Marathon Weekly 26-0618

$3,995,000

Casa Feliz

This private oceanfront retreat offers expansive water views, a white sand beach, and a true resort-style experience. An exceptional investment opportunity, Casa Feliz is a strong producing vacation rental with rental history and future bookings already in place. Set on over 24,000 square feet of lush grounds with mature landscaping, fruit trees, fresh herbs, and .29 acres of bay bottom, this exceptional estate is designed for both relaxation and entertaining. A 148-foot observation dock invites kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and endless enjoyment of marine life. Outdoor living is elevated by a resort-style saltwater pool featuring cascading waterfalls, a spillover spa, and a fully equipped poolside cabana complete with a wet bar, refrigerator, ice maker, and cooking area. Completely renovated down to the studs in 2022, the three-story residence was thoughtfully redesigned to maximize sweeping ocean views from nearly every room. Offering four custom bedroom suites, each with private en-suite bath, the home comfortably accommodates guests in luxury. The top-floor penthouse suite features a private balcony with 180-degree ocean views. Expansive accordion impact glass doors seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living throughout. Additional highlights include a movie theater, library loft, Control4 smart technology, custom millwork, local artist mural, and more.

9709 Overseas Hwy.

Marathon, FL 33050

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Members of

Recent figures provided by the Monroe County Tax Appraiser show out of 44,049 properties eligible for a homestead property tax exemption, 16,259 currently have one. Monroe County contains 89,581 parcels. Key West claims the largest percentage of homesteaded properties at 39.97%, while Key Colony Beach is the lowest at 18.26%.

The Keys Weekly wishes all our dads a happy Father’s Day, in the Middle Keys and beyond. Hear what fatherhood means to some of our locals – along with some comical trials and tribulations – on page 20.

COUNTY EYEING BIG CUTS AS PROPERTY TAX RELIEF HEADS TO NOVEMBER BALLOT

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Monroe County stands to lose an estimated $27.2 million in revenue by fiscal year 2028-29, if the question of cutting property taxes is approved by voters this November. If enough Florida voters support the measure, primary homeowners could see more money staying in their wallets once the homestead exemption hits $250,000 by 2028.

Earlier this month, Florida legislators in the House and Senate approved a joint resolution to ask voters whether they support phasing out — and eventually eliminating — property taxes on primary residences. School districts across the state are exempted and will be able to collect taxes on homesteaded properties. But counties, cities and special districts, like mosquito control, are bracing for potentially less revenue as soon as next year’s budget cycle if Florida voters say “yes” later this fall.

In order for the phaseout and elimination to take effect, 60% of votes cast across the state would have to support the measure. From there, the Legislature would have to approve a bill to implement the homestead exemption increase. Legislators in the House and Senate would also need to provide a schedule to fully eliminate property taxes for primary residences.

In addition to raising the exemption on homesteads, from the current $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, the joint resolution caps annual assessment increases on nonhomesteaded properties, such as commercial properties, secondary homes and vacation rentals, from 10% to 5%. John Quinn, county finance director, said two-thirds of the roughly $27 million in anticipated lost revenue to the county by 2028 would come from the adjusted annual assessment cap on nonhomesteaded properties. Coming off reductions in staff and services last year, Monroe County officials reignited discussions on more cost-cutting measures amid the potential revenue loss at a June 10

CONTRIBUTED

meeting in Key Largo. County Administrator Christine Hurley presented commissioners with various options, including reductions to the fiscal year 2028 budget for departments, constitutional offices and services that are funded with property tax dollars. Hurley said an analysis would be created to proportion out, based on use of ad valorem, how much each agency or department would need to eliminate from their budget.

Constitutional officers, which include the offices of the state attorney, public defender, tax collector, clerk of the court, property appraiser, as well as the judicial court system and public safety account for 90.2% of the total county property tax levy, Quinn said. The remaining funds go toward county operations.

“You can’t expect to take all that money we’re going to lose from the county’s budget. It has to be distributed evenly,” commissioner Craig Cates said. “We all have to work together to address this.”

Updated fee structures, such as paid parking at public parks, will also be taken into consideration to address the possible loss in ad valorem dollars.

“This is not going to be pretty. None of us are going to enjoy it,” said commissioner David Rice. “I think the public will not like it any more than we do when they see how it will affect

their lives. But we’re going to have to do it.”

And as budget talks for fiscal year 2027 begin next month, county commissioners will mull whether employees should get a cost of living adjustment. Cates said he was against giving a raise this coming budget year given the potential loss of ad valorem revenue the following budget cycle.

“That could save somebody’s job in the future,” Cates said.

Commissioners agreed they’d like to see budget proposals showing either no raise or a cost of living adjustment of 2.7%. County officials said increases for fire rescue and sheriff’s deputies are already spelled out via contracts with the respective unions.

Hurley also presented commissioners with options that include consolidating offices to cut down on utility costs and eliminating all internal and citizen committees not required by state or federal law. The county also can increase the sales tax by a penny to help fund fire protection and rescue services. Raising the sales tax would require voter approval. Tina Boan, assistant county administrator, said emergency and fire rescue rely heavily on property tax revenue.

“We have rising personnel, equipment and facility costs, and there’s an increasing demand for emergency services,” she said. “This would diversify our public safety funding sources. … It captures revenue from visitors and tourists.”

Shortening the work week to four days, or 32 hours, from a five-day, 40-hour work week was also floated during the meeting. Hurley called it an “extreme proposal” for the county as it would likely affect every employee’s salary. Commissioner Holly Raschein said only in a dire situation would she consider it, but she doesn’t feel the county is at that point yet. Rice agreed.

“I don’t think we want to throw it out as a possibility, but I’d like to see it as remote … and certainly wouldn’t intend to go that direction unless we’re at the end of the line and desperate.”

SANCTUARY ADVISORY COUNCIL WELCOMES NEW SUPERINTENDENT, PREPS CORAL BLEACHING BACKUPS

Shading, genetic hybrids could be key to conquering heat waves

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary formally welcomed its new leader at a Sanctuary Advisory Council (SAC) session on June 16.

John Armor, director of NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, introduced former SAC member and retired Army Corps of Engineers colonel Eddie Kertis Jr., citing his mix of environmental expertise, military leadership and local ties.

“(He has) years of experience managing big-dollar critical infrastructure programs with the Army Corps of Engineers, and then more recently local down here as a charter boat divemaster getting to integrate within the community here in the Florida Keys,” Armor said. “What a great combination of national-level, complex resource management and also a love and appreciation for this community we serve.”

A lifelong surfer, diver and environmental advocate, Kertis said his passion for conservation began in childhood and continued all the way through studies of biology at Stetson University, wetlands ecology and environmental engineering at the University of Florida, and a more recent associate’s degree in scuba diving from the College of the Florida Keys.

“I've been known to walk around the office for years saying ‘I'm trying to save the planet. I just need a little help,’” Kertis told the council.

Restoration Blueprint

The leadership change comes as the SAC continues to navigate the aftermath of the Restoration Blueprint veto by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, which split management between federal and state waters after Florida officials blocked implementation of the updated regulations closer to shore.

Armor said NOAA expects to formally codify the current regulatory framework soon in the Federal Register, maintaining Restoration Blueprint regulations in federal waters while older rules remain in place in state territory.

“We are also then going to be updating our website, our outreach materials, all the things that are going to help people understand what the new lay of the land is relative to the regulations and the management plan,” Armor said.

Council members requested simplified summaries of changes by region to help communicate them to the public. SAC chair Ben Daughtry agreed.

“The public will need that, so we have the ability to talk to our constituents,” Daughtry said. “We need a presentation even here in this room. … I’ve lived this for 14 years, and I’m sure it’s not clear for everybody at this table.”

Working group frustrations

Originally tasked with guiding more manageable a-la-carte regulation changes in the aftermath of the comprehensive Restoration Blueprint veto, the council’s Adaptive Management Working Group crafted a letter expressing frustrations with stalled progress in recent months.

The working group was created as a venue to address management concerns after years of debate over Restoration Blueprint as it crawled to its final form. Guided by an exercise at March’s SAC meeting, members had begun narrowing their focus to topics viewed as achievable first steps and “easy wins,” including buoy installs and maintenance and support for artificial habitat.

But a working group meeting scheduled for May was canceled amid government funding pauses and staff turmoil with the departure of former acting superintendent David Burke and the retirement of acting deputy superintendent Beth Dieveney.

“The vacant (positions) have resulted in a lack of support staff for this effort,” stated the letter, read by Daughtry to the council. “Although we understand these delays were unavoidable, all involved find our current situation quite discouraging and frustrating.”

“I agree with their letter, and I share their disappointment,” said Armor. “Obviously, I wish we could be having a different conversation right now. … We just have been really struggling with our staff.”

Armor called Kertis’ selection the “first sign of hope.”

“We’re starting to build back slowly,” he said. “It is frustratingly slow in terms of the rebuild, but it is a rebuild.”

Beating the heat

Sanctuary research coordinator

Andy Bruckner said reef managers are cautiously optimistic that conditions in 2026 are not yet mirroring the catastrophic marine heat wave of 2023 that caused the worst coral bleaching on record in the Keys — but warning signs are already emerging.

“Fortunately, we’re not seeing the similar trends of the heat wave like we saw in Florida right now,” Bruckner said. “But what is unfortunate is that we are already under a bleaching warning. This is the second-earliest date in the history of NOAA’s coral watch program.”

Bruckner said some forecast models suggest the current El Niño could strengthen into a “super El Niño” — an event that, while also associated with lower hurricane occurrence and severity, is also tied to widespread bleaching in the Keys.

Despite the uncertainty, Bruckner said coral practitioners learned crucial lessons from 2023 that transformed restoration efforts – including a set of protocols released this February by the sanctuary and FWC for in-water nursery management, transport and outplanting of corals.

During the 2023 heat wave, scientists and restoration groups conducted what Bruckner called a “heroic” coral rescue, moving roughly 27,000 corals from ocean nurseries onto land — more than had ever been done anywhere else in the world.

The high survival rate of the rescued corals helped inform best husbandry practices while preserving a “valuable genetic stock,” he said. Since that year, Florida has expanded emergency response capacity, funding

additional tanks and facilities capable of housing rescued corals during future heat events.

Researchers are also experimenting with new techniques to increase coral survival, including deeper-water nurseries, shading systems and inflatable floating “canopies” designed by University of Miami engineering students to protect corals from intense sunlight during heat waves. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has committed funding for 110 of the structures if ongoing trials prove successful.

“(Bleaching is) a relationship between temperature and light levels,” Bruckner said. “One of the things we’ve learned is that by reducing the amount of light, even if it’s really hot, these corals are much more likely to survive.”

Scientists are also establishing genetic “insurance policies” for corals. The goal, as described by Bruckner, is to establish representative fragments of every remaining known genetic strain of Florida’s coral species – “enough genetic diversity that we could in the future use those to restore the reefs.”

Other experiments involve combining the genetics of heat-resistant elkhorn corals from Honduras with Florida corals to produce “Flonduran” offspring. The new corals will soon be placed on Upper Keys reefs for the first time.

“They did a pile of experiments last year – they put a small number of these out off Miami on artificial substrates and another reef, and over the year they had 100% survival,” Bruckner said. “They look beautiful.”

Research coordinator Andy Bruckner walks the Sanctuary Advisory Council through plans in place to combat summer heat waves for vulnerable corals. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

MARATHON ROTARY INVITES COMMUNITY TO CELEBRATE AN AMERICA 250 FOURTH OF JULY AT SOMBRERO BEACH

The Rotary Club of Marathon is pu ing the finishing touches on what promises to be one of the biggest Independence Day celebrations in the Florida Keys as the community marks America's 250th birthday.

The festivities begin with Marathon's beloved Fourth of July Parade, featuring Tina the Turtle as this year's Grand Marshal. Community members are encouraged to decorate bicycles, golf carts, vehicles, and floats and join the patriotic procession from Marathon High School to Sombrero Beach.

This year, participants will compete for four $100 prizes awarded for:

Best Decorated Car

Best Golf Cart

Best Bicycle Best Kids Bike

Parade participants should gather at Marathon High School at 10 a.m., with the parade stepping o at 11 a.m. Entry fees are free for bicycles, $10 for golf carts, and $20 for vehicles and floats. To reserve a parade spot, call or text Kelly Williams at 731-616-0771.

A er the parade, hungry beachgoers can enjoy hamburgers, hot dogs, snow cones, so drinks, beer, and seltzers, with proceeds supporting Rotary's scholarship and community service programs, all while listening to live local bands play throughout the day..

From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., children can enjoy free games, cra s, and prizes, including painting patriotic sun-catchers and playing Fishbowl, Plinko, and Pop-a-Shot.

A new addition this year is a Cornhole Tournament beginning at 4 p.m. Teams of two can enter for a $10 buy-in, with all entry fees returned as prize money to the winning teams. Players can register by contacting Mary Ann Royse at 217-649-2014.

As always, the day concludes with one of the Keys' most anticipated fireworks displays over Sombrero Beach starting around 9 p.m., provided by the City of Marathon.

The Rotary Club of Marathon is also seeking additional sponsors to help make the event possible. Sponsorship support helps fund the celebration and Rotary's year-round service projects benefiting local students and families. Interested in sponsoring? Contact Sam Williams at 305-942-6069 for information. Sponsorships start at as li le as $100

“Whether you're marching in the parade, competing in cornhole, enjoying the beach activities, or simply watching the fireworks, Rotary invites everyone to come out and celebrate community, country, and the 250th anniversary of American independence,” said Club President Mary Ann Royse. "The Fourth of July in Marathon is a tradition that brings together neighbors, families, visitors, and local businesses in support of our community.”

For more information on what we do and how you can join the “Irresistible Marathon Rotary Club”, visit our website marathonrotary org or scan the QR Code.

4TH OF JULY WEEKEND

FIRST FRIDAY ON THE PROMENADE

JULY 3 | 5 PM - 9 PM

Live Music by Just George & The Plus Ones

Local Vendor Marketplace

Food & Cocktails

DJ Trae Dae & Van Beertie Steel Pan

Fire Dancers

Dress in your Best Patriotic Attire - Prizes Awarded

ALL EVENTS SHOWN ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

JULY 4 | 9 AM - 1 PM

Adults Round Robin

Medals & Prizes Awarded

$60 pp

PICKLEBALL MIXER

JULY 4 | 1 PM - 2 PM

Kids Games & Popsicles

$50 pp

LEARN MORE

RED, WHITE, AND BOOM

JULY 4 | 7 PM - 10:15 PM

At Marina Promenade

Live Entertainment

BBQ, Bars, Lawn Games

Glow Accessories

Fireworks Viewing

Angler & Ale After Party

Gratitude

CANDIDATES IN COUNTYWIDE RACES MAKE PITCH TO VOTERS

Incumbents &

opponents introduce themselves at Hometown

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

Don’t let the term “primary” fool you. In the Florida Keys this year, most political races will be decided in the Aug. 18 primary, and one need not be a registered Republican or Democrat to vote in the countywide elections for school board, county commission, mosquito control and judges. (See page 4 for details on the Key West races, and page 28 for a rundown of the uncontested races that were decided on June 12.)

Hometown, a countywide, nonprofit voter education group, drew nearly 200 interested voters to its June 12 Meet the Candidates event at Tennessee Williams Theatre in Key West, where each candidate had three minutes to speak.

Here is a rundown of the countywide races and candidates who attended the Hometown event.

COUNTY COMMISSION, DISTRICT 2

Business owner George Lopez is challenging incumbent County Commissioner Michelle Lincoln for the District 2 seat that Lincoln has held for eight years.

County commissioners and candidates must live in the district they seek to represent, but are elected by all voters in Monroe County, no matter where the voter lives.

George Lopez

“My platform is basically affordability, transparency and accountability,” Lopez told the Hometown audience. “I’ll push for policies that put full-time, permanent residentsfirst.

I support Governor DeSantis’ tax relief proposal.” Lopez criticized plans by the College of the Florida Keys to install a career training center on Big Pine Key’s abandoned prison property that would enable residents to obtain a commercial driving license (CDL) without having to travel to the mainland.

event

“Why are we putting a CDL on Big Pine Key?” Lopez said. “There’s two on the mainland. Drive three hours and get it.”

Michelle Lincoln

Seeking her third term, Lincoln emphasized the importance of local businesses, their workers and families as the backbone of the community.

“As a county commission, we’ve supported our parks, beaches and libraries so our families have a good quality of life. I am very proud of the work our county commission has done. We had the lowest millage rate in the state last year and we lowered our budget by over $40 million without jeopardizing the services that are so important to our families and residents,” she said, “This is my full-time job. I work every single day and I answer my phone on weekends. You all are my boss and I ask that you hire me for another four years.”

SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 1

All five school board members are elected by all voters in the county.

In District 1, retired superintendent Theresa Axford is challenging incumbent school board member, attorney and Key West native Darren Horan, who is seeking his second term. Axford did not attend the Hometown event due to her granddaughter’s graduation.

Darren Horan

Horan said he believes in Superintendent Ed Tierney.

“I want to support him and his vision,” Horan said. “The second reason I’m running is because it only costs a million dollars a year to feed all our kids breakfast and lunch. Our inmates get three square meals a day, but our kids don’t,” he said. “I will figure out a way to make sure our kids are fed at no cost to

SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 5

Chelyn Shaw is challenging incumbent Sue Woltanski for the District 5 school board seat in the Upper Keys.

Chelyn Shaw

“I’m running because I believe parents, students, teachers and taxpayers should have a seat at the table, and I don’t feel that they do right now. … My priorities are parents, students, teachers and accountability,” said Shaw, a 22year Key Largo resident who said she has taught Sunday school and scuba diving for 30 years. She criticized the policy that limits public comments to three minutes per person per topic at school board meetings.

NO CHALLENGE NEEDED

Some leaders unopposed in July qualifying; others head to August and November races

By Alex Rickert and Jim McCarthy

T“I want to bring accountability and communication back and I want a merit-based pay for teachers,” she said.

Sue Woltanski

“I am a public education advocate and my goal is simple — to ensure every child can attend a safe and high-quality public school,” said Woltanski, a retired pediatrician seeking her third and final term on the school board. She echoed Horan’s support of Tierney.

“Our graduation rates are up. Our absenteeism is down and our students now have more access to the arts, field trips, advanced academics and to career and technical programs,” she said. “Our teachers are among the highest paid in the state; our vacancies are low and we’re preparing to break ground on innovative housing for our teachers.”

Woltanski said she’d like to see students “spend more time actively engaged in learning and less time on screens and I think students should spend less time preparing for standardized tests and more time preparing for life.”

Stay tuned to the Keys Weekly in the coming weeks for information about the U.S. House, mosquito control and judicial races.

he Florida Keys won’t need to wait until November to learn the names of several key elected leaders. With the close of the qualifying period on June 12, multiple candidates are unopposed in their respective 2026 races, continuing in their posts or succeeding longtime public servants. Other races will be decided this August, when the primary election ballots will see Republican candidates face off without a Democratic challenger in the fall.

UNOPPOSED

Jim Mooney - State Representative

He faced opponents in three previous election cycles, but the Republican from Islamorada saw no qualified opponents this year as he secured his fourth term in the Florida House. It’ll mark Mooney’s final two years in the seat due to the term limits. He’s represented the Florida Keys and south Miami-Dade in Tallahassee since 2020. He’ll serve two more years, 2027 and 2028, before departing the House.

“It means a lot,” Mooney said. “It’s been a long six years and I enjoyed every moment. I can easily and proudly stand on my record, both voting and the money I’ve been able to bring back home. I believe people recognize I’ve done a good job.”

David Rice - Monroe County Commission, District 4

Rice went unopposed for the second time in as many elections, continuing his tenure on the county commission that began in 2002.

“Thank you to everyone who has offered support and confidence in my ability to continue serving our community,” he told the Weekly. “I remain committed to listening, leading with integrity and working every

day to address the issues that matter most to the residents of District 4 and Monroe County.”

Rice’s district encompasses the majority of Marathon through Plantation Key and Tavernier’s west end. In announcing his candidacy, he listed traffic and transportation issues on U.S. 1 as one of the Keys’ largest unsolved issues.

Luis Gonzalez - Monroe County School Board, District 4

The former Marathon mayor and current Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority board member will add school board member to his resume, replacing 20-year member and current board chair John Dick.

“While this election was uncontested, I do not take the responsibility you have entrusted to me lightly,” he said in a statement at the close of qualifying. “Serving our students, families, teachers and staff is both a privilege and a commitment I embrace wholeheartedly.”

In a previous interview with the Keys Weekly, Gonzalez vowed to take a close look at district dollars “that aren’t going directly into the classroom. … Things that we want, but we really don’t need. We have to have the funds available to recruit and maintain the best and the brightest (teachers).”

Other uncontested candidates include:

• Bette Brown - Mosquito Control Board, District 5

• Frank Conklin - Key Largo Fire & Emergency Medical Board, Seat 2

• George Mirabella - Key Largo Fire & Emergency Medical Board, Seat 4

• Steven Wells Sr. - Key West Utility Board, Seat B

RACES TO BE DECIDED IN AUGUST

• Michelle Lincoln vs. George Lopez (Republicans) - County Commission, District 2

• Theresa Axford vs. Darren Horan - School Board, District 1

• Chelyn Shaw vs. Sue Woltanski - School Board, District 5

• Phillip L. Goodman vs. Alex Osborn (Republicans) - Mosquito Control Board, District 2

• Dee Dee Henriquez vs. Sam Kaufman - Key West Mayor

• Bobi Lore vs. Mark Rossi - Key West City Commission, District 2

• Sarah Compton, Wayne Garcia & Juan Llera - Key West City Commission, District 4 (If no one secures more than 50% of the votes in August, the top two head to November runoff.)

• Chris Massicotte vs. Greg Sullivan - Key West City Commission, District 5

• Mona Clark vs. Jim Marquardt - Key West Utility Board, Seat A

• Javier Garrido vs. Tim Urbanski - Key West Utility Board, Seat D

SEE YOU IN NOVEMBER…

• Carlos Gimenez vs. Phil Ehr vs. Eddy Rojas - U.S. House, District 28

• Florida Governor, Attorney General, Chief Financial Officer & Agriculture Commissioner

• Ana Maria Rodriguez vs. Jose Antonio Stoute vs. Ramira Ota, State Senate, District 40

• Kevin McCarthy vs. David Van Loon - County Judge, Group 2

• Freddie Foster, Kirk Diehl and Lynne Benton - Key Colony Beach City Commission

• John E Brooke, Matthew Hardee, Robby Majeska, Anna Moon and Jose Felix Peixoto - Key Largo Wastewater District

• Islamorada Council (official qualifying period is Aug. 4-11. To date, incumbents Don Horton, Anna Richards, Steve Friedman, Deb Gillis and Sharon Mahoney have filed for reelection.)

Mooney

Rice

Gonzalez

KEY COLONY INN

MEL FISHER’S CREW RECOVERS FIRST ATOCHA SILVER BAR SINCE 1999

1622

Spanish shipwreck is still surrendering its treasure

Treasure divers with Mel Fisher’s Shipwreck Expeditions recently recovered a 22.5-pound silver bar from the wreck site of the Nuestra Señora de Atocha, marking the first silver bar recovered by the Fisher team from the site since June 1999.

The silver bar was recovered by captain Drake Nicholas and the crew of the salvage vessel Dare while working an active search area on the Atocha wreck site in about 50 feet of water off the Florida Keys. The find is one of the most significant recoveries from the site in decades. Drake personally brought the artifact to the surface.

The recovery comes nearly 404 years after the Spanish galleon sank during a hurricane in September 1622. The vessel was carrying an immense cargo of silver, gold, emeralds, coins, religious artifacts and other valuable goods bound for Spain when it was lost in a hurricane in the waters off the Keys.

“This discovery is a powerful reminder that the Atocha still holds secrets after decades of salvage,” said Gary Randolph, president of Mel Fisher’s Shipwreck Expeditions. “Captain Drake, lead diver Blake Baker, and the crew of the Dare continue the legacy of Mel Fisher’s ‘Today’s the Day’ spirit. Every discovery like this advances our understanding of maritime history while fueling the sense of adventure and exploration that has defined this work in the Florida Keys for generations. The Atocha is not finished telling her story.”

The silver bar remains heavily encrusted after more than four centuries beneath the sea. One visible feature is an assayer’s scoop, a section removed from the top of the bar during the Spanish colonial period to verify that the bar was solid silver throughout and not merely plated on the outside. The artifact will undergo extensive documentation, conservation and authentication procedures that may reveal additional markings and historical details.

The Atocha became one of the most famous shipwrecks in the world when Fisher and his team discovered the vessel’s legendary, $400 million mother lode of treasure in 1985 after a

Nicholas of Mel Fisher’s

returns to shore on June 11 with the 22.5-pound silver bar that he found while diving the site of the legendary Atocha shipwreck.

The Dare treasure-hunting vessel returns to Safe Harbor Marina on June 11 carrying a silver bar and the crew that recovered it from about 50 feet of water after 404 years on the ocean floor. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

16-year search. That discovery is widely regarded as one of the most significant treasure recoveries in modern history.

Since the discovery, thousands of artifacts have been recovered, while substantial portions of the documented and undocumented cargo remain unrecovered, including silver coins, silver bars, gold artifacts, jewelry and emeralds from Colombia’s Muzo mines.

“This silver bar is a remarkable piece of history in its own right, but it also renews interest in the area where it was found,” Randolph said. “After 27 years without recovering a silver bar from the Atocha site, this discovery reminds us that some of the most exciting chapters of the search may still lie ahead.”

— Contributed

COMMERCE CORNEr

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With a deep understanding of the coastal environment, Decks & Docks carefully selects products designed for durability, performance, and longevity in harsh marine conditions. Their knowledgeable team offers expert guidance to help customers choose the right materials for every project—large or small.

Built on a commitment to quality products, dependable service, and local expertise, Decks & Docks takes the time to understand each customer’s needs. This personalized approach has been central to the company’s long-standing success.

Proud to be part of the Keys community, Decks & Docks supports the builders and homeowners who help preserve and enhance the Florida Keys’ unique waterfront lifestyle.

www.floridakeysmarathon.com 12222 Overseas Highway • Marathon, FL 33050 30641 Overseas Hwy Big Pine Key, FL 33043 305.902.3325 www.decks-docks.com sauch@decks-docks.com

Drake

Treasures

• 4 bedrooms | 2 baths

• 2,739 sq. ft. on 16,827 sq. ft. lot

• 225’ of waterfront on two sides

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• Spacious screened lanai

• 2-car garage with abundant storage

• 2 bedrooms | 2 baths

• 1,372 sq. ft. on 9,120 sq. ft. lot

• 17K lb boat lift and quick ocean access

• Waterfront pool and tiki hut

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• 3,700 sq. ft. on 12,500 sq. ft. lot

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• 50' of dockage with ocean access

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How long have you been in the Keys and what brought you here? I have been in the Keys for going on 10 years now. We wanted a different quality of life and to be close to the ocean.

What is your favorite thing about living in the Keys? The lack of traffic, except for holiday weekends.

What’s one thing that appears on many menus, but that you will never try? Anchovies!

What would your dream boat look like? Any boat at MarineMax of course. We have some of the most amazing vessels around.

What’s something you absolutely refuse to learn how to do? Be someone I’m not.

If you were a boat part, what part describes you the most and why? The engine … I like to go FAST!

JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com BRANDON CANFIELD MarineMax

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 Brandon Canfield, who is the service and parts director for MarineMax in Marathon. In his spare time he loves to be out on the water boating or hitting the sandbar with his family. On clear days you may even see him spearfishing with friends.

If you had a time machine, would you travel to the future or to the past and why? Neither. I’m the person I am today because of my past, and if I knew what was going to happen in the future, I wouldn’t be looking forward or as excited for what is to come.

What kid’s movie is scary to you and why? “The Addams Family.” When I was growing up there was a house near my neighborhood that looked very similar to the one in the show. Super creepy.

What are three adjectives people close to you use to describe you? Outgoing. Adventurous. Optimistic.

What is one thing you always have in your boat? A snorkel and fins. Never leave home without them. You never know what shenanigans you’re going to get into.

What dessert could you eat every day and why? Definitely flan. It’s tasty and delicious.

What conspiracy theory do you feel is actually true and why? Aliens.

Know someone who would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?” Email keysweeklyjen@gmail.com.

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THIS WEEKS ENTERTAINMENT

THURSDAY, JUNE 18 CANDACE 8PM

FRIDAY, JUNE 19 TONY MANFREDI AND THE SOUTHERN MOST SUNSET BAND 8PM

SATURDAY, JUNE 20 79TH STREET BAND 8PM SUNDAY, JUNE 21 TONY MANFREDI 3PM

JUNE 22

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24 PAINT

CHRIS BRYK

What’s your go-to dad joke? Ironically it’s a “yo momma” joke.

What's the most ridiculous thing you've ever had to Google/ ChatGPT as a parent? These days it seems like any time they have homework!

What's your favorite thing about being a dad? Seeing my girls come into their own personalities and still seeing Mandy and I in them.

What's the funniest thing your child has ever said to you? If you know Leelee there are way too many to choose from! She’s hilarious.

DANA CHILD

What's your favorite thing about being a dad? Becoming a father to Hannah and Aydan gave my life meaning and purpose. I can't imagine my life without them!

SEAN MCDONALD (as answered by his daughter, Riley)

What’s your go-to dad joke? (If he hears, “I’m hungry”) “Hi hungry, I’m Dad.”

What's the most ridiculous thing you've ever had to Google/ ChatGPT as a parent? How to tell my daughter she’s my favorite child.

What's one household job you're convinced nobody can do as well as you? Lecturing my kids about their future plans and financial independence.

What’s your favorite part about being a dad? Having a perfect daughter that lights up every room.

RICHARD ‘MOOSE’ VANDERVOORT

What’s your go-to dad joke? I have a vegetable joke, but it’s too corny.

What's the most ridiculous thing you've ever had to Google/ ChatGPT as a parent? What’s an axolotl?

What's one household job you're convinced nobody can do as well as you? Changing the toilet paper roll.

What's the funniest thing your child has ever said to you? “Can I have your steak?”

What’s your favorite part about being a dad? Watching them grow in their faith.

ADAM GARRISON

What's the most ridiculous thing you've ever had to Google/ ChatGPT as a parent? How much sleep does a human need to survive?

What's one household job you're convinced nobody can do as well as you? I can fix anything. Maybe not on the first try. But it will get fixed.

What's your favorite thing about being a dad? Seeing my son smile.

Best piece of parenting advice? Enjoy it all. The good times and the hard times.

What’s your go-to dad joke? Hair is overrated.

What's the most ridiculous thing you've ever had to Google/ ChatGPT as a parent? Looking up how to help my son with elementary math, when he told me I did it wrong. I was not doing it how the teacher was explaining it.

What's one household job you're convinced nobody can do as well as you? Making a Beer Butt chicken.

What's the funniest thing your child has ever said to you? One of the boys was 4 years old when he told me I was “losing my hair anchors.”

What's your favorite thing about being a dad? I got beat in tennis before Adrien ever started shaving. My favorite thing is to see my sons excel beyond what I ever could imagine!

What's the most ridiculous thing you've ever had to Google/ ChatGPT as a parent? What the heck does "6-7” mean?

What's one household job you're convinced nobody can do as well as you? Definitely cooking. If not for me, it would only be microwave food and local take-out.

What's one phrase your kids are tired of hearing from you? When are you gonna start that TikTok shop and make millions?

What's the funniest thing your child has ever said to you? During the start of his freshman year at UF, he called me and said, "How do you cook chicken? Just stick it in the frying pan? I'm in a hurry." I asked what kind of chicken. He said, "I have frozen chicken breast." "Well, you are not gonna cook that in a hurry."

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

‘DADVICE’ FROM MARATHON

This Father’s Day, the men of the Middle Keys share what they’ve learned about raising families in paradise

STEVE WILLIAMS

What's one household job you're convinced nobody can do as well as you? I am better at keeping plants alive than the rest of the family.

What's one phrase your kids are tired of hearing from you?

“Other than that, how was the play, Mrs. Lincoln?”

What's the funniest thing your child has ever said to you?

When my oldest daughter was 7, my mother once told her that when her father (me) would misbehave, my mother would spank me. My daughter replied, “Didn’t work, did it?”

What's your favorite thing about being a dad? The happiness that comes from these two young independent women succeed so greatly in everything they set out to accomplish.

PAUL BARTNIK

What’s your go-to What kind of pants wear? Thunderwear.

What's one household you're convinced do as well as you? vacuum as good as try and I just have because they miss

What's the funniest your child has ever My youngest daughter she was allergic to was 2 years old, and don’t know if you’re I have a severe allergy and my throat is starting She would always ever a baby was around.

What’s one piece ing advice someone that turned out to wrong? “Never wake ing baby.” My youngest sleep during the day would be up all night woke her up during make sure she slept

ARJEN HOLDINGA

SHANE KEWEEN

‘DADVICE’ MARATHON

Their jokes are so bad they’re good, they’re experts in tasks few others would be proud of – and we love them anyway. This Father’s Day, the Keys Weekly got in touch with a few of our Middle Keys dads to find out more about their wacky senses of humor, their headscratching and belly-laughing moments as a parent, and what makes the title of “Dad” the best in the world.

go-to dad joke? pants do clouds Thunderwear. household job nobody can you? No one can as me. The kids have to take over miss so many spots. funniest thing ever said to you? daughter told me to babies. She and she said “I you’re aware, but allergy to babies, starting to hurt.” always say that whenaround. piece of parentsomeone gave you to be completely wake a sleepyoungest would day and then she night long. We during her naps to slept all night.

KERRY STRUYF

What's one phrase your kids are tired of hearing from you?

“Are you air conditioning the whole world?”

What's the funniest thing your child has ever said to you? One of my grandkids asked “Grandpa, what’s a honey badger?”

What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve had to Google as a parent? What a honey badger was.

What's your favorite thing about being a dad? The grandchildren.

What’s one piece of parenting advice someone gave you that turned out to be completely wrong? “After you have one kid, it doesn’t really matter how many.” It really does.

CHRISTIAN WESTDICKENBERG

What’s your go-to dad joke? What happened when two slices of bread went on a date? It was loaf at first sight.

What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve ever had to Google/ ChatGPT as a parent? What would my baby be considered if Mom was born in South Africa and later became a U.S. citizen, while Dad was born in Chile and adopted by Germans at two days old?

What’s one household job you’re convinced nobody can do as well as you? Organizing the refrigerator.

What’s one piece of parenting advice someone gave you that turned out to be completely wrong? “Make a 10-year plan for your children.” I’ve learned that parenting doesn’t always follow a plan. As the saying goes, you make plans, and God laughs. The best approach is to guide, support and adapt as your children grow into who they’re meant to be.

What’s your go-to dad joke? Repeating a joke until everyone hates it. That’s when I know it’s working.

What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve ever had to Google/ ChatGPT as a parent? Are Nike Pro tight shorts appropriate for wearing to dinner? If so, will I get arrested if I wear them too in Marathon?

What’s one household job you’re convinced nobody can do as well as you? Forgetting to pay the electric bill.

What’s the funniest thing your child has ever said to you? When explaining how babies are made to my oldest, his response

was simply, “I always wondered how DNA got transferred.”

What’s your favorite thing about being a dad? Every year gets more exciting. Watching my kids become really cool humans who are genuinely fun to be around is hard to beat.

What do you do that makes your kids roll their eyes? My kids roll their eyes at me when I try to be relevant to their age group when talking to their friends. Clearly my GenX time period and coolness does not translate with them. Or so they think!

What lesson do you hope your kids learn from you? My kids played high-level AAA and junior hockey so I have always tried to teach them hard work, effort and a great attitude will be critical in their successes now and in the future. So far it has paid off for them.

What’s your most-used phrase? Other than “Don’t be a PIA” or “Ask your mom,” my most-used phrase has probably been, “It's better to do something than nothing,” meaning make a full effort to do your best or the right thing when faced with decisions.

What is your absolute favorite memory of being a dad? My favorite memory is taking the kids to my parents’ farm. The kids love playing with all the animals and being outside all day.

What’s your go-to dad joke? Why did the picture go to jail? Because it was framed. (It’s not just a dad joke, but a little cop humor too).

Best Father's Day gift you've

ever received? Last year I actually got to take a nap! That was a nice 20 minutes.

What's one thing you swore you'd never do as a parent that you now do all the time? Negotiate with a tiny terrorist over how many dinosaur nuggets count as dinner.

What is the most important lesson you hope your children learn from you? Confidence. The kind Lucas has when he's completely wrong but explains it like a TED Talk.

What's the funniest thing your child has ever said or done? He called me “Honey” in public and then told me to hurry up because I was walking too slow. What’s your go-to dad joke? I don't need Google. I have a 3-year-old who asks "Why?" about everything.

What is your absolute favorite memory of being a dad? Each time the boys were fully potty trained. No more diapers! What’s your go-to dad joke? To the 13-year-old: “What lights up a soccer stadium? A soccer match! Now get out there and be fire!”

What’s the funniest thing your child has ever said or done? 3-year-old: “Daddy, daddy wait, you’re talking too much right now, I can’t hear my show.”

Best Father’s Day gift you’ve ever received? A solid six hours in the man cave without any disruption. Ahhhh, paradise!

JOSH ROBERTS

MICHAEL CUNNINGHAM

SPENSER BRYAN

JIM McCARTHY

KASHAWN BUTLER

‘DADVICE’ FROM MARATHON

What’s your go-to dad joke?

I tell my kids I’m not arguing. I’m just explaining why I’m right. What's the most ridiculous thing you've ever had to Google/ChatGPT as a parent? How to explain something simple in a way that doesn’t turn into a 30-minute debate because my kids negotiate like they’re on a mission.

What's the funniest thing your child has ever said to you? When I tell my kids I’m the boss, they say, “Yeah, but only when Mom’s not looking.”

What’s one piece of parenting advice someone gave you that turned out to be completely wrong? “Kids don’t notice the small stuff.” They absolutely do. And it’s the small moments, the rides, the talks, the quiet time that they remember most.

What’s your go-to dad joke? Why can’t you hear a pterodactyl go to the bathroom? Because the “P” is silent.

What's the most ridiculous thing you've ever had to Google/ChatGPT as a parent?

“Why did God make bad guys?”

What's the funniest thing your child has ever said to you? After a day with one of the best local charter captains and mates, our son got home and said, “I think I’m gonna skip being a mate and go straight to being a boat captain.”

What's one household job you're convinced nobody can do as well as you? Turn off the lights.

What’s one piece of parenting advice someone gave you that turned out to be completely wrong? "Everything changes once you have kids.” Having kids turned out to be the best gifts of my life.

What’s your go-to dad joke?

What do you call a teacher who farts in private? A private tooter.

What's one phrase your kids are tired of hearing from you?

“Nobody knows everything.” It gives them the confidence to ask questions and it gives us a good response when we don’t know the answer to one of their questions. There’s confidence in not being afraid to admit you don’t know.

What's the funniest thing your child has ever said to you?

The time they asked me about the baby in my tummy. I lost a bit of sleep that day.

What's your favorite thing about being a dad?

Watching my two little girls grow into young women. It’s rewarding, humbling, and I enjoy every minute of the journey.

LOUIE THE DOLPHIN

What’s your go-to dad joke?

I like to ask, "Why are dolphins so good at making friends? Because we always click with people!” It's funny every time.

What's your favorite thing about being a dad? Showing my

daughters, Morada and Bowie, that family isn't only about where you come from. I was given a second chance at life and adopted into an incredible family. Being able to share that love, patience, and sense of fun with the next generation means everything to me.

What's one household job you're convinced nobody can do as well as you? Keeping everyone entertained. If there's a game to play, a person to talk to or a lady dolphin to impress, I think I'm the right dolphin for the job.

What’s one piece of parenting advice someone gave you that turned out to be completely wrong? Someone told me, "Don't spoil your kids." I think extra attention, encouragement and fish are all excellent parenting tools.

What’s your go-to dad joke? When one of the kids asks me where something is, I like to tell them, “There it isn’t”! Hilarious to only me.

What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve ever had to Google/ChatGPT as a parent? I’ve Googled the meaning behind different baby poop colors.

What’s the funniest thing your child has ever said to you?

I can’t think of the funniest thing off the top of my head, but it cracks me up when my 5-year-old mathematician beats adults in a multiplication table contests.

What’s your favorite thing about being a dad? Learning the true meaning of unconditional love.

What’s one piece of parenting advice someone gave you that turned out to be completely wrong? “Be their parent, not their friend.” You can successfully be both if there’s trust and respect in your household.

NAVY HONORS KEYS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Award recognizes customer service & strong military partnership

Keys Federal Credit Union, which has been honored by the U.S. Navy, celebrated its 85th anniversary and its new Stock Island location in October. Keys Weekly file photo

Naval Air Station Key West recently announced that Keys Federal Credit Union has been selected as the 2025 Department of the Navy Distinguished Small Credit Union of the Year. The award recognizes the credit union’s commitment, services and support to service members and their families.

The formal announcement was made in a memo from the Commander, Navy Installations Command. The award recognizes Keys Federal Credit Union for its service, financial education programs, community partnerships and quality-of-life initiatives.

“Keys Federal Credit Union is an indispensable partner to Naval Air Station Key West,” said Capt. Colin Thompson, commanding officer of NAS Key West. “Their dedication to the financial well-being of our sailors and civilian personnel is a critical component of our mission readiness. This award is a welldeserved recognition of their hard work and we are incredibly proud of our partnership.”

The credit union’s efforts provide vital resources to NAS Key West personnel, ensuring they have access to the financial tools and education necessary to thrive.

“This recognition is an incredible honor and a testament to the passion and commitment of our entire team,” said Maggie Sayer, president and CEO of Keys Federal Credit Union. “We take great pride in serving the men and women of Naval Air Station Key West and honoring our roots as a credit union founded to support the military community. Supporting those who serve our country and their families remains at the heart of our mission, and we are committed to continuing that legacy.”

The award will be formally presented during the Annual Defense Credit Union Council Conference, scheduled for August in Aventura, Florida.

PABLO RODRIGUEZ

DEREK PAUL

NATE BARTLETT

JOSE CASTRO

BEACON OF SAFETY

Faro Blanco lighthouse hosts VooDoo Rescue training

ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

Trainers and students trusted their gear from five-story heights on May 28, as the iconic lighthouse at Faro Blanco Marina served as a rappel point for firefighter training with VooDoo Rescue. The advanced training for elite and specialty rescuers challenged trainees to collaborate on a simulated rescue mission, securing rigging to two sides of the lighthouse over the water at Faro Blanco.

VooDoo Rescue’s founder, William Wagner IV, has his own special connection to the Keys community; his father, a former fire chief, helped in establishing the first career fire department in the Middle Keys, and his grandfather William Jr. served as Monroe County’s emergency management director for 25 years — a role that earned him a state Lifetime Achievement Award in 2025.

“I was honored the lighthouse was asked to be a part of this training exercise,” said Faro Blanco Marina general manager Annie Wilson. “It was thrilling to watch this amazing program.”

DOLPHINS TEACHING DOLPHINS

Marathon High School’s varsity cheerleading squad seized the chance to learn from the pros on June 13, traveling to the Miami Dolphins’ Baptist Health Training Complex for a four-hour intensive clinic with the NFL’s southernmost cheer team. Honing their skills by learning a new choreographed routine, the Lady Fins also scored plenty of photo ops with Miami cheerleaders and met KaShara Garrett, of ‘Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders’ fame. Students pictured, from top left: Indee Few, Avery Golden, Analia Torna, Keiry Herrera, Mia Oliva, Lillian Wiley and Allison Helms. Bottom row: Alice Ramirez, Amelia Perdomo, Suceli Bonilla, Anyelis Medina, Clara Bartnik, Rachel Davalos, Mia Williams and coach Michelle Macoskey. CONTRIBUTED

Trainees and instructors simulate a five-story rescue at Faro Blanco Marina, securing rigging to two sides of the lighthouse to safely transport a stretcher over water to ground level. CONTRIBUTED

SATURDAY & SUNDAY BRUNCH 11am - 2:30pm

Regular menu available and BRUNCH items including chorizo breakfast burrito, guava French toast, crab benedict and BOGO mimosas & glasses of sparkling wine

FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS

WHAT REALLY IS A HANGOVER?

If you like piña coladas, then chances are you've met their lesscharming cousin: the hangover. If you're not laughing right now, you are either: A) Currently sipping a piña colada somewhere between Key Largo and Key West, or B) Dealing with the consequences of one.

And if you picked A, there's a pretty good chance you're eventually going to end up with B. Which begs the question: What exactly is a hangover anyway?

Is it dehydration? Too much sugar? Your liver waving a tiny white flag?

As it turns out, a hangover is your body's version of filing multiple complaints at the same time. And while the pounding headache and nausea may feel like punishment for your life choices, there's actually a fascinating amount of science happening behind the scenes.

So, let's talk about what really happens after that second, third or "I'm-on-vacation-so-calories-don'tcount" drink.

Once alcohol enters your body, it's absorbed through the stomach and small intestine and makes its way into your bloodstream. From there, it travels everywhere, including your brain. That's why you might feel relaxed, chatty or suddenly convinced karaoke is a good idea.

Then your liver gets to work.

The liver is responsible for breaking down alcohol, and it can only process about one standard drink per hour. And before anyone says, "I only had two drinks," it's worth knowing what actually counts as a standard drink. In the United States, that's roughly 12 ounces of regular beer, 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits like vodka, rum or tequila. That frozen piña colada you ordered poolside? Depending on who's pouring, it may contain two or even three standard drinks.

Here's where things get interesting. Larger individuals often have more total body water, which means alcohol may be more diluted in the bloodstream initially. In other words, they may not feel the effects quite as quickly as someone with a smaller frame. But that doesn't mean they process alcohol any faster.

And what I'm about to tell you next is a fact that has stuck with me since freshman year of high school: Most adults only have about 10 to 12 pints of blood circulating through their bodies. Even though larger people generally have slightly more blood volume, the difference isn't nearly as

dramatic as many people think. So, while body size can influence blood alcohol concentration, it doesn't give anyone a free pass from liver physiology. The liver still has to break down the alcohol one drink at a time. And that work isn't exactly glamorous.

When your liver breaks down alcohol, it first converts it into a compound called acetaldehyde. Unfortunately, acetaldehyde is significantly more toxic than alcohol itself. Your body works quickly to convert it into a less harmful substance called acetate, which can eventually be broken down into water and carbon dioxide. But if you drink faster than your liver can keep up, acetaldehyde can accumulate, contributing to nausea, sweating, headaches and that overall feeling that perhaps you should never make the same “let’s go drinking” decision again. Then there's dehydration.

Alcohol suppresses a hormone called antidiuretic hormone, or ADH, which normally helps your body hold onto fluid. Less ADH means more trips to the bathroom. More trips to the bathroom mean dehydration. Dehydration can contribute to headaches, dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue and that desperate search for a sports drink and greasy breakfast.

As if that weren't enough, alcohol also triggers inflammation. Research suggests that drinking increases the production of inflammatory chemicals called cytokines. Translation? Your immune system basically wakes up grumpy. This inflammatory response may contribute to fatigue, difficulty concentrating, decreased appetite and that general feeling that you've been hit by a golf cart. And let's not forget sleep.

Many people believe alcohol helps them sleep better. Technically, it may help you fall asleep faster. The problem is that alcohol disrupts the quality of sleep, particularly REM sleep, the stage associated with memory, learn-

...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC.

ing and feeling restored. So even if you spend eight hours in bed (or eight hours on Duval) you may still wake up feeling exhausted and frantically checking your phone to make sure you didn't make an appearance on the Key West Gravity Chronicles Facebook page.

When you put all of these pieces together — dehydration, inflammation, disrupted sleep and the buildup of toxic byproducts, the hangover starts to make a lot more sense. It's not just discomfort; it's evidence that your body has been under stress. Alcohol affects coordination, reaction time, blood sugar regulation, hydration status, inflammation and sleep quality. Add those together, and it's no wonder the morning after can feel so miserable.

Now, this isn't me telling you to skip the margarita at sunset or avoid celebrating life's big moments. Life is meant to be enjoyed, and part of living in the Keys is embracing the occasional umbrella drink with friends and family.

But understanding what your body is going through might make you think twice about that “one for the road” mentality. The body is many things, but sentimental isn't one of them. It responds to physiology, not intentions.

So, if you choose the piña colada, drink some water, eat a meal and maybe call it a night before your liver starts drafting its resignation letter. Your tomorrow-self will thank you.

ROBY IS NEW DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ADMINISTRATOR

The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County (DOH-Monroe) has removed the “interim” from the titles of Dr. Mark Roby. Roby has been interim administrator and health officer since April. His permanent appointment to those positions took effect June 10.

“I am committed to ensuring that DOH-Monroe remains a trusted and responsive partner for every member of our community, steadfast in our mission to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts,” said Roby.

Roby holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from George Mason University, a bachelor’s in psychology from Virginia Tech, an MBA in human resource management from the University of Phoenix, a master’s in nursing education from the University of South Florida, and a doctorate in nursing practice from Capella University. He previously was the dean of sciences and nursing at the College of the Florida Keys.

He joined DOH-Monroe in January 2023 as director of nursing.

“Dr. Mark Roby’s extensive public health leadership and deep understanding of Monroe County make him exceptionally wellprepared for this role,” said Becky Keyes, chief of medical and health services for the Florida Department of Health. “His proven commitment to our community gives me full confidence in his ability to serve the Florida Keys with distinction as our new health officer.”

UNSPLASH.

JENNIFER HARVEY

Mark Roby. 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.

Iwas at Fort Zachary Taylor, hiding in the afternoon shade of the canopy, near the blacksmith’s shop, when I had a clear look at something you don’t see very often – the red belly of a red-bellied woodpecker.

You’d think it was something you would see often, considering it’s the lead part of its name, but no. Partly this is because most often when you see them they are clinging to the bark of a tree and you see their back and their sides, not their underside. Partly this is because when you see something described as red you think of a solid color, and on those rare occasions you do see the red-belly’s belly it doesn’t look so much like feathers that are red so much as white feathers on which someone has thoughtlessly spilled the juice from a maraschino cherry jar.

Most people, when they see a red-belly for the first time, if they haven’t noted the coloring of a lot of other woodpecker species, want to know why it isn’t called the red-headed woodpecker, because the more notable thing about them is both males and females have a glossy red crown, which could also be described as a glossy red mullet. (On the males it runs from the bridge of the beak to the nape of the neck; on the females there is a gap between the bridge patch and the nape patch, coming off a little more like a balding man with a mullet.)

A different species called the red-headed woodpecker has a full-on red cowl of a head. And most of the 26 species of woodpeckers in North America have red on the head. Most of the species in the world do, too.

Birds are less often named for their most prominent feature than they are named for the physical attribute that sets them apart from other closely related species.

I wondered if the red-bellies had ever had another name. Turns out the species has been called the red-bellied wood-pecker since the ornithologist and bird artist Mark Catesby first described the species to science in 1729, though he did put a hyphen in woodpecker.

The name woodpecker, of course, comes from the fact that they are the original headbangers. They make their living by hammering the part of their body that holds their brain into the bark of a tree several thousand times a day. It used to be theorized that the reason woodpeckers did not get brain damage was that their bill and skull functioned like a shock absorber. But if that were the case you would see compression – changes in the distance between, say, the nostril and the eye – when the

HARD HEADS AND RED BELLIES

bird face-butted a tree. And high-resolution, high-speed videography shows that not to be the case.

Your average woodpecker can strike with a force 20 to 30 times their body weight. Absorbing the impact would diminish all that power. Instead they channel that energy through their body like a hammer via the rigidity of their bones and muscles.

They don’t get brain damage because their brains are smaller and lighter than those of humans and primates, who would definitely get repeatedly concussed if they hit that hard.

Woodpeckers have zygodactyl feet, something I feel compelled to mention any time I write or talk about them because I learned how to both spell and pronounce it, and I went to all that effort. But their zygodactyl feet are also where the base of their power comes from. Two toes point up and two toes point down, allowing them to have a very firm grip on the bark when they strike.

Other physiological attributes include their tail feathers, which are stiff and which they use to push on the tree and curl their body forward with even more force. Their entire musculature is fine-tuned for this, including a set of hip flexors that they activate when they want to strike something extra hard.

The most recent discovery about how woodpeckers do what they do is that they actually time their breathing and give off little grunts, like tennis players, when they strike, granting them even more power.

Of course woodpeckers don’t bang their heads into trees for the fun of it. (If they want to bang their heads into something for fun, they usually go for metal poles or aluminum

siding, things that amplify the sound.) They bang their heads into trees to root out the bugs, grubs and beetles that make up most of their diet. Also to excavate nest holes.

The reason I got to see the belly of the redbelly at Fort Zach was that he was foraging for reddish-green berries in a gumbo limbo tree and was hopping around through a series of thin, somewhat open branches.

I was happy about my small encounter with this woodpecker not only because I didn’t just get to see the belly and even managed to get a few pictures of it, but also because I feel like I don’t see red-bellies as often as I used to. This may be due to the fact that we used to live in a house with a dying mango tree in the yard, and woodpeckers like dying and dead trees best of all, so I saw them almost daily. Now we live in a house with a very healthy mahogany tree, which does not seem to be as attractive to them.

The one thing I think might be contributing to a slight decline in their population here is that they really like to nest in dead palm trees, especially coconut palms. Key West is a much more landscaped place than it used to be, and dead palm trees are generally not part of the plan.

But even if we have a smaller population in Key West than we used to – which again may just be personal perception – it’s not a big deal. Red-bellied woodpeckers, whose range is essentially the eastern half of the U.S., are one of the few songbird species that are increasing in population. They are considered a “species of least concern” by the International Union of Concerned Naturalists. Which doesn’t preclude a little dopamine hit any time you see one.

A red-bellied woodpecker seen at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

MARK HEDDEN

41 Thousand Reasons to Say Thank

I would like to thank everyone who helped me beat my goal this year with the Pay It Forward Scholarship. I couldn’t have done it without you. This year we gave out $41,000!! If it wasn’t for the generosity of the following locals this would not have been possible.

Salon Blanco, Midas Touch Jewelry Store, The Tackle Box, Professional Fire Fighters of Marathon, Island Pilates, Lynn Goodwin, Conch Realty, O The Hook, Key Colony Beach Realty, Lisa & Todd Ziels, Hill Electric, Maggie Sawyer of MKS-MPC Inc., KCS Technical Solutions, Keys Square Construction, Arlington Electric South, Landry Family, Ron & Patsy Boggess, Stanley Switlik Teachers, Keys Weekly Newspaper, Coral Construction, Main Attraction Chris Cameron, Leslie & Je Rider, Marathon Lumber, KeysCations Realty, Havana Jacks, Jessica Borricino, All Keys Glass, Florida Keys Air Condition, Marathon Seawall & Docks, Doctor Dunn of Keys Animal Hospital, Grill Construction, Thomas Wohler & Family, Pro-form Sports, Andy Sharf & Cheddar, Superior Electric, Dustin & Maggie Hu , Royal Furniture, Driftwood Pizza, Captain Hooks, Marathon Garbage Service, True Temp Services, Hal & Kris Schumacher, Caton Aluminum, Sparky”s Landing, Paradise Towing, W.E.B. Cleaning, Bone sh Storage, R. Henderson Construction, Marathon Boxing Studios, Campbell Engineer, Dockside, Jane Packard, 3rd Generation Plumbing, Leslie Christenson, Don & Terri Hiller.

The following students were the recipients of the scholarship. Aivy Nygen, Danna Valenzuela, Shilo Kay Yeider, Yariel Nunez Garcia, Yetzail Cruz Medina, Aiden Richard, Mathias Martinez, Katerin Guerra, Aurora Cabral, Sierra Shi et, Genesis Garcia, Vianka Hernandez Reyes, Joseph Salsburg, Christopher Paul, Caidyn Young, Savannah Garcia, Max Childress, Matthew Delgado, Olivia Nqobile Masango, Brenda Medina, Justice Voo Voo Lee Isom, Gabriele Cirina, Massimo Quargnali, Shynell McQuire, Ayme Maradiaga, Addison Collins, Claudia Medina, Justin Lopez, Tinashay Cunningham, Hannah Haines.

Again Thank You!!!

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

HOT BOOKS, COOL ESCAPES

FIVE - STAR READS MADE FOR BEACH BAGS, POOL CHAIRS AND LONG SUMMER AFTERNOONS

YESTERYEAR

By Caro Claire Burke

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.

Natalie Heller Mills met Caleb at Harvard. She didn’t have many friends and strictly adhered to her Christian upbringing. Natalie wanted to get married, have children and serve God and community. But Caleb hailed from another world. He was born into an extremely wealthy family, with an ambitious father in politics. Caleb was confident, kind and handsome. After marrying, Natalie withdrew from Harvard. Eventually, the farm life Natalie had imagined came true, and they called it Yesteryear Ranch. Their little family now had babies, chickens, vegetable crops and even a cow, five hundred acres in the middle of nowhere. Natalie embraced her traditional lifestyle and became an influencer, a #tradwife. Eight million fans sought out her recipes, daily farm life and photos capturing her idyllic children. Natalie’s online persona became so powerful that the line between reality and performance began to blur. One day she awakes as a pioneer woman in the 1800s. Either this was a bizarre reality show, or she was being tested by God. “Yesteryear” tackles so many timely, sensitive topics about being a woman, mother and a wife unable to escape the demands of a world changing faster than anyone can swipe.

THE FOURSOME

By Christina Baker Kline

Sarah and Adelaide are sisters living on a plantation in Wilkes County, North Carolina. After a family scandal, the sisters find themselves ostracized and no longer viewed as the desirable marriage prospects they once expected to be. In 1839, Chang and Eng Bunker arrive in town and set up a farm. Known as the original “Siamese twins” — from Siam, now Thailand — the brothers just finished a tour that brought them fame and fortune. Despite being joined at the sternum, these conjoined brothers traveled the world, spoke multiple languages and were remarkably active and adventurous. They were ready to settle down, and marrying the sisters seemed like the perfect opportunity to live together as a foursome. As the Civil War approaches, the Bunker family faces complicated struggles involving identity, privacy, love, physical limitations and the painful realities of slavery in this part of the South. The families lived side by side and raised 21 children. The details of how they farmed, hunted and managed daily life are truly amazing. Based on actual people, this fascinating historical novel is beautifully written and filled with so much to discuss. It would make an incredible book club pick.

THE ONE DAY YOU WERE MY HUSBAND

By Rosie Walsh

A young couple madly in love get married on an idyllic beach in Thailand. The sun is setting, the guests are celebrating. And then the groom, Johan, disappears. Carrie is devastated, terrified and does not know how to help her new husband. Her mother arrives to help – but between the language barrier, legal pressure and severe prison conditions, there is little that can be done. Carrie returns to England. She goes back to work as a surgeon, keeping herself busy at the hospital. With the support of her coworkers and family she finally begins to heal. Twelve years later, married to Robin and raising young twins, Carrie stumbles upon an ad for a rental unit in Sweden where she is soon to attend a conference. The host has a familiar face. Shockingly, it is her beautiful Johan. Diving down a rabbit hole she never dreamed of, Carrie discovers the complicated and painful truth that destroyed her first marriage and nearly destroyed her life. Part romance, part thriller, as we journey between past and present, this captivating story unwinds at a nailbiting pace. An unforgettable mystery that is perfect for summer.

#WORTHWATCHING

Prime Video’s new series “Every Year After” is adapted from Carley Fortune’s best-selling novel “Every Summer After.” This is exactly the kind of book-to-screen readers adore: summer nostalgia, second chances and all the emotional heartbreak of young love. Check out this new hot summer series.

KAREN NEWFIELD

BRIEFLY

July 20 is last day for voter registration

Monroe County Supervisor of Elections

Sherri Hodies reminds the public that Monday, July 20 is the last day to register to vote or change a political party for the upcoming primary election. Anyone who is not a registered voter by this date will not be eligible to vote on Tuesday, Aug. 18. Please remember that in partisan races with no qualified candidates in one party, the winner of a primary vote will win the election.

Marathon Moose food drive nets trunkful of donations

During May, the Marathon Moose Lodge, as part of its Heart of the Community initiative, joined with the local community to hold a food drive for Keys Areas Interdenominational Resource (KAIR . The drive was a huge success, filling boxes full of donations for Middle Keys residents in need. The lodge thanks the community for the success of the drive and the generosity of everyone who donated.

Miami Gardens man leads two high-speed chases

A 23-year-old Miami Gardens man just released from jail on June 12 for fleeing on U.S. 1 promptly stole a vehicle in the Plantation Key Courthouse parking lot and fled from law enforcement again before being arrested a second time in less than a week, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office reported. Jefry Julian Chaucanes Vasquez was charged with burglary of an unoccupied vehicle and theft, while the Florida Highway Patrol charged Chaucanes Vasquez with a litany of crimes linked to the vehicle theft and his subsequent fleeing on U.S. 1. The incident on Friday began around 5 p.m. when the sheriff’s office was notified that a Ford SUV stopped for reckless driving fled from the FHP near MM 83. The Ford was stopped near MM 61 and the driver, Chaucanes Vasquez, was taken into custody and then to jail. Chaucanes Vasquez allegedly burglarized another vehicle and stole an iPhone charger before stealing the Ford. Chaucanes Vasquez had just been released from jail stemming from a June 9 arrest in which he reportedly fled from deputies on U.S. 1 while reaching speeds of 125 mph. The sheriff’s office charged him with DUI, fleeing and eluding, possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, reckless driving and danger-

ous/excessive speeding in that incident. There were no reported serious injuries in either case.

Small plane crashes at Key West airport

A small plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Key West Airport on June 14, Monroe County Fire Rescue reported. The aircraft lost power at an altitude of roughly 200 feet and landed in the mangroves on the east side of the runway, about 100 feet from the airport, officials said. First responders from Monroe County Fire Rescue, Key West Fire Rescue and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office responded. Crews extracted the pilot and one passenger, who both refused transport to a hospital and walked away with minor injuries.

Get business and legal forms with free Law Depot app

With Law Depot, you can create customized legal documents for a wide range of personal and business needs – free with your Monroe County Public Library card. There are hundreds of legal forms to choose from, including power of attorney, bill of sale, last will and testament, employment contract, prenuptial agreement, landlord/ tenant notices and more. For more information, including how you can pre-register for a library card online and get started right away, go to keyslibraries.org/online.

Community clubs unite for membership fair

The Zonta Club of Marathon will host a membership fair on Saturday, June 20 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Marathon Yacht Club, 825 33rd St. Gulf in Marathon. Zonta will partner with other local clubs and organizations to allow attendees to meet people with shared interests and find meaningful ways to get involved in the Marathon community. Each participating organization will have a table to share information about what they do and how you can get involved. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served and a credit card bar is available. Table spaces are still available – contact Natalie Danko at 869-841-2056 or Charlotte Quinn at 305-393-9501.

33rd Street boat ramp to close on July 11

The 33rd Street boat ramp will close temporarily on Saturday, July 11, for the Middle Keys Sailing’s Mixer in the Middle regatta. Organizers have requested two closure periods that day: from 10:30 to 11 a.m. and from 3 to 3:30 p.m. The event is a youth regatta for ages 7-17, and eligible classes of boats are Blue Dragons, Optis, Sunfish, Lasers and C420s. It is sponsored by the Marathon Yacht Club Education Foundation. For information, visit https://mycef.education, and click on “Events.”

Keys Democrats invite public to monthly meeting

The public is invited to attend the monthly meeting of the Keys Democrats on Wednesday, June 24 at 5:30 p.m. at the Marathon library. The meeting will be a hybrid Zoom and in person meeting. For more information, including a link to attend virtually, email mid-keys@keysdems.com.

Anchoring permits required for 14 days or more

In accordance with state law, a new long-term anchoring permit is required for vessels staying 14 days or more in one location within a 30-day period. The program was established to reduce derelict and abandoned vessels and improve stewardship of Florida’s waterways. The permits are available online and valid for one year, and must be updated if a vessel moves more than one nautical mile. More than three citations for violations in a 24-month period may result in vessel removal and disposal. More information is available via email to ltap@ myfwc.com. To apply, scan the QR code:

SOS Foundation offers to-go meals for kids

Through Aug. 9, the S.O.S. Foundation in partnership with Kirk of the Keys Church will offer to-go meals for kids. Pickups include two shelf-stable breakfast kits along with two freshly-prepared, then frozen lunches. Meals are available for any child age 18 or younger this summer and are available for parent pickup with proof of children (report cards, birth certificates, mail or similar). Meals are served on Thursdays from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

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.

$4,390,000 | 3BD/3BA | 2,250 SqFt Nate

E A T U R E D L I S T I N G S

$1,295,000 | 4BD/3BA | 1,740 SqFt

$1,295,000 | 4BD/3BA | 1,740 SqFt Nate Bartlett (305)802-6283

100 & 150 E 63rd St. Ocean, Marathon

Call For Price | 3BD/2BA | 1,342 SqFt Nate Bartlett (305)802-6283

180 Ana Court, Marathon

$2,399,000 | 5BD/3BA | 2,387 SqFt Teresa Yeider (305)879-5474

1001 W Ocean Dr 1-204, Key Colony

$755,000 | 2BD/2BA | 1,260 SqFt Tracy Chacksfield (305)912-2177 341 Sombrero Beach Rd, Marathon

$1,750,000 | 2BD/2BA | 1,532 SqFt Alicia Lund (305)431-0577

| 2,044 SqFt The Owen Lucas Team (305)393-0559

PEN SA 11-2

One Australian designer is taking ratty clothing to a new level. Rat Oddity Gizzard, known for using taxidermied rats to make unusual creations, recently released a line of clothing they’re calling LingeRAT (pronounced like “lingerie”), Oddity Central reported on May 29. Unfortunately, it’s exactly what it sounds like -- taxidermied rats sewn onto underwear. While the garments aren’t meant to be worn, Rat Oddity Gizzard’s Instagram audience begs to differ, with followers claiming to want to surprise their partners. The lingerie sells for $137 apiece, and yes, they do offer international shipping.

Adam Dailies

In The Bleachers

Brevity

NEWS OF THE WEIRD

In 1983, astronaut Sally Ride became the first American woman in space.

23 — minutes of music per side on the 12-inch, 33 1/3 revolutions-per-minute, long-playing records introduced by Columbia Records on this day in 1948.

“The Muse visits during the act of creation, not before. Don’t wait for her. Start alone.”

E.W. Scripps (1854-1926), publisher; Kay Kyser (1905-1985), bandleader; Sammy Cahn (1913-1993), songwriter; George Mikan (1924-2005), basketball player; Lou Brock (1939-2020), baseball player; Roger Ebert (1942-2013), film critic; Paul McCartney (1942), musician/singer-songwriter; Isabella Rossellini (1952- ), actress/ model; Angela Johnson (1961- ), author; Blake Shelton (1976- ), singer-songwriter. — Roger Ebert

Brevity

Nancy Dailies

Founded by Betty Debnam

America at 250

On July 4, our nation will celebrate its semiquincentennial (SEH-mekwin-sen-TEN-nee-uhl)

— our 250th birthday. On this date in 1776, the Declaration of Independence from British rule was adopted.

In many cities and towns all across the United States, Americans will gather for parades, festivals, concerts and other activities.

Many of these events will be part of America’s Block Party on July 3 and 4. For instance, in New York City’s Times Square, the sparkling New Year’s Eve ball will drop at 11:59 p.m. on July 3. In Los Angeles, a family-friendly concert is scheduled at Memorial Coliseum on July 4. Is your community hosting an America 250 celebration?

What happened 250 years ago?

The Second Continental Congress met on July 2, 1776, in Philadelphia and

voted in favor of independence. Two days later, the Declaration of Independence was adopted unanimously.

The declaration was printed on July 6 in The Pennsylvania Evening Post and was read aloud and published in other cities in the days following.

What’s happening this year?

These are just a few of the projects and events Americans can participate in this year.

• America Gives is a nationwide volunteer opportunity that involves events for everyone. Organizations partnering with America Gives include the Boys and Girls Clubs, Feeding America, Girl Scouts, Habitat for Humanity, Generation Hope, the Salvation Army and many others. Find volunteer ideas here: america250.org/americagives/ways-to-give/

• America’s Field Trip is a contest for kids in grades 3 through 12. Students write an essay or create artwork that answers the question, “What does America mean to you?” You can find more information here: america250.org/fieldtrip/

• Flag Sojourn 250 is carrying the U.S. flag across all 50 states as well as to U.S. territories and military cemeteries overseas. Its last stop will be in Washington, D.C. You can follow the flag’s journey here: nationalflagfoundation.org/ nff-sojourn-250-followthe-flag/

Words that remind us of America’s 250th birthday are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

AMERICA, ART, BIRTHDAY, CONGRESS, CRUSADER, DECLARATION, ESSAY, FLAG, GUTHRIE, HONOR, INDEPENDENCE, MUSIC, PATRIOTISM, PHILADELPHIA, SERVE, VOLUNTEER, VOTE, WORK.

What is patriotism?

During Fourth of July celebrations, we may feel patriotic. But what does that mean? Patriotism is a sense of feeling attached to one’s country and supporting it, even while recognizing where it could be improved. People show patriotism by voting, serving in the military, honoring the flag and other symbols, and working together.

Patriotic songs

Americans often sing “The Star-Spangled Banner” before sporting or other events. Other popular patriotic songs include “America the Beautiful” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag.”

Do you ever sing “This Land Is Your Land”? This song was written in 1940 by Woody Guthrie, a singer and songwriter who was born in 1912. Guthrie became a crusader, or supporter, for people who were “outsiders.” He wrote songs and spoke out against dishonest politicians and businessmen.

During World War II, Guthrie served in the Merchant Marines and the U.S. Army. He never stopped writing and singing. Woody Guthrie

RESOURCES

ON THE WEB

• america250.org

• bit.ly/42zdtEz AT THE LIBRARY

• “Happy Semiquincentennial, America!” by Jay Payleitner

ECO NOTE

For decades, scientists suspected that forests might quietly spark with electricity during storms, but only now has that hidden phenomenon been revealed. Researchers from Penn State have shown that treetops can glow with faint, lightning-like energy, invisible to the human eye yet active in shaping the air around us. These subtle discharges produce chemicals that help cleanse the atmosphere, suggesting that forests do more than just store carbon. In the turbulence of a thunderstorm, trees may be participating in a delicate chemical balancing act that improves the air people breathe.

The Mini Page® © 2026

photo courtesy NPS

This 1900 painting by Jean Leon Gerome Ferris shows Benjamin Franklin, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson working on the Declaration of Independence.

Mini Fact: Independence Hall in Philadelphia was originally the Pennsylvania State House.

NOTICE OF HEARING TO REIMPOSE AND PROVIDE FOR COLLECTION OF DUCK KEY SECURITY SERVICES SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS

Notice is hereby given that the County Commission, Monroe County, Florida will conduct a public hearing to consider re-imposing security services assessments for the Fiscal Year beginning October 1, 2026, against certain improved and unimproved properties located within Duck Key, to fund the cost of security services provided to such properties and to authorize collection of such assessments on the tax bill.

The public hearing will be held at 9:00 A.M., on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the (Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050). The public can also attend the Public Hearing via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”)/Zoom at the following virtual address: https://mcbocc.zoom.us/j/89204098700, for the purpose of contributing/receiving public comment on the proposed assessments.

All affected property owners have a right to appear at the hearing and to file written objections with the County Commission within 20 calendar days of the publication date of this notice. Pursuant to section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the County Commission with respect to any matter considered at this hearing, such person will need a record of the proceedings and may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be made. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing a special accommodation or an interpreter to participate in this proceeding should contact the County Administrator’s Office, between 8:00 A.M. and 5:30 p.m., at (305) 292-4441, at least 48 hours prior to the date of the hearing. If hearing impaired, dial 711 for assistance.

The annual Duck Key security assessment is based on the number of improved or unimproved lots contained within the Duck Key Security District. The total annual assessment revenue to be collected within Duck Key for the upcoming fiscal year is estimated to be $129,252.00. The annual assessment rates for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2026 remain the same as the current year at $292.00 per improved lot and $28.00 per unimproved lot.

Copies of the legal documentation for the assessment program will be made available upon request, by contacting the County Attorney’s office at (305) 292-3470, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. If you have any questions, please contact the County at (305) 292-3470, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

The assessments will be collected on the ad valorem tax bill to be mailed in November, 2026, as authorized by section 197.3632, Florida Statutes. Failure to pay the assessments will cause a tax certificate to be issued against the property which may result in a loss of title.

The proposed Final Assessment Resolution may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by viewing the agenda packet for the July 15, 2026, Monroe County Commission meeting, which will be posted as of July 7, 2026. The meeting agenda may be viewed on the County website at: http://monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/citizens/default.aspx.

The public can participate in the July 15, 2026 meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, FL by attending in person, or via Zoom. The Zoom link can be found at the following virtual address: https://mcbocc.zoom.us/j/89204098700.

Dated at Key West, Monroe County, Florida, this 18th day of June, 2026.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida

June 18, 2026. The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Tate Family Trees located at 29624 Constitution Ave., Big Pine Key, Florida 33043 intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations, Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Tate Family Enterprises LLC

Publish: June 18, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice of Seizure that in accordance with Florida Statues 83.805 / 83.506, Tavernier Mini Storage, 135 Hood Ave., Tavernier, FL 33070 will sell or otherwise will dispose of the personal contents of the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien.

All Contents in:

Unit B-11 – Eliana H Mastrascusa

Sale of all goods will be 6/26/26 at 10:00 am at 135 Hood Ave., Tavernier, FL 33070. Tavernier Mini Storage reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids.

Publish: June 11 & 18, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 26-CP-274-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF LONNIE H. SMALL

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of Lonnie H. Small, deceased, whose date of death was November 24, 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

LEGAL NOTICES

representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is June 18, 2026.

Personal Representative: Lisa Ann Catlett 58048 Morton St. Marathon, Florida 33050 Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134

RICHARD E WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6022

Fax: (305) 743-6216

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish: June 18 & 25, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

AMENDED NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

File No. 25-CP-000514-P IN RE: ESTATE OF CARMA JEAN YELL, Deceased.

The administration of the estate of Carma Jean Yell, deceased, whose date of death was June 24, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040. 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

The following is an upcoming GMX procurement opportunity:

or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is June 11, 2026. Personal Representative: Mark Allen Hutchings 216 Hibiscus Ave Key Largo, Florida 33037

Attorney for Personal Representative: Andrew Ponnock

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 195420 10100 West Sample Road, 3rd floor Coral Springs, FL 33065

Telephone: (954) 340-4051

Fax: (800) 809-1774

E-Mail: andy@ponnocklaw.com

Publish: June 11 & 18, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 26-CP-000213-P

DIVISION: PROBATE IN RE: ESTATE OF DONALD THOMAS FRANCIS, JR.

Deceased

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of DONALD THOMAS FRANCIS, JR., deceased, whose date of death was December 23, 2025 is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Clerk of the Circuit Court, Probate Division, 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are forth below.

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: June 18, 2026. The Weekly Newspapers

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council has funding available to governmental entities and non-profit organizations for capital projects.

The project/facility must have the primary purpose of promoting tourism and must fall into one of the following categories:

Convention Center, Sports Stadium, Sports Arena, Coliseum, Auditorium, Aquarium, Museum, Zoological Park, Nature Center, Fishing Pier, Beach or Beach Park Facility, Channel, Estuary, or Lagoon, Public Facilities in Accordance with Conditions set forth in the Florida Statutes.

The deadline for receipt of applications is Tuesday, June 30th, 2026, and applications must be downloaded from the County’s Bonfire platform.

For more information, please email grants@fla-keys.com.

Publish: May 7, 14, 21 & 28 and June 4, 11 & 18, 2026. The Weekly Newspapers

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN 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.

A personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply,

Publish:

Law Office of Shawn C. Newman, P.A.

710 N.E. 26th Street

Wilton Manors, Florida 33305

Telephone: (954) 563-9160

Fax: (954) 908-7572

E-Mail: Shawn@ShawnNewman. com

EmailService@ShawnNewman. com

Publish: June 11 & 18, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE SIXTEENTH

JUDICIALCIRCUIT

IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO. 26-CP-000112-M

IN RE: ESTATE OF SILAS CHAMBERS COCHRAN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of SILAS CHAMBERS COCHRAN, deceased, whose date of death was March 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 ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

A Personal Representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211. The date of first publication of this notice is: June 11, 2026. Personal Representative: FREDA REESE 1041 Pine Grove Dr. Alpharetta, GA 30009 Attorney for Personal Representative: MATTHEW MCCONNELL, Esq. Florida Bar No. 126161 Dickman Law Firm Post Office Box 111868 Naples, FL 34108

T: 239-434-0840

F: 239-434-0940 matthew@dickmanlawfirm.org

Publish: June 11 & 18, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH

the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: CONDOMINIUM UNIT 603, FLAGLER CENTER III, A CONDOMINIUM, TOGETHER WITH AN UNDIVIDED INTEREST IN THE COMMON ELEMENTS, ACCORDING TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM THEREOF, RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 1381, PAGE 239, AS AMENDED FROM TIME TO TIME, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA.

Property Address: 3201 FLAGLER AVE UNIT 603, KEY WEST, FL 33040

Pursuant to ORDER ON MOTION TO RESET FORECLOSURE SALE

DATE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 19TH day of May 2026

Style of which is: VILLAGE CAPITAL & INVESTMENT

LLC

Plaintiff

vs.

PAOLA M. LOPEZ MERCADO A/K/A

PAOLA MARIA LOPEZ MERCADO; JAN MATTHEW OCASIO GONZALEZ; FLAGLER CENTER III CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC.; UNKNOWN TENANT IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2023-CA-363-K

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 22ND day of May 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:

a.m.,

Hiring for busy pediatric office in Tavernier. Full-Time Medical AssistantPediatric experience preferred. Must multitask in fastpaced setting. 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

NO EXPERIENCE

NECESSARY - Concrete Field Testing Technician needed. Full-time. Year round. We train you to go to various job sites and collect samples. Vehicle provided. Must speak English and have clean driving record. Starting pay $20/

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Full-time Carpenter, Electrician, & Custodian (Marathon). 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.

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

Experienced FT 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.

Safety Staff- We are seeking a reliable, dedicated, and responsible Safety Staff member to join our team. Full-time & Part-time availability starting at $18/hr. To apply, call 305-6644860 Ext 1, e-mail: corrine@orlk.org or apply in person at Outdoor Resorts at Long Key, 65821 Overseas Hwy, Long Key HIRED!!!

PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com

HOUSING FOR RENT

HOUSING FOR RENT

ANNUAL RENTALKey Largo - 3BR/2BA new kitchen, Spacious Doublewide modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community $3500/ month 786-258-3127

3BR / 3BA fully furnishedhome for rent in Marathon. Available June 30. $3,500/ month 618-559-9143

HOUSING FOR RENT

2BR/1BA Condo Unit at Schooner Condominium for rent in Marathon. Newly renovated, furnished. Pet negotiable. Annual lease. $2,900/mo F/L/ Security negotiable. 305-431-0577 alicia@ keysrealestate.com

Studio Rental in Marathon, long-term, partially furnished, price includes internet, water, electric gas, garbage, pest, and lawn @ $2,200/mo all in. Call or text 305-433-0515

SHAWN HUDGINS PLUMBING NOW HIRING

Experienced Plumber Journeyman Track Position

Mon-Fri 7:30am-4:00pm

Responsibilities: Complete service calls. Perform plumbing repairs, maintenance, installation & new plumbing construction. Troubleshoot plumbing systems & equipment.

Requirement: Previous plumbing experience required. Valid Driver’s License. Must speak & understand English and must be authorized to work in the United States. Pay is based on level of experience. Send your resume to: Service@ShawnHudginsPlumbing.com

www.ShawnHudginsPlumbing.com

ce on Big Pine Key seeking a highly organized, detail and customer serviceoriented individual, who is computer savvy and can handle a fast-paced environment.

Duties include managing closing files, coordination with Realtors, sellers, buyers and lenders, regularly updating all involved parties. Prior experience a plus. Salary, health insurance, bonuses, overtime pay and 401k.

Email resume to: greg@oropezastonescardenas.com

WANTED TO BUY

LONG TERM RENTALS: HUGE EFFICIENCY, 650 SF, partially furnished

PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com HOUSING FOR RENT

$1,650/month AND 2 Bedroom unfurnished, all appliances, renovated, for rent in Marathon. On the water, gated property. Section 8 possible. $2,000 month. First/Security Call 305-610-8002

PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE.! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578

TURN YOUR CARDS INTO CASH! Marathon collector buying any and all Pokemon cards & collections. Call 401-256-0645.

YARD SALES

NOW HIRING FULL-TIME WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR

The City of Key Colony Beach is seeking a quali ed Full-Time Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator to perform skilled technical work in the operation, monitoring, maintenance, and repair of the City’s wastewater treatment facilities and collection systems. Responsibilities Include:

• Operating and monitoring wastewater treatment equipment and systems

• Performing routine inspections and preventative maintenance

• Monitoring SCADA and telemetry systems

• Collecting samples and performing laboratory testing

• Maintaining operational logs and compliance records

• Responding to emergencies, alarms, and after-hours callouts

• Assisting with pumps, motors, valves, and treatment equipment maintenance

• Ensuring compliance with FDEP, EPA, and OSHA regulations

Minimum Qualifications:

• Able to work independently with limited supervision

• High School Diploma or GED

• Valid Florida Driver's License

• Florida Wastewater Treatment Operator License preferred

• Experience in wastewater treatment operations or utilities maintenance preferred

• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and emergency assignments as needed

Preferred Qualifications:

• SCADA system experience

• Mechanical or electrical maintenance experience

• Knowledge of wastewater collection systems and pumps

• Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) wastewater system experience

• Integrated Surge Anoxic Mix (ISAM) wastewater system experience

• Class C Wastewater Operator License

Benefits Include:

• Florida Retirement System (FRS)

• Health Insurance

• Paid Holidays

• Vacation and Sick Leave

• Based on Quali cations and Licensing

• Attractive Salary Based on Quali cations and Licensing

Submit application and resume to:

City of Key Colony Beach

City Clerk, 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 or email: cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net

Position open until lled.

EOE/DFWP

NOW HIRING

DOCK HAND

We are looking for a Dock Hand with excellent customer service to join our team. You would assist with the daily operations of our marina. Responsibilities include assistance with the daily marina tasks including helping guests arrive and depart from their dock, guiding guests over the radio, navigation, marina amenity cleaning, pressure-washing, assisting guests with golf cart rides and requests, and maintaining the marina. Send resume to captpips@aol.com or come in the of ce to ll out application. 1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050

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

NOW H I RI NG!

wants you to join their team!

RETAIL GIFT SHOP ASSOCIATE

Full-time. $19/hour to start.

EMAIL resume to: TurtleHospital@TurtleHospital.org APPLY in person: 2396 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) organization specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals. DRC provides for the well-being of its employees with a competitive package including: a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays/vacation/sick days, an employee assistance program, in addition to, life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee. EOE

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

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

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!

JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT 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) Case Manager (Adult)

Mental Health Technician

KEY WEST

Case Manager (Children) Crisis Counselor

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Prevention Specialist

Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)

MARATHON

Mental Health Technician

Driver (CDL NOT required) (FT, PT)

Registered Nurse (FT, PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult, PT)

*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT)

*Behavioral Health Technicians (FT, PT)

*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.

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

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

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hr. - $51.94/hr. For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

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

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We are now hiring for the following positions:

Diesel Mechanic Truck

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

- Medical Assistant, Ortho-Tavernier, $5k Bonus

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

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

- Medical Assistant, Ortho, Key West, $5k Bonus

- Radiology Technologist, Ortho Surgical, Key West, $25k Bonus

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST

- Director Nursing Services, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus

- Medical Assistant, Outpatient Procedures, $5k Bonus

- Patient Access Scheduler, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus

- Pool Radiation Therapist

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Chaplain, Chaplaincy Spiritual Care, Per Diem

- Clinical Partner, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, $3k Bonus

- Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus

- Customer Service & Membership Coordinator, Mariners Wellness Center

- Exercise Assistant, Mariners Wellness Center, Per Diem

- Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem

- 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, (CT & X Ray), $25k Bonus

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 2, (Echo & Vascular w/Ultrasound Preferred), $25k Bonus

- Pharmacy Technician, Mariners Hospital, $4k Bonus

- Pool Clinical Pharmacist, Per Diem

- Pool Group Exercise Instructor, Per Diem

- Pool Medical Technologist

- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care, $25k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, ICU, $15k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Surgery, $15k Bonus

- Supervisor Chef, Dietary

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Cook, Dietary, PT

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray), Radiology, $25k Bonus

- Phlebotomist, Laboratory, Per Diem, 7A-3:30P

- Pool Physical Therapist, Per Diem

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Per Diem

- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, Various Shifts & Statuses

- Registered Nurse, Surgery, $15k Bonus

- Registered Respiratory Therapist, $25k Bonus

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

- Security Officer, FT, 7A-7:30P

- Security Officer, Per Diem

Helpers

CDL Drivers

Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

select full-time positions based on candidate experience. APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net

THEME: TV DADS

ACROSS

1. Calculus, e.g. 5. Emerald ____ borer 8. Web journal

12. Eurozone money

13. Ginger beer cocktail

14. Overabundance, pl.

15. *Mike Brady’s sons in “The Brady Bunch”

16. Taylor Swift’s sixth tour, with The 17. Bob Marley, spiritually speaking

18. *Howard Cunningham’s TV show

20. Answer from a tunnel 21. Calms 22. Albanian currency 23. House that’s mostly gable 26. Smallest

30. Ante31. Magi’s gift, pl. 34. Of a particular kind 35. Like Scotch whisky, flavorwise

37. “____ the land of the free...”

38. *Fred MacMurray in “My ____ Sons”

39. Nessie’s hangout

40. Passport-giving organization, e.g.

42. A Beatle bride

43. Give right or privilege

45. 3.26 light-years

47. Sun, in Spain

48. The Gem State capital

50. London native, e.g.

52. *Danny Tanner’s show

56. Make awake

57. Popular sandwich cookie

58. Elephant trainer’s poker

59. Loathing

60. Hot rum drink

61. Goodness gracious!

62. Yearnings

63. Letters of distress

64. Infamous Roman Emperor

DOWN

1. Crystal in the street

2. Atmosphere

3. Acid “journey”

4. Commotion

5. Pertaining to ear

6. Kills a dragon

7. Hitler’s deputy

8. *Dre Johnson’s show

9. Verdant

10. “The Simpsons” palindrome

11. General Services Administration

13. Assortment

14. *Dr. Leonard ____ of “Friends” 19. Delectable

22. Fleur-de-____

23. Granny Smith, e.g. 24. Banned aerosol propellant

25. Strike back, e.g.

26. Through, for short

27. #12 Across, pl.

28. Part of an act

29. *Sandy Cohen’s show

32. *Johnny ____ of “Schitt’s Creek”

33. High-____ image

36. *Jack Pearson’s show

38. Spam destination

40. Not in good health

41. Final words

44. Native American emblem

46. Resume business

48. Old West pack animal

49. Bread spreads

50. Foretell

51. Today’s Colosseum, e.g.

52. Driving hazard, pl.

53. Desire

54. Fly like an eagle

55. Taro plant

56. *Logan ____ of “Succession”