
MIKEY
2-year-old male pit bull mix.
Looking for: Someone who likes big, strong, handsome boys like me.
Turnoffs: Lizards. Man, I really wanna catch one.
SWIPE RIGHT
Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA
MUNCHKIN
7-month-old male domestic shorthair.
Looking for: I’m a social butterfly that loves people and other cats.
Turnoffs: Really nothing. I am one cool cat.
Nutella arrived at the Turtle Hospital weighing in at 15 pounds. She left at 20.
Before Nutella went back to the ocean, children gathered on the sand at Sombrero Beach as Zirkelbach talked about turtles and measures to protect them.
"We recently saw astronauts go to the moon," Zirkelbach said. "And there are amazing pictures. And they look back. And one memorable quote I heard from them is that they saw one planet, one living planet. So, all of us are connected. And it's important to remember that today, on Earth Day."
Steven VanderBaan was vacationing from Sarasota. He brought his newborn and his nephew. "They've never even seen a sea turtle before," VanderBaan said. "So that was really cool to explain to them why they're letting it back."
The turtle’s name came from the two young children of the family that rescued her. The staff suspects they're pretty big fans of the sweet spread.
More information is at turtlehospital.org.
— Contributed
Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption “match” at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus – complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800
BABY CLOUD
11-year-old male domestic longhair.
Looking for: I’m ready to be your forever.
Turnoffs: People say 11 is old, but I am young at heart.
MARK HEDDEN
... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.
Iwatch a lot of bike racing. For some reason it is the only sport I’ve ever consistently cared about. The early part of the season recently finished up with what are known as the Spring Classics – a series of mostly one-day races, many of which have been run for well over a century. Races like Paris-Roubaix, LiegeBastone-Liege, La Flèche Wallonne and Amstel Gold. Hills often make or break a race, the places where some riders thrive and some come up short. And the hills on these courses are so steeped in cycling culture that they all have names, even the small ones. It’s not “that part of Riverside Avenue that climbs up a couple hundred feet on the south side of town.” The hills are called things like Côte de Saint-Roch, the Couberg, the Eyserbosweg, and the Mur de Huy, with Huy being the town and mur meaning wall. Such site specificity brings character to the race, a sense of history and also a pretty clear idea of where things are happening on the map.
There is a similar site specificity in the birder world in places like Central Park in New York. Birders don’t say they saw an American kestrel over by the grassy place near West 65th Street, they say they saw it over by Sheep Meadow, Pilgrim Hill, Falconer’s Hill, Sparrow Rock or the Ramble.
There have been a lot of birders in the Keys these last few weeks, because it’s migration time and the Keys are one of the great places to see migrating birds. Fort Zach is an especially good place to see migrants. But it can be hard to quickly explain to people where a bird was because no one has really drawn up a map of the place and named all the little sections, at least not in a way that is useful for birders.
While birding with my friend Rafael Galvez at Fort Zach the other day last week, I was kind of complaining about this.
Rafael’s response was, “Just name them, dude. No one else is going to do it.”
He may have added, “Or care.”
It was an inspiration.
To do this, at some point I’m going to need to sit down and draw a detailed map. But that doesn’t mean I can’t start trying out names for places ahead of time.
For instance, there’s a small stretch along the edge of the moat, near the blacksmith shop and the entrance to the fort. The water level is a few feet down from the path, and there is a small slope that allows you to look down at a gentle angle, rather than having to stare up into the trees. It is generally a good place to see migrants because they all seem
DAREDEVIL MIGRANTS AND SPA DAYS
to like to bathe and preen there. And for that reason I’ve decided to name it the Spa.
No place can be all things to all birds, but the Spa is pretty popular.
I have seen birds like Würdemann’s herons and yellow-crowned night herons standing stoically in the branches above the water. The other day a Chuck-will’s-widow snoozed on one of the lower horizontal branches, confident his cryptic plumage had flummoxed everyone’s occipital lobes. (It did at first, then it didn’t.)
On my most recent trip to the park, after walking around for an hour or so, I sat down in the leaf litter with my binoculars at the ready and decided to survey the Spa’s clientele.
There were a few larger songbirds. Gray catbirds, mostly on solo missions, darted in and out through the shadows. Grackles came in and announced themselves with their yellow eyes and their creaking call. A trio of female indigo buntings landed at the same time in three different sets of branches.
Most of the patrons were warblers, unsurprisingly, mostly palm warblers. About 80% of the time that I’d find a bird in my binoculars and manage to focus, it would be a palm. More than once I believe I said “ugh” out loud when this happened.
It’s not the palm warblers’ fault that they are so common. But maybe, for public relations reasons, they could back off with grabbing your attention so often.
One of the trickier aspects of this time of year is you don’t know if you’re seeing the same individuals from one day to the next. These probably weren’t the same birds I’d been seeing since October. These birds were most likely recent arrivals from the south. But you couldn’t be totally sure.
For every 10 palm warblers, I saw one blackpoll warbler, a species that inspires no “ugh.” We tend to see blackpolls here for two or three weeks in spring, which gives them special-guest vibes. They are exceptionally rare in the fall, as most of the population veers off the east coast in places north of Cape May, New Jersey, and flies a few thousand miles over the ocean to South America. Their return routes are less intense, but they are still believed to fly directly from South America to Jamaica and/or Cuba, and then to here and parts north.
Besides being migratory daredevils, they are also handsome birds, attractively streaky with vibrantly orange legs, the males having a black do-rag-like cap that hides their eyes.
A pair of American redstarts, male and female, flitted through the scene, as if they just wanted to make sure they got on the list, followed by male and female black-throated blue warblers who arrived and departed separately.
I caught sight of the yellow and black of a prairie warbler and wondered if it was one that was going to breed here, or if it would continue on north. There was a northern yellow warbler, which was pretty easy to ID, and then a rather plain Tennessee warbler, which threw me for a moment with all its non-distinctiveness and the fact I don’t see them every year.
The most unexpected creature of the afternoon was the raccoon, young and skinny looking, that stepped out from the (yet unnamed) wooded section near the blacksmith shop. The animal gave me the once-over for a few minutes before deciding I wasn’t a threat, then walked down the incline to the waters edge.
All the birds disappeared from the Spa, but then he walked further down the canal, and a few of them came back. Mostly palm warblers.
A curious blackpoll warbler seen recently in Key West. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
Having Fun in the Middle Keys
MILES TO GO
KEY WEST SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL IS SOMETHING SPECIAL
drops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should. She’s married to a saintly — and handy — fisherman, and has been stringing words together in Key West since 1998.
I was something of an anomaly at the end of my high school career. Country music wasn’t exactly taking New Jersey high schools by storm back in the early- to mid-’90s.
Those were the days, in my main social circle, of Gin Blossoms, Pearl Jam, Green Day, Dr. Dre, U2 and The Cure’s “Friday I’m in Love.” But then came summer “down the Shore,” and a whole different circle of friends, mostly coworkers and bosses at my various jobs on the Ocean City boardwalk, where the bosses wisely monitored the music that teenagers were pumping throughout their place of business. That’s where Jimmy Buffett and, yes, country music entered my life and stayed there.
My too-cool teen protests didn’t last long as I learned the lyrics to popular country songs and realized the genre was getting a bad rap from the snide stereotypes about prison and pickup trucks. The songs I was hearing were about real people. Yes, there were pickups and breakups, whiskey and rodeos. But there was humanity in the music. Real people. Kids leaving home for the first time; dads watching their sons repeat their mistakes; young love and aging dreams.
These were lyrics that made sense to me, unlike some of the nonsense words strung together by The Cure and Phish. (I‘ll deny I ever typed those words, by the way, given some of my best friends’ continuing devotion to the latter.)
Fortunately, in 1994, I headed to college in North Carolina and was no longer forced to be a closeted country music fan. It was everywhere.
And it was certainly a part of Key West’s live music scene by the time I moved here in July 1998.
The Key West Songwriter’s Festival, which Charlie Bauer had launched in 1995, had become a big deal. A really big deal.
In 1996, BMI, the Nashville-based music licensing company, signed on as a partner and sponsor of the Key West Songwriters Festival, which is now the largest festival of its kind.
My first Songwriters Festival was in 1999 and I’ve attended at least three shows during every festival since.
The festival revolves around five days and nights of more than 30 free shows in some of the island’s most popular watering holes and hot spots, where live music introduces crowds to the faces, voices and stories behind the songs.
“Part concert series, part ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at the stories behind the hits, the festival has built a reputation for spotlighting artists on the brink of stardom,” states a press release about
GREG W. PAUSER 1974-2026
Come on out to Marathon Ale House on Saturday, May 2 from 3 to 6 p.m. to celebrate the life of Greg Pauser.
Greg is survived by his brother Bruce; sister-in-law Lori, and his two nephews Justin and Brandon Pauser from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He was predeceased by his mother Margaret in 2007 and his father Bruce in 2022.
the event. “Before they were household names, Chris Stapleton, Kacey Musgraves, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Kane Brown, Thomas Rhett and Walker Hayes all took the stage here.”
And this year’s 30th anniversary festival brings back some of those veterans and, as always, introduces us to the next big names playing the songs we’ll all soon recognize. And as usual, Duval Street in front of Sloppy Joe’s will be packed on Saturday, May 2 for the free concert featuring the rising star Ashley Cooke and headlined by Ernest.
Hosted by the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and Rams Head Presents, the festival brings more than 200 BMI songwriters to stages across the island, transforming bars, beaches and historic venues into casual listening rooms and unforgettable, up-close experiences.
This year’s lineup continues that tradition, featuring Ashley Cooke, Hardy, Jack Ingram, Robert Earl Keen, Lori McKenna, Liz Rose, Brian Kelley, Chuck Mead, Rissi Palmer, Bruce Robison, Robert Randolph and hundreds more.
Songwriters are the storytellers. They put words to music and create the songs that become the soundtracks to our lives — the summer anthems and break-up ballads we played on repeat amid adolescent angst. Songs take us back. To summer loves and sad goodbyes, late nights and good times.
Every year during the Key West Songwriters Festival, I find myself in awe of these writers as I watch them perch unassumingly on a stool in a waterfront bar and straighten out the guitar strap around their neck. They’ll pluck lightly on a few strings, twist a tuning knob, sip a beer and then plunge into a song as familiar as an old friend.
And these are the people who gave us these songs. Sure, they send their creations out into the world to be recorded by others. But it all starts with them — and it all comes back to them each year at the Key West Songwriters Festival, which reminds me, yet again, that I ended up in the right place when I picked Key West in 1998 and came out of the country music closet.
I’ll see you downtown this week. In the meantime, check out keywestsongwritersfestival.com for the full schedule, the free shows and the huge concert on Duval Street.
He had moved to Marathon with his long time friend Jennie and her daughter Olivia in February 2016. They moved from Brick, New Jersey to Marathon to live with Uncle Frank, who had taught him how to do carpentry work and all types of home improvements. They had a special bond throughout the years.
Greg was a copy machine technician since he was a teenager. He started working for Artic Temp in March of 2016 with zero experience. His boss Gene taught him everything there was to know in the business, and within the 10 years he made a name for himself in the business. Gene was someone Greg looked up to and cherished their friendship. There was not one thing he couldn’t fix.
In his earlier days in the Keys, Greg had enjoyed volunteering at the DAV and American Legion with Jennie. They would run bingo nights and wing nights together to support the veterans. His very first rodeo ever was with Ronnie and Patsy for three years in Arcadia. He enjoyed his time going on airboats with Jennie, Tom and Jerry in the Everglades. Greg enjoyed learning how to bully net with Matt and Ariana. He was so intrigued by how it was done. He enjoyed spending time and celebrating anniversaries, holidays and birthdays with his “Keys parents” Bill and Gayle.
He met Andy Sharf at Overseas, who he became brothers with. They spent a lot of time together, and he enjoyed going over to Andy and Betsy’s house for dinners, holidays and just all-around good times. He had met his best friend Anne, who became a sister he never had. Their friendship lasted years with fun times and love for each other.
Greg enjoyed his trips to his brother’s house to spend time with his family. Going bowling with his family was something he enjoyed the most. Going out on Dominick’s boat was just another Saturday or Sunday thing. Greg made countless friends who became family to him. There was not a stranger who did not become friends with him within five minutes of talking to him. He loved everyone with all his heart. He was a giver and didn’t like to receive anything from anyone. He was so pure, filled with fun, laughs and love.
Greg enjoyed going to Marathon Ale House for Happy Hour. He was always there to help set up and show his support for any and all fund raisers at Overseas and Ale House. Greg had a special love for cats – there was not one stray he did not feed. Forever young, forever missed!
Robert Randolph lights up Sunset Pier at Ocean Key Resort with a genre-bending set during kickoff night in 2025. MARK HEDDEN/Florida Keys News Bureau
BRIEFLY
Nightly single-lane closures begin on Seven Mile Bridge
A nightly single-lane closure began on the Seven Mile Bridge on April 28 at 8 p.m. The closure will continue Sunday through Thursday, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning. Flaggers are periodically stopping traffic in one direction to allow vehicles from the opposite direction to pass safely. The closures come as the Florida Department of Transportation continues a project on the bridge to repair and strengthen the existing structure and re-stripe the road to preserve its service life. Travel lanes may only be closed during non-peak hours on nonevent days. Work is expected to take roughly six weeks.
Emergency Management seeks Keys community volunteers
Want to step up and help your community when it needs it most? Curious what really happens behind the scenes in emergency response and how you can be part of it? Monroe County Emergency Management invites residents to get involved and make a difference by joining Volunteer Monroe, a program that supports the emergency management before, during and after emergencies. Volunteer Monroe offers opportunities for residents to assist with community cleanups, support disaster shelter operations and help with recovery efforts following storms and other incidents. The program plays a vital role in strengthening Monroe County’s ability to respond to emergencies and fostering a more resilient, connected community. No prior experience is needed, just a willingness to help. Training and guidance will be provided to help participants safely and effectively support response and recovery efforts. Residents interested in joining can sign up at www.monroecountyem. com/volunteer. More information is available from Holly Winhoven at 305797-1154 or via email to winhovenholly@monroecounty-fl.gov.
Homestead man arrested for stealing jet ski
A 34-year-old Homestead man was arrested on April 27 for allegedly stealing a personal watercraft and fleeing from the sheriff’s office. Jose Roberto Munoz Garcia was charged with resisting arrest, providing a false name to law enforcement and grand theft of a vessel. The sheriff’s office was called to a residence near MM 55 around 9 p.m. regarding a suspicious man who arrived on the property via a personal watercraft. He reportedly told a witness he had been on a tour, was lost, and left on foot. The resident thought the story was suspicious and called
the sheriff’s office. The suspect, later identified as Munoz Garica, was found walking along U.S. 1 on Grassy Key. He ran into the mangroves but was found shortly thereafter. The initial witness identified Munoz Garcia as the man on the PWC who arrived on his property. The watercraft was confirmed stolen from a local rental business. Munoz also matched the description of a suspect involved in the alleged theft of a side-by-side and two other watercrafts as well as an attempted trailer theft. Munoz Garcia has an extensive criminal history, including charges of burglary, grand theft, and motor vehicle theft in surrounding counties. He was taken to jail. Detectives are investigating and more charges may be pending.
Marathon man arrested for machete threats
A 66-year-old Marathon man was arrested on April 24 after reportedly swinging a machete at another man. There were no serious injuries reported. Luis Ancieto Herrada was charged with aggravated assault and battery. The adult male victim was staying on Herrada’s vessel when Herrada allegedly “snapped” around 10:45 p.m., started arguing with him and swung a machete at him. Herrada then chased the victim and hit him with an unknown object before the victim could flee the vessel. Herrada was taken to jail.
Sheriff’s office reports Apple Pay scam
The sheriff’s office received a report recently of a phone/text scam involving thieves posing as Apple security regarding the company’s electronic pay program. The thieves state the alleged customer or someone using the customer’s Apple ID or Apple Pay made $572.62 in purchases at a pornography site. The text provides a number for the receiver to call. The person who reported the text to the sheriff’s office stated they didn’t visit the site and they don’t use Apple Pay. As is common in these scams, the text came from a very suspicious source: zhoulanshang999@icloud.com and not an official-sounding source from a real company.
If someone contacts you asking for money or suggesting a financial issue with an account, purporting to be from a law enforcement agency, any government organization or utility company, a bank, a credit card company and so forth, hang up and contact the organization yourself. A sure sign of a scam is anyone asking for payment for anything via gift cards or Bitcoin. If you receive a distressing message from a family member/friend
needing money immediately, always contact that family member/friend before sending money. If possible, save the text, email, or any other information and contact the sheriff’s office directly via www.keysso.net/locations.
CFK fall semester scholarships available
The College of the Florida Keys has over 100 fall semester scholarship opportunities available for future and current students. Scholarship award amounts range from $500 to $4,000 with some covering full tuition and other educational expenses. The criteria are wide-ranging across scholarships to accommodate and assist a variety of students. CFK encourages all students to review scholarships available for the fall semester and apply for those for which they qualify. There is no limit to the number of scholarships for which a student may apply. Scholarship descriptions and criteria as well as applications can be accessed on the scholarship section of the college’s website at www.cfk.academicworks. com. Individuals must be admitted to the college to be eligible to apply for scholarships. The deadline for submitting applications for most fall scholarships is June 7. For more scholarship information and guidance, contact Shania Duarte-Vera at foundation@ cfk.edu or 305-809-3153. More information is at www.cfk.edu/paying-forcollege.
DRC offers free admission for educators May 2
On May 2 Dolphin Research Center will honor the dedication of educators with a special Educators Appreciation Day. On this day, all educators are given free general admission, along with up to four guests. General admission provides guests the freedom to explore the facility at their own pace while observing a variety of specialized animal sessions. From high-flying dolphin behaviors and engaging fun facts to medical training demonstrations and ongoing research, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of marine mammals and the care they receive. Educators and their guests can also connect directly with Dolphin Research Center’s animal care and education staff, who are available throughout the day to answer questions and share insights about the center’s animal family and ocean conservation efforts.
OBITUARY
DALE ‘BUTCH’ WILSON
It is with heavy hearts that we honor the life and service of retired Monroe County Fire Rescue firefighter Dale “Butch” Wilson. Butch began his career in 1986, during the early years of emergency services in Monroe County. For nearly three decades, he faithfully served the people of the Florida Keys, working out of stations including Big Pine, Stock Island and Marathon. He retired in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and professionalism.
Those who had the privilege of working alongside Butch remember him as an exceptional firefighter, engineer, EMT and friend. He was known for his strong EMS and basic life support skills, his calm and reassuring presence, and a work ethic that made a lasting impression on everyone around him.
Butch was the kind of person who arrived early, stayed late, took pride in his equipment and station, and never needed to be asked twice. Whether he was operating Tanker 17, maintaining equipment, mentoring volunteers or working long 24-hour shifts, Butch gave his all to the job and to his crew.
His pride, accountability and unwavering commitment embodied the very best of the fire service. We extend our deepest condolences to Butch’s family, friends and all who had the honor of serving alongside him. His legacy will not be forgotten.
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THE SCOREBOARD
THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS
APRIL 20-24
ATHLETE
OF THE WEEK
APRIL 30 - MAY 7
LEE ISOM
Throughout Justice’s
athletic career at Marathon, she has proven what dedication and hard work can accomplish. I hope future student-athletes at MHS can learn from her success and sacrifices to be the best at their craft.”
Lance Martin, Marathon athletic director
Four years ago, Marathon’s Justice Lee Isom picked up track and field’s three throwing implements for the first time and, with her natural strength and supernatural work ethic, placed fourth, fifth and sixth as a freshman at districts. The following year, she captured a pair of district titles and a silver medal, then followed that with a triple-gold performance as a junior. Last week, Lee Isom successfully defended all three titles, once again sweeping gold in the javelin, shot put and discus to cement her place as Monroe County’s most accomplished track athlete in recorded history, amassing 100 district points over four years of competition. For her sustained dominance and unmatched success at the district level, cementing a legacy few, if any, can match, Justice Lee Isom is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
Photo by NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly
district gold medals career district points
Led by performances from standout athletes like Key West’s Caylee Moore, left, Coral Shores’ Vanessa Gabriel and Marathon’s Justice Lee Isom, the Keys’ lady lifters stacked significant hardware this postseason. Meet the All-Keys team on page 10. Photos by Natalie Danko, Tracy McDonald and Caylee Moore.
Justice Lee Isom displays two of her three district gold medals. CONTRIBUTED
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
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.
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.
DOLPHINS DELIVER
Marathon holds off Hurricanes in softball
The Lady Fins of Marathon traveled to Tavernier on April 21 to take on the Lady ’Canes for seven close innings on the clay. The Dolphins jumped to a 5-2 lead in the first and stayed ahead until the final out was recorded to bring home a 13-9 win. Despite being outhit 13-8, Marathon drew more walks and hit batters to put runners on the bases. Once there, the Fins stole eight bases to Coral Shores’ five, and committed half as many errors to end up on top.
Madelyn Thornton led the charge for Marathon with three hits. Sara Robinson and Maeve Merryman added two each and Anastasia Boose accounted for Marathon’s final hit. Boose pitched a full game, striking out four, walking two and surrendering eight hits and nine runs.
1. Marathon’s Madelyn Thornton catches a strike.
2. Addison Grady awaits an incoming pitch.
3. Marathon’s base bandit Maeve Merryman slides into second.
4. Sara Robinson takes a cut.
5. Chloie Stanley reaches for the ball as Sara Robinson hustles safely to first.
6. Pressley Bagwell releases a strike.
7. Mira Jones makes contact for a base hit.
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.
For the Hurricanes, Alyvia Prince and Pressley Bagwell shared the pitching duties. The pair collaborated offensively as well. Bagwell had three hits and Prince, two. Chloie Stanley, Mira Jones and Addison Grady also had two hits each, while Kayden Costlow and Bayley Catarineau added one apiece.
The loss was the final game of a strong season for Coral Shores. Their 10-4 record illustrated a great comeback season for the ’Canes.
The win puts Marathon at 12-4 this season. After their win against the Hurricanes and a conference championship in the last two weeks, the team has plenty of momentum heading into the 1A Rural District 8 Championships, which began April 27.
Earning a 17-6 blowout over Frostproof, the Lady Fins took on Fort Meade the following night (results not available at press time). For full game recaps, see the May 7 issue of the Keys Weekly Sports Wrap.
8. Pressley Bagwell delivers a pitch in Coral Shores’ season closer.
JACKSON GARCIA/Keys Weekly
tracy mcdonald
sean mcdonald
TICKETS PUNCHED
Keys trio lifts their way to state berths
On April 22, the strongest young men in South Florida converged on Keys Gate Charter School for the FHSA 1A Region 4 Championships in boys weightlifting. When the final lift was recorded, three Keys athletes brought home a total of six regional championships, and Coral Shores earned a pair of runner-up trophies for their strong performance. Marathon finished in fourth in both the Olympic and traditional competitions, making a solid showing among the 10 teams in their region.
Hurricane 129-pounder Kyle Derobertis was the first to capture a regional title, then made it a sweep in his weight class by winning dual titles. Derobertis performed a 120-pound snatch, 160-pound clean and jerk and 170-pound bench press to win the traditional event by 40 pounds and the Olympic by 35.
Teammate Jake Campanioni was next, capturing his own dual titles in the 169-pound class. Campanioni won the traditional event by five pounds and Olympic by 10 with a strong trio of lifts. He combined a 165-pound snatch with 235 pounds on bench and clean and jerk for his double gold feat.
Marathon’s Max Childress was Monroe County’s final winner. Childress brought home dual titles in his 183-pound class by combining 185 pounds in snatch with 265 on both bench and clean and jerk to outperform his closest competitor by 20 pounds in Olympic and 30 in traditional.
Derobertis, Campanioni and Childress will receive automatic bids to the state championships in Lakeland on May 8, where they will compete at the big show. Regional winners are the only athletes guaranteed to earn a spot at states, but the trio will likely not be alone. At-large bids are still being determined as the rest of Florida’s 1A regions complete their competitions. Several local lifters are in contention for a state berth via wildcard spots.
Marathon’s Isaak Vallejo (199 pounds) and Coral Shores’ Aaron Lykins (183) and Fredy Flores (219) each finished second in their traditional events, and Marathon’s Evan Toman (129) and Matthias Martinez-Velez (139) were third. Vallejo matched the 183-pound winner’s lift total, but the champ’s 2.2-pound weight deficit broke the tie and left Vallejo waiting to hear from the state whether he will qualify.
In Olympic lifts, Lykins and Vallejo were third in their respective weight classes and are not out of the running for a spot at the rack.
In addition to his dual titles, Childress was the strongest Keys lifter in a pound-for-pound comparison. The senior standout cemented his ironman status by finishing fifth overall in the traditional competition and sixth in Olympic, the best places earned by a local athlete at the event.
1. Marathon’s Max Childress takes his spot at the top of the podium in the traditional 183-pound event. In second was Coral Shores’ Aaron Lykins, and next to Lykins is Xavier Johnson, who placed fourth.
2. Hurricane Jake Campanioni shows off his medals on the podium for the 169-pound FHSAA 1A Region 4 placers. Campanioni won dual titles in his weight class.
3. Coral Shores’ weightlifting team brings home dual runner-up trophies from regionals.
4. Coral Shores’ Kyle Derobertis stands atop the 129-pound traditional podium, checking his medals for authenticity. Marathon’s Evan Toman is directly to his left in third.
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ROAD TO REGIONALS
The Keys’ final team had their chance to compete for district gold in track and field, and the Dolphins of Marathon did not disappoint. Four Dolphin school records fell as the Fins brought home eight district titles from Palmer Trinity School on April 23.
Senior Justice Lee Isom swept all three throwing events for a trio of gold medals, successfully defending her titles, two of which she has held since her sophomore year. Lee Isom’s 112’ 7” discus throw, 108’ 6” javelin toss and 38’ 3.5” shot put mark added three medals to her expansive collection and sent her directly to regionals, where she is ranked first in all three events.
“For her career, Lee Isom won eight gold medals and scored exactly 100 points in district championship meets,” Florida Keys track and field
enthusiast, photographer and historian Rick Mackenzie told the Weekly. “No other track and field athlete, male or female, in any combination of events can match those totals in Monroe County history.”
Lee Isom was not the only Dolphin to bring home the gold. Senior high jumper Daysi Williams struck district gold and set a new school record, surpassing her own mark with a 5’ 1.75” leap.
Teammate Amelia Roberts, an eighth grader, took second in the event, clearing the bar at 4’ 9.75”. Both athletes advanced to regionals automatically by securing the top two spots at districts. Roberts’ jump also made the mark for the middle school state championship event held later in May. Also qualifying for middle school states was classmate Maverick McDonald. His 9’ 4.24” pole vault mark earned him a first place in the district
2. Marathon’s Tony Bursa, right, hands the baton to anchor Lucian Burns in the Fins’ winning 4x800 relay race.
3. Senior Caleb Shelar cruises over a hurdle in the 400-meter race. Shelar claimed second place and a school record with his finish.
4. Marathon eighth grader Amelia Roberts attempts to clear the bar in the high jump event. Roberts finished second behind teammate Daysi Williams.
5. Senior Justice Lee Isom unleashes a district gold medal-winning throw on April 23.
6. Senior Daysi Williams, Marathon high jump record holder, is ranked first heading into regionals this week.
Photos by Rick Mackenzie and Natalie Danko
and a bid to regionals as well as the middle school state event. Seventh grader Fisher Stevens claimed second place in the event and will join the crew headed for regionals. Senior pole vaulter Ava Merryman was second in the girls pole event for an automatic bid to regionals, her fourth straight.
Molly Joly, another middle school athlete making a splash at the varsity level, won the 3,200-meter run, earning a district title and crushing her own record in the event by over 30 seconds. Joly finished the eight-lap race in 12:44 to become the first Marathon girl to win the race, an even more impressive feat given she is only in the seventh grade. Joly’s record was her second of the day; she
1. Marathon’s 4x800 team of Molly Joly, left, , Rebecca Merryman and Ariella Dworniczak are the new owners of the school record in the event.
and Mylana Loza, Ariella Dworniczak and Rebecca Merryman shaved six seconds off the school’s 4x800 relay record in a fourth-place finish in the opening race of the day.
Freshman Lucian Burns took the title in the boys 3,200 race, finishing in 10:16, and placed second in the 1,600 event for a pair of regional races on his schedule. Burns added a second gold medal to his collection, anchoring the boys 4x800 relay team which finished first in 8:37. Landon Anderson, Kristel Morales and Tony Bursa each earned first-place medals and a trip to regionals for their team effort.
Senior Caleb Shelar set a new school record in the 400-meter hurdles in his second-place finish. In addition to his silver medal and school record, Shelar will toe the line at regionals in a race he has
run just four times. Another track speedster, Tariq Patterson, placed second in the 200-meter race to round out the automatic qualifiers.
A second wave of Dolphins will likely make the cut once the other district race times and field marks are tabulated, making for a sea of blue on Friday, May 1 at Ansin Sports Complex in Miramar. Joining Marathon will be some familiar faces. The 1A and 2A events are being held simultaneously this season, giving the three Keys teams lots of support in the stands.
Athletes who make the cut at regionals will
Athletes who make the cut at regionals will earn bids to states, held at University of North Florida’s Hodges Stadium in Jacksonville. Marathon athletes qualifying for the big show compete May 6 while Coral Shores and Key West athletes are scheduled for the following day.
MEET THE 2025-26 ALL-KEYS GIRLS WEIGHTLIFTING TEAM
Strong ladies stacked the iron this winter
Girls weightlifting proved once again to be a strength across the Keys, as local athletes delivered standout performances at the district, regional and state levels. The season featured a double state gold medalist, a double state silver medalist,
ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Vanessa Gabriel SENIOR CORAL SHORES
Gabriel capped an extraordinary senior year by sweeping the postseason with dual district, regional and state championships. She dominated in both Olympic and traditional lifts, earning two gold medals at the state meet and establishing herself as one of the strongest lifters in Florida. Gabriel also served as a powerful source of positivity, consistently uplifting teammates and setting the tone with a can-do attitude.
multiple additional state medalists, and four regional champions representing Key West, Marathon and Coral Shores. Competing in Class 2A and 1A divisions, the programs also found success in team scoring, with Marathon capturing the district championship in traditional lifts and finishing sec-
Photos by Natalie Danko, Tracy McDonald and Kaylee Moore
Jones SENIOR CORAL SHORES
Jones turned in a solid postseason performance for the Hurricanes, placing third in traditional and fourth in Olympic lifting at districts. She followed that with a strong regional meet, earning a bronze medal in Olympic lifting and finishing fifth in traditional to secure a spot among the Keys’ top competitors.
ond in Olympic while Coral Shores placed second in traditional and third in Olympic competition. Although athletes compete within their own weight classes, the team accomplishments highlighted the depth and growth of the sport locally.
Lily Ooms SOPHOMORE CORAL SHORES
Ooms continued to develop as a promising young lifter for Coral Shores, earning a pair of silver medals at the district meet. She followed that performance with fourth place in Olympic and fifth in traditional lifting at regionals. The sophomore’s strength and potential point to an even brighter future in the Hurricanes’ program.
Kerns closed out her high school career with a strong postseason showing, earning second place in both Olympic and traditional lifting at the district meet. She then took fourth place in Olympic and sixth in traditional at regionals, demonstrating the consistency and determination that defined her senior season.
Mira
Elaina Kerns SENIOR CORAL SHORES
Tinashay
Cunningham SENIOR MARATHON
Cunningham brought consistency and leadership to Marathon’s lineup throughout the season. The senior earned a pair of bronze medals at districts and followed that with a sixth-place finish in Olympic lifting at regionals. Known as a quiet leader, Cunningham conducted herself with class at every meet while encouraging and supporting her teammates.
Althea Olsen
SENIOR
KEY WEST
Olsen finished her senior season with a strong showing in the postseason. She placed fifth in Olympic and fourth in traditional lifting at districts before earning a sixth-place medal in traditional at the regional meet. Her dedication and persistence made her a valuable member of the Conchs’ weightlifting program.
Justice Lee Isom
Ella Evans
Adelle
Bainbridge
Lee Isom delivered an exceptional senior campaign, claiming dual district and regional titles before finishing as the state runner-up in both Olympic and traditional lifting. She brought unmatched work ethic and determination to every meet and practice, consistently pushing herself to improve. Her drive and positive attitude helped elevate the Dolphins’ program while earning her a pair of silver medals on the state podium.
Caylee Moore SENIOR MARATHON
Moore put together a strong postseason performance for the Conchs, earning silver medals in both Olympic and traditional lifting at districts and repeating the feat with another pair of silvers at regionals. The senior’s consistency and strength made her one of Key West’s most dependable lifters throughout the season.
Evans showcased resilience and determination throughout the season, battling through injuries while still managing to capture dual district and regional titles. The senior refused to back down from challenges, demonstrating toughness and perseverance every time she stepped onto the platform. Evans capped off her career with the Fins by earning a bronze medal in traditional lifts at states.
Aaliyah McLeod SENIOR MARATHON
SOPHOMORE
McLeod continued to develop into a powerful presence for the Conchs, earning dual silver medals at districts before capturing bronze in both Olympic and traditional lifting at regionals. The sophomore’s strength and determination helped her reach the podium multiple times this season, and with two years remaining, she has plenty of time to continue building on her success.
Bainbridge quickly established herself as a rising force for the Dolphins. She won the Olympic title and placed second in traditional lifting at districts before taking first in Olympic and third in traditional at regionals. Bainbridge carried that momentum to the state meet, finishing ninth in traditional and earning a fifth-place podium finish in Olympic, an impressive accomplishment for a first-year lifter.
Courtney Ward JUNIOR MARATHON
SOPHOMORE
Ward represented Key West well in the lightweight division, placing fourth in Olympic and fifth in traditional lifting at districts. She followed that performance with a sixth-place medal in Olympic lifting at regionals, demonstrating her steady improvement and competitive drive throughout the season.
1. Kristan Masters hits the ball.
2. Kade Maltz pitches for the Conchs.
3. Auggy Davila celebrates scoring for the Conchs.
4. Xavi Perez shows for the bunt early.
MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly
BACK IN BUSINESS
Conchs bounce back from district loss; Fins await next test
After a painful loss to Belen Jesuit in the district title game on April 16, Key West went to work to ensure that it would be the Conchs doing the stinging in their April 24 regional quarterfinal matchup against the Scorpions of Satellite.
The Scorpions struck first, putting one run on the board in the first and adding a solo homer in the second inning that woke up the Conch offense. Key West added four of their own runs in the second to pull ahead and maintained the lead for the duration of the game.
Nelson Ong led the Conchs in hitting, adding two base hits to his season total of 35. Roman Garcia drove in two runs off one hit while Kade Maltz and Kristian Masters each added a hit and an RBI. Jackie Niles accounted for hit number six for Key West in the win.
Maltz started on the mound for Key West, a heavy burden to lay on the shoulders of a sophomore. He proved he earned the honor, holding the Scorpions to two hits and a single run over five innings. Donovan Thiery stepped in for the final two innings, closing the door on Satellite.
The win put the Conchs at 23-5 heading into the FHSAA 4 Region 2 semifinals against Somerset Academy out of Pembroke Pines. Somerset, ranked No. 6, will face the second-seed Conchs in Key West on Friday, May 1 for the first of a three-game series to determine who will play in the regional final series the following week. Somerset knocked out Belen in their regional quarterfinals, demonstrating their ability to rise to the occasion against higher-ranked teams, and the Panther roster boasts the top hitter in the classification, making for an exciting matchup between two high-caliber teams.
Marathon is also still in the hunt for a state championship this season. The 1A Rural Fins sat this week out due to a smaller pool in the Rural brackets, but will resume their quest May 1 when the Mighty Red Devils of Williston High pay a visit. Marathon, ranked second in the region, earned the home-field advantage over third-ranked Williston. The winner of the three-game series earns a spot at the regional championships against top-ranked Trenton or No. 4 seed Dixie County on May 8. Marathon lost to Trenton by a single run in a March 16 battle, giving the Dolphins a solid shot to advance to the state semifinals in mid-May.
NOTICE OF FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Coastal Dreams Fishing located at 1555 SW 21st Way, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida, pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes.
By: Airport Go Port LLC
Publish: April 30, 2026
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NOTICE OF SALE
BEST LIEN SERVICES: 7290 SW 41 ST MIAMI, FL 33155 WILL SELL AT A RESERVED PUBLIC SALE AT 9:00 AM THE VEHICLES LISTED BELOW AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS TO SATISFY LIEN PURSUANT TO SECTION 328.17 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES.
ANY PERSON(S) CLAIMING ANY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE VEHICLES SHOULD CONTACT: BEST LIEN
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SALE.
Publish: April 23 & 30, 2026
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Notice is hereby given that Big Pine Storage, pursuant to the Florida Self Storage Facility Act, Florida Statutes (Section 83.801–83.809), will sell at public sale by competitive online bidding to satisfy the owner’s lien for unpaid rent, fees, and other charges. Sale to be held online at 11:00 AM on May 11, 2026, at storagetreasures.com.
Contents of the following unit(s) will be sold:
OP11 – James Reynolds, 825 Wright Drive, Lake Worth, FL 33461 – Personal items Property is stored at Big Pine Storage, 30677 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043. All items are sold as is, where is, and must be removed within 48 hours of purchase.
Publish: April 23 & 30, 2026
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Notice of Seizure that in accordance with Florida Statues 83.805 / 83.506, Tavernier Mini Storage, 135 Hood Ave., Tavernier, Florida 33070 will sell or otherwise will dispose of the personal contents of the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien.
All Contents in:
Unit B-01 – Crystal Leonard & Ryan Engel
Sale of all goods will be 5/6/26 at 10:00 am at 135 Hood Ave.,
Tavernier, Florida 33070. Tavernier Mini Storage reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids.
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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 & Development Committee Meeting
May 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/ 82605148693?pwd=Ccf2xB8y3LS rcoU77SkxoEbhRcJZab.1 Meeting ID: 826 0514 8693 Passcode: 351587
Art In Public Places Committee Meeting
May 19, 2026, at 4:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/ 85906228860?pwd=PziviQU2JpM azdS2ctqBefUZNbwuO1.1 Meeting ID: 859 0622 8860
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May 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/ 83158507421?pwd=gt3sKoTsg39L 5kGgTbcry7bW9TOLA7.1 Meeting ID: 831 5850 7421
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NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Key West Art & Historical Society located in 281 Front Street, Key West, FL is seeking bids on the Custom House Landscape Improvements and Upgrade Project. Interested parties should email Bender & Associates Architects at info@ benderarchitects.com for details related to the bids and the project with the subject line: Custom House Landscape Improvements and Upgrade. Publish: April 30 and May 7, 2026
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NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: East Martello Historic Masonry Restoration Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www.floridapublicnotices. com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecountyfl.bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request.
Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/ mailed/physically delivered bids/ proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted.
The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com, no later than 3:00 P.M. on Thursday, June 4, 2026. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal. The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity.
The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, June 4, 2026. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156
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The following is an upcoming GMX procurement opportunity:
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PROCUREMENT/CONTRACT NO.: ITB-26-02
WORK PROGRAM NO.: 83618-009.060 GMX PROJECT/SERVICE TITLE: CONSTRUCTION SERVICES FOR THE WIDENING OF SW 137TH AVENUE FROM SW 8TH STREET TO SW 26TH STREET
For detailed information please visit the Procurement Department website at http://www.gmx-way.com/business/solicitations, or call the Procurement Department at 305-637-3277 for assistance.
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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
DIVISION OF ST. CROIX
SX-2026-CV-00106
ACTION FOR DAMAGES AND TO FORECLOSE LIEN
DIRTY BOTTOM LLC
d/b/a ST. CROIX MARINE CENTER, Plaintiff, vs. JORDAN HOPP, Defendant SX-2026-CV-00106
ACTION FOR DAMAGES
To: Jordan Hopp 710 Ashe Street Key West, FL 33040
To: Jordan Hopp
c/o S/V PENROSE
5063 Gallows Bay St. Croix, VI
Pursuant to the March 19, 2026 Order of the Virgin Islands Superior Court, within the time limited by law (see Note below) you are hereby required to appear before this Court and answer to a Complaint filed against you in this action and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment by default will be taken against you for monetary and other relief as demanded in the Complaint.
Tamara Charles, Clerk of the Court Superior Court of the Virgin Islands
Bruce P. Bennett
BENNETT LAW
63 Calhoun Street
Washington Depot, CT 06794
T: (475) 206-1199
F: (475) 207-0117
V.I. Bar #512
bpb@brucebennettlaw.com
NOTE: The defendant, if served personally, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of this Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after service of this summons, excluding the date of service. The defendant, if served by publication or be personal service outside of this jurisdiction, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of this Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the attorney for the plaintiff within thirty (30) days after the completion of the period publication nor personal service outside of the jurisdiction.
Publish: April 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF SALE
To: All members of the general public including all persons listed below, record owners, their heirs, guardians and assigns, of the unit week(s) as showing thereon, all located in and governed by that certain:
Declaration of Condominium for FLORIDA BAY CLUB OF KEY LARGO, a condominium, recorded in O.R. Book 871 at pages 1215, et seq. Public Records, Monroe County, Florida.
Based upon default in assessment payments and pursuant to the Claim of Lien filed by THE FLORIDA BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., a Florida notfor-profit corporation, recorded at O.R. Book 3362, Page 949 in the Public Records of Monroe County Florida, STAACK & SIMMS, PLLC, d/b/a TIMESHARE TRUSTEE™ WILL CONDUCT A SALE OF EACH AND EVERY UNIT WEEK LISTED ON THE ATTACHED LIST BEGINNING AT 11:00 A.M. ON May 8th, 2026, AT: 103500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, Florida 33037.
A01-06 Christopher Ian Meyerson 4136 Shadowood Parkway SE, Atlanta, GA 30339 2020 10375.85
$5.12
A01-09 Clifford E. Brown Linda K. Brown 8205 Rio Bend Ct., N. Richmond Hill, TX 76182 2023 2947.39 $1.45
Obligors and junior lienholders showing on list above may cure the default and redeem the timeshare interest by paying the amounts secured by the Association’s lien on their unit week(s) as reflected in list above together with trustee’s fees and interest through the date of payment in cash or certified funds to TIMESHARE TRUSTEE™ at any time prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Sale on the above date.
GOVERN YOURSELVES ACCORDINGLY.
STAACK & SIMMS, PLLC, d/b/a TIMESHARE TRUSTEE
900 DREW STREET, SUITE 1 CLEARWATER, FL 33755
PHONE: (727) 441-2635
FAX: (727) 461-4836
Website:www.staacklaw.com
Publish:
April 23 & 30, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 26-CP-000099-M
IN RE: ESTATE OF HENRY STANTON SANGER, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the Estate of HENRY STANTON SANGER, deceased, whose date of death was January 9, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, File Number 26-CP-000099-M the address of which is Marathon Courthouse, 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 PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. THE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OR CURATOR 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 FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 732.216732.228, APPLIES, OR MAY APPLY, UNLESS A WRITTEN DEMAND IS MADE BY A CREDITOR AS SPECIFIED UNDER FLORIDA SECTION 732.2211. THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS: APRIL 30, 2026. Personal Representative: LINDA L. GOLDMAN 265 Fountain Oak Way Canton, Georgia 30114 Attorney for Personal
Representative: JAN A. YELEN YELEN YELEN & SIMON, P.A.
Florida Bar No. 323799 1104 Ponce de Leon Boulevard Coral Gables, Florida 33134 (305) 445-3721
jyelen@yelen-yelen.com
Publish: April 30 and May 7, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NUMBER: 26-CP-000098-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF: RAYMOND KARL LANCE GREENE Deceased.
The administration of the estate of RAYMOND KARL LANCE GREENE, deceased, whose date of death was November 21, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The name and address 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 PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
A personal representative or curator 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 sections 732.216732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211.
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 April 30, 2026.
Personal Representative
Jessica Greene 1702 Jefferson Ave. Huntington, West Virginia 25704
Attorney for Personal Representative
Carling Freidzon, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0117683
The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm 2600 S. Douglas Rd., Suite 502 Coral Gables, FL 33134 305-677-5119
Carling@flpfl.com
Publish: April 30 and May 7, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 26-CP-000113-P IN RE: ESTATE OF MABEL V. VASNILES, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of MABEL V. VASNILES, deceased, whose date of death was January 2, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida,
Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite2, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court 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 April 23, 2026.
Personal Representative: William V. Anderson 82994 Overseas Highway, #18 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: April 23 & 30, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-000157-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT ALLEN SCHMETTERER Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ROBERT ALLEN SCHMETTERER, deceased, whose date of death was March 22, 2026; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 26-CP-000157-P; the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME
PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS: APRIL 23, 2026.
Personal Representative: STACY LYNN SCHMETTERER 11 Marina Drive, Unit B Key Largo, FL 33037 stacy@schmetterer.com Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0147273 Turner & Lynn, P.A. 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com
Publish: April 23 & 30, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 26-CP-000065-M IN RE: ESTATE OF ANDREW R. GEORGE, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of ANDREW R. GEORGE, deceased, whose date of death was October 12, 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 April 23, 2026.
Personal Representative: Gerald W. George 158 Westminster Drive Tavernier, FL 33070
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: April 23 & 30, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY,
FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-138-M DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF ALICE M. SMALL
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Alice M. Small, deceased, whose date of death was February 19, 2026, 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. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: April 23, 2026.
Personal Representative: Lisa Ann Catlett
58048 Morton St. 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: April 23 & 30 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 26-CP-000152-K IN RE: ESTATE OF FITZ LEE HOWARD COKER
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of FITZ LEE HOWARD COKER, deceased, whose date of death was July 14, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Freeman Justice Center Key West, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040. The name and address of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS
NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is April 23, 2026.
Personal Representative:
TRUDIE COKER AKA GERTRUDE WARDLAW COKER
259 Marlin Avenue Mill Valley, California 94941
Attorney for Personal Representative: GEORGE J. TAYLOR
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 102678
BRINKLEY MORGAN 2255 Glades Road Suite 414E
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Telephone: (561) 241-3113
Fax: (561) 241-3226
E-Mail: george.taylor@ brinkleymorgan.com
Secondary E-Mail: probatelaw@ brinkleymorgan.com
Publish:
April 23 & 30, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-DR-440-K CARLOS ALBERTO MEDINA JIMENEZ, Petitioner, and ILIANA MIRABAL CARDENAS, Respondent.
NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: ILIANA MIRABAL CARDENAS RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN
ADDRESS: UNKNOWN
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 CARLOS ALBERTO MEDINA JIMENEZ, whose address is 2307 PATTERSON AVENUE, KEY WEST, FL 33040 on or before May 30, 2026, 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: April 23, 2026
Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk
Clerk of the Circuit Court
Monroe County, Florida
By: Destiny Johnson
Deputy Clerk
Publish: April 30 and May 7, 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS WANTED
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483
BOAT MISC. FOR SALE
PRICE DROP! 2 Suzuki 60hp 2013 motors for sale - 4 stroke, low hours, with controls & wiring harnesses. Currently on boat if you want to test run. $6,000 OBO for the pair. $3,400 single motor. Located at MM74. Gary 305-393-1415
Used NEPTUNE 4-post
BOAT LIFT For Sale. 15,000 lbs.+ Located in Marathon. $800.00 260-750-6479 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!!
BOATS FOR SALE
PRICE DROP! 22' Mako
Center Console Aluminum like new float on trailer, 2001 250hp Yamaha, hull 1979, 2 stroke, runs great, many extras. $11,500 OBO Located at MM74. Gary 305-393-1415
PRICE DROP! 21' Mako
Center Console Float on Aluminum Trailer, 250 2 stroke Yamaha 2005?, hull 1979, New Transom, $9,500 OBO Located at MM74. Gary 305-393-1415
BOAT SLIP/RACK FOR RENT
Dockage up to 60’ Islamorada - Bayside,50 amp service. Price LOWER than marina. Call 860-982-4517
Boat Slip &/or Rack for Rent in Marathon at The Boat House, Vaca Key. Call Tony 561-346-6400
Hiring for busy pediatric office in Tavernier. Full-Time Medical Assistant/RNPediatric experience preferred. Must multitask in fast-paced setting. Pay is commensurate with experience. Email resume to: flkeyspeds@gmail.com
Safety Staff- We are seeking a reliable, dedicated, and responsible Safety Staff member to join our team. Full-time & Part-time availability starting at $18/hr. To apply, call 305-664-4860 Ext 1, e-mail: aaron@orlk.org or apply in person at Outdoor Resorts at Long Key, 65821 Overseas Hwy, Long Key
Specialty Hardware of Marathon - Looking for full time or part time person. Hardware knowledge an absolute must. Must have knowledge of hardware, plumbing and electrical. Apply in person at 10730 Overseas Hwy. Marathon 1-305-743-3382
Groundskeeper/ Maintenance person, KCB, Sea Isle Condominium, 20 hrs. per week, $27 per hr., apply by e-mail to HardingThomasL@aol.com, text or call 734-476-0531.
Part-time Office Clerk, $18/ hr, Thu/Fri/Sat, 9:30am-7pm. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-219-3359 and ask for Dave
Experienced Full-time Line Cook needed at the Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club. 10AM - 5PM, Good Pay. Small friendly staff. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
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, 9:30am-7pm 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 how hiring a Job Supervisor/Sales in the Lower Keys. Must have a driver's license. Bob Cat experience a plus. Call for more information 305-741-7688.
Paver Dave now hiring Part-Time Office Help. Working some days in Marathon and some days in Big Pine Key. Call for more information 305-741-7688.
Key West Cooling Company is hiring HVAC technicians and installers. We are looking for dedicated individuals that are ready to work. For more information, please call or text us at 305-912-2293 or send an email to keywestcoolingcompany @ gmail.com Compensation is based on experience.
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Full-time Carpenter, Electrician, Housing Assistant & Project Manager. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: greenel@kwha. org or 305-296-5621 ext. 225. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha. org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.
Boat rental company in Marathon looking for help with boat detailing & boat cleaning. Call 305-481-7006 HIRED!!!
HIRING: Office Administrator in Marathon. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), experience with QuickBooks or other accounting software preferred and must have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Full time – Mon-Fri. Pay TBD - based on skill. Email: Natalie@cecflk.com HIRED!!!
HOUSING FOR RENT
Key Largo- 6 months+ Canal front rental on Blackwater Sound. 40' dockage, 1 BR/1 BA Trailer with 1,000 sq. ft. living area. $2,300/mo. 904237-9090 or 904-338-1207
LONG TERM RENTALS: Furnished Studio AND 2 Bedroom unfurnished, all appliances, renovated, for rent in Marathon. On the water, gated property. Section 8 possible. $1,500 - $2,500 month - includes water, sewer, electric & garbage. Call 305-610-8002
PLACE YOUR AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
STORAGE AVAIL.
Gated storage & dockage available in Marathon oceanside. Starting price $10/ foot per month for storage and $20/foot per month for dockage. 305-610-8002
WANTED TO BUY
SWORDFISH BILLS - Fresh or aged. Located in Key Largo. Call 303-990-0619
PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
TURN YOUR CARDS INTO CASH! Marathon collector buying any and all Pokemon cards & collections. Call 401-256-0645.
YARD SALES
PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
IS HIRING
RECEPTIONIST
Must be able to multitask in greeting guests, managing incoming calls, handling mail and providing administrative support.
Send resume to admin@cbtconstruction.com Or call 305-852-3002
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:
SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN
(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hr. - $51.94/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.
OW I RI NG!
Monroe County Sheriff’s Of ce is looking for a Maintenance Assistant. Job requires working in con ned setting of the Monroe County Detention Center. Working knowledge of methods, practices, materials, tools, installation equipment, repair of equipment and facility structure as well as various other systems. Knowledge of computers skills necessary. Close contact with inmates. Responsible for safety of employees and inmates. Quali cations Required: High School Diploma or equivalent; experience working with buf ng, stripping oors and painting. Salary $ 45,917.00. Applicants must ll out the online preliminary application at: www.keysso.net and submit resumes to cslebodnick@ keysso.net
APPLY IN PERSON AT: Bone sh Bay Motel & RV Sites 12565 Overseas Highway, Marathon or Email: bfb@bone shbayresort.com
ou to join their team!
RETAIL GIFT SHOP ASSOCIATE
Full-time. $19/hour to start.
EMAIL resume to: TurtleHospital@TurtleHospital.org
APPLY in person: 2396 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL
THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!
JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 53 YEARS!
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO
Behavioral Health Counselor (CAT) Peer Support Specialist
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Children)
Crisis Counselor
Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Prevention Specialist
Mental Health Technician (PT or FT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)
MARATHON
Mental Health Technician
Driver (CDL NOT required) (FT, PT)
Registered Nurse (FT, PT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult, PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT)
*Behavioral Health Technicians (FT, PT)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!
Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS
- Medical Assistant, Ortho-Tavernier, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, Upper Keys Internal Medicine, $5k Bonus
MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST
- Director Nursing Services, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus
- Patient Access Scheduler, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus
- Pool Radiation Therapist
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus
- Construction Project Manager, FL
- Exercise Assistant, Mariners Wellness Center, Per Diem
- Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem
- Food Service Worker, Dietary, $5k Bonus
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT Scan, $50k Bonus
- Mechanic, FT, 7A-3:30P
- Medical Staff Coordinator, Mariners Hospital, FT
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Echocardiography, Per Diem
D'Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available.
Home Décor
Sales Consultant
Customer-focused sales professional with experience in retail or customer service. Creativity and interest in home décor a must. Help customers discover pieces that turn everyday spaces into something special.
Kitchen Design Specialist
Individual who brings creativity, functionality, and style together in kitchen and bath design. Design kitchens that become the heart of the home.
Associate Interior Designer
Detail-oriented and creative individual to assist with residential design projects. Education or experience in Interior Design required. Help bring inspired residential interiors to life.
For complete details and to apply, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers
- Security Officer, Per Diem All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
*Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience. APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net
17. Occupied (2 words)
18. *1974 scandal
20. Flight-related announcements, acr.
21. Attempt again
22. Male aristocrat’s honorific 23. Town, in Spanish
26. Recitaion of wedding vows, again
30. Santa ____ winds
31. Apnea, in U.K.
34. Operatic solo
35. ____ ____ or do nothing
37. Finish line
38. *1976 Woody Guthrie biopic: “Bound for ____”
39. Field worker
40. Avian rest stop
42. What lintel and mantel have in common
43. Ring-shaped
45. *1979 Nobel Prize-winning nun
47. *Alfa Romeo Giulietta, e.g.
48. Italian bowling
50. Type of tournament
52. *#33 Down Oscar winner
56. Lie in wait
57. Place one’s stake
58. Skin woe
59. *”Roots” by Alex ____
60. House of Lords member
61. Chalupa alternative
62. Hoopla
63. “Right” coast time
64. *”The Barbara ____ Show”
DOWN
1. Deli side
2. *____ lamp, 1960s invention popular in 1970s
3. Newton, e.g.
4. Echo
5. “Pomp and Circumstance” composer
6. ____ Tooty Fresh ‘n Fruity
7. Cathedral part
8. *1976 Summer Olympics location
9. Caribbean color
10. Boot-wearing cat
11. *Johnny Nash’s “I Can ____ Clearly Now”
13. Spinning toy (2 words)
14. Make a logical connection (2 words)
19. 4 x 4 race
22. Dead one or Black one, e.g.
23. Ottoman Empire bigwig
24. Teamsters, e.g.
25. Consumed
26. *”Sanford and Son” star
27. “That’s all she ____”
28. Buenos follower
29. *Eric Clapton’s 1970 hit
32. Not ever, contraction
33. *1975 movie “____ Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”
36. *Kung Fu movie star (2 words)
38. Domenikos Theotokopoulos, a.k.a. El _____
40. Away’s partner
41. Old master print maker
44. Scrawny
46. Feel sympathy
48. Common hops
49. Eight performers
50. No problem
51. Cheap reads
52. Back of neck
53. a.k.a. horse mackerel 54. *Jacqueline Susann’s bestseller “____ Is Not Enough”
