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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

ON THE COVER KEYS

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50 million

Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” sold 50 million physical singles, making it the best-selling physical single of all time, according to Guinness World Records. The song debuted on Crosby’s weekly radio program, “Kraft Music Hall,” on Christmas Day in 1941.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays from our Keys Weekly family to yours. Here’s to a happy and healthy 2026.

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MILES TO GO

Editor / Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com Account Executive Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com Staff Writers Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com Design / Pre-Press Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com Finance Director Carolyn Campbell carolyn@keysweeky.com Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844 Se habla español THE KEY WEST WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials. Postmaster SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY MARATHON FL 33050 News Deadline Monday Noon Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

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MANDY MILES

A FEW WORDS ON, WELL, WORDS

Merry Christmas, Key West! Typically, this is the time of year for columnists to write something about the upcoming year, the statistical failure of most New Year’s resolutions by February and the desire for positive change in the world. I’m not doing that. While I certainly hope for sweeping changes and positivity, I’d also like to see some people prioritize their outrage better in the new year and stop looking for reasons to be offended. Who gets to decide what’s offensive, and to whom? The “woke” debate, particularly when it comes to language, has gone far enough — and both sides of the political spectrum are to blame. Of course, there are loads of words and phrases that are undeniably hurtful, offensive and should never be used. If you don’t get that, or you just don’t care, I’m not going to waste my time picking a fight with an ignorant moron (who, ironically, would likely be outraged and offended by that description). But at the same time, I want to meet one of the visually impaired people who was supposedly offended when I complained about a “blind spot” in a rental car? Did a group of blind people sign a petition to declare the term offensive? I have three visually impaired aunts and uncles. They know they don’t see as well as others. It’s not as if they’d forgotten that fact until I, the insensitive clod, muttered, “Damn, this rental car has a wicked blind spot.” I know this is a prickly issue. And I’m certainly not defending or advodrops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should. She’s married to a saintly — and handy — fisherman, and has been stringing words together in Key West since 1998.

cating for the use of certain words and phrases that are clearly pejorative, judgmental, unnecessary and intentionally insulting. But as usual, one side went too far. The language police, with their self-righteous censorship, have given the other side plenty of ammunition to wage the ongoing “war on woke,” which, unsurprisingly, has now gone off the rails in the opposite direction. All I’m saying is, given all the despicable and offensive things occurring in the world today, let’s pick our battles. In 2023, a committee at Stanford University launched the Elimination of Harmful Language Initiative. “The 13-page guide contained more than 150 words and phrases organized into 10 categories of harmful language: ableist, ageism, colonialism, culturally appropriative, gender-based, imprecise language, institutionalized racism, person-first, and violent words and phrases. Words and phrases such as ‘brave,’ ‘seminal,’ ‘American,’ ‘take a shot at,’ ‘no can do’ and ‘submit’ were deemed harmful,” according to an article in Inside HigherEd. “Brave” could offend Native Americans, “American” apparently diminishes Canada and Mexico, making the United States the dominant nation in North America. “Take a shot at” connotes violence. “No can do” was once used to mock Asian immigrants’ limited English proficiency and “submit” apparently “can imply allowing others to have power over you,” the article states. I wasn’t the only one who sneered at Stanford’s language rules. The school rescinded its list and the associated handbook a month or so after it was published due to public backlash. Rabbi Josh Yuter, who was one of the National Jewish Outreach Program’s top 10 Jewish influencers, was

asked his thoughts about Stanford’s initiative. “People who want to be offended will always find their reasons if they look hard enough,” Yuter said, acknowledging certain obvious anti-Semitic phrases and words. But he drew the line when the university declared the phrase “hip-hip hooray” off limits. “‘Including ‘hip-hip hooray’ as ‘harmful language’ towards Jews is less understandable,’ he said. “Until reading the initiative I had no idea a variant of ‘hip-hip hooray’ was a German rallying cry during the Holocaust, and I suspect few others would as well. … I would be very surprised if ‘hip-hip hooray’ was passed down as intergenerational trauma to merit inclusion as being ‘harmful’ in any way.” Thank you, Rabbi Yuter, for the clear-eyed reasoning. Any word can be deemed offensive based on its context and usage. Years ago, one of my favorite editors was Dick Wagner. I used to joke about how I could (and often did) turn his first name into an insult just by changing my tone and inflection. We can’t just go around deciding common nouns and phrases are offensive because someone somewhere may once have used them in such a way. I’m left-handed and have never even thought to be offended by the terms like “left-handed compliment,” or “two left feet.” If you have to conduct significant research into finding a reason that something may offend someone, perhaps your time could be better spent. Kids today are screwing up written communication badly enough. Let’s not take random words and phrases away from them. People are using truly and unmistakably hateful language on a daily basis, and committing actual atrocities. Maybe banning the phrase “tone deaf” to protect the feelings of hearing-impaired people who weren’t offended by it in the first place isn’t the best use of anyone’s time. So as we look to the new year ahead, may we spend less time looking for reasons to be outraged and more time helping people than hurting them in horrible ways.

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MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

KEY WEST KIDS SHARE CHRISTMAS WISHES

id you know there’s an app that “helps” kids decide what they want for Christmas? In other words, there’s an algorithm that tells kids to ask for the products the app wants to sell. GoWish calls itself a gift registry and wishlist site that helps users “organize” their shopping needs. But wait, there’s more. (Surprise, surprise.) GoWish also recommends products based on a user’s age, gender and online habits. “Whether you’re adding your own Christmas gift ideas or finding inspiration …, GoWish is here to simplify the process,” it boasts. They call it “finding inspiration.” I call it digital mind control. Back in my day…, way back in the 1900s, everyone received the same Sears Wish Book catalog with the same toy section. Sears didn’t know how old my brother and I were, what music we liked or which TV shows we watched. Photos of Star Wars action figures, Play Doh, pogo sticks, Big Wheels, Barbies and Light Brights didn’t pop out of the catalog. It was up to us to decide. The Keys Weekly didn’t use an app to discover what kids want for Christmas. We just asked them — IRL (that means “in real life” for my fellow denizens of the 1900s.) We asked Key West kids, ages 6 to 10, what they hope Santa brings — and what he should bring their parents and teachers. Here’s what they said:

LUCIA CHAVEZ, 10 “I use an app called GoWish to help me decide what I wanted for Christmas, and then I can share it with Santa and my parents. Apple headphones were on my list, but my dad’s really bad at keeping secrets, so he already told me he got them for me. I also asked for a cute Dr. Pepper sweater. And I like a girl group called Cat’s Eye, so I wanted some merch from them.”

AMELIA CRETU, 7 “I want a case for my iPad, slime to play with and a sketch book because I’m good at drawing. Oh, and roller blades because I outgrew mine.” TITUS FINDLAY, 9 “I’d like a Swiss Army knife, a pogo stick and a box of fishing jigs. My dad could use a new pressure washer, and a new boat. And for my mom? Maybe a new purse.”

DARIA BENEA, 8 “I really, really want a puppy because my little sister and baby brother barely play with me because they’re always on an iPad. Santa should bring my mom another baby in her belly, but I don’t think that’ll happen. And he should bring my teacher a class pet, like a hedgehog or hamster.”

RUBY FINDLAY, “ABOUT TO TURN 7” “I want jigs. Fishing jigs. My dad should get a new fishing pole and my mom should get a robot that folds clothes.” LUCAS CANIZARES, 10 “I dream of having rubies, two amethyst crystals and a huge telescope that zooms out of our galaxy. My mom is really into red, so a red dress and a ruby necklace would look good. My dad could use some new gloves because he’s a power line guy.”

MAGGIE MCCULLOUGH, 7 “I forget what I wanted for Christmas, but I told Santa and my elf on the shelf, so they both know. My mom should get a coffee machine and my dad should get a restaurant robot that does his job at First Flight so he can stay home with me. Oh, and my brother wants a live alligator.”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

LAYLA BENTLEY, 10 “I’d like a nail kit with polish. My mom should get a massage and my dad should get some new fishing poles.”

GABRIEL CAMARGO, 10 “I asked for a violin and maybe lessons, but there’s always YouTube. My mom should get a necklace. My dad? A watch. My teacher? A cross because she’s religious.”

NOEL VAZQUEZ, 7 “I want a mini-backpack; they’re like the size of keychains. Also books, like‘Cat in the Hat’ books.” SAMANTHA REVOREDO, 10 “I asked for new arm sleeves and knee pads for volleyball. My parents should get a long vacation and my teacher should get earrings shaped like pencils because she seems to really like school stuff.”

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NEW YEAR, NEW BUILDS Governor, Cabinet greenlight first round of 300 units for the Keys ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

new wave of building rights is officially heading to the Florida Keys at the start of 2026. Out of 900 new units greenlit by Senate Bill 180, signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in June, an initial batch of 300 will be available for distribution by Keys governments starting Jan. 1. Following the 10-year timeline set forth in the bill, a new group of 150 units will then be released every two years, reaching the full quota by 2035. New units will be proportionally split among Keys governments based on the number of vacant buildable lots in each, prioritizing owner-occupied affordable and workforce housing – 72 for Islamorada, 36 for Key West, 135 for Marathon and 657 for unincorporated Monroe County over the next decade. While SB 180 passed at the close of Florida’s 2025 legislative session, Keys governments have effectively been in limbo for the last six months over the logistics of accepting and distributing the new units, made possible by increasing the mandated hurricane evacuation time for Keys residents from 24 to 24.5 hours. The uncertainty was finally answered in a Dec. 17 meeting of DeSantis and his Cabinet, during which the Administration Commission approved a recommendation for distributing the new rights by Florida

Secretary of Commerce Alex Kelly. The group gave direction to the Florida Department of Commerce to collaborate with each Keys government to modify their comprehensive plans and land development regulations, if needed, to accept the new units. Some jurisdictions, like Marathon, have language already inserted that allows for acceptance of new units approved by the Florida Legislature. Others have amendments already underway. The 2026 Florida legislative session may bring changes to contested aspects of the law. But as originally passed, the law restricts the new rights to just one per vacant buildable lot, calling into question the feasibility of affordable housing projects like duplexes or multifamily developments. The number of lots left available to build is still a slight point of contention, as analyses conducted by the Department of Commerce and Keys governments point to 1,610 or 1,700 eligible parcels, respectively. Individual governments are now tasked with setting their own rate of distribution for the new units, following months and years of slowing new building rights to a trickle. The Department of Commerce memo acknowledged that 636 unused building rights, including 363 designated earlyevacuation workforce housing units, are also still available for use, the majority of which belong to unincorporated Monroe.

COUNTY SEEKING PARKING AND BOAT RAMP FEES FOR NONRESIDENTS

Local residents would still have free access

Harry Harris Park in Tavernier. Park fees are already charged to those who don’t live in Monroe County. Officials are seeking to implement an updated fee structure at this county park and others across the Keys. FILE PHOTO

uring a Dec. 10 meeting, Monroe County commissioners directed staff to begin preparing updates to the code to allow fees to be charged to nonresidents for vehicle parking, boat trailer parking and boat ramp launch and retrieval at all county parks and beaches. Changes in the fee structure are proposed at Harry Harris Park, which already charges residents who don’t live in Monroe County, as well as Higgs Beach in Key West, Pine Channel Nature Park on Big Pine Key and Rowell’s Waterfront Park and Mike Forster Memorial Park in Key Largo. John Allen, parks and beaches director, told commissioners that implementing a fee structure for nonresidents will provide a sustainable funding source while maintaining free access for residents. “The intent is not to restrict public access, but to ensure that the financial burden of maintaining these popular amenities is shared by those who don’t pay property taxes in Monroe County,”

Allen said. “The potential code amendment is intended to help offset the rising costs of maintaining and improving public facilities’ ongoing upkeep.” Currently, Monroe County charges nonresident admission fees only at Harry Harris Park. That fee is $15 per non-resident vehicle, plus boat ramp fees of $40 on non-holiday weekends and $60 on holidays. Park admission is waived for active-duty military, disabled veterans and qualifying individuals under Florida law, provided they present proper identification. The direction given at the Dec. 10 meeting would expand the county’s ability to charge parking and ramp fees at additional locations and would allow those fees to be set and adjusted by board resolution rather than through repeated ordinance amendments. Staff will prepare the proposed ordinance updates for board consideration at a future meeting. — Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

ARE YOU A KEYS LOCAL? WANT TO ‘BEAT THE BUS’?

KEY WEST DISTRIBUTES FUNDS FOR FOOD

Officials allocated $75K; nonprofits can apply by Dec. 31 for up to $7,500

With only 1,500 entries available, registration for the 7 Mile Bridge Run sells out in minutes. Locals get an advance shot on Jan. 22, 2026. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

he date for the 45th annual 7 Mile Bridge Run is April 11, 2026. Plans are to again run from west to east. Registration for the race is online only and opens on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, beginning at 6 a.m. Anyone can register on this date, but only 1,500 entries are accepted and the field fills very quickly. Runners must show a photo ID when picking up their bib number that matches the address used to register. Early registration opens for Monroe County residents on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, beginning at 6 a.m. To qualify as a Monroe County resident, runners must use a Monroe County address that matches a photo ID. There are a limited number of entries available for locals only who register on this date. If unsuccessful on Jan. 22, Monroe County residents may also try registering on Jan. 27.

Packet pickup is available only on Friday, April 10, beginning at noon and closing at 8 p.m. Runners must be present with a photo ID that matches the registration address to pick up each packet. Runsignup.com will again be used for registration; prior creation of an account there will help expedite registration. The registration fee is $100. Accommodations have been made for Monroe County students to register at a discounted rate, courtesy of headline sponsor Keys Federal Credit Union. Students interested can send a self-addressed stamped envelope to Marathon Runners Club, P.O. Box 500110, Marathon, FL 33050, and a student registration form will be mailed to them. These student-only registration forms must be received back at the post office box no later than Jan. 17. — Contributed

Leah Stockton, director of development at AH Monroe, center, accepts a $7,500 check from the city to help AH Monroe ensure clients have sufficient food. From left, assistant city manager Mike Turner; Bill Marraccini; Stockton; Key West Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez and assistant city manager Rod Delostrinos. Marraccini won the honor of being mayor for a day at a recent fundraiser. CONTRIBUTED

he city of Key West has begun dispensing funds to local nonprofits to help them address hunger and food insecurity for their clients on the island. On Dec. 10, the Key West City Commission voted to allocate up to $75,000 for local nonprofits to ensure residents have access to food. Through a quick turn-around application process, qualified nonprofits can apply for up to $7,500 to ensure residents have access to food. As of Dec. 15, five organizations had applied for the aid. The city’s finance department reviews each application to ensure the nonprofit organization is qualified and eligible for the funding. Two groups were approved and three more are being reviewed. City Manager Brian L. Barroso approved the disbursement of $7,500 each to Florida Keys Outreach Coalition and AH Monroe,

and representatives from AH Monroe accepted their $7,500 check on Dec. 18. Applications are pending from the Center of Prayer Ministries Inc.; Cornish Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church and Bethel A.M.E. Church. Organizations can apply for funding at cityofkeywest-fl.gov. Click the button labeled “Human Services Form” near the top of the page. Applications must be received by Dec. 31. Qualified applications will be fulfilled on a first-come, first-served basis. All programs that address food insecurity in the community are strongly urged to apply. “I appreciate the finance department’s continued work in reviewing the remaining applications,” said Barroso, “and we look forward to providing updates as additional funding requests are finalized.” — Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

TOUR DE KEYS CELEBRATES RECORD-BREAKING 10TH ANNIVERSARY RIDE Annual event nears $200,000 goal for Florida Keys health and housing

Tour de Keys 2025 riders pose with clients of MARC Inc., one of the ride’s primary beneficiaries. CONTRIBUTED

our de Keys 2025 marked a milestone on Nov. 22, celebrating the event’s 10th anniversary with its largest ride. The event brought together 300 participants, including riders from across the country, who tackled either the 100-mile or 50-mile route in support of vital community services in the Florida Keys. Launched in 2014, the annual tour is a destination charity bike ride supporting AH Monroe and MARC. The ride has raised critical funds for affordable housing, compassionate health care and support for adults with disabilities throughout the Keys. Every mile pedaled helps fuel hope, housing and healing for the island community. With fundraising continuing through Dec. 31, Tour de Keys has reached 96% of its $200,000 goal, making 2025 the most successful ride in the event’s history. Organizers note that the community still has an opportunity to help carry Tour de Keys across the finish line, with all funds raised supporting the local, mission-driven work of AH Monroe and MARC Inc. All money raised stays in the Keys. A highlight of Tour de Keys 2025 was the fundraising success of the Key West Mile Markers, who collectively raised nearly $94,000. Leading the fundraising was Donald Dotzauer, who earned the distinction of top individual fundraiser

for the second consecutive year. Fellow Mile Markers Juan Benitez and Chris Sloan rounded out the top three individual fundraisers, underscoring the team’s exceptional commitment to the cause. “Tour de Keys is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when our community comes together,” said Becki Balcer, coordinator of public relations, events and fundraising at MARC Inc. “From the riders who pushed themselves across the islands to the donors and volunteers who supported them every step of the way, this event directly strengthens vital services that Keys residents rely on.” Tour de Keys 2025 was made possible through the support of event sponsors, planning partners and the many volunteers who gave their time and energy to ensure a safe, welcoming and successful ride. The ride was supported in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council, whose funding helped support event production and outreach, attracting riders from across the country. Organizers extended sincere appreciation to all sponsors and volunteers whose contributions brought the 10th-anniversary ride to life. More information is at tourdekeys. com. — Contributed

Sad News for America’s Veterans Veterans are America’s Heroes.

The White House has already fired more than 30,000 Veterans’ Affairs employees in 2025. Sadly, the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs revealed Trump’s plan to CUT 35,000 MORE VA jobs, including doctors and nurses.* Eliminating them will stretch thin a staff already struggling to meet rising workloads, meaning longer wait times and reduced access to care for veterans. After giving $1,500,000,000 in tax credits to milionaires, slashing health care for our veterans is totally unacceptable. *Veterans.Senate.gov, Dec. 13, 2025 • Paid for by a concerned American Citizen.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

CFK FALL GRADUATES WHAT’S COOKING, SECURE DIPLOMAS KEY WEST? Explore Key West’s flavors and culture in 2026 CAROL SHAUGHNESSY www.keysweekly.com

T The College of the Florida Keys’ fall class of 2025. CONTRIBUTED

he College of the Florida Keys graduated the fall class of 2025 at its 71st commencement on Dec. 12 in the Tennessee Williams Theatre on CFK’s Key West campus. Meghan Reigadas, who earned an associate in science degree in criminal justice technology, gave the student address and Jenny Mae Murphy, who received a bachelor’s of applied science in supervision and management, performed the national anthem. In honor of the college’s 60th anniversary, the keynote address was given by Bill Pearson, a 1967 alumnus and first student government president who went on to become an entrepreneur with multiple businesses selling shipwreck coins. The college presented him with an honorary bachelor’s degree along with Bill Wickers Jr., another alumnus from the class of 1967. Wickers, who was not able to attend the ceremony, received his honorary bachelor’s degree in recognition of his contributions to the maritime industry. Michelle Fortney, CFK nurse administrator, pinned nursing graduates and led the Florence Nightingale nursing oath, a tradition dedicating graduate nurses to their new profession. Upon passing the national nursing licensure exam, each will become a registered nurse. CFK’s pass rate is well above the state and national averages. The full ceremony is on Facebook at facebook.com/TheCollegeoftheFloridaKeys. CFK’s spring semester begins Jan. 9. The college will be closed for the holidays through Jan. 4. More information is at cfk.edu/futurestudents. — Contributed

Meghan Reigadas gives the student address. She earned an associate in science degree in criminal justice technology.

An honorary degree is presented to Bill Pearson, 1967 alumnus and first student government president.

Marie Durand getting ready for graduation at the pre-party.

o mark the arrival of a new year on Jan. 1, many people make resolutions to work out daily, budget better or give up a bad habit – vows that typically don’t last for more than a few weeks, resulting in guilt and self-blame. This year, why not abandon that unrewarding practice? Rather than focusing on “good for you” activities or deprivation, resolve to fill each day with quality Key West experiences and flavors to savor. There’s no better way to begin a brand-new year than by rediscovering passions and enjoyable pursuits. Key West’s rich history, cultural community and vast surrounding waters provide opportunities to explore everything from personal creativity to diving and deep-sea fishing. One of the best ways to connect with the local lifestyle and heritage is through cuisine, since much of the island’s history and culture is expressed in traditional food favorites. The Cuban presence that enlivens and enhances Key West — and spearheaded the city’s wealthproducing cigar industry in the 1800s — is reflected in dishes like the seasoned ground beef known as picadillo, roast pork marinated in a garlicky “mojo” blend, and the sweet fried plantains that typically accompany entrées. Shipwreck salvagers and fishermen from the Bahamas fueled Key West’s 19th-century maritime economy, settling on the island and bringing the cuisine of their homeland with them. Today, that cuisine is characterized by the conch salad that’s a Bahamian staple, coconut stew made with fresh-caught seafood, guava bread pudding and other tasty treats. For those eager to discover the intangible flavor of Key West in 2026, options abound — from sunset sailing cruises to tours of historic homes and museums. For those who resolve to savor the literal flavors of the island, a Key

To welcome 2026, resolve to savor quality experiences — like a Key West Cooking Show learn-and-dine exploration guided by a chef-storyteller. KEY WEST COOKING SHOW/Contributed

West Cooking Show learn-anddine experience is an ideal starting point. Each entertaining culinary adventure is guided by a chefstoryteller who shares the secrets to preparing dishes that carry the essence of Key West’s vibrant spirit. As cooking demonstrations proceed, accompanied by useful tips and tales, participants can relish the featured dishes. While appreciating the well-prepared cuisine, they’ll also gain a new appreciation for the influences that shaped contemporary Key West. What better way to begin a brand-new year? Learn-and-dine explorations are offered Tuesday through Saturday at the Key West Cooking Show’s 291 Front St. venue. “Foodies” can choose from lunchtime or dinnertime sessions, with varying menus to ensure enjoyment. Reservations are required; call 305-294COOK. LAST BITES Dish of the week: Bahamian Coconut Stew. In this traditional dish, fresh local fish such as snapper or grouper is blended with ingredients including Scotch bonnet peppers, limes and coconut milk. While the peppers provide a notable heat, it’s tempered by the creamy coconut milk to produce a harmonious flavor. Helpful kitchen hack: When working with peppers like the fiery Scotch bonnet, it’s vital to wear kitchen gloves. Why? Because the capsaicin that makes peppers hot can cause a fierce burning sensation on unprotected skin. If a burn occurs despite precautions, treat it immediately with a mixture of sugar water. Hungry for more? Visit keywestcookingshow.com.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

Key West & Cuba’s Museum Quality Regional Art Celebrating Cultural Resilience CUBAN ART TOUR April 20-24, 2026

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The Playlist Concert Series

FLAMY GRANT TUE JAN 6, 7PM - HELMERICH THEATER WED JAN 7, 6PM - HUGH’S VIEW Tickets from $50-$100

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Bicentennial Americana #2 Mario Sanchez, Florida’s most celebrated folk artist, reached a defining career milestone in 1976 when he was named Bicentennial Artist by the State of Florida. That same year, one of his works was selected for permanent display in the Florida State Capitol, where it continues to inspire visitors today. Known for his crisp, colorful depictions of Key West life, Sanchez worked exclusively with the finest Dutch master paints, bringing vibrancy and authenticity to every scene. His artistry quickly gained national attention, leading to solo museum exhibitions in New York State and at the Bacardi Museum in Miami, Florida. Demand for his work soared, with commissions arriving faster than he could complete them. Hollywood legends including Cary Grant, Dina Merrill, Spencer Tracy, and Katharine Hepburn acquired his art, while Grant prominently featured three of Sanchez’s works in the film A Touch of Mink. Despite his growing fame, Sanchez remained a humble man deeply rooted in his community. His career continued to ascend, culminating in his placement within the permanent collection of the Smithsonian Institution, American Folk Art Museum and a solo exhibition at Havana’s National Gallery.

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CLAIRE PETRINEC www.keysweekly.com

SPECIAL OLYMPICS ATHLETES SHINE In the Florida Keys, 850 compete in 14 sports

(Editor’s Note: The following article was written by Claire Petrinec, a journalism student at Sugarloaf Middle School. The Keys Weekly is proud to feature students’ work while encouraging their interest in local news.)

he 2025 Special Olympic cornhole competition took place in the Key West High School gym the morning of Dec. 5 with six schools participating: Sugarloaf, Horace O’Bryant, Poinciana, Gerald Adams, Key West High School and Sigsbee Charter School. Cornhole is just one of 14 sports that are available to Special Olympics athletes in the Florida Keys, thanks in large part to the efforts of Ruth Coleman, sports, training, and competition manager for Special Olympics in Monroe County. Coleman coached athletes at the Special Olympics USA games in 2018 and 2024, but has spent most of her life working to ensure people with special needs have access to services, sports and other opportunities in their community. “When I was 5, my brother was born with special needs,” Coleman said. “It was the 1950s, prior to the Americans with Disabilities Act and services in schools. My parents were told to put my brother in a home, but my mom refused, so we cared for him at home, without a lot of the services and opportunities persons with disabilities and families have today.” Since then, Coleman said, “My life has been dedicated to ensuring that all people have the opportunity to achieve their dreams, to live, work and play in their community. The Special Olympics is a tool and a way not only to reach the athletes, but also to educate the community, which provides so much of the needed support.” Special Olympics organizer and cornhole coach Kim Linzy started the event this year for elementary and middle schoolers at Sugarloaf School, after helping organize it for two years prior at Gerald Adams Elementary under the direction of coach and mentor Terri Warden.

A Special Olympics athlete from Sugarloaf School perfects his toss during the Dec. 5 cornhole championships at Key West High School. SYDNEY COHEN/Sugarloaf School

Linzy emphasized how the Special Olympic events benefit volunteers as well as the student athletes. “They’re excited to show up for practice. They’re excited to play. I just love to see their growth,” Linzy said, adding how important it is for the athletes to learn and participate in a team sport. The events are “just really good socially, physically and intellectually” for the athletes, who often do not have the opportunity to participate in sports, she said. Athletes have told Linzy that their Special Olympics competition was “the best day ever.” “They really enjoy the special attention they get, which makes my heart happy. A lot of the time they’re just seen as the kid with special needs, and here they’re finally being seen for what they can do versus what they can’t.” Coleman, the lead organizer in Monroe County who has worked with Special Olympics since the program launched in Florida when she was in high school, explained how the programs in Keys schools are “unified,” meaning they bring inclusive sports and activities to all students. “Our schools do a fantastic job of implementing programs to give students with and without disabilities an opportunity to play on the same field and show themselves as the champions that they are,” Coleman said. Linzy added, “It’s helping them to feel a little more included… to see them just light up, you can see in their face how happy they are.” Sugarloaf student athletes and volunteers said the event was a positive experience. Grayson Walsh said his favorite part was being able to have the inclusivity for special-needs athletes, while Fin Wofsey noted that he enjoyed being able to learn how to play cornhole, which had never been an opportunity for him.

Fin Wofsey celebrates his score at the cornhole Special Olympics event as he represents Sugarloaf School.

Coleman encouraged anyone interested to explore the volunteer options with Special Olympics in the Keys. “We are a volunteer-run organization that depends not only on community members to coach, but to also become mentors for our leaders, offer expertise in fundraising, and help put on events. “We will be at all Publix Stores Jan. 9-16 to promote our Torch Campaign. Come visit us and speak to our athletes or donate at the register. We also need volunteers for our 2026 County Summer Games on March 7 at Marathon High School. We need officials, referees, awards managers, committee members, fundraisers for expenses and more,” Coleman said. More information is at specialolympicsflorida.org or via email to ruthcoleman@sofl.org.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025 A male magnificent frigatebird, with his red gular sac inflated, looks to attract a mate. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

Do we have any crows or ravens down here in the Keys? How do I get them to follow me around en masse? — The Archivist We don’t have ravens in the Keys. On the East Coast they don’t get much farther south than the Carolinas. We do get crows – fish crows to be precise – though not MARK many. HEDDEN There’s been a flock of about 15 of them roaming around the ... is a photograisland since I moved here. pher, writer, and semi-professional Fish crows look almost identibirdwatcher. He cal to the much more common has lived in Key American crow. The only way West for more than 25 years and most people can tell the difference is by call, which the folks at may no longer be employable in the Cornell Lab of Ornithology the real world. He describe in highly scientific terms is also executive as “like an American crow with a director of the bad cold.” Florida Keys Assuming the two have comAudubon Society. parable predilections, I’d start by making friends with them. In a lot of online videos, people leave out piles of the food they like, then sit far away from the pile, moving closer and closer to it each day, until the crows get habituated and trust you. Eventually they might even feel safe enough to eat from your hand. From there you probably have to get experimental. You could carry foods around that they liked, such as meal worms or peanuts. But you’ll have to wave it around so the crows can see it, as they don’t have a strong sense of smell. You could also consider attaching some suet to a hat, but that may get sticky. Crows also like shiny things, so you could also think about braiding tinsel or scraps of aluminum foil into your hair. Also, maybe just use conjuring spells. Does the Cuban finch sleep during flight, or is the voyage so short they just rest when they land? — Anonymous on Boca Chica. Cut it out, Danette. Bird-themed decor: How do you feel about it in general, and what about these plates specifically? — Old Town Arts Deputy Different species of birds have different senses of decor. For instance, Antillean nighthawks like to nest in open areas on rough, scarified soil. American oystercatchers like to nest on beaches with high energy waves. Peregrine falcons are famed for their tendency toward high, rocky aeries, from which they can look down on the world, though they have also, in recent years, taken up nesting on tall manmade buildings in cities. I guess if I was going to embrace one bird’s sense of style and design, it might be that of the crested oropendola. They build these long, woven nests that dangle from high tree branches like shoulder bags with really long straps. It would be really relaxing to sleep in one as it swings gently in the breeze. Wait, re-reading your question, you asked about bird-themed decor, not bird decor. Some I like, some is meh. But the photo of those plates you sent me made me apoplectic. (Apoplatic?) It has the words “Wood Thrush” in this lovely, round, confident copperplate.

ASK THE BIRD GEEK

And then it has a picture of a !@$#&% northern mockingbird. I will be writing a very strongly worded letter to the manufacturer as soon as I am finished with this column. VERY strongly worded. How come they were so go last year and this year they were in the cellar of the ALE? — Bike Man My friend, voice-to-text is not your friend. If you could make everyone notice one bird, which would it be? — Stone House Hæddre This is kind of a stumper. Because as soon as you name one bird, you think of five others you should have named. So I’m going to go with my gut, then stop thinking about it: magnificent frigatebird. Magnificent frigatebirds are just such mysterious, unlikely, beautiful freaks. And living in the Keys, we get to see them every day. They’re primarily denizens of the warmer waters of the New World, and we live at the top of their breeding range. The only place they breed in North America is at the Dry Tortugas. (They used to breed at the Marquesas until the 1980s.) To me, they are the most gothic-looking bird. It’s as if the cartoonist Edward Gorey thought them up. They have a skinny, 7-foot wingspan, a long hooked bill, and a tail that is basically two feathers that hang behind them like the ribbons on an old-school sailor’s cap, helping them control pitch and yaw. The males are all black, except for the red gular sac at their throat. The females have white breasts. When it’s breeding season, the males puff up their gular patches into ridiculous looking balloon-like shapes that somehow attract the ladies. (You have to go to a breeding colony at the right time of the year to see this.) Magnificent frigatebirds spend their life at sea. They are amazingly light birds, built to cross large swaths of the ocean while expending minimal energy, so they don’t have oil in their feathers. Which means they can’t get wet. So they either have to catch fish in the top few inches of the ocean, or beat up other birds to steal their lunch in an act called

kleptoparasitism, which on good days I can spell right the first time. They are amazingly graceful fliers, turning slow circles in the air for hours on end. If you’ve somehow never seen one, just go to the beach and stand there for a little while. One will no doubt slide into view. Even if you have seen one before, you should probably go do that. What do birds call giving someone the bird? — Hale Fellow, Well Met We don’t know. And the birds won’t tell us. They just stare at us when we ask, then fly away with their smug little laughs. I heard that a joint team of scientists from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the Cape May Bird Observatory, Mass Audubon, and the American Bird Conservancy were working in a mountaintop laboratory in a kind of Manhattan Project to decode profane avian gestures, but they just had their federal funding pulled. It’s possible we’ll never find out. What is the Florida Keys equivalent of a partridge in a pear tree? — Peak Piner My friend Julie Zickefoose had the best suggestion, but I’m going to leave it at the bottom of this long, local version of the last verse of the song: On the 12th day of Christmas / My cuzzy bubba love gave to me/ 12 sapsuckers drumming, 11 plovers, piping, 10 egrets a-leaping, Nine frigatebirds practicing kleptoparasitism, Eight gulls a-laughing, Seven birds a-mocking, Six cuckoos a-lurking, Five great white herons, Four screaming chickens, Three Antillean nighthawks, Two roseate spoonbills, And a white-crowned pigeon in a mango tree. I believe the scansion totally holds up. Merry Christmas all.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

Be sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram for our latest events and features: @taverntown www.TavernNTown.com Reservations: 305.296.8100

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A very happy holiday season to CHRIS everyone enjoyMcNULTY ing their winter is an astrologer, celebrations. Sunwanderer, barday, Dec. 21 was tender and the winter soladvocate for stice, the longest queer justice. He night of the year is a loquacious Gemini with a in the northern cozy Cancer hemisphere. The rising. Find him at sun crossed the hearthandheraldthreshold from astrology.com hopeful Sagittarius into hardworking Capricorn, a transition that tells us to put our hopes and goals into material practice. The solstice also represents a time of deep introspection and personal fortitude. Darkness surrounds us, and we are compelled by our surroundings to find the light within rather than relying on the light to reach us from outside. This is why we gather together at this time to celebrate with others, and we make our resolutions for the year ahead so that we may grow as individuals as the light returns and the days start to get longer. May your own strength grow along with the days ahead. This week, the major astrological configuration is a 90-degree square between Venus, the planet of love and beauty, and Neptune, the planet of dreams and illusions. This is not an easy configuration as we gather with others, because we will be confronted with the masks that we show one another, but we also have the opportunity to get real about the people in our lives that we authentically love. Ask yourself what truly makes your heart sing and what is but a phantasm. Use this week to focus on quality of connection over quantity of interactions, and dream about your heart’s true desires. Here are your horoscopes for Venus square Neptune. Read for your rising and sun signs. CAPRICORN Dec. 22 - Jan. 19 A very happy birthday season to you, Capricorn! Show yourself some true grace and take stock in

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

your own gifts. What do you love about yourself that gets you up in the morning? Don’t be too humble because it is your time to shine. Take this time to ask if you are expressing yourself in authenticity or if you succumb to performance when it is not needed. AQUARIUS Jan. 20 - Feb. 18 What do you love about time spent alone? Do you enjoy the quiet solitude or do you avoid it? Take some time to yourself this week, and really consider what you appreciate about one-on-one time with numero uno. You may be confronted with ruminating thoughts, nitpicking your imperfections or catastrophizing about money. Think those thoughts and let them go. PISCES Feb. 19 - March 20 It can be easy to think of your social network as a means to get ahead, using connections as transactions. That is perfectly understandable. However, this sky encourages you to sink into genuine gratitude for the people who populate your world. Let there be love there, and let your appreciation challenge you to be authentic in your expression. You don’t need to be an ideal version of yourself. Messy is OK. ARIES March 21 - April 19 Go ahead and be loud out there, Aries. Express yourself at work and in the public sphere, and don’t be shy about showing up in all your glory. Nurture love in your heart for people you work with, but don’t let them push you around. You may be idealizing your private time, and it is certainly healthy to have time spent alone, but don’t fall into the trap of isolating yourself. TAURUS April 20 - May 20 Appreciate your personal belief system, whatever it may be, that gives your world coherent meaning. Whether it’s religious, scientific, phil-

osophical or social, your worldview is something sacred. You have the opportunity to hold deep compassion for someone who holds a different belief system from you. Employ that with care without abandoning your truth. GEMINI May 21 - June 20 Be mindful about what you share in your professional settings right now, Gemini. It is quite easy for something shared in confidence to become public knowledge. Also, check in with yourself about career goals that you might be chasing. Are you authentically interested in the work, or is there something glamorous and shiny that is driving you? Seek the former. CANCER June 21 - July 22 Try not to overly romanticize a partner in your life right now. “Rosecolored glasses” are freely available to you, but you get to choose whether you put them on. This is a great time to be creative with a partner and to work on an artistic project, but be careful not to fall into the trap of over-idealization. Particularly second-guess whether you should take a long trip for love. LEO July 23 - Aug. 22 There is beauty in routine, Leo. Let yourself appreciate the daily habits and chores that you get to do and that keep you healthy. Under this sky, you are being faced with a lesson that true intimacy should not require the destruction of your daily well-being. So, if there is someone that is asking too much or draining your resources, set boundaries around your own stability. VIRGO Aug. 23 - Sept. 22 Falling in love with love can feel like the highest form of joy, but there is a caution here. It is certainly a beautiful thing to enjoy the happiness that comes with a new fling or a new relationship, but true love

QUALITY OVER QUANTITY

can only exist when the veil is lifted. Challenge yourself to find beauty in a partner’s humanity rather than their perfection. Focus on the person rather than the feeling. LIBRA Sept. 23 - Oct. 23 Under this sky, you are fully appreciating the comfort and joy that are elicited by your home and family. Really soak up the love in this area of life. However, be really careful not to let your routine get out of whack. Go ahead and hibernate, but keep some semblance of ritual, routine, or habit alive. Even lighting a candle every morning would suffice. Your home cannot be your sanctuary if your daily life is a mess. SCORPIO Oct. 23 - Nov. 21 Be careful about your word right now, Scorpio. It can be really easy to get caught up in beautiful words or saying what you think someone wants to hear, rather than what you truly think and feel. Speak your heart without losing your head, and find the line between beautiful expression and deceptive communication. The best poetry tells the truth. SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22 - Dec. 21 Be careful about where you are spending your money right now, particularly if there is spending associated with home and family. It is OK to ask a family member where the money is going or to wait a few days before making a home purchase. Remember you cannot buy your way to a sense of “home,” and it is important to value yourself independently of any family issues.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

GETTING THINGS DONE Girls Night Out honors late founder, Mary Lou Hoover ERIN STOVER www.keysweekly.com

or a city that eschews hustle culture, Key West has a shockingly strong reputation for networking. Perhaps it’s the close-knit nature of the Conch community that makes these events feel genuinely friendly rather than transactional. On any given night, New York literati can be found rubbing elbows with local authors, while tradesmen of all backgrounds casually convene at the Green Parrot. Of all the opportunities though, none is quite as welcoming – or successful – as Girls Night Out. Girls Night Out promotes itself as a social network “promoting women, their businesses, organizations, events, art, music, health and sports — connecting women one key at a time.” The now prolific networking event and powerful fundraising tool began modestly around one woman’s kitchen table about 15 years ago. That woman, Mary Lou Hoover, would become an influential leader in Key West, dedicating herself to service as a city commissioner, advocate for local businesses, Fantasy Fest Queen, board member for the Key West Business Guild and president of Helpline of the Keys. Of all her efforts in public service, Hoover, who passed away last month, made her most indelible mark with Girls Night Out. Sue Puskedra recalls the early days of the organization and how profoundly she felt the impact of those kitchen table gatherings. “I met some of my best friends that first night,” Puskedra said. Having just moved to the Keys, and starting over after the dissolution of her marriage, Puskedra immediately found what she was seeking – a community. Eventually, Girls Night Out outgrew its ability to fit within a member’s home for its monthly meeting. The event now finds a new home for each monthly session, showcasing various venues and businesses around town. The challenge now is finding spaces large enough to host the ever-growing number of attendees. On Dec. 8, the group welcomed 138 women at the Perry Hotel on Stock Island. That number, large enough to be considered quite the party, is just a fraction of its mem-

bership, which currently stands at around 3,300. Of course, they don’t all attend each monthly gathering. Attendance numbers are far from the most important metric for Girls Night Out, though. The tenets have always been “networking, socializing, fundraising,” with an unspoken emphasis on the importance of that last word. Hoover’s original vision was to develop an engaging and enjoyable way for women to give back to the community. Her vision took root and continues to feed local nonprofits. In 2025 alone, the program has donated to 11 charities and raised $14,940. Each month, a different recipient is selected as the beneficiary of the night. Attendees pay a $5 entry fee (which includes a raffle ticket) and can opt to purchase additional tickets, with all funds going to the designated charity. In December, the event raised $2,060 for Kids Come First, a local nonprofit whose mission is to provide clothing, personal and school supplies to every child experiencing financial adversity in Monroe County, and to make growing up in the Florida Keys something every kid can enjoy. This year, in conjunction with Girls Night Out, their goal was to ensure that every single child living in Monroe County received at least one Christmas gift. In addition to the funds raised on Monday, the women in attendance brought in over 100 unwrapped toys. Hoover recognized the moment, four years ago, when she needed to step back from spearheading Girls Night Out in order to focus on her health. Puskedra, who had watched and personally experienced

The December Girls Night Out gathering took place at Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen at the Perry Hotel. The event featured a toast to the late GNO founder Mary Lou Hoover, food, drinks, raffle prizes, a silent auction and Christmas toy drive to benefit the nonprofit Kids Come First. CONTRIBUTED

the positive ripples from the program for years, happily took the torch. She acknowledged it was not a one-woman job, though, and tapped Amy Jamison to lead with her. Together, the two women are carrying a Key West tradition into its next era. Puskedra and Jamison are continuing in the same spirit of the program, but allowing for growth. “It’s exploded. We’ve never had so many people,” said Puskedra. Awareness among businesses is also growing, with venues now proactively reaching out to host a GNO gathering. While the organizers are welcoming the expansion, they are retaining the elements that have made it so popular. Each month is still hosted at a different location, benefits a different local charity and carries a $5 entry fee and impressive raffle items. As Girls Night Out walks steadily forward, it pays homage to its beginnings. December’s event featured a toast to Mary Lou Hoover and a moment of silence – a moment during which many were certainly recalling the greatness of one woman’s efforts and the importance of finding new friends around the proverbial kitchen table. For each month’s happy hour gathering, find Girls Night Out Key West on Facebook.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

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OBITUARY

JULIA ANNE DAVIS 7/10/1936 10/25/2025 Julia Davis, an LGBTQ activist and proud Key West resident since 1999, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 89 on Oct. 25, 2025, with her devoted wife, Edie Hambright, by her side. She and Edie were together for 31 years and married for the past 11. She was born in Bennettsville, South Carolina, a small rural town, to parents Carrie and Willie Davis. They moved to Forest City, North Carolina. Her father died suddenly of an aneurysm when Julia was a high school senior. Her mother remarried to Hugh Ledbetter and they moved to Shelby, North Carolina. Hugh had a son, who was married to Janie. They had four children, Lee, Anna, Dan and David. Julia loved Hugh and his family very much. The self-described “country girls” from the Carolinas became the “old gay Key West girls” once they made the island and its people their intentional home in 1999, having lived their pre-Key West lives “deep in the closet,” they said. Julia became a nurse and nurse anesthetist with a professional career of 27 years, including 10 years in the U.S. Air Force. She also worked as a nurse in psychiatric units, with hospice, and as a case manager with AIDS Help in Key West. She also ran the HIV lab with the Public Health Department. Her job with AIDS Help was a highlight of her career, working with Robert, Denise and other special staff, as well as all the clients she cared passionately for, as “Miss Julia.” Both Edie and Julia felt strongly about supporting AIDS Help (now AH Monroe), which included the Fantasy Fest King and Queen campaigns. The pair love and support all the town’s royals. Julia retired in 2009. The onslaught of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s made the pair acutely aware of LGBT issues, discrimination, legal rights, disenfranchisements and life-anddeath issues that were affecting all gay people, but particularly gay men.

Julia Davis, front, pictured with wife Edie Hambright, passed away Oct. 25 at the age 89. CONTRIBUTED

While in Modesto, California, Julia was caring for several male friends, as many lesbians did all over the U.S., and losing most of them in the end. Also while in Modesto, Julia received a big honor when she participated in the local LGBT community fundraising events that led to her Coronation in the Imperial Court System in 1990, as “Emperor 16” of the Owl Empire of Stanislaus County. Edie was living in Atlanta, Georgia, working as a counselor with clients trying to survive this “gay man’s plague,” while supporting friends as well. The two of them both lived in deep dark “gay closets” over most of their lifetimes, living “dual lives” when it came to family, relationships, friends, work colleagues and social lives. They lived with the anxiety that came with knowing they could lose their jobs, homes, families and basic human rights if they were to live as their authentic selves. The pair met in June 1994 in North Carolina, while Julia was working as a hospice nurse. Julia had relocated back home to care for her aging mother. Edie supported Julia through her mother’s illness and death, but only as a “friend,” despite their relationship continuing to blossom. They closed that chapter and left the closet forever when they moved to Key West in July 1999. They had chosen the island as their intentional home and made its people their chosen family, as it was a place they could

finally live in a community that was inclusive and supportive of its LGBTQ residents and tourists. They knew they could live their authentic lives loving each other — and they did just that for the next 26 years, with a brief detour to Wilton Manors, Florida from 2004 to 2009 for Julia’s medical needs. They returned to Key West for good in 2009. Together, Edie and Julia supported and participated in the local gay community, volunteering with the Key West Business Guild, the Gay and Lesbian Community Center, the Sea-to-Sea Rainbow Flag, annual Pride parades and festivals, Pride Follies, Aqua Idol fundraisers, Sunday Tea Dances, Lambda Democrats, Equality Florida, and the Dolphin Democrats and the GLCC in the Fort Lauderdale area. The biggest highlight of their life together occurred on March 14, 2014, when they got married in New York City. The marriage occurred at the LGBT Expo in NYC with Steve, Andrew and Tommy attending with a few friends. And every day after that, the two celebrated the time they had together in their adopted hometown. We celebrate Julia, an Angel now to Edie and to all who knew and loved her. She is with us always with her loving spirit. A Celebration of Life for Julia Davis will take place Saturday, Dec. 27 at 2 p.m. at Key West Old Stone United Methodist Church, 600 Eaton St. An After Gathering at La Te Da, 1125 Duval St., will follow from 4 to 5:30 p.m., as friends share memories, stories, hugs and a toast to Julia Davis. In lieu of flowers, please contact Edie Hambright with any questions/gifts.

LIBRARY HOSTS SANTA’S ‘STORY STROLL’

Key West branch’s palm garden is decorated for Christmas

The palm garden at the Key West Library is decorated for Christmas and filled with ‘story stations.’ Santa’s stations will be up until New Year’s Day. Stop by the library, 700 Fleming St., for details. CONTRIBUTED

ooking for a fun activity during the holiday break? Explore Santa’s Southernmost Story Stroll at the palm garden next to the Key West Library, 700 Fleming St. The garden is decorated for Christmas with stations featuring holiday classics. Pick up an activity sheet at the library’s circulation desk or Youth Services department. Return the completed sheet for one of Santa’s bells — and the chance to win a grand prize. The Story Walk will be up through New Year’s Day. The palm garden is open during library hours, which can be found at keyslibraries.org. The library will be closed Wednesday through Friday, Dec. 24-26. It will be open on Saturday, Dec. 27. The library will close at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31 and be closed all day on January 1. — Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Warrington Media located at 96000 Overseas Highway, Unit 1, Key Largo, Florida 33037 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. By: James Warrington Publish: December 25, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

on the 22nd day of January 2026, at the hour of 10:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible. I will offer for sale all of the said defendant’s right, title, and interest in the aforesaid personal property at public auction and will sell the same subject to all taxes, prior liens, encumbrances and judgments, if any, to the highest and best bidder for cash in hand or cashiers check. The proceeds to be applied as far as may be to the payment of costs and the satisfaction of the above described execution. Dated at Key West, Monroe County, Florida, this 4th day of December, 2025. Richard A. Ramsay Sheriff of Monroe County By: Donald Stullken Deputy Sheriff In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Civil Division no later than seven days prior to the proceeding at (305)8093041 Publish: December 11, 18 & 25, 2025 and January 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

FORECLOSURE PROCESS TO: Unit Owner(s) Last Known Address Unit Week(s) Amount due: Gary R Albritton and Vicki L Albritton 7618 Krupp Road Belding, MI 48809 C 201/23 $1,521.08 Manuel Cantero and Maria Cantero Calle 37 Num 64-15 Medellin, Colombia C201/24 $3,269.53 Carol Cole 136 NW 10th Court Boynton Beach, FL 33426 C101/04 $1,521.10 C101/05 $1,521.10 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED of an action for non-judicial foreclosure of timeshare units on the Claim of Lien on the following described real property, located in MONROE County, Florida, to-wit: Unit Numbers and Annual Timeshare Use Periods (as set forth above) in MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB CONDOMINIUM II, and all appurtenances thereto, according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof, as recorded in Official Records Book 859, Page 786 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and all amendments and exhibits thereto. has been filed against you. If you fail to cure the default as set forth in this notice or take other appropriate action with regard to this foreclosure matter, you risk losing ownership of your timeshare interest through the trustee foreclosure procedure established in Section 721.855, Florida Statutes. You may choose to sign and send to the trustee an objection form, exercising your right to object to the use of the trustee foreclosure procedure. If you would like an Objection form, you should contact the undersigned Trustee, Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire, in writing. Upon the trustee’s receipt of your signed objection form, the foreclosure of the lien with respect to the default specified in this notice shall be subject to the judicial foreclosure procedure only. You have the right to cure your default in the manner set forth in this notice at any time before the trustee’s sale of your timeshare interest. Objections must be made in writing to: Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire TRUSTEE FOR MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC 201 Fletcher Avenue, Second Floor Sarasota, FL 34237 within 30 days of the first date of publication of this Notice. If you do not object to the use of the trustee foreclosure procedure, you will not be subject to a deficiency judgment even if the proceeds from the sale of your timeshare interest are insufficient to offset the amounts secured by the lien. Dated this 10th day of DECEMBER, 2025. Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire, TRUSTEE TRUSTEE for MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC Publish: December 18 & 25, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ALTHEA L. MAUST, deceased, whose date of death was July 22, 2025, Case: 25-CP-538-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: December 25, 2025. Personal Representative: BRANDIE JEAN ADAMSON c/o Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040 Attorney for Personal Representative: Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0144304 Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040 Email designation for service: Service.Probate@ samkaufmanlaw.com Telephone: (305) 292-3926 Fax: (305) 295-7947 Publish: December 25, 2025 and January 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: December 25, 2025. Personal Representative: David Christian Rasmussen 116 Thurston Place Crestview, Florida 32536 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: December 25, 2025 and January 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: December 18, 2025. Personal Representative: Melody Spiering Kelly 777 23rd St., Gulf Marathon, Florida 33050 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: December 18 & 25, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

PLLC 999 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 410 Naples, FL 34108 Telephone: 239.325.2300 E-Mail Addresses: bgalbraith@gwtrust.law ewhittier@gwtrust.law Publish: December 18 & 25, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Pursuant F.S. 328.17, United American Lien & Recovery as agent w/ power of attorney will sell the following vessel(s) to the highest bidder. Inspect 1 week prior @ marina; cash or cashier check; all auctions are held w/ reserve; any persons interested ph 954-563-1999 Sale Date January 16, 2026 @ 10:00 am 3411 NW 9th Ave #707 Ft Lauderdale FL 33309 V13261 1969 Hat FL0299NF Hull ID#: DO515826 inboard pleasure diesel fiberglass 38ft R/O Anthony Michael & Monic Echevarria Manguart Lienor: Marina Key LLC 99701 Overseas Hwy Key Largo Publish: December 25, 2025 & January 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI Notice is hereby given that on January 5th, 2026, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 Steele, Sarah 1272, 1327 Neuzill, Bill 1557 Thoman, Catherine 1598 Cox, Michael 1426 Publish: December 18 & 25, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO: 2018-CP-190-K IN RE: ESTATE OF RODERICK C. McNEIL, III, Deceased. ___________________/ NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY given that pursuant to a Writ of Execution issued in the Circuit Court, of Monroe County, Florida, on the 31st day of July, 2025, in the cause wherein IN RE: ESTATE OF RODERICK C. McNEIL, III, Deceased, being Case No. 2018-CP-190-K in said court, I, Richard A. Ramsay, Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida have levied upon all right, title, and interest of the defendant, in and to the following described personal property to wit: SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY 100% Ownership interest and shares in McNeil Bros., Inc. All bidders must have a valid Driver’s License with them and must register with the clerk at location of sale prior to start time of sale. I shall offer this property for sale, at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters building located at 5525 College Road Key West, Florida 33040 in the County of Monroe, State of Florida,

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA AMENDED 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 5TH day of January 2026 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 B204 of TAMARIND BAY CLUB, A CONDOMINIUM, according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof, as recorded in Official Records Book 840, Page 2213 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and any amendments thereto, together with its undivided shares in the Common Elements (the “Property”). Pursuant to FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 24TH day of September 2025 Style of which is: TAMARIND BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A FLORIDA NON-PROFIT CORPORATION Plaintiff VS. MARISA MORVILLO AND KEYS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CA156-P WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 20TH day of November 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: December 18 & 25, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF ACTION RE: MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC MONROE County, Florida NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 25-CP-538-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF ALTHEA L. MAUST, Deceased.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-560-K DIVISION: LOWER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF CARLTON COLEMAN SPAIN Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Carlton Coleman Spain, deceased, whose date of death was November 11, 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-533-M DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM FRANCIS KELLY II Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of William Francis Kelly, II, deceased, whose date of death was October 12, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. 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

IN THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-534-M DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM P. SCHNEIDER Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of William P. Schneider, deceased, whose date of death was August 11, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. 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, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: December 18, 2025. Personal Representative: Janet J. Schneider 1132 Bulevar De Palmas Marathon, FL 33050 Attorney for Personal Representative: Brad A. Galbraith Florida Bar No. 0494291 Galbraith Weatherbie Law

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-557-K DIVISION: LOWER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF BOZENA HOZA Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Bozena Hoza, deceased, whose date of death was September 25, 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: December 18, 2025. Personal Representative: Hana Hoza Jacobs 79 Sunset Shores Rd. Center Conway, New Hampshire 03813 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 SUDOKU SOLUTION

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

CELEBRATING 2026 Season

IM#26 - MC450645 | DOT966624

IN BUSINESS

YEARS

PROUDLY SERVING THE FLORIDA KEYS AND BEYOND!

305.295.6683

305.295.6683 | 1.877.344.6683 | WWW.DRNMOVING.COM

January 4 - Ulysses Quartet Grosshandler • Debussy •Mendelssohn

Tennessee Williams Theater• 4pm $20 at door • all students FREE

LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISE WITH LOCAL FACES

Key West Weekly STEPHANIE MITCHELL 305.304.5778

Marathon Weekly PATTI CHILDRESS 305.731.9628

keywestimpromptu.org CELEBRATING 22 YEARS OF LOCAL MEDIA

Upper Keys Weekly MANUELA MOBLEY 305.967.9222

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: December 18 & 25, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Grounds Caretaker, Full-time Carpenter, Electrician & Housing Assistant. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: wrightk@kwha.org or 305-296-5621 ext. 224. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

P R I V A T E C O L L E C T O R WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578

AUTOS WANTED AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483

AUTOS FOR SALE 2013 Cadillac ATS, 125k miles, needs tires & A/C, 2 owners, serviced at dealership. Located in Marathon. $4,000 Contact: yogaforpeacellc@yahoo.com SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!! PLACE YOUR AUTO FOR SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com

BOAT MISC. FOR SALE Two 425 XTO Yamaha outboard motors for sale. Low hours, excellent condition, professionally maintained. $25,000 for both. Located in Marathon. Call for details 3 0 5 - 7 4 7 - 4 2 2 7

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT Dockage up to 60’ Islamorada Bayside, 50 amp service. Call 860-982-4517

Experienced Full-time Line Cook needed at the Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club. 10AM - 5PM, Good Pay. Small friendly staff. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave. S e r v e / B a r t e n d on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer serviceoriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave. PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com

HOUSING FOR RENT NIGHT MONITOR - FREE Private Room in exchange for overnight availability at our Assisted Living Facility in Marathon. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am plus weekly stipend, Drug & background screen required. www.westcare. com/join-our-team/ 2 Bedroom - All new AND - Studio - Furnished in Marathon. On the water, gated property. Section 8 possible. $1,300 - $2,000 month. Call 305-610-8002

RV LOT FOR SALE Vacation Inn Resort, WPB. Gated, 5-Star, Luxury RV Resort in prestigious Palm Beach County on the Gold Coast of S. Florida! $129.5k Call 561-844-8974 for photos & information!

VACATION RENTAL 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

Boat dockage, 29th Street Canal, Marathon. Up to 33' - water & electric. 305-240-3270

Burton Memorial

Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 3 0 5 - 6 1 0 - 8 0 0 2

HIRING CHURCH SECRETARY

Boat Slip For Rent in Key Largo - Oceanfront Marina - Up to 46’ x 11.5’ - $20/ft/ month. No Liveaboards. 3 3 0 - 2 1 9 - 5 3 1 3 RENTED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!! PLACE YOUR BOAT SLIP FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com

United Methodist Church

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys serving others, maintains strong attention to detail, and can manage a variety of administrative tasks with professionalism and grace. - Strong communication & interpersonal skills - Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks independently - Proficiency with basic office software (Word, Excel, Email) - Prior office or administrative experience preferred - Handling confidential information with integrity Part-time, 3-4 days per week, $20 per hour If you feel called to serve in this role, please contact burtonchurchpersonnel@gmail.com We look forward to hearing from you!

EMPLOYMENT Fullers Insurance is looking for a Customer Service Rep. or Agent. Hours are 8-5 Mon-Fri. Paid holidays and health insurance. Apply in person at 1432 Kennedy Dr. Key West or email resumé to norman@ fullersinsurance.com. Boat rental company in Marathon looking for help with boat detailing & boat cleaning. Call 305-481-7006 Now Hiring in Key West: Vacation Sales Coordinators. Up to $2,000 Sign-On Bonus. Please contact Brea.RollinsSimms@vacationclub. com for more information!

WE ARE HIRING

IS HIRING

Cake Decorator Early Morning Baker (4am-10am) Cashier/Server

PERMIT CLERK

Apply in person at: Vicky Bakery 97630 Overseas Highway (mm 97) Key Largo, FL 33037 KeyLargo@VickyBakery.com

BOOKKEEPING Amazing benefits available that include: Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance, Long Term/Short Term Disability, 10+ PAID Holidays PLUS Vacation & Sick Pay, 401K Plan Available, Paid Insurance Licensing/Training, Paid Continuing Education & Bonus Potential (Profit Sharing). Apply by email Jennifer.Roth@ReganRoth.com Regan Roth Insurance, 90144 Overseas Highway, Tavernier.

Family-owned business that will treat you like family!

Must have experience with Excel. We are willing to train the right candidates.

Send resume to admin@cbtconstruction.com Or call 305-852-3002

NOW HIRING IN KEY WEST

VACATION SALES COORDINATORS UP TO $2,000 SIGN-ON BONUS! Please contact Brea.Rollins-Simms@vacationclub.com for more information! Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:

SUNSET GRILLE NOW HIRING BARTENDERS WAIT STAFF - HOST/HOSTESS BUS PERSONS Apply in person at

SUNSET GRILLE & RAW BAR 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician) Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hr. - $51.94/hr. For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com. KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace. Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Generation Department: NOW HIRING FULL TIME POSITION

IN THE UPPER KEYS

OPERATOR/MAINTAINER Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $40.15/hr - $44.97/hr For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com. KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace. Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.

NOW HIRING! GUEST SERVICES STAFF (Full-Time, Permanent) GUEST SERVICES STAFF (Part-Time, Weekend) FACILITIES MAINTENANCE APPRENTICE (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

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

CAROL SHAUGHNESSY www.keysweekly.com

AL KEE: REMEMBERING THE ‘CONCH AMBASSADOR’

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

ontemporary Key West is full of fascinating people and quirky characters. Everyone, it seems, has a story. There’s the man who abandoned a thriving corporate empire to become a “troprock” singer/songwriter — and the journalist who devotes as much energy to small-town stories as she did the big-city devastation that earned her team a Pulitzer Prize. While these people contribute immeasurably to Key West’s colorful spirit and culture, so too do unique individuals who are gone. Some of them, like the late Al Kee, have earned an unforgettable place in local history. A smiling presence and a longtime “ambassador” for the island, Kee sold fluted, pink-lined conch shells beside the Southernmost Point for decades. Over the years, he welcomed countless visitors to the iconic marker at Whitehead and South streets — giving them a taste of the warmhearted hospitality and authentic culture that helps define Key West. Kee wasn’t the first member of his family to work beside the marker at the continental United States’ southernmost spot. His father spent much of his lifetime selling sponges, fish, coconuts and shells in the same place. After his father died in 1993, Kee and his family carried on the tradition — serenading Conch Train riders with enthusiastic blasts on the conch shell, posing for photos shot by visitors from around the globe, and cracking open coconuts to demonstrate the sweetness of the “water” inside. A bishop of his church, Kee was involved in other aspects of the community as well. Before his death in 2003, he was also a beloved presence at the Conch Shell Blowing Contest that takes place each spring. “He and his father before him left a 50year legacy of welcoming all who visited the Southernmost Point, popularized conch shell blowing and were emissaries of the multicul-

The sculpture memorializing Al Kee stood beside the Southernmost Point until it was removed for repairs to its weather-damaged base. CITY OF KEY WEST/Contributed

tural, multi-ethnic community that has made Key West unique since its inception,” said Bruce Neff, an expert on the island’s past, during a 2015 interview. In March 2015, people who remembered Kee, and appreciated the “old Key West” heritage he embodied, gathered at the Southernmost Point. There they witnessed the unveiling of a life-size bronze sculpture of the “conch ambassador” in the spot where he worked for many years. “Each day Bishop Kee, a preacher and a leader of Key West’s Bahama Village neighborhood, could be seen at the Southernmost Point greeting visitors with a cheerful wave and toot on a conch shell,” said Neff, whose Historic Markers Inc. spearheaded community support for the sculpture. For decades the marker, a larger-than-life buoy, overlooked the Atlantic Ocean at the corner of Whitehead and South streets — its painted body adorned with lettering that proclaimed its location just 90 miles from Cuba. Most Key West visitors made a pilgrimage to the famed landmark, taking turns snapping a photo or selfie with it. According to Neff, before the marker was originally installed, the island’s Afro-Bahamian fishermen anchored their boats and sold their catch at the waterfront corner.

Al Kee, left, sold shells and gifts at the Southernmost Point for decades. RAYMOND BLAZEVIC COLLECTION/Florida Keys History Center

“Over the years, Bishop Kee and his father watched the Southernmost Point evolve into a spot to which thousands of tourists flock for their photos,” Neff said in 2015. Crafted by local sculptor Tom Joris, the large bronze of Kee depicts him blowing a conch shell and waving a greeting. The sculpture project was undertaken in collaboration with the City of Key West and its Art in Public Places board. While it was designed to remain permanently at the Southernmost Point, the sculpture was removed — and the marker boarded up for protection — while the seawall and plaza area at Whitehead and South streets undergo vital repairs and renovation. In addition, a new base must be constructed for the sculpture to replace the weather-damaged original. A temporary Southernmost Point marker now stands in the Duval Street Pocket Park at 1400 Duval St., and it’s more popular than ever for photo stops. The sculpture of Al Kee will be placed in the park once the new base is completed — so Key West’s “conch ambassador” can continue welcoming visitors just as he did in his lifetime.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 25, 2025

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