Turtle Hospital celebrates four decades | P.20
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Direct oceanfront living
Experience refined living on sought-after Duck Key. This double lot estate offers 138 feet of protected deepwater dockage, complete with a solid concrete seawall designed to accommodate a sportfishing yacht, multiple center consoles, and all of your waterfront lifestyle needs. The fully remodeled residence is constructed of concrete with a new roof. Inside, seven spacious bedrooms and six bathrooms provide ample accommodations for family and guests. Coastal-inspired interiors feature wood-look tile flooring throughout, woven statement light fixtures, and soaring ceilings with exposed beams and pecky cypress accents. The gourmet kitchen anchors the main living space as the heart of the home, with a striking 12' island that creates the perfect setting for gatherings. Designed for both style and function, the property also offers a rare 4+ car garage and abundant storage. Outdoors, a sparkling pool invites afternoons in the sun, while the expansive double lot offers unmatched opportunities for expansion. Whether envisioning a private guest house, a tennis or pickleball court, or exploring the option to build and sell, this rare property provides endless possibilities for both personal enjoyment and investment potential—an uncommon luxury in the Florida Keys.
12420 Overseas Highway | Marathon 305.735.4095 | oceansir.com
9709 Overseas Hwy.
Marathon, FL 33050
Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com
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Se habla español THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.
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How far will Artemis II travel? According to NASA, the crew is expected to travel a total of 695,081 miles from launch to splashdown. The crew is expected to land off the San Diego coast around 8:07 p.m. Eastern time on Friday, April 10.
Turtle Hospital founder Richie Moretti gets eye-level with a juvenile green sea turtle at the Turtle Hospital. The Marathon nonprofit turns 40 in 2026. See page 20. CONTRIBUTED
BRUTUS LAND & SEA SHUTS ITS DOORS
Sudden closure shocks staff
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Staff from a third Marathon restaurant in just over a year found themselves out of work on the morning of April 2 with the sudden closing of Brutus Land and Sea.
The business, owned by Alex Henriquez of AH Properties II LLC, officially announced the closure to staff in a text message that Thursday morning, after reportedly telling a few latenight staff members on Wednesday that the restaurant wouldn’t reopen.
“It’s been a pleasure working with each of you. I'm grateful for the support, teamwork and great moments we've shared. I'll miss you all,” Henriquez’s wife Nancy wrote in a group text to staff members, after restaurant managers shared news of the closure earlier that morning in the same group chat.
Staff members told the Weekly they’d been instructed to run a halfoff sale on the entire menu on April 1 to clear inventory before an upcoming order, but that the vast majority learned of the closure from text messages in the early morning hours on Thursday – some of whom were scheduled to report to work later that day. Staff were compensated for hours worked in payouts on April 3, with no additional compensation.
“This is wild,” one staffer wrote in the group text chain. “A heads-up would have been a respectful approach.”
“If we would have had an explanation on why everything was 50% off, customers would have tipped more knowing the restaurant was closing,” another wrote. “These are our jobs, our livelihood.”
According to court filings, Hen-
riquez agreed to $1.15 million in owner financing upon purchasing the property from its previous owner, Diana Mucha, for $1.55 million in September 2024. Per the original agreement, monthly interest payments of $2,875 would be payable for one year, with the principal balance due in September 2025.
A foreclosure suit and countersuit originally filed in May 2025 over issues with the property’s permits, insurance and liquor license was amended in October 2025 when the principal balance remained unpaid. Later that same month, Diana’s daughter Elise confirmed to the Weekly, Henriquez paid off the principal.
The Weekly attempted to contact Henriquez with questions about the
closure sent to his attorney, Patrick Stevens, on April 7, but was unable to reach him before press time.
The restaurant is the third Marathon eatery to suffer a sudden closure since early last year. In January 2025, the sale of Marathon Grill and Ale House preceded a full-staff walkout of the former Overseas Pub and Grill, several of whom went to work for Ale House’s new ownership. In July 2025, the midnight departure of former owners Ali and Andy Baker left the staff of the Key Colony Inn in Key Colony Beach stranded and looking for their final paychecks. The restaurant was later sold and reopened as the Inn at Key Colony in early 2026.
Marathon seafood eatery Brutus Land & Sea shut its doors on April 2, informing staff that morning via text message. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
7 MILE BRIDGE CLOSED
2002. But her affinity for the water actually began in Texas. She sold her dive shop there, making the permanent move to the Keys in 2005 to start looking for the perfect boat. Meanwhile, she enjoyed teaching scuba as a local scuba instructor for a number of years until starting her charter and yacht delivery business in 2010. Shaw holds a 200-ton U.S. Coast Guard license and, preferring staying closer to home these days, she specializes in yacht and estate management.
Shaw also served on the Key Largo Volunteer Fire Department many years as a member of the water emergency team (WET), taking to the ocean to look for everything from persons, vehicles, divers and boats to even searching for weapons used in criminal cases.
She currently serves in elected roles as vice president of the Upper Keys Republican Club and Committeewoman for the Republican Executive Committee of Monroe County.
Shaw states that she is dedicated to bringing commonsense, conservative, Christian values to steer the direction of education in our school district to benefit children, their families, educators and the Monroe County community as a whole.
“With over six years of higher education in engineering and business administration and successful business ownership, I bring a unique blend of technical and administrative
instructed the Boy Scouts for many seasons at Abaco High Adventure Seabase. And she currently teaches Sunday school at a prominent local church in Key Largo.
“I’ve been teaching Sunday school since my eldest daughter was 5 years old,” she said. “It is because of my love for children that I am fiercely protective of them that I will guard your parental authority and family, and ensure that Monroe County schools remain a place of learning. Because school is not a place for activism or personal agendas.
“While extra counselors and social workers may be helpful, they are not suitable replacements for parental authority and family in your children’s lives,” she continued. Shaw believes parents are the primary authority, and not elected school board members, not schools or government.
Shaw said the upcoming election for Monroe County District 5 presents a clear distinction between two “fundamentally different directions for the schools.”
“As educational funds for the county are allocated/ assigned on a per child basis, the school board should want for each child what best meets each child’s needs, whether a child’s education funds follow them to public, charter, private, Montessori, online, or home school,” she said.
ASTRONAUTS ON HISTORIC MOON EXPLORATION TRAINED OFF THE FLORIDA KEYS
Before launch, two space explorers spent time underwater
II Commander
along with other NASA and European Space Agency astronauts,
outside FIU Aquarius off Key Largo during a training mission
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Atest flight by four astronauts aboard NASA’s Artemis II around the moon made history on April 6. NASA’s Artemis II test flight — the first crewed lunar flyby in 50-plus years — broke a record for human spaceflight’s farthest distance, previously set by the Apollo 13 mission in 1970.
At its farthest point, NASA said the crew inside the Orion spacecraft will have traveled about 252,756 miles, before looping back toward our home planet.
During the lunar flyby, a fleet of cameras captured pictures of the moon, including features humans have never directly seen. The astronauts used a variety of digital handheld cameras to conduct high-resolution photography of the lunar surface.
For two astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft, the many years of training and preparation leading up to the momentous occasion included time spent below the surface off the Florida Keys.
Florida International University’s underwater research laboratory, Aquarius, serves not only as an important tool for ocean research, but it also provides training grounds for astronauts to simulate isolation, confinement and operational struggles of spaceflight. Located off Tavernier and sitting 60 feet underwater at Conch
Reef, Aquarius allows crews to live and work underwater for days.
Artemis II commander Reid Wiseman and Canadian mission specialist Jeremy Hansen had the opportunity to train and live underwater at Aquarius; Wiseman was there in 2016 and Hansen in 2014.
For FIU Aquarius operations director Hank Stark, working with astronauts is both routine and remarkable. Stark has spent years helping astronauts acclimate to life in extreme environments. The experience goes beyond technical training.
Aquarius was submerged by NOAA in 1993. It provides unparalleled access to study coral reefs and marine life, while also offering opportunities to test state-of-the-art equipment and train special divers and astronauts. The habitat is a 43- by 20- by 16.5-foot diameter steel cylinder that’s divided into three compartments. There’s a wet porch, which is the main point of entry, and two pressure locks known as the entry and main lock, which are 500 and 1,400 cubic feet respectively.
In June 2019, Aquarius served as the home to a four-woman crew who were on a 10-day NASA mission simulating space exploration, with a focus on objectives related to the International Space Station, the moon and Mars.
Aquarius was submerged by NOAA in 1993. It provides access to study coral reefs and marine life, while also offering opportunities to test state-of-the-art equipment and train special divers and astronauts. FILE PHOTO
“It’s exciting. It’s always a unique opportunity to work with NASA and always interesting,” he said in an FIU article. “Going to space is something I think everyone dreams about at some point in their life.
“Training at Aquarius and saturating with these astronauts lets us get to know them on a personal level,” Stark said. “We’re living together underwater for a week or more.”
That was the case for Stark and Wiseman in 2016.
“You spend a lot of time working together in the days leading up to a mission and then the guy is sleeping right above you for the next eight days or so,” Stark said.
FIU announced a partnership last October with the technology startup Tekmara to construct and operate a new underwater research laboratory using AI-powered monitoring systems. The systems are designed to autonomously detect anomalies like pollution sources or oxygen depletion, learn from the ocean environment and provide real-time solutions. They will largely be powered by renewable energy sources, including solar and marine renewable energy.
The crew is scheduled to complete its 10-day mission and splash down off the coast of San Diego at 8:07 p.m. Eastern time on Friday, April 10.
Under the Artemis program, NASA will send astronauts on increasingly challenging missions to explore more of the moon for scientific discovery, economic benefits and to build on its foundation for the first crewed missions to Mars.
“Their dedication is about more than breaking records – it’s fueling our hope for a bold future. Their mission is carrying our promise to return to the Moon’s surface, this time to stay as we establish a moon base,” said Lori Glaze, an administrator at NASA Headquarters in Washington.
Artemis
Reid Wiseman (lower left),
swim
in 2016. Photo by NASA
NASA’s Space Launch System rocket with the Orion spacecraft carrying Artemis II commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, and mission specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen lifts off on April 1. JIM ROSS / NASA
The edge of the visible surface of the moon is called the ‘lunar limb.’ Seen from afar, it almost looks like a circular arc – except when backlit, as in other images captured by the Artemis II crew. NASA/Contributed
COMMERCE CORNEr
Transformations Stations is a peaceful sanctuary in the Florida Keys where people can slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with themselves. Founded by Anna Davis, this Grassy Key–based practice offers grounding techniques, gentle movement, creative emotional release, meditation, and one-on-one support designed to help untangle stress and restore inner calm. Services are offered through a gifting-economy model, helping keep emotional wellness accessible to everyone in the community.
WARNING: SEVEN MILE BRIDGE TO CLOSE FOR RACE ON APRIL 11
Plan ahead: 3-hour closure halts traffic & alters bus schedules
The Seven Mile Bridge will close from 6 to 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 11 for the annual 7 Mile Bridge Run, when 1,500 runners will cross the span on foot, starting at the west (or bottom) end and heading east, finishing in Marathon. ANDY NEWMAN/Contributed
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
DAt the heart of Transformations Stations is a welcoming, judgment-free space where people feel seen, heard, and safe enough to soften and reset. Through presence, deep listening, and authentic connection, each session is guided with care, allowing personal growth and healing to unfold naturally.
Whether life feels overwhelming, clarity is needed, or there’s simply a desire for a quiet place to land, clients will find a warm, grounded environment without pressure or barriers — just room to breathe and reconnect. New visitors are invited to a complimentary 15-minute “get to know me” chat, and mobile sessions are available for those who prefer support in their own home or workplace.
308.849.1024 (text is best) TransformationsStations.com Anna@TransformationsStations.com
GREATER MARATHON CHAMBER OF COMMERECE
305.743.5417 • 1.800.262.7284
visitus@floridakeysmarathon.com www.floridakeysmarathon.com
12222 Overseas Highway • Marathon, FL 33050
on’t say we didn’t warn you. Pay attention. Plan ahead. Be patient. (Three directives that challenge many longtime Keys locals on our best day.) And yet, here goes…
The Seven Mile Bridge will close for three hours the morning of Saturday, April 11 for the annual 7 Mile Bridge Run. The bridge will be closed from 6 to 9 a.m., but even after it reopens, traffic typically takes an hour or so to spread out and return to normal, said Adam Linhardt, spokesman for the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
“All motorists should plan to be across the bridge by 6 a.m. on Saturday, April 11 to avoid being stuck on one side or the other,” Linhardt said.
Also, Key West officials are reminding those who ride the Lower Keys Shuttle, which travels between Key West and Marathon, that shuttle service will be delayed on April 11.
“Shuttle service from Marathon heading south will start at 9:21 a.m. at the Fairfield Inn (MM
53.5), and service from Key West heading north will begin at 9:26 a.m. at Whitehead and Eaton streets,” says Key West spokeswoman Alyson Crean.
So if you end up parked on U.S. 1 somewhere with traffic at a complete standstill, you’ll have only yourself to blame.
And while you’re deciding whether to wait it out, turn around or find a spot that serves mimosas, just know that 1,500 “lucky” runners will be moving faster than you as they cross the iconic bridge on foot from west to east. That means south to north, or bottom to top, for those of us who fail to acknowledge the actual geography of the island chain, and instead operate on the incorrect premise that the Florida Keys are arranged in a straight, north-south line. They are not. And if we actually looked at a map, we’d acknowledge the famous bridge truly is situated in a more east-west position.
As for those runners, I’ll never understand how anyone would consider themselves “lucky” when running seven miles before 7 a.m. on a Saturday. But you do you — and godspeed, you lucky weirdos.
Emotional Wellness • Art-Based
City Council Items
*A. Approval of Minutes
*B. Approval of the 46 th Annual 7-Mile Bridge Run on April 10, 2027
C. Refund of Unspent Funds from Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
D. National Volunteer Week Proclamation
E. Florida Mosquito Control Awareness Week Proclamation
F. Recognition of Sgt. Buxton for Her Successful Life Saving Efforts
G. City Manager Job Description Discussion (Matlock)
H. Construction on Sundays Discussion (Struyf)
I. Request for Approval of alcohol to be served June 13 th at Oceanfront Park for Hot Havana Nights event
J. May Workshop Discussion (Del Gaizo)
City Manager Report
* A. MCSO Marathon Substation Report
* B. Grants Update
* C. Public Works Report
* D. Park and Recreation Report
* E. Engineering Report
* F. Marina Report
* G. Code Report
* H. Wastewater Utilities Report
* I. Building Report
* J. Marathon Fire Rescue Report
K. Florida Commerce ACSC Administration Permit Contact Line (Informational)
L. Sign Code Discussion
Ordinances for Final Public Hearing and Enactment:
A. Ordinance 2026-01 An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 6 “Buildings And Building Regulations”, Article 2 “Building Code”, Sec. 6-54 “Application Procedure For Permits Under Allocation System” Of The Code Of Ordinances; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; And Providing For An Effective Date.
B. Ordinance 2026-09 An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 102 “Development Application Review Procedures”, Article 6 “Comprehensive Plan Amendment”, Amending Figure 102.22.1 “Comprehensive Plan Amendment Review Process”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law. C. Ordinance 2026-10 An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 102 “Development Application Review Procedures”, Article 7 “Land Development Text Amendment”, Amending
City of Marathon City Council Agenda
9805 Overseas Hwy., Marathon
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 5:30 P.M.
(*Denotes Item Is Passed By Consent Upon Approval of Agenda)
Figure 102.28.1 “Land Development Regulation Text Amendment Process”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law.
D. Ordinance 2026-11 An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 102 “Development Application Review Procedures”, Article 8 “Development Agreement”, Amending Section 102.32 “Procedure For Consideration And Approval”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law.
E. Ordinance 2026-12 An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 102 “Development Application Review Procedures”, Article 11 “Rezoning”, Amending Figure 102.62.1 “Rezoning Review Process”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law.
F. Ordinance 2026-13 An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 102 “Development Application Review Procedures”, Article 13 “Conditional Use”, Amending Figure 102.80.1 “Conditional Use Permit Review Process; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law.
G. Ordinance 2026-14 An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 102 “Development Application Review Procedures”, Article 17 “Appeals”, Amending Figure 102.98.1 “Appeals Review Process”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law.
H. Ordinance 2026-15 An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida,
Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Council with respect to any matter considered at such hearing or meeting, one will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose that person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made; such record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. Please contact the City Clerk at clavierd@ci.marathon.fl.us if you would like to receive any of the items on the agenda by email. ADA Assistance: The City of Marathon is committed to ensuring that all members of the public can participate fully in City Council meetings, programs, and services. We strive to provide an inclusive and accessible environment in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The City will
Amending Chapter 102 “Development Application Review Procedures”, Article 18 “Beneficial Use Determinations”, Section 102.104 “Final Determination By Council”, Amending Figure 102.104.1 “Beneficial Use Determinations Process”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law.
I. Ordinance 2026-16 An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 102 “Development Application Review Procedures”, Article 19 “Vested Rights Determinations”, Amending Section 102.110 “Final Determination”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law.
J. Ordinance 2026-17
An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 103 “Zoning Districts”, Article 3 “Use And Intensity Tables”, Tables 103.15.1 “Uses By Zoning District” And 103.15.2 “Density, Intensity And Dimensions For Zoning Districts”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law.
K. Ordinance 2026-18
An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 107 “General Development Standards”, Article 2 “Transfer of Building Rights”, Section 107.17 “General Provisions”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law.
L. Ordinance 2026-19
An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 107 “General Development Standards”, Article 12 “Floodplain Management”, Section 107.101 “Permits”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law.
M. Ordinance 2026-20 An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Marathon, Florida, Amending Chapter 110 “Definitions”, Article 3 “Defined Terms”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Code Provisions And Ordinances Inconsistent With This Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Inclusion In The Code; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To The State Department Of Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By The Department Of Commerce In Accordance With State Law.
Resolutions For Adoption
*A. Resolution 2026-34, Awarding The Contract For The Area 3 SBR Walkway Rehabilitation to Reynolds Construction, LLC In An Amount Not To Exceed $118,306.12; Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into Agreements In Connection Therewith, Appropriating And Expending Budgeted Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date.
*B. Resolution 2026-35, Approving Grant Agreement ID#26SRP10 Between The City And The State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) For City of Marathon Sombrero Boulevard Drainage Improvements in the amount of $2,511,775.00; Appropriating Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date.
*C. Resolution 2026-36, Approving Grant Agreement ID# 3520 Between The City And The Monroe County Tourist Development Council for Sombrero Beach Renourishment Phase I; Appropriating Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date.
*D. Resolution 2026-37, Requesting to Close A Grant Agreement With The Florida Department Of Environmental Protection For the City of Marathon LPA0273 and Reallocate Those Funds Toward LPA0724; Authorizing The Interim City Manager To Execute The Documents On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.
E. Resolution 2026-38, Declaring The Intention Of The City To Consider Adoption Of An Ordinance Amending The City’s Land Development Regulations Relating To Plats; Providing That From The Date Of Adoption Of This Resolution And During The Pendency Of Consideration Of Such Ordinance By The City, The City Will Process Plats Administratively So Long As They Conform To Florida Statute 177.091; Granting The Planning Department Administrative Authority Pursuant to Florida Statute 177.071; Providing For Severability; And Providing For An Effective Date.
*F. Resolution 2026-39, Approving The General Consulting Contract To Weiler Engineering Corporation; Approving An Increase In Contract Amount Of $250,000; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Change Order And Expend Budgeted Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.
G. Resolution 2026-40, Waiving The City’s Purchasing Policies And Approving The Purchase Of Fireworks From Firepower Displays Unlimited, LLC For The City’s July 4 th Event, In An Amount Not To Exceed $36,250.00; Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into An Agreement In Connection Therewith, Expending Budgeted Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date. provide reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to attend and engage in Council meetings. To request accommodation, please contact: Evie Engelmeyer, ADA Coordinator City of Marathon Phone: (305) 289-4122 Email: engelmeyere@ci.marathon.fl.us Address: 9805 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 To ensure availability, requests should be made at least 72 hours before the meeting. However, the City will make every effort to fulfill requests received in less time. We welcome public input on how we can continue improving accessibility. If you have comments, concerns, or suggestions regarding accessibility at City Council meetings, please reach out to the ADA Coordinator using the contact information above.
Get outta my swamp
Marathon High drama club presents ‘Shrek: The Musical’
ALEX RICKERT
alex@keysweekly.com
Grab a buddy and your best questing outfit – and brush up on your fairy tales. The Marathon High School drama club is headed into the swamp.
“Shrek: The Musical” brings the 2001 animated classic to the stage, trotting out a menagerie of fairy tale characters banished from their homes by the evil Lord Farquaad (Danny Diaz). Eager to get rid of the swarms of new visitors in his no-longer-quiet swamp, Shrek the ogre (Cameron Van Hoose) and his annoyingly persistent buddy Donkey (Emily Martinez Rojas) cut a deal with Farquaad to rescue the lord’s bride-to-be, Princess Fiona (Mia Oliva).
“I was part of the stage crew for a production of this about 10 or 12 years ago in Oklahoma,” said director Rhonda Crutcher. “I loved the music, and I loved the message, which is inclusion for everybody, loving yourself for who you are and not being ashamed of that. And so I always had this in the front of my head as a show to do. We had the right cast for it this year.”
Although the original film came out years before any of the cast were born, they told the Weekly it was still a classic growing up – and a few were even deeply familiar with the 2008 musical adaptation well before the drama club’s announcement.
“I grew up watching the musical with my grandma,” said Oliva. “Never in a million years would I have thought I’d be here doing a musical that I used to watch every weekend.”
“My dad, who’s going to come watch it, is one of those people who loves watching Disney movies,” said Rojas, tasked with living up to Eddie Murphy’s endlessly-quotable performance from the Dreamworks film. “When I told him I got the role, he started quoting all this stuff. But he watches it in Spanish, with a different voice actor. So I want him to get the same feel as if he was watching it.”
The show features several middle-school actors in prominent roles as well as multiple first-time leads, all stepping up in place of longtime club members from the class of 2025. It’s a challenge Crutcher says they’ve fully embraced – so much that she was able to split some roles between two deserving actors.
“I wanted to give Cameron a good featured role for his senior year, and I knew Shrek would be perfect for him, but I genuinely didn’t know who would take the role of Fiona,” she said. “Mia came in, and I’d never really heard her sing – I didn’t know she had that voice.
“And the two young girls who play Young Fiona, Ryan Bryk and Charley Dunn, I’d never heard either of them sing. Both those girls really surprised me with their voices, and I was happy to be able to double-cast that role.”
1. Emily Martinez Rojas has a graduate degree in annoying the heck out of ogres – and loving waffles – as Donkey.
2. Mia Oliva plays the fiery damselnot-quite-in-distress Fiona.
3. Artemis Claudio Peres plays Pinocchio.
4. Danny Diaz plays the diminutive Lord Farquaad.
5. Cameron Van Hoose stars as the leading ogre in Marathon High’s ‘Shrek: The Musical.’
Photos by CATHY WALTERS/ Contributed
“Shrek” opens at 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 9 with 7 p.m. shows on Friday through Sunday, April 10-12. Tickets are $10 for students or $15 for adults, with elementary school students or younger admitted for free. Purchase tickets at the door or in advance by scanning the QR code.
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MANDY MILES
drops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should. She’s married to a saintly — and handy — fisherman, and has been stringing words together in Key West since 1998.
MILES TO GO KEY WEST CAN STILL SURPRISE ME
As the shovels hit only rocks, dirt and gravel for the first 6 inches on April 6 alongside a Keys West school, anyone older than 45 likely was remembering a much-hyped, live TV special in April 1986. Dramatic newsman Geraldo Rivera was going to open Al Capone’s vault and reveal its contents to the world.
Millions of American families were glued to their living room televisions for hours, but with disappointing results — the vault contained only dirt and a few empty bottles.
The scene at May Sands School this week was nothing like that (other than the nagging worry that crept into my and others’ minds during the first inches of digging).
Instead, it became proof that Key West can still surprise and impress me after all these years.
April 6, 2026 was exactly 50 years after April 6, 1976, when fifth-grade students in a gifted program at a Key West school buried a time capsule in their school garden.
But how would they ensure it was retrieved and opened 50 years later?
The kids had a plan. It involved four identical letters, each typed on an actual typewriter and addressed to four different Key West officials.
Their letter demanded specific actions on a specific date, 50 years in the future, so the kids gave themselves an insurance policy — three of them, actually.
The students delivered four identical letters to responsible custodians around town. The then-superintendent of schools received an envelope. Then-Mayor Sonny McCoy received an envelope. The county historian at the public library, Tom Hambright, received a letter. And the then-principal of May Sands School received one from her students.
Typed on the outside of each envelope were instructions to open the envelope at 1 p.m. on April 6, 2026. That would mark exactly 50 years since the time capsule was buried, and directions for its retrieval were inside the envelope.
For years, the aging envelope hung pinned to a bulletin board outside the superintendent’s office at the school district headquarters. Superintendent Ed Tierney had inherited it from Theresa Axford, who had gotten it from her predecessors, dating back five decades.
Historian Tom Hambright, now deceased, also kept his letter filed in the vault at the Key
West library, which is now headed by historian Corey Malcom, who inherited Hambright’s letter. The letter to the mayor’s office, despite being located in multiple city halls, also survived five decades. When Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez took office nearly two years ago, her assistant Dorian Patton marked the April 6 date on the mayor’s calendar.
“It’s amazing that three of the four letters survived,” deputy superintendent Amber Acevedo said at the ceremony to unearth the time capsule this week.
The students’ plan worked flawlessly and their time capsule was retrieved on April 6, 2026 at 1 p.m.
Charlotte Austin Sevilla was there for the burial in 1976. She remembered her class filling the time capsule, recording their voices on a cassette tape that was added to the capsule and sealing all the items in a large, glass mayonnaise jar from Mo’s Restaurant.
She was back in that same spot this past week, and was given the honor of reaching into the “vault” to retrieve items that hadn’t been touched for 50 years.
The included newspapers were dated March 23, 1976. The papers featured full-page cigarette ads and a news article announcing that authorities had located the car of Key West’s missing (and indicted) fire chief, Joseph “Bum” Farto.
There was also a cassette tape, which Malcom took back to the library, dried out and turned into a digital recording. The tape includes selections of popular songs from that era, including (my personal favorite) “Mandy” by Barry Manilow and “That’s the Way (I Like It)” by KC and the Sunshine Band.
“This is so cool and so much more exciting than Al Capone’s vault opening,” one viewer commented while watching the time capsule opening on Facebook Live.
Malcom is in the process of drying out the newspapers and other documents that were included in the time capsule. The school property — like much of Key West — was inundated with floodwater during Hurricane Wilma in 2005. That flood, plus 50 years of hurricanes and summer squalls, eventually permeated the time capsule’s seal and dampened, but didn’t completely destroy, the capsule’s contents.
All the items will be available for viewing in the Key West Library’s Florida Keys History Center, and will eventually be encased in a permanent exhibit.
Meanwhile, Key West students are assembling another time capsule, to be buried at the end of this school year — and to be retrieved in another 50 years.
School district maintenance workers dig about 8 inches through rocks and dirt to unearth the buried time capsule — a large mayonnaise jar encased in concrete.
Key West historian Corey Malcom and former May Sands student Charlotte Austin Sevilla explore the contents of the 50-year-old time capsule.
Newspapers, photos and other items that were retrieved from the time capsule will be on temporary display at the Key West library until a permanent exhibit is designed. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly
the Dynamic Trio Meet
What is your favorite thing about living in the Keys? The peacefulness, safety and the sunsets.
What’s your hype song and your sad song? “Dancing Queen” by ABBA and “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton. It really is very sad.
If there was one chore or task you could have taken away from you forever, what would it be? Laundry! It never stops.
What is the weirdest/funniest app on your phone? The pictures on Snapchat. They crack me up!
What is your greatest fear? Definitely heights.
What’s one thing that appears on many menus, but you won’t try? Mustard.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why? My grey hair. It’s an extra chore every month.
If you could be any animal, what would you be and why? A dog. I love them all, especially my Honey Bunny.
What’s the pettiest thing that annoys you? There aren’t enough shooting stars.
If you could make one law what would it be? For child abusers to never get out of jail.
If you had to give a TED talk on a totally random topic what would it be? How important it is to be involved in our children’s lives.
No matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to present our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue.
Our Neighbor of the Week is Heather Faust Dworniczak, a dedicated 32-year resident of the Keys who first moved to the islands from Miami with her parents. Heather has served with the U.S. Postal Service for over 25 years while remaining deeply devoted to her family. When she isn’t working, she treasures quality time with her children and parents, often enjoying her favorite pastimes of traveling or relaxing during local beach days.
What’s the craziest thing that’s happened to you at work? Being there for over 25 years.
What’s a habit you’d love to break? Ice cream.
What is your most treasured possession? My two daughters, Ariella and Adrianna.
What’s a simple pleasure that brings you joy? Dinner and talking at the table with my kids every night.
What was in the last Amazon package that arrived? Birthday decorations.
What’s a secret about you that people might be surprised to learn? I can’t stand wrinkled clothes.
Know someone who would be a good “Neighbor of the week?” Email keysweeklyjen@ gmail.com.
THIS WEEKS ENTERTAINMENT
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40 YEARS OF RESILIENCE
Turtle Hospital celebrates four decades of a global legacy
JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com
What started as a modest mom-and-pop motel in the early 1980s has grown into one of the world’s leading centers for sea turtle rescue and education. This year, the Turtle Hospital in Marathon marks its 40th anniversary, celebrating four decades of caring for injured sea turtles and inspiring people to protect the oceans.
General manager Bette Zirkelbach said one word captures both the animals and the organization: resilience.
“I talk frequently about resilience, because that's … used a lot to describe sea turtles,” she said. “They're amongst the oldest animals known to man, and they were in our oceans when dinosaurs were on our land. I often think about the resilience of the Turtle Hospital itself. Forty years is a long time and we’ve gone through a lot of changes in the Florida Keys. I’m just so glad to be a part of this amazing organization.”
The story began when founder and
director Richie Moretti came to the Keys to retire and fish. He and his partner, Tina Brown, bought the Hidden Harbor Motel, a classic Keys property with a natural saltwater tidal pool for guests. Moretti added a freshwater pool, then started placing fish caught in local tournaments into the tidal pool so they wouldn’t die after weigh-ins.
“This was nothing I planned to do, but I’m so glad I did it,” said Moretti. “I had over 100 employees in Orlando at the time fixing Volkswagens, so this was very different. The best thing I ever did was to move to Marathon and just play with the motel and fix up the turtles.”
In a short time, they had an aquarium, discovered shortly after by schools that began bringing students to learn about Keys marine life – planting the seeds of what would become the hospital’s education program.
In the mid-1980s, during the height of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” popularity, every school group had the same request: “Can we see a turtle?” Moretti went to the state of Florida to ask for a sea turtle for the pool. By then, the aquatic reptiles were protected.
“They said the only way you can put a turtle in the pool is if you help it,” Zirkelbach said. “That was his first rehab permit for sea turtles, and the rest is history. It became his life’s passion, and the Turtle
Hospital is what it is today.”
For years, staying at the Hidden Harbor Motel meant an affordable room and a chance to see recovering sea turtles. Room rentals helped pay for the animals’ care. But in 2005, Hurricane Wilma flooded the property with 5 to 6 feet of water. Rather than reopen the motel, Moretti made a defining decision: the Turtle Hospital would fully open to the public, and admission fees would fund turtle care.
Zirkelbach joined the team in 2012, tasked with helping the nonprofit become self-sustaining. At the time, there were eight employees. Today, that number has grown to 32, and the hospital runs 15 educational programs a day. The growth has been exponential, shifting from 75 visitors on a heavy day to more than 700 a day during the peak season. That growth has had a direct impact on conservation.
“Now, six out of 10 of our rescue calls come from people who have been through our educational programs,” Zirkelbach said. “Those admission fees pay for the operating budget, which pays for the care of the sea turtles and research that helps turtles globally. These people are the same people that go diving, fishing and boating on our islands. Now they know what a sick sea turtle looks like, they care, and they know who to call.”
Today, Zirkelbach said the hospital is viewed as one of the gold standards for eco-tourism, “which is what we want. We want people to come to our islands and help take care of our resources.” Releases at local beaches in Marathon and Key West are can’t-miss spectacles, drawing crowds of hundreds and giving kids an up-close look at the fully-recovered animals ready to return to their ocean homes.
The facility is a fully-licensed veterinary hospital, the first of its kind for sea turtles in the world. A full-time veterinarian is on-site every other week, while specialty surgeons fly in for complex procedures. Some turtles are transported to Miami to see a veterinary ophthalmologist. The organization’s reach now extends far beyond Marathon.
“We have a global platform,” Zirkelbach said. “Our social media audience is over a million, and it really does change the way people see their world and help them to care, not just about sea turtles, but the oceans. When people see us take such good care of sea turtles, it makes them want to care.”
Financially, the hospital has achieved another major milestone: It raised enough revenue to purchase the property from Moretti, who ensured the mission's permanence by placing a deed restriction on the land. The property can now only be used for sea turtle conservation, protecting the hospital’s legacy.
“I want the Turtle Hospital to go on forever,” said Moretti. “That’s why we’ve been purchasing more property and improving the property that we have. My goal is to put everything into it so that they will eventually own everything.”
Forty years after a fisherman’s retirement project turned into a mission, the Turtle Hospital stands as a testament to what a small island community can accomplish when it decides to protect the creatures that share its waters.
“I’ve always said if you can see it you can do it,” explains Moretti. “And I see a bright future ahead.”
More information is at turtlehospital.org, via email to turtlehospital@ turtlehospital.org or at 305-743-2552.
1. Actress Jamie Lee Curtis, right, joins the Turtle Hospital for an offshore release.
2. Turtle Hospital manager Bette Zirkelbach, left, and rehabber Isabelle Gilbert release juvenile green turtle ‘Addie’ before a cheering crowd on Earth Day 2025.
3. Corinne Rose, left, Richie Moretti and Sue Schaf assist Dr. Doug Mader in surgically removing fibropapilloma tumors from a green sea turtle.
4. Veterinarian Dr. Doug Mader, left, renowned artist Wyland and Turtle Hospital founder Richie Moretti use a pulse oximeter on a turtle.
5. A postcard from the former Hidden Harbor Motel begins to showcase the turtles in the motel’s tidal pool. The entire motel campus was converted to open as the Turtle Hospital following Hurricane Wilma.
Photos by Natalie Danko, Keys Weekly file photos and contributed images
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NUTRITION LABELS: TRUTHS, LIES AND LOOPHOLES
Grad school was a blur in many ways, if I’m being honest. Not only is it a quick two years of information and testing being bulldozed into your brain, you’re also up all night in a library with the worst possible coffee and lighting, trying to understand material that quite literally sounds like a foreign language. But, every once in a while, there were these moments – small, fleeting, whoa moments – where something clicked so hard it nearly knocked me out of my seat.
This happened a lot in my nutrition classes. I’ll never forget learning all the sneaky, borderline evil ways the food industry gets consumers to believe in their product.
So, consider this my tell-all. Sorry, not sorry.
Let’s start simple – like, really simple.
Imagine you’re holding a box of crackers. On the back is the nutrition label. It looks official. Trustworthy. Almost like it’s there to help you. And it is … kind of. But only if you know how to read it.
First, look at the serving size. This is where the game begins. The numbers you see – calories, fat, carbs, protein, sugar, etc. – are not for the whole package. They’re for one serving. And that serving might be way smaller than what you’d naturally eat. So, if the box says four servings, and you eat the whole thing (no judgment), you need to multiply everything by four.
Next, look at the ingredients list. Here’s the rule no one forgets once they learn it. Ingredients are listed in order of weight, from the most to the least. So, if sugar is near the top? There’s a lot of it. If you see five different types of sugar spread throughout the list? That’s not a coincidence. That’s strategy. Because companies know that if “sugar” is the first ingredient, you might put the box back on the shelf. So instead, they break it up – cane sugar, brown rice syrup, maltodextrin, agave, evaporated cane juice – so none of them appear first. Same sugar. Better disguise.
just one serving? I didn’t think so. So now, multiple 0.5 grams times four, and now it’s not “legally” fat free, you just had two grams of fat or sugar, and you didn’t even think there was fat in the product.
Then there’s “no added sugars.” Sounds amazing, right?
Except it doesn’t mean the product is low in sugar. It just means no sugar was added. It can still be packed with naturally-occurring sugars that hit your body the exact same way.
And let’s not forget serving size manipulation. Shrink the serving size, and suddenly everything looks healthier on paper. Lower calories, lower sugar, lower everything. Looks great … until you eat like a normal human.
And one of my personal favorites: “calorie-free.”
Now let’s talk about the part that really made me fall out of my chair. The rules.
Food labels aren’t just about what’s in the food; they’re about what companies are allowed to say. If a serving has less than 0.5 grams of fat, it can legally be labeled “fat-free.” If it has less than 0.5 grams of trans fat, it can say “0 grams trans fat.” If it has less than 0.5 grams of sugar, it can be labeled “sugar free.” Notice a theme? Not zero, just low enough to round down. Now, are you having
...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC.
UNSPLASH.
If a serving has fewer than five calories, it can be labeled as zero. So that “zero-calorie” spray? It’s only zero if you use it exactly the way they define a serving, which is usually a fraction of a second. A few generous sprays later, and suddenly your zero isn’t so zero.
And then there’s “made with whole grains.” This one gets people all the time. It doesn’t mean mostly whole grains. It just means some whole grains made it into the recipe. If refined flour is still listed first? That’s what you’re mostly eating. It’s not a lie, it’s just not the full story. And if you really want to have your mind blown, look at anything labeled “low-fat” or “fat-free.”
When companies remove fat, they don’t just leave the food bland and sad. They replace it. Usually with sugar, sodium, or both. Because fat is what gives food flavor and texture. Take it out, and something has to step in. So that “healthy” low-fat yogurt? Check the sugar. That fat-free dressing? Take a look at the sodium. Less fat, more sugar. Less fat, more salt. Not exactly the glow-up we were promised.
Food labels aren’t lying, but they’re not exactly telling the whole truth. They’re playing within a set of rules. And those rules leave a lot of room for interpretation. At some point, reading a food label stops feeling like nutrition and starts feeling like you need a law degree and a flashlight to figure out what you’re actually eating.
So, the next time you pick up a product, don’t just read the front. Flip it over. Because once you see it, you can’t unsee it. And trust me, you won’t be the only one falling out of your chair.
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Fresh fish, house-made soups/chowders, and our famous Key lime pie — ready to take home.
THREE NEW RELEASES ABOUT YOUNG LOVE, WOMEN’S STRENGTH AND THE AMERICAN FRONTIER
A GOOD ANIMAL
By Sara Maurer
In a small town in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Everett Lindt works on his father’s sheep farm. A senior in high school, Everett is unlike most of his classmates, who are counting the days until they can leave Sault Ste. Marie. He is devoted to his animals and life on the farm. There is a new girl in town named Mary. When Everett meets Mary, it is love at first sight. He has never felt this way before, but he is sure this is the real thing. They are inseparable for the next nine months, but there is one problem: Mary wants to attend art school in California. It’s her dream and Everett is desperate to change her mind. Young love and family obligation give this quiet, beautifully-written novel a category all its own. The reader can see the land and feel the chill of winter and the heartbeat of young love. There are detailed, sometimes graphic depictions of farm life, but they are handled thoughtfully, even in the toughest moments. What does it mean when a week after finishing this novel, I am still thinking about Everett and Mary? This well-written, debut coming-of-age novel is simply outstanding.
First and foremost a reader, she has reviewed hundreds of books on her blog www. readingandeating. com. And, more recently, this new Keys resident has also begun writing.
ENORMOUS WINGS
By Laurie Frankel
It was just a little fender bender. Father Frank had no need to shred Pepper’s driver’s license, and no one forced her daughter to move her into Vista View Retirement Community. Pepper, a retired teacher and 77 years young, certainly had no desire to lose her independence. Always optimistic, she decides to make the best of it and settles in without battling her grown children. Pepper makes friends easily and even meets a special someone. She is doing great until a strange exhaustion washes over her. Could it be the flu, dementia, a stroke? Considering the average age at Vista View is 80, no one considers that Pepper could be pregnant. It seemed impossible, especially after only having had sex for the first time in decades. But the tests are repeated, and they are positive. Overnight, Pepper becomes a miracle. Move over, Virgin Mary — Austin has a pregnant septuagenarian. Between the paparazzi and recent changes in Texas abortion laws, you have what the talking heads call breaking news. Exploring motherhood, friendship, later-in-life love and the right to choose, Laurie Frankel tells this story with heart, humor and a glimmer of hope.
IN THE GREAT QUIET
By Laura Vogt Minnie
Hoopes and her trusty horse, Cricket, are among the homesteaders racing from Kansas toward Oklahoma in the 1893 land rush. After losing her childhood sweetheart, this capable schoolteacher wants nothing more than to have a plot of land she can call her very own. It is unusual for a woman to be traveling alone; these hills are full of gunslingers, bandits and renegades. Riding far ahead of her two brothers, no sooner does Minnie stake her claim than she is attacked by two outlaws. So begins life in the Wild West. Her neighbor, “the Lawman,” is probably the most handsome man she has ever known, and the two form a unique bond as they endure the harsh, isolated winter. Minnie and the Lawman assist each other with the physical challenges including building a home, a barn and digging a well. As Minnie finally opens up to friendship with a nearby family and a Native American neighbor, she continues to be tormented by her past and the crushing disappointment she thought she left behind. Loosely based on the author’s great-great-grandmother, this beautifully written pioneer story is filled with ingenuity, determination and even a little romance.
#WORTHWATCHING: Can’t wait for the next book-to-screen heading our way: “Margo’s Got Money Troubles” premieres on Apple TV+ on April 15. Based on author Rufi Thorpe’s funny and surprisingly sweet novel, the series stars the fabulous Elle Fanning and Michelle Pfeiffer.
KAREN NEWFIELD
The littlest hunters got the first crack at egg-shaped treasure on April 4 – but after that, a horde of kids searched every nook and cranny of Rotary Park for the Rotary Club of Marathon’s annual Easter egg hunt. As per the club’s annual tradition, a protected zone gave a low-key hunting experience for children ages 3 and under and their families, while hundreds of scattered eggs were Hoovered up in minutes by the “big kids” in a mad dash from the gate. Even the Easter Bunny braved the Florida Keys heat for family photo ops. Photos by Natalie Danko
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s tax season comes to a close, United Way of Collier and the Keys is reminding residents not to miss out on its free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program.
IRS-certified volunteers are providing no-cost tax preparation for individuals and families who earned $67,000 or less in 2025. Appointments are filling quickly.
Last tax season, the VITA program helped generate more than $384,624 in refunds, putting critical dollars back into the pockets of local families. This year, the program is expanding to meet increased demand.
“United Way of Collier and the Keys is dedicated to helping our ALICE neighbors,” said Tiffani Mensch, president and CEO. ALICE — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — represents hardworking individuals and families who are often stretched thin despite working multiple jobs. In Monroe County, 45% of households fall into this category.
“Our VITA volunteers not only provide free tax preparation, but also help ensure residents claim every credit they’ve earned,” Mensch said.
For many participants, the savings can make a real difference.
“With the way expenses are in this day and age, with
gas and the supermarket, you try to save money every which way — and $300 can buy a lot of groceries, especially when you’re retired,” said Theresa Dallao, VITA client.
In Monroe County, no appointments are required for VITA services. Information in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole can be viewed and downloaded at uwcollierkeys. org/programs/vita/.
Volunteers are able to assist through Monday, April 13 at the Harvey Government Center in Key West, 1200 Truman Ave. from noon to 4 p.m. and Wednesday, April 15 at the Marathon library, 3490 Overseas Highway, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Bring photo identification for you and your spouse (if filing jointly), Social Security cards or ITIN documents for all household members; birthdates for yourself, spouse, and dependents; a blank check for direct deposit of your refund; a copy of last year’s tax return; all Forms W-2, 1098, and 1099; Forms 1095-A, B or C (ACA Statements); information about other income; documentation for deductions and credits.
For married couples filing jointly, both spouses must be present.
— Contributed
... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.
The sky was foreboding and maybe overdoing it – a twotone wall of gray and darker gray moving closer and closer to where we sat. Between us and the weather were a few boats not quite ready to pull the anchor yet, and a few boats running full throttle toward their marinas.
The weird light gave the turquoise of the water a charged-up glow, like it was lit from beneath or something. It was a summer drama, not early spring drama, and felt premature, if strikingly beautiful. There was thunder but no lightning.
This was at Keys Fisheries in Marathon. I was up there with two artists who were residents at The Studios of Key West this month: Maxim Loskutoff, a novelist from out west, and Carolyn Monastra, a visual artist doing a long-term project about climate change and potential avian extinctions.
Max and Carolyn were dutifully impressed by the tarpon roiling just off the seawall, and slightly perplexed that Florida lobsters don’t have claws.
We had all ordered lobster reubens, and were waiting for them to come out.
We weren’t alone in the restaurant. There were quite a few people, and also a small cadre of ruddy turnstones perched on the bow of a moored-up center console. There were also two or three patrolling the edges of the seawall, just outside the rope railings, looking for scraps.
Keys Fisheries is one of the more reliable places in the Florida Keys to see ruddy turnstones, largely due to the large volume of french fries they serve. Despite the signs every few feet politely but clearly asking people not to feed human food to the birds or fish, a few fries periodically end up on the floor – usually, I like to believe, by accident.
Ruddy turnstones are handsome birds. One of the reasons to love them, besides their good looks, is that they generally live up to their name. They are ruddy, at least if you are willing to accept that orange is red the same way red hair is red. (Ginger turnstone would have been a less dynamic moniker.) Also, they turn stones, at least when there are stones around.
The stone-turning thing isn’t because they are vandals or cucumber-sized agents of chaos. It’s because under the turned-over stones is often food.
Turnstones are Palearctic breeders, Palearctic being a fancy term meaning the northerly cold parts of Eurasia and North America. But when they are not breeding, they can be found on the beaches of every continent in the world
STORMS AND STONES, TURNED AND UNTURNED
– excluding Antarctica, a continent not generally known for its sandy coastlines.
Ruddies can be found in the Keys yearround, though there are bigger numbers in the winter. Like most shorebirds we see here in the summer, it’s unclear why they don’t migrate. Maybe they’re opting out of the whole migrate/breed/migrate life cycle. Maybe they aren’t healthy enough to fly 2,500 miles. Maybe they’re just taking a year off and don’t need the hassle from you.
Since the turnstone’s name was derived from their behavior on the stony beaches of England, I was curious what their names meant in other languages. It turns out the names translate to literally the same thing in Russian, French, Chinese, Dutch, German, Japanese and several other languages. They are the common rockhopper in Basque, the stone-flipping bird in Thai, the stone mason in Persian and Punjabi, the stone roller in Estonian and the stone tartar in Latvian, tartar most likely referring to the foot soldiers of Genghis Khan, not the calcium buildup dentists have to scrape off your teeth.
Things get a little further afield in Portugal, where they are the sea roller; in Puerto Rico, where they are the Turkish plover; in Sweden, where they are the rosary; and in Georgia, where their name means “I am voting.” All this according to Google Translate.
Ruddy turnstones are sexually monomorphic, though the females are said to have slightly duller plumage than the males. The parents have slightly atypical breeding strategy.
The females do about 70% of the brooding for the first few weeks. The males visit more frequently and get more attentive in the week or so before hatching, though they don’t up their brooding effort.
The chicks are precocial and can walk a few hours after hatching. A day after the last chick,
usually the fourth, has hatched, they abandon the nest as a family and move on to more productive feeding areas. The chicks have to feed themselves from the start, but may learn from watching the parents. They increase in body weight about 700% over a period of three weeks. The mothers abandon the family after nine or 10 days and the fathers stick around, protecting their small flock until the fledglings can fly and take care of themselves, at around 19 days, and may remain protective for another two weeks.
In their breeding territories, ruddy turnstones survive primarily on a diet of insects in the fly family, supplemented by the occasional spider, berry or butterfly. But once they move south, their diet gets more expansive, widening to include crustaceans, mollusks, muscles, small fish and the occasional purloined fast-food item.
If a beach doesn’t have a lot of stones, they seem just as happy turning over sticks, shells and seaweed in the pursuit of sustenance.
Up at Keys Fisheries it wasn’t us, but someone must have dropped a fry or a crust of bread or something on the floor, because a turnstone suddenly darted out from under one of the picnic tables and out over the water as if it had just shoplifted something from a candy counter.
It was confronted immediately by a sharp-eyed gull, then two gulls, then 10 gulls, a screaming flock that chased the turnstone around the marina like a feathered tornado. The bird shot left, then right, then left again, finally dropping out of our line of sight behind a boat, the gulls descending upon him.
The gulls rose up as a group a few minutes later, and flew slowly out of the marina.
I have no idea who managed to gulp what down, but I was rooting for the turnstone.
A small flock of ruddy turnstones in Marathon. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
MARK HEDDEN
SIMON
3-year-old male miniature pinscher mix.
Looking for: I’m a needy guy who loves to be with the person I love.
Turnoffs: Men. I’m scared of most men.
SWIPE RIGHT
Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA
Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption “match” at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus – complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800 or visit 10550 Aviation Blvd.
GYPSY
6.5-year-old female domestic shorthair.
Looking for: If you let me sit in your lap and pet me, I’d be in heaven.
Turnoffs: The Catio is cool, but I’d much rather be in a home with fewer cats around.
POPCORN
1-year-old male guinea pig.
Looking for: A home for two please.
Turnoffs: Guinea pigs are misunderstood but make great companions.
BBQ & raffle
the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge!
Come to Marathon Grill & Ale House on Saturday, April 11 All day - starts 11 A.M. BBQ plates $20
Carolina-style smoked pork butts by TYLER B BBQ plus homemade smoked beans and potato salad.
Proceeds benefit Alex Rickert as he aims to raise $15,000 for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in the Boston Marathon.
RAFFLE:
• 2026 Velotric E-Trike | Value $2,500
• 125 tickets sold, $50 per ticket.
• Cash preferred, PayPal and Venmo accepted
• Text 252.256.1413 for phone orders
• Drawing: 8 p.m. on Cinco de Mayo
Can't make it? Donate directly!
Having Fun in the Middle Keys
CHRIS McNULTY
is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com
This week, Mars moves into its home sign of Aries, where it will remain until May 18. Mars is the planet of action, willpower, courage, sweat and aggression. Mars just goes for it without asking permission or forgiveness. When Mars comes home to Aries, our get-up-and-go is encouraged, we can access our inner drive more readily, and we can be a bit more reckless than usual. This sixweek period is a time of high energy and high productivity. The coals are being stoked for us, but it is up to us to use this boost in the way that works best for our needs. It’s time to finish the projects you’ve set on the back burner and start the projects you’ve been thinking or talking about. One note of caution, though. As soon as Mars enters Aries, it is meeting up with the planet Neptune, which can add a big dose of confusion. The energy will definitely shift, but the goals may not be as clear as we would like. So, go ahead and get started, but be mindful that our energy might not have the directed purpose we would hope. In essence, we need to start with some blind faith and let the ultimate goal of our actions show itself. The first few days will be the murkiest, but the fog will start to lift in the middle of next week. All in all, though, it’s go time.
Here are your horoscopes for Mars entering Aries. Read for your rising and sun signs.
ARIES
March 21 - April 19
As an Aries, your engine is usually running, but consider these next six weeks a nitro boost. If you’ve been sitting on a personal goal, now is the time to laser-focus on achieving it. Honestly, it’s a great time to start a physical regimen of some sort because your body is going to be teeming with energy. Find a healthy way to release it that serves your greater purpose.
TAURUS
April 20 - May 20
While the rest of the world is getting loud, your momentum is moving behind the scenes. This is a time for invisible progress. Whether you have some personal work to do in your private space or some inner work to do in your mental space, you are being given the energy to get it done. Your actions need not be seen to be effective.
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
Are you ready for your social circle to become more active, Gemini? Your support system is going to show up to help you progress toward your long-term goals. There might be some sparring over the right course of action, but a little debate can be helpful. Your friends are here to help, so don’t take any alternative opinions personally. Focus on your goals, not your ego.
CANCER
June 21 - July 22
Your work life is going to pop off in the coming weeks, and you will be called upon to be extra productive. You can either be dragged along or you can step up and meet the calls for action head-on. You don’t necessarily have to take the lead, although you will likely be successful if you do. As long as you show up and meet your end of the bargain, the goals will fall into place.
LEO
July 23 - Aug. 22
The horizon is calling, and your desire for a fresh perspective is hitting a boiling point. Whether it’s travel, a new course of study or a big idea you’re ready to share, go for it with abandon. You have got to do something to expand your world in one way or another, and one foot in front of the other is the only way to get moving. Let the map sort itself out.
VIRGO
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
Start digging into the deep stuff, Virgo. You have the courage now to look at what’s usually hidden, particularly regarding shared finances or those old emotional ties that have overstayed their welcome. Cut ties with anything that’s been draining your battery, but don’t be afraid to form new ties with people or projects that fire you up. Out with the old, in with the new.
LIBRA
Sept. 23 - Oct. 22
It’s time to give the wheel to an important partner in your life and let them drive for a little while. While it might feel strange at first, all relationships require give-and-take, and it is high time for you to take the passenger seat. Be sure to name what you want and need so you can maintain your personal integrity and serve as the navigator. You are good at giving direction.
SCORPIO
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
Strap in and overhaul your daily habits and routines. You have a massive window of productivity opening up, and it’s perfect for starting a
IT’S GO TIME
new health kick or finally finishing those tedious chores that have been piling up. Focus on how your energy can serve you rather than giving it away too freely. If you feel a bit sluggish or “off” on Sunday, don’t worry about it and take rest.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
“Follow your bliss,” as Joseph Campbell would say. Whatever gives you joy, chase it down with complete dedication. Don’t worry about the future or get caught up in the past. All you have to do is what you love. Everything else will fall into place if your creative joy is center stage. Be a warrior for creativity right now and see what happens.
CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
There is a lot of action taking place at home, and you might feel a sudden, restless urge to renovate, move, or handle a lingering family matter. Family stuff can get heavy and emotional sometimes, but right now is not the time to sit in the muck. Now is the time for action. What needs to get done in order for your home and family to be the best version of themselves? Instigate it.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
While you may not feel like your voice has much impact, these next few weeks are going to teach you otherwise. Your words will have more “kick” than usual, so use them to advocate for yourself and your community. If you have something to say, don’t think about the consequences and say it. A lot of times, just letting your vocal cords vibrate is all that needs to be done.
PISCES
Feb. 19 - March 20
What do you truly value and how do you value yourself? These two things go hand in hand. Are you willing to fight for yourself and your values? Perhaps it is time to ask for a raise, to price your time appropriately, or to speak up about what you believe in. Remember that your material needs are important because you cannot fight for what you value without a solid foundation.
BRIEFLY
AHEC to offer athlete cardiac screenings
This spring, Keys AHEC Health Centers will bring cardiac screenings directly to high school campuses throughout the Keys, offering no-cost electrocardiogram (ECG) tests and sports physicals to student athletes. The program, launching on May 18, is designed to identify undetected heart conditions in young athletes before they take the field and it comes at a critical time. Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in young athletes, yet many underlying heart conditions show no outward symptoms. An ECG, a simple, painless test that records the heart’s electrical activity, can detect conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed until it is too late. The program is open to all students who are new to high school sports for the 2026/2027 academic year. Screenings will be held at Marathon High School May 18-22. All screenings are conducted by appointment only at 305-743-7111, extension 210. Students with a normal ECG result will receive sign-off from an AHEC advanced practice registered nurse. Results that require additional evaluation will be referred to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital for specialist review, and cardiology referrals will be arranged for any student with an abnormal finding. Participating students must be established AHEC patients. Families new to AHEC will be guided through a simple registration process. Required patient forms, including a sports physical form, must be completed before the appointment. Forms are available at keysahec.org/ecgsports-physical-program. Students who already have a current sports physical on file will only need the ECG portion of the screening.
Free music festival at Marathon Yacht Club
The public is invited to attend a free music festival on Wednesday, April 15 from 3 to 8 p.m. at Marathon Yacht Club pool deck on 33rd Street. See seven different local musicians: AJ Angelo, Bob Mueller, David Eidelberg, Sammy Hall, Danny Lang, and Dwayne and Chris Haggy. Burgers, pork sliders, hot dogs and drinks are available for purchase.
Key Deer survey closes April 15
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. The 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. The survey will close April 15.
Traffic stop leads to MDMA bust
A 27-year-old North Bay Village, Florida woman was arrested for allegedly possessing a large amount of MDMA or ecstasy following a traffic stop on U.S. 1 on April 5. Mylasia Ronnetta Hunter was charged with trafficking MDMA, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving without a valid/revoked license. The sheriff’s office stopped a Toyota sedan driven by Hunter around 1 a.m. near MM 47 in Marathon for traveling 63 mph in a 35-mph zone. She possessed a New Jersey learners permit and a suspended Florida driver’s license, deputies said. There was a bag of marijuana in clear view in the vehicle. The following were reportedly found: 29 pills of MDMA, 27.6 grams of crushed powder MDMA and 3.5 grams of marijuana, as well as baggies and rolling papers. Hunter was taken to jail.
St. Cloud woman arrested after U.S. 1 chase
A 55-year-old St. Cloud, Florida woman was arrested on April 7 after reportedly fleeing from the sheriff’s office on U.S. 1 and kicking a detention deputy. There were no serious injuries reported.
Marianela Baez Dorta was charged with fleeing and eluding, battery on a law enforcement officer and threatening a law enforcement officer. Baez Dorta was allegedly traveling more than 80 mph in a 35-mph zone in Marathon around 4:30 a.m. when she attempted to evade the sheriff’s office. She was taken into custody after parking and attempting to hide near a vacation rental home on 23rd Street. Baez Dorta threatened to kill an arresting deputy multiple times and kicked a detention deputy in the stomach while using racial slurs.
Keys Watercolor Society opens scholarship applications
The Florida Keys Watercolor Society is looking for local graduating seniors planning to continue in the arts fields after high school. Applications are open for the Julie Joyce Memorial Arts Scholarship and are due on April 30. More information is at fkwcs.com.
Leadership Monroe County hosts community festival
Leadership Monroe County will host a free day-long community festival to celebrate the graduation of Class XXXIII on Saturday, May 2 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Oceanfront Park in Marathon. The day will include live music, local vendors and artists, food trucks, family activities and a kids’ zone. Vendors are invited to set up booth space at the event. In addition to a graduation ceremony, Class XXXIII will draw the winner of their class project fundraiser, a raffle in support of Keys AHEC health centers. Raffle tickets are $50, with a grand prize of $10,000. Scan the QR codes here to purchase raffle tickets and access the vendor application.
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 or older. Water, soda and light snacks are available for purchase.
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “The Life of Chuck” (2024)
Why: Stephen King is known as the master of horror, and while that’s a title he’s absolutely earned, he’s proven time and again that he’s also capable of writing stories that are inspiring and moving. Based on his novella, this film adaptation keeps everything from that but adds more breathing room for the characters to take in their surroundings, often through music and dance. This is a piece that’s less about plot mechanics and more about atmosphere and living in the moment. In times where media consumption causes a state of panic everywhere you look, it’s refreshing to find a charming, old-fashioned story that reminds you what a gift life can be.
Where: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming app.
How: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? keyslibraries.org/contact-us. Recommended by: Kelvin Cedeño, library associate, Key Largo library branch.
See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/post/reel-recs.
VENDOR QR RAFFLE QR
MESSAGE FROM THE SHERIFF
Electric dirt motorcycles have skyrocketed in popularity, however, there are some significant safety concerns regarding these vehicles. My goal is to ensure that everyone is safe and knows the rules.
Please help us spread the word!
• First, what are they: electric dirt bikes are not equipped with pedals but commonly have motors exceeding 780 watts.
• They are not street legal. That means they are not allowed on roadways, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, bicycle paths, or public rights-of-way.
• They are only permitted on private property with the landowner’s consent.
• All normal tra c laws apply.
• Violations of the rules could result in civil and criminal liability and the vehicle could be impounded. Remember, helmets save lives!
More information about motorized vehicles can be found at www.flhsmv.gov
Monroe County Sheriff, Rick Ramsay
FIGHT TO THE FINISH
Lacrosse teams prep for postseason | P.4
Proudly serving Key West to Islamorada as the ONLY locally owned and operated concrete company in the Florida Keys.
Whether you’re building a large commercial building, FDOT bridge, or a customdesigned home, we have concrete mix designs for every project. Thanks to decades of experience, our team can create custom mixes with high-quality additives for specific project needs. We offer the largest variety of materials and operate the only FDOT-certified ready-mix plants in the Florida Keys. Call us for all ready-mix concrete, block, aggregate, rebar and bagged good needs.
Marathon Baseball Coral Shores 3/30 W, 3-0
Key West Boys Lacrosse NSU University 3/30 L, 19-14
Key West Girls Lacrosse St. Brendan 3/31 L, 15-7
Coral Shores Girls Lacrosse Palmer Trinity 3/31 L, 10-7
Coral Shores Softball South Homestead 3/31 W, 10-0
Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse St. Brendan 3/31 W, 16-4
Key West Boys Lacrosse Archbishop McCarthy 4/1 W, 12-3
Marathon Softball St. Brendan 4/1 L, 20-10
Key West Baseball Southridge 4/1 W, 2-1
Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse NSU University 4/2 L, 17-10
Coral Shores Girls Lacrosse NSU University 4/2 L, 17-3
Coral Shores Baseball Keys Gate 4/2 W, 7-4
Coral Shores Softball Palmer Trinity 4/2 L, 7-0
Key West Baseball Lakeside School 4/2 W, 5-0 Key West Girls Lacrosse NSU University 4/3 L, 16-5 Marathon Baseball JC Bermudez Doral 4/3 L, 9-4 Marathon Baseball ABF Academy Homestead 4/4 W, 6-2
Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse Cardinal Gibbons 4/4 W, 13-4
Key West Girls Lacrosse Keys Gate 4/4 W, 15-1
Key West Boys Lacrosse Keys Gate 4/4 W, 14-1
Key West Baseball Miami HIgh 4/4 W, 15-0 Key West
MARCH 30 - APRIL 4 THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS APRIL 9-16
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
4/9
4/10 Key West Softball
4/11
4/11
4/15
4/15
DAVILA
Auggy is a determined athlete. He is ready for all situations due to his strong work ethic.”
– Judd Wise, Conchs color commentator and Florida Keys sports historian
Auggy
lone inning of work on April 1 may not have looked extraordinary on paper, but those 17 pitches carried historic weight. With a save against Miami Southridge, Davila set a new Key West single-season record with eight, etching his name into one of the program’s most competitive record books.
.973 saves school record fielding percentage this season ON THE COVER APRIL 9
Davila continued to deliver at the plate throughout the week, recording a hit against Lakeside before doubling and driving in a run against Miami High on April 4. Later that evening, he came through again in a second matchup with Lakeside, tallying two hits, including a walk-off that sealed the win for the Conchs.
When he’s not closing out games, Davila anchors the defense at shortstop, where he has posted an impressive .973 fielding percentage this season, and with a season to go, there is no limit to what Davila can do. For his dedication to the sport and to the Conchs and for coming in clutch again and again, Key West’s Auggy Davila is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
by ROCKY GONET/Keys Weekly
Coral Shores boys lacrosse players battle for a ground ball against Cardinal Gibbons High School. The Hurricanes prevailed in a home romp, 13-4. See page 4. NATALIE GOODWIN/Keys Weekly
Auggy
Junior, Key West Baseball
Junior
Davila’s
Photo
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com
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TAKE TWO
3 4
Keys lacrosse teams face familiar foes in district quarterfinals
With the regular season in the rear view, Keys lacrosse teams are set for high-stakes rematches in the district quarterfinals.
Coral Shores’ boys finished 11-5, securing the fifth seed in their FHSAA 1A District 16 bracket.
The Hurricanes defeated St. Brendan in a 16-4 road win on March 31. Christian Gonzalez had five goals, James Mitchell had three goals and an assist and Zane Martinez had one goal and three assists in the win.
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
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Next up was a stacked NSU University School on April 2. Scoring for the ’Canes were Finn McDonough with four goals, Mitchell with three and two assists and Martinez with two goals. Gonzalez and Nathaniel Shugarman each added two assists. Goalie Brock Bynum had 22 saves in the 17-10 loss. The team found their winning ways again two days later in a 13-4 home romp against Cardinal Gibbons to finish their regular season strong.
“After a slow start, the team put their foot on the gas pedal and scored nine unanswered goals,” said coach Chris Carrow.
Mitchell led the way with six goals and an assist. Martinez netted three goals and three assists while Gonzalez scored two and assisted on another pair. SG Paul had one goal and one assist and McDonough added one goal and three assists to his stats. Bynum had seven saves in the big win. Carrow’s hope for a rematch against neighboring rival Key West will come to fruition this week, as the teams are slated
tracy mcdonald
sean mcdonald
to play one another in the quarterfinals.
Key West earned the upper hand and home-field advantage with a No. 4 seed in the quarterfinals. The 10-4 Conchs lost to NSU University School on March 30, 19-14, then won two in a row to finish their regular season with momentum from a 12-3 defeat of Archbishop McCarthy on April 1 and a resounding 14-1 win over Keys Gate on April 4. The closely-matched Conchs and ’Canes meet in the Southernmost City on Thursday, April 9 at 6 p.m. to determine who earns the right to challenge top-seeded Westminster Christian in the semifinals on April 11.
The Lady Conchs finished their regular season with a 6-8 record after a week of mixed results. The team started at St. Brendan, where they lost 15-7 in what coach Marissa Giacopuzzi described as a “full battle.” The Conchs finished the game with six caused turnovers and 14 ground balls, but also drew a pair of penalty cards, putting them at a disadvantage for four minutes of play. St. Brendan capitalized with some quick goals in the 15-7 March 31 loss.
April 3 pitted the Conchs against NSU University School, one of the top teams in South Florida. Colbie Turner and Mavis Bishop netted two goals apiece and Taylor Gibson scored one, but the Sharks’ scoring was fast and furious, leading to a 16-5 loss for Key West.
The following day, Key West finished their regular season on a high note with a 15-1 victory over a visiting Keys Gate. The lopsided contest allowed the entire Lady Conchs’ roster to see time and vary their positions, and a dozen different athletes scored, including low defenders Molly Martinez, Madison Horner and Vivienne Kenn, who scored two.
Goalkeeper Diya Alwani traded sticks and positions to net a goal of her own on a free position shot with just eight seconds remaining in the game. Bishop
scored three and chalked up five assists while Turner, Adriana Dall, Gibson, Althea Olsen, Eisley Whitehead, Adilys Frouel and Ashlyn Picco accounted for the rest. Giacopuzzi was pleased with her team’s effort, especially that of the defense.
Next up for Key West is the FHSAA 1A District quarterfinals, where they travel back to the raucous fans of St. Brendan on Thursday, April 9 at 4 p.m. The Conchs head into the game ranked fifth while the Sabres drew the No. 4 seed. The winner will face top-seeded Palmer Trinity Apr. 11 in the semifinal game.
The Lady ’Canes dropped two games and finished 4-8 in the regular season. They lost 10-7 at Palmer Trinity March 31, then 17-3 to NSU University two days later. The losses gave Coral Shores the seventh seed in District 16, matching them with second seed Ransom Everglades Apr. 9 for their quarterfinal game. The winner heads into the semis against either third seed Westminster Christian or the sixth-seeded Lourdes two
1. Coral Shores boys lacrosse players in a ground ball battle against players from Cardinal Gibbons High School.
2. James Mitchell (24) surveys the field.
3. Christian Gonzalez (5) scores against Cardinal Gibbons High School.
4. Nathaniel Shugarman (13) keeps a tight cover on a Cardinal Gibbons athlete.
5. Connor Daniels (8) targets the ball.
6. Zane Martinez (3) hustles downfield on his way to score a goal.
7. James Mitchell (24) dodges defenders and creates space for a shot.
NATALIE GOODWIN/Keys Weekly
1. Addison Grady (22) is set to swing at an incoming pitch from Palmer Trinity.
2. Infielder Alyvia Prince (2) catches a fly ball.
3. Catcher Caylyn Gwilliam warms up her pitcher.
4. Pressley Bagwell (1) delivers a strike against Palmer Trinity.
5. Vanessa Cawley (5) is loaded and ready to hit against Palmer Trinity.
NATALIE GOODWIN/Keys Weekly
BAG
The Coral Shores Lady ’Canes had mixed results on the softball field last week, with a win and a loss bringing their record to a respectable 6-3. Their first game was a four-inning mercy-rule win against Somerset South Homestead on March 31. Pressley Bagwell pitched a one-hitter, striking out two and walking none of the 14 batters she faced. Offensively, Addison Grady led the team with two hits. Caylyn Gwilliam, Alyvia Prince, Chloie Stanley, Kayden Costlow, Mira Jones and Bayley Catarineau had one apiece in the 10-0 win.
Two days later, the ’Canes lost to Palmer Trinity 7-0. Stanley and Prince had the only hits for Coral Shores. Bagwell and Prince shared the pitching load, but a hard-hitting Falcons crew came away with the win.
Marathon played one game last week, losing on the road to St. Brendan School in five innings. Madelyn Thornton, Maeve Merryman, Kayla Skaarup and Sutton Sayer doubled and Shaina Robinson singled, but five hits would not be enough to defeat the Sabres. Sayer and Thornton split time in the circle, but St. Brendan’s 13 hits and a slew of errors from the Fins ended with a 20-10 loss for Marathon.
Key West did not see any action last week. The Lady Conchs pick back up April 10 in their quest to hang on to their District 16 title. The 11-4 Conchs finish their regular season April 18, playing the remainder of their schedule at home. District action begins April 27 for the Conchs and Fins; the Hurricanes, who are independent and do not participate in postseason play, will close out their season at home against Marathon on April 21.
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Key West baseball fans enjoyed a flurry of action last week, beginning April 1 against Miami’s 5A Southridge Spartans. Despite being outhit 6-4, the Conchs made theirs count. Roman Garcia’s one-run home run, Kristian Master’s triple and a pair of singles from Kade Maltz and Nelson Ong were all Key West needed to defeat the Spartans. Maltz started on the mound and spanned six innings with five strikeouts, two walks, four hits and one earned run. Then Auggy Davila closed it out in the 2-1 win. Davila’s save, his eighth this season, surpassed the mark set by Darren Miller in 2013.
The next afternoon, the Lakeside School Chiefs visited the Rex all the way from Eufaula, Alabama. Donovan Thiery went the distance, striking out eight, walking two and surrendering three hits and no runs over seven innings. Garcia smacked a pair of doubles and collected two RBIs while Xavier Perez had two base hits. Maltz doubled and Davila and Thiery singled for a total of seven Conch hits. Eight walks boosted Key West’s offense to help fuel the 5-0 win.
An April 4 matchup between Miami High and Key West proved to be a lopsided one. The 7A
FOUR
Stingarees were effectively shut down by a perfect Key West defense, which logged a dozen putouts over the course of four innings. Cruz Holmes opened the game and threw for two hitless innings, then Nick Besson tossed another two to secure the shutout no-hitter.
The Conch duo struck out just one batter and allowed a single walk, trusting the defense to do the rest. Roman Garcia had the hot bat against the Stingarees. He was 3-for-3 at the plate with a single, double and triple. Tyrone Cervantes, Thiery, Darreld Tremino and Maltz had two hits apiece and Jackie Niles, Davila, Ong and Francisco Gonzalez accounted for the remainder of the whopping 15 Conch hits. The 15-0 win gave some underclassmen a chance to play and made for a three-game winning streak.
That streak stretched to four, all in one week, when Lakeside School took another shot at the Conchs later that night. Key West led through six and one-half innings when the Chiefs pieced together an offensive onslaught to tie the game up at 5. Fortunately for Key West, the lineup delivered with a Garcia walk, a Thiery single, then a bunt from Davila that not only placed him safely
on first, but led to a Lakeside error, which scored Garcia for the walk-off win.
Thiery and Davila ended the game with two hits each. One of Thiery’s was a two-run home run in the fifth inning. Maltz, Ong and Niles had one hit each in the 6-5 win. Ong got the start for Key West, allowing just one hit and zero runs over six innings. Ong struck out seven batters and walked none. Christian Koppal and Davila each put in some relief work to put the Conchs at 21-3 with just one regular-season game to go.
A much anticipated contest between the county’s closest neighbors on March 30 delivered for Fins fans, as Marathon and Coral Shores faced off
1. Auggy Davila (9), Kade Maltz (11) and Donovan Thiery (1) discuss their next move.
2. Conch fans leave their seats to root on their team.
3. Nelson Ong delivers a pitch against Lakeside School on April 4.
4. Conch shortstop Auggy Davila stands at first.
Photos by Rocky Gonet and Tracy McDonald
FOUR DOWN
in the Middle Keys. Dolphin junior Dylan Williams got the start and, with the help of his defense, dispatched the first three ’Cane batters, then picked up the bat for a leadoff single. A Hurricane error and three hits later and the Dolphins had three runs on the board, a lead they would hold for the remainder of the game.
Williams finished six innings with nine strikeouts, three walks and a single hit allowed. Jack Chapman stepped in for one inning of work, striking out three and walking one to secure the win. Williams added a double and went 2-for-3 to lead the Dolphin offense. Miles Murphy, Curren Nicolay, Bradley Buigas, Gabriele Cirina and Massimo Quargnali had one hit each. For Coral Shores, Brayden Turner’s single in the second inning was the lone hit of the game. Senior southpaw Riley O’Berry had a solid showing on the mound, striking out five Fins, walking one and surrendering six hits over six innings. The 3-0 win for the Dolphins marks the team’s first win against the Hurricanes since 2014.
After their big win against Coral Shores, Marathon faced off with JC Bermudez on April 3. The aptly-named Thunder brought big bats, racking up
a dozen hits against the Fins. Marathon managed four, with Roco Piscetello leading the way with a triple and a single. Buigas and Cirina added one apiece. Cirina pitched a majority of the game with help from Piscetello, Chapman and Rella to finish out the 9-4 loss.
The following afternoon, a visiting ABF Academy Homestead Black team squared off with the Dolphins. The relatively obscure Bandits, a derivative of the ABF Homestead team, acquired seven hits against Marathon. Like their prior game, the Fins managed just four hits, but when it comes to baseball, timing is everything.
In the bottom of the first, the Dolphins loaded the bases with walks, then Massimo Quargnali stepped to the plate and ripped a line drive to right field, resulting in a grand slam. They added another pair of runs in the sixth for good measure, and a 6-2 victory put the Fins at 13-8-1 for the season. Williams pitched a fantastic five innings, striking out 10, walking one and surrendering five hits and no runs. Piscetello and Rella shut the door on the Bandits. Cirina, Williams, Quargnali and Nicolay each had one hit with Cirina and Williams driving in one run each and Quargnali four.
7. Coral Shores’ Riley O’Berry delivers a pitch against Marathon.
8. Dolphin ace Dylan Williams takes a breath between pitches.
9. Coral Shores’ Jack O’Keefe holds Marathon’s Jack Chapman on first.
The Hurricanes regrouped after their loss to Marathon and picked up a win against Keys Gate on April 2. Mason Clark got the start and Braylon Lindmar pitched four and one-third innings of relief in the win. Clark and Riley O’Berry had one hit and two RBIs each to lead the charge. Maykol Bonito and Jack O’Keefe had one hit and one RBI each and Brayden Turner and Keller Blackburn singled in the 7-4 win.
April 11 is the final day of regular season action for Florida high school baseball. District tournaments begin April 14.
5. The Dolphin dugout stays focused during their rivalry game against Coral Shores.
6. Dolphin shortstop Miles Murphy dives into first safely.
TALENT ON THE TRACK
Keys teams showcase falling marks and rising stars
After an extended spring break, the Key West track and field team traveled to Belen Jesuit School for the Ripoll Invitational on March 31, and the Conchs produced some record-breaking performances.
Junior Jordan Greene finished in second place in the triple jump, but her 35’ 0.25” feat surpassed that of teammate Capri Miner’s school-record-breaking jump just three weeks ago. Prior to Miner’s leap, the record had stood for a quarter century.
Record-holder Ariel Newton won the nine-team competition outright in the pole vault competition, clearing the bar at 12’ 3.5”. Newton was close to breaking her own record but brushed the bar, bringing it down at the 12’ 9.25” height.
The two Lady Conch field standouts were joined by a pair of track stars. Junior Aly Camargo finished sixth in the open 800, moving to fourth in Key West’s record book with a 2:34 performance. Fellow junior Mirakle Humphrey finished the 100-meter race in 13.09 seconds, finishing sixth. Humphrey set a new school record in the event in March, but a strong headwind last week prevented her from eclipsing her own record.
Jeff Dejean was the overall winner in the long jump event. Dejean’s 22’ 1.5” leap was good for gold. Once he was finished in the sand pit, Dejean teamed up with Roman Van Loon, Walson Morin and Cavane Herron to take second place in the 4x200 relay. The fast foursome was within two seconds of the Conchs’ record in the relay.
The Dolphins of Marathon traveled to Miami’s Southridge High School for the Superfly Athletics Under the Lights meet on April 1, and several Fins made statements on the track and in the field. Freshman Lucian Burns won three events, finishing two laps of the 800-meter event in 2:04 for a new PR and a win. His second was a 4:36 1,600, and he added another eight laps for a win in the 3,200-meter race. The two miles took Burns just 10:26 to complete.
Tony Bursa was second in the 3,200 and third in the 800 to pick up points for the Dolphins. The Fins’ 4x100 relay
1. Key West’s Aly Camargo finishes strong in the 800-meter race.
2. Conch record-holder Ariel Newton prepares for flight in the pole vault.
3. Key West’s Jeff Dejean takes flight in the long jump.
4. Marathon’s record-breaking 4x100 relay team. From left: Sean Nelson, Tariq Patterson, Shamar Wright and Sean Westerband.
5. Mirakle Humphrey sprints to a strong finish in the 100-meter race.
6. Jordan Greene focuses on the takeoff portion of her recordsetting triple jump.
RICK MACKENZIE/Contributed
team of Sean Nelson, Tariq Patterson, Sean Westerband and Shamar Wright finished in third, but their 44.99-second time was good for a new school record. In the field, Israel Gonzalez placed second in the javelin event to round out Marathon’s top three finishers at Southridge.
The Lady Fins stacked up their wins in the field. Senior Daysi Williams won the high jump competition with a 1.52-meter leap. Justice Lee Isom won the javelin (32.64 meters) and shot put (11.74 meters) and placed second in the discus. Ava Merryman cleared the bar at 2.7 meters for a second in the pole vault. All three athletes are seniors.
The Hurricanes chose the Bronco Nation Last Chance event in Homestead on April 2 for their meet of the week. Junior Mikel Castellanos finished second in the shot put for the lone top-three spot for the boys team. Julieanna Oddo finished the 100 hurdles in second place with a new personal best; the girls’ 4x800 team finished third.
April 10 is the final regular-season date for meets this season. Key West and Coral Shores won’t have to wait too long for the postseason; both teams will compete at the 2A District 16 Championships at Southridge on April 15. 1A Marathon competes at Palmer on April 23.
COURT CLASH
Conchs down ’Canes at Coral Shores
Key West paid a visit to Tavernier on April 2 to face Coral Shores on the tennis courts. The Conchs’ boys and girls both brought home wins against the Hurricanes.
Ben Delostrinos, Hubert Konopka and Daniel Morales each won in singles and Delostrinos and Morales teamed up for another win in doubles to sweep the shorthanded ’Canes.
The girls’ matches were closer, with Coral Shores’ Allyson Rosendale, Vanessa Gabriel and Harlee Beeler winning in singles for a narrow 4-3 loss to Key West. Lady Conchs Beyza Atilla and Monea McLeod won in singles, then Atilla and Avery Batty plus Amina Erik and Shihan Ren won in doubles for Key West.
Earlier in the week, Andrei Lehene and John Picco won in singles and paired up for a third win in doubles action for a narrow loss to visiting La Salle. The girls suffered a similar fate, with their wins coming from Eva Drozdetskaia in singles and in doubles with teammate Atilla. Miah Apperson and Batty picked up another win in No. 2 doubles to make it 4-3 in favor of La Salle in their March 31 matches.
Coral Shores sent their girls to Riviera Prep on March 31 while the guys stayed at home to face South Dade. The boys were blanked, but Vanessa Gabriel won the No. 5 match to get the Lady ’Canes on the board.
Marathon’s Lady Fins traveled to True North on April 2 to take on the Titans. Shynell McGuire and Emily Alvear won in No. 1 doubles against a strong True North squad.
Like many spring sports, tennis season is winding down, with final regular-season matches closing out April 11 and district pairings slated for next week.
Top: Daniel Morales and Shihan Ren, seen here in matches earlier this season, were two of Key West’s winners on the courts against Coral Shores.
Bottom: Marathon’s Shynell McGuire, left, and Emily Alvear are proving to be a tough team to beat; last week the duo won against a strong True North matchup. TRACY McDONALD/ Keys Weekly
The following is an upcoming GMX procurement opportunity:
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)
GMX PROCUREMENT/CONTRACT NO.: RFQ-26-04
GMX WORK PROGRAM NO.: 11214-000.011
GMX PROJECT/SERVICE TITLE: PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENT (PD&E) STUDY FOR SR 112
CORRIDOR MODERNIZATION
For detailed information please visit the Procurement Department website at http://www.gmx-way.com/business/solicitations, or call the Procurement Department at 305-637-3277 for assistance.
Publish: April 9, 2026. The Weekly Newspapers
SMALL CITIES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG). CITIZEN ADVISORY TASK FORCE MEETING & FIRST PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA
The City of Key Colony Beach is considering applying to Florida Commerce for FFY 2025 Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). The City is eligible to apply for funds in the neighborhood revitalization, commercial revitalization, housing rehabilitation and economic development categories. Construction activities funded through the CDBG Program must meet one of the following National Objectives:
• Provide bene t to low- and moderate-income persons;
• Prevent or eliminate slum or blight conditions; or
• Meet a need of recent origin having a particular urgency.
Eligible CDBG activities include, but are not limited to, constructing stormwater ponds, paving roads and sidewalks, installing sewer and water lines, building a community center or park, making improvements to a sewage treatment plant, and rehabilitating low-income homes. Additional information regarding the range of activities that could be funded will be provided at the public hearing.
In developing a CDBG application, the City of Key Colony Beach must plan to minimize displacement of persons as a result of the activities. In addition, the City is required to develop a plan to assist displaced persons.
A Citizen Advisory Task Force (CATF) Meeting will be held on April 16, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at Key Colony Beach City Hall located at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach FL, to discuss community needs and make project recommendations.
A First Public Hearing to obtain citizen comments concerning the City’s economic and community development needs will be held at Key Colony Beach City Hall located at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach FL, on April 16, 2026, at 3:30 p.m.
The CATF meeting and public hearing are being conducted in handicapped accessible locations. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations to participate in the hearing is asked to advise the City at least five days before the hearing.
For more information concerning the public hearing, or to request special accommodation, please contact Silvia Roussin, City Clerk, at 305-289-1212, ext. 2 or cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the City of Key Colony Beach using the Florida Relay Service, 1(800) 955-8771 (TTY) or 1(800) 955-8770 (Voice).
Any non-English speaking person wishing to attend the public hearing should contact Silvia Roussin, City Clerk, at 305-289-1212, ext. 2 or cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net at least ve days prior to the hearing and an interpreter will be provided.
Cualquier persona que no hable inglés y desee asistir a la audiencia pública debe comunicarse con Silvia Roussin, City Clerk, at 305-289-1212, ext. 2 or cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net al menos cinco días antes de la audiencia y se le proporcionará un intérprete.
Publish: April 9, 2026. The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
DIVISION OF ST. CROIX
SX-2026-CV-00106
ACTION FOR DAMAGES AND TO FORECLOSE LIEN
DIRTY BOTTOM LLC
d/b/a ST. CROIX MARINE CENTER, Plaintiff, vs. JORDAN HOPP, Defendant SX-2026-CV-00106
ACTION FOR DAMAGES
To: Jordan Hopp
710 Ashe Street
Key West, FL 33040
To: Jordan Hopp
c/o S/V PENROSE
5063 Gallows Bay St. Croix, VI
Pursuant to the March 19, 2026
Order of the Virgin Islands
Superior Court, within the time limited by law (see Note below) you are hereby required to appear before this Court and answer to a Complaint filed against you in this action and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment by default will be taken against you for monetary and other relief as demanded in the Complaint.
Tamara Charles, Clerk of the Court Superior Court of the Virgin Islands
Bruce P. Bennett
BENNETT LAW
63 Calhoun Street Washington Depot, CT 06794
T: (475) 206-1199
F: (475) 207-0117
V.I. Bar #512
bpb@brucebennettlaw.com
NOTE: The defendant, if served personally, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of this Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after service of this summons, excluding the date of service. The defendant, if served by publication or be personal service outside of this jurisdiction, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of this Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the attorney for the plaintiff within thirty (30) days after the completion of the period publication nor personal service outside of the jurisdiction.
Publish:
April 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF SALE
To: All members of the general public including all persons on Exhibit “A”, record owners, their heirs, guardians and assigns, of the unit week(s) as showing thereon, all located in and governed by that certain:
Declaration of Condominium for FLORIDA BAY CLUB OF KEY LARGO, a condominium, recorded in O.R. Book 871 at pages 1215, et seq. Public Records, Monroe County, Florida.
Based upon default in assessment payments and pursuant to the Claim of Lien filed by THE FLORIDA BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., a Florida notfor-profit corporation, recorded at O.R. Book 3362, Page 949 in the Public Records of Monroe County Florida, STAACK & SIMMS, PLLC, d/b/a TIMESHARE TRUSTEE™ WILL CONDUCT A SALE OF EACH AND EVERY UNIT WEEK LISTED ON THE ATTACHED LIST BEGINNING AT 11:00 A.M. ON April 23rd, 2026, AT: 103500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, Florida 33037.
Unit Week Owner Name(s)
Address Default Year Amount
Due Per Diem
C02-03 Betty J. Pearson
7016 NW 169th Street, Hialeah, FL 33015 2023 $4,229.89 $2.09
A02-03 James Lewis Mitchell
III a/k/a James Mitchell III Julian Mitchella/k/a Julian 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
LEGAL NOTICES
Meyerson 4136 Shadowood Parkway SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
2020 10375.85 $5.12
A01-09 Clifford E. Brown Linda K. Brown 8205 Rio Bend Ct., N. Richmond Hill, TX 76182 2023
2947.39 $1.45
Obligors and junior lienholders showing on Exhibit “A” may cure the default and redeem the timeshare interest by paying the amounts secured by the Association’s lien on their unit week(s) as reflected in Exhibit “A” together with trustee’s fees and interest through the date of payment in cash or certified funds to TIMESHARE TRUSTEE™ at any time prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Sale on the above date.
GOVERN YOURSELVES ACCORDINGLY.
STAACK & SIMMS, PLLC, d/b/a TIMESHARE TRUSTEE 900 DREW STREET, SUITE 1 CLEARWATER, FL 33755
PHONE: (727) 441-2635
FAX: (727) 461-4836
Website:www.staacklaw.com
Publish:
April 9 & 16, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 26-CP-22-P
PROBATE DIVISION DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARK A. SMAIL
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of MARK A. SMAIL, deceased, whose date of death was February 17, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate 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 Statues applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is April 2, 2026.
Personal Representative: KELLY L. SMAIL, Executor 4004 Micklefield Lane Greensburg, PA 15601 Attorney for Personal Representative: MICHAEL W. DARPINO, ESQ. Michael.Darpino@epadvisors.com FL Bar No.: 1003432 One PPG Place, Ste. 1710 Pittsburgh, PA 15222 (412) 281-2870
Publish: April 2 & 9, 2026
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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-000120-P
DIVISION: PROBATE IN RE: ESTATE OF JAMES B. CHAMBERS
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of JAMES B. CHAMBERS, deceased, whose date of death was February 17, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Hwy., Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate 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, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is April 2, 2026.
Personal Representative: James Sean Chambers 195 Atlantic Circle Drive Tavernier, FL 33070
Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony A. Velardi, Esq. Florida Bar No. 113917
Key Largo Law 218 Lignumvitae Drive Key Largo, FL 33037
Tel: (305) 453-5277
Fax: (305) 453-4985
E-Mail: anthony@keylargolaw.com
Publish: April 2 & 9, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-000551-P
IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JAMES H. BOWER
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of James H. Bower, deceased, whose date of death was September 17, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims
or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is April 2, 2026.
Personal Representative: Tanya L. Bower 4928 Cypress Lane Coconut Creek, Florida 33073 Attorney for Personal Representative: Tanya L. Bower E-mail Addresses: Tanya@ businesslawteam.com jane@businesslawteam.com
Florida Bar No. 93378 Business Law Team, PLLC 401 E Las Olas Blvd FT LAUDERDALE, Florida 33301
Telephone: (954) 648-5268
Publish: April 2 & 9, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-95-M
DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN AMELIO MARTIN A/K/A JOHN A. MARTIN Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of John Amelio Martin a/k/a John A. Martin, deceased, whose date of death was November 20, 2025, and whose Social Security Number is XXX-XX-9450, 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 WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is April 2, 2026.
Personal Representative:
Telephone: (954) 452-1144
Publish: April 2 & 9, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
DIVISION: PROBATE
CASE NO.: 25-CP-498-M IN RE: ESTATE OF ANNETTE J. AVICOLLI
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of ANNETTE J. AVICOLLI, deceased, whose date of death was May 17, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 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 WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is April 2, 2026.
Personal Representative: Ashley Avicolli 9440 Poinciana Place, Apt. 316 Davie, Florida 33324
Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony J. Barrows Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar Number: 662569
WRIGHT BARROWS PLLC 30410 Sea Grape Terr. Ste. 2 Big Pine Key, FL 33043 Telephone: (305) 743-8118
Fax: (305) 489-0307
E-mail: tony@keysclosings.com
Publish: April 2 & 9, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-399-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 20TH day of April 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: UNIT 5512, WEEK 2, WINDWARD POINTE, A LEASEHOLD CONDOMINIUM (“CONDOMINIUM”), ACCORDING TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM THEREOF
RECORDED IN OFFICIAL
RECORDS BOOK 1803, PAGE 844, PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AND ALL EXHIBITS THERETO, AND ANY AMENDMENTS THEREOF (THE “DECLARATION”).
Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY
FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) VII entered in a case pending in said
Court, the 9TH day of March 2026 Style of which is:
WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST BERLEY BERRY GENTRY II, DECEASED AND LYNN GENTRY WINSTEAD, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO BERLEY BERRY GENTRY II Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-399-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 18TH day of January 2026
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: April 2 & 9, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
I IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-74-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 20TH day of April 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: UNIT 5523, WEEK 50 OF WINDWARD POINTE, A LEASEHOLD CONDOMINIUM (“CONDOMINIUM”), ACCORDING TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM THEREOF RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 1803, PAGE 844, PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AND ALL EXHIBITS THERETO, AND ANY AMENDMENTS THEREOF (THE “DECLARATION”).
Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I entered in a case pending in said Court, the 9TH day of March 2026 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. BECKY LOUISE HOPPER AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST ROBERT EUGENE HOPPER, DECEASED
Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-74-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 18TH day of January 2026
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: April 2 & 9, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2025-CC-363-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 20TH day of April 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: UNIT 214, WEEK 17, SUNSET HARBOR RESORT, A CONDOMINIUM ACCORDING TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM THEREOF AS RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 1376, PAGE 1093, PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AND ALL EXHIBITS THERETO, AND ANY AMENDMENTS THEREOF (HEREAFTER THE “DECLARATION”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 9TH day of March 2026 Style of which is: SUNSET HARBOR RESORT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MILDRED NEVINS AKA MILDRED B. NEVINS, DECEASED; MARYJANE WOLFE, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MILDRED NEVINS AKA MILDRED B. NEVINS; MILDRED COOMBS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MILDRED NEVINS AKA MILDRED B. NEVINS; JOSEPH MCMULLEN, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MILDRED NEVINS AKA MILDRED B. NEVINS; EDWARD MCMULLEN, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MILDRED NEVINS AKA MILDRED B. NEVINS; JOHN MCMULLEN, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MILDRED NEVINS AKA MILDRED B. NEVINS; FRANCES PEAGLER, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MILDRED NEVINS AKA MILDRED B. NEVINS; AND MARGARET NEUMANN, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MILDRED NEVINS AKA MILDRED B. NEVINS
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-363-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 18TH day of January 2026
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court
Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish:
April 2 & 9, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL
CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2024-CC-658-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 20TH day of April 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit:
UNIT F12, WEEK 10, BEACH HOUSE, A CONDOMINIUM ACCORDING TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM THEREOF RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 1510, PAGE 225, PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AND ALL EXHIBITS ATTACHED THERETO, AND ANY AMENDMENTS THEREOF (THE “DECLARATION”).
Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) IV entered in a case pending in said Court, the 9TH day of March 2026 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST ROBERT DUANE SHAPPEE, DECEASED, UNKNOWN SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE OF THE ROBERT D. SHAPPEE LIVING TRUST; LAURA SILVERMAN, AS POTENTIAL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT D. SHAPPEE; AND AMY SERAFIN, AS POTENTIAL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT D. SHAPPEE
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC-658-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 18TH day of January 2026
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court
Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish:
April 2 & 9, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2024-CC-539-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 20TH day of April 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: UNIT 5434, WEEK 36, ANNUAL WINDWARD POINTE, A LEASEHOLD CONDOMINIUM (“CONDOMINIUM”), ACCORDING TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM THEREOF RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 1803, PAGE 844, PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AND ALL EXHIBITS THERETO, AND ANY AMENDMENTS THEREOF (THE “DECLARATION”).
Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 9TH day of March 2026
Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE
CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH,
UNDER OR AGAINST SHEENA HOULT SHUMATE, DECEASED AND TERENCE GALLAGHER, AKA TERRY GALLAGHER, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO SHEENA HOULT SHUMATE
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC-539-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 18TH day of January 2026 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: April 2 & 9, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS WANTED
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.-
BOAT MISC. FOR SALE
Used NEPTUNE 4-post BOAT LIFT For Sale. 15,000 lbs.+ Located in Marathon. $800.00 260-750-6479
SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!!
PLACE YOUR AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-7430844 or E-mail: Anneke @keysweekly.com
BOAT SLIP/RACK FOR RENT
Boat Slip &/or Rack for Rent in Marathon at The Boat House, Vaca Key. Call Tony 561-346-6400
PLACE YOUR AD HERE.
$25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-7430844 or E-mail: Anneke @keysweekly.com
EMPLOYMENT
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
Specialty Hardware of Marathon - Looking for full time or part time person. Hardware knowledge an absolute must. Must have knowledge of hardware, plumbing and electrical. Apply in person at 10730 Overseas Hwy. Marathon 1-305-743-3382
Groundskeeper/ Maintenance person, KCB, Sea Isle Condominium, 20 hrs. per week, $27 per hr., apply by e-mail to HardingThomasL@ aol.com, text or call 734-476-0531.
Handyman needed for residence in Marathon. Part-time, High Pay! Start right away. Call Bpb at 305-395-0478
Boat rental company in Marathon looking for help with boat detailing & boat cleaning. Call 305-481-7006
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
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
Part-time Office Clerk, $18/hr, Thu/Fri/Sat, 9:30am-7pm. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave
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.
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.
Job Title: Coffee Roaster
Location: Key West, FL
Job Duties: Roast coffee beans using commercial roasting equipment; monitor roast profiles and quality; maintain consistency across batches; manage green coffee inventory; perform routine maintenance and cleaning of roasting equipment; assist with packaging and production as needed. Minimum Requirements: Minimum of 5 years of experience in coffee roasting. No formal education required. Must be able to work nights and weekends. Must have reliable transportation to and from work. How to Apply: Please call 305-509-9215 or email babyscoffeeusa@ gmail.com.
Key West Cooling Company is hiring HVAC technicians and installers. We are looking for dedicated individuals that are ready to work. For more information please can or text us at 305-912-2293 or send an email to keywestcoolingcompany @ gmail.com Compensation is based on experience.
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Full-time Carpenter, Electrician, Housing Assistant & Project Manager. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: greenel@kwha.org or 305-296-5621 ext. 225. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.
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
HOUSING FOR RENT
Key Largo- 6 months+ canal front rental on Blackwater Sound. 40' dockage, 1 BR/1 BA Trailer with 1,000 sq. ft. living area. $2,300/mo. 904-2379090 or 904-338-1207
3BR/2BA For Rent in Tavernier. Waterfront & bay views, furnished, 1500 sq.ft. $3,250/ month. 954-728-4699
2 bed 1 bath rental in Marathon, long-term, unfurnished, price includes internet, water, electric, pest, and lawn @ $2800 all in. Parking on premises. Call or text 305-433-0515
Studio rental in Marathon, long-term, fully furnished, price includes water, electric, internet, gas, pest, and lawn @ $2200 all in. Call or text 305-433-0515
Furnished Studio AND 2 Bedroom unfurnished, all appliances, renovated, for rent in Marathon. On the water, gated property. Section 8 possible. $1,500 - $2,500 month - includes water, sewer, electric & garbage. Call 305-610-8002
PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-7430844 or E-mail: Anneke @keysweekly.com
LOT FOR SALE
Save money, time, hassles with this private (Hammoks behind, no rear neighbors, ocean beyond) permitted lot, cleared, electric, foundation stilts in place, walk to Harry Harris, boat ramp, beach. 186 Dove Creek Drive, Tavernier. $425,000 OBO Marcia, Realtor 305-3030238 Contiguous lot avail.
STORAGE AVAIL.
Gated storage & dockage available in Marathon oceanside. Starting price $10/foot per month for storage and $20/ foot per month for dockage. 305-610-8002
PLACE YOUR AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-7430844 or E-mail: Anneke @keysweekly.com
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
Morning Baker (Weekends) Cashier / Barista / Server
Apply in person at: Vicky Bakery 97630 Overseas Highway (mm 97) Key Largo, FL 33037 KeyLargo@VickyBakery.com
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Customer Services Department:
CUSTOMER SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE I
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $23.93/hr. - $26.80/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.
SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN
(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hr. - $51.94/hr.
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
or Email: bfb@bone shbayresort.com
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 • DIVE INSTRUCTOR
Pay: $160.00 per day
Guaranteed Pay + Tips + Commission. Affordable employee housing available. Call 305-407-3262 or email info@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com 11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON • TOUCH TANK
or contact
at
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department: We are hiring a heavy diesel mechanic with experience working on John Deere, Caterpillar, Kubota, Detroit Diesel, etc. Monday-Friday with some overtime available. Sign on bonus after 90 days; top pay and housing assistance available. Please apply at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc., 129 Toppino Industrial Drive, Key West or online at https://charleytoppinoandsons.com/careers/apply/?job
We are now hiring for the following positions:
Applicants must apply in person to be considered. 4290 Overseas
EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 53 YEARS!
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO
Behavioral Health Counselor (CAT) Driver (CDL NOT required)
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Children)
Crisis Counselor
Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Prevention Specialist
MARATHON
Mental Health Technician
Driver (CDL NOT required)
Registered Nurse (FT, PT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult, PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT)
*Behavioral Health Technicians (FT, PT)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary. JOIN A
at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS
- Medical Assistant, Ortho-Tavernier,
- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, Upper Keys Internal Medicine, $5k Bonus
MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST
- Director Nursing Services, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus
- Patient Access Scheduler, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus
- Pool Radiation Therapist
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- Clinical Pharmacist,
- Construction Project Manager, FL
- Exercise Assistant, Mariners Wellness Center, Per Diem
- Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem
- Food Service Worker, Dietary,
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT Scan, $50k Bonus
- Mechanic, FT, 7A-3:30P
- Medical Staff Coordinator, Mariners Hospital, FT
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Echocardiography, Per Diem
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 2, (Echo & Vascular w/Ultrasound Preferred),
- Pharmacy Technician, Mariners Hospital, $4k Bonus
- Physical Therapist, $25k Bonus
- Pool Clinical Pharmacist, Per Diem
- Pool Group Exercise Instructor, Per Diem
- Pool Medical Technologist
- Registered Nurse, ICU,
- Registered Nurse, Surgery,
- Security Officer, FT, 6A-6:30P
- Security Officer, Security/Safety, FT
NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA
D'Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available.
Home Décor Sales Consultant
Customer-focused sales professional with experience in retail or customer service. Creativity and interest in home décor a must. Help customers discover pieces that turn everyday spaces into something special.
Kitchen Design Specialist
Individual who brings creativity, functionality, and style together in kitchen and bath design. Design kitchens that become the heart of the home.
Associate
Interior Designer
Detail-oriented and creative individual to assist with residential design projects. Education or experience in Interior Design required. Help bring inspired residential interiors to life.
For complete details and to apply, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers
MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
- Cook, Dietary, PT
- Driver, Marathon/Keys Supply Chain, FT
- Lead Med Technologist, Laboratory, $20k Bonus
- Manager Environmental Services, FT
- Medical Staff Coordinator, FT
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray), Radiology,
- Patient Care Manager (Nurse Manager), Surgery, $20k Bonus
- Patient Financial Associate, Admitting, $1k 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 Respiratory Therapist, $25k Bonus
- Registered Respiratory Therapist, PT, $12,500 Bonus
- Security Officer, FT, 7A-7:30P
- Security Officer, Per Diem
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 & a ernoon 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 Ma at islamarinama @gmail.com
Please include contact information and any relevant experience.
