1¢
Everyone breathe, and let’s go back to being neighbors.
Aug. 20, 2026
STAYING PUT Incumbents prevail in primary elections | P.4
FINAL EDITS
Property tax amendment language gets a rewrite | P.10
THE NEXT BALLOT BEGINS
Best of Marathon voting opens | P.8
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com
Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com
Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com
Marathon Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Staff Writers
Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com
Business Development
32.27%
Of the registered voters in Monroe County, 32.27% cast ballots in the 2026 primary election. In total, there are 54,625 registered voters. Between vote-by-mail, early voting and those casting ballots on Aug. 18, the total votes cast were 17,629.
INCUMBENTS PREVAIL IN KEY PRIMARY CONTESTS
Lincoln returns to commission, Horan and Woltanski back on school board
Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com
By Keys Weekly staff
Production Manager
ll incumbents running in key countywide races will return to their seats, following successful re-election campaigns which garnered more voter support than their challengers. A new judge will take the bench following his victory. And the race for Florida governor is set. With the polls closing at 7 p.m., the results of the Aug. 18 primary election were fully reported by the Supervisor of Elections Office by 10 p.m. Results can be viewed at votemonroeflkeys. gov.
Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com
Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com
Graphic Design
Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Diana Striker keysweekly.com
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Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com
Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844
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THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.
POSTMASTER:
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Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln will return to the commission dais after cementing a win over challenger Jorge ‘George’ Ignacio-Lopez on Aug. 18. See below. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly
A
BY THE NUMBERS
17,629
32.27% Percent turnout
TOTAL BALLOTS BY TYPE
Unofficial voter turnout
Ballots by party
Republican 8,242 Democrat
6,648
NPA
2,363
Other
376
7,326
4,065
Early voting
6,220
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Election day
Provisional
ELECTION RESULTS
MONROE COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 2
News Deadline
“If you’re a leader, you lead with the truth and with integrity. Hate never wins. Thank you Monroe County voters!” – Michelle Lincoln
Michelle Lincoln (R) 59.67% 9,425 votes Jorge “George” Ignacio-Lopez (R) 40.33% 6,370 votes
Tuesday Noon
Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.
@KeysWeekly @theWeekly
Members of
MONROE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 1
Darren Horan 51.39% 8,016 votes Theresa Axford 48.61% 7,581 votes
5
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
Nate Bartlett, MBA REALTOR® | Broker Associate VP of Sales, Marathon 305-802-NATE(6283) nate@keysnate.com www.keysnate.com
BEST OF MARATHON 2026, VOTE NOW THANK YOU, MARATHON! I’m incredibly grateful to have been voted into the Top 3 for Best Realtor in the Best of Marathon! Your support during the nomination round means more than I can say. Now, we’re in the final voting round, and I’d be honored to have your vote. If I’ve earned your trust, your business, or your recommendation, please vote Nate Bartlett for Best Realtor. Thank you for supporting me and allowing me to do what I love right here in our Marathon community. NATE BARTLETT Unlocking Waterfront Dreams in the Florida Keys
VOTE DAILY, BEST REALTOR 2026
ACTIVE & SOLD LISTINGS
NEW LISTING NEW LISTING
219 Sombrero Beach Rd. #2 Marathon, FL Offered at $1,439,000
OCEANFRONT OCEANFRONT ESTATE ESTATE
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90 Tingler Ln Marathon, FL Offered at $5,995,000
23 Treasure Rd Marathon, FL Offered at $4,390,000
580 & 590 10th St Key Colony Beach, FL Offered at $2,845,000
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11890 1st Ave Gulf #2 Marathon, FL Offered at $2,495,000
12555 Overseas Hwy, C Marathon, FL Offered at $1,245,000
12555 Overseas Hwy, F Marathon, FL Offered at $1,245,000
100 E 63rd St Ocean Marathon, FL Offered at $895,000
150 E 63rd St Ocean Marathon, FL Offered at $895,000
JUST SOLD
PRICE PRICE IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT 201 E Ocean Dr, 1-211 Key Colony Beach, FL Offered at $499,000
241 12th St Key Colony Beach, FL Closed $3,700,000
11890 1st Ave Gulf #3, Marathon, FL Closed $2,500,000
141 Aregood Ln # 3B Islamorada, FL Closed $900,000
JUST SOLD 116 Ave G Marathon, FL Closed $4,495,000
For more information on the market visit my website © 2025 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
ELECTION RESULTS
MONROE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 5
FLORIDA KEYS MOSQUITO CONTROL BOARD DISTRICT 2
COUNTY COURT JUDGE
“I am incredibly grateful to everyone who voted, volunteered, donated, displayed a sign, shared a post, talked to a friend — or simply offered a word of encouragement along the way. You have given me the opportunity to serve one final term on the Monroe County School Board. I am deeply honored by your trust.” — Sue Woltanski
Sue Woltanski 64.05% 10,141 votes
“A big thank you to all my supporters for helping get my message out to our community. It is gratifying to see the Florida Keys appreciates the work and science of one of the top mosquito control programs in the world.” – Phil Goodman
Phil Goodman (R) 62.46% 9,337 votes
Chelyn Shaw 35.95% 5,693 votes
Alex Osborn (R) 37.64% 5,612 votes
Kevin McCarthy 65.84% 10,240 votes David Van Loon 34.16% 5,313 votes
FLORIDA GOVERNOR - REPUBLICAN Seven other candidates garnered 8.04 %, or 136,210 of the votes.
FLORIDA GOVERNOR - DEMOCRAT Three other candidates garnered 14.31%, or 178,803 votes.
Byron Donalds 47.79% 810,675 votes Jay Collins 25.16% 426,787 votes
James Fishback 10.47% 177,674 votes
David Jolly 60.96% 761,674 votes Dotie Joseph 9.59% 119,837 votes
Dayna Marie Foster 15.14% 189,234 votes
Paul Renner 8.55% 144,898 votes
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
YOU’VE BEEN NOMINATED. NOW GET TO WORK.
Best of Marathon voting opens Aug. 20 ALEX RICKERT
I
alex@keysweekly.com
t’s time to decide the best of the best – and maybe settle some arguments. Back in July, we asked you, our readers, to send us your favorite people, places and businesses that make Marathon amazing. Now, the field is narrowed. And as much fun as primary election season was, our ballot is WAY more fun. That’s right: The finalists for the 2026 Best of Marathon Awards are here. We’ve whittled each category down to the top three vote-getters, submitted by 1,605 voters across 57,292 nominations. It proves, once again, that if you pour the strongest drinks, tell the best stories, make a mean Cuban sandwich and more, our town remembers. We’re lucky that in many cases, picking the winner from any group of three is a tall task. We say this every year because we mean it: Just making it onto the ballot as a finalist is a big deal. Every name on this year’s ballot represents a person, business or organization that made enough of an impression on this town for Marathon to say, “Yep. Them.” Voters had to spell it correctly (sometimes) and type it in the right box, even after plenty of happy-hour drinks. That’s huge. Voting goes live at keysweekly. com/BOM26 at noon on Thursday, Aug. 20 and runs through midnight on Sept. 6. Vote once per day, per person.
Once the votes are counted, friendships have healed and everyone has accepted the results with grace and maturity — right? — the 2026 Best of Marathon Awards show takes over Hawks Cay Resort on Saturday, Sept. 19. The gala has become one of the most anticipated nights of the year, and tickets are limited and generally aren’t available to the public. Winners, nominees and dignitaries receive invitations, with additional attendees selected from a firstcome, first-served waiting list. To get on the list, email patti@keysweekly. com. Bribing Patti has not been officially endorsed by Keys Weekly. It also won’t get you extra votes – no matter how many times people ask us. So congratulations, finalists. Enjoy the moment – you have the green light to pester your friends, social media and your mom to vote every day.
Every name on this year’s ballot represents a person, business or organization that made enough of an impression on this town for Marathon to say, ‘Yep. Them.’
The finalists are in and we’re one round of voting away from celebrations – and roasting – at the 2026 Best of Marathon Awards. Finalist voting opens Aug. 20 at noon and runs until Sept. 6. NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
FLORIDA AG SUBMITS REVISED BALLOT LANGUAGE ON PROPERTY TAX RELIEF JIM McCARTHY
jim@keysweekly.com
The creativity in the Best of Marathon will never cease to amaze us. No matter how many tinfoil-hat conspiracy theories there are about the awards, the Keys Weekly has nothing to do with the results. We do, however, have one job: Go through all the nominations and make sure we combine the right ones (i.e. “Keys Weekly” is the same as “The Weekly”), AND make sure the nominees are … how do we say this … fit for print. As such, we can neither confirm nor deny that the following are the …
REJECTED NOMINATIONS FOR THE BEST OF MARATHON AWARDS 10. Best Fishing Guide: “The guy who sells spots on Facebook Marketplace” 9. Best Customer Service: “Chick-Fil-A in Homestead” 8. Best Bank: “My Mattress” 7. Best Local Celebrity: “Publix Chickens” (also appeared in “Best Barbecue?”) 6. Best Place to Take a Date: “Monroe County Jail” (also written as “Best Place to LEAVE a Date”)
5. Best Happy Hour: “5-6 p.m.” 4. Best Sunset: “To the West” 3. Best Medical Professional: “ChatGPT” 2. Best Thespian/Performing Artist: “My 2-year-old when I say no” 1. Best Breakfast: “Advil & Pedialyte”
S
tate officials used all 10 days a judge gave in his ruling to rewrite language that Florida voters would see on their November ballots on tax relief for homesteaded properties. By Aug. 13, Attorney General James Uthmeier submitted a more straightforward version of Amendment 3 to Secretary of State Cory Byrd. Language in the second version is a change from the “political flier” plaintiffs said the original represented when they filed lawsuits in June. Circuit Judge David Frank, who presided over the case, sided with various parties that sued and called the original draft “akin to a political slogan.” This year’s property tax constitutional amendment was put on the ballot by the Florida Legislature, which met in a special session to mull the governor’s proposal. Voting on party lines, the Republican-controlled Legislature approved a slightly different version by safeguarding property tax dollars for school districts. As Uthmeier’s redrafted version states, the amendment would increase the homestead exemption for all nonschool taxes from the current $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028. It would then be adjusted for inflation in 2029 and the ensuing years. In addition, the amendment requires the Legislature to set procedures for counties and municipalities to completely eliminate property tax on homesteads by increasing the exemption to a property’s full assessed value. Ballot language written by Uthmeier states counties and municipalities will use property taxes “solely for public safety, education and schools, infrastructure, natural resources, bond debt service, retirement benefits for employees, and operations and administration.” Amendment 3 also lowers the annual cap on assessment increases for non-homestead properties, like businesses and secondary homes, from 10% to 5%. Parties have 10 days to challenge the revised version. Frank would preside over any additional challenges. If no challenges are made, the rewritten language for Amendment 3 would head to the Nov. 3 general election ballot. The measure needs 60% of Florida voters to say “yes” before taking effect.
‘This is not as ambitious as I hoped, but I’m for it. I hope it passes.’ — Gov. Ron DeSantis on Amendment 3
During a recent press conference, Gov. Ron DeSantis said he hopes the amendment passes even though it’s not as ambitious as he hoped. He noted how the state hasn’t seen a major increase in the homestead exemption since 1980, when it went from $5,000 to $25,000 “I think the taxpayers deserve the relief, quite frankly,” he said. But several organizations are warning of possible repercussions if the amendment passes. The Florida Chamber of Commerce said local governments could shift the tax burden onto non-homesteaded properties, including local businesses and working families and individuals who rent homes. “This tax shift is already occurring as non-homestead properties pay 65% of all property taxes collected and homestead properties have a 3% cap on the allowable annual increase of the assessed value versus 10% for nonhomesteaded properties, such as local businesses and renters.” The Florida Sheriffs Association issued a statement on social media earlier in the month, stating the amendment allows “Tallahassee to control your local budgets.” The Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association said the amendment creates uncertainty regarding future funding for fire protection, emergency medical services and disaster response without identifying a sustainable replacement revenue source. DeSantis said he thinks the arguments against the measure are basically an “argument to say government needs come before the needs of taxpayers. “That’s not the way our system was designed,” he said.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
(ALMOST) READY TO BOARD A new building for fixed-base operator Million Air Florida Keys at the Marathon International Airport should be complete by the close of 2026, according to a recent announcement from airport communications manager Katie Atkins. The new building, which broke ground in March, has completed foundation and steel frame work; roof work was scheduled to begin this week. The 5,460-square-foot building cost $4 million and is set to include a full-service restaurant and flight planning facilities. The company has yet to announce plans for its current building at 9400 Overseas Highway, built in 2020. Pictured is a rendering of the exterior of the new building. Work on the Million Air facility is separate from work currently underway with Monroe County to prepare the airport for future commercial service. CONTRIBUTED
STEP INTO THE SPOTLIGHT – OR HELP BEHIND IT Marathon Community Theatre auditions are this weekend
E
ver had the itch to step on stage, or wonder what goes on behind it? Your chance arrives next weekend as the Marathon Community Theatre holds auditions for its 2026-27 main stage show season on Aug. 22 and 23. Shows for the season include: “Annie”: The sun will come out in November as the classic musical follows tough-but-tender orphan Annie from her hard-knock life in a New York City orphanage to the home of billionaire Oliver Warbucks. Opens in November 2026. “Arsenic and Old Lace”: This dark comedy follows Mortimer Brewster as he discovers his sweet, seemingly harmless aunts have a rather disturbing hobby: poisoning lonely old men. Opens in January 2027. “Peter Pan Goes Wrong”: A comedy of ridiculous proportions as the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society at-
Auditions for Marathon Community Theatre’s four main-stage plays will take place this weekend, Aug. 22 and 23. Shows include ‘Annie,’ ‘Arsenic and Old Lace,’ ‘Peter Pan Goes Wrong’ and ‘The Shark is Broken.’ No experience is necessary. Pictured is the cast of ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ MCT’s fall musical from 2025. NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly
tempts to stage a production of “Peter Pan” – and can’t seem to get a single thing right, from forgotten lines, cast fights and technical disasters. Opens March 2027. “The Shark is Broken”: A behindthe-scenes look at the men – and notoriously difficult mechanical shark – that brought the movie “Jaws” to life. The show imagines actors Robert Shaw, Richard Dreyfuss and Roy Scheider killing time – and occasionally each other – while waiting for the movie’s malfunctioning shark to work. Opens in April 2027. Detailed information about each show’s audition, including rehearsal
schedules and sample readings, is at marathontheater.org/open-auditions. Singing and dancing auditions will take place from 10 a.m. to noon on both days, and script readings will run from 1 to 3 p.m. Actors auditioning for “Annie” must attend one reading session and one singing/dancing session, while all other shows must attend one reading session. Anyone interested in auditioning for a show who is unable to attend open auditions may contact a show’s director to request a separate audition. Thought about auditioning, but nervous to give it a try? Don’t be. No experience is necessary, and for plenty
of MCT regulars, the biggest hurdle was simply walking through the door for the first time. “Community” is at the center of the theater’s name, and auditions aren’t reserved for seasoned performers. Whether you’ve spent years under the lights, haven’t been on stage since your rendition of “townsperson #12” in the third-grade Christmas pageant, or have never acted at all, the weekend is a chance to see where you might fit into the upcoming season. And being part of a show doesn’t necessarily mean being in the spotlight. Each production relies on volunteers behind the scenes for costumes, props, lighting, sound, stage crew, set construction and plenty more. Auditions are designed to give directors a chance to see what prospective cast members can do in a friendly-low stress environment. Script readings don’t require memorization, while musical auditions give performers a chance to sing, move and work alongside others. So whether your dream is to belt out “Tomorrow,” dispose of a body with impeccable manners, survive a catastrophically bad trip to Neverland or spend an evening arguing about a broken mechanical shark, MCT has a stage waiting. – Contributed
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
The Food & Drink Key Lime Pie: Fish Tales Market & Eatery, S.S. Wreck & Galley Grill, Sweet Savannah's Cuban Sandwich: El Siboney Restaurant Overseas, La Nina Restaurant, LJ's Café Fish Sandwich: Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Grassy Key Land and Sea Market, Keys Fisheries Fine Dining: Butterfly Café, Plaza Grill Restaurant, The Rhum House International Food: El Siboney Restaurant Overseas, Frank's Grill, La Chapina Restaurant Breakfast: Cracked Conch Cafe, The Stuffed Pig, Wooden Spoon Lunch: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant, Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Irie Island Eats BBQ: Irie Island Eats, Pop's Smoke Shed, Porky's Bayside Restaurant Cup of Coffee: Mr. Beans Books & Beans, Georgie's Coffee Shop, LJ's Café Bar: Brass Monkey, Dockside Boot Key Harbor, Sparky's Landing Bartender: Julianne McCabe @ Sparky's Landing, Rachel Bowman @ Keys Fisheries, Rusty @ Sparky's Landing Server: Brennan Bye @ Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House, Erin Cusson @ S.S. Wreck & Galley Grill Shawn Russell-Estrada @ Fish Tales Market & Eatery Happy Hour: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant, Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House, Sparky's Landing Waterfront Dining: Island Fish Company, Lazy Days South, Sparky's Landing Live Music Venue: Dockside Boot Key Harbor, Havana Jacks Oceanside Restaurant and Bar, Sparky's Landing Pizza: Coast To Coast Pizza Company, Driftwood Pizza, Pasta, & Subs, Sparky's Landing Bloody Mary: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant, Island Fish Company, Sparky’s Landing Margarita: Island Fish Company, Sparky's Landing, Sunset Grille & Raw Bar Late Night Spot: Brass Monkey, Dockside Boot Key Harbor, JJ's DogHouse Dessert Spot: Conch Custard, Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Sweet Savannah's Beer Selection: Bongo's Botanical Beer Garden and Cafe, Castaway Waterfront Restaurant, Herbie's Bar & Chowder House Catering: Chef Heather, Clouds in my Coffee Catering/Private Chef/The Table, Irie Island Eats Taco: Irie Island Eats, La Isla Taco Grill, Takeria La Palapa Food Truck: Bongo's Botanical Beer Garden and Cafe, Irie Island Eats, Pop's Smoke Shed, Takeria La Palapa Steak: Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Plaza Grill Restaurant, Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House Seafood: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant, Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Keys Fisheries Sushi: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House, LALO'S Bar & Restaurant Burger: Big Bite Burger, Burdines Waterfront, Fish Tales Market & Eatery Wings: Driftwood Pizza, Pasta and Subs, The Hurricane Bar & Grille, Sparky's Landing Conch Fritters: Cracked Conch Cafe, Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Island Fish Company Cook your own catch: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant, Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Lazy Days South Best Family Friendly Restaurant: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant, Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Island Fish Company Overall Restaurant: Fish Tales Market & Eatery, Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House, Sparky's Landing
Presented by
Final Voting Begins Aug. 20 noon to Sept. 6 midnight Winners & Awards to be presented Saturday, Sept. 19
The Businesses
Our Community
Resort/Hotel: Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club, Hawks Cay Resort, Isla Bella Beach Resort Law Firm: Law Offices of Campbell and Malafy, Wolfe Stevens PLLC, Wright Barrows PLLC Best Retail Shop: Bayshore Clothing, DK's Beach Boutique, Golden Road Florida Keys Best Fishing Guide/Charter: Captain Tony Polizze - FK Island Fishing Charters, Captain James Simcic, Main Attraction Bait & Tackle Shop: Captain Hooks Marina & Dive Center, Marathon Bait & Tackle, The Tackle Box Customer Service: All Keys Computer, Keys Federal Credit Union, The Tackle Box Medical Professional: Gregory Keifer, DO, John O'Connor, MD, Shelly Bish, APRN Health & Wellness Services: Alex Belke - Overseas Chiropractic, Cara O'Neill, Island Pilates Landscape Company: Alex Landscaping, Dot Palm Landscaping, Sammy Ornelas, Supreme Landscaping Auto Repair: Andy & Dave's Garage, Better Buy Muffler Brake & Tires, Island Tire Best Detailing Service: Aquanuts, Island Marine Detailing, Tyrone's Mobile Car Wash Marine Repair: Davis Marine Systems, Outta The Blue Marina, Small Town Marine Photographer: Natalie Danko, Sandra Lee Photography Studio, LLC, Yeni Matie Photography Marina: Captain Hooks Marina & Dive Center, Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club, Hawks Cay Marina Water Sports/Leisure Cruise: Captain Hooks Marina & Dive Center, Island Girls Excursions, Salty Pup Adventures Veterinarian: Dr. Andre, Dr. Mike Dunn, Dr. Shavonne Corbet Realtor: Nate Bartlett @ Berkshire Hathaway, Saara V. Staten @ Engel & Völkers, Sam Williams @ Coldwell Banker Real Estate Office: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Coldwell Banker Schmitt, Keys Ocean Realty Vacation Rental Company: American Coastal Vacation Rentals, Florida Keys Vacation Rentals Inc. Keys Ocean Vacation Rentals Bank: Centennial Bank, First State Bank, Keys Federal Credit Union General Contractor: Ed Sims Development, IDB Custom Builders, Keys Contracting Services Specialty Contractor: AT Paradise Blinds, Bryk Electric Co, Design Center Salon: Pro Fades Barbershop, Salon Blanco Spa, Sea Level Spa and Salon Family Owned Business: Bayshore Clothing, D'Asign Source, Fish Tales Market & Eatery New Business: Golden Road Florida Keys, Polizze Real Estate Company, Y&M Home Security Business: Bayshore Clothing, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Fish Tales Market & Eatery
Place to Take the Kids: Dolphin Research Center, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, Sombrero Beach Local Event/Festival: Best of Marathon, Florida Keys Celtic Festival, Marathon Seafood Festival Bathroom: Island Fish Company, Marathon Library, The Quay on Overseas Highway Sunset: Keys Fisheries, Old Seven Mile Bridge, Sunset Grille & Raw Bar Place to Have a Wedding: Hawks Cay Resort, Isla Bella Beach Resort, Sombrero Beach Elected Official: Michelle Lincoln, Rick Ramsay, Robyn Still Tourist Attraction: Dolphin Research Center, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, Turtle Hospital Local Celebrity: Andy Sharf, Fred the Tree, Mike Puto Volunteer: JC Mora, Megan Hughes, Mike Puto Non-Profit Organization: Dolphin Research Center, FKSPCA, Habitat for Humanity Place to Take a Date: Marathon Community Theatre, Pigeon Key, Plaza Grill Restaurant Band/Musician: 79th Street Band, Abstract Radio, The King Tides Place to Take a Selfie: Dolphin Research Center, Old Seven Mile Bridge, Sombrero Beach Summer Camp: Dolphin Research Center, City of Marathon Community Park, Pigeon Key Sports Coach: Joey Gonzalez, Mac Childress, Michelle Macoskey Educator: Darby Sheehan, Mac Childress, MP Coleman-Sayer Thespian/Performing Artist: Dale Coburn, Dion Watson, John Schaefer Best Beard: Andy Sharf, Christian Sosa, Tyler Blanton
All proceeds to benefit: Marathon Rotary Club
Sponsored by:
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
NEIGHBORS FIRST. TRUSTED THROUGH EVERY MOVE. WE'D BE HONORED TO EARN YOUR VOTE FOR: BEST REAL ESTATE OFFICE BEST REALTOR - NATE BARTLETT BEST BUSINESS
©2026 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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15
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
SEEKING PROPERTY INSURANCE SOLUTIONS FIRM brings Citizens officials to the Keys for town hall JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
F
lorida Keys residents, businesses and condominium associations are seeking property insurance solutions. An upcoming town hall with Citizens Property Insurance officials could be the first step. Fair Insurance Rates of Monroe (FIRM) will host a town-hall-style meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 25 at the Marathon Government Center. Senior leadership from Citizens will attend to highlight insurance challenges homeowners and condominium associations are facing — especially roof-related matters. Members of the public and community stakeholders who RSVP’d before the Aug. 15 deadline will hear a presentation from Citizens, while having the ability to ask questions from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Featured presenters include Jay Adams, Citizens chief insurance officer, and Stephen Mostello, Citizens vice president of underwriting. Those who can’t attend the presentation and question-and-answer period can watch online via Monroe County Television. The forum will also be recorded for future viewing on FIRM’s website and YouTube. FIRM president Mel Montagne said the town hall grew directly out of the concerns raised at the Citizens board of governors meeting last March in Key West, particularly the challenges of strict roof inspections and nonrenewals in an area with limited contractors and virtually no private-market alternatives. “After that meeting, FIRM followed up in writing, restated the key issues and formally invited Citizens leadership to a public town hall so they could hear from both government officials and residents. Citizens have been receptive to continued dialogue, and we see this event as part of their ongoing effort to better understand and address the unique roof-related challenges facing Monroe County policyholders,” Montagne said. “While FIRM understands the need to depopulate Citizens and return policies to the private market, this cannot be done by leaving insured Florida residents without catastrophic windstorm coverage. And Citizens policies
Event details
carry windstorm/hurricane deductibles of 5% to 10% of the insured value. Thus the cost to replace or repair the coating would never exceed this high deductible threshold. “Non-renewing coverage on this basis therefore leaves the entire property exposed to catastrophic loss for a risk that is effectively immaterial to both the insurer and the policyholder,” read a letter FIRM sent to Citizens a few months ago. Since October 2023, policies issued by Citizens have plummeted some 76% from its peak of 1.41 million policies. As of last July, Citizens policies totaled 278,196. “The Florida property insurance market is again healthy and vibrant,” said Tim Cerio, Citizens’ president/CEO and executive director, earlier in the year. “Most Floridians now have many options as financially sound private insurers compete for their business. Citizens, as it always has, will be there for those policyholders unable to secure coverage in the private market.” FIRM said it’s important to remember why Citizens, formerly the Florida Windstorm Underwriting Association, was created in 1970. At the time, the Legislature established FWUA due to the lack of available windstorm insurance in Monroe County. More than 50 years later, not much has changed in Monroe County, with private insurers offering limited options. Almost all wind policies in the county historically rely on Citizens. Before the afternoon community forum, Citizens will have a morning roundtable with representatives from local government. Montagne said he hopes the sessions yield progress on the roof issues, which affect many Monroe County policyholders. “From the morning government roundtable, we hope to see constructive discussion among local officials and Citizens representation that can lead to clearer processes — such as more flexible timelines for repairs, case-by-case reviews that recognize Monroe’s strong building codes and better coordination given the limited number of local contractors, as well as having clearer guidelines on roof replacements,” Montagne said.
COMMERCE CORNEr Establised in 2025, Cruisin’ Tikis Marathon offers a fun and unique way to experience the Florida Keys aboard authentic floating tiki bar boats. Guests can enjoy relaxed cruises through scenic Key Colony Harbor with options including 1.5-hour Tiki Fun Cruises and 2-hour Sunset Cruises. Along the way, you may spot wildlife like manatees, visit local sandbars, and take in breathtaking sunsets.
Perfect for birthdays, Guests are welcome to bachelorette parties, family BYOB, with coolers, ice, outings, or simply relaxing on bottled water, cups, and a the water, Cruisin’ Tikis blender provided. Marathon is proud to be the Comfortable shaded seating, only authentic floating tiki bar Bluetooth music, and in Marathon, delivering USCG-certified captains unforgettable island-style ensure a safe and enjoyable adventures for locals and visitors alike. experience. 855.539.8454 | 13205 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL Cruisintikis.com/Marathon Marathon@cruisintikis.com
GREATER MARATHON CHAMBER OF COMMERECE 305.743.5417 • 1.800.262.7284 visitus@floridakeysmarathon.com www.floridakeysmarathon.com 12222 Overseas Highway • Marathon, FL 33050
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
HAWKS CAY RESORT would love your vote!
MARATHON COMMUNITY CHURCH THE PERFECT CHURCH FOR THOSE WHO AREN’T
ALL ARE WELCOME!
SUNDAY SERVICES
10AM IN THE SANCTUARY
BEST RESORT/HOTEL
Pastors Mary and Jimmy Ashcraft Monday: Men’s Breakfast 7am at Irie Island Eats. Tuesday: Sisters in Christ 9:45am.
3010 Overseas Highway
305.481.7233
WHO DO YOU SAY THAT I AM? "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." — Matthew 16:13-20
Jeff D. Vastola, Esq.
JVastola@VastolaLegal.com
BEST PLACE TO HAVE A WEDDING
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EFFORTLESS CHARM, ISLAND CHIC DK’S HAS YOU COVERED
We would be honored to receive your vote for Best Retail Shop
303 Sadowski Causeway Key Colony Beach Monday - Saturday 10AM - 5:30PM Sunday 11AM - 4PM 305.922.2493
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
How long have you been in the Keys and what brought you here? We’ve lived in the Keys on and off for 15 years. What is your favorite thing about living in the Keys? I love living in the Keys so much. The local community, 30-something bridges between me and North America, ocean and birds, tropical trees – I could go on and on. What’s your hype song and your sad song? There are levels of happiness and sadness. I probably have a song for every level. I’m pretty obsessed with music. I love all music old and brand new! My favorites change all the time.
MELISSA HAGER Irie Island Eats JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com
N
o matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to present our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue. Our neighbor of the week is Melissa Hager, who works at Irie Island Eats and says her family is the center of her heart. She’s played violin and piano all her life, and her love of music defines her.
What is your favorite Keys meal? That would have to be hogfish, conch fritters, lionfish sushi or fresh lobster wrapped in bacon and garlic on the grill. Or anything at Irie Island Eats of course. If you could be any character from a TV or movie, who would it be and why? Definitely someone with the power to fly. Maybe SpiderMan? If you’re having a rough day, what’s the best way to cheer you up? Chocolate and a good song that hits just right (it’s all about the levels). What’s your favorite smell? What’s your most hated smell? I love the smell of almost any flower and also chocolate chip cookies baking. I hate the smell of burnt food. What’s your go-to excuse when you don’t want to leave the house? “We’ve just got too much going on. The kids need me.” (This is usually true.) What’s a talent you don’t put on your résumé because it sounds fake? I can milk a cow like I was born to be a dairy maid. If you had a time machine, would you travel to the future or to the past and why? I would maybe go back to the days when everyone had a family cow. Or go back to meet a distant relative or future family. What was your most fun job? I was the pasta maker for a pasta shop way back and it was seriously my most fun job. Know someone who would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?” Email keysweeklyjen@gmail.com.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
AFTER THE SIGNS COME DOWN Editor’s note: The following letter was submitted to the Keys Weekly in advance of the Aug. 18 primary election.
A
s another summer election season comes to a close, I’ve found myself reflecting not only on the outcome, but on what recent campaign strategies say about us as a community. Democracy depends on spirited debate. We should challenge ideas, question decisions and hold public officials accountable. Healthy disagreement is not something to fear — it is essential to self-government. But increasingly, even our local campaigns have become less about ideas and more about personal attacks. This election season brought fake AI generated videos, misinformation presented as fact, name-calling and even threats directed at candidates and their families. Regardless of who was targeted or which side benefited, that should concern all of us. Local elections are different. The people who run for school board, city council, county commission, or other local offices aren’t distant political figures. They’re our neighbors. We see one another at school events, youth sports, churches, local businesses and community gatherings. Long after Election Day, we’ll still be living and working side by side. When political disagreement becomes personal hostility, everyone loses. Families who never sought public attention become targets. Volunteers think twice before getting involved. And qualified, thoughtful people begin to wonder whether public service is worth the personal cost. As a school board member and parent, I often think about the lessons we hope to teach our children. We ask students to tell the truth, treat others with respect, disagree without bullying and solve problems through thoughtful discussion. They are watching us. If we expect them to model those values, we must be willing to model them ourselves. Technology has made this challenge even greater. Artificial intelligence can now create convincing images, videos and audio that never existed. Each of us has a responsibility to pause, verify what we see and resist sharing misinformation simply because it supports our preferred candidate. This campaign is over, but our community is not. Tomorrow we’ll still be neighbors, working together to strengthen our schools, support local organizations and build a better Monroe County. The yard signs will come down, but our commitment to truth, civility and respect for one another should remain. Sue Woltanski M.D., Monroe County School Board, District 5 The opinions expressed in this column are solely the writer’s and do not necessarily represent the views of the Monroe County School Board or the Monroe County School District.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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SATURDAY & SUNDAY BRUNCH 11am - 2:30pm
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TUESDAY Jumbo Gumbo Bowls Tacos and Tequila
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OUR WEB CAM IS STREAMING
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
SAM WILLIAMS P.A. Sam.Williams@ColdwellBanker.com
call or text 305.942.6069 ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE OVERLOOKING THE TURQUOISE WATERS OF THE ATLANTIC OCEAN 87895 OLD HIGHWAY PLANTATION KEY • 5BD/8BA • 9,011 SF • MLS# 617705 • $24,995,000
RARE FLORIDA KEYS MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY 13755 & 13759 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY • 4BD/4.5BA • Lot 160,800 SF • MLS# 620305 • $3,900,000
BRAND NEW WATERFRONT HOME 4800 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, # 24 • 4BD/5BA • 2,605 SF • MLS# 619925 • $2,950,000
ENDLESS OCEAN VIEWS CHARMING KEYS RETREAT
1400 W 63rd Street 2BD/2.5BA • 2,111 SF • MLS# 620384 $2,299,000
PRE-CONSTRUCTION WATERFRONT RETREAT
1252 24th Street 3BD/3BA • 1,720 SF • MLS# 617567 $2,199,000
TURN KEY WATERFRONT HOME
WATE EXCELL
101 Avenue D 4BD/3BA • 1,618 SF • MLS# 620116 $1,789,000
81 2BD/2B
HIGH PERFORMANCE VACATION RENTAL SOMBRERO BEACH AREA
426 Calle Limon 5BD/5BA • 2,952 SF • MLS# 618246 $1,599,000
DIRECT OCEANFRONT LIVING
CANAL FR DISTANC
319 S 3BD/2B
ATTENT UNIT A
E INV AT E R G
62900 Overseas Hwy #29 2BD/2BA • 980 SF • MLS# 620984 $1,569,000
500 8BD/4B
UNDER CONTRACT 11250 3rd Ave. Gulf • MLS# 619882 111 Stirrup Key Woods Rd. 2B1 • MLS# 617040 1300 Avenue H • MLS# 619705 Lot 122nd St. • MLS# 616854 3759 Seagrape • MLS# 618357 1400 Avenue H • MLS# 620375 130 Coco Plum Dr. # 402 Not in MLS yet 1 Trinidad St. • MLS# 618464 103 Stirrup Key Woods Rd. • MLS# 620171 319 Sombrero Beach Rd. #2 • MLS# 620667
11270 3rd A 105 Avenu 650 64 105 Ave 11399 6th Av 800 39th S 12690 Oversea 56185 Overs 11710 5th A 9101 Gulf of M
21
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
#SELLITWITHSAM
TOP IN SALES FOR 13 YEARS
• 46 YTD SOLD 2026 • 1250 CAREER SALES • OVER 750M IN SALES
ERFRONT HOME WITH LENT BOATING ACCESS
WATERFRONT LIVING IN KEY COLONY BEACH
800 FT OFF DIRECT OCEAN
WIDE OPEN GULF VIEWS
188 Aviation Boulevard BA • 1,134 SF • MLS #612863 $1,349,000
490 10th Street, Key Colony Beach 2BD/2BA • 1,328 SF • MLS# 620777 $1,099,000
6099 Overseas Hwy 83W 2BD/2.5BA • 350 SF • MLS# 618274 $999,000
12690 Overseas Hwy #413 2BD/2.5BA • 1,352 SF • MLS# 620672 $749,000
RONT HOME IN WALKING CE TO SOMBRERO BEACH
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Sombrero Beach Road #2 BA • 1,430 SF • MLS# 620667 $1,249,000
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1306 & 1308 51st Street 4BD/2BA • 1,568 SF • MLS# 618176 • $990,000
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2240 Yellowtail Drive 3BD/2BA • 1,424 SF • MLS# 608599 $1,050,000
12690 Overseas Hghway, # 413 2BD/2.5BA • 1,352 SF • MLS# 620672 $749,000
101 11th Street # 17 2BD/2BA • 960 SF • Miami MLS# A11948112 $424,999
BUYING OR SELLING? THIS IS THE FASTEST WAY TO REACH ME!
We would love your vote
NT ME EST
0 22nd Street Ocean 1-4 BA • 2,780 SF • MLS# 618043 $1,175,000
CLOSED
Ave. Gulf • MLS# 619643 • $1,260,000 ue D #101 • MLS# 615156 • $519,000 4th St. • MLS# 619622 • $762,200 D #101• MLS# 615156 • $519,000 ve. Ocean • MLS# 616462 • $2,246,845 St. Slip #2 • MLS# 619735 • $499,000 as Hwy. #112 • MLS# 617724 • $960,000 seas Hwy. • MLS# 614052 • $1,550,000 Ave. Ocean • MLS# 620254 • $950,000 Mexico Blvd. • MLS#615635 • $625,000
for Sam Williams p.a. for
Best realtor
22
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
Escorted by Turtle Hospital manager Bette Zirkelbach and U.S. Coast Guard members who played a critical role in her rescue, rehabilitated loggerhead turtle ‘Timmy’ returns to her ocean home at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West on Aug. 14. LARRY BLACKBURN/ Florida Keys News Bureau
GO BIG AND GO HOME
270-pound rescued loggerhead ‘Timmy’ returns to the sea with the help of the Turtle Hospital
I
t was the goodbye everyone had hoped for. Timmy, the larger-than-life loggerhead sea turtle who won the hearts of her caregivers during weeks of rehabilitation, returned to her ocean home on Aug. 14 in Key West. Hundreds gathered at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park to see Turtle Hospital staff carry the massive 270-pound turtle to the edge of the water and watch her make her way across the sand and back into the Atlantic. Timmy was rescued on July 19 after struggling to stay afloat and flailing in the ocean. Boaters found her about seven miles south of Sugarloaf Key and called for help. They stayed with the distressed turtle until a crew from the U.S. Coast Guard arrived. Timmy was then taken to the Turtle Hospital in Marathon for treatment. During the hour-long ride to Marathon, Timmy climbed out of her rescue container and sent equipment flying around the back of the turtle ambulance. That feisty streak continued during her rehabilitation and quickly endeared her to the staff caring for her. Timmy was treated with fluids and antibiotics and underwent a series of tests. As her health improved, so did her appetite. Squid, mackerel, shrimp and lobster tails were all on the menu. Staff even celebrated when Timmy finally went “number two,” an important indication that her digestive system was working normally. When Timmy was strong enough, she was moved into a 160,000-gallon tidal pool, where staff could watch how she swam and navigated deeper water. She passed the test.
The giant loggerhead is estimated to be between 70 and 80 years old and still actively nesting. She had already laid eggs three times this season, including 10 days before she was rescued. “Seeing a turtle like Timmy that has survived our oceans for so many decades, getting a reproductive female like her returned to her ocean home is most important for the survival of their species,” said Bette Zirkelbach, general manager of the Turtle Hospital. During her hospital stay, staff shared Timmy’s progress with the public. People from across the globe tuned in, watching her eat, swim and regain her strength. They saw her enjoying back scratches and spa days. And by the time she was cleared for release, plenty of people were rooting for her. Florida Rep. Jim Mooney, whose House District 120 includes the Keys, was one of them. He said Timmy’s release carried a deeper message for the next generation.
“We have to maintain, through education, how important our environment is, not just for us, but for the future. The little kids that are walking around today, that’s what this is about,” said Mooney. Some of that community descended on Key West to see how Timmy’s story played out. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park waived admission fees for the special release, and spectators lined the beach as Turtle Hospital staff carried her toward the water. For Zirkelbach, the turnout showed how deeply Timmy’s story connected with the public. “Seeing the hundreds of people coming out for Timmy’s release today, it warms my heart,” said Zirkelbach. “And I know that that compassion is contagious. The most important thing we can do to help save sea turtles is to fall in love with them.” Mooney said the day’s release confirmed that the place he grew up in still stands to protect our most precious resource. “Having been a ‘Keys kid’ my entire life, and still a ’Key’s kid,’ is to protect the environment. Because I know what the environment means to our tourism, to our tax dollars.” When Timmy finally reached the surf and swam away from Key West, she went back to doing what she’d been doing for most of the past eight decades – living wild in the sea. More information is at turtlehospital.org. — Contributed
23
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISE WITH LOCAL FACES CELEBRATING 22 YEARS OF LOCAL MEDIA
Key West Weekly STEPHANIE MITCHELL 305.304.5778
Marathon Weekly PATTI CHILDRESS 305.731.9628
Upper Keys Weekly MANUELA MOBLEY 305.967.9222
The Most Trusted Name in Florida Keys Real Estate since 1955.
SOLD FOR $2,229,000
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take care We are proud of not just sales, but the trust our clients place in us. With the right strategy, persistence, and local know-how, success is always within reach. If you’re ready to buy or sell, let’s turn this market into your opportunity. 641 12TH STREET KEY COLONY BEACH
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Wednesday - friday 5pm - 10pm Please Vote Best Burger!
305.923.9487 305.600.9726 www.KeyColonyBeachProperties.com lynngoodwinre@gmail.com aimeekornetti@gmail.com
Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Co. 11050 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved. ®,TM and SM are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An equal opportunity company. Equal housing opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS
YOUR WATCH SAYS YOUR SLEEP WAS GARBAGE. NOW WHAT? E
very morning millions of us wake up and, before we’ve even decided how we actually feel, consult a tiny piece of technology to find out how we slept. Apparently I slept for seven hours and 42 minutes, was awake for 37 minutes, spent an hour and 19 minutes in REM, got 48 minutes of deep sleep and earned a sleep score of 76. Which feels suspiciously like a C. Frankly, I don’t appreciate being graded before I’ve even had coffee. Our watches and rings are giving us more information about our bodies than we’ve ever had access to before. Heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, blood oxygen, sleep duration, sleep efficiency and a colorful little graph showing exactly how much time we supposedly spent in light, deep and REM sleep. It’s fascinating information. There is just one small problem. Most of us have absolutely no idea what any of it means. So, before you decide that your 42 minutes of deep sleep means you have six months left to live, let’s talk about what is actually happening after you close your eyes. Sleep isn’t one long, unconscious event. Throughout the night, your brain cycles through two basic types of sleep: non-REM sleep and REM sleep. Non-REM sleep is divided into three stages, creatively named N1, N2 and N3. We move through these stages multiple times throughout the night, with a complete sleep cycle generally taking somewhere around 80 to 100 minutes. N1 is the lightest stage and basically the waiting room between awake and asleep. Your muscles begin to relax, your breathing and heart rate start slowing and you’re relatively easy to wake. You don’t spend a tremendous amount of the night here, but you have to pass through it to get to the good stuff. N2 is still considered lighter sleep, but you’re officially asleep now. Your body temperature drops, your muscles relax further and your brain activity changes. We actually spend a pretty significant portion of the night in this stage, so don’t look at a giant chunk of “light sleep” on your watch and assume you failed sleeping. Light sleep isn’t junk sleep. It is a normal and necessary part of the process. Then we get to N3, the coveted deep sleep your wearable has probably convinced you that you desperately need more of. This is slow wave sleep, and it’s when your body gets some serious restoration work done. Heart rate and breathing slow, muscles relax, energy is restored and processes involved in tissue growth and repair take place. Deep sleep tends to happen more during the first part of the night, which is important to know when you’re staring at that graph wondering why you didn’t get equal amounts of it all night long.
UNSPLASH.
Then there is REM, or rapid eye movement sleep. This is where things get weird. Your brain becomes highly active, your eyes move rapidly and vivid dreaming commonly occurs while most of your major muscles are temporarily kept from moving. REM JENNIFER is particularly important for processes involving learning, HARVEY memory and mood, and un...is a Marathonlike deep sleep, REM periods based ACSMtend to get longer as the certified personal trainer and night progresses. This is one precision nutrition of the many reasons chopcoach who owns ping two hours off the end of and operates your sleep isn’t necessarily the Highly Motivated same thing as simply losing Functionally Caffeinated LLC. two random hours. Now that you understand the colorful graph, we need to have a conversation about the device producing it. Your watch does not actually know when you’re in REM sleep. I realize this may feel like betrayal. In an actual sleep study, sleep stages are determined using measurements that include brain activity and eye movements. Your watch or ring isn’t reading your brain waves while you sleep. Instead, consumer devices typically use things they can measure, including movement and heart rate related information, and then an algorithm makes its best estimate about what’s happening. And to be fair, they’re getting pretty impressive. Research comparing popular consumer wearables with laboratory sleep studies has found that many are quite good at determining whether someone is asleep or awake. Sleep stage accuracy, however, is more variable. That means I would pay far more attention to patterns over time than I would one random
Tuesday when your watch announces that you received 31 minutes of deep sleep and apparently should spend the day reconsidering all of your life choices. This is where I think health technology can either be incredibly useful or make us completely insane. If your wearable shows that you’re consistently getting six hours of sleep when you swear you’re getting eight, that’s worth paying attention to. If you notice your sleep quality tanks every time you drink alcohol, eat a huge meal late at night or stay up scrolling until midnight, congratulations: your expensive piece of technology has provided you with information you can actually use. But if you wake up feeling rested, you’re functioning well during the day and your watch gives you a sleep score of 71, please don’t immediately decide you’re terrible at sleeping. The goal was never to win sleep. Instead, look at the bigger picture. Are you giving yourself enough opportunity to sleep? Are your bedtime and wake time somewhat consistent? Are you waking repeatedly throughout the night? Are you exhausted during the day? Do you snore heavily or wake up gasping? Has something noticeably changed from your normal pattern? Those questions matter more than obsessing over whether you achieved the exact amount of REM your app thinks you should have gotten. I love health data. Give me the graphs, the numbers, the trends and all the nerdy little metrics. But data is supposed to help us understand our bodies, not make us afraid of them. So tomorrow morning, before you let your wrist tell you whether you had a good night’s sleep, give yourself about five seconds. How do you actually feel? Then you can check your score. Preferably after water and coffee.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
BRIEFLY Monroe libraries set record for digital borrowing Monroe County Public Library members borrowed more digital items in July than in any previous month — almost 14,000 e-books, audiobooks and digital magazines. The library’s digital collection, accessed with the Libby app, includes more than 23,000 e-book titles, more than 11,000 audiobooks and more than 6,000 magazine titles. The magazines are always available, without holds or waiting, and include back issues. “Every day, we are impressed to see the increasing numbers of the usage of our digital collection by the community,” said Kimberly Matthews, senior director of libraries. “Our staff is working diligently, in person and online, to serve the residents of the Keys.” In response to the recent growth, the library recently raised the number of digital titles that patrons can check out at a time to eight. The number of titles patrons can have on hold was raised to 20. More information about using Libby, streaming app Kanopy, and other online resources is at keyslibraries.org/24-7-resources. Keys Democrats invite public to monthly meeting The public is invited to attend the monthly meeting of the Keys Democrats on Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 5:30 p.m. at the Marathon library. The meeting will be a hybrid Zoom and inperson meeting. For more information, including a link to attend virtually, email mid-keys@keysdems.com. Knife displayed during Marathon domestic incident A 25-year-old Marathon man was arrested on Aug. 15 after allegedly displaying a pocketknife while several people were attempting to intervene during a domestic incident. There were no serious injuries reported. Jikly Chantel Lopez Amaro was charged with burglary, battery and battery by strangulation. The sheriff’s office responded to a residence on 110th Street around 2:30 a.m. after several people disarmed Lopez Amaro of a pocketknife. Witnesses said they were intervening in a domestic incident involving Lopez Amaro. Video footage showed Lopez Amaro choking a victim, deputies said. Lopez Amaro was taken to jail. Floating cocaine brick found off Big Pine A packaged brick of suspected cocaine was found by a dive group removing trash in the nearshore waters off Big Pine Key around 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 15. The package was turned over to the U.S. Border Patrol.
City wastewater rates to increase Oct. 1 Effective Oct. 1, 2026, customers receiving wastewater service from the city of Marathon will see a 7% increase in the city sewer’s base facility, customer and flow charges. The increase was approved by Resolution 2024-65, which allowed for a 7% increase in fiscal years 2025-27 and a 1% increase in FY 2028. Customers currently paying $30.74 in base facility charges will pay $32.89 starting in October. The customer charge will increase from $19.23 to $20.58, and the flow charge (per 1,000 gallons) will rise from $10.89 to $11.65. The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority provides third-party billing services for the city by including sewer charges on applicable FKAA bills. Sewer rates are established by the city and are separate from FKAA’s water rates, which will increase 8.4% on Oct. 1. Information on the city’s wastewater rates is available from deputy utilities director Libby Frazier at 305-289-5005. Information on FKAA’s water rates is at www. fkaa.com. Election sign recycling to be offered Monroe County, the Monroe County Supervisor of Elections and Waste Management are partnering to provide free recycling for election signs and campaign materials during the 2026 fall election season. Residents and campaign sign collectors may recycle corrugated plastic election signs, metal sign stands and paper campaign materials starting Aug. 19 and continuing through Dec. 15. The Long Key Transfer Station at MM 68 is the designated collection site for Marathon businesses and residents. Participants should look for marked collection bins at each location. Election signs require special handling and should not be placed in curbside recycling bins. Metal stands should be removed from the signs and placed in the appropriate marked container. In the city, signs placed at locations in violation of city code are removed and brought to Marathon City Hall for candidates or their representatives to retrieve. Signs not retrieved will be recycled, according to code compliance director Ted Lozier. Marathon City Hall is located at 9805 Overseas Highway. More information is available from Melody Tuschel, Monroe County’s recycling and outreach coordinator, at tuschel-melody@ monroecounty-fl.gov.
COUNTY FIRST RESPONDERS HOLD 9/11 MEMORIAL EVENT Patriot Day activities scheduled
S
ept. 11 marks the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks against the United States, which claimed the lives of 2,996 people and injured more than 6,000 others at the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon and United Airlines Flight 93 in Pennsylvania. On Sept. 11, 2001, a Tuesday, in addition to law enforcement officers, medical service providers and other public servants, 343 firefighters made the ultimate sacrifice to help others. “On Friday, September 11, we pause to remember the lives lost and the heroes who answered the call,” said Chief RL Colina. “We are honored to continue to invite our community to join us at our fire stations as we remember their legacy and reflect on the importance of service, sacrifice, and unity.” Monroe County Fire Rescue invites the public to any of the Monroe County Fire Rescue stations on Friday, Sept. 11 to mark the memorial of one of the most devastating attacks on American soil. On Sept. 11, 2001, the North Tower of the World Trade Center was struck at 8:46 a.m. by American Airlines Flight 11, and the South Tower was struck 17 minutes later at 9:03 a.m. by United Airlines Flight 175. The schedule of events for the 25th anniversary on Friday, Sept. 11 will take place as follows: 9:50 a.m. – Ceremony start time. 9:59 a.m. – (Time of the World Trade Center South Tower collapse). Air horn sounds three sets of five blasts followed by one minute of silence. 10 to 10:28 a.m. – Time for personal remembrance and reflection. 10:28 a.m. – (Time of the World Trade Center North Tower collapse). Air horn sounds three sets of five blasts followed by one minute of silence. 10:29 a.m. – Flag raised and then returned to half-staff. 10:30 a.m. – Resume normal duties.
Monroe County Fire Rescue’s seven stations, from Stock Island to Tavernier, will hold ceremonies for the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks starting at 9:50 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 11. CONTRIBUTED
During the remembrance, normal emergency response actions will be observed if needed. Monroe County Fire Rescue stations are located at: Station 8: Stock Island, 5655 MacDonald Ave., MM 5 Station 9: Big Coppitt, 28 Emerald Drive, MM 10 Station 11: Cudjoe, 22352 Overseas Hwy., MM 22 Station 13: Big Pine Key, 390 Key Deer Blvd, MM 30.5 Station 17: Conch Key, 10 S. Conch Ave., MM 63 Station 18: Layton, 68260 Overseas Hwy., MM 68.5 Station 22: Tavernier, 151 Marine Ave., MM 92 — Contributed
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
TAVERNIER: THIRSTY SAILORS, FRENCH INNKEEPERS AND BITING FLIES
T
here is no shortage of stories told about the Florida Keys. One Upper Keys favorite that has been passed from barstool to barstool for a long time is the origin of the Tavernier name. As the story goes, a thirsty sailor came ashore at the southern, Atlantic-facing edge of Key Largo and asked, “Is there a tavern near?” It is not a true story; it is a good story. There are those, too, who say the name is of French origin; tavernier is the word for innkeeper. While the sailor’s story is colorful nonsense, French might have something to do with the name’s evolution from its Spanish roots. However, it seems more like a linguistic journey than a cultural one. As for local names, the origin of Tavernier is one of the oldest found along the island chain – though it both looked and sounded a bit different several hundred years ago. Before Tavernier was a name attached to a Key Largo community, it identified the 31-acre island in the Atlantic shallows just offshore. On a Spanish chart dated 1639, it was noted as Caio di Tabanos; in 1742, Cayo Tabanos. The rough translation of tabanos, from Spanish to English, is horsefly; so, Horsefly Key. One thing that all of the 1,700 islands making up the Florida Keys archipelago have in common is biting insects. Apparently, Tavernier Key was once known for big, biting tabanos. The transition from Tabano to Tavernier had a lot to do with how the “b” is pronounced in Spanish. It is given a “v” sound. To an English ear, Tabanos would have sounded like Tavanos, which helps explain why William Roberts’ work “First Discovery and Natural History of Florida” (1763) identified the island as Cayo de Tivanos. A dozen years later,
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
in 1775, a chart by George Gauld identified the island by both its Spanish and English names: Cayo Tabano and Key Tavernier. As for any French influence, the evolution of Tabano to Tivano to Tavernier does not seem like an uncomfortable stretch – especially when spoken with a French accent. One thing that Tavernier Key offered was a relatively deep natural harbor, frequently used by sailors and those engaged in the wrecking industry. On Oct. 8, 1836, the crew of a schooner navigated to the harbor and dropped their anchor for the night. By 1836, the second escalation of the Seminole War had made an impact in South Florida and the Keys. That day, Indians attacked the schooner; its crew was lucky to escape with their
lives. While they all lived to tell the tale, not all survived unscathed. Two of the crew were wounded in the attack but paddled to safety in one of the smaller auxiliary boats. Left abandoned, the schooner was looted of anything useful and then set afire until the waterline extinguished the blaze. Tavernier Key needed something more than a favorable harbor to lure the early pioneers who decided to anchor their ships and create something more permanent. It might have had something to do with horseflies. Mostly, however, it had to do with land, and Key Largo had a relative
The Barnetts Chapel structure after its move from Planter to Tavernier. Photo taken by the Property Appraiser’s office circa 1965 when it served as Masonic Lodge No. 336. FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY CENTER/Monroe County Library
abundance of it. A couple of decades later, pioneer families began settling along the Key Largo shoreline and building lives. They were farmers and fishermen who relied on long, narrow docks and shallow draft schooners to link them to the outside world. Along the southern edge of the island, the first families were the Lowes, Alburys and Johnsons. They built homes facing the Atlantic to take advantage of ocean breezes blowing through open windows to cool their dwellings and provide a primitive form of flying/biting pest control. In the late 1800s, the community wasn’t called Tavernier, but Planter. Tavernier, as it is applied to Key Largo, came about as a result of the Key West Extension of Henry Flagler’s East Coast Railway. When workers built the train station in the area of MM 92, it was named Tavernier Station. The Tavernier community grew up around it. Hurricanes and Flagler’s train encouraged the residents of Planter to move away from the shoreline and the docks, and closer to the conveniences and reliability of the railroad. The Planter Post Office and church moved closer to the people who relied on the institutions. Planter faded away and Tavernier took root. Little remains of the old Planter community, except for a cistern or two in the hammocks surrounding Harry Harris Park and a short road branching off Burton Drive called Planter Drive that pays homage to the old farming community. There is also a popular coffee shop that used to stand on the Albury homestead and service the Planter community. The building where the coffee shop is housed was built in Planter and served as its Methodist church. A transfer deed for the property where the church once stood was signed and dated Nov. 25, 1887. Robert and Patience Albury transferred the property to the trustees of Methodist Episcopal Church, South: Amos Lowe, Samuel Johnson and Robert Albury. The church was called Barnetts Chapel. When the community relocated closer to the railroad right-of-way, Barnetts Chapel was deconstructed and moved to better serve the people. Though the building was destroyed in the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, its pieces and timbers were gathered, along with lumber from other structures that were destroyed, and reassembled. When the church found a better home, the building was left unoccupied. For a time, it served as a Masonic lodge. In 1981, the Old Tavernier Town Association formed and purchased the building for $1,000. They paid much more to move it to its present location, where it first served as the Old Church Community Center and Visitor Center. Currently, it is home to Café Moka at 91713 Overseas Highway. Step inside for a cup of coffee, a croissant and a cool bit of local history.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026 A magnificent frigatebird, a regular sight in the Florida Keys. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
What is your favourite and least favourite bird? — House Boat Pedaler God, I love a question that requires no research. But stop spelling “favourite” like you’re a British person. You grew up in Maryland. Write American. Favorites and unfavorites are MARK tricky things, though. My affinities HEDDEN change every 10 minutes. Some days I love great blue herons. ... is a photographer, writer, and Some days I’m like, ugh, so basic. semi-professional Cormorants, brown pelicans, birdwatcher. He northern mockingbirds – same. has lived in Key I don’t think I have any acWest for more tive animus toward any species, than 25 years and may no longer largely because nearly all of them be employable in can fly and I can’t. (Penguins can’t the real world. He fly, but they commit acts of hilaris also executive ity while dressed in formal wear director of the Florida Keys Audu- their entire lives, so they get a bon Society. pass. Emus and ostriches can’t fly either, but they will rough you up if they catch you talking smack about them.) I’m going to say my least favorite bird is the Eurasian collared-dove, an exotic species that seems designed by committee to neither offend nor thrill. Some people say their plumage is as vibrantly colored as oatmeal, but careful observers will note that it actually ranges into tones of beige, taupe, khaki and ecru. They have a pathetic little mewling call they make whenever they come in to land. And they sometimes bully more aesthetically pleasing mourning doves at the feeder. I mean, I don’t dislike Eurasian collared-doves. I just have less enthusiasm for them. I’d have to say my default favorite is the magnificent frigatebird. I love that they are pelagic birds and spend most of their life flying over the ocean, despite the fact that they can’t swim or get very wet, meaning they have to fly low and snag their meals with their bills from the top four or five inches of the water. Or beat up other birds, usually terns, for their food. Also, look at them. They are just gorgeous, the cool club kids of ocean dependent avifauna. But frigatebirds get temporarily replaced in the Favorite Bird category, depending on what I’m looking at. Peregrine falcons, painted bunting, purple gallinules, barn swallows, rose breasted grosbeaks to name a few birds that often steal my fancy. But I’m always going to come back to frigatebirds. Why does the Cuban finch come to Florida if it’s native to Cuba? — The Fleming Street Rooster Knock it off, Beau. Also, I can’t believe your bocce team had new shirts for the first game of the season. I’m on the second season of playing on my team and still no shirt. Is it more effective to shoot a bird with both middle fingers, or to do it with just one while still holding onto the steering wheel? — Florida Man Man I grew up in New Jersey, which makes me a classicist when it comes to shooting a/the bird. And I’m going to stick with what they taught us in driver’s ed, which is that it’s important to keep one hand on the wheel for safety as you flip off the object of your disdain. It seems less efficient but is also actually easier and safer to hold the steering wheel with your
ASK THE BIRD GEEK
left hand and do a cross body flip off with your right. Also, the advanced move they taught us in Jersey AP driver’s ed was to keep your eyes forward doing the initial flip off, then slowly turn and make eye contact with the flipped-off person, look at them for a count of three with a neutral expression, then return your gaze forward while keeping your central digit in its elevated position. Florida needs to do better when it comes to educating their drivers. It’s just all inchoate directional gesturing in these parts. Too much swerving on the road. Pro tip: In Florida, where there is often so much glare, it is often a good idea to roll down the window to make sure people see your emphatic gestures. Do Cuban finches use the Southernmost Point buoy as an official GPS waypoint? If so, have you noticed a localized drop in the Cuban finch population since the buoy was temporarily relocated? — Anonymous on Boca Chica Listen, Danette, I know what you’re up to here. And I’m not having it. Cuban finches were not affected by the temporary Southernmost Point buoy relocation because Cuban finches do not exist. You know this. How do birds choose the leader of their flock? Do they hold elections? — Jay Hall Depends on what type of flock you’re talking about. Birds like Eurasian starlings, who tend to gather in the biggest flocks, and who do that murmuration thing everybody loves so much, don’t actually have leaders. They lead by consensus. If you look through your back issues of the journal PLOS Computational Biology, specifically the Jan. 31, 2013 issue, you’ll see that all those magical looking, swirling clouds of birds just make it up as they go along. The basic mechanism of it all is that individuals pay attention to, and take their cues from, the seven birds that surround them. And those interlaced groups of seven are amazingly good at communicating directional moves across the flock. One article I read compared it to a game of telephone where the message doesn’t get garbled in transit. It’s one of the many phenomena in the universe that doesn’t seem
like it should work but does. Birds like geese and ibis are thought to communicate in the same way, but no one is sure about that. The one thing I always think about when I see a giant v-shaped flock of birds, having watched a lot of Tours de France, where riders called domestics ride to protect their team leader from the wind, is that the bird in front is probably not in charge. The bird in front is probably putting out 20% to 30% more energy than the trailing birds, and leaders generally don’t do the grunt work. How many dirty-sounding bird names are there and will Mandy allow you to print them in the newspaper? — Totally Not Your Wife I’m pretty sure Mandy is going to be wiped out from covering the election and may not even read this before it goes to print. Let’s start with the fact that the word for male chicken and human male genitalia are the same in, like, 19 different languages. And the fact that the word rooster was a euphemism first used by American puritans who were uncomfortable with that. And that the British Victorians appropriated the word rooster to mask their discomfort. There is a whole family of birds called shags, the most egregious of which is the blue-eyed shag. Close second is the New Zealand shag, once known as the rough-faced shag. There are just so many members of the tit family, but my favorites are great tit, fire-capped tit, crested tit, penduline tit, elegant tit, varied tit, dusky tit, as well as the anatomically confusing yellow-cheeked tit and the scary sounding ash-breasted tit-tyrant. Dickcissel, Andean cock-of-the-rock, Guianan cock-of-the-rock, American woodcock, and both hairy and downy woodpeckers. In local waters we are regularly visited by brown boobies and the more discreet masked boobies. Clapper rail could be taken the wrong way, as could snoring rail, reunion rail, and little wood-rail There is the streaky-breasted flufftail, the hoary puffleg, the buff-thighed puffleg, and red-shafted flicker. I’m going to quit here, before we get to the swallows.
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MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
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U.S.1 at Vaca Cut Bridge Mile Marker 53, Marathon
305.743.5580
Marathon Lady • 73’ Party Boat Please make sure to call ahead for reservations.
www.MARATHONLADY.net
Please vote Pigeon Key for Best Summer Camp!
NOW HIRINGrs Educato
OPEN for programs MEET SEA TURTLES AT THE TURTLE HOSPITAL
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. CALL 305-743-2552 FOR RESERVATIONS. 2396 Overseas Highway Gulf, Marathon Now accepting online reservations NOW ACCEPTING VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEER@TURTLEHOSPITAL.ORG
www.turtlehospital.org
RECONNECT WITH NATURE
$59.95 PACKAGE PRICE
FOR RESERVATIONS CALL PACKAGE INCLUDES: 305.783.7551 FULL DAY OF FUN FROM 9 TO 4PM SNORKEL BY KAYAK - ISLAND HOPPING - BIRD ISLAND SANCTUARY PICNIC ON WATER OR LAND - FISH PEDICURE BALD EAGLE RITA - AND MUCH MORE. MEMBERSHIP DOES NOT APPLY*
PROUD TO BE LISTED ON THE NATIONAL HISTORIC REGISTRY! 305.743.9100 • 5550 Overseas Highway • Marathon MM50 at the stoplight • Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat Noon to 5 p.m. Sundays • cranepoint.net
34
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
&
IItt ttakes ak es a v illag e ke vi ge village ((and and y our v ote) yo vo your vote) This community has given so much to us over the years, and now we are asking for one small favor in return. Keys Ocean Realty and Keys Ocean V cation Rentals are both up Va Vacation for Best of Marathon honors r and daily voting r, this year, means your support can go r r. even further. Cast your vote once a day through September 20th and help us bring these titles home.
MAY MAY 13-year-old female coonhound. Looking for: I might be an older lady, but I’m not ready to retire. Turnoffs: I can be shy, but if you give me a chance I’ll shower you with love.
SCOOBY 3-year-old male husky mix. Looking for: A boat captain so I can be your first mate. Turnoffs: No cats.
Best Real Estate Company: Company n : ny Keys Ocean Realty Best Vacation V cation Rental Va Company: Company n : ny Keys Ocean Vacation V cation Rentals Va
WE WOULD BE HONORED FOR YOUR VOTE FOR BEST FISHING GUIDE/CHARTER 305-289-0071 | MAINATTRACTION.ORG
SWIPE RIGHT
Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA
Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption match at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus – complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit. From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people. See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800 or visit 10550 Aviation Blvd.
Hurricane fosters needed. With hurricane season upon us, the SPCA needs volunteers and fosters in case of a storm. Over 100 animals would need to be evacuated, so it is crucial they all have homes in place before an impending storm. The SPCA provides everything you need; all
WILLOW 3-year-old female shepherd mix. Looking for: I like to work, and figure things out. Give me a job. Turnoffs: Sitting around all day. Boring.
you do is give an animal a safe haven during the storm and return them to the shelter once it’s safe – that is, if you don’t fall in love. For more information on becoming a hurricane foster, visit https://fkspca.org/volunteer/become-a-foster-volunteer/ or call 305-743-4800.
35
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
We are in the midst of eclipse season, and everyCHRIS thing isn’t quite what it McNULTY seems. Can you feel the earth is an astrologer, shifting beneath your feet? wanderer, barDo you feel as though there tender and advocate for queer are monumental changes taking place, even though justice. He is a loquacious Gemini you can’t quite make out exwith a cozy Cancer actly what they are? The time rising. Find him at between eclipses requires hearthandheraldus to follow our intuition astrology.com and make bold choices, even if the overall strategy isn’t completely laid out. Trust your gut, and know it is healthy to start new chapters and leave old ways behind. This week, we also have Venus in her home sign of Libra forming an opposition to Saturn in Aries, the sign of his fall. Venus represents love, relationships, values, beauty and balance. She is at home in Libra, so she is able to bring about these qualities very readily. Saturn oversees boundaries, structures, hard lessons, tradition and things that take time. He is in the sign where he is most stifled in his capacity to enact these principles. What we get is a situation where what we desire is being opposed by the traditional order of things, but what we desire has the upper hand. It’s a fairly hedonistic time, to be honest. Allow yourself to enjoy pleasing experiences and let go of restraints a bit. Indulge the senses. Agree to social engagements. Love on your people. Retain a bit of structure, however, because Saturn remains a player in the arrangement. Get a little sleep and show a little restraint. But all in all, luxuriate in life’s bounty. Here are your horoscopes for the VenusSaturn opposition. Read for your rising and sun signs. LEO July 23 - Aug. 22 Your immediate environment and community are filled with people and places that bring love and fulfillment into your life. While you may have some plans in the works for adventure and advancement, right now you are being given the green light to appreciate what is right in front of you. Pump the brakes on novelty and fall into the familiar. Love the ones you’re with. VIRGO Aug. 23 - Sept. 22 You’ve been working on a project or projects with other people, incrementally investing your time and treasure. Under this sky, however, you are being given permission to spend money on yourself and to value your own happiness. What have you been denying yourself that you can now indulge in? It’s not selfish to pursue your own needs and wants. Your investments are not going anywhere.
LIBRA Sept. 23 - Oct. 22 This is the time to show yourself as much love as you possibly can. You’ve been putting in the work for an important relationship in your life, creating the structures necessary for lasting commitment. Right now, turn your focus to creating as much pleasure and love for yourself as possible. Literally look in the mirror with the eyes of a lover. You deserve your own attention, too. SCORPIO Oct. 23 - Nov. 21 You have been incredibly disciplined when it comes to your routines and your overall wellness. You’ve been putting in the work, creating lasting structures for your daily life. But you know what? It is OK to take some time off and retreat. Now is that perfect time. Let yourself rest deeply. Love the quiet time. Indulge in radical aloneness. The work you’ve put in will not fall apart. SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22 - Dec. 21 This sky invites you to be a social butterfly in the best way possible. Surround yourself with friendly banter and supportive people right now. You’ve been putting a lot of time and dedication into your creative craft, and now it is the perfect time to let loose. Your creativity needs to breathe, and immersing yourself in the social atmosphere around you is the ideal out breath. CAPRICORN Dec. 22 - Jan. 19 There’s some really good stuff happening at work, Capricorn. Indulge in whatever recognition, public praise or professional wins are coming your way. While you’ve been working hard on home and family, creating a world of lasting structure, it is OK to let the domestic burdens fall to the wayside for a moment. You deserve to be applauded for your efforts in the world outside. AQUARIUS Jan. 20 - Feb. 18 You probably have all sorts of tedious little tasks to get done in your everyday world, and yet this sky is encouraging you to travel and explore. Your chores are not going anywhere, so indulge in the world beyond the horizon. Fall in love with a faraway land, even if it’s in a book or a film. Let yourself dissolve into the romanticism of new knowledge and exotic places. PISCES Feb. 19 - March 20 A scarcity mindset might have you feeling a bit stressed about your own financial health, and paying attention to your incomes and expenses is important. However, under this sky, it is impor-
LOVE BEFORE LAW
tant to turn your attention to the ways in which you are supported by other people. Fall in love with sharing what you have and receiving generosity. Let yourself be vulnerable and see just how beautiful surrender can be. ARIES March 21 - April 19 You’ve been doing some serious work on yourself. Putting boundaries in place, investing in your physical body, getting serious about who you want to be. That’s fantastic. Right now, however, let your partner(s) love on you. Accept that life isn’t just about hard work, and let your people bring some grace and levity into your world. It’s OK to soften the edges from time to time and indulge when you’re invited. TAURUS April 20 - May 20 It appears that you have been quite introspective lately, putting in the hard work to get your mental health and your interior life in order. It’s great to get some structure in place for your inner well-being. Right now, though, your body is calling out for some sweetness and care. Indulge in some delicious foods and participate in physical wellness. Your body needs as much care and love as your mind does. GEMINI May 21 - June 20 You’ve been letting social rules and the expectations of your friends take your attention lately. It’s good to be mindful of collective structures, but now it is time to engage in your own personal joy. Participate in your own creative outlets, fall in love overnight, or play for the sake of playing. Your own bliss is more important than social obligations. A flight of fancy would serve you well. CANCER June 21 - July 22 Home is literally where the heart is right now, Cancer. You’ve been putting in some serious dedication in the workplace, and your hard work will produce results. Right now, though, immersing yourself in the comforts of home and the love of family is what your soul needs. You don’t need to chase excitement for success. There is real medicine in your homestead.
36
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE YOUR CATEGORY AD HERE Best Business
A Best of Marathon banner keeps your business front and center while locals nominate their favorites. Ask me about online banner opportunities
call or email
Business name
VOTE
Business name
VOTE
PATTI
305.731.9628 patti@keysweekly.com
37
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
Founded by Betty Debnam MINI FACT: Animal shelters take in many kinds of animals, including guinea pigs, lizards, ferrets and snakes.
If you have a pet at home, there’s a good chance it came from an animal shelter. Animal shelters care for millions of abandoned or injured dogs and cats each year. There are about 5,000 animal shelters in the United States.
Photo by The Bees
WHAT IS A SHELTER? Most shelters are places that care for animals for a short while. Few can care for animals for the rest of their natural lives. Shelters care for the animals while workers search for good homes for them. They find homes for millions of animals every year. Dogs and cats are the main animals in shelters. However, they also care for many other animals people have as pets. Sometimes wild animals end up in shelters, too. WHAT DO SHELTERS DO? Shelters take in abandoned or injured animals. Often they care for lost or stray dogs and cats until their owners claim them. Animal control officers also rescue animals from situations where the animals are being treated cruelly. Animals that have been pets don’t do well on their own. Shelters look after these animals. Shelters provide food, water, housing and medical care. Workers pet and play with the animals.
Photo by Chriss Haight Pagani
GIVE THEM SHELTER This mother cat and her three kittens are feral (FAIR-uhl), or wild. They live by hunting.
SPAYING AND NEUTERING Experts say the most important thing people can do to help their pets is to get them spayed or neutered. This means the animals get an operation to be sure they can’t have kittens or puppies. They are asleep during the operation, so they aren’t scared or in pain. Spaying and neutering are important because there are so many animals needing care and not enough homes or shelters for them. One cat or dog can have many litters in its life. Its kittens or puppies can have many litters, too. This can end up creating thousands of new cats and dogs. GOOD HOMES NEEDED! Unfortunately, shelters cannot care for all the hurt or abandoned animals that come through their doors. Experts say that from 6 to 8 million dogs and cats are brought into shelters in America each year. About half of those are euthanized (YOU-thuh-NIZD), or painlessly killed.
HOW TO HELP If you see an animal you think is being mistreated, tell an adult you trust. Never approach a strange animal. Do not go onto someone else’s property. Tell a parent, a teacher or a police officer. Animal cruelty is illegal everywhere in America. You can volunteer at a local shelter. You can volunteer in person or do other things to help out the shelter workers. You could: • Stuff envelopes for the shelter’s mailings. • Collect and deliver items shelters need*, such as: pet food and treats kitty litter washable toys first-aid supplies soft towels and blankets
* Call your local shelter first to see which supplies they most need.
RESOURCES ON THE WEB • bit.ly/MPshelters AT THE LIBRARY • “Give Me Shelter: Turning Shelter Dogs and Cats Into Family Pets” by Yellow Duck Press • “Milton Makes a Move” by Jonathan Graziano
The Mini Page® © 2026 Andrews McMeel Syndication
FIND IT ADOPT, ANIMAL, BLANKETS, CARE, CAT, DOG, FERAL, FOOD, HOME, LITTER, LOST, NEUTER, PET, SHELTER, SPAY, STRAY, TOWELS, TOYS, TREATS, VOLUNTEER, WATER.
Words that remind us of animal shelters are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
L H C Z Z V A S U F
O A D O P T I G R S
S R L A R E F L E P
T S T E K N A L B Y A R T S N B W S E L O L I F Q H S S T I M P Q E L H T A A T O L E O P A L L W T W M V E E M L E O E Z A T R R R T O K R F O T U E N X L H J Y A Y L C A R E M S
Z Y Y R Z Z E L G E W O T D D N O K U O T L F A O U C V C C
ECO NOTE Nearly a mile beneath the waters surrounding the Galápagos Islands, Photo courtesy Charles scientists encountered a tiny flash of Darwin Foundation blue unlike anything they had seen before. Barely the size of a golf ball, the newly discovered octopus emerged from one of the least explored environments on Earth — the dark, cold seafloor of the tropical Pacific Ocean. Researchers described a sense of wonder as cameras captured the little creature moving across the ocean floor, its vivid blue body glowing against the darkness. Adapted with permission from Earthweek.com
38
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.743-0844
Remodeling | Spalling | Paver Installation Custom Build & More
Leslie Christensen OWNER
phone 305-743-6881 AmericanCoastalRentals.com Leslie@AmericanCoastalRentals.com 9141 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
305.731.4563 CGC1512656 • CFC1428414
Liz Samess Interiors
SOLAR DONE RIGHT! CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE
Design, Decorating, Drafting, & More…
Liz Samess Interior Designer
CELL: (954) 801-7883
When it comes to solar and power storage for your home in the Florida Keys, turn to the Florida Keys Local Experts at SALT Energy. A division of SALT Service, serving The Keys since 1989
305-289-1150
Email: interiordesignbyliz@gmail.com
Marathon, FL 33050
Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734 Florida Electrical Contractor EC13008657
www.saltenergy.net 2992 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050
SALES | INSTALLATION | SERVICE Lic & Ins SP3696
SPECIALIZING IN REMODELS & NEW CONSTRUCTION FOR OVER 20 YEARS
Mon - Fri 8:30am - 5:00pm • 6681 Overseas Hwy, Marathon keystilestone@gmail.com • www.keystilestone.com • 305.743.7053
Stephanie Cheever
ISLAND STORAGE
Realtor® 305.481.3067 coconuts@frontiernet.net stephaniecheever.kw.com
Climate controlled units
10730 4th Ave Gulf, Marathon, FL. 305.743.0231 Mid-Lower Keys Buying or Selling call me for a free consultation
“SELL+SOLD=SMILES”
Locally owned and operated for over 50 years
Rafael Cordova 786.299.8992
Dale Coburn, Attorney 305.743.9858 Coburn@marathonlaw.com 5800 Overseas Highway, Suite 3, Marathon
Interior & Exterior Painting CGC1535962
rafamanagementgroupllc@gmail.com
39
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.743.0844 Licensed & Insured #SP33799
KAREN RASPE 305.393.9010 kraspe@oceansir.com www.oceansir.com
ALL KEYS GLASS
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors
3 0 5 -7 4 3 -7 8 0 0
Authorized Dealer
Sales & Installation • Tub & Shower Enclosures Safety & Tempered Glass • Mirror & Mirror Walls Plexi-Glass & Lexan
12420 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050
Capt. Brian's
JO ANN COOK
POOL SUPPLIES & SPA STORE WE SELL HOT TUBS! Delivered & Installed Key Largo to Key West
We DO Weekly Pool maintenance & Bi-weekly Landscape service
Exclusive dealer of USA-made Strong spas in the FL Keys!
305.393.9801 10699 Aviation Blvd Marathon, FL Keys
www.captbrianpoolandspa.com
Floor & Wall Tiles Porcelain/Planks Marble Carpets Quartz & Granite Countertops
Lic#SP-3562
y’s www.KeysSlidingGlassDoorRepair.com d n A Sliding Glass Door Repair Roller Maintenance Track Maintenance Door Alignment Security Pins Safety Locks Handles
Licensed & Insured
FREE ESTIMATES U.S.1 & 109th St, Marathon (Across from Beall’s Outlet)
ALLY KELLEY
Global Real Estate Advisor
We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens
727.459.0493 akelley@oceansir.com
CGC1523838
Serving Key Largo to Key West
Will Campbell President
BUiLDiNG iNSPECTiONS & PLAN REViEW PRiVATE PROViDER WiLL CAMPBELL - PRESiDENT
Cell: 305-363-8330 Office: 305-735-4626 will@cecflk.com www.CECFLK.com
P.E. Lic. No: 79269 5800 Overseas Hwy. Unit 32 Marathon, FL. 33050
CGC1523838
12420 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050
GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS
SPALLING EXPERTS
Michael Kiraly
EC13015104
Licensed and Insured
12420 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050
289-3019
Insured • Professional • Reliable
305.509.0925
305.360.7968 jcook@oceansir.com
BRIAN TEWES
305-998-8953
CHRIS BRYK
Broker Associate
We Do Installations!
RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL MARINE
Mortgage Lender Supervisor NMLS# 675432
WE ALWAYS SHOW UP!
11400 Overseas Hwy, Suite 214 & 215 Marathon, FL 33050
MKiraly@My100Bank.com Direct: (305) 942-1756 Office: (305) 676-3019
MY100BANK.COM | Centennial Bank
305.743.7454
Rachel Keller TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM FLORIDA KEYS Airports: EYW, MIA & FLL PARTY BUS • VAN • SUV | fkes2011@gmail.com
SALES & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Rachellynnes94@gmail.com 305.393.3076
Proud member of:
INTERNATIONAL
CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE
40
MARATHON WEEKLY / AUGUST 20, 2026
LISTINGS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS OPEN HOUSE SAT., 8/22, 11A–1P
CORNER CANAL W/ 235’ OF WATERFRONT
OPEN HOUSE SAT., 8/22, 11A–1P
QUICK OCEAN AND GULF ACCESS
OPEN HOUSE SAT., 8/22, 11A–1P
CORNER LOT NEAR BOATING ACCESS
21090 5TH AVE. CUDJOE KEY | $3,099,000
87 SIRIUS LN. GEIGER KEY | $799,000
28110 DOROTHY AVE. LITTLE TORCH KEY | $749,900
• 3 bedrooms | 3 baths • 3,056 sq. ft. on 12,738 sq. ft. lot • Deep-water dockage near full-service marina • CBS construction & 2-car garage • 15K & 12K pound boat lifts • Heated saltwater spa pool • Spacious screened lanai
• 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths • 1,518 sq. ft. on 5,196 sq. ft. lot • Impact windows • Deep-draft boating access from 40’ wide canal • Concrete seawall and dock • Dedicated tackle room & attached workshop • Neighborhood marina and waterfront restaurant
• 3 bedrooms | 2 baths • 1,431 sq. ft. on 7,814 sq. ft. lot • Free community boat ramp just blocks away • Impact windows & doors • Metal roof and covered parking • Low insurance rates • Family-friendly neighborhood
NEW LISTING
PRIVATE DOCK W/ SEATING AREA AND BUILT-IN ANGLER’S TABLE
PRICE REDUCTION
SPACIOUS LOT IN QUIET NEIGHBORHOOD
CANAL-FRONT WITH OCEAN ACCESS
3256 CATHERINE ST. BIG TORCH KEY | $2,200,000
31368 AVENUE E BIG PINE KEY | $399,000
51 SAWYER DR. CUDJOE KEY | $1,799,000
• 2 bedrooms | 2 baths • 1,800 sq. ft. on 1.44 acres • 155’ of waterfront • Potential for additional waterfront guest house • Private primary suite set beyond dedicated library • Expansive wraparound porch with sunset views • Proximity to shopping center
• 3 bedrooms | 2 baths • 1,440 sq. ft. home • Spacious 10,000 sq. ft. lot • Renovate or build new • All-new sub-flooring installed • ROGO-exempt build opportunity • Near parks, shopping & boat rampsl
• 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths • 2,456 sq. ft. on 9,157 sq. ft. lot • 80’ concrete dock • Direct deep-water ocean access via 60’ wide canal • Proximity to full-service neighborhood marina • Attached 2-car garage • Primary suite retreat with his-and-hers closets
THE LISA FERRINGO GROUP COLDWELL BANKER SCHMITT Office: 305.872.5261 Cell: 305.797.1221 lisaferringo@gmail.com LisaFerringo.com
August 20, 2026
Football is back in Monroe County | P.8
THE REGAN ROTH TEAM IS HERE TO PROTECT YOU...
YOUR FAMILY, YOUR LIFESTYLE, YOUR HOME!
Family owned and operated since 1958 ADMINISTRATION
Joseph H. Roth III President 27 Years
Lorie Head Office Manager 36 Years
Jennifer Roth Assistant Manager 5 Years
Sara Roth, Agent/ Commercial Lines Assistant Supervisor 3 Years
Maria Bell Receptionist 4 Years
SALES
Linda Griswold Agent/Sales
20 Years
Holly Redding Agent/Sales
24 Years
COMMERCIAL LINES
Grimi Betancourt Manager/Sales Agent-Marathon
6 Years
Christine Thing Agent/Account Manager 1 Year
Lisa Maguire Supervisor
17 Years
Remorna Pottinger Kyra Gonsalves Ochoa Account Processor 5 Years Account Manager
18 Years
Elizabeth Kubishen Account Processor 5 Years
ACCOUNTING
PERSONAL LINES
Paula Sachs Supervisor
Vianey Diaz Account Manager
Jennifer Paul Account Manager
Kayla Soriano Miriam Garcia Account Processor Account Processor
19 Years
4 Years
23 Years
3 Years
2 Years
Aileen Joiner Accounting Manager Automation 20 Years
Sabrina Boozer Accounting <1 Year
Home, wind and flood. All lines of commercial/business insurance. Boats, autos, golf carts and recreational vehicles
REST ASSURED, WE ARE ALWAYS HERE TO HELP YOU WEATHER ANY STORM! 305.852.3234 90144 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier
305.743.3414 8065 Overseas Hwy. Marathon
www.ReganRoth.com Response@ReganRoth.com
3
AUGUST 20, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS
THE SCOREBOARD
AUG. 13-16
Team
Sport
Opponent
Date
Result
Coral Shores
Volleyball (Preseason)
Key West
8/13
W, 2-0
Coral Shores
Volleyball (Preseason)
Marathon
8/13
W, 2-0
Key West
Volleyball (Preseason)
Marathon
8/13
W, 2-0
Marathon
Football (Preseason)
South Miami
8/14
W, 40-0
Key West
Football (Preseason)
Somerset Silver Palms
8/14
W, 21-6
Coral Shores
Football
Coral Springs Charter
8/14
W, 25-21
THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Jesus
GONZALEZ
Senior, Marathon Football
AUG. 20-27
Date
School
Sport
Opponent
Start Time
8/20
Marathon
Volleyball
@ Keys Gate
5 p.m.
8/21
Marathon
Volleyball
Westwood Christian
4 p.m.
8/21
Key West
Volleyball
Boca Raton
TBA
8/21
Key West
Football
@ Boca Raton
6:30 p.m.
8/21
Coral Shores
Football
Miami Beach
7 p.m.
8/21
Marathon
Football
@ Wildwood
7 p.m.
8/21
Marathon
Cross Country
@ FNU Conquistador
TBA
8/25
Coral Shores
Volleyball
Marathon
5:30 p.m.
8/26
Marathon
Volleyball
Key West
5:30 p.m.
8/27
Coral Shores
Volleyball
Somerset South Homestead
5:30 p.m.
8/27
Coral Shores
Cross Country
@ Palmer
TBA
Jesus’ toughness, instincts and work ethics are what set him apart from the rest. He has been waiting for this moment since he was in sixth grade here at Marathon.” – Sean McDonald, Marathon head coach
152 total yards
ON THE COVER
AUGUST 20
Marathon’s Kevin Ruiz goes up for the catch in preseason action against South Miami on Aug. 14. The Dolphins prevailed, 40-0. See page 8. SEAN WESTERBAND/ Keys Weekly
3
total touchdowns
S
enior Jesus Gonzalez has waited a long time for this season. The quiet leader has been running Marathon’s single-wing offense since middle school, and in the Dolphins’ preseason win over South Miami, that experience showed. Gonzalez rushed for 105 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries while completing four passes for 47 yards and another score. More likely to lead by example than with words, Gonzalez has earned the respect of his teammates through his toughness, work ethic and commitment to the team. His twin brother Israel shares the backfield with him, but for Gonzalez, the brotherhood extends across the roster. More than individual numbers or accolades, what he wants most is to see the Dolphins succeed. For his selfless play, tireless off-season work ethic and standout performance, Marathon’s Jesus Gonzalez is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
Photo by NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly
4
tracy mcdonald SPORTS WRITER
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / AUGUST 20, 2026
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com
Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com
Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com
Business Development
Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com Manuela C. Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com
Production Manager
PRESEASON
Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com
Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com
Graphic Design
sean mcdonald grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
MARKET EDITORS
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com
Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com
Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844
Se habla español
THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com
Hurricanes make an early statement on the volleyball court
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eys volleyball teams met in the middle on Aug. 13 to test their grit against one another prior to the official start of the season four days later. The Hurricanes of Coral Shores defeated both Marathon and Key West 2-0 in matches that were close, competitive and full of excitement for the upcoming season. Head coach Sam Ovalle’s Lady ’Canes enter the season with a young but experienced roster, bolstered by veteran leadership. A talented sophomore class gained valuable experience last season, and if last week’s test is any indication, the Hurricanes could be a factor in FHSAA’s Class 3A District 16. Ovalle praised his team’s energy and noted standout performances from Celene Walker, Alex Burson, Abby Leigh, Coralyn Frimpter, Bella Villalba and Eliyana Mcleod. Joining the Hurricanes in 3A District 16 are the Lady Conchs, who picked up a pair of wins over Marathon. Coach Kim Butler’s roster is relatively young, but the Lady Conchs have athleticism and size on their side. Helping to guide that young talent are libero Journey Lamb and back row specialist Dianeza Gonzalez, who managed to stand out on a roster full of seniors last season. Despite some preseason miscues, Key West showed plenty of potential while testing different lineups and making adjustments ahead of the regular season. Marathon has a new coach this season, but it’s hardly a new face. Kevin Freeman returns to the volleyball program to lead the Dolphins in their quest for a Rural District 8 title. Freeman served 15 seasons as head coach of the Lady Fins before stepping down in 2020, and six years later, he’s back on the court and ready for another run. His roster features a healthy mix of veterans and underclassmen eager to prove what they can do in district play. Adelle Bainbridge will shore up the net while Ana Boose and Dahlia Westdickenberg will hold things down on the back line. Basilica School will compete at the junior varsity level this season after graduating seven seniors last year. With a roster made up entirely of underclassmen, the Mariners will use the season to develop their young players, gain valuable varsity-level experience and begin building the foundation for seasons to come.
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1. Hurricane hitter Coralyn Frimpter goes up for a strong hit against Marathon. 2. Kerestin Hults serves the ball for Key West. 3. Hurricane sophomore Jillian Thiery serves the ball to Marathon. 4. Coral Shores’ Jillian Thiery and Marathon’s Adelle Bainbridge leap for control at the net. 5. Marathon’s Anastasia Boose (2) sets the ball during the Dolphins’ preseason match against Coral Shores. 6. Dolphin Adelle Bainbridge (11) jumps to block a Coral Shores spike. 7. Key West’s Miriam McManus (6) sets the ball for outside hitter Kerestin Hults in the Conchs’ preseason match against Coral Shores. 8. Coral Shores coach Sam Ovalle gives his team advice during a break.
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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / AUGUST 20, 2026
RUNNING DOWN A DREAM 2025 Athletes of the Year return to the cross country course for another season
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perfect storm may just be brewing in the Florida Keys. Last season’s male and female cross country athletes of the year are returning to the course this year, and despite how effortless Ali Wheatley and Lucian Burns make it look, the sport is far more challenging than it seems. Running standouts almost always fit a mold. They are hardworking perfectionists who excel in all they do, whether in the classroom or outside putting in miles in 90-degree heat. Nobody outworks a cross country star. Wheatley, a Coral Shores junior chasing down the all-time school record, and Burns, a Marathon sophomore with speed to spare, fit this mold to a T. And both are motivated by the same thing: competition. “What motivates me is thinking of beating the person in front of me and not having to say ‘what if’ at the end of the race if I didn’t push,” said Burns. Likewise, Wheatley loves a good challenge. “I really like to race,” she said, also expressing gratitude that she has had a chance to be pushed by some of the finest competition in Florida. Both champs agree that heat plays a major factor in their times, noting that an unseasonably cool day or some well-timed cloud cover can yield a coveted PR, something Wheatley and Burns are actively seeking. “This season I am focused on running a time under 19 minutes, and earning a medal at the regional race,” Wheatley said. Burns, too, is looking to break a minute barrier this season. “I’m chasing to break 16 in the 5K and in the future, win first at states in the 3200 in track,” he said. But he’ll have to finish the season healthy in order to achieve those goals. Though it is not unlike Burns to slip off a
Top: Ali Wheatley, cruising to a finish in last season’s regional championships, is poised to make an immediate impact on the cross country circuit this season Below: Lucian Burns makes repeats look easy at a recent practice at Marathon High RICK MACKENZIE and TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly
protective boot to run a race with a questionable injury when it’s all on the line, he is doing everything in his power this season to toe the line at states injury-free. This offseason, he’s added strength training, stretching and more intense warmups in hopes of putting his best foot forward at states. While most Keys kids were lounging around the sandbar this summer, Wheatley headed for considerably higher ground. She attended Smoky Mountain Running Camp in Asheville, North Carolina, where she worked on hill training, something not particularly easy to come by in the Florida Keys and something that will serve her well on the state course in Tallahassee. She also picked up speed and efficiency drills that she is excited to share with her team. Despite the individual nature of cross country, it is a team sport, too, and that is not lost on either Wheatley or Burns. Wheatley’s standout career with the ’Canes is highlighted, in her opinion, by her team’s achievements. “The best thing that happened last season was our team getting to regionals,” she said. “It was so amazing to see all the hard work me and my teammates had put in all season come together as we were able to represent our school on a higher level. Everyone ran really well at districts, which was also one of my best races last season.” And though she does have high hopes to be a state contender this season, she added, “On top of that, it is really important to me to be the best teammate I can be and support everyone as much as I can.“ Burns also added his teammates to his season goals. He hopes to stand out at the invitationals this season, but also looks ahead to the spring, when he is excited about anchoring the Dolphin 4x800 relay team, which he hopes will outpace the entire region this year. And while there is no doubt Wheatley and Burns have the chops to stand out in Tallahassee this fall, both believe in their teams and know they also have the potential to go far. But it’s not going to be easy. “They will have to understand it will be hard; it will not always be fun. And if you want to be a champion you have to do what no one else will and knowing that will make us successful,” said Burns. Wheatley had similar sentiments. “It’s been said that miles in the summer turn into minutes in the fall,” she said. If Wheatley and Burns are right, plenty of summer miles have already been banked. Now, with two of the Keys’ best runners returning faster, stronger and hungry for more, the perfect storm may be ready to break.
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MILES OF POSSIBILITY
Key West, Basilica runners build for future as cross country season gets underway
Key West (and a few Sugarloaf) cross country runners participate in drills in preparation for the upcoming season. CONTRIBUTED
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n the Southernmost City, Key West’s cross country teams are entering the season with plenty of new faces and, according to head coach Keara McGraw, a roster that is “full of possibility.” The Conchs will have a talented mix of incoming freshmen, including Hazel Matazarro, Lynn Noah, Noah Taylor, Gage Jangraw and Ella Urrestarazo Jara, who will add a spark of energy as they join forces with the veterans. Returning runners Violet Jangraw, Ryah Bushey, Emma Bradshaw, Sawyer Hill, Alejandro Caridad, Collin Palomino, Charlie Delashmit, Matthew Barrett and Izzy Gotuzzo bring the experience and work ethic needed to provide a solid foundation for McGraw, who will again be doing double
duty this season as head coach of both the boys and girls teams. “There’s real talent in this group, and there’s also work to be done to reach it,” said McGraw. The Conchs are putting in that work in the late-summer heat, hoping the miles logged now will begin to pay dividends as the season progresses. Across town, Basilica School also plans to field a team this season. The Mariners enjoyed some success last fall and have already demonstrated their ability to develop young runners. Several athletes now on McGraw’s Key West roster got their start at Basilica last season, giving the small program an early indication that it can help cultivate runners capable of competing at the next level.
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Conch cross country athletes receive some love from the student body at Key West’s first pep rally. ROCKY GONET/Keys Weekly
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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / AUGUST 20, 2026
THREE WINS, THREE WAYS F or the first time since Sept. 20, 2024, all three Keys football teams landed in the win column on the same weekend. Marathon, Coral Shores and Key West did it this time as the programs prepare to navigate three very different paths through the 2026 season. Marathon gave fans plenty to be excited about on Aug. 14, defeating the South Miami Cobras in the Dolphins’ preseason classic at Tropical Park in Miami. Though the victory will not count toward the Fins’ record, their performance offered an early glimpse of what head coach Sean McDonald has called a season five years in the making. “These guys have been running this offense since middle school and it’s showing on the field,” McDonald said. The Dolphins’ veteran backfield is led by senior tailback Jesus Gonzalez, with his twin brother Israel Gonzalez at B-back, junior Garrett Ruddy at fullback and senior Mathew Machado at wing. Most of the group has played together since sixth grade and is now entering its fifth season running Marathon’s singlewing attack. “The veterans are really understanding the nuances of the offense, and that’s big,” McDonald said, adding that hard work in the offseason has also made a difference. That experience showed against South Miami. Marathon amassed 422 yards of total offense, with 375 coming on the ground at an average of 10.7 yards per carry. Jesus Gonzalez led the rushing attack with 105 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries. Machado added 82 yards and a score on seven carries, while Ruddy rushed eight times for 62 yards. Israel Gonzalez added 43 yards and a touchdown on just two carries, and Gabe Harper rushed twice for 36 yards and another score. The Dolphins were efficient through the air as well. Gonzalez completed four of nine passes for 47 yards and a touchdown, connecting with Machado on all four completions. Machado finished the night with 129 total yards and two touchdowns between his rushing and receiving efforts. Defensively, Maverick McDonald and Aiden Lezcano led Marathon with seven tackles apiece, with Lezcano adding two quarterback hurries. Harper and Tripp Avera each came away with an interception. The promising preseason performance comes as Marathon enters a new era in postseason competition. With the FHSAA eliminating its Rural classification this season, the Dolphins opted to compete as an independent. Rather than following the traditional district playoff path, Marathon will have an opportunity to qualify for the independent postseason based on its record and ranking. The change is part of a much larger shakeup in Florida high school football, as schools across the state adjust to a new landscape shaped by classification changes, school choice and player movement. For some Keys programs, including Coral Shores, that has meant choosing a different path forward. CORAL SHORES The Hurricanes picked up win No. 1 of the season with a 25-21 victory, and unlike the preseason wins and losses logged by their Keys neighbors, this one will remain in the record books. Coral Shores has exited the FHSAA in favor of the Sunshine State Athletic Association, making its season opener not only the first official game of the year, but an important conference matchup. It was a move head coach Ed Holly did not make lightly. The dynamics facing smaller schools factored into the decision, and when Coral Shores initially made the leap, programs were
Keys football teams earn preseason weekend sweep
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“The veterans are really understanding the nuances of the offense, and that’s big.”
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1. The Coral Shores football team opened their season with a win. 2. Ekon Edwards 3. Sterling Keefe 4. Kevin Williams Jr. 5. Marathon cheerleader Amelia Perdomo. 6. Gabriel Harper stiff-arms a defender. 7. Jesus Gonzalez finds the gap. 8. Israel Gonzalez (8) and Garrett Ruddy (9) celebrate a touchdown. 9. Charlie Buttner (3) and Curren Nicolay (12) make a team tackle. Photos by Sean Westerband, Natalie Goodwin and Natalie Danko
permitted to remain members of the FHSAA while also participating in the SSAA. That option changed after the Hurricanes made their decision, leaving Coral Shores outside the FHSAA and fully committed to its new path. Holly sees plenty of reasons for optimism. “The SSAA has a guaranteed playoff format for all teams. They regulate transfers and recruiting, and it’s a new, exciting opportunity for us to play new teams similar to ours and see the state,” he said. That new era began with a test. Coral Shores trailed for much of its opener, but the Hurricanes did what they have traditionally done well: run the football and keep grinding. David Beltran powered the Hurricanes’ run-heavy offense, scoring twice in the first half on gains of 12 and 15 yards. Coral Shores went into halftime trailing 14-12. Quarterback Sterling Keefe added a 10-yard touchdown run, but the Hurricanes eventually found themselves trailing 21-18 and needing one more score. They got it when it mattered most. With just over 3-1/2 minutes remaining, Keefe led Coral Shores on an 80-yard drive, finishing it himself with a 3-yard touchdown run to put the Hurricanes ahead 25-21 for good. Coral Shores amassed 301 rushing yards, with Beltran accounting for 200 of them on 28 carries. He added five receptions for 77 yards to finish with 277 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns. Kevin Williams rushed nine times for 45 yards, while Charles Royal added 33 yards on five carries and hauled in a 25-yard reception. Keefe threw for 105 yards on just seven attempts in addition to his work on the ground. Royal was equally disruptive on defense, registering five solo tackles, an assisted tackle, two pressures and a sack. Billy Holly and Ekon Edwards were also among the Hurricanes’ leading tacklers. The win carried additional weight as Coral Shores’ first conference game in its new league. SSAA playoff rankings factor in a team’s overall record, conference performance and strength of schedule. “Getting a conference win in week one is a huge confidence builder,” Holly said. The Hurricanes also had to contend with a hot, humid and windy South Florida night on the turf, but they were not without support away from home. “Coral Shores traveled well,” Holly said. “We had a big turnout.”
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10. Kelly Kasper leads a Conch charge. 11. Matthew Oviedo (5) and James Carey (71) on the scrimmage line with Jayson Michel (2). 12. Allens Alexandre fends off a Somerset defender. 13. Cain Hughes (32) makes sure Chace Gaertner (7) gets the touchdown. 14. Chace Gaertner breaks through the goal-line stand. 15. Khoa Nguyen (44) and Jakobe Williamson (6) stop Travis Jacinthe (2). Photos by Rocky Gonet
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Next up, Miami Beach High School travels to Tavernier for a non-conference matchup before Coral Shores returns to conference play the following week against Westminster Academy. With unfamiliar opponents filling much of the schedule, preparation may be more challenging this season, but for the Hurricanes, that is part of the excitement of taking a new path.
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KEY WEST Key West, meanwhile, will stay the course with the FHSAA, remaining in Class 3A District 16 and facing another daunting slate of opponents. The Conchs will contend with perennial powers Miami Central, Jackson, Miami Springs and North Miami Beach, along with St. Brendan. Gone from the district lineup is Miami Northwestern, whose Bulls have dominated in recent seasons, but there will be no shortage of challenges remaining on Key West’s schedule.
If the preseason was any indication, the Conchs appear ready for them. Key West defeated Somerset Silver Palms 21-6 at Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium, giving a packed and lively home crowd its first look at a team tasked with replacing a highly talented backfield from a season ago. What the Conchs have up front should make that transition considerably easier. Key West boasts a massive offensive line featuring Kelly Kasper, Allens Alexandre, Louden Garcia, center James Carey and Josh Johnson, who is expected to return to full contact in the coming weeks. With multiple members of the unit already committed to Division I programs, the line gives Key West a formidable foundation around which to build its offense. Behind them, Chace Gaertner showed he may be ready to take on a much larger role. The featured back rushed for close to 150 yards against Somerset Silver Palms and scored twice, breaking loose for a 43-yard touchdown before adding another from six yards out. Matthew Oviedo added close to 100 yards with a hard-running performance, while quarterback Roman Van Loon showed his own ability to pick up yards on keepers. Van Loon earned the start at quarterback but was forced to the sideline temporarily with cramping. Jayson Michel stepped in and kept the Conchs moving, punching in a 2-yard touchdown run in relief. The heat has been an issue throughout the preseason, particularly for a Key West roster that will rely on numerous athletes to contribute on both sides of the ball. “This felt like the hottest summer ever. It was unbelievable,” head coach Johnny Hughes said of preseason camp. “I guess it prepares you, but it was rough.” For the Conchs, conditioning will be particularly important. “With guys playing both ways like us, it’s going to be a factor,” Hughes said. Key West’s defense gave the home crowd plenty to like as well, holding Somerset Silver Palms to six points while forcing a fumble and coming away with an interception. Luis Fernandez and Javi Perez were among the defensive standouts in the preseason victory. The competition gets considerably more serious this week when Key West travels to Boca Raton for its regular-season opener. With a powerful offensive front, a new group of ball carriers beginning to establish itself and a defense that looked sharp in its first test, Hughes is eager to see how the Conchs match up when the games begin to count. “It should be a good matchup,” he said.
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SWIMMING DOWN MEMORY LANE Key West alumni reunite as Lori Bosco celebrates 30 years coaching the Conchs
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t had been a decade since generations of Key West swimmers gathered for an alumni meet, but on Aug. 10, former Conchs had a reason to get back in the pool together. The veterans made their return with an appropriate amount of self-deprecation, entering the College of the Florida Keys pool area by bursting through a breakaway banner emblazoned with “WASHED UP.” They took to the water for an evening designed to reconnect former teammates and celebrate the legacy of Key West swimming. The reunion also provided an opportunity to recognize Lori Bosco, who is celebrating her 30th year coaching swimming at Key West High School. Former assistant coach and longtime friend Judd Wise “had the pleasure of coaching with her for 14 years” and said her impact on the program extends well beyond the pool. “She is a tireless worker. She is there for her swimmers,” Wise said. “She knows swimming, but more importantly, she
Top: Conch alumni pose for a photo after their first alumni meet 10 years ago. Above: Longtime Key West swim coach Lori Bosco addresses the crowd Aug. 10 at the Key West Alumni Swim Meet Photos contributed
wanted her athletes to know they were students first and athletes second.” Wise said the coaches emphasized doing things the right way, a philosophy they summed up for their swimmers with a simple saying: “Do it right, do it light; do it wrong, do it long.” For many of the former swimmers, the meet offered an opportunity to reconnect with teammates they do not get to see nearly as often as they would like. The last alumni meet was held 10 years ago, making this year’s gathering a long-awaited return to the pool. The alumni shared the evening with the current Key West swim team, alternating events with the Conchs as they swam 50-yard races and the 100 individual medley. The alumni did not compete directly against the current team, but the format gave Key West’s swimmers an opportunity to practice their starts and record some early-season times while sharing the pool with those who came before them. The evening also included a tribute to former Conch swimmer AJ Hally and a moment of silence honoring other members of the Key West swimming family who died too young. More than simply a return to competition, the alumni meet served as a celebration of the relationships built through the program and the generations of swimmers who have represented Key West High School. For a program spanning decades, the evening brought past and present together in the same pool, even if one group was willing to admit it was a little more “washed up” than the other. Cayo Provisions sponsored the meet by covering the pool fee, while Berkshire Hathaway sponsored a potluck pizza party following the swimming events.
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• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •
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FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Misfit located at 504 Angela Street, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. By: Jennifer Portier of Blanche Enterprises, LLC, a Florida limited liability company Publish: August 20 & 27, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-CP-000313-K IN RE: ESTATE OF CHARLES WILLIAM JONES, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Charles William Jones, deceased, whose date of death was May 4, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, 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. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in 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: August 20, 2026. Personal Representative: Susan Kurdziel 21072 6th Avenue Cudjoe Key, FL 33042 Attorney for Personal Representative: Dawn Ellis, Esq., Attorney for Personal Representative E-mail Address: Dawn@ MyFloridaProbate.com Florida Bar Number: 091979 My Florida Probate, PA Dawn Ellis, Esq., for the firm P.O. Box 952 Floral City, FL 34436-0952 (352) 726-5444 Publish: August 20 & 27, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-000404-P IN RE: ESTATE OF MARVIN A. BLUMENFELD Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of MARVIN A. BLUMENFELD, deceased, whose date of death was June 19, 2026; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 26-CP-000404-P; the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS: AUGUST 13, 2026. Personal Representatives: JEFFRY A. BLUMENFELD 290 Laramie Blvd. Boulder, CO 80304 jeff@blumenfeldpr.com ROBERT M. BLUMENFELD 12 Robin Hill Road Mount Kisco, NY 10549 bobby@blumenfeldgroup.com Attorney for Personal Representatives: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, P.A. JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0147273 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com Publish: August 13 & 20, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
Plaintiff Vs. MICHAEL T. GUERRA, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Oresme Gil Guerra, Defendant AMENDED NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE (TO CORRECT A SCRIVENER’S ERROR) NOTICE IS HEREBY given that pursuant to a Writ of Execution issued in the Circuit Court, of Miami Dade County, Florida, on the 19th day of March, 2026, in the cause wherein ALEX JESUS ANTON, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Beatriz Rodriguez Guerra is Plaintiff and MICHAEL T. GUERRA, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Oresme Gil Guerra, was defendant, being Case No. 2022-002703-CP-02 in said court, I, Richard A. Ramsay, Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida have levied upon all right, title, and interest of the defendant, in and to the following described real property to wit: SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY The following described land, situate, lying and being in Monroe County, Florida, to-wit: Legal Description: Lot 12, Block 32A, BIG PINE COVE, as recorded in Plat Book 3, page 131, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida. AND A tract of baybottom land in Bogie Channel, East of and adjacent to Lot 12, Block 32A, BIG PINE COVE, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Plat Book 3, page 131, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: COMMENCING at the N.E. corner of Block 32 of SANDS SUBDIVISION, as recorded in Plat Book 1, page 65, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and bear East for a distance of 540 feet, more or less, to the mean High Water Mark of Bogie Channel; continue to bear East for a distance of 400 feet; thence bear South 112.1 feet, to the Point of Beginning of the tract of baybotton hereinafter described; thence continue to bear South 87.9 feet to a point; thence bear West for a distance of 280 feet, more or less, back to the mean High Water Mark along the Easterly boundary of Lot 12, Block 32A, of the aforesaid BIG PINE COVE; thence meander the Mean High Water Mark in a Northwesterly direction to a point due West from the Point of Beginning, thence bear East back to the Point of Beginning. Property Address: 31641 Avenue D., Big Pine Key, FL 33043 (the “property”) Parcel ID/Folio# 00308710-000000 All bidders must have a valid Driver’s License with them and must register with the civil clerk at location of sale prior to start time of sale. I shall offer this property for sale, at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters building located at 5525 College Road Key West, Florida 33040
in the County of Monroe, State of Florida, on the 30th day of September 2026, at the hour of 10:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible. I will offer for sale all of the said defendant’s right, title, and interest in the aforesaid real property at public auction and will sell the same subject to all taxes, prior liens, encumbrances and judgments, if any, to the highest and best bidder for cash or cashiers check, in the exact amount of the bid, in hand. The proceeds to be applied as far as may be to the payment of costs and the satisfaction of the above described execution. Dated at Key West, Monroe County, Florida, this 14th day of August, 2026. Richard A. Ramsay Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida By: Donald Stullken Deputy Sheriff In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Civil Division no later than seven days prior to the proceeding at (305)809-3041 Publish: August 20 & 27 and September 3 & 10, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
not known to be dead or alive, his several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through, or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described, YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a Complaint has been filed against you by the Plaintiff in the above-style court for the purpose of quieting title to the following described property situate and being in Monroe County, Florida: Parcel 1: The Northeasterly one-half (1/2) of the following described parcel of land: A parcel of land on the Island of Key West, being a part of Tract 5 according to William A. Whitehead's map delineated in February, A.D. 1829, said land being more particularly described as a part of Lot 7 of Block 2 of W.C. Maloney's Estate Subdivision according to Plat Book 1, Page 2 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: COMMENCE at the intersection of the Northeasterly Right-ofWay line of Elizabeth Street and the Southeasterly Right-of-Way line of Olivia Street and thence N76°09'56"E along the said Southeasterly Right-of-Way line of Olivia Street for a distance of 71.00 feet to the Northeasterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, said point being the Point of Beginning of the parcel of land hereinafter described; thence continue N76°09'56"E along the said Southeasterly Right-of-Way line of Olivia Street for a distance of 3.00 feet to the Northwesterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence S13°50'04"E along the Southwesterly boundary line of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, for a distance of 100.26 feet to the Southwesterly corner of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence S76°21'50"W for a distance of 3.00 feet to the Southeasterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence N13°50'04"W along the Northeasterly boundary line of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe
County, Florida, for a distance of 100.25 feet back to the Point of Beginning ("Parcel 1"). Parcel 2: The Southwesterly one-half (1/2) of the following described parcel of land: A parcel of land on the Island of Key West, being a part of Tract 5 according to William A. Whitehead's map delineated in February, A.D. 1829, said land being more particularly described as a part of Lot 7 of Block 2 of W.C. Maloney's Estate Subdivision according to Plat Book 1, Page 2 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: COMMENCE at the intersection of the Northeasterly Right-ofWay line of Elizabeth Street and the Southeasterly Right-of-Way line of Olivia Street and thence N76°09'56"E along the said Southeasterly Right-of-Way line of Olivia Street for a distance of 71.00 feet to the Northeasterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, said point being the Point of Beginning of the parcel of land hereinafter described; thence continue N76°09'56"E along the said Southeasterly Right-of-Way line of Olivia Street for a distance of 3.00 feet to the Northwesterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence S13°50'04"E along the Southwesterly boundary line of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, for a distance of 100.26 feet to the Southwesterly corner of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence S76°21'50"W for a distance of 3.00 feet to the Southeasterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence N13°50'04"W along the Northeasterly boundary line of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, for a distance of 100.25 feet back to the Point of Beginning YOU ARE REQUIRED to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Richard J. McChesney, Esq., Spottswood, Spottswood, Spottswood, & Sterling, PLLC, Attorney for Plaintiff, whose address is 500 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040, on or before the following date: September 14th, 2026, and to file the original with the Clerk of the Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter, otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court on 7TH day of August, 2026. Kevin Madok, CPA as Clerk of the Court By: Britney Bethel as Deputy Clerk Publish: August 13, 20 & 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the vessel below will be sold at public sale on the date listed below at 10AM for monies owed for storage pursuant to Florida Statutes 328.17. SALE DATE: August 28, 2026 at 10AM LOCATION: Caloosa Cove Marina, 73501 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida 33036 VESSEL: 1986 Catalina Sailboat, HIN: CTN3361G586, Registration: FL5492GX BALANCE DUE: $9,257.04 OWNER: Michael Zutevez Caloosa Cove Marina reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids. Publish: August 13 & 20, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers DISTRICT V ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC V) (from Mile Marker 90.940 to the Dade/Monroe County Line and any Mainland portions of Monroe County) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for an “At Large” representative - Any resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying. (The operative word within this description is directly. This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity are dependent upon tourists.) Any person wishing to participate on the District V Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing angela@fla-keys.com. Completed applications should be emailed to angela@fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below: Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026. A resume may be attached to the application. Publish: August 20, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 11TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MIAMI DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO: 2022-002703-CP-02 ALEX JESUS ANTON, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Beatriz Rodriguez Guerra
The following is an upcoming GMX procurement opportunity: INVITATION TO BID (ITB) GMX PROCUREMENT/CONTRACT NO.: ITB-27-01
GMX PROJECT/SERVICE TITLE: SYSTEMWIDE PAVEMENT REPAIRS AND IMPROVEMENTS 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: August 20, 2026. The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE#: 44-2026-CA-000780-KW JUDGE: TIMOTHY J. KOENIG PINEAPPLE HOUSE LLC A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, DAVID RICHARD STACK AND TREVA STACK, Plaintiff, Vs. ROBERT H. GIVENS, deceased, his unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under or against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION TO: ROBERT H. GIVENS, deceased, his unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under and against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or
The following is an upcoming GMX procurement opportunity:
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) GMX PROCUREMENT/CONTRACT NO.: RFQ-27-01
GMX PROJECT/SERVICE TITLE: INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES 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: August 20, 2026. The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-DR-790-K KASSANDRA MAE MANGUBAT, Petitioner, and NAJEE D. STITH, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: NAJEE D. STITH RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: UNKNOWN YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it
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AUGUST 20, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •
305.743.0844
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
EMPLOYMENT
HOUSING FOR RENT
PUPPIES FOR SALE
WANTED TO BUY
YARD SALES
on KASSANDRA MAE MANGUBAT, whose address is 3333 DUCK AVE, APT. G101, KEY WEST, FL 33040 on or before SEPTEMBER 10, 2026, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: August 4, 2026 Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Britney Bethel Deputy Clerk Publish: August 13, 20 & 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
Publish: August 20 & 27 and September 3 & 10, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
ANNUAL RENTAL - Key Largo - 3BR/2BA new kitchen, Spacious Doublewide modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community $3500/month 7 8 6 - 2 5 8 - 3 1 2 7
MOM & DAD HAD BABIES! German Shepards For Sale. Avail. in September w/ health certificate. Duck Key resident. Call Glenn at 305-481-1316 or Email glenn.3232@yahoo.com
PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
YARD SALE: SAT & SUN 8/22 - 8/23 11am- 5pm. 217 Coral Rd. MM86.8, Ocean off old rd. Couch w/elec. recliners, chairs, bench, ladder, new King sheet sets, New King bed in bags, towels, New flash lights, glassware, baskets, Americana, Wicker Shelf, storage units, towers, 3 pc. patio set, office supplies, Lucite flyer racks, new color copy paper & lots more!!! NO EARLY BIRDS!
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-DR-902-P CLAIRE GUAZZELLI SEHNERT, OBO LCL, Petitioner, and In Re: Name Change, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME (MINOR CHILD) TO: PHILIP LOVKA III RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 1530 TALLY CIRCLE, OVIEDO, FL YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME (MINOR CHILD) has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on CLAIRE GUAZZELLI SEHNERT, whose address is 178 CORAL AVE, TAVERNIER, FL 33070 on or before SEPTEMBER 21, 2026, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at Monroe County Clerk of the Circuit Court, 88770 Overseas Hwy, Ste. 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: August 17, 2026 Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Katherine Soto Deputy Clerk
AUTOS WANTED AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483 BOAT SLIP/RACK FOR RENT Boat Slip &/or Rack For Rent in Marathon at The Boat House, Vaca Key. Call Tony 561-346-6400 PLACE YOUR BOAT SLIP FOR RENT AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com EMPLOYMENT HIRING: Office A d m i n i s t r a t o r in Marathon. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), experience with QuickBooks or other accounting software preferred and must have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Full time – Mon-Fri. Pay TBD - based on skill. Email: Natalie@cecflk.com HANDYMAN WANTEDSeeking a reliable handyman in Marathon for general home repairs & misc. maintenance items. This is a part time position and hours may vary. Must be dependable, expierenced, and have references. Call 305-395-0478 Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a Line Cook. 20-30 hours a week at a private club, primarily dinner shifts, Tuesday-Saturday. $24/hr or negotiable based on experience. Must provide photo ID, social security card, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub.com or call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview. 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. Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/Bartender. Serve
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Full-time Carpenter, Journeyman Electrician, Protective Service Aide, Grounds Caretaker, Custodian (Marathon), HCV Assistant, Superintendent (Middle & Upper Keys), Assistant Project Manager. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: greenel@ kwha.org or 305-296-5621 ext. 225. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. LOOKING FOR EXTRA CASH? Part-time help needed in Marathon & Lower Keys. Must be able to lift 50-70 lbs. Starting pay $22.25/ hour. Pay rate will rise at intervals. 305-743-5555 catlabflkeys@gmail.com HIRED!!! Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time dishwasher. Private club, evening shifts TuesSaturday, 4-8 pm. Pay raise negotiable if you can also help with prep work. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub.com or call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview. HIRED IN LESS THAN THREE WEEKS!!! 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 HIRED!!! PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
2 BR / 1 BA for rent in Key Colony Beach. 800 Sq Ft, fully furnished, public beach access and tennis/ pickleball courts nearby. 6 month min. $2,975/ month F/L/S 786-285-9476 3 BR/2 BA home for rent in Key Colony Beach. 75' premium dock. $4,000/month + utilities. F/L/S 786-229-0228 LONG TERM RENTALS: EFFICIENCY, $1,400/ month, 1 Bedroom $1,950/ mo, 2 Bedroom $2,200 limited elect. included. Located in Marathon. On the water, gated property. Section 8 possible. First/ Security Call 305-610-8002 Studio Rental in Marathon, long-term, partially furnished, price includes internet, water, electric gas, garbage, pest, and lawn @ $1,800/ mo + utilities. Call or text 305-433-0515 RENTED!!! 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 LOT FOR SALE Lot with active permits. Stilts in place. Save money, time, hassles with this private (Hammocks behind, no rear neighbors, ocean beyond) lot cleared, electric, walk to Harry Harris, boat ramp, beach. 186 Dove Creek Drive, Tavernier. $350,000 OBO Owner/Agent 305-9339594 Contigius lot avail. MISC. FOR SALE Scooter For Sale excellent condition, 7,541 miles, all service records, individually owned. $400 OBO. Located in Key West. Call Denny 305-294-5568
HOUSING FOR RENT CROSSWORD SOLUTION
SUDOKU SOLUTION
VACATION RENTAL
2 BR/2 BA Half Duplex for rent in Key Colony Beach. On canal with dockage. Newly renovated & furnished. 3 - 6 month rental. $5,500 month for Winter 26/27. Call 239-285-1639
TURN YOUR CARDS INTO CASH! Marathon collector buying any and all Pokemon cards & collections. Call 401-256-0645. YARD SALES
YARD SALES
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, RISK MANAGEMENT & PUBLIC RECORDS MONROE COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE The Monroe County Attorney's Office is seeking a detail-oriented and dependable Executive Assistant to support the County's Risk Management and Public Records functions. This position provides essential administrative support to the Risk Manager and County Attorney's Office staff, ensuring that insurance schedules, claim files, and public records responses are handled accurately, confidentially, and in full compliance with Florida law. The salary range for this position is $55,354 to $85,798, depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications. Monroe County offers an excellent benefits package and is a member of the Florida Retirement System (FRS). Apply online: WWW.MONROECOUNTY-FL.GOV/JOBS. For questions, contact Human Resources at: Careers@MonroeCounty-FL.gov or 305-292-4554. Deadline: open until filled. Veteran’s Preference Available. E.O.E.
NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA
BOAT RENTAL STAFF
FLEXIBLE HOURS & COMPETITIVE WAGES Need to have experience driving boats and a working knowledge of the Islamorada area by water. Duties include taking reservations, giving captains lessons and routine boat maintenance. Email Matt at eliteboatrentalsmatt@gmail.com. Please include contact information and any relevant experience.
NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA
MARINA CASHIER Must have customer service experience working in a retail environment and using a point of sale system. Additional duties include restocking, completing purchase orders, daily ordering of basic items in the store, and maintaining a clean appearance in the store. This is an hourly position and compensation is based on experience. Work hours are flexible and we try to maintain a set weekly schedule. Please respond by email (Matt at islamarinamatt@gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.
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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / AUGUST 20, 2026
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 YARD SALES
YARD SALES
SARA’S ESTATE SALE: SUMMER SPLASH This estate sale is for beer makers, wine lovers, food growers & DIYers who embrace a coastal vibe and love every shade of blue! The sale is Fri & Sat, Aug 21 and 22 from 9a to 1p at 354 96th St, Marathon. Raised bed planters, pots, composter & huge smoker plus porch fridge & freezer, canning jars. Full size frangipani & pineapple plants for sale. Lots of totes! Full complement of Ryobi tools, plus vac, air compressor, etc. and camo hunting gear. Beautiful nautical art, pretty L-shape blue couch, white king
bed/mattress & bunkbed/ mattress & nautical sideboard. Home office: desk, bookcases, monitor, supplies, crafts. Home brew kits and all the accessories for enjoying wine at home. So much bedding and small appliances i.e. rolling room ac, dehumidifier, tower fan, treadmill (fits under bed!), carpet cleaner, etc. Follow the signs and park with consideration. PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
NOW HIRING: EXPANDED FUNCTIONS DENTAL ASSISTANT WHO IS DEDICATED TO CHILDREN'S CARE! Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children? Our Dental Center is looking for a Chairside Dental Assistant to join our dedicated team delivering Dental Care in the Florida Keys across multiple sites. Candidate must have dental experience and being bi-lingual is a plus. This isn’t just a job—it’s a promise to our Kids. You’ll work hands-on with children who may otherwise go without essential dental treatment. Services are delivered at multiple school and office sites countywide. This program brings high-quality, accessible care directly to patients who need it most. • Position is in the Florida Keys, full Time (4 days per week) • Competitive hourly wage + health insurance + travel pay • Work with compassionate professionals in a supportive team Send your resume to michael@keysahec.org
WE’RE HIRING 3
NEW KEY LARGO LOCATION NOW OPEN: PIZZA MAKERS
A Great Place to Bank, is a Great Place to WORK!
MARATHON: PIZZA MAKERS
Key West
Full Time Teller
Pizza maker experience is a must. Applicant must be self-motivated, quick learner and team player. Salary includes 401k match up to 6% and negotiable based on experience. Please call Nicole at 305-433-0515 or email nicole@themoongroupfl.com Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:
Stock Island
Full Time Teller Assistant Branch Operations Manager
WITH HAZMAT ENDORSEMENT
Please apply at Charley Toppino & Sons, 129 Toppino Industrial Drive, Rockland Key ask for Cheryl, 305-296-5606 ext 126
NOW HIRING! 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
Islamorada
Customer Service Representative Assistant Branch Operations Manager
SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN
Apply Online @
(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)
KeysBank.com/Careers
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $48.47/hr. - $54.28/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.
NOW HIRING CDL DRIVER
SUNSET GRILLE NOW HIRING BARTENDERS WAIT STAFF - HOST/HOSTESS BUS PERSONS Apply in person at
Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender
SUNSET GRILLE & RAW BAR EOE-M/F/V/D
7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon
MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE
NOW HIRING • DIVE INSTRUCTOR
Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers
• TOUCH TANK ATTENDANT • GUEST SERVICES
We are now hiring for the following positions:
Applicants must apply in person to be considered. 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
Pay: $160.00 per day Guaranteed Pay + Tips + Commission. Affordable employee housing available.
Call 305-407-3262 or email info@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com 11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON
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AUGUST 20, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844
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. For complete details and to apply, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers
The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of “Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”
THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.
IS HIRING! JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 53 YEARS! We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO Behavioral Health Counselor (Child, FT) Case Manager (Adult)
KEY WEST Crisis Counselor (PT) *Mental Health Technician (FT)
MARATHON Maintenance Specialist (FT) Driver (CDL NOT required) (FT, PT) Registered Nurse (PT) Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult, PT) *Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT, PT) *Behavioral Health Technicians (FT, PT) *No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary. Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip
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 All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. *Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.
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THEME: HAPPY BIRTHDAY ACROSS 1. Thanksgiving tubers 5. ____ Patrol 8. Boohoos 12. Burn soothing plant 13. “Frat Pack” member Wilson 14. ____ ligation 15. Sound an alarm 16. Marvin, Majors and Greenwood 17. O. Henry’s specialty 18. *Marilyn Monroe: “Happy Birthday, Mr. ____” 20. Sporting sword 21. Blue pencil marks 22. Knight’s title 23. *One for every year 26. Custodian 30. Be in debt 31. Stay clear of 34. Accompanies relief 35. #1 Down, pl. 37. Owned 38. Subway in Paris 39. Shore extension 40. Per ____ 42. Even, poetic 43. City in Netherlands 45. Like voice during laryngitis 47. Barents or Laptev, e.g. 48. Noah’s passengers 50. Type of code 52. *Astrological sign for those born on New Year’s Eve 56. Black one and white one, for Tchaikovsky 57. Crematorium jars 58. “The Odyssey,” e.g. 59. Make this, not waste 60. Let it stand, to proofreader 61. Governmental space agency, acr. 62. The windows to the soul 63. Money in Myanmar 64. Theodora or Dorothea
DOWN 1. Bark or yelp 2. Relating to armpit 3. *”...and many ____” 4. Detected 5. *Like 16 6. Hiking sandals of a certain brand 7. Of the present month 8. *Greeting to the birthday honoree, sometimes 9. Bassoon cousin 10. Misery cause 11. Canny 13. Dated tunes 14. Make a logical connection (2 words) 19. Runs without moving 22. Lumberjack’s tool 23. Another word for nutria 24. Look forward to 25. Not as old 26. George Lucas’ warrior-monk 27. Concentration of a solution lab test 28. Shrek and Fiona, e.g. 29. Cotes du ____, wine region 32. Online room 33. As opposed to mishap 36. *”We want your presence, not your ____” 38. New Zealandian minority 40. Cuban dance syllable 41. *Quench it with punch 44. Precedes desist 46. Antonym of descent 48. *Traditional birthday celebration 49. Sleeper’s woe 50. Up, up and there 51. Level a building 52. Crescent point 53. Colorful fish 54. Greet the judge, e.g. 55. March Madness org. 56. Pronoun
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Whether you’re building a large commercial building, FDOT bridge, or a customdesigned home, we have concrete mix designs for every project. Thanks to decades of experience, our team can create custom mixes with high-quality additives for specific project needs. We offer the largest variety of materials and operate the only FDOT-certified ready-mix plants in the Florida Keys.
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