HOMESTEAD, Fla. — The U.S. Wildland Fire Service firefighters are responding to several fires in Everglades National Park, including the Chipmunk and Vulture fires. 

The Chipmunk Fire was first reported Aug. 21 and is located about two miles southwest of Shark Valley. The lightning-caused fire is estimated to be approximately 9,232 acres and is 30% contained.

The Vulture Fire was first reported Aug. 22 and is located east of the Shark Valley Tram Road. Also caused by lightning, the fire is approximately 286 acres and 60% contained.
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To protect park resources and allow firefighters to continue suppression efforts, an emergency closure order is now in effect for the entire Shark Valley area. The closure includes all administrative and public facilities, including the visitor center, trails, parking lots and Shark Valley Tram Road.

Firefighters are actively working to contain the fires through a combination of direct suppression along the fire edges and indirect tactics that use natural barriers to limit fire spread. Engines, crews and aircraft are supporting operations. Additional resources will be added if needed.

Fire activity remains active on the north end and east side of the Chipmunk Fire, with fire backing to the south. Fire activity on the Vulture Fire is occurring in the southeast corner, which has received some precipitation. Smoke from both fires is visible from Main Park Road and U.S. Highway 41, though no closures of U.S. Highway 41 are expected at this time. Airboat concessions are currently operational. 
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For updated fire information and park status, visit Everglades National Park's Alerts & Conditions page: https://www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/conditions.htm.

​​KEY WEST, FL – AUGUST 21, 2026 — While many of us spend our days glued to desks, behind the wheel, or in front of screens, a hidden health concern may be building: chronic conditions linked to too much sitting.
 
Research shows that excessive sitting, defined as hours spent with limited physical movement, is linked to serious health conditions, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and unhealthy cholesterol levels. Studies have even suggested that long periods of inactivity may impact brain health and increase the risk of premature death from heart disease and cancer, with risks comparable in some cases to those posed by obesity and smoking.
 
The American Heart Association is urging people to interrupt this cycle by moving more, starting with something as simple as walking which remains one of the most accessible ways to be physically active and can be adapted to fit different abilities, schedules and lifestyles.
 
"The human body is designed to move," says April Gallagher, AGACNP-BC, cardiology nurse practitioner at Keys Medical Group Cardiology. "When we sit for long periods, we slow our metabolism, impairing our body's ability to regulate blood sugar and blood pressure and break down fat. Patients don't need a marathon training plan to mitigate these risks; even small, consistent changes can make a profound difference in their long-term heart and brain health."
 
The Hidden Hazards of Stillness
Evidence connecting physical inactivity to health concerns is growing. Whether it is commuting, sitting in meetings, or relaxing with technology, modern life often results in sitting for eight or more hours a day. Beyond the metabolic risks, sedentary behavior is also linked to declines in mental well-being and weakened muscle and bone health.
 
Small Steps, Big Impact
Gallagher encourages patients to break up sedentary time with movement. She suggests:

• For Office Workers: Stand during phone calls, use a standing desk, or take a walk to a colleague’s desk instead of sending an email.
• For Home & Travel: Break up TV time with active chores, stand on public transit, or take short walk breaks every 30 minutes.
• For Children: Encourage active play by setting limits on screen time, making bedrooms "device-free zones," and choosing active gifts like scooters or balls.
• For Older Adults: Integrate movement into daily life through gardening, housework, community walking groups, or enjoying active time with grandchildren.

The goal is to accumulate at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. These minutes do not need to be completed in one session; they can be achieved through short, frequent bouts of movement throughout the day.
 
"Whether you take an after dinner walk, conduct a walking meeting with coworkers, or simply stand during television commercials, every bit of movement counts," adds Gallagher. "Small, intentional choices to move more are integral to a healthier future."
 
For more information on ways to stay active, contact your healthcare provider. Keys Medical Group Cardiology is located at 1111 12th Street, Suite 210, Key West. Visit KeysMedicalGroup.com.
 
 
About Lower Keys Medical Center
Lower Keys Medical Center is an acute care community hospital offering 24 hour emergency department services. Accreditations include The Joint Commission Acute Care Hospital Program and Primary Stroke Center, American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Center, the American College of Radiology – Mammography, and the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission - Echocardiography. The hospital is recognized by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) with a 4 Star quality rating. 

BIG PINE KEY, FL – The Big Pine Key brush fire is 95 percent contained. Monroe County Fire Rescue crews will remain in the area as dry conditions from El Niño and Saharan dust, along with deep-burning fuels, continue to create smoke and small flare-ups.

Monroe County Fire Rescue Station 13 and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office continue to monitor the affected and nearby areas, including overnight patrols. U.S. Wildland Fire Service also has personnel on scene, including an extra engine in the area.

Recent rainfall has helped conditions but has not been enough to end drought conditions. Fire officials say the established control lines remain secure, but dead and down vegetation within the interior fire area continues to burn. Those east of the fire will continue to see and smell smoke. Allowing the fire to consume those fuels reduces the dead vegetation available, which can help prevent future wildfires. Big Pine Key's rockland geology also has little soil to hold moisture in the porous cap rock, which allows the area to continue to smolder.

“Residents should continue to be vigilant due to the dry conditions and report any unattended fire, flames, or smoke that appears to be outside the established fire area by calling 911,” said Monroe County Deputy Chief of Operations Mark Hemeyer. “Dry and hot weather remains a concern throughout the Florida Keys, and residents are urged to remain cautious with any activity that could create a spark or ignition source.”

Several homes east of the fire area continue to experience smoke impacts. Fire personnel have been in direct contact with affected residents and will continue monitoring conditions for them.

KEY WEST, FL - The Board of County Commissioners recognized Key West International Airport for receiving the Florida Airports Council Benjamin J. Siwinski Sustainability Award, announced last month during the Florida Airports Council Annual Conference in Fort Lauderdale. It is the airport’s third award for Concourse A and its fifth overall, recognizing accomplishments by the airport and its management in recent years.
 
The award is one of the council’s highest environmental honors, recognizing innovative sustainability efforts that strengthen Florida's aviation system while honoring the legacy of one of the industry's most respected environmental leaders. The award recognized the airport's innovative bird-friendly glass windows throughout the facility.
 
Key West lies along both the Atlantic and Mississippi flyways, placing the airport within a major migratory corridor used by hundreds of bird species each year. Large glass structures can present hazards to birds because reflections often create the illusion of open sky or habitat. Specialized ceramic frit patterns were embedded into the glass surface, creating visual markers that help birds recognize the structure and avoid collisions. The project team also utilized advanced glazing systems with low exterior reflectance to further reduce the likelihood of bird strikes.
 
“A commitment to protecting migratory birds was a defining environmental element of the project,” said Richard Strickland, Executive Director of Airports. “This award means a great deal to the entire team who worked on Concourse A and me.”
 
The award was named for Ben Siwinski, who was widely respected as an early pioneer in airport sustainability and environmental resiliency. Throughout his career, he championed innovative environmental practices at airports across Florida and nationally while mentoring countless young aviation professionals. After his passing in 2022, the Florida Airports Council created this award to continue his legacy of innovation, stewardship, and leadership.

KEY WEST, FL — The life and legacy of Jimmy Buffett are to be honored Sept. 3-7 in Key West, the place where the singer-songwriter developed the “tropical rock” style and carefree persona that made him a world-renowned musical icon.
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“Just a Few Friends Key West” is to feature events including a “second line” memorial walking parade, rollicking Party in the Park, concerts by Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band members and other musical friends, beach parties, insiders’ tales at the Chart Room Bar where he first performed locally, margarita-making classes, showcases by tribute bands, themed walking and trolley tours, on-the-water adventures, and other activities that recall the Key West lifestyle he sang about.

Buffett, who passed away Sept. 1, 2023, discovered the island in the early 1970s and lived there during some of his most productive years. Key West — and its characters, landmarks and freewheeling vibe — helped inspire some of his most enduring songs including the classic hit “Margaritaville.”

Many of his lyrics reference Key West locales like Fausto’s Food Palace, the Blue Heaven restaurant, and legendary bars Captain Tony’s and the Chart Room. In the mid-1980s Buffett launched the original Margaritaville Store in the island’s Land’s End Village — and what began as a laid-back waterfront enterprise grew into an empire.

“Just a Few Friends” begins Thursday, Sept. 3, with events including Tails from the Chart Room, a “Cheeseburger Beach Battle” competition and oceanfront concert, and an after-party at the Margaritaville Café starring Coral Reefer vocalist Nadirah Shakoor.

Friday, Sept. 4, includes the City of Key West’s “Jimmy Buffett Day” proclamation ceremony outside his Shrimp Boat Sound recording studio — and a behind-the-scenes look at filmmaker Michael Kirk’s documentary-in-progress on the famed studio. That evening, Gary and the Landsharks — who backed Buffett during his surprise 1998 Duval Street concert — will return to re-create the spirit of that memorable performance following a Bubba Look-Alike Showdown, where contestants can channel Buffett’s signature look and stage presence for a chance to win a $1,000 prize.

Saturday, Sept. 5, features activities including a waterfront sunset concert by surf-rock storytellers The Wheeland Brothers, a series of sunset sailing cruises, and two margarita bar strolls — one on Duval Street and the other in the colorful Historic Seaport district. Each is a lively tasting tour that features 10 bars eager to prove they make the island city’s best margarita.

The festival highlight is the Second Line Memorial Walking Parade, a joyful procession for fans of Buffett’s music and fun-loving attitude. Beginning at 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6, in the 100 block of Duval Street, the march features strolling musicians, colorfully garbed participants, giant Buffett photo banners and impromptu singalongs.

Marchers will proceed up Duval Street, stop at the original Margaritaville Store and Margaritaville Café, to the Truman Waterfront Park for the exuberant Party in the Park celebration.

Set for 6-10 p.m. Sunday, the free-admission gathering features nonstop live music by talents including longtime Coral Reefer Mac McAnally; Will Kimbrough, co-writer of Buffett’s posthumous hit “Bubbles Up”; and Florida Keys trop rocker Howard Livingston and the Mile Marker 24 Band. Among other planned attractions are a pop-up food court, artisan booths and sunset viewing from the park.

The festival concludes on Labor Day — Monday, Sept. 7 — with events including two performances by Kimbrough, a “pencil thin mustache” contest, sailing cruises and a waterfront sunset concert by Cayman and the Mango Men that evokes the spirit of Key West’s Buffett era.

In the true spirit of Buffett’s commitment to giving back, the festival supports the Key West community. Souvenir badge contributions have raised more than $75,000 for local causes the past two years, with proceeds benefiting Reef Relief, the Bahama Village Music Program and scholarships for local students through the nonprofit Community Foundation of the Florida Keys.

Jimmy Buffett drew on the island’s influence to create the tropical mystique that flavored his music throughout his life. Fans are invited to celebrate the man and the mystique on the island that inspired both — during “Just a Few Friends Key West.”

More information: www.justafewfriendskeywest.com
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Link to printable schedule: https://bit.ly/JAFF2026Schedule
 
“All events not affiliated with or endorsed by Jimmy Buffett’s Estate or Margaritaville Enterprises.”

MONROE COUNTY, FL – Monroe County Information Technology Senior Coordinator of TV/Multimedia Jethon Williams has been named Monroe County’s Employee of the Second Quarter 2026 for his professionalism, positive attitude, and behind-the-scenes support of public meetings throughout the Florida Keys.
 
Williams provides audiovisual support for Monroe County government meeting facilities and works with county staff and community members participating online. His work is especially important as public meetings increasingly include both in-person and virtual participation.
 
District 3 Commissioner Jim Scholl nominated Williams for the recognition, describing him as someone who is “everywhere every week supporting multiple county meetings.”
 
“His professional acumen and perpetual positive attitude are an example of the right person in the right job,” said Scholl. “He is genuinely polite, respectful, and positively supportive in sometimes the most challenging circumstances. In the world of ever-demanding hybrid public meetings, he is the true ‘master of ceremonies.’”
 
Scholl also recognized Williams for his ability to work seamlessly with everyone involved in a public meeting while coordinating the technical elements that often go unnoticed when everything is working as it should. The commissioners echoed the sentiment, calling him the “man behind the curtain working all the magic.”


MONROE COUNTY, FL – Monroe County Information Technology Senior Coordinator of TV/Multimedia Jethon Williams has been named Monroe County’s Employee of the Second Quarter 2026 for his professionalism, positive attitude, and behind-the-scenes support of public meetings throughout the Florida Keys.
 
Williams provides audiovisual support for Monroe County government meeting facilities and works with county staff and community members participating online. His work is especially important as public meetings increasingly include both in-person and virtual participation.
 
District 3 Commissioner Jim Scholl nominated Williams for the recognition, describing him as someone who is “everywhere every week supporting multiple county meetings.”
 
“His professional acumen and perpetual positive attitude are an example of the right person in the right job,” said Scholl. “He is genuinely polite, respectful, and positively supportive in sometimes the most challenging circumstances. In the world of ever-demanding hybrid public meetings, he is the true ‘master of ceremonies.’”
 
Scholl also recognized Williams for his ability to work seamlessly with everyone involved in a public meeting while coordinating the technical elements that often go unnoticed when everything is working as it should. The commissioners echoed the sentiment, calling him the “man behind the curtain working all the magic.”

MONROE COUNTY, FL – Monroe County has received permits from both the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary for the Man of War Harbor Mooring Field, marking a major milestone toward construction of the county’s planned mooring field near Key West’s Wisteria Island.

The Man of War Harbor Mooring Field is part of Monroe County’s effort to address long-term unmanaged anchoring and expand safe, managed mooring options in the Florida Keys. Chronic unmanaged anchoring can contribute to environmental damage, navigational hazards, derelict vessels, and reduced public access to waterways.

“This is a significant milestone for Monroe County and a project that we have been working toward for several years,” said County Commissioner Craig Cates. “Receiving both permits brings us much closer to construction to ultimately provide additional safe, managed mooring opportunities for the boating community.”

Once the required moorings are installed, the project will also allow a key provision of Florida Statute 327.4108(3)(a) to take effect. The statute establishes a 90-day limit on the length of time a vessel may anchor in one location within 10 nautical miles of a public mooring field or designated anchoring area in Monroe County. The anchoring limitation is intended to address long-term, unmanaged anchoring and its associated environmental and navigational impacts, and to help prevent vessels from becoming derelict.

The Man of War Harbor Mooring Field is one of two mooring fields Monroe County is developing. The other mooring field is being developed for the Boca Chica basin.

For more information, visit www.monroecounty-fl.gov/marineresources.

MONROE COUNTY, FL – The State of Florida will vote on an amendment to the Florida Constitution, known as Amendment 3, in November. The amendment would increase homestead exemptions to $150,000 in Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) and $250,000 in Fiscal Year 2028 (FY28) and would cap the amount non-homesteaded properties can increase in assessed value from 10% to 5%. Local governments statewide have been analyzing potential impacts on their budgets and the government services they provide to citizens.

Original estimates from the state’s Office of Economic and Demographic Research (EDR) projected a Monroe County revenue loss of about $9 million in FY27 and about $17.5 million in FY28.

On Wednesday, Monroe County Property Appraiser Scott Russell provided refined property value projections to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) showing the potential local impact of proposed Amendment 3, if Florida voters approve the referendum in November. His projections, using detailed data and a conservative 2.5% annual increase in Just Value, show that overall taxable value would continue to increase in individual taxing districts, except for the District 1 Lower and Middle Keys Fire and Ambulance taxing district. No projections show the county losing assessed property value. Monroe County is one of only two counties in Florida where the assessed value projections do not decrease based on Amendment 3 impacts.

Based on Russell’s projections, the Monroe County Office of Management and Budget presented an overall countywide ad valorem revenue increase of approximately $287,440 in FY27 and a cumulative $1.52 million in FY28, reflecting strong property values and a stable economy.

“The state projections were based on an earlier set of assumptions, as well as a projection of ‘lost growth potential,’ and did not reflect Monroe County’s FY26 certified values,” said Monroe County Administrator Christine Hurley. “Using the most current local data gives us a clearer picture of how the proposed amendment could affect taxable values and our county services.”

The Property Appraiser’s analysis uses the FY26 certified values and projects Just Value growth of 2.5% for FY27 and FY28. The analysis also assumes:

• Homesteaded property values increase by 3%, consistent with the maximum annual Save Our Homes assessment increase.
• Non-homesteaded and commercial property values increase by 5%, instead of 10% currently allowed in the law.
• The homestead exemption increases to $150,000 in FY27 and $250,000 in FY28 under the proposed amendment

While overall taxable values are projected to grow, the increased homestead exemption would reduce the portion of residential homestead value subject to taxation.

“These projections matter as Monroe County begins planning future budgets,” said Hurley. “Even with continued taxable value growth, the county anticipates about $12.5 million in typical annual expense increases, including personnel costs, contractual obligations, and vendor-related inflation.”

In addition, the legislature passed another bill, House Bill 1329, which requires county staff to conduct a 10% budget reduction exercise when developing the FY28 budget. That bill requires every local government to identify legally obligated and mandatory expenditures. When preparing these budgets, the BOCC will evaluate potential reductions and the millage rates needed to continue essential county services.

The Property Appraiser’s figures are projections and will continue to be refined as updated property values and certified tax roll information become available.

A special workshop and informational session on this topic is scheduled for Oct. 20 at 5 p.m. at the Marathon Government Center and via Zoom. Zoom details will be available at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/calendar. More information on Monroe County’s FY26 budget can be found at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/budget.

MONROE COUNTY – The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners recognizes its long-term employees for their contributions to the county’s citizens. See below those celebrating milestones this month.
 
25 Years

• Abra Campo, County Attorney’s Office
• Ryan Johnson, Monroe County Fire Rescue

 
15 Years

• Tania Stoughton, Fleet Management
• Alison Williams, Permitting

 
5 Years

• Rion Hunter, Monroe County Fire Rescue
• Stephanie Muina, Monroe County Fire Rescue
• Mia Ruiz, Monroe County Fire Rescue
• Robert Zlockie, Monroe County Fire Rescue

  
Monroe County Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Ryan Johnson is recognized by the Board of County Commissioners and Chief RL Colina on Wednesday for his 25 years of service to the citizens of Monroe County. His wife, Cara, pinned him at the meeting.​