Upper Keys Weekly 26-0806

August 6, 2026

CONNECTING WITH KEYS HEROES

Community meets first responders | P. 16

BALLOT STATEMENT REWRITE

Judge criticizes property tax language | P. 4

MINI-SEASON RECAP

Did bug hunters comply with the rules? | P. 9

Backcountry Capt. Rich Hastings specializes in out of Islamorada and Key West. A member of the Florida Keys Guides Tarpon Trust, Capt Rich can get the experienced fisherman a Grand Slam and enjoys teaching

RICH HASTINGS

89240 Overseas Hwy. Suite 2

Tavernier, FL 33070

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As of 9:30 a.m on Aug. 5, the Monroe County Supervisor of Elections reported a total of 4,604 ballots cast in the primary election, with 3,880 mail-in ballots and 724 early voting ballots. There are 54,625 registered voters in the county.

Monroe County Fire Rescue Flight

Paramedic Liz Komoroski waves to Clayton Dickerson, 2, as he tours a Trauma Star helicopter during National Night Out at Founders Park in Islamorada. DOUG FINGER/ Keys Weekly

JUDGE ORDERS REWRITE OF PROPERTY TAX BALLOT SUMMARY

Language that would have gone before voters is ‘more akin to a political slogan’

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Ajudge in Leon County is ordering the state attorney general’s office to write a more accurate and neutral summary of a property tax relief proposal Florida voters will read and decide on in the November general election.

In the order released Aug. 3, Circuit Judge David Frank wrote that the title and summary of the ballot statement provided by the Florida Legislature were “clearly and conclusively defective.”

The property tax measure will still head to the ballot in November, but the judge said the wording needs to change.

“Voters are entitled to a fair, clear, accurate and non-misleading ballot statement to assist them in making

Circuit Judge David Frank. Photo courtesy of the Second Judicial Circuit

their critical determination,” Frank wrote. “The present ballot language would deprive the voters of the opportunity to make a meaningful decision.”

The attorney general’s office has 10 days from the order to submit a revised ballot title and summary that corrects deficiencies identified by the court. Frank also ordered the secretary of state not to place the language in its current form on the ballot.

A special session of the Florida Legislature on June 2 led to the approval of House Joint Resolution 1F. Passing along party lines, the resolution proposes amendments to the State Constitution, which requires 60% voter approval, to increase the homestead exemption from the current $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028. The exemption would be indexed to inflation in 2029. The measure also limits assessment increases on nonhomesteaded property, such as businesses and secondary homes, from 10% to 5% per year. Municipalities and counties would be limited to using remaining property tax dollars for “core needs,” including law enforcement, fire service and emergency medical service. Ad valorem dollars would be unaffected for school districts.

By June 16, the legislature filed a proposed ballot statement with the secretary of state titled “Save Our Homes from Excessive Property Taxes.” The statement contained several paragraphs summarizing the “benefits” to Florida taxpayers.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

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Challenges were filed with the court with similar arguments that the ballot was misleading and written in a way to persuade voters as opposed to explaining it in a neutral way. The challenges came from the nonprofit Save Our Voters From Misleading Ballot Language, former Stuart Mayor Thomas Campenni, former Key Biscayne Mayor Thomas Davey, former South Miami Mayor Thomas Stoddard, former Democratic Rep. Al Lawson and former state Sen. Jeff Brandes.

At a July 29 hearing, the plaintiffs' attorney called the ballot language a “political flier” while the state’s attorney stated the language accurately reflects the measure’s purpose.

Frank sided with the plaintiffs, writing that the ballot title was “akin to a political slogan.”

“The use of the phrase ‘Save Our Homes’ is also misleading. Indeed, the proposed amendment has nothing to do with ‘Save Our Homes,’ which is an existing, well known and popular cap on increases to annual assessed values of homesteaded properties,” the order reads. “Thus the reference to ‘Save Our Homes’ misleads voters into believing they are being asked to reaffirm a popular constitutional provision completely unrelated to the amendment.”

Additionally, the ballot title suggests to voters that the proposed measure would prevent increases in the amount of property taxes that would need to be paid for their homes. The court said that isn’t necessarily true.

“If a voter rents his or her home, the property tax to be paid on the home would not benefit from the increased homestead exemption and would not be subject to a lower tax but instead would likely be subject to higher property tax (as a result of the likely increase in millage rate) that could be viewed as excessive. That higher tax would be paid by the landlord and passed on to the voter tenant in the form of higher rent.”

Frank wrote that the ballot summary contains three political taglines — “ensuring funding for core services,” “protecting small businesses” and “ensuring fairness for Florida residents.” To the contrary of ensuring core ser-

vices, he wrote that by reducing the local property tax base, the proposed amendment is likely to “decrease the revenues available to local governments to fund core services.”

The Florida Sheriff’s Association recently said the amendment potentially allows Tallahassee to control local budgets while creating longer law enforcement response times.

If the constitutional amendment proposed by the joint resolution is approved by the voters, the Revenue Estimating Conference estimated that the cash effects on local non-school property tax revenues would be $4.95 billion less in fiscal year 2027-28 (with the $150,000 exemption in place) and $8.78 billion less in fiscal year 2028-29 (with the $250,000 exemption in place). The recurring effect in all years is estimated to be $11.86 billion less on local non-school property tax revenues, which represents the cash impact in fiscal year 2031-32.

Regarding the measure “protecting small business,” Frank wrote that the proposed amendment provides no protection to small businesses, or nonhomesteaded properties, from the expected higher taxes resulting from possible increases in millage rates necessary to offset the loss of a tax base caused by the amendment.

Frank also notes that the ballot summary concludes with “ensuring fairness for Florida residents,” when in fact the proposal discriminates against Florida residents who rent their homes by only providing tax relief to owners of homesteaded properties.

Frank went on to say the ballot statement defectively omits that cities and counties have broad home rule power to determine how to spend ad valorem tax dollars under the constitution. He wrote the amendment purports to change the constitutional baseline of city and county power by placing in the constitution for the first time the state Legislature’s right to control ad valorem spending.

The state can appeal Frank’s decision, but time is ticking with the order providing only 10 days for the rewrite.

QUALIFYING BEGINS FOR ALL ISLAMORADA COUNCIL SEATS

All incumbents have filed for office, McGraw-Abel enters

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

As Florida primary races remain contentious and hot, races in the Village of Islamorada will begin to heat up in the coming week as candidates will spend the next week qualifying one of five seats in the November general election.

All five current council members filed well before the official qualifying period began at noon on Aug. 4. More hopefuls are expected to declare their candidacies before the week-long qualification period ends at noon on Aug. 11.

A lifelong Upper Keys resident, Corie McGraw-Abel was the latest candidate to file on Aug. 3. She’s seeking Seat 3 currently held by councilwoman Deb Gillis. The councilwoman, too, filed for the seat, on April 15.

McGraw-Abel serves as legislative aide to Monroe County Commissioner Holly Raschein. She was also the aide to the late Commissioner Mike Forster.

She formerly served on the village’s Historic Preservation Commission. She’s a current member of the Local Planning Agency, which hears, reviews, and recommends proposed changes related to the village’s land development regulations, comprehensive plan, as well as changes to the zoning map. She’s the wife of Islamorada Fire Chief Terry Abel.

McGraw-Abel said she felt it was the right time to seek the office.

“I have experience with the county commission, working in the Upper Keys as a legislative aide, and dealing with the state and local issues that span the county,” she said. “It’s my local experience, and me being here all my life, as well as my background that I feel makes me fit to serve the village.”

Lifelong resident Corie McGrawAbel filed for an Islamorada Village Council seat on Aug. 3. The qualifying period for council opened at noon on Aug. 4. CONTRIBUTED

Councilwoman Anna Richards filed for seat 1 on March 9. She was appointed by the council to fill the remainder of then-councilman Buddy Pinder’s term in February 2025. Councilman Steve Friedman filed for reelection to seat 2 on May 18. His first term on the council came following a victory during the 2024 election over Richards.

Mayor Don Horton was the first to file for one of the five seats in January. He’s seeking Seat 4 and a second term in office, while Vice Mayor Sharon is seeking re-election to Seat 5. She ran unopposed last election cycle.

To qualify for office, candidates must be a registered voter with Florida, a resident of the village and must maintain residency in Islamorada throughout the two-year term of office.

As of Aug. 4, McGraw-Abel, Horton and Gillis have qualified.

Village seats aren’t tied to a specific area. Also, candidates have the ability to switch up to the Aug. 11 deadline.

Boston Whaler 420 Outrage Intrepid 35 Panacea Scout 530 LXF

SCHOOL BOARD SETS TENTATIVE BUDGET AND TAX RATE

FRANK DERFLER www.keysweekly.com

Monroe County School Board members began the 2026-27 budget process by setting a tentative millage rate that, despite being the lowest in more than a decade, would bring more property tax dollars into the district from last year.

At the July 28 meeting in Key West, Charlene White, executive director of finance, presented a draft budget and proposed millage rate. She emphasized that a budget committee started meeting in January and considered factors including declining enrollment, cost of living and uncertainty about property taxes.

The 2026-27 budget proposes $178,920,680 for the general fund, which supports the district’s daily operations. This is $6.5 million or 3.8% more than 2025-26.

The proposed total millage rate to balance this budget would be 2.817, or .13 less than last year. Rounding it up, that comes out to $2.82 for every $1,000 of assessed property value. While it’s the lowest rate set by the school board in at least the last 12 years, the school district would collect a little more than $2 million in property tax revenue compared to last year. The total assessed tax roll in the district went up about half a percent year to year.

White said the staff would not place newspaper ads informing the public of a proposed tax increase because there is no rate increase. However, individual property owners may see an increase in their tax dollars due to an increase in the value of their property.

The school board will hold a budget workshop at Coral Shores High School on Aug. 25 and TRIM notices will go out to taxpayers on Aug. 24. A final budget hearing will be held at Marathon High School on Sept. 8.

Under Florida’s Truth in Millage (TRIM) Act, every school board’s millage rate in the state has two parts: the required local

effort and the discretionary millage. The state Legislature sets the required local effort, the state collects those funds, and then they are redistributed to local school boards in order to provide some standard level of funding for schools.

The local school boards control the discretionary millage rate. They use information from the county property appraiser showing the taxable property values within the school district and compare the revenue raised against the superintendent’s proposed budget in order to develop a balanced budget. Under Florida’s “Save Our Homes” amendment, the annual increase is capped at 3% or the increase in the prior year’s Consumer Price Index, whichever is less. This year, the appraisal value of homesteaded property cannot go up by more than 2.7%.

The 2026-27 budget has mandated increases for teacher salary raises, school safety/security, mental health and retirement, among others. About $4.18 million is for safety and security, to include the salaries of school security officers and costs incurred by the sheriff’s office and Key West police.

Health insurance has been a trouble spot in the budget. Costs exceeded the fees charged. White credited the staff with actions that significantly reduced the amount required to subsidize the district’s health insurance program.

The budget includes a $10 million reserve in a hurricane disaster fund.

Before the budget review session, Superintendent Ed Tierney invited school board members to meet new teachers during workshops beginning Aug. 5. All students report to school on Wednesday, Aug. 12.

Harry Russell, executive director of personnel and instructional leadership, said the district hired 264 new employees and only had one unfilled academic teacher position. The district was successful in converting substitute teachers to full-time teaching positions, but the major shortfall is a need for 10 athletic coaches.

IRAN-LINKED HACKERS ATTACK LOCAL WATER UTILITIES

Florida Keys are unaffected; aqueduct authority is aware & prepared

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

What could Iran possibly have to do with the Florida Keys’ drinking water?

Turns out, plenty.

Cybercriminals affiliated with Iran are hacking into local water utilities and hijacking their control systems, according to repeated and urgent warnings issued by federal agencies since April.

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority has not been hacked and the Keys’ drinking water has not been affected in any way, FKAA executive director Greg Veliz told the Keys Weekly.

“We’re prepared. We’re aware of the threats and the warnings,” said Veliz, who was the city manager of Key West when city hall computers were hit with a ransomware attack. “I’m sensitive about cybersecurity after that, so we implemented security upgrades when I came to FKAA.

“Our IT department believes our risk is low, but they are being vigilant,” said Veliz.

The cyberattacks have occurred in seven states, including Georgia, Michigan and Minnesota, where 30 smalltown water facilities were digitally invaded. Federal officials have not said which other states have experienced attacks.

So far, there have been no reports of contamination. The attacks have caused low-pressure flow, boil-water advisories and reported flooding.

The online intruders gain access to a utility by hacking into system controls that are connected directly to the internet. Once in the system, “they have modified passwords and changed IP addresses” to lock out the legitimate operators and take control, states the July 30 advisory from CISA. The agency has advised all water utilities to disconnect all systems from the internet and switch to manual controls.

“All we do is manual operations,” Veliz said. “We’re prepared. And if everything works as planned, we’re good.”

He reiterated that the aqueduct authority has not been targeted, attacked or hacked, and there have been no effects to the Keys’ water supply.

Officials and staff at the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority and its water treatment plant in Florida City are aware of and prepared for attempted cyberattacks by Iran-linked hackers. FKAA/Contributed

Florida Keys drinking water stops at a water treatment plant in Florida City before being pumped through a 130-mile transmission main to serve the island chain. MANDY MILES/ Keys Weekly

Deputies with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office report plenty of compliant bugcatchers throughout the island chain during lobster mini-season on July 29 and 30.

MCSO/Contributed

AVERAGE MINISEASON FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT

Sheriff’s office reports typical resource checks, citations

Whether you had a fruitful haul from the sea or tough sledding, the legal side of the Keys’ lobster mini-season was business as usual, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

Across all four MCSO districts from Key Largo to Key West, officers reported about 560 total resource checks across the two-day season. There were no physical arrests, no reported deaths, and 22 citations issued, the sheriff’s office said.

On July 29, Lower Keys deputies responded to reports of an injured turtle near the Shark Key boat ramp. Rescue personnel from the Turtle

Hospital in Marathon responded and brought the turtle in for treatment alive.

The same day, FWC, the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy collaborated to find three missing divers who became separated from their boat off Duck Key.

“Overall, the 2026 lobster mini season was typical for the sheriff’s office,” officials with MCSO said in a press release. “Most people were in compliance and the number of resource checks, notice-to-appear in court citations, and arrest figures were normal/typical compared to recent years.”

— Keys Weekly staff report

TRIAL COURT EXPERIENCE

Cases Before County Court

TAILING BONEFISH & CHASING TARPON

Oceanside fishing recovers from bug hunting

RICH HASTINGS

The summer heat keeps on rolling, and slick conditions have made for some beautiful flats fishing.

Early risers on my skiff have been chasing tailing bonefish, and we’ve spent the rest of the day chasing tarpon and permit. During the lobster miniseason, we took sanctuary in the Everglades, fishing for snook and tarpon.

It seems the oceanside fishing has recovered quickly from the swarm of bug hunters. Over the years, I’ve noticed a major disappearance of fish locally

Anglers have had success catching tarpon and bonefish in recent fishing trips. CONTRIBUTED specializes in sight fishing, targeting inshore sport fish with fly or spinning tackle, in the Florida Keys.

after the mini-season, but that’s not the story this year at all. Locally, bonefish have been the best target, and there seem to be enough around that they don’t mind the post-season pressure. The grass hasn’t left, and neither have the tarpon. It’s been great to see so many fish stick around oceanside this summer working the shrimp hatches in the sargassum grass. They’ve been shy on the topwater bite, but more than happy to eat a shrimp or baitfish fly pattern during the hatch.

FISH TIP

Bonefish travel in small schools prowling grass beds and sand flats for shrimp, crabs and other invertebrates. The average size is 3 to 5 pounds, but fish weighing more than 10 pounds can be found in Florida.

FISH FACT

Per Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, the state record for bonefish is 16.19 pounds. It was caught off Islamorada on March, 19 2007 by Richard Schroeder.

• Thank you for the honor of receiving the 2026 Bubba Award for Best Elected O cial! It is a privilege to serve you!

• The Key West Driver License O ce at Searstown will permanently close after August 7 as services are consolidated into the Key West Main O ce at 1200 Truman Avenue.

• Beginning August 13, all Key West driver license, motor vehicle and vessel services will be available at the expanded Main O ce.

• The Key West Main O ce will be closed August 10 through August 13 at noon while the State installs equipment and services are consolidated. The o ce is expected to reopen August 13 at 12:00 p.m.

• During this closure, the Big Pine Key O ce will be open all week from 8:00am to 4:45pm.

• CFX toll violations can now be cleared directly through our o ce using our integrated system with the Central Florida Expressway Authority. Follow us on for more imortant tax information.

FORTY YEARS OF FIGURING IT OUT

MCSO Lt. Nancy Alvarez reflects on four decades of law enforcement after Florida Sheriffs Association Lifetime Achievement Award

ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

When Monroe County Sheriff’s Office lieutenant Nancy Alvarez first hit the Overseas Highway as a road patrol deputy, she was, in her own words, “horrible” at it. Twice.

Forty years later, she must have done more than a few things right. And last month, Alvarez became the latest recipient of the Florida Sheriffs Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award, reserved for those with more than four decades of law enforcement service in the Sunshine State.

Speaking with the Weekly, though, she describes her path to success and longevity as anything but straight, doubting herself in her early days as a 911 dispatcher. Leaving behind what she called “three menial jobs” to answer the phones for better pay – $12,900 a year at the time – she was quickly baptized into the world of law enforcement and criminal activity. It was an unfamiliar side of life for the self-described “goody twoshoes.”

“I was terrible when I started,” she laughed. “I tell my supervisor back then that I don’t know how I made it, and I admit that. … It was a culture shock, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world, because I was kind of naive.”

Dispatching in the 1980s looked nothing like it does today. Working out of the Marathon substation, Alvarez handled emergency calls for law enforcement, fire rescue and EMS while also processing inmates in the adjoining jail, assisting walk-in visitors and manually documenting every call before computerized dispatch systems existed.

And when she wasn’t at a desk, she was riding along as a reserve deputy, a program that allowed her to carry firearms and work in high-liability situations under the supervision of a sworn deputy.

Six years later, she attended the law enforcement academy, attending

CONTRIBUTED

courses in the evening before putting in midnight shifts on the phones. Two years later, she was on the roads.

“And I was horrible, again,” she laughed. “I don’t know if I would have passed had I not known the area because I grew up there. … I tell recruits now that the academy doesn’t teach you how to be a cop, it teaches you how to pass a police test.”

Sitting behind the wheel — and making split-second decisions herself — was a far cry from following another deputy’s lead as a reserve. It was a transition she struggled to make.

“I just needed that kick in the butt,” she said. “But (my supervisors) knew me, and they knew I’d apply myself. I just had to fine-tune the more technical stuff that was not in my wheelhouse.”

Over time, the uncertainty disappeared, and the deputy who once doubted her traffic stops became the one responsible for teaching new deputies how to make them. Rather than turning recruits over to face their first stop on a real vehicle, she’d simulate the experience with role players.

She gave every recruit the same advice: “Take one thing from each training officer and put it in your toolbox, and create your own toolbox when you’re on your own.”

After numerous promotions and service in road patrol, special operations and the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program, she landed in intelligence, where she discovered the investigative work she still enjoys today. Her current role centers on identifying patterns, sharing information and connecting agencies that otherwise might not communicate.

“I like connecting the dots and putting the puzzle together,” Alvarez said. “I don’t care who puts the handcuffs on them as long as they go to jail.”

Among the dozens of investigations she’s worked, one still sticks with her: executing a search warrant for a man who’d stolen a friend’s identity to make hundreds of thousands in purchases, from a house to boats and even a Christopher Lassen original painting.

“When we did the search, he had multiple 100-dollar bill wrappers that you get from a bank,” she said. “To this day I still don’t know what he did. … But I still have the painting hanging in my office as evidence. I still keep the file because one day I want to track him down and ask him to tell me before I retire.”

Her philosophy on interagency communication paid extra dividends in 2017, when organized crews racked up $1 million in GPS thefts from boats in marinas and storage facilities. Alvarez was instrumental in growing a cooperative marine task force, which now meets quarterly and includes more than 2,000 members among law enforcement agencies, rental car and insurance companies and more.

The effort eventually expanded into the South Florida Marina & Boat Watch Group on Facebook, a neighbors-helping-neighbors network with more than 16,800 members that has, at times, alerted authorities quickly enough to interrupt burglaries in progress.

“The hardest part is time, but I make the time because it pays off,” she said. “One time, North Miami Beach had a search warrant for GPS thefts. They called with a heads up, and that night we got hit in Venetian Shores, so I called the lieutenant back and asked for their suspect car. Sure enough, their target was ours – and they recovered our GPSes for us.”

The experience has also shaped the crime prevention advice she now gives residents – and it still comes back to the basics: lock vehicles, never leave key fobs or firearms inside, and remain skeptical of financial scams.

“If it sounds too good to be true, it is,” she said. “Do not send any money via Zelle, wire transfer or Cash App.”

Asked who most influenced her career, Alvarez immediately pointed to Sheriff Rick Ramsay, her own sergeant when she first went out on road patrol, who encouraged deputies to continually build their training and leadership credentials.

She also credited former FDLE supervisor Carol Frederick for helping shape her leadership style.

And while the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes four decades of service, Alvarez said she sees it less as the finish line than a reminder of how far she’s come from the dispatcher and rookie deputy who once questioned whether she belonged.

“I still love my job,” she said. “Hopefully not another 40 years, but a few more anyway.”

Lt. Nancy Alvarez, right, receives her Florida Sheriffs Association Lifetime Achievement Award from Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay.

Lt. Nancy Alvarez poses with representatives from Enterprise Mobility and members of south Florida’s marine theft task force.

Nancy Alvarez, center, with deputy Derek Fenton, left, and current Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay in 1995.

Alvarez with Sgt. Al Ramirez and detective Lazaro Valdez, her team members during her days in Special Operations.

JOIN US FOR OUR AUGUST NETWORKING LUNCHEON! on August 13th 11:30AM to 1:15PM at Reef House Resort, Key Largo AN UPDATE ON FLORIDA TOURISM FROM VISIT FLORIDA CEO BRYAN GRIFFIN.

YOU'RE INVITED TO OUR AUGUST MEMBERS IN MOTION AFTERHOURS ON AUGUST 27TH

REGISTER ONLINE! IT'S

join us at the Key Largo Civic Club 209 Ocean Bay Dr, Key Largo, 5:30PM to 7:30PM for an evening of community fun with light bites, drinks, networking and socializing!

While you're there, learn more about ways you can support United Way of Collier & the Keys!

SUMMER ART EXHIBIT CELEBRATES LOCAL TALENT

Proceeds benefit Morada Way Arts & Cultural District

COMING UP!

join us September 10th for our Annual Health Expo & extended Networking Luncheon featuring local health & wellness vendors allowing you to connect with valuable health resources.

For more information on how you can be a vendor at this event contact: Events@keylargochamber.org

Locals and visitors are invited to enjoy creative cuisine at a special value, with specially cra ed menus available at participating restaurants throughout the Upper Keys. SCAN HERE TO

LEGENDARY KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & FLORIDA KEYS VISITOR CENTER 106000 Overseas Highway, Key Largo 305.451.1414 - 1.800.822.1088 - events@keylargochamber.org WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG

“Made on Morada Way,” a summer art exhibit featuring the work of Upper Keys artists, debuted on Aug. 1 with an opening reception at the Hale Gallery in Islamorada.

The exhibit features the work of more than 20 artists, some of whom have galleries within the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, a six-block corridor on the Old Road between Green Turtle Inn (MM 81.2) and the Florida Keys Memorial (MM 81.8), known commonly as the Hurricane Monument.

Additional artists featured are those who exhibit during the monthly art walks, Third Thursdays.

“I like to feature shows with several artists,” said Kelly Hale, whose husband and artist Taylor Hale has a studio in Morada Way. “I reached out to Emma (Putney) to see if she would be interested in curating a show of Morada Way artists. Of course, she was.”

Putney, who works for Morada Way and is an artist, said, “I spent about two months curating this exhibit and am so pleased to have

more than 20 artists participating with nearly 70 unique works of art.”

Works are from artists including John David Hawver, Maria Wagner, Taylor Hale, Jessica Ann, Lisa Lee, Diana McGuirk-Hille and Putney under the name Emmanorthmich.

A variety of media are included in the show, from kiln-formed glass, oil on canvas, acrylic on canvas, ceramics, seashells and porcelain.

The exhibit is a fundraiser for Morada Way, a not-for-profit organization founded in 2011, which also produces the monthly Third Thursday Art Walk. Proceeds of sales will be shared by the featured artists and the not-for-profit. Prices range from a couple hundred dollars to close to $10,000.

The Hale Gallery is donating its customary proceeds from hosting art shows. The fine arts gallery is located within Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty office across the highway from the district at MM 81.8 bayside.

The exhibit is on display through Friday, Sept. 25 and can be viewed weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Private appointments can be scheduled by calling 305-204-1216.

Dr. Brian Magrane, left, Lisa Magrane and artist Maria Wagner pose by her art. JILL MIRANDA BAKER/Keys Weekly

JILL MIRANDA BAKER

COMMUNITY CONNECTS WITH LOCAL HEROES

SJIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

heriff’s vehicles, fire trucks, Coast Guard boats, tents and more filled Key Largo Community Park and Islamorada’s Founders Park for National Night Out. An evening dedicated to connecting the community with local first responders, the events in the Upper Keys allowed young tykes the chance to step inside a Trauma Star helicopter and view equipment used by the sheriff’s office’s dive and SWAT teams. Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation brought little alligators for the kids to see and touch, while Key Largo Fire Rescue put kids in uniform and showed them how they train. Community nonprofits were also on hand to share their mission and services. Barbecue food was dished out to the community courtesy of Key Largo Rotary and Islamorada Fire Rescue.

National Night Out at Founders Park in Islamorada and Key Largo Community Park. Photos by DOUG FINGER and CINDY SMITH View a gallery of photos on keysweekly.com

PROVEN LEADERSHIP IS NEEDED TO CONTROL THE WORLD’S DEADLIEST ANIMAL.

KEEP THE KEYS SAFE WITH PHIL GOODMAN

ESCAPE FOR A DAY

ESCAPE FOR A DAY

RELAX WITH A BAKER'S CAY DAY PASS AND ENJOY TWO POOLS, A PRIVATE BEACH, DINING, AND ACTIVITIES ACROSS OUR 15-ACRE WATERFRONT SANCTUARY.

CAYMUS WINE DINNER CAY S W NE D NNER

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20

A FOUR-COURSE CAYMUS WINE DINNER FEATURING COASTAL CUISINE & FLORIDA BAY VIEWS

CELEBRATE LABOR DAY WEEKEND CELEBRATE LABOR DAY WEEKEND

CELEBRATE LABOR DAY WEEKEND WITH A FESTIVE LUAU, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, AND FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

Paid by Phil Goodman, Republican, for Florida Keys Mosquito Control Board District 2

Here are a few of the community moments we’ve captured while out and about. If you see a Keys Weekly camera, strike a pose—you could be featured next!

Yvette & Ricardo Mendes & Dennis Ward at Key Largo Chamber lunch.

Candace Carter, Mary Houston & Carli Flounders at Key Largo Chamber lunch.

Mayra Castillo, Cathie Letourneau & Jessica Gallagher at Pilot House Paint & Sip event.

Carli Flounders & Adriana Cuomo, at Islamorada Chamber after hours.

Robbie & Anna Reckwerdt & Sara Roth at Islamorada Chamber after hours.

Katie and Jonathon Lindback & Jeff Evans at Islamorada Chamber after hours.

Looking for something to do? Browse upcoming community events and share your own with thousands of local readers!

Anais Diaz, JD Reinbott, Manuela Mobley, Yesenia Moreno, Barbara Freyre at the Islamorada Chamber luncheon at Pierre’s

Kaire Lindpere, Christina Day & Crystal Blaskis, REEF Ocean after hours.

Gwen Filosa, Steven Crane & Theresa Chiechi, Comedy for a Cause event.

Candace & Matt Carter, Key Largo Chamber Members in Motion event.

Patrice Messina, Sophia Palmieri & Paul Messina, Key Largo Chamber Members in Motion event.

‘Unspoken Bond’ movie premiere with one of our own, Nicole Navarro from Pawsitive Beginnings.

Michael Goldberg, Carlos G., Kathy McKinney at Leadership Monroe Social event.

IS YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA FEED WORKING FOR YOU— OR AGAINST YOU?

Have you ever opened social media to check one thing, only to realize 45 minutes have disappeared? You’re not alone.

Social media platforms are designed to keep us engaged, often serving up an endless stream of videos, products, opinions and headlines tailored to our interests.

is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension Director and Community Development Agent.

But here’s something many people don’t realize: You are training the algorithm just as much as it’s influencing you. I honestly have very little knowledge about how the algorithms work, but let’s start with what we do know.

Every click, like, comment, follow and search tells social media platforms what you want to see. The more you engage with a particular type of content, the more of it appears in your feed. If you spend time watching shopping hauls, celebrity gossip or sensational news, your feed will likely become filled with more of the same. However, if you consistently seek out educational content, practical life skills and positive influences, your social media experience can become a powerful learning tool.

Your social media feed is a lot like a garden. Whatever you water grows. If you regularly engage with educational, inspiring and practical content, your feed will gradually fill with more of it. But if you spend your time on negativity, gossip or endless shopping videos, that is what will continue to flourish.

So, how do we get a better algorithm? Start by taking inventory of the accounts you follow. Do they inspire you, teach you something new or encourage healthy habits? Or do they leave you feeling anxious, distracted or tempted to buy things you don’t need? Don’t be afraid to unfollow, mute or hide content that no longer serves your goals. These are all options on most platforms.

Instead, fill your feed with organizations and experts that provide

reliable, research-based information. Universities, Cooperative Extension programs, government agencies, museums, libraries, financial educators, gardeners, chefs, scientists and local community organizations all produce engaging content that can help you learn something new every day. Like, follow and engage with those posts.

Another simple strategy is to become more intentional with your searches. Rather than waiting for social media to decide what you’ll watch next, actively search for topics that interest you — whether it’s budgeting, cooking, home repairs, gardening, photography, healthy recipes or career development. The algorithm monitors your searches and begins recommending similar educational content.

Remember that not all engagement is positive. Social media algorithms measure engagement, not your opinion. If you engage with content you find bothersome or aggravating, you will see more of it. When you share, comment or watch a video to the end, that is marked as engagement. When possible, scroll past content you don’t want, select “Not Interested,” and avoid interacting with misleading or inflammatory posts. It’s also important to create healthy boundaries. Consider turning off unnecessary notifications, setting daily time limits or designating screen-free hours each day. These small changes can help you become more mindful about how you spend your time online.

DAISY

Daisy is a sweet, affectionate girl who enjoys spending time with people and does well with children. She has also done well with some dogs. When meeting new people, Daisy can be a little shy and reserved at first, but once she feels comfortable, her loving personality shines through. To set Daisy up for success, we recommend a home without female dogs. With the right family, Daisy will make a loyal and devoted companion. If you would like to learn more about Daisy or meet her, contact MarrVelous Pet Rescues or visit mprescues.org/adoption-application.

Thursday, Aug. 6

• MarrVelous Pet Rescues’ “Yappy Hour” from 6 to 8 p.m. at Three Waters Resort, Islamorada. Pets must be vaccinated, leashed and well-socialized.

Saturday, Aug. 8

• Lazy Lobster Fest, benefiting the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Lazy Lobster restaurant, 102770 Overseas Highway, Key Largo.

Aug. 11-12

• 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, Aug. 11

• REEF Fish & Friends lecture series welcomes Erin Allison, executive director for the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rescue & Rehabilitation Center, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Ocean Exploration Center, Key

Largo. A social goes from 6 to 7 p.m. with the presentation from 7 to 8 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 14

• Shark depredation town hall with UM and FIU scientists at 6 p.m. at Safe Harbor Angler House, 80500 Overseas Highway, Islamorada.

Saturday, Aug. 15

• Guided tours through the History of Diving Museum, included with admission, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Learn more at historyofdivingmuseum.org.

Aug. 16-17

Sixth annual City Bikes Key Largo Triathlon at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo. Learn more by scanning the QR code.

Social media platforms aim to keep the user engaged, as every click, comment or follow produces particular content. PIXABAY

ALICIA BETANCOURT SAVE THE DATE

COUNTY CLEARS MORE TRASH FROM CONSERVATION LAND

Monroe County’s ongoing efforts to safeguard environmentally sensitive lands recently reached another milestone, as crews and volunteers removed about 2,580 pounds of illegally accumulated trash from a local conservation area in Key Largo. With this latest effort, Monroe County’s total of removed debris from conservation areas has reached 32,320 pounds. Grabbing the gloves and pickers were members of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Key Largo Fire Rescue, county Land Authority and county Solid Waste. LAWRENCE LOPEZ/Monroe County Land Authority

LIFEWISE ACADEMY TO HOLD OPEN HOUSE

LifeWise Academy in Tavernier will host an open house on Saturday, Aug. 15 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pearl Christian Church, 161 Pearl Ave., to benefit students attending LifeWise Monroe FL. This event is open to the public and will provide information for parents interested in enrolling their children, while also raising community awareness for the program launching at Plantation Key School this fall.

LifeWise Academy, based in Hilliard, Ohio, is a religious instruction program providing Bible-based character education to public school students. With parent permission, students are released from school for one hour per week to attend offcampus classes.

“We are excited to offer Biblebased character education to participating students at Plantation Key School, and look forward to working with our community to make it a success,” said Ginger Smith, LifeWise Academy Monroe director.

The open house will include outdoor games for the kids, classroom tours, opportunities to meet LifeWise teachers and a sample lesson demonstrating what students will

experience during LifeWise classes.

Parents, grandparents and other community members are invited to attend, learn more about the program and ask questions about enrollment before classes begin this fall.

LifeWise lessons teach the Bible chronologically. Each lesson connects a Bible passage to a relevant character trait that students are encouraged to practice in their families and communities.

Students in grades kindergarten through fifth grade can enroll at www.lifewise.org/monroefl.

For more information about LifeWise Academy, visit lifewise.org. — Contributed

FREE CAMPAIGN SIGN RECYCLING STARTS AUG. 19

Monroe County, the Monroe County Supervisor of Elections, the City of Key West 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 Aug. 19 through Dec. 15 at five dropoff locations throughout the Keys. Metal stands should be removed from the signs and placed in the appropriate marked container.

Participants should look for marked collection bins at each location. Election signs require special handling and should not be placed in curbside recy-

cling bins.

DROPOFF LOCATIONS

• Key Largo Transfer Station, 11180 County Road 905.

• Long Key Transfer Station, Mile Marker 68.

• Cudjoe Transfer Station, Mile Marker 21.5 at Blimp Road.

• Waste Management, 125 Toppino Industrial Drive, Rockland Key.

• Key West Lions Club parking lot, 2405 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West.

For questions, email tuschel-melody@monroecounty-fl. gov or keely.kessler@cityofkeywest-fl.gov.

— Contributed

Nearly all political races in the Florida Keys will be decided in the Aug. 18 election. Campaign signs can be recycled for free at five locations between Aug. 19 and Dec. 15. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

CARIBBEAN EDUCATORS EXPLORE KEYS ECOLOGY

MarineLab program inspires conservation

MarineLab’s summer teacher workshop programs offer scholarships to educators from the Caribbean islands as part of its Caribbean Teacher Initiative. CONTRIBUTED

ZACK WOLTANSKI

www.keysweekly.com

Ten teachers from seven Caribbean island nations concluded classes at MarineLab’s teacher workshop week program on July 24. MarineLab’s Caribbean Teacher Initiative provides educators with opportunities to learn about marine ecology through field survey activities in mangrove, coral reef and seagrass environments.

Elementary, middle, high school and college educators were enrolled in courses on either advanced marine ecology and research techniques or the coastal marine ecology of the Keys.

The teachers are encouraged to develop and complete action projects within two months of returning home, using knowledge and experience gained through the week’s programming. Projects proposed by teachers included introducing swimming lessons and marine education to the community of Grand Bahama, raising awareness for marine pollution in Trinidad and introducing local educators in St. Maarten to MarineLab’s activities and resources.

With a busy schedule, teachers participated in field work, hands-on labs with work in water quality monitoring, fish and plankton identification, discussions on coral reef ecology, and data analysis. Mote Marine Laboratory, an organization focused on research and conservation work, met with both groups to discuss coral restoration.

“They were so excited to get in the water surrounding their own islands,” said Sarah Egner, senior vice president of the Marine Resources Development Foundation and director of the MarineLab Education program. “A few were telling me how they appreciate the water so much more, being able to actually see the life living in it, and want to be able to give their students that experience so they can develop the same appreciation.”

“This workshop was just awesome,” said one participating educator.

“I came from never snorkeling before to snorkeling (for) two days, and being so inspired that I bought a set of gear which I am going to use to pursue my new passion of snorkeling in my island, Dominica.” A majority of teachers had never snorkeled before.

The program has grown since its inception in 2022, with several dozen teachers submitting applications this year, and its 10 participants receiving fully-paid scholarships. Teacher education has been a primary goal of MarineLab since its founding.

“We want the teachers to go home energized to get back in the classroom, help them make sure their science teaching is conservation focused, provide a network of teachers they can connect with, and give them knowledge and resources they can use with their own students,” Egner said.

Registration for MarineLab’s fall teacher workshop for Florida teachers teaching fifth through 12th grade is open. More information is at marinelab.org/teacher-workshops-1.

3.75%APY* for 6 Months OR 4%APY* for 12 Months Don’t let this deal melt away; lock it in today!

MEET THE 2026 ALL-KEYS BASEBALL TEAM

District champions, dominant arms and dangerous bats

TRACY McDONALD www.keysweekly.com

Monroe County’s baseball season featured strong district performances across multiple classifications, with Marathon and Key West both advancing to the regional semifinals after capturing district titles. Marathon finished 19-10-1 in Class 1A Rural District 8, including a win over Coral Shores in their lone meeting of the season, and carried that momentum into the playoffs. Key West posted an impressive 24-7 record in Class 4A District 16, claiming a district championship. Coral Shores completed the year at 8-10 in Class 2A District 16, competing in a tough field and falling short of a postseason run.

GABRIELE CIRINA

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

SENIOR, MARATHON, PITCHER

Cirina wasted no time making his mark after arriving from Italy during the winter, instantly becoming the heartbeat of Marathon’s district championship squad and one of the most dominant two-way players in South Florida. A commanding presence on the mound and a force in the middle of the Dolphins’ lineup, Cirina combined elite pitching with timely hitting to change the complexion of every game he played. He finished the season with a stellar 1.42 ERA and 91 strikeouts while batting .397 with 29 hits, including five doubles, two triples and two home runs. His patience at the plate helped produce a .531 on-base percentage, and he drove in 28 runs while providing veteran leadership and confidence to a young Dolphins team. Cirina will continue his baseball career at Eastern Florida State College. His ability to dominate every facet of the game made him a valuable asset to the Fins’ program this season.

DONOVAN THIERY Senior, Key West Pitcher/Infield

These Monroe County players won recognition from the High School Baseball Network South Florida District:

• Gabriele Cirina, Player of the Year, Pitcher of the Year and Hitter of the Year.

• Donovan Thiery, Player of the Year and Pitcher of the Year.

• Dylan Williams, All-District Utility Player.

• Roco Piscetello, All-District.

• Bradley Buigas, All-District.

• Jack Chapman, All-District Utility Player.

• Riley O’Berry, All-District.

• Roman Garcia, All-District.

• Nelson Ong, All-District.

• Xavier Perez, All-District.

• Kade Maltz, All-District.

• Auggy Davila, All-District.

Thiery was the ace of the Conchs’ staff and a consistent leader throughout the season. The Florida State University signee compiled a 7-3 record with a 1.98 ERA and 90 strikeouts while also contributing offensively with 26 hits, including six extra-base hits and three home runs for a .603 slugging percentage. Defensively, he turned nine double plays and finished with a .969 fielding percentage. His all-around excellence earned him collegiate offers and Thiery turned heads with professional scouts as well.

DYLAN WILLIAMS

Junior, Marathon

Pitcher/Infield

Williams continued to establish himself as one of the Keys’ premier pitchers, striking out 101 batters while posting a stellar 1.70 ERA. At the plate, he reached base consistently thanks to 27 hits and 24 walks, producing a .470 on-base percentage while adding 23 runs, 12 stolen bases and a .310 batting average. He showed versatility and impact across multiple facets of the game.

Photos by Maicey Malgrat, Rocky Gonet, Natalie Danko and Natalie Goodwin

ROCO PISCETELLO

Junior, Marathon

Second Base/Pitcher

Piscetello’s versatility made him one of Marathon’s most valuable players. He collected 28 hits, including seven extra-base hits, drove in 14 runs and scored 25 while providing steady defense in the infield. On the mound, he added a save as a dependable relief option. He demonstrated athleticism, hustle and ability to contribute wherever needed.

ROMAN GARCIA

Junior, Key West

Third Base

Garcia was the offensive catalyst for the Conchs, leading the team in both hits and on-base percentage. He collected 35 hits, including 16 extrabase hits, drove in 26 runs and slugged .589 while batting .328, showing the ability to produce in key situations and consistently spark the offense.

AUGGY DAVILA

Junior, Key West

Relief Pitcher

Davila excelled in late-game situations, recording eight saves while posting a 1.88 ERA and a 3-1 pitching record. He also supplied timely offense with 17 hits, including eight extra-base hits, while scoring 22 runs and driving in 18, showing poise under pressure and ability to impact games on both sides of the ball.

BRADLEY BUIGAS

Eighth Grade, Marathon Outfield

Despite not yet entering high school, Buigas quickly proved he belonged at the varsity level. The eighth grader hit .321 with 27 hits and 17 RBIs while posting a .913 fielding percentage in the outfield. His maturity, confidence and ability to compete against older players make him one of the area’s brightest young talents.

NELSON ONG

Junior, Key West Outfield

Ong was a steady force at the top of the Conchs’ lineup, leading the team with 35 hits while batting .350. He scored 26 runs, stole seven bases and played dependable defense in the outfield, finishing with a .956 fielding percentage. Ong showed consistency, speed and all-around play.

KELLER BLACKBURN

Junior, Coral Shores Outfield

Blackburn combined speed, discipline and flawless defense to become one of the Hurricanes’ most dependable players. He batted .306 with 15 hits, led Coral Shores with 11 stolen bases and worked 10 walks to finish with a .404 on-base percentage. Blackburn was also perfect defensively throughout the season, making him a reliable presence every time he took the field.

JACK CHAPMAN

Sophomore, Marathon Infield

Chapman delivered in every phase of the game, producing 24 hits, 21 RBIs and 17 runs while drawing 15 walks and batting .273. He also contributed on the mound, recording two saves as a reliable relief pitcher. Chapman demonstrated versatility and steady play throughout the season.

XAVIER PEREZ

Junior, Key West Infield/Outfield

Perez’s versatility and reliability made him an invaluable piece of Key West’s lineup. He appeared in all 31 games, batting .338 with 26 hits, seven doubles, 16 RBIs and 16 runs while posting an outstanding .973 fielding percentage. He showed a dependable glove and ability to contribute wherever needed.

Senior, Coral Shores Catcher

Clark provided veteran leadership behind the plate while serving as one of Coral Shores’ defensive anchors. The Rollins College signee posted an exceptional .988 fielding percentage while reaching base at a .460 clip thanks to nine walks. His steady presence, game management and leadership made him invaluable to the Hurricanes throughout the season.

RILEY O’BERRY

Senior, Coral Shores Pitcher

O’Berry anchored the Hurricanes both on the mound and as a leader. The Northern Oklahoma College signee posted a 2.92 ERA with 34 strikeouts while batting .364 and reaching base at a .481 clip. He also finished with a stellar .973 fielding percentage, showcasing consistency on both sides of the ball.

KADE MALTZ

Sophomore, Key West Pitcher/Outfield

Maltz emerged as one of the area’s top young two-way players. On the mound, he went 7-1 with a sparkling 1.47 ERA, struck out 34 batters and threw a no-hitter. At the plate, he totaled 31 hits, including 15 extra-base hits, while scoring 30 runs, driving in 22 and leading the Conchs with eight stolen bases in a breakout sophomore season.

MAYKOL BONITO

Senior, Coral Shores

Shortstop

Bonito’s leadership and steady play made him a cornerstone of the Hurricanes’ infield. He led the team with 11 walks to post an impressive .436 on-base percentage while adding nine hits, eight RBIs and dependable defense at shortstop. His baseball IQ, leadership and consistent presence helped set the tone for Coral Shores throughout the season.

MASON CLARK

MEET THE 2026 ALL-KEYS GIRLS TENNIS TEAM

Depth, determination and emerging talent fuel another strong season on the courts

TRACY McDONALD www.keysweekly.com

Monroe County’s girls tennis programs showcased impressive depth and steady growth this season, with each school finding success in its own way. Key West’s talent-rich lineup was among the strongest in recent memory. Coral Shores continued its rise behind a mix of experienced leaders and promising newcomers. Marathon’s small but determined squad made the most of every opportunity. This year’s All-Keys Girls Tennis Team features accomplished veterans, emerging underclassmen and dedicated leaders who combined skill, sportsmanship and perseverance to elevate their teammates.

EVA

DROZDETSKAIA

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

SENIOR, KEY WEST

A force against Monroe County competition, Eva Drozdetskaia capped an outstanding career by once again going undefeated in both singles and doubles against Keys opponents while leading the Conchs as team captain. Key West’s top seed in both singles and doubles, Drozdetskaia displayed her elite play with wins over LaSalle in both the regular season and postseason. She then pushed one of South Florida’s top players from Gulliver Prep to a thrilling three-set district championship match that was decided in a tiebreaker. Her dominant serve, strategic approach and exceptional mental toughness made her one of the area’s premier players, but it was her leadership that truly set her apart. Composed, humble and relentlessly positive, she consistently encouraged her teammates and elevated those around her.

EMILY ALVEAR

Junior, Marathon

Marathon’s No. 1 singles player for the third consecutive season, Emily Alvear compiled a 6-5 singles record while going 5-6 in doubles against the toughest competition on the Dolphins’ schedule. She has steadily improved each season, earning her highest singles win total this spring. A focused, hard-working competitor, she provided veteran leadership while continuing to develop her game and appears poised to take the next step as one of the area’s top players.

SHYNELL MCGUIRE

Senior, Marathon

In her first season playing tennis, Shynell McGuire quickly worked her way from the No. 3 position into the No. 2 spot in Marathon’s lineup. Her rapid improvement was a testament to her work ethic, as she approached every practice determined to become a better player. A natural competitor with tremendous athletic potential, McGuire’s dedication paid off throughout the season, leaving the Dolphins wishing they had enjoyed four years with her on the court.

SHILO YEIDER

Senior, Marathon

A four-year fixture in Marathon’s lineup at the No. 4 position, Shilo Yeider brought positivity and enthusiasm to every practice and match. Although her record does not fully reflect her progress, she consistently improved throughout the season while serving as a dependable teammate and encouraging presence. Her upbeat attitude, determination and willingness to compete made her a valued member of the Dolphins’ program.

ALLYSON ROSENDALE

Sophomore, Coral Shores

Making an immediate impact in her first season with the Hurricanes, sophomore Allyson Rosendale finished with an impressive 13-6 record. A dedicated and highly competitive player, Rosendale established herself as one of Coral Shores’ top contributors. Her strong play, consistent improvement and confident approach on the court give the Hurricanes an exciting player to build around in the coming seasons.

HARLEE BEELER

Junior, Coral Shores

A third-year member of the Hurricanes, Harlee Beeler posted an

outstanding 11-4 record while providing steady leadership and consistency throughout the season. Her experience, determination and composed presence on the court helped fuel Coral Shores’ success. A reliable competitor who could always be counted on to battle for every point, Beeler continues to be one of the team’s most dependable players.

HAMIDA MUHSINOVA

Sophomore, Key West

A team captain despite being just a sophomore, Hamida Muhsinova excelled while playing both the No. 1 and No. 2 singles positions and No. 1 doubles for the Conchs. Undefeated against Monroe County competition, she paired her versatile all-court game with a winning record in doubles, highlighted by a strong performance against LaSalle and a hard-fought match against Gulliver Prep. Her positive attitude, sportsmanship and competitive mindset make her an outstanding teammate and one of the Keys’ brightest young stars.

MIAH APPERSON

Sophomore, Key West

Versatility was Miah Apperson’s greatest strength this season, as she contributed everywhere from the No. 1 through No. 3 singles positions while also competing at both No. 1 and No. 2 doubles. She earned decisive victories throughout the year, surrendering just five games combined in her singles wins. An exceptional all-court player, Apperson combines patient baseline rallies with outstanding hustle and court awareness. Her understanding of doubles strategy, strong volley game and constant encouragement of her partners make her one of the Conchs’ most complete and valuable players.

Photos by Doug Finger, Maicey Malgrat and Tracy McDonald

Chris (far left) and Carrlee (center) Denault have deep roots in the Florida Keys and look forward to growing both their studio’s offerings and their family — Carrlee has another child due in September. CONTRIBUTED

STAY GOLDEN

Longtime locals create a healing oasis in Islamorada

CHARLOTTE TWINE

www.keysweekly.com

Icould feel my shoulders relax as I climbed the steps to Golden Yoga’s loft-like studio space. I had signed up for one of the Wednesday night sound-bowl healing sessions, and I was looking forward to it after a busy day.

The airy room’s walls and ceiling were white, the shelves were filled with LED candles, and a yoga mat had been placed in front of a circle of crystal sound-healing bowls. I settled onto the mat, and a very calm and serene Chris Denault — the co-owner of Golden Yoga — commenced the session. While he lightly circled the crystal bowls with a mallet, harmonic tones rang out into the space.

As the kids say these days, it was such a vibe.

Carrlee Denault, co-owner of Golden Yoga and Chris’ wife, wouldn’t have it any other way.

“It feels soulful,” she said about the ambience of their studio. “There’s a feeling that it touches your heart. At the end of yoga classes, we play harmonium and chant. That, for me, is really special.”

Carrlee was a therapist for years

in the Upper Keys, so it makes sense that she would gravitate toward providing healing and heart-centered classes for the community. The Denaults are both certified to teach yoga through Yoga Alliance; Carrlee has been teaching since 2018, and Chris since 2015.

The couple have deep roots in the area. She is a part of the Pinder family, which helped settle the Florida Keys in the late 1800s, while Chris also grew up locally. They are expecting their second child in September (their son attends Treasure Village Montessori), and they look forward to expanding both their brood and the offerings of Golden Yoga.

Currently, the studio’s schedule has everything from Mindful Yoga, which is a gentle hatha flow class, to Vinyasa Yoga, a more dynamic session.

“No matter where you are in your yoga journey, you can follow along,” said Carrlee. “We do offer modifications in classes, especially for people with limited mobility.”

But the Denaults have a bigger vision for their studio than providing yoga classes.

‘Every class leaves me feeling balanced, grounded and in touch with myself,’ said Golden Yoga regular Dina Sip. A typical class of the studio can be seen here.

“We call it a creative community space, where people can share their unique gifts,” Carrlee explained. “We’ve done vision-board workshops, and sewing and breathwork classes.”

She invites locals to pitch ideas in their area of expertise for leading workshops and classes in the healing arts, yoga, crafts, meditation and more. “People can come in and offer their gifts.”

“Carrlee and Chris are warm, kind, deeply knowledgeable, and incredibly empathetic,” said Golden Yoga regular Dina Sip. “There is no ego — just two loving human beings dedicated to helping others. They encourage you to turn inward, guiding each practice with care, respect and authenticity. Every class leaves me feeling balanced, grounded, and in touch with myself.”

Stephanie Cox is the executive director of Morada Way Arts District, where Golden Yoga is based. She is also a fan of the studio.

“Having Carrlee and Chris on Morada Way is a great addition to the district,” said Cox. “Carrlee is so gentle, positive and helpful that everyone can succeed in her classes. A very special treat is attending one of

Carrlee and Chris’ classes at the Hale Gallery. At the end of the day, to be guided through a gentle flow yoga class that ends with a sound-bowl healing session surrounded by art is a unique and wonderful experience.”

Back at the sound-bowl healing session, Chris gently brought the singing of the bowls to a close. I looked up from my mat and asked how long we had been there.

“One hour,” he replied.

“I thought we were just here for 15 minutes!” I said, shocked.

“Yes, everyone says that,” he said with a smile.

Deeply relaxed, I thanked him for the session. That night, I slept like a stone.

For the schedule of Golden Yoga’s yoga classes and sound-bowl healing sessions, go to carrleeandchris. com. The studio is in the loft of 200 Morada Way, Unit 1B, Islamorada. The space is also available to be rented out by yoga teachers. The Denaults can also provide private, in-home yoga sessions. Phone: 305-394-2844. The couple also have a YouTube channel @carrleeandchris, and Chris offers his sound-healing sessions on Insight Timer @chrisdenault.

Chris Denault provides sound-bowl healing sessions every Wednesday night at the studio, as well as on Insight Timer.

POCKET-SIZED HONOR

Monroe County leaders share the history and heart behind challenge coins

When Cory Schwisow leaves the house, he rarely walks out the door without a small but meaningful item in his pocket: a military challenge coin. After 23 years in the U.S. Navy, those coins still serve as a quiet reminder of service, sacrifice and the people he’s served alongside.

“Even after I retired, it is very rare that I leave my house without having a challenge coin of some shape or form in my pocket,” said Schwisow, Monroe County’s director of emergency management. “Every coin has a story behind it, and it really should.”

Challenge coins are an enduring tradition across the armed forces. Historically presented as tokens of appreciation, recognition and pride for service members who go above and beyond, the exchange is deeply personal. Traditionally, a senior leader presses a coin into the palm of someone junior in rank during a handshake, symbolizing an informal “thank you” that often means more than an official medal.

“Chief petty officers always have a Navy chief coin in our pockets,” said Schwisow. “It’s a token of respect.” When a sailor went beyond their normal duties, he used that coin to send a clear message of “I see you, I recognize your hard work, and here’s a token of my appreciation.”

The challenge coin tradition stretches back far in history. Some historians trace the roots to ancient Rome, when soldiers received specially minted coins to reward bravery. Centuries later, during World War I, a wealthy American lieutenant had solid bronze medallions made for his flying squadron.

When one pilot was shot down behind enemy lines and escaped to a French outpost without his ID, he was nearly executed as a German saboteur. He produced his squadron medallion, and a French officer recognized the insignia, delayed the execution and gave him a bottle of wine instead.

As the tradition evolved, so did a lively culture around it. By the 1960s, commanders used coins widely to boost morale, creating unique designs for specific ships, units or deployments. It also sparked the famous, unofficial “coin check” tradition still alive in military bars today.

“When you’re at a bar and tap your challenge coin on the counter,” Schwisow explained, “anyone who can’t tap theirs in return has to buy the drinks.”

Today, challenge coins mark everything from promotions and reenlistments to visits from highranking officials. But for Schwisow, the meaning behind the metal is what matters most.

One of his most cherished pieces dates back to his time as a young sailor aboard the USS Enterprise, when his daily tasks included making coffee for a high-ranking captain throughout a six-month deployment. At the end of that long stretch at sea, the captain approached him, shook his hand and quietly passed him a challenge coin.

“I still have this coin,” Schwisow said. “I would rather take a challenge coin over any military award I’ve ever gotten.”

Over more than two decades of service, including a combat deployment to Yemen, Schwisow accumulated coins that tell the story of his career. Some commemorate commands he’s served with; others honor people he’s lost, including a tribute coin created for a close friend who died of cancer. Another rare coin from the USS Enterprise’s final deployment is especially meaningful, as it was given only to the last crew before the historic ship was decommissioned.

The tradition has followed him into civilian life. On a vacation in Michigan, he met a group of sea cadets and quietly pressed a coin into the hand of a standout young man.

“I said, ‘Hey, I really appreciate what you do, and keep up the great work,’” Schwisow recalled. “It’s just something that continues on.”

Even in his role protecting the Florida Keys, Schwisow carries the tradition forward. While serving as the director of emergency management, he designed a custom coin featuring his office’s logo on one side and the county logo on the other, using it much the way he did as a Navy chief; a tangible, personal thank-you to local heroes.

It’s a practice shared by other local officials, including Monroe County Commissioner Jim Scholl, who carries the tradition, and the physical coins, with him wherever he goes.

“Challenge coins are small, but each one carries a story,” Scholl said. “They represent a person, a unit, a mission or a moment that meant something. The military has a long tradition of using challenge coins to recognize service and show appreciation. Every coin in my collection reminds me of the people behind it.”

For Scholl, the custom bridges the gap between military history and civic pride, offering a unique way for local government to mark historic milestones and thank those who step up during crises.

“The county has created several over the years, including some given after Hurricane Irma and on the county’s 200th anniversary,” Scholl noted. “Most recently, we made a 250-year commemorative coin for the nation’s anniversary.”

This coin is from the USS Enterprise CVN-65 and was given to the last crew to sail on the ship.

Much like Schwisow, Scholl finds that the simple act of carrying a coin keeps that spirit of connection alive in daily life.

“I usually always carry one with me,” Scholl said. “They often spark conversations among those unfamiliar with them.”

From ancient legions to modern veterans in local government, challenge coins remain a powerful symbol. They may fit in the palm of a hand, but they represent a lifelong connection to service.

Monroe County Director of Emergency Management Cory Schwisow sits by his extensive collection of challenge coins. CONTRIBUTED

Monroe County Commissioner Jim Scholl keeps an office display of challenge coins, placed within a glass tabletop.

The special America 250 Florida Keys anniversary coin. JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com

PRIORITIES

PARENTS FIRST

Let's support and defend parents as the primary educators and decision-makers for their children.

SCHOOL CHOICE

Let's protect families' educational freedom to choose options that best t their children.

TRANSPARENCY & COMMUNICATION

Let's restore two-way communication and a seat at the table for parents, teachers & taxpayers.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY

Let's request a state audit to protect educational dollars and end waste & overspending.

TEACHER SUPPORT

Let's ght for great teachers to receive merit based pay & strong administrative support.

ACADEMICS & ACHIEVEMENT

Let's focus on achieving at grade level or above reading, math, history, civics, & workforce education with less screen time for more real learning.

CONSERVATIVE

JUDEO-CHRISTIAN VALUES

Let's return to the faith, family, & freedom values that our forefathers founded this nation upon.

“HIGHLY QUALIFIED”

ANTI-SCHOOL CHOICE

Opposes many school choice options and makes it harder for families.

ANTI-COMMUNICATION

Limits parent input and transparency. Keeps important decisions behind closed doors.

POOR FISCAL STEWARDSHIP

Supports spending schemes and special projects instead of classroom priorities.

PRO-UNION AGENDA

Puts union politics ahead of students, parents and merit-based teachers.

WOKE SOCIAL AGENDAS

Pushes ideology, DEI, gender ideaology, and divisive programs ahead of academic excellence.

LIBERAL ACTIVISM AGENDA

Supports DEI, gender ideology, anti-ICE rhetoric, and policies that do not re ect our values.

ENDORSED BY EQUALITY FLORIDA ACTION PAC

"In 2026, we need to swing the pendulum, and we have a plan to do exactly that." "We're going to build the bench of LGBTQ elects.... and deliver pro-equality majorities in our local and school board races. Champions who ght for us are going to get the support they need to win..."

John Saunders, Florida Action PAC, Florida's largest LGBTQ political party.

In Wilmington, Illinois, a man was rescued after being stuck in a gas station sign for several hours on July 21. The man, a maintenance worker, used a special lift to get up to the 130-foot-tall sign to do some work on it. The lift, however, would not come down, leaving the man stranded until emergency personnel were able to procure a crane from nearby Joliet. ABC7 reported that the man appeared to be in good spirits and refused medical treatment.

Adam Dailies

In The Bleachers

Brevity

Alfred, Lord Tennyson (1809-1892), poet; Alexander Fleming (18811955), biologist/pharmacologist; Lucille Ball (1911-1989), actress/ comedian; Robert Mitchum (1917-1997), actor; Andy Warhol (19281987), artist/filmmaker; Michelle Yeoh (1962- ), actress; David Robinson (1965- ), basketball player; Mike Greenberg (1967- ), sportscaster; M. Night Shyamalan (1970- ), filmmaker; Vera Farmiga (1973- ), actress; Leslie Odom Jr. (1981- ), actor/singer.

In 1991, CERN computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee published the first website, which offered information about the World Wide Web project.

In 2012, NASA’s Curiosity rover landed on Mars.

In 1963, Philadelphia’s NBA team changed its name from the Nationals to the 76ers.

Brevity

Nancy Dailies

Pizza Biscuits

You’ll need:

• 1 (10-count) package refrigerated biscuits

• 5 tablespoons tomato sauce

What to do:

• 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning

• 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese

1. Place biscuits in pockets of a greased muffin tin (larger size). Press biscuits flat.

2. Mix Italian seasoning into tomato sauce.

3. Spoon 1/2 tablespoon of mixture on top of each pressed-down biscuit.

4. Sprinkle cheese evenly over all biscuits.

5. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes or until done. Serves 4.

* You’ll need an adult’s help with this recipe.

NEWS OF THE WEIRD

In his quest to retrieve a bottle of Mountain Dew, a Kansas City, Missouri, man fell into a portable restroom toilet tank and was stuck there for eight hours -- with the lid closed! -- before being rescued. According to Fox 4 News, on July 14, a driver with Patriot Portable Restrooms was trying to collect the structures that had been set up for a World Cup watch party when he encountered the trapped occupant. The driver flagged down a nearby police officer, who helped him unlock the door. “When we opened the door and didn’t see anybody, we honestly thought we were talking to a ghost, and then his head popped up out of the tank like a game of whack-a-mole, or Oscar the Grouch coming out of his can,” a company representative said. KCFD had to cut the man out of the toilet and then blasted him with the fire hose to rinse him off. “In the portable restroom business, you kind of expect the unexpected,” the representative said. “But in six years, I never thought I’d find someone alive inside one of our units.”

TODAY’S NUMBER

4,862 -- ring count of Prometheus, a bristlecone pine tree cut down for research purposes on this day in 1964 by U.S. Forest Service personnel in eastern Nevada. Scientists believe the tree may have been more than 5,000 years old, making it the oldest nonclonal organism ever discovered.

In 1965, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act, which outlawed voting qualifications historically used to disenfranchise Black voters.

In 1926, Gertrude Ederle became the first woman to swim across the English Channel.

In 1945, the U.S. B-29 bomber Enola Gay dropped the “Little Boy” atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan.

Founded by Betty Debnam

Keeping in Touch

Mini Fact: About 330 million adults in the U.S., or 98% of us, own a cellphone. In 1995, about 12% had cellphone service.

Today, we take it for granted that we can call across the country or around the world easily. But just 110 years ago, making a transcontinental phone call was the next big communications challenge.

On Jan. 25, 1915, two telephone calls between the East Coast and the West Coast of the United States were celebrated.

This week in The Mini Page, we find out more about how our phones work and the evolution of the device.

Before phones

Before the telephone was invented in 1876, people could speak to each other in person or write letters. But the mail was slow, and it was expensive to send a letter.

Urgent messages could be sent by telegraph in the U.S. by the mid-1800s. This system used Morse code, or dots and dashes that were tapped onto a machine. The receiving machine would tap the coded message onto paper, and an operator would translate it.

But people had to go to a telegraph office to send a message. Only one message could be sent at a time, and the system didn’t always work well.

Talking telephones

Telephone operators in the early 1900s connect callers at a switchboard.

Telephones became popular quickly. By 1915, more than 10 million telephones had been installed in the United States.

Early telephones were connected through an exchange, or central office. Operators sat at a switchboard. A caller talked to the operator first, asking to be connected to another person. When machines took over the switching of calls, customers got unique phone numbers and used a dial to contact each other. Operators were used only for long-distance or other special calls.

How does it work?

A landline telephone changes your voice into electrical signals. The signals are sent over a wire to another telephone, which changes the signals back into your voice for the person on the other end.

In cordless telephones, the handset sends radio waves to the base unit, which sends the signals over a wire.

Cellphone signals are sent by radio waves to a cell tower. The radio waves are transferred from tower to tower, then to the receiver’s phone.

Words that remind us of telephones are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

COASTS, CODE, DIAL, EMERGENCY, EXCHANGE, LETTER, MAIL, MESSAGE, MORSE, NUMBER, OPERATOR, RADIO, SERVICE, SIGNAL, TELEGRAPH, TELEPHONE, TOWER, WAVE.

Long-distance calling

The first transcontinental phone call, from New York to San Francisco, took place in 1915. A three-minute call between New York and San Francisco would have cost $20.70 at that time. That would be $664 today!

In January 1927, calls between New York and London became possible.

Fun with Morse code

You can use Morse code to send secret messages to friends! People also use Morse code to send messages with mirrors, flashlights or radio signals, especially in an emergency.

RESOURCES

On the Web:

• bit.ly/48i46g9

• youtu.be/cRrtIildKDM

At the library:

• “Ringing in Innovation: American Inventions That Transformed Communication” by Margaret J. Goldstein

ECO NOTE

Australian scientists have discovered a new bee species with tiny hornlike projections and named it Megachile lucifer for its devilish appearance. Found in Western Australia’s Goldfields region, the female bee’s horns measure about 1 millimeter long and are unique to the species. The solitary bee species was found as scientists surveyed a critically endangered wildflower that grows only in the same area as the horned bee, where mining and climate change threaten both the pollinator and the plant.

This “straight key” Morse code device is from the World War II era. Today, operators use automatic machines or computers to tap out the code.

photo courtesy Library of Congress

FICTITIOUS NAME

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Bali Bar located at 325 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: The Key West Hotel LLC

Publish:

August 6 & 13, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Kar Bar located at 325 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: The Key West Hotel LLC

Publish:

August 6 & 13, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

EASY STORAGE

NOTICE OF SEIZURE

Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Florida Statutes

83.805/83.506, Easy Storage, 82990 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036 will sell or otherwise dispose of the personal contents of the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien.

ALL CONTENTS IN:

UNIT # 15C - Estate of Stephen Buzzell

SALE: Thursday, August 25, 2026 at 10:00 A.M.

LOCATION: EASY STORAGE

82990 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

Terms of the sale will be cash only.

Easy Storage reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids.

Publish: August 6 & 13, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given that Big Pine Storage, pursuant to the Florida Self Storage Facility Act, Florida Statutes (Section 83.801–83.809), will sell at public sale by competitive online bidding to satisfy the owner’s lien for unpaid rent, fees, and other charges. Sale to be held online at 11:00 AM on August 10, 2026, at storagetreasures.com. Contents of the following unit(s) will be sold: OP11 – James Reynolds, 825 Wright Drive, Lake Worth, FL 33461 – Personal items Property is stored at Big Pine Storage, 30677 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043. All items are sold as is, where is, and must be removed within 48 hours of purchase.

Publish:

July 30 and August 6, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Florida Keys Council of the Arts

Notice of Upcoming Meetings

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the Zoom meetings or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts. com Board Meeting/Retreat & Advisor Orientation

August 7, 2026, at 1:00 PM

Monroe County Public Library Community Room 3490 Overseas Hwy Marathon, FL 33050 Or Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86794 546096?pwd=AalFVbKl2sdYVEJsm MiYoFbvvc11hj.1 Meeting ID: 867 9454 6096 Passcode: 584991

Membership & Development Committee Meeting August 12, 2026, at 4:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85479

435734?pwd=Z6KXuwVGKwo6vLa ZpdJdwci3sX3tlA.1

Meeting ID: 854 7943 5734

Passcode: 442896

Art In Public Places Committee

Meeting

August 25, 2026, at 5:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88586 231244?pwd=B7tmoQVvVu0Nwgk VpoDyw4AjblH3aw.1

Meeting ID: 885 8623 1244

Passcode: 703426

Membership & Development Committee Meeting

Aug 26, 2026, at 4:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81495 227125?pwd=p8R5Euk1NaLPw2M 6ngGdxnj0bAjKdI.1

Meeting ID: 814 9522 7125

Passcode: 843471

Publish:

August 6, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT HEARING

“SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2026-514” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.

DATE/TIME: Thursday, August 20, 2026, 10:00 AM

LOCATION: Temporary Meeting Place for the City of Key Colony Beach at The Key Colony Inn, Back Patio, 700 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach.

The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2026-514], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA; AMENDING CHAPTER SIX OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, ENTITLED BUILDINGS; ARTICLE II. DANGEROUS STRUCTURES; AMENDING SECTION 6-37 CERTIFICATION AND RECERTIFICATION OF EXISTING AND FUTURE MULTI-STORY STRUCTURES; AND PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ANY INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.”

The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www.keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and, for such purpose, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, August 20, 2026, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, and your comments will be entered into the record.

To be published: On or before August 6, 2026

City Clerk - City of Key Colony Beach, Florida

Publish: August 6, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 26-CP-000260-P

IN RE: ESTATE OF DIANNE E. PARIDY

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of DIANNE E. PARIDY, deceased,

whose date of death was April 18, 2026; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 26-CP-000260-P; the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070.

The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, 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 6, 2026.

Personal Representative:

JOHN MICHAEL LYNN

7 Barracuda Ln Key Largo, FL 33037 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com

Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0147273

7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com

Publish: August 6 & 13, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 26-CP-000096-M

DIVISION: MARATHON

IN RE: ESTATE OF HELMUT FRIEDRICH ROTH

A/K/A FREDERICH H. ROTH

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Helmut Friedrich Roth a/k/a Frederich H. Roth, deceased, whose date of death was October 8, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.

All 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 date of first publication of this notice is July 30, 2026.

Personal Representative: Fred M. Roth

13333 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative: Meghan E. Miller

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 1003898

Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938

Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-9428

Fax: (305) 743-8800

E-Mail: memiller@floridakeyslaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw.com

kobrien@floridakeyslaw.com

Publish:

July 30 and August 6, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-000140-K IN RE: ESTATE OF MAURICE LEWIS

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of MAURICE LEWIS, deceased, whose date of death was January 28, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. 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 on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

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

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.

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

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is July 30, 2026.

Personal Representatives:

Paige Martin

Address: 908 N. Wayne Street North Manchester, IN 46962

Abby Tomcsi

Address: 11520 Rossburn Drive Fishers, IN 46037

Attorneys for Personal Representatives: Aaron P. Snellenbarger, Esq. Florida Bar No. 113125

Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP 1 Indiana Square, Suite 3500 Indianapolis, IN 46204

T. 317-713-9453

Email: asnellenbarger@taftlaw. com

John A. Garner, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0569992

Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP 9130 Galleria Court, Suite 101 Naples, FL 34109-4381

T. 239-497-8382

Email: jagarner@taftlaw.com

Publish:

July 30 and August 6, 2026

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-000141-K IN RE: ESTATE OF BARBARA LEWIS Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of BARBARA LEWIS, deceased, whose date of death was January 28, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.

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

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

The date of first publication of this notice is July 30, 2026.

Personal Representative: Jason Grube

Address: 952 West Shore Dr. Culver, IN 46511

Attorneys for Personal Representative:

Aaron P. Snellenbarger, Esq. Florida Bar No. 113125

Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP 1 Indiana Square, Suite 3500 Indianapolis, IN 46204

T. 317-713-9453

Email: asnellenbarger@taftlaw.

com

John A. Garner, Esq.

Florida Bar No. 0569992

Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP 9130 Galleria Court, Suite 101 Naples, FL 34109-4381

T. 239-497-8382

Email: jagarner@taftlaw.com

Publish:

July 30 and August 6, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483

BOATFORSLIP/RACK RENT

Boat Slip &/or Rack For Rent in Marathon at The Boat House, Vaca Key. Call Tony 561-346-6400

EMPLOYMENT

HIRING: Office Administrator in Marathon. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), experience with QuickBooks or other accounting software preferred and must have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Full time –Mon-Fri. Pay TBD - based on skill. Email: Natalie@cecflk. c o m

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

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

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 Ma at eliteboatrentalsma @gmail.com.

Please include contact information and any relevant experience.

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 (Ma at islamarinama @gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.

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). To apply, please contact Human Resources at: greenel@kwha.org or 305-2965621 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.

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time dishwasher. Private club, evening shifts Tues-Saturday, 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

Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer serviceoriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am-7pm 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.

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.

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. 305-7435555 catlabflkeys@gmail.com HIRED!!!

Hiring for busy pediatric office in Tavernier. Full-Time Medical Assistant - Pediatric experience preferred. Must multitask in fast-paced setting. Pay is commensurate with experience. Email resume to: flkeyspeds@gmail.com HIRED!!!

Safety Staff- We are seeking a reliable, dedicated, and responsible Safety Staff member to join our team. Full-time & Part-time availability starting at $18/hr. To apply, call 305-664-4860 Ext 1, e-mail: corrine@orlk.org or apply in person at Outdoor Resorts at Long Key, 65821 Overseas Hwy, Long Key HIRED!!!

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time maintenance person. 12- 15 hours a week. 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!!!

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

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $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.

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

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

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

3BR / 3BA fully furnished home for rent in Marathon available Aug-Dec 2026. $3,500/ month. Call 618-559-9143

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

LONG TERM RENTALS: HUGE EFFICIENCY, 650 SF, partially furnished $1,650/month AND 2 Bedroom unfurnished, all appliances, renovated, for rent in Marathon. On the water, gated property. Section 8 possible. $2,000 month. First/ Security Call 305-610-8002

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

PUPPIES FOR SALE

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

VACATION RENTAL

3BR/2BA

Contemporary Home for rent on Big Pine Key. Pool, 40' dock w/davits, screened-in porch. Sleeps 6 ppl. Avail. month of Sept. 2026. $7,000/mo. Call Brian at 267-374-7063

WANTED TO BUY

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

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

YARD SALES

SAT. 8/8 & SUN 8/9 from11am - 4pm, 217 Coral Road, Islamorada. MM86.8 Ocean on Coral Rd. (off old road). Patio Set, Office Chair, Office Supplies, new 500 sheet color paper, 2 Towers, 2 stereo cabinets, weatherproof Couch, cat stuff, 100% Oak desk, 4 piece wrought iron antique settee, & lots more, NO EARLY BIRDS!!

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

We are now hiring for the following positions:

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

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

and rewarding our employees.

KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Counselor (CAT) Case Manager (Adult) Mental Health Technician

KEY WEST Case Manager (Children) Crisis Counselor

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) (FT)

MARATHON

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)

- 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

Officer, FT, 7A-7:30P

- Security Officer, Per Diem

NOW HIRING: ADVENTURE AWAITS AT AMERICA’S FIRST UNDERSEA PARK!

The Coral Reef Park Company Inc, operating within the world-famous John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, is seeking enthusiastic, ocean-loving individuals to join our team. If you have a passion for the marine environment and enjoy working in a fast-paced, tropical setting, we want to hear from you!

BOAT CAPTAINS (Full-Time & Part-Time)

Take the helm of our Glass Bottom, Snorkel, or Dive boats. Responsible for safe navigation, crew management, and ensuring an unforgettable guest experience on the water. Working Friday/Saturday or Sunday/ Monday, and USCG License required.

FIRST MATE / DIVE MASTERS

The backbone of our maritime operations. Duties include assisting with vessel docking, passenger boarding, equipment maintenance, and ensuring boat cleanliness. Working Friday/Saturday or Sunday/Monday required. For snorkel boat, PADI certification (or other recognized agency), insurance and membership current required

MARINE TOUR NARRATORS

Be the voice of the reef! We are looking for engaging public speakers to provide educational and safety-focused commentary for our guests. Working Friday/Saturday or Sunday/Monday required, Must have a basic knowledge of coral reefs and marine life and experience speaking in front of audiences.

ADMIN/ACCOUNTS

PAYABLE

We are hiring for an Admin/Accounts Payable position. Duties include accounts payable and general of ce duties. Must be pro cient in QuickBooks & Excel.

SEASONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Looking for a summer job? We have seasonal openings for Kayak/ Paddlesports Attendants, Snack Bar Attendants, Gift Shop Clerks, and Reservation Counter Attendants. Perfect for those looking to spend a season in the Florida Keys! Customer service experience required for all roles, experience on the water with customers and safety required for kayak/paddlesports role.

WHY

JOIN OUR TEAM?

Competitive Pay: Rates starting from $17–$30/hr+ (depending on position and experience).

Benefits: Health, Dental, and Vision, and Life insurance available for full-time employees.

Perks: Employee discounts and the best "of ce view" in the world. Community: Work with a team dedicated to conservation and outdoor recreation.

HOW

TO APPLY

Ready to dive in? Send your resume and detail on the role that you are applying for to coralreefhr2025@gmail.com. You will be contacted if you are selected to move forward with next steps.

The Coral Reef Park Company Inc, at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Mile Marker 102.5 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 Visit us at: www.pennekamppark.com

Equal Opportunity Employer | Drug-Free Workplace