REVIEWS FROM MILLIONS OF TRIPADVISOR TRAVELERS PLACE US IN THE TOP 10% WORLDWIDE. PULL
Lea Moeller Former Board Member
I’m so grateful for the work that Womankind does to bridge the gap in our local healthcare ser vices. This organization has been a beacon of support for our community for the last 25 years.”
Chase Hurst Finance Director
After 15 years, the word “vagina” doesn’t make me blush anymore.”
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According to the Monroe County Supervisor of Elections website, there are 54,468 active registered voters as of March 4. Republican voters total 24,913, Democratic voters total 14,787 and voters from other parties total 14,768.
STATE BILL THREATENS EVENT FUNDING
Pride, Goombay & other ‘diversity’ programs face uncertain future
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
If a bill circulating in Tallahassee passes in the coming week, then this could be the last year for events such as Key West Pride, Goombay, Womenfest, Black History Month, the Headdress Ball and others.
House Bill 1001, titled Anti-Diversity in Local Government, would ban cities and counties, including tourist development councils (TDCs), from “funding, promoting or taking any official action” to support programs or events related to diversity based on “race, sex, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation,” states the bill’s text.
If HB 1001 passes, then TDC funds could not support Key West Pride, Goombay, Womenfest or other socalled diversity programs, said Rob Dougherty, executive director of the Key West Business Guild, which also operates the Gay Key West visitor center on Duval Street with TDC funds.
“If this passes, the city and county couldn’t allow any of their streets, parks or properties to be used for parades, the street fairs, concerts or other events,” said Dougherty.
“We could only continue to receive that funding if we dropped the ‘Gay’ from ‘Gay Key West,’” Dougherty told the Keys Weekly this week.
Key West City Commissioner and mayoral candidate Sam Kaufman is also monitoring the bill and has asked city manager Brian L. Barroso for any updates from the city’s lobbyists.
“It would be very helpful to understand how this legislation could potentially impact city funding streams or allocations of city resources, as well as any downstream effects on funding opportunities for our local non-profit partners,” Kaufman wrote to Barroso.
The city commission meets Thursday, March 5.
Dougherty and the business guild are urging people to contact Florida Keys state legislators State Sen. Anna
Maria Rodriguez and State Rep. Jim Mooney to oppose HB 1001.
“This isn’t just about the LGBTQ community, but in these cases, it’s all about the +, which includes all our allies. Their support has always been crucial,” Dougherty said.
The House bill and its matching one in the state Senate are sponsored by State Rep. Dean Black and State Sen. Clay Yarborough, both Republicans. But some of their fellow Republicans have opposed the bill in committee votes thus far. It is slated for a full House vote within the week.
“This legislation is drawing bipartisan concern,” states an update from Equality Florida. “During its final House committee hearing, State Rep. Michelle Salzman (R-Escambia) publicly criticized HB 1001 as ‘all over the place’ and ‘incredibly vague.’ And when the vote was called, State Rep. Chip LaMarca (R-Broward) broke ranks and joined Democrats in voting no.”
Florida Keys and Key West tourism officials are closely monitoring the bill, which, if passed, would affect Key West’s tourism revenue and TDC’s support for events that drive tourism.
“The potential economic impact is significant,” Dougherty wrote in an update to his members. “The LGBTQ+ visitor market has long been a cornerstone of Key West tourism. A reduction or loss of these events would have ripple effects across our entire business community. (These events) collectively generate substantial revenue for hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, bars, shops, attractions and services. These events drive visitation, extend length of stay and contribute meaningfully to tourism-related tax revenues. If public promotional support and TDC funding are eliminated (with the passage of HB 1001), 2026 may well be the last year we are able to produce these events.”
According to the Monroe County TDC, Key West Pride historically has attracted up to 1,000 out-of-county visitors each year and this year received
Artist Luis Sottil will offer painting demonstrations of his naturalismo painting process and unveil new works at Key West Gallery, 601 Duval St., March 5-9.
See page 16. CONTRIBUTED
A proposed bill in Tallahassee would ban government funding and other public support for ‘diversity’ events such as
$74,500 in TDC funds to promote the event. Other events that would no longer be eligible for TDC funding or any public support under HB 1001 include: Tropical Heat, Womenfest, Key West Burlesque, Randy Roberts Live and “The Birdcage” starring Christopher Peterson.
“HB 1001 is still moving through the legislative process and has not become law,” TDC president Kara Franker told the Keys Weekly on March 3. “We are monitoring it closely. All TDC event grant funding is awarded using content-neutral criteria focused on measurable tourism impact, including projected overnight visitation, economic benefit and marketing reach. It would be premature to speculate on the bill’s potential impact on tourism or visitor numbers at this stage, but we will of course comply with all applicable laws as they are enacted.”
Call your Florida Keys state legislators to offer support or opposition to pending legislation. Scan the QR code to email them.
State Sen. Anna Maria Rodriquez: District office: 305-470-2552, Tallahassee: 850-487-5040
State Rep. Jim Mooney: Key Largo district office: 305-315-0780, Tallahassee office: 850- 717-5120
Key West Pride, Goombay, Womenfest and others. Keys Weekly file photos
2 NEW CANDIDATES ENTER CITY COMMISSION RACES
Greg Sullivan seeks District V seat; Wayne Garcia eyes District IV
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Key West’s election season is heating up as quickly as the weather, with two new candidates joining the races this week.
Three city commission seats will be filled by new faces, as no incumbents are running in Districts II, IV and V. And the closely watched mayor’s race pits Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez against current District II City Commissioner Sam Kaufman.
The primary election takes place Aug. 18. If a candidate receives more than 50% of the vote, they are declared the winner. In races with three or more candidates, if no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote, the top two vote-getters will head to a run-off in the November general election on Nov. 3, when Floridians will also elect a new governor.
In District V, where Greg Veliz was appointed to fulfill the term of the late Mary Lou Hoover, Greg Sullivan recently filed his paperwork to run against Chris Massicotte.
Sullivan is the senior district manager for WM, formerly known as Waste Management, which handles all of Key West’s trash and recycling services. He has served on numerous civic boards, including the Key West Chamber of Commerce and Keys Federal Credit Union.
“I want to bring good, common sense to Key West and get things done,” Sullivan told the Keys Weekly on March 3, the day he entered the race. “I’ve been here 31 years. I’ve never missed a hurricane and I think I understand what Key West residents
need and want. I’m a nuts and bolts guy. I want to get things done, not postpone things. I’m all about maintenance and doing things that will make everyday life better for the people of Key West.”
Sullivan said he wants to expand the city’s youth summer employment program in partnership with A Positive Step of Monroe County, to give local high school students real-world work experience in various city departments.
“I also want to suggest a leftturn arrow at the light at White and United streets,” he said.
In District IV, incumbent Lissette Carey has not indicated that she will seek reelection, leaving three candidates thus far vying for that seat — Sarah Compton, Juan Llera and the recently announced Wayne Garcia.
Garcia is a native Conch, a building contractor and a wood-working artist who was mentored by the legendary folk artist Mario Sanchez. He specializes in top-tier masonry work, preservation of historic buildings and other construction.
In District II, Mark Rossi and Bobi Lore are vying for the seat currently held by Kaufman, who is asking voters to promote him to mayor in the August election. Rossi owns and operates Rick’s/ Durty Harry’s entertainment complex on Duval Street and was the District II commissioner 10 years before Kaufman. Lore owns and operates Island House guesthouse.
All city election information is at cityofkeywest-fl.gov. From the home page, click on Your Government > Office of the City Clerk > Election Information.
BYRON DONALDS VISITS MARATHON
Keys Common Sense Conservatives hosts leading Republican candidate for governor
One of Florida’s top gubernatorial candidates paid a visit to the Middle Keys as the Keys Common Sense Conservatives PAC hosted Rep. Byron Donalds for a luncheon in Marathon on March 1. Serving the U.S. House for Florida’s 19th district, including the southwest Florida cities of Naples, Fort Myers and Cape Coral, Donalds announced his candidacy for Florida’s top post in February 2025 after
earning consideration by Donald Trump as a potential running mate in the 2024 presidential election. Filling the events tiki at the city of Marathon’s Oceanfront Park, Donalds addressed local voters, elected officials and law enforcement personnel before moving to Sombrero Beach. The representative assisted the Turtle Hospital in releasing rehabbed juvenile green turtle “Miller,” fully recovered and ready for release after being found floating and lethargic in the Upper Keys in early February.
State Rep. Jim Mooney, left, and county commissioner Holly Raschein, right, welcome Byron Donalds to the Middle Keys.
Donalds poses with members of the keys Common Sense Conservatives Political Action Committee at a luncheon in Marathon sponsored by the group.
Islamorada Village Council member Anna Richards welcomes Donalds.
Donalds, right, helps Turtle Hospital manager Bette Zirkelbach release rehabbed green turtle ‘Miller,’ fresh off treatment for biotoxins, at Sombrero Beach.
Photos by Natalie Danko and Alex Rickert
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Greg Sullivan
Wayne Garcia
Key West & Cuba’s Museum Quality Regional Art Celebrating Cultural Resilience
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LIFE WITHOUT PAROLE FOR PRESTON BREWER
Sentencing is final chapter in 2023 shooting death of Garrett Hughes
Preston Brewer enters court on Thursday, Feb. 26 for sentencing after being found guilty last month of first-degree murder in the 2023 shooting of Garrett Hughes. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
The victim’s side of the courtroom gallery was a sea of red on Thursday afternoon, as the parents, relatives, friends and supporters of the late Garrett Hughes united in the red of Conch Pride to hear Hughes’ shooter, Preston Brewer, be sentenced.
“You have been found guilty by a jury of your peers and adjudicated guilty of murder in the first degree. I hereby sentence you to spend the rest of your life in prison without the possibility of parole,” Judge Mark Jones announced after asking Brewer, who was convicted last month, to approach the bench to be sentenced.
There was no cheer or celebration from the gallery in red. Only a sigh of relief that the case was over and justice had been served.
Brewer declined to say anything when invited to do so by the judge. And the family and friends of Garrett Hughes did not give victim impact statements, choosing not to give Brewer their time or emotion, prosecutor Colleen Dunne said.
The proceedings opened with Jones denying a last-ditch motion for a new trial that was filed by Brewer’s attorneys. It’s a common, though not typically successful, move following a guilty verdict.
Family and friends and supporters of Garrett Hughes wear red for Conch pride at shooter Preston Brewer’s sentencing hearing on Thursday, Feb. 26.
Before sentencing Brewer, Jones spoke of the tragedy of the shooting that “happened in the blink of an eye, and nothing I can say can change the situation today. But maybe something I say may change the way someone behaves in the future,” Jones said, acknowledging the effect of the shooting on the local community and the media attention the case has garnered since it occurred in February 2023.
Jones then discussed the responsible use of firearms.
“If a person chooses to own and carry a deadly weapon, a firearm, to have that firearm loaded with the type of bullets that we saw during this trial, that can rip a man’s guts apart, he better damn well use it responsibly and in a lawabiding manner.”
“Pride goeth before the fall,” Jones said. “This case is a great example of that principle. … One man has lost his life and one will spend the rest of his life in prison.”
Scan the QR code to see video of the sentencing.
FORMER CHIEF FLIGHT NURSE SENTENCED IN TRAUMA STAR DRUG THEFTS
Aformer chief flight nurse with Monroe County Trauma Star has been sentenced in a case related to drug thefts.
Lynda Rusinowski
On Feb. 25, the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office said Lynda J. Rusinowski was sentenced by Circuit Judge Mark Jones to 60 days in Monroe County jail, followed by five years of drug court probation. She must finish the Intervention Projects for Nurses treatment program, complete 50 hours of community service, attend three Alcoholics Anonymous/ Narcotics Anonymous meetings per week and submit to two urinalyses per week.
Charges were levied after Rusinowski unlawfully obtained and used medical-grade narcotics, including fentanyl, Dilaudid, Versed, ketamine and morphine from Monroe County Fire Rescue’s Trauma Star program. She also falsified official records to conceal the thefts.
The case was presented to a Monroe County grand jury following an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. In addition, the Monroe County Clerk’s Office conducted an audit related to the Trauma Star controlled substance records. Collectively, the
investigation and audit identified numerous discrepancies within controlled substance logs and inventories, including missing controlled substance vials and falsified log entries used to mask the diversion of narcotics over a period of time.
Rusinowski, 59, entered an open plea without a negotiated sentencing agreement, leaving sentencing to the judge’s discretion. Rusinowski entered an open plea of no contest to 14 counts of grand theft of a controlled substance and three counts of official misconduct.
Also, Rusinowski was ordered to pay $553 in court costs, along with restitution of $1,152.19 to Monroe County Clerk of Court for the cost of the controlled substances, $2,850 for investigation costs by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and $1,500 for prosecution costs.
During the investigation, the state attorney’s office said, Rusinowski acknowledged her conduct and sought substance abuse treatment.
“This case involved the misuse of controlled substances by someone in a position of medical trust. While the defendant acknowledged her conduct and sought treatment, the diversion of these medications required a criminal response,” said major crimes prosecutor Colleen Dunne.
— Keys Weekly staff report
Judge Mark Jones sentences Preston Brewer to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
BOAT FIRED ON BY CUBAN MILITARY WAS REPORTED STOLEN FROM BIG PINE KEY PROPERTY
Alleged thief was among four killed in open-water shootout
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Aboat that reportedly entered into an open-water gunfight with the Cuban military on Feb. 25 was reported stolen from Big Pine Key in the Florida Keys, according to multiple reports.
The man accused of the theft, Hector Cruz Correa, was one of the 10 armed men aboard, and one of four killed in the gunfire, according to Cuban officials. The other six remain in custody.
On Feb. 25, the Cuban Ministry of the Interior reported that a “speedboat” registered in Florida, with the registration number FL7726SH, approached within 1 nautical mile of the Cuban coast near Cayo Falcones. When Cuban Border Guard troops approached the vessel, the ministry said, the crew of the intruding boat opened fire, injuring the Cuban boat’s commander, Yosmany Hernández Hernández.
Calling the intrusion an “attempted armed infiltration for terrorist purposes,” Cuban officials said they found a full complement of weaponry aboard the boat, including assault rifles, sniper rifles and handguns, nearly 13,000 rounds of ammunition, Molotov cocktails, bulletproof vests, night vision equipment, a drone, tactical knives and counterrevolutionary insignia, among other items.
Later the same day, the owner of the intruding boat, Angel Walter Montera, reported his vessel as stolen from Big Pine Key, contacting the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office less than 12 hours after news of the confrontation broke.
According to Montera’s report, he had discovered his vessel missing when he visited its dock on Avenue G in Big Pine Key around 9:30 that morning. He told deputies he stored the boat at the canalfront vacant lot in exchange for doing construction work for the lot’s owner, but hadn’t checked on it personally in over a week. A white Chevy pickup truck registered to Cruz Correa, who Montera said does tile work for him, was left in the lot.
Montera said he initially believed Cruz Correa had taken the boat without permission to go fishing, and tried several times to call him with no response. But later that day, Montera began receiving calls after news broke that the intruding vessel’s registration number, FL7726SH, matched his missing 1981 24-foot Pro-Line, and he called in the theft just before 5 p.m.
Montera told deputies that Cruz Correa was in the process of repairing two other large vessels and had borrowed a trailer from him to store one of the boats. Interviewing neighbors in Montera’s report, an Avenue G resident said she saw a man board the boat around 6:30 the night before.
“She found it odd … since the owner, Angel, is known by her … and he doesn’t usually go out this late,” the report states.
Visiting the Avenue G site on Feb. 26, the Keys Weekly found Homeland Security Investigations agents and sheriff’s deputies on site. The white Chevy pickup with a plate matching Montera’s report was still in the lot. Several passing neighbors said they were surprised to see the boat gone, as it had been used infrequently in recent months and they believed Montera to be ill.
That same day, Cuban vice minister of foreign affairs Carlos Fernández de Cossío released the names of the four men killed in the offshore firefight, including Cruz Correa, Pavel Alling Peña, Michel Ortega Casanova and Ledián Padrón Guevara. Also aboard were Cristian Ernesto Acosta Guevara, Conrado Galindo Sariol, José Manuel Rodríguez Castelló, Leordan Enrique Cruz Gómez, Amijail Sánchez González and Roberto Álvarez Ávila, Cossío said.
A statement from the Cuban Ministry of the Interior characterized the group as Cuban nationalists living in the U.S., “most of (whom) have prior records involving criminal and violent activity.” It said Sanchez Gonzalez and Cruz Gomez were wanted members of the country’s terrorism watch list.
“Anti-Cuban groups operating in the United States resort to terrorism as an expression of their hatred against Cuba and the impunity they believe they enjoy,” Cossío said.
In another statement the following day, Cuban officials said the men originally left Marathon Key in two boats, but had continued in one boat when the second had technical difficulties. Originally reported as a “speedboat,” images later released of Montera’s vessel showed it as a singleoutboard vessel set up as a commercial fishing and trap boat, including commercial licensing numbers on the hull.
“The detainees … face charges for armed assault, illegal entry into the national territory and crimes associated with terrorist acts, violence and illicit arms trafficking,” the Cuban government said.
Montera told sheriff’s deputies that Cruz Correa, who was born in Cuba and lived in Homestead, had two young daughters still in Cuba. Ortega Casanova’s brother told the Associated Press soon after the firefight that Casanova was on an “obsessive and diabolical” quest for Cuba’s freedom.
The firefight comes amid alreadyheightened tensions between the
U.S. and Cuba, including an oil blockade and other economic pressures to topple the country’s communist regime. Cuban officials gave a nod to the tensions in preliminary statements after the shooting.
“In the face of current challenges, Cuba reaffirms its determination to protect its territorial waters, based on the principle that national defense is a fundamental pillar of the Cuban State in safeguarding its sovereignty and ensuring stability in the region,” the statement read.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the incident wasn’t tied to a United States government operation, but said he deeply distrusted the Cuban authorities’ version of events and that the U.S. embassy had yet to receive access to the detained passengers.
“It’s highly unusual to see shootouts on the open sea,” Rubio told reporters. “We are not going to base our conclusions on what they (the Cuban government) have told us … and we’ll respond accordingly.”
1. A photo released by the Cuban Ministry of the Interior shows the vessel that allegedly engaged in an open-water shootout with the Cuban military. The boat was reported stolen from Big Pine Key the same day by its owner, who said a tile contractor took it from the dock. CONTRIBUTED
2. Photo released by the Cuban Ministry of the Interior show weapons and ammunition allegedly carried aboard a 24-foot boat headed to Cuba from the Florida Keys on Feb. 25. CONTRIBUTED
3. Homeland Security officers and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office deputies investigate the site of a reported boat theft on Avenue G in Big Pine Key. According to multiple reports, a 24-foot Pro-Line vessel stored at a dock on the vacant lot was stolen and taken to Cuba by 10 armed men. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
4. A white Chevy pickup truck belonging to Hector Cruz Correa sits in a vacant lot on Avenue G in Big Pine Key on Feb. 26. According to police reports, Cruz Correa stole a vessel from the Big Pine Key canal two days earlier and was one of four men killed in an openwater shootout with Cuban Border Guard troops. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
MOVING TRAFFIC IN THE KEYS
County gets inside look at FDOT’s management center
CONTRIBUTED
Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln and Commissioner Jim Scholl were among the local officials who recently took a tour of the Florida Department of Transportation’s District 6 management center in Miami for an in-depth look at the technology used to monitor and manage traffic throughout South Florida and the Florida Keys.
The visit focused on FDOT’s Transportation Systems Management and Operations program, which uses real-time data, advanced traffic signal coordination and integrated communication to improve road performance, reduce congestion and enhance safety without requiring major road expansion. They met with District 6 Secretary Daniel Iglesias and other key staff members.
“This tour really highlighted how much is happening to keep traffic moving safely and efficiently along U.S. 1,” Lincoln said. “With limited space in the Florida Keys, these types of smart, technologydriven solutions are critical for both our residents and our visitors.”
In Monroe County, the number of traffic management devices has grown from a few in 2005 to dozens of coordinated systems today. This includes 95 cameras, 37 traffic signals, dynamic messaging signs, pedestrian beacons, emergency signals and nearly 60 roadside units supporting corridor operations.
Staff at the center actively monitors road conditions, coordinates responses to crashes and lane closures and communicates with partner agencies, including Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Highway Patrol and emergency services.
In 2025, 476 scheduled roadwork events, 130 crashes and 23 disabled vehicles, among other things, caused lane blockages on U.S. 1.
Joining Lincoln and Scholl in the visit were Bob Shillinger, county attorney; Emily Schemper, growth management director; Kristen Livengood, public information officer; Kacey Hunt, executive aide; and Leo Morin, of public works.
County officials view a large screen showing various highway segments in South Florida.
From left, Daniel Iglesias, FDOT District 6 secretary; Bob Shillinger, county attorney; Emily Schemper, growth management director; and Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln.
BOOKS & BOOKS CELEBRATES A DECADE OF WORDS & WRITERS
Locally owned shop is customized for Key West
ERIN STOVER www.keysweekly.com
It’s a pretty standard Thursday in a Key West bookstore, but a closer look may reveal renowned author and fierce literary advocate Judy Blume stocking the shelves with graphic novels, signed copies of the most anticipated publications and Florida-centric works. Venture a few steps farther and you’ll find yourself in a contemporary gallery with three more floors overhead abuzz with art classes, performances, artist studios and rooftop sunset-gazers.
No ordinary bookstore, Books & Books Key West is a gem just one block from the bustle of Duval: a locally owned, nonprofit, neighborhood space, affiliated with one of the nation’s leading independent bookstores. As part of The Studios of Key West, a nonprofit, multidisciplinary arts organization, Books & Books Key West satisfies a fundamental literature component. This week, the store will blow out the candles on its 10th birthday cake.
Books & Books Key West began as the brainchild of a small group of local book lovers, led by George Cooper, who previously founded the Tropic Cinema, and his wife, Judy Blume. When The Studios sought a new home in 2016 at the former Masonic Temple on Eaton Street, the staff and board recognized the cornerfacing space at Eaton and Simonton streets as an ideal retail location. But it couldn’t be just any gift shop. Given the mission, structure and local commitment of the arts organization, any retail space would have to lean into creativity. It had to serve the community. It had to be right.
In a town dominated by the literary arts and haunted by the ghosts of Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams and Elizabeth Bishop –and still frequented by scores of current authors – Books & Books presented itself as pure serendipity. Mitch Kaplan opened the original Books & Books in 1982. It occupied a 10,000-squarefoot space in Coral Gables. It expanded to several additional locations before making its most recent jump to the end of U.S 1.
“This space exists because a community of people. Our philanthropic founders, The Studios of Key West, Books & Books, our community partners, our staff and volunteers, and especially our customers — all came together to create and sustain this literary outpost,” said the Key West store’s general manager, Emily Berg, recalling how it all came together more than a decade ago.
That literary outpost has grown into a thriving business that fundamentally supports the arts — carrying roughly 5,000 titles and contributing all revenue in excess of expenses to The Studios, a nonprofit arts organization. The spot is now a cherished corner in Key West, attracting local families, tourists and artists seeking supplies. Like the other locations, Books & Books Key West shares the same high level of integrity and quality as its original namesake, but possesses its own personality, tuned to the interests and reading habits of one very popular little island. Creating that particular flavor has been a labor of love.
“I don’t think any of us truly knew what to expect when we opened the doors 10 years ago,” Berg said. “I knew it would be a lot of work, but not this much. And we all hoped it would be worth it, but it’s been more rewarding than I ever could’ve imagined.”
Judy Blume echoed those sentiments as she reflected on the past decade of accomplishments.
“We knew nothing about running a bookstore but we learned fast thanks to Mitchell Kaplan,” Blume said. “We call him our guru, and his bookstore in Coral Gables, the Mothership. Mitch sent his employee, Viv, to Key West to teach us. She was smart, fierce and funny. I still remember her saying, ‘Keep it beautiful,
keep it fresh, everyone dusts.’ The books were still in boxes when customers began knocking on the door.
“Ten years later, we are seasoned booksellers,” Blume added. “Emily has been our manager since the beginning and I can’t imagine doing this without her. Our staff is like family. We love our work and I think our customers feel that. And yes, we all still dust.”
Founders Judy Blume and George Cooper were instrumental in bringing Books & Books Key West to the corner of Eaton and Simonton streets a decade ago. CONTRIBUTED
Author and bookstore co-founder Judy Blume describes the Books & Books Key West staff as family. They include, from left, assistant manager Sara Pilat, store manager Emily Berg, author Gabriel Tallent, Blume, and booksellers Camila Duke and Wendy Reynolds. CONTRIBUTED
ARTIST LUIS SOTTIL BRINGS NATURE TO LIFE
Key West Gallery welcomes painter March 5-9
Mexican-born painter Luis Sottil, whose works are in thousands of collections, opens an exhibit on Thursday, March 5 at Key West Gallery, 601 Duval St., where he will offer live painting demonstrations and unveil new works through Monday, March 9.
The creator of the expressive art movement he calls naturalismo, Sottil invites viewers of his work to explore the emotional resonance of nature through color and form. His work goes beyond literal representation and transforms pigments drawn from nature itself into canvas expressions.
This immersive process, he said, is central to his artistic mission: to capture not just how nature looks, but how it feels.
Throughout the weekend, attendees at Key West Gallery can watch live demonstrations of Sottil’s technique, which blends meticulous observation with an almost poetic connection to his subjects.
Born and raised in Tampico, Mexico, Sottil is committed to sharing the emotions and colors of the flora and fauna of his native country with the world through his paintings, sculptures and leather creations.
Sottil created a new painting process more than 30 years ago that he named naturalismo, a process that a number of major universities have
incorporated into their art curriculum. He photographs, takes careful notes and studies the habitat of his subjects, collecting intense natural pigments from the same environments. Using colors extracted from nature — a penetrating blue from the cochinilla insect, the red of the Jamaica flower, dramatic purples from beets and vibrant orange tones from the achiote seed — Sottil celebrates the parallels of nature and art.
“To view a work of art that you can touch, smell and taste is to embrace nature’s soul,” said Sottil, the first Latin American painter to be invited by the Walt Disney Co. to become an official artist for Disney Fine Art.
His works are in over 3,000 private and corporate collections around the world, including King Fahd’s Royal Palace collection of Saudi Arabia.
More information is at keywestgallery.com.
— Contributed
‘OUT OF THE CLOSET’ FASHION SHOW RETURNS MARCH 11
Kirby’s Closet & Queer Keys partner for 3rd annual fundraiser
Keys co-founder
Kirby’s Closet boutique, 218 Whitehead St., will again partner with the nonprofit Queer Keys for the third annual “Out of the Closet” fashion show fundraiser at Opal Key Resort on Wednesday, March 11 at 6:15 p.m. The free community event celebrates individuality, inclusivity and self-expression while raising critical funds to support the LGBTQIA+ community in the Keys.
Now in its third year, the event has raised over $26,000 through local sponsorships and community support. The runway will feature more than 20 models, each bringing their own energy and identity to the stage. The show is a celebration of fashion as a form of selfexpression, where “being yourself” is always in style.
The evening opens with a special performance by the Fabulous Spectrelles. As the runway comes to life, DJ Sanaris will provide a soundtrack, keeping the energy high as models showcase Kirby’s Closet’s signature “Closet Finds” — fun styles curated for real life and real people.
The event’s community-driven structure makes it especially impactful, said Kirby Myers, owner of Kirby’s Closet. Each model is
sponsored by local businesses, with sponsorships directly contributing to the fundraiser. This allows the show to remain free and open to the public, reinforcing its mission of accessibility and inclusion. While admission is free, donations are encouraged, with all proceeds benefiting Queer Keys.
Guests can enjoy a cash bar and first-come, first-serve seating. Early arrival is recommended due to high demand and limited seating.
Queer Keys’ mission is to support, educate, empower and celebrate the queer community throughout the Keys. With events like this, the organization continues to foster connection, visibility and meaningful change at the local level.
Myers has long been an advocate for inclusivity and community engagement. Three years ago, she joined forces with Queer Keys co-founder Chris McNulty to create this fashion show fundraiser, which quickly became a popular Key West tradition.
“At its core, this event is about more than fashion,” said Myers. “It’s about creating a space where people feel seen, celebrated and free to express exactly who they are.”
Luis Sottil paints in a technique he calls naturalismo, with the aim of making viewers feel nature as much as they see it. CONTRIBUTED
Artist Luis Sottil will offer painting demonstrations and unveil new works March 5-9 at Key West Gallery. CONTRIBUTED
Queer
Chris McNulty, left, and Kirby Myers, owner of Kirby’s Closet, once again have partnered to present the third annual Out of the Closet fashion show fundraiser on March 11. CASSANDRA McDANIEL/Contributed
SATURDAY, MARCH 7 8AM-2PM
HOUSEHOLD ITEMS • FURNITURE • LINENS • CHILDREN’S GAMES AND TOYS • TOOLS • ELECTRONICS, ETC.
CASH ONLY EVENT. BAKED GOODS & HOT DOGS WILL ALSO BE FOR SALE.
KEY WEST
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 600 Eaton Street, 305-296-2392
H e a l t h y L i f e
By Dr. Kellee Reed
Endometriosis Awareness
Endometriosis is a common yet misunderstood condition affecting millions of women today It occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, potentially causing:
1 Pelvic pain, especially during menstruation, sexual activity, or bowel movements
2 Heavy or irregular periods, including spotting between cycles.
3. Fatigue, such as persistent or severe tiredness.
4 Gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea
5 Infertility, affecting 30–50% of women with endometriosis
While there’s no cure, treatments like hormone therapy, pain management, minimally invasive surgery, fertility options, and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life
Take charge of your health this Endometriosis Awareness Month.
Schedule an appointment with a Mount Sinai Medical Center Key West PCP at 305 434 9205 and take the first step toward understanding your body
BABY’S COFFEE
LINCOLN FILES FOR COUNTY COMMISSION RACE
Mayor vies for third term
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln will seek another term to serve the Florida Keys this fall.
A full-time resident of the Keys since 1999, Lincoln served on the Marathon City Council from 2015 to 2018 before her two terms on the Monroe County Commission as District 2 representative. Her district covers Boca Chica in the Lower Keys north through the Seven Mile Bridge and includes the north side of U.S. 1 up to the neighborhoods behind the Marathon Airport. At press time, she is the only declared candidate for the position.
“I still have a passion to serve my community, and the best way I know how to do that is by being an elected official,” she told the Weekly by phone on March 3. “Because I was once on the Marathon City Council, and because I’m so active in Rotary and the Chamber (of Commerce), I feel I’ve stayed in tune with what our community wants.”
In 2025, Lincoln was sworn in as president of the Florida Association of Counties. It’s a position she said has opened doors statewide to allow Keys voices to be heard.
“Now when I’m walking the halls in Tallahassee, I don’t just hear ‘commissioner,’ I hear ‘hey, president,’ and it’s a staffer from another county,” she said. “They vote on the things that are important to our county.”
She listed improvements to Big Pine Community Park, a rebuild in the works for the Sugarloaf Key fire station and the county’s successful launch of an artificial reefs program as hallmark achievements in her last term
“When I became a commissioner, it was right after Irma. Big Pine was really hit the hardest,
and I’ve seen that community turn around,” she said. “On any given day you go to the beach, to the park there, and it’s packed with kids playing soccer and tee ball, adults playing bocce ball. There’s just so much going on, and I’m still wanting to make that a better place for our families.”
And while the county has made great strides in the fight against derelict vessels, she listed projects like an upcoming Boca Chica mooring field and returning commercial air service to the Marathon Airport as top items of unfinished business.
She told the Weekly she’s eager to deploy the rest of a $35 million tourist development tax surplus to support workforce housing builds for tourism-related employees throughout the island chain, but admitted the commission is “tapping the brakes” as its Southcliff Estates project in Key Largo faces ongoing vacancies and a strong resident pushback to initial rental rates.
“We’re going to stop, and do a study to make sure we’re providing the right product in each individual community,” she said.
The county commission has weathered several high-stakes challenges during Lincoln’s most
recent term, from large-scale changes to Monroe County Fire Rescue and the Tourist Development Council, following a 2023 drug diversion scandal and several critical audits of county departments and oversight. In 2025, a 50% funding cut to nonprofits fueled by the county’s Human Services Advisory Board and elimination of roughly 20 staff positions kept meeting rooms full as the commission looked to comply with directives from the Florida Department of Government Efficiency.
“When the government above you is telling you what you need to do, then you have to,” she said, reiterating the need for the county to build its own disaster reserve fund in the face of large-scale FEMA overhauls. The county’s current budget will add $2 million to those reserves this year.
“We’ve been really blessed not needing to use those funds, but we know it’s just a matter of time,” Lincoln said. “We could have cut the entire $4 million out of the budget (for nonprofits), but we cut it by 50%,” she said. “We’re looking at ways, if we can’t give funding from our ad valorem taxes, can we maybe get more grant money, or are there other ways to make sure the community is receiving services they need?”
Locally, Lincoln volunteers with the Guardian ad Litem program, representing the interests of abused children during legal proceedings. She is a member of the Rotary Club of Marathon, Marathon Chamber of Commerce and Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, and serves as a Take Stock in Children mentor.
The qualifying period for the 2026 county commission election runs from Monday, June 8 to Friday, June 12. Lincoln joins current Mayor Pro Tem David Rice as the only prefiled candidates, with Rice set to run for re-election in Marathon and Islamorada’s District 4.
SHELF HELP
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “Empire of the Vampire” by Jay Kristoff
Why: I imagine this book as a medieval “Constantine” (I love you, Keanu Reeves) set to a death metal musical score. Gabriel de Leon is an excommunicated Silversaint, a knight pledged to the Silver Order, dedicated to destroying vampires. There has not been a sunrise in 27 long years. Gabriel has been captured by highly aristocratic and duplicitous vampires and is forced to recount his story. Told in flashbacks of epic battles, forbidden love and devastating loss, this is a story that you will want to savor. Bon Orthwick’s stylized illustrations accompanying the text are gloomy and sumptuous and transport you further into this desolate vampiric wasteland. I didn’t want this story to end and I’m eternally grateful for the sequel, “Empire of the Damned” (also in the library collection).
Where: You can borrow this as a print book, e-book and e-audiobook from the Monroe County Public Library.
How: You can request books, including e-books and e-audiobooks, online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? keyslibraries.org/contact-us.
Recommended by: Riona Campbell, acting branch manager, Big Pine Key library branch See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/post/ shelf-help.
Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln. CONTRIBUTED
NANCY KLINGENER: COMMUNICATIONS, CONTENTMENT — AND JUNE
SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW
As a journalist, Nancy Klingener has been the face of the Miami Herald’s Florida Keys bureau and helped launch the Keys bureau for WLRN, South Florida’s public radio station — reporting on local topics and piloting a blue bicycle dubbed her “mobile news vehicle.” She’s a former news editor for local papers, including the former regional magazine Solares Hill. She’s currently a contributing writer for the Keys Weekly.
Yet despite those credentials, today Klingener derives her greatest satisfaction from another career entirely. During periodic breaks from journalism, she pursued her passion for library work, both with the Monroe County library system and the local college.
Since 2022, she’s been the community affairs manager for the Monroe County Public Library. She manages its communications and social media from her Key West office, and is deeply invested in raising awareness of the library system’s remarkable range of activities and offerings.
Klingener’s ongoing projects include updating and expanding the websites for both the library and its associated Florida Keys History Center — whose content now includes maritime and admiralty court records, ancestry information, a huge photo archive, early island diaries and the popular “Today in Keys History” column.
She’s also president of the Key West Literary Seminar’s board of directors and helps guide the annual gathering of world-renowned writers and literature lovers.
Klingener is married to writer/photographer and birding enthusiast Mark Hedden. Their family includes canine companion June, whom she describes as “pretty goofy — half German shorthaired pointer, half pit bull and all mush.”
Upbeat and easygoing, Klingener recently sat down with Keys Weekly to discuss her winding career path, enjoyment of new challenges and continued affection for her island home.
Why did you choose Key West as your home? I came to Key West in February 1991 as a reporter for the Miami Herald. I had already been with the Herald for almost two years, and then there was an opening in the Keys bureau. The Keys bureau was famous for the amazing stories that came out
of here. It was an incredible place to really learn reporting.
I applied for grad school in ’91 or ’92, and then I had this amazing epiphany — which was that the best thing I could hope for would be a good job at a good newspaper in a good place. And I was like, “Wait, I already have those things.” So I took the money I’d been saving up for grad school and made a downpayment on a condo on Fleming Street.
What’s the most compelling story you covered for the Herald? Probably the 1994 Cuban Rafter Crisis, when there were thousands of people coming on actual rafts or tractor tires that were bound together with ladders and risking their lives to go out into the straits. It wasn’t quite the Mariel boatlift, but it was very intense.
How did covering athlete Diana Nyad’s epic swim from Cuba to Key West lead to a new journalism opportunity for you? I left the Herald in 2000 and bounced around some. At some point, I started freelancing essays to WLRN. On Labor Day in 2013, they said, “Diana Nyad’s going to make it. Can you report on it for us — and for NPR, the national network?” I really didn’t know anything about audio recording or production, but I went out there and was like, “Oh, wait, I’m not over
1. Nancy Klingener displays the tools of her trade during an assignment for WLRN some years ago. MICHAEL BLADES/Contributed
2. In 2022, Nancy Klingener and her husband Mark Hedden welcomed canine companion June into their world. CONTRIBUTED
3. Nancy Klingener is dedicated to raising awareness about the Monroe County Public Library system’s wide-ranging offerings. CAROL SHAUGHNESSY/Keys Weekly
journalism. This is actually kind of fun.” So that eventually led to me starting the bureau here for WLRN. They and I both thought they should have a Keys bureau, and we came up with the proposal for it.
What’s involved in your job with the Monroe County Public Library? I manage the website, social media accounts and all that stuff. We redid our whole website about a year ago, and continuing to find ways to make that appealing and useful for people is a fun challenge. But truly, my mission is that everybody in Monroe County should know what the library can do for them, because it’s so much.
With your professional credentials, you could live and work practically anywhere. What keeps you in Key West? It’s a small town that’s never boring. We have access to so many events, and we have great theater and great restaurants. I’m not one of those people that gets rock fever; I’m very happy in a tiny habitat. I love being able to walk or ride my bike for just about anything — I don’t like driving — and I love that, when you walk the dog, you see people along the way and you’re like, “Hey, what’s going on?”
Speaking of walking the dog, how would you describe your dog June? She’s a total coward. She’s the most submissive dog you’ve ever met. If you’re walking her and you encounter a Chihuahua or a teacup Yorkie, she will lie down and roll over, which is embarrassing. But it’s a lot easier than having an aggressive dog, so I’ll take it.
Giddiness can sneak up on you. When it does, it often makes me think of that James Taylor line, “Ain’t it just like a friend of mine to hit me from behind,” even though I haven’t gone out of my way to listen to James Taylor in decades.
... 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.
Taylor was talking/singing about going to an unspecified Carolina in his mind, but I’d just spent an hour in a dentist’s chair that was very specifically on Big Pine, getting my teeth worked over by various complicated cleaning implements, and getting told I was brushing my teeth too aggressively and maybe I should try brushing with my non-dominant hand. Which did not seem like a preamble to giddiness, or having a friend hit you from behind.
But giddiness was lurking out there somewhere.
I drove unsuspectingly around the island for a while after the appointment, my mouth still tasting like baking powder, paying my respects to the gators at the Blue Hole, checking out the salt ponds on Koehn Avenue and on Watson Boulevard. Then I drove over the No Name Key Bridge, which the Sunday before had been filled with hundreds of kids pulling tiny fish out of the water, measuring them, throwing them back, and generally having a great time during the Kids Fishing Tournament, put on by the Lower Keys Rotary and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. Five days later the bridge was populated by four or five men with fishing poles and five-gallon buckets, and a lone brown pelican watching over them like a bored security guard at the mall.
I parked and walked down to the end of the road. Historically, this was the landing for the car ferry from Lower Matecumbe, which ran from 1927 until 1938, when the Overseas Railroad was converted into the Overseas Highway. So for a decade or so it was a bustling place, not just with the 20 or so cars that disembarked twice a day, but also because of the No Name Lodge, which was right next to the landing, and which in historic photos looked to have about six or eight cabins, a main building with a restaurant, and a couple sizable fishing boats moored there.
The lodge apparently survived into the 1940s, according to the historian Jerry Wilkerson, but was abandoned by the 1960s. The shoreline near the ferry launch was restored by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection with the help of the Audubon Society in 1983. (It’s unclear if it was Florida Keys Audubon or Florida Audubon, but yay, Audubon. And FDEP.)
To get to the shoreline you need to weave between a couple of large chunks of limestone, no doubt put there to keep people from driving into the water. But when you reach the water’s
BUSHWHACKED BY EXUBERANCE
edge, you would never know any of those things were there. And honestly, I didn’t know most of that until I’d done a little Googling.
It was a perfect Keys winter afternoon. Cloudless, cool, only a little windy. There wasn’t much going on out on the water — no boats, no pelicans, no cormorants flapping low over the waves. The world out there felt like a still life.
There’s a dock to the north of there that sometimes has some birds, and there were a couple royal terns standing on the pilings.
Then I looked down at the ribbon of sargassum hugging the shoreline, and it was going off. There were 80 or 100 birds in the midst of a quiet feeding riot.
There were a couple of yellowlegs standing on the seaweed, which I usually think of as brown, but when I stared at it through my binoculars it contained a lot of green.
There are two species of yellowlegs in the world, greater yellowlegs and lesser yellowlegs. And they look insanely similar. If they call, they are easy to tell apart, as the lesser gives a double-note call and the greater gives a three-note call. But that’s usually when they are flying away. If they aren’t calling, one of the field marks is that the bill on the greater looks about one-anda-half times the length of the skull, and the bill on the lesser looks about twice the length of the skull. Also, the bill on the greater appears ever so slightly upturned.
Size is a really tricky thing to determine. Human perception of large versus small can be highly variable. I don’t even trust myself trying to scale things. What makes it easier, though, is when the two species stand next to you and give you a straight-up size comparison. Which was what was happening out on the sargassum.
The most obvious thing to the south of me was a flock of white ibis, almost all adults, most with bills and legs that skewed toward the orange end of the color spectrum, but two or three with bills and legs hue-ing toward the
reddish end of the color spectrum, meaning they were closer to being ready to breed.
On a dead snag lying low across the water were a half dozen ruddy turnstones. Ruddy turnstones are often described as Harlequin-esque in the field guides, but these were all in non-breeding plumage. They looked less wayward members of the commedia dell’arte than actors just after a show, freshly scrubbed of their makeup.
Oddly, the turnstones seemed to be avoiding the ground, huddling up on the branch as if they were playing The Floor Is Lava. Which for all I know they were.
The birds that were slaying me, though, were the least sandpipers, the smallest shorebird species in the world. They’re about the size of a quartered lemon (cut horizontally) and weigh about the same as an AA battery. And this, along with a broad array of toes, gives them the ability to walk across the undulating landscape of sargassum and treat it like part playground and part smorgasbord.
I actually sat down on the ground to watch them, to take pictures, to follow them with my binoculars. To take in how they could casually move through a scaled-down landscape that few other creatures could. Which is when I noticed all the giddiness, ebullience, glee – whatever you want to call it – snuck in.
In an instant, this whole tableau exploded, disappeared itself, leaped up and sped off in multiple directions. Everyone but the ibis, that is. And then I saw it, this brown comet skidding across the foreground, 10 feet above the water, trying to change direction on the fly. Literally. It fanned out its long tail and flapped its shortish wings – the telltale traits of a Cooper’s hawk – and after a long moment it did manage to reverse the vector of its momentum, slowly at first, then quickly. Soon, it too was out of view. The giddiness stuck with me for a while, though. Or maybe that was just the appreciation of my newly clean teeth.
MARK HEDDEN
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Key West’s original orchestra – led by Conch Maestra Sebrina Alfonso – closes the 28th Season with Dvorák’s beloved Symphony No. 8, radiating with Bohemian warmth and melodic joy. Also experience Sibelius’ Violin Concerto -- featuring Siwoo Kim -- unleashing breathtaking precision and commanding virtuosity. Plus, Schubert’s sparkling Overture in D major (In the Italian Style).
Siwoo Kim, violin
RED BARN BRINGS BROADWAY CLASSICS TO LIFE
‘And the World Goes ’Round’ hits its mark & runs through March 21
ERIN STOVER
www.keysweekly.com
When David Thompson conceived and wrote, “And the World Goes ’Round — The Music of Kander and Ebb” in 1991, the challenge was apparent. How to distill 26 years of material from two of Broadway’s most celebrated creatives into a single show? The Tony, Emmy and Grammy Award-winning duo of John Kander and Fred Ebb, known for standards from “Cabaret,” “Kiss of the Spiderwoman” and “Chicago,” offered a nearly bottomless musical catalog. But Thompson emphasized that the goal was not simply to stage a setlist of greatest hits. “Our goal was to balance the standards like ‘Cabaret,’ ‘Maybe This Time,’ and the theme from ‘New York, New York’ with other material perhaps not as well known.”
The original show ran for over a year in New York, garnering awards and kudos. For Thompson and his team, though, the biggest compliment came after they had reworked the Broadway standard, “Cabaret,” in rehearsal. In 1991, Kander and Ebb were still active in musical theater, and were given access to the full development process of Thompson’s musical. On the day the new version of “Cabaret” debuted, the pair sat silently for a long, uncomfortable stretch. Finally, Ebb let out a laugh and said, “Well, you made the old turkey gobble again.” Kander and Ebb continued to create music together for another 15 years after that, while the musical, “And the World Goes ’Round,” continued to be staged across the country.
The most recent version by Key West’s Red Barn Theatre understands the nuance of what could otherwise feel like a standard revue. The arrangement sets the tone, flowing from silly to sublime, creating emotional heft for the characters along the way. Though non-linear, the curation of songs allows the audience to connect to the actors on stage, feeling their longing, desire and, in one case,
over-caffeinated mania. The subtle tweaks made by director Joy Hawkins make the play feel both contemporary (as one male character sings a torch song for the man he can’t forget) and local (with humorous nods to Wisteria Island and Conch baseball).
Co-director, choreographer and cast member Lauren Thompson breathes life into the material, moving the actors through their paces with whimsy and refinement. She references the instantly recognizable classic choreography of Bob Fosse, but blends it with her own modern take. Of the experience, Lauren Thompson said, “This creative process has been what every actor dreams of. It’s challenging, it’s meaty, there’s heart. You dive deeper, you connect with yourself and those that you share the room with.”
In revues, though, no one element can carry the whole. Direction and choreography depend on the music itself. Thankfully, the classic songbook is in strong hands with Claire Caplan, Arthur Crocker, Lauren Thompson and Jeremy Zoma, under the musical direction of Michael Fauss, a Broadway orchestrator and musical director. Each voice contributes exactly the element it should, at the moment it is required. Each singer is at turns playful and heartfelt, always resonant and right on pitch — no small feat with nearly nonstop movement. Overall, the cast and crew succeeds in breathing life into a classic. Perhaps the best compliment that can be paid to everyone at Red Barn is, “gobble, gobble.”
The show runs through March 21. For tickets, visit redbarntheatre.com or call the box office at 305-296-9911. All curtains are at 7:30 p.m.
HOMETOWN HOSTS CALL FOR CANDIDATES MARCH 9
Voter education group invites those running or considering it
Hometown! Key West is calling on all incumbents, declared candidates, prospective candidates and anyone simply exploring a run for office to participate in its Call for Candidates on Monday, March 9 at 5 p.m. at Salute! restaurant on Higgs Beach.
The event is free and open to the public. Community members can hear directly from those considering leadership roles in the year ahead.
“Local elections matter,” said Hometown! chair Todd German. “In this unusual political climate, voters are engaged and campaigns are already underway. Before long, qualifying will close and the primary ballot will be set for federal, state, county and local races.”
The 2026 election cycle in Monroe County will include races for state senate, state and U.S. representatives, two county commission seats, three circuit judge seats and one county judge seat. Voters in Key West will also elect a mayor and three city commission members. Additional contests include two seats on the Monroe County School Board, two seats on the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District and three board seats for Keys Energy Services — two representing Key West and one representing the Lower Keys.
More information is at hometownkeywest.com or via email to hometownkeywest@gmail.com.
— Contributed
The cast of ‘And the World Goes ‘Round’ with musical director Michael Fauss at Red Barn Theatre. CONTRIBUTED
JURY CONVICTS MIAMI MAN IN VIOLENT HUMAN SMUGGLING SCHEME
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Afederal jury in Miami convicted 32-year-old Victor Rafael Arcia Albeja, of Miami, on Feb. 20 for his role in a violent human smuggling scheme that brought Cuban nationals from Cuba to Key Largo.
According to prosecutors, Arcia Albeja was part of a group that kidnapped and extorted Cuban migrants, holding them captive and threatening brutal harm to force payments from their families.
U.S. Attorney Jason Quiñones said six defendants convicted for their roles in a South Florida-based smuggling and extortion scheme treated them as commodities, imprisoning them, beating them with machetes, staging mock executions and putting guns to their heads to extort ransom from their families.
“These are not immigration violations. They are violent federal crimes. If you exploit desperation for profit in South Florida, you will be hunted down, prosecuted federally and face the full weight of the law,” Quiñones said.
The jury convicted Arcia Albeja of conspiracy to kidnap, four counts of kidnapping, conspiracy to bring an alien to the U.S., bringing an alien to the U.S. and four counts of violent crimes in furtherance of racketeering. Arcia Albeja faces a maximum sentence of life in prison on the kidnapping-related charges. He also faces up to 10 years in prison on each of the alien smuggling counts and up to 20 years in prison on each count of violent crimes in furtherance of racketeering.
Arcia Albeja was the last of six defendants to be convicted in the case. Others were Osmel Benitez, 40, of Opa-Locka; Victor Manuel Perez Cardenas, 40, of Tampa; Jhonny Walther Izaguirre Lopez, 46, and Yoelys Prada Ramos, 45, both of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Jose Angel Marrero Rodriguez, 52, of Houston.
According to the evidence presented at trial, in March and May 2024, Arcia Albeja and Perez Cardenas transported Cuban nationals by boat from Cayo Coco, Cuba to Key Largo. Benitez and other members of the smuggling enterprise then
transported them to a safe house in Miami Gardens, where members of the enterprise demanded $15,000 per person from the migrants’ families and friends.
To enforce payment and deter noncompliance, members of the enterprise used threats and violence. When the migrants brought in March 2024 failed to pay, Prada Ramos showed them a video depicting a man battering a victim with a machete, then shooting the victim dead.
Arcia Albeja and other members of the enterprise said no migrant would be released until full payment was received.
On May 18, 2024, Arcia Albeja and Perez Cardenas brought some 15 Cuban nationals to Key Largo. After some attempted to flee, members of the enterprise pursued them. Meanwhile, Perez Cardenas drove some of them to the safe house. There, enterprise members threatened them with harm if payment was not made. When several families failed to pay, five Cuban nationals were taken to a vacant farm property in northwest MiamiDade County used for cockfighting.
At that location, members of the enterprise resumed their efforts to collect the smuggling fees, including staging and recording acts of violence and sending the videos to their families. One Cuban national testified that Izaguirre Lopez put her on a FaceTime call with her mother, put a gun to her head, and told her mother that if she did not pay, she would receive her daughter’s head. In another instance, Benitez and Arcia Albeja forced one of them to participate in a mock hanging while being beaten with a machete.
When the extortion scheme failed, members of the enterprise attempted to transport the Cuban nationals to Louisiana for forced labor to satisfy the smuggling debts. On May 20, 2024, law enforcement stopped Izaguirre Lopez on the Florida Turnpike in Sumter County, arrested him and rescued the Cuban nationals.
“The depravity of this kidnapping and smuggling operation is almost beyond description,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles.
STAGES ARE SET FOR SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL
200 Nashville music-makers come south April 29-May 3
The annual Key West Songwriters Festival, presented by BMI, has announced the lineup for its 30th anniversary event April 29-May 3. Additional songwriters and show schedules will be announced later this month at keywestsongwritersfestival.com.
The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and Rams Head Presents will welcome more than 200 BMI creators to the festival, when Music City makes its way to the Southernmost City.
Free and ticketed shows at the Key West Theater will feature prominent songwriters like Ashley Cooke, Hardy, Brian Kelley, Chuck Mead, Rissi Palmer, Bruce Robison and Robert Randolph.
The festival launches Wednesday, April 29 with the Sunset Pier Kickoff Party at the Ocean Key Resort & Spa, featuring Jeffrey Steele and the Brummies. On Saturday, May 2, Ernest will host the annual free public block party at the Main Stage on Duval Street.
“Sunday Songs: Music & Mimosas” will return to Williams Hall on Sunday, May 3, while Rams Head Southernmost Bar & Restaurant will serve as the event headquarters.
BMI songwriters Bob DiPiero and Jeffrey Steele, who helped establish the festival in the late ’90s with festival founder Charlie Bauer, return this year. They are joined by perennial local favorites Chuck Cannon and Tia Sillers, alongside Wendell Mobley. James Slater also returns, continuing his streak of consecutive appearances since 2004. The festival’s history continues with the return of Tim Nichols and Craig Wiseman, who first appeared in 2005, as well as Danny Myrick and Bobby Pinson, both of whom have been event highlights since 2007. With their 2008 debuts, Doug Johnson, Robert Earl Keen and Bridgette Tatum have cultivated a steadfast following in Key West.
The lineup is further bolstered by musicians such as Rebecca Lynn Howard, Phil Barton, Lori McKenna and Liz Rose, who have been integral to the event since 2010. Following their 2013 debut, Ryan Beaver and Tyler Reeve will return, as will Jack Ingram and Lee Thomas Miller, who first joined the festival in 2015. Taylor Phillips, Aaron Raitiere and Trent Tomlinson will perform after their initial mark on the festival in 2017. Ronnie Bowman will perform for his ninth consecutive year.
This year’s 30th annual Key West Songwriters Festival takes place April 29-May 3 and will again feature a free musical block party on Duval Street on Saturday, May 2. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly
The Key West Songwriters Festival has served as a place of discovery for the likes of Chris Stapleton, Randy Houser and Jamey Johnson, who first performed at the event in 2005. This tradition of identifying generational talent continued with early appearances by Thomas Rhett, Dustin Lynch, Kacey Musgraves and Charlie Worsham in 2011, followed by 2013 debuts from Drew Baldridge, Gary Clark Jr., and Caitlyn Smith, as well as Kane Brown, Luke Combs, Hardy, Walker Hayes and Maggie Rose in 2016. In recent years, the festival has maintained its status as a launchpad for headliners, hosting Morgan Wallen and Ashley McBryde in 2018, Ernest in 2019, Carter Faith and Riley Green in 2022, and Elle King and Ella Langley in 2023.
About BMI
BMI represents the public performance rights of over 22.4 million musical works created and owned by more than 1.4 million songwriters, composers and music publishers.
About Rams Head
Rams Head Presents provides programming for the Key West Theater and the Key West Amphitheater in Key West and for the Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts in Annapolis. The company bought the Key West Songwriters Festival in 2021 and launched the Annapolis Songwriters Festival in September 2022.
— Contributed
THE STUDIOS OF KEY WEST
UPCOMING EVENTS + CLASSES
Salt Water Soul: Black Portraits of Key West AJUAN MANCE ON VIEW THRU MAR 26
Comic-style portraits celebrate the richness of Black life in Key West through layered storytelling. sponsored by Moondog Café
Please
Old Town New Folk JAKE SHIMABUKURO
TUE MAR 10, 7PM
$85 (very limited remain!)
Ukulele virtuoso Shimabukuro pushes musical boundaries with dazzling skill, heart, and fearless creativity.
(image credit: Sienna Morales)
DRAWING THE FIGURE
LOTHAR SPEER
MAR 12–14, 10AM–2PM
$215 (all levels)
Classical drawing practice presented with humor, historical insight and timeless freshness from a master.
Music Rendezvous MAY PHANG
FRI MAR 13, 6:30PM
$30
Solo piano compositions take audiences on a luminous musical journey across cultures and centuries. Expect an intimate, thought-provoking evening.
sponsored by Zintsmaster & Team
BEFORE HE WAS FAMOUS
Williams Hall hosts ‘Tennessee Rising,’ one-man show March 13 & 14
What happened before his fame? Before
“The Glass Menagerie.” Before “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Before the world knew the name Tennessee Williams.
For two nights – Friday and Saturday, March 13 and 14 – audiences at Williams Hall will step inside the restless, romantic and razor-sharp mind of the young writer in “Tennessee Rising: The Dawn of Tennessee Williams,” an internationally acclaimed solo performance written and performed by Jacob Storms and originally directed for the stage by Tony Award-winner Alan Cumming.
Presented as part of the annual Tennessee Williams Key West Festival in partnership with the Key West Art & Historical Society and Williams Hall, this theatrical event explores a six-year period (19391945) never before dramatized on stage, the years that forged one of America’s most groundbreaking artists.
The play begins in a modest boarding house attic in New Orleans, where a 28-year-old Williams invites the audience to share a nightcap with a “kind stranger.” From there, the story unfolds across America, through artistic failures, romantic heartbreak, literary ambition and personal reckoning. We witness the humiliating Boston collapse of his early play, “Battle of
PRESIDENT CARTER’S FAMILY BREAKS GROUND ON KEY WEST HOME
Habitat for Humanity builds single-family house on Emma Street
Angels,” his obsessive dedication to writing and the emotional devastation that hardened his once-romantic heart.
We also see the profound influence of his sister Rose’s mental illness, the real-life inspirations behind some of his most iconic characters and the persistence that led, finally, to the Broadway triumph of “The Glass Menagerie” in 1945, transforming him, seemingly overnight, into a literary force.
Storms has performed “Tennessee Rising” around the world, including extended Off-Broadway runs and a 23-performance engagement at the 2023 Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Following each Key West performance, audiences are invited to remain for a Q&A with Storms, offering an opportunity for conversation and insight into the creation of the piece.
A limited number of dinnerand-a-show packages are available, featuring a three-course dinner at Unity Table prepared by chef Martha Hubbard at 6 p.m., followed by the 8 p.m. performance downstairs at Williams Hall.
Tickets are $50 for general admission and $70 for balcony seating. More information is at kwahs.org/whats-on or from Cori Convertito at 305-295-6616 x507 or cconvertito@kwahs.org.
Front to back, Kristina Wellburn, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Key West and the Lower Florida Keys; Amy Carter, daughter of President Jimmy Carter; James Earl Carter IV and Josh Carter, grandsons of President Carter; Polly Bennett-Daniel; Clifton Truman Daniel, grandson of President Harry S. Truman; Susan Ford Bales, daughter of President Gerald R. Ford, and Habitat board members Debbie Batty, Joe Moody, Lynda Woods, Billy Davis, Donna Moore and Chris Rivett, pause for a photo at a groundbreaking event last month for a new homebuilding project at 904 Emma St. in Key West. CAROL TEDESCO/Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation
Habitat for Humanity of Key West and the Lower Keys last month welcomed five descendants of U.S. presidents who participated in a groundbreaking event for a new single-family home-building project at 904 Emma St. in Key West’s Bahama Village neighborhood.
The descendants, all here for Presidents’ Weekend events at the Key West Harry S. Truman Little White House, included Clifton Truman Daniel, grandson of President Harry S. Truman; Susan Ford Bales, daughter of President Gerald R. Ford; and three descendants of President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn Carter, whose deep commitment to Habitat for Humanity spanned more than 30 years: daughter Amy and grandsons James Earl Carter IV and Josh Carter.
During the groundbreaking, held in partnership with the Key West Housing Authority, the City of Key West, the Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation, and the Bahama Village Redevelopment Advisory Committee, Amy Carter presented the local Habitat chapter with a silver hard hat that belonged to President Carter, which he wore in 2008 during post-Hurricane Katrina construction efforts on the Gulf Coast. The Habitat team, in turn, presented Amy Carter with a tool belt that President Carter had signed when
and Josh
and Habitat executive director Kristina Wellburn. Amy Carter holds a tool belt signed by her father and wears a silver hard hat he wore during 2008 Gulf Coast post-Hurricane Katrina construction efforts. CAROL TEDESCO/Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation
he visited the local organization during a past visit to the Keys.
“This construction will be the 65th Habitat home built in the Lower Keys in the past 30 years and the 14th in the past two years,” said Habitat board director Joe Moody. “Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we have been able to accelerate projects in the last 24 months, and have been able to put more deserving families in homes.”
More information is at habitatlowerkeys.org.
— Contributed
Jacob Storms in character during a performance of ‘Tennessee Rising: The Dawn of Tennessee Williams,’ a solo play exploring the playwright’s formative years from 1939 to 1945. ELLEN McDERMOTT/Contributed
Amy Carter, daughter of President Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, second from left, stands with local Habitat for Humanity board chair Joe Moody, left; Carter grandsons James Earl Carter IV
Carter, right;
Birthday presents, just because gifts, or those special anniversary presents, Fast Buck’s is where you will find the MOST UNIQUE GIFTS ON THE ISLAND.
One-of-a-kind, hard-to-find gifts: unusual, thoughtful items that will impress even the hardest-to-shop-for people on your list.
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
Well, folks, we’ve made it through another eclipse season, and now we begin to take stock of the radical changes that have taken place in the world. Eclipse seasons amplify and accelerate the shifting terrain of the world, propelling us into an unforeseen future. What has been changing in your world? This total lunar eclipse in Virgo has us throwing away the playbook we’ve been using, and realizing the plans that we had in place are not necessarily working. The best thing we can do is let go, no matter how much time and energy we put into those detailed maps. As we sort through the debris of this eclipse season and move forward, be kind to yourselves as you navigate this new terrain. Mercury is still retrograde in Pisces, so do your best not to get caught up in confusion over the literal meaning of words, and try to catch the vibes being expressed. Jupiter’s upcoming transit encourages us to remember what makes us feel abundant, to return to joyful practices from our past and find happiness in quieter, personal pursuits. The theme of this week is to take stock of all that is outside of our control, to acknowledge it and pay attention, but to ensure we are also finding moments of quiet joy. Here are your horoscopes for the total lunar eclipse in Virgo and the sun in Pisces trine Jupiter in Cancer. Read for your rising and sun signs.
PISCES
Feb. 19 - March 20
When it comes to partnership, Pisces, it is best to forget what you think you know so you can show up and be present to what is right in front of you. Don’t let your preconceptions obscure the fact that partnership requires compromise, and don’t hold on so tightly to what you think you want that you lose sight of the other. Finding joy in your creative outlets will help you to be confident in yourself.
ARIES
March 21 - April 19
You may have an image in mind of how your daily routines and habits should go, but it may not reflect the reality of how you are able to operate. Don’t be hard on yourself when you fail to live up to ideals that are inherently out of reach. Drop the plan and settle into routines that actually fit your life. Finding joy at home in your quiet time will feed your soul now.
TAURUS
April 20 - May 20
Creativity can be expressed in many ways. Sometimes it takes grueling planning and some-
times it is instant and spontaneous. However you express yourself creatively, now it is time to throw away the blueprints and see what arises in the moment. Spontaneity can be your best muse. Right now, you might find great happiness in returning to creative practices from your younger days.
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
Our home and family lives become comfortable because they’re so familiar. That familiarity can be a double-edged sword, as it can also lead to complacency. Under this sky, look at your home and family with fresh eyes and see what needs to be shaken up. At the same time, you have a great opportunity to make some money at work, particularly through a venture that should be revisited.
CANCER
June 21 - July 22
We all have our own particular ways to communicate: words we choose, methods we use, and topics we cover. What if you threw away the script and shared something that has been desperate to be expressed? What can you share with us that is out of character for you? On another note, you have brand-new ventures available to you when you remember what makes your heart sing.
LEO
July 23 - Aug. 22
Making money and supporting yourself in this world can become really routine, but there are always new avenues available if you break the mold you’ve created. If you could choose your source of income, what would it be? What holds you back from pursuing it? Perhaps you need to reconsider your options. At the same time, solitude will really energize you now.
VIRGO
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
It is never too late to reinvent yourself. It doesn’t have to be a big, flashy reveal (although it can be); even the smallest changes can reverberate into major shifts. What idea about yourself has been holding you back? Let that go and surprise yourself with who shows up. Spend some time appreciating the friends who have been with you for the long haul.
LIBRA
Sept. 23 - Oct. 22
Sometimes, you can be your own worst critic and your own worst saboteur. This past eclipse asked, “What if you stopped doing that?” What if you stopped holding yourself up to unachievable standards? The time you spend with yourself could be a hype session if you stopped
WHAT HAS CHANGED?
seeking perfection. Also, celebrate the reputation you have built for yourself. You’ve come a long way.
SCORPIO
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
You have a network of support, and it’s probably even larger than you realize. Under this sky, I recommend dropping the criteria of what support means for you. Yes, it is important to define your boundaries, but even for a short while, expand your definition of support. Appreciate all the ways that people try to help. Also, take some time to remember the great adventures you’ve been on when you need a pick-me-up.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
Your work life may need a change. Perhaps you are looking for a new job, a promotion or just a new way of doing what you’ve always done. I would recommend looking outside of your usual range of work opportunities to see what else is out there. Your career does not need to follow a prescribed plan. Remember how you have found joy through sharing your resources with others.
CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
The way you view the world is shifting, Capricorn, and it’s time to let go of any rigid philosophies that no longer serve you. If you’ve been clinging to a specific “truth” or long-held belief just because it felt safe, this eclipse has likely shown you cracks in the foundation. Be open to a new perspective. On a lighter note, you’ll find that your partnerships offer a surprising amount of joy right now if you lean into your shared history.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
Sharing resources and collaborating with others requires planning and firm boundaries. However, this eclipse asked you to toss the plan aside and see what else is out there. How else can you invest with others in a way that you have never tried before? Also, find simple joys in your habits and daily rhythms by looking back at what worked for you in the past.
WHAT’S COOKING, KEY WEST?
The ‘green fairy’ that inspired Hemingway’s drink
www.keysweekly.com
The controversial spirit is called the green fairy for its vivid green color, and in 19th-century France it was reputed to cause madness. Favored by artists and writers who were part of the “Lost Generation” in early 20th-century Paris — including Ernest Hemingway — the potent and curiously addictive alcohol was reviled by conservatives and supposedly caused hallucinations.
Yet today the green fairy, better known as absinthe, is enjoying such a resurgence in popularity that it even has its own holiday. National Absinthe Day is celebrated on March 5, commemorating the date in 2007 when a nearly 100-year-old ban on the U.S. sale of the botanical spirit was lifted.
Absinthe is made from the flowers and leaves of a plant called Artemisia absinthium or wormwood, combined with herbs including green anise and sweet fennel. Its licorice-like flavor is derived from the anise, while its characteristic green color typically comes from chlorophyll in the herbs.
According to Key West lore, Hemingway’s connection with absinthe went far beyond sipping it in Paris with the likes of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, James Joyce and Ezra Pound. During the 1930s, when he lived and wrote on the island, he supposedly also smuggled significant amounts of absinthe across the water from Cuba.
In addition to absinthe, Hemingway was a great fan of bullfighting. His nonfiction book, “Death in the Afternoon,” explores the history and traditions of the complex sport and its place in Spanish culture. Published in 1932, the volume is so comprehensive that it has been called the best book ever written on bullfighting.
The author combined his two interests in a cocktail that can be sampled at Bar 1, the Key West Cooking Show’s welcoming watering hole at 291 Front St. He invented an absinthebased drink, also called “Death in the Afternoon,” whose essence suggests the power and drama of the contest between matador and bull.
As well as serving “Death in the Afternoon,” the absinthe-based cocktail invented by Hemingway and named for his classic book on bullfighting, Bar 1 displays attire and implements used in the sport. KEY WEST COOKING SHOW/Contributed
Bar 1 also commemorates bullfighting culture in the adventurethemed memorabilia on display. While sipping “Death in the Afternoon,” patrons can view a vivid red cape and jacket from a “suit of lights,” the traditional costume worn in the bull ring — adorned with gold embellishments and accompanied by the swords and banderillas used in battling the bull.
Celebrate National Absinthe Day at Bar 1, and salute the courage of bullfighters, by enjoying the cocktail invented by Hemingway. Bar 1 is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday.
LAST CALL
Drink of the month: Death in the Afternoon. Take a sip of literary history with this decadent pairing of absinthe and Prosecco. Credited to Hemingway and appearing in a 1935 cocktail compendium, it was supposedly invented in Paris and reflects the spirit of that era’s Parisian café society.
Helpful bar hack: Because of its high alcohol content and intense flavor, absinthe should never be sampled straight. Instead, blend it with champagne like Hemingway did, or add cold water to create a cloudy appearance or “louche,” releasing component oils and resulting in a much smoother flavor.
Hungry for more? Visit keywestcookingshow.com or call 305-294COOK.
MARCH 31 FOR ANNE McKEE ARTIST GRANTS
The Anne McKee Artists Fund is now accepting applications for its 2026 projectbased grants to visual, literary and performing artists. The 2025 grant recipients are, front row, Nina Warchol; second row, from left, Janice Gary and Chantal Pavageaux; third row, from left, Gabriella Ramsingh, Carol Shaughnessy, Belle Jampol and Juan Camilo Buitrago; fourth row, from left, Lazaro Diaz, Michael Hayes, Ray West and Mark Hedden. Recipients not pictured include Michael Marrero and Shannon Wiley. CONTRIBUTED
Artists, writers & performers are eligible for funding
The Anne McKee Artists Fund is now accepting applications for grants to individual visual, performing and literary artists who reside in Key West and the Florida Keys. Grant applications can be submitted through March 31.
The Anne McKee Artist Fund Standard Grant ranges from $500 to $3,000 per person for projectbased work. Three youth-based scholarships are also available — one for young people ages 14 and over, one for those under age 14, and the Jon McIntosh Student Grant for high school seniors’ artistic advancement.
The third annual Joint Performance Grant is available as well, co-sponsored by the McKee Artists Fund and the Tennessee Williams Theatre, with premier sponsorship by Sloppy Joe’s Foundation. The award is open to an individual or group in the performing arts — including music, film, dance, comedy and theater.
The successful Joint Performance Grant recipient will have
the opportunity to stage a performance at the Tennessee Williams Theater Cabaret, along with lighting and sound assistance valued at $9,000. In addition, the grantee will receive $5,000 to support the production. Marketing support will be provided via social media, press releases and collaboration with music and arts associations throughout the Keys.
Since 1994, the Anne McKee Artists Fund has awarded over $450,000 for project-based assistance to more than 400 local artists, writers and performers.
Grants are awarded on the basis of financial need and/or to promote recognition of emerging talent. Other factors considered are a history of dedication and excellence in the applicant’s area of expertise, and a demonstrated commitment to and involvement in the Key West and Florida Keys cultural community.
Grants are awarded at the sole discretion of the McKee Fund’s board of directors. Grant funding is derived from proceeds from the Anne McKee Art Auction that took place Feb. 27.
More information is at McKeeFund.org or via email to mckeefund@gmail.com.
— Contributed
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY
FROM THE AISLE SEAT WITH UNCLE
G
BEHOLD, THE IDES OF MARCH
February provided a bounty of cultural highlights. The month started with another first-rate Impromptu Classical Concert performed by the Dorian Wind Quintet at Tennessee Williams Theatre, followed later in the month by the Horszowski Trio.
Also in February, the South Florida Symphony Orchestra under musical director Sebrina Alfonso returned for its second concert of the season and performed a selection of works celebrating Black History Month as well as works by Mozart and Rimsky-Korsakov.
The March cultural lineup looks equally promising.
March 8 & 9: Hometown favorite Bobby Nesbitt returns for the 21st season of Bobby in the Lobby at the Tennessee Williams Cabaret at 7:30 p.m. with “The Sweetest Sounds — the Songs of Richard Rodgers.” Joining Bobby are Broadway veterans Susan Powell and Richard White as they celebrate Rodgers’ timeless music. Tickets available at keystix.com.
March 11: The allstring Key West Community Orchestra presents a free spring concert, “Music for the Young at Heart,” at St. Peter’s Church, 800 Center St., at 7 p.m. All are welcome.
March 11-21: Fringe Theater, 600 White St., presents Beth Henley’s “Crimes of the Heart.”
... is a chronologically gifted tour guide, recovering innkeeper and grateful freshwater Conch. Join him here each month for a look at Key West’s cultural calendar. Email him at unclegkw@yahoo. com.
The show depicts three delightfully dysfunctional Southern sisters who reunite after a tragedy. Their discussions devolve to “ovaries, lemonade and dead cats.” For tickets, visit keystix.com.
Through March 21: Waterfront Playhouse presents “Once,” the Broadway musical about a chance meeting that changes lives, starring Jillian Todd and Brendon Daugherty with an ensemble of actor-musicians.
Through March 21: Red Barn Theatre’s “And the World Goes ’Round — The Music of Kander and Ebb” blends love songs, torch songs and comic numbers, showcasing the talents of Lauren Thompson, Jeremy Zoma, Claire Caplan and Arthur Crocker; directed by Joy Hawkins and Lauren Thompson, with musical direction by Michael Fauss. A shoutout to Ms. Thompson who, when delivering a comic number, can chew the scenery with the best of ’em.
West Chorale Arts will perform ‘Songs for the
Friday, March 27 at 7 p.m. The 60+ singers directed by
will give a concert that recognizes and celebrates the
and artists. CONTRIBUTED
March 14: Maestra Alfonso and the South Florida Symphony return for the final concert of the 2026 season playing works by Dvorak, Sibelius and Schubert at Tennessee Williams Theatre.
March 15: The Carr-Petrova Duo on violin and piano will round out the Impromptu Classical Concert series at Tennessee Williams Theatre. The duo has played Carnegie Hall, Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw and Lincoln Center.
March 20-21: The Studios of Key West’s First Look series, which offers “staged readings of new American plays and musicians,” features “Mom’s Best Friend,” a motherdaughter drama by Dan McCabe.
March 27: Key West Chorale Arts presents “Songs for the People” at Key West United Methodist Church, 600 Eaton St., at 7 p.m. The 60+ singers directed by Tim Peterson and accompanied by Lou Ann Steely perform a concert to recognize and celebrate the musical gifts of women composers, arrangers and artists. Renowned guest soloist Amy Yekel will be featured on some well-known spiritual selections. Tickets are available at keystix.com.
at Key
ONGOING OFFERINGS
The Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House presents its recently opened exhibit in a partnership with the Smithsonian Institute. “Food: Celebrating Conch Cuisine” is an, um, appetizing exploration of how Indigenous know-how, local AfroCaribbean heritage, Cuban and Bahamian migration, as well as maritime trade routes, all contributed to the bold, resourceful and flavorful food traditions of the Keys. The exhibit runs through Jan. 3, 2027.
In addition to the lively live music scene on Duval Street, the Key West Cultural Center at 803 Emma St. schedules shows throughout the week. Mondays feature Larry Smith on piano accompanied by Skipper Kripitz on percussion and Joe Dallas on bass. Female vocalists take the stage on Wednesdays accompanied by Smith. Thursdays are dedicated to jazz, blues and soul featuring Terri White and Larry Baeder. Saturdays are an open forum with live music. For more information, check out Legion Post 168 on Facebook.
Key
People’
West United Methodist Church, on
Tim Peterson and accompanied by Lou Ann Steely
musical gifts of women composers, arrangers
FLORIDA KEYS SPCA
SPRING
SPRING
FRIDAY, MARCH 13
5:30pm: VIP Champagne Reception, Awesome Silent Auction Sneak Peek, & Passed Appetizers THE TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE
• MUSIC BY THE FKSPCA'S FAVORITE DUO CARMEN RODRIGUEZ & MICHAEL THOMAS
• CATERED DINNER BY CATERED AFFAIRS OF KEY WEST (VEGETARIAN OPTION AVAILABLE!)
• FREE BEER & WINE, CASH LIQUOR BAR
• SILENT & LIVE AUCTIONS, & 50/50 RAFFLE!
TICKETS $100 General Admission (6:30pm entry)
• $250 VIP Preferred DINNER SEATING
• $2,500 VIP Preferred DINNER SEATING for 10 Tickets available now thru March 9th at FKSPCA.org/event/spring-social
Honoring STEVE BRENNER & DARLA SNYDER with THE 2026 CHAMPION OF ANIMALS AWARD
LOCAL REPORTING BY LOCAL JOURNALISTS
TRUSTED EXPERTS IN THE FIELD
For 22 years, Keys Weekly has been the ONLY locally-owned and operated news source covering all of the Keys with our boots on the ground and our butts in the seats at meetings.
Jim McCarthy, Editor
Upper Keys Weekly
305.850.8034
jim@keysweekly.com
Mandy Miles, Editor
Key West Weekly
305.923.6012 mandy@keysweekly.com
Alex Rickert, Editor
Marathon Weekly
401.256.0645
alex@keysweekly.com
We Are Hiring In Key West
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HELP KEEP KEY WEST BEAUTIFUL
JOIN A 1- HOUR CLEANUP FRIDAY MORNINGS
The Feb. 27 cleanup at South and Duval streets drew 116 volunteers. In one hour, they collected 321 pounds of trash, 39 pounds of recycling and 4 gallons of cigarette butts from the Southernmost Point area including Duval, Simonton and Whitehead plus the side streets. Special thanks to Southernmost Beach Resort for hosting the volunteers with breakfast. The next cleanup is Friday, March 6 at First Horizon Bank, 330 Whitehead St. CONTRIBUTED
One hour a week makes a huge difference, and volunteers are welcome every Friday and some Saturday mornings, from 8 to 9 a.m., when the Key West Ploggers clean up a designated area of the island.
Gloves, pickers, buckets, vests, hand sanitizer and a parking pass are provided to all volunteers.
A troubling number of cigarette butts and plastic bags have been included in recent hauls. Please remember your reusable bags when shopping so we can keep the plastic off the streets, parking lots and, most importantly, out of the water. And dispose of cigarette butts in any receptacle rather than the street or sidewalk, as from there, they easily end up in the ocean.
The city of Key West and its residents ask everyone to do their part to help keep Key West beautiful. With simple steps like making sure you bag your trash before putting it in your Waste Management trash cans or Dumpsters, and making sure the lids on Dumpsters are closed, will keep a lot of trash from blowing into the streets. Call Waste Management at 305-296-8297 for any furniture items left on the city right of way.
Please pick up around your home or apartment complex. Every piece of trash picked up is one less that may end up in the ocean that surrounds and sustains our island community. It is not just the large items you can see easily when you are walking, but the smaller items such as bottle caps and cigarette butts that are collected by the volunteers that make the biggest difference.
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.
RECYCLING TIP
Did you know aluminum is infinitely recyclable? It takes 95% less energy to recycle aluminum than to create new aluminum products. When you recycle your soda can, it will be melted down, turned into a new can and back on a store shelf in as little as 30 days. Aluminum is a great choice when you’re shopping.
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.
March 6: Whitehead and Eaton streets. Meet in the front parking lot of First Horizon Bank, which is hosting.
March 13: United and Varela streets. Meet at the Montessori Children’s School. Park in the City Hall parking lot.
March 20: Kennedy Drive and North Roosevelt Boulevard. Meet in the parking lot next to H&R Block, which is hosting.
March 27: Cozumel Park, 19th Terrace and Donald Avenue. Hosted by the Key West Aquarium.
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.
Luna is a 1-year-old terrier mix with a golden coat and a bright, curious personality. She loves going for walks, exploring and spending time with people. Luna has that perfect young-dog balance of energy and affection. She’s playful, attentive and eager to bond with a family of her own.
Canela is a sweet rabbit still waiting for her happily forever-after. She loves to explore her enclosure, pop around with excitement and nibble on her favorite treats. Canela has a soft, sweet personality and would thrive in a calm home where she can feel
Meet Whopper, a 5-year-old black-andwhite medium-haired beauty with a heart full of sweetness. This lovely girl spends most of her days napping but enjoys the company of people and loves a good cuddle. Whopper does get chronic sinus infections due to a nasal polyp that’s tricky to remove, but don’t worry — it doesn’t stop her from living her best life.
Rarity is an adult female cat who lives up to her name. She has a calm, gentle presence and a quiet charm that makes her stand out the moment you meet her. Rarity enjoys peaceful spaces, soft beds and the comfort of a predictable routine. She’s ready to settle into a home where she can feel safe, loved and appreciated for the special cat she is.
Amos is a 1-year-old cat with a sweet personality and a playful spark. He loves other cats, enjoys affection from people and still has that youthful curiosity that makes every day fun. Amos will greet you warmly and follow you around for attention. He’s also happy to entertain himself with a sunny window.
secure and loved.
Founded by Betty Debnam
WELCOME TO IRELAND
St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, is a national holiday in Ireland. It celebrates one of that country’s special saints.
It is not a national holiday in the United States, but many Americans celebrate anyway. Even people who have no Irish ancestors like to pretend they’re Irish for a day!
ST. PATRICK
St. Patrick was a missionary in Ireland during the fifth century. He was taken there as a slave when he was a teenager.
After he returned to his home in Britain, he believed he was called to go back to Ireland and spread Christianity.
IRISH FOLKLORE
Ireland is famous for its folklore, or traditional stories that are passed down from generation to generation.
A favorite symbol of Ireland is the leprechaun (LEP-ruh-kawn). To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, The Mini Page learned about this crafty little fairy.
MEET A LEPRECHAUN
A leprechaun is a mysterious or magical being. According to Irish legend, leprechauns live in the countryside with humans, but they’re rarely seen by people.
Most pictures of leprechauns show jolly little elves with pink cheeks and smiles. You
might see these on items for sale around St. Patrick’s Day, or on cereal boxes.
Folklore experts say leprechauns are indeed small, but their clothing is usually untidy and old. They might wear an old blue or green coat, short pants, woolen stockings and a wide-brimmed hat or stocking cap.
Instead of being happy, leprechauns are more likely to play tricks on humans. In fact, Irish people used to leave milk, cheese, bread or other foods on their doorsteps at night to keep the local leprechaun from making mischief, or trouble, at their homes.
Leprechauns are also thought to be miserly, or greedy for money. They make their homes in abandoned barns or churches, or in the woods or in caves.
LEPRECHAUNS AT WORK
Leprechauns are thought to be shoemakers. They make and repair shoes for other fairies, who wear out their shoes quickly with all the dancing they do. Some people believe that you can tell when you’re close to a leprechaun’s home because you can hear the tapping of his little hammer as he works on shoes.
Other legends tell of leprechauns being builders and stonemasons, metalworkers and even bankers. Leprechauns also love music and can remember old tunes that have been forgotten by humans.
Words that remind us of Ireland are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
MORE ABOUT IRELAND
The Republic of Ireland is an island country in Europe. It shares the island with Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom. Ireland is also known as the Emerald Isle because of its lush green hills and fields.
A LONG HISTORY
Experts believe Ireland has been inhabited by people for more than 8,000 years. Many of the traditions that are still honored in Ireland began with some of these early people.
THE CELTIC HARP
In the 1500s, King Henry VIII added the image of a harp to the currency, or money, of Ireland. Since then, the Celtic harp has been a symbol of that country.
Today, all Irish currency has the Celtic harp on it. “Eire” (AIR-uh) is the Irish word for “Ireland.”
RESOURCES
ON THE WEB
• bbc.in/4ba8oIu
AT THE LIBRARY
• “Leprechauns and Irish Folklore” by Mary Pope Osborne and Natalie Pope Boyce
Some unusually gifted dogs can learn the names of new objects simply by overhearing their owners talk, according to a study published in the journal Science. Austrian and Hungarian researchers found that so-called “gifted word learner” dogs correctly identified new toys after listening to conversations in which humans named the objects without directly addressing the dogs. In tests, these dogs performed at least as well as when they were taught words directly. The behavior closely mirrors language learning seen in human toddlers around 18 months old.
MINI FACT: The famous Cliffs of Moher are on the west coast of Ireland.
Illustration by Jean-noël Lafargue
APRIL 25 & 26
GRAHAM NASH
March 5, 2026
COLLISION COURSE
Conchs and ’Canes lacrosse teams headed for showdown | P.9
Marathon Softball Somerset South Homestead 2/23 W, 16-1
Coral Shores Baseball Keys Gate 2/24 L, 8-0
Coral Shores Girls Lacrosse Lourdes Academy 2/23 W, 9-6
Key West Baseball NSU University School 2/24 W, 10-7
Key West Girls Lacrosse South Plantation 2/24 W, 16-6
Marathon Baseball @ Moore Haven 2/24 W, 14-2
Key West Boys Lacrosse South Plantation 2/24 W, 17-4
Marathon Baseball @ Fort Meade 2/25 W, 8-1
Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse Coral Reef 2/25 W, 9-3
Key West Boys Lacrosse Florida Christian 2/26 W, 11-5
Marathon Baseball @ Glades Day 2/26 W, 14-1
Coral Shores Baseball South Homestead 2/26 W, 19-1
Key West Baseball Sunset 2/27 W, 5-0
Coral Shores Baseball ABF Academy Homestead 2/27 W, FF
Key West Girls Lacrosse Palmetto 2/27 L, 14-6
Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse Belen 2/27 L, 18-3
Key West Softball Marathon 2/27 W, 9-1
Key West Baseball Sunset 2/28 W, 8-2
Coral Shores Softball Everglades City 2/28 W, 23-9
Coral Shores Softball Community School of Naples 2/28 W, 15-7
Key West Boys Lacrosse Belen 2/28 L, 20-2
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
KEEFE
Sterling Keefe is the first ’Cane to win a regional championship in a decade. But Sterling is not done yet – now his eyes are set on a state championship.”
– Dante Jiovenetti, Hurricanes head wrestling coach
31-10
4-0 record so far this season in regional matches
Two weeks ago, Coral Shores junior Sterling Keefe left the mat as the runner-up in the 157-pound class at the FHSAA’s 1A District 16 championships. Last week, he made sure there was no doubt.
Keefe went a flawless 4-0 at the Region 4 tournament, battling through a stacked bracket to claim the regional title and cement himself a spot at the state championships. What makes Keefe stand out goes well beyond the scoreboard. His relentless work ethic, the attention to detail and quiet commitment to improvement make him a contender for a state medal. A steady leader in the wrestling room, Keefe sets the tone with his focus, pushes teammates to elevate their intensity and carries himself with a positivity that’s contagious. Whether he’s ahead on points or fighting from behind, his composure never wavers. For his strong performance last week and the work he has put in all season long, Coral Shores’ Sterling Keefe is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week. TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly
Hurricane Anaia Woods evades the defense of Lourdes Academy on Feb. 23. The Lady ’Canes prevailed 9-6 as they prep for a clash against Key West later this month. NATALIE GOODWIN/Keys Weekly
Sterling
Junior, Coral Shores Wrestling
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
sean mcdonald
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
Se habla español THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.
9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050
Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com
SIX FOR STATES
Key West and Coral Shores wrestlers advance to the big show
Ahalf-dozen of the Keys’ top wrestlers will have their chance to make a statement on the state stage this week. With the Keys’ top male wrestlers still vying for spots, one local athlete’s ticket was already punched for the FHSAA 1A State Championships in Kissimmee on March 5 to 7. Lady Conch Maria Holushko’s regional runner-up finish guaranteed her a place in the brackets. On Feb. 27 and 28, the boys fought it out to claim their places in the Region 4 championships held at Cardinal Gibbons High School.
Coral Shores’ Sterling Keefe was the big winner last week. Keefe went 4-0 to win the 157-pound competition, punching his card to states. Joining Keefe are teammates Sebastian McCoy and Gavin Matheis. McCoy finished second after going 3-1, losing his final match in a close decision in the 120-pound competition. Matheis was 4-1 at regionals, placing third in the 132-pound weight class. His only loss was by decision, making it clear all three Hurricane grap-
plers have a shot at state hardware.
Coral Shores finished fourth as a team out of the 27-team pool. But they weren’t the only ones making a statement on the mats. Key West finished 11th and qualified two more wrestlers for the big show.
Joining Holushko will be Allens Alexandre and Michael Guzman. Guzman was 4-2, losing both matches to the same wrestler, but improving the score in the second go-round. Guzman placed fourth in the 165-pound competition. Alexandre finished second in the 285-pound class with a 3-1 record at regionals.
The six wrestlers are the final winter sport athletes from Monroe County in contention for state glory. They will compete at Silver Spurs Arena in a three-day tournament beginning Thursday, March 5 at 12:20 p.m., with final matches taking place late in the afternoon of Saturday, March 7.
tracy mcdonald
Gavin Matheis
Sebastian McCoy
Michael Guzman
Sterling Keefe
Maria Holushko
Allens Alexandre
Photos by Tracy McDonald
1. Darreld Treminio hits the ball for the Conchs.
2. Kade Maltz rounds second base after a hit for the Conchs.
UNBLEMISHED
Conchs hang on to perfect record; Cirina, Quargnali top state rankings
As the calendar flips to March, the Key West Conchs baseball team has yet to suffer a loss.
NSU University School pulled ahead with a 1-0 lead against the visiting Conchs on Feb. 24, and both teams put runs on the board in the third to head into the fourth inning knotted up at 5-5. Key West poured on four more in the fourth to take a lead the Sharks were unable to catch. In all, five Conchs put in work on the mound, and Key West’s bats racked up nine runs. Auggy Davila stacked up four RBIs with a single and a triple and Darreld Treminio had two base hits. Donovan Thiery and Kade Maltz doubled while Xavier Perez, Nelson Ong and Jackson Bernhard singled in the 10-7 win.
Key West’s next victim was Miami Sunset, who came to town Feb. 27 and 28. In game one, the Conchs struck in the first inning, when a pair of walks set the stage for a threerun Donovan Thiery home run. Thiery then went on the defensive for the rest of the game, striking out eight batters, walking one and giving up just three hits in six and two-thirds innings. Nelson Ong finished up with the final out to seal the win. Thiery was 2-for-4 at the plate and Tyrone Cervantes, Davila, Maltz, Ong and Treminio accounted for the rest of Key West’s seven hits.
In game two, Sunset got on the board first, scoring one in the first inning, but the Conchs answered with three to take a lead they never surrendered. Maltz and Jackson Bernhard had two hits each while Perez, Davila and Ong added base hits. Maltz started on the mound for Key West and ended with five strikeouts, one walk and four hits surrendered over five and two-thirds innings. Cruz Holmes finished out the final one-third inning before the game was called due to unsafe conditions. Heavy fog rolled in, obscuring the outfield and making it impossible to continue. Next up for the 7-0 Conchs is a three-game series against a visiting Gulf Shores, Alabama ballclub March 5-7.
3. Marathon’s Gabriele Cirina, left, and Massimo Quargnali top Florida’s rankings for RBIs and defense behind the plate.
4. Fog envelops the Rex on Feb. 28, obscuring the outfield.
Photos by Maicey Malgrat, Justice Lee Isom and Taylen Knowles
and gave up just three hits over six innings. Cirina finished it out, facing three batters and fanning them all.
Game three ended in a 14-1 romp over Glades Day on Feb. 26. Cirina and Chapman had two hits each out of the team’s total of eight, making it seven in three games for Chapman. The Fins stole five bases and were perfect in the field. Cirina pitched five innings before the mercy rule went into effect, striking out eight, walking one and giving up just two hits to the Gators.
Cirina’s powerful bat stretched his ranking in runs batted in from third in Florida last week to first place. His 18 RBIs moved him to sixth in the entire nation. Catcher Massimo Quargnali has played perfect defense and is tied with multiple players for first place in Florida rankings. Quargnali has 82 putouts and an assist out of 83 total chances so far this season. Those numbers place him second nationally.
Marathon took a road trip last week to test their resolve against a trio of District 8 Rural teams. If their trip is any indication, the Dolphins are poised to make a repeat run at a district title later this spring. The Fins outscored their opponents 36-4 in three games, winning them all with runs to spare.
The victories began Feb. 24 at Moore Haven, where Marathon trounced the Terriers 14-2. The Fins piled on 11 hits, three of which came off the bat of Jack Chapman and two from Roco Piscetello. Reef Rella completed five innings on the mound, striking out 10 with two walks and surrendering three hits and two runs before the mercy rule was invoked.
The following night, it was the Miners of Fort Meade who endured an 8-1 beating. Marathon stacked up eight hits, including two each from Chapman, Jason Stubblefield and Gabriele Cirina. The Fins were perfect in the field and Dylan Williams struck out nine, walked two
On Feb. 24, Coral Shores made the quick trip to Keys Gate for their first of three games last week. Mailon Aguila, Keller Blackburn and Andy Cone each singled in the 8-0 loss. The following night, the Hurricanes were on the road again, this time at Somerset South Homestead, where Coral Shores poured on the runs for a four-inning mercy rule win. Riley O’Berry had three hits, including a double, to lead the offense. Cone added a single and double to the Hurricane hit total of nine. Coral Shores kept the scoring fast and furious with 10 walks and 11 struck batters. Emileano Barrios pitched four innings, striking out six, walking one and surrendering three hits in the 19-1 win.
A Feb. 27 forfeit by ABF Academy Homestead put the Hurricanes at 4-3 with just over half of the regular season remaining.
Ariel
recently broke the Conchs’ school record in pole vault. MAICEY MALGRAT/ Keys Weekly
ON YOUR MARKS
Track season opens with a bang as two Key West records fall
On Feb. 24, Coral Shores hosted Key West and South Dade for an earlyseason tri-meet on the track. South Dade won both the boys and girls competitions, with Key West finishing second and Coral Shores third.
Hurricane hurdler Xavier Johnson won the 110 high hurdles in 17.76 seconds. Johnson was the only Coral Shores individual winner, but a pair of relay teams placed first. Adrik Gadea, Colton Connolly, William Roberts and Alaric Rodriguez won the 4x400 relay while Victor Lopez, Tristan Sanchez, Tristan Rios and Jaime Cary teamed up to win the 4x800.
Lady ’Cane Julieanna Oddo finished first in the 100 hurdles with a time of 18.41 seconds for the lone Coral Shores win in the girls events.
Key West fared best in the field with a pair of wins from Jeff Dejean. After winning the 100-meter dash in 11.38 seconds, he went the distance in long jump with a 20’9” leap. Josh Johnson was the individual discus winner, tossing it 129’5”.
The Lady Conchs cleaned up with wins from Alyssandra Camargo in the 800 (2:41) and Emerson Jackson in the 400 hurdles (1:24.61) for a pair of wins on the track. Key West’s girls swept the jumping events, with wins from Maicey Malgrat in high jump (4’4”), Lilly Good in pole vault (7’6.5”), Jordan Greene in long jump (14’2.5”) and Capri Miner in the triple jump (29’10.5”).
The Hurricanes hit the road two days later to compete at Monsignor Pace. The ’Canes had four individual winners against the Spartans. Oddo won the 100-meter high hurdle race and improved on her time earlier
in the week by finishing in 18.22 seconds. Ali Wheatley cruised for a first in the 3,200-meter run in 11:35. Alaric Rodriguez finished the 800 in 3:03 to claim first and Karla Guitierrez won the discus event for the lone field win for Coral Shores.
On Feb. 28, Key West participated in the annual Pine Crest Panther Relays and multiple Conchs broke the top five in the 19-team event.
Ariel Newton won the girls pole vault competition, clearing the bar at 11’9.75” – just shy of the school record she set earlier this season with a 12’3.75” jump. Audrey Smith also set a school record earlier this season, and she re-broke her own girls javelin mark with a secondplace 133’7” toss. Colleen Barter finished fifth in the girls high jump event with a 4’7.75” feat, and Nevaeh Key placed fifth in pole vault with a 6’10.75” clear to round out the Lady Conchs’ top finishers.
Jeff Dejean finished second in the long jump with a 21’11.5” leap.
Ian Torreaba Lopez’s 10’4” pole vault was good for fourth place.
SETTING THE BAR
Lykins
and Childress power their way to the top
Marathon and Somerset Silver Palms traveled to Coral Shores for a boys weightlifting tri-meet on Feb. 25. Somerset came away with wins in both the traditional and Olympic events, with the Hurricanes in second and Dolphins in third.
Kyle Derobertis (129 pounds), Tyler Bettner (139) and Aaron Lykins (183) were all double winners for Coral Shores. Lykins was the top lifter in the Olympic contest according to the Sinclair coefficient, which determines the strongest athlete factored against their body weight. He snatched 175 pounds and clean and jerked 225 to put him at the top of the lifters in that event.
Nick Calderon (219) won the Olympic event for his weight class, splitting the wins with teammate Fredy Flores, who won in traditional. Kevin Gonzalez (169) won the traditional event in his weight class to round out the winners for Coral Shores.
Marathon had two weight-class winners in Trevor Wofsey (Unlimited) and Max Childress (199). Both Dolphins won the traditional event at their weights. Childress was the top lifter overall, in the traditional event. His matched 225-pound clean and jerk and bench press lifts gave him the edge in the Sinclair standings.
Boys weightlifting is the first of the spring sports to open as well as close. March 27 marks the end of the regular season, with districts scheduled for April 11 at Key Largo School.
and Marathon High School’s Max Childress
Audrey Smith, here throwing the discus last spring, is the new owner of Key West’s javelin record.
Newton, here clearing the bar last spring,
Coral Shores’ Aaron Lykins, left,
Photos by Natalie Danko and Tracy McDonald
CONCRETE MADE TO LAST
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ROUGH WATERS
Conchs softball dominates Fins 9-1; Hurricanes hammer northern competition
One of the first in-county rivalry matchups of the young softball season ended in a resounding win for Key West over Marathon on Feb. 27.
Coming off a blowout win in their home opener two weeks earlier, the Fins’ luck ran out Feb. 27 when they headed to Key West to take on the Lady Conchs. Brianna Brenner struck out a dozen Dolphins in Key West’s win. Offensively, the Conchs amassed 12 hits with two apiece from Lucy Katz, Arianna Garcia, Kaleaya Dickerson and Mia Waldner. Chloe Kongos, Kaylee Williams, Charlie Bracher and Lilee Gage accounted for the rest in Key West’s 9-1 win.
The Dolphins held their own for two scoreless innings, but a disastrous third inning led to a ninerun deficit the Fins could not overcome. Dani Perdomo, Anastasia Boose, Maeve Merryman, Trinity McLeod and Elianys Roque all singled and Madelyn Thornton doubled for six Dolphin hits.
Earlier in the month, Marathon enjoyed a 16-1 win in their home opener against Somerset South Homestead on Feb. 13. Boose started in the circle for Marathon, striking out eight, walking one and allowing just two hits and one run in four innings of work. The Fins piled on 10 runs in the first to make a Somerset win very far out of reach.
Thornton had a single, double and triple while Merryman hit a pair of singles and Boose tripled and doubled with four RBIs to her credit. Dahlia Westdickenberg, McLeod, Shaina Robinson and Roque accounted for the rest of Marathon’s 11 hits in the mercy-rule victory.
Coral Shores played two games on Feb. 28, beginning with the Gators of Everglades City. The Hurricanes delivered a spectacular display of 28 hits, led by Caylyn Gwilliam, whose four hits and five RBIs included a home run. Also homering were Kayden Costlow, Addison Grady and Alyvia Prince. Costlow had four hits while Grady and Prince
smashed three apiece. Presley Bagwell had three hits and four RBIs for the Hurricanes and put in four innings of work in the circle, fanning eight. Then Mira Jones, who had two hits, stepped in and pitched to complete the 23-9 mercy-rule rout.
Game two was a 15-7 win against the Community School Seahawks of Naples. Prince pitched seven innings for the Hurricanes, striking out seven, walking one and giving up 11 hits. Jones and Costlow added four hits and a home run each to their stats to lead the scoring for Coral Shores. Chloe Stanley had a single, a triple and a home run; Lily Underwood had three base hits and Vanessa Cawley doubled and homered. The Hurricanes had 23 hits in all to make it 51 in a single afternoon.
at a
3. Kaleaya Dickerson slides into third base as Sara Robinson attempts the tag.
4. Anastasia Boose pitches for the Dolphins.
5. Charlie Bracher heads to first base after drawing a walk.
6. Maicee Gage hits the ball. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly
1. Brianna Brenner pitches to a Dolphin.
2. Trinity McLeod swings
pitch as Shylo Sanchez prepares to catch it.
STORM’S A-BREWING
Expect a battle when Key West and Coral Shores clash later this month
With winning records and similar finishes against common opponents, lacrosse teams for Key West and Coral Shores are headed for clashes on the pitch later this month.
Coral Shores played Lourdes Academy at home in an exciting Feb. 24 matchup. Shay Stober and Addy McNew scored two goals each while Ivy Tiedemann, Alexis Mahaffey, Allegra Fucaraccio, Eleanor Perchalski and Lela Goodrich netted one apiece. Eliyana McLeod scooped up seven ground balls and caused three turnovers and Zeffie Crocket added to the chaos with three caused turnovers of her own. Sidney Friedman had a second-quarter shutout with seven saves during her half of play while Lola Stober registered seven saves and had a third-quarter shutout in goal for the Hurricanes. The strong goaltending helped boost Coral Shores to a 9-6 victory over Lourdes. The Hurricanes went on to defeat Westminster Christian 8-3 on Feb. 26 for a 4-1 start to the season.
The Lady Conchs picked up a road win against South Plantation on Feb. 24. Mavis Bishop scored three goals and won six draw controls while Taylor Gibson netted three goals and two assists and picked up three ground balls. Colbie Turner, Teagan Shea, Eisley Whitehead and Adriana Dall scored two apiece. Turner won six draw controls and Whitehead added five assists. Diyaq Alwani and Alexandra Konecna saved three each in goal for a resounding 16-6 Conch win. Three days later, a visiting Palmetto defeated Key West 14-6 to put the Conchs at 3-2 so far this season.
Both Keys teams are proving to be strong contenders in FHSAA’s 1A District 16. The Lady Conchs and ’Canes meet head-to-head Thursday, March 26 at 4 p.m. in Key West for what is guaranteed to be an exciting matchup.
1.
In boys lacrosse action, Coral Shores defeated Coral
2. Shay Stober drives for the go-ahead goal to put Coral Shores in the lead against Lourdes Academy.
3. Anaia Woods reverses the ball for an attempt on goal.
4. Allegra Fucaraccio receives a pass from her teammate.
5. Alexis Mahaffey advances the ball.
NATALIE GOODWIN/Keys Weekly
Reef 9-3 on Feb. 25, then fell to Belen Jesuit 18-3 three days later. Key West had no problem beating South Plantation on the road Feb. 24, then toppled Florida Christian at home two days later in a 11-5 win. The Conchs’ final game of the week was against Belen Jesuit. The Wolverines have outscored their opponents 90-12 this season, and their rapid-fire play was no different against the Conchs, who suffered their first loss of the season to Belen, 20-2.
Like the girls teams, the boys have much in common against like opponents, and when the teams face one another on March 25 at Coral Shores, it should be nothing short of a showdown.
Addy McNew scoops a ground ball for Coral Shores against Lourdes Academy on Feb. 23.
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
CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.
DATE/TIME: Thursday, March 19th, 2026, 3:30 PM LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach.
The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2026-508], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA; AMENDING ORDINANCE 2025-497 FUTURE LAND USE POLICY 1.5.1 FOR A SCRIVENOR’S ERROR REGARDING PLAN DENSITIES FOR COMMERCIAL, RESORT, AND PUBLIC BUILDINGS THE INTENSITY SHALL BE AT LEAST 20% OF THE LOT; AND PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ANY INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.”
The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www.keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach.
Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach.
If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, March 19th, 2026, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, and your comments will be entered into the record.
To be published: On or before March 9th, 2026 City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida
Publish: March 5, 2025. The Weekly Newspapers
Richard E. Schugar, O.D. Tropical Optical 81933 Overseas Highway Islamorada, Florida 33036
Effective March 31, 2026, Dr. Richard E. Schugar will be retiring and will no longer be practicing at Tropical Optical, 81933 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida 33036.
Patients’ medical records will remain at Tropical Optical, 81933 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida 33036. Please call 305-664-2665 to schedule appointments, to request medical records or for any questions starting March 31, 2026.
Publish: March 5, 12 19 & 26, 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
are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts. com
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.
DATE/TIME: Thursday, March 19th, 2026, 3:30 PM
LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach.
The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2026-508], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA; AMENDING ORDINANCE 2025-497 FUTURE LAND USE
POLICY 1.5.1 FOR A SCRIVENOR’S ERROR REGARDING PLAN
DENSITIES FOR COMMERCIAL, RESORT, AND PUBLIC BUILDINGS
THE INTENSITY SHALL BE AT LEAST 20% OF THE LOT; AND PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ANY INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.”
The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www.keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach.
If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, March 19th, 2026, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, and your comments will be entered into the record.
To be published: On or before March 9th, 2026 City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida Publish: March 5, 2027 The Weekly Newspapers
CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT
HEARING
“SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2026-509” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.
DATE/TIME: Thursday, March 19th, 2026, 3:30 PM LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2026-509], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA, ADDING SECTION 6-45 SEAWALL CONDITIONS; COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS; ENFORCEMENT TO CHAPTER 6 BUILDINGS, ARTICLE II DANGEROUS STRUCTURES; ADDING SECTION 9-13 CONCERNING VIOLATIONS OF SECTION 6-45 FOR BUSINESS TAX
RECEIPTS PURPOSES TO CHAPTER 9 BUSINESS TAXES, PE/RMITS AND BUSINESS REGULATIONS, ARTICLE I IN GENERAL; AMENDING SECTION 9-28 CONCERNING VIOLATIONS OF SECTION 6-45 FOR RESIDENTIAL RENTALS TO CHAPTER 9 BUSINESS TAXES, PERMITS AND BUSINESS REGULATIONS, ARTICLE II RESIDENTIAL RENTALS; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ANY INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;
AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.”
The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www.keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach.
If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, March 19th, 2026, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, and your comments will be entered into the record.
To be published: On or before March 9th, 2026
City Clerk - City of Key Colony Beach, Florida
Publish: March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
DIVISION: PROBATE CASE NO.: 26-CP-28-M IN RE: ESTATE OF PAMELA BURROUGHS CRUTCHFIELD
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of PAMELA BURROUGHS CRUTCHFIELD, deceased, whose date of death was September 26, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME 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 5, 2026.
Personal Representative:
CATHERINE SIDWELL
1120 Pauline Ave
Charleston, SC 29412
Attorney for Personal Representative:
BRIAN M. CASEY
Florida Bar Number: 92715
WRIGHT BARROWS PLLC
9711 Overseas Highway
Marathon, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-8118
Fax: (305) 489-0307
E-mail: Brian@keysclosings.com
Publish: February 26 and March 5, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICES
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-59-M
DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF CONNIE ANN MELIN
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of CONNIE ANN MELIN, deceased, whose date of death was January 20, 2026, 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 26, 2026.
Personal Representative: Jason J. Hardy 5901 Ruth Drive Edina, Minnesota 55424
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 26 and March 5, 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 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 SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CIVIL DIVISION
CASE #: 25-CA-001240-M Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC
Plaintiff, -vs.-
Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, Assignees, Creditors, Lienors, and Trustees of John Paul Rao a/k/a John P. Rao a/k/a John Rao, Deceased, and All Other Persons Claiming by and Through, Under, Against The Named Defendant(s); Kimberly Lynn Rao a/k/a Kimberly Rao a/k/a Kimberly L. Rao-Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Rao Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Lynn Paszkiewicz; Unknown Spouse of Kimberly Lynn Rao a/k/a Kimberly Rao a/k/a
Kimberly L. Rao-Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Rao Paszkiewicz a/k/a
Kimberly Lynn Paszkiewicz; Coco Plum Terraces Condominium Association, Inc.; Katherine Melinda Rao; Unknown Parties in Possession #1, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s); Unknown Parties in Possession #2, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) Defendant(s) NOTICE OF ACTION FORECLOSURE PROCEEDINGS-PROPERTY TO: Kimberly Lynn Rao a/k/a Kimberly Rao a/k/a Kimberly L. Rao-Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Rao Paszkiewicz a/k/a Kimberly Lynn Paszkiewicz: 2521 Southwest 71st Terrace, Apartment 206, Davie, FL 33317 and Unknown Spouse of Kimberly Lynn Rao a/k/a
Residence unknown, if living, including any unknown spouse of the said Defendants, if either has remarried and if either or both of said Defendants are dead, their respective unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, assignees, creditors, lienors, and trustees, and all other persons claiming by, through, under or against the named Defendant(s); and the aforementioned named Defendant(s) and such of the aforementioned unknown Defendants and such of the aforementioned unknown Defendants as may be infants, incompetents or otherwise not sui juris.
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action has been commenced to foreclose a mortgage on the following real property, lying and being and situated in Monroe County, Florida, more particularly described as follows: CONDOMINIUM UNIT NUMBER 110, COCO PLUM TERRACES, A CONDOMINIUM ACCORDING TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM THEREOF, FILED. ON NOVEMBER 13, 1990, IN OFFICIAL RECORD BOOK 1150, PAGES 1955-2015 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA; TOGETHER WITH AN UNDIVIDED SHARE IN THE COMMON ELEMENTS APPURTENANT THERETO AND SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SUCH DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM. more commonly known as 105 Avenue D, Apartment 110, Marathon, FL 33050. This action has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defense, if any, upon LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP, Attorneys for Plaintiff, whose address is 750 Park of Commerce Blvd., Suite 130, Boca Raton, FL 33487, within thirty (30) days after the first publication of this notice and file the original with the clerk of this Court either before April 4, 2026 with service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court on the 26TH day of February, 2026.
Kevin Madok,CPA Circuit and County Courts
By: Leslie Rodriguez Deputy Clerk Florida Rules of Judicial Administration Rule 2.540 Notices to Persons With Disabilities If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Cheryl Alfonso, ADA Coordinator, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 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.
SPANISH: Si usted es una persona discapacitada que necesita alguna adaptación para poder participar
de este procedimiento o evento; usted tiene derecho, sin costo alguno a que se le provea cierta ayuda. Favor de comunicarse con Cheryl Alfonso, Coordinadora de A.D.A Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 por lo menos 7 días antes de que tenga que comparecer en corte o inmediatamente después de haber recibido ésta notificación si es que falta menos de 7 días para su comparecencia. Si tiene una discapacidad auditiva ó de habla, llame al 711.
KREYOL: Si ou se yon moun ki kokobé ki bezwen asistans ou aparêy pou ou ka patisipé nan prosedu sa-a, ou gen dwa san ou pa bezwen péyé anyen pou ou jwen on seri de èd. Tanpri kontakté Cheryl Alfonso, Co-ordinator ADA, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652O’mwen 7 jou avan ke ou gen pou-ou parèt nan tribunal, ou imediatman ke ou resevwa avis sa-a ou si lè ke ou gen pou-ou alé nan tribunal-la mwens ke 7 jou; Si ou pa ka tandé ou palé byen, rélé 711.
Publish: March 5 &12, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND INTENT TO FORECLOSE
To: All persons listed below, their guardians, heirs and assigns, record owners of the unit week(s) as showing, all located in Monroe County, Florida comprised of Unit Weeks as more particularly defined in and governed by that certain: Declaration of Condominium for FLORIDA BAY CLUB OF KEY LARGO, a condominium, recorded in O.R. Book 871 at pages 1215, et seq. Public Records, Monroe County, Florida. You are hereby given Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose on behalf of THE FLORIDA BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC. a Florida not-for-profit corporation. You may cure the default and redeem the timeshare interest by paying the amounts secured by the Association’s lien on your unit week(s) as showing below in cash or certified funds to Timeshare Truste at any time prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Sale.
Unit/Week Owner Name Address City, State, Zip Default Year Amount Due Per Diem C02-03 Betty J. Pearson 7016 NW 169th StreetHialeah, FL 33015 2023 $4,229.89 $2.09
A02-03 James Lewis Mitchell III a/k/a James Mitchell III, Julian Mitchell a/k/a Jullian Berry Mitchell 801 South Street, Unit 3903 Honolulu, HI 96813 2024
$2,946.78 $1.45
B04-02 James Lewis Mitchell III a/k/a James Mitchell III, Julian Mitchella/k/a Jullian Berry Mitchell 801 South Street, Unit 3903 Honolulu, HI 96813 2024
A01-06 Christopher Ian Meyerson 4136 Shadowood Parkway SE Atlanta, GA 30339 2020
$10,375.85 $5.12
A01-09 Clifford E. Brown, Linda K. Brown 8205 Rio Bend Ct., N. Richmond Hill, TX 76182 2023
$2,947.39 $1.45
If you fail to cure the default as set forth in this notice or take other appropriate action with regard to this foreclosure matter, you risk losing ownership of your timeshare interest through the trustee foreclosure procedure established in section 721.855, Florida Statutes. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT AS A MATTER OF LAW TO SEND TO THE TRUSTEE WRITTEN NOTICE THAT YOU OBJECT TO THIS PROCEDURE. UPON THE TRUSTEE’S RECEIPT OF YOUR OBJECTION, THE FORECLOSURE OF THE LIEN WITH RESPECT TO THE DEFAULT SPECIFIED IN THIS NOTICE SHALL BE SUBJECT TO THE JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE PROCEDURE ONLY. You have the right to cure your default in the manner set forth in this notice at any time before the trustee’s sale
of your timeshare interest. If you do not object to the use of the trustee foreclosure procedure, you will not be subject to a deficiency judgment even if the proceeds from the sale of your timeshare interest by the TRUSTEE are insufficient to offset the amounts secured by the lien.
STAACK & SIMMS, PLLC, d/b/a TIMESHARE TRUSTEE
51 S. MAIN AVENUE, SUITE 319 CLEARWATER, FL 33765
PHONE: (727) 441-2635
FAX: (727) 461-4836
Website: www.staacklaw.com
Publish: March 5 & 12, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
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:
Certificate No: 2023/621
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1237973
Parcel ID: 00185990-000000
Description of Property: BK 14 LT 14 CUTTHROAT HARBOR ESTATES FIRST ADDN CUDJOE KEY PB5-60 OR388-888 OR493-445 OR764-1870 OR832-443 OR858340 OR954-701/02 OR2200-719 OR2200-720 OR2200-740 OR2221816/17
Names in which assessed: JENNIFER L RICHMOND, ZELEZNIK ROBERT J 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 2025-52
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
Description
Sale
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •
Account Number: 1238074
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
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
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:
Certificate No: 2023/624
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Parcel ID: 00186090-000000
Description of Property: BK 15 LT 6 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 2025-56
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
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 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
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
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. 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
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
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 OR446-31 OR448-205 OR778-1838 OR780-12 OR781-1432 OR7821540 OR784-1991 OR785-789 OR785-1540 OR790-1182 OR791324 OR911-2396 OR1225-2053 OR1329-1022 OR1686-1133 OR1686-1135 OR1695-26 OR169528 OR1695-29 OR1905-2073 OR1905-2074 OR1905-2075 OR2843-1464 OR2866-198 OR2976-1453
Names in which assessed: 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, 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: 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:
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 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 2025-70
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: 2023/1719
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 OR801-1073D/C OR802- 351D/C OR811-545 OR925-294 OR998509 OR1105-2378 OR1285-
1387/94(PROB93-20129-CP-10)
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
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
OR1377-750/825DEC OR14372363/70 OR1532-214/216
OR1532-195/197 OR1775-442/44
OR2305-227/28 OR2608-311/12
OR3188-1391 OR3195-0484
Names in which assessed: PERFECT HORIZON 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 2025-74
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:
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
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 PB2107 G57-181 G57-321 OR10-33 OR442-183 OR446-637
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:
Certificate No: 2023/299
Date of Issuance: June 01, 2023
Account Number: 1106402
Parcel ID: 00092240-000306
Description of Property: UNIT 206 SEA GULLS A CONDOMINIUM OR800-643
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 2025-86
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
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
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
Names in which assessed: SEVEN EIGHT INVESTMENTS 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
2025-89
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
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.-
BOAT SLIP FOR RENT
Dockage up to 60’ Islamorada - Bayside, 50 amp service. Price LOWER than marina. Call 860-982-4517
EMPLOYMENT
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
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.
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, 9:30am-7pm 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.
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.
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 HIRED IN LESS THAN FIVE WEEKS!!!
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.
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. 904237-9090 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
2BR/1BA Duplex in Big Pine Key for rent. With boat & wildlife reserve access. Furn. $3500/ mo - unfurn. $3300/mo. Call Ray 413-6953043 or 305-897-0563 PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or E-mail: Anneke @keysweekly.com
SARA’S ESTATE SALE on Big Coppitt Key @ 104 Sirius Lane, FRI-SUN March 6-8, 9a to 1p, all three days. We’re calling this the treasure hunt house, and it’s a donot-miss sale. Standouts: antique butcher block table, massive half clam shell, big repro dive helmet & working slot machine. We have vintage toys, dolls & board games, and bits of Key West history, sponges & old bottles. Odd things: a butter churn, airplane model engine parts, powder horn & candle form.. Art lovers: vintage KW prints, tropical stained glass, embroidered reef scenes & wooden fish. Tools: vintage tools, welding machine, acetylene torch, drill press, tool boxes, battery tools, lobster traps, bait freeze & fridge, dive weight, lead sinkers. 2 sets of dishes, pink glass, blue glass, platters, xmas tableware. Lasting furniture: bamboo, wicker, spun fiberglass, cast aluminum bistro set & so much more. To see the full sale, visit estatesales. net. (Turn off US1 at MM10 Circle K on to Boca Chica Road, and follow the signs; park with consideration.)
PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
NOW HIRING!
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: keylargo@jms .com Apply in person: 94775 Overseas Highway, Key Largo
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Finance Department:
ACCOUNTING REPRESENTATIVE
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $27.37/hr - $30.66/hr
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:
SOLAR SALES FOR SALT ENERGY, LLC. - Dynamic, local company looking for good people to grow with us. Located in Marathon, we have been engineering, installing and servicing solar energy systems in the Keys, South Florida and Caribbean for over 30 years. We are looking for a Team player with a great attitude, excellent communication and sales skills, who is excited to share the benefits of solar energy. Initially, this position will be representing the residential and small commercial sector of the company, focused primarily in the Florida Keys.
RESPONSIBILITIES
• Visit customers’ homes to perform site surveys and provide tailored solar solutions.
• Prepare and deliver compelling sales proposals and negotiate terms to close deals.
• Communicate and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless project implementation and complete customer satisfaction.
REQUIREMENTS
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to build rapport with customers.
• Self-motivated, target-driven and able to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Results-oriented mindset with a focus on delivering an outstanding customer experience.
• Strong understanding of solar energy systems and industry best practices, preferred.
EDUCATION: High school diploma required. College degree in business or communication preferred.
JOB TYPE: Full-time. WORK LOCATION: In person.
PAY: Base pay plus bonus commissions. Benefits: 401(k) matching, PTO. SALT Energy, LLC., 2992 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050. Send resume and cover letter to Lisak@saltenergy.net.
SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN
(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hr. - $51.94/hr.
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Generation Department:
I & E TECHNICIAN
INSTRUMENT & ELECTRICAL
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hour - $51.94/hour
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Generation Department:
OPERATOR/MAINTAINER
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $40.15/hr - $44.97/hr
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO
Behavioral Health Counselor (CAT)
Prevention Specialist
Case Manager (Adult)
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Children)
Mental Health Technician (PT or FT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) Crisis Counselor
Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Prevention Specialist
MARATHON
HR Assistant/Recruiter
Mental Health Technician Driver
Registered Nurse (FT, PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT)
*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 Shifts (PT)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary. JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS!
team/Job Opportunities/location/zip
SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!
FACILITIES MAINTENANCE APPRENTICE
and
of marine mammals.
DRC provides for the well-being of its employees with a competitive package including: a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays/vacation/sick days, an employee assistance program, in addition to, life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee. EOE
COME JOIN THE FAMILY!
Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS
- Medical Assistant, Ortho-Tavernier,
- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
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.
