Keys Woman Spring / Summer 24

KEYS WOMAN

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WOMEN: WE’RE WORTH

EVERY PENNY

The future and how best to navigate it now has been on my mind a lot this past year. Watching my child grow up constantly reminds me I’m getting older as well, and I’ve been working on a plan with one of my best friends for our post-retirement compound. Yes, the men will be included. But (and I’m not writing this to sound macabre), we gals will likely outlive them, so this plan is really about what our lives will look like as widows. She loves gardening and is super handy and I love to organize plans, pour wine and make sure everyone’s laughing, so that’s a pretty good start. The “Golden Girls” life isn’t looking too shabby.

That future scenario requires some financial planning now, which brings me to the theme of this edition of Keys Woman — The Money Issue.

Women, for the most part, live longer and earn less than our male counterparts. But a new wave of empowerment is seeing more of us than ever in the executive C-suites of massive investment firms and major corporations. Now more than ever women are kicking ass, taking names, knowing what they’re worth and getting it.

So for this issue, we explore finance from a female perspective.

Erin Stover looks at the purse strings of an aging population, as women are often left to navigate those “Golden Girls” years without a spouse — and a significantly smaller retirement account than men.

Charlotte Twine cautions against the pitfalls of pricey beauty products and urges us instead to splurge on a few essentials.

Editor Mandy Miles looks at the financial impacts of the current weight-loss revolution — the prohibitive cost, long-term benefits, worldwide impacts and her own priceless personal results.

Resident astrologer Chris McNulty reveals what the zodiac tells us about our potential relationship with money, fortune and decision-making tendencies.

Digital marketing guru and avid shopper Annie Briening introduces some apps that point us to good deals, loyalty rewards and convincing designer “dupes.”

Graphic designer Irene de Bruijn reimagines a world where women’s faces are right on the money, literally. Which women would you like to see on the $100 bill?

As always, you’ll meet three powerful and priceless Keys women who know that charity doesn’t always come from a checkbook, and donations of time, talent and empathy are worth their weight in gold.

But first, we need music. And we’ve got you covered. Scan the QR code for a carefully selected playlist perfect for the pool or porch. It’s on the money.

Stephanie Mitchell Creative Director

Welcome to Even More Convenient Care.

The Fishermen’s Community Hospital campus has expanded.

Are you planning to renovate, looking for the perfect furniture piece, or ready to design + build your dream home? Look no further than D’Asign Source. Our retail showroom provides you with everything you need under one roof, and our dedicated staff is committed to helping you discover precisely what you have envisioned. Come and visit us today! 305-743-7130 | DAsignSource.com | 11500 Overseas Hwy, Marathon | MM 53

Publisher

Jason Koler

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Managing Partner

Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Creative Director

Stephanie Mitchell

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Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com

Editors

Mandy Miles

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Jim McCarthy

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Alex Rickert

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Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

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Gwen Filosa

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Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

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Char Hruska char@keysweekly.com

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Annie Briening, Barry Gaukel, Chris McNulty, Arianna Nesbitt, Karen Newfield, Erin Stover, Charlotte Twine

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BY ERIN STOVER

forThegolden golden age GIRLS

Fifty years ago retirement was ushered in, on a fairly universal timeline, complete with a gold watch and a bottle of scotch. For most of us, the game has shifted during our lifetime. Retirement is no longer guaranteed, and is certainly not beholden to a standard age. A number of factors affect how and when a person may retire. For women, there are additional considerations like family structure and work dynamics, which have historically weighed more heavily on female partners. Women are also living longer – a good thing – but a shift that brings more focus on extended care and medical access, especially in light of the fact that they may very likely (statistically speaking) be navigating that portion of their lives without a partner. The good news, though, is that women are approaching money with a confidence and financial literacy not accessible to their parents’ generation. Women are also finding creative solutions to the possibility of aging alone, including cohabitating with friends a la Golden Girls.

Everyone faces challenges when looking toward retirement, but there are some obstacles that are simply more prevalent in the experiences of women. There’s a noted retirement gap between men and women. That discrepancy doesn’t happen spontaneously, but is the result of a lifetime of inequity. Women generally save about 30% less than men over their lifetimes. Women also more often rely on part-time employment, which typically lacks benefits, delegating the majority of household earning responsibility to their higher-earning spouses.

While family structures are opening up and shifting form, the standard nuclear dynamic remains. In the majority of American households, women carry more of the child care and house management responsibilities. That may very well be an agreed-upon division, and a desire on the part of that individual woman, but the ripples from that division of labor affect most women long after their children have flown the nest. Men are still more likely to retain linear career-path employment, typically while accruing uninterrupted benefits. While those benefits accumulate, a common agreement

often forms between partners – the expectation that the man’s retirement benefits will kick in for both partners when the moment arrives. Unfortunately, life and love sometimes have other plans and, well, that arrangement doesn’t always materialize.

In a fairly typical example, a woman spends her 20s, 30s, 40s focused on child care and availability for familial needs. During those years, she understandably deprioritizes get-ahead employment, opting for smaller jobs that fit her needs. Those jobs don’t offer benefits, but she’s not worried because her spouse has a solid retirement account and a financial plan for the family. And yes, this path could follow through to a robust, content retirement life for both partners. Unfortunately, we all know too well the next potential forks in the road.

Women, more often than men, find themselves playing a desperate game of catch-up later in life as they navigate a future built without a reliable cushion. Having spent their working years earning statistically less than their male counterparts and requiring sporadic breaks in their career paths leaves many women in a precarious place. And while everyone can intellectually acknowledge the possibility of death and divorce, most don’t consider a contingency plan.

Another obstacle women face actually stems from a pretty positive factor – women are living longer than men. Good news, right? Well, yes, but longevity comes with its own costs. Women of an advanced age are, more often than not, faced with health concerns that require ongoing care. This care is generally carried out without the presence of a spouse. The good news here is that we’re entering the era of wild widows, of solo sisters, of Golden Girls. Faced with laterin-life concerns of health care, housing and social needs, women are creating their own unique paths. In recent years, several case studies of women developing their own housing alternatives have gained popularity. One early group that rose to early notoriety in the Golden Girls trend encompassed seven women in Guangzhou, China. The friends, disillusioned with more traditional options,

Women, more often than men, find themselves playing a desperate game of catch-up later in life as they navigate a future built without a reliable cushion.”

decided to pool 4 million yuan (roughly $500,000) in 2018 to convert a rural dream house in which they would live out their days. Each woman agreed to take on a specific role in the house – from gardening to cooking to running errands. The arrangement offered the group some financial breathing room, while ensuring they would have, and give, mutual care as needed.

After COVID, the trend gained momentum. Marianne Kilkenny, 74, carried the trend with her to Asheville, North Carolina in 2021 after deciding she wanted to avoid the costs, and potential loneliness, of assisted living. She purchased a property with multiple bedrooms, private bathrooms, and two kitchens. Her design fell between shared housing, defined as a traditional roommate scenario, and co-housing, in which each member has her own house or apartment with some shared space for socializing. As stories like this circle the globe, more and more women are feeling inspired. Recently, a collective in the U.K. materialized to offer a blueprint for more organized women co-housing options. Maria Brenton, senior ambassador of the UK Cohousing Network, describes her facility, New Ground, as a response to “the ageism, paternalism, the infantilization of older people by social care services.” The 25-unit development offers single women their own apartment in a North London suburb. Each unit flanks a shared community room and large garden, allowing for socialization by design.

Whether commandeered by two old friends, or created as an intentional ecosystem by a collective, these arrangements point to a more important truth – women are finding their own way. The past several years have seen an uptick in financial literacy programs specifically aimed at older women. Both single and married women are navigating their futures with a wider peripheral vision. They’re considering not just the “what if” but the ever-important “how.”

Here’s what makes Margaret your ideal person for the job:

• PROVEN SKILLS, knowledge & experience as a 30 year IBM employee (retired Executive Consultant), prior elected official with a mathematics degree

• REPUTATION for accuracy, honesty & impartiality

• FOCUSING on security from start to finish

WORTH THE WEIGHT (LOSS)?

I lost a 9-year-old kid.

Not an actual kid, obviously, but the equivalent of one — in pounds. (So skip the Amber alert, lest we give the whole county a collective coronary with its shrill emergency tone.)

As of April 7, I’ve lost 58 pounds over nine months. Fifty-eight pounds. A quick Google search told me I had been carrying around a typical fourth-grader. Or eight gallons of water. Or three of my car’s tires.

Weekly injections of Mounjaro, one of the revolutionary weight-loss medications originally designed to treat diabetes, is changing not only my life — but apparently the entire U.S. economy — one pound at a time.

I love how I look in the mirror. I don’t hide behind people in photos, allowing just my fat face to peek out from between them. It’s fun to shop for clothes nearly half the size I used to buy. And my thighs no longer rub together when I walk, threatening to start a friction fire.

Unlike many women who keep their effective weight-loss method a secret, perhaps embarrassed that they didn’t “earn” it through rigorous workouts and time-consuming diets, I’ve been telling anyone who asks about my Mounjaro makeover, “my skinny shots.”

I feel fantastic — physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, professionally. But not financially.

Because these medications — Mounjaro, Ozempic, Wegovy — come at a price, a rather hefty one that increases with the dosage.

My health insurance policy, like most in this country, only covers these drugs if the user is diabetic, which I’m not.

Since July, I’ve spent $280 to $550 per month on the medication and monthly office visits with nurse practitioner Erin Kane, owner of New You Health Clinic. She first submitted the prescription to a local pharmacy to try for coverage, but when my insurance rejected it, she turned to a compounding pharmacy she trusts to formulate the medication and then provides me with four pre-filled shots — one a week for the month.

I have 5 to 10 pounds left to lose to reach my target weight, then I can start a maintenance routine, stretching out the shots to one every two weeks, cutting my monthly cost in half.

And while I sing the praises of Mounjaro from the rooftop, I lament its prohibitive cost. I’ve been blessed to have an equally employed husband who has supported my weight-loss process since day one and has helped us bear the financial burden.

For me, it’s been worth every penny, but it pains me that this new tool is completely out of reach for millions of Americans struggling with their weight. The name brand versions of the medications can cost more than $1,000 per month without insurance coverage.

It’s simply not fair. And it’s not right, especially as I started reading in recent months about the benefits these medications are expected to have on the national and global economy.

These weight-loss shots that are changing the world certainly haven’t saved me any money in the past nine months.

But at least giant, multinational corporations, like airlines, that already juice as much money from us as they possibly can, are poised to save as much as $80 million a year in fuel costs as their passengers continue to drop weight.

It’s true. It’s maddening, but true.

“A Jefferies Financial analyst used data from United Airlines and calculated that the company could save 27.6 million gallons of fuel per year, at a cost of $80 million, if the average passenger weighed 10 pounds less,” states an October 2023 article in Business Insider.

The collective 10-pound weight loss would translate to about 1,790 pounds per flight.

Sure, I’ve saved a few bucks on food over the past nine months, but I’ve also thrown out a heartbreaking amount of leftovers that had sat too long in the fridge after I wasn’t hungry enough to finish my meal.

But I’ve also spent money on new clothes, although, while my weight has been changing, I’ve intentionally limited my shopping to discount stores — ROSS, TJ Maxx and a few of those mysterious Asian websites whose clothes take 4 to 6 weeks to arrive, so by the time they get here, I’ve forgotten I ordered anything.

But my price for an airplane seat hasn’t gotten any cheaper. I’ve reduced their cargo load by 58 pounds — more than the weight of a suitcase for which they charge $30 or $40. So I’m saving the airline significant fuel costs by having spent my own hardearned money on weight-loss injections. Where’s my benefit? Where’s my corporate bonus and stock options?

And let’s talk about health insurance companies.

For decades, we’ve heard all about the prevalence and dangers of obesity: Heart disease, blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, fertility and pregnancy complications, chronic pain, increased risks during

KIRBY MYERS /Contributed

surgery, diabetes, sleep apnea, stress, depression, reduced work production, increased absenteeism, low quality of life –the list goes on. Not to mention the self-hatred, social stigma and silent judgment that overweight people have endured since the dawn of glossy magazines and string bikinis.

“One in three adults in the United States is considered obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” states an October 2023 article in the Daily Mail. “Worldwide, 41.5% of the population will be classed as overweight by the end of this year — up from 36.4% a decade ago.”

And yet, most U.S. insurance companies still refuse to cover Mounjaro or Ozempic for weight loss. Diabetes, yes. Obesity, no. This seems counterintuitive, but then again, so is our nation’s entire health care system that elevates my blood pressure every time I consider its blatant inequality.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m in love with Mounjaro. I’m 58 pounds lighter and experienced no adverse side effects. I’m hugely happy and will always consider it money well spent. I feel like an “after” picture in an infomercial, but with no Photoshop or fine print at the bottom of the screen.

Last month, I ordered a second pair of size 10 jeans because I felt great in the first pair, and got a few compliments. A month later, on April 7, I bought a size 8 dress.

These shots have changed my life.

But it pisses me off that hard-working people spend their hard-earned money on this life-changing improvement, while the rich corporations and their shareholders benefit from our expense.

Trickle-down economics is fiction. Helping rich people makes them richer. And guess what? They don’t share, at least not until they’ve amassed enough money of their own to enable three generations of their entitled offspring to live useless lives of all-consuming excess.

There’s a maddening imbalance in our nation’s health care system, tax structure and economy.

But that’s a story for another day. If you’ll excuse me, I should go find that 9-year-old kid.

LIFTING YOUR FINANCES TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL

At Alma Wealth, we have adopted and come to accept a universal truth that we like to emphasize with our member families.

“It ain’t what you don’t know that gets you into trouble. It’s what you know for sure that just ain’t so.”

— Mark Twain

Life in the information age moves at a fast and furious pace. Regrettably, so does misinformation.

Because of this, we have come to understand the critical importance of listening carefully and asking those questions which allow us to learn as much as possible about our families’ plans, goals, dynamics and charitable endeavors to fully understand their objectives.

We equip our clients with the understanding needed to contend with the unique risks with the distribution phase of life. With special attention to longevity risk, sequence of return risk, inflation, healthcare, survivorship and succession risks, along with other variables which often make this journey somewhat perilous.

Anyone who intends to leave an inheritance to their families should be aware and reviewing their estate plans in light of the sunsetting of the estate tax on Jan. 1, 2026.

Our team will soon offer a series of events and educational programs, including sessions focused on Coaching Financially Fearless Women.

HOW LOUD BUDGETING

REPLACED QUIET LUXURY

It’s post-COVID, late in 2022. You’re sporting new Chanel sunglasses with a nearly indiscernible logo. The people passing you on the street wouldn’t necessarily recognize your bag as an Hermes, unless they’re also in the club. Your gold hoops — not 1-inch, not 2-inch, but a subtle 1.5-inch — signal there’s something rare about you. Like spotting a celebrity in the wild, people notice, but they’re not sure why. There’s just something special about you, something that exudes wealth, privilege, power.

Fast forward to spring 2024. The bubble has popped or is at least eminently inflated. Most of us have had a small reality check. That bag, those glasses, even the hoops now feel, if not gauche, then at the very least, frivolous. You worry about appearing out of touch. But, on a more pragmatic level, you worry about your actual finances. Enter “loud budgeting.” A trend that gained traction on social media, loud budgeting describes a way of conducting personal fiscal responsibility that involves public accountability. People who are part of this movement share their financial goals on their social streams and with their friends.

The budgeting side of the phrase involves acts like turning down invitations to pricey dinners, vowing to upcycle clothing, revisiting the value of items already owned and weighing the value of new purchases. The loud element refers to the way in which these decisions and practices are communicated; we tell others, online or verbally, what we want to do, to achieve, to overcome. To an outsider scrolling posts, it may seem self-righteous, but a publicly stated goal carries a much greater degree of accountability. Failure feels more acute when there’s an audience, so we typically work harder to succeed. We can easily justify skipping the gym on a given day, but it’s more difficult when we’ve made plans to work out with a buddy.

By nature, humans experience embarrassment and shame at every life stage. Whether we’re an awkward tween girl, or a mature woman running her own damn life, it’s still an emotion we actively try to avoid. It’s a motivator. There’s inherent value in the threat of contradicting yourself publicly – ask any politician.

On the positive side, the emotional benefits of loud budgeting can be as strong as the financial benefits. People who clearly state their goals and stick to them will feel a sense of empowerment, and experience less stress and uncertainty.

Loud budgeting doesn’t reflect wealth or lack thereof. Rather, it’s about creating transparency and developing boundaries. Maybe you’re genuinely trying to tighten spending due to very real concerns. Interest rates remain high. Housing prices in the Keys are untenable for most working people. Stock markets are volatile. Wages, in most cases, haven’t increased enough to keep pace with rising costs of living. So yes, it’s a very real possibility that your numbers aren’t adding up the way you’d like at the end of the month, and some budgeting measures are necessary. Stating those intentions can help keep things on track.

Let’s say you find yourself in a more fortunate position. Maybe there’s a little play money left after all the bills are paid — a

little extra is flowing into savings and retirement. Great. Well done. But that doesn’t mean you don’t, or shouldn’t, have financial goals. Loud budgeting can still be a helpful tool in reaching your goals, whatever they may be.

Another positive element of the trend is that it doesn’t exist purely as a reflection of self. Yes, you’re managing your own accountability and the emotions that relate to that, but you’re also engaging friends and family. People in your corner will likely cheer you on. In hearing your goals, more (ahem) “self-aware” friends may reconsider the offers they’re putting forth. Instead of facing a glut of spendy dinners you feel compelled to turn down, you may find yourself being invited to the dog park, the beach, for a walk or an inexpensive happy hour.

The contradiction of social media as a part of daily life is that it operates like a floodlight. We see the cracks in the infrastructure, and unfortunately sometimes in ourselves, but we also learn. It removes the mystery of topics like financial literacy. It provides easily accessible answers to questions we may be embarrassed to ask. In this way, the platform is actually propping up the movement. The desire for greater fiscal responsibility has spawned a number of “challenges” that encourage good habits. The “cash-only challenge” or the “eating-in challenge” offer fun, friendly ways to hone better spending skills.

Ultimately, most of us are finding ourselves seeking betterment – we’re trying to eat better, move our bodies, pay off debt, save for the future. Loud budgeting removes the stigma associated with an underdeveloped financial literacy, while helping to build those skills. The element of accountability helps people stick to their goals, and the buy-in from a network of friends and family makes the whole process a little more fun. So, while there’s no need to shove that Hermes bag to the back of the closet, you’ll no longer feel as concerned about whether or not anyone is noticing. Just rethink it, and maybe alert a few people, before you consider buying another.

Champagne Looks,

BEER BUDGET

EXPERTS SAY BECOMING A STUNNER DOESN’T HAVE TO COST A MILLION BUCKS

“Remember, you’re not ugly. Just poor.”

During the depths of the pandemic, I started to see this phrase again and again on my Instagram feed, displayed on memes with before-and-after photos of famous (and very, very rich) models/influencers/ athletes/actors. Pics of everyone from Kylie Jenner to Tom Brady showed astonishing makeovers, clearly after numerous cosmetic procedures, surgeries and sessions with a highly paid glam squad.

Like many, I fall into the trap of comparing myself to, say, the achingly gorgeous model (and child of wealthy parents) Bella Hadid when I’m not feeling my best. And during these difficult economic times, when I have to stretch out visits to the salon and watch my gray roots grow in, it can be demoralizing to see influencers flaunt their swoon-worthy selves on the daily.

First things first: a gratitude check. I have my health, I have shelter and food, and I have people who love me. But I do have my dignity — feeling confident in how I look does raise my self-esteem and give me that boost to go on a first date or even a job interview.

Does having less money make us “ugly”? Of course not. But I know I’m not alone here: I can’t afford the myriad treatments that it may take to morph into a self-assured redcarpet-ready knockout (for me, J.Lo will always be a goddess).

Here is just a partial list I’ve read are regularly done by the rich and beautiful: surgeries for fat removal, tummy tucks, breast implants/reductions and sculpting the nose, eyes, chin, ears and face; teeth caps, straightening and whitening; laser treatments for hair removal; “intimate bleaching”; countless hair services, from plugs and weaves and straightening to basic cuts and color; eyelash extensions; microblading for eyebrows; tattooed makeup; regular glam sessions for hair and makeup; spray-tanning … and on and on.

Yikes, I get overwhelmed just thinking of this. So I asked beauty experts and Florida Keys friends (who are all beautiful, from the inside out) what they recommend doing for the maximum positive impact on our appearance with minimum damage to our bank accounts — and with no need to ruin our credit for plastic surgery.

Writer Meirav Devash has covered the beauty industry for outlets such as Vogue, Allure, Oprah Daily, The New York Times and many others, and she has seen countless trends come and go over the years. She advised me to carefully choose only the beauty procedures that help me feel the most confident, as opposed to throwing money at every last trend.

“Some high-maintenance beauty treatments are expensive up front, but may help you save time (and sometimes money) in the end,” she told me. “If you tweezed off all your eyebrows in high school and you’re spending 15 minutes every morning drawing them on from scratch in a panic, getting them microbladed (and being able to roll out of bed with eyebrows on) might be worth saving up for.”

Good point. I love carefully groomed eyebrows, and I have spent hundreds and hundreds of dollars on eyebrow tinting and waxing over the years. However, at one Florida Keys salon, a single microblading treatment costs around $300 — and lasts much, much longer than waxing.

Another tip popped up over and over again in my interviews: Take care of your skin.

“The best advice for people of every budget is to wear a moisturizer with SPF 30+ during the day to protect your skin from cumulative sun damage, and use a retinol at night to speed up your cell turnover,” said Devash. “Drug-store brands with these ingredients are just as effective as high-end ones. Good skin and a red lipstick never go out of style.”

Gilda Rroshi, skin-care specialist and co-founder of Islamorada’s Ciao Bella Salon, agreed, saying that retinol plus Vitamin C serums “are my superpower and fountain of youth.”

“You can wear the best, most expensive dress, but if your skin is falling apart, you won’t feel confident,” Rroshi said.

While some women get facials every month, Rroshi said that if you visit the right specialist once, they can set you up with the right products that — if you commit to using them daily, like brushing your teeth — can give you a glow like J.Lo’s.

I have a friend who is a gorgeous woman in her 60s, and she told me that if she had to choose just one of her regular beauty treatments — they run the gamut from mani-pedis to cheek fillers to blowouts — she

would not part with her daily skin products.

“The difference in my face in the last 10 years of using products recommended by my facialist has been remarkable,” she told me.

Keys resident Stephanie Blacksmith, a longtime beauty industry employee, said that she has found another fountain of youth: her hair. Over all other services, getting the roots touched up for her long, caramel-colored locks is her number-one priority.

“How my hair looks right now is how I will look when they put me in the incinerator at 103 years old,” she said, emphatically. (Folks, we don’t think she’s joking.)

She pointed out that while it’s difficult to prevent our skin from aging, we do have control over our hair, which can still look youthful as we get older.

“Find a style that looks good and stick with it,” she said, citing the long, shiny honey-brown mane of Lisa Vanderpump as an example.

I have another Keys friend, in her 50s, who told me that she would not give up coloring her roots either.

“But Botox is a close second,” she confessed. “I get Botox every four months. When I can. It makes a huge difference.”

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Botox costs around $15 per unit. To treat a lined forehead, for example, 40 units might be used, so the total price would be around $600 — which you can break down into a not-so-scary-sounding $150 a month, if you get treated every four months, like my friend.

So, in short: To look fabulous, my experts suggested we invest wisely in well-chosen treatments; take good daily care of our skin (and the products can be from the drug store); be vigilant about covering our roots; wear red lipstick; and mayyyybeeee use a little Botox.

But perhaps actor and L’Oréal spokesperson Viola Davis knows best. She recently revealed to People magazine that feeling beautiful is simply about loving ourselves.

“It’s not just spa treatments and a glass of wine,” Davis said. “It’s in showing up when someone hurts you. Creating boundaries, and when someone crosses it, show up for yourself. No one ever taught me that. I felt loving myself was being conceited. No, that’s right.”

“Good skin and a red lipstick never go out of style.”

— writer Meirav Devash

TREATING YOURSELF WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

The look on my financially savvy, budget-conscious, banker husband’s face when I told him I was writing a piece for the money-themed issue of Keys Woman magazine was priceless. As a couple, we both know I’m the last person to talk about budgeting, savings or anything pertaining to money. As someone who can justify nearly any purchase, what could I possibly have to say about finances?

I may not balance a checkbook, keep a spreadsheet of upcoming bills or do any of the things fiscally responsible people do, but I do like to find ways to make my purchases work for me — Think credit card points, airline miles and more.

LET YOUR ALGORITHM WORK FOR YOU

Ever heard the phrase “Tiktok made me buy it?”

I love a Lululemon set or great pair of Dolce Vita sandals as much as the next gal, but over the past couple of years, I’ve discovered some great “influencer” accounts on social media that share fantastic “dupes” on platforms like Amazon, Target and even Walmart. These dupes are almost identical to the real thing but for a fraction of the price. I’ve even used apps like Poshmark and Mercari to sell my own gently used items and replace them with quality noname brands.

LTK or Like To Know is a fantastic app that organizes your favorite account’s finds with commissionable links directly to the products. Some of my favorites include:

@thehouseofsequins

@amazing.finders

@the_broadmoor_house

CASH IS KING

Have you noticed how some of your goto spots now add a small percentage (usually around 3%) if you pay with a credit card in person? Start saving those few bucks every time by paying in cash. How many times have you scoped out the menu online before heading to a girls dinner? Exactly. You have an idea of what you might be ordering, so stop at the ATM for cash and save that added fee. (Just be sure to use an ATM in your network..

PERKS OF POINTS & REFERRALS

Many businesses offer referral incentives for loyal customers, ranging from discounts on the next purchase to cash rewards for every friend you refer. Whether it’s online or in-person, opportunities are available. A favorite way to reap the rewards through referrals is spreading the word about a great local service that you use. If you frequent a good med spa, ask if they offer rewards in return for you spreading the word, or even by hosting a party. Does your favorite fitness center offer a discount or free month if you bring a friend who signs up for a new membership? Ask them.

Target Circle has great offers

Starbucks Stars earns you free drinks and menu items.

discounts on everything from groceries to entertainment. Whether you prefer digital coupons, promo codes or cashback offers, there’s something for everyone in the world of digital savings. Before making your next purchase, be sure to check for coupons — you might be surprised by how much you can save with just a few clicks or taps.

Living your best life doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Embrace the digital era and adopt a savvy mindset. With these hacks, you might just save a little money and, in the words of Alexis Rose from Schitt’s Creek, “Every now and again, spending a little bit of money on something really special — it might not buy you happiness, but it can definitely help make you smile.”

BY THE

NUMBERS

Decades ago, those old magazine ads for Virginia Slims cigarettes used to read, “We’ve come a long way, baby.” And in many ways we have. But as some of the statistics below show, women still have a ways to go when it comes to gender equality. (But hey, at least we can vote.)

Women overall earn about $0.82 for every $1.00 men earn. Hispanic or Latina women earned about $.58 and Black women earned about $.63 for every dollar white men earned.

Women made up about 44% of the total workforce, but only 41% of managers.

Male elementary and middle school teachers earned over $150 more per week than their female counterparts.

28% of U.S. congressional members and about a third of state legislators are women.

There is no state in the U.S. where women earn more than men . Vermont has the smallest gender pay gap, while Utah has the largest.

11% of Fortune 500 company CEOs are women.

Women grow between 60-80% of the world’s staple crops, but 150 million people could be lifted out of hunger if female farmers had equal resources.

For every female film character, there are 2.24 men

Only 12 states have female governors.

U.S. gender ratio: 97 men for every 100 women

57% of women and 42% of men say the U.S. hasn’t done enough to give women equal rights with men, while 33% of women and 44% of men say things are about right.

Women are TWICE as likely to be diagnosed with anxiety as men.

The U.S. ranked 43rd out of 146 countries examined for gender equality by the World Economic Forum.

All data is from 2020-2023, from the U.S. Census Bureau, Pew Research Center and World Health Organization.

Saturday & Sunday

BRUNCH: including chorizo Breakfast Burrito, Guava French Toast, Crab Benedict and BOGO Mimosas & Glasses of Sparkling Wine Regular menu available

NIGHTLY SPECIALS

MONDAY: Closed

TUESDAY: Jumbo Gumbo Bowls

Tacos and Tequila

Live Music: Roger Jokela

WEDNESDAY:

Wine Time Wednesday

($15-$20 bottles)

Live Music

Monday: Closed | Tuesday - Sunday: 11:00am - 10:00pm WE’LL COOK

THURSDAY: Prime Rib Night Live Music: John Bartus

FRIDAY: Abstract Radio

SATURDAY: Brunch

BOGO Mimosas & Sparkling Wine

SUNDAY: Brunch

BOGO Mimosas & Sparkling Wine

Something as artificial and terrestrial as money may seem like an insignificant topic for the planets to have any bearing on. I mean, do cosmic bodies and patterns actually have anything to say about our dollars and cents? Absolutely!

But – pro tip – don’t go running to your friendly neighborhood astrologer asking them when to bet everything on red. That’s just shirking your own responsibility. Ask them when you might be particularly prone to luck and attracting money, then make your own choices. At any rate, money is a very large topic, and each planet has something different to say about money through each planet’s unique lens.

For example, Venus oversees money as a form of relationship between people, Saturn interprets money as something to be conserved for practical projects, and Pluto exemplifies money as something to be hoarded for building wealth. Since every sign of the Zodiac is ruled by a certain planet, among other important significations, each sign can use some simple advice when it comes to economic sensibilities.

DOLLAR SIGNS: Financial advice for the

ARIES (MARCH 21 - APRIL 19)

STOP, LOOK, LISTEN

Ruled by the impulsive Mars, Aries is a sign that acts first and deals with the consequences later. When it comes to spending, an Aries will splurge on their urges every time. While this may not always result in an empty wallet, it certainly doesn’t illustrate sound financial planning. At least when it comes to big purchases, taking even the briefest pause to consider alternatives will be prudent.

TAURUS (APRIL 20 - MAY 20)

BABY-STEP BEYOND COMFORT

As the practical earth sign of attractive Venus, Taurus loves beautiful things and dislikes changing course. Investing in real estate can serve these natural inclinations, but even better advice is to try to diversify income streams by even the slightest little difference. The Taurean tendency to stick to what they know and love can lead to many missed opportunities.

Important note: The author is not qualified to be giving any serious financial advice, but he knows his astrology and he knows how to pay his rent. So, take these thoughts with a hefty grain of salt. Fun fact, though: the word “salary” comes from the ancient Roman word for salt, so maybe there actually are some helpful nuggets here.

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUNE 21)

GIVE IT TIME

If information and intellectual property really is the way of the financial future, Gemini is in luck. Ruled by inquisitive Mercury, Gemini will do well to seek out ways of monetizing their natural sociability, intelligence and internet savvy. Gemini is influencer energy through and through. One suggestion: try to stick to a project long enough for it to return the investment.

CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 22)

GROW A NEST EGG

Cancer is an empathic water sign ruled by the moon, and this sign tends toward nurturing others even more than themselves at times. Cancers should be careful not to spend more than they have trying to make sure other people have what they need. In fact, investing in their own financial stability will help Cancer to support others better. Find that magic savings account.

LEO (JULY 23 - AUG. 22)

SHOW IT OFF

If there is one thing that Leo needs, it is affirmation. Just as the sun, which rules Leo, is the only celestial body seen during the day, it is incredibly important for Leos to be seen for what they do. Leos would do well not to participate in secret investments; rather, their income streams should be highly visible. Share successes! Announce new ventures! Share the wealth!

Zodiac

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEPT. 22)

TRUST THE PROCESS

As Mercury’s grounded earth sign, Virgos use their intellect to be highly attentive to details. This is a great skill for accounting, but can also lead to an overly conservative tendency to nickel-and-dime. Yes, every penny counts. But spending money to make money is an equally important directive. Virgos would do well to try to see the bigger picture and have a little faith.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23 - OCT. 23)

DO JUST ENOUGH

As the socialites of the Zodiac, Libras love to entertain and maintain the social balance. Finding careers in event planning, fundraising or the service industry could prove very lucrative for these air signs ruled by graceful Venus. While it is valiant to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable, don’t overspend to keep up with the Joneses. You naturally already do more than most.

SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 21)

LOOK AWAY SOMETIMES

Scorpios are water signs ruled by determined Mars, and they have a tendency to be deeply investigative and a bit obsessive. Researching companies and projects to invest in would prove very fulfilling and lucrative for our Scorpios. However, remember that it is OK to step away from the stock ticker every once in a while. A watched pot never boils, y’know.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21) KEEP A STASH SAVED

Spending money on grand adventures and new experiences will always serve the needs of Sagittarius. The fire sign of expansive Jupiter, constantly learning new things and celebrating the joys of life are the best investments for Sag. Be careful not to get too jovial, though, spending your hard-earned money on everyone and everything. Save something for the next great expedition.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19)

ENJOY YOUR SUCCESSES

Of all the signs, Capricorns are considered the most financially astute because they are pragmatic earth signs ruled by wise Saturn. Always interested in achieving success, Capricorns know how to save, when to spend, and whom to trust. Trust your natural instincts, but remember that money is as much about sharing and having fun as it is about building an empire. Let loose.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18) GET CHOOSY

As the air sign ruled by Saturn, the overseer of boundaries, Aquarians are innovative and highly tuned to the needs of people who struggle. Keep relying on unconventional methods and side hustles to make money. Doing it differently is your bread and butter. Also, definitely give to causes you believe in, but take advantage of those tax deductions and remember that you simply can’t support every cause you care about.

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MARCH 20)

DEFINE A TARGET

Pisces is incredibly compassionate and magnanimous, which are qualities that do not quite point to Pisces being a financially responsible sign. A water sign ruled by generous Jupiter, Pisces tends to be interested in things that are more ephemeral than money matters. Pisces folks would do well to set really clear financial goals so they can find creative means to achieve them.

BY ARIANNA NESBITT

A H EALTHY START IN PARADISE

THE FLORIDA KEYS HEALTHY START COALITION

Nestled amid the turquoise waters of our Florida Keys community is an organization dedicated to nurturing the health, safety and well-being of mothers, babies and families. The Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition, established as Monroe County’s voice for prenatal, infant and family care, empowers families to navigate parenthood.

ROOTED IN COMMUNITY

The coalition emerged from a critical need. Recognizing the high number of pregnancies with potential risks, community leaders, health care providers, local businesses and passionate individuals joined forces in the late 1980s. Their vision: a Monroe County where every family has the resources and support to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a thriving start for their children.

A SPECTRUM OF SUPPORT

The coalition offers a range of programs, each catering to a specific need during pregnancy and a child’s early years.

• Healthy Start: This cornerstone program provides a safety net for pregnant women and their families, regardless of income or insurance status. It offers prenatal care coordination, childbirth education, breastfeeding support, support for fathers and crucial resources to reduce risks associated with pregnancy.

• Keys to Supporting Families: Recognizing the challenges families face beyond medical care, this program offers critical assistance with essential baby essential items such as diapers, strollers, clothing and formula. This program keeps families employed because they have enough diapers to take to day care and allows them to spend their limited resources on other household expenses such as rent, utilities, and food.

• Healthy Babies: This program is focused on a family bringing a healthy baby into the world. It goes beyond medical care and includes individual counseling sessions for pregnant and postpartum moms, transportation to medical appointments, childbirth and lactation classes as well as labor doulas and lactation support.

• Keys to Growing Kids: This program focuses on the critical first years of a child’s life, offering the coalition’s child development programs: Tot Time and Wiggles and Giggles. These two programs are held throughout the Keys at gyms, dance studios, parks and churches to give young children and their parents a place to grow, learn and make connections. The activities are geared to prepare children and their parents for kindergarten and beyond.

• Keys to Kids’ Safety: Ensuring a safe environment for children is paramount. This program provides safety education as well as items needed to keep children safe during their first years of life. The coalition will teach a new parent how to install a car seat and can provide new seats. They also assist with safe sleep, bike safety, home and water safety.

• Keys to Hope: This program is in development and is focused on helping families who need specialized support due to health or development challenges, having a little one in neonatal intensive care, or for families who have experienced a pregnancy or infant loss. For 2024 the coalition is focusing on expanding its bereavement initiative countywide as it begins to plan for the other two initiatives to be piloted in the future.

All coalition programming is designed to meet a gap in services found in the Florida Keys. For new families these gaps continue to grow as businesses leave the Keys, the cost of living continues to rise and the scarcity of housing continues to grow. Coalition services are available to all families due to generous grants and donations as well as a sliding fee scale. Families who can pay do and those funds are put toward supporting families who are struggling financially. This ensures the coalition can provide these vital services to all and continue to address the needs of Keys families.

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

As you consider supporting a worthy cause, the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition stands out. It is the prevention agency in the Keys that walks alongside families during this most vulnerable time. While there are countless books, websites and social media accounts dedicated to parenthood, the coalition provides local support, services and education designed to meet the unique needs of Keys families.

By volunteering your time, signing up to become part of the coalition’s labor doula or lactation support team, or by donating financially, you become part of a community dedicated to nurturing the health and happiness of future generations right here at home.

MORE INFORMATION

More information is at keyshealthystart. org, via email at info@keyshealthystart.org or by phone at 305-293-8424.

The impact of the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition extends far beyond statistics. It’s about the countless families who have received vital support during a critical time. It’s about empowered mothers who have a positive birth experience. It’s about working together to ensure that every child in Monroe County has the opportunity for a healthy start in life.

Arianna

Nesbitt is CEO of the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition and a mother of six teens and young adults. She has a masters degree in nonprofit administration and is a certified parent coach. For more than 15 years, she has worked to ensure that all women and families in the Keys community have access to support and services during pregnancy, birth and parenthood.

BY STEPHANIE MITCHELL

PitcherPerfect

What pairs better on your porch than friends, music, a breeze and a cold pitcher of refreshment? Nothing that we can think of. So as we prepare for the inevitable crush of humidity that will be making its months-long appearance sooner than later, we decided to share a few pitcher perfect ideas for your next summertime porch, pool or couch session.

The first thing you’ll need is a really cute pitcher. Always double-check to make sure it is good to hold hot water, as some recipes begin that way, and it’s a shame to waste all that time and booze when it cracks.

Second, what should we drink? Keep it fresh, light and fruity.

Strawberry Peach Rose Sangria

INGREDIENTS

1/4 cup sugar

1 cup vodka

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced 2 cups sliced peaches

2 (750-ml) bottles dry rosé wine

Fresh mint, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

• In a saucepan, bring sugar and 1/4 cup water to a boil, stirring, until sugar has dissolved.

• Transfer to a large heat-safe pitcher; let cool completely.

• Stir in vodka, strawberries and peaches.

• Refrigerate, covered, at least 2 hours and up to 2 days.

• Add wine just before serving and stir.

• Fill glasses with ice and add a few fresh strawberries and a small slice of peach.

• Garnish with fresh mint and serve immediately.

Pineapple Peach Rum Cooler

INGREDIENTS

1 can (46 ounces) pineapple juice

3 cups Malibu Rum

2 cups peach schnapps

½ cup fresh lime juice (from 6 to 8 limes)

Lime slices, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

• In a large pitcher, stir together pineapple juice, Malibu Rum, peach schnapps and lime juice.

• Refrigerate until chilled.

• Serve over ice, garnished with lime slices.

Frozen Mint Lemonade

INGREDIENTS

¾ cup sugar

1 bunch fresh mint (keep the full sprig intact)

1-½ cups fresh lemon juice (from 7 to 8 lemons), plus wedges for serving 8 ounces gin, chilled

DIRECTIONS

• Combine sugar, full sprigs of mint, and ¾ cup water in a small saucepan.

• Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.

• Remove from heat; let cool completely.

• Remove and discard mint.

• Pour syrup into a freezer-safe 9-by-13-inch baking dish.

• Stir in lemon juice and 2 cups cold water.

• Freeze until solid, at least 6 hours and up to 1 day.

• Remove from freezer; scrape surface of mixture with the tines of a fork until flaky. (If too firm to scrape, let stand at room temperature 10 minutes.)

• Transfer to a blender with gin and 2 cups ice-cold water.

• Blend until smooth. (Mixture can be returned to freezer at this point until ready to serve.)

• Divide among chilled serving glasses, garnish with mint leaves and lemon wedges, and serve immediately. This can easily be made as a non alcoholic version by simply omitting the gin

“How can I help?”

A simple question, when asked in earnest, can change the world.

It’s a question the Keys women in the following pages ask without hesitation, and with a willingness to act.

When they hear the answer, they get to work — grocery shopping for people who have lost their home, cleaning plastics and trash from the mangroves, supporting teens unsure of their place in the world and serving dinners to the needy.

These Keys women are living proof that charity extends far beyond the checkbook as they exemplify the words of Coretta Scott King: “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”

CHANGING THE WORLD 1 SMILE AT A TIME LADIES LEADING THE WAY

The title on Fritzie Estimond’s business card — associate director, Key West Business Guild — doesn’t begin to do her justice.

With a ready laugh that fills the room, Estimond is an ambassador to the all-welcome world of Key West. She’s frequently the first person Key West’s gay and lesbian guests encounter at the guild’s visitor center on Duval Street, where bold pride colors assure new arrivals they’re among friends.

She’s front and center at countless luncheons, happy hours, fundraisers, Fantasy Fest events, WomenFest and of course, Pride.

More recently, she’s also fallen in love with the backstage labyrinth of local theaters. “Theater is my new love,” she said. “But no one warned me about what happens when a show wraps. You get so close to the people you’ve spent weeks of your life with, then suddenly it’s all over.”

But Estimond, whose Facebook account chides, “Fritzie, not Fritz,” has plenty to keep her busy. She’s on the board of the Key West AIDS Memorial and of the quickly evolving Queer Keys nonprofit, which supports young people and is currently renovating its space on Truman Avenue as an

FRITZIE ESTIMOND

LGBTQ community center.

But Key West didn’t initially feel like home, said Estimond. She moved here in 2010 as a juvenile corrections officer, having transferred from her roots in Broward County. But the island felt too small.

“I’d see kids I’d arrested out at night, and I’d see people I knew everywhere,” she recalled. “I didn’t think I’d stay, but then it clicked. Key West has a way of choosing its people, and I guess I’m one of its chosen ones. Now, anything longer than five days off ‘the rock’ feels too long, and I’m ready to get home.”

3

1. Fritzie Estimond wraps herself in pride in front at the Key West Business Guild on Duval Street. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly 2. Fritzie Estimond and Rob Doughtry, of the Key West Business Guild, collect donations for the Diaper Drive to help local families. 3. Fritzie and Roberta De Piero cool off after a hot morning cleanup with the Key West Ploggers. 4. Fritzie and Chantal Pavageaux celebrate Key West Pride. 5. Key West City Commissioner Clayton Lopez presents Fritzie with a commemorative Key West coin while volunteering at a Friday morning cleanup. Contributed

What was the volunteer opportunity that changed your worldview? That’s a good question. I don’t volunteer with Key West Plogging much these days because my schedule has gotten pretty demanding. (The Ploggers host a weekly, Friday morn ing cleanup from 8 to 9 a.m. at various plac es around Key West.) But when you commit yourself to doing this small gesture for an hour every Friday, it essentially changes you. It quickly becomes a part of who you are. When I travel, I notice how aware I am of the amount of trash that is produced and around. If we all did our part, it would make a world of difference.

FRITZIE ESTIMOND

It’s your last night on Earth: who are you spending it with and what are you doing? This may sound cheesy, but I am most definitely spending it with my girlfriend, Chantal. We’re still so new, but we travel well together and truly enjoy each other‘s company. We are probably traveling some where abroad trying out a new Michelin Star restaurant and chatting about how we “went out with a bang” in our final meal to gether.

What is your favorite quality about your self? Ha! Even as a Leo I find it hard to brag about myself. I must admit I do admire my strength. I believe I possess the willingness to “keep going” because it will all work out in the end.

What 3 words do you hope others use to describe you? Kind. Dependable. Not to be taken for granted.

Looking back on your life, who or what makes you instantly light up? I instantly light up knowing how far I’ve come. I’m far from where I want to be, but proud of what I have been able to accomplish for myself thus far.

CAMARADERIE & COMMUNITY COME FIRST

For Marathon real estate agent Teri Hiller, it doesn’t matter if a day of cracking stone crab claws at the Marathon Seafood Festival leaves her exhausted, with blistered hands. For her, the camaraderie in a tent full of people serving their community is a privilege – one that extends to many other aspects of her life.

A Keys resident since 1989, Teri met her husband Don, a community servant in his own right with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, at the Side Door dance club (at the site of the current Marathon Community Theatre). Since then, she’s staked her claim as a three-time Best Realtor in the Best of Marathon Awards, Marathon Chamber of Commerce board chair, and one of several crucial donors to the Coldwell Banker Schmitt Charitable Foundation.

But those who know Hiller say the little acts that may not show up on a resume are just as much a part of who she is as the bigger accolades.

“In November, I had some dear friends who lost their home in Israel because of the Hamas attacks, and I got them to come stay here for a week,” said Marathon Chamber CEO Daniel Samess. “Teri found out about it, and asked what she could do to help. I told her I was going to go to Winn-Dixie and try to stock their fridge, and she goes, ‘I got it. Don’t worry about it.’ The next day, she hands me a couple hundred dollars worth of gift cards. That’s just a little example of Teri doing something without fanfare that nobody really knows about.”

What volunteer opportunity changed your worldview? With the Charitable Foundation, we’re so used to helping people. But after Hurricane Irma, we had 4 feet of water in our house. We were sitting out in our driveway with furniture and didn’t know what we were going to do. All of a sudden, eight people showed up from nowhere and said, “Your local Association of Realtors said you guys got hit really hard, so we’re here to help.” I just started bawling – I wasn’t used to being on the other end of things. The community came together like no other.

It’s your last night on Earth: who are you spending it with and what are you doing? I would go to Pigeon Key with all of my best friends and family. We’d hang out, cook, swim and do some floating. Maybe some fireworks – everything’s more fun with fireworks.

What is your favorite quality about yourself? I’d like to think I’m kind, loyal and reliable.

What 3 words do you hope others use to describe you? Just two: brutally honest.

Looking back on your life, who or what makes you instantly light up? Benny-Boo! (My son, Ben. Sorry, Don.) He’s in college and nothing makes me happier than when he’s able to come home for a weekend.

Do you talk to yourself? Do you answer back? 100%, and I’ve solved all the world’s problems in 30 seconds. How else do I get through the day?

What’s item #1 on your bucket list? Don and I have talked about going to Italy – I think that would be kind of cool.

1-2: You can find Teri Hiller in the stone crab booth at the Original Marathon Seafood Festival every March, cracking claws for morning until night. CONTRIBUTED

3. Installed at the 2023 Marathon Chamber of Commerce banquet, Hiller serves as the Chamber’s current board chair. SANDRA LEE PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed

4. For Hiller, one of the few priorities that can rival serving her community is her family – her husband Don, left, and son Ben. CONTRIBUTED

If you could have one wish come true, what would it be? My thoughts always go to Ben. When you become a parent, everything kind of reverts to that. I want him to be happy, healthy and stupidly successful.

What is your least favorite smell? What’s your favorite? My least favorite is a broken bait freezer. Don and I have had to clean out several for friends – twice for the same ones. Those must be REALLY good friends. But my favorite is when he starts cooking in the outdoor kitchen.

What’s your hype song? Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough.” We play it all the time on the boat after the Fourth of July while we’re waiting for all the traffic to go. Next thing you know, Michael Jackson’s on and we’re all dancing.

Do you believe in ghosts? What about life after death? Ghosts, 100% yes. I think I’ve been haunted before, and I’ve been in a haunted place. Life after death, also yes. I’m going to be a queen.

Which celebrity would you choose as a mentor? My hall pass is Kevin Costner, because I’m obsessed with him, but I’m not sure if I need him to “mentor” me.

What keeps you up at night? Nothing, unless it’s Don’s work phone ringing at all hours. If I wake up thinking about something, I tell myself, “OK, when I wake up in the morning, I’m going to think more about that. Let’s worry about it at 7:30.” And then I go back to sleep.

WHAT IT MEANS TO LIVE UNITED

A tireless volunteer and advocate for families and the Keys community, Maria Jones embodies the nonprofits she serves.

Her desire to serve the local United Way came after witnessing the positive impact the organization had in the community. In 2012, she joined its board.

Jones eventually served as chair of United Way of the Florida Keys for several years. She was instrumental in its merger with United Way of Collier County and today serves as vice chair for United Way of Collier and the Keys.

Leah Stockton, Keys area president for United Way, said Jones “shows what it means to ‘Live United’ in everything she does — serving food at Burton Memorial’s Thursday night dinners, leading ‘Be Like Mike’ efforts and helping spearhead the Feed the Keys food drive, serving as a chamber ambassador and more. She does it all with a smile on her face.”

An Upper Keys Rotarian, Jones plays a pivotal role in coordinating the 300-plus vendors who participate in the annual Gigantic Nautical Market.

“Her patience, fairness and firmness are key and critical to the unsurpassed success of this event and its annual $200,000 benefit to the past and present Coral Shores High School students,” said Frank Derfler, Upper Keys Rotary president.

Jones is the director of member services and governmental relations at Florida Keys Electric Cooperative. She uses her expertise as FKEC’s government affairs liaison to keep the co-op in touch with and positively proactive in the community.

MARIA JONES

“The Upper Keys community and FKEC are very fortunate to have such an incred ibly dedicated individual working for them right in their own backyard,” said Cris Beaty, FKEC chief financial officer.

What was the volunteer opportunity that changed your worldview? It wasn’t a specific opportunity, but when I was 7, I lost my mom to cancer, and I saw how hard my dad had to work to provide for my two brothers and I. I began high school when we moved to the Keys, and I soon began to realize there were the “haves” and “have nots.” I saw the need to make a difference in our community.

It’s your last night on Earth: who are you spending it with and what are you doing? I would spend it with my loved ones – most likely enjoying a favorite meal together.

What is your favorite quality about yourself? I think I’m a very good judge of character. My Spidey-senses kick in when they need to.

Looking back on your life, who or what makes you instantly light up? My Dad. I’m very grateful that I still have him in my life.

Do you talk to yourself? Do you answer back? Guilty as charged! Talking to myself is like having a personal brainstorming session. And yes, I’m known to give myself some pretty good advice from time to time.

What’s item #1 on your bucket list? Traveling to Africa for a safari has been my goal for a while now. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do and would love to cross off my bucket list someday.

How do you hope people describe you? I hope that people see me as someone who genuinely cares about others, strives to make a difference, and leaves a positive impression on those I encounter.

If you could have one wish come true, what would it be? That my brothers and I could have had more time with our mom.

What is your least favorite smell? What’s your favorite? I grew up with two older brothers – need I say more? Coming from an Italian family, there’s nothing better than the smell of a homemade sauce cooking on the stove.

What’s your hype song? The theme song for the “Howard Stern Show.” I just know a good laugh is coming!

Do you believe in ghosts? What about life after death? I think the idea of ghosts is fascinating, but I haven’t seen any convincing evidence to make me believe in them. It’s a big question, isn’t it? I think everyone has their own beliefs and perspectives on life after death. I prefer to focus on making the most of this life rather than worrying too much about what might come after

Which celebrity would you choose as a mentor? I haven’t pinpointed a specific celebrity, but I’m inspired by individuals who use their platform for positive change, like Dolly Parton. Learning from someone with that kind of impact would be incredible.

What keeps you up at night? It varies, but I think, like many people, I’m often thinking about the things I need to get done or the challenges I’m facing. It’s something I’m working on managing better.

1. Maria Jones and FKEC employees conduct a bike drive during the holidays. 2. Jones, left, volunteers with the Burton Memorial Food Pantry. 3. Jones visits MarrVelous Pet Rescue to present donations. 4. Jones with Leah Stockton, Florida Keys area president for the United Way of Collier and the Keys. CONTRIBUTED

BY KAREN NEWFIELD

MARGARITAS TO MONEY: ESSENTIAL READS IN THE FLORIDA KEYS

JACKPOT SUMMER

By Elyssa Friedland

Mourning their mother’s death, the Jacobson siblings decide to spend the July 4 weekend cleaning out the family’s recently sold beach house, as Dad is moving to Boca Raton. Taking a break, Noah, the youngest and favored sibling, heads to the local convenience store where Powerball is the hot lottery ticket. His sisters chip in for the fun, while the eldest brother, Matthew, and his snooty wife decline, declaring “lotteries are designed for stupid people.” Easy to say, when they’re high-powered attorneys making oodles of money. Busy adjusting to Dad’s retirement, the Jacobsons are shocked when they win the jackpot. While planning to spend their millions, the family must also decide if they can tolerate the guilt of leaving Matthew out of the win. But ultimately, extravagant purchases, unnecessary trips and meaningless donations backfire. The Fabulous Foursome realizes family comes first and money really can’t buy happiness. Laugh out loud with this winning beach read. Available June 2024.

By Renee Rosen

Inspired by the true story of cosmetics mogul Estée Lauder. In New York City, a woman named Estée Lauder was making face creams and lotions in her small apartment. In 1938, employment was scarce and war loomed on the horizon. She began selling her products in local beauty parlors, giving facials and free samples to any woman with a moment to spare. As her product line grew, so did her vision of fame and fortune. Estée eventually befriends Gloria, the new shampoo girl. Estée takes Gloria under her wing. Gloria had grown up a pampered socialite, but when her father went to Sing Sing, her world disappeared. Though she had changed her last name, what she understood about their wealthy customers would help close the deal. United in their bravery and can-do spirit, these women relentlessly pursue financial success and personal happiness, steadfast in their mission to demonstrate that women can indeed have it all.

FIFTH AVENUE GLAMOUR GIRL

THE SICILIAN INHERITANCE

By Jo Piazza

Sara’s restaurant has failed, her marriage ended and she lost full custody of her daughter. As her world implodes, her dear Aunt Rosie quietly passes away. Always full of surprises, Rosie left Sara a letter containing instructions. The now-deceased Rosie had arranged a trip to Sicily where their family once lived. There, Sara is meant to scatter Rosie’s ashes and confirm that the valuable piece of land Rosie inherited from Sara’s great grandmother, Serafina, still exists. If the land is legally theirs, Sara will acquire the property. Upon arrival, Sara is bombarded by a quirky cast of characters who appear overly anxious to help this beautiful American girl. With each step, Sara uncovers more family secrets. Narrated by Serafina in the early 1900s and intertwined with Sara’s contemporary journey, this captivating tale envelops readers in the lives of courageous women driven by the pursuit of freedom, family and love. Set amid the mountains of Sicily, this page-turner brims with history and mystery.

RICH AF

By Vivian Tu

Vivian Tu’s job with J.P. Morgan was a dream come true after she finished college. But on Wall Street, she quickly realized, the troops were “stale, male and pale.” Vivian tried hard to live by her motto for any job — “earn and learn.” But after struggling through long hours and rarely-recognized accomplishments, she was exhausted. Although raised with the immigrant mentality of working hard and saving pennies to become rich, Vivian realized it would never happen if her skills were undervalued. She would never be a member of the boys club. After reevaluating her career and a successful sales position at BuzzFeed, Vivian accidentally fell into the online world of TikTok. Her 3.5 million followers devour her quick tips and tutorials on money, career and financial literacy. Focusing on women who are historically left behind, Vivian is your new BFF who can teach you how to take control of your bank account. Who knew finance could be fun?

DIE WITH ZERO

By Bill Perkins

All our lives we save for a rainy day, encouraged to contribute a part of our earnings to a retirement fund. We may have watched our parents do better than their parents, and their grandparents live longer than the generation before. Saving for our golden years is deeply ingrained in our society and we often make financial decisions on autopilot. Bucket lists are a trend for this generation to prioritize experiences they want to enjoy — when they have the time and money. Author Bill Perkins shines a light on our collective mistake. Each decade we may have saved more money, but we now have less time. And when we do have the time, we will not have the ability to participate in the experiences we’ve long anticipated. Most importantly, spending time with friends and family creates memories that are far more valuable than any cash in the bank. A simple, straightforward reminder to live each day to the fullest.

R E AL ES TAT E

I S A GIRL'S BEST F RIE N D .

RE/MAX PIONEERING WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE SINCE 1973

RE/MAX ADVANCE REALTY AND ALL KEYS REAL ESTATE CELEBRATE YOU;

Mariana Skomp, Martha Noval, Michelle C Kirby, Patricia Robison, Rosanne Dully, Roxanne Cautilli, Sandra Castro, Wendy Leigh Ives, Talia Gomez, Kelly Randin, Barbara Guerra, Brigitte Casanova, Carie M Matthews, Diane Marie Loveland and Jane Wasmund

RE/MAX HAS BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF EXPANDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE SINCE THE FOUNDING 51 YEARS AGO

EMPOWERING WOMEN MEANS PROVIDING THEM WITH THE NECESSARY TOOLS, RESOURCES, AND OPPORTUNITIES TO BECOME CONFIDENT, INDEPENDENT, AND INFLUENTIAL MEMBERS OF SOCIETY IT IS ESSENTIAL- BENEFITS NOT ONLY WOMEN THEMSELVES BUT ALSO THEIR FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES WHEN WOMEN ARE EMPOWERED, THEY CAN PARTICIPATE MORE FULLY IN DECISION-MAKING PROCESSES, CONTRIBUTE TO ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT, AND HELP TO REDUCE POVERTY AND INEQUALITY

IT IS AN HONOR FOR ME TO WORK WITH INCREDIBLE WOMEN AT OUR BROKERAGE.

Melanie De Armas, Owner - CEO

Family owned and operated by Damien, Cathy, Tiffany & Nikki.

BY IRENE DE BRUIJN

WHAT IF I COULD PICK?

I wouldn’t even know where to start if I was in charge of the faces on our money. Of course they would be women. But there are so many women I look up to and admire for being who they are(orwere),andhavingavoice.Waytoomanyforjustonepage in a magazine. Here’s an impression of what ‘my’ money would look like.

RuthBaderGinsburg(1933-2020),anAmericanlawyerand juristwhoservedasanassociatejusticeoftheSupreme Court of the United States from 1993 until her death. MayaAngelou(1928-2014),anAmericanmemoirist,poetandcivilrightsactivist. Michelle Obama,anAmericanattorneyandauthorwho servedasthefirstladyoftheUnitedStatesfrom2009to 2017,beingmarriedtoformerpresidentBarackObama. Waris Dirie,a Somali model,author,actress and human rightsactivistinthefightagainstfemalegenitalmutilation. GloriaSteinem,anAmericanjournalistandsocial-political activistwhoemergedasanationallyrecognizedleader of second-wave feminism in the United States in the late 1960sandearly1970s. Rosa Parks (1913-2005),anAmericanactivistinthecivil rightsmovementbestknownforherpivotalroleinthe Montgomerybusboycott.

INVESTING WHERE WE LIVE, WORK & PLAY

Assistance Available As REALTORS® we believe everyone should be proud of their community and have a safe place to call home. That's why Florida Keys Board of REALTOR members invest in communities where we live, work, and play.

OFFICERS & DIRECTORS

President: Susan Ashmore

Vice President: Karen Prince

Secretary/Treasurer: Lorie LaLonde-Miller

Directors: Claire Johnson, Ana Zalesky, Rebecca Newman, Gloria Walters, Natalie Biondoletti, Samantha Arce

Lynda Anthony

The FKBR REALTORS® Charitable Foundation (FKBRCF) is the 501(c)3 charitable arm of FKBR. It's a testament to the collective efforts of our community, providing funding for individuals and not-for-profit organizations in the Upper Keys of Monroe County who enhance the quality of life in the community and prioritize supporting REALTOR members in need. The Foundation, established in 2015, is a result of our community's commitment to consolidate FKBR community-giving programs and significantly impact the local community.

MISSION

Our mission is clear and unwavering: to provide outreach programs and charitable donations within the local community and support REALTOR members in need as a priority.

VISION

To be a foundation that dramatically impacts our members and our local community as the philanthropic arm of the Florida Keys Board of REALTORS®

Applications are available now and can be requested by emailing Lynda@flkeysboardofrealtors.com or calling 305-852-9294.

MONDAY - WEDNESDAY 11- 4

THURSDAY - SATURDAY 11- 6

kirbyscloset.com @kirbysclosetkw

Cawley & Greer

The things we do

How many of us remember getting our first credit card? Perhaps it was in college or early adulthood.

Suddenly, at 18 or 21 years old, we could buy things we wanted with money we didn’t have. What could possibly go wrong?

Suffice to say, student loans aren’t the only debt racked up by millions of young people every year.

Now, with the benefit of hindsight and perhaps a small degree of wisdom that comes from age, we’ve assembled a bit of financial advice: things we wish we could tell our 20-year-old selves about money.

DON’T LET ANYONE DERAIL YOU FROM WHAT YOU WANT TO DO.

Talk to your partner about their financial situation well before saying “I do.”

All your savings add up to freedom.

Never cash out your retirement account early.

Invest in yourself and your personal happiness.

CONTROL CREDIT CARD SPENDING, USE ONE AND PAY IT OFF MONTHLY.

Be financially independent, never solely rely on a partner.

START AN IRA AS EARLY AS YOU CAN.

NEGOTIATE YOUR SALARY EVERY SINGLE TIME!

In the future girl math will prevail. (see last Keys Woman edition)

Buy the house that you think is out of your price range, it will quadruple over the next 15 years in price especially if you live in the Florida Keys.

Pay yourself first, then pay the bills. Trust me on this one.

It’s okay to fail, but pick yourself back up as quickly as possible.

ALWAYS HAVE AN EMERGENCY FUND — AKA LAST-MINUTE VACATION FUND!

YOU WILL BE FINE.

It’s never too late to change your career.

COUPLES, SINGLES AND THOSE IN BETWEEN ARE ALL WELCOME! Join us in September to immerse yourself in what is dubbed the HOTTEST PARTY for women in the Florida Keys!

Whether you’re negotiating a contract bet ween t wo companies or dinner time with a pick y eater, being able to stay in the conversation is key to your confidence. If you’re struggling to hear, you’re invited to take control of your health. Call us today to schedule yo appointment for a no-risk consulta with Florida’s leading hearing care exper t and discover how power ful clear hearing can be.