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An auction ending the night of Feb. 15 set a Guinness world record for the most expensive single trading card sale of all time. Logan Paul’s Pikachu Illustrator Pokemon card, graded in a perfect Gem Mint 10 condition by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), climbed well north of $16 million in the live-streamed auction. It’s a handsome profit for Paul, who purchased the card for $5.275 million in 2021.
IMMIGRATION ANXIETY MIXES WITH ANGER
Video of arrest circulates on social media
The video is tough to watch, but is receiving attention throughout the Lower Keys, where it is circulating on social media.
When an onlooker begins filming, U.S. Border Patrol agent Bruno Cabral is straddling an unarmed teenager who is facedown on the ground in the area of Staples Avenue, behind the Conch Tour Train depot and Advance Auto.
It was around noon on Feb. 14, when Cabral encountered the 19-yearold Key West resident, who works at a downtown restaurant, when he was stopped on his e-bike.
Cabral yanks the teen’s arms behind his back and pins his shoulders to handcuff him while yelling, “You’re gonna get Tazed.” Cabral tosses the young man’s phone to the ground, breaking it, the video shows, and then hefts the handcuffed teen to his feet and shoves him into the backseat of an unmarked, maroon Ford SUV. In the video, onlookers can be heard shouting at Cabral, calling him names and videoing the episode that was posted on the Key West Immigrant Support Network’s social media pages.
At one point, Cabral points to the onlookers and says, “Get out of here, or I’m gonna arrest you as well.” The onlookers remind Cabral they are permitted to video and watch his ac-
Artist Tom Everhart has kept the Peanuts gang alive in his fine art works, as the only artist ever authorized to draw the iconic comic strip characters by their creator, Charles Schulz. Everhart will appear this week at Ocean Blue Galleries, where his work is available. See page 18.
His maroon SUV is infamous and is now widely reported when seen in communities.
Cabral testified earlier this month in a federal case against an immigrant, Luis Ocampo Martinez, who Cabral charged with felony assault on a federal officer when the immigrant allegedly pushed Cabral on Stock Island, causing him to lose his balance, and ran away during an immigration encounter.
Martinez is significantly smaller and older than Cabral, as his attorney, federal public defender Ian McDonald, pointed out at trial earlier this month. McDonald, in court filings, also called the charges against his client “troubling,” as well as the government’s attempt to have the judge block any discussion of “other incidents of alleged misconduct, unjustified force, or other improper actions” involving Cabral.
tions as long as they stay 25 feet away without interfering.
“Posting this video is not a decision we made lightly,” network cofounder Lucy Hawk writes next to the footage. “We opted to post only after speaking with the family, who felt the public deserved to see the violent tactics employed against a teenager. What you see in this video is brutal enough, but eyewitnesses give testimony that the teen was ripped from his bicycle and slammed to the ground prior to the start of this video. They state clearly that the teen did nothing to provoke the attack. ‘Battered’ is a word one eyewitness used.
“We ask you to watch the video to bear witness to the reality of the world we live in today. It doesn’t really matter what this teen’s background is. No human deserves to be treated like this. And today has been one of those days where it feels like nothing will ever be enough to stop this from happening.
“Our hearts are broken for this family, for this young man who is now facing the unknown alone, and for our island where this is quietly happening on a daily basis.”
A feared figure in law enforcement Cabral has become a feared figure within the Key West and Stock Island immigrant communities, having arrested an estimated 300 immigrants, Hawk said.
“Moreover, as no body or dashboard camera footage of Mr. Ocampo Martinez’s arrest appears to exist, other incidents involving the officer comprise arguably the most probative evidence of what happened that day,” defense attorney McDonald writes in a court filing.
A federal jury found Martinez not guilty on all charges, and U.S. Judge David Leibowitz issued a judgement of acquittal.
In the two weeks since the Feb. 6 trial and verdict, Cabral’s aggressive pursuit of undocumented immigrants, most without a criminal history, has increased, according to anecdotal reports.
(Immigration violations are civil, not criminal, matters, according to U.S. law.)
The U.S. Border Patrol has not returned multiple phone calls and emails seeking comment about immigration enforcement in the Florida Keys and about potential complaints that have been filed against Cabral, who states that he has worked for the U.S. Border Patrol since 2018 and is stationed at the Marathon Border Patrol office.
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
U.S. Border Patrol Agent Bruno Cabral detains a teen-aged immigrant and Key West resident on Feb. 14. KEY WEST IMMIGRANT SUPPORT NETWORK/Contributed
Scan the QR code to see the video of Agent Bruno Cabral arresting a local teen
FORMER FIREFIGHTER GETS 18-MONTH PRISON SENTENCE
Vincent Vega pleaded guilty to gun & explosives charges
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
Former Key West firefighter Vincent Vega was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to felony charges of possessing an illegal short-barreled rifle and possessing a destructive device – which includes bombs, grenades, rockets, missiles, mines or similar devices, or the materials to create such a device. While the two charges each carry a maximum prison term of 10 years, prosecutors agreed to pursue a significantly shorter sentence due to Vega’s willingness to take responsibility for his crimes, his guilty plea, history of mental illness and a dozen or so letters of support from Key West community members to Judge David Leibowitz.
The letters describe Vega as a gentle and caring man with strong family ties who spent years caring for his aging grandmother before she died. The 18-month sentence was what Vega’s attorney, Roger Cabrera, had requested, asking the judge to consider Vega’s mental illness, lack of criminal intent, work history and family support.
The case started with a traffic stop on March 14, 2025, when police found an illegal short-barreled AR-15 in his car. They later found, in Vega’s home, a significant cache of guns, a pipe bomb, bombmaking materials and diagrams of various properties, according to police reports and court documents.
Vega’s case was transferred to federal court, and following a bond hearing in June 2025, U.S. Judge Lurana Snow ordered he be detained while awaiting trial. He had been in custody at the Miami federal detention center since June 2025. Records from the U.S. Bureau of Prisons indicate that Vega is still at the Miami detention center, although it is unclear if that is where he will serve his full sentence.
In supporting his request for an 18-month sentence, Cabrera detailed Vega’s decadelong struggle with and treatment for mental illness that has included various anti-psychotic medications. The attorney also noted that Vega did not use any of the weapons found at his home to commit any crimes.
“After completing its search of Vega’s electronic devices, the FBI specifically found that there was ‘no evidence of a planned attack or communications reflecting a particular ideology or a co-conspirator,’” Cabrera writes in court documents.
He also disputed the description of the diagrams found in Vega’s residence.
“Because he was a survivalist/prepper who anticipated the end of civil society, Vega had created this diagram years ago, in anticipation of a doomsday scenario, and the statements … fail to clarify that they reflect Vega’s ideas for protecting his family in the event of such a doomsday scenario,” Cabrera writes.
Vega worked as a Key West firefighter and EMT from September 2014 to June 2023. He was named EMT of the Quarter in March 2016, but then began struggling significantly with mental illness and depression.
WELCOME HOME, MOHAWK
Coast Guard cutter returns to Key West
The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk returned to their home port in Key West on Feb. 14 after a 60-day patrol in the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, where crew members boarded and escorted two sanctioned oil tankers.
In support of Operation Southern Spear, Mohawk’s crew partnered with the Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security assets as well as additional Coast Guard units to board and escort the two sanctioned vessels, preventing the illicit trade of crude oil in violation of international sanctions.
“Our dedicated crews are the front line of maritime security,” said Cmdr. Taylor Kellogg, commanding officer of Mohawk. “Their vigilance and expertise were instrumental in the successful interdiction and escort of these tankers. This is a clear demonstration of the Coast Guard’s commitment to enforcing international law and our vital role in the Joint
Force. I’m proud of their selfless service and devotion to duty.”
On Dec. 20, a Coast Guard tactical law enforcement team intercepted and boarded the Panamanian-flagged motor tanker Centuries. Mohawk escorted Centuries from the Caribbean Sea to the Gulf of Mexico, where the tanker moored pending coordination with the United States and the ship’s home country.
On Jan. 15, a Coast Guard tactical team intercepted and seized the Venezuelan-linked, Aframax motor tanker Veronica, prompting Mohawk’s crew to quickly transit back to the Caribbean Sea and provide escort duties. Following a boarding by a joint warfare team, Mohawk escorted Veronica to a secure anchorage in the Caribbean Sea.
The back-to-back escorts totaled 17 days and covered a combined distance of 2,700 nautical miles.
— Contributed
Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk returns to its home port at Key West’s Trumbo Point on Feb. 14 after 60 days at sea in the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. LT. MACHE MASON/U.S. Coast Guard
Vincent Vega.
Key West & Cuba’s Museum Quality Regional Art
Celebrating Cultural Resilience
CUBAN ART TOUR
April 20-24, 2026
Priscilla Coote RETURN TO TROPIC WATERS
Artist’s Reception
Saturday, February 28th, 2026
5:00-8:00 pm
Serenity, 30” x 40”, Oil on Linen
Gallery on Greene presents Priscilla Coote’s annual solo exhibition, opening Saturday, February 28th, 5-8 p.m. The show features new works in Coote’s signature blues and greens, inspired by decades of studying the waters of the Florida Keys.
Coote was recently selected for the Art in Embassies program by Ambassador Waltz and named an Ambassador for the Florida’s Forgotten Coast plein air festival. A Signature Member of the American Society of Marine Artists, her work has appeared in major publications, on Net ix and HGTV, and is represented in galleries in Nantucket, Maine, and Nantes, France.
Works Available on Approval & Concierge Services from Key West to Key Largo The Gallery on Greene |
An island inspired treasure trove where fashion meets paradise. Nestled into the heart of Key West, we’re your go-to destination for splurge worthy finds and fashion forward essentials. Featuring the latest styles from Farm Rio, Alemais, Oliphant & many more.
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY www.keysweekly.com
ARIDA WRIGHT: A DRIVING FORCE BEHIND A POETIC LIFE
SOMEONE YOU SHOULD MEET
Despite her easy smile and reflective manner of speaking, Arida Wright is a powerhouse. Possessing an enviable amount of creative energy and talent, she pairs those qualities with a spirit dedicated to making a positive difference in her world.
A native New Yorker, she was ordained as a minister and coordinated women’s spiritual and healing retreats before moving to Key West in 1997. Since then, she has found her voice as a poet who explores issues of race and inequality in both written and spoken-word works.
A recent poem, titled “A Letter to Dr. King,” spotlights the need to fight for civil rights in today’s world and poses poignant questions to the memory of Martin Luther King Jr.: “Are you still on your mountain top looking over it from the other side? How do we hold onto your hope with all this strife?”
Wright’s creations ring with such strength and resonance that she was selected to be Key West’s poet laureate for 2026-2028 — an accolade she describes as both unexpected and overwhelming.
During her tenure, she hopes to develop a forum where Bahama Village children can learn poetry. Wright also intends to carry on the influence of her mentor, Flower Conroy, a former Key West poet laureate who had a profound effect on her creative development.
Author of two books and published in several anthologies, Wright also coordinates community events through the nonprofit organization R.O.S.E. Diversity Group. The acronym stands for “Reaching others socially & educationally.” Wright spearheads both a ministry and a publishing company, has earned the title of traditional Reiki master, and is still a newlywed after marrying Abdul Khaleque in May 2025.
She recently spent time with the Keys Weekly to talk about her life and creative passions.
When and why did you come to Key West? I came in 1997 with two manuscripts, and I wanted to be a published author. This is Hemingway country — Hemingway, Robert Frost, Tennessee Williams, Elizabeth Bishop — so I knew it would happen here.
How do you approach the poetry-writing process? I feel as if I channel it more than I write it. It seems I’m able to tap into the spirit realm where, though people are no longer physical on this planet, their spirits are still alive — and I can plug in, click in to where they are and get a message.
Your two published books are in different genres. What are they like? “Then Sings My Soul,” the first book, is a 365-day inspirational reflection book. There’s a positive thought for each day, in addition to little daily clips about something I’m looking at in my life. The second is the poetry book, “Crossing the Threshold: Voice of a Black Woman.”
As the creator of both spoken-word poetry and written poems, how do you want people to react when they hear you perform or read your work? I write mostly about racial issues. I want people to reflect on how the theme of the poem relates to them, or someone they know, in any way. And perhaps, since the title of my poetry book is “Crossing the Threshold,” perhaps they may cross the threshold into a different mindset after hearing my experience with whatever racial issue I’m talking about.
In your “other life” as a professional event planner, what are some of the events you coordinate and produce? I have a nonprofit called R.O.S.E. Diversity, and we do cultural events in Key West — Black History Month, Kwanzaa, Juneteenth and the Day of Remembrance. The Day of Remembrance is my biggest event, and I do it in August on the beach for the ancestors.
For Black History Month, I’m doing a poem from my book called “Freedom” for the Black History program on Sunday, Feb. 22 at my church — St. James First Missionary Baptist Church, 312 Olivia St. Right after I finish, the R.O.S.E. Diversity Group will join me to sing a song called “Freedom.”
How do you spend your time when you’re not busy writing or producing events for the community? I’m a Lyft and Uber driver and I work part-time Friday, Saturday and Sunday. I’ve been doing it for nine years, and I love it. I love driving people, talking about the island and being kind of like a tour guide.
After living in Key West for almost 20 years, what aspect of the island remains most appealing to you? It’s still the ocean. It’s where I take my problems and I draw my faith, energy and strength. The ocean is my higher power.
1. Arida Wright takes center stage during The Studios of Key West’s recent event celebrating the Roxbury International Film Festival.
2. A resident of Key West for nearly 20 years, Arida Wright is well known for her creativity and warmth of spirit. CONTRIBUTED
THE STUDIOS OF KEY WEST presents
MIDTOWN KEY WEST
SAT FEB 28, 11AM-3PM
VISIT THE HOMES & STUDIOS OF:
Michel Delgado, Dan Bar, Tom Pope, Jean Carper, Sally Wernicoff, Jill Benado and late Bill Hartman
$35 adv. tickets, $40 day-of at Tom Pope’s home and studio - 1016 Von Phister St.
SCAN ME FOR TICKETS
Contemporary art center, steps off Duval Street.
Always free to visit! Open Tue-Sun, 10am-4pm
sponsored by Key West Vacation Homes
Michel Delgado
Tom Pope
Jean Carper
MIND ALTERING LUBRICANTS FOR SOCIAL INTERCOURSE
CHEERS TO WINNING BEST MARTINI AGAIN IN 2025!!
BABY’S COFFEE
BLACK HISTORY MONTH INSPIRES US TO AIM HIGHER, FIGHT HARDER & GO FARTHER
I attended the Roxbury Film Festival over the weekend of Feb. 6 and 7, hosted by The Studios of Key West for Black History Month. The highlight for me was the screening of “Paradise Reflected,” a docufilm by three local Key Westers that explores the Key West motto, “One Human Family,” a phrase coined by resident JT Thompson and later adopted as the island’s official motto.
As a person of color myself, I feel Black History Month serves as an inspiration to aim higher, go farther than those who have gone before. Because the month highlights the greatest of our race, it is an opportunity to explore more than just our continuing struggle for equal rights and the degrading aspects of that struggle, which the media and government have a tendency to highlight.
I was very interested to find out how the Key West film, “Paradise Reflected,” was chosen by the Roxbury Film Festival to be shown here and found out it was my friend Ed DeMore who worked with The Studios of Key West and director Antonio “Hollywood” Allen to get the film made.
We who are destined to make “Black History” are chosen by fate, by Higher Power, by the Ancestors. I feel I have been chosen to carry the cross of healing from the damage racism has done and have been called to stand in the spotlight and bring the issue out into the open. I am in the operating room, using my scalpel of poetry to open the wound and expose it.
At times, it may seem that people of color don’t have a voice to address what is happening to us on this island, but we do. Or it seems that people of color can’t make a difference because we don’t have the money or the power, but we can.
“Paradise Reflected” is a great example. It is a match that sparks our desire to be included in the prosperity on this island and the opportunities it provides. I realized that one person striking the match can start a fire or even ignite a movement.
After the screening, the conversation that took place among the diverse audience is one that should and will continue as the film’s reach expands. And yes, greatness can come from this little island during Black History Month.
Kudos to The Studios of Key West and the Roxbury Film Festival for presenting this important event for Black History Month and for carrying it on after Ed DeMore’s passing. Kudos to Antonio “Hollywood” Allen and his “Squad” — videographer Jose Davila and associate producer Martha Hooten-Hattingh — for making the docu-film, “Paradise Reflected.” And kudos to my friend Ed DeMore, who used his white privilege to lift the Black community.
— Arida Wright, Key West’s poet laureate for 2026-2028.
KEY WEST FILMMAKER ON BLACK HISTORY & ‘ONE HUMAN FAMILY’
The film “Paradise Reflected” premiered Feb. 6 at The Studios of Key West during the Rox Films gathering. But the idea for it started nearly 15 years ago. I was returning to Key West for weeks at a time, caring for aging relatives, and seeing the phrase everywhere — on cars, storefronts, wristbands, everywhere — One Human Family. I remember thinking, “Why would we need a sticker to remind us, simply, of how we live?”
Growing up here, for months at a time every summer, identity didn’t require explanation or justification — Conch, newcomer, Black, white, Hispanic, immigrant, working class, wealthy — labels didn’t matter. But over time I noticed shifts: Generational tension between old Conchs and new arrivals. Cultural and political lines quietly forming amid divisive conversations.
I started experiencing moments of subtle racism — quiet reminders about power, access and influence.
The question stayed with me for years: Are we living that motto — or marketing it?
The question is at the heart of “Paradise Reflected,” which began in earnest in March 2025. Ed DeMore became the film’s primary financial supporter. He believed in ambitious ideas and pushed for scale. Our relationship, however, was layered. We clashed creatively and personally. Funding timelines and expectations changed. My approach was questioned. I stood firm, refusing to shrink inside a project I was asked to lead.
Ed’s final week in Key West, before Thanksgiving, was one of friction and collaboration. But in a conversation the morning he flew back to Boston, something shifted between us. We saw each other not as benefactor and filmmaker, but as men navigating different lived experiences, trying to build something meaningful.
Ed passed away hours after he landed in Boston, but our final conversation had brought closure and mutual respect. His role in this film is real. So was our friction. That coexistence of tension and unity reflects today’s Key West.
My roots are deeply tied to the Black community here, and that history matters. Black History Month matters. But “Paradise Reflected” is not a Black film. It is not a white, Hispanic or immigrant film. Race, power
and history are all parts of the story that is, above all, about community. “Paradise Reflected” asks whether we are brave enough to live the words we put on bumper stickers. Though born in LaGrange, Georgia, I spent every summer here — months-long stretches that shaped my life. My father’s family came from the Bahamas in 1892. The property they eventually bought has been in our family since the 1910s, and is where I live today. My mother’s side is Bahamian and Cuban. Her father, Charles Major Sr., led the NAACP here and ran for mayor. My aunt, Phyllis M. Allen, helped lead the transition to integrated schools and later founded the PACE Center for Girls. Honored with a day celebrated in her name each May 15, she remains the nucleus of who I am, five generations deep. So when I speak about Key West, I’m speaking not at it, but from it, as do others in the film. But some voices did not make this first cut — more female representation, immigrant families, our unhoused neighbors, city leaders, the HIV community.
So this project continues, but still needs the community’s help, physically and financially. We are preparing it for inclusion in the Rox Films Festival in mid-June and raising funds for a full-length version for the Key West Film Festival in November.
I’m grateful to those who have brought us this far: Jose Davila and Martha Hooten-Hattingh — The Squad; The Studios of Key West; the Rox Films board; Dr. Jerome Covington; Tatiana Johnson; the many hands behind the scenes and to my family and friends, who define unwavering support.
The film’s premier at The Studios has already succeeded in sparking conversation. I’ve heard from people who felt seen, challenged and, yes, uncomfortable. But art exists to reveal a community, not flatter it. Here in Key West, we don’t need another slogan; we need courage. To have difficult conversations. To examine power. Courage to admit when we’ve been wrong — and grace while someone else is growing.
The real question isn’t who we say we are; it’s who we prove ourselves to be.
— With conviction and love, Antonio “Hollywood” Allen paradisereflectedfilm.com
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
DISTRICT HIGHLIGHTS DEFENSE AGAINST CYBERATTACKS
Navy recognizes schools for helping military families
Marlene Kolodziej, the district’s director of information technology, provided an extensive presentation on the cybersecurity infrastructure of the school system at a Feb. 10 Monroe County School Board meeting in Key West.
Florida Keys schools suffered a disabling ransomware attack in 2018.
The school district takes a multilayer approach to cybersecurity, with software in each user’s device and a hardware examining and sorting at the system level.
“Human error is the number one cause of data breaches,” Kolodziej said. “Email is the most common point for entry attack in the education sector.”
She listed nine types of cyber attacks and the systems in place to thwart them. The district’s security system reported more than 17,000 events that could be classified as attacks in the last month. The average is 570 per day. The most common was “graymail,” emails that include marketing, advertising or promotional materials. There were 2,611 phishing attacks – which try tricking a victim into giving away online credentials. The system stopped 116 scams asking for fees or payments. Four attacks were sophisticated social engineering events aimed at making the recipient take actions to change banking, credit card or other actions to benefit the sender. More than 1,600 spam emails were intercepted.
Kolodziej said software in district-supplied personal devices such as the students’ Chromebooks can detect and report bullying and other inappropriate online content.
She said the IT department is the same size it was in 2021 and is currently running 62 projects deploying or replacing technology.
Board member Mindy Conn asked about reliance on the internet for telephone connectivity. Kolodziej replied that backup connectivity, including StarLink satellite terminals, is in place and more is being added.
The fiscal 2025-26 IT program includes $5.3 million in capital funds and $2.7 million in operational funds. The district uses the federal government’s E-Rate program. Administered by the FCC, E-Rate helps to ensure that K-12 schools and public libraries can obtain affordable access to telecommunications services, including broadband internet service and equipment. E-Rate doesn’t use federal money, but it arranges for substantial discounts, as much as 90%, from equipment and services providers.
Board member Darren Horan asked Kolodziej to look into a bill in Tallahassee labeled the Local Government Cybersecurity Program. Board member Sue Woltanski asked if the district rents space to cell towers on any school buildings. The district does get paid for cell antennas at Key West High School.
As part of a discussion with lobbyist Kate DeLoach, the board discussed the state’s Family Empowerment scholarship program. Also known as the school voucher program, it provides families with additional educational choices, primarily to attend participating private schools, but also homeschooling, therapies and online programs. The money comes from the state and is funneled through local districts. If the demand outstrips the funding, the districts make up the difference. Woltanski stated the district is about $900,000 behind in state fund-
SHELF HELP
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “The Everlasting” by Alix E. Harrow
Why: By Jove! Did I finish this book, or did it finish me?
ing. The board discussed proposals to put the empowerment program through a separate funding channel.
Also at the meeting, Capt. Colin Thompson, commander of NAS Key West, presented Purple Star School of Distinction awards to Sigsbee Charter School and the College of the Florida Keys Academy. The award recognizes schools that support the needs of military families, help militaryconnected students navigate critical challenges and provide resources for them entering a new school environment.
Thompson praised the environments in these schools for incoming students of military families. Horace O’Bryant School, Key West High School and Sugarloaf School also hold the award.
The school board presented four Great Educational Moments (GEM) awards. Social worker Monet Ray was recognized for the compassionate student-center support she provides and for being a role model for other social workers throughout the district. The Key West High School cheerleading squad, with coaches Kaitlyn Varela and Madison Garcia, was recognized for earning the title of regional champions.
Gary Hernandez, band director at Key West High School, was honored for his work throughout the district. And the Key West High School Marching Band was recognized for its success during an international festival in Rome.
This is romantasy at its finest. A tale of a lady knight, a historian, an evil queen and time travel. Harrow masterfully brings the characters to life, with excellent plot and character development. This book deserves to be celebrated as a pinnacle of its genre. I don’t want to give too much away because the experience is truly what made this book so wonderful. I am mourning the fact that I can never experience the joy of reading this book for the first time again. It is beautifully written, filled with whimsy, and it tugged at my heartstrings repeatedly. This book really said, “This is what yearning looks like,” and left me emotionally unwell. The characters will stay with me for a long, long time. This might just be my favorite book of all time. I am certain I will read it again and again.
Where: You can borrow this in regular or large print, as an e-book or e-audiobook 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? keyslibraries.org/contact-us.
Recommended by: Kaleila Freeman, senior library assistant, Big Pine Key library branch.
See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/post/ shelf-help.
Left, Capt. Colin Thompson, commander of NAS Key West, presents Purple Star School of Distinction awards to Sigsbee Charter School and the College of the Florida Keys Academy. CONTRIBUTED
MAKING AMERICA
L ESS GREAT
After slashing or eliminating federal agencies that serve American citizens, Trump has insulted our NATO allies, slapped always-changing tariffs on our trading partners and pulled us out of international treaties.
Trump’s chaotic tariffs increased the cost of virtually everything we buy and pushed our trading partners to start buying from China, costing us American jobs.
While NOT putting America first, Trump fractures our alliances, fumbles aimlessly when our ally Ukraine is fighting for its life, pressures Canada and Greenland to become US states... and declares he wants the USA to control the entire Western Heminsphere; which means forcing HIS will on our sovereign neighbor s !
Now Trump said “when you think of it, we shouldn’t even have an election” and “sometimes you need a dictator.”
America does NOT need a dictator who damages us in ways Putin loves!
PUBLIC DEFENDER KEVIN McCARTHY SEEKS COUNTY JUDGE SEAT
Mark
Wilson’s
run vacates Group 2 bench
Kevin McCarthy, a chief assistant public defender, is a candidate for county court judge. CONTRIBUTED
Chief Assistant Public Defender Kevin McCarthy recently announced his candidacy for county court judge in the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit, Group 2, a seat being vacated by Judge Mark Wilson, who is running to succeed the retiring Judge Mark Jones as circuit court judge.
A longtime resident of the Florida Keys, McCarthy has served as an assistant public defender in Monroe County since 2011. He was promoted to chief assistant public defender in 2017 by Public Defender Robert Lockwood.
In his more than 14 years of service, McCarthy has represented clients in thousands of cases, ranging from misdemeanors to the most serious felonies. He is one of only a small number of attorneys in Monroe County qualified to serve in death-penalty proceedings.
As chief assistant public defender, he has supervised, mentored and trained dozens of attorneys.
McCarthy is a graduate of Key West High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Emory University in Atlanta, and his law degree, cum laude, from the University of Miami School of Law. He practiced civil litigation at a private firm in Miami before returning to Key West in 2011.
McCarthy is an active member of Sunrise Rotary, the Southernmost Hockey League, the Monroe County Bar Association, and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He serves on the board of directors of A Positive Step of Monroe County, assists local schools with their mock trial programs, and is a member of the Statewide Death Penalty Advisory Committee and the Florida Public Defenders’ Association.
Since 2015, he has taught criminal justice courses at St. Leo University, helping numerous service members and law enforcement professionals complete their college degrees. He is certified to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court.
“I am deeply honored to seek this position and committed to continuing to serve the people of Monroe County with fairness, integrity and respect for the rule of law,” McCarthy said of his candidacy for county judge.
Kevin McCarthy is married to local attorney Tiffany Curry. They are the parents of two children.
The nonpartisan election for County Court Judge, Group 2, will be held on Aug. 18.
— Contributed
For two and a half weeks every two years, viewers around the globe are treated to the pinnacle of human athletic excellence in the winter and summer Olympics. While watching figure skaters lose points for the most minor turn of a blade or seeing inspiring comeback stories of athletes who overcame injuries, it’s tough to remember just how far removed from “normal” these Olympians truly are. That got us thinking: If the Olympics won’t include a “regular guy for reference” in each event, what would the Games look like if they played out in the Florida Keys? Here are our…
SPORTS IN A FLORIDA KEYS OLYMPICS
10. Post-sandbar boat driving. (This list is NOT recommended or endorsed by the Keys Weekly or any law enforcement agency.)
9. Target shooting. All targets are iguanas.
8. Fish cleaning. Points deducted for every bone and blood line.
7. Boat docking. Points awarded for speed and a clean approach, deducted for property damage or screaming at your passengers.
7. Manatee rodeo (we reiterate – NOT endorsed by FWC).
6. That hook-and-ring-toss bar game. You know the one.
5. Walking in fins on a rocking boat.
4. Roadside sobriety tests.
3. Swimming. (All races conducted with one hand holding a margarita out of the water. Spills = disqualification.)
2. E-bike racing. Points deducted (or added?) per pedestrian struck.
1. Chicken wrangling (add the SPCA to the not-endorsed-by list).
DinnertainmentTM - Menu Changes Daily
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Monday Night Trivia: 6:30PM-8:30PM
RED BARN SPOTLIGHTS BROADWAY’S BEST SONGS FINE ART NEED NOT BE FUSSY
‘And
The World Goes Round – The Music of Kander and Ebb’ opens Feb. 24
Aspecial magic gets woven into every Broadway musical, an alchemy of melodies and lyrics that make their way into mind and memory.
Key West’s Red Barn Theatre presents an evening of Broadway’s most enduring songs by two of its musical wizards in “And The World Goes Round – The Music of Kander and Ebb.” The show runs Feb. 24 through March 21. All curtains are at 7:30 p.m.
Composer John Kander and lyricist Fred Ebb were one of Broadway’s most creative, versatile and dynamic musical theater writing teams. Over their 40-year partnership, they created more than a dozen Broadway classics, including “Cabaret,” “Chicago,” “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” “Woman of the Year,” “Zorba” and “New York, New York.” Many of their shows found their way onto the silver screen as well.
“And The World Goes Round” is a celebration of the duo’s work –a collage of love songs, torch songs and witty numbers from their top
shows. The songs serve as a lens into the lives of the characters on stage, exploring love, heartbreak, hope and the resilience of the human spirit.
The show stars four Key West voices – Lauren Thompson, Claire Caplan, Arthur Crocker and Jeremy Zoma. The musical direction for this show is done by New York’s Michael Fauss, a Broadway orchestrator and musical director for shows including “Oliver!” Red Barn artistic director Joy Hawkins and Thompson are co-directors, with Thompson also handling most of the choreography.
“I love that we get to celebrate these men who are icons of Broadway,” said Hawkins. “They wrote such celebrated Broadway musicals, with intricate harmonies and fancy footwork. This is a terrific night of music, and a celebration of these men who served musical theatre so brilliantly. This will be one of our best musical offerings ever.”
Tickets are available at redbarntheatre.com or from the box office at 305-296-9911.
— Contributed
Peanuts characters live on in Everhart’s paintings
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
Forget the fussy formality of still lifes, ships and somber portraits of unsmiling people.
Fine art can — in fact, should be — fun. Maybe not trampolines-and-Tilt-a-Whirls fun, but delightful and gratifying, a sort of never-get-tired-of-looking-at-it sense of enjoyment.
“Some people buy art like it’s a stock, and some people buy it because it makes them feel something. The truth? The best collections happen when both are true,” say the folks at Ocean Blue Galleries on Duval Street, which features the collectible — and fun — fine art of Tom Everhart, the only artist who was authorized to draw the iconic Peanuts characters by the man who created them, the late Charles Schulz.
Everhart is the perfect example of art that’s acquired for both its feelgood familiarity and its financial value — and he’s in town this week, appearing at Ocean Blue Galleries Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 7 to 9 p.m.
“Everhart’s work has serious collector value, but it also brings that bold, playful, instantly-happy energy that makes a home feel like you. (Think: the piece that turns your living room into a conversation starter, not just a room),” states the Ocean Blue Facebook page. “If you’ve ever been scared of buying art and regretting it later, don’t be; we’ll help you pick
the right piece, the right size, and the right framing so it looks unreal in your space for years.”
With football foibles, 5-cent psychiatry and a famously flippant beagle, Schulz gave the world a 50-year friendship with the Peanuts gang, drawing Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Lucy and the others for his syndicated comic strip and a host of other appearances. For decades, he trusted no one to recreate his characters. Then he met Everhart, a Yale-educated fine art painter who had never considered a career in cartoon or comic strip art. But a freelance project in 1980 required Everhart to recreate Schulz’s Peanuts gang, then present the drawings to Schulz and his studios.
“Completely impressed with Schulz’s line, (Everhart) was able to reproduce the line art almost exactly, which in turn impressed Schulz at their meeting,” states Everhart’s biography. That line prompted a lasting friendship and artistic partnership between Schulz and Everhart, who would go on to draw most of the Peanuts characters for the iconic MetLife advertising campaign. He remains the only fine artist authorized and educated by Schulz to draw the actual Schulz line that defines the familiar characters.
Everhart began to incorporate the characters into original paintings of his own, many of which are available at Ocean Blue Galleries, 109 Duval St., in Key West, where Everhart is appearing this week on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Feb. 19-21 from 7 to 9 p.m.
The voices of Lauren Thompson, Claire Caplan, Arthur Crocker and Jeremy Zoma, seen here with musical director Michael Fauss, bring Broadway songs to life at the Red Barn’s ‘And The World Goes Round – The Music of Kander and Ebb,’ opening Feb. 24. CONTRIBUTED
Ocean Blue Galleries in Key West welcomes artist Tom Everhart for appearances this week. Everhart is the only artist authorized to recreate Charles Schulz’s iconic Peanuts characters. CONTRIBUTED
I WAS (ALMOST) A BAD MONKEY
made the natural career transition from dolphin trainer to newspaper editor after six years at Dolphin Research Center. His passions include running, watersports, and civil disagreements with sharks while spearfishing.
A DAY ON THE SET OF THE APPLE TV SERIES
Ihave a confession to make: I was really, really hoping to get arrested last Saturday.
OK, I’m lying a little. But not as much as you’d think. Like many other Marathon locals, a few weeks ago I made my way down to Porky’s Bayside Restaurant for the open casting call of “Bad Monkey” season 2. Whipping out the most localized fun fact I could think of in my 10-second intro video (I’m a former dolphin trainer, if you didn’t know), I called it a day and patted myself on the back for at least showing up.
So when I got a text last week asking if I was available for a day of filming two days later, I was REALLY glad I took the chance.
Now, let’s get the obvious out of the way. I didn’t get to meet Vince Vaughn, or any of the other big-name actors for that matter. And IF I get lucky and they use the footage from our shoot, my on-screen moment goes something like this: “check out that spring breaker’s butt walking in front of the camera.”
I’m not complaining whatsoever. My role was originally set as “ND jogger” – pretty apt considering I’m voluntarily tormenting myself by training for a marathon in real life. (Does the ND literally stand for “nondescript?” Feels like they could have left that out.) But the day before the shoot, my call sheet changed to “arrestee” – and I thought “oh … HELL yeah.”
Shout out to my sister, who in the family group chat guessed “pirate” when asked to predict my role. Close enough, especially compared to my mom’s guess of “boater.”
The set for the day was MCSO’s Cudjoe substation, and what initially started as a plan to lock myself and my friend Darby Sheehan up as a pair of drunk-driving spring breakers turned into an effort to make the substation look as busy as NYPD. So my dreams of flashing on screen as a nutjob in cuffs were dashed.
But after watching the day’s operations, all I have to say is “wow.”
From the moment we arrived at 1 p.m. until our dismissal at 8, the entire ordeal was a highlycoordinated series of “go here,” “do this,” “move on.” And even as a bunch of nobody extras, the entire team from wardrobe to catering to production treated us with nothing but respect and professionalism.
Being on camera when an Apple TV director yelled “action!” was cool in itself, but for a tech and theater geek like me, the magic came from watching a completely normal sheriff’s office transform into a working set with truckloads of equipment in 20 to 30 minutes, tops. Ladders pop-
ping up everywhere, cables running across the entire site, lights added in the eaves of the building – all so quickly that if you blinked, you’d miss it.
The sheer number of people, vehicles and equipment that went into what I can only assume will be 10 to 20 seconds of screen time, tops, is downright insane – in a good way.
More than that, it’s fantastic that we’ll all get to watch the second season of this show and see many of our favorite local spots, friends and neighbors represented.
It’s something that hopefully we’ll see more of one day. For the uninitiated (including myself, until recently): Production companies love the Keys as an idea – see the “Road House” remake, multiple car commercials and music videos, “Bad Monkey” and even older works like “True Lies,” “Bloodline” and “2 Fast 2 Furious.”
The problem is, it makes no financial sense for them to come here. Ever since Florida’s tax credits for film and entertainment companies dried up in 2016, work done in the island chain is sparse at best. As one “Bad Monkey” staffer phrased it to me: “We’re left to fight over the scraps.”
That means that for “Road House,” 99% of the work was done in the Dominican Republic, and shots of the Seven Mile Bridge and our buddy Fred the Tree are just about the only authentic ones. For the second season of “Bad Monkey,” while names like Vaughn and Natalie Martinez were spotted in multiple places over the last few weeks, a $20 million tax credit out in California has lured the majority of filming to the west coast. Because it’s quite literally cheaper to recreate the entire set on a sound stage across the country.
But for now, we’ll take what we can get. Hats off to the crew of “Bad Monkey” for making this experience so accessible for locals who’ve never been in front of a camera before. And when you plop down to watch the show, keep an eye out for your favorite butt walking across the screen.
2. The crew of ‘Bad Monkey’ turns the Cudjoe MCSO substation into a working TV set in less than an hour.
3. Camera crews prep for sunset B-roll shots in ‘Bad Monkey’ season 2.
4. Fun fact: MCSO cars got custom blue graphics for their close-ups in the show’s second season.
5. Production team members review all angles of each shoot before moving on to the next.
ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
ALEX RICKERT
1. My buddy Jake Long as a detective or me as a beach bum spring breaker – guess who was supposed to get cuffed?
Mina Lopez , Bobi Lore, Henry Fuller, Journey Blue Heaven, and Dave Arndt
BAPTIST OPENS CANCER CENTER IN KEY WEST KEY WEST WILDLIFE CENTER: ‘IT’S FOR THE BIRDS’
Facility provides radiation, chemotherapy close to home
Baptist Health celebrated the opening of its new cancer care center in Key West with a ribbon cutting on Feb. 13. The center, part of Baptist Health Cancer Care, offers an infusion center for chemotherapy, advanced radiation therapy with a new linear accelerator, CT simulation for precise treatment planning and on-site medical and radiation oncology.
“We are incredibly excited to open this new cancer care center in Key West,” said Dr. Leonard Kalman, interim system chief executive of Baptist Health Cancer Care and interim executive medical director of Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute. “This facility represents a major step forward in providing advanced cancer care closer to home, enabling residents of the Lower Keys to receive treatment without traveling far from their support systems.”
The 4,300-square-foot facility is located at 3426 N. Roosevelt Blvd. Patients will have access to on-site support services, including nurse navigators, registered dietitians, social workers and symptom management specialists.
“The opening of this new center marks an important milestone for both Baptist Health and the Keys community,” said Joe Natoli, executive vice president and chief administrative officer of Baptist Health. “We are pleased to expand access to essential health services for both residents and visitors – care that will be delivered with quality and compassion by the experts they trust.”
The Key West Wildlife Center’s annual fundraiser, “It’s for the Birds,” is set for Sunday, Feb. 22, from 3 to 6 p.m., at the Key West Garden Club, located at the historic Fort West Martello, 1100 Atlantic Blvd., Key West.
The event includes food, drinks, live music, a wine wall, plus silent and live auctions.
Each year, the wildlife center responds to more than 1,500 rescue calls, providing urgent medical care, rehabilitation and — whenever possible — release back into the wild. Rescue services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The center’s work is funded entirely through donations and grants.
“Our ‘It’s for the Birds’ annual fundraiser provides much-needed funds that go directly toward offsetting the operating costs of our mission,” said Peggy Coontz, animal care director. “It is also our way of thanking the community that so generously supports us.”
A print of a work by the late artist Kevin Peterson, titled “It’s for
Key West Wildlife Center’s animal care director Peggy Coontz, left, and rescue specialist Chris Castro work with two of the many thousands of injured avians that have been rehabilitated at the nonprofit center. CAROL TEDESCO/Key West Wildlife Center
the Birds,” which he created especially for the center’s fundraising, will be raffled as part of the event. Tickets are $40 in advance and $45 at the door. Scan the QR code here to buy tickets.
More information is at keywestwildlifecenter.org, 305-2921008 or via email to keywestwildlifecenter@hotmail.com.
From left, Baptist Health Cancer Center supporters and executives Joe Natoli, Robert Spottswood, George Fernandez, Dr. Leonard Kalman, Margie Smith and Glenn Waters attend the Feb. 13 ribbon-cutting ceremony in Key West.
From left, Marlen Abrahantes, Joe Natoli, Glenn Waters, Key West City Commissioner Donie Lee, Dr. Leonard Kalman, Sheriff Rick Ramsay and Drew Grossman open the new cancer center. CONTRIBUTED
A print of the late artist Kevin Peterson’s painting, ‘It’s for the Birds,’ created especially for Key West Wildlife Center and its fundraising efforts, will be raffled as part of the center’s event of the same name. CONTRIBUTED
The Smithsonian-affiliated exhibit ‘Food: Celebrating Conch Cuisine’ opens at the Key West Museum of Art & History with a free reception Friday, Feb. 27, from 5 to 8 p.m. The display explores the culinary traditions and cultural heritage of the Florida Keys. CONTRIBUTED
The Key West Museum of Art & History will open a landmark exhibit on Feb. 27 with a free reception from 5 to 8 p.m. to celebrate the launch of “Food: Celebrating Conch Cuisine,” at the Custom House. The exhibit marks a milestone for the museum as a Smithsonian-affiliated project, partially funded and inspired by the Smithsonian Institution, underscoring the national significance of Florida Keys food heritage.
Building on the Smithsonian’s Food History initiatives, which explore the connections among food, culture and identity, this localized exhibit showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Florida Keys. “Food: Celebrating Conch Cuisine” traces the history, innovation and resilience of island food, from Indigenous harvesting traditions and Afro-Caribbean influences to Cuban and Bahamian migrations that shaped what is now known as Conch cuisine.
The exhibit features interactive displays, original artifacts and multimedia storytelling. Visitors will discover how the Keys’ geography, climate and cultural diversity influenced ingredient sourcing, food preservation
and evolving recipes, revealing how cuisine became central to both survival and celebration in island life.
More than a regional exhibit, “Food: Celebrating Conch Cuisine” reflects the Smithsonian’s broader mission of connecting food with memory, identity and meaning. Drawing on the history of the Florida Keys, the exhibit tells a story of cultural exchange, adaptation and community resilience, honoring the people and practices that shaped this cuisine.
“Conch cuisine is a living record of the Florida Keys,” said Cori Convertito, curator and historian for the Key West Art & Historical Society, the nonprofit organization that operates the museum. “This exhibition honors the indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, Cuban and Bahamian influences that shaped island food traditions and highlights how migration, geography and community created a cuisine found nowhere else in the world.”
The exhibit will remain on view through January 2027. The opening reception on Feb. 27 is free and open to the public. More information is at kwahs.org/food.
— Contributed
Key West celebrates loved ones at Crooks Second Line Parade
Talk about a celebration of life.
The 10th annual Crooks Second Line Parade, which marched down Duval Street on Feb. 15, takes its cue from New Orleans-style funeral processions and honors the lives of people loved and lost with a rousing musical march down Duval Street.
Named for legendary local drummer Richard Crooks, the Key West event raises money for the Bahama Village Music Program,
which provides free music education for kids, and is Crooks’ legacy to the island.
Each year, several hundred participants carry large photos of lost loved ones, while dancing down the street from the Hog’s Breath Saloon to the Green Parrot. This year’s march also included dozens of placards honoring founders of and donors to the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys.
— Keys Weekly staff report
Hundreds of celebrants fill Duval Street on Feb. 15 for the 10th annual Crooks Second Line Parade to commemorate lost loved ones with music, dance and memories. Photos by LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
PLEIN AIR: PAINTING WITH VIBRANT COLOR
3 DAY WORKSHOP WITH SARAH LORENTZ
Friday, February 27, 4-7pm
Saturday, February 28, 9am-12pm
Sunday, March 1, 9am-12pm
$275 for Non-Members
$250 for KWAC Members
OIL LANDSCAPE PAINTING
WITH PATRICIA SWEET
Friday, March 6, 2026 10am-2pm
$120 for Non-Members
$95 for KWAC Members
LINE & WASH WATER COLOR BATIK ON KINWASHI RICE PAPER
2 DAY WORKSHOP WITH PETER STERLING TURNER
Wednesday March 11, 2026 10am-2pm
Thursday, March 12, 2026 10am-12pm
$85 for Non-Member
$75 for KWAC Members
WATERCOLOR MONDAYS WITH KAREN BEAUPRIE
Four Mondays in March 10am-1pm
March 9, 16, 23 & 30. All levels welcome
$40 Non-Members/$35 Members per class Discount available for class bundles
DISASTER TO MASTERREVIVING OLD PAINTINGS
2 DAY WORKSHOP WITH NANCY VAN NESS
Friday, March 20, 2026 10am - 4pm
Saturday, March 21, 2026 10am-4pm
$300 for Non-Member
$275 for KWAC Members
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Outpatient Surgery Centered On You
If you need surgery, you want care that feels personal and calming. At Surgery Center of Key West, you will find outpatient surgical services delivered with the comfort, efficiency and personal attention you expect. The highly skilled and compassionate team of physicians, nurses and staff care for you in a welcoming environment designed around your comfort and safety.
From check-in to recovery, our experienced team helps you get back to feeling your best, faster, so you can return to the island life you love.
Surgery Center of Key West is a collaboration among physicians in the following specialties:
• ENT
• Endoscopy and Colonoscopy Procedures
• General Surgery
• Ophthalmology
• Gynecology
• Orthopedics
931 Toppino Drive, Key West FL 33040
• Pain Management
• Podiatry
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• Urology
Accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care since 2008.
Bruce Fariss, M.D. Urology
3714 N. Roosevelt Boulevard Key West, FL 33040 (305) 296-0000
Surgery Center of Key West, LLC, is owned in part by physicians.
The medical staff at Surgery Center of Key West, LLC, is composed of the following independent providers: Lawrence Blass, M.D., Bruce Fariss, M.D., Jackson Flanigan, M.D., Jonathan Gottlieb, M.D., Paul Maurer, M.D., David McDonald, D.D.S., Gon Saman, D.P.M., William Schnapp, M.D., Christina Smith, D.D.S., Rhoda Smith, M.D., Brien Tonkinson, M.D., and Andrew Wolszczak, M.D.
A great white heron seen recently in Key West. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
The great white heron came in fast and loud, wings half folded, pushed by a tailwind, letting out a raspy dysphonic squawk right before he pulled a half-corkscrew turn, dropped down, threw his wings out and landed soft as a pat of butter on the rocks.
... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.
He stood there for a long while, all 4 feet of him, facing upwind like some kind of heroic figure, the occipital plume waving off the back of his head in the breeze.
I’m always wary of the idea of someone discovering a species. I mean, the species was there all along, and no doubt the locals knew about it. Let’s just assume the great white heron was first described to the scientific/ornithological world by John James Audubon during his six-week visit to the Keys in 1832.
It’s impossible to say how many generations of great whites there have been since Audubon’s time, though it is possible to make a wild but semi-educated guess. If they live, on average, 15 years, and can breed at two years, an average generation is probably around eight years. Meaning there are probably about 25 generations between the birds he saw (and shot) and the bird I was looking at, which likely would not be distinguishable from one from the Audubon era. What’s changed, though, is how we think about the bird.
Scientific methods were different back in the day. It’s a pretty well-known fact that Audubon spent a lot of time observing birds in the wild, but he also spent a lot of time shooting them out of the sky. I’ve seen people get righteous about this, but I’m relatively ambivalent about it. At the time, people thought nature was infinite. There was really no other way, with the tools of the era, to study birds up close. And Audubon’s mission was to create a massive work, which was technologically revolutionary at the time, that would change the way people thought about bird life in America. Which he did.
Also, Audubon sometimes ate the birds he shot. (He wrote that he enjoyed the taste of great white heron.)
But reading about his efforts to acquire those specimens puts some strange images in your head. For instance, the first great whites Audubon saw were a pair of nestlings someone brought to him at Indian Key. They also brought him the nest, sawed out of the mangroves, with a long dead, and apparently very fragrant, chick in the bottom of it.
Audubon set his apparently well-trained dog, a Newfoundland named Plato, to watch over the heron chicks. And when he got too close to one of the chicks, it clamped its bill onto the dog’s nose and would not release it until Audubon came in and loosened it with his hands.
Audubon later came to Key West. He was so excited by this new species that he spent several days rowing and sailing around the islands west
THE GREAT WHITE HERON: A QUESTIONABLE BIRD
of here trying to track down great white heron specimens. Ultimately, he shot about 30 and brought about 15 skins north with him, delivering one to the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. Which was generous, but also something of what the kids call a flex, as the academy had never accepted him as a member.
He shot down one bird, which he determined to be a female because of the unfeathered state of her brood patch.
Afterward he wrote, “We now rested awhile, and breakfasted on some biscuit soaked in molasses and water, reposing under the shade of the mangroves, where the mosquitoes had a good opportunity of breaking their fast also.”
Later he described pulling into the mangroves near a rookery in the dark.
“There we lay quietly until daybreak. But the mosquitoes and sandflies! Reader, if you have not been in such a place, you cannot easily conceive the torments we endured for a whole hour.” Reader, I believe him, as I have been to those islands. And I’m not particularly sad about him suffering.
But he also described seeing hundreds of great whites at a time, out feeding on the same flats, which I find amazing, considering I’ve seen maybe five or six. Also considering that after the plume-hunting era that came seven decades later, and the 1938 hurricane, only 146 great whites were counted in the Keys.
Audubon tried to paint the birds as large as he could get away with on the 39.5 x 26.5-inch pages of his double elephant folios. Being as the great white heron was the largest heron in North America, he had the bird’s bill break outside the confines of the scene into the margins on the page.
The great white heron is primarily considered a Florida Keys bird. They do stray up into the mainland, and there is a small population in Cuba. They also may be in parts of the Yucatan, Venezuela, Jamaica and the Virgin Islands. But it’s unclear if they breed in any of those places. It is very clear they breed in the Keys.
For close to a century-and-a-half after Audubon’s visit, nobody really questioned the viability of the great white heron as a species. But then a couple people did, specifically Ernst Mayr. Also, there was a paper by another man with the awesome name of Outram Bangs, a moniker that sounds like a proto-Wes Andersonian name. But Mayr was the star, a giant in multiple disciplines of biology – taxonomy and ornithology among them. He is credited with bringing about the modern interpretation of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.
In 1956 he wrote a paper entitled, “Is the Great White Heron a Good Species?” Not in a moral sense, of course, but questioning, and ultimately rejecting, the idea that the great white heron was a legitimate species, especially considering the fact that it was similar to the great blue heron in so many ways. He came to this opinion largely through studying stuffed specimens in museums and using second- and third-party accounts of the birds’ behaviors.
The change did not happen immediately, but in 1973 the American Ornithological Union reclassified (it’s tempting to say downgraded) the great white heron as a subspecies of the great blue heron. Later, it was reclassified further as a color morph.
The debate is not over. A paper published in 2019 with morphological studies as well as DNA analysis made a rather compelling argument that the great white heron is, in fact, a species, though it did not fully convince the AOU’s Committee on Classification and Nomenclature for North and Middle America, which voted 5-4 not to reclassify the bird. (BirdLife International and the International Union for Conservation of Nature, two other taxonomy powerhouses, do consider the great white to be a species.)
None of this mattered to the heron I was looking at, though. After a few minutes posing on the rocks, he hopped down into the water and slowly stepped along the edge of the beach, more interested in fish than anything else.
MARK HEDDEN
CHRIS McNULTY
is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com
We’ve officially reached the most powerful astrological week of the entire year. This week includes a solar eclipse on Tuesday, Feb. 24. The eclipse is a powerful new moon, representing the start of a six-month story that will culminate in the eclipses of August. The upcoming Aquarian eclipse signals innovation, community and radical independence. We will discover new ways to participate in our community while freeing ourselves from systems that would hold us back. Look for your entry points and invitations. Until then, in this period between eclipses, things are not as they seem and tectonic shifts are taking place. Tread lightly and keep your wits about you.
The main event this week is the Saturn-Neptune conjunction on Friday, Feb. 20. This alignment of planets takes place every 36 years, and it marks an epochal shift in the global order. The last time these two planets met, the Berlin Wall fell. Astrologers are referring to this particular meeting of Saturn and Neptune as a factory reset. The world as we knew it will forever be changed. On a personal level, though, this conjunction represents a dissolution of structures and a materialization of dreams. It’s about letting go and building anew.
Here are your horoscopes for the solar eclipse in Aquarius and the Saturn-Neptune conjunction. Read for your rising and sun signs.
PISCES
Feb. 19 - March 20
Happy birthday season, Pisces. The sun is shining upon you, so celebrate yourself and your dreamy uniqueness. This week, intentionally use your alone time to anchor a new practice, whether it is writing, meditating or deep reflection. You are starting a whole new relationship with the “great everything.” It is also high time to take your dreams out of the “someday” pile into practical reality, particularly around values and money. Build your business.
ARIES
March 21 - April 19
Ready yourself, Aries, because this sky portends big change. You have the opportunity to be reborn as the highest version of yourself. The dreams you have about who you want to be can now be actualized, so show us what you got. As you do, you will find that new people will appear out of the woodwork to support you in your endeavors. No hope or dream is out of reach.
TAURUS
April 20 - May 20
You are seeding a whole new career or public reputation for yourself, Taurus. Don’t be afraid to be seen right now, as this sky is supporting you as a public figure, whether your audience is in the tens or the thousands. As you start your new public venture, pay close attention to your private life, because it is in the stillness that you are really building something magical.
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
A grand new adventure awaits, and the planning begins now. If you have dreams of expanding your horizons through study, travel or publishing, those dreams can start to become reality. You will find a whole new network of allies to support you in your endeavors. There will be folks materializing in your world that will help you along the way, so be open to new relationships.
CANCER
June 21 - July 22
You are entering an entire new phase of how you are known in your community, Cancer. Be ready to show up in ways that you haven’t before. There are fresh needs in the world that are craving your unique skills and talents. Invest in others and the returns will be huge. You just have to show up, which is 90% of the work. Prepare yourself to be called upon in new ways.
LEO
July 23 - Aug. 22
A very important relationship is coming into your life, or an existing one is leveling up. This relationship calls upon you to show up differently, and it will challenge your understanding of yourself. Consider this a great new opportunity. You have a grand adventure ahead of you and you are ready to cross the horizons that you’ve dreamed about. Pack your bags.
VIRGO
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
You are ready to live a new life, Virgo, and it all starts with your daily routines and habits. Getting into a fresh flow will propel you into a relationship with yourself in incredibly powerful ways. If you want to make your dreams manifest, invest your time, talent and treasure in people and projects that align with your goals. Don’t fear the unknown, embrace what you can control.
LIBRA
Sept. 23 - Oct. 22
You have a unique view of the world, and it is time to share that with us. A new creative project or venture is being seeded and it will
THE THRESHOLD OF A NEW ERA
come to fruition this summer. Follow your bliss and be patient with the outcome. The way you have dreamed about partnership with another is becoming manifest now. Be present to the structural changes taking place.
SCORPIO
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
Under this sky, your idea of home and your sense of security are going through a major change. Perhaps you are reconsidering where you lay your head or you are reorienting yourself to family. Trust that you know what is best for your emotional needs. You are also realizing that in order to achieve your dreams you have to restructure your habits. Welcome a fresh discipline.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
If you have struggled to find your voice in the past, this sky is helping you find your script. You have a unique perspective, and there are ways for you to share it. Practice your writing or public speaking and see how the world reacts. A fresh new take on your creativity and relationship to romance is coming through. Let us enjoy your spark.
CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
Your abundance and self-worth are being lit up right now, Capricorn. Tapping into what you truly value will help you find new ways of supporting yourself materially. Be open to a new job or a new source of income. There is a reset taking place at home, and you have control over it. New house rules are in order, so make sure that you have a say in what goes.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
Break free from older versions of yourself that no longer serve, Aquarius. This eclipse is giving you the energy to reinvent yourself. Along with this “new you” comes a new way of communicating. As you speak your new world into existence, you will see your local environment change to suit your needs. Write your own story now.
WHAT’S COOKING, KEY WEST?
The missing ingredients that make the difference
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY
www.keysweekly.com
No matter how many ingredients are listed in a written recipe — whether printed in a glossy cookbook, posted on a “foodie” website or scribbled on an index card — it’s almost certain to be missing three ingredients.
They might not be as tangible as olive oil or herbs, but their absence makes a crucial difference in how a dish is received. Their presence, however, turns an ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience full of enjoyment and camaraderie.
Well-known to intuitive chefs and old-fashioned grandmothers, these vital ingredients are simple yet profound: love, tradition and passion.
That’s because food, at its best, is a love language. When cooked with purpose and joy, it nurtures and satisfies — warming both body and mind as it’s served and appreciated.
When it comes to traditional foods, they’re far more than a means of appeasing hunger. Carefully prepared, using tips and techniques handed down through generations, they carry the essence of their maker’s culture in each savory bite.
As for passion, that “ingredient” marks the difference between those who treat cooking as a chore and those who regard it as an expression of their innate creativity.
Guests can enjoy dishes liberally flavored with the three vital ingredients during learn-and-dine experiences at the Key West Cooking Show — prepared by chef-storytellers who weave them into every demonstration class at the show’s 291 Front St. venue.
For chef-storyteller Melanie Rodriguez, sharing culture and heritage through cuisine is a personal calling as well as a professional one.
“I’ve always believed that the best meals are the ones that bring people together,” said Rodriguez, whose memories include watching her grandmother make empanadas by hand in Puerto Rico and savoring her mother’s special flan during holiday gatherings. Her passion for cuisine is apparent at every Cooking Show experience she guides, demonstrating how to make favorite multicultural dishes while offering preparation tips and insights into the dishes’ role in Key West’s history.
Melanie Rodriguez brings smiling energy and a passion for cuisine to every Key West Cooking Show experience she guides. KEY WEST COOKING SHOW/Contributed
With no formal culinary training, Rodriguez developed her intuitive style and tradition-based repertoire by preparing meals for husband Jeff and daughters Gabriella and Giulianna — and hosting countless gatherings where food is plentiful and guests are warmly welcomed.
“Cooking is always where I felt most grounded,” Rodriguez said. “To me, the perfect house is one where the coffee is always brewing, drinks are generously poured, everyday meals become shared experiences and everyone leaves well-fed.”
Guided by Rodriguez and other dedicated chef-storytellers, Cooking Show sessions are now offered to culinary fans several times each day. For reservations, call 305-294-COOK.
LAST BITES
Dish of the week: Sunday pork chops. This hearty entrée recalls memories of traditional Sunday dinners with family. Seasoned bone-in pork chops are pan-seared or baked, and finished with a rich sauce infused with thyme and shallots. Pair chops with a creamy potato gratin for a meal that demonstrates food’s ability to evoke warmth and comfort.
Helpful kitchen hack: For the best pork chops, let them “rest” for five to 10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute so they won’t run out as soon as the chops are cut.
Hungry for more? Visit keywestcookingshow.com.
KEY WEST WOMAN GETS 12-YEAR SENTENCE FOR DEADLY CRASH
Olivia
Binek-Thibodeaux hit & killed bicyclist Michael Diezel III on U.S. 1
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Judge Mark Wilson sentenced a Key West woman to 12 years in prison after she was convicted of DUI manslaughter, following a fatal crash in which her car hit and killed a bicyclist on U.S. 1 in March 2022. Blood tests showed that Olivia BinekThibodeaux, 37, was driving under the influence of methamphetamine on the afternoon of March 4, 2022, when her white BMW swerved out of the southbound lane and onto the paved sidewalk, where college student Michael Diezel III was riding his bicycle with his father near MM 5. Diezel was killed instantly, according to the medical examiner’s report.
“Eyewitnesses observed the BMW repeatedly swerve from its lane of travel before entering the shoulder and striking the bicyclist,” states a report from the state attorney’s office. “Florida Highway Patrol traffic homicide investigators, through scene analysis, vehicle examination and crash reconstruction, independently determined that the BMW failed to maintain its lane of travel and entered the shoulder, striking Diezel III. Investigators further determined that the BMW did not brake prior to impact, despite having sufficient distance to stop. The impact caused catastrophic injuries and Diezel III was pronounced dead at the scene.”
Six hours after the crash, Thibodeaux tested positive for 0.133 nanograms of methamphetamine, an amount sufficient to cause impairment, and an amount that experts told the jury was likely much higher six hours prior, when the crash occurred.
In addition to the 12-year prison sentence, Judge Wilson sentenced Binek-Thibodeaux to three years of probation after release, a lifetime driver’s license revocation, 50 hours of community service, two random urinalysis screenings per week, and attendance at three NA/AA meetings per week.
The four-day trial took place in Key West, where a jury, after deliberating for three hours, found Binek-Thibodeaux guilty of DUI manslaughter and vehicular manslaughter.
After the verdict, the judge granted the defendant’s motion for acquittal on the vehicular manslaughter charge. Wilson ruled that, “while the evidence established impairment and negligent operation of a motor vehicle, it did not meet the heightened legal standard of recklessness required to sustain a conviction for vehicular homicide under Florida law,” according to a statement from the state attorney’s office. “The court determined there was insufficient proof that the defendant operated the vehicle in a willful or wanton manner demonstrating a conscious disregard for the safety of others, and a judgment of acquittal was entered as to that count.”
Sentencing occurred based only on the DUI manslaughter conviction. Binek-Thibodeaux’s attorneys announced their plans to appeal, and Wilson allowed her to be released on a $50,000 bond pending her appeal.
“This case represents the kind of irreversible loss that impaired driving leaves behind,” said Chief Assistant State Attorney Joe Mansfield, who prosecuted the case. “A young man set out on a bicycle ride with his father and never made it home. The court’s sentence reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s actions. Our thoughts remain with the Diezel family, who have shown strength and grace throughout these proceedings.”
Olivia BinekThibodeaux.
A PRESIDENTIAL PIT STOP
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis unveils James Monroe statue, visits Grassy Key eatery
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Astatue of Monroe County’s namesake now graces the side of the Overseas Highway by the old Bahia Honda Bridge, after a visit from Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Presidents Day.
Addressing Monroe County dignitaries with Secretary of State Cory Byrd and Visit Florida president and CEO Bryan Griffin, DeSantis unveiled the statue of founding father James Monroe, the United States’ fifth president from 1817 to 1825. The installation is the latest in a series of statues announced last year, placed in Florida counties named after the founding fathers.
Serving in both the Revolutionary War and War of 1812, Monroe held positions including Virginia’s senator and governor, secretary of war under James Madison, and secretary of state, also under Madison.
In addition to aiding in negotiations for the Louisiana Purchase, he was a pivotal figure in the signing of the Adams-Onis Treaty in 1819, in which Spain ceded Florida to the United States.
“His Monroe Doctrine established our country as the guardian of the hemisphere,” said DeSantis, referencing the president’s foreign policy position opposing further European influence and colonization in the Americas. He related the philosophy to the recent capture of former Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro.
“You see some of these elections that are happening, and you’re starting to see the tide shift, but I think it’s clear that we are not going to allow people into the hemisphere,” he said. “It was the right policy then, and remains the right policy now. There’s not many things you can say over 200 years ago were laid down and that we should continue kind of doing the same thing.”
“(Monroe) obviously had a huge impact by making sure that Florida became part of the American republic, and we’re proud to honor him today,” the governor concluded.
“Florida exists because of President James Monroe – the actions he took to negotiate the Adams-Onis Treaty, to acquire the Florida territory, and then under his leadership, ultimately see through to the territory being established on March 30, 1822,” said Griffin, referencing the merging of East and West Florida.
Located on the ocean side at the west end of the bridge, the statue is part of the newlychristened Spottswood Heritage Trail, named in honor of former Monroe County Sheriff and State Senator John M. Spottswood.
“Monroe County is proud to receive a little part of 1776 history in the Florida Keys,” said
Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln in a press release. “This monument highlights our local heritage and also the role the Florida Keys played in the broader story of our nation as it grew.”
The statue is part of Florida’s commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, with more events and details throughout the year available at america250fl.com.
With the unveiling complete, the governor made his way to Marathon, stopping at Grassy Key’s S.S. Wreck and Galley Grill to film a lunchtime episode of his web series “Diners, Drive-Ins & DeSantis.”
Sampling a full lineup of signature appetizers from owners Omar and Nicole Maldonado’s restaurant, the governor also got a taste of the pies from sister restaurant Coast to Coast Pizza in Marathon, before capping the afternoon with a sweet taste of the restaurant’s awardwinning Key lime pie.
Scoring the Wreck’s ahi tuna nachos a “10 out of 10,” DeSantis also heaped praise on the signature dessert made in the islands where it got its name.
“If I was in a restaurant in New York City and got this, it’s not the same,” he said. “There’s something about how it’s done down here that just makes it better. And this has a really, really good crust.”
According to social media photos posted to the governor’s account later that day, DeSantis’ staffers even stopped for some classic Dion’s Chicken on their way out of the island chain.
1. Gov. Ron DeSantis poses with the freshly-unveiled statue of James Monroe – one of several placed around the state of Florida in counties named after Founding Fathers.
2. A scenic trail at the west end of the Bahia Honda railroad bridge will now be known as the Spottswood Heritage Trail, named in honor of the late Monroe County Sheriff and state Senator John M. Spottswood.
3. Florida Secretary of State Cory Byrd, left, and Gov. Ron DeSantis sample appetizers from the S.S. Wreck and Galley Grill, from coconut shrimp and gator bites to ahi tuna nachos, as part of the governor’s ‘Diners, Drive-Ins & DeSantis’ web series.
4. Gov. Ron DeSantis, third from left, poses with the Maldonado family. From left: Omar III, Nicole, DeSantis and Omar Jr. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
Jim
Mandy
Alex
Marathon
401.256.0645
alex@keysweekly.com
HELP KEEP KEY WEST BEAUTIFUL
JOIN A 1- HOUR CLEANUP FRIDAY MORNINGS
The Feb. 13 morning cleanup started at the Harry S. Truman Little White House and included Truman’s grandson and President Jimmy Carter’s daughter and two grandsons, who were in town for Presidents Weekend events. They were joined by another record-setting number of volunteers — 135. In one hour, they collected 128 pounds of trash, 47 pounds of recycling and 5 gallons of cigarette butts. Special thanks to the Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation for providing breakfast on the White House lawn for all the participants. The Feb 20 cleanup will be held at Smathers Beach. Park in the public lot next to the entrance to Margaritaville Resort, but not in their parking lot. CONTRIBUTED
One hour a week makes a huge difference, and volunteers are welcome every Friday and some Saturday mornings, from 8 to 9 a.m., when the Key West Ploggers clean up a designated area of the island.
Gloves, pickers, buckets, vests, hand sanitizer and a parking pass are provided to all volunteers.
A troubling number of cigarette butts and plastic bags have been included in recent hauls. Please remember your reusable bags when shopping so we can keep the plastic off the streets, parking lots and, most importantly, out of the water. And dispose of cigarette butts in any receptacle rather than the street or sidewalk, as from there, they easily end up in the ocean.
The city of Key West and its residents ask everyone to do their part to help keep Key West beautiful. With simple steps like making sure you bag your trash before putting it in your Waste Management trash cans or Dumpsters, and making sure the lids on Dumpsters are closed, will keep a lot of trash from blowing into the streets. Call Waste Management at 305-296-8297 for any furniture items left on the city right of way.
Please pick up around your home or apartment complex. Every
piece of trash picked up is one less that may end up in the ocean that surrounds and sustains our island community. It is not just the large items you can see easily when you are walking, but the smaller items such as bottle caps and cigarette butts that are collected by the volunteers that make the biggest difference.
It takes committed community involvement to keep Key West beautiful and we are making progress with every cleanup event and every spot that’s adopted. Call Dorian Patton at 305-809-3782 to find out how your business, nonprofit or club can help.
— Contributed
Join a one-hour Friday morning cleanup. All events are 8 to 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted.
Feb. 20: Smathers Beach. Park and meet in the public parking lot next to Margaritaville Resort, but don’t park in the hotel’s lot for this special fentanyl awareness event.
Feb. 27: Duval and South streets. Meet in the parking lot between Simonton and Duval on South Street, near Le Mar and Dewey Guesthouses. Hosted by the Southernmost Beach Resort.
TAKE ME HOME?
FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA
The Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC. Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.
Meet Amos. He’s a small kitty with a gentle spirit and a curious mind. At just over a year old, he’s the perfect blend of youthful energy and calm affection. Amos enjoys watching the world from a cozy perch and greeting visitors with inquisitive eyes. He’s been settling in with the other cats with ease, showing us how friendly and adaptable he can be.
Cocoa. This female
is a tiny bundle of curiosity and charm. She loves exploring her habitat, nibbling on treats and curling up in cozy nests. Hamsters are wonderful companions for those seeking a low-maintenance pet with a big personality in a small package.
Queso is a lively orange kitten who’s full of playful energy, curiosity and irresistible charm. He’s 4 months old, and whether he’s chasing toys, exploring new corners or tumbling around with excitement, Queso is always ready for fun. He also has a soft side; he loves settling in for cuddles once he’s tired out. He’s waiting for his furever family.
Meet Penny, an 8-year-old Chihuahua with a sleek black coat and a heart full of love. As a senior pup, she brings a calm and steady presence that only older dogs can offer. Penny enjoys gentle walks and soft blankets. Since arriving at our campus, Penny has shown just how sweet and easygoing she is. Senior pups are the best — grateful and often already well-mannered.
Luna, a 1-year-old mix, is as sweet as they come and still very much a puppy at heart. She’s full of enthusiasm and affection, and most importantly, a desire to learn. With consistent guidance and positive reinforcement, she’ll grow into a well-rounded companion. Luna is waiting at our Key West campus for someone to welcome her into their life.
Meet
hamster
Thank you to the more than 80 local elected, business, and nonprofit leaders who joined us in Tallahassee for the 2026 Florida Keys Day advocacy event. Your commitment and collaboration strengthen our communities and ensure the Keys’ priorities are heard.
THANK YOU 2026 SPONSORS
MONDAY - WEDNESDAY 11- 4
THURSDAY - SATURDAY 11- 6
Best Oceanfront Dining in KeyWest
Practice
OH BABY, CAN YOU DONATE DIAPERS TO HELP KEYS FAMILIES?
Healthy Start has Keyswide dropoff spots & easy online donations
The organization that exists to help Keys moms and families before, during and after pregnancy has launched its annual diaper drive that will run through Feb. 28 to help provide struggling families with an essential baby item.
Diapers are considered a significant, recurring expense that costs families an average of $80 to $100 per month. And prices have increased by over 20% since 2018, with newborns requiring up to 10 to 12 changes daily, according to the Institute for Research on Poverty.
For many families, this expense can be overwhelming, resulting in a need for diapers that affects one of every three families locally and nationwide, states a press release from the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition.
Families without adequate diapers may be forced to change them less often, increasing the risk of diaper rash and infection. In addition, many child care centers require families to supply diapers, meaning a lack of diapers can prevent parents from working.
“When families don’t have enough diapers, it affects a baby’s health and a parent’s ability to work (as parents must provide day care centers with diapers for their children),” said Arianna Nesbitt of the coalition. “This drive helps ensure babies are healthy and parents have the support they need.”
Donors can purchase diapers and wipes directly from the coalition’s Amazon wish list. Monetary donations are also welcome through the fundraising platform Zeffy, with every dollar going toward diapers and other essential baby supplies. In addition,
local businesses and organizations throughout Monroe County are hosting donation boxes where unopened packages of diapers can be dropped off. A list of the dropoff locations is on this page.
“Through this compassionate effort, we can make sure no family has to choose between buying diapers and covering other basic needs — because every baby deserves a healthy, happy start,” Nesbitt said.
More information is at keyshealthystart.org or 305-293-8424.
— Contributed
2026 DIAPER DROPOFF LOCATIONS
UPPER KEYS
Purple Pineapple Boutique
Islamorada library
Coral Isle Church
Key Largo library
Caribbean Club
The Catch
Miss Monroe
First Baptist Church-Key Largo
MIDDLE KEYS
Kirk of the Keys
Winn-Dixie, Big Pine Key Big Pine library
Marathon library
LOWER KEYS
Unity of the Keys
Sweat Society
Island Women’s Health
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Anytime Fitness
Keys Pediatrics
Key West library
Tax Collector’s Office (Roosevelt)
Tax Collector’s Office (Truman)
Fausto’s
Excel Chiropractic
The Smith Law Firm
Bella Luxe Makeup
Lady Nails
PIPING ALONG
Water main replacement project moves to Tavernier
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
From Tea Table Relief at MM 79.5, contractors for the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority began placing 36-inch-diameter steel pipes in 2023 to replace an aged line. Working their way through Upper Matecumbe and Windley Keys, crews recently finished placing several miles of new water transmission main from the southern end of Plantation Key at Snake Creek Bridge to Tavernier Creek Bridge.
Crews placed more than 10 miles of new transmission into the ground in the last three years. A pricey replacement, each mile of new pipe costs $10 million.
Some of the recent work at the northern end of Plantation Key experienced delays due to king tide flood and unanticipated utility conflicts. Overall, Greg Veliz, FKAA executive director, said the projects in Islamorada have gone better than he could have expected.
“We’ve had a lot more good spots than bad spots,” he said. “At the end of the day, 20% of the pipeline was replaced in three years. … I see that as impressive.”
The new, 36-inch diameter steel water main was installed via open-cut trench, a method FKAA says ensures the pipe’s not compromised by the Keys’ aggressive soils and subterranean tidal flows. The pipe is cathodically protected, intended to prevent corrosion over time.
At Tea Table Relief and Tavernier Creek Bridge, crews installed the water main underwater via horizontal direction drill. The pipe will be protected from high winds and storm surges.
With work complete in Islamorada, construction crews shifted to the northern end of Tavernier Creek Bridge to install the new main to Julep Road in Tavernier. The installation is approaching the Ocean Boulevard intersection. Motorists traveling up U.S. 1 to Tavernier are experiencing traffic delays, with one lane shut down from the southern end of Tavernier Creek Bridge to Ocean Boulevard to allow for the installation work.
In addition, left turns out of Tavernier Towne Plaza’s southern exit will be blocked from Sunday through Thursday from 8:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m., through March. Per the Florida Department of Transportation, left turns are not permitted in the work zone. Similar left turns will soon be
RAFTER PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed
disallowed out of the plaza’s other exit near McDonald’s. FKAA said a flagger and police officers are on site at these exits Sunday through Thursday from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. to assist with traffic flow.
FKAA said the speed limit is 35 mph through the work zone. Access to all businesses will be maintained and businesses will be notified in advance of work near their location.
Veliz said he appreciates the collaboration and cooperation among Islamorada village officials, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the Monroe County school district.
Originally scheduled to be completed in March 2026, the water main replacement is now expected to finish in April. Veliz said FKAA is working to secure grant funding to begin the next water main replacement, south of MM 79. The project will replace 7 miles of aged pipe and cross four bridges. The project price tag is $88 million.
“People ask me all the time, ‘When will you be done?’ If we do it right, never,” Veliz said. “If we do this correctly and the money holds, by the time we get done replacing all the Keys it’ll be time to replace it again.”
Traffic moves slowly as construction crews work on the north side of Tavernier Creek Bridge on Feb. 10. One U.S. 1 lane is shut down to allow for installation of the new water transmission main in the ground. JASON
Founded by Betty Debnam
COOL COLORADO
Welcome to Colorado! This western state is also considered part of the Southwest, the Mountain West and the Four Corners region, bordering Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. Colorado became a state in 1876. Its capital is Denver, the Mile-High City. It’s the eighth-largest state by area in our country.
COLORADO HISTORY
Native Americans and their ancestors have been in the region for many thousands of years. Ancient Pueblo, Ute, Apache and Comanche peoples, among others, lived in the region.
Later, American settlers traveling west on the Santa Fe Trail went through the southeastern portion of Colorado. Much of eastern Colorado was part of the Kansas Territory until 1861.
In the late 1800s, silver and gold were mined in central Colorado, bringing more people to the state.
LIVING IN COLORADO
About 6 million people live in Colorado, with more than 700,000 in Denver. The state has many different geographical features, including the Rocky Mountains, deep canyons, deserts with vast sand dunes in the southcentral portion of the state, and high plains in the east.
Denver lies on the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains, called the Front Range. Colorado is home to 58 peaks over 14,000 feet tall, called “fourteeners.” That’s the most of any state.
On the Western Slope of the Rockies, ski resorts attract winter sports enthusiasts.
Coloradans work in agriculture and tourism, along with food processing, manufacturing and beer brewing. The U.S. Air Force Academy is near Colorado Springs. People also work at four national parks and 11 national forests in the state.
COLORADO FUN
Along with skiing, hiking, biking, river rafting and other sports, Coloradans can follow their favorite professional sports teams: the Colorado Rockies (MLB), the Denver Broncos (NFL), the Denver Nuggets (NBA) and the Colorado Rapids (MLS).
The University of Colorado, Colorado State University and the Colorado School of Mines, among others, are public universities in the state.
MINI FACT: Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve has the tallest dunes in North America.
COLORADO ICONS
• Mikaela Shiffrin, who was born in Vail, is considered the best alpine skier of all time. Her parents were both ski racers. Mikaela won the Olympic gold medal in slalom at age 18 and the gold in giant slalom four years later. She planned to participate in the 2026 Olympics.
• Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch was born in Denver. He was nominated by President Donald Trump and was sworn in on April 10, 2017. Before he rose to the Supreme Court, he was an appeals court judge.
• Chief Ouray (YUR-ay) was a leader of the Ute people in Colorado in the late 19th century. Ouray was responsible for negotiating treaties with the U.S. government on behalf of the Utes. The town of Ouray lies in the southwestern part of the state, and the Ute Indian Museum is near land that once belonged to him and his wife.
RESOURCES
ON THE WEB
• bit.ly/49EoRSX
AT THE LIBRARY
• “National Parks of the USA” by Kate Siber
• “Colors of Colorado: Animals in Camouflage” by Linda Cox
ECO NOTE Words that remind us of Colorado are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
Hundreds of native plant species are blooming in midwinter across the United Kingdom, a shift scientists say is a clear sign of climate change disrupting natural cycles. Data from the annual New Year Plant Hunt show that for every 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit of warming in November and December, an average of 2.5 additional species bloomed during the new year period. Volunteers recorded 310 native species in bloom, far more than the roughly 10 normally expected, with daisies and dandelions again appearing early in 2026. The trend highlights growing stress on ecosystems as Britain experiences its hottest years on record.
Photo by Jack McLane
Photo courtesy Mia & Steve Mestdagh
Photo Carol M. Highsmith, LOC
A girl skis in Breckenridge, Colorado.
U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs.
Photo by Lisa Ferdinando
Photo by Franz Jantzen
Mikaela Shiffrin
Neil Gorsuch
Chief Ouray
TO KEY WEST
THE DAVE MATTHEWS
MARTIN SEXTON
MARCH 13
KEY WEST THEATER
SQUIRREL NUT ZIPPERS
APRIL 2
KEY WEST THEATER
COLIN QUINN
FEBRUARY 27
KEY WEST THEATER
MAN IN BLACK A TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CASH
MAR. 5, KEY WEST THEATER
BUMPIN' UGLIES WITH JOEY HARKUM
MAR. 25, KEY WEST THEATER
BODEANS
MARCH 29
KEY WEST THEATER
FOREIGNER
APRIL 23, KEY WEST AMPHITHEATER
GRAHAM NASH
APRIL 25 & 26
KEY WEST THEATER
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Team Sport Opponent
Coral Shores Baseball Terra Environmental 2/9 W, 2-1
Marathon Baseball Miami Country Day 2/9 W, 12-0
Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse Westminster Academy 2/9 W, 16-2
Coral Shores Baseball South Dade 2/10 L, 15-0
Marathon Baseball Silver Palms 2/10 T, 8-8
Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse Ransom Everglades 2/11 L, 16-4
Coral Shores Girls Lacrosse St. Brendan 2/11 W, 14-6
Key West Boys Lacrosse Palmetto 2/12 W, 12-6
Key West Girls Lacrosse Palmer Trinity 2/12 W, 13-12
Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse Miami Palmetto 2/13 W, 16-5
Marathon Baseball Silver Palms 2/13 W, 2-0
Key West Baseball ABF Academy Homestead 2/13 W, 5-2
2/20 All Keys Schools Boys Wrestling Districts @ Key West 3 p.m.
2/21
2/21
2/21
2/21
2/23 Coral Shores Girls Lacrosse Lourdes Academy 5 p.m.
2/24 Coral Shores Tennis Key West 2 p.m.
2/24
2/24
2/24
2/25 Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse Coral Reef 7 p.m.
2/26 Marathon Baseball @ Glades Day 4 p.m.
2/26 Key West Boys Lacrosse Florida Christian 4 p.m.
2/26 Coral Shores Girls & Boys Lacrosse @ Monsignor Pace 2 p.m.
2/26 Coral Shores Baseball @ South Homestead 3:30 p.m.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
GABRIEL
Senior, Coral Shores Girls Weightlifting
Vanessa is a very determined athlete who strives for the best in every opportunity. She takes direction well and quickly adjusts when given feedback, showing both discipline and resilience.”
— Erin Hamilton, Coral Shores weightlifting coach
200
pounds clean and jerk state championships
Shores senior Vanessa Gabriel has been accumulating quite the medal collection in weightlifting this winter. Gabriel won dual district golds last month, added a pair of regional golds two weeks ago, and on Feb. 13, she picked up two state gold medals from the FHSAA 1A Championships in Lakeland. With leadership, coachability and attention to detail all being part of her character, it is no wonder that she has accomplished so much. Her coach used a Bible verse to sum up Gabriel’s heart. “Her work ethic reflects Philippians 4:13, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,’ as she continually pushes herself to grow stronger,” said Erin Hamilton. For her unrelenting work ethic and amazing accomplishments at the highest level of competition, Coral Shores’ Vanessa Gabriel is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
The Florida Keys have another dual state champion in girls weightlifting. On Feb. 13, Hurricane Vanessa Gabriel silenced all challengers at the FHSAA State Championships to win both the traditional and Olympic gold medals in her Unlimited weight class. See page 4. CONTRIBUTED
Vanessa
Coral
Lady Hurricanes coach Erin Hamilton, left, and dual state champ Vanessa Gabriel hold up Gabriel’s brackets from the FHSAA 1A State Championships Feb. 13. CONTRIBUTED
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
Se habla español THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.
Coral Shores’
Gabriel notches double lifting gold as all Keys strongwomen return from states with medals
On Feb. 13, Keys lifters made a statement in Lakeland at the FHSAA 1A State Championships in girls weightlifting. The island chain qualified four athletes for the big show and every single one returned a state medalist. Out of over 120 teams competing, both Keys teams cracked the top 10. Marathon finished in the traditional competition in a multiteam tie for seventh and Coral Shores finished 10th. In Olympic lifts, which rely more on the perfection of form than traditional, the Dolphins and Hurricanes tied for eighth, a testament to the sound fundamentals coached by Marathon’s Jessie Schubert and Coral Shores’ Erin Hamilton.
Coral Shores had just one qualifier, but senior Vanessa Gabriel made the most of it. Competing in the Unlimited category, Gabriel struck gold twice, earning the top place in both the traditional and Olympic competitions. To earn dual gold medals, Gabriel combined three impressive lifts. She began with a 135-pound snatch, which put her in a tie for second as the athletes entered into lift number two, the clean and jerk. The clean lift is the most important of the three, as it is used in calculating the winner of both competitions. Gabriel PRed with a 200-pound lift, the best of the field, to place her on the top spot of the podium with a combined total of 335 pounds – besting the second-place finisher by five pounds in the Olympic event.
disadvantage heading into the traditional event.
With a 30-pound deficit to overcome, Lee Isom left it all on the line for her final lift as a Lady Fin. She easily cleared 175 on the bench press, then scratched at 185. Instead of retrying 185, the steadfast senior added five pounds to her bar and was good for a 190-pound PR bench press and a second silver medal.
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.
Next, Gabriel would pull off another PR on the bench, lifting 185 pounds to tie for the lead with a combined total of 385 pounds in the traditional event. To determine the winner of a tie in weightlifting events, the lighter athlete is given the advantage, and Gabriel’s lower bodyweight put her atop the podium in the traditional event, too. Within the span of a few hours, Gabriel became a two-time state champion.
Marathon qualified a trio of lifters this season, including three-time state champ Justice Lee Isom. Lee Isom started off with a PR-matching 175-pound snatch lift to tie for first. She then added a 205-pound clean and jerk for 380 combined pounds in the Olympic competition. That total, while fourth best in any weight class, was not the top total in her 183-pound division, giving Lee Isom a silver medal in the Olympic category and a
Junior Adelle Bainbridge made waves in her first year on the weightlifting team at Marathon, and a state berth would have been a perfect end to her debut season. But Bainbridge, who competes at 154, is not one to be satisfied with anything but her best. The first-time qualifier made the top 10 in both events and earned a fifth-place medal in the Olympic competition by combining a 125-pound snatch lift with a 165-pound clean and jerk. Bainbridge’s 130-pound PR bench press helped boost her to ninth place in the traditional event.
Senior Ella Evans is not new to the state competition, and her 155-pound bench press is particularly impressive given that she competes in the 119-pound class. Evans added a 145-pound clean and jerk for 300 total pounds in the traditional event, where she won bronze. Evans’ total was just shy of a state title in a competition in which first and third were separated by a mere five pounds.
tracy mcdonald
sean mcdonald
Marathon Mayor Lynny Del Gaizo, second from left, wishes the Lady Fins good luck at the school’s sendoff celebration. From left: Justice Lee Isom, Del Gaizo, Adelle Bainbridge and Ella Evans.
Marathon’s Justice Lee Isom, left, and Coral Shores’ Vanessa Gabriel show off their state hardware. CONTRIBUTED
FIRST DRAW
Prep lacrosse season opens with wins for all Keys teams
Feb. 9 marked the first day for official games for Florida prep lacrosse, and Keys teams launched immediately into the win column.
Coral Shores’ boys started with a three-game road series. They picked up their first win of the season with a 16-2 thrashing of Westminster Academy on opening day, then fell 16-4 to
Ransom two days later. On Feb. 3, the Hurricanes found their winning ways again, defeating Palmetto 16-2.
The 2-1 ’Canes will enjoy a home-field advantage with six straight games in the Upper Keys and will not take another trip until March 10.
The Hurricane roster boasts 28 athletes with plenty of returning talent in their senior-laden lineup.
Key West’s boys started
with a win in a 16-5 victory at Palmetto High Feb. 12. The Conchs roster, though relatively young, is 26 strong. Both Keys girls teams played one game last week, and like the gentlemen, both started in the win column.
On Feb. 11, the Lady ’Canes opened their season at home, playing district opponent St. Brendan School. Coral Shores won 14-6, with Shay Stober and Addy McNew netting three goals apiece. Ivy Tiedemann and Alexis Mahaffey each added two to the team total. Zeffie
Crockett, Saylor Wampler, Anaia Woods and Eleanor Perchalski all found the back of the net as well. Eliyana McLeod picked up six ground balls and added disruption to the Sabres’ play with three caused turnovers. Lola Stober held things down in the cage, saving eight shots on goal in her varsity debut.
The Lady Conchs played in the Backyard on Feb. 12, defeating another District 16 opponent, Palmer Trinity, 13-12. Senior captain Turner took charge, scoring five goals, assisting once and winning four draw controls. Turner also caused a pair of turnovers to wreak havoc on the visiting Falcons. Fellow captain Eisley Whitehead netted one goal and two assists while Taylor Gibson scored one and won five draws. Mavis Bishop found the back of the net six times against Palmer, then added five draw controls and a pair of interceptions to her stats as well, while Ashlyn Picco’s interception came in clutch in the back-and-forth game.
The Conchs battle-tested a pair of new goalkeepers against Palmer. Senior Alexandra Konecna registered five saves while Diya Alwani, a sophomore, had two saves, one of which prevented a late-game chance for the Falcons to tie it up. The team caused five turnovers and picked up 19 ground balls in the win.
1. Mavis Bishop (3) and Colbie Turner (2) work together to win the ball.
2. Eisley Whitehead chases down a Palmer defender.
3. Teagan Shea (6), Mavis Bishop (3) and Azilys Frouel go on the attack.
4. The Lady Conchs lacrosse team stacks it up during the home opener against Palmer Feb. 12.
5. Lady Conchs sprint to cut off Palmer in a Feb. 12 home contest.
COURT ADJOURNED
Conchs fall at Stranahan to end otherwise successful season
The Conchs came out fighting Feb. 14, intent to slay the Mighty Dragons of Stranahan in the FHSAA 4A Region 4 quarterfinals. Key West, seeded No. 7, earned a regional berth with their success within a challenging schedule, which gave them a power ranking strong enough to earn a bid to the next set of brackets despite losing in districts.
Key West came out of the gates with fire to match the Dragons, scoring 21 points in the first quarter. But Stranahan, the third-seeded team in the region, earned their ranking justly and outperformed the Conchs the rest of the way to seal the win over Key West. The Dragons increased their lead each quarter, holding the Conchs to just four points in the second and fourth.
James Osborne scored 20 points while Leandro Batista added six and Judson Snider five. The 73-36 loss spelled the end of the season for the Conchs, who finished with a solid 14-12 record and the distinction of being the longest-lasting team in Monroe County this season.
GIRL POWER Wrestlers Holushko, Wolfe advance to regionals
Wrestlers from Key West, Marathon and Coral Shores participated in the FHSAA 1A District 16 Championships on Feb. 12 at Miami Coral Park High School. When the final bout was complete, two Keys athletes had their cards punched to the next round of action, which will take place at the Region 4 tournament on Feb. 21 at South Dade Senior High.
Key West’s Maria Holushko and Marathon’s Autumn Wolfe earned automatic bids to regionals by finishing in the top four places at districts. Holushko was the runner-up in the 140-pound competition while Wolfe placed fourth at 105.
Key West’s Wenxin Yu (115) was fifth while Nalani LaBeet (110) and Emily Nolasco (105) both finished in sixth place in their weight classes. Though they did not advance automatically, there is still a chance for wrestlers finishing fifth and even sixth to win a berth to regionals when other districts do not have four qualifiers in a weight class. Those qualifiers are determined after all four districts in Region 4 have concluded their championships.
Marathon’s Autumn Wolfe holds up her fourth-place district medal, which provides her a sure spot at regionals.
While the girls were at districts, Key West’s boys hosted Coral Shores for their Senior Night. The Conchs put on a strong performance while honoring their seniors, with wins from Jake Ferguson (126), Kyle Condella (138), Michael Guzman (165) and Sandy Horn. Horn won via decision and the rest pinned their opponents. Aristerne Richardson (106), Josiah Gonzales (113), Kascper Kowalik (215) and Gionni Fernandez (285) all picked up wins via forfeit.
Hurricane winners were Sebastian McCoy (120), Gavin Matheis (132), Jeremiah Ortiz (144), Nathaniel Tristram (150), Sterling Keefe (157) and David Beltran (175).
For the gentlemen, the next stop is the FHSAA 1A District 16 Championships. This year’s event will be held in Key West where the Conchs hope to defend the title they have held since 2008. Joining Key West and Coral Shores will be athletes from Marathon’s inaugural wrestling team and the rest of District 16’s Miami teams on Feb. 20.
Key West’s girls wrestling team shows off their district hardware Feb. 12. Photos contributed
Jason Rafter
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IWINNING WAYS
Keys teams open seasons with victories
t’s baseball season in the Keys, and last week, all three teams started their quests for postseason hardware the right way.
In their home opener Feb. 13, Key West’s Donovan Thiery effectively shut down the ABF Academy (Homestead) offense, striking out 12 of the 13 batters he faced. Thiery was surgical on the mound, tossing just 58 pitches in four innings of work. Christian Koppal and Auggy Davila held down the fort for the rest of the night, and despite being outhit 6-3, the Conchs pulled off a 5-2 win over the Bandits. Kade Maltz doubled, while Thiery and Roman Garcia each added a base hit in the team’s first official win of the season.
The following night, the Conchs faced the other ABF Academy, and the Hialeah version proved a bit more challenging. Key West struck first, stringing together a pair of hits in the first inning to get on the board. The Cowboys answered back with two of their own in the top of the second. The Conchs then added four in the third inning and two in the fourth to pull ahead 7-2. The Cowboys chipped away at that lead, but ran out of innings to exact their comeback.
Key West’s bats were steady, churning out 11 hits with three from Garcia, a pair of doubles from Darreld Tremino and a solo home run off the bat of Davila. Maltz earned the win on the mound, tossing four innings before Cruz Holmes, Beau Bender and Davila chipped in one inning of work apiece to close out the 7-6 win.
Marathon opened the season with a two-game road trip, starting with a Feb. 9 matchup with Miami Country Day. The Dolphins overpowered the Spartans with seven hits over five innings in a resounding 12-0 win.
Eighth-grader Reef Rella started on the mound for the Fins, spanning three innings with five strikeouts and six walks. Roco Piscetello finished out the final two innings. The Dolphins held the Spartans to a single hit defensively while pouring on the runs themselves. Gabriele Cirina drove in five runs with three hits, one of which was a grand slam in the fifth inning. The other two were doubles. Curren Nicolay doubled while Piscetello and Jason Stubblefield each singled. Massimo Quargnali was finicky at the plate, drawing four walks to boost his on-base percentage.
The following evening, the Fins headed to Somerset Silver Palms to take on the Stallions. The Fins matched their opponent run-for-run until the third inning, when Silver Palms pulled ahead. The Dolphins battled back and took the
lead in the fourth, then the Stallions tied it up in the sixth. The ever-patient Fins found a crack in the Stallion defense in the top of the seventh, when Rella hit a solid double followed by a Cirina walk to place runners on first and second.
Up next were Miles Murphy and Bradley Buigas, a pair of eighth-graders whose plate presence is far beyond their age. Buigas was already 3-for-3 on the night and Murphy had one hit and an on-base percentage well above .500. But Silver Palms’ field was without lights, and the umpire called the game right then and there, forcing the Fins to settle for a tie with a team which has become quite a rival in recent seasons.
Cirina started on the mound, striking out six and walking three in two-and-one-third innings. Piscetello and Dylan Williams chipped in for the tie. In addition to Rella, Buigas and Murphy’s hits, Williams singled, Piscetello hit a triple and two singles, Cirina singled and Stubblefield hit a bomb over the left field fence for a solo home run. In all, the Fins racked up 11 hits to the Stallions’ eight.
The Fins exacted their revenge on the Stallions on Feb. 13, when Silver Palms paid a visit for Marathon’s home opener. The game was scoreless until the third inning, when Williams drew a walk with two outs. Piscetello singled, then Jack Chapman and Stubblefield drew walks to score one run.
1. Tyrone Cervantes connects with a pitch Feb. 13 against ABF Homestead.
2. Auggy Davila runs to first after a sacrifice fly against ABF Homestead.
3. Miles Murphy flips the ball to first.
4. Reef Rella slides into third base to beat the throw.
The fourth inning started with a pair of walks; then, a Buigas bunt scored what would be the final run of the game. Williams was effective on the mound, striking out 11, walking three and allowing three hits in six and two-thirds innings. Piscetello faced a single batter, whose flyout ended the game in a 2-0 win for the Dolphins.
Coral Shores opened their season with a win against Terra Environmental Feb. 9 in a 2-1 showdown that highlighted dialed-in pitching from senior Riley O’Berry. He threw six innings, striking out 10 batters with no walks and allowing five hits with just a single run scoring. Glade Harrelson closed out the final inning for the Hurricanes.
O’Berry doubled while Keller Blackburn and Mailon Aguila singled. A stingy Terra pitching staff gave up just three hits and no walks, but Maykol Bonito took two bases the hard way. After being hit by pitches twice, Bonito scored one of the Hurricane runs to help the ’Canes come away with their first win.
The following night, the Hurricanes were swept away by the Buccaneers of South Dade High. The ’Canes were perfect in the field, but the Bucs’ bats overwhelmed the Hurricanes. Keller Blackburn had the lone hit against South Dade in the 15-0 three-inning rout.
Photos by Rocky Gonet and Tracy McDonald
BATTLES AT THE BASELINE
Keys courts kept busy with county action
Marathon’s tennis squad paid a visit to Coral Shores on Feb. 10, trading wins with the Hurricanes on the courts of Tavernier.
In boys action, Marathon bested Coral Shores 5-1, with wins coming from Tanner Snowden, Matt Delgado and Graham Murphy in singles, plus another win from Snowden and Delgado in doubles. Coral Shores’ Elijah Craig won in the No. 4 singles spot to get the ’Canes on the scoreboard.
In girls action, the Hurricanes flipped the script and defeated the Dolphins 6-1. Allyson Rosendale,
Kaiyenna De Ron, Harlee Beeler and Jillian Thiery picked up singles wins, then De Ron and Beeler won in No. 1 doubles and Parker Kelly and Emily Rosu picked up the final win for the Hurricanes in the No. 2 doubles match. Marathon’s Emily Alvear was the lone Dolphin winner, earning one point for the Fins in the No. 1 singles match.
Two days later, Key West did the trip north to play Marathon with a limited roster. Both teams were feeling the impact of a recent illness which made its way through the Keys. Key West’s Monea McLeod, Durdona Oblokulova and Shihan Ren won in singles, then Oblokulova and Ren teamed
up for a win in the No. 2 doubles match to defeat the Fins 4-2. Marathon’s Emily Alvear won the No. 1 singles match, then added another win in No.1 doubles with partner Maleeya Abraham.
The boys played just three singles and one doubles match with their limited rosters. Marathon freshman Tanner Snowden won No. 1 singles while Key West’s Mason Martel and Daniel Morales won in the No. 2 and 3 singles spots. Ben Delostrinos teamed up with Martel for a third Conch win in doubles.
1. Key West’s Amina Erik prepares to serve in the No. 2 doubles match at Marathon Feb. 12. 2. Key West’s Daniel Morales, left, and Marathon’s Eduardo Garcia are all smiles after the No. 3 singles match Feb. 12. 3. Emily Alvear, left, and Maleeya Abraham tap racquets after a successful volley in their No. 1 doubles match. 4. Key West’s Monea McLeod serves the ball while No. 1 partner Amina Erik awaits the return. 5. Conch junior Mason Martel serves up an ace in the No. 1 doubles match Feb. 12. 6. Key West’s Monea McLeod and Marathon’s Emily Alvear lock into a volley at the net. TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
QUARTERLY MEETING NOTICE:
LOCAL COORDINATING BOARD FOR THE TRANSPORTATION
DISADVANTAGED
The Monroe County Local Coordinating Board (LCB) will be holding its regularly scheduled quarterly meeting on Friday, March 6, 2026 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at the Marathon Government Center, BOCC Room, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The primary purpose of the Coordinating Board is to provide information and advice to the Community Transportation Coordinator on the coordination of services provided to the transportation disadvantaged population of Monroe County, pursuant to Chapter 427.0157, Florida Statutes. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting due to a disability or physical impairment, and any related questions or inquiries concerning this meeting should be directed to Anjana Morris at the Health Council of South Florida, Inc. at (305) 592-1452 ext. 101 at least 72 hours prior to the date of the meeting. Publish: February 19, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
PUBLIC WORKSHOP NOTICE:
LOCAL COORDINATING BOARD FOR THE TRANSPORTATION
DISADVANTAGED
The Monroe County Local Coordinating Board (LCB) will be hosting a public hearing on Friday, March 6, 2026 from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm at the Marathon Government Center, BOCC Room, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. This public workshop is open to community members who would like to present or discuss any comments related to the transportation disadvantaged. We
welcome you to attend! Persons should contact the HCSF staff 48 hours in advance if they are interested in commenting.
The primary purpose of the Coordinating Board is to provide information and advice to the Community Transportation Coordinator on the coordination of services provided to the transportation disadvantaged population of Monroe County, pursuant to Chapter 427.0157, Florida Statutes. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting due to a disability or physical impairment, and any related questions or inquiries concerning this meeting should be directed to Anjana Morris at the Health Council of South Florida, Inc. at (305) 592-1452 ext. 101 at least 72 hours prior to the date of the meeting.
Publish: February 19, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING: MONROE COUNTY CONTRACTORS EXAMINING BOARD
MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Notice is Hereby Given To Whom it may concern, that on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB) will hold a scheduled meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida scheduled to commence at 9:30
A.M. This meeting is to hear the following: any person(s) to come before the board; any reports from Monroe County Assistant Attorney; any reports from Monroe County Building Official; any reports from Staff.
The Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (“CEB”) will review Certificate of Competency Trade applications and the
Industry Input Section. All public participation in this meeting may be conducted via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform, during the scheduled meeting.
Meeting Agenda and Zoom Webinar information is available 7 days prior to meeting date on the Monroe County Web Calendar and the Contractors Examining Board webpage: www.monroecounty-fl.
gov
PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTE SECTION 286.0105, be advised that, if a person decides to appeal the decision made by the Contractors’ Examining Board with respect to any matter considered at today’s hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she 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.
ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special recommendations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.
NOTICE: It shall be the responsibility of each Respondent or other person addressing the Board to have an interpreter if the party is not able to understand or speak the English language. Rick Griffin, Building Official/Board
Secretary Jamie Gross, Senior Contractor Licensing Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building Department
Publish: February 19, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
Effective March 1, 2026, Kristie Santana, APRN, PMHNP-BC, will no longer be practicing at the office of Keys Medical Group - Psychiatry.
Patients may continue to contact the office for an appointment with Angela Halbrook, APRN, PMHNP-BC. Request an appointment via the patient portal, online at KeysMedicalGroup.com or at (305)293-1299.
Patients may also request a copy of their medical records by contacting Keys Medical Group Psychiatry, 1200 Kennedy Drive, Suite 1041, Key West, FL 33040. Phone: 305-293-1299.
Publish: February 12, 19, 26 & March 5, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 2017-CP-000046-M
IN RE: GUARDIANSHIP OF JAY HUGO HOSEK,
a Ward.
NOTICE OF TERMINATION OF GUARDIANSHIP ON CHANGE OF DOMICILE OF RESIDENT WARD
The guardianship of JIRINA HOSEK, the Ward, file number 20 l 7-CP000046-M, is pending in the Circuit Com1 for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the guardian and the guardian's attorney are set forth below.
Attorney for Guardian BRIAN C. TAYLOR, ESQ. Taylor Trust Law
733 East Baseline Road, Ste. 117 Mesa, AZ 85209
Guardian JINIRINA HOSEK
125 N. Val Vista Avenue Apache Junction, AZ 85119
A Petition to Terminate
Guardianship Upon Change of Ward's Domicile has been filed upon the grounds of change of domicile of the Ward. The guardian will apply for discharge on February 28, 2026. The jurisdiction of the Ward has been transferred to Arizona.
Any objection shall be in writing and shall state with particularity each item to which the objection is directed and the grounds on which the objection is based. Any objections to the final report or Petition to Terminate Guardianship Upon Chang of Ward's Domicile shall be filed WITHIN THE LATER OF 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THE PETITION TO TERMINATE GUARDIANSHIP UPON CHANGE OF THE WARD'S DOMICILE OR THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
A notice of hearing thereon shall be served within 90 days after filing the objection or the objection is abandoned.
The date of the first publication of this notice is February 19, 2023. RODOLFO SUAREZ, JR., ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 013201
9100 South Dadeland Blvd., Ste. 1620
Miami, FL 33156
Telephone: (305) 448-4244
Facsimile: (305) 448-4211
Publish: February 19 & 26, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-32-M
DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF PETER M. TYSON
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Peter M. Tyson, deceased, whose date of death was December 22,
2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: February 19, 2026.
Personal Representative: Frances M. Latham 673 Linden Ave. Ridgefield, New Jersey 07657
Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner
Attorney
Florida Bar Number: 283134
RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-6022
Fax: (305) 743-6216
E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com
Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com
Publish: February 19 & 26, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY
CASE NO: 2025-CA-129-K Premier Capital, LLC Plaintiff, Vs
Carolyn M. Delgado and William J. Delgado
Defendant,
NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY given that pursuant to a Pluries Writ of Execution issued in the Circuit Court, of Monroe County, Florida, on the 29th day of January, 2026, in the cause wherein Premier Capital, LLC is Plaintiff and Carolyn M. Delgado and William J. Delgado was defendant, being Case No. 2025-CA-129-K in said court, I, Richard A. Ramsay, Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida have levied upon all right, title, and interest of the defendant, in and to the following described real property to wit:
SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY:
From the warranty deed that states the following described land, situate, lying and being in Monroe County, Florida to-wit:
Legal Description(s) –On the Island of Key West, Monroe County, Florida, and known on William A. Whitehead’s map delineated in February A.D. 1829, as part of Tract 11 but better known as part of Lot 3, Square 9, Tract 11 according to Charles W. Tift’s Map of said Island recorded in Deed Book “L” Page 564, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: Commencing at the intersection of the Southwesterly right of way boundary line of Duval Street with the Northwesterly right of way boundary line of United Street and run in a Southwesterly direction along the said right of way boundary line of United Street a distance of 100 feet to the Point of Beginning of the parcel of land herein described, thence at right angles in the Northwesterly direction 84.17 feet to a point; thence at right angles in a Southwesterly direction 26.3 feet to a point; thence at right angles in a Southeasterly direction 84.17 feet to a point in the Northwesterly direction along the said right of way line of United Street a distance of 26.3 feet back to the point of Beginning. SPECIFIC LOCATION OF REAL PROPERTY:
421 United Street Key West, Florida 33040
All bidders must have a valid Driver’s License with them and must register with the clerk at location of sale prior to start time of sale. I shall offer this property for sale, at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters building located at 5525 College Road, Key West, Florida 33040 in the County of Monroe, State of Florida, on the 2nd day of April, 2026, at the hour of 10:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible. I will offer for sale all of the said defendant’s right, title, and interest in the aforesaid real property at public auction and will sell the same subject to all taxes, prior liens, encumbrances and judgments, if any, to the highest and best bidder for cash or cashiers check in hand. The
Visit Florida Keys has funding available for those interested in applying for Destination or Turnkey event funding for events to take place between October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027; or for pre-promotion funding for Destination events to take place between October 1, 2027 and December 31, 2027.
The deadline for receipt of applications is March 25, 2026, and applications must be downloaded from the County’s Bonfire platform.
For more information, please email grants@fla-keys.com.
Publish: February 5 & 19 and March 5 & 19, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
proceeds to be applied as far as may be to the payment of costs and the satisfaction of the above described execution.
Dated at Key West, Monroe County, Florida this 10th day of February, 2026. Richard A. Ramsay Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida
By: Donald Stullken Deputy Sheriff In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Civil Division no later than seven says prior to the proceeding at (305)809-3041.
Publish: February 19 & 26 and March 5 & 12, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO.: CA-K-23 000363 VILLAGE CAPITAL & INVESTMENT LLC, Plaintiff, vs. PAOLA M. LOPEZ MERCADO A/K/A PAOLA MARIA LOPEZ MERCADO; JAN MATTHEW OCASIO GONZALEZ; FLAGLER CENTER III CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC.; UNKNOWN TENANT IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY, Defendants. NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment entered in the above styled cause now pending in said court and as required by Florida Statute 45.031(2), KEVIN MADOK, CPA as the Clerk of the Circuit Court shall sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at the, KEY WEST COURTHOUSE (ALL SALES), 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040, 11:00 AM on the 27 day of February, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: CONDOMINIUM UNIT 603, FLAGLER CENTER III, A CONDOMINIUM, TOGETHER WITH AN UNDIVIDED INTEREST IN THE COMMON ELEMENTS, ACCORDING TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM THEREOF, RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 1381, PAGE 239, AS AMENDED FROM TIME TO TIME, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 3201 FLAGLER AVE UNIT 603, KEY WEST, FL 33040 IF YOU ARE A PERSON CLAIMING A RIGHT TO FUNDS REMAINING AFTER THE SALE, YOU MUST FILE A CLAIM WITH THE CLERK NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. IF YOU FAIL TO FILE A CLAIM, YOU WILL NOT BE ENTITLED TO ANY REMAINING FUNDS. AFTER THE FUNDS ARE REPORTED AS UNCLAIMED, ONLY THE OWNER OF RECORD AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MAY CLAIM THE SURPLUS. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in a court proceeding or event, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Cheryl Alfonso, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida, 33040, (305) 292-3423, at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days: if you are hearing or voice impaired call 711.
Dated this 29TH day of January, 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Publish:
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2025-51
Notice is hereby given that,
PRESTIGE WORLDWIDE BBC LLC
PRESTIGE WORLDWIDE BBC LLC, holder of the following
Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 4th, 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1237981
Parcel ID: 00186000-000000
Description of Property: BK 14 LT 15 CUTTHROAT HARBOR ESTATES FIRST ADDN CUDJOE KEY
PB5-60 OR385-601 OR769-1672
Names in which assessed:
BERNADINE D BRYKOWSKY, BRYKOWSKY FRANK L
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 4th, 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish:
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-54
KEVIN MADOK, CPA
CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish:
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-56
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following
Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/626
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1238121
Parcel ID: 00186140-000000
Description of Property: BK 15 LT 11 CUTTHROAT HARBOR ESTATES FIRST ADDN CUDJOE KEY PB5-60 CUDJOE KEY OR593-348 OR1378-2014/18
Names in which assessed:
PHILLIPS AND TRICE INC
Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/628
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1238147
Parcel ID: 00186160-000000
Description of Property: BK 15 LT 13 CUTTHROAT HARBOR ESTATES FIRST ADDN CUDJOE KEY PB5-60 OR477-583 OR702-550
Names in which assessed: BEAUPERTHUY LUIS B All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 4th, 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy
Clerk
Publish:
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 4th, 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish:
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-61
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/270 Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 8627122
Parcel ID: 00086790-016900
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2025-65
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/780
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 9104797
Parcel ID: 00286280-000200
Description of Property: S 15 FT OF LT 30 WHISPERING PINES PLAT 3 PB4-59 BIG PINE KEY
the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/1419
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1594181
Parcel ID: 00484570-000000
Description of Property: BK 4 LT 5 REVISED PLAT OF SUNRISE POINT KEY LARGO PB3-11 G62-338/39 OR743-262 OR1589862/63 OR1594-1594 OR15941595 OR2795-666 OR2915-641/42 OR2977-1108
Names in which assessed: PHOENIX HOLDINGS MONROE INC All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 4th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish:
Names in which assessed:
By: Aneta
Jodkowska,
Deputy Clerk
Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2025-52
Notice is hereby given that, PRESTIGE WORLDWIDE BBC LLC PRESTIGE WORLDWIDE BBC LLC, holder of the following
Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/901
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023 Account Number: 1410985
Parcel ID: 00333641-012800
Description of Property: DOCK LOT D-23 STIRRUP KEY SUBDIVISION PB7-4 STIRRUP KEY (DOCK AREA A) OR817-2119 OR877-248 OR1018-1548 OR1882103 OR2668-1885 OR2687-413 OR3300-0140
Names in which assessed: BROWN GARY D LIVING TRUST
05/04/2018
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 6th, 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy
Clerk Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-53
Notice is hereby given that, PRESTIGE WORLDWIDE BBC LLC
PRESTIGE WORLDWIDE BBC LLC, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2023/622
Notice is hereby given that, PRESTIGE WORLDWIDE BBC LLC PRESTIGE WORLDWIDE BBC LLC, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/284
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1101311
Parcel ID: 00089430-000000
Description of Property: 27 62 38 ISLAND OF KEY LARGO PB 1-64 PT LOT 1 OR180-528/530 OR1047-1982/1985C OR3035-72
Names in which assessed:
U S HOME CORPORATION SOUTH FLORIDA LAND DIVISION
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 4th, 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish:
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2025-55
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Names in which assessed: RICE SYLVIA L, SHARON RICE
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 6th, 2026
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.
Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.
realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 4th, 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy
Clerk
Publish:
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-57
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/623
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1238066
Parcel ID: 00186080-000000
Description of Property: BK 15 LT 5 CUTTHROAT HARBOR ESTATES FIRST ADDN CUDJOE KEY PB5-60 OR477-583 OR729-436 OR1295-1982 OR1456-1353
Names in which assessed:
RICE SYLVIA L, SHARON RICE
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 6th, 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy
Clerk
Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-58
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2025-59
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/625
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1238082
Parcel ID: 00186100-000000
Description of Property: BK 15 LT 7 CUTTHROAT HARBOR
ESTATES FIRST ADDN CUDJOE KEY PB5-60 OR477-583 OR729-436 OR1295-1982 OR1456-1353
Names in which assessed: RICE SYLVIA L, SHARON RICE All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this February 6th, 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy
Clerk
Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-60
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following
Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/627
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1238139
Parcel ID: 00186150-000000
Description of Property:
BK 15 LT 12 CUTTHROAT HARBOR
ESTATES FIRST ADDN CUDJOE KEY PB5-60 CUDJOE KEY OR593-348 OR1378-2014/18
Names in which assessed: PHILLIPS AND TRICE INC All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe.
Description of Property: UNIT 169 KEY LARGO KAMPGROUND AND MARINA A CONDOMINIUM OR966-1005 OR1020-126/27 OR1583-1109 OR1583-1110 OR2674-243 OR3060-1531 OR3193-1544 OR3325-1883 OR3329-1211 Along with: Mobile Home: VEHlCLE ID NUMBER: 1TC2B467353064011 TITLE NUMBER:91865923 YEAR 2005
Names in which assessed: FIGUEROA OVEREAS 101551 LLC All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this February 6th, 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-63
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/137
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1055107
Parcel ID: 00054500-000000
Description of Property: KW PEARLMAN ESTATES PB3-100 LOT 10 BLK 1 OR53-296/97 OR488-705 OR596-29 OR767-255 OR795-1163 OR796-2319/20 OR884-500 OR2244-1571/72L/E OR2979-699D/C
Names in which assessed: COLLIE NITA
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this February 4th, 2026 KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
FOSTER WILLIAM H All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 4th, 2026 KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-66
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following
Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/1411
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 9101739
Parcel ID: 00483401-019800
Description of Property: UNIT 198 KEY LARGO OCEAN RESORT CONDOMINIUM OR2611977 OR2924-70
Names in which assessed:
IRIARTE PEDRO E, MARIA T IRIARTE
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 6th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2025-67
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following
Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance,
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-68
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Names in which assessed: ELITE ISLAND LLC All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this February 4th 2026 KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-69
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/1509 Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023 Account Number: 9104855 Parcel ID: 00499821-001000
Description of Property: BOAT SLIP #10 LTS 18-20 BK 10 KEY LARGO OCEAN SHORES ADD PB4-124 OR971-333 OR1021-917 OR1785-1713 OR1785-1714
Names in which assessed: BLEKE JAMES H All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.
Unless
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 4th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
Aneta Jodkowska,
Clerk Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-73
Notice is hereby given that, KEYS FUNDING LLC-5023, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/215
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 8879016
Parcel ID: 00072081-000265
Description of Property: TOWNHOME UNIT 165 KEY WEST GOLF CLUB DEVELOPMENT
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023 Account Number: 1700975 Parcel ID: 00569511-003424
Description of Property: PRIVATE DWELLING AC 77-B ANGELFISH CAY CONDOMINIUM CHALETS NO 6 OR540-237 OR8121244/45 OR833-2109 OR833-2110 OR964-1655/57 OR989-763/64 OR2714-458/61 OR2717-1023/26C
Names in which assessed: PAYING IT FORWARD GMBB LLC
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 5th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA
CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-71
Notice is hereby given that, KEYS FUNDING LLC-5023, holder of the following
Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/1644
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1669377
Parcel ID: 00545870-000000
Description of Property:
BK 3 LT 3 AND 4 WINSTON PARK SUB PB4-104 KEY LARGO OR159265/266 OR161-490 OR407-199200 OR448-224Q OR707-398D/C OR783-1500 OR786-1768
OR2376-516Q/C OR2376-517D/C Names in which assessed: DREW LAWRENCE V
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 5th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By:
Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy
Certificate No: 2023/295
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1104582
Parcel ID: 00090966-000300
Description of Property:
APT NO 4 ROCK HARBOR
CONDOMINIUM NO 6 OR778-247
Names in which assessed:
TIELEN GISELA B
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 5th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish:
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2025-77
Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 5th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy
Clerk
Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2025-74
Notice is hereby given that, KEYS FUNDING LLC-6023, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2023/1413
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 9101808
Parcel ID: 00483401-025000
Description of Property:
UNIT 250 KEY LARGO OCEAN RESORT CONDOMINIUM OR26111059
Names in which assessed: GONZALEZ NORMA, GONZALEZ SANDRA, GONZALEZ VICTOR, GONZALEZ VICTOR JR
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 5th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-75
Notice is hereby given that, KEYS FUNDING LLC-6023, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 5th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy
Clerk
Publish:
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2025-86
Notice is hereby given that, KC ENTERPRISE INT LLC, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2018/1017
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2018
Account Number: 1419656
Parcel ID: 00342000-000000
Notice is hereby given that, KEYS FUNDING LLC-2023, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/1546
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 9105033
Parcel ID: 00512020-000100
Description of Property: BK 6 LOT 3 BOWENS ADDN TO RIVIERA VILLAGE KEY LARGO
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 5th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-79
Notice is hereby given that, JPL INVESTMENTS CORP holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2025-88
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/770
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1347795
Parcel ID: 00275790-000000
Description of Property: BK 1 LT 14 KINERCHA PB1-74 BIG PINE KEY OR72-304 OR470-241E OR796-1415Q/C OR838-590 OR1072-1451/OR1107-976 OR1107-977 OR1348-1594Q/C OR1351-1933/45FJ OR13481594Q/C OR2148-1218/19Q/C OR3136-1236 OR3170-549 OR3170-0551
Names in which assessed: SEVEN EIGHT INVESTMENTS LLC
Description of Property: PUERTA DEL SOL PB3-117 KEY VACA 10 FT RESERVED FOR FLORAL PARK LYING WEST OF EL PASAJE ST OR156-78-80
Names in which assessed: B A R INC
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this February 5th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish:
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2025-87
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following
Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/737
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1290726
Parcel ID: 00223520-000000
Description of Property: BK 4 LT 22 THE LADIES ACRE 1ST ADDN LITTLE TORCH KEY PB5-102 OR604-43 OR806-1004 OR9721589 OR3033-1890 OR3060-1546
Names in which assessed: HUGO FREDERICK
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this February 5th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483
BOATS FOR SALE
1996 21' SEA CAT with twin Mercury 60hp motors just serviced. Trailer included. Located in Big Pine Key. $14,000 OBO 513-491-1240
BOAT SLIP FOR RENT
Dockage up to 60’ Islamorada - Bayside, 50 amp service. Price flexible. Call 860-982-4517
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am.
Dated this February 5th 2026
KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy
Clerk
Publish:
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2025-89
Notice is hereby given that, FIG 20, LLC FIG 20, LLC FBO SEC PTY, holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate No: 2023/1508
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 9104848
Parcel ID: 00499821-000300
Description of Property: BOAT SLIP #3 LTS 15-17 BK 9 KEY LARGO OCEAN SHORES ADD PB4-124 OR985-1195 OR1021-965 OR1134-1079 OR1406-2434 OR1573-105 OR2810-249
Names in which assessed: BAILEY JENNIFER LEE
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder on www.monroe. realtaxdeed.com
Sale Date: March 25, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00am. Dated this February 10th 2026 KEVIN MADOK, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish:
February 12, 19 & 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
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!!
EMPLOYMENT
Captain part-time position available in Key Largo. Ideal for retired person. Captain Sterling's Everglades Tours 305-395-0033
Hiring for busy pediatric office in Tavernier. FullTime Medical Assistant/ RN - Pediatric experience preferred. Must multitask in fast-paced setting. Also hiring Full-Time Front Desk Staff - Experience with insurance verification and EMR required. Strong multitasking skills. Pay is commensurate with experience. Email resume to: flkeyspeds@gmail.com
PART-TIME USCG CAPTAIN – MARATHON. Local captain needed to run owner’s 55’ twin engine trawler while owner fishes. Sunrise–2/3 PM typical. Good opportunity for newer captain to log hours on a larger boat. Pay DOE. Call/Text 970-901-1138
Marathon Moose Lodge hiring PT Kitchen Assistant to work with our Cook & to help with meal service, dishes & cleanup. Tues-Sat 1-7:30pm. Pay based on experience. Please apply in person @ 11601 1st Ave Gulf, Marathon, Fl 33050.
Boat rental company in Marathon looking for help with boat detailing & boat cleaning. Call 305-481-7006
HIRING: Office Administrator in Marathon. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), experience with QuickBooks or other accounting software preferred and must have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Full time – Mon-Fri. Pay TBD - based on skill. Email: Natalie@cecflk.com
Specialty Hardware of Marathon - Retired? Have hardware knowledge? Want to keep your brain stimulated? Come see us at Specialty - we are looking for a full or part time person. Hardware knowledge a must. Apply in person at 10730 Overseas Hwy. Marathon 1-305-743-3382.
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time Bartender/Server. Private club, evening shifts available TuesSaturday, bartending experience required. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub.com or call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time Maintenance Person. Up to 20 hours a week. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub.com or call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.
Experienced Fulltime 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.
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •
Now Hiring in Key West: Vacation Sales Coordinators. Up to $2,000 Sign-On Bonus. Please contact Brea.RollinsSimms@vacationclub. com for more information
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: greenel@kwha.org or 305-296-5621 ext. 225. 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.
PLACE YOUR HELP WANTED AD HERE!
$25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
HOBBIES/COLLECT.
PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
TURN YOUR CARDS INTO CASH! Marathon collector buying any and all Pokemon cards & collections. Call 401-256-0645.
PLACE YOUR HOBBIES/ COLLECTIBLE AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com HOUSING FOR RENT
3/2 Tavernier waterfront & bay views, furnished, 1500 sq.ft. $3,500/ month, no pets, no smoking. 954-728-4699
Key Largo- 6 months+ canal front rental on Blackwater Sound. 40' dockage, 1 BR/1 BA Trailer with 1,000 sq. ft. living area. $2,300/mo. 904-2379090 or 904-338-1207
3 BR/2 BA home for rent in Key Colony Beach. 75' premium dock. $4,000/month + utilities. F/L/S 786-229-0228
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
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
LOTS FOR SALE
Oceanside 2 Lots for Sale in Tavernier. 1 w/ active permit, pilings already in place, walk to Harry Harris Park w/boat ramp, etc. 186 Dove Creek Drive, Tavernier. $425,000 OBO Marcia, Realtor 305-303-0238
PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
WE ARE HIRING
Cashier/Barista/Server Full-Time Positions
Apply in person at: Vicky Bakery 97630 Overseas Highway (mm 97) Key Largo, FL 33037 KeyLargo@VickyBakery.com
OUTSIDE SALE REPRESENTATIVE
Company car & cell phone provided, salary $50k-$90k. Must be bilingual.
ASSISTANT MANAGER
Customer service, full-time, we will train. Apply by e-mail: Apply in person: 94775 Overseas Highway, Key Largo
5101 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 To apply: text contact information to 305-431-1109
MARINA CASHIERS
Must have customer service experience working in a retail environment and using a point of sale system. Additional duties include restocking, completing purchase orders, daily ordering of basic items in the store, and maintaining a clean appearance in the store. This is an hourly position and compensation is based on experience. Work hours are flexible and we try to maintain a set weekly schedule.
DOCKHANDS
Duties include customer service, helping customers with bait and ice and helping cashiers with restocking. Morning & a ernoon hours available.
BOAT RENTAL STAFF
Flexible hours & competitive wages. Need to have experience driving boats and a working knowledge of the Islamorada area by water. Duties include taking reservations, giving captains lessons and routine boat maintenance.
Email Ma at islamarinama @gmail.com
Please include contact information and any relevant experience.
FULL-TIME POSITION PUBLIC WORKS LABORER
The City of Key Colony Beach is seeking a full-time Public Works team member. The position includes completing daily tasks and working on projects, ensuring the safe and ef cient maintenance and repair of public infrastructure such as roads, right of way, stormwater systems, parks, facilities, vehicles and equipment.
Salary: $58,000 to $75,000 DOQ
Bene ts include Medical, Dental, and Life Insurance, Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, Holidays, and the Florida Retirement System (FRS).
Application forms can be found at www.keycolonybeach.net; see “I WANT TO” then “APPLY FOR A JOB.”
Equal Opportunity Employer
Submit resume and application by mail or in-person to: City of Key Colony Beach
Attn.: Michael Guarino
P.O. Box 510141
Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 Or email Michael.guarino@keycolonybeach.net
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:
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.
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.
pay rate for
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
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
Be part of a Four Diamond resort where hospitality meets paradise!
Apply online at CheecaJobs.com or email your resume to HR@cheeca.com
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
THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS
HIRING!
JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS!
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO
Lead Certified Recovery Peer Support Specialist
Behavioral Health Counselor (CAT)
Prevention Specialist
Case Manager (Adult)
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Children)
Mental Health Technician (PT or FT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult, Children) Crisis Counselor
Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)
Prevention Specialist
MARATHON
Mental Health Technician
Peer Support Specialist Driver (CDL required) HR Assistant/Recruiter
Registered Nurse (FT, PT)
*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.
and drug screen req.
COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!
Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS
- Construction Project Manager, FT
- Driver, Keys Supply Chain, FT
- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST
- Pool Radiation Therapist
- Registered Nurse, Oncology, $15k Bonus
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- Administrative Assistant
- 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
D'Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available.
Home Décor Sales Consultant
Seeking a passionate, customerfocused individual with sales and customer service experience. Creativity and interest in home décor a must. Join our team and help customers bring their spaces to life.
Junior Accountant
Seeking a detail-oriented Junior Accountant with basic accounting knowledge and strong organizational skills. Responsibilities include data entry, reconciliations, and assisting with financial reports. Accounting qualification or relevant experience preferred.
Working Project Construction Foreman
For complete details and to apply, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers
- Lead Phlebotomist, Laboratory, $10k Bonus
- Manager Environmental Services, FT
- Medical Technologist, $20k Bonus
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 2, (MRI & X Ray), Radiology, $25k Bonus
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
*Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.
APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net
18. *Buchanan’s or Lincoln’s birth place (2 words)
20. Odds’ partners
21. Completely dedicated (2 words)
22. Street in France
23. *The Era of Good Feelings president
26. Ground red peppers spice
30. Paleozoic or Victorian, e.g.
31. Talking pet
34. Flock’s affirmation
35. Phonograph media
37. It doesn’t mix with water
38. Key, in Spanish
39. Letter before kappa
40. Conjured
42. Bathtub hooch
43. “You don’t bring me flowers ____”
45. Silvery-white, in heraldry
47. The night before
48. Add something extra (2 words)
50. Eye rakishly
52. *Millard’s last name
55. Unwelcome software message
56. Double reed woodwind
57. Actress Sorvino
59. Carell on “The Office”
60. Falling out
61. Grand in scale
62. *Buchanan who ran for president in 1992 and 1996
63. Dental school alternative to MCAT
64. Tiresias in “Oedipus Rex,” e.g.
DOWN
1. Variable, abbr.
2. Twelfth month of Jewish civil year
3. *Attorney General under Bill Clinton
4. Panhandler
5. “My wife can vouch for me”, e.g.
6. Ancient Romans’ language
7. Julia Roberts’ Academy Awardwinning role
8. Went down slippery slope
9. Gene Simmons’ rock band
10. Belief or philosophy
12. Popular flowering shrub
13. Deplete (2 words)
14. *Eisenhower or Grant, prepresidency
19. Horse hoof sounds
22. One in Dean Martin’s pack?
23. Means of mass communication
24. Belted starman
25. Highly unpleasant
26. *Between Tyler and Taylor
27. Visual representation
28. Macaulay Culkin’s famous character
29. Beside, archaic
32. *Karl ____, “The Architect” of George W. Bush’s campaigns
