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The 2025 Stanley Cup Final between the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers will see some serious travel. The two teams, which appeared in last year’s Stanley Cup, will travel 2,541 miles — the longest distance ever for a Stanley Cup final. This surpassed the previous record of 2,500 miles set in 2011 between the Vancouver Canucks and Boston Bruins.
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Bubbas: Key West People’s Choice Awards. Nominate your favorite people, places, businesses, foods and drinks daily through Sunday, June 15 at keysweekly.com.
mandy@keysweekly.com
City officials on June 4 were slated to consider a proposal that could more than double the slip rents for liveboard residents of City Marina on Garrison Bight and thus displace many longtime working and retired locals.
Prior to that meeting, which occurred after press deadlines, members of the Key West Live-Aboard Association (KWLA), known as the “Sea Dogs,” called for public support in opposing the crippling rent hikes at the June 4 city commission meeting — and had already received several letters of written support that individuals and civic groups have sent to city officials for inclusion in the agenda packet.
“The increases will push out numerous working-class people, seniors and families in favor of high-dollar yachts and out-of-town owners,”
KWLA founding member Joe Miccio, a retired New York City firefighter and 9/11 first responder, said in a press release about the upcoming vote.
He emphasized that City Marina at Garrison Bight is designated by the state as a “public purpose” marina deeded to the city for free by the state of Florida. The marina generates 20% to 30% profits annually and has accumulated $5.6 million in cash infrastructure reserves, Miccio said.
Discussions of potential rent increases for liveaboard slips, as well as other categories of use, such as commercial boat slips and transient slips at City Marina, have been ongoing since 2023.
In 2024, the city’s port and marine director commissioned a $25,000 study to determine fair market rents for the liveboard tenants at City Marina. The study proposed rent hikes that would more than double rents for liveaboard residents.
Miccio and others drafted a 21page response to the market study and a deeply researched rebuttal to the report, which stated that City Marina was comparable to other high-end, upscale marinas such as The Galleon, The Perry Marina and Stock Island Yacht Club, all of which offer swimming pools, restaurants, bars and other amenities – and none of which allow floating homes to rent slips, dispelling the notion of comparability.
“The appraiser reports incorrectly that comparison marinas have ‘equal utility’ and ‘similar use’ to Garrison Bight. However … management from comparison marinas report: Floating homes and houseboats are not allowed in their marinas, and year-round rentals are totally prohibited in one of them,” Miccio writes in his rebuttal, adding, “Swimming pools were stated as ‘None’ for comparison marinas with swimming pools. Private beaches were omitted from comparison charts of marinas with private beaches. It reports that Garrison Bight’s location is ‘similar to the in-town location’ of The Galleon Marina in Old Town Historic Harbor — one of the most valuable locations in Key West.”
In addition, Miccio outlines the significant financial errors in the market study, which omits any reference to the mandatory reservation fee that all liveaboard tenants must pay up front to reserve their slip. That nonrefundable fee is $5,000 or 4% of the vessel’s purchase price, whichever is greater.
“Plus, if the tenant adds another
person to the lease after signing — such as a spouse, parent, child or sibling — another $5,000 fee is charged by the city,” Miccio points out. “Shockingly, the Market Rate Study makes zero reference to these nonrefundable $5,000 to $16,000 fees (depending on vessel price), nor the $5,000 add-aperson fee in the Garrison Bight lease — or that the comparison marinas DO NOT charge these fees. These huge omissions skew the market rate cost comparisons significantly and bring into serious question the validity of the Market Rate Study.”
Current liveaboard residents are seeking a “grandfather” status to keep their current rent amounts, with the usual CPI increases.
“City Marina at Garrison Bight management projects live-aboard turnover rate to be approximately 8 to 18% annually. … This will result in tens of thousands of dollars in annual revenue increases within the first year and will grow into hundreds of thousands of extra dollars annually after just a few years, ultimately generating millions for City Marina at Garrison Bight in perpetuity. This is on top of the millions that will be generated by rent increases from other categories of renters sought by the Port Director’s office,” Miccio’s rebuttal states.
Visit keysweekly.com to see the commission’s response to and votes pertaining to concerns about the market rate study and the proposed slip rent increase.
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
While Key West officials considered rent hikes that would more than double the amount paid by liveaboard boat residents at City Marina to bring them up to market value, the nearby, private-membership Key West Yacht Club pays the city $1 a year in rent under a 99-year lease for its waterfront property.
The disparity is drawing attention from local residents and at least one elected official.
City commissioner Sam Kaufman has proposed a resolution directing the city manager to take a closer look at the yacht club’s lease, which was signed in March 1961 and expires in 2060, to ensure the club is in compliance with its requirements.
“The city commission further directs the city manager to provide the commission with recommendations on how to remedy any determined noncompliance by the Key West Yacht Club,” the proposed resolution states.
The resolution was slated to be considered during the evening session of the June 4 city commission meeting, which occurred after press time. A full report on that discussion and decision will be available at keysweekly.com.
“Rather than look at raising our property taxes … to cover the cost of a generally mismanaged and fiscally irresponsible city government, (commissioners) should instead be looking at getting fair market rents for our city-owned Key West Yacht
Club,” Key West resident and former city planning board member Greg Lloyd wrote to commissioners in support of Kauman’s proposed resolution. He notes that the club’s 71 boat slips, shower facilities, full-service dining room, bar, ship store and gift shop “is a cash cow raking in over $1 million annually in dockage fees alone. This enterprise, which we subsidize in a myriad of ways, is a money-generating machine that benefits only the privileged few among us. And yet the club still only pays $1 a year to the city for its lease.”
“Instead of pushing unaffordable tax hikes on residents, further driving up rents and pushing even more people out of Key West, our city leaders should instead take a hard look at how much money has been left on the dock. … Is there still to be one standard for the well-connected and another for everyone else?” Lloyd wrote to the commissioners.
Yacht club commodore Kris Pabian declined to discuss the item before the commission meeting, but told the Keys Weekly she would comment after the commission’s meeting and discussion.
In the past, members of the club have pointed out that the Key West Yacht Club was instrumental in convincing state officials to give the entire Garrison Bight area to the city of Key West. In return, the yacht club retained a small part of the waterfront property for the club, which started in 1938 and now numbers 338 members.
Visit keysweekly.com to learn what happened during the city commission discussion of the yacht club lease.
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Eight months ago, Kentrell Freeman was arrested for bringing a baseball bat to his ex-girlfriend’s office and threatening to kill her, despite a domestic violence protective order barring him from the woman’s workplace. A coworker was able to lock the office door before Freeman entered with the bat, court documents state.
On May 28, police say, Freeman returned to the woman’s workplace, this time with a knife. He stabbed his exgirlfriend in the abdomen, and when the same coworker — Joe Clements — again intervened to protect her, Freeman stabbed him twice in the back, according to Key West police reports.
a coworker from a knifewielding ex-boyfriend. GARY BURCHFIELD/ Contributed
The protective order keeping Freeman away from the victim had expired on March 21, according to court records.
The stabbing occurred at the offices of Gary the Carpenter Construction, 800 Simonton St., shortly after 3 p.m. on May 28, police reports state. The female victim, Alexandra Nicole Albury, 36, who shares a son with Freeman, is the company’s office manager, and Clements, 65, handles its computer system.
Witnesses in a neighboring business told police they saw Freeman walking up Petronia Street toward the construction company’s office at the corner of Petronia and Simonton streets.
“According to witnesses … an ex-boyfriend of Victim Albury, later identified as Kentrell Freeman (defendant) came into the office and started a verbal altercation with Victim Albury. The argument became physical, and the defendant stabbed Albury in the abdomen with a knife. Victim Clements intervened in the altercation, and he was stabbed twice in the back,” Officer Scott Standerwick wrote in his report.
When Standerwick arrived, he wrote in a report, witnesses were applying pressure to Clements’ wounds and Albury was applying pressure to her abdomen wound. Albury was flown to a Miami hospital for treatment while Clements was treated at Lower Keys Medical Center, then released.
Albury’s sister posted on social media the morning after the stabbing that Nicole was “stable and doing well.” She thanked the community for their concern and support.
Freeman, however, fled after the stabbing, prompting an overnight manhunt that ended with his arrest in a backyard at Poinciana Plaza housing complex off Duck Avenue around 7:30 the next morning, May 29.
He faces charges of attempted second-degree murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, police reports state.
Freeman is still awaiting trial for the September 2024 baseball bat arrest. He faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and violation of a protective order in that case, and has a hearing scheduled for June 16 in front of Judge Mark Jones, according to court records.
Following his September 2024 arrest, Freeman reportedly told police that Albury had angered him by deactivating his cell phone service and telling him she was “going to make his life hell.”
Freeman also told police that he had brought the baseball bat to Albury’s office to drop it off for their son, although he admitted knowing that he was prohibited from that property.
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Key West High School’s Class of 2025 packed the bleachers at the new and improved Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium for the May 30 graduation ceremony.
The class finished eighth grade online in the throes of the COVID pandemic, then started high school in person but in still-uncertain times. On May 30, a sea of red and white mortar boards filled the air, as more than 200 graduating seniors celebrated the bittersweet end of their high school careers.
In Conch tradition, the young men processed into the ceremony from one side of the football field
Key West High School’s Class of 2025 graduates with traditional Conch Pride on May 30 at Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium. RALPH De PALMA/Contributed
wearing red graduation caps and gowns, while the young women, in white caps and gowns, mirrored them from the other side, the class meeting in the bleachers while the marching band played the traditional “Pomp & Circumstance.”
Valedictorian Matthew Robertson and salutatorian Neslihan
“Neslo” Atilla addressed their classmates before the 200-plus diplomas were distributed.
10 seniors receive diplomas; 4 also leave with associate’s degree
The College of the Florida Keys celebrated the first graduation of the CFK Academy on May 29 in the Tennessee Williams Theatre on the Key West campus. The event was a milestone for the college’s tuition-free public charter high school, which opened in August 2023 and earned an “A” grade from the Department of Education in its first year.
Ten graduates donned blue gowns to receive high school diplomas in the ceremony presided over by CFK Academy Principal Ja-Ronika Veldheer, who is also the college’s vice president of secondary education. Four high school graduates had already received associate in arts degrees at the college’s May 8 commencement ceremony.
Salutatorian Lela Griffin and valedictorian Wesley Kulaga addressed their fellow graduates with memories of their shared high school experience and inspiration for their futures. Graduate Wyatt Rhodes gave the student reflection and presented the Teacher of the Year award to Kelly Hughes, who teaches math and digital media. Wendy McPherson, founding CFK Academy principal, delivered the keynote address.
The CFK Academy focuses on college and career readiness with curriculum centered on science, technology,
1. CFK Academy Principal Ja-Ronika Veldheer and college President Jonathan Gueverra congratulate the graduates after they turn their tassels.
2. Valedictorian Wesley Kulaga addresses his fellow graduates.
3. CFK Academy Principal Ja-Ronika Veldheer, left, and graduate Wyatt Rhodes, right, present Kelly Hughes, center, with the Teacher of the Year award.
4. From left, founding CFK Academy Principal Wendy McPherson congratulates graduate Ninasimone Ward along with current Principal Ja-Ronika Veldheer and college President Jonathan Gueverra. CONTRIBUTED
engineering, and math and career technical education. Through the college’s dual enrollment program, students can graduate with a high school diploma as well as an associate degree, certificate and/or industry certification. A waitlist is available for grades nine through 12 for the 2025-26 school year. More information is at cfk.edu/ cfkacademy.
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Allegiant Air will begin offering nonstop flights to Knoxville, Tennessee in October, as well as serving Cincinnati, Asheville, Pittsburgh and Clearwater/St. Pete. TOMÁS DEL CORO/Wikipedia
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Locals looking to leave the Keys for a few days, and visitors eager to arrive on the island, will have more options for direct flights starting this fall.
Starting Oct. 3, Allegiant Air will offer twice-weekly nonstop service to Knoxville, Tennessee’s McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville and the surrounding area, including western North Carolina, are popular outdoor recreation destinations.
Allegiant also offers twiceweekly nonstop flights to Asheville, North Carolina; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Cincinnati, Ohio. Additional flights may be added during the holiday season. The airline also services Clearwater/St. Pete six days a week.
Tickets start at $66 one-way aboard the airline’s 156-seat Airbus A319.
In addition to Allegiant’s new fall flights, Breeze Airways will start on June 12 offering nonstop flights to Orlando and Tampa. Additionally, starting this fall, Breeze will offer service to RaleighDurham, N.C. and one-stop service to Akron-Canton (CAK) in Ohio. Travelers can now book nonstop flights on Breeze starting June 12 from Key West to Orlando (MCO) on Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from $39 one way; and to Tampa (TPA) on Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from $39 one way.
This fall, the Raleigh-Durham (RDU) flights will be offered Mondays and Fridays, starting from $79 one-way, and the AkronCanton (CAK) flights with one stop/no change of plane service on Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, starting Oct. 2.
Despite federal staffing cuts, Keys forecast office is ready for storm season
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
With the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season in its first week, national news headlines have drawn attention to staffing cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which oversees the National Weather Service (NWS), an essential agency for hurricane forecasting and warning coordination.
The weather service lost nearly 600 positions following funding cuts ordered by the Trump administration and the Department of Government Efficiency, which until this week was initiated and led by the world’s richest man, Elon Musk.
The NWS reported on June 3 that it was taking steps to rehire or newly hire 100 positions to stabilize the agency.
But that didn’t stop TV meteorologist John Morales from interrupting his on-air forecast on June 2 to issue a dire warning about how the staffing and funding cuts could affect his agency’s efforts during hurricane season.
“As you’ve grown accustomed to my presentations over my 34 years in South Florida, I went on TV and told you, confidently, ‘(The storm) is going to turn. You don’t need to worry,’” he told his NBC viewers in Miami. “I’m here to tell you I’m not sure I can do that this year. Because of the cuts — the gutting, the sledgehammer attack on science in general.“
While Morales spoke, the screen behind him flashed statistics, showing that the Central and South Florida National Weather Service is 19%-39% understaffed. He added that the cuts have also led to a 17% reduction in weather balloon launches across the United States.
What does all this mean for the Florida Keys, an island chain that’s particularly vulnerable to hurricanes, and where residents, government officials and business owners have come to know and rely heavily on local meteorologists
Despite federal staffing and funding cuts, the National Weather Service’s Key West forecast office on White Street is prepared and ready for the 2025 hurricane season, meteorologist-in-charge Chip Kasper told the Keys Weekly this week. CONTRIBUTED
and forecasters Chip Kasper and Jon Rizzo?
Kasper, the meteorologistin-charge at the Key West office, offered reassurances to the Keys Weekly on June 3, saying the NWS Key West forecast office is open, operational and fully prepared for the 2025 hurricane season. Kasper added that the Keys community will not notice any changes in the way the agency handles storm forecasting, predictions, warnings or emergency responses.
He declined to comment on the specific staffing levels or say whether the Key West office has been subject to any staff reductions, referring such questions to federal officials.
But, Kasper emphasized, the National Weather Service has maintained an observation and forecast office in Key West since the federal agency was established in 1870 — and that won’t change.
He also said that despite some reductions in weather balloon launches in other parts of the country, the Key West office continues to launch two weather balloons per day to record and track key weather data points.
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
After months of investigation and interviews led a grand jury to issue felony criminal indictments of three Key West city department heads, the grand jury’s full report was released on May 29, and it is scathing.
The report describes “a pervasive culture of negligence, nepotism, manipulation and abdication of duty at the highest levels of city leadership.”
The 29-page report outlines the steps taken by the 16-member grand jury during its investigation into alleged corruption and criminal wrongdoing in city government.
Grand jury indictments in April led to the arrests of former Key West city attorney Ron Ramsingh; his brother, Raj Ramsingh, who was the city’s chief building official; and former code compliance director Jim Young.
Ron Ramsingh, the attorney, was terminated without cause in April. Raj Ramsingh has been indefinitely suspended without pay pending the results of an internal city investigation. Young retired days after his April 15 arrest.
Each of the three men was initially indicted and arrested on April 15 for tampering with evidence after deleting or altering or withholding text messages that had been subpoenaed as part of an ongoing investigation.
Ron and Raj Ramsingh were subsequently re-indicted on additional charges.
Raj Ramsingh faces seven counts of official misconduct for allegedly falsifying building permits, closing permits without inspections being done and in some cases issuing a permit when one had previously been denied by another department. Raj Ramsingh additionally operated his own construction company, Stryker-Avery Homes LLC, while also working as the city’s chief building official, where he approved and issued his own company’s building permits in at least one instance.
His brother, attorney Ron Ramsingh, faces one count of official misconduct for allegedly “interfering with the reporting of a felony committed by his brother,” the additional indictment states.
Summary of a scandal
“What started as an investigation into possible Sunshine Law violations and various malfeasances of elected/charted officials and department heads rapidly developed into a wide-scale, multi-faceted investigation uncovering a network of nepotism, fraud, dereliction of duty and various criminal acts,” the grand jury report states.
“Over the course of more than six months, the State Attorney’s Office, along with agents from the local FBI office, conducted numerous interviews of past and current city employees. Subpoenas were issued for bank records, phone records, as well as a list of public records from the city of Key West. …
“The … evidence converged to create an inescapable picture, one that could not be unseen: A pervasive culture of negligence, nepotism, manipulation and abdication of duty at the highest levels of city leadership. The existence of a disheartening pattern of public officials failing to discharge their sworn responsibilities, ignoring obvious red flags – even when public safety, fiscal accountability and democratic transparency were on the line.
“The investigation uncovered a complete ‘dereliction of duty’ (invoking the full weight of its legal and moral implications) by several individuals. And most brazen, the cavalier criminal acts of several for personal gain, or gains for those within the ‘boys’ club.’”
The report also explains that the investigation — and subpoenaed text messages — were prompted by the June 2024 firing of former city manager Al Childress, who had commissioned a review of the building department under Raj Ramsingh. That 55-page review, known as the Corradino Report, revealed glaring concerns about Raj Ramsingh’s actions in his role as chief building official.
“But the withheld texts revealed far more than just misconduct in not providing them, but a broader, calculated plot,” the grand jury report states. “This was not merely an issue of transparency. It was an orchestrated removal of (city manager) Childress, carried out to protect a corrupt inner circle entrenched in fraud, nepotism and cronyism, shrouded in the toxic culture of a ‘Bubba System’ (used here to mean a deeply rooted network of people in which rules are bent to ensure a mutual continued success) loyalty and the dangerous mentality of ‘the boys having each other’s backs.’
“What the evidence demonstrated was due to City Attorney Ramsingh’s overwhelming unchecked power and influence, he, along with his brother and others were able to create a ‘false shield,’ a toxic bubble of protection, enabling the misconduct while silencing other city employees and manipulating city officials,” the report states.
The grand jury recommended a complete, third-party audit of all building permits and construction projects that involved Raj Ramsingh and revisions of city whistleblower and permitting protocols.
“Separate from CBO Ramsingh’s altering, changing or deleting (building permit information in the software system), and/or circumventing reviews and inspections, five properties revealed a windfall in terms of revenue generated for Stryker-Avery Homes LLC,” the report states.
“In just five construction jobs, CBO Ramsingh’s construction company’s gross revenue exceeded $1.9 million. Moreover, the evidence showed in a few of these projects, CBO Ramsingh was the one to approve the permits and furthermore neglected to require inspections,” the grand jury report states. “One can only wonder how many more properties/permits chief building official Ramsingh’s company has worked on, and he supplemented his CBO income with. It is the grand jury’s hope that the fraudulent course of conduct, having now been
Top to bottom: Chief Building Official Raj Ramsingh, former City Attorney Ron Ramsingh, former Code Compliance Director Jim Young, commissioner Lissette Carey and Assistant City Manager Todd Stoughton. CONTRIBUTED
continued from previous page
revealed, a further investigation is conducted and steps are taken by city leaders to prevent all of this from ever happening again.”
The grand jury report is scathing in its descriptions of the activities it investigated and the actions and nonactions taken by current and former city employees and elected officials. Following a description of the investigation and findings, the grand jury makes several recommendations to city leaders, including that commissioner Lissette Carey and assistant city manager Todd Stoughton, neither of whom has been criminally charged, resign from their positions.
The report states that Carey’s testimony revealed that she allowed attorney Ron Ramsingh to intimidate and coerce her into removing the Corradino Report from a city commission agenda so it would not be discussed publicly.
“According to Commissioner Carey she advanced this directive as a result of intimidation and coercion from city attorney Ramsingh when he revealed the mention of her family in the Corradino Report. Yet, she still failed to read the report to gain her own understanding of the impact to family, but more importantly, her constituents,” the report states. “Whether it is a lack of understanding the role, duties and responsibilities the position of a city commissioner entails, she has not demonstrated the wherewithal and convictions needed to serve in this capacity.”
With regard to Stoughton, the report states, “Testimony and evidence received by the grand jury revealed that Todd Stoughton’s close relationship with Ronald Ramsingh, Raj Ramsingh and Jim Young, the three indicted defendants, skewed his ability to think and act objectively, instead prioritizing the relationships over implementing real change. Whether by choice or unduly influenced by the professional and personal relationship with the three indicted defendants, Todd Stoughton’s inability to do his job impartially when it came to addressing issues with chief building official Ramsingh was a contributing factor to the ongoing toxic environment created with the permitting process.”
When contacted for comment by the Keys Weekly, Stoughton wrote in a text message, “The only thing I’ll say for now is that I disagree with (the grand jury’s) assessment and recommendation for me.”
In response to the grand jury’s recommendation that she resign, Carey on May 28 sent a letter to assistant state attorney Colleen Dunne. Carey shared the letter with the Keys Weekly, writing, in part, “At this time, I will not be requesting the removal of the grand jury’s recommendation as it relates to me personally.
… I respectfully disagree with the statement in the grand jury report. … I have a thorough understanding of the role of a city commissioner, having served the City of Key West as the assistant to the mayor and commissioners for five years, and subsequently as senior deputy clerk for three years,” Carey wrote. “I take my responsibilities seriously and invest significant time in researching matters that come before the commission. …
“I believe it is unjust to characterize this single instance as reflective of my overall performance or commitment to my duties. … I remain committed to serving the people of District IV with integrity, dedication and transparency.”
The report also derides former city commissioners Jimmy Weekley, Clayton Lopez and Billy Wardlow, stating “it became apparent that the citizens of Key West were not being served to the best of all the commissioners’ and public officials’ abilities. Turning a blind eye to items and tasks that may cause conflict or unpopularity and putting minimal effort in their role as a commissioner/public official is an insult to the citizens who put their faith and trust in their role as a leader.
“For example, the grand jury learned that not all commissioners ‘did their homework’ prior to making important decisions and instead relied on the opinions and suggestions of others. One blatant example is the demonstrated apathy toward the Corradino Report by former commissioners Jimmy Weekley, Billy Wardlow and Clayton Lopez, who admitted they either did not read or did not thoroughly read the report.
“It became obvious that in the twilight of former commissioners, they failed in regard to their duties and responsibilities to the city commission and their constituents. The fact that they did not give any consideration and diligence in thoroughly reading and digesting the Corradino Report and its implications continued the toxicity present in the Building and Planning departments and allowed the continuation of the criminal misconduct of the chief building official.”
Weekley, Wardlow and Ron Ramsingh did not respond to the Keys Weekly’s requests for comment.
Lopez replied to a text message, but declined to comment until the case goes to trial, writing, “I’d rather wait until I know my comments will not harm anyone or create for myself any legal jeopardy.”
Raj Ramsingh replied to a text message seeking comment, saying his attorneys would submit a statement on his behalf to the Keys Weekly. The statement had not been received as of press time, but will be added upon receipt.
Key West’s annual Key Lime Festival returns July 2-6, celebrating the sensational citrus fruit that shares its name with our island chain. From culinary events and tours to only-in-Key-West competitions, the festival takes place in venues across the island where Key lime pie was born.
Festivities launch Wednesday, July 2, with an all-new kickoff event on the veranda of the Avalon Bed & Breakfast, 1317 Duval St. Festival co-founder David Sloan will welcome lime lovers while signing copies of his “Key West Key Lime Pie Cookbook,” followed by a party featuring Americana jams by a live band on Duval Street
On Thursday, July 3, a Key Lime Pie Hop will take aficionados on a downtown tasting tour to sample variations of the dessert. Other offerings include a “Wheeling & Dealing Hot Wheels Race” at Mary Ellen’s Bar and “Sloppy Joe’s Ultimate Key Lime Smash Party,” which raises money for charity while delivering whipped cream wallops to some local celebrity faces.
Independence Day events start early with the Rotary Club of Key West’s annual Fourth of July 5K. From there, head over to the Southernmost Beach Café for an array of activities leading up to the 2025 World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship, including beach games and a Key Lime Vendor Village that opens at 10 a.m.
The pie eating competition — the festival’s centerpiece event — starts at 1:30 p.m. In a messy twist on New York’s traditional Independence Day hot dog eating contest, 25 competitors each attempt to consume a 9-inch pie in the fastest time, without using their hands. Contestants can register in advance on the festival website for a chance to score a trophy, championship belt and glory.
Other Fourth of July events include a pool party at Dante’s Key West Pool Bar & Restaurant and the Rotary Club of Key West’s Patriotic Grill Out Under the Fireworks.
On Saturday, July 5, those who relish heat can take the “5-Alarm Pie Challenge,” at the Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum. Think Key lime pie taken to incendiary heights via creative culinary twists. There’s also the sweet and salty Key Lime Sip & Stroll, where participants can vote on the best Key lime cocktails and margaritas served up by multiple bars. Topping off the day in the spirit of Independence weekend: “Miss Americana – A Tribute to Taylor Swift,” a free concert for
lime lovers of all ages, paired with an iconic Key West sunset at Sunset Pier located at Zero Duval St.
On Sunday, July 6, the annual Key Lime Pie Drop invites contestants to advance-create a device or container to protect a 5-inchdiameter pie and keep it from exploding on impact when dropped from the 88-foot observation deck of the historic Key West Lighthouse. The winner scores a cash prize along with some bragging rights; competitors can visit the festival website to register in advance for free.
Adding a burst of patriotic pride to the festivities, and in celebration of Key West as an official U.S. Coast Guard city, members of the Coast Guard will be on hand at multiple events with spirited appearances, interactive demonstrations and photo-ready moments.
Festival highlights also include a “Living the Key Lime Life” four-course dinner prepared by chef Scott Taylor and the Kaya Island Eats culinary team, a Key West Artisan Market: Red, White & Blue Edition at Higgs Beach, and daily Key Lime Bike Tours and mini Key lime pie making classes.
The Florida Legislature declared Key Lime pie the official state pie in 2006. Launched in 2013, the family-friendly Key Lime Festival was concocted by author, ghost hunter, historian and cuisinier David Sloan, and artist, production designer and Wonderdog Studios founder Marky Pierson. The 2025 festival is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. More information is at keylimefestival.com.
— Contributed
1. The July 4 World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship welcomes up to 25 contestants to compete in a timed race to consume a 9-inch Key lime pie, topped with whipped cream, without using their hands. 2. Key West’s Key Lime Festival takes place July 2-6 and features activities, competitions, culinary experiences and plenty of samples of the island’s favorite dessert. 3. Key Lime festival director Nadene Grossman Orr, and her green team, welcome lime lovers to the annual citrus celebration in Key West. CAROL TEDESCO/keylimefestival.com
U.S. Navy Capt. Beth Regoli didn’t just finish her stint as commander of Naval Air Station Key West on May 30. She also completed her entire 26-year naval career.
Capt. Colin Thompson took Regoli’s place at the helm of Key West’s naval operations at a change of command ceremony that also included the pageantry and patriotism of a naval officer’s retirement.
Regoli’s friends and family traveled to Key West for the career finale, and five of her closest military confidantes took part in the solemn “Old Glory” ceremony in which a folded American flag was passed from one servicemember to another, with each saluting the flag until it rested with Regoli, who then presented it to her parents in the audience.
After spending three years commanding NAS Key West, Regoli will retire to Annapolis, Maryland, where she attended the U.S. Naval Academy years ago.
Thompson is reporting from Navy Personnel Command in Millington, Tennessee, where he was the Career Progression Division director.
His previous duty assignments include Naval Flight Officer P-3C Orion training with Patrol Squadron (VP) 30 in Jacksonville; and a flying tour with the “Red Lancers” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 10 in Brunswick, Maine. Thompson’s operational tours include assistant navi-
1. Capt. Beth Regoli, former commander of NAS Key West, retired May 30 after 26 years in the U.S. Navy. 2. Capt. Colin Thompson hugs his son, Charlie, as he takes the helm as commander of Naval Air Station Key West. 3. More than 300 people filled an airplane hangar on Boca Chica for the change of command ceremony. 4. The solemn Old Glory ceremony marks the retirement of Capt. Beth Regoli from the U.S. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly
gator aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan; department head with the “Skinny Dragons” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 4 of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii; and executive officer and commanding officer with the “Wizards” of Special Projects Patrol Squadron (VPU) 2 in Kaneohe Bay and Jacksonville.
Thompson’s shore assignments include instructor NFO at VP-30, flag secretary to Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group in Norfolk, Virginia; and three tours at Navy Personnel Command.
A native of Merrimack, New Hampshire, Thompson enlisted in the Navy in September 1997. Following basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois, he reported to Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Orlando for machinist’s mate “A” school and nuclear power school. His first assignment was as a staff instructor in Nuclear Power Training Unit Ballston Spa, New York. During this tour, Thompson attended New School University, earning a bachelor’s degree in human resources management. Thompson was commissioned as an ensign after completing Officer Candidate School in April 2002, and designated a Naval Flight Officer in August 2003.
Nightly entertainment & artistry continue through June 20
The Summer Solstice Celebration began Sunday on Key West’s waterfront Mallory Square, kicking off a dynamic nightly array of special events, live performances and artisan demonstrations that continues through June 20.
Among opening-night festivities were a steel pan drum performance by twins Maya and Victoria Gray from the Bahama Village Music Program, and live painting by artist Kaley Bentz.
Upcoming attractions include showcases of creative magic from artists and craftspeople, entertainment by performers ranging from illusionists to daredevils, interactive activities inspired by solstice traditions, and local vendors’ wares for body and spirit. The festival culminates in an evening honoring the summer solstice — the longest day of the year when the sun’s energy is strongest — on Friday, June 20. Coordinated by the Key West Cultural Preservation Society, organizer of the Mallory Square Sunset Celebration, festivities are backdropped by the sunset gathering.
Summer
is presented in part by the Monroe County
Development Council. More information is at sunsetcelebration.org.
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.
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.
This is Liza, an affectionate 7-month-old kitten who loves nothing more than a good snuggle and purring up a storm.
Otis is a 2-year-old cane corso who’s been with us for a few months now, and he’s as sweet as they come. He loves attention and enjoys his walks, always eager to please.
Meet Tio, a 3-month-old male guinea pig who’s ready to find his forever home. Tio is sweet, curious and full of personality. He’ll brighten up your day with his adorable little squeaks and love for snacks.
Meet Chick Pea, a 4-year-old cat who’s new to our shelter. We’ve quickly fallen for her charming personality. Chick Pea is looking for a loving home where she can share all her affection.
Meet Spots, an 8-year-old cow cat who’s as sweet and friendly as they come. She’s currently living in our kitten room, where she’s become a bit of a grandma to the little ones. If you’re looking for a calm and loving companion who’s great with younger cats, Spots might be for you.
Savor shrimp this season
Shrimping became a major local industry following the discovery of nocturnal Key West pinks in area waters. Here, shrimp boats are gathered at the Key West Bight circa 1960. FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY CENTER/Monroe County Public Library
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY
www.keysweekly.com
In 1949, a chance discovery led to an upsurge in the Key West economy — and a welcome addition to local menus. The succulent shrimp now known as “Key West pinks” were found in abundance in what became known as the Tortugas shrimping grounds.
Most islanders had long suspected there were shrimp somewhere off the Florida Keys, but the crustaceans had remained elusive until a Navy vessel reported some of its sound apparatus behaving erratically. According to local lore, a diver who went down to investigate surfaced with handfuls of the creatures whose value inspired the nickname “pink gold.”
Unlike the white and brown shrimp caught in waters farther north, Key West pinks were nocturnal and buried themselves in the sand by day. As soon as shrimpers accommodated their prey’s schedule, they began recording extremely profitable catches.
Widely regarded as sweeter than other types of shrimp, the prized pink variety has become one of the signature foods that defines Florida Keys cuisine. A mainstay on restaurant menus and in local kitchens, it’s a “must-try” treat for visitors to the island chain.
In addition to Key West pinks, royal red shrimp are another Keys favorite. Also harvested in Gulf waters, they have a lobster-like flavor that makes them ideal for certain recipes.
Shrimp is particularly popular during the hot summer months, when people want dishes that are satisfying and protein-rich yet not too heavy. While chilled peel-and-eat offerings are enjoyable, nothing beats a wellseasoned ceviche — one of the shrimp dishes whose preparation techniques are revealed during classes at the Key West Cooking School, 291 Front St. Attendees at the school’s demonstration-style class that features shrimp
ceviche are sometimes surprised to learn that the main ingredient isn’t cooked in the traditional manner. In fact, they’re not heated at all. Instead, the shrimp are marinated in lime juice, with the acidic juice “cooking” them until they’re opaque and perfectly flavorful.
As the school’s chef-storytellers add other ingredients to the ceviche — tomatoes, onions, cilantro and just enough diced jalapeño to provide a sassy kick — they share tips and tidbits about shrimp’s preparation and place in Key West’s culinary history.
Attendees follow along on provided recipe sheets, ask questions and interact before savoring the ceviche as part of their four-course learn-anddine experience.
Ceviche isn’t the only shrimpbased dish whose secrets are revealed during classes at the school. Among others are shrimp Creole with rice, bold island-inspired mariscado and Key West seafood risotto — and learning to make them strengthens not just culinary skills, but also an understanding of the culture of the Keys.
More information is at keywestcookingschool.com/key-west-pinkshrimp-recipes.
Dish of the week: Key West seafood risotto. Shrimp and fresh-caught local fish are prime ingredients in this rich and flavorful dish. Seafood stock, garlic, white wine and creamy Arborio rice round out a recipe that celebrates the ocean’s bounty.
Helpful kitchen hack: It’s far too easy to overcook shrimp, making them tough and rubbery, so vigilance is required. If grilled or sautéed, shrimp generally should be cooked for two to three minutes per side — or until they turn opaque and their pink color intensifies. When steaming them, wait for that same opacity and vivid pink hue.
Hungry for more? Visit keywestcookingschool.com.
Key West Pride events culminate in the annual Pride Parade on Sunday, June 29, featuring a 100-foot section of Key West’s Sea-to-Sea Rainbow flag that stretched the entire, 1.25-mile length of Duval Street in 2003. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly
‘Still
Key West invites residents and visitors to celebrate the history and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community during Key West Pride, scheduled for Sunday through Sunday, June 22-29.
But start the celebration a night early, on Saturday, June 21, with the annual Pride Follies variety show at 7 p.m. at Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St. This production will showcase the island’s performing arts community in a show reminiscent of television’s classic “Ed Sullivan’s Toast of the Town.”
Presented by the Key West Business Guild, this year’s theme, “Still Rising,” honors the history of the LGBTQ+ community within the welcoming “One Human Family” ethos of the tiny town with a huge reputation as an LGBTQ vacation destination.
Events include late-night dance parties, daytime and sunset sailing excursions, film screenings and drag performances, as well as a bar crawl for costumed participants and Pride’s traditional street fair, which promises a new twist.
The festivities will start on Sunday, June 22, with a kickoff party hosted by AquaPlex Key West, 711 Duval St.
Highlights for Wednesday, June 25, include a Gay Key West History Trolley Tour, followed by a pool party at the newly remodeled La Concha Hotel. “An Evening of Queer Crooning and Comedy” will showcase former American Idol contestant Beane and the dynamic queer comedian Quin Lamar, while hosted by locals Puddin’ Taine and Gwen Filosa.
On Thursday, June 26, a “Tea on the Sea” sunset sail and a floating tea dance will take place aboard the Fury Catamaran. Later that evening, guests can support their favorite mixologists during the Key West Local Bartender Competition, starting at 9 p.m. at the Bourbon St. Pub, 724 Duval St.
Other activities will include a brunch sail on the Argo Navis; the “We Love Our Allies Pride Party” at 22&Co, 504 Angela St.; and a “Slay Under the Sea” dance party hosted by Tike House, 203 Duval St. Key West Pride’s partners, including Aqua, 801 Bar, Bobby’s Monkey Bar, Island House and Bourbon St. Pub, will offer a full slate of events throughout the week.
The Pride Street Fair and party takes place Saturday, June 28, from 4 to 8 p.m. along the 700 to 900 blocks of Duval Street. The event will feature live entertainment, vendors, and music by DJ Mr. Enjoy.
The celebration culminates on Sunday, June 29 with an allwelcome Pride Parade, showcasing a 100-foot segment of Key West’s iconic 1.25-mile-long rainbow flag, created in 2003 by the late Gilbert Baker. Slated to begin at 7 p.m., the parade route includes most of Duval Street, allowing participants and spectators to conclude their Pride celebrations at La Te Da’s traditional Tea Dance.
More information is at gaykeywestfl.com/pride. — Contributed
Somewhere in Key West’s Old Town, there’s an elderly man cursing the soul of Calico Jack.
I don’t mean Calico Jack Rackham, the infamous Caribbean pirate who was hanged in Jamaica in 1720. No, this Calico Jack was a slightly insane dog who shared the pirate’s name, and disrupted a secret gambling ring in 1980 with one larcenous flick of his tongue.
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY
has lived in Key West for 40-plus years, witnessing and writing about the island’s renegade past, shipwreck salvage adventures and colorful presentday characters.
Jack was just a puppy when I found him at the Key West shelter. He had a black body, with brownish legs and long hound ears. Foolishly imagining that he would become a storybook companion like Lassie, I adopted him and brought him to my place on Margaret Street.
In those days Key Westers rarely locked their doors, and sometimes didn’t even close them. People wandered in and out of each others’ homes as if the Old Town district — with its unrestored Victorian houses and rampantly blooming flowers — was a giant commune.
In a sense, it was. Impromptu porch parties were common, full of laughter and tall tales and music, with cheap wine and joints shared with whoever stopped by. Money was scarce but fish were plentiful, and we always cooked enough for the friends who dropped in.
It was the ideal atmosphere for raising a puppy, I figured, with plenty of people around who could help me mold Calico Jack into a perfect island dog — one who followed me on random adventures, never needing a leash or anything more than a gentle command.
After all, other dogs behaved that way.
Friends took their canine companions to Dog Beach, the pocket-sized stretch of sand next to the beloved restaurant Louie’s Backyard, and watched their pooches romp in the water while they sipped cocktails at Louie’s After Deck bar.
Friends pedaled their bikes along Key West’s narrow lanes with their dogs riding in the baskets, grinning furry-faced grins. They were facetiously dubbed “basket hounds,” a breed indigenous to the island.
Calico Jack, however, was another breed altogether. He developed an air of madcap lunacy that worsened as he got older. Despite training attempts, he had no manners and no respect for personal space. And he was a thief, stealing food and small items as he roamed the neighborhood.
When he was almost a year old, my wayward pup committed the crime that earned him a lasting place in island lore.
The Margaret Street area was a lovely, eclectic mix of old homes and low-key businesses. Down the block stood Molina’s Bakery, where the smell of fresh Cuban bread perfumed the air.
Around a nearby corner was a shabby yet popular Cuban restaurant. Unbeknownst to me, its back room housed a gambling den where men gathered for high-stakes games of dominoes.
One fateful day, perhaps seeking a tasty handout, Calico Jack poked his nose inside.
I was oblivious, relaxing on my shady porch. That is, until Jack came pelting down Margaret Street carrying a domino in his mouth — chased by a stocky man who was shaking his fist and hollering, “Perrito sin verguenza! Puppy without shame!”
It was clearly a situation to avoid. Without a sound, I slipped into the house.
Weeks afterward, though I never understood the domino game’s rules, it emerged that Jack’s theft had cost his pursuer a substantial sum. That was a shame, but there was nothing I could do.
Now, decades later, the Cuban restaurant is long gone, as is Jack. I moved to another Old Town spot many years ago.
But the Margaret Street neighborhood is still lovely, appearing untouched by the passage of time. Biking past my former apartment last month, I could almost hear — from one of those wood-frame houses surrounded by flowers — an old man’s voice, still cursing “the puppy without shame.”
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... 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.
Key West and the Florida Keys have a bit of a film history – “The Rose Tattoo,” “Criss Cross,” “Operation Petticoat,” “Miami Vice.” Like a lot of Keys history, there are highs and lows. My favorite of these movies may not be well made, but it gives glimpses into the Key West of yore.
For instance, “Cuba Crossing” was a low-budget movie filmed down here. It is also sometimes called “Assignment: Kill Castro” and “Sweet Dirty Tony,” because it was allegedly based on the exploits of Capt. Tony Tarracino. And maybe it was. He appears in the film as a rider on horseback. But the movie was so incoherent it’s hard to say for sure. They shot a lot of scenes at Captain Tony’s Saloon, complete with drag queens, sailors getting cruised in the bathroom, attractive young waitresses and a bar brawl that I’m pretty sure was choreographed by the same people who did the one in “Airplane!,” which also came out in 1980. Also, whenever the main character drives around town, someone says, “Hey, Captain Tony!”
The movie had Robert Vaughn from “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” in it, as well as Michael V. Gazzo, who earned an Oscar nomination for his role in “The Godfather, Part II,” though in this movie he mostly smoked cigars and laughed maniacally at his own jokes to fill up empty parts of the script. What it lacked in plot and direction, it (almost) made up for in yore-ness. There were scenes shot at a bunch of different marinas, at Fort Zachary Taylor before it was a state park, and at the old tower at the old Turtle Kraals. There was a long helicopter tracking shot of a woman driving an era-appropriate pink Thunderbird across the old Bahia Honda bridge. Also there were cameos by Iguana Man (See: “The Key West Picture Show”) and Joy Hawkins (See: Red Barn Theatre).
The 1987 movie ”Russkies,” starring Joaquin (then Leaf) Phoenix, Peter Billingsley (“You’ll shoot your eye out” Ralphie), and, unexpectedly, singer/songwriter/goddess Carole King, looks to have been almost completely shot in Key West, and gives a nice sense of the town midway between the hippie/drug smuggling era and fullblown tourism.
The kids ride their bikes around Sigsbee, Clinton Square Market, Clinton Place (because it’s not a square), the Audubon House, Key West Bight and a lot of trailer parks and backstreets. They also race go-carts at the late-lamented Magic Carpet Golf. There were so many background actors that I was pretty sure I would recognize someone, though I never did.
My wife and I have a multi-decade argument about whether Timothy Dalton was a good James Bond, and whether “License to Kill” was a good James Bond movie. I’m on the not-good side. The movie does have some good Keys parts. Particularly at the beginning, which starts with Bond and CIA agent Felix Leiter jumping onto a plane at the airstrip on Sugarloaf to keep a notorious drug dealer from escaping, peaks with them subduing said notorious drug dealer after they attached his getaway plane to a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter in midair, and ends with Bond and Leiter parachuting down onto Truman Avenue, so Leiter can go into Saint Mary’s and get married.
It also predates the whole vehicle-crashingoff the Seven Mile Bridge thing that would later become such a big deal in “True Lies.” Although, unlike “True Lies,” it didn’t inspire the audience to cheer when Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jamie Lee Curtis were saved, while the Lower Keys got nuked.
I could probably go on for pages about how much I love Tom McGuane’s 1972 movie “92 in the Shade,” based on his second-best Key West novel of the same name. But I am 633 words into a newspaper column, writing about locally filmed movies when I am supposed to be writing about wildlife.
How did I end up here? Well, it’s been raining for days, which makes it hard to go out and look at birds. And my good binoculars are broken. And six to eight other excuses.
Also, because I read something recently about a movie called “Mako: The Jaws of Death,” which came out in 1976. It was an early sharksploitation film riding the coattails of “Jaws,” which came out the year before. No one else I knew had ever heard of it, but IMDB and Wikipedia said it was filmed in Key West. And sharks count as wildlife, even if I don’t know much about them. Looking at the movie poster, I think “Mako” was added to the title so they didn’t get sued.
So I watched it. For research purposes.
It starred a character actor named Richard Jaeckel, who had 194 screen credits between 1943 and 1997. He was nominated for an Academy Award for a role next to Paul Newman in “Sometimes a Great Notion.” He ended his career with a 28-episode run on “Baywatch.” Sadly, he was not given a lot to work with in “Mako: The Jaws of Death.”
The other notable actor was Harold Sakata, known to most people as Odd Job, the bodyguard/assassin who lived to behead people with his steel-brimmed bowler in “Goldfinger.” His character mostly laughed at his own jokes to fill out the script.
“Mako: The Jaws of Death” is essentially the story of a man who isn’t out to kill sharks — twist! — but to protect them. Sometimes he kills sportfishermen who hunt them. He has a necklace given to him by a holy man in the Pacific who made sharks trust him.
He lives on an out island in a shack with a hatch in the floor that he can lift to talk with and feed his shark friends, who are always swimming below. Despite his homicidal tendencies, he is a trusting man. He lends one shark to a sexy “aquanaut” who swims in kind of a Weeki Wachee scenario in a tank with windows above a roadside dive bar, after she is told she either has to swim with a shark or swim naked. He lends another favorite pregnant shark to a scientist who wears a kerchief and a short-sleeved safari jacket. Both of them betray him.
He goes mad during a hurricane and ends up ripping off his necklace and committing suicide by shark. (Sorry if that’s a spoiler. But the movie has been out for 49 years.)
The most impressive thing about the movie is that it was largely filmed with real sharks, not Jaws-esque animatronics. You see them coursing by the reef, sometimes attacking people, sometimes letting Jaeckel’s character hitch a ride hanging onto a dorsal fin.
While it is a movie whose moral is that sharks should not be killed wantonly, there are actual dead sharks being used as props everywhere. Dead sharks hanging on hooks. Dead baby sharks stacked like cordwood. At one point, a live shark is shot in the back of the head with a bang stick, with real blood immediately pluming out as it falls to the bottom like a downed fighter jet.
While most of the scenes did not look particularly Key West-ish – for instance, all the buildings were concrete – it was hard to say definitively that it was not filmed in Key West or the Keys. At least not until I searched through some old Miami newspaper archives from the era. Turns out Wikipedia and IMDB were wrong. It was filmed in Miami and the Bahamas.
I think it’s time to watch “92 in the Shade” again. And maybe “Russkies.”
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
We’ve officially entered June, which means we are basking in the days of Pride Month. Happy Pride to all of my LGBTQIA+ family and allies. Celebrate that you are as perfect as the planetary cycles. Astrologically, this week is relatively quiet, though we do have two beneficial transits on the horizon. On Friday, Venus moves into her own sign of Taurus, picking up some much needed good vibes. Venus, the planet of love, pleasure and connection, has had a rough go lately, traveling through Aries (not her happy place), going retrograde (relationship drama in March?) and clashing with Saturn (the cosmic buzzkill). The past few months may have strained relationships, dried up the romance or pushed your spending limits. But now, Venus comes home to her garden, where love softens, pleasure returns and budgets breathe. From June 6 through July 4, indulge your senses and luxuriate in the sweetness of the moment. And looking ahead to next week, Jupiter will enter Cancer on Monday, June 9, and stay there for a full year. He is extra joyful in this sign, promising emotional abundance and good luck to come. We’ll look at Jupiter next week. For now, find your hammock and eat your grapes in the grove.
Here are your horoscopes for Venus entering Taurus. Read for your rising and sun signs.
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
You don’t have to be “on” all the time. In fact, your soul is requesting a little off switch or at least a dimmer. Let your dreams do the heavy lifting. Something lovely is unfolding quietly, even if it’s still under construction behind the scenes. Rest is productive. Naps
are efficient. Silence is sacred. Your group chat can wait. You’re not retreating; you’re recalibrating.
June 21 - July 22
You’re starting to feel more at ease around the people who text you back, see you clearly and share their fries. Community is a two-way street, and right now it’s looking like smooth sailing. Let people hype you up. Hype them back. You’re part and parcel of a beautiful community. And if it feels like new folks are entering your orbit, it’s because your light is reaching farther.
LEO
July 23 - Aug. 22
The spotlight will feel a little less like pressure and a little more like home this upcoming month. People are noticing you not because you’re performing but because you’re glowing. Let yourself feel proud of the slow, steady growth you’ve cultivated. You don’t need to prove anything. Just keep showing up with heart and maybe a little dramatic flair.
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
Something in you is stretching, and not in a downward dog way, but a soul-expanding kind of way. You’re connecting to new ideas, new ways of thinking or maybe just discovering that you like things you never gave yourself permission to enjoy. This is your philosophical rom com era. Follow the plot. It’s leading somewhere good. Curiosity is the compass now. Say yes to the unfamiliar, especially if it scares you just a little.
Sept. 23 - Oct. 23
A weight is starting to lift, even if it’s the emotional version of realizing your suitcase has wheels. Some of the intensity you’ve been navigating around money, trust, intimacy or just the general “What is going on?” feeling will begin to soften. Let yourself receive help.
You don’t have to carry it all alone. Vulnerability might feel risky, but it’s also the key that opens the locked doors. Let the support in because resources are shareable.
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
Relationships are starting to feel like a place of comfort again instead of a puzzle with no box top. Love wants to be easy. Or at least easier. Let yourself loosen your grip on the outcomes and trust that what’s meant to grow will grow and what isn’t may still text you occasionally, but that’s not your problem. Connection doesn’t have to come with conditions. Let the people who cherish you show up.
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
Your daily routines are asking for a little more care and a little less chaos. This doesn’t mean becoming a brand new person with color-coded planners unless you’re into that, in which case, go off. It just means bringing a little more love into the small moments. Wash the dish. Take the walk. Make the appointment. Your body and spirit will thank you. Healing lives in repetition. Let ease become part of the ritual.
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
Some part of you is remembering that joy is not just a reward for productivity. It’s allowed to be the main event. Make art. Flirt with someone cute. Eat the good snack before dinner. This is your playful chapter. There’s no test at the end, just the gentle reminder that pleasure can be a form of wisdom.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
You’re reconnecting with what grounds you, whether that’s your home, your chosen family or the weird little rituals that make you feel like yourself. This is not the month to burn it all down and start over. This is the month to fluff your pillows, light the candle and tell
someone you trust that you’re trying. You don’t have to go it alone. Little comforts matter more than they seem.
Feb. 19 - March 20
Your words are landing a little differently, maybe because you’re finally saying what you mean or maybe because people are actually listening. Communication is more than just talking. It’s also being heard. So say it, write it, whisper it to your cat. You’ve got something worth sharing. Don’t underestimate the power of clarity, even if your message is wrapped in glitter or memes.
March 21 - April 19
This is not a get-rich-quick moment but it might be a get-comfyslower moment. You’re learning what enough feels like. Your resources are stabilizing. Your confidence is deepening. Either way, you’re building something steady, and that kind of security is worth savoring. Your value is not tied to your hustle. You’re allowed to relax into the life you’ve created and to want more softness without guilt.
April 20 - May 20
You’re coming back to yourself like it’s the best welcome-home party ever. Your body is speaking clearly. Your heart knows what it wants. Your mirror even seems friendlier. This is not about reinvention. It’s about remembering that your softness, your boldness, your timing, all of it is right on schedule. Indulge. Express. Wear the thing you love. You are the thing you love.
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
All meals are served with housemade plaintain chips
Conch Fritters Mojo Roast Pork with Black Beans and Rice Key Lime Pie
Tostones with Cuban Chimichurri Ropa Vieja with Yellow Rice Tia’s Flan
SERVED WITH BREAD AND BUTTER OF THE DAY
Garbanzo Soup Lobster Enchilados with Rice Guava Bread Pudding
Garbanzo Soup Jerk Chicken with Rice and Peas Guava Bread Pudding
THURSDAY Bollos Grits-n-Grunts
Key Lime Pie
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
Avocado Salad Cuban Mix Tia’s Flan
Caldo Gallego Picadillo with Black Beans and Rice Key Lime Pie
Conch Fritters Mariscado with White Rice Guava Bread Pudding
Ceviche Mojo Roast Pork with Black Beans and Rice Key Lime Pie
Caldo Gallego Key West Seafood Rissotto Tia’s Flan
Mariscado Swordfish Picatta with Rice and Broccolini Tia’s Flan
Tostones with Cuban Chimichurri Picadillo with Black Beans and Rice Tia’s Flan
Cocktail Classes
Conch Fritters Grits-n-Grunts Key Lime Pie
Rum Revelations A Cocktail Adventure Key West History Through Craft Cocktails 1pm 5pm
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Island once produced fruit; a notable school was also established
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
It takes 16 miles to drive between Jewfish Creek and Tavernier Creek, the distance the Overseas Highway travels across Key Largo. The largest of the Florida Keys, the island has a wealth of stories to tell, and its farming history is one that shouldn’t be overlooked. Before the islands were a fishing or vacation destination, the Keys were populated with farming communities. One crop for which they became famous was pineapples. The first to grow the sweet, juicy fruit commercially was a Key West wrecker named Ben Baker –wrecking was the business of salvaging ships, crews, passengers and cargo in peril. Baker was once hailed as the King of the Florida Wreckers. Benjamin Baker was born on Green Turtle Cay, Abaco, in 1818. He married Catherine S. Albury, a Bahamian born in Eleuthera. Their marriage was fruitful, and delivered 11 children.
After the arrival of their third child, some time between 1847 and 1848, the growing family left the Bahamas, sailed across the Straits of Florida and into the harbor at Key West.
They lived in a two-story house at the corner of Caroline and Whitehead streets. By 1850, Baker had established the Baker Wrecking Company and himself as a Florida wreck-
er. It was not his only job; he and his sons were pineapple farmers, too. It was the late 1850s when Baker sailed for the Upper Keys and cleared land on Plantation Key and Key Largo. When the fields were ready, Baker left for Havana and purchased as many as 6,000 pineapple slips and suckers to plant on his lands. A firsthand account of his operation, written by Dr. J.B. Holder, appeared in an 1871 edition of Harper’s Weekly: “Plantation Key has considerable good soil; many of the trees here are seventy or eighty feet in height. Here was a large plantation of cocoa-nut palms, several hundred in number, and a patch of young pineapples. A late paper gives the account of the products of his patch, which have been materially increased since the writer was there. Mr. Baker, the owner, who resides at Key West, is reported to have realized seven thousand dollars this season from his crop of pine-apples. The great drawback is the prevalence of mosquitoes, throughout the whole year, in such swarms that few persons are willing to suffer the annoyance; otherwise these keys would richly reward the cultivator.”
Today, the $7,000 Baker earned from his pineapple fields from that season’s haul would be worth about $150,000. In addition to Baker’s Plantation Key pineapple patch, his Key Largo homestead was located in the area of what is now MM 97.
At the Key Largo site, Baker built a home and operated his wrecking business, at least part-time, from the Key Largo anchorage. According to the 1870 U.S. Census, Baker was recorded as one of 61 people living on Key Largo. It was also the year that the island’s first post office opened.
Baker filed the petition, indicating it would serve 17 families. It was not called the Key Largo Post Office but the Cayo Largo Post Office.
Early Spanish charts noted the island as Cayo de Dose Leguas or Key of Twelve Leagues. In William Roberts’ First Discovery and Natural History of Florida (1763), it was identified as “Cayo Largo O Doce Legues.”
J.W. Norie, in his Piloting Directions for the Gulf of Florida, the Bahama Banks & Islands (1828), wrote: “Cayo Largo affords no living creature, except raccoons and insects, especially those troublesome ones, mosquitoes and scorpions.”
When driving over Key Largo and down the highway, where a wide median separates the southbound and northbound lanes, you will pass an old school, an old house and the area where, in 1977, sightings of Florida’s favorite cryptid made local headlines.
Near MM 98, the road passes through land once owned by William Dunham and Mary Jane Albury. Like many pioneers who carved out a way of life in the Florida Keys, they left the Bahamas and settled in Key West. In 1886, the Alburys, along with their three-week-old son William Beauregard, moved up the island chain to the Rock Harbor area of Key Largo. The family farmed pineapples until a blight, and competition from Cuban farmers, took their toll on the Keys’ pineapple industry.
The Alburys replaced their pineapple fields with groves of Key lime trees. In the early 1920s, they donated land from the groves to the Monroe County School District for a new school, the two-room, coral rock Rock Harbor Grammar School –built circa 1924. As you drive past the
building, its coral “bones” can still be seen at what is now the Key Largo Moose Lodge (in the median near MM 98).
A little south of the old school is the home base of a local nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting coral reef awareness, the Reef Environmental Education Foundation. Circa 1912, William and Beauregard Albury built the conch-style wooden house. It was one of the first local homes to have screened-in windows. Today, it is the oldest structure on Key Largo standing in its original locale.
At MM 97, on the bayside of the highway, is Baker’s Cay. If the name sounds familiar, it should. The resort, built on land once owned by the man who introduced pineapple farming to the Florida Keys, was named to honor Captain Ben Baker.
Because you never know what you might see in the Florida Keys, back in the summer of 1977, people reported seeing a Skunk Ape in the area of Snapper’s Restaurant near MM 94. What is a Skunk Ape? It’s the Sunshine State’s favorite cryptid, Florida’s version of Bigfoot.
The event lasted two weeks. It wasn’t the only one, either. In fact, just a few weeks ago, I was contacted by someone who wasn’t sure what he saw until he walked past my book, “The Florida Keys Skunk Ape Files,” on display at Robbie’s of Islamorada, and exclaimed to his wife, “That’s it, that’s what I saw!”
Remember to keep your eyes peeled when driving through the Florida Keys; there is a lot to see, and some of it is absolutely breathtaking. More importantly, pay attention to the road; the other people driving might be distracted, too.
COURTNEY GRABUS
Senior, Key West
Goalkeeper
Senior Courtney Grabus was a team captain, a scholar-athlete and standout on the field for the Conchs. Described as the team’s anchor, Grabus had 93 saves, nine ground balls and nine interceptions this season, and despite being the team’s last line of defense, she added an assist to her stats. Grabus’ play style set her apart, coach Marisa Giacopuzzi said. “She is aggressive, fearless and unpredictable, which gives us an advantage when she flies out of the crease for a huge interception. The other teams never saw it coming!” Grabus was a spirited team leader and the starting keeper for the Conchs for the entirety of her high school career. “She’s been our star for four years,” said Giacopuzzi, “and is leaving us with big shoes to fill.”
Rebuilding pays dividends for next season and beyond
Key West knew it would be a year to rebuild, and the team’s hard work built skills, confidence and camaraderie. The Lady Conchs finished the season 6-9, with one of the wins coming in the postseason. The team returns multiple key players and, despite some heavy losses in their outgoing seniors, should be solid in the coming seasons.
Coral Shores finished 2-10, but the team made the wins count. Both came against district opponents, with one in the postseason. The Hurricanes also return multiple starters, making for an exciting 2026 season.
KAITLYN PILOTO
Senior, Key West
Midfielder
Senior captain Kaitlyn Piloto will be missed next season for her phenomenal play as well as her motivational contributions to the team. Giacopuzzi called Piloto the team motivator, saying she is “the one who is always giving pep talks at timeouts, quarterly breaks and halftime. Her passion and love for the game is contagious.” Piloto amassed 45 goals and three assists this season. The midfielder proved to be dynamic, adding 48 draw controls, 29 ground balls and 10 caused turnovers to her stats to cap off a fantastic senior season.
Senior, Key West Midfielder
A painful knee injury may have left Deanna Mercier in need of crutches this season, but it did not stop her from contributing to her team. “Deanna fought till the end; she was literally on crutches hobbling off the field for the last time after losing to Westminster Christian in the semis,” said Giacopuzzi. Credited for her passion and inspiration to others, the captain was a role model and mentor. The senior collected 34 goals, 14 assists, 32 draw controls, 27 ground balls and 11 caused turnovers for the Conchs.
Junior, Key West Midfielder
With 27 goals, an assist, 43 draw controls, 22 ground balls and 18 caused turnovers to her credit this season, it is not surprising Colbie Turner was praised for her hustle and heart.
“Colbie took a beating, nearly every game, because she played that aggressively with her whole heart. She gave her all, 100% of the time,” said Giacopuzzi.
Junior, Key West Attacker
With impeccable vision for the game, junior Eisley Whitehead knew when to take a shot and when to set up a teammate. The junior low attacker tallied 54 ground balls, eight goals and nine assists. Giacopuzzi credited Whitehead as having great composure regardless of the situation, and added, “Her hustle across the field, whether on offensive transitions or redefending the ball after a turnover, is worthy of praise.”
Sophomore, Coral Shores Defender
Hurricane sophomore Chloe Cummings held down the defense this season, combining her skills on the field with incredible energy. Cummings’ stats included 21 ground balls, 10 caused turnovers and a goal. “Chloe always gives 110% out on the field. She plays every possession like we are tied in the game,” said coach Alex PIke.
Junior, Coral Shores
Midfielder
Adelynn McNew was a wealth of resources for the ’Canes this season. Named team captain, the midfielder’s leadership combined with athleticism to make her a force on the field. McNew collected 43 ground balls, scored 28 goals and caused 10 turnovers this season, and being a lefty was an added benefit. “Addy was an incredible asset as a left-handed player and critical in transitions,” said Pike.
Junior, Coral Shores
Midfielder
Tiedemann won 61 draw controls for the ’Canes this season, giving her team an advantage with each one. She also picked up 32 ground balls, caused eight turnovers and scored eight goals. “Ivy has a true talent taking the draw to begin each possession,” said Pike.
Junior, Coral Shores
Attacker/Midfielder
Shay Stober brought vision to the Hurricanes this season to score 22 goals and assist on six more. “Shay has an eye for knowing what is going to work on the offensive side of the field,” said Pike. “She is great at seeing when a teammate has an opportunity to score or when she can drive to goal herself.” Stober also added six caused turnovers and 27 ground balls to her stats her junior season.
Junior, Coral Shores
Midfield/Defense
Junior Allegra Fucaraccio scored three goals, caused nine turnovers and picked up 25 ground balls for the Hurricanes this season, making her a versatile player with lots of offensive and defensive weapons. However, it was the team captain’s intangibles that set her apart most. “Allegra is an incredible all-around player, but her true talent is bringing the energy to every practice and game,” said Pike.
The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County encourages all residents to get screened early. Talk to your primary care doctor and ask what preventive cancer screenings are recommended for you.
Breast Cancer
Annual mammograms start at age 40.
Consider earlier screening if you have a family history of breast cancer.
Colon Cancer
Begin annual stool-based screening at age 45.
Ask about colonoscopy or stool-based tests.
Cervical Cancer
Annual Pap tests start at age 21. Start co-testing (Pap and HPV) every ve years from ages 30–65.
Monthly self-exams start in your 20s. Begin annual full-body exams by age 35, or earlier if you are high-risk.
Talk to your doctor at age 50, or 45 if you’re Black or have a family history of prostate cancer.
By Dr. Alan Nieder
Since 2014, prostate cancer rates have increased by about 3% each year In 2025, more than 300,000 new cases are expected in the U S alone Often symptomless in its early stages, prostate cancer can go undetected without regular screening, making early intervention critical
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland below the bladder that can develop several conditions as men age, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and cancer. Prostate cancer, while often slow growing, is most treatable when caught early.
Two main tools for screening are:
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test: A blood test that measures PSA levels
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical exam to detect irregularities in the prostate
Men over 50 (or those with a family history) should talk to their doctor about when to begin screening Early detection can lead to effective treatment and better outcomes.
Schedule an appointment today with one of Mount Sinai’s urologists at our Key West Specialty Care location at 305 294 8334 or at our Marathon location at 305 289 2910
Dr Alan M Nieder is the Co-Chief and an Associate Professor at Mount Sinai Medical Center’s Division of Urology He directs the ACGME-accredited Urology Residency Program and specializes in urologic oncology, bladder reconstruction, and kidney stone management A recognized expert in bladder and prostate cancer, Dr Nieder has authored over 50 publications and is listed among America’s Top Cancer Doctors by Newsweek
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “Aliens” (1986)
Why: “Aliens” is an atmospheric, action-packed sci-fi adventure that reminds us that they don’t make them like they used to. Ripley, the lead protagonist from “Alien,” is dragged back into the horror she thought she had jettisoned into the depths of space during the previous movie.
This film is an exploration of humanity’s primal fears and animalistic survival dressed as a classic ’80s action flick. The towering shiny black alien that bleeds acid is not the biggest monster in this film. As Ripley aptly puts, “They’re not the ones out here screwing each other over.”
It seems that no matter how far into the future we go, the same old challenges come up when exploitable resources are available and corporations are running the show. Sometimes we have to wrench control into our own hands in order to save each other.
Where: This film is available as a DVD from the Monroe County Public Library.
How: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/ keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? keyslibraries.org/ contact-us.
Recommended by: Kevin Lacayo, library assistant, Key Largo library branch.
See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/post/reel-recs.
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “The Authenticity Project” by Claire Pooley.
Why: This story is about a solitary green notebook with a note by an eccentric, 79-yearold, lonely man who was an art teacher and had a wonderful life but is missing his wife who passed. In the notebook he asks readers to answer a question – “Everybody lies about their lives. What would happen if you shared the truth?” He intentionally leaves it behind at a popular cafe and in turn that brings together six strangers and leads to unexpected friendships, and even love. What I love about this sweet story is how it connects people from totally different walks of life but brings people together in wonderful ways too.
Where: You can borrow this as a print book or e-book from the Monroe County Public Library.
How: You can request books, including e-books and e-audiobooks, online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@ keyslibraries.org
Recommended by: Eva Stafford, cataloging manager. See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/postshelf-help.
In one hour, 23 volunteers collected 153 pounds of trash, 13 pounds of recycling and 2.25 gallons of cigarette butts. 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 305-2968297 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.
June 6: Upper Duval. Meet in front of the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, which is the host.
June 13: Key West Fire Station on Simonton Street. Meet in the parking lot by the fire station. Hosted by Last Stand of the Florida Keys.
June 20: Lazy Way and the Key West Bight area. Meet next to the Wyland Wall at the end of William Street. Hosted by The Marker Resort.
June 27: Simonton and Catherine streets. Meet in the parking lot of First State Bank, which is hosting.
TUESDAY - WEDNESDAY 11- 4
THURSDAY - SATURDAY 11- 6
SUNDAY & MONDAY CLOSED
Voted BEST LOCAL RETAILER by the Key West People’s Choice Awards 2023 & 2024. And mentioned in Forbes magazine!
By Julie Clark
Vincent Taylor, famous author of horror novels, is dying. He requests a ghostwriter to help him complete his final book, a memoir. Olivia Dumont has not seen or spoken to her elusive father in years. She was sent to boarding school at 14 and never went home again. With a different surname, Olivia, also a writer, has slipped under the radar, and no one knows her true identity. When Vincent was a teenager, his brother and sister were murdered, and the killer was never found. Fingers pointed at Vincent for years, which only increased sales of his novels. But now he is ready for the truth to be written, and he wants Olivia to be the author. Similar to her early childhood, Vincent is still playing games with her clever mind. Olivia must follow clues to figure out who killed her Aunt Poppy and Uncle Danny. Going back to Ojai where she grew up is hard, and facing the reasons her mother left reveals deeply painful memories. Regardless of the outcome personally and professionally, Olivia is determined to solve this mystery. A twisted bookwithin-a-book, you will not move from your chair until the final page.
First and foremost a reader, she has reviewed hundreds of books on her blog www. readingandeating. com. And, more recently, this new Keys resident has also begun writing.
By Josie Silver
Kate Elliot needs a job. After spending the past 20 years as a stay-at-home mom, her skills are a little out of practice. Reaching out to her long-ago London agent, she’s stunned to find his son, Charlie, is now running the agency. Charlie proposes a unique opportunity to her: to be the face of a bestselling love story, with the author remaining anonymous. Kate will attend book signings, give interviews and essentially pretend to be the author – not to mention that after one reading, she herself falls in love with the book. Post-divorce Kate moves out of her beautiful home and is temporarily living in a small flat above her sister’s costume shop. When sparks begin to fly between her and Charlie, also a recent divorcee, the job starts to feel less like a quirky favor and more like an unexpected second chance at love. As their professional relationship turns personal, Kate struggles to keep things platonic while their chemistry is off the charts. Romantic, sweet and packed with humor, this novel has it all. Lovable characters and a fast-paced plot – it’s the perfect easy read for the beach this summer.
By Allison Larkin
Short on rent again, Freya Arnald hits the road, leaving behind Acadia, Maine after a decade. Hounded by an estate attorney, she heads to Somers, New York, where her deceased parents’ home awaits, along with two unexpected occupants: her 15-year-old niece Aubrey and a rat named Lenny Juice. Freya’s initial plan to sell the dilapidated house quickly evaporates when she realizes serious repairs are needed. Deeply drawn to Aubrey, whom she hasn’t seen since she was little, Freya must navigate the challenges of renovation while reconnecting with her niece and avoiding the rest of the town, especially her evil sister. Along the way, she reunites with Jam, her oldest friend and a musical prodigy battling his own demons. As Freya rebuilds the house and her relationship with Aubrey, she faces the painful past she left behind. In this heartwarming drama, Freya discovers that family isn’t just about blood — it’s also the people we choose. With a richly drawn cast of quirky characters, this novel is a beautiful testament to second chances. Sometimes, despite our best efforts to run, happiness can be found where we least expect it, proving that you can always go home again.
#WORTHWATCHING: Set in a beautiful coastal town in Tasmania, “The Survivors” follows Kieran and Mia as they return to confront their troubled past and care for his aging father. Their plans unravel when a body washes ashore, plunging the town into a gripping web of secrets and unresolved trauma. Based on Jane Harper’s bestselling novel, this series blends murder mystery with family drama – a must-watch this summer.
NEWS OF THE WEIRD
More than 12,000 chicks that had been shipped out from Freedom Ranger Hatchery in Pennsylvania to clients across the country were discovered in early May abandoned in a USPS truck, the Associated Press reported. The turkey, geese, chicken and quail chicks were found at a Camden, Delaware, distribution center. They had been in the truck for three days without food or water, and some had perished. The surviving chicks were delivered to First State Animal Center and SPCA, where a few hundred were adopted out. Executive director John Parana said the agency is struggling financially to take care of the birds.
Adam Smith (1723-1790), economist/philosopher; John Maynard Keynes (1883-1946), economist; Richard Scarry (1919-1994), children's author; Bill Moyers (1934- ), TV journalist/author; Spalding Gray (1941-2004), actor/writer; Ken Follett (1949- ), author; Suze Orman (1951- ), financial adviser/author; Kathleen Kennedy (1953- ), film producer; Kenny G (1956- ), musician; Jeff Garlin (1962- ), actor/comedian; Rick Riordan (1964- ), author; Mark Wahlberg (1971- ), actor; Nick Kroll (1978- ), actor/comedian; Pete Wentz (1979- ), singer-songwriter/musician.
In 1968, U.S. presiden al candidate Robert F. Ke edy was fata y shot by Sirhan Sirhan at the Amba ador Hotel in Los Angeles.
A ording to the Alzheimer’s A ocia on, an es mated 7.2 mi ion Americans ages 65 or older have Alzheimer’s disease in 2025.
“You never get cheered for telling people the situation is not as simple as they think.”
– Ken Follett, "Fall of Giants"
Founded by Betty Debnam
Mini Fact: Iowa produces more than 2 billion bushels of corn each year.
Our 29th state, Iowa, was admitted to the Union in 1846. The midwestern state is bordered by two major rivers, the Mississippi on the east and the Missouri on the west.
When Europeans arrived in what is now Iowa, Native Americans in the region were farmers, growing corn and other plants on the prairies.
The first explorers in the region were Frenchmen who claimed the land for France. It remained a French territory until 1763, when it was transferred to Spanish ownership. France reclaimed it in 1800, and it was part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.
Farmers grow hogs, corn, soybeans and cattle. The state is the largest supplier of corn in the United States.
Although agriculture was the main source of income for Iowans until the mid-20th century,
manufacturing is the largest part of the economy today. Iowa workers produce heavy machinery, electric equipment and chemicals, along with processed foods.
• Buffalo Bill was a well-known soldier and showman who was born in Iowa in 1846. He performed in cowboy-themed shows around the United States and in Europe in the late 1800s. He was also a rider for the Pony Express and a soldier in the Civil War.
• Caitlin Clark is a professional basketball player with the Indiana Fever. She was born in Des Moines in 2002. Clark was a two-time national player of the year with the Iowa Hawkeyes and a WNBA All-Star in 2024.
• Grant Wood, an American artist who created the painting “American Gothic,” was born in 1891 in Anamosa, Iowa. For his iconic painting, he used his sister, Nan, and his dentist as models.
Iowa’s state capital and largest city is Des Moines (deh-MOYN), with about 850,000 people.
During presidential elections, Iowa proudly hosts the nation’s first caucuses, or meetings to choose presidential candidates.
In the Iowa caucuses, people gather in private homes or public places in January or February. People from different parties meet at different spots. This is different from primaries, where polls are open most of the day.
With a graduation rate higher than 44 other states, 90% of Iowa’s students graduate from high school. Many go on to the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, Drake University or other institutions.
Words that remind us of Iowa are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
ARTIST, BUFFALO, BUSHEL, CAUCUS, CLARK, CORN, DES MOINES, FRANCE, GRADUATES, HOGS, IOWA, MISSISSIPPI, MISSOURI, PRAIRIE, PRIMARY, RIVERS, SOYBEANS, SPAIN, WOOD.
Wood’s painting “Fall
On the Web:
• bit.ly/MPIowa • bit.ly/MPharvest
At the library:
• “The Train Rolls on to the County Fair” by Jodi Adams
Galápagos Islands yellow warblers exposed to regular traffic noise have become more aggressive, according to a new study from Britain’s Anglia Ruskin University. Birds living near roads displayed increased physical aggression during simulated territorial intrusions that were accompanied by traffic sounds, while those farther from roads showed less aggression under the same conditions. The warblers also adjusted their songs, lengthening them and raising their minimum frequencies to avoid being drowned out by low-frequency traffic noise.
FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of S S POPS Island Tours located at 1515 Sombrero Boulevard, Marathon, Florida 33050, intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, FL.
By: Two Conchs Island Tours LLC Publish: June 5, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of The Greeen House located at 925 Duval Street, Key West, Florida
33040, intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, FL. By: TGHFL 925 Duval LLC
Publish: June 5, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Notice is hereby given that on dates below these vehicles will be sold at public sale on the date listed below at 10AM for monies owed on vehicle repair and storage cost pursuant to Florida Statutes 713.585.
SALE DATE: JULY 28, 2025 SOUTHERN MARINA STOCK ISLAND, 6000 PENINSULAR AVE, KEY WEST, FL 1998 CRS CRSUSN10I798
$8,735.21
OWNER: BRITT BOBALI Southern Marina Stock Island
reserves the right to accept or reject any and/all bids.
Publish: May 29 & June 5, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETINGS NOTICE
Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings
The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform.
The access points to view the Zoom meetings or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com
Cultural Umbrella Committee
Meeting
June 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM
The following is an upcoming GMX procurement opportunity:
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)
GMX PROCUREMENT/CONTRACT NO.: RFQ-25-04
GMX WORK PROGRAM NO.: 11212.011
GMX PROJECT/SERVICE TITLE: PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENT (PD&E) STUDY FOR THE PARTIAL INTERCHANGE AT SR 112 AND NW 37TH AVENUE
For detailed information please visit the Procurement Department website at http://www.gmx-way.com/business/solicitations, or call the Procurement Department at 305-637-3277 for assistance.
Publish: June 5, 2025. The Weekly Newspapers
Stanley Zuba, M.D.
Florida Keys Pediatric & Adolescent Center 91550 Overseas Highway, #209 Tavernier, Florida 33070
Dr. Stanley Zuba will be retiring and will no longer be practicing at Florida Keys Pediatric & Adolescent Center e ective June 3, 2025.
Patients’ medical records will remain at Florida Keys Pediatric & Adolescent Center, 91550 Overseas Highway, #209, Tavernier, Florida 33070 under the custodianship of Dr. Manuel Joaquin Gomez and his sta . Patients wishing to pick up their records may do so starting June 3, 2025.
Publish: June 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
Eastern Time
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Publish:
June 5, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC HEARINGS NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, THAT THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH WILL BE HOLDING PUBLIC HEARINGS ON:
DATE/TIME:
Planning & Zoning Hearing: Wednesday, June 18th, 2025, 9:30 A.M.
City Commission Public Hearing: Thursday, July 17th, 2025, 9:30 A.M.
LOCATION:
City of Key Colony Beach City Hall Auditorium ‘Marble Hall’ 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051, To hear a Variance Request from Sharon Power, owner of the property located at 150 9th Street, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051. This meeting will be available via Zoom Meetings. Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may email the City Clerk at keycolonybeach.netcityclerk@ or call 305-289-1212, Ext. 2 for further instructions on attending via Zoom Meetings. The applicant requests a variance to the City of Key Colony Beach Land Development Regulations, Article IV, Sec. 101-26, for the construction of a pool that would encroach in the setback by two (2) feet on the side.
Interested parties may attend the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.
If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
If you are unable to attend the Hearings on Wednesday, June 18th, 2025, or Thursday, July 17th, 2025, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or via email at keycolonybeach.net,cityclerk@and your comments will be entered into the record.
Published: On or before June 8th, 2025
City Clerk, City of Key Colony Beach
Publish: June 5, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on June 18, 2025, at 9:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Murray E. Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida 33037, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider adopting the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE MONROE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AMENDING SECTION 19-4 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE PROVIDING FOR REVISED TOLL RATES AND TOLL-BYPLATE RATES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING
FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION INTO THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The proposed ordinance may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by viewing the agenda packet for the June 18, 2025, meeting, which will be posted beginning on June 12, 2025 at: http://monroecountyfl. iqm2.com/citizens/default. aspx. The ordinance may also be viewed at the Monroe County Attorney’s office at 1111 12th St. Ste. 408 Key West, FL 33040. The public can participate in the June 18, 2025, meeting of the Board of CommissionersCounty of Monroe County, FL by attending in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link can be found in the agenda at http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30a.m.—5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice- impaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners. Dated at Key West, Florida, this 5th day of June, 2025. KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Ex Officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: June 5, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: COMPREHENSIVE DISASTER RECOVERY AND GRANT MANAGEMENT CONSULTING SERVICES MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www.floridapublicnotices. com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at bonfirehub.comhttps://monroecounty-fl. OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not e m a i l , mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/mailed/physically delivered responsesbids/proposals/ WILL NOT be accepted.
The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at bonfirehub.com,https://monroecounty-fl. no later than 3:00 P.M. on Monday, June 30, 2025. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please d o n o t submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/ proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071.
If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Monday, June 30, 2025. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156
Meeting ID: 4509326156
One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)
Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
Publish: June 5, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION IN ADMIRALTY CASE NO.: 4:25-cv-10041-DPG IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPLAINT OF REINALDO AQUIT AS OWNER OF A 2022 DEEP IMPACT, REGISTRATION NO. 4O1327056, 39' HIN DIC39928K122, AND OTHER APPURTENANCES, Petitioner, NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS OF PETITION FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
Notice is given that the above named Petitioner, Reinaldo Aquit ("Limitation Petitioner") has filed a Petition/Complaint for Exoneration from or Limitation of Liability, pursuant to 46 U.S.C. § 30501 et seq., ("Limitation Petition") for all claims for any damages or injuries, arising out of, or occurring as a result of an incident on the navigable waters of the United States on or about November 7, 2024, allegedly involving a 2022 Deep Impact, Registration No. DO1327056, 39' HIN DIC39928K122, and Other Appurtenances, as more fully described in the Limitation Petition.
All persons having such claims must file their respective claims, as provided by Supplemental Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, with the Clerk of Court in writing and must serve a copy thereof on attorneys for Limitation Petitioner on or before July 14, 2025 or be defaulted. Personal attendance is not required.
Any claimant who desires to contest either the right to exoneration from or the right to limitation of liability shall file and serve on attorneys for Limitation Petitioner an answer to the Complaint, on or before the aforesaid date, unless the claim includes an answer, so designated, or be defaulted.
DONE AND ORDERED this 12th day of May, 2025.
DARRIN P. GAYLES
UNITED STATE DISTRICT JUDGE Publish: June 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL
CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 2025-CP-220-P
IN RE: THE ESTATE OF EDITH WINIFRED SHERRILL, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of EDITH WINIFRED SHERRILL, deceased, whose date of death was April 25, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, on whom a copy of this notice is 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. 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 PERIOD 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: June 5, 2025.
Personal Representative: Simon Lee Sherrill
100 Ocean Shores Dr. Key Largo, FL 33037
Attorney for Personal Representative:
Urban J. W. Patterson, Esq.
Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com
Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@yahoo.com
Florida Bar No. 382035
Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P. O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036 Telephone: 3056645065
Publish: June 5 & 12, 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-200-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF ELSIE P. ROGERS a/k/a ELSIE LEE ROGERS, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of ELSIE P. ROGERS a/k/a ELSIE LEE ROGERS, deceased, whose date of death was January 31, 2025, Case: 25-CP-200-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF
THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
The date of first publication of this Notice is: June 5, 2025.
Personal Representative:
SHERYL R. SMOAK
c/o Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq.
Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A.
3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040
Attorney for Personal Representative: Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0144304
Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040 Email designation for service: Service.Probate@ samkaufmanlaw.com Telephone: (305) 292-3926 Fax: (305) 295-7947
Publish:
June 5 & 12, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 25-CP-208-K
DIVISION: LOWER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF DONNA MAE JACOBSEN Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Donna Mae Jacobsen, deceased, whose date of death was March 10, 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 ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: May 29, 2025.
Personal Representative: Janet Rogers 1507 Watson Blvd. Big Pine Key, Florida 33043
Attorney for Personal Representative:
Richard E. Warner
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134
RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A.
12221 Overseas Highway
MARATHON, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-6022
Fax: (305) 743-6216
E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com
Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com
Publish:
May 29 & June 5, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 25-DR-527-K VINCENT DUFOUR, Petitioner, and PENNEL GRACE SORIANO SANTORIA QUINTONG, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: PENNEL GRACE SORIANO SANTORIA QUINTONG RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 632 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Vincent William Dufour, whose address is 2013 Fogarty Avenue, Key West, FL 33040 on or before June 14, 2025, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.
The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: N/A Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.
You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.
Dated: May 9, 2025
Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk
Publish: May 15, 22, 29 and June 5, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483
2003 Ford Explorer 174k miles, runs great, A/C works. $3,500 OBO. Located in Middle Keys. 305-417-0169
PLACE YOUR AUTO FOR SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Pease call 305-743-0844 today!
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
19’x40’ slip in Marathon, could handle somewhat larger boat with approval from dockmaster. Desirable location in marina, easy in, easy out. Available 1 June 25 thru Oct 25, possibly long term lease. $1,400/ mo. Please contact Vern Rozier, 904 626 5279, or 904 626 8224 and leave call back info. Or email vrrozier@yahoo.com.
ALL KEYS GUTTER HIRING INSTALLERS $25/$35hr - Holidays Off -BenefitsTavernier. Apply: call or text Jay 305-587-1581
Night Monitor – FREE
Private Room in exchange for overnight availability at our Assisted Living Facility. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am plus weekly stipend, Drug & background screen required. www.westcare. com/join-our-team/
NOW HIRING in Marathon. Front DeskSaturday only from 9am5pm. Call 305-289-6500
Boat rental company in Marathon needs workers –Boat drivers, Truck drivers, Boat cleaners & Boat detailing. Call 305-481-7006
Fantastic part-time Housekeeper position available in Key Colony Beach! Immediate start date. Primarily on weekends, with excellent pay for the right candidate. Reach out to Continental Inn Beachside at Vivian 952-208-2850 or Cheryl 305-505-8747
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring for the following positions: Resident Care Supervisor with min. 3 yrs. experience of an LPN, Housing Manager-FT-Marathon, Carpenter-FT, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker. 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.
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.
HELP WANTED: Two Conchs in Marathon is now hiring a Full Time Retail Sales Person in our Tackle Shop/Marina. Competitive wages. Contact George 305-289-0199 HIRED
PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Pease call 305 743-0844 today! today.
COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
The City of Key Colony Beach is accepting applications for the Administrative Assistant position. The Administrative Assistant will respond to and resolve administrative inquiries, issue boat trailer parking permits, review and issue annual Business Tax License applications while keeping those records updated, issue Property Management Certificates of Completion, and accurately maintain those records. Additionally, this role involves conducting educational classes and fostering strong relationships with managers, owners, and the city, assisting the Front Desk and other departments, and performing any other necessary tasks.
Qualifications: High school graduate with two years of experience in customer service and administrative support. Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite. Applicants must have strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
Salary: $61,000.00+ Competitive salary based on experience. Exceptional benefits, including participation in the Florida Retirement Fund, are available. Contact City Hall for an application at 305289-1212, opt. 2. Applications are also available at www.keycolonybeach.net; see “City Government” then “Forms”. Open until filled. Equal Opportunity Employer Submit resume and application by mail or in-person to: City of Key Colony Beach City Hall
Attn: City Clerk 600 West Ocean Drive PO Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 Or email cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net
2/2 on the water w/ dockage in Pirates Cove, Key Largo. Fenced & fully furnished. Short and long term available. From $3500/month. Credit check required. 28 day minimum. Call 305-588-6723
1BR/1BA Upstairs adorable condo for rent on 8th Street in Key Colony Beach. $2,300/mo + $150 credit/background check fee. Avail. June 1st. Call 630-330-1610
3BR/3BA fully furnished home for rent in Marathon. Avail July 1. $4,500/mo. 618-559-9143
Studio House with Queen size bed available in Marathon. Furnished, kitchen, dining, newly renovated. No pets. $1,299 + utilities F/L/S 305-610-8002
Room available June 15th. Stock Island near CVS. Traveling nurses, working professionals only. No pets, smokers or drugs. Gated, safe, quiet with parking & a pool. Fully furnished w/private bath, smart TV, washer/ dryer. House and kitchen privileges always with fridge and cabinet space. All included... Monthly rent $1200.00 and Security deposit $1000.00 at move in time. Call 305-797-5600 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
Key Colony Beach7 night min., 2BR/1BA, max. 3 guests per rental agreement. Starting $175/ night + cleaning fees & taxes. 786-285-9476 fjvillegascpa@gmail.com
A BIG Treasures & Trash MOVING SALE! Rain or Shine - ALL MUST GO! -
DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) Corporation specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.
We have the following opening available. Scan the QR code to visit the careers page on our website. FACILITIES
APPRENTICE (Full-Time, Permanent)
DRC seeks to provide for the well-being of its employees by offering a competitive total package. DRC currently offers a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays, vacation, sick and an employee assistance program. DRC also provides life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee.
COME JOIN THE FAMILY!
Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE
DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER
58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL
Teaching... Learning... Caring
CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES ASSISTANT, CNA (FT)
Captain Pip’s & their sister properties are looking to hire for general of ce help. Send resume to captpips@aol.com or come in the of ce to ll out application. 1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050
CAPTAIN PIP’S IS AN AWESOME PLACE TO WORK, WE TREAT OUR EMPLOYEES GREAT. COME JOIN OUR TEAM!
This position is responsible for face-to-face customer service, inbound calls and email inquiries for this tourism company located in Key West, FL. A well-quali ed applicant must be self-motivated, have excellent sales & customer service skills, be computer literate, have sound knowledge of telephone etiquette, ability to maintain con dentiality and must read/write/speak clear English.
For application by email contact Brett@YankeeFreedom.com.
Apply in person at 100 Grinnell Street, Suite 200, Key West, FL 33040
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Engineering Department:
willing to train the right candidate.
Assisting our clients with dental, medical and transportation appts. Act as liaison between clients, families and support staff. Requires some on-call responsibility. Min. requirement - Florida certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant.*
CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES MANAGER, RN/LPN (FT)
Responsible for medical administration of prescriptions and over the counter drugs. This nurse will serve as a liaison between the medical services staff, group homes, supported living and ADT staff and the physicians and pharmacy as needed. Coordinate needs and services, supervise the medical services staff by overseeing the implementation of all medical & therapeutic interventions. Coordinate w/other medical staff for on-call duties as required. Must have a current Florida license as an RN or LPN.*
DIRECT CARE STAFF – NIGHTS/WEEKENDS – GROUP HOMES 24/7 (FT)
These positions are available at our Windsor and Von Phister Group Homes. Providing direct-care services and support to our clients in their home. Must be willing to work flexible shifts including overnights. This position requires a minimum of high school completion or GED and 1 year of experience with care giving or 30 hours of college coursework.*
DIRECT CARE STAFF/DRIVER AT ADULT DAY-TRAINING PROGRAM (FT/PT)
This position is available at our Adult Day program. Providing direct care service and support for our clients in the day program. Requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. Prefer experience with caregiving or working with adults with disabilities*
*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS: Fluent
driver’s license. EOE
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $136,979/annually$140,815/annually
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.
e Turtle Hospital in Marathon wants you to join their team! EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM GUIDES/GIFT SHOP SALES
Full and part-time. Public speaking and & retail sales experience helpful. $19/hour to start.
Send resume to: turtlehospital@turtlehospital.org
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 Counselor (Children)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Children Forensic, Adult) (FT,PT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult, PT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)
Prevention Specialist
Advocate
MARATHON
Care Coordinator (PT)
Driver (CDL not required) (PT)
RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (FT,PT) Maintenance Specialist
*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT,PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT,PT)
*Night Monitor (Assisted Living - Free Housing)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
EEOC/DFWP
COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!
Apply at guidancecarecenter.org
Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.
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.
We are now hiring for the following positions:
CDL Drivers
Applicants must apply in person to be considered.
4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C)Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C), BHMG Multispecialty - Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, Upper Keys-Gastro, $5k Bonus
MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST
- Radiation Therapist, $12k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, Medical Oncology, $5k Bonus
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- Cook, Dietary
- Radiology Technologist 1, Imaging-MRI, $40k Bonus
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $25k Bonus
- ED Team Coordinator 1, Emergency Department
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, Ultrasound/Vascular with Echo, $50k Bonus
- AC Mechanic-Licensed
- Registered Nurse, ICU
- Cook, Per Diem
- Environmental Tech, $5k Bonus
- Manager Imaging Services
- Pool Medical Technologist
- Pool Registered Nurse, Cardiac Rehab
- Patient Access Associate, Primary Care, $5k Bonus
MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Social Work Case Manager, Case Management, $10k Bonus
- Pool Pharmacy Tech 2
- Pool Occupational Therapist
- RRT, Respiratory Therapy
- Sr. Phlebotomist
- Security Officer, FT, Weekends
- Supervisor Patient Access Operations
THEME: FATHER’S DAY
ACROSS
1. Home to Taj Mahal
5. Centum weight, acr.
8. Psychedelic drug, acr.
11. Elephant trainer’s poker
12. *Ned Stark’s youngest daughter
13. Draw out a conclusion
15. Parks of Civil Rights fame
16. Toothy wheel
17. Birth-related
18. *Pinocchio’s father
20. Fortune-telling coffee remnant
21. Religious doctrine
22. D.C. mover and shaker, abbr.
23. Assembled
26. Raidable hotel room amenity
30. Evergreen creeper
31. “Fasten” a shoe (2 words)
34. Nay, to a baby
35. Dryer accumulation, pl.
37. Expose to moisture
38. White heron
39. Sodium hydroxide
40. Same as battle-ax
42. UN labor grp.
43. Like localized disease
45. Crab’s grabber
47. Catcher in the what?
48. Food-borne bacteria
50. Begone!
52. *”Fathers and Sons” author
55. Not expensive
56. Medicinal plant
57. Joie de vivre
59. Batu Khan’s posse
60. *Fils’ father
61. Chicken of the sea
62. *Tarzan’s adoptive dad
63. Before, poetically
64. Big Bang’s original matter
DOWN
1. Financing acronym
2. Hot rum drink
3. *Official flower of Father’s Day
4. Adjusts
5. Minotaur’s island
6. *Kurt Russell’s son of “Thunderbolts” fame
7. Tropical tuber
8. Stringed instrument
9. Slang for heroin
10. Marina ____ Rey, CA
12. “To do” list
13. “____ ____ a high note”
14. *Fictional Mr. _____ who banished children’s nanny to a doghouse
19. Banana refuse, pl.
22. Gladys Knight’s band member
23. *Christopher Robin’s father
A.A. ____
24. Like certain flu
25. Church assembly
26. Speechless
27. Gabriel of Chile
28. Administer ceremonial oil
29. Chopper blade
32. Nile dweller, for short
33. Snake-like reef dweller
36. *Cormac McCarthy’s postapocalyptic father/son novel (2 words)
38. Expatriate
40. Dream in the sky
41. Climactic stage
44. Nearsited one
46. Degrees in right angle
48. Prolific Swiss mathematician
49. Ten million, in India
50. Mercantile establishment
51. This location
52. Cassette contents
53. Twelfth month of Jewish calendar
54. Rooftop contraption
55. Cuban dance step
58. “Platoon” setting, for short