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Herman Melville’s total earnings from the 3,715 copies of “Moby-Dick” that sold during his lifetime. The now-classic novel was first published in London as a three-volume edition titled “The Whale” on Oct. 18, 1851. $556.37
KEY WEST DEALS WITH LEGAL UPHEAVAL
City gains 1 lawyer, loses another
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
An Orlando lawyer will serve as Key West’s new city attorney, but only for the next 12 to 18 months, until the city finds a permanent candidate.
City officials voted at the Oct. 9 commission meeting to hire Mayanne Downs of the DownsAaron law firm in Orlando to serve as city attorney on a month-to-month contract at the rate of $495 an hour.
Commissioner Sam Kaufman opposed the move, pointing out that the city had twice turned down an offer from a Florida Keys-based law firm, Vernis & Bowling, to perform the same job for $230 an hour. Kaufman emphasized that he had no problems with Downs’ experience and qualifications, but said he was concerned about the cost. If Downs spends 20 to 25 hours a week on Key West-related works, at an hourly rate of $495, it will cost the city $515,000 to $643,000 over a year. Those amounts are more than twice the salary of former city attorney Ron Ramsingh, who was terminated without cause in April after being indicted in the ongoing investigation into corruption in city government.
A search committee that was appointed by the commissioners to find, interview and recommend a candidate for the permanent position failed to turn up any applicants that the committee was comfortable recommending, which led them to recommend 12 to 18 months of contracted counsel.
But things are still a bit unsettled in the city’s legal department.
Less than a week after the commission voted to hire Downs, assistant city attorney Michael Pope announced his resignation.
Pope, who was hired less than four months ago on June 25, told interim city attorney Kendal Hardin that he had accepted a job as prosecutor with the Monroe County state attorney’s office. His last day is Oct. 24.
Pope did not respond to an email seeking comment about his departure, but was complimentary of his experience at city hall in his resignation letter.
“Working alongside such dedicated colleagues and contributing to the city’s legal initiatives has been an invaluable experience that I will always cherish,” Pope wrote.
Hardin alerted the mayor and commissioners to Pope’s departure in an Oct. 14 email, writing, “We appreciate Michael’s contribution to the city during his time and wish him the best of luck on his endeavors. The city attorney’s office will be reviewing coverage and transition plans to ensure continued support for all ongoing matters and assignments. We will keep you informed as we move forward with filling the position and any interim arrangements.”
More legal matters
The hiring of Downs wasn’t the only legal matter discussed at the commission meeting.
Liz Love prepares for the start of a previous Fantasy Fest parade. Meet the female force of nature we call Liz on page 8. CONTRIBUTED
Commissioner Lissette Carey wants the city to reimburse her for money she spent on lawyers for the “successful defense” of a recall petition by voters in her district who sought a special election to remove her from office.
Carey and her attorney say she is entitled to reimbursement because the legal costs were accrued as part of her official duties. But several Key West residents strongly disagreed and stated as much at the meeting.
Resident Loretta Detoko reminded the commissioners that the recall petition was declared moot by the supervisor of elections because the signatures were not collected within the required timeframe.
“Does that qualify as a successful legal defense?” the speaker asked. “Or would it require something more substantive, like dismissal of the case or a judge’s decision about the merits of the case?”
Detoko also reminded the commission that the recall effort was prompted by the grand jury’s investigative report that suggested Carey resign from the commission due to her alleged involvement in the move to fire former city manager Al Childress and her attempt to keep a damning report on the building department from being made public.
“Those findings raise real questions about whether taxpayer money should be used to cover legal costs in this case.”
Six other speakers agreed and emphatically opposed the reimbursement of Carey.
“Paying this bill would set a terrible precedent, one where elected officials could use taxpayer dollars to cover personal or political disputes. That’s not accountability; that’s entitlement,” resident Chris Massicotte said.
Former commissioner Margaret Romero said the reimbursement of Carey would be “a slap in the face to your taxpayers and just a matter of entitlement.”
Ultimately, the commission did not vote on the reimbursement, opting instead to follow the advice of attorney Hardin and seek an attorney general’s opinion about whether it would be legal and appropriate. The matter was postponed until that opinion is received.
For more from the city commission meeting, visit keysweekly.com.
Assistant City Attorney Michael Pope.
City Commissioner Lissette Carey.
FEDERAL SHUTDOWN WON’T STOP FIGHTER PILOTS
Change-of-command ceremony tradition continues
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
It takes a lot more than a federal government shutdown to stop U.S. Navy fighter pilots from honoring their traditions and holding a change-of-command ceremony.
That’s what occurred on Oct. 11, when the leadership of VFC-111, the resident adversary squadron at Naval Air Station Key West, changed hands from Commander Kearney “NNinja” Robinson to Commander Matthew “LC” Reed, who has been the executive officer and now takes over as commanding officer.
While the government shutdown did prevent a few Navy bigwigs from attending the Key West ceremony, plenty of others showed up on their own dime and made the pageantry and patriotism of the ceremony happen.
But who are the aviators of VFC111? And how much do we civilians actually know about the F-5 Tiger-II fighter jets and their pilots that are a permanent feature in the Lower Keys at Boca Chica Field and Naval Air Station Key West? And what the hell is an adversary squadron?
To us mere mortals on the ground, relegated to operate within the confines of the speed of sound, we hear them more often than we see them, depending on weather and altitude, but the sound is unmistakable, approaching as it does like a rising wall of power that, yes, interrupts the occasional phone call, but never fails to impress.
We all look up when we hear, then see, the familiar silhouette of fighter jets cutting across the Florida Keys sky, independently or in pairs, their speed outrunning their sound.
VFC-111 is the home team around here, but they play the bad guys. As an adversary squadron, the pilots of VFC111 are the instructors who play the enemy during crucial air-to-air combat training. The squadron acquired the moniker Sun Downers when established during World War II.
At an Oct. 11 change-of-command ceremony for VFC-111 fighter squadron, Commander Kearney “NNinja” Robinson, left, passes command to Commander Matthew “LC” Reed at Naval Air Station Key West. FILDA KONEC PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed
KEY WEST CORRUPTION CHARGES CONTINUE
Raj Ramsingh & local contractor indicted for conspiracy & official misconduct
AMonroe County grand jury this week returned an eight-count superseding indictment against Rajindhar Ramsingh, the former chief building official for the city of Key West, and against local contractor Max Yael Heller, who was associated with MTM Building & Roofing Contractors, according to state business records.
of the city of Key West, and/or provide unlawful advantages to MTM Building and Roofing, Strykker-Avery Homes LLC, which is owned by Ramsingh, and/or the property owners at the following Key West addresses:
• 1504 18th Street.
• 510 Fleming Street.
• 1114 Olivia Street.
• 1101 Simonton Street.
But let’s be real, my fellow children of the ’80s. Unless we’ve served in the military, we learned everything we know about “air combat maneuvering — dogfighting,” from the 1986 movie “Top Gun.” So to put it in familiar terms, VFC-111 pilots are Viper and Jester, seasoned and expert mentors challenging the aviators they train and presenting new situations for them to handle.
The VFC-111 instructors fly their F-5 Tiger-IIs against F-22s, F/A-18 Super Hornets, F-22 Raptors and other fighter jets from other squadrons that visit NASKW, usually for two weeks at a time to train, taking advantage of Key West’s flight-friendly weather and conveniently located air space.
Many of the Sun Downers live here. Some are reservists, no longer on active duty, but still eager to do what they love and teach what they’ve learned.
The outgoing and decorated Commander Kearney “NNinja” Robinson previously flew in Iraq and Afghanistan. Incoming Commanding Officer Matt “LC” Reed also took part in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, during which he made three combat deployments aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. He has accumulated more than 350 combat flight hours and more than 2,500 hours in fighter aircraft. Reed and his wife, Colleen, have made Key West their home with their children, Jack and Reagan. Godspeed, guys, and thank you for your service.
When the Keys Weekly called the listed phone number for the company and asked for Max Heller, the man who answered told the newspaper it was the wrong number and added, “Good luck with that guy.”
The most recent indictments follow an extensive and continuing joint investigation by the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office in cooperation with the FBI.
The superseding indictment charges Ramsingh and Heller with four counts of conspiracy to commit official misconduct and charges Ramsingh with four additional counts of official misconduct.
The four counts of conspiracy to commit official misconduct against Ramsingh and Heller mean that both men are charged together for conspiring to falsify, conceal or alter city building-permit records. The remaining four counts for Ramsingh charge him individually for the acts of official misconduct he is alleged to have committed while serving as chief building official. Ramsingh faces eight total charges — four that overlap with Max Heller, which are new charges, and four that he already faced on his own.
The indictments allege that between November 2021 and January 2024, Ramsingh and Heller conspired to manipulate official city records and building permit data to the detriment
The owners of properties that are the subject of questionable permitting activities have not been charged with any wrongdoing and may not have been aware of the actions of Ramsingh or the contractor.
The superseding indictment against Ramsingh replaces earlier charges to incorporate new evidence and additional counts developed through the joint state-federal investigation.
Circuit Judge Mark Wilson on Oct. 14 signed a court-issued warrant directing law enforcement to arrest or summon Heller on four counts of conspiracy to commit official misconduct with bond set at $100,000. A new warrant was not sought for Ramsingh for the new conspiracy charges, as he remains under the jurisdiction of the court for his prior pending charges.
“When a public official abuses their position for personal or financial gain, it erodes the community’s faith in government,” said State Attorney Dennis Ward. “Our office, working closely with the FBI, will continue to ensure that those entrusted with public responsibilities uphold the law — not violate it.”
Major Crimes prosecutor Colleen Dunne presented the cases to the Monroe County Grand Jury and will serve as the lead prosecutor when the grand jury indictments proceed to trial.
Commander Matthew ‘LC’ Reed takes over as commanding officer of VFC-111, the local adversary fighter squadron. He is pictured with his wife, Colleen, and their kids, Jack and Reagan.
Key West & Cuba’s Museum Quality Regional Art
Celebrating Cultural Resilience
CUBAN ART TOURS
November 10-14, 2025 & April 20-24, 2026
Je MacNelly
Je MacNelly, creator of the comic strip Shoe lived in Key West for 10 years. He was a triple Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist and couldn’t help making fun of everyone in sight. This rooster in drag makes fun of the descendants of the Cuban ghting cocks as well as a number of residents. Key West, remember?
“Dragster” is one of Je ’s most popular paintings and the subject of numerous articles and a source of mayhem. Perched in the window of The Gallery on Green it’s been the cause of much laughing and a few fender benders.
One day a local police o cer came in and asked me take it out of the window as it had caused a tra c accident. Of course I responded by saying that it is my First Amendment right to have it there. The o cer replied. “Lady, First Amendment? That chicken’s not speaking!”
An island inspired treasure trove where fashion meets paradise. Nestled into the heart of Key West, we’re your go-to destination for splurge worthy finds and fashion forward essentials. Featuring the latest styles from Farm Rio, Alemais, Oliphant & many more.
DAILY FROM 10 AM TO 5 PM
The Dragster
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY www.keysweekly.com
SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW FANTASY FEST PARADE’S GUIDING SPIRIT
Liz Love doesn’t list juggling among her many skills, but she should. The upbeat, energetic woman juggles a multitude of responsibilities, roles and enthusiasms with smiling grace.
Her skill is particularly apparent every October, when she takes on the massively complex task of coordinating Fantasy Fest’s lavish highlight parade — along with other pivotal events on the costuming and masking festival’s 10-day schedule.
Love, who grew up in Arkansas, arrived in Key West in early 2006. She worked as the recruitment manager for the local college, assistant manager of a private clubhouse, a personal trainer for private clients and manager of multiple fitness-based events.
Along the way, she met and married photographer, writer, artist and filmmaker Michael Marrero. They are parents to Isabel, now 10, and Stella, 7.
In 2018 Love was hired by Nadene Grossman Orr, whose company, We’ve Got the Keys, had become the producer of Fantasy Fest, to direct the festival’s street fair. After that beginning, her work with We’ve Got the Keys grew exponentially. As well as her Fantasy Fest responsibilities, she helps coordinate other festivals for the organization and serves as its director of corporate events.
“I handle incentive travel programs, so if people have met their sales goals and they get an incentive trip to Key West, we make sure that they get to see the best that Key West has to offer — unique activity experiences, dining experiences — and get them immersed in the culture and the community that is Key West,” Love explained.
Her Fantasy Fest responsibilities encompass not just directing the parade and street fair, but also working with longtime Masquerade March coordinator Mimi McDonald on the beloved march in Key West’s Old Town.
Love takes great pleasure in the imagination and offbeat originality of some of the parade’s float designers — among them David Sloan, whose 2024 float featured Key West’s paranormal doll, Robert, and an actual coffin on a scissor lift — and costume geniuses including Daniel Bitnar and Guy Hermelin.
“I really appreciate the creative energy that these walking groups and float builders bring to the parade,” she said. “The message is creative, costumed fun and participants are really embracing that.”
The parade typically includes several dozen large-scale floats and walking groups, with some entries featuring 50 to 100 costumed participants. Love is especially impressed by those who perform choreographed dance routines along the more than 1.5-mile parade route.
“That is just amazing to me because I know how much time and energy it takes,” she said. “And when you have 100 participants who are all learning a dance, the level of energy that you bring to the parade is part of what makes it so special.”
She’s quick to credit her fellow Fantasy Fest team members for their boundless energy, as well as the skill and dedication they bring to their work.
To keep herself organized while overseeing the parade entries, lineup and pacing — as well as tasks for additional festival events — Love relies on an unusual tool: a rack that holds her costumes and accessories for the various activities.
1. Liz Love, left, and Fantasy Fest director Nadene Grossman Orr take a moment’s break during a past festival. MICHAEL BLADES/Contributed
2. Liz Love and her husband, Michael Marrero, enjoy a Fantasy Fest event while adorned with creative face paint and accessories. CONTRIBUTED
3. Liz Love shares her passion for costuming with daughters Stella, front, and Isabel. MICHAEL MARRERO/ Contributed
“I roll it in around the first of October, and Michael always says, ‘Oh, here we go. The rack’s back,’” she said.
“It reminds me every day of what headspace I need to be in, so I line up my week and my brain and my life that way,” added Love, who admitted she really enjoys costuming and portraying characters. “Somehow that just keeps me sane and organized — to the extent that I can be organized — and keeps me going.”
When Love isn’t working, she and Marrero are deeply involved in their daughters’ activities, ranging from soccer to dance to gymnastics, and serve on the boards of community organizations that are meaningful to them.
She’s also passionate about fitness and enjoys running, which recently led to an only-in-KeyWest encounter.
“One Saturday morning my running partner and best friend, Amy, and I were running on Atlantic Boulevard towards Bertha Street to go out on the beach — and two people in pterodactyl and T-Rex blow-up costumes came walking down that sidewalk,” Love recalled.
“We’ve seen a lot down here,” said the woman who, as Fantasy Fest parade coordinator, has seen stranger sights than most. “So I do love that Key West allows you to be the truest version of yourself. But to see two people just strolling in their blow-up costumes … that was kind of amazing.”
17th An October 6-31 or until all pumpkins are sold 9AM-7PM everyday 1401 Seminary Street
SCHOOL DISTRICT PROJECTS ADVANCE
Superintendent reports drop in enrollment
FRANK DERFLER www.keysweekly.com
Updates on two notable projects in Key West and Islamorada and a new contract with the local teachers union were among the topics before the school board on Oct. 7 in Key West.
Patrick Lefere, district executive director of operations and planning, discussed the coordination with the Village of Islamorada over the Founders Park baseball field project and described changes to the plan that eliminated a multiuse building in favor of modifying an existing building at the end of the third base line.
The delivery of construction documents in March will be the next phase. After approval of those documents, a developer will provide a guaranteed maximum price. The current project estimate is about $5.6 million without the cost of modifying the existing locker room building. This is down from an estimate of $6.1 million, because the multiuse building was removed.
If the final project plans are approved by both the school district and the village, construction would start in April.
In response to questions from the board, Lefere described how the planning for the press box and concession stand behind home plate was guided by the desire to keep the existing footprint and trees.
Lefere also presented detailed images of the proposed Reynolds school renovation project. The final design documents will be available to support a request for qualification to contractors in November and construction documents will come near the end of January. The planning budget for this project, which is key to the proposed construction of housing for school staff in Key West, is $11 million.
Board chair Mindy Conn expressed a concern about the one-at-a-time project planning for three building projects in Key West. She cited a reduction in the number of students in Key West and the need to take a strategic look at all the projects underway in Key West. Lefere discussed the need to move administrative staff in an orderly way. Board member John Dick supported Conn and observed, “All the communication is done by computer. You don’t
need to walk down the hall to get somebody to sign a piece of paper.”
Schools Superintendent Ed Tierney reported that the district has 181 fewer students than last year. Of those, 118 students left the district, and there are 48 fewer students in kindergarten. There has been a drop in the number of English as a second language learners.
“The money In Florida follows the students, so we must continue to be fiscally responsible,” Tierney said.
School board member Sue Woltanski said kindergarten enrollment is down across the state. She wondered if the lower enrollment was due to the school voucher program paying for home schooling. Tierney replied that 52 students in the district claimed school vouchers and the staff is researching grade levels.
Diana Walker, president of the United Teachers of Monroe, thanked the board for the teamwork and open exchange of information during the recent contract negotiations. Later in the meeting, the board voted to approve a contract between the teachers’ union and the district. The agreement, after seven collective bargaining sessions, includes significant improvements in pay, including the highest starting teacher salary in the state of $62,700. The agreements are retroactive to July 1, 2025.
“This achievement is a testament to the professionalism, collaboration and shared commitment to our students that guided the bargaining process,” Tierney said.
In an update on the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority pipeline replacement project, Lefere reported there is a weekly meeting among the project consultants, FDOT, MCSO and the school board. Construction is getting close to Coral Shores and Plantation Key school zones. The major concern will be at the crossing of U.S. 1 and Woods Avenue in the second week of November. He anticipates changes to the PKS dismissal process and the way buses exit PKS during that time. Buses and parent pickup traffic will have to alternate.
“We’re not saying it’s going to be easy. There will be delays. But the significant portion of the delays will be within a three- to five-day period,” Lefere said.
Two parents, Alex Dorisca and Marie Brevil, were recognized under the Great Educational Moments for Students program for their work in organizing, supporting and translating for parents at schools in Key West.
WANT TO BE FEATURED IN OUR KEYS WOMAN MAGAZINE?
Keys Weekly is looking for pairs of gal pals for the next issue
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Hey ladies, you asked, and we listened. We’ve heard from dozens of readers of our Keys Woman magazine, suggesting wonderful local women who deserve some credit and coverage.
So … do you want to be included in a glossy magazine feature with your best friend? Or do you know of a great pair of friends that you’d like to nominate?
Of course you do. So let’s get to it.
For our next issue of Keys Woman magazine, we’re highlighting and celebrating the power of female friendships at all ages — and we want to hear from you and your best friend, whether it’s a coworker, your mom, your sister or your BFF since kindergarten.
Women are strong and wonderful creatures, and none of us can do what we do without the supportive shoulder, enthusiastic cheerleading
and occasional commiserating with the women around us. (Happy hours and bloody Mary brunches are a huge help, too.)
And here’s the best part: You two get to interview each other to introduce yourselves to the Florida Keys community. Don’t worry, we’ll help you with the interview questions and photo ideas.
We’re looking for pairs of gal pals from Key West as well as the Lower, Middle and Upper Keys.
So find your best friend and send us a photo of you two together (or individually) and a few paragraphs about why your friendship proves that together, women can conquer the world.
Email the photo and text to stephanie@keysweekly.com and mandy@keysweekly.com and, as always, stay tuned to the Keys Weekly’s Facebook and Instagram accounts for more details and submission reminders.
Let’s have fun with this. We can’t wait to meet you.
Keys Weekly’s Mandy Miles, left, and Stephanie Mitchell understand the power of female friendships and are looking for pairs of Florida Keys girlfriends to feature in our next Keys Woman magazine. CONTRIBUTED
Local initiative has gone global, with 4.5M stickers distributed worldwide
CFK SPRING SCHOLARSHIP WINDOW OPENS
Applications due by Nov. 2
‘ONE HUMAN FAMILY’ MOTTO TURNS 25 WANNA KNOW WHAT LOVE IS?
TBy J.T. Thompson Special to the Weekly
What started in 2000 as a way to unite Key West locals has gone global with over 4.5 million free stickers and countless wristbands being distributed worldwide. Key West and Monroe County both unanimously made “One Human Family” the island chain’s official motto 25 years ago this week.
It simply means all people are created equal members of one family. Like fingers on a hand or facets on a gem, we are all extensions of each other. “Us vs them” is a corrosive illusion of separateness, as “them” is just the rest of “us.” No matter the politics, religion, race or nationality, all people are our global family members.
It’s a very broad concept; some folks ask how to express it in our daily lives. An effortless win-win using the power of words can also make ours the friendliest islands in America.
When someone is pulling luggage toward a hotel, say “Welcome to the island.” Having traveled since before dawn, welcoming words instantly change their mood from tired and stressed to smiling and welcomed. Or, just wave and say “Welcome.” People are pleasantly surprised to see someone they don’t know welcoming them — and not asking for anything. Free and nearly effortless, these few words can have a big effect. Wave at a trolley and say “Welcome to the island.” Some will wave back, and you just made a few of their visits a bit nicer. Like a snowball that gains momentum (remember snow?)
our welcome will be mentioned to friends back home. We all know someone who says that seeing One Human Family was a positive factor in deciding to visit — or even move here.
As our message of unity, equality and diversity went global, the late Pope Francis used the phrase in letters from the Vatican’s Little Sisters of the Poor, and the Dalai Lama wrote about “One Human Family” in his book on the power of words.
If you doubt that power, imagine instead saying “Go away.” Those two words can instantly poison anyone’s day.
And, as seen in the included photo, young people grasp our motto quickly. Teachers have given One Human Family as a topic for essays or art, with students expressing their own understanding of human unity. Young people really get it.
So, if you’re feeling helpless watching the world, you can easily boost your own mood and help spread unity. Welcome our visitors. Pick up free stickers and glowing wristbands at Our Key West, 613 Simonton St. Distribute them when you travel. Include a sticker in your mail. It’s an uplifting surprise for whoever opens it. And explain to anyone who wonders what the phrase means to you.
You can use the power of words to lessen divisions. And if we can get people to understand we are actually equal parts of each other, we could fix nearly anything. Unity overcomes division and may be one thing that keeps our species alive into our sometimes scarylooking collective future.
he College of the Florida Keys (CFK) is accepting applications for spring semester scholarships to help new and returning students achieve their educational goals affordably. Students must be admitted to the college and registered for spring 2026 semester classes to qualify for scholarships. The deadline to apply is Sunday, Nov. 2.
Thousands of dollars in scholarships are available across a range of academic programs and backgrounds. Students may apply for all scholarships for which they qualify. Scholarship descriptions and eligibility requirements are at cfk.edu. Scan the QR code here to go to the website’s scholarship page.
“Scholarships can transform a student’s college experience by easing financial stress and enabling them to fully focus on their education.” said Lana Gaspari, CFK vice presidentadvancement and executive director of the CFK Foundation. “We strongly encourage every eligible student to take advantage of these life-changing opportunities and apply for as many scholarships as possible.”
CFK’s spring semester begins Jan. 10.
More information is available via email to foundation@ cfk.edu, at 305809-3153 or at cfk.edu/payingfor-college/.
— Contributed
Get ready for a night of classic rock as Foreigner brings its “All Songs From The Classic Album & Other Hits” tour to the Coffee Butler Amphitheater on April 23. The legendary band will be joined by special guest and original lead singer Lou Gramm. Fans will be treated to timeless hits including “Juke Box Hero,” “Waiting for a Girl Like You,” “Urgent,” “Night Life,” “Hot Blooded,” “Cold as Ice,” “Feels Like the First Time” and the chart-topping ballad “I Want to Know What Love Is.”
— Contributed Who: Foreigner – All Songs From The Classic Album & Other Hits Special Appearance by Lou Gramm When: Thursday, April 23, 2026 Where: Coffee Butler Amphitheater Presented By: AEG & Rams Head Presents For tickets:
Visit thekeywestamp.com or buy in person at the Key West Theater Box Office, 512 Eaton St., Key West.
More than 4.5 million One Human Family stickers have been distributed worldwide since 2000. Free stickers are available at Our Key West, 613 Simonton St. CONTRIBUTED
LOCAL REPORTING BY LOCAL JOURNALISTS
TRUSTED EXPERTS IN THE FIELD
For 22 years, Keys Weekly has been the ONLY locally-owned and operated news source covering all of the Keys with our boots on the ground and our butts in the seats at meetings.
Jim McCarthy, Editor
Upper Keys Weekly
305.850.8034
jim@keysweekly.com
Mandy Miles, Editor
Key West Weekly
305.923.6012
mandy@keysweekly.com
Alex Rickert, Editor
Marathon Weekly
401.256.0645
alex@keysweekly.com
CHRIS STEDMAN SPEAKS AT KEY WEST LIBRARY
Author & award-winning podcaster discusses digital culture Oct. 29
Author, podcaster and professor Chris Stedman will speak Wednesday, Oct. 29, at 6 p.m. at the Key West library.
Stedman is the author of the books, “IRL: Finding Realness, Meaning, and Belonging in Our Digital Lives,” and “Faitheist: How an Atheist Found Common Ground with the Religious.” He teaches in the department of religion and philosophy at Augsburg University in Minneapolis.
He is also the creator, writer and host of Unread, named one of the best podcasts of 2021 by the Guardian, Vulture, HuffPost, the CBC and others.
In addition to his books and podcasts, Stedman has written for outlets including the Atlantic, Pitchfork, BuzzFeed Reader, VICE, the Washington Post, the Rumpus, LitHub, Catapult and the Los Angeles Review of Books.
The Key West library is at 700 Fleming St. There is a small parking lot behind the library, with an entrance off Elizabeth Street. The talk is free and open to the public – you do not need a Monroe County Public Library card to attend -and books will be available for purchase. Seating is limited.
— Contributed
THE POTENTIAL HIGGS BEACH FINANCIAL BOONDOGGLE
Dear Editor:
The city of Key West is considering taking ownership of Higgs Beach from Monroe County. If this happens, taxpayers will be saddled with tens of millions of dollars in costs for seawalls, drainage, repairs and facilities that we already fund through county taxes. It would be a financial boondoggle Key West simply cannot afford.
For years, our city has been plagued by bloated, mismanaged government and a “Bubba System” of sweetheart deals that drain public funds. From one-dollar-a-year leases like the Key West Yacht Club’s, to belowmarket-rate agreements, City Hall has a track record of giving away public resources while ignoring fiscal responsibility. Now, they want to add Higgs Beach to the list of bad decisions.
If title is transferred, the City of Key West — not Monroe County — would assume full financial responsibility for:
• Capital improvements: a new seawall, pavilion repairs, drainage systems and replacement of Reynolds Pier.
• Facilities: two dog parks, two playgrounds, an adult fitness park and multiple sports courts.
• Amenities: parking lots, restrooms, showers, picnic areas and bleachers.
• Infrastructure: miles of sandy beach and deteriorating utilities.
This low-lying acreage is highly vulnerable to flooding and storm damage and would require costly insurance at ever-rising rates. Every dollar of these burdens would fall directly on Key West taxpayers.
And what would we get in return? Almost nothing. The costs run into the tens of millions; the revenue would amount to pennies on the dollar. We are already paying for Higgs Beach through countywide taxes. To take on these new liabilities would be fiscal insanity.
The city commission should reject this reckless transfer. Key West doesn’t need another endless money pit — we need fiscal sanity and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Let your voice be heard: Stop the madness before it begins.
Sincerely,
Greg Lloyd
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Chris Stedman, author and host of the top-rated ‘Unread’ podcast speaks at Key West Library Oct. 29. CONTRIBUTED
Painted fences offer pops of color around Key West
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
The recent summer rains that have soaked Key West have also led to a resurgence of rainbows around town.
In the wake of the statemandated removal of the city’s pride-painted crosswalks at Duval and Petronia streets, homeowners across the island have made their yards a little brighter by painting seven of their fence posts in rainbow colors.
The colorful little surprises are worth taking a walk through neighborhoods you don’t typically wander.
But of course, one can’t please all the people all the time and alas, the rainbows, while impromptu, are also unpermitted in the historic district, which starts west of White Street.
One Windsor Lane resident, Susan Kent, learned the hard way that a neighbor a few doors down,
KEY WEST’S HOMECOMING TRADITIONS TURN 75
1950s queen Judy Henriquez leads parade as grand marshal
Penny Walker, opposed her seven colorful fence posts.
The longtime homeowner received a letter from the city’s code enforcement department, alerting her that the city had received a complaint Walker, who wrote to code enforcement, “Please inform the owner at 821 Windsor that the fence is painted in non-approved colors per HARC. If this is not the correct place to report this violation, please direct me to proper authorities.” Code enforcement officials included a copy of the complaint, along with the dissatisfied person’s name and address, as the city no longer accepts anonymous code complaints.
In speaking with the Keys Weekly, Kent fully acknowledged that she had not sought approval from the city’s Historic Architectural Review Commission (HARC), and thus would paint over her rainbow to come into compliance, much like the state required of the city’s crosswalks.
“But don’t worry, I have something else planned,” Kent said happily after posting about her painted fence on Instagram earlier this month.
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
Seventy-five years have passed. The country has elected a dozen or so presidents. Wars have been fought, won, lost and debated. Music has moved from sock hops to hip hop. The differences are vast between the world of 1950 and that of today’s high school students in 2025.
TV was in black and white. Segregated schools were only black or white. Baby Boomers were still actual babies. Yes, high school students of 1950 and 2025 are separated by 75 years of culture and technology, and yet united by an island that still treasures its hometown traditions.
One of those traditions continues this week, when Key West High School’s football team takes the field Friday evening for the school’s 75th annual Homecoming game, halftime of which will see the crowning of the 75th Homecoming queen, voted into the crown by her fellow students.
Deanna Archer wore the school’s very first crown in 1950. It was made of cardboard, Archer
recalled in 2000 when I interviewed her for the 50th anniversary of her coronation.
Archer’s age and health no longer permit her to participate in this year’s traditions, but one of the first queen’s early successors led the Oct. 13 Homecoming parade up Flagler Avenue, from the high school to the football stadium on Kennedy Drive. The stadium was brand new in 1950 — and just recently renewed for 2025.
Judy Henriquez, the ’57 queen, led the parade as grand marshal. After she graduated with her fellow Conchs, she would go on to marry the man who would lead Monroe County schools for decades, the late superintendent Bookie Henriquez, who died earlier this year on Valentine’s Day.
The parade kicked off a week of tradition and celebrations that will be capped off by the Friday, Oct. 17 football game that will see the queen crowned at halftime, followed by the Homecoming dance at the high school on Saturday, Oct. 18. All former Homecoming queens are invited to be introduced at the football game. Please arrive at 6 p.m. to line up.
A profusion of rainbows has been an unexpected result of the state-mandated removal of the city’s rainbow crosswalks at Duval and Petronia streets. Photos by MANDY MILES and KALO PEDERSON
The 2025 Key West High School Homecoming court includes, from left, Tamika Kelly, Whitney Nervilus, Emmy Jackson, Gianna Felini, Chloe Blackwell and Janelle Rodriquez. CONTRIBUTED
The Key West High School football team rides the Conch Tour Train in the Oct. 13 Homecoming parade.
Judy Henriquez, 1957 queen, rides as grand marshal in the recent Homecoming parade. CONTRIBUTED
MARK HEDDEN
... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.
The roseate spoonbill was way high up there, the only pink thing in the sky. It reminded me of a balloon loosed at a parade. Ellen Westbrook would later say, “It was like she had glitter on her wings.”
There was a purity about her, this radiant thing alone in a bright blue sky. She drifted toward the shoreline and in front of a disorganized, swirling kettle of raptors that included peregrine falcons, broadwinged hawks, American kestrels, sharp-shinned hawks, northern harriers and probably a species or two I missed.
She drifted back away from them and slid in front of a flock of 25 anhingas that had shown up, all making the same gentle turns in the sky with the precision of a ballet troupe, their wings flashing from dark (the underside) to light (upperside) in synchronicity as they spun through their wide circles.
For a few minutes the distinct groups – the anhingas, the raptors, the spoonbill – merged into the same aerospace, a highly kinetic melange of avian forms.
“There’s something you’ll only see at the Florida Keys Hawkwatch,” said Jeff Bouton, who works for Kowa Sporting Optics, and who has been one of the stalwarts supporting and organizing the count for years.
The raptors and the anhingas reached the top of the thermals and began to stream south. The spoonbill flew out over the ocean, next stop Cuba, we assumed.
Two days before had been Oct. 10, which has statistically been the best day to see the most peregrines at the hawkwatch. Peregrine falcons are the fastest animals on the planet. And more of them are counted every year at the Florida Keys Hawkwatch than at any other count site on the planet.
We’ve been calling Oct. 10 “Dia de los Peregrinos” or “Day of the Peregrines” for several years. The folks at Curry Hammock State Park in Marathon, where the count is located, had planned a small birding festival around it this year. But it stormed heavily on the 10th, a total palmetto pounder, and the bird walks had to be canceled. (The hawkwatch crew did faithfully stay at their station, lightning be damned, and counted a total of 21 migrating raptors.)
Ellen and I, along with Richard Whitcomb, were supposed to go up on Oct. 11 to help with a bird walk, but the forecast said more rain, so we decided to hold off until Sunday. Which may have been a mistake.
Looking at the numbers they posted, things were slow at the hawkwatch in the morning, but after one last midday band of rain, the cork came out of the bottle. All of a
FELLOW TRAVELERS OF THE IMPROBABLE KIND
sudden there were big groups of raptors – 165 broad-winged hawks in one hour, 107 American kestrels the next. By the time they left at sunset, they’d counted a total of 2,081 birds of prey.
I was a little worried we’d missed all the action as we drove up on Sunday.
It was relatively crowded when we made it up to the platform around 11:30 a.m. There were probably about 20 people there, which was a lot for the space. Most had binoculars; several had cameras with long lenses.
The count site is actually the elevated campground bathhouse at Curry Hammock. Mariah Hryniewich and Luis Gles were anchoring the count on the smaller deck on the south side, an array of clickers laid out along the railings. A mixed crew of people were keeping a watch on the more expansive north side deck, trying to give them a heads up as to what was coming.
It sounded a bit like a busy kitchen during the dinner rush, with people calling out things like, “You’ve got a low peregrine coming in gulfside,” and “There’s a kettle of broad-wings starting to stream out down the middle.”
Any worries I’d had about the migration slowing down were quickly proved unfounded. There seemed to be big numbers of the dozen or so species that regularly migrate through the Keys.
Most of the birds were pretty high up. Whether it was 500 feet or 1,000 was hard to say. They were somewhat easy to spot when there was a cloud for a backdrop, but murder when it was all blue sky. I spent a lot of time zig zagging my binoculars through the emptiness, trying to snag on something in the field of view, and occasionally doing so.
Learning to identify hawks in flight is a little bit like learning to read a new alphabet. It can be frustrating for a while, but usually, eventually, something clicks. The long, straight wings of the northern harrier become unmistakable, as do the osprey’s long wings with a crook in them.
You learn the pointy-winged raptors are falcons, then figure out how to distinguish the
three species we get here – peregrine falcons, merlins and American kestrels – from one another.
Turkey vultures are big and dark and always have that v-shape to their wings. The wings of a bald eagle are so board-straight that you realize why they appeal so much to folks in the military.
The species that seemed to be carrying the day, numerically, were the sharp-shinned hawks. The crew had counted about 600 of them before we arrived, and they just kept coming. There looked to be a handful of them sprinkled into every kettle, and a bunch of lone individuals moving past to boot.
In breeding season sharpies are considered to be secretive assassins, with well-hidden nests and a tendency to be seen primarily when they are hunting, often taking songbirds at feeders. They have comparatively short wings and long tails, which makes them highly maneuverable, and allows them to move through heavy cover while touching nary a branch.
Migration is thought to be the best, or at least easiest, time to see them.
They ended up counting 1,812 sharpies that day – a record one-day count at the Florida Keys Hawkwatch. I saw maybe half of them.
The thing I couldn’t stop thinking about, though, was the roseate spoonbill, who apparently thought better of crossing the Florida Straits and came back over land. I was watching it from the south deck when a peregrine came in and dove at it. The spoonbill twisted and veered out of the way, and the peregrine, who was probably just trying to entertain himself midway through a long journey, broke off, which was probably for the better, as a spoonbill is about twice the weight of a peregrine.
Before I could even process such an unlikely interaction, though, a second peregrine dove at the spoonbill, with the spoonbill juking again, and the second peregrine breaking off in the same manner of the first.
Things seemed to calm down after that. But there’s no saying what happened once they were all out of sight.
BIG NEWS FROM
AFTER 18 AMAZING YEARS, THAI ISLAND RESTAURANT WILL BE CLOSING ITS DOORS.
We're deeply grateful for your love, loyalty and support over the years- it’s been an honor to share our food and home with you.
Our last day is October 26th, so please come dine with us before we close and help us celebrate nearly 2 decades of great food and great friends...
And after the 26th, we hope to see you at our sister restaurant, MISOHAPPY on Southard Street.
STATE SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS DEATH SENTENCE
Steven Wolf was convicted in 2023 of murder & sexual assault
The Florida Supreme Court recently affirmed the conviction and death sentence of Steven Matthew Wolf, now 65, who was found guilty in January 2023 of the murder and sexual assault of Michelle Osborne. Wolf’s conviction and sentence, imposed by Circuit Judge Mark H. Jones after a unanimous jury recommendation, will now stand as the court issued its mandate.
The case began on Nov. 21, 2018, when Osborne’s body was discovered near Vaca Cut Bridge in Marathon. Investigators quickly tied Wolf to the crime through DNA evidence, his van and his own admissions of cleaning and disposing of evidence. After a six-day trial, a Monroe County jury found Wolf guilty of first-degree murder, two counts of sexual battery with force likely to cause injury and tampering with physical evidence.
The jury also unanimously found that the murder was committed while Wolf was engaged in the commission of a sexual battery and that the crime was especially heinous, atrocious or cruel. Trial testimony revealed that Osborne endured extreme injuries and strangulation while still alive, circumstances that underscored the cruelty of the attack.
At sentencing, Judge Jones said: “The court has identified, analyzed and weighed all the aggravating factors
and mitigating circumstances. In balance, the aggravating factors outweigh the mitigating circumstances by an overwhelming margin, which means the scales of justice tip unquestionably to the side of death. The murder of Michelle Osborne is among ‘the worst of the worst,’ making it one of those cases for which the death penalty is reserved. You have not only forfeited your right to live among us, but under the laws of Florida you have forfeited your right to live at all. May God have mercy on your soul.”
“This decision brings closure to a long and painful case and affirms the hard work of so many dedicated professionals,” said State Attorney Dennis Ward. “This was an extraordinary effort by multiple agencies, and their teamwork made it possible to secure justice for Michelle Osborne and her family. The court’s decision ensures that the jury’s verdict and Judge Jones’ sentence will stand.”
— Contributed
Key West Film Festival takes place Nov. 12-16
The official lineup for the 14th annual Key West Film Festival has been finalized and is available online at keywestff. com.
As always, KWFF brings a mix of Oscar-contending features, international hits, documentaries, LGBTQIA+ films, Florida films, a curated selection of shorts, the Critics Panel, Golden Key awards, parties and more.
No Kings rally set for Oct. 18 in Key West’s Bayview Park
The latest No Kings rally, part of a nationwide movement, will take place at Key West’s Bayview Park from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 18.
Participants in the nonviolent protest are encouraged to bring signs, props and water to remain hydrated.
The No Kings national movement stands against the glorification of authoritarian displays and the erosion of democratic values. Power resides with the people, not with a singular authority.
The national day of action is about promoting unity and encouraging citizens from all backgrounds to stand together in a non-violent protest against threats to democracy.
Black Friday Shopping Extravaganza seeks vendors
The Black Friday Shopping Extravaganza returns to Truman Waterfront Park on Friday, Nov. 28 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Presented jointly by the Key West Artisan Market and the Truman Waterfront Farmers Market, this holiday edition invites artists, crafters, makers, nonprofits and small businesses to showcase their work in one of Key West’s most scenic locations.
Now in its fifth year, the event offers residents and visitors an outdoor alternative to crowded stores and online shopping. With longer hours than the regular Thursday market, the event also provides a
bonus opportunity for vendors, as the Truman Waterfront Farmers Market will not be held on Thanksgiving Day.
Vendor spaces are limited. Interested participants can learn more or request an application by emailing sean@ dailyplan-it.net.
Irreverent Warriors seeks sponsors for Silkies Hike
In Key West, community means everything — and for veterans, community can be life-saving.
So Irreverent Warriors is hosting its 8th annual Key West Silkies Hike on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Irreverent Warriors brings veterans together, using humor and camaraderie, to improve mental health and prevent veteran suicide. Through these therapeutic hikes, the intent is to create safe spaces where service members can connect, heal and find support in one another.
Sponsorships help cover essentials such as permits, hydration, safety, food and supplies for participants and volunteers. Donations can be made securely through the DonorDrive IW Key West link, or via check made out to Irreverent Warriors (Memo: Key West). Please send c/o Kenna Construction, 508 Southard St. #103 Key West, FL 33040.
If you’d like to be a recognized sponsor, please send your logo for inclusion on swag and promotional items. In-kind contributions — such as food, water, gear, or raffle prizes — are also deeply appreciated.
Organizers say they also encourage people to make a donation in honor of someone special — whether a first responder, veteran or active duty service member. Simply reply with their name and any details you’d like shared in their honor, and they will be recognized during the hike weekend.
Steven Wolf. CONTRIBUTED
BRIEFLY
CITY RENEWS WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE LEASE
Dear Editor:
The Waterfront Playhouse, Key West’s historic theater on Mallory Square, recently announced that the Key West City Commission has officially approved the renewal of its ten-year lease. This vital agreement ensures that the Playhouse will continue its long-standing tradition of bringing world-class theater to the Southernmost City.
Board president Kate Miano, artistic director Patrick New, and board member Mike Benner were present at City Hall for the commission meeting where the renewal was approved. The decision marks the continuation of a treasured partnership between the City of Key West and the nonprofit Key West Players Inc., which has operated the Waterfront Playhouse since 1961.
“This renewal represents not just a lease—it represents a commitment to preserving the cultural heart of Key West,” said Miano. “We’re deeply grateful to the city commission for recognizing the importance of the arts in our community.”
Negotiating this renewal was no small task. The Waterfront Playhouse ex-
tends heartfelt thanks to city commissioner Sam Kaufman, the late board president Chris Elwell, and board member Stuart Kaufman for their tireless efforts, leadership and dedication throughout the process.
The Key West Players have been an integral part of the island’s cultural fabric since 1939, when the group was first established. The troupe moved into the Waterfront Playhouse after the historic building — originally constructed in the late 1800s — was renovated into a theater in 1961. Over the decades, it has become a cornerstone of Mallory Square and a symbol of Key West’s vibrant artistic spirit.
As we look to the next decade, the Playhouse remains committed to producing exceptional theater, supporting local artists, and enriching the cultural life of our community.
The Waterfront Playhouse invites the community to celebrate this milestone and the start of a bright new chapter in its storied history.
Sincerely,
Patrick New Waterfront Playhouse Artistic director
NOTORIOUS SUNKEN PIRATE SHIP REMOVED
Derelict 65-foot vessel Queen Anne’s Revenge gone from Key Largo waters
Following an extensive investigation, permitting and coordinated removal effort spanning more than three years, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) successfully oversaw the removal of the 65-foot commercial sailing vessel Queen Anne’s Revenge — likely named after Blackbeard’s flagship — from the waters of Key Largo.
The final pieces of the vessel were removed on Oct. 6, by TSI Disaster Recovery, a marine recovery contractor owned and managed by Henry Elmore and Beau Tyson.
The Queen Anne’s Revenge was determined to be derelict on Aug. 3, 2021, by the FWC. The vessel had reportedly been in the Key Largo area for several years and ultimately sank during Hurricane Irma. After the owner failed to remove the vessel, the FWC initiated efforts to have it cleared from the area, which included a public bidding process. The removal contract was awarded to TSI Disaster Recovery.
Obtaining the necessary permits was a lengthy process. Over a two-year period, TSI worked with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to secure all required authorizations before beginning physical removal in August 2025.
Due to its construction and environmental location, the Queen Anne’s Revenge presented extraordinary challenges. The vessel was built primarily of concrete, featuring 10to 12-inch-thick walls, steel mesh and 1-inchdiameter rebar throughout. Its 20-foot keel
section alone weighed some 24,000 pounds and was buried 9 feet deep in mud.
The hull was reinforced concrete and steel, requiring 70,000 pounds of lift, specialized cutting equipment and weeks of underwater work to remove safely and responsibly. TSI crews spent seven weeks cutting and removing massive concrete and steel sections — some more than 8 inches thick. Work was paused several times to protect manatees entering the site and to minimize disturbance to mangroves growing around the vessel.
An osprey nest once sitting atop the sunken ship was safely removed and reinstalled at the neighboring Gilbert’s Resort & Marina.
Derelict vessels remain a top priority for the FWC’s Boating and Waterways Section, which continues a multiyear statewide initiative to reduce environmental and navigational hazards caused by abandoned and deteriorating boats.
Derelict vessels damage seagrass beds, marine habitats and property, while posing threats to navigation and public safety. Leaving a vessel in a derelict condition is a crime under Florida law.
As of October 2025, Florida has 379 derelict vessels recorded on state waters, the lowest number in more than a decade.
New legislation effective July 1, 2025, strengthens vessel accountability measures and enhances protections for Florida’s waterways. Additionally, the FWC’s Vessel Turn-In Program has helped owners voluntarily surrender over 200 vessels, preventing them from becoming derelict.
Vessel owners can visit FloridaVTIP.com to learn more about the program.
Key West this month renewed its lease with Waterhouse Playhouse at Mallory Square for 10 years. CONTRIBUTED
TSI Disaster Recovery, a marine recovery contractor, successfully removed the Queen Anne’s Revenge ship out of the Key Largo nearshore waters. FWC/Contributed
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23RD | 11 AM –
Thursday, October 23rd | 11 AM – 3 PM
Get ready to house hunt across the Keys! Our Fantasy Fest Parade of Homes MEGA Open House event is back and BIGGER, featuring almost 40 open proper ties from Key Largo to Key West
Visit 3 or more homes during the Parade of Homes to collect your pigs and enter for a chance to win 4 VIP Tickets to our Big Bad Wolf Par ty on Duval Street for the 2025 Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade!
CHRIS McNULTY
is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com
This week, the goddess of love comes home. Venus has been trudging along through Virgo since Sept. 20, making it difficult to have an easygoing air with friends and loved ones while overanalyzing our spending habits. However, she just moved into her home sign of Libra, where she can finally put her plans into practice, host her parties and find some balance. Venus in Libra makes it easier for us to align with the things we love and value because she is all about harmony and fairness, particularly on the collective level. How are you enacting your passions in a way that benefits not just you, but also those around you? How are you engaging in acts that support social justice or bring grace into our turbulent world? Now is the time to answer those questions and take action. As she crosses the threshold into Libra, Venus faces off with the dreamy and nebulous Neptune in Aries. When Venus and Neptune get together, it is a time for high romance, idealizing our lovers, pursuing our dreams and tapping into ethereal joys. This planetary formation has us dreaming a new identity for ourselves while figuring out how to share that with others peacefully. Be careful not to chase pipe dreams, but remember everything begins as a vision.
Here are your horoscopes for Venus entering Libra in opposition to Neptune. Read for your rising and sun signs.
LIBRA
Sept. 23 - Oct. 23
You are in position to attract a dream partner right now, Libra. Get clear on your needs because you are a magnet for your desires. There is someone out there ready to help you achieve your goals, and they
are ready to emerge from the mists. Your job right now is to picture exactly what you want. Don’t be surprised if your friends comment on how you’re glowing.
SCORPIO
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
It’s time to find the love behind the scenes. What have you been putting off in your life, or what have you been doing to undermine your own well-being? It’s time to show yourself some grace and balance by paying attention to the parts of life you’ve been neglecting. Turn your chore list into a game, Mary Poppins-style. A spoonful of sugar is exactly what the doctor ordered.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
It is high time to soak up the love and grace you receive from your friends. Your chosen family is going to show up for you in sweet and cozy ways, and you can shower them with love right back. You are dreaming up your own creative projects, and you have a support network that is ready to help you bloom. The hard part will be delineating social time from craft time.
CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
Work is balancing out a bit, Capricorn. It looks like your coworkers are ready to work together more sweetly, and you are going to stand out more as a source of calm. Enjoy the attention. Let your home life be your inspiration for all the hard work you do. Dream of your ideal home and family life and let that be your drive for creating balance at work.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
You are receiving a master’s class in love and relationships, Aquarius. Allow a person or the people you love to expand your horizons. Don’t be afraid to cross into new lands and new territories, whether those are actual places or
new ways of thinking. Your humdrum day-to-day reality can become a dreamland when you follow love to new vistas.
PISCES
Feb. 19 - March 20
It is a good time to be investing in some way. Whether you throw your money into a project, offer your time and wisdom to a group or volunteer your energy to a meaningful organization, investing yourself will produce a sweet bloom. On a larger scale, giving of yourself will help you jump start a fresh value system overall. Reflect on what you hold dear and make sure you’re aligned.
ARIES
March 21 - April 19
You’ve been working hard at relationships lately, and now it is time to see the fruits of your labor. Enjoy your time with the friends and partners that have survived your tests and have proven their commitments. You are experiencing a major dissolution in your own identity, connecting to your more dreamy, idyllic nature. Let a sweet partner validate your romantic side.
TAURUS
April 20 - May 20
Friendships take work, but work doesn’t always have to be toil and tribulation. It is the perfect time to find the joy in putting the determinations of your innermost dreams into practice by getting your hands dirty. Working on your friendships will ultimately help you to manifest your highest ideals into the world around you right now.
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
Under this sky, your creativity is getting a serious boost. However you express yourself, use this time to jump into high gear and share your creativity with the world. Put the paint on the canvas, strum the guitar, write the poem. Your creative spirit is receiving support from
VALUABLE DREAMS
the world around you, and you are being asked to put it out there. We’re all interested in what you are making.
CANCER
June 21 - July 22
Work-life balance is an ideal that is so rarely achievable, but this is the perfect time to negotiate your relationship to your public and private life. How do you integrate your love for home and family with your career and public-facing self? What would be your ideal formation? Make even small changes to achieve this dream and you will feel a healthy shift take place.
LEO
July 23 - Aug. 22
It is easy to take the people we see on a regular basis for granted, but this sky encourages you to take a step back and appreciate the friends and acquaintances who make up your daily cast of characters. If you could dream up the perfect project to build with your friends and neighbors, what would it be? The ideal is unachievable, but even implementing the smallest step toward it will serve you well now.
VIRGO
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
Find some harmony in how you go about making money because this sky is supporting your income. There is grace in accepting payment, and there is beauty in how you spend. Dream up the ideal world in which you would invest your time, money and energy, and see how that dream can guide your personal financial decisions. Give yourself grace.
Key West Cooking Show
Dinnertainment™ Shows Daily
11am-NOON 1pm-2pm 4pm-5pm
All meals are served with housemade plaintain chips
TUESDAY
Conch Fritters
Mojo Roast Pork with Black Beans and Rice
Key Lime Pie
Garbanzo Soup
Jerk Chicken
with Rice and Peas Guava Bread Pudding
Bollos
Grits-n-Grunts
Key Lime Pie
Avocado Salad
Ropa Vieja with White rice
Tia’s Flan
Tostones
with Cuban Chimichurri Picadillo
with Black Beans and Rice
Tia’s Flan
Conch Fritters
- TROPICAL BITES
Mojo Roast Pork with Black Beans and Rice
Key Lime Pie
Garbanzo Soup
Jerk Chicken with Rice and Peas Guava Bread Pudding
Tostones with Cuban Chimichurri Ropa Vieja with White Rice
Tia’s Flan
WEDNESDAY - Island Indulgence
Caldo Gallego Picadillo
with Black Beans and Rice Key Lime Pie
THURSDAY - CATCH OF THE DAY
Bollos
Grits-n-Grunts
Key Lime Pie
FRIDAY-
Avocado Salad
Ropa Vieja with White rice
Tia’s Flan
SATURDAY-
Tostones
with Cuban Chimichurri Picadillo
with Black Beans and Rice
Tia’s Flan
Conch Fritters Mariscado with White Rice Guava Bread Pudding
Ceviche
Mojo Roast Pork with Black Beans and Rice Key Lime Pie
Conch Fritters
Grits-n-Grunts
Key Lime Pie
Garbanzo Soup
Lobster Enchilados with White Rice Guava Bread Pudding
Caldo Gallego Key West Seafood Rissotto
Tia’s Flan
Mariscado
Swordfish Picatta with Rice and Broccolini
Tia’s Flan
Conch Salad
Snapper Creole with Rice
Guava Bread Pudding
Bollos Sunday Pork Chops with Potato Gratin
Guava Bread Pudding
HELP KEEP KEY WEST BEAUTIFUL
JOIN A 1- HOUR CLEANUP FRIDAY MORNINGS
It was a wet Friday morning, but the rain didn’t stop 60 volunteers from meeting at the Key West Chamber of Commerce on Greene Street for the Oct. 10 morning cleanup. In one hour, they collected 173 pounds of trash, 23 pounds of recycling and 1 gallon of soaked cigarette butts. Special thanks to Kerry Baker of the chamber for hosting and providing everyone with hot coffee and breakfast while they dried out. The Oct. 17 cleanup will take place near Eaton and Duval streets, hosted by Berkshire Hathaway, 336 Duval St. CONTRIBUTED
One hour a week makes a huge difference, and volunteers are welcome every Friday and some Saturday mornings, from 8 to 9 a.m., when the Key West Ploggers clean up a designated area of the island.
Gloves, pickers, buckets, vests, hand sanitizer and a parking pass are provided to all volunteers.
A troubling number of cigarette butts and plastic bags have been included in recent hauls. Please remember your reusable bags when shopping so we can keep the plastic off the streets, parking lots and, most importantly, out of the water. And dispose of cigarette butts in any receptacle rather than the street or sidewalk, as from there, they easily end up in the ocean.
The city of Key West and its residents ask everyone to do their part to help keep Key West beautiful. With simple steps like making sure you bag your trash before putting it in your Waste Management trash cans or Dumpsters, and making sure the lids on Dumpsters are closed, will keep a lot of trash from blowing into the streets. Call Waste Management at 305-296-8297 for any furniture items left on the city right of way.
Please pick up around your home or apartment complex. Every piece of trash picked up is one less that may end up in the ocean that
surrounds and sustains our island community. It is not just the large items you can see easily when you are walking, but the smaller items such as bottle caps and cigarette butts that are collected by the volunteers that make the biggest difference.
It takes committed community involvement to keep Key West beautiful and we are making progress with every cleanup event and every spot that’s adopted. Call Dorian Patton at 305-809-3782 to find out how your business, nonprofit or club can help.
— Contributed
Join a one-hour Friday morning cleanup. All events are 8 to 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted.
Oct. 17: Duval and Eaton streets. Meet on Eaton next to Berkshire Hathaway Knight & Gardner Realty, which is hosting.
Oct. 24: Key West Fire Station on Simonton Street. Meet in the parking lot. Hosted by Kenna Construction & ShineGroup, eXp Realty.
Oct. 31: Duval & Virginia streets. Meet on Virginia Street next to Duval Square. Hosted by Stacy Stahl, Realty One Group Destination.
TAKE ME HOME?
FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA
The Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
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.
Boomer. He is a 3-year-old pup who is ready to become your sidekick for life. He is a loving and silly guy who can make you smile in a second. His favorite game to play is ‘find the coconut,’ but he’ll play any game you want.
Minnie. She’s a 3-month-old shorthair kitty, with a lot of love to give. Minnie is a friendly, lovable gal. A warm bed, an occasional game of catch the mouse and a friend is all she’s looking for.
Ziggy. She’s an energetic year-old terrier mix. She’s a zoomie-loving lady who will keep you playing fetch all day. Ziggy always has the happiest smile on her face and is eager to learn and please.
This Sabrina is not the teenage witch, but rather a 2-month-old shorthair kitten who loves to chase a toy mouse, pounce from high places and eat all the treats. Sabrina would make the perfect companion to anyone looking for love. This month, Kittentober, all kittens under 8 months old are only $13 to adopt.
Clover. She’s a 2-year-old American rabbit. With her soft snow-like fur,
a little cloud of love waiting for you to be hers.
Meet
Meet
Meet
Meet
she’s
FRIDAY, OCT. 17
2:00 pm: Pre-seminar social
2:30 pm: Tracking Shark and Ray Sightings Across the Caribbean, presented by Brendan Talwar, Ph.D.
4:00 pm: Participatory Science: A valuable tool for biodiversity research, presented by Corey T. Callaghan, Ph.D.
6:00 pm: Why I Cave Dive When There’s No Fish: An introduction to the world of cave diving, presented by Nat Gibb
More details at www.REEF.org/REEFfest
SATURDAY, OCT. 18
2:00 pm: Pre-seminar social
2:30 pm: Can Reef Tanks Save Coral? Hobbyists and the future of the healthy ocean, presented by Sam Muka, Ph.D.
3:30-4:00 pm: Oceans Under Glass book signing with Sam Muka
Scan to view talk summaries and speaker bios
ALL-INCLUSIVE WINS
Special Olympics athletes deliver for Monroe County
Special Olympics Florida – Monroe County athletes delivered outstanding performances at the 2025 South Region Fall Classic at Nova Southeastern University on Oct. 5, bringing home numerous medals across powerlifting and pickleball events. Representing schools and community programs from Key West to Key Largo, athletes showed determination, strength and sportsmanship on the regional stage.
In powerlifting, Coral Shores High School’s Heyden Michael Fenney captured first place in the male combination lifts with a total lift of 900 pounds. Classmate Gordon Gomila earned first place in the male deadlift, lifting 254 pounds.
Hailing from the Middle Keys, Marathon High School’s Cindy Augustin secured first place in Female Combination 2, lifting 210 pounds of total weight between her bench press and squat. Tony Barrera lifted his way to first place in Male Combination 2 for his weight class, pushing 295 pounds in the same lifts. Luis “Alex” Chavala took first place in Male Combination 2 with 265 pounds total weight, while Angel Pierce and Billy Roberts earned silver medals in their weight classes for the same combination (195 and 200 pounds lifted, respectively).
Monroe County athletes also excelled on the pickleball court, a fastgrowing sport in the region.
Christopher Gregory from Key West High School and Alicia Di Giuseppe from Horace O’Bryant School teamed up to claim first place in Unified Doubles, in which a special needs athlete is partnered with a neurotypical teammate. The pairs of Monae Hylor and Reyna Bogins and Laila Jones and Lauren Anderson, all from the College of the Florida Keys, took second and third place in the Unified Doubles matches.
Ray Moreno from the Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens (MARC) program shone in individual skills, finishing in second place with 178 points. Kenny Ayers from the MARC program brought home sixth place in individual skills with 133 points.
Youth athletes also stood out, with Abraham Nava-Magdaleno and Evan Dickens from Horace O’Bryant School earning third place in Unified Doubles.
From the Upper Keys, Treasure Village Montessori’s young unified teams demonstrated skill and teamwork.
Greyson Mack and Nicolai Mihalciuc earned first place in Unified Doubles (8–11 year old division). Anthony Mestre and Emmett Willis also claimed first place in their Unified Doubles bracket. Emma Rodriguez and Serenity Magee earned second place in Unified Doubles, and Brody Lint and Greyson Hawthorn also finished with secondplace medals in their division.
“These results reflect the dedication of our athletes, coaches, and families,” said Ruth Coleman, sports training and competition director for Special Olympics Florida – Monroe County. “From record lifts in powerlifting to the teamwork displayed in pickleball, Monroe County athletes continue to inspire our community through inclusion and perseverance.”
The Fall Classic once again highlighted the spirit of Special Olympics, where ability, friendship and determination take center stage. Monroe County will now set its sights on upcoming state competitions, where many of these athletes will continue their quest for gold.
Statewide games for the Fall Classic will take place Nov. 13-16 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando, featuring flag football, powerlifting and pickleball. The county expects representation from Key Largo School, Coral Shores High School, Key West High School, Marathon Middle/ High School, Treasure Village Montessori, the MARC program and the College of the Florida Keys, Coleman said.
For more coverage of Special Olympics athletics, see next week’s edition of the Keys Weekly.
— Keys Weekly Staff Report
VOTING BEGINS FOR BEST OF UPPER KEYS
Select your favorites through Nov. 2
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Following 13 days of online polling, the field of finalists is set for the fourth annual Best of Upper Keys. Voting officially begins at noon on Thursday, Oct. 16.
Nominations opened to the community on Sept. 18. With nominations closing Oct. 5, the top three — and in some instances four, due to ties or close tallies — now seek to grab bragging rights and a beautiful plaque.
Residents from the Keys and people throughout the world nominated their favorites in the food and drink, community and business divisions. Now, they’ll decide who wins in each of 86 categories. The winners will be announced Friday, Nov. 14 at Playa Largo Resort in Key Largo.
“Landing on the ballot is a big deal,” said Keys Weekly publisher Jason Koler. “To be nominated as one of the best in your industry by your community is an accomplishment of its own.”
Finalist voting closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2. During this stage, members of the public can vote once per day. People must vote for 75% of the categories to cast a valid ballot.
Visit keysweekly.com/ buk25 or check out the back page of this week’s paper to view the finalists and submit your votes for the best in town. Updates and reminders will be provided at keysweekly. com, in our daily e-blast, Upper Keys Weekly print editions and social media.
In the last two years, more than $60,000 raised from the Best of Upper Keys has supported the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. With extensive programs to help and counsel children and families in a time of need, the shelter will again be the beneficiary of the Best of Upper Keys.
Tickets to attend the Best of Upper Keys awards ceremony aren’t generally made available to the public due to high demand. Winners, nominees and dignitaries are invited to attend and additional attendees are selected from a firstcome, first-served waiting list. Email manuela@keysweekly. com to be placed on the waiting list.
Event sponsors include HNO Productions, Baptist Health, First Horizon Bank, Going Aire, Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty, Playa Largo Resort & Spa, H&R Block Key Largo and Overseas Media Group.
Athletes from Marathon and Coral Shores High School secure a bevy of medals in Special Olympics powerlifting competition.
Monroe County athletes show off their medals from Unified Doubles competition in pickleball. CONTRIBUTED
TOUR DE KEYS GEARS UP FOR RECORD FUND RIDE
More than 150 cyclists to raise money for local charities; spots still available
With over 150 riders already signed up, the 10th Annual Tour de Keys is on pace to be the biggest ride in the event’s history — and there’s still time to register. Taking place on Saturday, Nov. 22, this fully supported cycling adventure offers 50- and 100-mile routes through the Florida Keys, raising funds for two nonprofit organizations in Monroe County: AH Monroe, providing affordable housing and vital health care, and MARC Inc., serving adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Cyclists will travel the famed Overseas Highway, crossing more than 40 bridges — including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge — with full support, water/snack stops, tech and first aid assistance, and a finish-line celebration in Key West.
“I’m especially excited to cycle across the legendary Seven Mile Bridge for the first time — and yes, I’m already looking forward to my energy pit stop at Baby’s Coffee,” said Chris Sloan, one of this year’s top fundraisers and a part-time Key West and Miami resident. “Funding to Monroe County charities has been cut in half this year — so I’m stepping up. I’ll be riding 50 miles to help fill the gap and keep critical services alive here in the Keys. Next year, my goal is to ride the full century.”
Sloan is also personally matching donations from his Keys friends to inspire others to ride, give or even create their own match in support of the event’s cause.
Each registered rider is asked to raise a minimum of
$250, and organizers provide participants with personalized fundraising tools and support. A newly launched rider recognition program rewards fundraisers who hit milestone levels with exclusive Tour de Keys gear, online shoutouts, and on-stage honors for top earners at the closing ceremony.
“Tour de Keys has always been about more than cycling — it’s about community,” said Becki Balcer, public relations and events coordinator at MARC. “This is a chance to make a difference, have fun, and experience the beauty of the Keys in a way most people never get to.”
All riders will receive a Tour de Keys water bottle, official T-shirt, and exclusive swag bag, plus ride support via support vehicles, water/snack stops, tech support and first aid, plus entry to the finish-line celebration in Key West.
Registration is open, with space for up to 300 riders. Organizers are also welcoming final event sponsors, volunteers and matching donors to help power fundraising efforts.
More information is at tourdekeys.com.
— Contributed
MANUELA MOBLEY RETURNS TO KEYS WEEKLY AS MARKET VP FOR THE UPPER KEYS
Keys Weekly announces the return of Manuela C. Mobley as market vice president, leading marketing and partnerships in the Upper Keys.
Mobley previously served as director of sales for Keys Weekly, where she helped grow the publication’s advertising base and build meaningful relationships with local businesses across the island chain. After her time serving the community with the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce and the Florida Keys Visitor Center, she returns to Keys Weekly with deepened experience, perspective and an even greater appreciation for the people and organizations that make the Keys so special.
“I’m humbled to have the opportunity to return to the company I once called home,” Mobley said. “My time working with local businesses and nonprofit organizations through the Chamber was incredibly rewarding, and I’m grateful for the relationships and insights gained along the way. Now, I’m
excited to put that new perspective to work using all the available resources within Keys Weekly platforms, helping clients grow their efforts through thoughtful, creative marketing strategies.”
Known for her boundless energy and genuine desire to help others succeed, Mobley is passionate about working one-on-one with local businesses — listening, brainstorming and finding solutions that make a difference. With an extensive background in sales, marketing strategy, advertising campaigns and user-friendly website design, she’s ready to collaborate with clients and community partners to reach new heights together.
“If you know me, you know I just want to help,” Mobley said. “I’m here to work with you, to listen, and to help your business or organization succeed. Keys Weekly has always been more than just local news to me — it’s about connection, creativity and community — and I’m honored to be part of that mission again.”
— Keys Weekly staff report
Manuela Mobley is the new market vice president for the Upper Keys Weekly.
WHAT’S COOKING, KEY WEST?
‘Rum Revelation’ enhances Fantasy Fest revelry
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY
www.keysweekly.com
Since 1979, Fantasy Fest has been Key West’s largest and most exuberant festival — a chance for people to cast aside their “real-world” identities, dress in creative costumes and masks, and immerse themselves in elaborate parties, parades and themed revelry.
Begun by a group of local merchants who hoped to attract visitors and income to the island during a then-slow period, Fantasy Fest was originally a two-day party featuring a food fair and a parade.
With enthusiastic support from Key West businesses, it quickly grew into an annual 10-day extravaganza that became internationally renowned for its creative flair, only-in-Key-West quirkiness, exotic masquerade galas, and grand parade featuring fabulous floats and lavishly costumed marching groups.
Each year, a different theme sets the festival’s tone — like Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters, the theme for 2025’s Oct. 17-26 frivolity. Also each year, businesses, working residents and nonprofit organizations benefit from the influx of people eager to explore “fantasy island” and experience its one-of-a-kind appeal.
Fantasy Fest highlights include Goombay, a rollicking two-night street festival that celebrates Key West’s Bahamian heritage; a wacky Pet Masquerade for costumed critters; the exotic Headdress Ball; a Masquerade March through historic Old Town; and the huge and glitzy highlight parade.
Of course it wouldn’t be Fantasy Fest without plenty of libations, and that’s where the Key West Cooking Show’s Bar 1 takes center stage. On Tuesday, Oct. 21 (better known as Tutu Tuesday), Bar 1’s master mixologist Brad Rouge will host two cocktail classes designed for tutu-wearing fantasy fans.
Revelers can experience fun-filled “Rum Revelation” classes at either noon or 2 p.m. at Bar 1, 291 Front St. Participants will learn about the Caribbean origins and historical context of rum, the different types of the “spirit”
Participants in Bar 1’s Fantasy Fest mixology classes will learn to make rum-based cocktails like the Painkiller, a refreshing tropical favorite. KEY WEST COOKING SHOW/Contributed
that helped define Key West, and the story behind Captain Morgan’s rums — long associated with Fantasy Fest and named for Sir Henry Morgan, a real-life 17th-century privateer.
After rum tastings and cocktail samplings, Rouge will show participants how to concoct two rum-based favorites while they mix their own to enjoy with new friends in the class.
All attendees will receive Fantasy Fest “swag bags” full of themed surprises. Patrons must wear clothing or costumes rather than painted-on body art (but please, no glitter!), and tutus are encouraged but not mandatory.
However, reservations for the special Fantasy Fest classes ARE mandatory, and available at https://keystix. com/calendar/rumrevelation.
LAST CALL
Drink of the month: Goombay Smash. Salute the Bahama Village Goombay Celebration by drinking a sweet and fruity Goombay Smash. To craft it according to the Key West Woman’s Club Cookbook recipe, combine classic rum and coconut rum, apricot liqueur, pineapple juice and cherry syrup. Shake the mixture with ice, strain it into a glass over fresh ice, and garnish it with a pineapple wedge and a cherry.
Helpful bar hack: How do you make perfect pineapple wedges to garnish cocktails? With the skin on, cut the pineapple lengthwise into halves and then quarters. After trimming away the fruit’s core, slice each quarter into thin wedges.
Thirsty for more? Visit keywestcookingshow.com or call 305-294COOK.
CFK PARTNERS WITH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE FOR WORKSHOPS
Program helps students navigate application process
The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) is partnering with the Key Largo and Marathon chambers of commerce to help high school students navigate the college application process. The free “Ready, Set, College!” workshops will provide guidance on college applications, essay writing and financial aid for students, families, mentors and guidance counselors.
Key Largo
“Ready, Set, College!” workshop presented by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce takes place Tuesday, Oct. 21 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the CFK Upper Keys Center auditorium, 106040 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo
Marathon
“Ready, Set, College!” workshop presented by the Marathon Chamber of Commerce takes place Wednesday, Oct. 22 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the CFK Middle Keys Center, Room 5204, 350 Sombrero Beach Road, Marathon College faculty will share strategies for crafting admission and scholarship essays.
Parents, mentors and guidance counselors will learn how to evaluate student writing and provide constructive feedback.
The second half of each workshop will cover college financing through federal grants, loans, scholarships and payment plans. CFK financial aid staff will provide hands-on assistance with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the critical first step for accessing federal and institutional financial aid.
“These workshops represent our continuing commitment to assure that higher education is accessible to every student in the Florida Keys,” said Jonathan Gueverra, CFK president. “Our local chambers of commerce are one of many partners who help us to bring college preparation resources directly to families.” Both events are free and open to all high school students and their supporters. More information is at 305296-9081.
— Contributed
INDIAN KEY’S PORT OF ENTRY DESIRES DENIED
Island boasted convenient harbor and stop for sailors
Driving up and down the Florida Keys, millions of people have traveled through Islamorada and over the series of bridges and fills that link Upper Matecumbe to Lower Matecumbe Key. While moving between the two islands, a small, seemingly nondescript island appears in the Atlantic shallows. It is about one mile offshore. The island, shrouded in mangroves, offers an excellent example of judgments made about books simply by the look of their covers.
Bahamian sailors called it Kay Comfort. Located about midway along the Florida Reef, it possessed a naturally occurring deep harbor and maintained a reputation for being relatively mosquito-free. Also, nearby Lower Matecumbe Key was home to a series of fresh-water wells. Some historical accounts considered them to be the most reliable source of fresh water in the Keys.
On a chart created by George Gauld in 1775, the island was identified as Kay Comfort and its modern name, Indian Key. Today, the island is home to Indian Key Historic State Park. A true overlooked gem, there was a time when it was the most important island in the Keys that was not named Key West.
Indian Key faded as a community, and Key West grew to become the wealthiest city, per capita, in the United States. The money flowed onto the island across the decks of the wrecking industry. Had one or two breaks gone this way instead of that, their stories would
have likely been quite different.
When Spain transferred ownership of the Florida Territory to the United States through the Adams-Onis Treaty (18191821), there was a great deal more to Florida than just the Sunshine State. The Florida Territory was composed of East Florida, which included the panhandle and stretched from the Atlantic Ocean to the Suwannee River, and West Florida, which ended at the Mississippi River, the Keys and the Florida Reef.
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.
Before the acquisition, wreckers plying their trade in the Straits of Florida and along the third largest barrier reef system in the world worked on schooners and skiffs flying different flags. Wreckers flying Spanish flags brought any cargos salvaged to Havana. Those under English flags sailed for Nassau.
Change was in the making. Key West was declared a U.S. port of entry on May 7, 1822. The next step was enacting new laws. On July 4, 1823, the first attempt at officially documented U.S. wrecking reform was enacted: “Concerning wreckers and wrecked property: WHEREAS it is necessary that prompt and efficient protection should be given to wreckers and to the owners of wrecked property brought within the limits and jurisdiction of this Territory: Be it enacted by the Governor and Legislative Council
of the Territory of Florida, And it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same, That whenever wrecked property of any description whatsoever shall arrive, be brought in or landed in any part of this Territory, it shall be the duty of the salvor or salvors, owner or owners, or their representatives, or other persons having charge of the same, to make report of the fact of such arrival to such justice of the peace or notary public as may reside next adjacent to the place of arrival.”
Cargo salvaged from an American interest was to be brought to an American port of entry. In 1823, the territory’s east coast had two: St. Augustine and Key West. There was a time, as Indian Key was establishing itself as a force, when the Territorial Congress received letters requesting that the island be declared a third port of entry. The first letter was sent in 1828 but was ignored. As the Indian Key community continued to grow, additional petitions were sent.
There were legitimate reasons to consider Indian Key a suitable port of entry. It was not just some convenient harbor in times of emergency, but a destination where sailors could stop to stretch their legs, get a warm meal and shoot a game of pool. They could also acquire provisions at one of the two general stores on the island.
The stores at Indian Key were not visited casually, as would be revealed when, on April 23, 1833, it was recorded that, “One store on this island sold in the last 12 months merchandise to the amount of 25 thousand dollars. ¼ part of this sum was purchased by residents of the mainland – the remaining ¾ by inhabitants of the Keys and by vessels who resort here for supplies.”
Adjusting for inflation, $25,000 in 1833 would be worth in the neighborhood of $950,000 in 2025. A second letter requesting that the island become a port of entry was drafted by the “Inhabitants of Indian Key” on July 23, 1833. It was signed not just by residents of Indian Key, but also by “Florida Shippers, Underwriters, Masters of Vessels, and others interested in the commercial and wrecking concerns of the Gulf and Reef of Florida.”
Included in the letter was:
“Much the greatest part of Court & Customs House business in this District originates in the disasters that so frequently occur in navigating these seas – and more than three fourths of these accidents take place in the vicinity of Indian Key.”
In addition, it was noted that “the rapid increase of business at and in the vicinity of the Island renders it exceedingly desirable that Indian Key should be made a Port of Entry and a Custom House…”
For the second time, the request was denied. In 1839, a third petition was sent to the Territorial Congress, and, for a third time, the request was denied. Politics were involved. It would have been interesting if the politics behind those making the decision had broken the other way. Because Indian Key was more conveniently located along the Florida Reef than Key West, in many cases, wreckers would not have had to sail as great a distance to register their salvaged cargo. The money that poured into Key West would have been diverted to Indian Key, and the history of both islands would have been recorded in books much differently than they are today.
‘Indian Key, The Wreckers’ Rendezvous’ from ‘Along the Florida Reef’ by Charles Holder, Harper’s New Monthly Magazine, Vol. XLII, 1871. MONROE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY/Florida Keys History Center Collection
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ROCK & ROLL RED BALL CONCERT FIGHTS ALS
Benefit celebrates musician Jon Skiff & his Live Now Love Now Foundation
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
ocal musician Jon Skiff is living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), formerly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, and while the disease has silenced his music, it has not dampened his spirit.
Skiff has launched his Live Now Love Now Foundation to raise money and awareness for the heartbreaking disease that progressively robs people of their motor
Key West Theater on Oct. 12 hosted the Live Now Love Now Rock and Roll Red Ball concert to fight ALS.
At the benefit concert, a dozen or so local musicians performed plenty of Skiff’s original music, along with other familiar favorites. Featured artists included Randy Stindt, Ross Brown, Vince Bergamo, Daniel Craig, Jessie Wagner, Jack Wolf, Evan Valentine, Rick Norman, Kari Wolf, Jillian Todd, Collette Campbell and more, under the musical direction of Jeff Dalton.
This was more than a concert — it was the start of a movement, a movement meant to celebrate life, love and music while building a grassroots organization to help musicians living with ALS, offering resources and grants for advanced voice banking and AI music technologies. Because while ALS may silence a voice, it should never silence a legacy.
The Rock & Roll Red Ball concert at Key West Theater on Oct. 12 featured a dozen musicians performing the songs of Jon Skiff, who is living with ALS and raising money through his foundation Live Now Love Now to support other musicians facing the progressive disease. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly
Live Music Daily
Carrying multiple exclusive retail lines. Plus a selection of unique & carefully curated pre-loved items.
BOUTIQUE HOURS
MONDAY - WEDNESDAY 11- 4
THURSDAY - SATURDAY 11- 6
SUNDAY CLOSED
Voted BEST LOCAL RETAILER by the Key West People’s Choice Awards 2023, 2024 & 2025. And mentioned in Forbes magazine!
is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension Florida Sea Grant Agent. Shelly is a marine biologist and provides sciencebased education about coastal environments.
Did you know there are around 117 marinas and boatyards in Monroe County? Of those, 28 are certified Clean Marinas.
The most recent designations are Happy Landings Marina, Safe Harbor Marathon and Marlin Bay Resort and Marina. Congratulations to these three new Clean Marinas.
Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) runs the Clean Marina program, a voluntary initiative aimed at helping marinas, boatyards and marine retailers adopt environmental best management practices that go beyond regulatory compliance. The Clean Boating Partnership is a public-private collaboration led by FDEP along with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Florida Sea Grant.
Florida Sea Grant collaborates statewide within the Clean Boating and Clean Marina framework via education, outreach, technical assistance and coordination. The key elements of the Clean Marine Program are to teach marinas and boatyards about practices to protect sensitive habitats, reduce pollution from waste and hazardous materials, manage stormwater, prevent spills and establish emergency preparedness procedures.
To be designated a Clean Marina, a facility must meet all the legal requirements (permits, local/state laws) and implement at least 60% of the voluntary best practices. Certified marinas receive a flag and certificate to display, listing on the FDEP website, and there may be financial incentives available, like reduced insurance fees. For those with state submerged land leases, there’s a 10% discount on lease fees.
Florida Sea Grant employs cleanboating coordinators who actively engage with marinas, boaters and FDEP. They perform site visits and assessments of marina operations, identify opportunities to adopt best
FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS
STILLNESS IS THE NEW FLEX
Safe Harbor Marathon recently became a certified Clean Marina. CONTRIBUTED The Clean Vessel Act offers grants to facilities for the installation, operation and maintenance of pumpouts and dump stations.
practices and advise staff in preparation for Clean Marina certification site visits. The clean-boating coordinator positions and Clean Vessel Act education coordinator are funded through the FDEP through a grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Staff at Monroe County Extension can help get you started toward Clean Marina certification. Any marinas or boatyards that are interested in the Clean Marina program can contact Octavio Franco at Octavio.Franco@ufl. edu or email clean.marina.program@ dep.state.fl.us.
More information is available by scanning the QR code here.
An important criterion of the Clean Marina program is to have a functional sewage waste disposal resource, such as a pumpout, mobile pumpout vessel, or port-a-potty dump station. Florida DEP’s Clean Vessel Act program offers grants for installation, operation and maintenance of pumpouts and dump stations. The grants will cover up to 75% of all eligible expenses.
Once installed, the equipment must be open to the public, listed on the free “Pumpout Nav” app, and facilities can only charge up to $5 per pumpout. Florida Sea Grant’s cleanboating coordinators and Clean Vessel Act education coordinator are available to help with grant applications. More information is at DEP’s CVA webpage at floridadep.gov/rcp/cva.
The Monroe County Extension Service is available via email to monroe@ifas. ufl.edu.
...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC. Hello@highlymotivatedfc.com
If I had a dollar for every time someone told me they were so busy, I’d have enough for a week’s stay at a silent retreat — which, at this point in my life, sounds a hell of a lot better than adding another thing to my todo list. Speaking of to-do lists (they’re great, BTW) — they can also become a full-time job if you let them. Being organized is great, but being over-managed, even if it’s by your own doing, is not. Here’s the thing: somewhere along the line, we started treating busyness like a badge of honor. The fuller the calendar, the more successful we must be, right? Wrong. Constant motion doesn’t equal meaningful progress — it just means you’re tired, distracted and probably one more “urgent” email away from snapping at your loved ones.
Stillness is the new flex. It’s the quiet confidence of not rushing to fill every space. It’s choosing presence over productivity, calm over chaos. It’s pausing long enough to feel your own life instead of sprinting through it like it’s another box to check.
When your nervous system is overworked, it’s like your body’s internal alarm clock never shuts off. You’re constantly on “high alert” — maybe you can’t fall asleep even when you’re exhausted, your patience is paper-thin and your heart seems to beat faster than it should during simple tasks. Scientifically speaking, this is your sympathetic nervous system (your fight-or-flight response) doing overtime while your parasympathetic nervous system — the one responsible for rest, digestion and recovery — barely gets a word in.
Over time, this imbalance creates a storm of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline that flood your system. You might call
it anxiety, irritability or “just being busy,” but your body knows it as survival mode. And survival mode isn’t meant to be a lifestyle. It keeps your muscles tense, your digestion sluggish, your immune system weaker and your brain foggy.
Here’s where the magic of saying no comes in — especially when what you’re saying no to doesn’t feel aligned. Every time you set a boundary that protects your peace, your nervous system gets the signal: we’re safe. That safety cue activates the vagus nerve, which helps flip you back into parasympathetic mode — lowering your heart rate, deepening your breath, improving digestion and even boosting moodstabilizing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
In other words, “no” isn’t rejection — it’s regulation. It’s your body’s way of whispering “thank you for listening to me.” Actually, not all will whisper. Somebody’s body out there is definitely going to scream “it’s about damn time.” (If you laughed at this, it’s going to be yours, I promise.)
So maybe this week, instead of sprinting from sunrise to sunset, you let the nervous system do what it’s been begging for — rest. Take that “no” as permission to actually live where you live. Sip your coffee slowly enough to watch the light change on the water. Let the wind, not your calendar, set the pace for a minute. Because the truth is, even paradise loses its magic when you’re too stressed to feel it. Sometimes the most elevated thing you can do for your health — and your happiness — is to sit still long enough to hear the waves remind you: You’re already right where you need to be.
SHELLY KRUEGER
JENNIFER HARVEY
Founded by Betty Debnam
Conjure Up a Spooky Party
Mini Fact: Americans buy about 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins at Halloween!
Halloween trick-or-treating is lots of fun, but this kid-friendly holiday is also a great time to host a party! Talk to your family about how many guests to invite. With your parents’ help, you will want to plan the:
Your invitations can be made by hand or on a computer. For a fun twist, you might dress in a costume and hand-deliver them!
HAUNT YOUR OWN HOUSE!
As your guests come in, tell them that you are taking them one by one on an eerie adventure.
• Big boxes taped together make an ideal witches’ maze to wander through.
• Music playing too slow or too fast creates a scary mood.
• Make up a group ghost story. Sit in a circle. Everyone adds a sentence to the story as you go around the circle.
WHAT’S THAT?!
• Blindfold your guests and guide them as they walk around a table and describe what icky things they are feeling.
• “Bob” for apples. String a clothesline across a corner of the room and hang apples with string. Each person takes bites of their apple without using their hands. The first one done is the winner.
• Decorate pumpkins. Ask each guest to decorate a small pumpkin using cut paper and markers. Give awards like “scariest” or “fanciest.”
• Play musical chairs. Use spooky music!
• Play pass the orange. Get in a line or circle. Try passing an orange from person to person without touching it with your hands.
• Do a mummy wrap race. Divide into teams. Each team wraps one member with toilet paper like a mummy. The first team to complete their mummy wins.
• Do your best monster moves with a freeze dance. When the music stops, strike your best monster pose. Anyone who’s still moving is out.
Words that remind us of Halloween parties are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
Unscramble these things that you’ll need to have a safe and fun Halloween.
And don’t forget to say “thank you” for each treat!
1. Using aumpke on your face is best.
A mask can block your view of traffic and other kids.
2. Your ustmoec should be made of a light color or trimmed with tape that shines in the dark.
3. Your family should look over your estart before you dig in.
4. Carry a lhalftgsih if you’ll be out after dark.
5. Your essoh should be comfortable and easy to walk in.
Your answers
Don’t forget
• Stay in neighborhoods you know.
• Go trick-or-treating with a group.
• Cross the street only at an intersection. Don’t run between parked cars.
• Don’t go into strangers’ homes, even if you’re invited in.
RESOURCES
On the Web:
• bit.ly/4fVPWno
At the library:
• “Plinky Witch and the Happy Haunted House” by Liz Cooper
ECO NOTE
A meteorite that crashed through the roof of a Georgia home on June 26 is estimated to be 4.56 billion years old, making it older than Earth. Researchers at the University of Georgia confirmed the age of the cherry tomato-sized rock using microscopic analysis of 23 grams of fragments recovered from the site in McDonough. The meteorite, part of a group of asteroids believed to have originated from a breakup event 470 million years ago, rattled homes and was widely visible as it fell.
Answers: 1. makeup; 2. costume; 3. treats;
4. flashlight; 5. shoes
MACY GRAY OCTOBER 24
DEAD-ZEP NOVEMBER 1
WHEELAND BROTHERS NOVEMBER 8
ELTON DAN & THE ROCKET BAND
NOVEMBER 12
THOMAS DOLBY THE ICONIC 80’S NOVEMBER 7
THE GARCIA PROJECT NOVEMBER 15
CRYSTAL GAYLE NOVEMBER 22
THE CAROLE KING & JAMES TAYLOR STORY FT. PHOEBE KATIS & DAN CLEWS
NOVEMBER 25
THE BROKEN HEARTS A TRIBUTE TO TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS NOVEMBER 29
TIC KE T S AVAI L AB LE AT THE K E YW E STTH E ATE R .CO M
REVIEWS FROM MILLIONS OF TRIPADVISOR TRAVELERS PLACE US IN THE TOP 10% WORLDWIDE. PULL
GREEN GAME
Golfers keep the home faceoffs rolling | P.10
6 - 11
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Team Sport Opponent
Basilica Volleyball Key West 10/6 L, 3-0
Key West Volleyball Marathon 10/7 W, 3-0
Coral Shores Volleyball Keys Gate 10/7 W, 3-0
Coral Shores Volleyball Marathon 10/9 W 3-0
Marathon Football Mount Dora Christian Academy 10/10 L, 49-0
Coral Shores Football Archbishop Carroll 10/10 L, 26-0
Key West Football Miami Northwestern 10/11 L, 56-0
WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS OCT. 16 - 23
Date School Sport Opponent Start Time
10/17 Key West Football Lehigh 7 p.m.
10/17 Coral Shores Football ABF Academy 7 p.m.
10/17 Marathon Football LaBelle 7 p.m.
10/18 Key West Swimming Barbara Goleman 11:30 a.m.
10/20 All Keys teams Golf @ Marathon 1 p.m.
10/21 All Keys teams Cross Country @ Sugarloaf Trail TBA
10/22 Key West Swimming Districts @ Belen 4:30 p.m.
10/22 All Keys teams Golf Key West 2 p.m.
HEINRICHS
Senior, Key West Volleyball
She has been playing with a lot of confidence and she is really serving andattacking well. In practice and in matches she has been lighting it up.”
– Kim Butler, Lady Conchs’ head coach
16
kills serving aces This season
Adriana Heinrichs had an outstanding week on the court – and according to head coach Kim Butler, Heinrichs has an outstanding week every week when it comes to motivating her teammates to be the best they can be, too. “She has a great attitude and is always positive,” said Butler of her standout senior. Heinrichs amassed 20 kills last week in matches against Marathon and Basilica. She was credited with 11 digs and picked up a pair of aces as well. Her leadership and encouragement will be crucial in the Conchs’ postseason run this year. For her excellent play on the court paired with inspirational optimism, Adriana Heinrichs is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
Golfing in the Keys means familiar opponents working to improve their games together, like Coral Shores’ Scout Oliver and Marathon’s Max Childress. See page 10. Photos by Natalie Danko and Doug Finger
Adriana
Photo by MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
sean mcdonald
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
Se habla español THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.
FEELING THE BURN
Marathon freshman brings the heat to Fast Times meet
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.
9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050
Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com
Marathon traveled to Miami on Oct. 8 to participate in the annual Fast Times cross country meet hosted by Miami Country Day at Greynolds Park. Freshman Lucian Burns won the race in 16:55. Sophomore Antonin Bursa was third overall, finishing in 17:51 and senior Caleb Shelar cracked the top 10 with a 19:25. Anthony Vargas and Allan Taylor helped the team capture first place in the team competition. The Fins averaged 18:51 to finish first out of nine teams at the event.
Molly Joly was the first Lady Fin to cross the line. Joly was eighth overall, running the course in 24:15. Mylana Loza was second for Marathon with a 25:38 finish time, and Ariella Dworniczak was the third Fin finisher in 27:51. Kayla Skaarup and Danaica Bessy rounded out the top five for Marathon.
Runners from throughout the county will meet on Oct. 21 on Upper Sugarloaf for a fast-paced race and a great chance to set personal records. Districts will occur the first week of November.
tracy mcdonald
Molly Joly was the first Lady Fin to cross the finish line at the Fast Times cross country meet in Miami on Oct. 8. Freshman Lucian Burns won the boys race at the same event. NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly
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CONCHS FASTEST ON THE DRAW IN DUALS
Key West outswims
Coral Shores and others at Founders
Coral Shores swimmers and divers hosted Key West, True North, Braddock and Varela on Oct. 9 for a five-team meet at Founders Park. In dual-meet scoring, Key West outscored the rest of the field in combined scores, with wins against all but Braddock in boys competition, where they were just five points shy of a total sweep. The Lady Conchs outswam all except True North. Coral Shores’ girls logged a win against Braddock.
The Hurricanes started strong with a win in the 200yard medley relay, led by Layne Smith, Parks Dunn, Sofia Figueredo and Larkin Dunn. The same team placed third in the 200 freestyle relay. Figueredo went on to win the 200 individual medley and Smith did the same in the 500 freestyle event. Stella Hodder captured third place in the 100-yard breaststroke.
Aaron Lykins was first in the boys 1-meter diving event. Also notable for the Coral Shores boys was the 200 freestyle relay team of Mark Porter, Jace Jackson, Mason Osipov and Tony Khioni, who came in third in the race.
For Key West, Amelia Korzen won the 100 breaststroke race, then placed third in the 200 individual medley (IM). Mary Searcy was third in the 200 free and 100 backstroke events. Colbie Turner was third in the 100 butterfly event and Christina Rice was third in the 100- and 50-yard freestyle races. Rice also teamed up with Molly Martinez, Morgan Kennedy and Tess Hughes for a third-place finish in the 400 freestyle relay.
Santiago Gonzalez won the individual 200 freestyle event, then captured second in the 100 freestyle event. Jacob Perez went the distance to win the 500 free race, with teammate Haven Andrade in second. The Conchs’ other winner was Hugo Blinckmann, who raced to a first in the 50 free event. Owen Lindley came in third in the same event. Blinckmann and Kieran Smith finished second and third, respectively, in the 100 breaststroke event. In the 200 IM, Andres Aguero was third.
In boys relay events, Key West had multiple respectable finishes. Smith, Blinckmann, Aguero and Wesley Farrer took second in the 200 medley relay, while Gonzalez, Lindley and Max and Hugo Blinckmann swam to a second in the 200 free relay. Max Blinckmann, Perez, Sebastian Camargo and Gonzalez finished second in the 400 free relay and Lindley, Aguero, Johnny Picco and Jackson Way took third in the same relay event.
The meet concluded Coral Shores’ regular season. Key West closes out its regular season against Barbara Goleman Oct. 18 for the annual Senior Day race at the CFK pool before turning attention to districts later in the week. Both teams dive into districts Oct. 22. The Conchs, classified as 2A, compete at Belen in the afternoon. 1A Coral Shores will meet at Belen that same morning with the exception of Lykins, who will compete at the diving event held at St. Andrews School on Oct. 21.
1. A Key West swimmer heads down the lane in a freestyle race.
2. Andres Aguero swims in a freestyle race.
Jace Jackson awaits the start of a race.
A Key West swimmer dives off the starting block.
Aaron Lykins tucks in the 1-meter diving competition.
A Key West swimmer grabs a breath in a butterfly race.
A Coral Shores swimmer enters the pool.
Larkin Dunn takes a breath mid-stroke.
Lane Smith cruises with a big lead in the 500 free race. JACKSON GARCIA/Keys Weekly
1. The Lady Conchs await their district semifinal opponent after earning a bye in the quarters.
2. Marathon’s Daysi Williams and Coral Shores’ Coralyn Frimpter battle it out at the net.
3. Niveah Howard guards the net for Coral Shores.
4. Coralyn Frimpter winds up for a hard hit against Marathon.
Photos by Tracy McDonald and Maicey Malgrat
GO TIME
Apair of wins last week brought the Hurricanes of Coral Shores to a 13-6 regular season record and secured a home match for their quarterfinal district contest. The Hurricanes defeated Keys Gate 3-0 on Oct. 7, led by a hard-hitting front that never quit. Keys Gate managed to take the ’Canes to extra points in the third set, but ultimately, the Knights were outmatched. Celene Walker had 10 kills, Coralyn Frimpter had eight kills and eight aces and Maddie Jordan picked up three aces. Niveah Howard was clutch at the net with six kills and three blocks.
Two nights later, the Hurricanes traveled to Marathon for both teams’ final match of the regular season. Frimpter had eight kills with fellow freshman Jillian Thiery adding seven. Walker and Howard had six kills apiece and Shelby Lynn served up five aces to overpower the Fins.
The Hurricanes earned the No. 4 seed in FHSAA’s 3A District 16 bracket. They hosted Carrollton School, seeded fifth, Oct. 14 in the quarterfinals (results not available at press time). A win would send them to the semifinal match the following night, most likely against top-ranked Gulliver Prep. An upset in that battle would pave the way for a shot at the district championship on Oct. 17.
Teams face stiff competition in volleyball district brackets
The Marathon Dolphins, now 2-13, also earned a home match for their FHSAA 1A Rural district quarterfinal contest. The Fins, ranked fourth in the class, played fifth-ranked Glades Day Oct. 14 (results not available at press time). A win against the Gators would send Marathon to Moore Haven the following day. Moore Haven is the top seed in their grouping, and should Marathon prevail in that matchup, they could play for a district championship Oct. 17.
Key West finished 15-10 on the regular season with the addition of two in-county wins last week. They started with Basilica School on Oct. 6, defeating the Mariners 3-0. The entire Lady Conch lineup was strong against Basilica. Audrey Smith recorded 15 kills and a pair of blocks in the win. Gabby Garcia added nine kills and Tess Wright had six kills and a pair of blocks. Cat Van Staden had two blocks, then picked up three aces, recording a 90% serve percentage to spark the Conch offense. Adriana Heinrichs had 16 digs with Journey Lamb adding 15 more. Molly McKnight recorded 28 assists in the win.
The following night, Key West celebrated their seniors in the final regular-season home match of the year. Coach Kim Butler was very pleased with the play of her most seasoned athletes.
“All did a wonderful job on their last season home match,” she said.
The team’s seven seniors played the entire match for Key West, with Smith leading the way in kills with 10. Garcia added six and Heinrichs recorded three plus a pair of aces. Van Staden had two kills and another four aces. Wright had three kills and three aces and McKnight had four aces and 17 assists. Butler also praised Savannah Ventimiglia for a solid all-around performance in the team’s victory.
Key West’s strength of schedule helped boost their district rankings, giving them the No. 2 seed and a quarterfinal bye. They awaited the winner of an Oct. 13 Miami Northwestern versus Miami Central match for their next opponent. The Conchs played the winner of that match on Oct. 15 at home (results not available at press time). A win there gives them a shot at the 4A District 16 title. The top-ranked team in that pool is St. Brendan, a team Key West narrowly lost to on Sept. 26, making a run at regionals a realistic endeavor. Basilica’s season ended with their Oct. 6 loss to Key West. The team, 8-14 this season, plans to join the FHSAA next year to be eligible for playoffs in 2026.
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1. Coral Shores quarterback Sterling Keefe (16) looks to pass.
2. Coral Shores defender Glade Harrelson (7) puts pressure on the Archbishop quarterback.
3. Coral Shores back John Oughton (19) runs upfield.
4. Coral Shores takes on Archbishop Carroll at home on Oct. 10. Archbishop Carroll went on to win 26-0.
DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
BLANK-ET STATEMENT
Keys teams face uphill battles against permissive recruiting rules
For the first time in at least 20 years, Monroe Country’s three football teams failed to score a single point against their respective opponents last weekend – and while there are a handful of weeks in which Keys teams all lose, a triple-blanking is unheard of. If the FHSAA’s open transfer policy remains as it stands, last week’s anomaly may become more commonplace.
In 2016, Florida House Bill 7029 allowed students to transfer to any public school of their choice, and the FHSAA’s bylaws were changed to accommodate the bill. This opened doors for limited roster changes, and in its early stages, student-athletes typically used the legislation to transfer for academic reasons, with a slower shift in dynamics for athletics.
Less than a decade later, transfers for athletics-only purposes are commonplace, with students able to play on teams out of their jurisdiction and even schools they do not physically attend. This has led to “super teams” dominating Florida’s football landscape, making it increasingly difficult for teams like Coral Shores, Marathon and Key West to compete.
“We’re geographically isolated,” said Key West coach Johnny Hughes, whose Conchs faced defending state champion Miami Northwestern last week. “We have who we have. That’s not what we were looking at against Northwestern.”
Hughes said his team looked across the line of scrimmage and saw a “football factory.”
“I wouldn’t call it a football team; they’ve only been together a few months. It was a collection of talent. They were loaded,” he said. Indeed, the
Conchs faced a quarterback who played at Ransom last year, a North Fort Myers transfer committed to Texas who did not even play, and a bevy of similar talent who likely never set foot on campus beyond their practice schedule. “Personnel was a major issue,” said Hughes.
Even when the Conchs had glimmers of greatness last week, the personnel mismatch was evident. “One of their defensive players, a guy committed to FAU, blew his coverage and we got positive yardage,” said Hughes. “The players started to yell to get him out of the game and they replaced him with a guy committed to FIU instead.”
Coaches across Florida are more and more becoming talent scouts, and recruiting has surpassed coaching in the priorities of many programs. To keep their programs stocked with the best talent, coaches must appease their stars to avoid transfers – even mid-season.
“The starting quarterback never came out,” said Hughes, “not even when they were ahead by over 40.”
For Coral Shores, the situation was similar.
“It’s an unfair playing field for sure,” said coach Ed Holly, whose Hurricanes lost 26-0 last week to a stacked Archbishop Carroll. The ’Canes resorted to some unusual playcalling to try to overcome the Bulldogs. Holly praised Sterling Keefe for completing four of seven passes, something completely out of the ordinary for the run-heavy Hurricanes. David Beltran ran eight times for 42 yards, earning each one the hard way, but despite the best trickery in play-calling and grittiest of athletic feats, it was not enough to down the Dogs.
“We know year to year who will be on our rosters,” said Holly, speaking about not just his team, but Marathon and Key West as well.
“All three teams have to do an unbelievable job of developing talent, investing in our futures and doing it the traditional way,” he said. “In bad years, we develop the next group and in good years, we have good records. The teams with the most seniors are usually the most successful, then they go and we start over.”
But the struggle of Coral Shores to develop a group of underclassmen takes years, including teaching fundamentals, building camaraderie and a brotherhood, and building size and strength in the weight room. Mainland schools need only recruit ready-made players to dominate schools unwilling or unable to recruit, and those schools are left with gaping holes on their rosters when the powerhouses pluck away talent developed elsewhere.
And while Holly did not mince his words on open transferring and recruiting, he was also adamant that he would not trade his situation with that of teams that can produce an all-star roster overnight.
“I wouldn’t change what we have,” he said. “Our community is so special because our kids play, come back and volunteer and support us, no matter what. I wouldn’t change it for anything. What is our main goal? It’s to make better fathers, sons, husbands and brothers using football as a tool to do this. Recruiting doesn’t accomplish this.”
Between Key West and Coral Shores, Marathon is also feeling the pain of schools that can fill roster spots with a phone call rather than put
the work in for years. The Dolphins have not won a game this season, and yet the Fins come to practice daily with good attitudes and a willingness to get better and support one another every day, according to coach Sean McDonald.
“Our guys know what we’re facing each week,” he said. “We don’t just develop kids from freshman year, we do it from middle school on. For them to have the patience and tenacity to endure a season like this one and put themselves out there against a team that has obvious advantages we cannot control is a testament to the character of this team.”
Marathon, with just over 400 high school students, consistently plays schools with triple or quadruple their enrollment. They reclassified as 1A Rural last season, a move that pits them against like-rostered schools in the postseason. But to see more evenly-matched contests, the Fins will have to make it to the postseason, and an 0-8 record against larger opponents will not accomplish that.
Now that the floodgates to transferring and recruiting are open, there is likely no closing them, but Keys teams are not the only ones frustrated with competing against super teams. The FHSAA is working to find a happy balance between the obligation to follow the letter of the law as far as school transfers go and the advantages used by some squads.
To do this, the FHSAA added the Florida Invitational Tournament, or FIT, an extra postseason bracket for teams not qualifying for playoffs in the traditional format. The FIT will include 16 teams beyond the 32 qualifying for playoffs now.
But even the addition of FIT will not stop the Wild West of open transfers and unbalance – it merely awards a consolation prize to teams that don’t quite qualify for playoffs.
Next week, Coral Shores faces ABF Academy, a team far more talented than their 2-4 record lets on. Against similar opponents, ABF holds the advantage, but a road trip and the run grind of the Hurricanes could even up those odds. Key West faces 7A Lehigh, an unfamiliar team which, despite a 3-4 record, looks good on film, according to Hughes.
“We need this one,” he said, regarding the Conchs’ hopes of earning home field advantage for round one of the playoffs.
Up next for Marathon is the undefeated Cowboys of LaBelle, a 3A team four hours north. Though the records and rosters are lopsided, the teams both had a desire to rekindle a wellmatched and respected rivalry from the past. For decades, Marathon and LaBelle played one another in the final game of the season, a rivalry that is well-remembered by both sides despite not having the longstanding rivalry game since the mid-’90s.
“It was always a pretty physical and hardfought game,” said LaBelle assistant coach Hal Bennett. He played in some of the final seasons the teams met in what was then referred to as the “end-of-year classic,” when Cowboy players looked forward to traveling to the Keys for a football game.
Bennett described "vivid memories of warming up in the end zone and seeing fiddler crabs
5. Marathon’s Curren Nicolay (2) and a Mount Dora player scramble for possession of an onside kick in sloppy conditions on Oct. 10.
6. Marathon and Mount Dora slip and slide in an attempt to secure possession.
7. Jesus Gonzalez (4) brings down the Mount Dora ball carrier.
8. Eduardo Garcia assists the referee after a collision with a Mount Dora player.
TRACY MCDONALD/Keys Weekly
scurrying away,” adding that some teammates were a bit unnerved that the entire end zone seemed to move due to the crabs.
He quickly named some of Marathon’s roster who made an impression on him and his teammates. He recalled “a small guy on Marathon’s team that was missing his arm from the elbow down, and how much respect they had for how hard and physical he played.”
Another was Dosey Robbins. “You don’t forget 260-pound tailbacks,” Bennett said. "He may not have weighed that much, but he sure looked like he did!”
Marathon coach Andra Garvey confirmed Bennett’s analysis of Robbins – “yes, he was 250” – and identified Derick Jones as the player with the missing arm. Garvey played against LaBelle when he was a middle school student on the varsity team. It was five years before Garvey was named Florida Player of the Year, but he remembered the games against the Cowboys.
Garvey described the Cowboys as matching Marathon in speed at the time, but being bigger in size. He also remembered plenty of cowbell noise from the fans, and something a bit more unusual the Cowboys packed on the bus. LaBelle fired off a cannon to signify a touchdown. “Every time they scored, it went off,” Garvey said.
Bennett assures that there will be no cannon Friday night in Marathon, and despite the lopsided records the teams have this season, both coaching staffs hope to rekindle the yearly game.
Keys golfers met at the prestigious Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo to play nine holes on Oct. 7, where Marathon’s Roco Piscetello and Coral Shores’ Scout Oliver tied for first with 39. Piscetello birdied on hole 17 while Oliver’s consistency helped him outshoot the pack. In third was another tie between Key West’s Geo Twyman and Marathon’s Max Childress. Childress and Twyman, who also birdied on 17, each scored 41.
Key West’s Mason Titensor was next, followed by Marathon’s Emmett Merryman and Coral Shores’ Brock Bynum in a tie for sixth. Jacob Bohnstedt of Coral Shores and Aiden Richard tied for seventh and Luca Picariello and Cullen Coleman-Sayer tied for 10th place. Marathon won the team
From left: Justice Lee
Melanie Estevez
Roco Piscetello
Scout Oliver
Photos by Natalie Danko and Doug Finger
TIES ON THE TEES
Golfers share scores in close matches
competition, with Coral Shores taking second on their home course.
In the girls competition, Coral Shores’ Valerie Gabriel and Marathon’s Justice Lee kept the ties coming. Both golfers turned in score cards with 60 to share first place. Makenna Haines of Marathon was third and Melanie Estevez finished fourth.
Golfers have less than two weeks before district competition begins. This season, 1A Marathon and Coral Shores are slated to play at Crandon Golf Course in Key Biscayne on Oct. 28. Key West, classified as 2A, plays the following day. The boys team will compete at Redland Golf and Country Club while the Lady Conchs will travel to Eagle Trace Golf Club for the start of their postseason play.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY CASE NO: 2025-CA-129-K Premier Capital, LLC Plaintiff, Vs Carolyn M. Delgado and William J. Delgado
Defendant, NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY given that pursuant to a amended Writ of Execution issued in the Circuit Court, of Monroe County, Florida, on the 7th day of October, 2025, in the cause wherein Premier Capital, LLC is Plaintiff and Carolyn M. Delgado and William J. Delgado was defendant, being Case No.
2025-CA-129-K in said court, I, Richard A. Ramsay, Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida have levied upon all right, title, and interest of the defendant, in and to the following described real property to wit: SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY:
From the warranty deed that states the following described land, situate, lying and being in Monroe County, Florida
to-wit: Legal Description(s) –On the Island of Key West, Monroe County, Florida, and known on William A. Whitehead’s map delineated in February A.D. 1829, as part of Tract 11 but better known as part of Lot 3, Square 9, Tract 11 according to Charles W. Tift’s Map of said Island recorded in Deed Book “L” Page 564, of the Public
PUBLIC KICK-OFF MEETING
Card Sound Road Bridge
Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study
Financial Project ID: 453765-1-22-01
Efficient Transportation Decision Making (ETDM) Number: 14539
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will host a Public Kick-off Meeting for the Card Sound Road Bridge PD&E Study. The limits of this project extend from south of Milepost 5 to Milepost 6.242 along County Road (CR) 905A/Card Sound Road in Monroe County. The purpose of this project is to evaluate alternatives that will address the structural degradation and substandard design elements of the existing Card Sound Road Bridge, including improved emergency evacuation/response times, and the need for bicycle/pedestrian facilities. This meeting is an opportunity to learn about the project, become familiar with the study process, and provide feedback. The meeting will be held simultaneously in person and virtually.
Tuesday, October 28, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Presentation starting at 6 p.m
Virtual Option: To participate virtually from your computer, tablet, or smartphone, please register using the following link https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/429b4a0b-5375-41e1a547-2ef167b0b223@4cf2e5a9-7553-47d9-b3c4-b29299a853a9 or scan the QR code provided
Phone Option: Call in by dialing (833) 566-1407 and enter access code 891 743 780#
In-person Option: Murray Nelson Government Center, BOCC Room, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037
Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status. Persons who need special assistance under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 or who need translation services (free of charge) should contact Dat Huynh at 305-470-5201 or in writing to Florida Department of Transportation, 1000 NW 111 Avenue, Miami, FL 33172 or by email at Dat.Huynh@dot.state.fl.us at least seven days prior to the meeting. Your attendance is encouraged and appreciated. If you would like further information about this project, please contact the FDOT Project Manager, Claudia Gutierrez, P.E., at 305-470-5268 or by email at Claudia.Gutierrez@dot.state.fl.us. You may also visit the project website at www.SouthFLRoads.com/CardSoundBridgePD&E.html.
The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried out by FDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. § 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated May 26, 2022, and executed by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and FDOT.
Records of Monroe County, Florida and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: Commencing at the intersection of the Southwesterly right of way boundary line of Duval Street with the Northwesterly right of way boundary line of United Street and run in a Southwesterly direction along the said right of way
boundary line of United Street a distance of 100 feet to the Point of Beginning of the parcel of land herein described, thence at right angles in the Northwesterly direction 84.17 feet to a point; thence at right angles in a Southwesterly direction 26.3 feet to a point; thence at right angles in a Southeasterly direction 84.17 feet to a point in the Northwesterly
REUNIÓN PÚBLICA
Card Sound Road Bridge
Estudio de Desarrollo y Medio Ambiente (PD&E) ID de Proyecto Financiero: 453765-1-22-01
Número de toma de decisions de transporte eficiente (ETDM): 14539
El Departamento de Transporte de Florida (FDOT) organizará una reunión pública de lanzamiento para el estudio PD&E del puente de Card Sound Road. Los límites de este proyecto se extienden desde el sur de Milepost 5 hasta Milepost 6.242 a lo largo de County Road (CR) 905A/Card Sound Road en el condado de Monroe. El propósito de este proyecto es evaluar alternativas que aborden la degradación estructural y los elementos de diseño deficientes del puente de Card Sound Road, incluyendo mejores tiempos de evacuación/respuesta de emergencia, y la necesidad de instalaciones para bicicletas/peatones. Esta reunión es una oportunidad para aprender sobre el proyecto, familiarizarse con el proceso de estudio y proporcionar comentarios. La reunión se llevará a cabo simultáneamente en persona y virtual Martes, 28 de octubre, 2025, de 5:30 p.m. a 7:30 p.m. Presentación a partir de las 6 p.m
Opción Virtual: Para participar virtualmente desde su computadora, tableta o teléfono inteligente, regístrese utilizando el siguiente enlace https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/429b4a0b-5375-41e1a547-2ef167b0b223@4cf2e5a9-7553-47d9-b3c4-b29299a853a9 o escanee el código QR proporcionado.
Opción de teléfono: Llame marcando (833) 566-1407 e ingrese el código de acceso 891 743 780#
Opción en persona: Murray Nelson Government Center, BOCC Room, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037
Se solicita la participación pública sin distinción de raza, color, origen nacional, edad, sexo, religion, discapacidad, o estado familiar. Las personas que necesiten asistencia especial bajo la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades del 1990 o que necesiten servicios de traducción (sin cargo) deben comunicarse con Dat Huynh al 305-470-5201; o por escrito al Departamento de Transporte de la Florida, 1000 NW 111 Avenue, Miami, FL 33172; o por correo electrónico a Dat.Huynh@dot.state.fl.us al menos siete días antes de la reunión
Su participación es bienvenida y apreciada. Si desea más información sobre este proyecto, por favor, póngase en contacto con el Gerente de Proyecto del FDOT , Claudia Gutierrez, PE, al 305-470-5268 o por correo electrónico a Claudia.Gutierrez@dot.state.fl.us. También puede visitar el sitio web del proyecto en www.SouthFLRoads.com/CardSoundBridgePD&E.html
La revisión ambiental, la consulta y otras acciones requeridas por las leyes ambientales federales aplicables para este proyecto están siendo, o han sido, llevadas a cabo por el FDOT de conformidad con 23 U.S.C. § 327 y un Memorando de Entendimiento de fecha 26 de mayo de 2022, y ejecutado por la Administración Federal de Carreteras (FHWA) y FDOT.
Murray Nelson Government Center Hampton Inn
Murray Nelson Government Center
Hampton Inn
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •
I shall offer this property for sale, at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters building located at 5525 College Road Key West, Florida 33040 in the County of Monroe, State of Florida, on the 25th day of November, 2025, at the hour of 10:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible. I will offer for sale all of the said defendant’s right, title, and interest in the aforesaid real property at public auction and will sell the same subject to all taxes, prior liens, encumbrances and judgments, if any, to the highest and best bidder for cash or cashiers check. The proceeds to be applied as far as may be to the payment of costs and the satisfaction of the above described execution.
Dated at Key West, Monroe County, Florida this 8th day of October, 2025.
Richard A. Ramsay Sheriff of Monroe County, By: Donald Stullken Deputy Sheriff
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Civil Division no later than seven says prior to the proceeding at (305)8093041
Publish: October 16, 23 & 30 and November 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 25-CP-385-K IN RE: ESTATE OF EILEEN M. QUINN
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Eileen M. Quinn, deceased, whose date of death was May 10, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE
DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: October 9, 2025.
Personal Representative: John R. Quinn
31279 Avenue G Big Pine Key, Florida 33043
Attorney for Personal Representative: Gregory D. Davila, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 886998
Law Office of Gregory D. Davila, P.A. 1111 12th Street, Suite 411 Key West, Florida 33040
Telephone: (305) 293-8554
Fax: (305) 294-9913
E-Mail: E-Filing@ keywestlawoffice.com
Secondary E-Mail: gdavila@ keywestlawoffice.com
Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-443-K
DIVISION: LOWER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF BRUCE A. BUSH
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Bruce A. Bush, deceased, whose date of death was September 13, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: October 9, 2025.
Personal Representative: Sara Marie Rehfeld
12211 Valley Drive Goshen, Kentucky 40026
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: October 9 & 16, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2022-CC-315-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 212, Week 3, Sunset Harbor Resort, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1376, Page 1093, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (hereafter the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025
Style of which is: SUNSET HARBOR RESORT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST LOIS A BIENLIEN, DECEASED; PATRICIA ANN SHUFELT, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO LOIS A. BIENLIEN; AND GEORGE WILLIAM SHUFELT, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO LOIS A. BIENLIEN
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2022-CC315-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2024-CC-42-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE
SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT
COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for
CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5123, Week 3, Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) VII entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. MARY KATHERINE BIVINS, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO WILLIAM SAMUEL BIVINS AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST WILLIAM SAMUEL BIVINS, DECEASED
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC42-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk
Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-48-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE
SALE
BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit E31, Week 18, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.
JACQUELINE S. BLOOM, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS TRUSTEE OF THE BURT BLOOM FAMILY TRUST; ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST BURT R. BLOOM, DECEASED; PRASHANT A. MARATHAY, TRUSTEE OF THE MARATHAY LIVING TRUST, DATED AUGUST 21, 2000; LEENA P. MARATHAY, TRUSTEE OF THE MARATHAY LIVING TRUST, DATED AUGUST 21, 2000; AND BROOKE ALYSON BLOOM, AS TRUSTEE OF THE BURT BLOOM FAMILY TRUST Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC48-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-74-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 531, Week 36, Sunset Harbor Resort, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1376, Page 1093, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (hereafter the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: SUNSET HARBOR RESORT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. BRISTOL HOSPICE-GEORGIA, LLC, AS HEIR TO WILLIAM CAWLEY CHANDLER; BRENDA RADOSEVICH, AS HEIR TO WILLIAM CAWLEY CHANDLER; SCOTT LOUIS CHANDLER, AS HEIR TO WILLIAM CAWLEY CHANDLER; CHRISTOPHER WILLIAM CHANDLER, AS HEIR TO WILLIAM CAWLEY CHANDLER; AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY,
THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST WILLIAM CAWLEY CHANDLER, DECEASED Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC74-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-42-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5722, Week 17, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST TAMORA ANN DENNIS, DECEASED; PAULA DENNIS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO TAMORA ANN DENNIS; AND TERRY DENNIS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO TAMORA ANN DENNIS Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC42-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-272-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5834, Week 25, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT AS TO COUNT(S) I, II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff vs. KATHLEEN A. WELLINGTON Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC272-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-48-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit F21, Week 39, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE
FLORIDA Plaintiff
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •
vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST KRISTEN ELIZABETH REDDING, DECEASED; ED DAVIS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO KRISTEN ELIZABETH REDDING; AND SUSAN DAVIS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO KRISTEN ELIZABETH REDDING Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC48-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-48-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit B12, Week 22, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST NORMAN CHARLES RICKER, DECEASED
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC48-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk
Florida Statute
45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property
owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-42-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5114, Week 9, Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MARY-ELLEN ROSENBERRY, DECEASED; AND JOHN MONNES, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARYELLEN ROSENBERRY; JEFF MONNES, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARY-ELLEN ROSENBERRY; AND MELANIE GREELEY, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARYELLEN ROSENBERRY
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC42-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2024-CC-42-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock
a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale
LEGAL NOTICES
and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5411, Week 46, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) VI entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025
Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MARILYN J. VECCHIO, DECEASED AND DAVID VECCHIO, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARILYN J. VECCHIO
Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC42-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-42-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5714, Week 5, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) V entered in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.
ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MARILYN J. VECCHIO, DECEASED; AND DAVID VECCHIO, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARILYN J. VECCHIO
Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC42-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-292-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE
SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5614, Week 23, Even Year Biennial Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I, II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3RD day of October 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Plaintiff vs. MANUEL VICENTE GONZALEZ ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MARIA CRISTINA GONZALEZ, DECEASED
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC292-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 3RD day of October 2025
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk
Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-425-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 28TH day of October 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5822, Week 24, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE
AFTER DEFAULT entering in a case pending in said Court, the 3RD day of October 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Plaintiff vs. ROSE RAMIREZ
Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC425-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 3RD day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: October 9 & 16, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS WANTED
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483
BOATS FOR SALE
GREAT DEAL: Key Largo 21' Deep V Center Console w/trailer. New 150hp motor & electronics. $15,000 Located in Marathon. 201-696-8906
17' Montauk Whaler, 90hp Yamaha-50 hours only, GPS, Depth Finder, Radio, Aluminum Trailer, excellent condition. Located in Marathon. $11,000 OBO 305-849-5793 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!!
PLACE YOUR BOAT FOR SALE AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-4170871 or email Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com
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
PLACE YOUR BOAT SLIP FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-4170871 or email Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com
EMPLOYMENT
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/
Boat rental company in Marathon looking for help with boat detailing & boat cleaning. Call 305-481-7006
The SS Wreck & Galley Grill (mile marker 59) is looking for a fulltime prep and dishwasher person. Self-motivated, will train, experience very helpful, quick learner, and team player. Salary includes 401k match up to 6%. Please call Nicole at 305-4330515 or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.
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.
PAVER DAVE INC. is now hiring in the Lower Keys. Must have Driver’s License. Bobcat driver experience helpful. Pay depends on experience. Call 305-304-3966 HIRED IN LESS THAN 4 WEEKS!!!
PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-417-0871 or email Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com
HOBBIES/COLLECT PRIVATE
COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
HOUSING FOR RENT
Key Largo - like new fully furnished private ground floor studio. Includes utilities, cable TV, internet. rental application required. $1,800/ mo - 786 258 3127
HOUSING FOR RENT VACATION RENTAL
3 BR/2 BA home for rent in Key Colony Beach. 75' premium dock. $4,000/ month + utilities. F/L/S 786-229-0228
2BR/1BA house for rent in Marathon. Completely remodeled. All appliances. No pets. $2700/mo for 2+ ppl.- $2,500/mo if less, incl. electric only. F/L/S Dock available for sep. fee. 305-610-8002
UNFURNISHED 2/2 HOUSE FOR RENT ON CANAL, MM27, Ramrod Key, recently refurbished and painted, w/d, utilities paid by owner, $2,500/month, fenced yard, available now. Pete 786-649-9833 or pprm1119@aol.com RENTED!!!
2BR/1BA with outdoor patio for rent in Marathon. $2,100/month F/L/S Taking applications. 305-849-5793 RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!!
PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-4170871 or email Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com
MISCELLANEOUS
FREE: Leather L-shaped sectional sofa with two manual working recliners. Off white/ tan color. Left side recliner section has worn leather & a tear. All other sections in good condition. 4 separate pieces total. FREE - Must pick up - located at MM61 in the Middle Keys. Call 305-417-0871.
Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/night. Sweet CarolineSeaport.com
YARD SALES
PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-417-0871 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com
FREE: Leather L-shaped sectional sofa with two manual working recliners. Off white/ tan color. Left side recliner section has worn leather & a tear. All other sections in good condition. 4 separate pieces total. FREE - Must pick up - located at MM61 in the Middle Keys. Call 305-417-0871.
Old Wooden Bridge Resort & Marina
NOW HIRING
Front Desk Clerk
(Under new management)
Stop in for an application at 1791 Bogie Drive Big Pine Key, FL 33043 305-872-2241
NOW HIRING
DOCK HAND
We are looking for a Dock Hand with excellent customer service to join our team. You would assist with the daily operations of our marina. Responsibilities include assistance with the daily marina tasks including helping guests arrive and depart from their dock, guiding guests over the radio, navigation, marina amenity cleaning, pressure-washing, assisting guests with golf cart rides and requests, and maintaining the marina.
Send resume to captpips@aol.com or come in the of ce to ll out application. 1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050
TREASURE HARBOR MARINA IN ISLAMORADA
NOW HIRING
Maintenance Person
Apply in person at: Treasure Harbor Marina 200 Treasure Harbor Drive Islamorada
SKILLED HEAVY CIVIL EQUIPMENT OPERATORS
We are hiring Skilled Heavy Civil Equipment Operators. 3 yrs or more experience required. Monday-Friday with overtime possible.
Please apply in person at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc., 129 Toppino Industrial Drive, Key West. Or contact Cheryl at 305-296-5606 ext 126 or cheryl@charleytoppino.com
EXPERIENCED HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
We are hiring Experienced Heavy Equipment Operators. 1 yr or more experience required. Monday-Friday with overtime possible.
CAPTAIN PIP’S IS AN AWESOME PLACE TO WORK, WE TREAT OUR EMPLOYEES GREAT. COME JOIN OUR TEAM! IMMEDIATE
Join a workforce where innovation and teamwork provide support to the employees, retirees, community and citizens of Monroe County! The Employee Benefits Coordinator handles the eligibility of all participants in the MC BOCC’s health, pharmaceutical, life, dental and visions plans, including enrollment, dependent coverage, terminations, and retirement. Monroe County offers an excellent benefits package and is a member of the Florida Retirement System (FRS). Onsite position in Key West, 40 HPW. Annual salary range: $58,121.73 - $90,088.69, based on experience.
To view job descriptions and apply, visit: www.monroecounty-fl.gov/jobs For questions, contact Human Resources at: Careers@MonroeCounty-FL.gov or 305-292-4554. Deadline – Open until filled. Veteran’s Preference Available; E.O.E.
Email: info@keysboatrental.com Call for more information: 305-664-9943
VOLUNTEER RESOURCES ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT (Full Time, Permanent)
DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) organization specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals. DRC provides for the well-being of its employees with a competitive package including: a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays/vacation/sick days, an employee assistance program, in addition to, life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee. EOE
JOIN THE FAMILY! Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org
DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER
Please apply in person at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc., 129 Toppino Industrial Drive, Key West. Or contact Cheryl at 305-296-5606 ext 126 or cheryl@charleytoppino.com
We are hiring Experienced Construction Laborers. 2 yrs or more experience required. Monday-Friday with overtime possible.
Please apply in person at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc., 129 Toppino Industrial Drive, Key West. Or contact Cheryl at 305-296-5606 ext 126 or cheryl@charleytoppino.com
JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS!
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO
Behavioral Health Therapist (CAT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Children, Adult) (FT)
Prevention Specialist
Advocate
MARATHON
Advocate Care Coordinator (PT)
Driver (CDL not required) (PT)
Driver (CDL required) (FT)
RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (FT, PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (PT)
*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT, PT)
*Night Monitor (Assisted Living – Free Housing)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP
EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.
DUI FRONT DESK CLERK & EVALUATOR/INSTRUCTOR
The Advocate Program DUI school is hiring for part time positions.
Front desk: 3 days a week, high school diploma and computer data entry skills required. DUI instructors and evaluators: 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required.
Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.
MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE
We are now hiring for the following positions: Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers
CDL Drivers
Applicants must apply in person to be considered.
4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C)Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier
- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, LPN, EMT or Paramedic, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Patient Access Associate, Tavernier, $1k Bonus
MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C) Medical Oncology, Per Diem
- Pool Radiation Therapist
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- AC Mechanic, Facility Operations
- Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus
- Cook, Dietary, $5k Bonus
- Director of Respiratory Services, Respiratory Therapy, $25k Bonus
- Exercise Physiologist, Mariners Wellness Center, Per Diem
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT Scan, $50k Bonus
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Echocardiography, Per Diem
