The Castle
Breathe in serenity at this gated Gulf-front estate gracefully spanning 1.14 acres on Big Pine Key. Boaters will delight in an unparalleled offering of 235 ft of dockage total: 140 ft of protected canal-front dockage with a 15,000 lb lift, cut-in slip, boat ramp, plus a 95-ft open water pier-style dock with additional 15,000 lb lift and cut-in slip - set against a 130-ft concrete seawall for secure, convenient access. Crafted in 2014 with solid poured concrete, impact-rated windows and doors, whole home generator and elevator, the home is built for enduring elegance. With over 4,600 sq ft of refined interior space, this three bedroom, three bathroom estate is an architect's masterpiece with its stately presence, curved openings, and striking double staircase. s. The chef's kitchen is a dream for entertaining, featuring 10.5-ft island with seating for 8, dual sinks, refrigerators, and ovens, plus Jenn-Air 6-burner gas cooktop with pot filler, and rich wood cabinetry. Enjoy the grand family room with Gulf views, host movie nights in the private theater, or dine al-fresco under the stars. The top-floor primary suite is a sanctuary, offering sweeping water views, home office, private lounge with kitchenette, spa-like bath with clawfoot tub, tiled shower and generous walk-in closet with additional laundry. Outside, the resort-style pool beckons with a spa, water features, LED lighting, plus heater and chiller. Rooftop deck with 180-degree views, and unrivaled sunsets await.
12420 Overseas Highway | Marathon 305.735.4095 | oceansir.com
9709 Overseas Hwy.
Marathon, FL 33050
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Members of
The U.S. Coast Guard achieved a milestone on Aug. 25, offloading 76,140 pounds of illicit narcotics — valued at $473 million — at Port Everglades. It’s the largest quantity of drugs offloaded in Coast Guard history. The result of 19 interdictions in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean, this prevented the flow of 23 million potential lethal doses from reaching the United States.
A brand-new Trauma Star helicopter lands at the Marathon Airport on Aug. 26. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and Monroe County Fire Rescue took delivery of two of three new helicopters this week.
ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
Residents of Marathon’s Trailerama mobile home park are promised community upgrades, repaved roads, trailer painting and improved facilities following a $17.5 million sale of the property. Changes in rent for one of Marathon’s lowest-price housing developments, however, have yet to be disclosed.
ALEX RICKERT/Keys
Weekly
money order rent payment.
One outstanding item yet to be addressed: rent increases, which both tenants and Johnson acknowledged were coming soon.
TRAILERAMA
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
New ownership is promising upgrades, resident services and a facelift following the sale of “Trailerama,” one of Marathon’s largest mobile home parks, earlier this month – but what will happen to rents inside the park remains to be seen.
A press release announced the $17.5 million deal for the 7.23-acre park, now owned by EPH Trailerama LLC. The corporation is backed by Arkansas-based commercial real estate firm Moses Tucker Partners and real estate investment firm Equity Partnership Holdings.
A photo included in EPH’s press release mistakenly showed an aerial view of the neighboring Galway Bay community, which was not part of the Trailerama sale and is separately owned.
“This asset checks every box: irreplaceable location and significant
room for rent growth in one of the country’s most sought-after markets,” said Nick Forss, principal at Equity Partnership Holdings, in the release, noting the park’s combination of marina facilities and commercial frontage on U.S. 1, including space now occupied by La Niña Restaurant. “We’re proud to continue strengthening our joint portfolio with Chris Moses in premium, high-growth markets like the Florida Keys.”
Management of the property will be handled by national firm Sanddollar Communities Management under founder Jimmy Johnson, who spoke to the Weekly by phone on Aug. 26.
“We’re keeping it a mobile home park, but we’re going to be making a lot of improvements,” said Johnson. “We’re going to be redoing the roads there, installing areas for picnics and grilling for the families, bringing in Dumpsters and doing a big community cleanup. … I think everybody was scared of a redevelopment and losing their homes, but they’re happy to see there’s going to be improvements coming.”
Notices given to residents in doorto-door visits and later obtained by the Weekly outline upcoming improvements to the park, including replacing mailboxes, adding plumbing and electric utilities to marina slips, a Christmas party, entrance beautification and free repainting of trailer exteriors, as well as the updates mentioned by Johnson. A new mandatory online payment system will replace cash, check and
The Trailerama development has for years served as one of the last holdouts for affordably-priced family housing in Marathon, with dozens of children boarding school buses from the property each morning.
Tenants who spoke to the Weekly agreed with Johnson’s assessment that rents for individual units in the park were “all over the board.” Today, one source said, a sample three-bedroom trailer was still renting for $1,300 per month before the sale. Unconfirmed reports from residents said tenants were instructed to take down additions or enclosures added to existing trailers, and a meeting scheduled to occur in the next few weeks is expected to address rent increases.
Johnson told the Weekly that EPH Trailerama’s plan was to “keep it affordable, but obviously we’ve got bills to pay and a mortgage to pay.” The Weekly questioned further as to what new rental rates may look like in light of Forss’ reference to “significant room for rental growth.”
“It’s still being hammered out, and I think it will still be the cheapest in Marathon. … There are a lot of homes in there that have a lot of people in them,” Johnson said. “I know the seller had worked hard to make sure that he sold it to somebody who was going to keep it a park. … Probably 99 out of 100 other buyers, I think they’re going to go in there and scrape the place, and that’s not what we’re here to do.”
EPH’s press release called Marathon “one of the fastest-growing submarkets in the Keys,” citing “stability and long-term growth potential” for a property that provides “exceptional visibility, long-term value potential and an ability to meet critical housing and community needs.”
NEW RIDES SAVE LIVES
Two of three Trauma Star helicopters arrive in the Keys
Monroe County Fire Rescue (MCFR) and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) took delivery of the first and second of three new Trauma Star air ambulances at the Marathon hangar on Aug. 25 and 26. The Trauma Star program is a partnership between the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners and MCSO. Trauma Star provides flights to mainland hospitals for critical patients in need of specialized care.
On average, Trauma Star provides nearly 1,400 flights annually, with three to four flights per day. According to Sheriff Rick Ramsay, Trauma Star is one of the five busiest air ambulance programs in the United States. The three new Leonardo AW139 twin-engine helicopters will replace the three helicopters in the fleet that are more than 20 years old and are no longer in production, making it difficult to find parts when needed.
“This state-of-the-art aircraft will serve as the flagship of our life-saving fleet and represents our continued commitment to safety, rapid medical care and protecting lives,” said MCFR Chief R.L. Colina.
The new helicopter’s range also enables emergency rescues in the Dry Tortugas, allowing
Top: Monroe County Fire Rescue, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Colonel Chad Scibilia and the MCSO aviation department, along with the Trauma Star flight crew, were in attendance at the arrival. MARY MOELLER/Monroe County Fire Rescue
Above left: Tail numbers ending in -911RR, -911FK, -911LK pay tribute to former Sheriff Rick Roth, who was instrumental in starting the Trauma Star program, as well as the first responders of the Florida Keys and Lower Keys. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly.
Above right: Monroe County Fire Rescue personnel get an up-close look at the interior of the new Trauma Star Leonardo AW139 helicopter. MARY MOELLER/Monroe County Fire Rescue
flights to Miami’s critical care centers without needing to refuel en route. Additionally, the capacity allows for two adult patients to be flown in one helicopter at a time, which cannot be achieved with the current aircraft.
The funding for the $52 million purchase comes from the infrastructure penny sales tax, approved by a referendum. The infrastructure sales tax is paid by Monroe County residents and visitors when buying items, not through property taxes.
The second and third helicopters are expected to arrive in the coming weeks. The pilots and crew are continuing training, and the new helicopters are expected to be in service starting in October.
KEY COLONY COMMISSION SETTLES ON CITY HALL DESIGN
Estimated $3.9M project goes out to bid next month
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Anew city hall design in Key Colony Beach is ready for contractors’ bids, following two meetings and approval by the city commission last week.
A special session on Aug. 18 reviewed and unanimously approved the complete design plans presented by architect Brandan DeCaro from architectural firm CPH, which has handled the new-look renovation and addition to Key Colony’s existing city hall. The construction cost estimates were later unanimously approved in the commission’s regular session on Aug. 21.
The project, totaling 12,400 square feet, will see hardening of the existing building’s Marble Hall and post office, along with a two-story 4,200-squarefoot addition to the hall’s south end. The rebuild includes a new fitness center, offices and lobby with an ADA entrance, roofing, landscaping and a new patio as well as installation of a new generator for the hall. The hall parking lot will be raised and restriped with additional drainage.
Renovation and addition to the building’s first floor will include administrative offices, conference areas, storage, restrooms and a fitness center, as well as the new two-story lobby. The second floor will house Key Colony’s building and police departments and will be useable as an emergency operations center during storms.
The project is scheduled to go out to bid in early September, with bids due Oct. 13. With a contractor selected in late October or early November, DeCaro told the commission, the project’s target date of substantial completion would be the end of July 2026, with city staff able to occupy the building by that September.
CPH estimates construction costs at $3.9 million, including a 10% contingency for unforeseen changes and costs. Cost estimates for the new addition averaged roughly $425 per square foot, with renovations totaling $150 per square foot, but DeCaro openly acknowledged an uncertain bid environment with tariffs affecting supply costs.
“These are estimates, so no one should run off to the bank with this,” said Vice Mayor Doug Colonell.
The bill will be partially defrayed by a $2.2 million storm hardening grant already awarded to the city by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. That grant, however, has a deadline of June 30, 2026, not July.
“The project doesn’t have to be completed by June 30, but that would be the last date that you can use to bill the grant agency,” DeCaro said. “But since substantial completion is very shortly after this, the contractor should be about 80% done, which is far more than the grant would reimburse you for.”
In other news:
• The commission formally recognized Police Chief Kris DiGiovanni for 20 years of service to Key Colony Beach. The commission called him “an example of accessibility and dedication (whose) contributions to the safety, stability and spirit of Key Colony Beach are immeasurable.”
• DiGiovanni reported on the success of monthly Hot Dogs in the Park events, provided as free cookouts in Sunset Park for residents to meet and interact with members of the police department. Donations from local businesses provide food and drink for each event.
• The Key Colony Beach Community Association presented the commission with a $5,000 donation, used to replace appliances during the upcoming City Hall remodel.
For more coverage of the Aug. 21 meeting of the Key Colony Beach City Commission, see keysweekly.com.
A rendering based on final plans gives residents a glimpse at the renovated and expanded Key Colony Beach City Hall. With designs approved, the project is scheduled to go out to bid in September. CPH/Contributed
SEVERAL NOTABLE KEYS OFFICIALS FORM CONSERVATIVE PAC
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Acommunity of Florida Keys officials and residents are banding together behind their conservative ideals.
In March, paperwork for the Keys Common Sense Conservatives political action committee (PAC) was filed with the Florida Division of Elections. The new group is chaired by Jill Cranney-Black, an elected member of the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District. Larry Zettwoch, Islamorada resident and retired Air Force colonel, serves as vice chair for the PAC.
Zettwoch said the PAC is made up of like-minded conservatives dedicated to promoting commonsense principles.
“We are not over the top. We’re moderate conservatives and we welcome everybody into the group if they have conservative views,” Zettwoch said.
An announcement posted to the group’s Facebook page states it will identify, encourage and support candidates who share their commitment to advance conservative values.
“Through open dialogue, grassroots action and local involvement, we aim to make a positive impact in our community and country,” the post states.
Monroe County Clerk of the Court & Comptroller Kevin Madok serves as the PAC’s treasurer. The secretary is attorney Nick Mulick. He was appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in June to serve on the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority. Mulick also serves as legal counsel for the Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District.
Among the founding members are several elected officials in the Florida Keys. They include Monroe County State Attorney Dennis Ward, school board member John Dick and county commissioners Holly Raschein and Michelle Lincoln.
Kate DeLoach, Kathy Ovide, Mirna Hormachea and Sue Harrison are the other founding members.
So far, the PAC has received
$2,000 in contributions ahead of a 2026 election season that will see several key offices up for grabs.
In July, the group held a “Fight! Fight! Fight!” rally to mark the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump’s survival from an assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania.
LEADERSHIP MONROE COUNTY ANNOUNCES CLASS XXXIII
Community standouts enter eight-month program
Leadership Monroe County (LMC), the Florida Keys’ educational nonprofit community leadership organization, has announced the launch of its 33rd year of programming with the selection of Class XXXIII.
Designed for residents in leadership roles across the private and public sectors, government and community organizations, the LMC program spans eight months, from October 2025 to May 2026. Through a series of intensive single- and multi-day sessions held throughout Monroe County, participants explore key sectors affecting the region — including tourism, the environment, education, government, healthcare, the military, judiciary, law enforcement, the arts and media.
Sessions begin Oct. 3 and 4 in Key West and will continue monthly across the Keys. Each session is led by subject matter experts, policy makers and regional leaders, offering participants deep insights, dialogue on current challenges and unique networking opportunities.
Founded in 1992, LMC is a non-partisan, independent non-profit committed to building a network of informed, collaborative leaders to help guide the Keys toward a stronger future.
More information is at leadershipmonroecounty.org or via email to mshields@leadershipmonroecounty.org
— Contributed
Class XXXIII members are:
• Peter Amendola, director of engineering, Florida Keys Electric Co-Op
• David Burke, acting superintendent, NOAA/FKNMS
• Maureen Dunleavy, regional senior vice president, Guidance/ Care Center
• Fritzie Estimond, associate director, Key West Business Guild
• Kathleen Filiaggi, physician, Baptist Health-Mariners/Fishermen’s Hospitals
• Scott Goss, executive director, Habitat of Humanity, Upper Keys
• Tammy Harrow, tobacco prevention manager, Monroe County Dept. of Health
• Jeanne Quinn, senior vice president, Visit Florida Keys
• Houston Hoyle, United States Coast Guard Chief, Key West Sector
• Melissa Johnson, director, property & evidence, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
• Megan Jones, councilwoman, City of Layton
• Jordan Mannix-Lachner, executive director, Keys Last Stand
• Angela McChesney, broker associate, Realtor
• Michelle Nevel, development director, AHEC
• Tiffany Pellicier, vice president, United Way of Collier and the Keys
• Anna Reckwerdt, president, Robbie’s Marina
• Anna Richards, councilwoman, Islamorada
• Colin Thompson, commanding officer, NAS Key West
• Lynny Thompson, councilwoman, City of Marathon
• Melody Tuschel, recycling director, Monroe County
• Scott Williamson, director, Parks & Recreation, City of Marathon
• Trevor Wirth, captain & inspector general, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
2025–2026 LMC officers include:
• President: George Garrett
• Vice president: Cheryl Sullivan
• Secretary: Kathy McKinney
• Treasurer: Bruce Halle
• Program coordinator: Michael Shields
Jill Cranney-Black
Nick Mulick
Kevin Madok
Larry Zettwoch
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ADJUST
RENTS FOR APARTMENTS AT SOUTHCLIFF ESTATES IN KEY LARGO
Housing for tourism workers still awaits interested applicants
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Florida Keys tourism workers seeking to apply for an apartment unit at the new Southcliff Estates in Key Largo would now pay monthly rent that’s equivalent to a percentage of their annual gross income.
As a result, the same-sized units located at MM 95, oceanside, would go for different prices based on how much a worker makes.
It’s a change from what Monroe County previously outlined when applications for the new one-bedroom, onebathroom units in Key Largo opened several weeks ago. At that time, monthly rents were set by the county at 120% area median income (AMI). With water, sewer and garbage pickup included, the new units were originally going for $2,995 a month. Tenants would pay the electric bill.
Per new direction by county commissioners on Aug. 20, the county will alter the rent rate structure for the units in hopes of aiding a group needing a place to live. Discussion brought forth by commissioner Holly Raschein over the rent prices at Southcliff Estates during the meeting in Key West ended with commissioners agreeing to set the new units at 30% of an applicant’s gross annual income.
For a worker in the tourism industry to be eligible for a unit, he or she must make a minimum annual income of $71,880. As for the monthly rent, the person would pay $1,797 a month. A single worker making $80,000 would pay $2,000 a month with the new 30% formula.
For two people who aren’t married, their gross income together must be at least $125,040 a year. Their monthly rent would equate to $3,042 a month. And for a married couple, they must make a minimum $166,720 a year. They would pay $3,042 a month in rent.
A decision by commissioners came after County Administrator Christine Hurley said the federal government established a standard that a household should pay no more than 30% of its monthly income on housing. That’s the guidance from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development when it comes to “affordable housing.” This policy is implemented in various housing programs to ensure households can
afford other necessities.
Like other areas in the U.S., the AMI for Monroe County is set by HUD. From there, Monroe County then updates its affordable housing qualifications table with income categories by household size and the corresponding rent rates based on AMI and number of bedrooms.
Certain affordable housing developments could come with requirements, such as providing housing for those families who fall in the very low, 50% AMI, or low income, 80% AMI categories.
As for the Southcliff apartments, the county paid $7.5 million for the project using some of the $35 million in excess bed tax funds from the post-COVID days. The state Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis approved the use of funds for affordable housing. Hurley said language within the approved state bill allows the units to be rented to tourism employees who earn up to 120% AMI.
No workers in the tourism industry applied a week after the county opened it up, leading to the discussion and ensuing rent structure change based on income. Raschein said the county shouldn’t charge the maximum monthly rate, even though it could under the law.
“This is a situation that calls for adjustment,” she said.
Commissioner Michelle Lincoln said the change in rent structure based on income could allow someone who’s making less to embrace a promotion and pay increase without losing their place.
“I see it as a win-win,” she said.
Hurley said they elected to set a minimum gross income amount, which is $71,880, in order to break even on the project and “not go in the red on operations.” And before commission approval of the rent structure change, Hurley said it leads to a new dynamic of different monthly rents for those making different incomes.
As of Aug. 26, the county had received no applications for the apartment units at Southcliff Estates.
SALUTE AMERICA’S HEROES AT HAWKS CAY
17th annual celebration features 5K, truck showcase & all-day festivities
Hawks Cay Resort will hold its 17th annual Heroes Salute on Labor Day weekend, Aug. 29 to 31. The tradition continues the resort’s longstanding commitment to honoring the bravery and sacrifice of military personnel, fire rescue teams, law enforcement officers, and frontline healthcare workers.
Highlights of the Heroes Salute Weekend include a 5K run/walk, the popular Touch-a-Truck event sponsored by Firehouse Subs, poolside festivities with BBQ, and an evening tribute featuring live entertainment by the rock band Stormfront, capped with a fireworks display.
“At Hawks Cay, Heroes Salute is more than just an annual event; it's the heart of our resort’s mission,” said Elise Gertenbach, director of sales and marketing. “Each year, we strive to create an atmosphere of deep respect and genuine celebration for the courageous men and women who serve our communities and our country. It’s our privilege to host a weekend that not only honors their service but also creates lasting memories for families who join us from near and far.”
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Angler & Ale (Saturday, Aug. 30)
• 6:30 a.m.: 5K run/walk packet pickup
• 6:50 a.m.: national anthem
• 7 a.m.: 5K run/walk race start
(open to the public). Participants are encouraged to wear patriotic attire or department gear. Register by scanning the QR code.
• 8-10 a.m.: Touch-ATruck sponsored by Firehouse Subs (open to the public). Experience fire trucks, police vehicles and life-saving equipment up close.
Property-wide
• Noon to 6 p.m.: Poolside DJ and authentic American BBQ. Celebrate summer with food, cocktails and music.
• Noon to 6 p.m.: Resort-wide family activities. Detailed flyer available at Hawks Cay.
Saltwater lagoon
• 7:30 p.m.: Heroes Salute Tribute. A heartfelt ceremony featuring presentations from the Coast Guard, Wounded Warrior groups and local dignitaries. Guests can submit photos and stories of their heroes for inclusion. Submit a hero’s photo by scanning the QR code.
• 7:44 p.m.: National anthem performed by Kristen McNamara with USCG flyover.
• 8:15 p.m.: Live musical entertainment by Stormfront, playing crowd favorites from the ’60s to ’90s.
• 10 p.m.: Fireworks. A spectacular show over the Atlantic Ocean concludes the celebration.
Active and retired military, first responders and frontline healthcare workers receive 30% off the best available rate, with a reduced resort fee of just $25 per night. Valid identification is required at check-in.
A morning 5K kicks off a weekend of honoring military, fire rescue, law enforcement and frontline health care workers at Hawks Cay Resort. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO
The Food & Drink
Key Lime Pie: Publix, SS Wreck & Galley Grill, Sweet Savannah's of the Fl Keys
Cuban Sandwich: King Seafood Market & Restaurant, La Nina Restaurant, LJ's Café
Fish Sandwich: Brutus Land & Sea, Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Keys Fisheries
Fine Dining: Butterfly Café, Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House, Hideaway Café
International Food: Frank's Grill, La Chapina Restuarant , Takeria La Palapa
Breakfast: The Island Fish Co. Restaurant & Tiki Bar, The Stuffed Pig, Wooden Spoon
Lunch: Brutus Land & Sea, Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Irie Island Eats
BBQ: Irie Island Eats, Pop's BBQ, Porky's Bayside Restaurant and Marina
Cup of Co ee: Mr Bean's Books & Beans, Georgie's Coffee Shop, LJ’s Cafe
Bar: Marathon Grill and Ale House, Dockside Boot Key Harbor, Sparky's Landing Fish n Cocktails
Bartender: Andy Sharf, Cheddar, Rachel Bowman
Server: Brennan Bye @ Fl Keys Steak & Lobster, Jess @ Castaway Waterfront & Sushi Bar, Shawn @ Fish Tales
Happy Hour: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House, Sparky's Landing Fish n Cocktails
Waterfront Dining: Angler & Ale, The Island Fish Co. Restaurant & Tiki Bar, Lazy Days South
Live Music Venue: Dockside Boot Key Harbor, Havana Jacks, Sparky's Landing Fish n Cocktails
Pizza: Coast To Coast Pizza Company, Driftwood Pizza, Pasta, & Subs, Leopoldo La Verace
Bloody Mary: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, The Stuffed Pig, Sparky’s Landing Fish n Cocktails
Margarita: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Island Fish Company, Sparky's Landing Fish n Cocktails
Late Night Spot: Marathon Grill and Ale House, Brass Monkey, JJ's DogHouse
Dessert Spot: Conch Custard, Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Sweet Savannah's of the Florida Keys
Beer Selection: Bongo's Botanical Beer Garden and Cafe, Herbie's Bar & Chowder House, Marathon Grill and Ale House
Catering: Chef Heather, Clouds in my Coffee Catering/Private Chef/The Table, Irie Island Eats
Taco: Irie Island Eats, La Isla Taco Grill, Takeria La Palapa
Food Truck: Irie Island Eats, Leopoldo La Verace, Pop's BBQ, Takeria La Palapa
Steak: Barracuda Grill, Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House, Plaza Grill Restaurant
Seafood: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House, Keys Fisheries
Sushi: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House, Takara Japanese Restaurant
Conch Fritters: Cracked Conch Cafe, The Island Fish Co. Restaurant & Tiki Bar, Sparky's Landing Fish n Cocktails
Wings: Marathon Grill and Ale House, Driftwood Pizza, Pasta, & Subs, Sparky's Landing Fish n Cocktails
Burger: Burdines Waterfront, Herbie's Bar & Chowder House, Sparky's Landing Fish n Cocktails
Cook your own catch: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Lazy Days South
Overall Restaurant: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House, Sparky's Landing Fish n Cocktails
The Businesses
Resort/Hotel: Hawks Cay Resort, Isla Bella Beach Resort, Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort
Law Firm: Campbell & Malafy, Wolfe Stevens PLLC, Wright Barrows, PLLC
Gifts & Threads: Bayshore Clothing, DK's Beach Boutique, Marooned In Marathon
Fishing Guide: James Simcic, Marty Lewis, Nick Borraccino
Fishing Charter: Huntress, Main Attraction, Two Conchs
Dive Shop: Better Than Most SCUBA, Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center, Tilden's Scuba Center
Bait & Tackle Shop: Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center, Marathon Bait & Tackle, The Tackle Box
Customer Service: Conch Custard, First State Bank, The Tackle Box
Medical Professional: John O'Connor, MD, Greg Keifer, DO, Shelly Bish, APRN
Health & Wellness Services: Cara O'Neill, Keys Cycle Studio, MEM Preventive Medical Services
Landscape Company: Alex Landscaping and Lawn Services, Dot Palm Landscaping, Supreme Landscaping
Auto Repair: Andy and Dave's Garage, Better Buy Muffler Brake and Tires, Island Tire
Car Wash/Detailing: Keys Car Wash, PD Paul Davis, Tyrone's Mobile Car Wash
Marine Repair: All Keys Yamaha, Reel Marine, Small Town Marine
Photographer: Natalie Danko, Sandra Lee Photography Studio, LLC, Yeni Matie Photography
Marina: The Boathouse Marina, Faro Blanco Marina, Skipjack Resort & Marina
Marine Detailing: Aquanuts, Cool Running, PD Paul Davis
Water Sports/Leisure Cruise: Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center, Marathon Mermaid, SOLE Watersports
Veterinarian: Dr. Andre, Dr. Dunn, Dr. Corbet
Pet Service: Paws in Paradise, Peyton's Promise, Sailor's Dog Spa
Realtor: Nate Bartlett, Sam Williams, Teri Hiller
Real Estate O ce: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Coldwell Banker Schmitt, Ocean Sotheby’s International Bank: Centennial Bank, First State Bank, Keys Federal Credit Union
Vacation Rental Company: American Coastal Vacation Rentals, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Vacation Rentals, Florida Keys Vacation Rentals Inc.
General Contractor: D'Asign Source, Keys All Area Roofing & Construction, Keys Contracting Services
Specialty Contractor: Ernest E Rhodes Plumbing, Kelly Electric, Paver Dave
Pool Service: Capt Brian's Hot Tub & Spa Store, Keys Pools, Spotless Pool Cleaning
Salon: Marathon Nail Spa, Salon Blanco, Sea Level Spa and Salon
Day Care: Community Co-Op Preschool, Grace Jones, Kreative Kids
Family Owned Business: Bayshore Clothing, Conch Custard, Royal Furniture
New Business: Keys Cycle Studio, Rafa Management Group LLC, Tropical Epoxy Vibe and Flow Studio
Business: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Real Estate, Keys All Area Roofing & Construction, Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Co.
Final Voting
Begins Aug. 21 noon to Sept. 7 midnight
Winners & Awards to be presented Saturday, Sept. 20
Place to Take the Kids: Turtle Hospital, Dolphin Research Center, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters
Local Event/Festival: Best of Marathon, Florida Keys Celtic Festival, Marathon Seafood Festival
Bathroom: The Island Fish Co. Restaurant & Tiki Bar, Monroe County Public Library Marathon Branch
The Quay on Overseas Highway
Sunset: Keys Fisheries, Old Seven Mile Bridge, Sunset Grille & Raw Bar
Place to Have a Wedding: Faro Blanco Resort, Hawks Cay Resort, Isla Bella Beach Resort
Elected O cial: Michelle Lincoln, Rick Ramsay, Robyn Still
Tourist Attraction: Dolphin Research Center, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, Turtle Hospital
Local Celebrity: Chef Heather, Justice Lee Isom, Mike Puto
Volunteer: Justice Lee Isom, Megan Hughes, Mike Puto
Non-Pro t Organization: Crane Point Hammock, Dolphin Research Center, FKSPCA
Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys
Place to Take a Date: Butterfly Café, Hideaway Café, Marathon Community Theatre, Inc.
Band/Musician: 79th Street Band, Freddie Bye, The King Tides
Place to Take a Sel e: Dolphin Research Center, Old Seven Mile Bridge, Pigeon Key, Sombrero Beach
Summer Camp: City of Marathon, Dolphin Research Center, Pigeon Key
Sports Coach: Joey Gonzalez, Justin Hare, Michelle Macoskey
Educator: Mac Childress, Mary Coleman, Nicole Strama
Thespian/Performing Artist: Dion Watson, Ella Dunn, John Schaefer
Celebrity Pet: Rita, Wazzy, Zeke
Presented by
Sponsored by:
SCHOOL BOARD HEARS UPDATE ON ATHLETIC FIELD PROJECTS
Lease approved for affordable housing in Key West
FRANK DERFLER
www.keysweekly.com
Several key athletic field projects, and one housing complex in Key West, took a step forward during a recent Monroe County School Board meeting at Coral Shores High School.
Patrick Lefere, school district executive director of operations, updated the board on the Rex Weech field project in Key West. The upgrade to the field’s facilities won’t exceed $4,992,577. The design process is complete, construction starts next month and completion is expected in May 2026.
Rex Weech, home to the Key West High School baseball team, will host a college baseball matchup between Florida International University and University of Central Florida in a night game on Oct. 11
Lefere also briefed the board on the baseball field upgrades proposed at Founders Park in Islamorada. This project is still in the design phase with an estimated cost of $6.1 million. The board saw new renderings of the design concept. Board member Sue Woltanski commented that the plans need to include Coral Shores baseball signs and logos.
Board chair Mindy Conn questioned the size of the proposed multipurpose building. Lefere said the building, of about 2,000 square feet, will include locker rooms, space for the umpires and restrooms. Conn stressed the need for strong documentation describing the agreement between the school district and Islamorada.
Lefere responded that there was excellent cooperation in the planning process with the village. He expects to have a design development plan for the October board meeting and construction documents in February.
Despite the vigorous public comment on the baseball field project during a village meeting on Aug. 18, there was no public comment on the project at the school board meeting. The school board is fully funding the project.
In other matters, the board voted to formalize the lease for the Trumbo affordable workforce housing complex with TVC
A renovation at Key West’s Rex Weech field includes a new concession area with restrooms, a new entrance to the complex and a raised plaza area.
The plan also includes a weight training area and a baseball museum. CONTRIBUTED
Development, intended for school district employees. Board member Yvette MiraTalbott asked the legal staff to ensure that sufficient homes would be available for new employees each year. The agreement states that a minimum of 10% of the units, 15 units, would be available for new renters each year.
Vice chair Darren Horan emphasized that this development is not meant to be permanent housing, but a way for employees to get quickly established. The rents for the units vary depending on the income of the employee, but can be as low as $1,200 a month or more than $2,000 a month for a one-bedroom unit. Woltanski said the district has no flexibility in the rental cost formula.
New Superintendent Ed Tierney praised the school bus drivers, cafeteria staff, principals, staff and teachers for what he called a “flawless” first day of school.
After Tierney’s comments, the board
opened public comments to Lisa Mongelia, executive director of the History of Diving Museum. She presented a report on what the museum does in cooperation with schools in the district. The Museum in Motion program provides interactive and hands-on educational experiences about diving, exploration and marine life in county schools. The museum staff coordinates school visits with particular curriculum modules. The school board members expressed their appreciation for the program.
State Rep. Jim Mooney addressed the board along with the district’s lobbyist, Kate DeLoach, to discuss state funding for education. DeLoach said that about $38 billion, or 33%, of the state’s annual expenditure goes to education.
Mooney and DeLoach both emphasized the hostile budget environment in Tallahassee. DeLoach said state money for advanced placement curriculum programs looked like it would be blocked, but it was released some time near the end of the 105-day legislative session.
“We don’t ask for anything we don’t need,” Mooney said. He did get $3.5 million into the budget for the Trumbo housing. DeLoach and Mooney both emphasized that the next legislative session is coming quickly. Some committee meetings start in early October and requests for appropriations in the 2026 session are due by Nov. 21 of this year.
Mooney said three Coral Shores High School graduates are serving in the Florida House. Mooney is joined in the House by Bill Conerly from district 72 in an area east of Sarasota and Richard Gentry representing district 27 north of Orlando.
A drawing depicting upgrades to the Founders Park ballfield. CONTRIBUTED
THURSDAY,
SATURDAY, AUG
GLEN HARMAN BAND 8PM
SUNDAY, AUG
TONY
RED
2-year-old female chihuahua mix.
Looking for: A gentle, loving family with other dogs to have as friends.
Turnoffs: I’m not sure yet – I’m still learning.
SWIPE RIGHT
Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA
Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption “match” at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus – complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800 or visit 10550 Aviation Blvd.
Hurricane fosters needed. With hurricane season upon us, the SPCA needs volunteers and fosters in case of a storm. Over 100 animals would need to be evacuated, so it is crucial they all have homes in place before an impending storm. The
OPAL
2.5-month-old female kitten.
Looking for: I would love a home with another cat to be my friend.
Turnoffs: Nothing. I’m a happy-go-lucky kitten.
COOKIE
6-month-old female ferret.
Looking for: An experienced ferret owner to come adopt me.
Turnoffs: Nothing. I’m a wild, silly, funny girl.
SPCA provides everything you need; all you do is give an animal a safe haven during the storm and return them to the shelter once it’s safe – that is, if you don’t fall in love. More information is at fkspca.org/volunteer/becomea-foster-volunteer/ or 305-743-4800.
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COMMUNITY URGED TO TAKE ACTION REGARDING PROPOSED CUTS TO HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES FUNDING
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “Rushmore” (1998) Why: This is Wes Anderson’s second film and the one that brought him widespread attention. That’s probably because it stars Bill Murray, along with a young Jason Schwartzman and a luminous Olivia Williams. And it sets the template for so many Anderson films that followed: beautiful sets, eccentric and brilliant characters, the play-withinthe-play, the extended working out of father-son relationships — it’s all there. Schwartzman is Max Fischer, a scholarship student at a private school where he is determined to out-prep the prepsters. He forms an odd friendship with the rich dad (Murray) of one of his classmates and a passionate crush on one of the teachers (Williams). It’s highly stylized and unrealistic on almost every level — except the emotional strength of love and ambition during adolescence. In that, it’s 100% authentic.
Where: This film is available as a DVD.
How: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/ keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? keyslibraries.org/contactus.
Recommended by: Nancy Klingener, community affairs manager.
See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/post/reel-recs.
In July, Monroe County’s Human Services Advisory Board (HSAB) learned that the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) was poised to implement a 50% cut to HSAB funding. This funding represents essential support to more than two dozen local nonprofit agencies that deliver vital services throughout the Keys, including children’s dentistry, women’s health, prenatal care, chronic disease management, food pantries, child protective services, abuse and homeless shelters, and services for families in crisis, veterans, seniors and people with developmental disabilities.
At a recent BOCC meeting, commissioner David Rice proposed a smaller cut of 25%, but the motion was not seconded. The issue will return for a vote at the meeting scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Harvey Government Center in Key West.
HSAB-Funded Essential Services, a coalition of numerous Monroe County nonprofit agencies, is now urging the public to contact the BOCC and advocate on behalf of HSAB funding, with a reduction of no more than Rice’s proposed 25% cut, stressing that nonprofits should not be considered supplemental to Monroe County’s public health system, but recognized as integral to it.
“A 50% cut would mean the collapse of many of these vital nonprofits,” said Billy Davis, founder and executive director of A Positive Step of Monroe County, a nonprofit that has served at-risk youth and families since 1999. “Most agencies could adapt to a 25% cut, but 50% is unsustainable.”
According to coalition materials, the originally-proposed 50% reduction
would result in significant dismantling of social services, layoffs and the loss of over $2 million in matching state and federal funds. Without these services, the county faces higher longterm costs in emergency care, homelessness and preventable crises.
The coalition underscores that during emergencies such as hurricanes and the COVID pandemic, nonprofits have been among the first to take action and the last to leave, coordinating food, shelter, mental health support and medical care for residents, often in partnership with city and county agencies. Without them, Monroe County’s disaster readiness and response capacity would be severely weakened.
The coalition also emphasizes that in geographically-isolated and resource-limited areas like the Florida Keys, nonprofits and their services cannot be easily replaced by government systems, as local nonprofits fill critical gaps in care by leveraging federal and state dollars, private grants, philanthropic contributions and volunteer support. They often match or multiply local taxpayer investments, making them one of the most cost-effective tools for addressing public health and safety.
Organizations supported by HSAB funding play a crucial role in Monroe County’s health care infrastructure, especially for low- and moderate-income families, the uninsured and Medicaid recipients.
Some of the nonprofits whose programs are supported by HSAB funding include A.H. of Monroe, Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition, Rural Health Network of Monroe County, Womankind, Domestic Abuse Shelter Florida
Leah Stockton, director of development and engagement for AH Monroe County, and Billy Davis, founder and executive director of A Positive Step of Monroe County, walk through an area of Poinciana Plaza apartments in Key West. AH Monroe and APSMC recently partnered to facilitate housing solutions at Poinciana Plaza on behalf of APSMC Southernmost Fatherhood Initiative program participants, an example of HSAB-funded nonprofits collaborating in order to strengthen their collective impact in the community. CAROL TEDESCO/Contributed
Keys, Florida Keys Children’s Shelter, Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens, Samuel’s House, Star of the Sea Foundation, Wesley House Family Services, Literacy Volunteers and Special Olympics of Florida.
One HSAB-funded nonprofit, the Florida Keys Area Health Education Centers (Keys AHEC), reported that in the 2024-2025 school year, it provided more than 10,000 visits and 45,000 medical and dental services to area children.
Residents are urged to voice their concerns and advocate for the preservation of HSAB funding by contacting their district commissioners and county administrators. A sample email letter and direct action link are available by scanning the QR code:
Or, email your district representatives: District 1: Craig Cates – boccdis1@ monroecounty-fl.gov
District 2: Michelle Lincoln –boccdis2@monroecounty-fl.gov
District 3: Jim Scholl – boccdis3@ monroecounty-fl.gov
District 4: David Rice – boccdis4@ monroecounty-fl.gov
District 5: Holly Merrill Raschein –boccdis5@monroecounty-fl.gov
County Administrator: Christine Hurley – Hurley-Christine@monroecounty-fl.gov
Assistant Administrator: Tina Boan – boan-tina@monroecounty-fl.gov
Sincerely,
The HSAB-Funded Essential Services of Monroe County
WILLIAMS ELECTED AS MIAMI SAG-AFTRA PRESIDENT
32-year union member says she’s focused on Florida production, health insurance for
retirees
alex@keysweekly.com
For the next two years, Marathon actress Kelly Vaughn Williams will be on the front lines of negotiations for Florida actors’ rights.
On Aug. 15, Screen Actors GuildAmerican Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) announced that Williams was elected as its Miami Local president, effective Sept. 12.
Created by a 2012 merger between the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, the national union negotiates contracts, working conditions and protections for more than 160,000 actors, broadcast journalists, recording artists and other media professionals. Williams will now serve more than 3,000 members in her region, composed of Florida, Puerto Rico and Alabama.
“I’ve been a proud member of this guild for over 32 years, and it truly feels like family,” she wrote in a social media post announcing the election. “I promise to work hard, listen, and do my very best for all of us.”
Williams’ career in acting and production spans dozens of movies and TV shows, from four years on “Baywatch” to “Batman Forever” and stints on “The Office,” “Friends,” “Las Vegas” and “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody,” among many others.
“If there was a TV show in the ’90s, I probably worked on it,” she said. “I’ve stood in, I’ve worked production, I’ve been an extra.”
As president, she said her priorities are to advocate for better health insurance protections for retired union members as well as explore avenues to bring film production back to Florida, which was once a top-three film production state in the country before removing its production tax incentives in 2016.
“You have to think of production as a free commercial for your state,” she said. “When ‘Bloodline’ filmed in Islamorada, it brought so much tourism to the Florida Keys. But when they filmed the ‘Road House’ (remake), they shot it in the Dominican Republic. My main focus is really trying to bring production back to the state – that’s one of the things I would really love to see happen.”
SARAH BRUNO Florida Department of Environmental Protection
How long have you been in the Keys and what brought you here? I’ve been in the Keys 42 years. The hotel business brought my family here.
What’s a project that you’ve worked on that you are most proud of? I recently completed a conservation project preserving fishing spears from the Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea.
What adjectives would your closest friends use to describe you? Creative, compassionate and optimistic.
I’ve been a proud member of this guild for over 32 years, and it truly feels like family. I promise to work hard, listen, and do my very best for all of us.”
JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com
No matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to present our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue.
Our neighbor of the week is Sarah Bruno, a volunteer at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. When she is not volunteering, she is a wildlife photographer.
If you could have one superpower, what would you choose and why? Invisibility would be my superpower of choice. It would certainly make taking photographs of wildlife much easier.
If you could come up with a new holiday to give people the day off, what would the day be called and why? Nature Photography Day, because reconnecting with nature restores humanity.
What was a really significant moment in your life that had a huge impact? Being introduced to the Everglades. This part of the country is so beautiful and there are so many diverse species to photograph.
If you could have a wild animal for a pet, which animal would you choose and why? A falcon. Falconry requires a deep connection with nature.
If you were a flower, which flower would represent you the best and why? A ghost orchid. They’re not easy to find, and they’re at home amongst the trees. A purple ghost orchid would be amazing.
What is the coolest thing you have ever photographed? The purple gallinule. It’s a brightly colored marsh bird, known for its striking purple and green plumage, red bill with a yellow tip and bright yellow legs.
Know someone who would make a good “Neighbor of the Week?” Email keysweeklyjen@gmail.com.
Kelly Williams. CONTRIBUTED
ALEX RICKERT
READY TO BUILD!
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Cleared canal-front lot in Sugarloaf Shores with building permit in place and first inspection not due until December 2026! Positioned on the desirable no-bridge side, this expansive 27,716 sq. ft. residential parcel is surrounded by multi-million-dollar homes and o ers easy access to the open water where days are enjoyed paddling and kayaking through mangroveline creeks or heading out to world-class fishing and diving just minutes away.
The cleared and filled lot is prepared for immediate construction and includes plans for a 2,790 sq. ft. concrete home, which can be changed, and engineered dock drawings.
Enjoy 15-minute proximity to the dining, culture, and excitement of Key West, while embracing the peace and natural beauty of the Lower Keys. Whether you're building your forever home or a seasonal escape, this lot presents a rare opportunity to own prime canal-front property in one of the Lower Keys' most desirable neighborhoods. No waiting for ROGO — permit is active and ready
96 SUNRISE DRIVE MARATHON | $2,200,000
Build your dream oceanfront home in the prestigious gated community of Sunrise Isle, a coastal island of just 20 properties located next to beautiful Sombrero Beach in the heart of Marathon.
Build anytime you like as the property comes with a deeded City of Marathon Transferrable Building Right subject to the conditions of the City of Marathon. Generous 33,1221sq. ft. ocean and canal front lot (a rare find in the Keys) boasts approximately 86 ft. beach frontage and approximately 98 ft. deep water canal frontage.
A new concrete seawall o ers superb boating access to both the Ocean and Gulf for world-class fishing and diving. Fly into Marathon's Jet Center just minutes away and once home walk to beautiful Sombrero Beach or enjoy golf, dining and shopping just seconds away. Don't miss this opportunity to build your custom waterfront home in the Fabulous Florida Keys. Can be purchased with the adjacent point lot giving you the whole end of the peninsula for a total of 1.7 Acres with 190' of beachfront and 565' of dockage.
MARATHON GARDEN CLUB HOSTS POLLINATOR CENSUS COUNT
Community science project documents insect activities
n Aug. 22, UF/IFAS Extension facilitated the Southeast Pollinator Census Count in Key Largo, Marathon and Key West. The annual event is a community science project created by the University of Georgia that rallies people in the southeast region of the U.S. to document pollinator activity.
Florida joined the count last year, making 2025 the second year the state participated. The census is designed to inspire people to create sustainable pollinator habitats at home and in the community.
Master gardener volunteer Barbara Martinkosky presented the program at the Marathon Garden Club. Prior to performing the count, students learned how to identify and differentiate species of bees, moths, butterflies and more, as well as how to correctly perform and document their counts.
Students headed to the gardens at the Garden Club and at St. Columba Episcopal Church to count pollinators
Seminar participants record moth counts. CONTRIBUTED
on their chosen plant in a 15-minute time frame. The counts were submitted to the University of Georgia. The census generates data on local pollinator populations, which allows scientists to pinpoint trends relevant to leaders, educators and gardeners.
More information is at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences at sfyl.ifas.ufl. edu/monroe. More about the count is at gsepc.org. Follow the Marathon Garden Club on Facebook for activities, membership, events and more.
– Contributed
Barbara Martinkosky teaches students about pollinators and species variations at the Marathon Garden Club. CONTRIBUTED
RETAIL
Key Vaca is the heart of Marathon, and Marathon bills itself as the heart of the Florida Keys.
As the highway crosses the island, its stories can be obscured by buildings and signs. As a history guy, long-time resident of the Keys, and bartender, when asked about Marathon, I have three go-to recommendations.
THE GREAT FLORIDA KEYS ROAD TRIP: KEY VACA
Hotel transforms into hospital for turtle recovery and release
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
The first is a beach. People ask about beaches all the time. Believe it or not, the Florida Keys are not known for their beaches. They are few, far between, and do not generally live up to visitors’ expectations. Beaches here rarely look like those envisioned when people talk about tropical (even sub-tropical) islands.
However, Marathon has Sombrero Beach. If you are traveling with children, this is the ideal spot to let them dig their toes in the sand and frolic in the water — especially for little snorkelers. Convenient park-
ing, picnic pavilions, volleyball courts, restrooms and showers make Sombrero Beach an ideal place to spread a towel over the sand, soak up some warm Florida sun and cool off in those soothing Atlantic waters.
The second thing I recommend is Coast to Coast. Over the past twoplus decades living in the Keys, I’ve had a lot of pizza — and a lot of it is pretty mediocre. One of my favorites, outside of Key West, is Coast to Coast. On most trips to Marathon, whether driving down to Home Depot or a meeting of the Monroe County Historic Preservation Commission, I come back to Sioux Street with a pizza from Coast to Coast.
The third thing I recommend is the Turtle Hospital. Back when tourism was a burgeoning industry in the Keys, it was the Hidden Harbor Motel. Built in 1951, Hidden Harbor was just another place to spend a night or two for fishermen and visitors in sleepy Marathon. It was still in operation in the 1980s. The swimming pool was added in 1982. Today, it represents one of the most unusual roadside attractions in the world.
The big change came when Richie Moretti retired from his auto body shop in Orlando, packed up his life and moved to the Keys. He made two big purchases: a fishing boat and the Hidden Harbor Motel. One of the things Moretti did was introduce local
sea life into the pool. It became an aquarium his guests could peer into, one with a sawfish, goliath grouper, snook, eels, lobster, starfish and queen conch.
It wasn’t long before visiting school children were seeing a conch or starfish for the first time. The really good trouble started when Moretti wanted to introduce a sea turtle to the pool. A turtle was not allowed. Keeping a sea turtle required a permit. Moretti applied for the permit but decided to go one step further. Because there were no turtle rehabilitation facilities in the Keys, Moretti recruited a local veterinarian and began applying to have Hidden Harbor become a certified turtle rehabilitation facility.
In 1986, he received a permit not just to house sea turtles, but to treat the injured ones.
Things have changed a bit since the Hidden Harbor Motel transformed into a must-stop experience. Did you know that when an olive ridley or Kemp’s ridley turtle sees a cigarette butt floating in the water, it thinks it’s a shrimp and gobbles it down? When a plastic bag undulates in the open water, it is often mistaken for a jellyfish by the leatherback turtle, the largest turtle in the world, and eaten. Plastic bags and cigarette butts are not digested and just sit in the stomach, taking up space.
Most of the turtles find their way to the Moretti’s Turtle Hospital for three primary reasons: boat impacts, a herpes-like virus called Fibropapillomatosis and the entanglement or ingestion of discarded monofilament and garbage like cigarette butts and plastic bags that leaves them in a compromised state.
Today, the Hidden Harbor Marine Environmental Project is a nonprofit with a mission not only to educate the public but also to rehabilitate and release injured and sick turtles back into the open water. It was the first state-certified veterinary hospital for sea turtles in the world and one of the most worthwhile stops residents and visitors alike can make. After touring
the hospital and learning about the good work being done, there is a visit to the old swimming pool housing the turtles that cannot be released back into the wild.
As a history guy, what cannot be ignored is that after driving across Key Vaca, the heart of Marathon, there are still two islands to cross before the breathtaking Seven Mile Bridge appears. First, there is Hog Key. For anyone interested in railroad history, it is a fantastic stop. At Hog Key, you can board a little railcar tram that takes you out to Pigeon Key, a former railroad camp that houses some of the oldest buildings outside of Key West. Pigeon Key was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1990. Visit the island, explore the old railroad buildings, marvel at the period photographs and artifacts and soak in some bona fide Florida Keys atmosphere. After passing Hog Key, Knights Key is largely occupied by the Isla Bella Resort. It is the last island before rolling onto the big, beautiful bridge. A long time ago, it was home to a community that sprang up about the same time the U.S. flag was planted on Key West in 1822 when Lt. Mathew Perry sailed up on the schooner USS Shark.
On Feb. 10, 1823, the following notice was placed in the Pensacola newspaper, the Floridian. The advertisement appeared in a section called “A Notice to Mariners,” and stated that Port Monroe “has the advantages of a large and spacious harbor and the proprietors are furnished with experienced pilots, good vessels, boats, and provisions of all kinds to relieve those who may be so unfortunate as to get on the Florida Reef. We are determined that nothing on our part (that attention and industry will ensure) will be neglected for the immediate relief of the unfortunate stranger. At present there are four families residing at this place; corn, potatoes, beans, onions, cotton, and all the West Indies fruit thrives rapidly and surpass our most sanguine expectations.”
The Turtle Hospital’s mission is not only to educate the public but also to rehabilitate and release injured and sick turtles back into the open water.
A news clipping shows Richie Moretti with a young green sea turtle as part of a research project at Hidden Harbor Environmental Project. CONTRIBUTED
DAILY
... 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.
Inever really thought about Pelican Shoal until three or so months ago. I’m not sure I’d even heard of it. I’d certainly never been there.
What got me thinking about it was a conversation with Chris Bergh. He’d mentioned that terns had nested out there in the past, particularly roseate terns, and it’s possible they were nesting out there still.
Once that seed was planted, I couldn’t stop thinking about the place.
Pelican Shoal is about 8 miles southeast of Key West and, like any shoal, the only way to get there is by boat.
The proåblem was that ridiculous real-world responsibilities kept popping up – work, home repair, poker games, feeding and occasionally walking the dog. And on days I was finally clear to head out there, it was windy or rainy or both.
Bergh is the Florida field program director for the Nature Conservancy, where he has been working since 1999. He also grew up here and has the most broad, grounded and versatile knowledge of the Keys ecosystems of anyone I know. He’s also great company.
I texted him in late July, asking something about sand fleas. He was out of town, but answered in his usually low-key, learned way. I mentioned something about still wanting to get out to Pelican Shoal.
“I’ll be home a week from today. Love to visit Pelican Shoal with you!” he texted back.
Three weeks later we actually managed to leave the dock. Along with us was Jana Mott, who used to live in the Keys, but now works for TNC out of Tallahassee.
Roseate terns have an odd distribution map, preferring to breed on small, coastal islands, largely in the warmer climes of the world – in the Caribbean, as well as off the coasts of Africa and China. But they also have small breeding colonies on islands from Long Island to Nova Scotia, as well as climatically similar habitats off of England and France.
Roseate terns, like least terns, evolved to nest on places like the sand, rock and coral beaches of the Keys. And like least terns, they have largely been supplanted from those habitats by human activity, but have adapted to nest on the gravel rooftops of commercial, and sometimes military, buildings in the mainline Keys. (The most reliable place to see roseates is the Marathon Government Center, but I have also seen them splash diving off of Fort Zachary Taylor, meaning they are probably nesting somewhere over on the Navy part of Truman Annex.)
SHIFTING SEAS AND ISLANDS
One of the last places where they bred in their natural habitat was Pelican Shoal. And since they are a threatened species, Pelican Shoal has been a no-access zone since the creation of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary in 1990.
The Florida Keys are a shifty place, though. Islands appear, disappear and reappear on a geologically regular basis.
While we were talking about the island on the boat, Chris gave a little of the shoal’s recent history.
“The birds pick these places because there are no predators. They like nice open, sandy, shelly, rocky places to nest with no trees around. So the predator birds can’t perch on them and prey on the young ones, or prey on the eggs. And so this was the spot. There were lots of roseate terns nesting here, fledging here, coming back year after year,” he said.
“The island was just sort of a low-lying sand and shell and coral rubble. Sediment could get washed away, but it could get washed in as well. And it built up big enough that a little bit of grassy, weedy vegetation grew on it. The birds were using it, and it was protected,” he said.
“People weren’t allowed to go on there, because it was the only place for the birds to nest. So you could come up close to it, but not go on it. There’s good diving right around it. So people are always around. But as long as they didn’t go on the island, the birds were fine,” he said.
“And then Hurricane Wilma in 2005 wiped the island off the map,” Bergh said.
Chris was on the Key West National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council at the time, and there was some discussion in the years after about whether the no-access zone should be removed since it was no longer serving its purpose.
“But as soon as that got close to being proposed formally, another hurricane, Hurricane Irma in 2017, happened. And the storm came in and scooped up a bunch of sediment from the bottom, and redeposited it on the old spot, creating nesting-type conditions again. And within a short time, the birds started nesting again,” he said. Chris had been out there about two years ago, but not since.
It was an amazingly nice day on the water, easy running the whole way out. As we ran, the water was so clear you thought it was shallower than it was.
After about a half-hour I eased up on the throttle. As we got close to the island, the only other boat around was someone fishing way on the south side.
The first thing we could see was a long, narrow strip of brown rocks. Then, among the rocks, a lot of white spots, which were terns.
While there were a lot of rocks, most of them were only a few inches out of the water. And there was no dry substrate below. It seemed unlikely that any tern would risk nesting in any spot so vulnerable to wind and tides.
It looked to be a great place to roost unharassed, though. I lifted my binoculars and began to scan. It took a while. I scanned around a few more times, then decided to count. I tallied 360 least terns, 21 royal terns, nine Sandwich terns, six common terns, one spotted sandpiper and a pair of female magnificent frigatebirds that came in and made a half-hearted swoop at the flock – kleptoparasitic schoolyard bullies, trying to make sure they still got it.
There were no roseate terns, though. Maybe if we’d gone out earlier in the season we might have seen some.
“If we got a hurricane again this year, it could rework the sediments and put them back up on top of the shoal again. And it could be a nesting site again,” Chris said.
A Sandwich tern landing on Pelican Shoal. MARK HEDDEN/Keys
MARK HEDDEN
Congratulations
MARATHON CINEMA
BRIEFLY
Marathon pair arrested for alleged gas station sex
A man and woman were arrested on Aug. 22 for allegedly engaging in a sexual act in public view at a Marathon gas station. Vincent Edwards Crews, 60, of Marathon, was charged with unnatural and lascivious acts and disorderly conduct. Sharon Helen Czaplinsky, 45, of Clearwater, was charged with indecent exposure, unnatural and lascivious acts and disorderly conduct. Both suspects were reportedly observed/engaged in a public sex act around 8 p.m. at a Tom Thumb gas station on Overseas Highway in Marathon near the station’s car wash. Both appeared to be intoxicated and were taken to jail.
Marathon man sentenced for DUI manslaughter
On Aug. 25, the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office announced that Mike Mwendo Muthama, 46, has been sentenced for causing a deadly DUI crash in Marathon on July 18, 2022. Muthama entered a plea of no contest and was adjudicated guilty of DUI manslaughter, five counts of DUI with serious bodily injury, and DUI with injury to person or property. Circuit Judge Mark Jones sentenced him to 10 years in Florida state prison for the crash, which claimed one life and left four others seriously injured, including children. Following his release from prison, Muthama will serve 10 years of probation. The crash occurred shortly after midnight on U.S. 1 near MM 46 when Muthama, driving a silver Maserati, rear-ended a Volkswagen SUV. Witnesses told investigators that the Maserati had been weaving in and out of traffic before the collision. A breath test administered several hours later showed Muthama’s blood alcohol content at 0.094. The legal limit in Florida is 0.08, meaning he remained impaired well after the crash.
Habitat for Humanity hosts homeowner info session
City Council
Lynn Landry, Mayor Jeff Smith, Vice-Mayor
Lynn Del Gaizo, Councilmember Kenny Matlock, Councilmember Robyn Still, Councilmember
City Manager
George Garrett
City Attorney
Steve Williams
City Clerk
Diane Clavier, CMC
City Council Meeting
9/9/25 5:30 pm Marathon Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy. Planning Commission Meeting
9/15/25 5:30pm Marathon Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy.
City Council Special Call Budget Meeting
9/16/25 5:30pm Marathon Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy. Code Compliance Hearing
9/18/25 2:00pm Marathon Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy.
City Council Special Call Budget Meeting
9/23/25 5:30pm 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.
Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys is hosting two informational meetings for its homeownership program application cycle, which opens Sept. 1 for one 3-bedroom home. Meetings are Thursday, Sept. 4 at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 6 at 3:30 p.m. All meetings will be at the Habitat ReStore, 7931 Overseas Hwy. in Marathon. Email fsm@habitatmiddlekeys.org or call 305-743-9828 if you have any questions.
MLKAR to offer self-defense class
The Marathon and Lower Keys Association of Realtors will offer a community self-defense and safety class on Sept. 15 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Marathon Government Center at 2798 Overseas Highway. The class is open to all community members, not just Realtors or affiliates. Topics to be covered include basic self-defense techniques, how to stay safe while holding open houses or taking clients on property showings, and how to screen people to detect possible red flags. The class is limited to 80 students, taken on a first-come-first-served basis. The class is taught by MCSO deputies. Students should wear comfortable clothing to be able to practice techniques themselves. To register, scan the QR code.
Come take a class at the Marathon library
The Marathon library has a wide variety of class offerings, ranging from photography to book clubs, robots, virtual reality and more. Scan the QR code here to see the schedule and get involved.
TRAILER REPAIRS & SERVICE
COMMERCE CORNEr
Established in 1975, Keys Smiles provides comprehensive dental care to meet all your oral health needs. Our dedicated team offers a wide range of services from routine cleanings and preventive care to advanced treatments such as root canals, crowns, bridges, implants, and cosmetic dentistry. Whether you are due for a regular check-up or seeking to enhance your smile, Dr. Foresee and his amazing team are here to help. Our skilled professionals utilize the latest techniques and state of the art equipment to ensure high-quality care and optimal results. At Keys Smiles, we prioritize patient comfort and satisfaction, striving to create a positive dental experience for every individual. Schedule your appointment with us today and take the first step towards optimal oral health and confidence in your smile.
305.872.2366
30180 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key office@keysmiles.com Keysmiles.com
GREATER
$7 Menu
• Chicken wings, chicken livers and More!
• 32 beers on tap 1/2 off 2pm - 3pm
uengling
* $2 Pints of Yuengling and Bud Light!
BREAKFAST SERVED UNTIL 2PM
• Unique & interesting menu
• $3 Mimosas • $5 Breakfast Shots
LUNCH & DINNER
• New Sandwich Options
• Diver Speared Local Fish • Prime Rib • Lobster • Cook Y • Great Seafood Selections
SUSHI
2 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home centrally located in mid Marathon. Large screened porch. 50 X 97lot. Reduced $325,000 MLS# 610518
CRANE HAMMOCK
3 BD& 2 BA. Backs up to Crane Hammock park giving back yard privacy. Walk in concrete pool. Undivided ownership to a Gulf front park with boat ramp. AC workshop and a storage shed. Enclosed carport Nicely landscaped shaded lot. 9 ft elevation. $799,900
ENDLESS SUMMER STORIES
TWO IRRESISTIBLE SERIES FOR WHEN ONE BOOK JUST ISN’T ENOUGH
By Jen Besser & Shana Feste
Dirty Diana Diana and Oliver are raising their young daughter in Dallas, and most days and nights are filled with work and the mundane tasks of daily life. Diana reminisces on her years in Santa Fe as a curious young artist. Back then, Diana was in love with Jasper, a heartthrob photographer who encouraged her art and ideas. Years later, as her marriage collapses, she reexamines her abandoned art project, interviewing women and painting their fantasies. What began as an award-winning podcast starring Demi Moore has developed into a spicy trilogy, soon to be a miniseries.
Diana in Love
After years of feeling like a stranger in her marriage, Diana and Oliver painfully separate. Diana takes a work trip to Paris, accompanied by her two closest friends. In the City of Lights, she unexpectedly reunites with Jasper, her lover from 15 years ago — the one who got away. Jasper remains unchanged, still leaving her breathless. When Diana returns to Dallas, she and Oliver struggle through therapy. Traveling down memory lane and their intimacy issues, Diana realizes she can no longer hide her artistic passion project: a website she created combining women’s stories with illustrative paintings.
Diana Says Yes
First and foremost a reader, she has reviewed hundreds of books on her blog www. readingandeating. com. And, more recently, this new Keys resident has also begun writing.
Diana and her husband are back on the therapy couch. Diana senses electric currents when Oliver enters the room. As his depression lifts, Oliver finally feels good in his own skin – and it’s very sexy. The therapist recommends they begin again by simply dating each other. Coincidentally, Dirty Diana’s website is on fire. She has investors, partnerships and a wait list for women ready to share their visions. With movie talks in the works, Diana must find the courage to reveal her true self to the world. Fast-paced and spicy with marriage, family and friendship – the Diana series has it all.
THE ELEMENTS
By John Boyne
In The Elements,
author John Boyne has created a kaleidoscope of four interconnected narratives, each representing a different perspective on crime from the points of view of the enabler, the accomplice, the perpetrator and the victim.
Water
Upon arriving on a remote Irish island, Vanessa changes her name to Willow. She gets a new start in her self-exile, escaping the vicious gossip that has tormented her for over a year. Vanessa’s exhusband is in prison, her eldest daughter has died and her youngest will barely text. Everyone she considered a friend is long gone. Willow is inextricably alone as guilt consumes her. This is the first novella of an incredible four-part series.
Earth
Two footballers are charged with sexual assault. Evan and Robbie are handsome and famous. The case creates a media frenzy. Since leaving his small island, Evan has attained his father’s dream of soccer stardom while hiding his sexuality and desire to be a painter. Now, his life is on the line. They face a moral dilemma: How far would you go to save yourself? The gripping outcome will have you on the edge of your seat.
Fire
Freya is a renowned surgeon specializing in burns, a rising star at the hospital, yet she hides a terrifying past. Outside of work, her bizarre and disturbing behavior gradually comes to light, revealing the chilling truth of who she is. As the story unfolds, the reader is forced to confront an impossible question: How do an individual’s innate qualities and life experiences combine to shape the person they ultimately become?
Air
On a long flight, Aaron sits beside his son Emmett. After all these years in Sidney, they are returning to Ireland, where it all began. No one is expecting them. As they jet across the world, Aaron slowly reveals his painful past to Emmett in hopes that they can finally build a brighter future. These interconnected novellas ultimately and expertly intertwine to form a powerful narrative embodying the very essence of the elements.
#WorthWatching: It’s creepy and it’s kooky, mysterious and spooky – “Wednesday” Season 2 continues to delight with her deadpan wit, dark adventures and macabre charm. These episodes are filled with mystery, strange alliances and ghoulish surprises. With four episodes out, and more arriving later this fall, there is never a dull moment with this sinister family. Check it out on Netflix.
THE DIANA SERIES
KAREN NEWFIELD
Having Fun in the Middle Keys
Crane
Founded by Betty Debnam
Welcome to Minnesota
Our 32nd state is Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes. (There actually are more than 14,000 bodies of fresh water if you count those that cross the border to Canada.) The lakes were formed by glaciers many thousands of years ago.
Minnesota was admitted to the Union on May 11, 1858. It lies in the Upper Midwest, bordering on Canada.
More than 5 million people live in Minnesota; it ranks 22nd in population.
Minnesota’s origins
The state name comes from the Dakota language; mni sota means cloudy water. Native Americans inhabited the area until the 17th century, when French explorers and missionaries arrived. In fact, the state’s motto, L’Étoile du Nord (the Star of the North), is the only state motto in French.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, immigrants arrived from Scandinavia, Germany and central Europe. Minnesotans worked in farming, logging and on the railroads. Iron mining was also important in the state.
Living in Minnesota
The Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul, sit on either side of the Mississippi River. St. Paul is the capital of Minnesota, and Minneapolis is the
largest city. Most of the downtown business area is in Minneapolis on the west side of the river.
Both cities are home to new groups of immigrants, including Mexicans, Somalis, Hmong, Indians and Vietnamese people.
Today, many large companies are based in Minnesota, including Target, 3M, General Mills, Land O’ Lakes and Best Buy. Along with farming, people there work in health care, technology and forestry.
Cold and hot Minnesota has cold winters with a lot of snow in the northern areas. Summers can be hot and very humid. Tornadoes, blizzards, thunderstorms and hail are not unusual.
With the freezing temperatures, Minnesotans enjoy many winter sports, such as ice fishing, hockey, skating, skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. In warmer weather, swimming, canoeing and boating are popular. Minnesota has more miles of bike trails than any other state.
Minnesota fun
Professional sports teams include the Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Minnesota Twins (MLB), Minneapolis Lakers (NBA), Minnesota Lynx (WNBA) and Minnesota Wild (NHL).
Large annual events include the Minnesota
Words that remind us of Minnesota are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
CANADA, COLD, DAKOTA, FISHING, FRENCH, GARLAND, HOCKEY, HOT, HUMID, LAKES, MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA, PRINCE, SCHULZ, ST. PAUL, SWIMMIMG, TWIN CITIES, WATER.
Famous Minnesotans
• Charles Schulz, the cartoonist behind the “Peanuts” comic strip, was born in Minneapolis in 1922. In 1950, Schulz sent his cartoon “Li’l Folks” to United Feature Syndicate, which distributed the comic with the name “Peanuts.” Later, the strip would be seen daily in 2,600 newspapers around the world.
• Singer, songwriter and musician Prince was born in 1958 in Minneapolis. He wrote his first song when he was only 7 years old. Both of his parents were musicians. Before his death in 2016, he sold more than 100 million records worldwide.
• You may know Judy Garland, who starred as Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz.” Garland was born in 1922 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. The actress and singer appeared in 34 feature films both as a child and an adult. She died in 1969 in London.
RESOURCES
On the Web:
• bit.ly/MPMinnesota
At the library:
• “Minnesota” by Martin Schwabacher
• “What’s Great About Minnesota?” by Nadia Higgins
ECO NOTE
Yet more powerful eruptions of Indonesia’s restive Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki halted flights in and out of Bali again while blanketing nearby villages and farms with ash on the island of Flores. Columns of the ash soared as high as 11 miles into the atmosphere. Residents were forced to wear masks due to the density of the debris. The latest explosions occurred just weeks after previous powerful eruptions caused dozens of other flight cancellations for Bali.
Mini Fact: Ice fishers build small shelters to help them keep warm while they fish.
photo by Lorie Shaull
photo courtesy Orange County Archives
photo by Scott Penner
Charles Schulz
Prince
Judy Garland
