OCEAN STUDIES ADMINISTRATOR WINS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
Jessica Martinez named Florida Public Charter School Champion
KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL
www.keysweekly.com
The entire student body gathered inside the gym at Ocean Studies Charter School.
Somehow, 180 students from grades K-8 managed to stay quiet and keep the surprise under wraps.
“You all did a great job keeping a secret. She has no idea what’s happening, and that’s really great,” said Jon Shoffstall, Ocean Studies principal.
“She” is Jessica Martinez, the school’s assistant principal. Known as Ms. Jessica to her students, she had no idea that she was about to receive a prestigious honor, being named a Champion School Leader by the Florida Consortium of Public Charter Schools.
“There might be a handful, but it’s usually less than that across the entire state each year, so it’s very selective and very well-deserved,” said Shoffstall.
Surprising Martinez required a bit of creativity.
“Jon said we had a water leak in this building, so I rushed over to figure out how we could fix it immediately,” she explained.
The moment Martinez opened the door, the students shouted, “Surprise!” and thunderous applause erupted.
Ocean Studies office coordinator Tracy Malden played a key role in planning the secret awards ceremony, also contacting Martinez’s husband
John to ensure he was there for the big reveal.
“I’ve never met anyone more deserving of an award than Ms. Jessica. She works tirelessly to make Ocean Studies the amazing school that it is, and for that, we are so grateful,” said Malden.
“It was very surprising to have all the students cheering, the teachers here, seeing my husband, seeing the board members. Our whole loving community was suddenly in the same room cheering,” said a clearly emotional Martinez.
Martinez began working at Ocean Studies as a first- and secondgrade teacher in 2013, when her son entered kindergarten at the Key Largo-based charter school. After five years, she became assistant principal, a role she has held for seven and a half years.
During the award ceremony, Shoffstall read from the nomination letter.
“She works tirelessly to ensure that students, staff and families have a positive, welcoming and supportive experience,” said Shoffstall. “Simply put, if something happens at Ocean Studies, Ms. Jessica has likely played a role.”
Martinez was quick to emphasize that the award is a result of teamwork.
“It’s because of the team,” she said. “It’s because of our parents, our community, the Upper Keys, the kids, the teachers — everyone who helps
us, all the partners we work with. It’s really a team effort.”
As the students returned to class following the awards ceremony, they exchanged hugs and fist bumps with Martinez.
“I’ve got a connection to each one of them in some way,” she said.
For Martinez, this was a wonderful way to conclude another successful school year.
“In two weeks, we’ll wrap up another growth year,” she said. “Our kids are doing amazing. The school is thriving, enrollment’s high, and everyone’s happy and healthy. I can’t ask for much more.”
VILLAGE YOUTH COUNCIL MEMBERS RECOGNIZED
AMay 12 Islamorada Village Council meeting began with recognition of three graduating Coral Shores seniors who served on the village’s youth council. Allegra Fucaraccio, chair, Tristan Rios and Nathaniel Shugarman, vice chair, were recognized by village officials. Mayor Don Horton said they served the village well between the presentations and recommendations they made to the
council. Certificates were presented to Fucaraccio and Rios (Shugarman wasn’t in attendance) for their dedicated service, leadership and commitment to the youth council. Created in October 2013, the committee provides young leaders in the community with a chance to participate in the village’s decision-making process through recommendation to the council on issues concerning youth. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
Following the awards ceremony, Martinez receives loads of hugs from Ocean Studies students.
Jon Shoffstall, principal at Ocean Studies Charter School, presents the Champion School Leader award to Jessica Martinez. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly
FIRE FLIPS SCRIPT ON FIRST RESPONDERS
Police officer & sheriff’s deputy lost everything on Big Pine
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
Mike Pettee and Tiffany Rodda aren’t typically the ones calling 911. They’re usually responding to the calls. They’re the ones activating the emergency lights, not watching them illuminate their own front yard.
But in the early-morning hours of May 7, a fire flipped the script — and changed the engaged couple’s lives forever.
Pettee, a Key West police officer for a decade or so, and Rodda, a Monroe County sheriff’s deputy since 2022, awoke to a fire consuming their Big Pine home. The pair both suffered second-degree burns while climbing out a window to escape the flames, then Pettee went back in to try to save the couple’s pets.
Alas, their three dogs and rabbit perished — and Pettee remains hospitalized in Miami for smoke inhalation. The couple shares five children from prior relationships, but none of the kids was home at the time of the fire.
The house was deemed a total loss and the state fire marshal’s office is investigating the cause of the fire that consumed everything.
“Mike has a long recovery in front of him,” said Jenny Young, a fellow police officer and a president of the Key West Police Love Fund, which provides financial support to officers in the event of an emergency. “They’ve lost everything. And Tiffany is still up with him at the hospital in Miami. Her phone was burned in the fire, so that presents an immediate
UM CELEBRITY FISH TOURNAMENT RETURNS TO ISLAMORADA
West Police Officer Mike Pettee’s home on Big Pine Key was a total loss after a May 7 fire that injured Pettee and his fiancee, sheriff’s deputy Tiffany Rodda, and claimed the lives of the couple’s three dogs and a rabbit. MONROE COUNTY FIRE RESCUE/Contributed
challenge, just with getting in touch with people.”
Sheriff Rick Ramsay met the couple at the tarmac before the Trauma Star helicopter flew them out to Miami for treatment, and gave Rodda a shirt and blanket from his car.
A fire feels personal. Its destruction is so thorough, it feels intentional. Malevolent, even.
Nothing is where it once was. Everything you reach for is gone. Cell phone to call the insurance company? Gone. Identification and credit cards you’ll need to file that claim? Gone. Melted in a pile of plastic. Clean socks in a drawer? Gone. Kids’ artwork on the fridge door? Gone. Family heirlooms? Christmas decorations?
And the cars out front? At least they look unscathed. But wait, the key fobs were inside, now melted and useless.
In addition to Love Fund support, Young established a Go Fund Me account, entitled “Rebuilding for Officer Mike and Deputy Tiffany.”
Meet hall of famers, fish for big prizes
The University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame & Museum invites the public to the 2026 Fan Fest and Celebrity Fishing Tournament, held June 25-27 in Islamorada.
The events kick off with a party on Thursday, June 25 at Ocean View Inn and Sports Pub. This event, sponsored by Spencer “CaneDoc” and Martha Kellogg and Tito’s Handmade Vodka, provides a meetand-greet opportunity for fans and anglers.
The festivities continue Friday, June 26 at Three Waters Resort and Marina. The kickoff party at the Islamorada sandbar will start the afternoon. Later, the beach will be abuzz with raffles, auctions and gifts to mark the official start of the fishing tournament.
Fans, anglers and friends will be greeted by UM celebrity mascot Sebastian along with hall of famers and celebrity athletes. The vendor village, including Bean Automotive Group and guests, will host a number of new products and gifts for anglers.
Fishing begins on Saturday. Those who are not fishing can join in the Family Fun Day sponsored by Judy Pantoja-McCabe of Morgan Stanley. This event will include family activities for the kids and parents.
The tournament weigh-in begins at 2:30 p.m. at Three Waters Marina. Fans, anglers, friends and families are welcome to join in, with beverages sponsored by the museum’s president-elect Mark Drobiarz’s ABC Bartending School and Islamorada Beer. The festivities will culminate with an awards party on the beach on Saturday evening. After dinner, angler awards will be presented, along with auction and raffle prizes.
Discounted room rates and dockage are available at Three Waters Resort while supplies last. The event supports the Upper Keys Rotary Club. This event is sponsored by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council.
— Contributed
A weekend of fishing and festivities with University of Miami hall of famers and fanatics is set for June 25-27 in Islamorada. CONTRIBUTED
Fishing takes place on Saturday, June 27 with weigh-ins at Three Waters Resort in Islamorada.
Key
KAREN WESLEY ERMLICH PRINCE
Karen Wesley Ermlich Prince, 62, of Islamorada, Florida passed peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 after a long and courageous battle with glioblastoma brain cancer.
Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, Karen is survived by her children Breeanna Prince, Joshua F. Prince, John D. Prince III (Maddie) and Shannann Prince; her grandchildren Jacob Mitchell, Danica and Jackson Prince; her parents Michael and Claire Cassada; brother Arthur C. Ermlich Jr. (Christine); nieces Sarah Zuidema (Jason) and Elizabeth Kondracki (Andrew); and her nephew Arthur C. Ermlich III. She was predeceased by her father Arthur C. Ermlich.
Karen was an adventurer at heart — an aviator and an angler — proving that both the sky and the sea held magic for her. She explored the world, traveling as often as possible, and never met a beach she didn’t love. She raised her children in the islands — first building a home in St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
and then moving to the Florida Keys, where she remained for over 27 years.
She was deeply involved in her community and both her friends and her orchid garden were a source of great comfort and joy. Karen’s ready smile and infectious laughter were balm to many a soul and she developed amazing, loving relationships that sustained her over a lifetime. She will be missed beyond measure and those who loved her will always remember the depth of caring, open arms and generous heart that defined her life.
A Celebration of Life was held on May 17 at Safe Harbor Angler House in Islamorada. Her ashes will be spread from the sky to the sea in her favorite island places in private ceremonies at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Project Garcia – Glioblastoma Research Organization (gbmresearch.org) or the Million Orchid Project (fairchildgarden.org).
OPEN MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION, INC.
TUESDAY, MAY 26, 2026 AT 9:00 A.M.
FKEC TAVERNIER HEADQUARTERS, BOARD ROOM
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
BrightView Landscape Services, Inc., the nation's largest commercial landscaper, was established in 1939. This full-service landscaping company, with a branch o ce in Homestead, serves the entire Florida Keys. The BrightView team includes design, installation and maintenance professionals, as well as arborists with certi cations from the International Society of Arborists. Mangrove trimming certi cation is included. Other services include pest management, irrigation design/installation and rapid post-hurricane response.
Branch Manager Nakita Shim spends several days a week meeting with clients and checking on crews. "While we are a national company, we have a local presence developing long-standing partnerships and relationships with our clients," she said. "We strive to go above and beyond to ful ll our commitments."
With a team of 140 serving the Florida Keys, BrightView crews, trucks and equipment can be found in the Keys every day. In addition to their membership with Key Largo Chamber, BrightView is also a member with the Ocean Reef Chamber of Commerce, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Chapter and Coastal Conservation Association, as well as an annual supporter of Baptist Health.
Nakita can be reached at 305-258-8011 or via email at nakita.shim@brightview.com.
MENTORSHIP PAYS BIG DIVIDENDS
Take Stock in Children celebrates 2026 graduation with $2 million in scholarships
Take Stock in Children of Monroe County celebrated the achievements of 69 graduating seniors on May 16, converging on Marathon High School to honor the Class of 2026.
With collective awards of $2 million in Florida Prepaid tuition and dormitory scholarships, made possible through the support of donors, community partners and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation, 40% of this year’s class will begin their postsecondary educational pursuits at a Florida college, while 60% will attend one of the 12 Florida universities.
Representing 10% of the entire Monroe County School District’s graduating class, the graduates earned a collective grade point average of 3.71, pursued 243 Advanced Placement courses and earned 372 dual enrollment credits.
The ceremony included remarks from three students – Coral Shores’ Pablo Marin, Somerset Island Prep’s Claudia Steling and Marathon’s Brenda Medina Collazo – a speech from Marianne Finizio, newly elected president of the Monroe County Education Foundation (MCEF), and remarks from Ed Tierney, Superintendent of Monroe County Schools.
“I am very proud of our Take Stock graduates and very appreciative of our volunteer mentors who have guided and supported them during their high school career,” said Finizio. “Their success is a testament to what is possible when our community invests in our young people and walks beside them on their journey.”
Take Stock in Children of Monroe County identifies students in middle and high school who show potential but face economic barriers to a college education. Students commit to maintaining strong grades, good behavior and staying drug- and crime-free. In return, they receive a volunteer mentor, college and career readiness support, and a Florida Prepaid scholarship upon high school graduation.
More information is at monroecountyedfound.com or from executive director Chuck Licis-Masson at 305-293-1545 or chuck.licis@monroecountyedfound.com.
— Keys Weekly staff report
1. Chuck Licis welcomes guests to the 2026 Take Stock in Children graduation.
2. Marathon Mayor Lynny Del Gaizo escorts her mentee Nqobile Masango.
3. Nadjie Baptiste of Key West gets ready to take the stage with mentor Ebenson Michelin.
4. Coral Shores’ Pablo Marin delivers graduating remarks.
5. Key West’s Shnyka Blanc heads to graduation with mentor Marc Pierre.
6. Marathon’s Tinashay Cunningham gets in a photo op with her mentor, Monroe County Education Foundation president Marianne Finizio.
7. Yaneicee Grimon finishes her Take Stock journey.
8. Seava Lamontagne earns distinction as a Vista Foundation Named Scholar. Presenting her award are MCEF president Marianne Finizio, left, and schools superintendent Ed Tierney.
9. Marathon’s Natalie Rodriguez graduates with the Class of 2026.
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Members of the board and general manager Vinnie Feola (front and center) at a meeting earlier this year. From left, Allen Wood, Patti Stanley, Cheryl Culberson, Joe Roth, Feola, Roger Young, Tom Bray, Dave Denkert, Camille Nagy Cockerham and Audra Hill-Wallace. Members not pictured are Steve Leopold and Chris Trentine. CONTRIBUTED
The private member club is long the home of backcountry and offshore fishing tournaments. Two hosted and organized by the club include the IFC Captain’s Cup Sailing Tournament, held in January, and the IFC Captain’s Cup Dolphin Tournament, scheduled for June 24-25.
This spring brings back the Golden Fly Tarpon, May 18-20; Don Hawley Invitational Fly, June 1-5; Ladies Tarpon Fly, June 9-11; and Gold Cup Tarpon, June 15-19.
“I’m hoping to fill up the place with events and tournaments as these are fun opportunities for our members too,” Feola said. “We’ve got this beautiful place and people will want to celebrate here.”
Anyone interested in membership can be proposed by two members and must complete an application. Membership includes access to the club facilities during business hours, the ability to have private events and an annual meeting/member appreciation event.
“Being here is like an extension of your backyard with familiar faces,” Pajares said. “It is like having a get together at home without the cooking and cleaning.”
Feola loves the family environment and the familiarity of the people.
“It is a place where you are going to be welcomed every visit. You know the food will be good, the atmosphere is 100% better than before, and you will always get a table.”
“A big plus with membership is the ability to reserve tables for large parties,” Roth said. “A lot of places around town don’t do that.”
Roth has served on the board for nearly 20 years, 10 as president, and sees the needs of members changing. The club is looking to expand offerings.
“I love that we are getting a younger demographic of members on the Board,” said Roth. “We are looking to offer events and theme
Early Cancer Screening Saves Lives
nights that appeal to families. We are bringing all the ideas to the table and seeing what works.”
Feola, who has been with the club for 17 years, is the longest serving general manager, Roth said.
“Just about a year into working at the club, my mother was sick in New York and I left town to be with her,” Feola said. “After she passed, the board president told me to take all the time I needed to be with my family. There were flowers from the board and random members at the funeral. I was blown away by that. And the stack of notes and sympathy cards in my office upon my return was overwhelming. I knew I made the right decision to come here. It doesn’t feel like a job, it is bigger than that.”
The club now employs 33 people, including mostly a local front-ofhouse staff and a manager to assist Feola. Staff is up from 13 in the old building. Two of the staff members, Annie Wittwer and Connie Crowley, have worked at IFC more than 20 years each.
For more information on membership, call 305-664-4735 and ask for Vinnie.
General manager Vinnie Feola, left, and chef Oscar Pajares take a pause on the second-floor patio before hosting the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce membership lunch meeting earlier this year.
CAPTAIN CRAIG’S
JILL MIRANDA BAKER
No matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. Our neighbor of the week is Key Largo resident Patty O’Keefe, a sergeant with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office assigned to Islamorada. She has spent most of her career in law enforcement, first as a civilian then making her way into the law enforcement academy. She has been married to MCSO Sgt. Vaughn O’Keefe since 2015 and she recently earned a master’s degree in forensic psychology from Nova Southeastern University.
How long have you lived in the Keys? While I have worked for MCSO since 1999, I have lived in the Keys since 2007.
What drew you to the Keys? Work, but growing up in Miami, I came down almost every weekend to Key Largo. I started out in Miami as an administrative assistant with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in money laundering and narcotics, then was promoted to an intelligence analyst tracking down the money trail in narco trafficking that led to Colombia. I was part of the HIDTA (High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force which covers eight South Florida counties, Monroe included). I supported myself through the academy in 2004 while serving in the reservist program. Then-Col. Rick Ramsay attended the graduation and that was very moving to me. I joined road patrol as a deputy the following year.
What do you enjoy most about your work? I really enjoy our community. It is just so supportive and so much of that has to do with our sheriff and our leadership. I love going to
many events and meeting people during their routine activities, getting to know people when it is not in a stressful situation. I love being able to help in those stressful times too.
What led you to be in the occupation you’re in? When I started with FDLE, I saw the cool investigations my co-workers were involved in and thought, “I could do this.”
Weirdest experience you’ve had in the Keys? One of the cases I investigated had to do with hidden cameras found in three Upper Keys women’s public restrooms. The guy used coat hooks with home security devices. I figured out the time stamps were changed, looked at security footage and we identified the culprit as he was wearing a shirt with a business logo. I’m particularly proud of figuring this one out.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be? The person I would love to meet is Alice Stebbins Wells, the first female law enforcement officer in the U.S. This was Los Angeles in 1910. I want to know what motivated her to get into such a male-dominated profession and what obstacles she dealt with and overcame. If you had a superpower, what would it be? The ability to mentally help calm people. We are trained in how, but I wish I could just flip a switch and people would be calm.
Favorite Food? Pizza, although I love a lot of different types of food.
Favorite movie? Vaughn and I just watched “Remarkably Bright Creatures,” with Sally Field. I highly recommend it!
Favorite book? Since I was a kid, my favorite book is “Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls. I love the strong bond we can have with our dogs. We have a Frenchie named Shamus.
What are your hobbies? In recent years, my husband gifted me with a 3-D printer, then a laser-cutter/engraver. I’m hooked. I’ve created gifts like wall hangings, ornaments, nameplates and more, for friends and family. It is a talent I am developing.
UPPER KEYS REMEMBER THOSE KILLED IN COMBAT
Memorial Day services set in Key Largo, Islamorada
The Hurricane Monument in Islamorada honors the lives lost during the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane. Constructed by the WPA in 1937, the monument features a sculpted tidal wave and palm relief, and houses the cremated remains of about 190 victims, including World War I veterans. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO
Two services in the Upper Keys will honor and remember those who died while serving in the armed forces.
On Monday, May 25, the Matecumbe Historical Trust will hold its annual Memorial Day service at the Hurricane Monument. Beginning at 9 a.m., the program will start with an introduction. It will be followed by the invocation, presentation of colors, pledge of allegiance, the national anthem and guest speaker state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez.
Wreaths will be laid by Centennial Bank and Daughters of the American Revolution, followed by taps. Two Big Brothers, made up of Joseph and Dante Jiovenetta, will play patriotic songs throughout. A benediction will conclude the ceremony.
In Key Largo, Monroe County Veterans Affairs is co-hosting an 11
HELLO SUMMER PERIOD PROGRAM FILLS NEED
Hello Summer Period is an Upper Keys communitybased program recognizing the need and supplying products to girls who rely on their schools for feminine hygiene needs. Nearly 100 girls rely on school period supplies and summer break can be a challenge.
Concern for the financial burden of purchasing products and health issues if products are not used properly to save money were considerations at the start of this project.
A group of friends at lunch, self-named D.A.Women’s Network to honor a dear friend, came up with the idea when they were alerted to the problem of the upcoming 2025 summer break. Now in its second year, the community effort was enthusiastically supported. Tote bags filled with appropriate supplies were delivered
to two middle schools and the high school. The donation response was so robust, supplies were also donated to two Upper Keys food banks.
At the food bank at Burton Memorial, volunteer Ari Poholek said, “We had them put out on Thursday evening and it appeared that most were taken, so obviously they were needed. It’s great that the group was able to organize this effort to help young ladies at the schools and in the community at large.”
In addition to private donations, organizations in the Upper Keys rallied behind the project: Key Largo and Upper Keys Rotary Clubs, Florida Keys Electric Cooperative, Upper Keys Business & Professional Women, Upper Keys League of Women Voters and the Key Largo and Islamorada Chambers of Commerce.
— Contributed
a.m. ceremony with VFW Post 10211 at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo.
“Memorial Day is a time for our community to come together in remembrance and gratitude,” said Monroe County Community Services Director Cathy Crane. “We encourage residents and visitors to participate in these ceremonies and reflect on the sacrifices made by those who gave their lives in service to our nation.”
Memorial Day is traced to the end of the American Civil War and was known as Decoration Day, a day when graves of fallen soldiers were decorated in memory of their service. In 1971, Congress designated Memorial Day as a national holiday on the last Monday in May to honor those who died while serving in the military.
VILLAGE MANAGER SAUNDERS REACHES ONE-YEAR MILESTONE
Islamorada manager stints have been short. But current Village Manager Ron Saunders is bucking that trend, having recently reached the one-year milestone. Saunders is pictured alongside councilwoman Anna Richards and county commissioner Holly Raschein, who was once an aide to Saunders during his days in the Florida House, during a recent Upper Keys Rotary Club meeting. KEYS WEEKLY PHOTO
Feminine hygiene products donated to Key Largo School. From left, Tiffany Zepeda, KLS vice principal; Sue Woltanski, school board member and D.A. Women’s Network member; and Darren Pais, KLS principal. CONTRIBUTED
MORE ARTIFICIAL REEF PROJECTS SET TO DEPLOY
FLORIDA KEYS
Monroe County’s artificial reefs program is making significant progress as new reef projects move forward, permits are secured and recently deployed sites flourish with marine life.
The county’s coordinated effort aims to enhance marine habitat, expand fishing and diving opportunities and reduce pressure on natural coral reefs while supporting the Florida Keys’ marine economy.
The county laid the groundwork for a series of artificial reef projects spanning the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys, with 21 permit applications covering 15 sites on the Gulf and Atlantic sides. These projects require coordination across multiple regulatory agencies, including federal, state and Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary permitting authorities. Processing timelines can range from 12 to 18 months, depending on location and complexity, with some agencies reviewing only one application at a time.
Monroe County is preparing for its next phase of reef deployments this summer. Plans include placing 156 concrete modules across three Gulfside sites, Gulfside 5 Mile, Gulfside 8 Mile and Gulfside 9 Mile, to form a network of 12 patch reefs. These structures will incorporate features such as embedded limestone and varied shapes to promote the settlement of marine life and increase habitat complexity. The expanding Gulfside network is intended to provide new recreational opportunities, serve as migration paths for marine species and distribute fishing activity to reduce pressure on existing reefs.
REEFMAKER.COM/Contributed
The county also recently received approval from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for a pilot project in shallow nearshore hardbottom habitats within Florida Bay. This project will test low-relief structures designed to restore habitat complexity in areas that have experienced decades of ecological decline. Nearshore hardbottom communities are critical nursery and foraging grounds for many species, yet current fish populations in these areas are estimated to be only 30% to 40% of their 1990s levels.
“People are very concerned about the state of our coral reefs, as they should be, but there should be equal concern for these nearshore hardbottom communities,” said Hanna Koch, artificial reefs director. “Many species depend on these habitats early in life before moving to reefs or other ecosystems.”
Gulfside 10 Mile update
A major milestone for the program was the successful deployment of the Gulfside 10 Mile artificial reef, about 16 nautical miles northeast of Key West. Initially a flat, sandy area with minimal marine activity, the reef structures, made from stacked concrete power poles, support more than 90 marine species, including cobia, permit, grouper, snapper, sharks, sea turtles and a variety of corals and sponges.
The artificial reefs program is grant-funded through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. More information is at www.monroecounty-fl. gov/reefs.
— Contributed
Monroe County’s next reef deployment on the Gulfside will include concrete modules and embedded limestone to promote the settlement of marine life.
Florida Keys
WOMEN REEL IN WAHOO, MAHI AND MEMORIES
Tournament brings camaraderie and friendly competition
Women anglers from Florida and other states gathered in the Florida Keys for the Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing (LLGF) Screamin’ Reels Tournament, held May 15-17 in Tavernier. Hosted by the nonprofit Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing Foundation, the event combined fishing, camaraderie and friendly competition for women ranging from ages 25 to 89.
The weekend kicked off with a welcome party at the Tavernier Elks Club before anglers headed offshore aboard private and charter boats for two days of tournament fishing. Calm seas on Saturday gave way to 3- to 5-foot seas on Sunday, adding to the adventure as participants targeted mahi, wahoo, tuna, yellowtail snapper and more.
The tournament delivered memorable firsts for many participants, including first mahi, wahoo and tuna catches, along with barracuda releases. At age 89, Nancy Lawrence of Palm Beach impressed anglers by catching fish both days. Lawrence previously attended two Alaska trips and a Costa Rica adventure hosted by LLGF.
“This tournament is unlike any other,” said Betty Bauman, LLGF founder. “Screamin’ Reels welcomes both casual and experienced anglers to compete in a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere where nearly every legal offshore or inshore species counts. It’s inspiring to see women from their 20s to 89 years old fishing together and sharing the excitement.”
Learn more at www.ladiesletsgofishing.com. — Contributed
Winners:
First-place offshore: Robin Krueger: 17.25-pound wahoo on Poppa Wahoo Too.
Second-place offshore: Canan Myers: 4.9-pound mahi on Sea Horse.
Third-place offshore: Lisa Brewer: 4.3-pound mahi on Sea Horse.
First-place private boat: Kat Farese: 8-pound mahi on Marlin Darlin.
1: Canan Myers finishes second with a 4.9-pound mahi. 2: Tournament winner Robin Krueger with a 17.25-pound wahoo on the Poppa Wahoo Too. 3: Anglers aboard the Sea Horse show off their mahi. CONTRIBUTED
COLDWELL BANKER SCHMITT AMONG NATIONAL LEADERS
Brokerage earns spot on top 500 real estate companies list
Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company (CBSREC), based on dollar volume of sales for 2025, was ranked among the most successful real estate companies in the United States, appearing at No. 307 in the RIS Media Power Broker 500 and at No. 340 in the 2026 RealTrends 500.
CBSREC is the only real estate company based in the Florida Keys ever to have been ranked among the top 500 in America. This is Coldwell Banker Schmitt’s 11th appearance on the RealTrends 500 list and 10th on the RIS Media Power Broker 500.
There are over 102,000 real estate sales and brokerage businesses in America, placing CBSREC among the top one-third of 1%.
“Our success in ranking among the top brokerages in America year after year is the outcome of our unwavering attention to our customers’ needs – our agents, our sellers and our buyers whom we prefer to represent as single agents –the extensive, collective experience and professionalism of our people coupled with our robust training programs, and our marketing which is second to none,” said Brian Schmitt, Coldwell Banker Schmitt’s president and broker. “We strive to always provide an exceptional experience for Keys sellers and buyers.”
RISMedia’s 2026 Power Broker Report & Survey is based on an online survey of residential real estate brokerages in the U.S., conducted by RISMedia. The survey ranks brokerages by closed sales volume and transaction sides in 2024. Brokerages
must have a majority ownership interest, inclusive of subsidiaries, to complete the survey, and have had their submissions verified by the associated broker and accountant, CFO or other party who can validate the accuracy of the data submitted.
REALTrends, part of HW Media LLC, is a communications and consulting company issuing analysis and information on the residential brokerage and housing industry. The RealTrends 500 is a leader in ranking the performance of residential real estate services firms. Due to its requirement of independent verification, the RealTrends 500 can be considered a trusted source for information about the performance of these firms.
Celebrating its 70th year, Coldwell Banker Schmitt is the oldest and largest real estate company in the Keys, with six offices in the major market areas. CBSREC also ranks as the 21st largest Coldwell Banker company in the United States and its second-largest affiliate in Florida by adjusted gross commission.
More information is at realestatefloridakeys.com, by email to info@cbschmitt.com, or by calling any of the company’s Keys locations.
— Contributed
PAWSITIVE BEGINNINGS AWARDED $5,000
Grant from Ocean Reef Community Foundation supports youth healing programs
Pawsitive Beginnings recently announced it received a $5,000 grant from the Ocean Reef Community Foundation. This funding will support the organization’s ongoing partnership with the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter in helping to sustain and expand its animal-assisted healing programs for youth in Monroe County.
Through this partnership, Pawsitive Beginnings provides regular visits for children, along with therapeutic art sessions and enrichment-based activities designed to foster emotional expression, resilience and connection. These experiences are centered around the sanctuary’s rescued foxes, whose stories of survival often resonate deeply with the children they serve.
This marks the second consecutive year the Ocean Reef Community Foundation has invested in this work, reinforcing a shared commitment to supporting vulnerable youth and innovative approaches to healing.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Ocean Reef Community Foundation for continuing to believe in this program,” said Nicole Navarro, Pawsitive Beginnings founder. “This funding allows us to create a space where children can feel safe, seen and supported. The connection they build with the foxes — paired with guided therapeutic activities — can be truly transformative. It’s an honor to be trusted with that process, and this grant ensures we can continue showing up for them in meaningful ways.”
— Contributed
Coldwell Banker Schmitt president and broker Brian Schmitt. CONTRIBUTED
Penny is one of several foxes at Pawsitive Beginnings in Key Largo. The Ocean Reef Community Foundation recently presented the sanctuary with a $5,000 grant to support its animal-assisted healing programs in the Florida Keys. CONTRIBUTED
CHILDREN’S SHELTER’S PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT BRINGS FRIENDLY COMPETITION
Young pickleball competitors donned caps and sunglasses as they battled the sun and heat for some friendly competition in Key Largo on May 16.
The Florida Keys Children’s Shelter’s second annual community pickleball tournament brought local families, youth and supporters for a day filled with connection, fun, sportsmanship and memories. The tournament was free for the young pickleball players, thanks to sponsors, community partners and local businesses.
The event included giveaways, prizes, activities and community engagement.
“Seeing our community come together for our youth in this way is incredibly powerful,” said Ben Kemmer, CEO of the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. “This tournament was about much more than pickleball — it was about creating positive experiences, building confidence, strengthening connections and reminding local children and families that this community stands behind them. We are deeply grateful to every sponsor, donor, volunteer and participant who helped make this day so special.”
The shelter thanked Champion Sponsors, Innovation Home Health and Fision Fiber Optics by Hotwire, whose support helped make this free event possible for local children and families. Gold sponsors included Roth Insurance Agency, Silver Sponsors Denny’s Latin Café and Alma Wealth Management. In-kind sponsors included Keys Deep, Pickleball Schoolyard Academy, All Sales Commodity, Jacobs Aquatic Center and Keys Weekly Newspapers.
Local businesses donating items and experiences included Skippers Dockside, Café Moka, Yellow Bait House, Snappers Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar, Tavernier 5 Theater, and Snook’s Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki.
The shelter is preparing for its second Anchors of Hope beach banquet on Saturday, May 30 — an evening dedicated to raising critical funds and awareness for children and families across the Keys. The event will feature live entertainment, Michael Buble tribute, dancing, a silent auction, buffet dinner and more, all in support of FKCS programs and services.
More information is at www. fkcs.org
— Contributed
The event
SAVE THE DATE
MEMORIAL DAY
Monday, May 25
• Matecumbe Historical Trust’s Memorial Day Service at 9 a.m. at the Islamorada Hurricane Monument. Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend.
• Monroe County Veterans Affairs and VFW Post 10211 host a ceremony at 11 a.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center, Key Largo.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Thursday, May 21
• Art walk from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, Islamorada.
• Scan the QR code for a comprehensive list of arts and entertainment in Islamorada.
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Saturday, May 23
• Pascal’s Way May community cleanup from 9 a.m. to noon on the oceanside off the Old Highway in Islamorada (across from Founders Park). Cleanup is in conjunction with CoastLove and Florida Bay Forever.
May 26-27
• Just Older Youth Inc. (JOY) activities from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Plantation Key Community Center, 53 High Point Road.
Tuesday, May 26
• Coral Shores Class Night at 6 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center.
Wednesday, May 27
• Coral Shores Class of 2026 graduation ceremony at 7 p.m. at the gymnasium. Doors open at 6 p.m. for ticketed family members and those needing assistance. Doors open for general admission at 6:30 p.m.
Those wishing to submit an event for inclusion on the calendar can email jim@keysweekly. com.
With paddles in hand and hats and sunglasses on, young pickleball players took to the courts at Key Largo Park for the second Community Pickleball Tournament on May 16.
