Welcome to Two Friends Patio Restaurant — The place your stomach dreams about at night.
We’ve got parking: Yes, actual parking in Key West (Miracles do happen…)
Roll in for our Early Bird Specials from 1–4 PM, featuring a 20oz Bone-In Ribeye for just $18.
Thirsty? Grab a 52oz Fish Bowl drink for $29.95 - any drink - including our Peoples’ Choice Award-Winning Bloody Mary that’s won more trophies than most NFL athletes.
Not to mention that we’re in the Top 10% of restaurants worldwide on TripAdvisor… which basically makes us the Beyoncé of patio dining.
and Live Music 7 days from 9:00am until Close.
Two Friends Patio Restaurant: A place to Make Your Friends or Meet Your Friends since 1886.
Welcome to Pepe’s Steak House, the 2nd oldest restaurant in Florida, serving greatness since 1909.
We’ve been doing this for so long, our recipes have seniority.
We take reservations for lunch and dinner, because history tastes better when it’s scheduled.
Cravings incoming:
Fresh stone crab - so fresh it should probably still be on vacation.
Blue Point oysters for just 88¢ during Happy Hour, 4–6 PM. Cheaper than bottled water and way more fun.
Seafood delivered fresh daily, because “yesterday’s fish” isn’t in our vocabulary.
And our proudest rule: No freezer & no fryer here.
If you’re looking for frozen nuggets, you won’t find it at Pepe’s.
Pepe’s Steak House: 116 years of keeping it fresh, delicious, and just the right amount of old-school.
806 Caroline St. in the Historic Seaport or www.pepeskeywest.com
THE KEY WEST WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.
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News Deadline Monday Noon
Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.
$28M
A vessel check by the U.S. Coast Guard Station Miami Beach on Dec. 2 led to the discovery of 3,715 pounds of cocaine worth roughly $28 million. The suspected drug smuggling boat was 2 miles from shore when it was stopped. “This was the largest USCG small boat station cocaine seizure since 1995,” said Lt. Matthew Ross, Coast Guard Station Miami Beach commanding officer.
Members of
Red Barn Theatre presents ‘Scrooge Macbeth,’ a holiday mashup of Shakespeare with Dickens, running through Jan. 9. See page 6 for details.
‘HAVE YOU SUFFERED ENOUGH YET?’
How a Marathon mother navigated childbirth, after ICE took her husband, a Key West worker
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
On Nov. 18, Marathon resident Liennys Escalona gave birth to a baby boy. If he had been born a month earlier, her husband, Dasnier Barea Levya, would have been by her side.
But on the day in question, Dasnier was locked in a cage at Alligator Alcatraz.
On Halloween, Dasnier was driving to work at Paradise Tattoo in Key West when he noticed a Customs and Border Patrol truck following him. Minutes later, Liennys said, she was pleading with an officer via speakerphone to explain her husband’s situation.
“(Dasnier) gave him his ID and work permit, the officer went to the computer, came back and said, ‘You do not have a legal status to be here. I have to take you,’” she recalled. “I was picking up my son, I was 37 weeks pregnant, and I had a panic attack and started crying. I just tried to believe this wasn’t happening.”
Both born in Cuba, Liennys and Dasnier met at a local Carnaval celebration – just three months before Liennys would leave for the United States in March of 2017.
“A lot of people don’t believe in this, but it was a first-sight love,” Liennys said.
Dasnier would later come to the U.S. seeking asylum in 2019, marrying Liennys in December that same year. He was processed at the border, had his first court date in a detention center, and was released on a $10,000 bond with his asylum case pending. He wore an electronic ankle bracelet for about two years as he awaited the outcome of his case, attending a second hearing as required.
After arriving in the U.S., Liennys was granted parole and successfully sought her own path to citizenship under the Cuban Adjustment Act. But Dasnier was handed an I-220A, a document allowing him to work and live in the U.S. as his asylum case played out – not valid to use as parole and seek citizenship as Liennys did.
As Dasnier’s final court date inched closer, Liennys, now a U.S. citizen after being paroled herself, prepared and presented an I-130 petition in July 2022, used to provide an eligible spouse or relative of a citizen with a path to obtain a green card.
Seeing the petition was in process, an immigration judge ordered Dasnier’s case closed on July 22, 2022, according to court records from the Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review.
“The judge decided to close the case because we were going through that other way of getting him citizenship,” Liennys said. In July of 2023, a notice from the Department of Homeland Security told Liennys her petition for Dasnier was approved.
Originally taken to the Marathon CBP facility, officers told
continued on page 6
Dasnier Barea Levya, his wife Liennys Escalona, and their son Oliver are fighting to stay together as a family after welcoming another child last month. CONTRIBUTED
wife
was detained in Alligator Alcatraz.
Liennys that Dasnier had a chance to be released if she presented all of his original immigration paperwork.
“I gave them all the papers we had, but they just said ‘We have all that in the system. He doesn’t have a green card approved, so he doesn’t have the status to be here,’” Liennys told the Weekly.
“They told me he was going to be moved to Krome (Detention Center) and I would be able to call him and see him – they took him to Alligator Alcatraz,” she said. “Everybody thought that’s where they would take the worst of the worst – that’s not true.”
On Nov. 24, Dasnier was transferred in chains to El Paso, Texas. In total, he’s been detained for more than a month – and still doesn’t have a court date. He still has yet to meet his younger son, born just weeks after he was arrested.
“(Dasnier) not being able to be at my second birth, it’s something I will never forgive. … This is the real life for so many Cubans – things are just floating in the air,” Liennys said. “We’re basically seeking a humanitarian parole, because our second son is eight days old, (and) my first son is 4-1/2 years old and has a global delay. All the progress he’s made at school, it’s just going back and back and back. … He doesn’t even want to talk to his father now.”
It’s a critical week for Dasnier’s situation, as a federal appeals court is set to hear oral arguments in Miami on Dec. 12 in a major national case concerning all those who entered the U.S. with an I-220A.
Dasnier Barea Levya, a tattoo artist with Paradise Tattoo on Duval Street, takes a break from the ink to help with face painting for little ones during Fantasy Fest.
Led by Cuban-American attorney Mark Prada and backed by the ACLU, lawyers argue that Cubans initially released with I-220A documents should be considered paroled, allowing them a path to permanent residence under the Cuban Adjustment Act. If successful, it could change the status of hundreds of thousands who were handed the same document as Dasnier – and have lived in legal limbo ever since.
His criminal record is clean, verified in a document stamped by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office in May 2025. In 2026, the couple had planned to reopen Ink the Keys Tattoo Studio, which drew strong reviews when it operated in Marathon from 2021 to 2023, and continue to raise their family.
Now, they simply hope their family will be in one place.
As temperatures drop in Texas, Liennys said, Dasnier has yet to be provided with so much as a coat to keep warm. He fights an uphill battle to receive any treatment for his sciatic pain, and he’s required to pay daily to stay in contact with his family.
He has yet to meet his newborn son.
“Every Sunday, they say to him ‘Are you ready to sign your deportation papers already? Are you tired already? Are you suffering enough?’” Liennys told the Weekly. “I’m completely with detaining criminals, sex offenders and felons. But what they’re doing now is taking people who are working their path to citizenship and doing everything right.”
RED BARN OPENS SEASON WITH ‘SCROOGE MACBETH’
Play blends Dickens & Shakespeare for holiday show
Imagine that Charles Dickens happens to run into William Shakespeare in an out-of-theway London pub late on a snowy Christmas Eve, and they start talking shop. After five or six pints, they’ve forged an idea for a new Christmas play – a little bit Charles, a little bit William, and all of it hilarious.
With the Red Barn’s opening mainstage show of its 46th season, audiences will see what such a collaboration could yield.
“Scrooge Macbeth,” by the award-winning playwright David MacGregor, is a mash-up, intended to get viewers into the Christmas spirit and keep them there for 80 minutes. The show runs Dec. 9 through Jan. 3 with all shows at 7:30 pm.
The story centers around a small community theater about to open a holiday production of Shakespeare’s “A Winter’s Tale.” The hope is that the show will save the financially-strapped theater from bankruptcy. But most of the cast is felled by food poisoning moments before curtain time, leaving the last four actors standing to pull together some kind of holiday entertainment on the fly. What they come up with is Shakespeare running headlong into Dickens, as they try to combine two iconic tales, complete with improvised turns on the best-known carols of the season.
“It’s one of the funniest plays I’ve ever been a part of,” said Red Barn managing director Mimi McDonald, who also directs the show. “It has a surprise a minute and takes advantage of the intimacy of the Barn’s space – the audience will feel they’re right in the craziness as part of the show. And I think it capitalizes on the strengths of the Red Barn – we love the offbeat, the off-kilter here, and we’re lucky to have cast some of the great comedic actors Key West has.”
The show features a host of Shakespeare characters as they’ve never been seen – Richard III sings
Macbeth’ runs Dec. 9 - Jan. 3
“I’m Gettin’ Nuttin’ for Christmas,” and Ebenezer Scrooge shows up on Juliet’s balcony.
One of the characters – an over-the-top diva – adds a bit of drama to the proceedings by refusing to do the show until he’s allowed to play Othello, who gets pulled into a very odd and lyrical holiday Shakespeare cabaret.
“Scrooge Macbeth” stars Key West’s Dominic Paolillo, Nina Pilar, Mathias Maloff, Cassidy Timms and Gerri Louise Gates.
For those attending on Dec. 9, MacGregor is making a special trip to Key West to see the Red Barn’s production of his play, and will be in attendance at the show and the opening night party to meet and greet ticketholders with the cast and crew after the performance.
There will be no performances on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve, but there will be a performance on New Year’s Day. The opening night party will take place after the performance on Dec. 9, with all ticketholders welcome. There is no parking at the Red Barn Theatre.
More information is at redbarntheatre.com or from the box office at 305-296-9911.
— Contributed
‘Scrooge
at Red Barn Theatre, blending Shakespeare and Dickens into a holiday play. CONTRIBUTED
Dasnier Barea Levya, left, and his
Liennys Escalona celebrate the imminent arrival of their second son. Liennys gave birth while Dasnier
THANK YOU
To the community for your continued support, patience, kindness and well wishes during this extremely di cult time. We are continuing to see patients as we navigate our future while missing our leader & captain Hector.
Dr. David McDonald D.M.D. and Dr. Christina Smith D.D.S are here to help keep our patients’ smiles healthy and bright. As always our 3 amazing dental hygienists, Jayme Thomas RDH, Cassandra Cassidy RDH & Maria Montilva RDH will continue to be here for all your needs too.
This is a community that Hector loved deeply and we will continue his mission of taking care of each and every one of you that have begun as patients and have evolved into our Key West family & friends.
Thank you for your outpouring of love and prayers for our family and team during these trying days, we appreciate all the kind comments and memories you’ve been sharing.
Much love Rebecca, Nena, Brock & the entire Doc Guzman team.
IS SOMETHING WRONG AT THE KEY WEST CEMETERY?
State investigates after exposed human bones were found
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Thousands of people each year visit the historic Key West Cemetery, expecting to see a variety of things — historic graves of notable residents, sarcastic gravestones, native birds, family plots that date back several generations. And active funeral processions still wind their way through the cemetery’s private paths and roadways.
But no one expected to see exposed human bones lying scattered around a gravesite, where the ground had recently been disturbed by a city worker with a backhoe, said Diane Silvia, an archaeologist and director of the Historic Florida Keys Foundation, which conducts tours of the cemetery, which opened in 1847 at the highest point of the island. Silvia is also Monroe County’s contracted historic preservation planner.
In June of this year, Silvia met with city officials, including commissioner Monica Haskell, whose district includes the cemetery, as well as city manager Brian L. Barroso and community services director Marcus Davila and others. She presented a report that outlined concerns she and others have had with the Key West cemetery. Maryann Matter worked for the city as its cemetery archivist, but resigned in October 2024, writing in her resignation letter, “Nor will I be a party to ongoing activities harmful and counter to the protection and preservation of historic resources.”
The cemetery report, Silvia said, was prompted by a call she had received from a concerned resident, who had seen exposed bones at the cemetery.
“A citizen contacted me that there were exposed bones in a debris pile (inside a grave plot at the cemetery). I went and confirmed there was exposed human bone from the grave of Joseph Valdez and took photos but did not touch anything,” Silvia writes in her report. “I reported this incident to city management as the debris pile was destined to go to the dump. Someone, not me, filed an anonymous complaint with the Florida Division of Historic Resources. The division contacted me for information. They felt this incident was so grievous they requested an investigation. A special investigator from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement contacted me and said any future incidents should be reported to the Key West Police Department. I was then contacted by Jessica Cordero, an investigator from the Division of Funeral, Cemetery and Consumer Services. She said they were doing an investigation of the Varela Mausoleum and things appeared to be in order. Ms. Cordero said they were opening a second investigation of other disturbed plots.”
City spokeswoman Alyson Crean told the Keys Weekly on Dec. 9, “It’s my understanding that the state had closed its investigation with no findings against the cemetery, but I’m awaiting confirmation on that from our legal department.”
The Keys Weekly has requested a copy of the investigative report from the state’s Division of Historical Resources.
Silvia told the Keys Weekly on Dec. 8 that, according to Florida Statute 872.02(1)(a), it is a third-degree felony to willingly and knowingly “destroy, mutilate, deface, injure or remove any tomb, monument gravestone, burial mound, earthen or shell monument containing human skeletal remains.”
But, Silvia emphasized, a different Florida law gives an exemption to this for municipal cemeteries.
“Based on this exemption, it does not appear that the desecration of burials is a legal violation, but does the city really want to have an exemption for this exceptional historic cemetery? The cemetery represents those who created the history of Key West. It may not be legally wrong to desecrate graves, but is it ethically and morally wrong?”
Key West Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez is launching a cemetery revitalization committee that will hold its first meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 17 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on the lawn of the Key West Harry S. Truman Little White House. Cori Convertito, curator and historian for the Key West Art and Historical Society, along with historian Clinton Curry, will talk about the history memorialized in the cemetery.
“Enjoy light bites, community fellowship, and stories that bring our island’s history to life,” said Henriquez, “as we begin this important effort to preserve our city’s treasured cemetery for generations to come.”
Haskell said she has been troubled by the reports of disturbed graves as well as the city’s decades-long practice of declaring a grave “abandoned” if they cannot reach any surviving relatives with ties to the privately owned burial plots. If a gravesite is deemed abandoned, then the plot apparently can be resold, in which case the existing burials are covered with a cement
pad, and new, above-ground vaults can be built atop the cement. But in some cases, the gravestones and markers identifying the people originally buried there have been moved or lost, according to Silvia.
“I’m concerned about the historic as well as the human value of our cemetery,” Haskell told the Keys Weekly on Dec. 10. “We need to have reverence for those who are interred there and to preserve our history. Just because some people don’t have any living descendants, I don’t think a grave should be considered abandoned. I don’t view the cemetery as a piece of real estate, but as a place of history and commemoration. And the abandonment of a grave would be a crime if not for the designation as a municipal cemetery.
“The exposed bones were shocking,” Haskell said. “But fortunately our director of community services has said that he has since purchased ground-penetrating radar and other technology to be able to identify what’s buried, because to use a backhoe in a crowded cemetery doesn’t seem right at all.”
Haskell said she plans, in the coming year, to ask her fellow commissioners to revisit some of the city’s ordinances governing the cemetery.
“I don’t think the practices occurring are prohibited by our laws, but perhaps they should be,” she said.
Silvia’s June report to city officials makes recommendations that she hopes will be considered.
“The Land Development Regulations Chapter 22 should be updated and specify that when a cemetery plot is sold, all existing graves may not be disturbed. Furthermore, ground penetrating radar completed by an experienced operator should be used to determine vacant space.
“Excavation in preparation for a second below ground burial should be supervised by an archaeologist or funeral director to ensure the first marked burial is not disturbed.
“Historic burials should be protected the same way we protect historic structures. People live, work and visit because it is in Old Town, and the cemetery is the heart of it.”
Exposed human bones were discovered at the Joseph Valdez plot in the Key West Cemetery in January 2025 and again in April 2025. DIANE SILVIA/Contributed
The ultimate pop-up for those who love a little shimmer
Saturday, December 13
Sip, shop, and discover gorgeous, hand crafted jewelry, glow-boosting makeup, and statement fashion - all designed to elevate your holiday style.
And the best part? Every purchase is automatically entered to win a $1,000 gift bag filled with fabulous Float goodies.
Saturday, December 13th 10:00 am to 6:00 pm 624 Whitehead Street GET READY TO GLOW island style
CHEERS TO A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON & A FESTIVE NEW YEAR!
voted best coffee!
at MM15 open 7 days a week 6am - 5pm
BABY’S COFFEE
KEY WEST MARKS HOMELESS PERSONS MEMORIAL DAY
Dec. 19 ceremony pays tribute to those who died without a home
On Friday, Dec. 19 at 3 p.m., the Key West community will gather in remembrance for Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day, an annual observance honoring individuals in Monroe County who died while experiencing homelessness this year.
Held each December in recognition of the winter solstice, the longest night of the year — and one of the coldest in many parts of the country — the memorial offers a moment of reflection on the lives lost and a renewed call to action around housing access, health equity and community care in the Florida Keys.
This year’s service will once again take place at the Florida Keys Outreach Coalition (FKOC) vault at the Key West Cemetery, where community members, advocates, service providers and loved ones will pay tribute. Enter at
the cemetery’s main gate near the Sexton’s office. Ushers will guide attendees to the vault.
“As a community, we hold space each year to honor our neighbors who struggled without the protection of a home,” said Carolyn Woodhead of FKOC/AH Monroe Housing and Supportive Services. “Their lives mattered deeply. This memorial reminds us that every person deserves safety, dignity, compassionate care, and a place to call home.”
This year’s observance centers on the belief that housing, healthcare and safety are fundamental human rights. Local agencies encourage residents across the Keys to stand together in remembrance and solidarity, and to recommit to supporting efforts that prevent and end homelessness.
More information is at fkoc.org. — Contributed
MAC McANALLY & NICK NORMAN
SELL OUT KEY WEST THEATER KEY WEST POLICE WELCOME NEW K-9 OFFICER
Theater.
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Local favorites turn stories into songs
Legendary singer/songwriter
Mac McAnally’s voice “feels like an old friend,” according to another country music legend with deep Key West connections, Kenny Chesney.
McAnally’s current tour included three sold-out shows Dec. 4, 5 and 6 at Key West Theater, where McAnally’s fellow southern storyteller and songwriter Nick Norman kicked off each show.
A Mississippi native, McAnally has spent the past 50 or so years turning “10-page short stories into three-minute songs,” he says.
McAnally is a 10-time Country Music Association Musician of the Year, an inductee in five music halls of fame, author of multiple No. 1 hits and a Grammy-nominated artist, producer and songwriter.
Oh, and he spent a good bit of time writing songs and performing with a guy named Jimmy Buffett and his Coral Reefer Band.
McAnally’s and Norman’s Key West connections were evident in each song at all three shows, where the performers were clearly having as much fun as the crowd.
German shepherd Drax was donated by the Ahrensfeld family
The Key West Police Department recently welcomed its newest K-9 officer, Drax, working with handler K9 Officer Tommy Anglin.
Drax, a 4-year-old German shepherd, was born and raised in Germany. He shares the same bloodline as Anglin’s first K-9, Ferro, and his most recent K-9, Jigsaw.
Drax competed in Europe for two years and holds top titles in protection, tracking and sport, which he earned under the original name of X-Maxx.
Anglin describes Drax as smart, social, sweet and hardworking.
He was paid for by the Ahrensfeld family, who also bought the late K9 Jigsaw for the department.
“We are extremely grateful to the Ahrensfeld family,” said Chief Sean Brandenburg. “Our K9 unit is a vital part of the community, and we are honored to have Drax join us in protecting our community.”
— Contributed
Singer/songwriter Nick Norman kicks off three sold-out shows with legendary recording artist Mac McAnally at Key West
Legendary recording artist, songwriter and longtime Coral Reefer, Mac McAnally’s tour included three shows at Key West Theater. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly
The Key West Police Department’s newest K-9 officer, Drax, joins the force. CONTRIBUTED
MORE ICE ACTIVITY IN THE UPPER KEYS
Video of U.S. citizen briefly detained draws national attention
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Aharrowing video showing federal immigration agents detaining a woman in medical scrubs — and screaming that she’s a U.S. citizen — along U.S. 1 in Key Largo has captured a national audience.
The incident on Dec. 3 at MM 103 was caught on camera by Miami Herald reporter David Goodhue and showed several agents with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Customs & Border Protection taking the woman out of the car. She was eventually handcuffed following a struggle.
At one point in the video, she is on the ground, looking at the camera, screaming “I’m a U.S. citizen.”
The woman, who wasn’t identified, was eventually released. But the interaction sparked attention and response among elected officials, the public and media outlets.
A spokesperson with U.S. Customs and Border Protection said the woman was driving a vehicle registered to an undocumented migrant, and that she refused to roll her window down and hand over her driver’s license. Agents handcuffed the woman, searched the vehicle, found her license and confirmed she was a U.S. citizen.
But in a statement to the Miami Herald and Local 10, the woman, who requested not to be identified, said she indeed rolled her window down once the agents approached her vehicle. Any claim otherwise is false, she said.
“They placed me inside their car, and while I was restrained, I watched them search through my personal belongings — including my purse — without my consent,” she said in her statement. “I know I have the right to not consent to a search, yet my rights were not respected.”
The incident seen on camera between the woman and federal agents came as immigration enforcement stops have been seen in the Upper Keys in recent weeks. Video and photos by Nick Rodriguez showed marked and unmarked cars at Rowell’s Waterfront Park in Key Largo during the early morning of Dec. 3 before the incident.
Marked and unmarked vehicles, and even a U.S. Customs and Border Protection helicopter, were spotted along the road and in the air in Key Largo last month. Stops made by federal agents on Nov. 21 resulted in the arrests of 12 individuals, from Nicaragua, Cuba, Venezuela, Colombia and Guatemala who had prior charges and convictions ranging from illegal re-entry after deportation to resisting an officer and domestic violence.
Some stops over the course of the past weeks have occurred not far from Key Largo School during the early morning hours. A stop last month on a white van by CBP and Florida Highway Patrol led to a foot pursuit and a subsequent lockdown of KLS during the early morning. The person was eventually caught and the school reopened to students and staff.
Left: U.S. Border Patrol vehicles at Rowell’s Waterfront Park the morning of Dec. 3.
Right: Federal agents in unmarked cars at the Rowell’s Waterfront Park entrance the morning of Dec. 3. NICK RODRIGUEZ/Contributed
REGISTER NOW FOR NEW HOLIDAY RACE
First-ever Elves 5K & Jingle Bell Mile take place Dec. 21
Waterfront Winter Wonderland’s “Elven activities committee” invites runners, joggers and strollers to sign up for the inaugural Running of the Elves 5K and Jingle Bell Mile, taking place Saturday, Dec. 21.
The gates to this year’s Waterfront Winter Wonderland (at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater) open at 4 p.m., with the 5K starting at 5 p.m. The run departs from and returns to the amphitheater. Participants will receive same-day admission to the Waterfront Winter Wonderland, a holiday race medal, Christmas cookies and candy canes, photos with Waterfront Winter Wonderland characters, and those
over the age of 5 will also receive a festive elf T-shirt. Military families with ID receive a 10% registration discount; kids aged five and under can participate for free.
Presented in partnership with Mile Zero Events, proceeds benefit Reef Relief, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving and protecting the Florida Keys coral reef ecosystem. Waterfront Winter Wonderland is presented in part by Rams Head Presents, We’ve Got the Keys and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. More information is at waterfrontwinterwonderland.com.
— Contributed
JOIN KEY WEST’S MENORAH-LIGHTING ON DEC. 14
Giant symbol is next to the Christmas tree at Bayview Park
The community is invited to Key West’s annual menorah-lighting celebration at Bayview Park, Sunday, Dec. 14, beginning at 5 p.m.
Rabbi Shimon Dudai from Congregation B’Nai Zion and Rabbi Jacob Zucker from Chabad of the Florida Keys will offer seasonal blessings.
Conducted just before sunset, the lighting signals the beginning of Hanukkah, the eight-day Jewish Festival of Lights. The lighting of the menorah is one of many celebrations that occur during the islandwide Key West Holiday Fest. More information is at KeyWestHolidayFest.com.
— Contributed
A CHORUS OF CHRISTMAS CAROLS
Keys Choral Arts annual concert is Dec. 14 at Tennessee Williams Theater
Key West’s annual menorah-lighting celebration is on Sunday, Dec. 14 at 5 p.m. at Bayview Park. CAROL TEDESCO/Key West Holiday Fest
West & Cuba’s
Michael Marrero
Media
Michael Marrero is a Cuban-American artist, playwright, lmmaker, and photographer from Key West, celebrated for his cross-disciplinary creativity and his deep ties to Cuban and Floridian culture.
Marrero’s career spans multiple mediums: Playwright & Theater Innovator, Filmmaker, Photographer, Woodcarver & Community Builder: Recently, he founded the Key West Woodworking Society, continuing the island’s tradition of craftsmanship, and Cultural Advocate.
Fishermen, 9” x 6” x 4” Mixed
Christmas Day
KEY WEST HOLIDAY PARADE SPARKLES & SNOWS
Judges announce winning entries
Though every entry into this year’s Holiday Parade on Dec. 6 was a winner the moment it brought a smile to a child’s face, this year’s judges had a hard time choosing the winners below in three categories:
Walking / Performance group
• 1st: Island Groove Dance Studio
• 2nd: HOB Cheerleaders
• 3rd (tie): KWHS Marching Band and KWHS Conchettes
‘IN THE AIR THERE’S A FEELING OF CHRISTMAS’
Wesley House fills season with festivities for kids
Flatbed trailer / Platform entries
• 1st: Island Groove Dance Studio
• 2nd: Bella Construction
• 3rd: City of Key West
Motorized vehicle / Golf carts
• 1st: Take Stock in Children
• 2nd: Kazoo Band
• 3rd: Chabad Jewish Center of Key West
— Contributed
Wesley House Family Services transformed Key West’s Coffee Butler Amphitheater into a sparkling Holiday Village for children, followed by its annual BeLighted Bike Ride down Duval Street on Dec. 5. The Holiday Village featured performances by local dancers and jugglers, as well as a giant slide, a snow machine, a rock climbing wall, kiddie rides and photos with Santa. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly
The annual Key West Holiday Parade featured everything you’d expect for this festive season, from snow and Santa Claus to music and merry-making. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly
5K OFFERS MORE THAN A RUN
Pool party & Christmas pageant book-end Dec. 13 run
Holiday cheer meets island energy Dec. 12-13 as two days of activities surround this year’s Rudolph Red Nose Run, one of Key West’s holiday 5Ks.
Presented by A Positive Step of Monroe County and the Key West Southernmost Runners Club, the family-friendly 5K, now in its 17th year, welcomes participants of all ages and abilities.
The Southernmost Beach Café, 1405 Duval St., will serve as the 5K hub, while the Southernmost Beach Resort, 1319 Duval St., will host the run’s surrounding pool parties and special events.
“For 17 years the Rudolph Red Nose Run has been a joyful way for people to come together in support of local kids and families — and our new, surrounding events promise to make it an even more memorable weekend for residents and visitors,” said Billy Davis, founder and executive director of A Positive Step.
Rudolph Run registration includes a complimentary T-shirt. Proceeds benefit the Idle Hands summer youth employment program, which serves some of Monroe County’s highest risk youth and their families. Donations are tax deductible.
FRIDAY, DEC. 12
1 to 4 p.m. — Welcome Racers Pool Party at Southernmost Beach Resort Pineapple Pool.
4 p.m. — Conch shell blowing lessons & contest (run participants only) at Pineapple Pool
5 to 7 p.m. — Rudolph Run packet pickup at Southernmost Beach Café.
SATURDAY, DEC. 13
7 a.m. — Race-day check-in at Southernmost Beach Café.
8 a.m. — Rudolph Red Nose Run start
1 to 4 p.m. — Recovery pool party at Southernmost Beach Resort Pineapple Pool
5 p.m. — Merry Market opens at the South Beach area featuring local artisan wares and farmer’s market offerings.
FORE... THE MILITARY COMMUNITY
Patriots
Golf Tournament raises money for local servicemembers & events
6 to 8 p.m. — Meet the Mermaids & Swim Night at Shores Pool
7 p.m. — Christmas Queen Pageant at the Shores Pool. Rudolph runners are encouraged to compete in the pageant.
— Contributed
A Positive Step of Monroe County, a nonprofit organization, has served high-risk youth and families since 1999, providing support, mentorship and opportunities for success. More information is at apsmc.org/annual-5k.
The Key West Military Affairs Committee held its annual Patriots Golf Tournament on Dec. 7 in Key West. Foursomes competed for prizes and bragging rights, and enjoyed a special guest appearance by legendary football coach Jimmy Johnson, of Dallas Cowboys and University of
Miami Hurricanes fame, who is also a Florida Keys resident and owner of Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill Bar & Grill in Key Largo. The tournament raises money for various military events held throughout the year in the local community.
Two days of activities surround this year’s Rudolph Red Nose Run. CAROL TEDESCO/APSMC.org
From left, Attila Csutak, John Picco, Sam Bertling and Britt Myers on a green at the Dec. 7 Patriots Golf Tournament. CONTRIBUTED
Key West Chamber executive director and Military Affairs Committee board member Kerry Baker, MAC board member and golf committee chair Bill Lay, Jimmy Johnson and Key West Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez at the committee’s annual Patriots Golf Tournament. CONTRIBUTED
FROM COZY HOME DECOR TO QUIRKY FINDS WE’VE GOT SOMETHING
Whether it's for the office gift exchange, a housewarming party, or those special Christmas presents, Fast Buck’s is where you will find the MOST UNIQUE GIFTS ON THE ISLAND.
One-of-a-kind, hard-to-find gifts: unusual, thoughtful items that will impress even the hardest-to-shop-for people on your list.
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, GIVE THE GIFT OF UNIQUE ISLAND-INSPIRED GIFTS AND HOME DÉCOR THAT NO ONE WILL FORGET!
MARSHA WILLIAMS EMBRACES THE ART OF VOLUNTEERING
SOMEONE YOU SHOULD MEET
Marsha Williams calls herself a realistic optimist. Though that might sound like a paradox, it’s actually an example of her talent for reconciling and embracing apparent opposites. It’s a trait that has helped define her personality for decades.
For example, Williams is a veteran of more than 40 years in the IT industry as a high-level consultant, project manager and trainer. Yet ever since she and her husband Brian moved from Massachusetts to Key West in 2008 — after finally getting tired of shoveling snow — her life has focused largely on the arts.
She’s currently concluding her tenure as board president of the Anne McKee Artists Fund, a local all-volunteer nonprofit that provides projectbased grants to individual visual, literary and performance artists. Since its inception 30-plus years ago, the fund has awarded more than $425,000 to Florida Keys artists.
With a philosophy of “artists helping artists,” the organization stages an art auction each February (slated for Feb. 27 in 2026) to raise money to support the grants. Local artists contribute pieces to be auctioned, and in turn receive 50% of the proceeds from the sale of their work. The other half of the auction price goes to the Anne McKee Artists Fund to support the annual grants.
Williams derives great satisfaction from awarding grants that help creative spirits — including students from area schools — bring their artistic vision to life.
An avid reader, she also volunteered with the Friends of the Library for many years, guiding the organization and serving in board positions, including president. She brought her IT expertise to both the Friends and the McKee Fund, incorporating technology to streamline procedures and record-keeping while encouraging communication and idea sharing.
Williams expresses her own creative side primarily through photography, shooting both in Key West and during world travels with her husband. In addition to all 50 states in the U.S., the couple has visited 33 countries on six continents.
Though she loves traveling, Wiliams remains deeply grateful for the sense of community and flourishing arts scene in her adopted island home. The outgoing and articulate woman recently discussed her life and pursuits with Keys Weekly.
After initially visiting Key West, what made you decide to make it your home? Everyone always says you either get Key West, or you don’t. You either feel it’s your place or it isn’t. My husband loves it because he says it’s the least judgmental place he’s ever lived. He knows how lucky it is that we are here. That’s sometimes what it is — just a matter of fortune.
How did you get involved with the Friends of the Library? When we came to Key West, I was still working part-time and traveling, but I said, “Well, what can I do?” I’m a reader. I love libraries and I love books — I tend towards the mysteries and explore fun stuff that I can read and figure out, because that’s the “puzzle” part of my brain — so the first place I went was the library. I got involved as a volunteer, and they wanted me to do more, so I got on the board.
What brings you the most satisfaction about working with the McKee fund? The best time I have is when we give out grants, because that’s the purpose: to help artists and writers and performers with funding for their projects, and do what we can to get them to that next level. I am always blown away by the projects people come up with, and how they execute the projects.
1. Shown here with some of her photography, Marsha Williams expresses her creative side by shooting images in Key West and on her travels. CAROL SHAUGHNESSY/Keys Weekly
2. Marsha Williams, who moved to Key West in 2008 with her husband Brian, is a dedicated volunteer for local arts-related organizations. CONTRIBUTED
3. Marsha Williams displays a painting by Jimm Sherrington during the 2025 Anne McKee Artists Fund auction. The 2026 auction is set for Feb. 27. CAROL TEDESCO/Contributed
What made you and your husband become such avid travelers? We both like to explore. I think our favorite trips have been those that are so different from what we encounter every day — like the trips to China and our safari — just going to where the culture is different, the food is different. It’s hard to find someone whose pace matches yours, but we travel very well together.
What activities do you enjoy when you’re not volunteering or traveling? I haven’t been doing a lot of my photography, but that’s one of the things I want to get back to doing — especially iPhone photography. I do a lot of “escape” reading, and in the summer we spend around two months in Massachusetts to see family and friends.
Having lived in Key West since 2008, what aspects of the island continue to make it so appealing to you? The sense of community, and the sense that people are here because they want to be here. We have the most marvelous group of people we have dinner with and go to plays with and hang out with. I love our theaters, especially the Fringe Theater that champions all these upand-coming playwrights and actors. And then the whole arts community — what a neat thing to be able to meet the artists in the community that I admire, and work with them.
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY www.keysweekly.com
MARK HEDDEN
... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.
Igenerally don’t get my local birding information from world-famous authors, beloved by millions. But on occasion I do.
For instance, I was at a holiday party the other night, and Judy Blume was there. She started telling me a story about seeing a guy with a camera on a tripod at the Key West Nature Preserve on Atlantic Boulevard. She asked him if he was looking for the crocodile that was alleged to live there, and which she was a little bit worried about.
(American crocodiles are rarely aggressive toward humans. Also, Judy has walking sticks to defend herself.)
The guy with the camera on a tripod said no, he was looking at a pair of roseate spoonbills, and let Judy have a look.
You can’t go wrong with pink birds.
Roseate spoonbills aren’t exactly rare in the Keys, but they are seen not so often in Key West, and twice as not so often in winter. Usually they’re farther north, in their breeding colonies.
The Everglades and Florida Bay used to be a stronghold for breeding roseate spoonbills, but over the last several decades their numbers have begun to decline in the region. In the late 1980s, there were thought to be up to 900 nesting pairs in Florida Bay. By 2021, the number was down to 157. This is largely thought to be the result of climate change, but also due to changes in hydrology in the Everglades.
What is interesting, and heartening, about all this, is that the North American roseate spoonbill population hasn’t declined overall; it has just moved north, with new colonies forming in places like Fort Myers, Tampa Bay, Cape Canaveral, and even farther north, such as Georgia and South Carolina.
I sometimes get wary of going out with the intention of seeing a specific bird, largely because of how often I fail. And having recently spent two afternoons hanging around Fort Zach, hoping and failing to see the reported golden eagle, didn’t help.
But once Judy put the idea of spoonbills into my head, I decided to sidestep my reflexive disinclinations. Fortunately it was not a terribly wild holiday party, and I made it down to the nature preserve not long after sunrise.
The Key West Nature Preserve is just under seven acres of beachfront and largely mangrove habitat, which somehow avoided being filled in and built on. There is a salt pond in the middle, though no clear view of it. You have to sort of find gaps and holes in the layers of foliage in order to see things. You can sometimes
see things from the bike path, but I usually have a little better luck on the wooden platform halfway to the beach, so I started there. It was a gray day, the colors of the world muted by the lack of sunlight. From the edge of the platform, through an alignment of gaps in four layers of trees, I could see three or four wading birds, mostly white. One of them seemed to have a glow to him. I lifted my binoculars to see one of the spoonbills, though the nominate bill was tucked into his wing pit. By the intensity of the pink, and the lack of magenta in the wing coverts, he looked to be a second-year bird.
He was standing on a pile of twigs, two great egrets bookending it on either side. There were also a half dozen blue-winged teal surrounding the twigs like parked boats.
No one was moving yet. Everyone was standing still, a bunch of bird statues. Even the no-see-ums biting my ankles were low energy.
Patience paid off, and in a few minutes the spoonbill lifted his head and took in the sights. He began to preen, going through the ritual-like motions of keeping his feathers orderly, something all healthy birds spend a significant part of their day doing. (It should be noted that roseate spoonbills are not sexually dimorphic. Males and females are visually indistinguishable, at least to us. But I don’t feel like going back and de-gendering any of the previous paragraphs, and there’s a 50% chance I’m right, so I’m just going to keep calling him him.)
ROSEATE J. SPOONBILL AS HIMSELF
The spoonbill stepped off the twigs into the water and preened some more. Several times he stopped and shook his head wildly from side to side, which made sense. Despite having mandibles shaped like a cereal-eating utensil, spoonbills feed by walking slowly through the water, their bills submerged and slightly open, scything slowly from side to side, clamping down whenever they feel a shrimp or insect. The head shaking was probably a good warm up for a day full of scything.
I gave in before I had a chance to see any of that, the no-see-ums finally wearing down my detached resolve.
Back on the bicycle path there was another guy 30 yards away with binoculars and a camera. Turns out it was Ben Edmonds, one of the four people who’d seen the golden eagle at Fort Zach (and whose photo I used in the column I wrote about it).
I asked him if he’d seen the spoonbill and he pointed and said he was looking at it, so I wandered over to where he was and had a much clearer look than I’d had on the platform.
He mentioned that he’d just put his tripod away.
I asked if he’d shown the spoonbills yesterday to a woman with a set of walking sticks.
He said he thought so.
“That was Judy Blume,” I said.
“What? Really? Judy Blume?” he said.
Yup. And she’s pretty reliable with the bird info.
A roseate spoonbill seen recently at the Key West Nature Preserve. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
Stephan Pavlos, MD Cardiology
Raymond Rodriguez, MD Medical Director, Mount Sinai Cardiology of the Keys
CHRISTMAS MENU
TURKEY DINNER
SERVES 8-10 PEOPLE
10-12 lb Oven Roasted Plainville
All-Natural Turkey
1/2 pan Mashed Potatoes
1 qt. Turkey Gravy
1/2 pan Green Bean Amandine
1/2 pan Sweet Potato Casserole
1 pint Cranberry Orange Relish
1/2 pan Traditional Bread Stuffing
$179.99 + tax
Turkey (only) $89.99
Whole Spiral Ham $7.99 per pound
CUBAN PORK DINNER
SERVES 4-6 PEOPLE
1/3 pan pork
1/3 pan yellow rice
1/3 pan black beans
1/3 pan plantains
Cuban bread
$59.99 + tax
SERVES 8-10 PEOPLE
1/2 pan pork
1/2 pan yellow rice
1/2 pan black beans
1/2 pan plantains
Cuban bread
$99.99 + tax
PLACE YOUR ORDER AT THE DELI COUNTER BY SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20. PICK UP ORDERS BY 5PM TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24.
THE STUDIOS OF KEY WEST
UPCOMING CLASSES + EVENTS
Zest for Life!
MEMBERS’ EXHIBIT
ON VIEW THRU DEC 30
Our winter members’ exhibit showcases over 100 local artists in a wide array of media and price pointsperfect for holiday gifts! sponsored by M. Stratton Architecture
Painting Boot Camp
JACK MCDONALD
MONDAYS DEC 15, 22 & 29,
6–8:30PM
$40 per session
Don’t overthink it—just paint. You’ll leave with a finished painting and the confidence to keep going!
Classical Holiday Concert on Hugh’s View
IRIE MONTE + CRISPIN CAMPBELL
FRI & SAT DEC 12-13, 6PM
$45
Let beautiful string music on the rooftop get you into the holiday spirit!
The Playlist Series
FLAMY GRANT
JAN 6, 7PM & JAN 7, 6PM
$50-$100
A celebrated female impersonator and trailblazing artist, her 2023 album made history by topping Apple Music’s Christian charts.
ELEGANCE MEETS ISLAND STYLE
Contemporary art center, steps off Duval Street. Always free to visit! Open Tue-Sun, 10am-4pm
COLLEGE HOLIDAY PARTY COLLECTS HUNDREDS OF TOYS
School partners with Samuel’s House to ensure a merry Christmas for kids
Samuel’s House board member Amber Acevedo, left, Samuel’s House executive director Tara Salinas, CFK Foundation board member and Samuel’s House board member Alan Beaubien, CFK director of advancement and Samuel’s House board member Jessica Losardo, Josephine Gueverra and CFK President Jonathan Gueverra help collect scores of donated new toys at CFK’s annual Caribbean Holiday Party. CONTRIBUTED
The College of the Florida Keys friends, employees and board members donated hundreds of new toys for local children and several boxes of food items at CFK’s annual Caribbean Holiday Party on Dec. 9.
CFK President Jonathan Gueverra, and his wife, Josephine, hosted the celebration that honored six decades of community impact while thanking everyone who contributes to the college’s mission.
“No holiday celebration would be complete without sharing what we have with our
community,” said Gueverra. “The holiday celebration reminds us how fortunate we are to have the means to help those in need and give back to families who make the Florida Keys home.”
The toys will benefit children served by Samuel’s House, a Keys-based nonprofit organization that serves women, mothers with children and families from across Monroe County experiencing homelessness, domestic instability or crisis. Food donations went to Tuga Shelves, the college’s food pantry on the Key West campus serving students.
The Tropical Luncheon & Garden Party, a revival of a 1950s tradition, will take place Sunday, Feb. 8 from noon to 2 p.m. at the Key West Woman’s Club.
The event is presented in partnership with the Key West Art & Historical Society.
The garden party offers a preview of the historical society’s Smithsonian-affiliated exhibition: “Food: Celebrating Conch Cuisine.” Curator and historian Cori Convertito will share behind-the-scenes stories from the exhibit and insights into the culinary traditions that define Key West.
The event will include a buffet lunch prepared by chef
Martha Hubbard, featuring the tropical fruits of South Florida, fresh local seafood and select dishes inspired by the 1949 Key West Woman’s Club cookbook, a nod to the event’s roots.
The club will also welcome bestselling mystery author Lucy Burdette (aka Roberta Isleib), who will share a look at how she crafts the Key West Food Critic mystery series, drawing inspiration from real people, local landmarks and iconic island recipes.
Garden party attire –breezy dresses, linen suits, fabulous hats – is encouraged. For tickets, visit etix.com.
— Contributed
The Hellings House, 319 Duval St., is the longtime home of the Key West Woman’s Club. CONTRIBUTED
with William Weech American Legion Post 168
MISSION: To celebrate the diverse Culture, Art and Music in Key West, and preserve the stories of Military Veterans and their families who have - and continue to - shape Key West: By honoring their collective service to society, safeguarding their legacies, ensuring their voices and actions are known, and providing educational opportunities to open the hearts and minds of all who visit physically or virtually.
CHRIS McNULTY
is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com
Mercury is pulling a triple maneuver this week, which means a powerful surge of activity is afoot in our mental worlds.
You may want to drink some tea, pull out your journal, sit in your meditation spot or do whatever it is that helps you slow down and clear your mind. All in one swoop, Mercury is forming a 180-degree opposition to the planet Uranus, a 120-degree trine to the planet Neptune, and entering the sign of Sagittarius. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself overthinking, daydreaming and feeling a bit dissociated this week. Our minds are going to be exceptionally busy. First, the Mercury opposite Uranus transit brings a tension between our current mental tasks and the unknown, inviting unexpected, almost intrusive thoughts into our awareness. Pay attention to ideas that genuinely offer a path toward greater personal freedom, and let the rest pass by. Next, the trine to Neptune allows us to gently integrate these new thoughts in creative and intuitive ways. Avoid forcing any major decisions and, instead, simply sit in the realm of possibility. Finally, as Mercury enters Sagittarius, our minds receive an extra boost of adventurous and philosophical impetus, urging us to look for the big picture and seek greater meaning. The best use of all of this energy is thinking and dreaming into the best of all possible worlds available to you. Action in that direction will soon follow.
Here are your horoscopes for Mercury entering Sagittarius opposite Uranus and trine Neptune. Read for your rising and sun signs.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
You will receive an unexpected insight detailing how to delegate tasks or adjust your schedule to
achieve better control. Simultaneously, your intuition offers advice on setting family boundaries within your home space. This energy helps clarify who you are now. Make a deliberate, conscious choice about a core personal boundary, and begin putting that decision into practice immediately.
CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
As your thoughts move from socializing and friendship into a more reflective and quiet space, don’t be surprised if you receive a rush of unexpected creative energy. Allow your quiet reflection to feed your independent spirit. Practice experiencing your local environment through a dreamy filter for creative inspiration as you enter a phase of introspection.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
You are about to start thinking less about work and more about socializing and friendships. As you do so, don’t be surprised when your home life starts to feel a bit constraining, prompting you to consider unexpected thoughts of adventure. For now, daydream about how you can bolster your finances. You can put these ideas into practice later.
PISCES
Feb. 19 - March 20
Work and career are moving into your mental spotlight, Pisces. Allow your thinker to consider whether your work is working for you. As you consider your career, how can you find more liberation in your local environment? Are there ways to feel less constrained in your usual paths? You are dreaming yourself into existence, so be playful about it.
ARIES
March 21 - April 19
You can stop thinking about your shared resources and investments and start focusing on your next great adventure. A financial surprise may derail you, but be
sure that you are sticking with your values before calling off any travel plans. Allow your quiet reflection and dreams to offer gentle, intuitive wisdom regarding the path forward. Perhaps a quiet retreat is needed for your next trip.
TAURUS
April 20 - May 20
You may surprise yourself in a conversation with a loved one, Taurus. Trust that what you say is what you mean, even if it is coming from left field. After you’ve said your piece and listened intently, you can move on to thinking about how you are sharing your life and resources with this person. Let your friends serve as an escape when you need to release some tension.
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
You’ve been mulling how you can have better routines and health practices, and it looks like you may find an unexpected answer in quiet reflection. Perhaps what you are looking for is a meditative practice that will flow into a physical one. As you plan your routines, your mind then turns to partnership. Who is your ride-or-die, and how can you acknowledge them?
CANCER
June 21 - July 22
If you’ve been obsessing over what your creative offering to the world is, you can finally let go of the need to perform. Your mind needs to turn its analytical attention to your habits and physical needs. Your friends will surprise you in how they support your well-being, so do your best to accept their help. Dream about your next great adventure as motivation for buckling down.
LEO
July 23 - Aug. 22
Home and family have been on your mind, perhaps reaching the point of hyperfixation. That is quite all right, but now you can turn your attention to your own creative pursuits. Some unexpected news from
FLIGHT OF FANCY
work may be the spark you need to turn your attention to your own creative outlet. Your intuition will guide you to people that share your vision and will offer resources.
VIRGO
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
How you can communicate better has probably been on your mind, and you are about to complete that cycle with some clarity. In fact, you will probably receive an unexpected, philosophical insight that urges you to rethink your core beliefs. Your mind then turns to home and family. Allow your intuition from a close partner to gently guide you as you build a foundation of truth at home.
LIBRA
Sept. 23 - Oct. 23
You’ve been thinking a lot about your own money and security, and now it’s time to move that energetic focus to your local environment and how you communicate. Don’t be surprised if an unexpected truth about shared resources or intimacy comes out in a casual conversation this week. Listen to yourself. Allow your deepest, most intuitive thoughts to offer gentle guidance on your health and daily habits.
SCORPIO
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
Finances and personal values are coming into focus for you, Scorpio. You have put a lot of thought into who you are and you can now turn that energy toward what you value. An important partner in your life may unexpectedly show up to help you determine what you really take stock in. Your creative intuition will also be a source of insight here.
GIRLS NIGHT OUT HITS THE TOWN
ARTIST THOMAS ARVID RETURNS TO KEY WEST GALLERY
Month-long show celebrates fine wine, light & art
Contemporary realist Thomas Arvid returns to Key West Gallery, 601 Duval St., this month for an exhibit and “Meet the Artist” events Dec. 12 through Jan. 12.
Arvid’s paintings capture the elegance and romance of wine, fine dining and life’s most memorable moments.
The gallery will feature new original oil paintings, limited editions and mixed-media works by the artist.
This Key West event includes meet-the-artist receptions, unveiling of new original works and artist signings and dedications.
“Wine is a great subject because people are familiar with it,” says Arvid. “My paintings are really the landscapes between people sharing wine.”
About Thomas Arvid
mandy@keysweekly.com
Monthly networking event collects toys for the holidays
Girls Night Out is a monthly social and networking event for local women. Each gathering takes place during happy hour at a different business.
The December Girls Night Out was a holiday celebration that
collected unwrapped toys for Kids Come First, which works to ensure that every child in Monroe County receives at least one new toy to unwrap on Christmas morning. Each Girls Night Out event features a raffle, silent auction, drinks and hors d’oeuvres. The group was cofounded by the late city commissioner Mary Lou Hoover, who passed away Nov. 19 and was honored at the event this week.
See next week’s Key West Weekly for a history of Girls Night Out, Hoover’s contributions to it and its effect on local charities.
The artist’s large-scale, hyperrealistic depictions of wine bottles, glasses and shared moments have been credited by Art Business News with “launching a major art trend.”
Each piece invites the viewer to savor life’s simple pleasures — connection, celebration and good company.
Private viewing times are available for serious collectors by advance reservation.
Key West Gallery is in the heart of Duval Street’s art district. The island’s golden sunsets, lively streets and relaxed sophistication mirror the artist’s own celebration of life well-lived.
Thomas Arvid is a self-taught American painter celebrated for his intricate, photorealistic still-life paintings that elevate the ritual of wine into an art form. His works have been exhibited and collected internationally and are renowned for their technical mastery and storytelling warmth.
About Key West Gallery
Key West Gallery is one of South Florida’s leading fine-art destinations, representing nationally and internationally acclaimed artists. Located in the heart of historic Old Town, the gallery offers a blend of world-class art and relaxed island hospitality.
— Contributed
MANDY MILES
Key West’s Girls Night Out is a monthly networking and social gathering for women. The holiday event took place Dec. 8 at Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen at the Perry Hotel. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly
Artist Thomas Arvid will be at Key West Gallery, 601 Duval St., Dec. 12 through Jan. 12, unveiling new works and hosting meet-theartist events. CONTRIBUTED
‘Entertainment for the Evening’ is an original oil painting on canvas by Thomas Arvid.
‘A Soft Approach - Work in Progress’ is an original oil painting on canvas by Thomas Arvid. CONTRIBUTED
Best Oceanfront Dining in KeyWest
DANTE’S KEY WEST DONATES $17K
Poolside & restaurant raises money for Autism Society of the Keys
WHAT’S COOKING, KEY WEST?
Celebrate National Sangria Day
Although the refreshing treat known as sangria can be enjoyed all year long, it’s also honored with a libation lovers’ holiday. This year, keep in mind that Saturday, Dec. 20, is more than a day to shop for last-minute Christmas gifts — it’s also National Sangria Day.
Sometimes described as a wine punch, the sweet fruit-flavored concoction has age-old roots in Spain and Portugal. The origins of the holiday that salutes it are murky, but it’s far from the only drink with its own “national day.”
It’s possible to raise a glass for National Lager Day, National Vodka Day, National Champagne Day and National Drink Wine Day. National Egg Nog Day is celebrated on Christmas Eve each year, when the creamy concoction is at the height of its seasonal popularity.
The perfect sangria recipe for the Dec. 20 festivities typically starts with a dry yet fruity Spanish wine — generally red, though mixologists can use white wine, rosé or a sparkling variety.
Sangria’s distinctive flavor owes much to the addition of fruit such as lemons, oranges, apples and limes. The fruit is sliced or chopped and allowed to steep in the wine, ideally overnight, to allow the essences to blend smoothly.
Other traditional ingredients include brandy for added richness. Some sangrias are sweetened with sugar or simple syrup, and some are finished with a hint of soda water or lemonade. No matter what the specific ingredients, the resulting blend is served over ice and enjoyed as a light, lush refresher.
According to local lore, winebased punches such as sangria were introduced to Key West by longago sailors arriving on vessels from faraway ports. Today, the Europeanborn libation is served to attendees at each of the Key West Cooking Show’s learn-and-dine sessions.
It’s an appropriate choice, as the
Sangria can be enjoyed all year long, but it’s especially appropriate to celebrate the fruity wine-based libation on National Sangria Day, Dec. 20. KEY WEST COOKING SHOW/Contributed
culinary adventures showcase foods with a link to the island city’s multicultural past — and they take place at 291 Front St., just steps from the harbor that was the heart of 19thcentury maritime commerce.
Signature sangria welcomes guests to the Key West Cooking Show’s one-hour daytime and two-hour evening experiences. The demonstration-style classes are offered Tuesday through Saturday, with varying menus and dishes for attending foodies to savor.
In addition, those who want to celebrate National Sangria Day (or sip the refreshing beverage any day) can do so at the adjacent Bar 1. The atmospheric spot is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to about 8:30 p.m. Monday.
LAST CALL
Drink of the month: Spanish wine. As well as sangria, a variety of Spanish wines can be found at Bar 1. Patrons can enjoy full-bodied reds, sparkling selections and other offerings from the regions of Aragon and Catalonia.
Helpful bar hack: When serving sangria, give it an extra touch of festivity while ensuring it doesn’t get watered down by melting ice. How? Simply freeze assorted pieces of fruit to use instead of ice cubes, adding color and flair while avoiding potential dilution.
Thirsty for more? Visit keywestcookingshow.com.
BUS CARRYING MARATHON SOCCER TEAMS CATCHES FIRE
Vehicle reportedly began smoking in Key Largo
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
The Marathon High School boys and girls soccer teams averted disaster when a bus carrying the squads to a game in Miami went up in flames on the side of Interstate 75 on Dec. 8.
There were no reported injuries.
Speaking with the Weekly via phone that afternoon, both MHS Athletic Director Lance Martin and a parent of one of the athletes said the bus broke down on the side of the interstate after the teams heard a loud noise coming from the engine compartment. Minutes after the teams evacuated, the rear of the bus was engulfed.
Firefighters from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue put out the blaze as the teams waited on the side of the highway for a backup bus before continuing on to their matches at Franklin Academy.
Students aboard the bus told the Weekly that the teams had already stopped once in Key Largo before the breakdown after noticing smoke coming from the engine compartment of
the bus. These reports were corroborated by multiple social media comments as news of the blaze spread.
“I was traveling up to Weston today and saw this bus on the 18 (Mile) stretch with a lot of smoke coming out of the engine compartment,” said one commenter. “The driver never once pulled over and actually drove another 40+ miles like that.”
“This looks like the same bus that was stopped in Key Largo near Publix this afternoon that had a bunch of smoke coming out of it,” said another. “Guess the driver decided to keep going.”
A call and email to Southern Bus Lines, the reported operator of the vehicle, were not returned at press time.
“This looks like the same bus that was stopped in Key Largo near Publix this afternoon that had a bunch of smoke coming out of it. Guess the driver decided to keep going.”
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY www.keysweekly.com
The Marathon High School boys and girls varsity soccer squads wait on the side of Interstate 75 as crews from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue extinguish the fire from their broken-down bus. CONTRIBUTED
FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS
THE EVOLUTION OF HOLIDAY FOOD (AND WHY OUR GUTS ARE CRYING ABOUT IT)
If you’ve ever sat with your family during the holidays and thought, “What exactly am I eating right now?” congratulations. You’ve lived through the American culinary evolution: from real butter and scratch-made traditions to … well … whatever the ’90s were doing. (If you know, you know.)
This all started because two of my clients — born decades apart, in two very different parts of the country — recently shared their beloved Christmas food memories with me. And let me tell you, the contrast was jarring. Beautiful. Horrifying. Insightful. All the things.
Exhibit A: Jane, born in 1939 (the Era of Actual Food) in the northeast. Jane grew up in a time when “holiday cooking” didn’t mean tearing open a box. At 14, she was entrusted — entrusted! — with her family’s secret olive oil cake recipe. She said it wasn't a real Christmas without it. Her holiday dinner? Creamed chipped beef on toast, mashed potatoes, homemade everything, real cream, real butter. Food that had ingredients you could pronounce.
I could practically smell the nostalgia (and the saturated fat, but the good kind — the kind humans survived on for thousands of years).
Exhibit B: Joan, born in 1960 (the Era of “If It Exists, Put Jell-O In It”) in the south. Her food memories didn’t fully kick in until the mid-’70s, and let me tell you, America was experimenting. This was a time when someone, somewhere, decided a perfectly-fine baked ham desperately needed Ritz crackers and canned pineapple. And everyone else just said, “Yeah, absolutely, put that on the table.”
Her other holiday classic? A dessert literally named Better Than Robert Redford Cake. I’m not kidding. That was the actual name.
And then there was Jell-O. In everything. Savory, sweet, layered, molded, suspended — pick a food group, and someone had trapped it in gelatin. Homemade-but-not-
homemade was the vibe – real food “enhanced” (term used loosely) by new chemical inventions promising convenience and flavor. Spoiler: They delivered neither.
Exhibit C: me, born in 1983 and growing up in the ’90s, a culinary fever dream. Ah, the ’90s. The decade that boldly declared: “What if mashed potatoes came in a powder?”
Stuffing? Box.
Gravy? Packet.
Cookies? Pillsbury tube.
Someone in every family was always “on a diet,” which, lucky for them, was very convenient because the ’90s also gave us Olestra. Remember Olestra? The “miracle fat-free oil” with the charming warning label: “May cause anal leakage.”
A phrase that really captures the holiday spirit, don’t you think?
And now … the present-day body count. Here’s where I connect the dots (and where things stop being funny for just a second). As our food shifted from real to boxed, bagged, canned, powdered, artificially sweetened, hydrogenated, fortified-but-still-empty, our national health followed. The U.S. obesity rate has more than tripled since the 1960s and continues to rise each decade. Type 2 diabetes? Up. Metabolic disease? Up. Inflammation? Up. Gut issues? Up.
This isn’t a coincidence. Our bodies are designed for real food, not chemical science projects. The more processed the holiday table became, the more our bodies struggled to absorb
JENNIFER HARVEY
...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC.
nutrients, regulate blood sugar, manage inflammation and make sense of what, exactly, a “pig in a blanket” from a frozen box even is.
Our grandparents weren’t healthier because they were magical. They just ate food that was … food. So here’s my Christmas wish for you: This year, whether you’re making Aunt Gerdy’s 7-layer dip, your cousin’s famous saltine-toffee-thing or your mom’s “don’t ask what’s in it” casserole, see if you can make it a little more real and a little less artificial. Swap canned for fresh. Swap boxed for scratch. Swap “mystery ingredients” for ones your greatgrandparents would recognize. And no, I’m not asking you to give up comfort food. I’m asking you to give it back its soul. Food should nourish you and taste good — without needing a chemical engineering degree to understand what’s in it.
I have absolute faith in you. Where there’s a will, there’s a way – especially in a kitchen filled with holiday spirit and real butter.
HELP KEEP KEY WEST BEAUTIFUL
JOIN A 1- HOUR CLEANUP FRIDAY MORNINGS
59 volunteers picked
422 pounds of
46
and 2 gallons of cigarette butts. Mount Sinai Medical Center hosted and provided breakfast for the volunteers. The Dec. 12 cleanup will cover Bayview Park and the parade route following the city’s holiday parade. CONTRIBUTED
One hour a week makes a huge difference, and volunteers are welcome every Friday and some Saturday mornings, from 8 to 9 a.m., when the Key West Ploggers clean up a designated area of the island.
Gloves, pickers, buckets, vests, hand sanitizer and a parking pass are provided to all volunteers.
A troubling number of cigarette butts and plastic bags have been included in recent hauls. Please remember your reusable bags when shopping so we can keep the plastic off the streets, parking lots and, most importantly, out of the water. And dispose of cigarette butts in any receptacle rather than the street or sidewalk, as from there, they easily end up in the ocean.
The city of Key West and its residents ask everyone to do their part to help keep Key West beautiful. With simple steps like making sure you bag your trash before putting it in your Waste Management trash cans or Dumpsters, and making sure the lids on Dumpsters are closed, will keep a lot of trash from blowing into the streets. Call Waste Management at 305-296-8297 for any furniture items left on the city right of way.
Please pick up around your home or apartment complex. Every piece of trash picked up is one less that may end up in the ocean that
surrounds and sustains our island community. It is not just the large items you can see easily when you are walking, but the smaller items such as bottle caps and cigarette butts that are collected by the volunteers that make the biggest difference.
It takes committed community involvement to keep Key West beautiful and we are making progress with every cleanup event and every spot that’s adopted. Call Dorian Patton at 305-809-3782 to find out how your business, nonprofit or club can help.
— Contributed
Join a one-hour Friday morning cleanup. All events are 8 to 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted.
Dec. 12: Truman Avenue & White Street. Meet in the parking lot of Fausto’s, which is hosting.
Dec. 19: Front & Whitehead streets. Meet in front of the Custom House. Parking vouchers for the Opal Key parking garage will be available. Hosted by the Opal Key Resort.
Dec. 26: No cleanup the day after Christmas.
TAKE ME HOME?
FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA
The Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
Meet Kiki, an 8-year-old pit bull who has mastered the art of companionship. He enjoys being around people, happily soaking up head pats and treats, and he’s always ready to share quiet moments or playful bursts of energy. Kiki is looking for someone who values his steady presence and will welcome him into their life. He has plenty of love to give and is ready to be a loyal friend.
Boomer is a 3-year-old pup who’s full of personality and ready to be your lifelong buddy. He’s playful, goofy and guaranteed to brighten your day with his antics. Whether it’s a game of fetch, tug or his signature “find the coconut,” Boomer knows how to keep things fun. He loves picking out a toy to share with you and will happily circle back for treats and attention. More than anything, Boomer just wants to be by your side.
The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC. Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.
Meet Tahini. This beautiful 5-yearold cat has striking black and orange markings and the most expressive eyes. Though she may be a little reserved at first, with patience and kindness, she blossoms into a loving companion. Tahini is looking for someone who will give her the time and space to feel at home, and in return, she’ll offer endless affection and loyalty.
Pita is a sweet 4-year-old kitty who is full of charm and curiosity. The moment you step into the room, she’ll trot right over, eager to greet you with bright eyes and hopeful purrs. Treats and pets are her favorite way to connect, and she never misses a chance to soak up attention. Pita’s outgoing personality makes her a joy to be around, and she gets along wonderfully with other cats.
and fascinating
If you’re looking for a
calm to your life, Toppina is your girl.
The Dec. 5 cleanup was held on North Roosevelt Boulevard in the GFS plaza. In one hour,
up
trash,
pounds of recycling
Meet Toppina. She’s a gorgeous 4-yearold milk snake ready for her forever home. Snakes make amazing companions. They’re quiet, low-maintenance
to watch.
unique pet who brings beauty and
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TEAMING UP FOR CORAL RESILIENCE
Agencies partner to monitor bleaching
Response to the stony coral tissue loss disease in May 2023 led several coral reef and environmental stakeholders to merge their efforts.
The Monroe County Extension Service coleads Florida’s Coral Reef Resilience Program communications team, which collaborates on issues related to Florida’s coral reef. The communications team is one of 10 response teams in research, surveillance, intervention, rescue and propagation, restoration, data management, regulatory, water quality, Caribbean cooperation and communication. We work within a network of 80 partners from agencies, universities, nonprofit coral conservation groups and the private sector.
is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension Florida Sea Grant Agent. Shelly is a marine biologist and provides sciencebased education about coastal environments.
Coral bleaching results in the depletion of corals’ energy stores and makes them more susceptible to other stressors. When bleaching lasts for an extended period or consecutive years, corals may die from starvation and/or the heat stress alone, as seen in 2023.
During the 2023 marine heat wave — also part of the fourth global coral bleaching event — Florida’s coral reef experienced the most severe coral bleaching so far. Cumulative heat stress in the Florida Keys was nearly three times the previous records from 2015 to 2016. Surveys found severe bleaching prevalence in Biscayne National Park south to the Dry Tortugas.
• Focusing restoration activities on more boulder coral species.
• Pausing planting and restoration activities during times of thermal stress.
• Monitoring coral conditions to better understand bleaching and patterns of resilience in the system and learning from corals that survive bleaching events.
• Using corals that have been shown to be more thermally tolerant for sexual reproduction.
• Testing the planting of thermally tolerant corals from other countries with coral from Florida.
The communications team collaborates on media products focused on coral bleaching, stony coral tissue loss disease and pulse corals, a potential new invasive gorgonian species.
For three years, Florida’s Coral Reef Resilience Program communication team has focused on coral bleaching. Corals rely on microscopic algae called zooxanthellae, which live within their tissues, give corals their color and supply up to 90% of their nutrition. When heat stress forces corals to expel their algae, their white calcium carbonate skeletons become visible, a process called coral bleaching.
A recently published article notes staghorn and elkhorn coral are no longer present on the majority of Florida’s coral reef. While Southeast Florida reefs were heavily affected, many coral reefs and patch reefs in the northern region fared well.
Bleaching is not a death sentence, and short-term coral paling and bleaching do not generally lead to coral mortality. But bleaching does signal coral stress, making monitoring vital for understanding reef health and Florida’s planning and restoration efforts. Integrating monitoring with targeted intervention also strengthens action plans, ensuring a more informed and effective response.
Since 2023, Florida has gathered insights and lessons from practitioners, managers and other partners on bleaching response strategies. Folks are learning and applying some of these strategies in preparation for, and response to, potential coral bleaching:
• Monitoring real-time sea surface and bottom temperatures at key reef sites and coral nurseries.
• Preparing land-based facilities to accept corals from in-water nurseries, should evacuations be necessary to preserve genetic diversity.
• Using in-water nurseries at deeper depths for short periods, where impacts from temperature and light are less pronounced.
• Shading existing in-water nursery structures to reduce the effects of temperature and light.
How you can help
Community scientists can report bleaching through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s seafan.net under “Report a Marine Incident.” Reports of no bleaching are just as important. There is an optional area to add photographs and a map to drop a pin on the site you were snorkeling or diving.
Bleaching of elkhorn coral observed on July 17, 2023 at Sombrero Reef. MICHELLE DOBLER/Nova Southeastern University
SHELLY KRUEGER
Founded by Betty Debnam
Take Good Care!
Is a visit to the doctor or dentist part of your back-to-school routine? You’ve probably been to doctor for a checkup and had your teeth cleaned at the dentist. Let’s meet the people who help us take care of our health and find out about the tools they use.
CHECKING IN
The first person you’ll probably see in a doctor’s or dentist’s office is a receptionist.
He or she is responsible for setting appointments, checking patients in, taking payments and filing reports about patients.
MEET A NURSE
The next person you may meet is a nurse. He or she might:
• weigh you on a scale
• measure your height
• take your blood pressure
• listen to your heart
• ask you how you’ve been doing.
Careful records will be kept for your file. Nurses in pediatrician (pee-dee-uhTRISH-an) offices also take a lot of calls from parents about kids who are sick or injured. (A pediatrician is a doctor who treats children.)
If you need a shot, a nurse will probably be the one to give it. Shots contain vaccines
(vak-SEENZ), or medicines to prevent disease, or antibiotics to help you get better when you are sick.
TIME FOR A CHECKUP
If you’re visiting for a checkup, the doctor looks you over to see if you’re growing as you should be. Babies see the doctor many times during their first year or two. After that, kids usually have a checkup once a year.
The doctor may use special tools to look into your eyes, ears, nose and mouth. He or she may feel around your stomach and look at your back to make sure your spine is straight.
Your doctor may also talk to you about the foods you eat, how much exercise you get and what activities you participate in at school. You can always talk with the doctor and your mom or dad about any problems you’re having.
TAKE YOUR MEDICINE
If needed, the doctor may order medicine. Some medicines are given in a liquid that you take with a spoon. Older kids can swallow pills. A doctor may prescribe, or order, a an injection, which is medicine given through a needle. Shots usually pinch just for a second, and then the pain is over.
Words that remind us of doctor and dentist visits are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
MINI FACT: The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
The dentist will use tools to explore around your teeth, looking for weak places or cavities. Sometimes a small mirror is used to help look into hard-to-see places.
AT THE DENTIST
A dentist is a doctor who takes care of teeth, and a dentist’s office can be similar to a doctor’s office. You’ll probably check in with a receptionist. At a dental checkup, the dentist wants to make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy. But before the dentist examines you, a dental hygienist (high-JEE-nist) may clean your teeth using a scraper, an electric tool and flavored toothpaste. He or she may also floss between your teeth and take X-rays of your teeth and jawbones.
You’ll sit in a special chair that leans back and wear a paper bib to protect your clothes from spatters.
RESOURCES
ON THE WEB
• bit.ly/1FoDZiE and bit.ly/1cOXas3
AT THE LIBRARY
• “Getting Ready for My Doctor’s Visit” by Fei Zheng-Ward
A surge of locusts is devastating crops in southern Ukraine as Russia’s war on the country disrupts pest control efforts. Officials say extreme heat, abandoned farmland near the front and the destruction of the Kakhovka dam, which created a vast soggy area, have resulted in perfect breeding conditions. Swarms have overtaken roads and fields in Zaporizhzhia, where farmers report losing up to 33% of sunflower crops. Ukraine, the world’s leading sunflower oil exporter, depends on these southern regions for grain and oilseed production.
Jack had a great first quarter of the season. His shooting percentages are elite and his preparation and focus each game is second to none.”
–
Jim Murphy, Marathon head coach
points in three games
FHSAA’s 1A Rural District 8 leader for 3-point shots
A quarter of the way into the season, Marathon sophomore Jack Chapman is pulling his weight and then some for the Dolphins. In three games last week, Chapman scored 50 points, and his sharp shooting has landed him at the top of FHSAA’s 1A Rural District 8 leaderboard for 3-point shots.
Triple tallies are not Chapman’s only talent; the shooting guard is accurate from all over the court, whether it is his trademark downtown shots or at the free throw line, where he is averaging 90%.
“Jack is only a sophomore, but plays with the experience of a senior,” said coach Jim Murphy. Chapman made his first appearances for the Dolphins as an eighth grader and continues to develop his game. For his dependability, marksmanship and composure on the court, Marathon’s Jack Chapman is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
Photo by NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly
The Marathon Dolphins and guard Jack Chapman have proven their mettle in early-season games, defeating county rival Coral Shores and taking Monsignor Pace to triple overtime. See page 8. NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly
Jack
Sophomore,
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
Se habla español THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.
LEVEL UP
Keys athletes taking talents to college
With the early collegiate signing window barely open, multiple Keys athletes have already penned their letters of intent to play at the next level.
At Key West High School, four-year starter Noah Mercer caught the attention of numerous D1 scouts, and the football and track star decided on University of Central Florida to continue his gridiron career. Mercer holds multiple school records in both football and track and field. A two-way player in football, Mercer was a crucial part of the Conchs’ success. Coach Johnny Hughes described him as an “outstanding young man on and off the field. Noah was a four-year two-way starter who never missed a game. He played every play of every game with rare passion and intensity.” Mercer is expected to play on the defensive line for the Golden Knights next fall.
In the Upper Keys, Layne Smith, a four-time state swim qualifier and one of Coral Shores High School’s most accomplished champions, signed her national letter of intent last month to continue her swimming career at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Smith boasts significant accomplishments at Coral Shores, and her collegiate decision caps off a remarkable run defined by “consistency, an unequaled work ethic, and championship-level performances,” a school press release said.
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.
An honors student with a 4.2 GPA and multiple industry certifications in graphic design, Smith spent time with her coaches choosing the perfect fit for her academically and athletically.
“Having been on the Florida Keys Swim Club these past 11 years, I felt very prepared and appreciated on the CSHS swim team,” Smith said. “Coach Jon Olsen and coach Kelly Owens have done a great job to create an atmosphere of unity and acceptance on our team. That inspires everyone to be a team player and to put in their best effort. I’m also thankful to my parents for their support of my devotion to this sport and for helping me find a college program that I’m passionate about.”
tracy mcdonald
sean mcdonald
Key West standout Noah Mercer commits to play football for the University of Central Florida.
Coral Shores swimmer Layne Smith, seated center, signs her letter of intent surrounded by parents Cale and Margie Smith and coaches Kelly Owens and Jon Olsen. CONTRIBUTED
GOAL MINE
Keys soccer stars make a statement on the pitch
Tmade the trip to Delray Beach to chal-
lenge the top-ranked
Stallions of American Heritage Dec. 3 in a
soccer match that proved Key West is as good as anyone. Despite the outcome, head coach Scott Paul was pleased with his team’s play. “We did end up losing the game 2-0, although it was a much closer battle than that,” he said.
The Conchs were without starting goalkeeper Mary Searcy, who was out with a shoulder injury, and freshman Izzie Magrath stepped up with a solid performance against one of the best teams in 4A. While Magrath kept things tight, Key West had some opportunities to pull off the upset.
“Suena Marcily fired a perfect shot to their far post that would have grazed the goal and gone in had their keeper not made a beautiful save. Madison Kilduff also had a one-on-one with the keeper and ripped a strong shot, but it was straight at the keeper. Two other opportunities came and went as we had the ball popping around loose in a scrum in front of goal that we were unable to put in,” said Paul. “All in all, we are happy with our performance, as we feel that we picked up where we left off play before the break. Our goal-scoring was the one area that we were not on our best game.”
After losing to Westwood 6-0 early in the season, the Marathon Lady Fins shored up their defense and finished their second
match against the Warriors with a far closer outcome.
The 1-0 loss gave the team hope as they rolled into game number two for the week, a Dec. 3 home contest against Somerset Silver Palms. Maeve Merryman started the scoring with an unassisted goal, followed by one from Fantine Mendez. Addison Collins was credited with the assist. Allison Helms scored one, assisted by Sara Picariello, then Kayla Skaarup scored an unassisted goal and went on to assist Ashley Strama on the final goal of the match. The 5-1 victory gave Marathon its first win of the season.
Coral Shores’ girls also picked up win number one of the season last week.
After a 3-0 loss at Miami Country Day on Dec. 3, the Hurricanes made quick work of a visiting Keys Gate two days later. Kimmie Dubon
had a hat trick for the ’Canes. Bailey Catarineau, Avea Jackson, Jenna Mandozzi, Lela Goodrich and Sammy Bates added one goal each in the team’s win.
BOYS
Sulak on Key West’s goal.
last week. The Fins seized
In boys soccer action, Key West played one match last week, traveling to North Miami Beach to take on the unbeaten and highly-ranked Lions of Scheck Hillel Community School. The Conchs made the Lions work to remain undefeated, losing 2-1. Evens Louis assisted Nico Sulak on Key West’s goal. Fifty miles to the north, Marathon had mixed results with one win and one loss last week. The Fins seized a rare opportunity to play their younger athletes and allow a few of their seasoned players to try out new roles in their match against Westwood Christian on Dec. 2. After an early-season rout
over the Warriors, Marathon coach Christian Saltarin played his bench for the first hour of competition. The youngsters were ahead 3-1 when the starters took the field and finished the match by adding another four goals in the final 20 minutes of play. Adiel Nunez netted a pair of goals with Alnier Nunez, Aiden McIntyre, Tariq Simpson and Jossua
A Westwood own-goal accounted for the final score of the game. Two games later, a visiting Palmer Trinity crew bested the Fins 4-0.
Coral Shores’ boys started the week off with their first win of the season in a resounding victory over Monsignor Pace on Dec. 1. Freshman Jackson Keller accounted for four of the goals in the win and Colton Connolly scored two to add to a total that would reach nine by the final whistle. Two
days later, the Hurricanes lost a close one to Riviera Prep. Keller and Armando Picado each netted one in the 3-2 loss. On Dec. 5, the ’Canes lost to Miami Country Day 8-0 in their final match of the week.
Gomez adding one apiece.
Suena Marcily
Adiel Nunez
Kayla Skaarup
Photos by Tracy McDonald, Natalie Danko and Jennifer Searcy
AIRON ISLANDERS
ll three Keys teams competed in girls weightlifting last week, with Key West traveling to Marathon while Coral Shores headed out of town for a tri-meet at Keys Gate.
Keys lifters making gains prior to postseason while
Coral Shores finished in the middle of Keys Gate and AIE Charter in the team totals. Karla Gutierrez, Elaina Kerns and Vanessa Gabriel each added a win to their careers. All three athletes took first place in both the traditional and Olympic events. Gutierrez combined her best lifts in each event to win the 169-pound class. She benched 120 pounds, clean and jerked 100 and snatched 75. Kerns lifted 100 on bench, 80 in snatch and 115 in clean and jerk at 199 pounds. Gabriel, who competes in the Unlimited class, combined a 155-pound bench press, 95-pound snatch and 150-pound clean and jerk for her wins.
At Marathon, three Lady Fins took the top lifter spots despite Key West winning the team competition. Marathon took second place, while Somerset Silver Palms finished third. Justice Lee was the top lifter of the day, winning both events at 183 pounds and also registering the top score in the Sinclair Coefficient, which determines which athlete’s performance was the best when body weight is taken into consideration. The senior strongwoman combined a 175-pound bench press, 160-pound snatch lift and 200-pound clean and jerk for the win. Ella Evans, who was second in the Sinclair Coefficient, won both events at 129 pounds. Evans benched 150, snatched 110 and cleaned 150. At 154 pounds, Adelle Bainbridge won both events and ranked third overall in Sinclair score. Bainbridge benched 120, snatched 110 and cleaned 150 pounds. Marathon’s final winner, Tinashay Cunningham, won a pair of firsts in the 139-pound class. Cunningham combined 90 pounds on bench, 75 in snatch and 105 in the clean and jerk lift for her wins.
For Key West, Courtney Ward won both events at 101. Ward benched 55 pounds, snatched 50 and clean and jerked 70. At 169 pounds, Camila Linares lifted 100, 75 and 115 at the same three events. Aaliyah McLeod’s best lifts of the day were 110, 115 and 135 in the 199-pound weight class, in which she was a dual event winner. Key West’s final winners, Monea McLeod and Sofia Nafrere, shared the wins in the Unlimited category. McLeod won the Olympic competition with a 100-pound snatch lift and 125-pound clean and jerk. Nafrere won the traditional competition with a 105 on the bench and 130 in clean and jerk.
Lifters have just over a month of regular-season meets left. Marathon and Coral Shores will have a short trip for the first round of postseason competition this year. Their district event is being held at Coral Shores High School on Jan. 20, while Key West travels to Archbishop McCarthy on Jan. 24.
Karla Guitierrez, left, Ella Evans, center, and Camila Linares. Photos by Natalie Danko and Tracy McDonald
ISLANDERS
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As the basketball season begins heating up, Keys hoopsters split a pair of rivalry showdowns last week.
The Coral Shores Lady Hurricanes made the most of their single game, defeating the visiting Dolphins of Marathon 35-30. Melanie Estevez led the team in points with 16 while Alex Burson added eight, plus 12 rebounds. Niveah Howard and London Atkins pulled down a dozen rebounds each in the rivalry win. Marathon’s top scorer was eighth grader Shaina Robinson,
who sank 13, while senior Daysi Williams scored 12 for the Dolphins.
The Lady Fins hosted David Posnack School the following night, defeating the Rams for their first win of the season. Williams had the hot hand, scoring 17 points, while Robinson added 12 and Sutton Sayer scored 11. A 54-29 loss to Pace on Dec.
5 put the Lady Fins at 1-3 in early-season action. Robinson scored 15 with Sayer adding seven and Williams four.
The Lady Conchs lost two last week, but not without valiant effort. On Dec. 5,
HARDWOOD HEAT
Keys hoopsters showing early-season promise
Lilee Gage had an incredible game, scoring 17 points and pulling down 18 rebounds.
Damarla Thompson added six points and Jasminabonu Ibodilloeva registered 11 rebounds and a block in the 57-32 loss. The following night, Ibodilloeva had the high score with 13 points, a block and three steals. Jordan Greene added six and Reagan Graham five to the team total. Key West lost that contest 51-35 and continues to look for its first win of the season.
BOYS
While the Lady Conchs continue their search, Key West’s boys picked up their first W last week. The Conchs hosted Monsignor Pace on Dec. 6 and quickly went to work against the Spartans. Senior James Osborne dropped 32 points on Pace and is averaging nearly 24 points per game. Osborne pulled down 10 rebounds for a double-double and was credited with a pair of steals as well. Zach Levering also registered a doubledouble with 12 points and 10 rebounds and Judson Snider added seven points,
six rebounds, five steals and a block.
Marathon improved to 3-3 after a pair of wins last week, starting with a visit to Coral Shores Dec. 1. The Dolphins outshot the Hurricanes 43-30 with Jack Chapman leading the way with 11 points. Chapman added three steals against the ’Canes. Giorvis Zamora had eight points and five steals, Josh Koler added eight points to the team total and Taylor Huff had six points and six rebounds for the Fins. Coral Shores’ Sergio Avelar had the hot hand in the rivalry with 17 points and Jack O’Keefe added six in the loss for Coral Shores.
Marathon went on to beat visiting David Posnack Jewish Day School the fol-
7.
8.
9. Briggs Roberts shoots a 3-pointer.
10. The Coral Shores student section gets rowdy.
5.
11. Austin Vogt (0) plays defense on Marathon’s Taylor Huff.
JACKSON GARCIA/Keys Weekly
lowing night, 59-52. Chapman scored 16 including four threes, registered a block and pulled down three rebounds. Zamora scored 11 and Huff added 10 points, six rebounds and a pair of steals in the win.
After their second win of the week, the Dolphins came out strong against a visiting Monsignor Pace Dec. 5. The heavily-favored Spartans had their hands full with the Fins, and at the end of four quarters, the score was tied. It would take not
one, not two, but three fourminute overtime periods to determine a winner for the contest. Despite some fine shooting and exceptional teamwork by the Fins, the Spartans came away with an 83-78 win. Chapman scored 23 points to lead the charge. Huff and Koler had doubledoubles, with Huff scoring 17 and Koler 16; both had 13 rebounds. Drew Suarez had 11 points, three steals and a block in the loss.
The Hurricanes regrouped and picked up
steam, earning a pair of wins. On Dec. 3, Coral Shores won at Archimedian, 47-33. Avelar scored 15 for the ’Canes while Jordan Brown added nine and Austin Vogt pulled down five rebounds. Two nights later at Braddock High School, Avelar had the high score again, putting 18 points on the board. Brock Stoky, Jayden Meng and Nate Garbutt added four apiece in the win, which put the Hurricanes at an impressive 3-1 in early season standings.
1. Presley Bagwell (32) passes the ball around Marathon’s Aivy Nguyen.
2. Marathon’s Daysi Williams (32) guards London Atkins (23).
3. Julia Miranda shoots for 3.
4. Coral Shores’ Julia Miranda and Marathon’s Kat Guerra race down the court.
Shaina Robinson gets vertical.
6. Sutton Sayer shoots for 3.
Coral Shores coach Jim Berst gives the Hurricanes a pregame talk.
Jordan Brown brings the ball up the court.
In The Bleachers
Brevity
NEWS OF THE WEIRD
On Nov. 7 at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, Corey Johnson, 35, of Alexandria, Louisiana, tried to exit the short-term parking lot, but he wasn’t able to pay the fee. People magazine reported that Johnson at first refused to move his Jeep out of the exit lane but later agreed to pull aside while he worked out payment. Around 10 p.m., while Johnson was still stuck in the parking lot, the airport’s Aviation Communications center received a threatening phone call, suggesting a bomb would be detonated if the operator did not “page Hassan.” The center received another call around 10:35, saying he wanted “Hassan” “to bring the bomb to level three.” Deputies pinged the phone making the calls and traced it back to Johnson; by 11 p.m., he was under arrest. On Nov. 20, Johnson was indicted for willfully conveying a bomb threat. He could face up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine -- way more than the parking fee.
Adam Dailies
Nancy Dailies
TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS
Hector Berlioz (1803-1869), composer; Fiorello La Guardia (18821947), New York City mayor; Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn (1918-2008), novelist/dissident; Rita Moreno (1931- ), actress; John Kerry (1943- ), U.S. politician/diplomat; Teri Garr (1944-2024), actress; Mo’Nique (1967- ), actress; Mos Def (1973- ), actor/rapper; Hailee Steinfeld (1996- ), actress.
TODAY’S HISTORY
In 1972, the lunar module for Apo o 17, the nal ma ed mi ion of the Apo o space program, touched down on the m n.
TODAY’S FACT
Apo o 17 set records for the longest lunar surface explora on and the most lunar material co ected.
TODAY’S QUOTE
“You only have power over people as long as you don’t take everything away from them. But when you’ve robbed a man of everything, he’s no longer in your power -- he’s free again.”
—
Brevity
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, “The First Circle”
WRESTLERS HIT THE MATS
Beltran, Alexandre and Holushko bring home tournament championships in first week of action
December 1 marked the official start of wrestling in Florida, and Coral Shores and Key West wasted no time. The Conchs headed to Hialeah for the HTown Throwdown on Dec. 5 and 6, a 34-team tournament.
Both the boys and girls teams had an overall winner. Maria Holushko claimed the title by winning four matches, all by pin, at the 140-pound class in the girls division. Angelina Saballos and Wenxin Yu captured second place in the 19- and 115-pound classes, respectively. Yu’s wins all came via pin, all were within one minute. The girls team took ninth place overall.
Allens Alexandre won four matches to place first at 285 pounds. Jacob Ferguson finished fifth overall after three wins in his weight class. Reisel Toledo finished sixth at 157, with four wins, all by pin. The team finished in the top third in 11th place.
Coral Shores opened its competition at the 1A Kickoff at St. John Neumann High School. David Beltran captured first in the 175-pound class and was named the most outstanding wrestler in the upper weights for the tournament. Just two athletes are chosen for this award at each tourney.
Hurricane Sebastian McCoy was the runner-up at 120 pounds while Lucas Cossio, (126), Logan Pabotoy (138) and Sterling Keefe (165) all placed third. John Oughton was fourth at 150. Nate Tristram (157) and Gavin Matheis (132) were sixth and Dax Collins (165) and Jack Brown (175) were seventh.
Marathon, whose program is in its first year, opens Dec. 18 at Coral Shores. After that, all three teams will meet in the Southernmost City to participate in Key West’s annual tournament Dec. 19 and 20.
Canes, Conch & Dolphin Pride
Left: Allens Alexandre wins one of his matches at the H-Town Throwdown.
Center: Key West’s Maria Holushko wins a match for the Lady Conchs. CONTRIBUTED
Above: Coral Shores’ David Beltran. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Key West Weed located at 100 Admirals Lane, Key West, Florida 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
By: Scott Allen Harrington
Publish:
December 11, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statute 328.17, Robbies of Key West, LLC claims a possessory lien on the following described vessels:
Owned by Luis Amores for unpaid storage fees: a 2011 40’ Beneteau (HIN: BEYKD220K011)
Owned by VH4669 LLC (Donald Rhomberg – Title Manager) for unpaid storage fees: a 1984 42’ Gibson (HIN:GBN42768M84K)
Sealed bids will be accepted on December 19th , 2025 at 12:00am at Robbies of Key West, 7281 Shrimp Rd, Key West, FL 33040. Robbies of Key West, LLC reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
Publish:
December 4 & 11, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO: 2018-CP-190-K IN RE: ESTATE OF RODERICK C. McNEIL, III, Deceased.
___________________/
NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that pursuant to a Writ of Execution issued in the Circuit Court, of Monroe County, Florida, on the 31st day of July, 2025, in the cause wherein IN RE: ESTATE OF RODERICK C. McNEIL, III, Deceased, being Case No. 2018-CP-190-K in said court, I, Richard A. Ramsay, Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida have levied upon all right, title, and interest of the defendant, in and to the following described personal property to wit:
SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY
100% Ownership interest and shares in McNeil Bros., Inc.
All bidders must have a valid Driver’s License with them and must register with the clerk at location of sale prior to start time of sale. I shall offer this property for sale, at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters building located at 5525 College Road Key West, Florida 33040 in the County of Monroe, State of Florida, on the 22nd day of January 2026, at the hour of 10:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible. I will offer for sale all of the said defendant’s right, title, and interest in the aforesaid personal property at public auction and will sell the same subject to all taxes, prior liens, encumbrances and judgments, if any, to the highest and best bidder for cash in hand or cashiers check. The proceeds to be applied as far as may be to the payment of costs and the satisfaction of the above described execution.
Dated at Key West, Monroe County, Florida, this 4th day of December, 2025.
Richard A. Ramsay Sheriff of Monroe County By: Donald Stullken
Deputy Sheriff
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing a special
accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Civil Division no later than seven days prior to the proceeding at (305)8093041
Publish: December 11, 18 & 25, 2025 and January 1, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE CASE NO.: 25-CP-321-K IN RE: ESTATE OF HOWARD MERKEL
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of HOWARD MERKEL, deceased, whose date of death was March 25, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is December 11, 2025.
Personal Representative: Bruce Merkel 90 Universal Trail Palm Coast, FL 32164
Attorney for Personal Representative: BRIAN M. CASEY Florida Bar Number: 92715 WRIGHT BARROWS PLLC 9711 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-8118
Fax: (305) 489-0307
E-mail: Brian@keysclosings. com
Publish: December 11 & 18, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
CASE NO.: 25-CP-000377-K IN RE: ESTATE OF MARY LESAICHERRE, Deceased.
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
The administration of the estate of MARY LESAICHERRE, deceased, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Freeman Justice Center, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The file number for the estate is 25-CP-000377-K. The estate is testate and the date of the Decedent’s Will and any codicils are January 29, 2001. The names and addresses of
the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. The fiduciary lawyer-client privilege in Section 90.5021, Florida Statutes, applies with respect to the personal representative and any attorney employed by the personal representative. Any interested person on whom a copy of the notice of administration is served must file with the court, on or before the date that is 3 months after the date of service of a copy of the Notice of Administration on that person, any objection that challenges the validity of the will or any codicils, venue, or jurisdiction of the court. The 3 month time period may only be extended for estoppel based upon a misstatement by the personal representative regarding the time period within which an objection must be filed. The time period may not be extended for any other reason, including affirmative representation, failure to disclose information, or misconduct by the personal representative or any other person. Unless sooner barred by section 733.212(3), Florida Statutes, all objections to the validity of a will or any codicils, venue or the jurisdiction of the court must be filed no later than the earlier of the entry of an order of final discharge of the personal representative or 1 year after service of the notice of administration.
Persons who may be entitled to exempt property under section 732.402, Florida Statutes, will be deemed to have waived their rights to claim that property as exempt property unless a petition for determination of exempt property is filed by such persons or on their behalf on or before the later of the date that is 4 months after the date of service of a copy of the notice of administration on such persons or the date that is 40 days after the date of termination of any proceedings involving the construction, admission to probate, or validity of the will or involving any other matter affecting any part of the exempt property. Unless an extension is granted pursuant to section 732.2135(2), Florida Statutes, an election to take an elective share must be filed on or before the earlier of the date that is 6 months after the date of service of a copy of the notice of administration on the surviving spouse, an agent under chapter 709, Florida Statutes, or a guardian of the property of the surviving spouse; or the date that is 2 years after the date of the decedent's death.
Under certain circumstances and by failing to contest the will, the recipient of the notice of administration may be waiving his or her right to contest the validity of a trust or other writing incorporated by reference into a will.
Personal Representative: KIM TESSITORE
Attorney for Personal Representative: Liz C. Messianu, Esq.
Florida Bar No. 469017
Patricia D. Blanco, Esq.
Florida Bar Number: 1017070
Attorneys for Petitioner Wicker, Smith, O'Hara. McCoy & Ford, P.A.
Attorneys for Personal Representative 2800 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite 800 Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Telephone: (305) 448-3939
Fax: (305) 441-1748
E-Mail: miacrtpleadings@ wickermsith.com
Publish: December 4 & 11, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
CASE NO.: 25-CP-000377-K IN RE: ESTATE OF MARY LESAICHERRE, Decedent.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Mary LeSaicherre, deceased, whose date of death was July 26, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Freeman Justice Center, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: December 4, 2025.
Personal Representative: Kim Tessitore 5021 Wade Drive Metaire, Louisiana 70003
Attorney for Personal Representative: Liz C. Messianu, Esq. Florida Bar No. 469017
Patricia D. Blanco, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 1017070 Wicker, Smith, O'Hara. McCoy & Ford, P.A.
Attorneys for Personal Representative
2800 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite 800 Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Telephone: (305) 448-3939
Fax: (305) 441-1745
E-Mail: miacrtpleadings@ wickermsith.com
Publish: December 4 & 11, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2025-CP-000505-K IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM LAURENCE HARDY Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE: The administration of the Estate of William Laurence Hardy, deceased, File No. 2025-CP-000505-K, is pending in the circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 502 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040. The name and address of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served, must file their claims with the clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 502 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OF MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
A Personal Representative or Curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211. The date of first publication of this Notice is December 4, 2025. Dated this 20th day of November, 2025.
M. BARBARA AMARO ESQ. Attorney for Personal Representative FBN 611298 8950 SW 74 Court, Suite 2201, A-19 Miami, FL 33156 (305) 384-7213 (888) 508-5215 Fax Barbara@AmaroProbateLaw. com
Personal Representative: M. BARBARA AMARO 8950 SW 74 Court, Suite 2201, A-19
Publish: December 4 & 11, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483
AUTOS FOR SALE
2013 Cadillac ATS, 125k miles, needs tires & A/C, 2 owners, serviced at dealership. Located in Marathon. $4,000 Contact: yogaforpeacellc@yahoo.com SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!
PLACE YOUR AUTO FOR SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com
BOAT MISC. FOR SALE
Two 425 XTO Yamaha outboard motors for sale. Low hours, excellent condition, professionally maintained. $30,000 for both. Located in Marathon. Call for details 305-747-4227
BOATS FOR SALE
GREAT DEAL: Key Largo 21' Deep V Center Console w/trailer. New 150hp motor & electronics. $15,000 Located in Marathon. 201-696-8906 SOLD !!!
PLACE YOUR BOAT FOR SALE AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com
BOAT SLIP FOR RENT
Dockage up to 60’ Islamorada - Bayside, 50 amp service. Call 860-982-4517
Boat dockage, 29th Street Canal, Marathon. Up to 33' - water & electric. 305-240-3270
Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-610-8002
Boat Slip For Rent in Key Largo - Oceanfront Marina - Up to 46’ x 11.5’ - $20/ft/month. No Liveaboards. 330-219-5313 RENTED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!
PLACE YOUR BOAT SLIP FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com
EMPLOYMENT
Retail - Tues-Sat 3:00 pm-9:00 pm in Marathon. Must be able to lift large boxes of tee shirts. More hours available if needed. Inside Airstream with AC. Email Carolyn - sparkyslanding@ aol.com
Boat rental company in Marathon looking for help with boat detailing & boat cleaning. Call 305-481-7006
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Full-time Carpenter, Electrician & Housing Assistant. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: wrightk@kwha. org or 305-296-5621 ext. 224. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.
Experienced Full-time Line Cook needed at the Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club. 10AM - 5PM, Good Pay. Small friendly staff. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/ Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD
HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com
HOBBIES/COLLECT.
PRIVATE COLLECTOR
WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
NIGHT MONITORFREE Private Room in exchange for overnight availability at our Assisted Living Facility in Marathon. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am plus weekly stipend, Drug & background screen required. www.westcare. com/join-our-team/
2 Bedroom - All new - AND - StudioFurnished in Marathon. On the water, gated property. Section 8 possible. $1,300 - $2,000 month. Call 305-610-8002
2-3BR/2BA Beautiful home for year-round rental on Duck Key. Furnished, full size W/D, stainless steel appliances & granite countertops. Gorgeous pool with built-in bar stools, waterfall & Jacuzzi, 1 car garage, and covered porch for outdoor dining w/views of the canal. $3,800/ month. Avail. Dec. 1st. Address: 243 W. Seaview Dr, Duck Key, MM 61. Text/call 774-263-8759 Email: dongamache@ comast.net RENTED IN LESS THAN 4 WEEKS!!!
2BR/2BA with outdoor patio for rent in Marathon. $2,100/ month F/L/S Taking applications. 305-849-5793 RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!!
Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/night. Sweet CarolineSeaport.com
YARD SALES
1st Annual Community Yard Sale this Sat. Dec. 13 starting at 9am. Behind the Airport in Marathon - start on Porpoise Drive and
DETENTION RECORDS ASSISTANT
Applicants required working various shifts at the Monroe County Detention Facility.
Job requirements: Type 25 wpm, clerical skills and ability to multi-task. Salary $48,910.00. Full bene ts and retirement system. Paid holiday, vacation and sick time.
Applicants must ll out the online preliminary application at: www.keysso.net
Applicants may contact Charles Slebodnick at 305-292-7044. EEO/AAP
Must have experience with Excel. We are willing to train the right candidates.
Send resume to admin@cbtconstruction.com Or call 305-852-3002
SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN
(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hr. - $51.94/hr.
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com. KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled. Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:
OPERATOR/MAINTAINER
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $40.15/hr - $44.97/hr
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!
JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS!
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)
Behavioral Health Counselor (CAT)
Prevention Specialist
Case Manager (Adult)
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Adult, Child)
Mental Health Technician Line (PT or FT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) (PT)
Crisis Counselor
Behavioral Health Counselor Prevention Specialist
MARATHON
Mental Health Technician
Driver (CDL required) (FT)
Registered Nurse (FT, PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (PT)
*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 Shifts (FT, PT)
*Night Monitor (ALF – Free Housing vs. Salary)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip
DUI FRONT DESK CLERK
& EVALUATOR/INSTRUCTOR
The Advocate Program DUI school is hiring for part time positions.
Front desk: 3 days a week, high school diploma and computer data entry skills required. DUI instructors and evaluators: 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required.
Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.
MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE
We are now hiring for the following positions: Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers
CDL Drivers
Applicants must apply in person to be considered.
4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C)Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier
- Medical Assistant Ortho, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Patient Access Associates, $5k Bonus
MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C) Medical Oncology, Per Diem
- Pool Radiation Therapist
- Registered Nurse, Oncology, $15k Bonus
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus
- Cook, Dietary, $5k Bonus
- Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT Scan, $50k Bonus
- Mechanic, FT, 7A-3:30P
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Echocardiography, Per Diem
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. *Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience. APPLY AND
THEME: DISNEY CHARACTERS
ACROSS
1. Imperfections
6. Part of T.G.I.F.
9. Stark daughter on “Game of Thrones”
13. Kind of print, for short 14. Hula dancer’s flowers 15. Kitchen tear-jerker 16. Viva voce 17. Draft beer container 18. Confused 19. *Irreverent Disney nanny 21. *Scar’s older brother 23. Famous T-Rex 24. Gardening tool
25. Louisville Slugger 28. Stallion’s mate
30. Famous ciphering machine
35. D’Artagnan’s weapon of choice
37. Essence
39. Gloomy and drab
40. Containing limestone
41. Scrawny one
43. Purse to match a gown 44. Spot for boutonniËre
46. John Oates’ partner Daryl
47. Prepare for a rainy day
48. Catch in a snare
50. Rapper LL ____ J
52. ____ Aviv
53. Wholly engrossed
55. Call to Bo Peep
57. *Shere Khan’s sworn enemy
60. *Marie’s and Toulouse’s younger brother
64. Beneficiary
65. Opposite of nothing
67. Pancho’s last name
68. Weasel’s aquatic cousin
69. “New” prefix
70. *Like Iago in “Alladin” or Laddy
Kluck in “Robin Hood”
71. Karate blow
72. Not safe in baseball
73. Like salad greens
DOWN
1. Part of an envelope
2. *Nani Pelekai’s little sister and new pet owner
