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January 8, 2026

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Tokyo’s Toyosu Fish Market set a new bluefin tuna record in its first auction of 2026, with a 535-pound (243kg) fish selling for a record 510.3 million yen (about $3.2 million) to Sushi Zanmai’s Kiyoshi Kimura.

This year’s Pole Vault in Paradise event soared high above Higgs Beach Jan. 1-3. Now in its seventh year, the event created by local pole vaulter Steve Haines raises money for the Key West High School track team. See page 40. LARRY BLACKBURN/ Keys Weekly

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MANDY MILES drops 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.

stepped into the shower with my socks still on the other morning around 7 a.m. That was a new one, even for me. Just another reason not to get up too early in the morning. Things start to go wrong sooner. Besides, I’m a news reporter in Key West, where at any given hour, half the population is hungover. I promise you more news happens after 9 p.m. than before. But I digress. Happy New Year, Key West! Welcome to the Key West Weekly in 2026. We’re really glad you’re here and we deeply appreciate the readers and clients who keep a locally owned newspaper in business. You’re currently reading my New Year resolution, which is to try to write more columns this year. So you’ll all be the first to know when I run that resolution into the ditch. (No need to send me emails to point it out. I’ll know it, too. I’m looking at you, Dad.) But for now, I’m 2-for2 for 2026. So let’s start today with a topic that my mom, in particular, will detest. Public restrooms. Ladies, we need to do better. For the greater good. What is it about, say, turnpike rest stop bathrooms that make so many women just disregard human decency and lower their standards to something on par with farm animals, port-a-potties or the trough-

like, communal urinal in the men’s restroom at a UFC fight? We’re better than this. I know we are. But when it comes to public restrooms, an astonishing number of women clearly sink to the lowest possible standards. Stan and I spent a total of about 30 hours in a car over the Christmas holiday, having flown from Key West to the Jersey Shore on Christmas Eve. After spending a perfect Christmas with my folks, Stan and I hopped into their Kia Sportage and pointed it south for two days, driving it down to the Melbourne, Florida area, where my brother bought a condo so our folks can escape the Jersey winters. (Yes, Kevin is the golden child.) My parents are 79 and still have their mental faculties (mostly). They’re not yet entering their ATM pin into the TV remote, but Kevin, Stan and I don’t see any reason for them to spend 17 hours on the road. We also don’t want to put my mom through the nightmare that is my dad in the passenger seat, gripping the “oh shit” handle for two days, convinced every brake light a half-mile ahead signals his impending doom. In short, we were happy to keep a couple of 79-year-olds off I-95 this holiday season. (You’re welcome.) So I was recently in a series of service plazas and public restrooms. At one stop, after 10 p.m., there was no one else in the large restroom. And yet the first four stall doors I pushed open revealed unflushed toilets. Not clogged toilets. Not gross or overflowing. Just unflushed.

Does the broken window theory apply not just to struggling neighborhoods, but also to unflushed toilets at state-funded service plazas? Does one unflushed toilet eventually blight the whole facility? What happens to make people decide not to flush when they’re in a public restroom compared to their own home or someone else’s? That lack of decency has a ripple effect. Because ironically, the same women who don’t flush a public toilet will certainly never enter a stall with an unflushed toilet. So they go door to door seeking a freshly flushed commode — and then they fail to provide the same courtesy to someone else. It’s a self-perpetuating problem. I get it. No one likes public restrooms. My mom has a particular aversion to them (also to used clothes from thrift stores, consignment shops and yard sales. (Apparently, she questions the long-term efficacy of the cootie shot she got in 2nd grade.) Our recent road trip made clear that we can do better, ladies. Let’s be civilized in the coming year — says the woman who just got in the shower with her socks on. Happy New Year, Key West. We’re all in this together.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

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BRIEFLY See keysweekly.com for a full report from this week’s Key West City Commission meeting. Tethered camera helps locate missing woman When an elderly woman went missing recently, new technology played a huge role in her safe location. Just after sunset on Dec. 29, an 80-year-old woman with dementia was reported missing by her family. Key West detectives immediately began searching in and around her apartment near the salt ponds. While detectives canvassed the area, others deployed the department’s newly acquired tethered drone, called a Fotokite. Using its thermal capabilities, it was clear within 20 minutes that the woman was not lost in the dark surrounding salt ponds. Not considered a drone, the tethered camera has thermal imaging, night vision, a wide-angle lens, and telephoto capabilities. It flies at 150 feet in the air under constant power, which is supplied through the tether. This allows it to be deployed for long periods. In addition, since it is not classified as a drone, officers do not need to be specially certified to fly it. This means that the Key West Police have enhanced capabilities. Whether it’s a lost child or a disoriented grandmother, this is another tool in the department’s toolbox to help the community. Within an hour, the missing woman was located by detectives in another nearby apartment watching television. She was not in distress, and her family was notified and reunited with her and returned to her own home.

Fire department honors instructor Karl Wagner The Key West Fire Department recently recognized Capt. Karl Wagner as KWFD Instructor of the Year.

“I am sincerely grateful to Capt. Wagner for his leadership and for his many years of dedicated service and his unwavering pursuit of firefighter training and instruction” said Division Chief of Training Greg Barroso. “Over these many years, Capt. Wagner’s passion for firefighters’ safety has helped our fighters to accomplish their mission safely as they took what they learned and applied it in their call to duty as emergency first responders. Your instruction, your service, your sacrifices have made a positive difference and have helped to save lives.” The award is in recognition and appreciation of his contribution to the advancement of the Key West Fire Department.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS & PREVENTION WORKSHOP SET FOR JAN. 12 AT KEY WEST LIBRARY

T City honors Jean Bernard for 20 years of service The city of Key West and the city commission this week honored Jean Sampson Bernard in the Fleet Services division for 20 years of service to the city. Bernard started working for the city in 2006 as a maintenance employee. He moved to transit as a fleet helper, then stayed with the fleet division when the departments were separated. He was made an apprentice mechanic last year and is studying to become a certified mechanic. “Sampson has been an amazing employee for the last 20 years,” said community services director Marcus Davila. “He’s been Johnny-on-the-spot for everything. He changes every single tire that comes in.” Davila kidded Bernard for his height and strength. “He’s our human forklift,” he said. “And I don’t know if anyone has picked up an F-250 tire, but here’s an awesome fact: Sampson can shoot an F-250 tire like a basketball up to the second level of the garage.”

he Florida Department of Health in Monroe County (DOH-Monroe), in partnership with the Miami Victim Assistance Program team and the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), will offer a free human trafficking awareness and prevention training on Monday, Jan.12, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Monroe County Public Library – Key West 700 Fleming St. This free training is open to all community members, including residents, business owners, service providers, hospitality staff, educators and anyone interested in helping prevent human trafficking in Monroe County. Held in recognition of National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and Wear Blue Day, the training will help participants: • Understand what human trafficking is • Recognize common signs and indicators • Learn how to respond when you’re concerned about someone’s safety • Identify available support and resources for victims The session will be led by

the Miami Victim Assistance Program team followed by Janelle Filsaime, MPA, Regional Human Trafficking Prevention Coordinator of DCF. There is no cost to attend, and no pre-registration required. Attendees may join in person or virtually via Zoom at: us02web.zoom. us/j/9015096651. “We encourage everyone in the community to attend this important training. Increased awareness is one of the strongest tools we can use to prevent human trafficking and support survivors. Wearing blue on this day is a simple way to show solidarity and raise visibility for this critical issue,” said Dr. Carla Fry, administrator and health officer, DOHMonroe. Following the training, participants are invited to join an optional group photo in recognition of Wear Blue Day. This training supports the Community Health Improvement Plan and is made possible through collaboration among DOH-Monroe, the Miami Victim Assistance Program team, DCF and the Key West library. — Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

CAROL SHAUGHNESSY www.keysweekly.com

1. Mary, at left, shares a smiling moment at the beach with her family.

MARY FELGER: FROM KENYA TO MILE 0

2. From left, Mako Moco team members Mary Felger, Alyssa Averette Berger and Megan Feeney await customers at the Mile 0 Fest box office. 3. Mako Moco’s director of security, the ever-vigilant Rocco, works a shift during a 2024 festival.

SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW

rowing up in Indiana, Mary Felger wanted to follow in the footsteps of famed animal behavior expert and conservationist Jane Goodall. To that end, she worked at a zoo while getting her college degree in biology, Mary Felger has lived in Key West since 2000 and then spent two years and now owns an in Kenya with the Peace Old Town compound Corps. with her sister. In the late 1990s Felger CONTRIBUTED returned from Kenya and paid a visit to her sister Kathy, who was stationed with the Coast Guard in Key West, where the imprecise fluidity of “island time” reminded Felger of Africans’ view of time. She quickly realized she could be comfortable in Key West for a while. “I literally went home and drove back with my coffee maker and my mom’s car that I bought for a dollar,” Felger said. But Africa was still on her mind. She waitressed at Louie’s Backyard and Blue Heaven, saved money and returned to Kenya for a year. But in 2000, after encountering many challenges in working overseas, she came back to Key West and never left. On the island, her jobs ranged from managing a guest house to managing the sales staff for Fury Water Adventures and running an island information center. “All my jobs were in the service of people, helping them have a good time,” Felger explained. Today she’s a partner in the event support and consulting/planning company Mako Moco with Kyle Carter, Alyssa Averette Berger and Megan Feeney. The company is a crucial service provider for events that include Carter’s Mile 0 Fest, a popular annual celebration of “red dirt” and Americana music coming up Jan. 27-31 in Key West. “The genre called ‘red dirt’ originated in Oklahoma and has a really loyal fan base,” said Felger. “One of the things guests love about Mile 0 is that we’re a small festival, like 2,500 to 3,500 people, and it’s personal — it feels like family to them.”

The celebration’s evening concerts take place primarily at Key West’s Coffee Butler Amphitheater, but other shows are held at island hotels, bars and beaches. Mako Moco handles the administrative side of Mile 0 Fest and other events, from booking accommodations packages and making VIP arrangements to overseeing the box office. Though complex and often intense, the work suits Felger’s energy level and temperament. “I like the ‘people’ part of it, but I also love the organization of the box office and the hotel packages together,” she said. “I’m pretty good at relaxing when I get downtime, but I also function way better in chaos — the more moving parts, the better.” While Felger has traveled extensively in Africa as well as to Bali and Thailand, her life in Key West is rich and satisfying. She owns an Old Town compound with her sister Kathy. Her other sisters visit frequently, and their mother recently moved to the island. “Kathy and I always talked about having a Key West compound,” Felger said. “We would sit in her backyard and talk about which property we were going to buy for it.” Since the compound became a reality, much of Felger’s free time has been spent on improvement projects — including leveling her house from underneath. “It’s not constant, but there’s been a pretty steady stream of sawdust and paint around here,” she said. “Now we have a beautiful pool and a deck, so our dreams came true.”

Though she didn’t follow Jane Goodall’s path, Felger channels her long-term passion for animals into fostering dogs in need. In 2009 she adopted a Key West dog, Prairie, who became her constant companion. With inspiration from former employer and friend Georgia Favelli, and enthusiastic assistance from Prairie, she began fostering. “We had puppies born in the house, we had bottle babies — I did single dogs too, but mostly I loved litters of puppies,” she said. “We used to say Prairie fostered the dogs; I didn’t.” Three of the fosters were eventually adopted by Felger’s sisters, so they stayed in the family. Shortly after Prairie died at age 14, Felger got a call about fostering a litter of days-old pups whose mother was too sick to nurse them. She formed an immediate bond with one, a feisty Chihuahua mix who she ultimately named Rocco Diamond. “I’ve had him since he was five days old, and the second I held him, I knew Prairie sent him right to me,” said Felger. Today Rocco works alongside her as Mako Moco’s diligent director of security. Generally wearing a harness or t-shirt and a serious expression, he announces visitors to the company’s Truman Avenue office and screens them thoroughly before allowing them inside. His full name, photo and biography appear — along with Felger’s — on the “team” page of the Mako Moco website, makomoco.com.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

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PROPERTY TAX, BUDGET AWAIT STATE LEGISLATORS AS SESSION BEGINS

Mooney eyes Citizens insurance reform, flamingo as official state bird

roperty tax relief, the state budget and artificial intelligence are among the key issues awaiting legislators as session begins Tuesday, Jan. 13 in Tallahassee. For Gov. Ron DeSantis, press conferences and public appearances in past months brought calls for abolishing property tax on primary homes. “Your personal home, you shouldn’t rent it from the government. You should own it,” DeSantis said during a recent TV appearance. “Even for young families, it’s become very difficult across this country to make ends meet. Wouldn’t it be great if they were able to have homeownership without having the burden of property tax.” In the House, a Select Committee on Property Insurance spent the past several months mulling property tax relief proposals to pitch to voters in November. Considered to be one of the more comprehensive proposals, House Resolution 201 by Republican state Rep. Kevin Steele eliminates all nonschool property taxes on homesteads. Like most resolutions, the proposal maintains school funding across Florida and locks law enforcement funds at 2024-25 or 2025-26 levels, whichever is higher. Then there’s a proposal by Republican state Rep. Monique Miller to phase out nonschool property taxes over 10 years. House joint resolution 203 would increase homestead exemptions by $100,000 annually beginning in 2027. Most property owners in Florida would reach near-zero nonschool property taxes by 2030, giving local governments time to adjust their revenue structures. Then there are House joint resolutions aimed at providing relief to certain groups, like property owners who have multiperil insurance or who are over the age of 65. All proposals out of the House safeguard school and police funding, but money for a local municipality’s day-to-day operations are at risk of being axed. If approved by the Legislature, the resolutions heading to the ballot in November would need 60% of state voters to say “yes.” The only piece of legislation pertaining to property taxes, Rep. Jon Albert’s House Bill 215, allows any accrued Save Our Homes

The state Capitol building. FILE PHOTO

benefit, the difference between the assessed value and the just or fair market value of a homestead, held by each spouse to transfer to a new home after marriage, up to the existing $500,000 limitation. Save Our Homes is a constitutional amendment passed to cap annual increases on the assessed value of homestead properties to a maximum of 3% or the change in the Consumer Price Index. Florida fire chiefs say the House proposals only protect law enforcement and not fire rescue and EMS. In addition, fire chiefs say, costs for new equipment are rising; fire engines alone increased from $550,000 to $1.3 million in the past six years. State senators haven’t weighed in on the issue of property tax relief. State Rep. Jim Mooney acknowledged the proposals are on the table, but the prospects of the Senate considering them remain somewhat bleak. In total, Mooney filed five bills for consideration during the 60-day session. One piece of legislation would give local governments authority in adopting ordinances to provide ad valorem tax exemption for certain portions of property used to provide affordable housing. Similar bills by Mooney and state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez seek to install a 10% cap on annual rate hikes for Citizens Property Insurance policyholders in areas like the Florida Keys which lack reasonable competition. Then there’s legislation by Mooney to designate the American flamingo as the official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay as the official state songbird. The bill, which wasn’t taken up the previous two sessions, has seen favorable movement during committee meetings last month. “I’m definitely encouraged by that,” he said.

The start to session comes following some sparring last year among House leadership and the Senate and DeSantis on issues such as spending. Disagreements over the budget resulted in the session being extended to 105 days. DeSantis already released his $117 billion budget proposal for the 2026-27 fiscal year. It’s an increase from the legislativelyapproved $115.2 billion budget for 2025-26. The governor is seeking increased funding for education and law enforcement. The House and Senate haven’t released their budget proposals. Municipalities and nonprofits in the Florida Keys have submitted their requests for state funding to advance a wide variety of projects. The Monroe County School District is seeking $5 million in order to develop 150 housing units for teachers and other essential personnel. The district is also requesting $2.5 million to renovate and preserve the historic Bruce Hall and Reynolds School for use by school administrators. Florida Keys municipalities are also seeking a $20 million appropriation under the Florida Keys Stewardship Act to fund critical water quality initiatives. Monroe County is seeking $2.5 million to acquire vacant, privately owned land in the Keys to reduce legal liability from takings claims related to state-mandated development restrictions on certain lands and support affordable housing development. Keys AHEC filed a $950,000 request to deliver cost-effective restorative and primary health care for underserved children. Last year, funds were approved by the Legislature but axed by the governor. Municipalities across the Keys and state also want tweaks to Senate Bill 180, approved last year. Part of the legislation prohibited governments from adopting more restrictive regulations on development after natural disasters. Counties throughout Florida are concerned about the breadth of this impact and are pursuing several possible ways to narrow the preemption’s scope.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

5TH ANNUAL KEY WEST MUSIC AWARDS SET FOR JAN. 12

he Iggies are right around the corner. That’s right: The Key West Theater will host the fifth annual Key West Music Awards on Monday, Jan. 12, when musicians and music lovers fill the house for a night of honors and appreciation along with performances by some of the city’s best music makers. Awards are given in 24 categories, including Songwriter of the Year, Fan of the Year, Mentor of the Year, Rock Act of the Year and Entertainer of the Year. A Lifetime Appreciation award is also given out each year. The winners were all chosen by the listening public, who nominate their favorites in each category through online voting at keywestmusicawards.com that occurred until three weeks before the awards show. Once the nomination phase ended, the totals were counted and the top three nominees in each category were the finalists. From there, the decision headed to a panel of seven judges, who have no idea how many nominations each finalist received. The judges are anonymous, and unknown even to each other, so they can’t compare notes or see each other’s rankings. The judges include musical professionals and teachers, as well as fans who see an exceptional amount of local music. The Iggy Awards are a red carpet night for Key West, with

RAY WEST ... a professional musician, singer, actor and executive director of the Key West Music Awards, is known to sacrifice his comfort for that of his cat.

no shortage of sequins and leather. It’s a packed house at Key West Theater as local celebrities present the awards throughout the evening. Musical guests join the live band in between celebrations and give a glimpse of the talent this town attracts. This year will include performances by David Bryce Warren, Meghan Barter, Nick Norman, Caffeine Carl, Gi Buxford and Jack Fivecoate, and Jefff Clark joined by the house band Ignatius and the Reptiles, led by Jeff Dalton. The night is one of the best of the year for working musicians, and many of them end up at one place, which almost never happens in this working town. Charity is at the heart of the Iggies. All proceeds from the show go directly to help other organizations and individuals in our community. Through grants and community action, the aim is to improve the lives of local musicians and their families. The show starts at 8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 12 with an official after-party at the Alamo, where several of the night’s nominees will perform. The party includes drink specials and a raffle for a weekend package in Key West. More information is at keywestmusicawards.com.

Kit Carson works the red carpet as local celebrities arrive at Key West Theater for last year’s Key West Music Awards. CONTRIBUTED

CHRISTINE MILD SINGS THE SONGS THAT STARTED IT ALL Red Barn Theatre presents ‘Queens of Country: Patsy! Dolly! Loretta!’

inger Christine Mild, who stars in the popular, “Always…Patsy Cline” shows, returns to Key West’s Red Barn Theatre with an all-new show featuring songs from country music’s most influential women. “Queens of Country Music: Patsy! Dolly! Loretta!” runs Jan. 7-10 only. “When I started designing the show,” Mild said, “I asked myself who I would call the ultimate queens of country music – the ones who set the bar and influenced everyone who’s followed them. Honestly, there were only three – Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn. You can name dozens of ‘duchesses’ who came after them, but those three stand by themselves.” Mild will choose some of the best and most beloved songs by each of the three, while sprinkling in tunes from several others, including Reba McEntire, Linda Ronstadt, Gretchen Wilson and Beyonce. “For a country music lover, this show will give you a multitude of songs that you know and love from these remarkable women,” Mild said. “And we won’t forget a few of the newer voices that may hint at who might, at some point, assume the kind of reign Patsy, Dolly and Loretta were able to achieve.” Mild will be joined on stage by a “kick-ass ensemble.” She enticed UK guitarist Matt Becker, who has played with Julian Lennon and other notables, to spend some time in Key West and perform with her at the Red Barn. Playing bass will be Geoff Lowe, a friend from Chicago, who many Key Westers may have seen playing recently in the jazz clubs around town. Key West’s Gary McDonald will again be on drums, and Jim Rice will handle the keyboards. “It’s a great, great band,” Mild said, “We’ll also be adding another terrific female voice in my dear friend Erin Parker, who has a real connection to Nashville as one of Reba McEntire’s backup singers.

Singer Christine Mild returns to Red Barn Theatre to perform ‘“Queens of Country Music: Patsy! Dolly! Loretta!” through Jan. 10. In addition to songs by Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn, Mild will include favorites by Reba McEntire, Gretchen Wilson and Beyonce. CONTRIBUTED

She’s fantastic. With that group on stage, there’s no way you won’t have an awesome time. This will be our best one yet.” More information is at redbarntheatre.com or from the box office at 305-296-9911. — Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

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CALL TODAY TO SET UP AN APPOINTMENT AND PUT THOSE BUGS ON THE MARCH! Wounded Warrior riders take to the Seven Mile Bridge on Jan. 6, 2024. The ride returns on Friday, Jan. 9 and Saturday, Jan. 10. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

he Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride takes place Friday, Jan. 9, and Saturday, Jan. 10, in the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys. Residents and visitors are encouraged to cheer on and support the warriors as they cycle through the Florida Keys, or to join them for a guided community ride on Saturday in Key West. “Soldier Ride is a powerful reminder of the resilience and camaraderie that define our veteran community,” said Cathy Crane, county community services director, event coordinator and a combat veteran. “We’re honored to welcome these Wounded Warriors to the Florida Keys. Their strength and determination inspire us all, and we encourage our residents and visitors to show their support to help make this a memorable experience for them.” Motorists should allow extra time to reach their destination during the ride times. U.S. 1 will remain open for

the Soldier Ride, but motorists should be patient, use caution and note that rolling lane shifts may occur. FRIDAY, JAN. 9 • Key Largo to Islamorada Start: 8:30 a.m. from VFW Post 10211 Break: 9:30 a.m. Coral Shores High School End: 10:45 a.m. Theater of the Sea • Marathon to Big Pine Key Start: 1:30 p.m. from Marathon Fire Station across the Seven Mile Bridge End: 2:30 p.m. Veterans Memorial Beach SATURDAY, JAN. 10 • Key West and Boca Chica Start: 10:30 a.m. from Boca Chica Naval Base Military Affairs Committee Welcome Ceremony: Noon at Bayview Park, Key West • City of Key West Guided Community Ride: 12:45 to 2 p.m. Start and end at Bayview Park — Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

UNCERTAIN WATERS

A petition started by fellow marine mammal trainers has gathered more than 1,200 signatures to support keeping eight dolphins in their current home at Hawks Cay Resort on Duck Key. CONTRIBUTED

Bankruptcy clouds future for Duck Key’s Dolphin Connection ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

hile the bankruptcy fallout from a multinational corporation forces dolphin facility closures and animal transfers around Florida, trainers at one Middle Keys resort are hoping their dolphins aren’t next on the list. In March of 2025, the Dolphin Company, then owners of the Miami Seaquarium along with Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City Beach, Marineland Dolphin Adventure in St. Augustine and Duck Key’s Dolphin Connection, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy amid federal and state investigations into four dolphin deaths within a six-month period at Gulf World. Included in an initial list of creditors, published in federal court records the following month, was Duck Key’s own Hawks Cay Resort, claiming $337,202 owed by the leased sea pen facility on resort property. Originally established in 1990, the 35-year-old operation was purchased by Dolphin Discovery, later rebranded as the Dolphin Company, in 2018. Throughout the remainder of 2025, several highly-publicized court cases would see the closure and sale of Gulf World and Miami Seaquarium to real estate development groups, prompting auctions and donations of hundreds of marine mammals, birds and other animals to facilities across the country – including more than a dozen dolphins, seals and sea lions sent to new homes at Keys facilities. In November, a bankruptcy court approved a last-minute $6.5 million bid by a former employee and research expert – bankrolled by a local couple – to preserve Marineland as a nonprofit dolphin operation. But last month, Dolphin Connection staff noticed a reservation blackout for interactive programs beyond Jan. 11, 2026. And on Dec. 22, a new notice laid out a plan to donate and

transfer the eight animals currently housed at the Duck Key facility to SeaWorld, if objections were not received by Jan. 2. “The debtors are winding down their operations at Hawks Cay Resort and intend to reject (their) real property lease with respect to such facility,” the notice states. “Sea World is … one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations, making them a leader in animal welfare, training, husbandry, and veterinary care.” A declaration attached to the proposal includes support from chief restructuring officer Robert Wagstaff of Riveron Management Services LLC, hired to manage Dolphin Company’s bankruptcy proceedings. Despite working with interested buyers for months, Wagstaff said, “the debtors did not receive an actionable bid for that business segment at a value that would provide a net benefit,” citing transaction costs and the constraints of the Dolphin Connection lease with Hawks Cay, set to expire in October 2026, as leading factors. But according to former Dolphin Connection general manager Danay Voiles, a bidder for the facility whose objection letter to Judge Laurie Selber Silverstein was published Jan. 6, the lower bids were due to a lack of transparency from Riveron and an unwillingness to extend the facility’s lease for new owners – a concern that could have left a new business dead in the water in less than a year. “Riveron represented that Hawks Cay Resort was not willing to engage in lease negotiations and that any offer would be considered only if it conformed strictly to the existing lease terms,” Voiles wrote. “The inability to discuss or negotiate lease terms rendered a proposal commercially unviable and prevented submission of a bid, despite continued interest and readiness to proceed.” Financial statements available to bidders were only updated through May 2025, she wrote, while requests for updated statements and tax documentation were declined. “My intent has consistently been to pursue a transaction that would allow Dolphin Connection to continue operating … preserving

the facility, maintaining established animal care programs, and ensuring continuity of care for the dolphins,” Voiles said. Speaking to the Weekly, however, Hawks Cay general manager Reggie Cooper said the decision to close and transfer the animals did not come from his resort. “Dolphin Connection is independently owned and managed, and Hawks Cay was not involved in the decision to cease operations and have the dolphins transferred,” Cooper wrote in an emailed statement. “However, we will continue to make ourselves available throughout this process to support the well-being of the dolphins.” Calls and emails to Wagstaff and Hawks Cay parent company Brookfield Asset Management seeking confirmation of Voiles’ statements were not returned at press time. Since December, numerous trainers, resort staff members and industry professionals who spoke with the Weekly privately for fear of retribution gave conflicting reports over future plans for the sea pens, including purchase by Key Largo-based Dolphins Plus or use as a pledged seaside sanctuary site for dolphins from the National Aquarium in Baltimore. At press time, a change.org petition authored by Miami Seaquarium trainer Jessica Serrano titled “Help the dolphins at Hawks Cay keep their home” had garnered 1,283 signatures. Again alleging that a dolphin facility was no longer welcome to continue operations at the resort, the petition outlines physical, medical and social concerns for individual animals in the eight-dolphin pod, including 42-year-old retired Navy dolphin Chinook and 22-year-old Balla, born and raised at the facility in a natural sea pen environment with no exposure to an artificial tank system. And in the weeks since news of the pending transfer broke, a coordinated batch of Google reviews for the resort praised guests’ experiences at Dolphin Connection. “I’ve lived in Marathon for 10 years and finally had the opportunity to get in the water with a dolphin,” wrote one reviewer. “This experience changed my view and understanding of the importance of keeping access to and educating people on these amazing animals.” “I would return to the resort for this experience alone,” wrote another. Replies written by the resort acknowledged that “the dolphins are definitely a special part of what makes the resort so unique,” telling one reviewer on Jan. 7 that “we hope you’ll be able to enjoy them next year.” As of press time, links to Dolphin Connection’s operations were removed from the resort’s website. A Dec. 29 order in the ongoing bankruptcy case extended the deadline to transfer or reject the Dolphin Connection lease with Hawks Cay until Jan. 31, while the facility’s reservation system still lists Jan. 11 as the last day for reservations. A hearing in the case originally scheduled for Jan. 7 was canceled the day before.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

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WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE BRINGS BELOVED BOOK TO LIFE

KEY WEST GHOST PIRATE MOVIE, TAKE 2

‘Tuesdays with Morrie’ takes the stage Jan. 15-18

Left: Actor Scott Lowell has Broadway credit and is perhaps best known for playing Ted on the hit Showtime series ‘Queer as Folk.’ Right: Actor Jim Ortlieb is known for his roles in the films ‘Contagion’ and ‘Flatliners.’ He returns to Key West’s Waterfront Playhouse this month to co-star in ‘Tuesdays with Morrie’ running Jan. 15-18. CONTRIBUTED

he Waterfront Playhouse continues its Spotlight Series with the intimate play “Tuesdays With Morrie,” running Jan. 15-18. Performances Jan. 15-17 are at 7:30 p.m.; the Jan. 18 performance is at 2 p.m. The production marks the second offering in the series that focuses on smaller-scale works that place storytelling and performance at the center of the theatrical experience. Based on the beloved book by Mitch Albom and adapted for the stage by Albom and Jeffrey Hatcher, “Tuesdays With Morrie” chronicles the true story of the final meetings between a former student and his dying professor as the two explore friendship, mortality, life lessons and the enduring impact of human connection. The production stars two television, film and Broadwaycredited actors: Jim Ortlieb, last seen at the Waterfront

in “Stand Up If You’re Here Tonight,” and Scott Lowell, perhaps best known to audiences as Ted on the Showtime hit “Queer as Folk.” Artistic director Patrick New ensures the play is staged with clarity and restraint, allowing the performances and the story to resonate in an immediate and personal way. With humor, honesty and compassion, “Tuesdays With Morrie” invites audiences into a shared experience intended to feel profound and warmly familiar. The intimacy of the production reflects the spirit of the Spotlight Series, offering theatre that meets audiences up close and lingers long after the curtain falls. The Waterfront Playhouse, Key West’s longest-running professional theater, is on Mallory Square. More information is at waterfrontplayhouse.org or 305-294-5015. — Contributed

Written and directed by Tony Armer, ‘Key of Bones’ is a feature-length movie being filmed almost entirely in Key West through Jan. 20. The Jan. 7 shooting schedule included scenes at Houseboat Row. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Comedy-horror filming under way through Jan. 20 MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

guy, a Key West visitor, woke up Wednesday morning, hungover, on a couch aboard a local waitress’ houseboat. Apparently, the two had shared some adventures the night before. As he rubs his head and gets his bearings, the guy decides a morning beer may be his best bet, his only bet, to feel better. It all sounds like an entirely plausible weekday morning in Key West, right? Perhaps too familiar for some of us? Good. That’s a sign of well-written, natural-sounding dialogue and the scene i just described did indeed take place at Houseboat Row on Wednesday morning, but it unfolded among cameras, boom mics, a clapperboard to mark the scenes and a bunch of film crew folks with headsets and an air of L.A. urgency about them. Hollywood has returned to Key West to film a movie. But unlike others, this one is way more Key West than West Coast, with only one day of shooting occurring in California. The rest will take place this month in familiar island locations.

The feature-length comedy-horror movie called “Key of Bones: Curse of the Ghost Pirate,” will be filming through Jan. 20 at locations that include Houseboat Row at Garrison Bight, the Key West Firehouse Museum, Fort Zachary Taylor, the Key West Lighthouse, the local cemetery “and other iconic haunted areas of Key West.” Writer and director Tony Armer describes the movie as “‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ meets ‘Shaun of the Dead’... with rum, drag queens and lesbian pirate ghosts in the sunsoaked, offbeat paradise of Key West. Ghosts rise, locals panic and one Key West waitress must clean up the supernatural mess she started.” If it all sounds like a Key West fever dream, that’s the point. And for us locals, Armer provides plenty of familiar local references. The waitress, played by Los Angeles actress Gina Vitore, works at Half Shell Raw Bar. And one of the main characters, played by Key West’s own film commissioner, Chad Newman, is a Key West ghost hunter and supernatural expert based on the real-life character of, you guessed it, David L. Sloan. Also, Key West resident Bill Francis is an executive producer. “Key of Bones” should be released sometime in 2027.

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AUTHOR TALKS RETURN TO LIBRARY PALM GARDEN Bestselling author Nicholas Boggs kicks off 2026 speaker series

WEATHER WASN’T ALWAYS PREDICTABLE

Meteorologist Jon Rizzo traces history of forecasting on Jan. 15

Meteorologist Jonathan Rizzo will discuss ‘A History of Weather Forecasting in the Florida Keys’ as part of the Key West Art & Historical Society’s Distinguished Speaker Series on Thursday, Jan. 15 at 6 p.m. at Tropic Cinema. KEY WEST ART & HISTORICAL SOCIETY/Contributed

The Friends of the Key West Library’s Speaker Series returns Monday evenings at 6 p.m., spotlighting acclaimed authors outside in the library’s palm garden. CONTRIBUTED

ew York Times bestselling author Nicholas Boggs will open the Friends of Key West Library’s 2026 Speaker Series on Monday, Jan. 12 in the library’s palm garden. Boggs’ biography “Baldwin: A Love Story,” is the first major biography of James Baldwin, the iconic writer and civil rights figure, in over three decades. Boggs appears courtesy of the Key West Literary Seminar. Set under the stars, the weekly speaker series spotlights acclaimed authors. Started over 25 years ago, the program has become a staple in the community. Admission is free and gates open at 5:30 p.m. at the Key West library, 700 Fleming St. Robert W. Fieseler on Jan. 19 Author Robert W. Fieseler joins the Friends of the Library Speaker Series on Monday, Jan. 19 at 6 p.m. Fieseler will discuss his book, “American Scare: Florida’s Hidden Cold War on Black and Queer Lives.” The book details how Black activists and gay teachers were targeted by a legislative inquest in Florida in the 1950s — and how the story was recovered and revealed after authorities tried to hide it.

Fieseler was named Journalist of the Year by the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association. His book, “Tinderbox: The Untold Story of the Up Stairs Lounge Fire and the Rise of Gay Liberation,” received the Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America and the Louisiana Literary Award from the Louisiana Library Association. — Contributed

2026 SPEAKER SERIES SCHEDULE All events are on Monday and start at 6 p.m. in the palm garden of the Key West Library, 700 Fleming St. Jan. 12 - Nicholas Boggs Jan. 19 - Robert W. Fieseler Jan. 26 - Sarah Stewart Taylor Feb. 2 - Liv Constantine Feb. 9 - Karen Dukess Feb. 16 - Mirta Ojito Feb. 23 - Ruth Reichl (gala talk) March 2 - Bob Rich March 9 - Jenn McKinlay March 16 - Chris Castellani

n Thursday, Jan. 15, Jon Rizzo, warning coordination meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Key West, will discuss the evolution of weather forecasting in the Keys. His lecture, “A History of Weather Forecasting in the Florida Keys,” is part of the Key West Art & Historical Society’s Distinguished Speaker Series. The talk will take place from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Tropic Cinema, 416 Eaton St. The history of formal weather observing and forecasting in the Florida Keys began with the U.S. Lighthouse Board and the later establishment of Key West as one of the original 24 U.S. Signal Corps weather offices. During his presentation, Rizzo will highlight milestones in the development of the nation’s operational weather services, from its early days as the U.S. Signal Corps to its modern role as the National Weather Service, and how these advancements specifically affected the Florida Keys. Using historical photographs and firsthand anecdotes from early Weather Bureau officials, the lecture will provide insight into the experiences of early forecasters and the methods they used to observe and predict weather in a region long shaped by extreme and rapidly changing conditions. “Weather has shaped nearly every aspect of life in the Florida

Keys, from how we prepare for storms to the way our homes are built and our community functions,” said Cori Convertito, curator for the society. “Jonathan Rizzo’s presentation offers a fascinating look at how forecasting evolved alongside our island history, helping us better understand the challenges, resilience and ingenuity that define life in this unique environment.” Rizzo has been the warning coordination meteorologist at NOAA’s National Weather Service office in Key West since May 2002. He is responsible for planning, coordinating and carrying out forecasts and weather warnings to protect life and property during severe weather events. Rizzo has supported Monroe County, its municipalities and the U.S. Navy during hurricanes, tropical storms and major public events. His professional background also includes winter and fire weather forecasting in eastern Washington State. Tickets are $13 for KWAHS members and $17 for non-members; they are available at kwahs. org/whats-on. Tickets will also be available at the door on the night of the event. More information is available from Convertito at 305-295-6616 x507 or cconvertito@ kwahs.org. — Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

HAVE A LOOK INSIDE HISTORIC HOMES

Key West’s Oldest House Museum & Gardens is the headquarters of Old Island Restoration Foundation and a perennial stop on each of the foundation’s Key West Home Tours, which are offered on a Friday and Saturday in December, January, February and March. CONTRIBUTED

Tours set for Jan. 23 & 24, plus February & March dates MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

ou’re curious. Admit it. How many Key West houses have you biked or walked past, craning your neck and standing on tiptoes to catch just a glimpse of the interior, beyond the sweeping front porch. How many times have you slyly peered through fence slats to see the lush garden you just knew was contained within the yard? Now’s your chance. Actually, you have three chances over the next few months to peruse five historic homes and gardens in Old Town Key West. For the 66th year, Old Island Restoration Foundation, that august nonprofit organization that is committed to preserving Key West’s architectural history, is hosting its Key West Home Tours. For two days in January, February and March, generous homeowners open their doors and welcome curious onlookers as well as volunteer docents who are armed with research on the home, its neighborhood and perhaps any notable prior owners or occupants. The tours always take place on a Friday and Saturday, and ticketholders can partake on either or both days. One of the five stops is always the Oldest House Museum & Gardens on Duval Street, where OIRF is headquartered.

“We’re also trying to include a historic church on each of the tours,” OIRF executive director Nick Green told the Keys Weekly this week. “Most importantly, we’re always looking for homeowners willing to open their doors and welcome visitors, as the featured homes change each month. And we always, always need volunteer docents to spend a few hours on one of the tour days at one of the homes. We do all the research on the property and give the volunteers just about a half-page printout of interesting facts and architectural details. They don’t have to memorize anything and they get a free ticket to tour the homes on the day they’re not volunteering.” Tour dates this year are Jan. 23 and 24, Feb. 13 and 14 and March 13 and 14. The home tours reveal a range of architectural gems, eclectic art, transformed cigar-makers’ cottages, shipbuilders’ craft, re-imagined Victorian mansions and the stories behind the facades. Old Island Restoration Foundation offers the home tours as part of its mission to protect, preserve and celebrate Key West’s architecture, culture and intangible heritage since 1960. Tickets are on sale for individual tour dates, or a new discount package for all tours. Tickets provide entry to five homes at a self-guided pace, between 1 and 4 p.m. on a Friday and Saturday. To volunteer or buy home tour tickets, visit oirf.org. To open your home for one of the tour weekends, email Toby Bruce at tobyb@ oirf.org or call 305-294-9501.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026 A willet seen recently at Rest Beach in Key West. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

he second bird of the new year was an osprey, a proper bird, singing his piercing ultra-falsetto song of love somewhere over the new astroturf at Bayview Park. I caught sight of him in the gap between the neighbor’s MARK roof and the lower branches HEDDEN of our mahogany. Then I caught sight of his paramour, ... is a photographer, writer, and or maybe his rival – because semi-professional immediately after the second birdwatcher. He osprey, a third osprey entered has lived in Key the mix over the astroturf. West for more Ospreys are sexually than 25 years and may no longer monomorphic. You can’t just be employable in look at one and tell if it is the real world. He male or female. Females can is also executive be 15% to 20% larger than director of the the males, but it’s not someFlorida Keys Audubon Society. thing you can really gauge while they are flying around, doing their own version of an operatic love triangle, though you might be able to tell if they were standing next to each other. I went back to my book. Half an hour later I heard an American kestrel klee-kleeing around over the astroturf, the calls coming off more like a dramatic monologue. And honestly, I can’t remember any birds of the new year in the days after that. I must have seen some – turkey vultures, a northern mockingbird, a mourning dove – because some days it’s harder not to see them than to see them. But I have no recollection of anything. I guess I was in a kind of a fog of reading and work, no doubt underscored by the low thrum of existential dread. And I was neglecting to spend time outside during some of the nicest weather of the year. The new year is a reset time for a lot of things. For birders who keep lists, you get to start a new list. Some just want to see how one year compares to the next. Some want to see a greater number of birds than they did the previous year. Some want to see more birds than anyone else. Some want to set a challenge – see how many birds they can photograph or digiscope, see how many birds they can see in their state or home county. Some want to see how many birds they can photograph or digiscope in their own state or county. I’ve actually tried keeping an annual list here and there, generally out of a sense of obligation, with a vague sense that you’re not a real birder if you don’t keep a list. But I’ve never kept at it. Same with eBird. I know people who have literally entered thousands of eBird lists. Multiple ones every day. And it must give them some kind of dopamine hit, some kind of sense of accomplishment. But it never works for me. I like doing the Christmas Bird Count every year, and totaling up what I (and my group) saw. And I’ve gone out with Mark Whiteside on occasion to go Power Birding™ – his term – where you see how many birds you can count

WHERE THERE’S A WILLET

in, like, three hours. But I can only dabble in numeracy. Lists are not anathema to what I like about birding, but they are not what I like about birding. I just get disinterested in them. They always end up being just another unfinished project. Birds tend to connect me to the world around me, and to the concept of how much I don’t know about the world, how much deep mystery is out there. And by out there I mean, well, everywhere outside the house. (And if we leave the French doors open, sometimes within the house.) Sometimes, like I did last week, you just forget what interests you in the world. I’ve always liked that line in John Irving’s “Hotel New Hampshire” — “You’ve got to get obsessed and stay obsessed.” Sometimes you have to remind yourself. Which is a long way of saying I was feeling kind of desperate when I headed down to the end of White Street in the last light of the day, as if I’d lost time, because I felt the strong need to see, well, something. The idea in my head was to catch sight of a duo of yellow-bellied sapsuckers that we’d seen during the Christmas Bird Count, working a couple of trees behind the dog park. But they weren’t there. I thought about White Street Pier, but it looked jam-packed with humans out there, and that just would not do. So I went to Rest Beach, just to the east, and parked in a lot seemingly full of older men reading newspapers in the front seats of their cars, periodically looking up to take in the ocean. The light was so gorgeous even the laughing gulls looked good. But they were laughing gulls, not a species that is ever going to light much of a spark in me. Then I saw the willet. Willets are about a third the heft of laughing gulls, but close to their height. They are on

the larger end of the shorebird lineup, longlegged, long-billed and usually either just kind of grayish or brownish. Which makes them seem kind of dull until they spread their wings and you see the underside, a sharp black with a broad, contrasting white stripe running from wingpit to wingtip, making them look a little racy, as if they have a clandestine life you’re never going to know much about. The name willet, which I’m legally obliged to point out is one of the few mononyms in North America avian nomenclature, comes from their multisyllabic flight call, which is supposed to sound like someone saying the phrase “pillywill-willet,” though it’s never sounded that way to me. It always sounds to me more like someone frenetically yelling “I’m gonna panic! I’m gonna panic” so fast you can’t quite make out the individual words. This bird was not panicking, though. It was casually working the shoreline, stabbing down toward its toes every few steps to snatch up some diminutive crustaceans. I took some photos, watched for a while, breathed a little easier. I stayed until I couldn’t take the no-see-ums any more. In the parking lot I ran into charter boat captain extraordinaire Stan Miles walking back from the other end of the beach with a pole in his hand. I asked him if fishing was also what he did in his off time. He said he went whenever he could, that he’d just come back from a trip to Melbourne, where he’d fished from the beach every night. He’d rigged a homemade scoop to dig sand fleas out of the sand so he could carefully bait them onto hooks. He said he caught seven species of fish one night doing that. Get obsessed, stay obsessed. I took a few more shots of a second willet further down the beach, the surrounding water all rippled in purple and peach. Then the no-seeums got bad again and I headed home.

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Cervical Health Awareness Prevention Starts With You January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of prevention, early detection, and routine medical care. Cervical health plays a critical role in women’s overall wellness, and regular screenings can help identify concerns early, often before symptoms occur. KEY STEPS TO PROTECTING YOUR CERVICAL HEALTH INCLUDE: 1. Routine cervical cancer screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV testing, based on age and health history 2. HPV vaccination, which helps protect against the most common high-risk strains of the virus associated with cervical cancer 3.Regular wellness visits to discuss menstrual changes, pelvic pain, or other concerns 4.Healthy lifestyle choices, including avoiding tobacco and practicing safe sex Primary care providers play an important role in cervical health by guiding patients through screening schedules, providing education, and coordinating follow-up care when needed. If you want to prioritize your preventive care in the new year schedule your appointment with a Key West PCP at 305.433.9660 today! Dr. Kellee Reed is a board-certified emergency medicine physician at Mount Sinai Primary Care, Walk-In Clinic, and Diagnostic Center Key West. Dr. Reed earned her doctorate in osteopathic medicine at the Pikeville College School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency in emergency medicine at Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

This week, the planets are aligning to help us set CHRIS some goals and put plans McNULTY into motion. We have a powerful triple conjunction is an astrologer, wanderer, barof the sun, Venus, and Mars tender and in the sign of Capricorn. advocate for The sun represents our core queer justice. He identity and energy. Venus is a loquacious oversees what we love and Gemini with a cozy Cancer our values, and Mars brings rising. Find him at out our drive and willpower. hearthandheraldIn the sign of Capricorn, astrology.com these three planets coming together encourage us to identify what we want, determine how we’re going to get it and start taking tangible steps in that direction. It is all about real, practical success right now, and this sky is asking us to put on our adulting pants and to own our personal boss energy. However, this triple conjunction is also taking place in a direct opposition to retrograde Jupiter in Cancer, reminding us that anything worth achieving needs to be of service to our own personal joy. There is a powerful tension between a push to build something lasting and a pull to tend to our immediate needs. The lesson this week is that these two impulses do not need to be mutually exclusive. We can achieve our goals while also tending to our foundation. All we have to do is focus. When it is time to work and plan, get it done. When it is time to be with loved ones or in cozy repose, be present. While it might be easier to say than do, this week will be a time to test out our capacities. Here are your horoscopes for the sun-VenusMars conjunction in Capricorn opposite Jupiter in Cancer. Read for your rising and sun signs. CAPRICORN Dec. 22 - Jan. 19 This week, you get to be who you want to be, and others will take notice. You are embodying a combo of magnetism and willpower, making it the perfect time to define your personal expression. The choices you make now will set the tone for how you show up in the year ahead. An important partner is going to be a mirror for you. Let them express their love without deflecting. AQUARIUS Jan. 20 - Feb. 18 You are doing important work in your quiet, private spaces and the plans you make in silence are going to be the most potent. It is important for you to protect your personal peace at all costs right now. While you retreat, keep in mind that your body also needs to be tended to. Take meditative walks or do some intentional stretching. Bringing your mind and body together will help you find joy in your work.

PISCES Feb. 19 - March 20 Get really clear about your goals and your supporters will come out of the woodwork. Your job right now is to seek out collaborators who possess practical tools or skills that you lack. However, don’t be so busy networking that you ignore your own creative work. Your craft needs your attention, too. Identify who is willing to help you now so you can show them what you’ve created later. ARIES March 21 - April 19 You have the opportunity to steer your ship in the direction of a dream career or a glittering public reputation. Strategic planning is your map and identified goals set the course, whether you want to advance what you are doing now or go for something completely different. If you want real success, however, make sure that your goals include a happy home life and emotional stability. TAURUS April 20 - May 20 Your perspective is shifting toward the horizon because you are seeking experiences that challenge your current boundaries. Don’t take off just yet, but think about where you want to go or what you want to learn. While planning your next great adventure, try to view your immediate, everyday surroundings with joyful nostalgia. It is important to appreciate what is right in front of you. GEMINI May 21 - June 20 Focus on your shared resources or investments right now. What do you want or expect your returns to be? You have the capacity to negotiate terms that serve your own security in the long run, so be forceful if necessary. As you navigate these decisions, check in with your values. If you feel like your investments and your ethics aren’t aligned, rethink your strategy. CANCER June 21 - July 22 A partner may be making some big choices that require your feedback and practical advice. And this is your chance to show up for them. How can you offer support that is both critical and joyful? By focusing on this important person in your life, you will be learning valuable skills by setting yourself aside. At the same time, don’t forget to appreciate your own accomplishments. LEO July 23 - Aug. 22 Strategize your daily rituals and routines. Right now, your energy is best spent on small,

TIME TO FOCUS

repetitive tasks that build a healthy, disciplined life. Do you need to organize your workspace to help ease your flow? As you refine your outer world, take joy in the massive amount of inner work you’ve recently completed. Let your daily habits live up to the personal peace you’ve been developing. VIRGO Aug. 23 - Sept. 22 Your creative heart needs structure. If a passion project has been sitting in the realm of possibility, now is the time to get professional and get to work. Map out a logistical plan to bring your joy to life. As you get organized, your community will let you know that you’re not alone. There are people waiting in the wings who will happily help you achieve your creative goals. LIBRA Sept. 23 - Oct. 22 This week is a focus on home and family. Whether reorganizing your living space or clarifying family boundaries, your goal ought to be creating a sense of order. You have the drive to fix what feels out of place so you can have some emotional security. While you are tending to your roots, let all of your professional achievements support the work you are doing at home now. SCORPIO Oct. 23 - Nov. 21 How can you best communicate what you want to get done? A combination of forcefulness and grace will be your best bet right now. Let people know what you are thinking. At the same time, clear your inbox and declutter. Don’t let communication from others build up. If you need to decompress, dream of your next big vacation. SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22 - Dec. 21 Your attention is focused on your personal budget and value system. It is an excellent week to get strategic about your income and to look at your accounts with a realistic eye. Are there any changes that you need to make in how the moolah comes in? Trust your gut. Your decisionmaking process may be helped by imagining how you will share your resources with others.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

MIND ALTERING LUBRICANTS FOR SOCIAL INTERCOURSE

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

OUT OF A TIGHT SQUEEZE

ART STROLL RETURNS JAN. 15

Manatee calf rescued from discarded fan belt

New owners of White Street Pizza offer happy hour & bites

Walk on White, a monthly art stroll, returns for the 2026 season on Thursday, Jan. 15. CAROL TEDESCO/Walk on White

s the calendar flipped to 2026, the manatee rescue team at Dolphin Research Center (DRC) celebrated its first win in the young year. The team successfully rescued a young manatee calf in Marathon following a complex, multihour operation that required extraordinary care to protect both the calf and its mother. The rescue team was alerted to a manatee calf that had a fan belt tightly wrapped around its body. While the calf was still mobile, the belt posed a serious and growing threat. As the animal continued to grow, the constricting material would have caused severe injuries and, ultimately, fatal damage if left unaddressed. Because the manatee was a calf, the rescue required a particularly delicate approach. The team was careful to not spook the mother and cause separation, putting the calf at even greater risk. The DRC rescue team carefully monitored the pair and worked over several hours to ensure the mother remained nearby and calm throughout the operation. The team was able to safely cut and remove the fan belt from the calf before it became deeply embedded in the animal’s body. The successful removal prevented long-term injury and allowed the calf to remain with its mother following the rescue.

Left untreated, this fan belt found wrapped tightly around a manatee calf could have caused fatal damage. DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER/Contributed

“This was a situation where patience and precision were absolutely critical,” said Allie Proskovec, DRC’s director of media and marketing. “We’re grateful the belt was discovered when it was, and that we were able to intervene before it caused irreversible harm.” This rescue highlights the ongoing dangers marine debris and discarded materials pose to wildlife in Florida waters. Dolphin Research Center encourages the public to report distressed marine mammals immediately and to properly dispose of fishing gear, belts and other materials that can end up in the ocean. As the sole licensed manatee rescue team in the Keys, DRC urges anyone who spots a manatee that may be injured, entangled or in distress to call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922). — Contributed

Metalsmith and jewelry designer Heather MacKenzie displays some of her creations at a recent Walk on White art stroll.

alk on White’s first art stroll of 2026, set for Thursday, Jan. 15 from 6 to 9 p.m., includes an array of artistic expression and the relaunch of White Street Pizza, under new ownership. The art stroll radiates from its hub at the Fausto’s parking lot and extends to participating White Street locations between Southard and United streets. Strollers can explore works by local painters, sculptors, ceramic and mixed media artists and artisan jewelry makers

while enjoying exhibit openings and creative demonstrations. White Street Pizza and its new owners are joining the festivities in January with the introduction of a happy hour and a selection of shareable light bites. Held on the third Thursday of each month through May, Walk on White is sponsored in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. More information is at walkonwhitekeywest.com. — Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

KEY WEST DROPS EVERYTHING ON NEW YEAR’S EVE A drag queen, a pirate, a conch shell & a lime welcome 2026

housands of New Year’s Eve revelers packed Key West’s Duval Street on New Year’s Eve to ring in 2026. Crowds were thickest in front of Sloppy Joe’s Bar and Bourbon Street Pub, where in the final minute of 2025, drag queen Mulan Alexander sat in a giant, red high-heeled show that descended from the balcony of the building to the crowd below. The shoe drop has been a Key West tradition for 28 years. This year, a nationwide contest was held to find the female impersonator who would occupy the famed shoe. Alexander, a Dallas native, won the spot through the “If the Shoe Fits” drag contest — beating finalists from five other cities to star in the annual only-in-Key-West moment. “This is better than any roller coaster I’ve ever been on — it’s really thrilling,” said Alexander from her perch above the crowd. “I’m nervous and excited at the same time.” Down at Key West Harbor, crowds swarmed the waterfront waiting for the pirate wench to swing down the mast of a stately schooner. And at Ocean Key Resort’s Sunset Pier, a huge lime wedge dropped into an oversized margarita at midnight. Forget New York City. Key West drops everything on New Year’s Eve. — Contributed

4 1. Confetti cannons erupt at the stroke of midnight for the 32nd annual conch shell drop at Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Duval Street. The giant conch shell — a celebrated symbol of the Florida Keys — descended on the bar’s roof. SLOPPY JOE’S/Contributed 2. There was no shortage of live entertainment in the hours leading up to midnight on the outdoor stage in front of Bourbon Street Pub. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly 3. Forget freezing in Times Square. Key West is the place to be on New Year’s Eve. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

4. Drag queen Mulan Alexander touches down into 2026 and steps out of the red shoe at Bourbon Street Pub on Key West’s Duval Street. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

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FIRST LADIES’ LEGACIES

Truman Little White House hosts 2-night symposium

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he Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation will host a twoevening celebration of American first ladies on Jan. 23 and 24, on the grounds of the Harry S. Truman Little White House, 111 Front St. Presented in partnership with America250, which is leading the commemoration of the United States Semiquincentennial, the program will explore the roles of America’s first ladies through panel discussions, personal stories and insights. On Friday, Jan. 23, a moderated panel discussion will feature the three co-authors of “Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s HistoryMaking Women.” Diana B. Carlin, Anita B. McBride and Nancy Kegan Smith will explore the influential roles of America’s first ladies throughout history. The panel discussion begins at 5 p.m. and will be preceded by a book signing with all the authors. “Remember the First Ladies” examines how presidential spouses from Martha Washington to Jill Biden influenced American history, politics and culture. Carlin is professor emerita of communication studies at the University of Kansas and founding director of the Dole Institute of Politics. Kegan Smith is a distinguished historian who has written extensively about presidential history and served as director of the Presidential Materials Division at the National Archives. McBride served as chief of staff to first lady Laura Bush and is the author/coauthor of three books about American first ladies. On Saturday, Jan. 24, McBride, an expert on the workings of the White House, will join Clifton Truman Daniel, grandson of first lady Bess and President Harry S. Truman, in a conversation titled, “Remembering the Boss: Bess Truman.” Gates open at 4:30 p.m. panel discussion starts at 5 p.m. As the author of “Growing Up With My Grandfather: Memories of Harry S. Truman” and editor of “Dear Harry, Love Bess: Bess Truman’s Letters to Harry Truman 1919-1943,” Daniel brings personal insight into the family dynamic and his grandmother’s quiet but formidable influence. Both evenings will be moderated by Kurt Graham, president of the Adams Presidential Center and former director of the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence, Missouri.

Portrait of first lady Bess Truman painted by the Truman-era White House artist, Martha Greta Kempton. KEY WEST HARRY S. TRUMAN FOUNDATION/Contributed

First ladies montage depicts Michelle Obama, center, then clockwise from top left, Jacqueline Kennedy, Eleanor Roosevelt, Abigail Adams and Rosalynn Carter.

“The stories of America’s presidency cannot be told without understanding the first ladies who shaped the role and supported their partners through moments of crisis and triumph,” said Clinton Curry, the foundation’s executive director. “We’re honored to welcome the authors who have documented these legacies and President Truman’s own grandson, who can share what Bess Truman was really like – not just as a first lady, but as a grandmother, a partner and the woman Harry called “the boss.” A cash bar will be available. Tickets per evening are $40 for foundation members and $60 for non-members, available at trumanlittlewhitehouse. org/foundation/events. — Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

BOSTON MAN DRIVING U-HAUL LEADS OFFICERS ON CHASE

Deputies say he gave ‘the bird’ as he drove past school zone

The Police Pipe and Drum Corps perform at the 2025 Florida Keys Celtic Festival. The annual celebration of Celtic tradition fills Marathon Community Park this weekend. ROSS SMITH/Keys Weekly

DUST OFF THE KILTS The Florida Keys Celtic Festival is this weekend ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

uild a didgeridoo, try your hand at the Highland Games or just enjoy a pint of beer as you see whether you have the chops to master Ceili dancing. It’s all happening at the Florida Keys Celtic Festival on Jan. 10 and 11 at Marathon Community Park. Fans of the festival already know: The party really starts on Friday night, when a Jan. 9 kickoff musical event travels from Dockside Boot Key Harbor starting at 5 p.m. to Keys Fisheries at 7. From there, it’s two days of music, shopping, rich tradition and family-friendly fun at the park, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Perennial musical favorites, including Albannach, the Screaming Orphans, Police Pipe and Drum of Florida and the Drake School of Irish Dance, take the stage at the amphitheater multiple times daily, joined by newcomers the Piper Jones Band and Sean Heely Band.

Wander around the fields, and you’ll be treated to everything from sheepherding demonstrations to medieval feats of strength as the Celtic Festival hosts the women’s Highland Athletic Games competition. Events incorporated into the ever-growing festival ensure it’s a fit for all family members, from little ones enjoying the petting zoo or challenges in the Children’s Glen to costumed pooches processing in the Pups and Pipers Pet Parade on Sunday. The festival is more than just a spectacle – it’s an interactive experience, highlighted by “Try-It” workshops inviting guests to do everything from dance lessons and Highland Games trials to Scots-Gaelic language workshops, didgeridoo construction and watercolor painting. Single-day tickets for the Florida Keys Celtic Festival are $12 in advance or $15 at the gate, with two-day passes available for $17 in advance or $20 at the gate. For a complete festival rundown, including schedules, parking and shuttle information and more, visit floridakeyscelticfestival.com or scan the attached QR code to browse the event program.

Idibek Jalilov

Boston man sent law enforcement on a chase through the Upper Keys during the early morning hours of Jan. 6. According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, a report came in regarding a reckless U-Haul driver near MM 95 in Key Largo just after 7 a.m. The driver, later identified as 29-year-old Idibek Jalilov drove past deputies in a school zone at MM 90. As he drove by, deputies say, he gave them the middle finger. Jalilov was seen impeding traffic, following too closely and speeding, among other violations. Deputies say Jalilov did not stop after the sheriff’s office activated lights and sirens until about MM 85. He was ultimately handcuffed and taken to the Plantation Key jail. Florida Highway Patrol troopers assisted. No injuries were reported. — Keys Weekly staff report

OBITUARY

MARIE (GALVIN) DEGRAW 1934-2025 Marie (Galvin) DeGraw passed away peacefully on Dec. 21. Born in Manhattan on Oct. 3, 1934, Marie grew up on the Upper West Side and graduated from Blessed Sacrament High School in 1952. After dear friends introduced Marie to her beloved husband, Tucker (Seneca) DeGraw, they wed in November 1960. Together they raised three children, Jim, Jeanette and Lydia, in Brooklyn, New York. After Marie and Tucker both retired, they moved to Key Colony Beach, Florida. In more recent years, Marie lived in Fayetteville, New York, closer to her beloved family. Marie was a computer programmer for the New York Telephone Company, both before having children and then again after they had entered school. More importantly, she was an active part of the community wherever she lived, whether serving on the school board at St. Frances Cabrini in Brooklyn, volunteering with multiple organizations in the Florida Keys, playing mahjong with friends, or just being “MaMa” — a wonderful grandmother, greatgrandmother and companion. Marie also was an avid hockey fan until the end, with an especially warm spot in her heart for the New York Rangers of the 1970s and ’80s. Marie is survived by her three children and their spouses, 10 grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren, all of whom she loved deeply. She is predeceased by Tucker as well as her parents, James and Margaret (Gallagher) Galvin, and her sisters, Kathleen and Margaret “Peggy” (Frank) Filete. Private services will be held at a later date. Words of comfort may be expressed at tjpfuneralhome. com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic Charities or a charity of your choice.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

TAKE ME HOME? FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA

he Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus. From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people. The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC. Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.

Meet Mama. This sweet 2-year-old mix is looking for her furever home. She wants to be the only apple of your eye and will give you all the love and snuggles one could ever need. She’s loyal, affectionate and eager to build a strong connection with the person who chooses her.

Meet Roger. Much like his cartoon namesake, this guy is entertaining. With ear flops and round cheeks, he doesn’t get any cuter. As an adult rabbit, Roger is past the chaotic baby stage and ready to settle into a home that appreciates his charm.

Meet Zeus, a chunky 4-month-old terrier mix. He is a bright, energetic puppy who’s eager to learn and even more eager to love. Like many young dogs, he’s still figuring out the world and needs a responsible owner who can guide him with patience, consistency and positive training. This king is looking for a family who has the patience to teach him how to be a well-behaved pup.

Meet Kovu. This little man is a 6-monthold black cat. Confident and curious, Kovu has main character energy. He recently attended kitten yoga and had a grand time, weaving between mats for a pet and helping with yoga moves. He loves being part of the action. Because he knows exactly who he is, Kovu would prefer to be the only feline in your heart.

Meet Daisy, a 4-month-old hamster with a tiny body and a whole lot of charm. She’s a curious gal who loves to explore her space, organize her bedding just right and enjoy a fresh snack. She’s at a great age to form a strong bond and create a routine with her new family. Whether she’s running on a wheel, burrowing into a cozy spot or peeking out to see what you’re up to, Daisy will make a great companion.

REEL RECS

SHELF HELP

taff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collec-

tion. What: “The Friend” (2024) Why: “The Friend” has a lot going for it: It’s based on a tremendous novel by Sigrid Nunez, it has a huge dog, it features Billy Murray, it’s about grief but it’s not maudlin, and has a solid star turn from lead Naomi Watts. While I consider film adaptations wholly separate from the novel they’re based on — novelist Richard Russo calls them “iterations”— “The Friend” is faithful to the source material, especially thematically. It’s also largely about the unique and loving bond of humans and their dogs. In the novel, the narrator writes, “Your whole house smells of dog, says someone who comes to visit. I say I’ll take care of it. Which I do by never inviting that person to visit again.” This whole movie reeks of love for our canine companions, and it’s completely worth visiting. Where: This film is available from the library on DVD and on Kanopy, the library’s streaming app. How: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/ keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? keyslibraries.org/ contact-us. Recommended by: Michael Nelson, assistant director of public services. See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/post/reel-recs.

taff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection. What: “How Rory Thorne Destroyed the Multiverse” by K. Eason Why: Rory Thorne was supposed to be a boy, like all the children born to her royal family. But magic intervened then and again at her naming day, when fairies bestowed gifts including a talent for playing the harp – and the ability to discern when someone is lying to her. Both gifts, but especially the second, are useful when Rory grows up and becomes a player in intergalactic rivalries. Eason builds an entertaining world. In most of them, women are not equals or rulers – on Rory’s planet, power still passes to the oldest son, not the firstborn. Like her mother, Rory finds a way to exercise agency and seek justice, even when she is supposed to be a powerless pawn. Where: You can borrow this as a print book from the Monroe County Public Library. How: You can request books, including e-books and e-audiobooks, by logging in to your account at keyslibraries. org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries. org Recommended by: Nancy Klingener, community affairs manager See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/post/ shelf-help.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

THURSDAY FARMERS MARKET MOVES UP AN HOUR

The Truman Waterfront Farmer’s Market adjusted its schedule by one hour. The market is now open from 1 to 6 p.m. CONTRIBUTED

The cuisine of resilience

CAROL SHAUGHNESSY www.keysweekly.com

Truman Waterfront event now runs 1 to 6 p.m.

he Truman Waterfront Farmers Market is shifting its schedule to start an hour earlier. The market will now be open from 1 to 6 p.m. The change better aligns with shopping patterns and how the community uses Truman Waterfront Park. Most vendors are fully set up and ready to serve shortly after noon, making the earlier opening ideal for lunch and unhurried browsing. The updated hours allow visitors to enjoy the market earlier in the afternoon while saving time for sunset. The market has fresh produce from Homestead, an extensive selection of plants and orchids, artisan cheeses, breads, spreads, nuts and dried fruits, honey, pickles, desserts, local seafood, and butcher meats. In addition, local artists and small mom-and-pop businesses feature arts and crafts, handmade jewelry, clothing and accessories, bath and body products, pet treats and specialty items unique to the Keys. A rotating lineup of prepared food vendors and food trucks includes Indian, Mediterranean, BBQ, seafood, Argentinian specialties, Mexican favorites, Colombian empanadas and traditional dishes,

WHAT’S COOKING, KEY WEST?

hot dogs and hamburgers, mini donuts, boozy pops, fresh-pressed juices and a popular coffee truck. Families may use the children’s playground and splash pad, while others enjoy shaded green areas, the workout circuit, harbor views, dog park and a local favorite sunset stop. Steps away, the USCGC Ingham Maritime Museum, a historic cutter and national historic landmark, is open for tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nearby, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Eco-Discovery Center is open Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free admission. Parking is available at Truman Waterfront Park and in nearby city lots. Residents with a valid residential parking permit receive up to four hours of free parking once per day in designated city lots, including Truman Waterfront. While the Duval Loop bus service is no longer operating, the city now offers Key West Rides, an on-demand shared ride service accessible through the Key West Rides app on the Apple App Store and Google Play. More informaton is at facebook.com/kwfarmersmarket. — Contributed

hroughout its 200-year history, Key West has been an island of survivors. Both its isolated geographical position and its economic fluctuations bred a population of resilient spirits with a “make-do” attitude — an attitude that was reflected in everything from building materials to food on the table. In the 1800s, there was no road connecting Key West to mainland Florida, or to the other islands that formed a 100-mile arc leading to the mainland. Settlers relied largely on supplies brought by ships docking at Key West’s port, whose deepwater channel and natural harbor made it a stopping point for vessels from many countries and cultures. Menus for early households depended largely on whatever foodstuffs were among the cargoes — as well as edible items rescued from sinking ships by 19th-century salvagers, fish and seafood from area waters, and wild-growing fruits in season. “This fostered a culture of ingenuity and resourcefulness that still informs Key West cuisine today,” said Keith St. Peter, the Key West Cooking Show’s executive chef. “It’s about making the most of what you have, relying on preserved, dried or locally sourced ingredients when fresh ones aren’t available, and blending traditions to create something unique.” A different kind of resilience and adaptability in food preparation was needed in the 1930s, when the Great Depression brought widespread poverty to Key West and most of the United States. By 1934, the island city couldn’t afford police, fire or garbage services and eventually declared bankruptcy. Officials even suggested transplanting residents to a more fortunate area, but they refused to go. Instead, they survived. They ate native fruits, bony “grunts” and whatever other fish they could catch. They stretched recipes with inexpensive shelf-stable items like rice and dried beans, and canned or preserved any excess to save for the leanest times.

Cast members welcome guests to a Key West Cooking Show ‘production’ that spotlights local heritage through culinary traditions. KEY WEST COOKING SHOW/Contributed

From their ingenuity, and the multicultural influences dating back to early maritime commerce, came the essence of Key West cuisine. It lives in dishes like picadillo, designed to stretch a small amount of meat to feed a hungry family; grits and grunts, an innovative “make-do” meal during the Depression; and the black beans and rice that were cheap, filling and rich in protein. Those and other culture-defining dishes are spotlighted during the Key West Cooking Show’s learn-and-dine sessions. Lunchtime and dinnertime shows take place Tuesday through Saturday, offered at 291 Front St. in a former Navy building that overlooks the port. Within its weathered walls, in a setting alive with “old Key West” atmosphere, the Cooking Show’s chef-storytellers share recipes, preparation techniques and longstanding local culinary traditions. Meanwhile, guests enjoy a multicourse meal of delicious dishes that honor the island’s past — and learn how the “cuisine of resilience” helped shape Key West. LAST BITES Dish of the week: Caldo Gallego. Greens, potatoes and white beans form the basis of this nourishing soup, with small amounts of smoked ham and Spanish chorizo added to enhance the flavor. Simmered in a hearty broth, it’s a tasty, cost-effective main dish. Helpful kitchen hack: To revive wilted greens, give them an ice-water “bath.” Trim the stems and soak the leaves for about 15 minutes to rehydrate them. Hungry for more? Visit keywestcookingshow.com or call 305294-COOK.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

Two-spot cotton leafhopper a new arrival

SMALL INSECT CAUSES LARGE PROBLEM FOR GARDENS F

lorida is no stranger to introduced species. From green iguanas to Brazilian pepper, many non-native plants and animals have settled into our environment. While some cause little trouble, others can creLIAH ate serious problems for CONTINENTINO wildlife, home gardens and farms. is the University One of the newest arof Florida, IFAS rivals is the two-spot cotton County Extension leafhopper (Amrasca bigutenvironmental horticulture agent tula), also called the twoand master garspot cotton jassid. This tiny dener volunteer insect is about the size of a coordinator. grain of rice, but it can cause big damage. Native to Asia, it was first found in North America in 2023. By late 2024, it reached Florida and has since been reported in Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina. Its quick spread is likely due to its ability to feed on many common crops and landscape plants. The two-spot cotton leafhopper is selectively polyphagous, meaning it eats several kinds of plants but prefers certain ones. Its favorite plants include okra, soybeans, cotton, sunflowers, eggplants, potatoes, mung beans

These symptoms can look like drought or nutrient problems, so it’s important to look closely for the insects as well. What to do if you suspect leafhoppers If you believe you’ve found two-spot cotton leafhoppers, contact the Monroe County Extension Office for confirmation. If you find large numbers, samples should be sent to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry. Instructions for submitting samples can be found at www.fdacs.gov/dpisamples.

Two-spot cotton leafhoppers.

and cowpeas. Many of these are important farm crops and common in home vegetable gardens. It can also feed on members of the hibiscus and nightshade families, which include several native plants and popular ornamentals. It is important that gardeners and residents keep an eye out for this new pest. Checking plants regularly and reporting what you see helps scientists monitor and manage new species before they become widespread. Identifying the two-spot cotton leafhopper Adults are small, pale green insects with yellowish wings, two black spots on the head, and one black spot on the tip of each wing. They usually sit on the underside of leaves, and adults “hop” when disturbed. Due to their size, damage is often noticed before the leafhoppers themselves. Leafhoppers are considered “piercing-sucking” insects due to their feeding strategy, piercing plant tissue and feeding on sap. Their feeding causes a type of damage called hopperburn, which includes premature leaf drop, yellow or bronze leaf edges, leaves curling or cupping downward and stunted growth or fewer flowers/ fruits.

Managing two-spotted cotton leafhoppers While scientists are still working on management guidelines for this species, gardeners are advised to implement integrated pest management practices: • Scout often: Check leaf undersides for leafhoppers or hopperburn. Sticky traps may help detect activity. If you find leafhoppers, cover the affected leaves with a bag, prune them and dispose of the plant material in the trash. • Avoid over-fertilizing: Too much fertilizer can make plants more appealing to pests. • Biological control: Beneficial insects such as ladybugs, spiders, lacewings and minute pirate bugs naturally eat leafhoppers. Conserving these insects in your landscape helps your garden stay in balance. • Chemical control: Horticultural soaps and oils may help. If more control is needed, contact the Extension Office for guidance on insecticides. Always follow label instructions and use chemicals carefully to avoid harming helpful insects and pollinators. The arrival of new pests can be overwhelming, but through community awareness, early reporting and science-based management, we can support our gardens and local ecosystems. For specific horticultural recommendations or questions, contact Liah Continentino at Continentino-liah@monroecounty-fl.gov or 305-998-9580.

Symptoms on an okra leaf. Leafhopper feeding causes a type of damage called hopperburn, which includes premature leaf drop, yellow or bronze leaf edges, leaves curling or cupping downward and stunted growth or fewer flowers/fruits. MUHAMMAD HASEEB/Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

SETTING THE BAR HIGH — AND SCALING IT POLE VAULT IN PARADISE SOARS AT HIGGS BEACH

ince its debut in 2019, Key West’s Pole Vault in Paradise has drawn an elite crew of athletes who trade traditional runways for tropical vibes. This year’s event took place at Higgs Beach Jan. 1-3 and continues to grow each year. “What better place is there to vault than Key West in January?” said event founder Steve Haines. “We were the first outdoor meet of the season and raised significant funds for the Key West High School Track Team.” Competitors have included Austin Miller, 2024 USA Indoor Championships bronze medalist, and Anicka Newell, a two-time Canadian Olympian and 2018 national champion. The sandpit at Higgs Beach has also seen the likes of Jill Marois, a record-setting vaulter and threetime conference champ from High Point University, and Carson Waters, a former Big South Conference indoor and outdoor champion who still holds the meet records with jumps of 5.20m and 5.29m. Alongside national champs and Olympic hopefuls like Scott Houston and Megan Clark, these athletes have helped make Pole Vault in Paradise a high-flying fusion of serious competition and laidback Key West charm. — Contributed

Pole Vault in Paradise, now in its seventh year, draws amateur and elite athletes to the two-day expo that’s free to watch at Higgs Beach. The event, founded by Steve Haines, raises money for the Key West High School track team. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

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SHERIFF’S OFFICE MUSCLE: THE HEALTH HOLDS ANNUAL TREND OF 2026 THAT INSPECTION IN DOESN’T CARE ABOUT THE UPPER KEYS YOUR SCALE FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS

f your New Year’s health goals include stepping on a scale and holding your breath, let’s pause for a moment. Because in 2026, the most important health marker isn’t your weight. It’s your muscle. Muscle has officially entered its glow-up era. And no, not in a “bulk season” way. We’re talking about muscle as a quiet powerhouse — working behind the scenes to keep you moving well, thinking clearly and living independently for decades to come. For years, muscle was treated like a bonus feature. Nice to have if you wanted “toned” arms, but not exactly essential. Science has since cleared its throat and asked for a rewrite. Skeletal muscle is metabolically active tissue, meaning it plays a major role in blood sugar control, insulin sensitivity, bone health, hormone signaling, joint protection and inflammation regulation. Translation: Muscle helps your body handle life better. Lose too much of it, and everything from balance to energy to recovery takes a hit. Here’s the part that surprises people: Muscle loss starts earlier than you think. After age 30, adults lose muscle mass at a slow but steady rate, speeding up as the decades pass. Left unchecked, this process (called sarcopenia) increases fall risk, weakens bones, slows metabolism and makes everyday tasks feel harder than they should. And no, this isn’t just a “getting older” problem. A lot of muscle loss is preventable. One reason muscle is trending hard in 2026 is that we finally have the receipts. Research consistently shows that people with higher muscle mass and greater strength live longer and have better health outcomes — regardless of what the scale says. In fact, being stronger often predicts survival better than being thinner. That’s a plot twist diet culture didn’t see coming. Can I get an amen? Muscle also turns out to be a brain booster. Resistance training

has been linked to improved memory, focus and cognitive function, likely due to increased blood flow and the release of myokines — chemical mesJENNIFER HARVEY sengers released by muscles that ...is a Marathonsupport brain based ACSMhealth. So yes, certified perlifting weights sonal trainer and precision nutrition might actually coach who owns help you rememand operates ber where you Highly Motivated left your keys. Functionally (Pun intended.) Caffeinated LLC. Here in the Florida Keys, muscle is more than a gym concept. It’s a lifestyle necessity. Navigating boat ladders, walking uneven docks, hauling paddleboards, managing groceries in humidity that feels personal — all of it requires strength, balance and stability. Muscle protects joints, supports the spine and helps you move with confidence instead of caution. The good news? Building muscle doesn’t require living at the gym or punishing workouts. Two to three days per week of resistance training is enough. Bodyweight exercises, bands, dumbbells, take your pick. Add adequate protein, prioritize recovery and aim for consistency over intensity. Muscles respond best to regular reminders, not occasional wake-up calls. So this year, consider upgrading your health goals. Instead of asking, “How much do I weigh?” try asking: Am I getting stronger? Does daily movement feel easier? Can I recover well? Do I feel capable in my body? Those answers matter far more than a number on a scale. As we head into 2026, the wellness conversation is shifting. It’s less about shrinking and more about supporting, less about punishment and more about preparation. Because muscle doesn’t just help you look good in the mirror — it helps you live well in the real world.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

onroe County Sheriff’s deputies and investigators in the Ocean Reef, Key Largo and Islamorada districts convened at the parking lot near the old Plantation Key Courthouse for annual inspection on Jan. 6. Deputies and investigators stood next to their vehicles as Undersheriff Chad Scibilia inspected uniforms, equipment and firearms. Scibilia questioned each deputy on the sheriff’s office’s motto, to which they replied honesty, professionalism and commitment to community.

Monroe County Undersheriff Chad Scibilia checks uniforms and firearms during an annual inspection on Jan. 6. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

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Founded by Betty Debnam MINI FACT: Leonardo da Vinci’s painting “The Last Supper” is in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church in Milan.

Benvenuto in Italia!* * Welcome to Italy!

Leonardo da Vinci

ITALY’S HISTORY More than 2,000 years ago, ancient Rome was the center of the Roman Empire, which controlled many parts of western Europe, north Africa and the Middle East. Julius Caesar was a powerful ruler of ancient Rome. Around the beginning of the 14th century, Italy was the birthplace of the Renaissance

* Do you know your Roman numerals? If X = 10 and V = 5, can you figure out what XXV means?

Galileo

photo by kennejima

LIVING IN ITALIA The country is noted for its manufacturing, especially in the north, including making cars such as Fiats and Maseratis. On farms, people raise grain, olives, grapes for wine and citrus crops. The country is the world’s largest producer of wines. Tourism is also important; Rome, Venice and Florence are favorite destinations for travelers. Many visitors are drawn to Vatican City, the home of the Catholic Church. Although the Vatican is surrounded by Rome, it is a sovereign, or independent, citystate ruled by the pope. It is the smallest city-state in the world. Both Italians and tourists enjoy the delicious foods A nighttime view of of the country. Vatican City in Rome. Pasta, fish, cheeses, meats, fruits and vegetables are on the menu throughout the country, although favorites vary by region. Gelato, an Italian ice cream, is a popular treat.

Giada De Laurentiis

photo lafiguradelpadre Congreso

HOSTING • THE GAMES Cortina • The XXV* Winter Milan Olympic Games are the first to be hosted ITALY in multiple cities. Most events will take place near Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo in northern Italy. Italy is shaped like a boot. It is a peninsula jutting out into the Mediterranean Sea. In the north, it is bordered by France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. Italy is a member of the European Union, a group of countries that join together for better trade. The currency, or money, used there is the euro. About 59 million Italians live there, with many of them living in and around Rome, the capital.

(REHN-uh-zahnce), a time of art exploration, discovery and innovation.

(XXV = 25)

The 2026 Winter Olympics begin on Feb. 6 in Italy. This week, The Mini Page learns more about this country of western Europe.

Christopher Columbus

ITALIANS YOU MAY KNOW • Leonardo da Vinci (14521519) was an important artist of the Italian Renaissance. He was a sculptor, architect and engineer as well as a great painter. He is the creator of the famous paintings “The Last Supper” and “Mona Lisa.” • Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) is known as the father of astronomy. Galileo built a telescope with which he observed the Milky Way galaxy, Saturn’s rings, lunar craters and sunspots. • Television star and chef Giada De Laurentiis was born in Rome in 1970. She has a show called “Giada in My Kitchen,” writes books, develops restaurants and creates products for cooks. • Christopher Columbus (Cristoforo Colombo) (14511506) was the first known European explorer to make contact with people of Central and South America.

RESOURCES ON THE WEB • bit.ly/43DVMow • bit.ly/3LK5zmV AT THE LIBRARY • “Explore Ancient Rome” by Zelda Wagner

CAESAR, COLUMBUS, CORTINA, CURRENCY, DA VINCI, EMPIRE, GALILEO, GAMES, GELATO, GIADA, ITALY, MILAN, OLYMPICS, PASTA, PENINSULA, RENAISSANCE, ROME, VATICAN, WINTER.

Words that remind us of Italy are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

G E M P I R A N A C O R R G I A D A S O P A S T G A M E S V D K R E N A G E L A T O I V A G A L C O L U M B Q M I L A N

E T O A P I K I U C

V W I N T E I N A I T A L Y M P I C V A T I C A E N I N S U S S A N C E P D A V I N L E O I M F S Q C A E S U R R E N C

R L S N L E C N A Y

R Y G Y A Y I S R H

ECO NOTE One of Earth’s historically driest places may soon turn greener. Scientists calculate that Sahara Desert rainfall could increase by as much as 75% this century. The findings suggest that climate change could transform life across Africa, offering both hope and new risks to millions who depend on its land and water. The researchers warn that while some regions may bloom, others could face worsening droughts, forcing swift adaptation from farmers and communities. The study underscores how rising heat can alter even the world’s most arid landscapes.

adapted with permission from Earthweek.com

FIND IT

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 8, 2026

January 8, 2026

FRIDAY NIGHT TOUGH Meet the All-Keys Football Team | P.8

JANUARY 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS THE SCOREBOARD

DEC. 27 - JAN. 3

Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Key West

Boys Basketball

Bishop Verot

12/27

W, 67-66

Key West

Boys Basketball

Seminole

12/28

L, 70-57

Key West

Boys Basketball

Port Charlotte

12/29

W, 67-59

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Miami High

1/2

L, 61-51

Key West

Boys Basketball

Ransom Everglades

1/2

L, 51-44

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Ransom Everglades

1/3

L, 53-46

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

JAN. 8 - 15

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

1/8

Marathon

Boys Soccer

Key West

4 p.m.

1/8

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Key West

3:30 p.m.

1/8

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

@ Riviera Prep

3:30 p.m.

1/9

Basilica

Boys Basketball

Calusa Prep

5 p.m.

1/9

KW & CSHS

Competition Cheer

Regionals @ South Fork

4 p.m.

1/9

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

@ Pace

4 p.m.

1/9

Key West

Boys Basketball

@ Miami Beach

6 p.m.

1/10

Basilica

Boys Basketball

Abundant Live Academy

12 p.m.

1/10

Key West

Girls Basketball

Archbishop McCarthy

2:30 p.m.

1/10

Key West

Boys Soccer

Bolles

1 p.m.

1/10

Key West

Girls Soccer

@ Ransom Everglades

2 p.m.

1/10

Key West

Boys Basketball

Taravella

7:30 p.m.

1/12

Key West

Boys Basketball

@ True North

7:30 p.m.

1/12

Marathon

Girls & Boys Basketball

@ Pace

4:30 p.m.

1/13

Marathon

Boys Basketball

@ Mater Bay Academy

2 p.m.

1/13

Marathon

Girls Basketball

@ NSU University

5 p.m.

1/13

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

@ Westminster Christian

3:30 p.m.

1/13

Marathon

Boys Soccer

@ Archimedean

3 p.m.

1/13

Key West

Girls Soccer

Coral Shores

6 p.m.

1/13

Basilica

Girls & Boys Basketball

Coral Shores

3 p.m.

1/14

All Keys Schools

Girls Weightlifting

@ Key West

4 p.m.

1/14

Coral Shores

Girls & Boys Basketball

Ransom Everglades

6 p.m.

1/14

Key West

Soccer

@ Westland Hialeah

4 p.m.

1/14

Marathon

Girls Soccer

Keys Gate

3:30 p.m.

1/15

Marathon

Girls Basketball

@ Silver Palms

6 p.m.

1/15

Marathon

Boys Basketball

@ Boca Raton

7:30 p.m.

1/15

Marathon

Boys Soccer

@ Silver Palms

4 p.m.

1/15

Key West

Girls Basketball

North Miami Beach

5:30 p.m.

1/15

Coral Shores

Girls Soccer

@ Keys Gate

3:30 p.m.

1/15

Key West

Boys Basketball

North Miami Beach

7 p.m.

1/15

Marathon

Girls Soccer

Key West

4 p.m.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Josh

KOLER

Junior, Marathon Basketball

Josh has been putting in a lot of work since last season. He has solidiﬁed himself as our big guy and is leading the team in rebounds and blocks.” — Jim Murphy, Fins head coach

Photo by NATALIE DANKO/ Keys Weekly

When Marathon faced a giant last week, they called upon a giant of their own. The Dolphins, who compete in the 1A Rural designation, hosted Miami High, a 7A school whose enrollment stands at 3,000 while Marathon hovers just around 400. The team’s bench included a pair of 6’8” athletes and at least six players who surpassed Marathon’s big man. Koler, 6’4”, did not let the size mismatch affect his play in the slightest. He dropped 15 points on the Stingarees, grabbed eight rebounds and two steals, and swatted three blocks in a game that likely should not have been close. For meeting a formidable opponent headon and delivering a standout performance regardless of the mismatch, Marathon’s Josh Koler is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

points

blocks

ON THE COVER

JANUARY 8

After a year of mixed results and important rebuilding steps on the football field, the Keys Weekly proudly presents our All-Keys Football Team, including Key West’s Walson Morin, top, Marathon’s Aiden Gilday and Coral Shores’ Nick Calderon. See page 8. Photos by Maicey Malgrat, Natalie Danko and Doug Finger

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JANUARY 8, 2026 SPORTS WRITER

tracy mcdonald fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

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MEET THE 2025 ALL-KEYS SWIMMING & DIVING TEAM This season’s wave-makers showed prowess in the pool

t stands to reason that schools surrounded by water have high-caliber swim teams. Coral Shores and Key West made that clear this year, with both programs producing fantastic results. This season, Monroe County had two district champs: Coral Shores seniors Layne Smith and Aaron Lykins. Both athletes’ performances at regionals gave them the goahead nod to states in Ocala. Key West’s young squads showed dramatic improvement throughout the season, and the school’s long-standing record books required an update when Santiago Gonzalez set a new mark in the 200 freestyle event. Photos by Jim McCarthy and Jennifer Searcy

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sean mcdonald grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.

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THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

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SWIMMER OF THE YEAR

Layne Smith

Larkin Dunn

Layne Smith struck gold at districts, winning the 500 freestyle event and qualifying for regionals in that plus three others. Smith’s performance on the relay teams helped send extra representatives to the meet, and her individual performance at regionals qualified her for the 200 and 500 freestyle events at states. There, Smith cracked the top 20 with a 19th-place finish in the 500 freestyle race.

In her final season with the Hurricanes, Larkin Dunn finished strong, qualifying for regionals in a pair of individual events. Dunn made the cut in the 50 and 100 freestyle events, then swam legs of the team’s 200 free and 200 medley relays to cap off her senior season.

SENIOR CORAL SHORES

JANUARY 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

Sofia Figueredo

Parks Dunn

Stella Hodder

Sophia Jackson

With one more year of eligibility, all eyes will be on Sofia Figueredo next season. The talented junior’s strong district performances earned lanes in the 200 IM, the 100 breaststroke and the 200 free and medley relay teams. Figueredo is an incredibly versatile swimmer who excels in almost every event.

Though only a sophomore, Parks Dunn qualified for three regional events this season, including the daunting 500 free plus the 200 medley and free relay teams. Dunn’s hard work and dedication, coupled with alreadyexceptional times, make her one to watch in the coming seasons.

Stella Hodder’s strong work ethic is not the only thing that makes her stand out. Hodder is a breaststroke specialist whose times are dropping, and that is just one of the strokes she excels with. The junior qualified for regionals on the Hurricanes’ 400 free relay team and will be back in 2026 for another season of excellence.

Coral Shores’ Sophia Jackson had an outstanding senior campaign, culminating with a spot on the team’s 400 free relay. The freestyle specialist added maturity and leadership to the team in her final season with the ’Canes.

Christina Rice

Amelia Korzen

Taylor Thomason

Tessa Hughes

Christina Rice was the fastest Conch in the pool in both the 50 and 100 freestyle events, earning a place at regionals in both as well as two relays. Rice broke the 1-minute barrier in the 100 free, making for a bright future for the rising star.

Key West’s Amelia Korzen made waves her freshman year in the 200 individual medley and 100 breaststroke events. Korzen had the fastest team times in both events, earning lanes at regionals in the 100-yard breaststroke individual event plus three relays.

Another member of Key West’s highly-talented freshman class, Taylor Thomason proved her skills in the 200 IM and 500 freestyle races. The distance specialist made the cut to regionals in the 200 IM and a relay event to cap off a fantastic first season.

Key West’s Tessa Hughes led the Conchs in the freestyle distance events, clocking the top times in the 200 and 500 freestyle events for her team. Hughes’ leadership and team-centric attitude helped guide a young squad in the direction of success.

JUNIOR CORAL SHORES

FRESHMAN KEY WEST

SOPHOMORE CORAL SHORES

FRESHMAN KEY WEST

JUNIOR CORAL SHORES

FRESHMAN KEY WEST

SENIOR CORAL SHORES

SENIOR KEY WEST

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JANUARY 8, 2026

ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Aaron Lykins

Mark Porter

Jace Jackson

Mason Osipov

A two-time state qualifier, Lykins finished 11th overall at the FHSAA State Championships and continues to show remarkable growth. Lykins is known for his work ethic, attention to detail and willingness to put in extra time. His progress reflects his ability and his commitment, making him an incredible role model. His success has helped elevate the program and set a standard for younger divers to follow.

Though only a sophomore, Coral Shores’ Mark Porter already has an appearance at regionals under his swim cap. Porter, an individual medley specialist, swam legs on the team’s 200 and 400 freestyle relay teams this season and will certainly be one to watch in 2026 as he picks up speed and confidence.

Freestyle specialist Jace Jackson finished his season strong. Jackson earned a spot at regionals on the team’s 200 and 400 freestyle relays. His leadership and steady presence helped steer the team toward success.

A regional qualifier on the Hurricanes’ 200 and 400 free relay teams, Mason Osipov proved to be an enthusiastic, team-oriented competitor. The senior has been a staple over several seasons, and his positive influence and competitive spirit will be difficult to match next season.

Santiago Gonzalez

Hugo Blinckmann

Andres Aguero

Kieran Smith

Santiago Gonzalez was dominant in the 200 freestyle this season, finishing undefeated in dual meets and breaking the school record in the event. The top Conch in both the 200 and 100 freestyle races, he also qualified for regionals in both events. In addition, Gonzalez contributed to two relay teams at regionals, proving he’s both versatile and dependable.

Key West junior Hugo Blinckmann emerged as a key contributor for the Conchs this season, leading the team in the 50-yard freestyle while also competing in the 100 breaststroke. A regional qualifier in both individual events, Blinckmann consistently provided points for the team. Blinckmann also played a role on multiple relay teams at regionals, highlighting his speed and adaptability.

Junior Andres Aguero paced the Conchs in both the 200 individual medley and the 100 butterfly, showcasing strength across multiple strokes. He earned a spot at regionals in the 200 IM and was part of a relay that advanced to the meet. Aquero’s range and race toughness made him a valuable asset to the lineup throughout the season.

Conch senior Kieran Smith provided steady leadership for the team this season while leading them in the 100 breaststroke. A regional qualifier in the event, he also competed on two relay teams at regionals. Smith’s experience, consistency and team-first attitude helped set the tone throughout the season.

SENIOR CORAL SHORES

JUNIOR KEY WEST

SOPHOMORE CORAL SHORES

JUNIOR KEY WEST

SENIOR CORAL SHORES

JUNIOR KEY WEST

SENIOR CORAL SHORES

SENIOR KEY WEST

JANUARY 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JANUARY 8, 2026

Glade Harrelson

SENIOR CORAL SHORES | DE/TE

Glade Harrelson was a dominant force on the defensive line for the Hurricanes, consistently bringing pressure and physicality off the edge. Known for his relentless motor and toughness, he set the tone defensively throughout the season. As a captain, Harrelson’s teamfirst mindset and leadership were evident both on the field and in the locker room.

MEET THE 2025 ALL-KEYS FOOTBALL TEAM Grit on the gridiron deﬁned this past fall

he 2025 high school football season across the Florida Keys delivered a mix of proven power, growing pains and promising youth. Key West led the way with a 7-5 record and a playoff victory, facing one of the state’s toughest schedules that included two losses to perennial powerhouse Miami Northwestern. The Conchs showcased a loaded offensive arsenal and a rock-solid line, while now preparing to fill some significant roles heading into next season. Coral Shores finished 2-7, highlighted by a win over Marathon in the annual Battle of the Keys, as both the Hurricanes and Dolphins navigated rebuilding seasons with young lineups. Marathon went winless but dressed just five seniors, with multiple freshmen starting on both sides of the ball. Coral Shores also leaned on underclassmen, who began to hit their stride mid-season and show glimpses of what is to come. With momentum building and experience gained, both programs appear poised to take important steps forward in 2026.

Photos by Doug Finger, Natalie Danko and Maicey Malgrat

MVP

Noah Mercer

SENIOR | KEY WEST OL/DL

A four-year starter on both sides of the ball, Noah Mercer was a cornerstone of the Conchs’ line throughout his career. On offense, he helped pave the way for two 1,000-yard rushers this season, while defensively he established himself as one of the most disruptive pass rushers in program history. Mercer holds the singlegame, season and career school records for quarterback sacks and finished 2025 with 47 tackles, 12 sacks, 12 tackles for loss, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.

Marco Gudino

JUNIOR CORAL SHORES | CB

Marco Gudino served as the leader of the Hurricanes’ secondary, bringing energy and confidence to the defensive backfield. His game-speed approach in practice translated into strong performances on Friday nights. With a natural read for the game, Gudino consistently put himself in position to make plays.

JANUARY 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

Nick Calderon

SENIOR CORAL SHORES | DE/OG

Nick Calderon made his mark by controlling the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. A powerful and consistent performer, he combined toughness with a high football IQ to anchor the Hurricanes in the trenches. His leadership, character and steady play earned him widespread respect among teammates and coaches.

Walson Morin

SENIOR KEY WEST | RB

One of the most productive rushers in the state, Walson Morin finished the season ranked among Florida’s top 10 and closed his career as Key West’s second all-time leading rusher. He rushed for 1,802 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2025 while also contributing 88 receiving yards and three scores through the air. Morin totaled 3,960 career rushing yards, leaving a lasting mark in the Conchs’ record books.

Austin Vogt

SENIOR CORAL SHORES | TE/FS

Austin Vogt provided impact and versatility for Coral Shores, contributing at a high level on both offense and defense. Whether lining up at tight end or free safety, his presence was felt in every game. A team leader, Vogt’s ability to elevate those around him played a key role in the Hurricanes’ successful season.

Jeff Dejean

SENIOR KEY WEST | RB/CB

A dynamic two-way starter, Jeff Dejean brought big-play ability on offense and lockdown coverage on defense. He rushed for 1,110 yards and 14 touchdowns during the 2025 season and made his presence felt in the secondary. Defensively, Dejean finished with 22 tackles, six passes defended and one forced fumble, showcasing his impact on both sides of the ball.

John Oughton

SOPHOMORE CORAL SHORES | RB

John Oughton emerged as a dynamic playmaker in the Hurricanes’ backfield, combining power, vision and explosiveness. He finished the season with 689 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 48 carries while also adding nine receptions for 94 yards. Oughton’s work ethic and determination set the standard and the tempo for a bright future for the program.

Leandro Batista

SENIOR KEY WEST | LB/RB

As the defensive captain, Leandro Batista anchored the Conchs and excelled at stopping the run. He recorded 41 tackles, two tackles for loss and a forced fumble. Batista also contributed offensively as a change-of-pace back, adding 287 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

Casey Konrad

SENIOR CORAL SHORES | OC

As the anchor of the offensive line, Casey Konrad brought strength, technique and a high football intelligence to the center position. His leadership in the trenches helped establish consistency and stability for the Hurricanes’ offense. A respected leader on and off the field, Konrad’s influence extended well beyond the stat sheet.

Kelly Kasper

JUNIOR KEY WEST | OL/DL

A physical presence at the point of attack, Kelly Kasper played a key role on both the offensive and defensive lines. He helped the Conchs rush for 3,700 yards in 2025 while also starting along the defensive front. Kasper finished the season with 13 tackles, one sack, three tackles for loss and an interception.

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JANUARY 8, 2026

Allens Alexandre JUNIOR KEY WEST | OL/DL

Allens Alexandre was a strong two-way contributor, using his size and strength to make an impact in the trenches. He was part of an offensive line that helped Key West surpass 4,000 yards of total offense in 2025. On defense, Alexandre totaled 21 tackles, six tackles for loss, two sacks and two fumble recoveries.

Aiden Gilday

SENIOR MARATHON | G/DT

Aiden Gilday was a dependable two-year starter at guard and defensive tackle for the Dolphins. Known for his physical play and consistency, he brought effort and toughness to both sides of the ball. Gilday also emerged as a strong locker-room leader, earning the trust of coaches and teammates alike.

Tristan Rodriguez

SENIOR KEY WEST | DL/RB

Chase Gaertner

SOPHOMORE KEY WEST | DB/RB/QB

Tristan Rodriguez enjoyed a breakout season, emerging as one of the top pass rushers in the Keys. His defensive production included 31 tackles, six sacks, six tackles for loss and a forced fumble. Rodriguez’s pressure off the edge made him a consistent disruptor throughout the year.

A talented and versatile underclassman, Chase Gaertner made an impact at several positions, including defensive back, linebacker, running back and quarterback. He finished the season with 26 tackles, one sack, one interception, one forced fumble and one tackle for loss. Gaertner’s ability to contribute in multiple roles made him a valuable piece of the Conchs’ lineup.

Eduardo Garcia

Matthew Delgado

SENIOR MARATHON | OL/DL

A four-year starter on the offensive line and three-year defensive line starter, Eduardo Garcia was a dominant presence in the trenches. A standout student with a GPA above 4.0 and a strong commitment to community service, Garcia excelled both on and off the field. His intensity, energy and physical style helped set the tone for the Dolphins.

SENIOR MARATHON | OL/DL

Matthew Delgado was the anchor of Marathon’s offensive line, starting four years at tackle and providing unmatched consistency. He also contributed on the defensive line and even found the end zone during his career. Delgado played a major role in blocking for two 1,500-yard rushers and led by example with his durability, effort and commitment.

Christopher Paul SENIOR MARATHON | C/DE

A four-year letterman and three-year starter, Christopher Paul was a cornerstone of the Dolphins’ program. Playing center and defensive end, he showcased toughness, versatility and football IQ in the trenches. Paul’s leadership, preparation and unselfish play made him a respected presence and a key contributor to the Dolphins on both sides of the ball.

Steven Stotts

SENIOR MARATHON | FB/LB

A four-year contributor, Steven Stotts exemplified versatility and leadership throughout his career. In 2025, he served as the team’s B-back on offense and mike linebacker on defense, captaining the defensive unit. Known for his quiet, lead-by-example approach, Stotts set the standard with toughness, accountability and selfless play.

JANUARY 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

HOLIDAY HOOPS No winter break for two Keys teams

ey West’s boys basketball team moved to 7-7 on the season after a flurry of activity over the holiday break. On Dec. 27, the Conchs made the trip to Bishop Verot High School for their Holiday Hoopfest. There the Conchs defeated the Vikings in an exciting 67-66 nailbiter. Leo Batista had the hot hand, scoring 15 points with eight rebounds. Zach Levering scored 14 and pulled down 19 rebounds. Jaxen Cabrera scored 11 and Jakub Krytinar added 10 plus seven rebounds. The following day, the Conchs lost to the Warhawks of Seminole High, 70-57. James Osborne had the top total with 24 points and added five steals to his stats. Levering scored 15 and grabbed eight rebounds in the loss. The Conchs found their rhythm again on Dec. 29 when they sent the Port Charlotte Pirates sailing. Osborne sank 35 points while Judson Snider added 19 points, four steals and a pair of blocks in the 67-59 win. In their final game of the holiday break, Key West lost to a visiting Ransom Everglades on Jan. 3. Snider scored 13 and pulled down five rebounds while Osborne and Batista each added eight. Levering scrambled for five points, six rebounds, four steals and a block in the 51-44 loss. Marathon dropped to 5-10 after a holiday break full of high-caliber competition. The Fins held their own against a daunting Miami High on Jan. 2. The Stingarees’ lineup was chock full of height and talent, and Marathon held strong but ultimately lost 51-41. Josh Koler had the team high of 15 points, pulling down eight rebounds and adding three blocks. Jack Chapman scored 14 and had five rebounds and Giorvis Zamora added 13 to the team total with three steals to his credit. The following day, Marathon hosted Ransom Everglades, who were fresh off a win against Key West. The Raiders went home with a second Keys win, defeating the Dolphins 53-46. Chapman led the way with 17 points while Andrew Suarez added 12 and Zamora had eight.

1. Alex Means goes for a layup. 2. Judson Snider takes a jump shot. 3. James Osborne soars for a layup. 4. Alex Means passes the ball. 5. Josh Koler adds two points to the Fins’ score. 6. Briggs Roberts dribbles under heavy pressure. 7. Giorvis Zamora goes up for two. 8. Cameron Globe looks to pass. Photos by Justice Lee Isom and Maicey Malgrat

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JANUARY 8, 2026

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

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LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Pursuant to Florida Statute 713.585 F.S. United American Lien & Recovery as agent w/ power of attorney will sell the following vehicle(s) to the highest bidder; net proceeds deposited with the clerk of court; owner/lienholder has right to hearing and post bond; owner may redeem vehicle for cash sum of lien; inspect 1 week prior @ the lienor facility; cash or cashier check; any person interested ph (954) 563-1999 Sale Date January 30th, 2026 @ 10:00 AM at each individual repair facility. 41479 2011 Kia VIN#: KNDJT2A23 B7292213 Repair Facility: Kia of Key West 2826 N Roosevelt Blvd Key West 786-288-5970 Lien Amt $743.49 41480 2017 Kia VIN#: 5XYPG4A35 HG295161 Repair Facility: Kia of Key West 2826 N Roosevelt Blvd Key West 786-288-5970 Lien Amt $764.48 Publish: January 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT HEARING “SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2025-497” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances. DATE/TIME: Thursday, January 22nd, 2026, 9:30 AM LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2025-497], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES OF THE FUTURE LAND USE, TRANSPORTATION, HOUSING, INFRASTRUCTURE, COASTAL MANAGEMENT, CONSERVATION, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE, INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION, AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS, ELEMENTS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN; ADDING A PROPERTY RIGHTS ELEMENT AND ACCOMPANYING GOAL, OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES; AS MANDATED BY FLORIDA STATUTES 163.3177; PROVIDING FOR TRANSMITTAL TO THE STATE LAND PLANNING AGENCY; PROVIDING A CONFLICTS CLAUSE AND SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.” The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www.keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, January 22nd, 2026, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, and your comments will be entered into the record. To be published: On or before January 12th, 2026 City Clerk - City of Key Colony Beach, Florida Publish: January 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

SETBACKS FOR RESIDENTIAL POOLS; SPECIFICALLY AMENDING SECTIONS 101-13 AND 101-26 OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS TO PROVIDE FOR REDUCED SETBACKS FOR POOLS WITHIN THE R-2B ZONING DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF FOUND TO BE IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, REPEAL, AND CODIFICATION IN THE CODE OF ORDINANCES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.” The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www.keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, January 22nd, 2026, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, and your comments will be entered into the record. To be published: On or before January 12th, 2026 City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida Publish: January 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

responses WILL NOT be accepted. The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com, no later than 3:00P.M. on January 29, 2026. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/ proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, January 29, 2026. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: January 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is January 8, 2026. Attorney for Person Giving Notice: KATALINA PENARANDA, ESQ. Attorney for Petitioner Florida Bar No. 29396 BOHATCH & PENARANDA, P.L.L.C. 7301 SW 57th Court, Suite 560 South Miami, FL 33143 Tel: (305) 666-1040 Person Giving Notice: ANNETTE RIECK 4251 Manke Rd Fairgrove, MI 48733 Publish: January 8 & 15, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-000524-K DIVISION: KEY WEST IN RE: ESTATE OF STEVEN EBERSOHN Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of STEVEN EBERSOHN, deceased, whose date of death was October 8, 2025, is pending in the circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 302 Fleming 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 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. A 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 732.216732.228, 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 OF MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is January 8, 2026. Personal Representative: BELINDA MURRAY 1911 Harbour Inlet Dr. Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33316 Attorney for Personal Representative: MICHAEL D. WILD Florida Bar Number: 28643 10360 West State Road 84 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33324 Telephone: (954) 944-2855 Fax: (954) 653-2917 E-Mail: mwild@wfplaw.com Secondary E-Mail: msegall@ wfplaw.com Publish: Jannuary 8 & 15, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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 or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor or a beneficiary 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 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: January 8, 2026. Personal Representative: James H. Nygren 30 Pine Ledge Drive Scarborough, ME 04074 Attorneys for Personal Representative: Jeffrey S. Goethe Florida Bar No. 0861420 Email: jgoethe@barneswalker. com Secondary Email: amonroe@ barneswalker.com Caroline M. Tschida Florida Bar No. 1064556 Email: ctschida@barneswalker. com BARNES WALKER, GOETHE, PERRON, SHEA @JOHNSON, PLLC 3119 Manatee Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34205 Telephone: (941) 741-8224 Publish: January 8 & 15, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE BEST LIEN SERVICES: 7290 SW 41 ST MIAMI, FL 33155 WILL SELL AT A RESERVED PUBLIC SALE AT 9:00 AM THE VEHICLE LISTED BELOW AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATION TO SATISFY LIEN PURSUANT TO SECTION 713.585 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES. SALE DATE: JAN. 28, 2026 AT 9:00 AM LOCATION: GC MECHANICAL SERVICES CORP., 10791 6 AVE GULF, MARATHON, FL 33050 P#: 813-410-3698 TOTAL: $2,645.62 2015 FORD CV 1FATP8 UHXF5363978 ANY PERSON(S) CLAIMING ANY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE VEHICLE SHOULD CONTACT: BEST LIEN SERVICES (1-866299-9391) AT LEAST 1 WEEK PRIOR TO THE LIEN SALE. Publish: January 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the Zoom meetings or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com Art In Public Places Committee Meeting January 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/ 82399810379?pwd= eGWSWvfXaIwvuk Eerm4T1bPBqrvySr.1 Meeting ID: 823 9981 0379 Passcode: 824229 Membership Committee Meeting January 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/ 83426481409?pwd= bAa02HW6udj7Mpw WXLa4Two7iQ5qHZ.1 Meeting ID: 834 2648 1409 Passcode: 287548 Board of Directors & Annual Members Meeting January 29, 2026, at 11:00 AM Crane Point Museum 5550 Overseas Hwy, Marathon Publish: January 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT HEARING “SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2025-507” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances. DATE/TIME: Thursday, January 22nd, 2026, 9:30 AM LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2025-507], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING ARTICLE III, CHAPTER 101 OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS RELATED TO REDUCTION OF

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS The Pigeon Key Foundation is requesting proposals from licensed professionals for our storm hardening wave study project. Interested parties should email pigeonkey@ aol.com for details related to proposals with the subject line: “WAVE STUDY”. Proposals will be accepted for 30 days after publication. Publish: January 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Turf Block Permeable Paver Replacement-The Gato Building-Key West, Florida Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-000167-K IN RE: ESTATE OF MARY ANN CAUSLEY Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Summary Administration) TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE: You are hereby notified that an Order of Summary Administration has been entered in the estate of MARY ANN CAUSLEY, deceased, File Number 25-CP-000167-K; by the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040; that the decedent’s date of death was October 22, 2024; and that the total value of the estate is $16,928.36, and that the names and addresses of those to whom it has been assigned by such order are: Name/Address ANNETTE RIECK, Trustee of the SECOND RESTATEMENT OF THE MARY ANN CAUSLEY LIVING TRUST u/t/d April 26, 2022 4251 Manke Rd, Fairgrove, MI 48733 ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All creditors of the estate of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent other than those for whom provision for full payment was made in the Order of Summary Administration must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER APPLICABLE TIME PERIOD, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-000481-K IN RE: ESTATE OF KEVIN KUSHNER Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Kevin Kushner, deceased, whose date of death was June 28, 2025, is pending in the circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served, must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. A 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 732.216732.228, 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 OF MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is January 8, 2026. Personal Representative: Jack Ryan Kushner 380 Marshland Road, Apr E25 Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29926 Attorney for Personal Representative: Andrew Ponnock Attorney Florida Bar Number: 195420 10100 West Sample Road, 3rd Fl Coral Springs, FL 33065 Telephone: (954) 340-4051 Fax: (954) 340-3411 E-Mail: andy@ponnocklaw. com Secondary E-Mail: eservice@ ponnocklaw.com Publish: January 8 & 15, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2025-CP-000404-K IN RE: ESTATE OF MARGARET A. NYGREN Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of MARGARET A. NYGREN, deceased, whose date of death was May 10, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the street address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative

JANUARY 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

AUTOS WANTED

EMPLOYMENT

HOUSING FOR RENT

YARD SALES

SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I entered in a case pending in said Court, the 14TH day of November 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST DIANE CHRISTINE FAY, DECEASED; AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST CATHERINE BARRY, DECEASED: AND THERESA KASLING, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO CATHERINE BARRY Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CA61-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 25TH 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: January 1 & 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST JAMES DARREL FOSDICK, DECEASED; CARRIE FOSDICK, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO JAMES DARREL FOSDICK; ROBERT FOSDICK, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO JAMES DARREL FOSDICK; KRISTIN FOSDICK, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO JAMES DARREL FOSDICK; ANGELA FOSDICK, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO JAMES DARREL FOSDICK; AND JANICE WAGY FOSDICK, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO JAMES DARREL FOSDICK Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CA61-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 25TH 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: January 1 & 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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: January 1 & 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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

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!

PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com

PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CA-61-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 20TH 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 E21, Week 4, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 14TH day of November 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MELBA TROUTMAN MC GUIRE, DECEASED; AND MICHAEL POOL, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MELBA TROUTMAN MC GUIRE Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CA61-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 25TH day of November 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CA-61-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 20TH 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 E21, Week 3, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 14TH day of November 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MELBA TROUTMAN MC GUIRE, DECEASED AND MICHAEL POOL, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MELBA TROUTMAN MC GUIRE Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CA61-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 25TH 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: January 1 & 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

BOATS FOR SALE 24' Deep V Wellcraft, newer Yamaha 150hp, T-top, Garmin GPS, SS prop, extra prop, windless anchor & trailer. Located in Marathon. $15,5000 Call 850-376-7137 PLACE YOUR BOAT FOR SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com BOAT 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 d e t a i l s 305-747-4227 BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Dockage up to 60’ Islamorada - Bayside, 50 amp service. Call 860-982-4517 Boat Dockage/ Storage/Parking available in Marathon. Gated, private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-610-8002 Boat Slip For Rent in Key Largo - Oceanfront Marina - Up to 46’ x 11.5’ - $20/ft/month. No Liveaboards. 330-219-5313 RENTED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!! PLACE YOUR BOAT SLIP FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com EMPLOYMENT 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 PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com

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. Experienced Full-time Line Cook needed at the Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club. 10AM - 5PM, Good Pay. Small friendly staff. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave. Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/ Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

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

WE ARE HIRING Skilled Cake Decorator Cashier/Barista/Server Apply in person at: Vicky Bakery 97630 Overseas Highway (mm 97) Key Largo, FL 33037 KeyLargo@VickyBakery.com

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com HOBBIES/COLLECT.

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 HOUSING FOR RENT

3BR/2.5BA unfurn. Townhouse (Sister's Creek) for rent in Marathon. $3,000/ mo. 618-559-9143 Furnished Studio AND 2 Bedroom unfurnished, all new for rent in Marathon. On the water, gated property. Section 8 possible. $1,300 - $2,000 month. Call 305-610-8002

SUDOKU SOLUTION

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JANUARY 8, 2026

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

Burton Memorial United Methodist Church

We’re HIRING!

Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers

KEY WEST Full Time Teller Customer Service Representative

HIRING CHURCH SECRETARY 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!

IS HIRING IN THE UPPER KEYS

PERMIT CLERK 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:

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

COME JOIN THE FAMILY!

Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER 58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL

JANUARY 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of “Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS! We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.

KEY LARGO

Lead Certified Recovery Peer Support Specialist Behavioral Health Counselor (CAT) Prevention Specialist Case Manager (Adult)

KEY WEST

Case Manager (Adult, Child) Mental Health Technician Line (PT or FT) Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) (PT or FT) Crisis Counselor Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Prevention Specialist

MARATHON

Mental Health Technician Driver (CDL required) (FT) Registered Nurse (FT, PT) HR Assistant/Recruiter *Support Worker (Assisted Living) (PT) *Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 Shifts (PT) *No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary. Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip

DUI FRONT DESK CLERK & EVALUATOR/INSTRUCTOR The Advocate Program DUI school is hiring for part time positions. Front desk: 3 days a week, high school diploma and computer data entry skills required. DUI instructors and evaluators: 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse field required. Office located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE We are now hiring for the following positions:

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered. 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

OPENINGS AVAILABLE PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C)Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier - Medical Assistant Ortho, $5k Bonus - Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus - Patient Access Associates, $5k Bonus

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST - Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C) Medical Oncology, Per Diem - Pool Radiation Therapist - Registered Nurse, Oncology, $15k Bonus

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus - Cook, Dietary, $5k Bonus - Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem - MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT Scan, $50k Bonus - Mechanic, FT, 7A-3:30P - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Echocardiography, Per Diem - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, MRI, $50k Bonus - Medical Technologist, Laboratory, $20k Bonus - Physical Therapist, $25k Bonus - Pool Clinical Pharmacist, Per Diem - Pool Group Exercise Instructor, Per Diem - Pool Medical Technologist - Pool Registered Nurse, Cardiac Rehab - Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $25k Bonus - Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Per Diem - Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, PT - Registered Nurse, Surgery, $15k Bonus

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- ED Team Coordinator, 7P-7A - Inventory Control Administrator, Keys/Marathon Supply Chain - MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 2, (MRI & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray), Radiology, $50K Bonus - Pool Physical Therapist, Per Diem - Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $15k Bonus - Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Per Diem - Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care, Per Diem, 7P-7:30A - Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care, Part Time, 7P-7:30A - Registered Nurse, PACU, $15k Bonus - Registered Respiratory Therapist, PT, $12,500 Bonus - RRT 2, Respiratory Therapy, Per Diem - Security Officer, FT, 7A-7:30P - Security Officer, Per Diem All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. *Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.

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THEME: BODY LANGUAGE ACROSS 1. Hot Springs and such 5. ____ Bell and ____ Barker 8. Wharton degree, acr. 11. Artist’s inspiration 12. *Move head to show attention 13. Angry growl 15. Shamu, e.g. 16. Diva’s number 17. Put on fancy dress (2 words) 18. *Making facial expression showing pain 20. Mine passage 21. Single-handedly 22. Assistance 23. Made according to specifications 26. Economizes 30. Biochemistry acr. 31. Aerie baby 34. Genesis skipper 35. Leaves out 37. *Some look up and to the right when telling one 38. Watcher 39. “The Forsyte ____” by John Galsworthy 40. Forty winks 42. Fraternity letter T 43. *Said “easy peasy” with fingers 45. Like a weight lifter, usually 47. Weasel-related onomatopoeia 48. Undo laces 50. Helicopter sound 52. *Showing low self-esteem or boredom 56. 100 centimes 57. Purl partner 58. From square one 59. Frustration, in a comic book 60. “At ____, soldier!” 61. Don’t go 62. Dashboard acr. 63. Like Willie Winkie 64. Frustrated driver’s recourse

DOWN 1. Urban haze 2. Make like a cat 3. Ascus, pl. 4. Same as sea moss (2 words) 5. Rice wine 6. Dress with a flare 7. Rudolph, when older 8. Famous Christmas guests 9. Like some champagnes 10. High mountain 12. Toyota truck model 13. Part of flight 14. *Showing agreement 19. Healing plants 22. Be in a cast 23. *Show anger with arms 24. Unnerve 25. Eurasian antelope 26. “____ but not heard” 27. Much, in Italy 28. Song of praise 29. *”I don’t know” move 32. *One’s smiling because one’s ____ 33. Intoxicated 36. *Showing impatience with fingers 38. Like retina and brain connecting nerve 40. Large edible mushroom 41. Keen 44. Nice place for a rocking chair 46. Reuse ideas 48. Forearm bones 49. Hustle and bustle sound 50. Sandwich alternative 51. Stay out of its way! 52. Place at angle 53. Gung-ho about something 54. Close by 55. Gwyneth, for short 56. Opposite of #54 Down

THE REGAN ROTH TEAM IS HERE TO PROTECT YOU... YOUR FAMILY, YOUR LIFESTYLE, YOUR HOME!

Family owned and operated since 1958 ADMINISTRATION

Joseph H. Roth III President 27 Years

Lorie Head Office Manager 36 Years

Jennifer Roth Assistant Manager 5 Years

ACCOUNTING

Sara Roth, Agent/ Commercial Lines Assistant Supervisor 2 Years

SALES

Linda Griswold Agent/Sales

20 Years

Holly Redding Agent/Sales

23 Years

Maria Bell Receptionist 3 Years

Aileen Joiner Accounting Manager Automation 19 Years

Sabrina Boozer Accounting <1 Year

COMMERCIAL LINES

Grimi Betancourt Manager/Sales Agent-Marathon

6 Years

Lisa Maguire Supervisor

Remorna Pottinger Ochoa Account Manager

Kyra Beyer Account Processor

4 Years

Elizabeth Kubishen Account Processor 5 Years

Jennifer Paul Account Manager

Kayla Soriano Account Processor

Miriam Garcia Account Processor

22 Years

3 Years

2 Years

16 Years

15 Years

PERSONAL LINES

Paula Sachs Supervisor

Vianey Diaz Account Manager

19 Years

3 Years

Christine Thing Agent/Account Manager 1 Year

Home, wind and flood. All lines of commercial/business insurance. Boats, autos, golf carts and recreational vehicles

REST ASSURED, WE ARE ALWAYS HERE TO HELP YOU WEATHER ANY STORM! 305.852.3234 90144 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier

305.743.3414 8065 Overseas Hwy. Marathon