Marathon Weekly 26-0312

11

¢

Over/under on how many conch fritters I’m eating this weekend?

March 12, 2026

FESTIVAL 50 It’s Marathon’s best seafood celebration | P.8 WILLIAMS IS INTERIM MANAGER Attorney to serve in city’s top post | P.4 Bringing the Seafood Festival Home No better place to enjoy fresh seafood with family and friends than this fully renovated Keys retreat.

230 13TH ST KEY COLONY BEACH, FL

WRITTEN BY KIDS Switlik students become Weekly reporters | P.20

NATE BARTLETT 305-802-Nate(6283) www.KeysNate.com youtube.com@keysnaterealtor

FOR SALE MLS #617618

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

WE’VE SOLD MORE PROPERTIES OVER THE PAST 20 YEARS THAN THE NEXT FOUR COMPANIES COMBINED CALL US TO FIND OUT HOW • 305.743.5181 JUST SOLD!

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY BUYER & SELLER!

JUST SOLD!

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY BUYER!

1215 97TH STREET 6, MARATHON

201 E OCEAN DRIVE, 1-311, KEY COLONY BEACH

KIM RABITO-SHOW, REALTOR

NATALIE ARDIS, REALTOR®

JUST SOLD!

JUST SOLD!

305.304.8591 | kimmieinthekeys@gmail.com

305.481.3317 | natalie@cbschmitt.com

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY BUYER & SELLER!

423 80TH STREET, MARATHON

227 S ANGLERS DRIVE #302, MARATHON

SAM WILLIAMS, P.A.

call or text 305.942.6069 | www.midkeyshomes.com | #sellitwithsam

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY SELLER!

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY SELLER!

117 BRUCE COURT, MARATHONT

91 AVENUE G, MARATHON

call or text 305.942.6069 | www.midkeyshomes.com | #sellitwithsam

COLDWELL BANKER SCHMITT CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

SAM WILLIAMS, P.A.

call or text 305.942.6069 | www.midkeyshomes.com | #sellitwithsam

JUST SOLD!

JUST SOLD!

SAM WILLIAMS, P.A.

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY SELLER!

CHASE FOSTER, REALTOR

407.314.2543 | chasefoster@cbschmitt.com

Helping Keys Residents since 2002. The Coldwell Banker Schmitt Charitable Foundation was created in April 2002, and is dedicated to helping Keys’ residents whose critical needs are not being met through other means. The funds are donated to the Foundation through the generous hearts of the Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate agents, staff, associates, business partners, and the public. www.gooddeedsinthekeys.org

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

MARATHON | $1,995,000 | LISTING ID: 618588

The one that’s well built

Experience the confidence of solid construction in this three bedroom, two and one half bath canalfront residence. Built with poured, reinforced concrete, this home was designed for strength, longevity, and peace of mind—an invaluable asset in a coastal environment. The open, light-filled floor plan flows seamlessly for everyday living and entertaining, anchored by a well-appointed kitchen featuring granite countertops, custom finishes, and durable hickory cabinetry chosen to stand the test of time. Additional highlights include an elevator, a cozy fireplace, dedicated upstairs office space, and a flexible layout suited to a variety of lifestyles. Boaters will appreciate the excellent dockage and quick access to open water, including a 16,000-lb boat lift accommodating vessels up to approximately 35 feet, multiple docking options, davits, and a large dock box for easy gear storage. The oversized four-car garage provides abundant storage for vehicles, boats, and water toys, while a 10,000-gallon cistern with a pump adds an extra layer of water security. Downstairs, a versatile enclosed area offers endless possibilities as a tackle room, workshop, storage area, or relaxation space. Whether you're seeking a full-time waterfront residence, seasonal retreat, serious boater's haven, or a weekly vacation rental opportunity, this home delivers durability, functionality, and island living at its finest.

12420 Overseas Highway | Marathon 305.735.4095 | oceansir.com Each office is independently owned and operated.

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

Investors suffered losses totaling $18 billion in the massive Ponzi scheme perpetuated by stockbroker Bernie Madoff, who pleaded guilty to 11 federal felonies on March 12, 2009.

The work resulted in Madoff receiving a 150-year prison sentence, with his associates — several of whom claimed to have no idea about the scam — receiving varying sentences.

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

The Middle Keys are prepping for the 50th annual Original Marathon Seafood Festival on March 14 and 15 – a tradition that began in 1967 in what is now the Publix parking lot. For full details on the Fest, see page 8. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Marathon Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Business Development Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Diana Striker keysweekly.com

Controller

Lauren Pope lauren@keysweeky.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

POSTMASTER:

SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050

News Deadline Tuesday Noon

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

@KeysWeekly @theWeekly

Members of

The Marathon City Council and Public Works Director Paul Bartnik, left, recognize landscape technician James Williams, third from right, for five years of service to the city. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

MARATHON INSTALLS ATTORNEY STEVE WILLIAMS AS INTERIM CITY MANAGER Council finalizes $219K severance with former manager Garrett ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

M

arathon City Attorney Steve Williams will serve as interim city manager after the ousting of former City Manager George Garrett, the Marathon City Council decided unanimously on March 10.

Councilman Kenny Matlock, who made the initial motion to fire Garrett, first proposed Williams’ appointment.

“Steve’s assured me he’s extremely comfortable doing (the job) – obviously not full time, because he doesn’t want it full time, which is another plus,” Matlock said. “It’s happened in the past in this city where it just rolls through and hasn’t gone out for hire, and I think we need to.”

Council members Lynn Landry and Robyn Still asked to avoid consolidating Marathon’s two staff positions that report directly to council into one employee, instead recommending Code Director Ted Lozier as the interim manager.

“This is not about installing somebody and then voting them in. I want to have a process in the public about what we’re going to do,” said Landry.

“Are we going to do a nationwide search, a localized search, a regional search? … As far as I know, I think (Lozier) is the only one in our city that has experience as a city manager.”

With Vice Mayor Debbie Struyf and Mayor Lynny Del Gaizo supporting Matlock’s motion, Landry and Still agreed to appoint Williams as the interim manager, later setting a special call meeting for March 17 to review the manager’s job description and selection process.

The council finalized its severance with Garrett later in the same session, placing his separation agreement on the consent agenda. Terms of the agreement were not discussed in the meeting, but a copy later obtained by the Weekly detailed a $219,373 total payout per the terms of Garrett’s employment contract – $81,249 for 20 weeks pay after his final working day of March 10, $56,874 for 560 accumulated sick leave hours, $20,312 for 200 banked vacation hours, $24,374 for pay during his 30-day notice period, and a total of $36,562 in retirement benefits.

The severance closely mirrors the agreements from Marathon’s last two city managers, Chuck Lindsey and

David Migut. In October 2020, Lindsey received a payout of about $112,000 for 20 weeks pay plus accrued vacation and sick time.

Traffic troubles explained Utility Director Dan Saus provided an update on Marathon’s deep wastewater well pipeline drilling project, responsible for heavy traffic on U.S. 1 with the closure of a southbound lane by the Marathon Airport.

The traffic pattern in place, Saus said, was the only setup approved by the Florida Department of Transportation, and involved an extended lane closure to allow two drill rigs to operate simultaneously. Installation of the pipe as soon as possible is critical as Marathon works to meet a federallymandated deadline to complete its new wastewater injection well by 2028.

“Our contractor actually had to hire a special (traffic) engineer to get the permit, and it’s been a long, painful process for all of us,” Saus said. “With two drill rigs, we’ll get out of there twice as fast. … We were ready to start in August, but we couldn’t get a permit (from DOT).”

continued on page 20

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

IT’S A SEAFOOD CELEBRATION

$5 MARCH 14 &15

LOCAL SEAFOOD BEER & WINE LIVE MUSIC & GAMES MARATHON COMMUNITY PARK SAT. 10AM-9PM SUN. 11AM - 5PM NO PETS ALLOWED

Carlos Seafood Terra Marine Park

Kelly Electric • UPS Store • KW Adventures • Time Out Magazine • Pirate Radio • Design Center • Ernest E Rhodes Plumbing • Keys Contracting Services • Sea Level Spa • Aquarium Encounters • Regan Roth Ins Agency • Womenkind Inc. • Dion's Island Grocery • Marathon Lady • Homes & Land of the Florida Keys • Marathon Pontoon • Marathon Moose Lodge • Insurance Office of America • Cruise Planners • Diane Scudder

6

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

A BILLION APART

Florida House, Senate to work beyond session amid budget differences House Speaker Danny Perez, left, and Senate President Ben Albritton preside over a joint session on Jan. 13 ahead of the governor’s address.

SARAH GRAY/Florida House

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

D

isagreements over state spending will force legislators in the House and Senate to work beyond the regular 60-day session.

Budget proposals approved by the respective chambers show a spending difference of $1.4 billion. Last month, House members approved a $113.6 billion spending proposal for the upcoming fiscal year. The plan spends $4 billion less compared to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ $117 billion budget and $1.3 billion less than the budget approved by the Legislature for the current fiscal year, which ends July 1.

A $115 billion budget proposal by the Senate for the coming fiscal year also passed last month. With spending differences still needing to be sorted out, House and Senate leadership have indicated the budget work will not be completed in time for the final day of session on March 13.

“We have a fundamental disagreement on what the budget should look like for the state of Florida,” House Speaker Daniel Perez said last week.

“The House believes we should spend less money; the Senate believes we should spend more money.”

Senate President Ben Albritton has said the two budget proposals are closer than they were last year.

“I view that as very beneficial and would be something Floridians look at and say that’s a good start,” he said during a recent interview with CBS Miami. “If you look at the budget as a whole, there are a couple of silos we’ll

figure out. There are lots of places in the budget where we’re not far off.”

Kate DeLoach, lobbyist with the Southern Group, said the legislature will either need to extend session or go home and return to complete the budget. DeLoach said there are other matters awaiting legislators.

“They will also be back for redistricting, already scheduled for April, and likely for property taxes, which isn’t scheduled yet,” DeLoach said.

Per the Florida League of Cities, the largest portion of spending goes to Health and Human Services. The House and Senate’s proposed budgets include $49.3 billion and $49 billion, respectively. The state’s combined education programs and services received the second-largest proportion of funding, totaling $31.83 billion and $31.80 billion, respectively.

Natural resources, the environment, growth management and transportation expenditures represent the third-largest portion of the House and Senate’s proposed budgets, at $18.37 billion and $19.72 billion, respectively.

Despite the budget differences, both chambers allocated $20 million for the Florida Keys Stewardship Act. Funds support stormwater, canal restoration projects and other water quality projects from Key Largo to Key West.

How that money is doled out remains a point of contention. The Senate’s budget contains specific directions on how those funds are expended, with the distribution plan being consistent with the most recent executed intergovernmental agreement among Islamorada, Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District (KLWTD),

House Speaker Daniel Perez

“We have a fundamental disagreement on what the budget should look like for the state of Florida. The House believes we should spend less money; the Senate believes we should spend more money.”

Marathon, Monroe County, Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA), Key West and Key Colony Beach.

The last two cycles of Stewardship funding have involved the Department of Environment Protection distributing through a grant portal. Before that, an intergovernmental agreement served as the mechanism, allowing each party access to greater proportions of funds at different times based on the progress of their individual wastewater projects.

Last year, Marathon, Key Colony Beach, Islamorada, FKAA and KLWTD signed onto a new proposed agreement detailing an even funding split of 12.5% over five years among the signees, unincorporated Monroe County and Key West.

Monroe County and Key West, however, viewed the proposal as inequitable. The county prefers the portal, which allows municipalities to compete based on the merit of their projects. The House budget contains no language regarding an intergovernmental agreement, keeping the portal system as the way for municipalities to submit projects to secure funding.

That means the Senate and House will need to come to consensus.

Several Keys projects are also included in both budgets, but the funding totals differ. For instance, the Senate has $5 million in its spending plan for FKAA’s Crawl Key reverse osmosis facility while the House set aside $2.5 million. The Senate also allocated $5 million for the Trumbo workforce housing project in Key West, but the House has earmarked $2.5 million.

The House budget proposal includes $2.5 million for Marathon’s deep injection well project, but no money is allocated in the Senate.

Perez said affordability is the defining issue facing Florida families.

“This (House) budget is $1.3 billion less than the current year because we believe fiscal discipline is not optional; it is our responsibility,” he said.

Crews backfill Canal 90, located between Hilson and Ivanhoe courts in Key Largo. Florida Keys Stewardship Act funding supports water quality projects, such as canal restoration.

FILE PHOTO

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

From rebar to raﬞers, everything you need to build it right.

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If we don't have it we can get it!

11401 1st Avenue, Gulf | Marathon 305.743.3688 Monday - Friday 7am - 4pm Closed Saturday & Sunday

REEL GOOD EATS

A bounty from the sea awaits festival-goers this weekend at the Original Marathon Seafood Festival, presented by the Organized Fishermen of Florida and the Marathon Chamber of Commerce. Photos by NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly

The Original THE DETAILS: Marathon Seafood Saturday, March 14 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Festival is finally here 10 Sunday, March 15 ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

W

e hope you’ve all prepared your stomachs.

The Original Marathon Seafood Festival is here.

Marathon’s marquee event returns this Saturday and Sunday, March 1415, filling Marathon Community Park with fresh seafood, all-day tunes and an overload of vendors in one of the finest Middle Keys community celebrations.

And this isn’t just any Seafood Fest – it marks 50 years since the Organized Fishermen of Florida and Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce first dreamed up the festival, in what is now the Publix parking lot, back in 1976. Five decades later, the festival still showcases one of the industries that built Marathon into the city it is today. And as you shop, eat and drink, remember that it’s all for a good cause – festival proceeds pay for scholarships given to graduating MHS seniors by O.F.F. and the Chamber every year.

The Keys Weekly is proud to produce and distribute the annual Seafood Festival program, and we’ll be stationed at the front gate to greet guests and hand out the one-stop information book. If you want ALL the details, scan the QR code to flip through the program before you visit the fest. But for those of you who want the SparkNotes, here are the basics:

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. @ Marathon Community Park $5 admission (Kids 12 and under with a paying adult, as well as retired and active military members, are admitted free.)

Parking Stanley Switlik Elementary, 3400 Overseas Hwy. and neighboring lots wherever you can find it!

Handicapped parking available inside the park. Visitors are highly encouraged to use local taxi services to and from the park.

THE FOOD Florida lobster · stone crab · mahi-mahi · oysters · shrimp · conch fritters · crab cakes · smoked fish dip · conch salad · burgers · hot dogs · sausages.

THE MUSIC Saturday: John Bartus & Adrienne Z, 11 a.m. · I-Land Vibe, 1 p.m. · Abstract Radio, 3 p.m. · The Marshall Morlock Band, 5 p.m. · Amber Leigh, 7 p.m.

Sunday: Dan Sullivan, 11 a.m. · Danny Regalado with Fuego Soul, 1 p.m. · The Red Elvises, 3 p.m.

GET THE GUIDE: Scan the QR code to browse the official Marathon Seafood Festival guide, navigate the park and find your favorite vendors:

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

SANCTUARY MOVES FORWARD WITH RESTORATION BLUEPRINT IN FEDERAL WATERS ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Advisory council questions law enforcement, feasibility of new rules

O

ne year after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed a comprehensive restoration plan for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary in state waters, NOAA officials told the sanctuary’s advisory council at a March 10 meeting they plan to forge ahead with implementing the new rules in federal waters.

Last March, DeSantis used his veto power during a state review process to axe the final iteration of Restoration Blueprint, a comprehensive plan in the works since 2011 to revitalize and protect the sanctuary. The move blocked the Blueprint from taking effect in state waters – up to three nautical miles out on the Atlantic side of the Keys, or up to nine miles in the Gulf.

The governor’s final veto was closely tied to a letter sent to sanctuary officials

by FWC chairman Rodney Barreto in November 2024, during the Blueprint’s final review stages. It outlined 10 “essential” areas of disagreement between FWC and the sanctuary in the newly-proposed rules – headlined by support for artificial reefs within the sanctuary and disputed regulatory authority over the state’s fisheries.

The unaltered Blueprint proceeded through its final review and took effect on March 5, 2025 in federal waters, which make up roughly 40% of the sanctuary – two days after DeSantis took, in former Sanctuary Superintendent Sarah Fangman’s words, a “sledgehammer instead of a scalpel” to the plan.

In the advisory council’s June 2025 session, several members said they were surprised to learn the rule was still technically in effect in waters further offshore. In that meeting, acting superintendent David Burke told the advisory council that the sanctuary faced two basic options: proceed with, in essence, two separate sanctuaries, operating under the new rule in federal waters and the original 1997 sanctuary regulations closer to shore, or scrap Restoration Blueprint entirely if the differential enforcement seemed impractical.

On March 10, Laura Grimm, NOAA deputy undersecretary for oceans and atmosphere, told the advisory council the agency plans to announce the Blueprint’s effective date from 2025 in a Federal Register notice, and will move forward with the

new rule while working to find areas of consensus with state officials in nearshore waters.

“We’re committed to working with the state to understand the governor’s decision regarding state waters,” Grimm said.

“We’re going to spend some dedicated time understanding these concerns … and we will be working to find common-sense actions that will address those issues so we can manage this ecosystem together.”

Council members pressed Grimm, NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries director John Armor and Burke over questions of timely progress and enforcement as the sanctuary moves forward with an adaptive management working group.

Effectively on hold for more than a year as the council waited for direction following the veto, the working group will now be tasked with targeting individual areas of consensus between state and federal agencies – such as additional protections prohibiting fishing and other activities in coral nurseries – and finding avenues to implement them in state waters. A workshop later in Tuesday’s meeting asked breakout groups to identify key items with high

importance and ease of implementation – much-needed “easy wins” for the sanctuary after a year of regulatory turmoil.

Advisory council chair Ben Daughtry said efficiency and an ability to see measurable progress from the group are paramount, as processes like the Restoration Blueprint took more than a decade to complete before the state veto.

And with well over 4,000 square miles within the now-expanded sanctuary boundary, multiple council members raised concerns over law enforcement and public education campaigns – particularly as some boaters may have unknowingly broken the law over the past year in areas with modified regulations.

“Such a significant part of sanctuary law enforcement relies on the state, and if there’s not a good relationship with the state, we’re either going to need to see federal law enforcement significantly increase or some sort of cooperative situation,” said Daughtry. “The state force is busy doing their own law enforcement, but we’ve relied on them for pretty much the duration of the sanctuary.”

Burke told the group the sanctuary had updated its mobile app and website to reflect the new rule, and that the sanctuary’s outreach and education team would be tasked with the public information campaign to fully announce the new regulations.

For more information on the final Restoration Blueprint, visit floridakeys.noaa. gov/blueprint

Areas like the Alligator Reef Sanctuary Preservation Area, pictured here, are subject to new regulations under the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s Restoration Blueprint. New regulations expand the protected zone and prohibit anchoring. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

11

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

FOUR GENERATIONS, ONE CAPTAIN & A CENTURY OF STORIES

Left: Adrienne Karp, seated center on the sofa, is surrounded by family and friends for an early 90th birthday party on Feb. 25.

Adrienne Karp celebrates 90 years of salt water and sunshine

JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com

F

Adrienne Karp reels in cobia, snapper and grouper with captain Jimmy Gagliardini aboard the High Caliber.

or most, turning 90 is a time for quiet reflection. For Adrienne Karp, it was the perfect excuse to gather four generations under the Florida sun for a week of highseas adventure. Although her official birthday isn’t until July, Karp’s family flew into Marathon at the end of February to kick off the festivities early, honoring a woman whose connection to the Keys spans four decades.

The centerpiece of the week took place on Feb. 23, when Adrienne did what she loves most: She hit the water. A native New Yorker and retired audiologist, Adrienne swapped her home in Denver, Colorado, for the familiar salt air of the Reef Hotel.

Accompanied by her family, she boarded the High Caliber with captain Jimmy Gagliardini – a tradition she’s maintained for nearly 16 years.

Karp’s love affair with the Florida Keys began 40 years ago, she told the Weekly. While she spent her youth freshwater fishing, she transitioned to the thrill of the ocean in her early 50s alongside her husband, Eric. Though Eric passed away 10 years ago, Adrienne has kept their shared passion alive.

For her, fishing isn't just a hobby – it’s a weekly ritual. During her multi-month stays in Marathon, she can be found on the High Caliber at least once a week, proving that age is truly just a number when there is a rod in your hand.

"She’s been coming down here for four decades," said Gagliardini. "The ocean is where

she feels most at home. I’ve watched her bring in everything from snapper to stories over the last 16 years, and her energy hasn't wavered once.

“For Adrienne, the deck of a boat isn't just a place to fish; it’s where she’s most herself. She knows these waters as well as any local, and frankly, she might out-fish most of them, too."

On her most recent excursion, with Gagliardini’s guidance, Karp proved she hadn’t lost her touch, successfully targeting multiple species of snapper. Following the successful trip, her family gathered again on Feb. 25 for a grand celebration – a poignant reunion for a family spread across the globe, all descending on Marathon to celebrate Adrienne’s milestone year.

Karp is a study in independence. She currently resides in Marathon solo during her winter stays.

In a testament to the lasting bonds she forms, she now rents the very same Reef Hotel unit she once owned from the couple who purchased it from her.

"I’ve had a wonderful time fishing with my grandkids this week. It keeps them on their toes," she said. "When I’m not on the water, I keep myself busy. I love diving into a good nonfiction book or catching something on Turner Classic Movies, but I never miss a game.

“I’ll always be a New Yorker at heart with my Bills and Giants, but I’ve certainly found some room in my heart for the Chiefs, too. Between the sports and my mahjong games, there’s never a dull moment down here."

As the party wound down, the atmosphere was one of dancing and deep gratitude. Whether she is analyzing a best-seller, cheering on a Sunday kickoff, or pulling a yellowtail over the gunwale, Karp continues a routine that has connected her to Marathon for decades.

A young Adrienne Karp, a native New Yorker, stops to pose in a Manhattan hotel after her senior prom.

Photos contributed

13

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

BENEFITS PRESENTS IN PARADISE

COME BY BOAT, BIKE, FOOT OR CAR! MARCH 28TH

Monday: Closed | Tuesday - Sunday: 11:00am - 10:00pm

BEST HAPPY HOUR

“doors” open at 5:00pm till 9:00pm

16 YEARS IN A ROW

OCEANFRONT PARK EVENTS TIKI Skates avail for rent $10/hr or $5/hr with unwrapped toy

You MUST register to participate https://form.jotform.com/260503732909053 Events_Committee@ci.marathon.fl.us or 305.289.4109

Best Margarita & Bar! 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

4-6pm

HAPPY HOUR

DAILY SPECIALS MONDAY Closed

TUESDAY Jumbo Gumbo Bowls Tacos and Tequila LIVE MUSIC: Roger Jokela

WEDNESDAY Wine Time Wednesday ($15-$20 bottles) LIVE MUSIC: Erica Lee Sunshine THURSDAY Prime Rib Night LIVE MUSIC: JOHN BARTUS

FRIDAY Abstract Radio LIVE MUSIC: ABSTRACT RADIO

SATURDAY Brunch 11am - 2:30pm BOGO Mimosas & Sparkling Wine

SUNDAY Brunch 11am - 2:30pm BOGO Mimosas & Sparkling Wine

We wil cook youl catch, fis r and lobst h er Please

KEY COLONY BEACH MARINA & RETAIL CENTER

FOR SALE

cleaned &bring legal.

LIVEIC MUS

Highlights/Recent Additions: • • • • •

Marina expanded from 17 to 45 slips in fee simple Adjacent retail center purchased and included in sale Newly built waterfront 3,700sf restaurant included available for lease Extra uplands for excess boat storage and parking Includes two Acqua Lodge units for Airbnb

Contact Listing Broker: Michelle Ash, Simply Marinas 305-439-9581 | ash1@simplymarinas.com

www.sparkyslanding.com 305.363.2959

MM 53.5 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida Waterfront Location Adjacent To Fairfield Inn

OUR WEB CAM IS STREAMING

14

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

NEW LOOK, COLD BEER, SAME GOOD VIBES.

COMING SOON! Don’t worry — we’re still serving your favorite dishes while we upgrade.

AUTHENTIC CUBAN FOOD DINE IN | TAKE OUT | DELIVERY OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK MONDAY - THURSDAY 7AM - 4PM FRIDAY - SUNDAY 7AM - 9PM

SCAN ME!

Injured in a boating accident?

Please call us today. We want to help.

833-VASTOLA Jeff D. Vastola, Esq.

www.InjuredInTheKeys.com

9141 Overseas Hwy. Suite 3 Marathon FL. 33050 | 305.705.6788 | JVastola@VastolaLegal.com

LET'S T OUT OF

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15

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

TRAILER REPAIRS

& SERVICE Full Service Facility in the Heart of the Florida Keys

305.289.9884 MARATHON AUTO & MARINE SERVICE 2525 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON

The Marathon High School County Honor Band participants. Front row, from left: Chloe Poppenhager, Nicholas Show and Avery Golden. Middle row: Jayden Davis, left, and Lucian Burns; top row, Jack Kissick, left, Christopher Paul and Elizabeth Vander Lee. Not pictured: Danger Moya and Samuel Golden. CONTRIBUTED

MARATHON MUSICIANS EARN ALL-COUNTY HONORS Middle Keys performers join students from Key Largo to Key West

N

ineteen students from the Marathon Middle/High School band program participated in the annual County Honor Band on Jan. 30 and 31. Under the direction of band director Paul Anderson, students joined fellow top musicians from across the county for an intensive day and a half of rehearsals before delivering a concert to a packed performing arts center at MHS. Middle school students selected for the Honor Band included Holli Keeney, flute; Yaiselin Hernandez, flute; Danny Diaz, horn; Aariyona Pannell, clarinet; Emmanuel Cimeus, tenor saxophone; Leroy Rodriguez, tenor saxophone, Roxan Rodriguez, trumpet; Camila Velazquez, trumpet; and Luis Collado, percussion.

High school participants included Avery Golden, flute; Chloe Poppenhager, flute; Jayden Davis, flute; Elizabeth Vander Lee, alto saxophone; Nicholas Show, alto saxophone; Christopher Paul, tenor saxophone; Lucian Burns, baritone saxophone; Danger Moya, trombone; Jack Kissick, euphonium; and Samuel Golden, tuba.

– Contributed

May Joy and Peace Surround You, Contentment Latch Your Door, And Happiness Be with You Now, And Bless you Evermore.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

WE OFFER A COMMUNITY OF PEACE, LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING.

St. Columba Episcopal Church 9:00 and 11:00 Services 451 52nd Street Gulf, Marathon Fl

16

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

OPEN HOUSES & FEATURED PROPERTIES OPEN HOUSE SAT., 3/14, 2P-4P

SOMBRERO BEACH OPEN WATER RETREAT

OPEN HOUSE SAT., 3/14, 11A-1P

CONCRETE WATERFRONT HOME IN KEY COLONY BEACH

OPEN HOUSE SAT., 3/14, 11A-1P

82 TINGLER LANE MARATHON | $3,699,000

581 10TH STREET KEY COLONY BEACH | $2,499,000

CONCRETE WATERFRONT HOME IN KEY COLONY BEACH 1240 COURY DRIVE KEY COLONY BEACH | $3,350,000

• 4 bedroom | 4 bathroom • 3,222 sq. ft.

• Located within walking distance to Sombrero Beach • Open water views • 7 day rentals permitted • Pool • CBS Construction

• 6 bedroom | 4 bathroom • 3,248 sq. ft.

• 2 spacious primary suites • 75’ concrete dock | 100 ft wide canal • Impact windows/doors • Walking distance to Sunset Park, golfing and dining • 7 day rentals permitted

• 4 bedroom | 4 bathroom • 2,649 sq. ft.

• Open water views • Deep water dockage • New renovated coastal modern interior • Private pool • 7 day rentals permitted

OPEN HOUSE SUN., 3/15, 11A-1P

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11295 3RD AVENUE GULF MARATHON | $1,699,000

105 & 107 STAR LANE GEIGER KEY | $1,899,000

63 SUGARLOAF DRIVE SUGARLOAF KEY | $499,000

• 4 bedroom | 3 bathroom • 1,926 sq. ft.

• Quick deep draft water access • Spacious primary suite • Pool • 7 day rentals permitted • Income producing / great investment

• 2 bedroom | 2 bathroom • 14,738 lot sq. ft.

• Stunning open water views • Deep draft dockage • Rogo exempt • Minutes to Key West • 120 ft. of seawall

• Army Corps dock approval in hand • 14,706 lot sq. ft.

• Located in desirable Sugarloaf Shores • Canalfront lot w/ no bridge access

THE LISA FERRINGO GROUP COLDWELL BANKER SCHMITT Office: 305.872.5261 Cell: 305.797.1221 lisaferringo@gmail.com LisaFerringo.com

17

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

MARATHON CINEMA NOW SHOWING How long have you been in the Keys and what brought you here?

After moving down from New Jersey with my family in 2016, I've been living in the Keys for almost 10 years now.

What is your favorite thing about living in the Keys? Definitely the easily visible sunrises and sunsets.

I don't think I've ever gotten a picture that I didn't like of either.

DANNY GALLAGHER Sparky’s Landing JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com

N

o 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 Danny Gallagher, who is a host at Sparky’s Landing. He grew up in Bellmawr, New Jersey and moved to Marathon about a year before Hurricane Irma hit. Most nights you'll find him behind the host stand; otherwise, he’s hanging out at home or driving around town.

HOPPERS

FOR MORE INFO: 305.743.0288 ONLINE TICKETS AVAILABLE AT MARATHONCINEMA.COM

5101 O/S HWY. MARATHON (BEHIND MARATHON LIQUOR)

What's a local business you couldn't live without? I'm supposed to only choose one business, but I refuse to choose between Marathon Bagel and Conch Custard. They both have a bunch of flavors and can easily boost my mood.

NEVER BOUGHT. NEVER SOLD. ALWAYS LOCAL.

What is your greatest regret?

My greatest regret would definitely have to be not setting a path or goals in the past and just floating along.

What’s a simple pleasure that brings you joy? Music. Easily, music.

My mood is very easily influenced by the sounds of my surroundings.

What was in the last Amazon package that arrived? My last Amazon package was a screen protector for my phone. Obviously I did not buy the right ones because somehow the protector cracked while my phone was in my pocket.

What's one of your all-time favorite movie quotes? "Hey you guuuys!" – from Sloth in "The Goonies" Know someone who would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?”

Email keysweeklyjen@gmail.com.

SHOWTIMES: FRI, SAT, SUN & TUES 7PM MATINEE SUNDAY 2PM

CELEBRATING 22 YEARS OF LOCAL MEDIA UPPER KEYS WEEKLY 89240 Overseas Hwy Ste 2, Tavernier 305.363.2957

MARATHON WEEKLY 9709 Overseas Hwy Marathon 305.743.0844

KEY WEST WEEKLY 5450 MacDonald Ave Ste 5, Key West 305.453.6928

18

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

‘THE ADDAMS FAMILY’ AT STANLEY SWITLIK Celebrate the wackiness in every family with ‘The Addams Family’ at Stanley Switlik, running with one final show on Thursday, March 12 at 6 p.m. Hilarity ensues when Wednesday (Lilly Hutchinson) brings her sweet, smart, ‘normal’ new boyfriend (William Chapman) and his parents home to meet her gothic, supernatural family. Family traditions clash against the tides of change in the latest show by 40 of the elementary school’s young thespians, directed by Allison Sayer. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children, available by scanning the QR code. Pictured are the cast and crew of ‘The Addams Family.’ CONTRIBUTED

n i g n Spri

. . . . e l y t s o t

for th

d r u o f o n o s a e es

! ! g n i v oor li

19

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

Sipinto Science PLEASE JOIN

R

FOR OUR ANNUAL

a 5 course, drink-paired dinner with science demos and live music

Waterfront Restaurant • Beach Bar Marina • Gift Shop COME BY CAR, BOAT & EVEN HELICOPTER

A waterfront restaurant with delicious, unique and fresh Island flavors

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK BREAKFAST 8A-11A LUNCH & DINNER 11A-10P

March 28, 2026

5:30pm

Seacamp | Dining Hall | Big Pine Key, FL

$150 DONATION PER SEAT. Purchase tickets or make a contribution at seacamp.betterworld.org Key’s Formal Attire Requested Libations provided by

$7 BLOODY MARYS & MIMOSAS 8A-11:30A MEXICAN SUNDAYS 11:30A-4P

12648 Overseas Hwy • MM 54 Gulfside Marathon • 305-743-4191 www.islandfishco.co

20

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026 from page 4

1

JUNIOR EDITORS

2 3

4

Switlik fifth graders take over the Weekly news desk for Career and Truck Day 5

1. Marathon Fire Chief James Muro, the adult in the white shirt, smiles with Stanley Switlik Elementary students. EVERETT WIDNEY/Keys Weekly 2. Fifth graders are taught about the Keys Weekly at Career Day. Top row, from left: Jordanna, Gaelle, Roniel, Aden and David.

Bottom row: Lilly, Alex and Kevin. DAVID LORENZO/Keys Weekly 3. County Mayor Michelle Lincoln comes to Stanley Switlik to teach kids about what she does. JOURNEY NICHOLS/Keys Weekly 4. Ms.Worthington, left, and Ms. Abbi do a ballerina pose. IRIASBELIS MIRANDA/Keys Weekly

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

S

tudents at Stanley Switlik Elementary School tried their little hands at journalism as part of Switlik’s annual Career and Truck Day on March 6. Pulling in dozens of local businesses, civic leaders, law enforcement personnel and tradesmen, fifth graders spent the morning exploring their budding career aspirations.

Students spending time with the Weekly learned the importance of objective, fact-based reporting and

the importance of local media to the Florida Keys. They used magazines produced by the company to learn new fun facts about hurricane preparation, and even took a walk through the decades by using the Original Marathon Seafood Festival guide to find out more about Marathon’s most popular event.

Finally, the classes helped this news editor with the Weekly’s mission of putting as many local names and faces in the paper as possible, taking and captioning all the photos seen here.

5. Students check out the most recent issue of the Marathon Weekly. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly.

In other news: • A plethora of ordinances presented by Planning Director Brian Shea corrected the constantly-changing name of Florida’s state land planning agency in Marathon’s code, comprehensive plan and development regulations.

• With a new batch of building rights made available in December 2025 from the Florida Department of Commerce, the council unanimously approved its first award of four allocations for 2026. Following Tuesday’s approval, both Landry and Shea noted, the city has exhausted all applicants on its waiting list for market-rate owner-occupied homes. Under the new award schedule approved by the council, Marathon may distribute up to five of these rights in evennumbered years, or six in oddnumbered years. “If you want to build a house, you have a lot and you want to occupy that unit, now is the time to do it,” Landry said.

• Resolution 2026-30, unanimously approved, provides for fee increases for use of the city marina’s mooring field, seawall dockage and dinghy dock, held static since 2023. Rental rates will increase by roughly $5 per foot for seawall dockage, with mooring field and dinghy dock rates increasing by $5 or $10 per month.

• Resolution 2026-33 unanimously authorizes a $1.485 million change order to the first phase of Marathon’s deep injection well wastewater pipeline, providing for the pipe to cross beneath Vaca Cut and the Robert Dopp Bridge on Coco Plum Drive.

Saus told the council that bids for the first phase of the deep well project could not include the underwater crossings when initially received, as the city had not received necessary permits from the Army Core of Engineers. The permit now in hand, he said, would expire on March 14 if a contractor was not selected, leading the city to award the underwater crossings to DBE Utility Services, the $5 million low bidder for the other components of phase 1.

21

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

THE BRENNER SCHEEL & CASEY TEAM OPEN HOUSE THUR/FRI/SAT 11-1PM PRICE REDUCED $325K SELLER FINANCING OFFERED

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22

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

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Key Colony Beach hosts St. Paddy’s Day parade

K

THANK YOU, VOICES FOR CHILDREN, FOR THE INCREDIBLE WORK YOU DO FOR OUR COMMUNITY LOCALS SUPPORTING LOCALS 303 Sadowski Causeway Key Colony Beach Monday - Saturday 10AM - 5:30PM Sunday 11AM - 4PM 305.922.2493

ey Colony Beach is the place to be in the Middle Keys on Saint Patrick’s Day. The city will host its annual St. Paddy’s Day parade on Tuesday, March 17, beginning at 5 p.m. The parade will proceed along West Ocean Drive and East Ocean Drive from 15th Street to 1st Street, and back.

The Key Colony Beach Community Association invites new and returning participants in the parade, from walkers to bikers, golf carts, cars, boats and floats.

Motorized vehicles should line up at 4 p.m. at the 15th Street circle, and walkers and bikers should arrive at Sunset Park by 4:30 p.m.

Parade participants are encouraged to toss candy, beads, bubbles and other prizes to kids and adults along the route. No partisan political statements are allowed in the parade.

To sign up, contact parade chairman Larry Smoot at moboatin24@gmail.com or 816-5508560.

— Keys Weekly staff report

23

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

Buy well. Sell well. Live well.

(305) 912-2177 TRACY@TRACYCHACKSFIELD.COM TRACYCHACKSFIELD.COM

FEATURED PROPERTY

1001 W Ocean Dr 1-204, Key Colony Beach $755,000 | 2 BD | 2 BA | 1,260 SQ FT

PANORAMIC OPEN WATER VIEW PRIVATE WHITE SAND BEACH GARAGE PARKING

AVAILABLE PROPERTIES Open Sat 11-1

UNDER CONTRACT

UNDER CONTRACT

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$2,395,000 | 2 BD | 2 BA | 1,480 SQ FT

$945,000 | 2 BD | 2 BA | 1,290 SQ FT

$599,000 | 2 BD | 2 BA | 1,045 SQ FT

Year To Date Market Stats KEY COLONY BEACH

20

closed sales

$1,831,075

average sales price

UNDER CONTRACT

UNDER CONTRACT

111

average days on market

MARATHON

38

closed sales

$1,593,982

average sales price

140

average days on market *Data From Flex MLS 1/1/2026-3/8/2026

601 W Ocean Dr 414D, Key Colony Beach

755 W Ocean Dr 7, Key Colony Beach

$585,000 | 2 BD | 2.5 BA | 1,343 SQ FT

$515,000 | 1 BD | 1 BA | 675 SQ FT

UNDER CONTRACT REQUIRES STRATEGY Thinking about selling? Let’s talk. © 2026 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.

24

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

PHILANTHROPY MATTERS

Donating time can be huge help for many Keys nonprofits

I.CARE representatives explain the steps in coral propagation in preparation for planting to the reef. DONNA DIETRICH/Contributed

A representative with FWC’s Fish & Wildlife Research Institute explains coral propagation and growth of different species of reef-building corals.

WORKING ON FRAGILE ECOSYSTEMS Public gets rare glimpse of efforts to save coral reefs

K

eys Marine Laboratory welcomed guests to discover what lies behind the brown fence in Layton during the annual open house on March 7.

Staff and volunteers guided visitors through an afternoon of discovery, featuring interactive displays from leading reef restoration and conservation organizations in the Keys.

For more than 30 years, Keys Marine Laboratory has offered a unique location, dedicated on-site scientific support and a comprehensive full-service marine field station. The laboratory is part of the University of South Florida, operated by the Florida Institute of Oceanography.

Participating in exhibits and activities at the open house were Florida Institute of Oceanography, FWC Fish & Wildlife Research Institute, Coral Restoration Foundation, I.CARE, Reef Renewal USA, REEF Conch Republic Marine Army, Surfrider Foundation (Florida Keys chapter) and ReefStarter.

The laboratory facilitates college-level education and research at local, state, national and international levels. Its primary purpose is to function as a hub facilitating a wide range of academic research and reef restoration. Over 245 organizations, hailing from more than 40 states in the U.S. and 29 countries, have benefited since the laboratory’s inception in 1992.

The organization has launched a $60 million campaign aimed at modernizing and expanding facilities to address the evolving environmental challenges facing our oceans. This initiative will include the construction of new storm-resistant temporary housing for students and faculty, teaching and research laboratories, and lecture and seminar rooms.

— Contributed

My first day with the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys was three ELIZABETH years ago. I had BROWN volunteered to come down ... is president before my official and CEO of the Community start date to help Foundation with the Unsung of the Florida Keys.

Heroes event.

The term “blown away” is an understatement.

If you’re not familiar, Unsung Heroes is one of the foundation’s signature programs — a lunch and award ceremony that honors volunteers who give their most precious resource – time – to benefit local nonprofits and our larger community. It’s a day filled with positivity and gratitude. Joyful and a little boisterous, it sends everyone out on a high note that, speaking on behalf of our staff, sustains us throughout the year.

Recently, we honored 88 volunteers nominated by 95 Keyswide nonprofits. These volunteers, some full-time and some seasonal residents, feed our neighbors, protect our waters, support the arts, mentor youth, care for animals, and more.

Their impact reaches every corner of the Keys.

Unsung Heroes is more than just a celebration. It is part of how the foundation helps build capacity for our nonprofit partners by shining a light on the people who make their work possible. It is also why we partner with the Keys Weekly Newspapers to feature an Unsung Hero Volunteer of the Week in papers every Thursday throughout the year.

Recognition matters. Gratitude fuels service.

It surprises many to learn that well over 200 nonprofits are headquartered in or serve the Florida Keys. Most operate entirely with volunteers or with very small paid staff. That means volunteers — from board members providing strategic vision to those greeting guests at fundraisers — are essential to our community’s success.

So how can you help? First, say thank you. It’s simple, costs nothing

The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys includes, from left, Kevin Bowes, director of community impact; Laura Lietaert, board chair; Elizabeth Brown, president and CEO; Heidi Morris, board member and grants committee chair; and Ron Burd, board member emeritus and board adviser.

CONTRIBUTED

and matters more than you think.

Second, consider where you might give some of your time. Life gets busy, but carving out that time to give back is important. Not only does it benefit the organization you’re serving, it also pulls us out of our individual routines and reminds us we are part of something larger.

In the song “Seasons of Love” from the show “Rent,” we are reminded there are 525,600 minutes in a year. How many of those might you share with our community?

I recently met a volunteer who answers that question with quiet dedication. He spends a day each week helping at a local food pantry, stocking shelves, greeting families and making sure no one leaves empty-handed. What many do not see is that he himself is navigating housing challenges. But he shows up consistently, offering kindness and dignity to others who may be struggling. That is the heart of volunteerism. It reminds us that generosity is not about having extra. It is about choosing to give what you can.

Volunteerism is philanthropy in action. It is generosity measured in presence, not dollars. And in the Keys, it is one of the most powerful ways to show that we truly are One Human Family.

If there is an organization you admire, reach out and offer to help.

If you are new to the area and are not sure where to start, call us. We are happy to connect you.

Finally, thank you to the readers who wrote in last month with ideas for future topics. Please keep the comments coming at cffk@cffk.org.

25

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

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Membership is open to everyone who lives or works in the Florida Keys.

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KEYS FISHERIES RESTAURANT MARKET & MARINA 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.

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JOIN US AT OUR UPSTAIRS RAW BAR OYSTERS | POKE BOWLS FULL BAR AND THE BEST SUNSETS HAPPY HOUR 2M - 5PM

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26

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS

I CAN HEAR THE RINGING … AND IT WON’T STOP

T

here’s ringing in your ears, but you haven’t been to a rock concert since Woodstock ’69.

The room is spinning, but you finally listened to your local health columnist (thank you very much) and have been seriously cutting back on the alcohol.

No loud partying, no booze, and yet you STILL feel like crap. Not fair, am I right?!

Let me introduce you to two totally different – yet equally annoying – conditions called tinnitus and vertigo.

Some of you know exactly what I’m talking about because you’ve already been diagnosed. And some of you are about to march this article straight into your doctor’s office and say, “THIS. This is what I’ve been trying to explain.”

Let’s start with the ringing. Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. In other words, your ears are hosting a concert that nobody else can hear. It might sound like ringing, buzzing, humming, chirping, whistling or even the faint roar of what could be mistaken for a distant boat engine.

About 10% to 15% of adults experience tinnitus, and it becomes more common as we age. The frustrating part is that tinnitus itself isn’t a disease, it’s a symptom that something else is going on.

One of the most common culprits is age-related hearing loss. Inside the inner ear are thousands of tiny hair cells that help translate sound waves into electrical signals your brain understands. Over time, some of those cells retire from service, and unlike the rest of us, they don’t come back from retirement.

Noise exposure can also be a factor. Years of power tools, loud music, engines and yes, the occasional concert can add up.

Other possible contributors include high blood pressure, certain medications, jaw tension, sinus issues, and chronic stress. The nervous system plays a big role here. When the brain becomes hyper-aware of internal signals, it can essentially “turn up the

SHELF HELP UNSPLASH

volume” on sounds that were previously background noise.

While there’s no universal cure, there are things that can help. Protecting your hearing from loud environments is a big one. Managing blood pressure, improving sleep, reducing caffeine and addressing chronic stress can all make a difference. Some people find relief with white noise machines or gentle background sound that gives the brain something else to focus on besides the internal soundtrack.

Now let’s talk about the spinning room. Vertigo is different from general dizziness. Dizziness is feeling lightheaded or unsteady. Vertigo is the unsettling sensation that you or the room around you are moving when nothing actually is.

If you’ve ever rolled over in bed and suddenly felt like you were on a carnival ride you did not buy a ticket for, you may have experienced a very common form of vertigo called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV. Here’s the strange science behind it. Inside your inner ear are tiny calcium crystals called otoconia. Their job is to help your brain detect motion and gravity so you can stay balanced.

Sometimes those crystals become dislodged and float into the wrong part of the inner ear. When your head moves – looking up, bending down, rolling over – those rogue crystals send confusing signals to the brain. Your brain responds by thinking the world is spinning.

Freaking crystals.

About 1 in 10 people will experience vertigo at some point, and BPPV is one of the most common causes, particularly in adults over 50. Other causes can include inner ear inflammation, dehydration, migraines, medication side effects or blood pressure

fluctuations.

The good news is that many cases of positional vertigo can be improved with a series of head and body movements called the Epley maneuJENNIFER ver, which helps HARVEY guide those crystals back to where they ...is a Marathonbelong. Physical based ACSMtherapists trained in certified pervestibular therapy sonal trainer and precision nutrition often use these coach who owns techniques with and operates excellent results.

Highly Motivated Staying hydratFunctionally ed, moving careCaffeinated LLC. fully when getting out of bed and addressing underlying health factors can also help reduce episodes.

There are times when dizziness or ear symptoms deserve prompt medical attention, especially if they are sudden, severe or accompanied by neurological symptoms.

The bottom line is this: If your ears are ringing like an old rotary phone or the room occasionally spins like you accidentally stepped onto a merry-goround, your body may just be asking for a little investigation.

Because sometimes feeling offbalance has nothing to do with margaritas, and everything to do with the fascinating, and occasionally finicky, inner workings of the human ear.

So, the next time the room spins, or your ears start ringing out of nowhere, don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. Your inner ear may be small, but when it decides to get your attention, it does an impressive job.

S

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

What: “The Last Kings of Hollywood: Coppola, Lucas, Spielberg – and the Battle for the Soul of American Cinema” by Paul Fischer Why: This is an enthralling read about three of Hollywood’s most influential filmmakers: Francis Ford Coppola, Steven Spielberg and George Lucas. (There’s a fair amount of Martin Scorsese and some Brian De Palma in there too.)

Lucas comes off fairly poorly, yet his effect on modern-day blockbusters (for better or worse) is still felt decades after the first “Star Wars” and “Indiana Jones” pictures.

Spielberg’s “Jaws” is often touted as the first summer blockbuster.

Coppola’s commitment to his art — both financially and creatively — is commendable, even if his greatest achievements were mostly over by the 1980s. (In 2024, Coppola self-financed “Megalopolis” at an estimated cost of $120 million, but the film only made about $14 million at the box office.) Conversely, Spielberg and Scorsese went on to have long and impressive careers with remarkable filmographies.

Where: You can borrow this as a print book, e-book or e-audiobook from the Monroe County Public Library.

How: You can request books, including e-books and e-audiobooks, online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? keyslibraries. org/contact-us.

Recommended by: Michael Nelson, assistant director, operations.

See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/post/shelf-help

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

We’ll watch the market... you watch the grandkids.

Managing all the details of your financial life.

Financial Advice • Personal Service Investment Management

Raymond Rodriguez, MD Medical Director, Mount Sinai Cardiology of the Keys

For an appointment:

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*Physician and location subject to availability.

Please call us today for a consultation Marathon (305) 743-6095 Key Largo (305) 451-0408 Miami (786) 601-2623

www.chapmanandcardwell.com 10085 Overseas Hwy, Marathon FL

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Chapman & Cardwell Capital Management is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.

The sweet treat spot in Marathon Cupcakes, Baked Goods, Ice Cream, Award Winning Key Lime Pie, Gift Shop and so much more!

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

21

YEARS STRONG

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Congratulations to Lindsey Ruiz TOP RENTAL AGENT IN THE MIDDLE KEYS FOR 2025 Lindsey Ruiz has many y ears of experience in property management and is dedicated to helping vacation rental owners succeed.

Together with her assistant, they take a handson approach to every home they manage. In the past three y ears alone, they have generated nearly $17 million in vacation rental revenue and remain committed to helping their owners achieve even greater success in the y ears ahead.

If y ou are looking for someone to manage y our vacation rental property or know of someone who is, Contact Us at 305.304.8973 or send us an email lrhowell2012@gmail.com

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

SLÁINTE (‘CHEERS,’ PRONOUNCED SLAWN-CHA) THREE IRISH WRITERS TO CELEBRATE THIS ST. PATRICK’S DAY

SAOIRSE

By Charleen Hurtubise Sarah Roy knew she had to escape. Surviving years of abuse by her addict mother’s boyfriend and protecting her younger sister Lea left her with few options. Now, her mother is dead. After arranging Lea’s safety, Sarah sets off to Ireland. Changing her surname from Roy to Walsh is easy when she swipes an unsuspecting nanny’s passport. On the plane, her seatmate Paul is overly friendly. She accepts his offer of hospitality, and although his mother hesitates, his father welcomes Sarah with open arms. As she reinvents herself as Saoirse, Paul becomes controlling and manipulative. Under Paul’s thumb for years, Saoirse falls in love with another man named Daithi (Dah-Hee) who takes her to live by the sea. An incredible painter, she begins to experience success in the art world. Saoirse’s happiness is short-lived as the unbreakable ties with Paul’s family hold the secrets of her past.

Art, freedom and love fill this beautifully written KAREN story with heartbreakNEWFIELD ing emotion,and enough suspense to keep you First and foremost a reader, she has turning the pages. Pour a reviewed huncup of tea, wear somedreds of books on thing green, and lose her blog www. yourself in this incredible readingandeating.

Irish novel. com. And, more recently, this new Keys resident has also begun writing.

NESTING

by Roisín O’Donnell One afternoon, Ciara holds the hands of her two young daughters and leaves their Dublin home. Ciara’s husband Ryan will be furious, but eventually his anger will subside, he will profess his love and beg her to come home. When that doesn’t work, he will gaslight her and convince Ciara she needs medical help – this is Ryan’s pattern. After a decade living in Ireland, isolated from her mother and sister and having given up her teaching career, Ciara has few friends and no money. But Ciara knows she is not imagining this, and she cannot let her girls witness this destructive marriage. As Ciara navigates life on the run, she finds shelter and legal counsel.

Every step Ciara takes forward feels like 10 steps back. This story is a devastating peek inside an abusive marriage. No one wants to live where they do not feel safe. Ciara feels shame, fear and guilt as she searches for help, but it is less important how she got there than figuring out how to escape. Hard to believe this is a debut. Róisín O’Donnell is a powerful new Irish voice.

LET ME GO MAD IN MY OWN WAY

by Elaine Feeney In London, Claire works as a writer and university professor. She has a boyfriend named Tom Morton and a future that looks nothing like the rural town of her youth.

London is far away from her abusive father and sad mother. One day Claire is notified that her mother has died, and she heads back to Ireland for the first time in years. At the funeral, Claire receives a mixed welcome from her brothers and childhood friends who feel she abandoned them. Afterward, Claire returns to London, but falls into a deep depression. When her father becomes very sick, Claire returns out of some twisted guilt to arrange his care. With the arrival of the pandemic, she finds herself unexpectedly stuck once again in western Ireland.

As family secrets are revealed along with a descriptive brutal Irish history, Claire continues to struggle. Unexpectedly, Tom shows up searching for her forgiveness while he works on the novel that never ends. Written with a distinctly Irish lilt, which I love, this is a haunting story of grief, guilt and survival.

#WORTHWATCHING “Four Letters of Love” is a romantic Irish drama based on a bestselling novel from Niall Williams. Set in 1970s Ireland, it follows two young people, Nicholas and Isabel, whose lives are shaped by family upheaval and loss.

This is a quiet story with big Irish scenery and an outstanding cast. Check it out on Netflix.

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

2024

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TICKETS: $100 INCLUDE: 2,500 GAMING CHIPS AND HEAVY HORS D'OEUVRES CATERING BY BRUTUS SEAFOOD CASH BAR & GRAND RAFFLE

Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA

JOHN AND SARAH BARTUS

RAFFLE DONORS Lighthouse Kitchen & Bar El Siboney Marathon Yacht Club Alo Jewelers Isla Bella John Bartus Stacey Pierce Sweet Savannahs

PRESLEY 1-year-old male domestic shorthair.

Looking for: Just about anything.

Turnoffs: Being a stray wasn’t for me.

SWIPE RIGHT

MARY ANN ROYSE

Marlin Bay Resort Vista Beauty Bar MEM Wellness Gimme the Keys Sole' Watersports Paradise Watersports Fl Keys Steak & Lobster House Frank's Grill

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.

Conch Custard Clouds in my Coffee Home Depot Tewes Lending Crane Point Fl Keys Aquarium Encounters Dolphin Research Center DKs Beach Boutique Brutus Land and Sea

FOOD DONORS Brutus • Food for Thought • Castaway • Coast to Coast Keys Fisheries • Dockside

www.facebook.com/BPWMarathon

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.

POPCORN 1-year-old male guinea pig.

Looking for: A home for two, please.

Turnoffs: Guinea pigs are misunderstood but make great companions.

33

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026 The Most Trusted Name in Florida Keys Real Estate Since 1955.

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Sam Williams PA has closed more transactions in the Middle Keys than any agent in the history of the Middle Keys!

Sam Williams, P.A. #SELLITWITHSAM office: 305.289.6559/text: 305.942.6069 sam.williams@coldwellbanker.com

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Co. 11050 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 ©2026 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved.®,TM and SM are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved. ®,TM and SM are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An equal opportunity equal opportunity company. Equal housing opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated.

marathon Office for February 2026 Landmark Sale | $22,000,000 | Marathon, Fl Keys Honored to be recognized as February Top Producer, highlighted by the Landmark $22M Sale in Marathon, Florida. Representing this extraordinary oceanfront legacy property was a true privilege. The estate reflects the vision of the remarkable individuals whose leadership, faith, and generosity have left a lasting imprint on the Marathon community.

As a lifelong Florida Keys Conch, I would be honored to help you unlock your dream of island living. Reach out today!

lisa wiebe 561.386.4952 | lisa@cbschmitt.com | www.lisawiebe.com www.youtube.com/@lisawiebe_realtor For all your real estate needs, stop by our office at 11050 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

Having Fun in the Middle Keys NOW HIRINGrs Educato

OPEN for programs MEET SEA TURTLES AT THE TURTLE HOSPITAL

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. CALL 305-743-2552 FOR RESERVATIONS. 2396 Overseas Highway Gulf, Marathon Now accepting online reservations NOW ACCEPTING VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEER@TURTLEHOSPITAL.ORG

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Morning Trips 8:30am - 12:30pm

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

BRIEFLY Marathon Yacht Club hosts Healthy Start fundraiser The Marathon Yacht Club will hold a mahjong fundraiser supporting Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition on Wednesday, April 8, starting at 11 a.m. in the clubhouse. Play at royal, regular and learning tables from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., with play resuming at 1 p.m. after a lunch break. Bring a donation of cash or a check made out to Florida Keys Healthy Start for admission. A lunch buffet is $20 plus tax and tip, with Bloody Marys and mimosas offered for $5. Please RSVP by April 6 to the MYC office, office@marathonyachtclub.com or by calling 305-7436739. Call C.M. Bishop with questions at 305-395-0439.

Seacamp to host dinner to raise money Seacamp on Big Pine Key will hold its annual Sip Into Science fundraiser on Saturday, March 28 at 5:30 p.m. Attendees will have a five-course, drinkpaired dinner alongside interactive science demos and live music. Tickets are a $150 donation per seat. More information is at seacamp.betterworld. org. “Keys formal” attire is requested.

Public input wanted for Key deer survey The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are seeking input from those who live, work or recreate in Monroe County by completing a brief online survey about Key deer. The survey is intended to better understand public awareness, experiences and interest in Key deer conservation and outreach. Participation is voluntary and takes about 15 minutes.

These survey responses will support efforts to protect and conserve this unique species found only in the Florida Keys. To participate in the survey, scan the QR code.

Big Pine teen arrested after dirtbike chase A 14-year-old Big Pine Key male was arrested on March 4 after reportedly fleeing from the sheriff’s office on an e-bike. There were no reported injuries. The juvenile was charged with fleeing and eluding. “These e-bikes are popular, but they remain largely unregulated and can be dangerous,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “I hope our legislature addresses this soon and enacts laws that improve safety and help law enforcement.” A deputy was making a turn onto Key Deer Boulevard from U.S. 1 just before 7 p.m. when two e-bikes drove through the intersection, causing the deputy to

brake and avoid a collision. The deputy attempted to stop the two riders, but they fled south, MCSO said. One of the riders attempted to cut through a gravel parking lot and crashed.

That driver was arrested. The incident remains under investigation and more arrests/charges may be pending.

Key Largo trespassing leads to three arrests Two men and a woman were arrested on March 7 after causing a scene at a Key Largo resort that reportedly started with the female removing her underwear. Jeremy Michael Vallies, 41, of Key Largo; James Crocco, 32, of Olive Hill, Kentucky; and Alicia Moore, 35, of Key Largo, were all charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. Vallies was additionally charged with possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Croco was charged with possession of an open container of alcohol. The sheriff’s office was called to the Reefhouse Resort & Marina around 7:30 a.m. regarding a trespassing issue.

Security footage showed the three suspects entering resort property, after which the female removed her underwear. The men became belligerent when confronted by staff, yelling at employees. The three were not paying guests. All three were trespassed from the property. Crocco could be seen drinking from a can. All three resisted being placed in handcuffs. A baggie of methamphetamine was found in Vallies’ wallet. All three were taken to jail.

Artists can apply for Anne McKee grants The Anne McKee Artists Fund is accepting applications for grants to individual visual, performing, and literary artists who reside in the Florida Keys.

Grant applications can be submitted through March 31. The Anne McKee Artist Fund standard grant ranges from $500 to $3,000 per person for project-based work. Three youth-based scholarships are also available — one for young people ages 14 and over, one for those under age 14, and the Jon McIntosh Student Grant for high school seniors’ artistic advancement.

The third annual Joint Performance Grant is available as well. The award is open to an individual or group in the performing arts — including music, film, dance, comedy and theater – and a recipient will have the opportunity to stage a performance at the Tennessee Williams Theatre Cabaret, along with lighting and sound assistance valued at $9,000. Grants are awarded on the basis of financial need and/or to promote recognition of emerging talent. Other factors considered are a

history of dedication and excellence in the applicant’s area of expertise, and a demonstrated commitment and involvement in the Florida Keys cultural community. More information is at www.mckeefund.org.

Friends of the Library hosts annual book sale The Marathon Friends of the Library will host its annual book sale on Saturday, March 14 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Marathon Public Library.

The organization is seeking donations of gently-used books, dropped off at the library during open hours (9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday).. Money from the sale goes to supporting the library’s special events.

Sheriff’s office fires deputy for misuse of computers Monroe County Sheriff’s Office deputy Lamar Eliseo Roman, 28, was arrested by MCSO on March 10 for alleged misuse of law enforcement computers, computer networks and electronic devices. Roman’s employment with the sheriff’s office was terminated. “I am committed to keeping this community informed of significant events that occur in this agency — good and bad,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. Roman used law enforcement databases to look up information for personal reasons beyond the legal scope of his employment as a deputy, MCSO said in a press release. Roman was hired on May 14, 2025.

Garden Club invites scholarship applicants The Marathon Garden Club invites Marathon High School college-bound seniors to apply for the Nancy Miller Garden Club Scholarship. The scholarship is for a student with an interest in the environment, horticulture and science who intends to major in the areas of STEM. The application is under the “CCAPS Scholarship Opportunities” tab on the Marathon High School website, with additional hard copies available at the high school. Applications are due on Friday, April 10 and the award will be presented on Class Night.

Feeding South Florida hosts student art competition Feeding South Florida is hosting its seventh annual “Feed Your Creativity” art competition, accepting submissions through April 30. Elementary, middle and high school students throughout Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties are invited to compete for the opportunity to have their artwork displayed on one of Feeding

South Florida's semi-trailer truck wraps – a 36-foot moving billboard that travels throughout South Florida. The 2026 campaign focuses on “food that connects,” highlighting the importance of how food connects us all, while raising awareness about summer hunger. The artwork should inspire others, spark meaningful conversations and help individuals understand the importance of sharing meals and supporting individuals in our community. Judging will take place May 1-7. Winners will be announced at Feeding South Florida’s warehouse at Pembroke Park on May 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. The truck reveal celebration will be held at the school of the first-place winner on May 29. All students’ artwork will be displayed at Feeding South Florida’s Pembroke Park and Boynton Beach warehouses. More information is at feedingsouthflorida. org/fyc26.

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.

Marathon Moose hosts weekly bingo night The Marathon Moose Lodge located at 11601 1st Ave. Gulf hosts a bingo night every Monday, open to the public, beginning at 6:15 p.m. in the lodge’s renovated, smoke-free hall.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Six-game packets are available for purchase, plus two bonus games (shotgun and coverall).

Players must be 18. Water, soda and light snacks are available for purchase.

Join the Elks Club for breakfast specials The community is invited to join the Marathon Elks Club at 8239 Overseas Highway each Sunday until March 29 for weekly breakfast specials, served from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Every $10 plate served helps support the Elks’ local charitable efforts. All are welcome.

36

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

MALLORY PINTO OWNER BROKER RENTAL MANAGER

Ross A. Militello, Esq

Immigration | Family Criminal Defense | Military & Veterans 305.741.7294 ram@ramlegal.com 10095 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050

Island Luxury Redefined A Boutique Approach to Sales & Rentals C: 813.846.6759 | Mallory@keysocean.com | www.keysocean.com

37

MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

Founded by Betty Debnam

Photo by AJ Penrose

Kangaroos are herbivores, or vegetation eaters. They eat grasses, shrubs and fungi. A group of kangaroos is called a mob.

Although many of kangaroos’ original predators are now extinct, they can be threatened by dingoes, foxes, feral, or wild, cats, and domestic and feral dogs.

Photo by Fir0002/Flagstaffotos

KANGAROOS Kangaroos are part of the macropod family. There are four species of large kangaroos: the red kangaroo (largest marsupial in the world), eastern gray kangaroo, western gray kangaroo and antilopine kangaroo. These are all found in Australia. Other macropods include tree kangaroos, wallaroos, pademelons, quokkas and rat kangaroos. These comprise about 60 species.

Kangaroos are the only large mammals that hop on two feet to move around. The large red kangaroo can hop up to about 40 mph.

KOALAS Koalas may look like bears, but they are not. Their closest relatives are wombats.

They are found only in Australia, along the eastern and southern coasts.

Koalas spend most of their lives in trees and move around at night. Their only food is the leaves of eucalyptus trees. They may sleep for 20 hours a day. Koalas live to be 13 to 18 years old in the wild. They have few predators, including dingoes, pythons and some birds.

Through their lives, their chewing teeth wear down, and eventually they are unable to eat.

Photo by Benhamint444

AT BIRTH When a marsupial is born, it is hairless and weighs less than an ounce. It crawls into the mother’s pouch and attaches itself to her teat, where it nurses and grows until it can live on its own, usually for several months. Even after a joey, or baby marsupial, ventures out from the pouch, it returns there to sleep and when there is danger.

WOMBATS Wombats are well known for the long tunnels they burrow with their teeth and front feet. They are native to Australia. The female has a pouch that faces backward so it does not fill with dirt when she is burrowing. Wombat scat, or poop, is cube-shaped.

Photo by JJ Harrison

You don’t have to travel all the way to Australia or South America to see marsupials.

Many of them can be observed at zoos in the Northern Hemisphere.

Marsupials (mar-SOO-pee-uhls) are mammals that carry their babies in a pouch on the mother’s abdomen. This week, The Mini Page learns more about these unusual animals.

Photo by Nathan Rupert

MEET THE MARSUPIALS

TASMANIAN DEVILS You may know Taz, the cartoon character, from Looney Toons cartoons, but Tasmanian devils are real animals.

In the wild, they are found only on the island of Tasmania, just off the southeastern tip of Australia.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, Tasmanian devils are classified as endangered. This means they are likely to become extinct in their native homes.

Tasmanian devils are about the size of a small dog. Unlike many other marsupials, Tasmanian devils are carnivores: They hunt prey and eat carrion, or dead animals. They have the strongest bite strength relative to their body size of any mammalian carnivore. One of their favorite prey is wombats.

Devils have a bad odor and a loud screech. Their black fur and fierce teeth give them a frightening appearance.

Image courtesy Office of Coast Survey, NOAA

MINI FACT: This koala (on left) was photographed on French Island in Victoria, Australia.

RESOURCES ON THE WEB • activewild.com/list-of-marsupials • bit.ly/3M8sE35 AT THE LIBRARY • “Spotlight on Nature: Kangaroo” by Pamela Dell • “Quokkas!” by Hope Aicher

The Mini Page® © 2026 Andrews McMeel Syndication

CARNIVORE, CARRION, DEVIL, DINGO, HERBIVORE, HOP, JOEY, KANGAROO, KOALA, MACROPOD, MARSUPIAL, MOB, POUCH, PREY, QUOKKA, TASMANIA, WALLAROO, WOMBAT.

Words that remind us of marsupials are hidden in this puzzle.

Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

C I O A C G R T N R A I I B D O M Y N O D Q W Z V Q V J O E

E R O V I N R A C Y

F V M R Q F E C E A G P U Y O H R L A Q O O C S O N L R R U U S V A I A O P Z L I A G P I L Q M B N A A N S W A A W L A W L P K H T Q A R Y

R H O K N V O R R H

A O O I K K E R E B

L D P O A P P O G R A C D A D M Y O H B

ECO NOTE A 13-year-old pet cow in Austria named Veronika is the subject of the first scientifically documented case of tool use by cattle. Writing in the journal Current Biology, researchers say they observed her using a wooden broom to scratch hard-to-reach parts of her body, deliberately switching between the bristled end and the smooth handle depending on skin sensitivity.

Across 70 trials, Veronika repeatedly picked up, oriented and applied the tool in a goaldirected and flexible fashion. Scientists say this behavior meets the criteria for true tool use, a cognitive skill previously documented in animals such as chimpanzees, elephants and crows.

Adapted with permission from Earthweek.com

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MARATHON WEEKLY / MARCH 12, 2026

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March 12, 2026

SPIRIT OF THE GAMES Keys Special Olympians meet in Marathon | P.4

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / MARCH 12, 2026

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3

MARCH 12, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS THE SCOREBOARD

MARCH 2 - 7

Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Coral Shores

Baseball

ABF Hialeah

3/2

W, 3-1

Marathon

Baseball

Ransom Everglades

3/3

W, 5-2

Marathon

Softball

Mater Bay Academy

3/3

W, 14-11

Coral Shores

Softball

AIE

3/4

L, 18-11

Key West

Boys Lacrosse

Westminster Christian

3/4

L, 11-8

Coral Shores

Boys Lacrosse

Gulliver Prep

3/4

L, 11-10

Coral Shores

Baseball

South Homestead

3/4

W, 15-0

Coral Shores

Girls Lacrosse

Coral Reef

3/4

L, 9-7

Key West

Baseball

Gulf Shores

3/5

W, 10-0

Key West

Girls Lacrosse

Westminster Christian

3/5

L, 20-11

Key West

Baseball

Gulf Shores

3/6

W, 1-0

Coral Shores

Baseball

Aubrey Rogers

3/6

L, 12-1

Coral Shores

Girls Lacrosse

American Heritage

3/6

L, 15-3

Key West

Boys Lacrosse

Coral Reef

3/6

W, 11-7

Coral Shores

Boys Lacrosse

Miami Country Day

3/6

W, 9-2

Marathon

Softball

Carrollton

3/6

W, 15-0

Coral Shores

Softball

Ransom Everglades

3/6

W, 15-0

Key West

Softball

Winter Haven

3/6

W, 14-4

Key West

Softball

Winter Haven

3/7

W, 10-0

Marathon

Baseball

St. Edward’s

3/7

W, 11-6

Marathon

Baseball

St. Edward’s

3/7

L, 7-0

Key West

Baseball

Gulf Shores

3/7

W, 3-2

Key West

Girls Lacrosse

Miami Country Day

3/7

L, 8-7

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

MARCH 12 - 19

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

3/12

Key West

Tennis

Coral Shores

2 p.m.

3/12

Marathon

Softball

@ Carrollton

4 p.m.

3/12

Coral Shores

Boys Lacrosse

Florida Christian

7 p.m.

3/12

Key West

Boys Lacrosse

@ John Carroll Catholic

6 p.m.

3/12

Coral Shores

Baseball

@ Dade Christian

3 p.m.

3/12

Marathon

Baseball

@ Dixie County

7 p.m.

3/13

Key West

Track` & Field

@ Calvary Christian

2 p.m.

3/13

Key West

Softball

Santa Fe

7 p.m.

3/13

Key West

Girls Lacrosse

Archbishop McCarthy

4 p.m.

3/13

Marathon

Baseball

@ Chiefland

7 p.m.

3/13

Key West

Baseball

South Dade

7:30 p.m.

3/13

Coral Shores

Baseball

Schoolhouse Prep

5 p.m.

3/14

Key West

Softball

Santa Fe

10 a.m.

3/14

Key West

Softball

John Carroll Catholic

2 p.m.

3/14

Key West

Baseball

Coral Reef

7 p.m.

3/14

Marathon

Baseball

@ Crystal River

10 a.m.

3/16

Marathon

Baseball

@ Trenton

7 p.m.

3/16

Key West

Baseball

Hardee

4:30 p.m.

3/17

Key West

Tennis

@ La Salle

2 p.m.

3/17

Key West

Baseball

Sebring

7:30 p.m.

3/19

Key West

Baseball

@ Spanish River

1 p.m.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Allens

ALEXANDRE

Junior, Key West Wrestling

We are extremely proud of Allens.

Last year when he did not qualify for states, he made it his goal to not just make it this year but get on the podium. Now he’s even hungrier to win a state title next year.”

– Conchs head coach Chaz Jimenez

36-7 season record

3-1

record at states

ON THE COVER

Key West junior Allens Alexandre knows what he wants, and he’s not afraid to put in the work to get there. After falling short of his expectations last season, Alexandre doubled down, building strength in the weight room and sharpening his technique through wrestling camps and training programs all summer long. The payoff came on March 7 at the FHSAA 1A State Championships, where Alexandre climbed the podium after earning a silver medal. But for the relentless junior, second place is simply another step in the process. With a state title firmly in his sights for 2027, Alexandre continues to push forward in pursuit of gold. For his dedication to improvement and his refusal to settle for anything less than his best, Key West’s Allens Alexandre is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Allens Alexandre poses with his state silver medal in wrestling and coach Chaz Jimenez on Feb. 7.

CONTRIBUTED

MARCH 12

Horace O’Bryant school soccer player Jacob DeLeon carries the torch in the opening ceremony of Special Olympics Monroe County’s Summer Games on March 7. See page 4. NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly

4

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / MARCH 12, 2026 SPORTS WRITER

tracy mcdonald 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.

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West.

Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

1

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

4

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Business Development

Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com Manuela C. Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

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

MARKET EDITORS

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR

BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050.

APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

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5

MARCH 12, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

CHAMPIONS CONVERGE Marathon hosts Special Olympics Monroe County Summer Games ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

2 5

3 6

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T

he Keys’ Special Olympians have made waves at the state level in recent years – but on March 7, it was all about friendly in-county competition for Special Olympics Monroe County’s Summer Games. Meeting in the middle at Marathon High School, athletes were treated to an opening ceremony in the school’s stadium with law enforcement partners, local dignitaries and a ceremonial passing of the torch around the track. From there, they launched into a day of games in their chosen sports, including basketball, cheerleading, soccer and track and field. Also in attendance were five Special Olympics cyclists who completed their own time trial in Key West the week before.

“This is the first time in history in Monroe that we had every athlete, every coach and every partner in one place for those six sports,” said Ruth Coleman, sports training and competition manager for Special Olympics Monroe. “We are so grateful to our Florida Keys community – they wrapped their arms around our athletes.”

Special Olympics Monroe County is still seeking volunteers for upcoming events. To get involved, contact Ruth Coleman at 305-923-0288.

1. Mounted officers from the Key West Police Department greet their fans.

2. Athletes race to the finish in the 100-meter dash.

14

10. A rousing chorus of ‘YMCA’ gets the crowd moving.

4. Marathon’s unified cheerleading team shows off their stunts.

11. Linnea Edwards, left, poses with Key West community track program coach Patrick McGuire. Edwards sharpened her skills as she prepares to represent the Keys in bocce at the USA Games in June.

5. Gerald Adams School thirdgrader Leonardo Garcia takes aim with his bocce ball.

12. Key West community track program athlete Ben Cummings launches a shot put.

6. Rosemary Skrobot, an athlete in Key West’s community track program, heads for the finish line with plenty of encouragement.

13. Flynt Holmquist gets his sugar fix.

3. Savannah Phillips shows off her medal.

13

9. The Key Largo School cheer squad goes hands-in.

7. Unified Soccer athletes square off at the MHS stadium.

8. Angel Pierce goes on the attack on the soccer field.

14. Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln, left, greets Marathon soccer star Alex Chavala.

Photos by NATALIE DANKO, For a full gallery, see keysweekly.com.

6

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / MARCH 12, 2026

HOT START

Keys softball teams dominate competition in early-season action

M

Key West’s Allens Alexandre stands on the podium in second place at the FHSAA 1A State Championships March 7. CONTRIBUTED

SILVER LINING Key West wrestler Allens Alexandre finishes second at states

S

ix local wrestlers advanced to the FHSAA State Championships in Kissimmee last week, with two finishing among the top 10 in Florida in their respective weight classes. Key West’s Allens Alexandre was the Keys’ best finisher, winning three matches to place him in the FHSAA 1A state championship match against the very same athlete who defeated him at regionals one week prior. Alexandre went 3-1 in the tournament, with his only loss being the title match. Earning a silver medal for his efforts to close his junior campaign, Alexandre has big plans for his senior season.

Also medaling was sophomore Gavin Matheis of Coral Shores. Matheis wrestled his way to three wins and two losses at states, finishing in seventh place in the 132-pound weight class. Like Alexandre, Matheis is not finished yet and has all the makings to add to his medal collection in 2027 and 2028.

Key West’s Michael Guzman capped off his high school career on the biggest stage in prep wrestling. The senior, who competes at 165 pounds, went 0-2 in Kissimmee after a strong season with the Conchs.

Senior Sebastian McCoy of Coral Shores had one win and two losses at states, finishing his career with the Hurricanes at the highest level. McCoy’s dominance in the 120-pound weight class made him one of the program's best athletes.

Fellow Hurricane Sterling Keefe, a junior, entered states as the Region 4 champ in the 157-pound class. Keefe was 0-2 at states, but his trip to the big show undoubtedly provided valuable experience as he heads into his senior campaign.

Lady Conch Maria Holushko, the Keys’ lone female qualifier, held her own in a pair of matches, lasting until late in the third period in each. The sophomore’s steady improvement makes it very likely she will return to Kissimmee in the coming seasons.

arch got off to a near-perfect start for the Keys’ three softball squads in early-season matchups last week.

Marathon put a pair of wins in the books last week, starting March 3 at Mater Bay Academy. The Dolphins beat the Rays 14-11 with 14 hits, two walks and four hit batters. Junior Anastasia Boose had the hot bat, logging a pair of doubles and a single with three RBIs. Trinity McLeod, Madelyn Thornton and Elianys Roque had two hits each in the win. Boose struck out three, walked one and gave up 18 hits, earning the win for the Fins.

On March 6, it took just three innings for the Lady Fins to roll Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart. Fourteen hits, four walks and three hit batters led to a 15-0 mercy rule victory for Marathon.

Boose pitched two innings, striking out three and surrendering a single hit, then eighth-grader Sutton Sayer stepped into the circle, fanning two in one inning of work. Madelyn Thornton was perfect at the plate, combining a double and three singles for three RBIs while Boose, Shaina Robinson and Elianys Roque had two hits each for the 4-1 Fins.

Coral Shores lost at Academy for Innovative Education on March 4 despite an impressive display of force at the plate. Kayden Costlow had three hits while Mira Jones added three RBIs from a triple and a home run. The ’Canes amassed nine hits, but the Aviators managed a dozen to defeat Coral Shores 18-11. Presley Bagwell and Alyvia Prince shared time pitching, combining for eight strikeouts.

Things were different in front of a home crowd two days later. Prince tossed a no-hitter against Ransom Everglades, striking out half a dozen batters in three innings. Prince then went on the offensive, launching three hits in her three at-bats, including a triple. Chloie Stanley and Mira Jones had two hits each and Addison Grady homered in a 12-hit mercy rule win for the Hurricanes. Coral Shores’ 4-1 start this season is the best the team has seen since 2022 and all indicators point to a strong finish for the FHSAA Independent ’Canes.

Key West improved to 4-2 after a pair of wins against visiting Winter Haven last week. The Lady Conchs finished off the Blue Devils 14-4 on March 6, then blanked them the following afternoon.

In game one, Arianna Garcia had the

Marathon’s Sutton Sayer, left, and Ana Boose shut out Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart last week. NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly

hot bat, amassing four hits in four plate appearances.

Aaliyah McLeod and Shylo Sanchez had three hits each while Maicee Gage added two. Lucy Katz homered in one of the Lady Conch’s 15 hits against the Blue Devils.

Ryleigh Harnish was strong in the circle, surrendering six hits and striking out two in the mercy-rule win.

The following day, Brianna Brenner earned the shutout win, striking out six, walking one and giving up five hits in seven innings of work. Gage led the team offensively with two hits, scoring twice and adding an RBI to her stats.

MARCH 12, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

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WINS KEEP ROLLING

Conchs compile 10-0 record, Fins take down Ransom rivals

A

s all three Keys baseball squads watch the Ws roll in, Monroe County’s southernmost squad has yet to suffer a loss.

Key West kept its perfect record intact last week, but not without a fight, edging out two close games in a three-game series against Gulf Shores High School, a team visiting from Alabama. The teams had their first meeting at the Rex on March 5 in a five-inning mercy-rule romp for the Conchs. Donovan Thiery dominated on the mound, striking out seven, walking one and allowing just two hits in four innings. Cruz Holmes pitched one inning of relief to seal the win. When he was not busy fanning the Dolphins’ lineup, Thiery made good on two hits of his own and added two RBIs. Kade Maltz contacted twice, for a triple and a double, and the rest of the team contributed for a total of 10 hits. The 10-0 win made it look like the rest of the weekend would be a walk in the park for the Conchs.

Game two looked a bit different. The Conch bats delivered just two hits in seven innings, and stingy defenses from both teams led to a 0-0 tie until the bottom of the sixth, when Jackie Niles walked and Jackson Bernhard singled to put two on with no outs. Things looked great for the Conchs, but a double play put their prospects in jeopardy. Maltz’s steady bat added a single to score Niles’ courtesy runner, and Key West held on to the single run and their unblemished record for dear life. Maltz, Nelson Ong and Tyrone Cervantes teamed up on the mound for the shutout.

Game three saw the Conchs fall behind in the second inning, but a patient Key West team pulled out all the stops to finish the job and protect their record. In the bottom of the third, the Conchs put together a hodgepodge to tie things up.

The team capitalized on a walk, an error and a pair of struck batters to even the score, then the bats awoke. Auggy Davila tripled, followed by four Key West singles in the fourth inning to score a pair of runs.The defense then took over to finish off the Dolphins.

Patience was the key for Marathon on March 3, when they played a strong Ransom team at home. The Dolphins trailed from the first inning and did not put a run on the board until the top of the sixth, when four hits and three walks scored four runs. The Fins added one more in the seventh inning for good measure and held on to beat Ransom 5-2.

Dylan Williams was the starting pitcher for Marathon, striking out nine, walking two and surrendering a pair of hits

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / MARCH 12, 2026 and runs over four innings. Gabriele Cirina finished the final three innings and earned the win after six strikeouts and no walks with just one hit. Cirina also chalked up a pair of hits along with Roco Piscetello. Jack Chapman and Bradley Buigas added one hit each in the win.

Marathon hosted the Pirates of St. Edward’s on March 7 in a weekend doubleheader. In game one, Marathon pulled ahead with an early lead and never let up. St. Edward’s rallies in innings six and seven were too little, too late for the Pirates to make up the deficit, and the Fins won 11-6. Cirina earned the win on the mound, striking out eight over fiveand-one-third innings. Chapman finished the game to preserve the win. Jason Stubblefield led the Dolphin offense with two doubles. Reef Rella singled and doubled and Chapman collected a pair of hits. In all, the Fins had 11 hits, eight walks and two hit batters.

Game two started moments later, and a new Pirate pitcher proved hard to hit. The Fins’ bats struggled, producing only four hits, two from Williams and one each from Massimo Quargnali and Bradley Buigas. Williams started on the mound and pitched five innings, fanning nine and surrendering two hits. Rella and Roco Piscetello combined for the remainder of the game, striking out one each in the 7-0 loss.

Coral Shores hosted ABF Academy Hialeah on March 2 in a game that remained deadlocked until the third inning, when an error cost the ’Canes the shutout. The single run would be all ABF could muster, though, and Coral Shores put together a four-hit fourth inning to score two runs and take the lead.

Mason Clark had two hits and two RBIs while Riley O’Berry logged two doubles. Keller Blackburn singled and doubled and Maykol Bonito’s single made it seven hits for the Hurricanes. O’Berry earned the win for the Hurricanes, surrendering eight hits and one run in seven innings. He struck out five and walked one in the 3-1 victory.

The Hurricanes kept things rolling two days later when a visiting Somerset South Homestead could not measure up.

The Hurricanes amassed 13 hits, including three each from Mailon Aguila and Keller Blackburn. O’Berry and Bonito each added a pair of hits in the 15-0 win. Glade Harrelson started on the mound for the Hurricanes, pitching two innings and striking out five. Bonito and Mason Clark teamed up for another five strikeouts, pitching one inning of relief each.

Their three-game win streak came to an end March 6, when a visiting Aubrey Rogers delivered a 12-1 mercy-rule loss to the Hurricanes. Brayden Turner went 2-2 against the Patriots and Bonito and O’Berry had one hit each. Harrelson, Andy Cone and Jack O’Keefe teamed up for five innings on the mound in the loss.

Top left, from top: Kade Maltz is averaging .419 this season after three hits in the Conchs’ three-game series against Gulf Shores.

Donovan Thiery leads Key West with four wins on the mound. Thiery has struck out 36 of 71 batters faced in the first half of the season.

Auggy Davila’s triple started a chain of events leading to a Conch win on March 7.

Left, from top: Riley O’Berry (9) leads the ’Canes to victory with a 1-run complete-game performance on the mound.

First baseman Jack O’Keeffe (30) catches the ball during a close play.

Photos by Natalie Goodwin and Rocky Gonet

9

MARCH 12, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

STUMBLING BLOCKS Lacrosse teams take lessons from losses

M

ixed results provided ample coaching tape for the four Monroe County lacrosse squads to start the month.

The Lady Conchs fell to 3-4 after a pair of losses last week. On March 5, Key West fell to the Warriors of Westminster. Mavis Bishop scored four goals while Colbie Turner, Tegan Shea and Taylor Gibson added two apiece. Ashlyn Picco Key West’s Mavis Bishop, picaccounted for the final goal tured here in 2025, leads the Lady Conchs in scoring this seain the 20-11 loss. Two days son, netting nearly four goals later, Miami Country Day per game. MAICEY MALGRAT/ delivered the blow to the Keys Weekly Conchs, 8-7.

The Lady ’Canes also suffered two losses last week, first to Coral Reef on March 4 in an evenly-matched contest that ended in a 9-7 stumble for Coral Shores. A game against American Heritage on March 6 was more lopsided. The Hurricanes lost 15-3 to the Patriots at home to bring them to 4-3 on the season.

Key West’s boys split the week, with their loss coming on March 4 against Westminster Christian. The WarKey West’s Colbie Turner, riors outscored the Conchs pictured here in 2025, is setting 11-8. A March 6 matchup the net on fire this season, avagainst the Barracudas of eraging more than three goals Coral Reef proved more per game. fruitful for Key West, who won 11-7. Key West stands at 6-2 with less than a month to go in the regular season.

The Hurricanes also split the week, losing to Gulliver Prep in an 11-10 heartbreaker on March 4. Coral Shores led until the fourth quarter, when the Raiders made good on their name, scoring four and stealing a win. Two days later, the Hurricanes were in top form, blowing by Miami Country Day in a 9-2 win. Brock Bynum saved 13 of 15 shots on goal to help seal the victory and bring the team’s record to 7-3.

Teams play this week, then take a rest while schools are closed for spring break. The first order of business after the break will be in-county clashes. The Conchs and ’Canes boys play one another in Tavernier on March 25 while the girls face off the following day in Key West.

NET NEUTRAL Fins and ’Canes trade victories on the courts

Marathon’s Emily Alvear and Shynell McGuire and Coral Shores’ Parker Kelly and Harlee Beeler volley for points in their No. 1 doubles match.

MICHELLE THIERY/Contribured

W

ith just a month left in the regular season, Keys tennis action is heating up.

Last week, Marathon traveled to Coral Shores for a March 3 meetup. In girls action, the Hurricanes stormed away with wins in all five singles matches, while Marathon had the upper hand in doubles.

Allyson Rosendale, Harlee Beeler, Parker Kelly, Jillian Thiery and Emily Rosu each picked up wins for Coral Shores in No. 1 through 5 singles. Emily Alvear and Shynell McGuire won in No. 1 doubles for Marathon, then Maleeya Abraham and Shilo Yeider won the No. 2 doubles match to make it 5-2 in favor of the ’Canes.

The Fins, however, found their stride in the boys competition. Marathon’s boys made it a clean sweep over Coral Shores, winning four singles and two doubles matches. Tanner Snowden and Matt Delgado won in No. 1 and No. 2 singles, then paired up for a win in the No. 1 doubles match. Kase Daughtry and Eduardo Garcia did the same in No. 3 and No. 4 singles as well as No. 2 doubles.

The Lady ’Canes picked up another set of wins three days later at Keys Gate.

Emma Sogegian, Rosendale, Kelly, Thiery and Vanessa Gabriel swept the singles matches, then Rosendale and Kaiyenna de Ron teamed up for a win in No. 1 doubles while Sogegian and Gabriel made it a 7-0 shutout with a win in No. 2 doubles.

Key West’s matches were canceled last week, but the Conchs, like Marathon and Coral Shores, have plenty of action remaining before the April 11 cutoff for regular-season competition.

Coral Shores’ Jillian Thiery, left, and Marathon’s Shilo Yeider keep it cordial on the court after their singles match on March 3.

10

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / MARCH 12, 2026

TRIPLE THREAT

Conchs, Fins and ’Canes leave their marks in different areas at Falcon Relays

O

n March 6, all three of Monroe County’s track teams traveled to Palmer Trinity School in Miami to participate in the annual Falcon Relays. In all, 21 schools attended, and when the final event was complete, the Keys had a lot to be proud of. The Conchs shined in jumping events while the Fins’ throws dominated and Hurricane harriers outpaced stiff competition.

Key West’s boys finished first overall, and the Lady Conchs were runners-up. Cavane Herron proved to be the fastest sprinter in the Keys with an 11.20-second fourth-place finish in the 100-meter race. Herron then teamed up with Jeff Dejean, Walson Morin and Roman Van Loon to finish second in the 4x200 and third in the 4x100 relays. Morin went on to place third in the high jump and Dejean won the men’s long jump with Herron finishing third. In the triple jump, Alex Sarazin was third. Jorge Sanchez won the pole vault with a 12’ 9.5” clear. Teammate Ian Torreaba Lopez was third. Josh Johnson’s 120’11” discus toss was good for second place.

For the Lady Conchs, Violet Jangraw was fifth in the 1,600-meter race. The Lady Conchs’ 4x100 relay team of Mirakle Humphrey, Jordan Greene, Capri Miner and Janiliah Moore placed fifth. Moore, Humphrey and Greene then teamed up with Ariel Newton to finish fourth in the 4x200 relay. Lilly Good, Christ Charles, Katelyn Sambrana and Alondra Montilla took fifth in the 4x400 to round out Key West’s wins on the track.

In the field events, Newton brought home a first-place finish in pole vault with an 11’ 9.75” jump. Good was fourth and Naveah Key was fifth in the same event. Miner and Colleen Barter each placed second in jumping events. Miner was the runner-up in triple jump and Barter in high jump. Senior Audrey Smith had a fantastic day in the throwing events.

Smith won the javelin competition, unleashing a 131’ 4” toss, just over two feet shy of her own school record. She then added points to the team total with a second in discus and a fifth in shot put.

Marathon’s girls finished fifth overall, fueled by a slew of points from Justice Lee Isom. The senior hurler started with a win in the shot put with a 38’ 2” toss. Lee Isom also won the discus event with a 107’ throw, six feet beyond the next-best athlete but well under her own record. In javelin, Lee Isom

finished in second place, making her the top-scoring athlete for the Keys with 28 points. Senior Daysi Williams won the high jump, clearing the bar at 4’ 11.75”. Eighth grade teammate Amelia Roberts finished third in the same event. Ava Merryman picked up six points with her third-place finish in the pole vault.

The Dolphin boys placed ninth in the meet. Lucian Burns had the best finish, capturing second overall in the men’s 1,600-meter race.

Shamar Wright was fourth in the long jump and eighth grader Maverick McDonald finished fourth in pole vault, breaking his own school record in the Dolphins’ first meet of the season. Eian Batzer was fifth in the high jump to round out the top Fin finishers.

Coral Shores’ girls were eighth overall while the boys finished 13th. Ali Wheatley picked up 10 points for the Lady ’Canes by winning the 1,600-meter race in 5:30.

Wheatley beat her closest competitor by 11 seconds.

Once her four laps were complete, she teamed up with Sammy Bates, Olive Welch and Kate King to take second place in the distance medley relay. Xavier Johnson finished fourth in the men’s

110 hurdles. His 16.11 finish is a new personal best for the senior. Colton Connolly, Adrik Gadea, Jaime Cary and Alaric Rodriguez placed second in the men’s 4 x 800 relay. Then the same athletes won the men’s distance relay in a finish so close that multiple readings of the finish line photos could not determine a winner, resulting in a rare track tie. Cary, the anchorman, was credited with a full-throttle pace and last-minute lunge to catch the lead runner.

Clockwise from top left: The Conchs pose with their firstplace trophy, won at Palmer Trinity School’s Falcon Relays.

Key West’s Jeff Dejean stretches for extra inches in his firstplace long jump.

Coral Shores’ Jaime Cary battles for position in the boys’ distance medley relay.

Marathon’s Justice Lee Isom, left, and Key West’s Audrey Smith, right, are making waves in the throwing events.

Ali Wheatley of Coral Shores cruises to a first-place finish in the 1,600-meter run.

RICK MACKENZIE/Contributed

11

MARCH 12, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

NOTICE OF CALLING FOR BIDS OF SURPLUS PROPERTY MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Surplus Equipment Sale – FY 2026 County ID Fleet ID 6262 SSA6262 5935** 1 FAC5935 7580 FMS7580 9194** P&B9194 4638** 1 FAC4638 7333 INF7333 9524 P&B9524 5535 FMS5535 1145 FMS1145 FMS40000224 40000172 (BLG9058) FMS40000073 20001800 (FAC7351) SSA40000045 R&B20001791 40000164 (P&B7896) 40000061 (R&B5173) 40000055 (R&B5174) 40000054 (R&B5175) 40000047 (R&B5176) 40000377 (ENG9366) 40000286 (TRA7059) 7487** P&B7487 6761 1801/6761

Description 2008 Ford Ranger 2007 Detroit Diesel Generator 2013 Ford F150 2017 Ferris Zero Turn Mower Kohler 80kw Generator 2012 Ford Fusion 2018 Ford F150 2006 Ford F250 2003 Ford F350 2013 Ford F150 2017 Ford Escape 2013 Ford F150 2013 Look Trailer 2008 Ford Ranger 2013 Look Enclosed Trailer 2014 Ford F150 2006 Mack Dump Truck 2006 Mack Dump Truck 2006 Mack Dump Truck 2006 Mack Dump Truck 2018 Nissan Frontier 2011 Ford Fusion 2013 Scag Turf Tiger 2009 GMC G3500 Bus

VIN or Serial # 1FTYR14D28PA47545 1T9AG232X7M615470 1FTMF1CM1DKE83674 2017757568 395843 3FADP0L32CR177596 1FTMF1CB8JKE95430 1FTNF20586ED40262 1FTWF32P33EB91425 1FTMF1CM9DKE05904 1FMCU0F71HUC54371 1FTMF1CMXDKE83673 53BTE1428DU005592 1FTYR14U18PA99118 53BLTEB23EU008269 1FTMF1CM9EKD40733 1M2AL02C66M003629 1M2AL02C26M003630 1M2AL02C46M003631 1M2AL02C66M003632 1N6BD0CT9JN707411 3FAHP0HA3BR268755 F5400121 1GBJG316191139148

Est. Value $2,000.00 $0.00 $3,600.00 $0.00 $0.00 $1000.00 $3,059.53 $1,500.00 $0.00 $4,630.00 $2,730.00 $4,630.00 $0.00 $4,661.00 $0.00 $4,247.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $3,854.00 $2,463.00 $0.00 $5,484.00

Location Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key Rockland Key

For information or to schedule a viewing of these units & equipment listed above, please contact Lyle Tabb at 305-509-1765 1207 FAC1207 2002 Sterling Fuel Truck 2FZAANBV02AJ67461 $0.00 Marathon For information or to schedule a viewing of these units & equipment listed above, please contact Keith Moriarity at 305-394-5258 GENPKSHR**

2004 Sanford 670kw - 25 GPH Generator M031041554-1

$0.00

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF FICTITIOUS NAME Notice is hereby given that Boujee Girl, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, located at 157 N. Coconut Palm Blvd, Tavernier, FL 33070, in Monroe County, intends to register the fictitious name: Islamorada Luxe Charters with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations, Tallahassee, Florida, pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes.

Dated this 1st day of March, 2026.

By: Boujee Girl, LLC Publish: March 12, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF FICTITIOUS NAME Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, pursuant to the Fictitious Name Statute, Chapter 865.09, Florida Statutes, will register with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State the following fictitious name: TEE IT UP Under which the undersigned is engaged in business at 1028 Truman Avenue, Key West, Florida 33040, Monroe County, Florida.

The owner of the above fictitious name is: KEY WEST VIRTUAL GOLF LLC 1028 Truman Avenue Key West, Florida 33040 Florida Document No. L26000058644 Publish: March 12, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 The deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026.

A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish: March 12, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, April 23, 2026. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: March 12, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF FICTITIOUS NAME Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Skin Sanctuary located at 626 Josephine Parker Way, Suite 211, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida, pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes.

By: Diana Darlow Publish: March 12, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF FICTITIOUS NAME Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, pursuant to the Fictitious Name Statute, Chapter 865.09, Florida Statutes, will register with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State the following fictitious name: CLUB FOREPLAY Under which the undersigned is engaged in business at 1028 Truman Avenue, Key West, Florida 33040, Monroe County, Florida.

The owner of the above fictitious name is: KEY WEST VIRTUAL GOLF LLC 1028 Truman Avenue Key West, Florida 33040 Florida Document No. L26000058644 Publish: March 12, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

DISTRICT II ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC II) (from the City Limits of Key West to the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for an “At Large” representative - Any resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying.

(The operative word within this description is directly. This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity are dependent upon tourists.)

Any person wishing to participate on the District II Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys.com.

Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below: Department DAC

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Airport Financial Consultant Services 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, April 23, 2026.

There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform.

Roth BuildingUpper Keys

For information or to schedule a viewing of the generator listed above, please contact Charles (CJ) Reginelli at 305-747-2391

®

DISCLAIMER: Above listed assets with a ** - winning bidder will be taxed an additional 7.5%. 1 - will be sold without a Certificate of Origin or a Title.

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://monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub.com OR www.monroecounty-fl.gov/BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request.

Richard E. Schugar, O.D.

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.

81933 Overseas Highway

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, April 9, 2026. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform.

Tropical Optical Islamorada, Florida 33036 Effective March 31, 2026, Dr. Richard E. Schugar

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.

will be retiring and will no longer be practicing

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, April 9, 2026. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:

Florida 33036. Please call 305-664-2665 to

JOIN ZOOM MEETING https://mcbocc.zoom.us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose) Publish: March 12, 2026. The Weekly Newspapers

at Tropical Optical, 81933 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida 33036.

Patients’ medical records will remain at Tropical Optical, 81933 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, schedule appointments, to request medical records or for any questions starting March 31, 2026.

Publish: March 5, 12 19 & 26, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Airport General Consultant Services 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 3:00P.M. on Wednesday, April 22, 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.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York)

12

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / MARCH 12, 2026

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: March 12, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Cudjoe Key Transfer Station New Storage Building 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 Tuesday, April 21, 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 Tuesday, April 21, 2026. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: March 12, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA FILE NO. 25-CP-000411-P IN RE: ESTATE OF LLOYD MERLIN LANDMAN Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS & NOTICE OF ANCILLARY ADMINISTRATION TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE AND ALL OTHER PERSONS INTERESTED IN SAID ESTATE:

LEGAL NOTICES YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the ancillary administration of the Estate of LLOYD MERLIN LANDMAN, Deceased, of KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN File number 25-0411 is pending in the Circuit Court in and for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is the Monroe County Courthouse, Probate Division, 88770 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The Ancillary Personal Representatives of this estate are TODD L. LANDMAN, of 7591 N. Noffke, Caledonia, MI 49316, SHAWN G. LANDMAN of 8864 Vincent Ave SE, Alto, Mi 49302 and KELLY L. LANDMAN of 3809 Murray View Drive, Lowell, MI 49331. The name and address of the attorney for the Ancillary Personal Representatives is set forth below.

All persons having claims or demands against this estate are required, WITHIN THREE MONTHS FROM THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE, to file with the clerk of the above court a written statement of any claim or demand they may have. Each claim must be in writing and must indicate the basis for the claim, the name and address of the creditor or his agent or attorney, and the amount claimed.

If the claim is not yet due, the date when it will become due shall be stated. If the claim is contingent or unliquidated, the nature of the uncertainty shall be stated. If the claim is secured, the security shall be described. The claimant shall deliver sufficient copies of the claim to the clerk of the above styled court to enable the clerk to mail one copy to the Ancillary Personal Representative.

Any and all creditors of the decedent and any other persons having claims or demands against the decedent's estate including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY 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 the decedent's estate must file their claim WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The dated of the first Publication of this notice is March 12, 2026.

Signed on this 22nd day of January 2026.

TODD L LANDMAN DUBOW, DUBOW & WALLACE Attorneys for Petitioner 215 North Federal Highway Dania Beach, Florida 33004 (954) 925-8228 By: DAVID J. WALLACE Fla. Bar No.: 064890 email: david@ddwlaw.net Signed on this 22 day of January, 2026.

SHAWN G. LANDMAN DUBOW, DUBOW & WALLACE Attorneys for Petitioner 215 North Federal Highway Dania Beach, Florida 33004 (954) 925-8228 By: DAVID J. WALLACE Fla. Bar No.: 064890 email: david@ddwlaw.net Signed on this 27 day of January, 2026 KELLY L. LANDMAN DUBOW, DUBOW & WALLACE Attorneys for Petitioner 215 North Federal Highway Dania Beach, Florida 33004 (954) 925-8228 By: DAVID J. WALLACE Fla. Bar No.: 064890

LEGAL NOTICES email: david@ddwlaw.net Publish: March 12 & 19, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-51-M DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF NORMAN CARL HENNINGER Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Norman Carl Henninger, deceased, whose date of death was December 4, 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. 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: March 12, 2026.

Personal Representative: Eric Henninger 212 E. Palm Ave. Orange, California 92866 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: March 12 & 19, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY CASE NO: 2025-CA-129-K Premier Capital, LLC Plaintiff, Vs Carolyn M. Delgado and William J. Delgado Defendant, NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY given that pursuant to a Pluries Writ of Execution issued in the Circuit Court, of Monroe County, Florida, on the 29th day of January, 2026, in the cause wherein Premier Capital, LLC is Plaintiff and Carolyn M. Delgado and William

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

J. Delgado was defendant, being Case No. 2025-CA-129-K in said court, I, Richard A. Ramsay, Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida have levied upon all right, title, and interest of the defendant, in and to the following described real property to wit: SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: From the warranty deed that states the following described land, situate, lying and being in Monroe County, Florida to-wit: Legal Description(s) – On the Island of Key West, Monroe County, Florida, and known on William A. Whitehead’s map delineated in February A.D. 1829, as part of Tract 11 but better known as part of Lot 3, Square 9, Tract 11 according to Charles W. Tift’s Map of said Island recorded in Deed Book “L” Page 564, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: Commencing at the intersection of the Southwesterly right of way boundary line of Duval Street with the Northwesterly right of way boundary line of United Street and run in a Southwesterly direction along the said right of way boundary line of United Street a distance of 100 feet to the Point of Beginning of the parcel of land herein described, thence at right angles in the Northwesterly direction 84.17 feet to a point; thence at right angles in a Southwesterly direction 26.3 feet to a point; thence at right angles in a Southeasterly direction 84.17 feet to a point in the Northwesterly direction along the said right of way line of United Street a distance of 26.3 feet back to the point of Beginning.

SPECIFIC LOCATION OF REAL PROPERTY: 421 United Street Key West, Florida 33040 All bidders must have a valid Driver’s License with them and must register with the clerk at location of sale prior to start time of sale. I shall offer this property for sale, at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters building located at 5525 College Road, Key West, Florida 33040 in the County of Monroe, State of Florida, on the 2nd day of April, 2026, at the hour of 10:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible. I will offer for sale all of the said defendant’s right, title, and interest in the aforesaid real property at public auction and will sell the same subject to all taxes, prior liens, encumbrances and judgments, if any, to the highest and best bidder for cash or cashiers check in hand. The proceeds to be applied as far as may be to the payment of costs and the satisfaction of the above described execution.

Dated at Key West, Monroe County, Florida this 10th day of February, 2026.

Richard A. Ramsay Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida By: Donald Stullken Deputy Sheriff In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Civil Division no later than seven says prior to the proceeding at (305)809-3041.

Publish: February 19 & 26 and March 5 & 12, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

3350, Page 1898 as Instrument Number 2519862, Florida, I will sell, to the highest and best bidder for cash, at MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB CONDOMINIUM II RESORT Manager’s Office, 4560 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 on the 14th day of APRIL, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., the following described real property located in MONROE County, Florida, to wit: Annual Timeshare Periods as set forth below in MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB CONDOMINIUM II, according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof, recorded in Official Records Book 859, at Page 786, as amended in Official Records Book 874, at Page 2169, all of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and all subsequent amendments and exhibits thereto.

Unit Number: Use Period: A 102 33 A 202 12 B 101 44 C 101 04, 05 C 201 23, 24, 39 D 202 28, 45 E 201 40, 41 TO: Unit Owner(s) Last Known Address Annual Timeshare Use Period(s): Amount due: Gary R Albritton and Vicki L Albritton 7618 Krupp Road Belding, MI 48809 C201/23 $1,3521.08 with a per diem amount of $0.75 from February 2, 2025 Christie Alotta 110 Long Pond Road Wading River, NY 11792 A 102/33 $2,565.36 with a per diem amount of $1.27 from February 2, 2025 C 201/39 $2,565.37 with a per diem amount of $1.27 from February 2, 2025 Manuel Cantero and Maria Cantero Calle 37 Num 64-15 Medellin, Colombia C 201/24 $3,269.453 with a per diem amount of $1.61 from February 2, 2025 Mollie Childs P.O. Box 573 Bridgeville, DE 19933 A202/12 $1,521.08 with a per diem amount of $0.75 from February 2, 2025 B101/44 $1,521.08 with a per diem amount of $0.75 from February 2, 2025 Mollie Childs and James Witzenburg P.O. Box 573 Bridgeville, DE 19933 B 202/45 $1,521.08 with a per diem amount of $0.75 from February 2, 2025 Carol Cole 136 NW 10th Court Boynton Beach, FL 33426 C101/04 $1,521.10 with a per diem amount of $0.75 from February 2, 2025 C101/05 $1,521.10 with a per diem amount of $0.75 from February 2, 2025 Brandon M Duhon P.O. Box 608 Lake Charles, LA 70602 E201/40 $5,891.39 with a per diem amount of $2.91 from February 2, 2025 E201/41 $5,891.39 with a per diem amount of $2.91 from February 2, 2025 Paul Knight and Margaret Knight 4 The Green, Drayton Abington, Oxfordshire OX14 4JA England D 202/28 $3,269.53 with a per diem amount of $1.61 from February 2, 2025 The assessment lien created by the Claim of Lien was properly created and authorized pursuant to the timeshare instrument and applicable law, and the amounts secured by said lien are as set above.

You may cure the default at any time prior to the public auction by paying the amount due, as set forth in this notice, to the undersigned Trustee at the

address set forth below.

THIS NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/ SALE is dated this 2nd day of MARCH, 2026.

I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of this NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/SALE FOR NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE has been furnished by regular First-Class U.S. Mail to each of the obligors at the above listed addresses on this_2nd_ day of _MARCH_, 2026.

THOMAS L AVRUTIS, AS TRUSTEE FOR MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC 201 Fletcher Avenue, 2nd Floor Sarasota, FL 34237 Telephone (941) 955-7300 Facsimile (941) 953-7625 email: john@timesharenjf.com Publish: March 12 & 19, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

AND SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SUCH DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM. more commonly known as 105 Avenue D, Apartment 110, Marathon, FL 33050.

This action has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defense, if any, upon LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP, Attorneys for Plaintiff, whose address is 750 Park of Commerce Blvd., Suite 130, Boca Raton, FL 33487, within thirty (30) days after the first publication of this notice and file the original with the clerk of this Court either before April 4, 2026 with service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court on the 26TH day of February, 2026.

Kevin Madok,CPA Circuit and County Courts By: Leslie Rodriguez Deputy Clerk Florida Rules of Judicial Administration Rule 2.540 Notices to Persons With Disabilities If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Cheryl Alfonso, ADA Coordinator, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.

SPANISH: Si usted es una persona discapacitada que necesita alguna adaptación para poder participar de este procedimiento o evento; usted tiene derecho, sin costo alguno a que se le provea cierta ayuda. Favor de comunicarse con Cheryl Alfonso, Coordinadora de A.D.A Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 por lo menos 7 días antes de que tenga que comparecer en corte o inmediatamente después de haber recibido ésta notificación si es que falta menos de 7 días para su comparecencia. Si tiene una discapacidad auditiva ó de habla, llame al 711.

KREYOL: Si ou se yon moun ki kokobé ki bezwen asistans ou aparêy pou ou ka patisipé nan prosedu sa-a, ou gen dwa san ou pa bezwen péyé anyen pou ou jwen on seri de èd. Tanpri kontakté Cheryl Alfonso, Co-ordinator ADA, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652O’mwen 7 jou avan ke ou gen pou-ou parèt nan tribunal, ou imediatman ke ou resevwa avis sa-a ou si lè ke ou gen pou-ou alé nan tribunal-la mwens ke 7 jou; Si ou pa ka tandé ou palé byen, rélé 711.

Publish: March 5 &12, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/SALE FOR NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE RE: MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC. MONROE County, Florida Non-Judicial Timeshare foreclosure process NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/SALE FOR NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, pursuant to an action for nonjudicial foreclosure of timeshare units on the Claim of Lien, which is dated October 7, 2025 and was recorded October 24, 2025 in the Official Records of Monroe County, Florida in Official Records Book

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE #: 25-CA-001240-M Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC Plaintiff, -vs.Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, Assignees, Creditors, Lienors, and Trustees of John Paul Rao a/k/a John P. Rao a/k/a John Rao, Deceased, and All Other Persons Claiming by and Through, Under, Against The Named Defendant(s); Kimberly Lynn Rao a/k/a Kimberly Rao a/k/a Kimberly L. Rao-Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Rao Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Lynn Paszkiewicz; Unknown Spouse of Kimberly Lynn Rao a/k/a Kimberly Rao a/k/a Kimberly L. Rao-Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Rao Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Lynn Paszkiewicz; Coco Plum Terraces Condominium Association, Inc.; Katherine Melinda Rao; Unknown Parties in Possession #1, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s); Unknown Parties in Possession #2, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) Defendant(s) NOTICE OF ACTION FORECLOSURE PROCEEDINGS-PROPERTY TO: Kimberly Lynn Rao a/k/a Kimberly Rao a/k/a Kimberly L. Rao-Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Rao Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Lynn Paszkiewicz: 2521 Southwest 71st Terrace, Apartment 206, Davie, FL 33317 and Unknown Spouse of Kimberly Lynn Rao a/k/a Kimberly Rao a/k/a Kimberly L. Rao-Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Rao Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Lynn Paszkiewicz: 2521 Southwest 71st Terrace, Apartment 206, Davie, FL 33317 Residence unknown, if living, including any unknown spouse of the said Defendants, if either has remarried and if either or both of said Defendants are dead, their respective unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, assignees, creditors, lienors, and trustees, and all other persons claiming by, through, under or against the named Defendant(s); and the aforementioned named Defendant(s) and such of the aforementioned unknown Defendants and such of the aforementioned unknown Defendants as may be infants, incompetents or otherwise not sui juris.

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action has been commenced to foreclose a mortgage on the following real property, lying and being and situated in Monroe County, Florida, more particularly described as follows: CONDOMINIUM UNIT NUMBER 110, COCO PLUM TERRACES, A CONDOMINIUM ACCORDING TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM THEREOF, FILED. ON NOVEMBER 13, 1990, IN OFFICIAL RECORD BOOK 1150, PAGES 1955-2015 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA; TOGETHER WITH AN UNDIVIDED SHARE IN THE COMMON ELEMENTS APPURTENANT THERETO

NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND INTENT TO FORECLOSE To: All persons listed below, their guardians, heirs and assigns, record owners of the unit week(s) as showing, all located in Monroe County, Florida comprised of Unit Weeks as more particularly defined 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.

You are hereby given Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose on behalf of THE FLORIDA BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC. a Florida not-for-profit corporation. You may cure the default and redeem the timeshare interest by paying the amounts secured by the Association’s lien on your unit week(s) as showing below in cash or certified funds to Timeshare Truste at any time prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Sale.

13

MARCH 12, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOUSING FOR RENT

Unit/Week Owner Name Address City, State, Zip Default Year Amount Due Per Diem C02-03 Betty J. Pearson 7016 NW 169th StreetHialeah, FL 33015 2023 $4,229.89 $2.09 A02-03 James Lewis Mitchell III a/k/a James Mitchell III, Julian Mitchell a/k/a Jullian Berry Mitchell 801 South Street, Unit 3903 Honolulu, HI 96813 2024 $2,946.78 $1.45 B04-02 James Lewis Mitchell III a/k/a James Mitchell III, Julian Mitchella/k/a Jullian Berry Mitchell 801 South Street, Unit 3903 Honolulu, HI 96813 2024 $2,946.78 $1.45 B03-44 Eartha Hill 18460 SW 82nd Ave. Miami, FL 33157 2023 $4,021.96 $1.98 A01-06 Christopher Ian Meyerson 4136 Shadowood Parkway SE Atlanta, GA 30339 2020 $10,375.85 $5.12 A01-09 Clifford E. Brown, Linda K. Brown 8205 Rio Bend Ct., N. Richmond Hill, TX 76182 2023 $2,947.39 $1.45 If you fail to cure the default as set forth in this notice or take other appropriate action with regard to this foreclosure matter, you risk losing ownership of your timeshare interest through the trustee foreclosure procedure established in section 721.855, Florida Statutes. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT AS A MATTER OF LAW TO SEND TO THE TRUSTEE WRITTEN NOTICE THAT YOU OBJECT TO THIS PROCEDURE. UPON THE TRUSTEE’S RECEIPT OF YOUR OBJECTION, THE FORECLOSURE OF THE LIEN WITH RESPECT TO THE DEFAULT SPECIFIED IN THIS NOTICE SHALL BE SUBJECT TO THE JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE PROCEDURE ONLY. You have the right to cure your default in the manner set forth in this notice at any time before the trustee’s sale of your timeshare interest. If you do not object to the use of the trustee foreclosure procedure, you will not be subject to a deficiency judgment even if the proceeds from the sale of your timeshare interest by the TRUSTEE are insufficient to offset the amounts secured by the lien.

STAACK & SIMMS, PLLC, d/b/a TIMESHARE TRUSTEE 51 S. MAIN AVENUE, SUITE 319 CLEARWATER, FL 33765 PHONE: (727) 441-2635 FAX: (727) 461-4836 Website: www.staacklaw.com Publish: March 5 & 12, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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

Experienced Fulltime 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.

Hiring for busy pediatric office in Tavernier. FullTime Medical Assistant/ RN - Pediatric experience preferred. Must multitask in fast-paced setting. Also hiring Full-Time Front Desk Staff - Experience with insurance verification and EMR required. Strong multitasking skills. Pay is commensurate with experience. Email resume to: flkeyspeds@gmail.com HIRED IN LESS THAN FIVE WEEKS!!!

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. 904-2379090 or 904-338-1207

AUTOS WANTED AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks.

Runs or Not.BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Dockage up to 60’ Islamorada - Bayside, 50 amp service. Price LOWER than marina.

Call 860-982-4517 EMPLOYMENT PART-TIME USCG CAPTAIN – MARATHON. Local captain needed to run owner’s 55’ twin engine trawler while owner fishes.

Sunrise–2/3 PM typical.

Good opportunity for newer captain to log hours on a larger boat. Pay DOE. Call/Text 970-901-1138 Boat rental company in Marathon looking for help with boat detailing & boat cleaning.

Call 305-481-7006

The SS Wreck & Galley Grill (mile marker 59) is looking for a line cooks and fryers. Self-motivated, experience very helpful but will train, quick learner, and team player. Salary includes 401k match up to 6% and negotiable based on experience.

Please call Nicole at 305433-0515 or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com Coast To Coast Pizza Company is looking for pizza makers and cashiers.

Self-motivated, experience very helpful, quick learner, and team player. Salary includes 401k match up to 6% and negotiable based on experience.

Please call Nicole at 305433-0515 or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com

Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips.

Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Grounds Caretaker, Full-time Carpenter, Electrician & Housing Assistant. 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.

NOW HIRING 81043 MAINTENANCE WORKER (ELECTRONIC SYSTEM KEY WEST) Electronic Maintenance Tech wanted.

Lower Keys position, reporting in Key West.

Full time job with benefits, vacation time and holidays.

Apply at keysschools.com or call 305-293-1400 ext. 53398

PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-7430844 or E-mail: Anneke @keysweekly.com HOBBIES/COLLECT.

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.

HOUSING FOR RENT

3 BR/2 BA home for rent in Key Colony Beach.

75' premium dock. $4,000/month + utilities.

F/L/S 786-229-0228 Studio rental in Marathon, long-term, fully furnished, price includes water, electric, internet, gas, pest, and lawn @ $2200 all in. Call or text 3054330515.

SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!

NOW HIRING! FACILITIES MAINTENANCE APPRENTICE (Full-Time, Permanent)

2BR/1BA Duplex in Big Pine Key for rent. With boat & wildlife reserve access.

Furn. $3500/ mo - unfurn. $3300/mo.

Call Ray 413-6953043 or 305-897-0563

is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) organization specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.

PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-7430844 or E-mail: Anneke @keysweekly.com

DRC provides for the well-being of its employees with a competitive package including: a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays/vacation/sick days, an employee assistance program, in addition to, life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee. EOE

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

FLORIDA KEYS MOSQUITO CONTROL DISTRICT is accepting applications for the following positions:

FOG TRUCK DRIVERS

Part-time, On-call position. $27.00/hr.

For more information visit: keysmosquito.org/ current-openings 305-292-7190

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

NOW HIRING! OUTSIDE SALE REPRESENTATIVE

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

COME JOIN THE FAMILY!

Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER 58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL

NOW HIRING DIVE INSTRUCTOR Pay: $160.00 per day Guaranteed Pay + Tips + Commission.

Affordable employee housing available.

Job Description: Dive Instructor No bad weather days!

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time Flexible Schedule Call 305-407-3262 or email info@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com 11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON

SALES LEADER WANTED Custom Window Treatment Showroom Seeking experienced professional to manage sales, measuring, and daily operations.

Company car & cell phone provided, salary $50k-$90k. Must be bilingual.

Must be confident, organized and client-focused.

ASSISTANT MANAGER

Full-time. Excellent income potential.

Customer service, full-time, we will train.

Apply: 607-661-5925, blinds@stevensfl.com

Apply by e-mail: keylargo@jmsfl.com Apply in person: 94775 Overseas Highway, Key Largo

Stevens Paint & Blinds 236 Sombrero Beach Rd, Marathon

14

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / MARCH 12, 2026

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844

Work with the BEST

Voted BEST BANK 2014 - 2025

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

ACCOUNTING REPRESENTATIVE Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $27.37/hr - $30.66/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.

Key West

Full Time Teller

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.

Marathon

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

Full Time Teller

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

Apply Online @ KeysBank.com/Careers

(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician) Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hr. - $51.94/hr.

FIRSr# srATE

MNK

KeysBank.com

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.

NOW HIRING FRONT OFFICE/ MANAGER APPLY IN PERSON AT: Bonefish Bay Motel & RV Sites 12565 Overseas Highway, Marathon or Email: bfb@bonefishbayresort.com

The Guidance/ Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

NOW HIRING: Human Resources Assistant/Recruiter Well respected national non-profit (WestCare) is hiring to provide Recruiting & HR administrative duties for the Guidance/Care Center.

Experience in recruiting and/or HR req. (preferably in Fl Keys). Marathon office w/ some travel.

Must be an organized, accurate & independent professional. Minimum GED/HS diploma required, as well as, background & drug screen.

Competitive pay/exceptional benefits.

Apply at Westcare.com/get involved/ join our team/job opportunities/location/33050.

EEOC/DFWP

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

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA MARINA CASHIERS

Must have customer service experience working in a retail environment and using a point of sale system.

Additional duties include restocking, completing purchase orders, daily ordering of basic items in the store, and maintaining a clean appearance in the store.

This is an hourly position and compensation is based on experience. Work hours are flexible and we try to maintain a set weekly schedule.

DOCKHANDS

Duties include customer service, helping customers with bait and ice and helping cashiers with restocking.

Morning & afternoon hours available.

BOAT RENTAL STAFF

Flexible hours & competitive wages. Need to have experience driving boats and a working knowledge of the Islamorada area by water. Duties include taking reservations, giving captains lessons and routine boat maintenance.

Email Matt at islamarinamatt@gmail.com Please include contact information and any relevant experience.

I & E TECHNICIAN

INSTRUMENT & ELECTRICAL Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hour - $51.94/hour 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.

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

OPERATOR/MAINTAINER Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $40.15/hr - $44.97/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.

SUNSET GRILLE NOW HIRING BARTENDERS WAIT STAFF - HOST/HOSTESS BUS PERSONS Apply in person at

SUNSET GRILLE & RAW BAR 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE We are now hiring for the following positions:

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

15

MARCH 12, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of “Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS! We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.

KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Counselor (CAT) Prevention Specialist Case Manager (Adult)

KEY WEST

Case Manager (Children) Mental Health Technician (PT or FT) Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) Crisis Counselor Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Prevention Specialist

MARATHON

HR Assistant/Recruiter Mental Health Technician Driver Registered Nurse (FT, PT) *Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT) *Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 Shifts (PT) *No experience required for this position. Will train.

A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.

Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip

SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!

NOW HIRING! FACILITIES MAINTENANCE APPRENTICE (Full-Time, Permanent) DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) organization specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.

DRC provides for the well-being of its employees with a competitive package including: a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays/vacation/sick days, an employee assistance program, in addition to, life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee. EOE

COME JOIN THE FAMILY!

Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER 58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL

OPENINGS AVAILABLE PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

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

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST - Pool Radiation Therapist

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus - Construction Project Manager, FL - Cook, Dietary, $5k Bonus - Environmental Tech, Environmental Services, $5k Bonus - Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem - MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT Scan, $50k Bonus - Mechanic, FT, 7A-3:30P - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Echocardiography, Per Diem - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 2, (Echo & Vascular w/Ultrasound Preferred), $25k Bonus - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, MRI, $25k Bonus - Physical Therapist, $25k Bonus - Pool Clinical Pharmacist, Per Diem - Pool Group Exercise Instructor, Per Diem - Pool Medical Technologist - Pool Pharmacy Tech - Pool Registered Nurse, Cardiac Rehab - Registered Nurse, ICU, $15k Bonus - Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, $25k Bonus - Registered Nurse, Surgery, $15k Bonus - Social Work Case Manager, Per Diem, 9:30A-6P - Security Officer, FT, 6A-6:30P

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Cook, Dietary, PT - Driver, Marathon/Keys Supply Chain, FT - Manager Environmental Services, FT - Medical Staff Coordinator, FT - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray), Radiology, $25k Bonus - Patient Care Manager (Nurse Manager), Surgery, $20k Bonus - Patient Schedular, Surgery, PT - Pool Physical Therapist, Per Diem - Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Per Diem - Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, Various Shifts & Statuses - Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care, Per Diem, 7P-7:30A - Registered Respiratory Therapist, $25k Bonus - Registered Respiratory Therapist, PT, $12,500 Bonus - Security Officer, FT, 7A-7:30P - 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

THEME: SINGERS & SONGWRITERS ACROSS 1. Comprehend 6. It has no staying power?

9. Auditioner’s hope 13. Prevention measure?

14. Ill temper 15. Poetic although 16. Brooke or John Jacob, of New York 17. Downhill equipment 18. Beau 19. *”What Was I Made For?” singer 21. *”Fast Car” singer 23. Part of URL 24. Peephole glance 25. Morning drops 28. 1920s art style 30. Reduce, as in standing 35. Big Bang’s original matter 37. Lad’s counterpart 39. Connection 40. Milton Bradley’s game 41. Tea from certain region of India 43. Some bent pipes 44. Rose oil 46. Zeus’ wife 47. Remove from a manuscript 48. What bird did, homewise 50. Hyperbolic sine 52. “____ and the City” 53. Prejudice 55. “Wow!” 57. *”Song Sung Blue” singer 61. *”I Just Called to Say I Love You” singer 64. Barrel racing meet 65. ____ Maria 67. Shockingly graphic 69. Not upright 70. Bathtub libation 71. Food contaminant 72. W on a light bulb 73. Consume 74. Ayes

DOWN 1. Former Portuguese colony in India 2. Deceptive maneuver 3. Naysayer’s favorite prefix 4. Upbraid 5. 1/3rd of a hockey game 6. Phish homophone 7. One of Indiana’s quests 8. Prepare for winter takeoff 9. Alka-Seltzer sound 10. Nucleus plus electrons 11. Actress Perlman 12. Tattered’s partner 15. Rouse 20. Inscribed pillar 22. He had 24. Own 25. *”Hurricane” singer 26. Like March Madness’ eight 27. Hair extensions 29. *”Folsom Prison Blues” singer 31. *”Walk on the Wild Side” singer 32. Wheel shafts 33. Tutu fabric 34. English county 36. Source of protein 38. Delhi wrap 42. Popular lassi fruit 45. Restart computer 49. Clamor 51. *”The Boys of Summer” singer 54. “Bad news travels fast”, e.g.

56. Draw a conclusion 57. Pull out a pistol 58. Letter before kappa 59. Type of mine passage 60. Cheesy sandwich 61. Hit the road 62. Cupid’s counterpart 63. Rub the wrong way 66. Road, in Rome 68. Bad-mouth, slangily

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