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17.9M
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, there are 17.9 million people living in areas of the country experiencing drought conditions. About 82% of Florida is currently in a drought. The dry conditions have fueled wildfires, including a recent one near the 18-Mile Stretch.
The Key West High School Lady Conchs, seen here earlier in the season, dominated Somerset Academy on May 12, winning 8-0, and are now just one win away from heading to the state championship Final Four contest. BERT BUDDE/Contributed
KEY WEST’S RAINBOW REBELLION HEADS TO COURT
Local couple sues city over their painted fence posts in Old Town
MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
The ACLU of Florida on May 7 sued the city of Key West on behalf of a local couple who were threatened with fines if they didn’t remove the rainbowcolored fence pickets they had painted on 12 slats of wood at their home in Old Town, six on the side fence and six on the front.
The lawsuit alleges the city violated the First Amendment rights of Linda Bagley-Sohn and Nicole “Coley” Sohn by selectively enforcing its code against their rainbow-painted fence display and failing to enforce other violations of the city’s historic guidelines in Old Town.
“Plaintiffs’ rainbow picket display was an expression subject to First Amendment protection,” the lawsuit states. “The city selectively and arbitrarily enforced its Historic District regulations against plaintiffs because of the communicative content and viewpoint of their rainbow display. The city has not enforced its historic district regulations against others similarly situated whose violations have different communicative content and viewpoint from Plaintiffs. The city has no legitimate, content-neutral justification for selectively punishing plaintiffs for their expression.”
The lawsuit asks the court to declare the city’s enforcement of its historic district regulations against the plaintiffs’ rainbow picket display unconstitutional and to stop the city from enforcing those regulations. The suit seeks $20 in financial damages, for the cost of paint.
The 14-page legal complaint includes several photos of wooden fences in the historic district that are painted colors other than white, which the historic guidelines require.
“The First Amendment categorically forbids the city’s content- and viewpointbased restrictions on the plaintiffs, and therefore the city’s actions to enforce the historic district regulations against the plaintiffs violated their rights under the First and Fourteenth Amendments,” the lawsuit states.
The complaint details the origins of Key West’s rainbow-painted fences in response to the city acceding to the governor’s and state of Florida’s demands that Key West’s rainbow crosswalks be removed from the intersection of Duval and Petronia streets.
“For many years, Key West has been known as a welcoming and inclusive community for all individuals, and particularly so for the LGBTQ+ community,” the lawsuit states. “To celebrate this fact, over a decade ago the city of Key West installed rainbow crosswalks at an intersection along iconic Duval Street. But last year Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration mandated that all localities statewide remove colorful markings and artwork on crosswalks and sidewalks.
“Acceding to that demand, the city of Key West painted over its rainbow crosswalks under cover of darkness.
“To protest the crosswalks’ removal, plaintiffs Nicole ‘Coley’ Sohn and Linda Bagley-Sohn painted 12 of the pickets on their home’s picket fence in rainbow colors. Inspired by the plaintiffs, many other Key West residents also painted their picket fences in rainbow colors to join the protest. The city then censored the plaintiffs’ colorful and peaceful protest by selectively enforcing its ordinance code against them, based on the content and viewpoint of their expression.”
The lawsuit also describes the Sohns’ repeated attempts to apply for a permit from the city’s Historic Archi-
Working with the ACLU of Florida, Key West homeowners, who were threatened with fines for painting their Old Town fence pickets rainbow colors, have sued the city. Painted slats were then zip-tied to the fence, which the city’s historic guidelines allow. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly
tecture Review Commission (HARC).
“We tried to go through the right channels. We applied and applied,” Coley Sohn told the Keys Weekly. “And it looked like the HARC commissioners were moving in the right direction, trying to work with people, coming up with guidelines that allowed the painted pickets for 18 months or so, and limiting the number of pickets that could be painted. But then the city attorney put a stop to it.
When speaking at a December HARC meeting, Coley Sohn said, “I’m all for preservation, but it’s not about freezing a city in time. Key West’s history of inclusion is worth preserving as much as the architecture.”
“This was a peaceful protest that the city is trying to silence,” she said. “We love Key West and this community, and we support HARC,” she said. “But we’re not going away. This is too important. It’s completely selective and discriminatory.”
Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez and commissioner Donie Lee told the Keys Weekly the evening of May 7, after the lawsuit was filed that morning, that they had not yet been made aware of it, with Lee adding that as a city commissioner, he can’t comment on pending litigation.
Commissioner Monica Haskell did not address the lawsuit specifically, when she told the Keys Weekly last week, “The state’s heavy-handed mandates have put everyone scrambling to do the right thing. Unfortunately, not everyone agrees with what the right thing is.”
MANDY
COLLEGE GRADUATION GROWS
150 grads need two ceremonies
The College of the Florida Keys on May 8 held its 72nd commencement exercises.
For the first time in the college’s 60-year history, two ceremonies were needed to honor more than 150 graduates in CFK’s spring class of 2026.
The celebrations, held at the Tennessee Williams Theatre on CFK’s Key West campus, coincided with CFK’s 60th anniversary and the country's 250th.
Student voices
Jessica Rojas, who earned a bachelor’s degree of applied science in supervision and management, delivered the student address at the morning ceremony. Araceli Dominguez, who received her associate’s degree in science in nursing, spoke at the afternoon ceremony.
Yesenia Bathelmy, who earned her associate’s degree in science in nursing, performed the national anthem at both ceremonies.
2026 Distinguished Alum
Christina Belotti, who earned her associate’s degree in arts from CFK in 2004, was named the 2026 Distinguished Alumnus and addressed graduates at both ceremonies. An educator for nearly 20 years, Belotti has taught at Sugarloaf School and Marathon Middle High School.
Keynote address
Tim Stockwell, “Papa 2025” of the Hemingway Look-Alike Society, delivered the keynote address at both ceremonies. Stockwell is vice president of the board for the Sloppy Joe’s Foundation. He and his fellow Hemingway look-alikes have tirelessly supported CFK for nearly 27 years, donating more than $250,000 for scholarships that have helped more than 300 students further their education. The society’s $750,000 endowment is the largest at CFK.
Honoring nurses
CFK nursing instructor Laura Cox pinned nursing graduates and Michelle Fortney, inter-
im dean of nursing, arts, science and hospitality led graduates in the Florence Nightingale Nursing Oath, a tradition marking their entry into the profession.
Upon passing the national licensure exam, each will become a registered nurse. CFK’s exam pass rate consistently ranks well above state and national averages.
2026 Instructor of the Year – it’s a tie
Nursing instructors Laura Cox and Michelle Ho were both named CFK’s Instructor of the Year. At the end of each semester, the students vote for an outstanding professor to be recognized at graduation.
A class of stories
The Class of 2026 reflected the range of students CFK serves. Among the graduates were six students from the Project ACCESS program for students with intellectual disabilities, and one alum of the program who returned to complete a bachelor’s degree of applied science in supervision and management.
Thirteen dual-enrollment students from Monroe County high schools received associate degrees and/or certificates. The class also included siblings who earned their associate’s degree in science in nursing simultaneously, and two international students who completed their degrees.
Honoring CFK’s pioneers
In recognition of CFK’s 60th anniversary, two alumni among the college’s earliest graduates received honorary degrees:
Joey Garcia, who earned his associate’s degree in arts in 1967, was awarded an honorary bachelor’s degree of applied science in supervision and management.
Judi Knowles Vaeth, one of the first students to receive an associate’s degree of arts in 1966, was honored with an honorary bachelor of science in nursing.
The full commencement ceremony can be viewed on the college’s Facebook page at facebook.com/TheCollegeoftheFloridaKeys.
LADY CONCHS ARE PUTTIN’ ON THE HITS
Key West High School softball is one win away from state final four
and
away from heading to the state championship final four contest.
The Key West High School’s Lady Conchs softball team handily defeated Somerset Academy, 8-0, on May 12 at home, putting them one win away from the state championship Final Four contest.
The Conchs will play again on Thursday,
May 14, when they will face the winner of a May 13 game between American Heritage and Okeechobee.
If American Heritage wins, the Lady Conchs will travel to Plantation, Florida to play them. If Okeechobee beats American Heritage, they will come to Key West for the regional championship game.
Group A, left, and Group B from CFK's spring Class of 2026 in front of the Key West Campus.
The Key West Lady Conchs are sitting at 16-9 on the season
are one win
CONTRIBUTED
Key West & Cuba’s Museum Quality Regional Art Celebrating Cultural Resilience
Linda Rieke
Mediterranean Glance, 16.5” x 12.5” Acrylic on Board
Born and raised in the Florida Keys, Linda distills the spirit of island life into her maritime-inspired artwork. Her pieces echo the salt-sprayed nostalgia of the Keys, blending personal memory with the region’s seafaring heritage. Owner of the beloved “90 Miles to Cuba” shop on Greene Street, just steps from Gallery on Greene, Linda embodies the creativity and resilience of the community she re ects.
A self-taught artist and late bloomer, Linda debuted her work at the age of 70— revealing a whimsical inner mermaid that resonates with locals and visitors alike. Her art is as unassuming as it is evocative: a visual love letter to the tides, textures, and tales of her island home.
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THE CRYING MAILMAN
KEY WEST BACK IN THE DAY
Lately my female friends have been sharing tales of contemporary dating, from the joys of new love to romantic disasters — which, for me, triggered memories of dating in the 1970s and early ’80s.
It was a different era then, when romance was casual and people were frequent victims of “lust at first sight.” I once fell for a handsome pirate over cocktails and took him home to share a bubble bath — which began a five-year relationship.
has lived in Key West for 40-plus years, witnessing and writing about the island’s renegade past, shipwreck salvage adventures and colorful presentday characters.
He opened my eyes to the freewheeling Key West and its resident outlaws, who scorned “real-world” rules and lived by their own personal code.
He taught me to enjoy simple living, value the stories told by vagabond shrimpers and poets, and share his unconditional love for the island.
By the time we drifted apart, his strong principles and passion for Key West had changed my life.
Some of my female friends, however, had far less inspirational boyfriends.
One dated a fishing captain we’ll call Johnny. Bearded and boyish, he was an expert at his job.
Yet when he wasn’t spotting fish for charter clients, Johnny was basically clueless. That became clear one day when, unable to reach his girlfriend, he called me in a panic.
“I’m cleaning my bathtub,” he said in a faint voice unlike his usual confident tone. “My bathroom doesn’t have any windows, and the bleach I was using didn’t work, so I tried one of those strong cleansers –”
His explanation was interrupted by a fit of frenzied coughing.
“Hold on,” I said when he recovered. “You used bleach AND strong cleanser? In a room without a window?”
He muttered an assent.
“Johnny, get the hell out of that bathroom!” I yelled. “Combining those two things is practically lethal!”
“Yeah, it kind of feels like I made a poison gas,” he said weakly, while I considered calling the nearest Hazmat team.
Yet despite his ineptitude, Johnny was a better boyfriend candidate than the crying mailman.
The crying mailman, unfortunately, was one of my dates. Several months after I ended things with my pirate, a mailman I knew slightly asked me out. He was gentle, funny and seemingly sane. So I said yes.
We would go to dinner, he said, at the waterfront restaurant at the Pier House Motel. The restaurant was famed for its island-style sophistication and white conch chowder (which could cure hangovers, ease cold symptoms and probably end minor wars).
The mailman arrived at my William Street cottage with flowers and a bottle of wine. While I put the flowers in water, he opened the wine — and drank the entire bottle in 20 minutes. This was a bit concerning, but I figured maybe he was nervous.
We rode our bicycles to the Pier House in the post-sunset dark, along narrow streets where
night-blooming flowers perfumed the air and lights shone from the windows of Victorian homes. Biking through the lovely, shabby Old Town neighborhood always warmed my heart, so I ignored my concerns and enjoyed it.
That was a mistake — quickly proven when, after sitting down at our restaurant table, the mailman ordered a large cocktail and burst into tears.
Unnerved, I asked what was wrong.
“You’re so beautiful,” he sobbed. “Your beauty is making me cry.”
Even on a good day, I wasn’t beautiful. Quickly revising my earlier estimate of my date’s sanity, I realized the situation had become a little scary — and could only get worse. So I made up an excuse and fled.
He must have dried his tears eventually, and somehow we never ran into each other again. But it took many months before I stopped flinching reflexively at the sight of a mail carrier’s truck.
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY
1. This 1970s aerial of the Pier House Motel shows the restaurant and bar area at right, with the accommodations at left and the beach between them. DALE McDONALD COLLECTION/Florida Keys History Center
2. Key West’s Bahama House, captured in a classic postcard image, delights bike riders and pedestrians who pass by the history-rich Old Town home. DeWOLFE AND WOOD COLLECTION/Florida Keys History Center
THE GOOD NEWS & BAD NEWS FROM THE CITY OF KEY WEST
Affordable housing gets approval; city loses Outer Mole Pier lease
mandy@keysweekly.com
There’s a lot going on in the city of Key West.
First, the good news.
• The Key West City Commission last week approved the major development plan that will replace some of the housing at Poinciana Royale on Duck Avenue.
The existing buildings were constructed by the U.S. Navy in the 1950s and ’60s and have outlived their usefulness.
The new development plan, being led by Keys Health & Housing (formerly AH Monroe), will replace the apartments, but not increase the number of them, that are used by nonprofit social services organizations, including the Monroe Association for Remarkable Citizens (MARC), the Florida Keys Outreach Coalition for the Homeless and other social services groups.
“It’d be nice if we didn’t have such a great need for these programs, but we do,” said Scott Pridgen, executive director of Keys Health & Housing, who is spearheading the project and received a vote of confidence from commissioner Greg Veliz, who commended Pridgen on his “great resume.”
Commissioner Donie Lee also said, “This is one of the only proposals I’ve seen where there was initially a lot of community opposition in the beginning, but you’ve addressed all that.”
• The city approved the school district’s development plan, in partnership with Vestcor Development Co., to build 150 apartments for teachers and government employees at the district’s current administrative headquarters on Trumbo Road.
But things weren’t all rosy at the May 7 city commission meeting. There was an unexpected meltdown by commissioner Aaron Castillo, who complained about the commission postponing votes and chided commissioner Sam Kaufman, without naming him, for asking too many questions and delaying discussions. Kaufman is running for mayor against incumbent Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez, who calls on Kaufman whenever he wants to speak on a matter.
• The Navy is terminating the city’s lease of the Navy-owned Outer Mole Pier and has issued a request for proposals from entities wanting to use it.
The origins and details of the lease termination are still unclear.
But it raises questions of whether the Navy might consider inviting cruise ships back to use that pier. When it leased the pier from the Navy, the city ended cruise ship docking there, as part of a 2020 citizenled initiative to reduce the size and number of cruise ships visiting Key West. In a May 12 letter to Capt. Colin Thompson, commander of Naval Air Station Key West, Arlo Haskell of Safer Cleaner Ships wrote, “We feel there is potential for public concern to increase if the Navy contemplates supporting cruise ship operations at the Outer Mole, and we hope to establish a productive dialogue with NASKW on this subject,” the letter states.
“We are unaware of any policies of NASKW that address cruise ship impacts, or which take into account the recent history of local cruise legislation,” the letter states. “Thus we are seeking to take reasonable steps to engage with NASKW to try and inform our community on the prospects for preserving its hardwon regulations on large cruise ship operations in Key West.”
Resident Chris Massicotte, who is running for the District 5 commission seat, asked what prompted the lease termination. “That lease has provided citizen-led control over how that space is used,” Massicotte said. “A few weeks ago, the idea of terminating the lease came from the city manager and Capt. Thompson was perplexed, so the city backed off. But now the Navy cancels the lease? A 20-year partnership like this doesn’t just dissolve overnight. I think it’s important to find out what the Navy’s reasons are. I don’t want to fight the cruise-ship battle again. Also, the Navy specifically said the powerboat races may be at risk.”
For more Key West news, visit keysweekly.com on Thursday and read more from the May 7 city commission meeting as well as an update on the second federal lawsuit filed against the city in a week.
BOAT STRIKE CLAIMS LIFE OF LOWER KEYS DIVER
Jocelyn Brown had a dive flag up when she was hit, authorities said
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
State authorities continue to investigate a boat strike that claimed the life of a Florida Keys diver on May 8 near Little Palm Island off Big Pine Key.
Summerland Key resident Jocelyn Brown, 27, was freediving off the Lower Keys island from an anchored vessel when a 24-foot Twin Vee catamaran struck her around 11 a.m., according to a preliminary incident report provided to the Keys Weekly by FWC.
Two occupants aboard the boat that struck Brown, both residents of Ramrod Key, aided in bringing her to shore, but she succumbed to her injuries and was later pronounced dead at Fishermen’s Hospital.
Brown’s boat had a properly displayed dive flag flown from its highest point, according to FWC records. At press time, criminal charges have yet to be filed in the incident, under investigation by FWC and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
Per Florida law, vessels must stay at least 300 feet away from a displayed diver-down flag in open water, or 100 feet within channels or constrained water bodies. If passing the marker within the required radius, they must slow to the lowest speed necessary to maintain steering control.
Brown’s death quickly generated a widespread show of support and grief across the diving and fishing communities in the Florida Keys.
“Words are hard to find as our community grieves the loss of a beautiful soul, Jocelyn Brown,” wrote dive shop Freedive Key West in a Facebook post. “A devoted mama. A talented diver. A light in this community. Gone because a boat operator ignored a dive flag displayed less than 75 feet away. That is not an accident. That is negligence.
Twenty-seven-year-old
on May 8. CONTRIBUTED
“An obvious issue that is apparent throughout the state of Florida is that boater competency is extremely lacking. … Boater education needs to be taken seriously, by rental companies, by law makers, and by every single person who gets behind the wheel of a vessel. Dive flags exist for a reason.”
While early social media posts from friends and concerned locals pledged a GoFundMe or trust fund in support of Brown’s family and young son, posts from Brown’s family later asked for privacy as her loved ones navigate the tragedy.
“We are deeply grateful for the profound impact Jocelyn has had on so many lives on the island, and we cherish the stories everyone has shared with us about her,” wrote Brown’s brother Joey. “Our request is that you grant us the space to manage this situation that has taken our sister and daughter from us.”
A second post clarified that funds set up improperly could disqualify Brown’s son Mikey, who has autism, from receiving proper disability benefits.
Jocelyn Brown, pictured here with her young son Mikey, was fatally struck by a boat off Little Palm Island
MANDY MILES
CELEBRATING IN BUSINESS
With love and gratitude, we invite you to celebrate the life of Francis “Frank” Emmitt Wright (June 21, 1961 – March 9, 2026), a patriot and sailor who touched so many lives.
Join us as we share stories, laughter, and memories of the joy and kindness he brought to all who knew him.
Come as you are—bright colors and smiles are welcome.
We’ll gather at sunset (8:03 pm), letting the ocean carry flowers as we honor his spirit—full sails, open hearts, and a horizon of memories by the sea he loved.
May 15, 2026, 6:30 pm – 8:10 pm White Street Pier, Key West
Anchored in love, By friends, for friends
COUNTY OVERTIME COSTS DRAW SCRUTINY
Clerk issues advisory on costs & oversight
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Monroe County’s overtime pay policy, which is more generous than federal requirements, cost the county nearly $365,000 in 2025, and recently prompted a closer look by the county clerk’s finance department.
The clerk’s office last month sent an advisory to County Administrator Christine Hurley outlining its findings and concerns. The county’s overtime policy, enacted in 2021, allows hourly employees to get overtime pay (time and a half) even if they don’t physically work more than 40 hours in a week.
“With the passage of its policy, the county commission broadened the definition of ‘hours worked’ to include holiday vacation, sick time or compensatory time in addition to physical hours worked when calculating an employee’s overtime pay,” the advisory states.
In other words, if an employee works on a federal Monday holiday, and then uses a vacation day on Tuesday, the eight hours of vacation time count toward the 40-hour tally under the county’s policy. Under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), overtime is only paid when an employee physically works more than 40 hours in a week.
Airport overtime draws scrutiny
The clerk’s advisory also questions the amount of overtime being paid to salaried, non-hourly employees who are exempt from overtime pay except during emergencies.
“While the intent of the policy is that exempt overtime should be a rarity, exempt (non-hourly) employees were paid $209,051 in 2025 when there was no obvious event to necessitate an unusually large amount of overtime,” the advisory states.
More concerning, the review notes, is that two airport managers received 70% of that overtime amount in 2025.
“The assistant director of airports and the deputy director of airport operations and security were paid a combined total of $146,996 in overtime in the past calendar year,” the document states.
In 2025, the deputy director of airport operations and security, Luis Garay, earned a salary of $162,831 plus an additional $91,973 in overtime, despite being an exempt, nonhourly worker.
Similarly, the assistant director of airports, Scott Guidry, who was hired in March 2025 with an annual salary of $167,213, received an additional $55,023 in overtime in 2025.
Garay did not return messages seeking comment, and Guidry was not listed in the county’s online staff directory as of May 12.
“For the deputy director, whose employment began in September 2019, overtime has been consistently and increasingly inordinate for many years, indicating that the supervisor has not taken effective action to mitigate the recurring charging of over-
time,” the advisory states. “Likewise, the assistant director, who was hired in March 2025, is beginning his employment with a similar overtime pattern.”
The clerk’s office review found that the two employees regularly pre-filled their time cards, claiming overtime in advance.
“This practice of pre-filling out timecards includes the observed practice of using the ‘Auto-Fill From Prior Week’ function to copy timecards using the same overtime schedule on multiple successive time periods,” the advisory states. “The recurring and preplanned nature indicates that overtime does not appear to be driven by emergencies or on an as-needed basis.”
The county commission will discuss the overtime advisory at its May 20 meeting in Key West, where they will also hear from the county’s director of airports, who oversees the two positions in question and approves their overtime requests.
“There will be an investigation to see if any wrongdoing took place,” Hurley said when the Keys Weekly asked whether the county intends to investigate any potential fraud, misconduct or falsification of documents.
“During the airport construction there was a serious need for extra ramp control to guide planes and other operations around the construction, which resulted in overtime in a lot of areas,” Hurley said. “Airports Director Richard Strickland will be discussing this at the May meeting with the BOCC.”
County Mayor Michelle Lincoln declined to comment on the matter before she had met with county staff.
“My briefing with staff has not occurred yet for our commission meeting,” Lincoln said. “At the commission meeting, Richard Strickland will be filling us in with more details. So at this point, I really don’t have anything additional to say.”
Commissioner Craig Cates said the same, adding, “I’m concerned about the use of that much overtime and we will be discussing it at the commission meeting and will make any changes if necessary in our policy.”
Cassandra Cassidy RDH Jayme Thomas RDH Maria Montilva RDH
Aladdin
Illustration: Leigh Ann Hooten
THE COURTSHIP OF EDDIE'S FATHER
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Screening Saves Lives
NEW ANTI-DEI LAW STRIPS FUNDING FROM FUTURE LGBTQ EVENTS IN THE FLORIDA KEYS
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Thousands of visitors will visit the Southernmost City in less than a month to celebrate Pride. Historically, Key West Pride has received county funds to promote the festivities and attract people outside the island chain and Sunshine State.
A new law signed on April 22 by Gov. Ron DeSantis, however, slashes those dollars from LGBTQ events like Key West Pride beginning next year.
“Although Key West Pride 2027 won’t be funded by the TDC (Tourist Development Council), we’re not going to allow that to stop us from holding Key West Pride,” said Rob Dougherty, executive director for Key West Business Guild, a nonprofit devoted to promoting Key West to LGBTQ+ travelers.
In March, Florida legislators passed a series of crackdowns on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in the state through Senate Bill 1134 by Republican state Sen. Clay Yarbrough. For local municipalities, the new law prohibits government funding, promotion or implementation of DEI initiatives.
“At a time when many Floridians are struggling to afford groceries and gas, millions of taxpayer dollars should not continue to be wasted by local governments on DEI initiatives, even more so because they are failing to do what they claim,” Yarbrough said following the governor’s signing.
Monroe County and TDC officials were required to review event applications and funding allocations to confirm compliance per the new state law. The TDC uses advisory committees in five districts, as well as a cultural umbrella committee, to review and award funds under the TDC event grant program.
Out of the review, grant applications for funding were deemed ineligible under the new state law for the 2027 events Key West Pride, Tropical Heat Key West and Womenfest Key West.
“I think that for many of us, and I’m not just speaking for our staff and board of directors but also LGBTQ+ allies in Key West, we were disappointed by the bill. But after
the abrupt removal of (rainbow) crosswalks, I don’t think we were surprised,” said Dougherty, referring to the state’s earlier efforts to remove rainbow crosswalks from public roads and streets.
Dougherty added that the funding supports media marketing of events.
“It allows the opportunity to engage with communities outside of the Florida Keys and throughout the nation,” he said.
Several events occurring before the Jan. 1, 2027 effective date saw their funding reduced. Those events included Aquanettes: Past, Present and Future, reduced to $20,000 from the original $35,000; Randy Roberts Live, reduced to $8,750 from the original $35,000; Sons and Daughters of Italy, reduced to $3,500 from the original $25,000; and The Birdcage Cabaret starring Christopher Peterson, reduced to $20,000 from the original $35,000. Those events won’t be eligible for funding next year if they maintain the same event specifics, the county said.
County officials said no other events in the Keys were affected by the new law.
Funds are still in place to promote this year’s Key West Pride, Tropical Heat Key West in August and Key West WomenFest in September. TDC funds used to promote events are collected from visitors to the Keys who pay a 4% tourist tax when they stay at a short-term rental, hotel or motel.
“What people fail to recognize is that for every LGBTQ+ traveler, there are two to four allies who
STATE LEGISLATORS CONVENE TO HASH OUT BUDGET S
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
tate legislators left session in midMarch with no budget approved for the coming fiscal year. On May 12, members in the Florida House and Senate returned to the state capital to hash out $1 billion in spending differences between their proposals.
travel with the same values. Those are seats in restaurants, trolleys, bars and on our beaches,” Dougherty said.
Dougherty said dollars were also cut to support the Gay Key West Visitor Center.
Not all Republicans in the Florida House supported Senate Bill 1134, which passed 25-11 in the Senate on March 4 and 77-37 in the House on March 10. State Rep. Jim Mooney, who represents the Florida Keys and south Miami-Dade, was one of five Republican House members to vote “no.”
“I understand the pushback that you don’t want government waste. No one wants that. I saw it as there are better ways to take care of fiscal responsibility,” Mooney said. “I grew up in the Keys, so I’m a little different. We care about one another, we’ll do anything for anybody when people or organizations are in need.”
Mooney said the events together bring in tens of millions of dollars to retailers, hotels and bars.
Dougherty said when the going gets tough, Key West pulls together.
“We see it on a regular basis here. Whether there’s a family in need, the community pulls together and helps them. If it’s a nonprofit in need, the community steps up,” he said.
The bill states a county or municipality isn’t prohibited from issuing event permits and providing safety services, or complying with state and federal laws or regulations.
State Rep. Jim Mooney, who sits on the House Budget Committee, said members began a special session with committees meeting to work through discrepancies in spending on certain items. Before the legislature concluded a 60-day session in March, the House passed a proposed $113.6 budget. The Senate proposal was a little higher, $115 billion. Both spending plans were less than Gov. Ron DeSantis’ $117 budget proposal for the coming fiscal year, which begins July 1 and ends June 30, 2027.
While the special session is planned for 18 days, Mooney expects legislators to get the work done in three.
“I think we’re close. The big stuff has been hashed out,” he said. “We should be out by the end of the week and return after Memorial Day to satisfy the 72-hour cool-off period.”
A cool-off period is the time between the final budget’s release and the vote by the Legislature.
Mooney said he expects the budget will be leaner compared to previous legislatively-approved spending plans. All in all, he said the House and Senate will likely meet in the middle on the $1 billion spending difference.
House and Senate proposals include funding for institutions like the College of the Florida Keys for education and projects including the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority for a reverse osmosis facility on Crawl Key and the school district for an affordable workforce housing project on Trumbo Road in Key West.
There’s also $20 million in Florida Keys Stewardship Act funding, which supports water quality projects throughout the island chain. House and Senate proposals include the full funding amount requested by Keys officials.
Once approved, the budget will head to DeSantis’ desk for approval. He also has the ability to veto budget items. This is the second straight year the Legislature failed to approve a budget before the end of the regular 60-day session.
Key West Pride 2025 was highlighted by the Still Rising Parade on June 29, 2025 when Duval Street burst into a sea of rainbow pride. LARRY BLACKBURN/Florida Keys News Bureau
State Rep. Jim Mooney
Current and prior board members celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys. Front row: board chair Laura Lietaert; board members Heidi Morris, Robyn Still and Andrea Spottswood, and CFFK president Elizabeth Brown. Back row: past board member William Porter; board member Warren Leamard; incoming board member Kevin Trapani; board members Jodi Weinhofer, Bobby Highsmith and Larry Nolt; founder and past board chair Tom Clements; board adviser Ron Burd; board member Ken Silverman; past board chair Will Langley; and incoming board member William Monroe. CONTRIBUTED
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF GIVING
Charitable organization helps donors help the Florida Keys
The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys last week celebrated its 30th anniversary with a gathering at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, where nonprofit leaders, donors, volunteers and residents reflected on three decades of local philanthropy and effect.
Begun in 1996 by residents who believed the Keys could build its own permanent charitable resources, the foundation has helped mobilize more than $36 million in grants, scholarships and disaster relief throughout the island chain. What began as a small local effort has grown into one of the Keys’ largest charitable institutions.
The evening featured a proclamation read by Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln designating May 6 as “Community Foundation of the Florida Keys Day,” and recognizing the organization’s role in connecting people, resources and needs across the Keys for nearly three decades.
The celebration included performances by student musicians from the Southernmost Youth Orchestra, led by Irie Monte, and the Island City Youth Choir, led by Crystal Hendricks. Both groups are part of the after-school music enrichment program offered through the Keys Community School of the Arts, which recently received a grant from the foundation to provide scholarships and instruments for participating students.
In 2025, the foundation distributed more than $2.5 million, including more than $1 million through its “In Paradise for Good” community grants program supporting 73 local nonprofits.
“The foundation is a connector and convener,” said Elizabeth Brown, president and CEO. “Our role is to help bring people together, strengthen local organizations, and help charitable resources go further.”
The program highlighted stories from several recent grant-supported initiatives, including a partnership between Good Health Clinic and SOS Foundation that combines health care services with nutritious meals for vulnerable residents in the Upper and Middle Keys; CoastLove’s mangrove restoration projects; and the Key West Art Center’s ArtSpark program, which connects local students with professional artists for mentorship and arts education.
“Thirty years ago, some people cautioned that a community foundation would never work here. They thought there were not enough local resources or support,” Brown said. “But the Keys are stitched together by people who care deeply about each other, and that’s why it works.”
The foundation manages more than $44 million in charitable assets through donor-advised funds, nonprofit endowments, scholarships, designated funds, and unrestricted community funds supporting local needs across the island chain.
“Behind every one of those funds,” Brown said, “is a local person, business or nonprofit organization who saw an opportunity and decided to start something good.”
More information is at cffk.org.
THE STUDIOS OF KEY WEST
FIRST THURSDAY
THU MAY 7, 6-8PM
Free and open to the public
Where art, conversation, and community come alive after hours! Four galleries showcasing the latest work, plus music and drinks on our rooftop.
Screening + Q&A with writer/ producer Amber Nolan MILE ZEROS:
UNANCHORED
FRI MAY 15, 7PM
$15
Created by locals, for locals, Mile Zeros is a new comedy film series that follows the eccentric FWC marine patrol officers (Chad Newman and Samantha Jindra).
Artist Talk WAYNE GARCIA
FRI MAY 22, 5:30PM
Free and open to the public
Master woodcarver shares the stories behind his vivid carvings of Flagler’s Overseas Railroad, told with the grit, humor, and pride of a third generation Conch.
ADVENTURE RAFFLE
DRAWING: MAY 11
Only 125 tickets per prize
You could win: two nights at Little Palm Island, a luxury Key West shopping and dining experience, a private sunset cruise for 20 aboard the Argo Navis, or a private rooftop party for 25 at Hugh’s View.
Contemporary art center, steps off Duval Street.
Always free to visit! Open Tue-Sun, 10am-4pm
Joshua Acosta Christina Cory
Angel Alvarez-De Leon Krystin Guerra
Alvin Annylusse Salome McIntosh
Edward Baker Corey Perloff
Nadjie Baptiste Ebenson Michelin
Leandro Batista Robert Maykut
Rasul Cooper Milas Leconte
Nakathy Dort Clare Keller
Eva Drozdetskaia Daylin Starks
Cheila Fernandez Amanda Velazquez
Christa Francois Dr. Jerome Covington
Yaneicee Grimon Alyson Crean
Tamika Kelly Orlinda Lorente
Alexandra Konecna Judie Klitenick
Myroslav Kuts Jonathan Ingham
David Martinez Sam Steele
Rafael Martinez Anthony Pappion
Whitney Nervilus Samantha Grizzle
Cristopher Acosta Katrin O’Marah
Ava Artigue Daylin Starks
Shnyka Blanc Marc Pierre
Anela Ewing-Fisher Rebecca Rice
Nalia Hernandez Nunez Liz Goldstone
Seava Lamontagne Juan Benitez
Changing the Lives of Exceptional Students since 2019!
Aleeya Norat-Nieves Victoria Lombardo
Youdline Plaisir Adinay Chevez
Rodolfo Posada Alfonso Raymond Ruzek
Janelle Rodriguez Darlene Eslick
Erin Saulnier Krystal Thomas
Brianna Service Denise Santiago
Vlannier Borrego Salado Michael Millard
Adriana Calvo Doris Hawkins
Tinashay Cunningham Marianne Finizio
Aiden Gilday Brad Hager
Vianka Hernandez Reyes Elizabeth Herrera
Sophia Hutchins Martin Runyon
Ayme Maradiaga Julie Johnson
Nqobile Masango Jody Del Gaizo
Shynell McGuire Robyn Still
James Rider Shannon Wiley
Natalie Rodriguez Amanda Lee
Mia Sanchez Jennifer Ward
Marie Noel Colleen Reed
Jessica Reyes Tito Jamie Strunk
Tamia Stevens Rosa Diaz
Eduardo Garcia James Leonard
Justice Lee Isom Angel Jones
Brenda Medina Collazo Katrina Wiatt
Danna Valenzuela Ordonez Michelle Franck
Daysi Williams Diane Culver
Osvany Barajas Bradley Kerns
Andres Fernandez Christopher Mendez Lopez
Angelyn Gonzalez Mayredys Gonzalez
Christian Gonzalez Christopher Ramos
Carla Hernandez Moreira Dawn Michelini
Madison Heskett Catherine Guinovart
Niveah Howard Stacey Bean
Pablo Marin William Jones
Eli Smith Daniel Carrico
Sara Vega Kirsten Walsh
Jovana Zijic
Clarinda Hefner
Jakub Nurkiewicz Daniel Wise
Claudia Steling Natasha Lane
Jeremiah Stastny
Patricia Biagi
Emileano Barrios
Alvin Bentley
Karla Gutierrez Carol Kurz
Xavier-Eric Johnson Frank Derfler
Kadence Ziemer
Evelyn Betancourt
Emily Nolasco-Ferrufino Paris Winter
Brett Drumheller
Deanna Duell
Jennifer Dutton
Patricia Eables
Natasha Early
Kimberly Eckhardt
Savanna Edwards
Larealys Edwards
Francina Edwards
Katharine Egan
Kathy Elmore
Jeanette Farinas
Karelys Fernandez
Mark Finigan
Paula Foley Fred Fontana
Zayra Fosse
Virginia Foster Stephen Franks
Rebecca Fuller
Hulber Gagliardini
Richard Gale
Gisselle Garcia
Anita Garcia Erin Garcia
James Garcia, Jr.
Lissette Castillo
Jessica Caton Ivette Chao Patricia Childress Leslie Christensen
Cipri
Clark
Cobo Yudy Coll
Conn
Connell
Cordova
Cosme
Gillis
Yaniuska Gilmore Georgina Giro
Stacie Gleason
Ivette Goizueta-Mendes
Alberto Gonzalez Novoa
John Griffin
Scott Gruenauer
Jameysi Guzman
James Hager
Autumn Hager
Andersen Harrill
Mary Harris
David Hartnett
Zully Heymeyer
Crystal Hendricks
Ashley Henriquez
David Henriquez
Jose Hernandez
Jennifer Hernandez
Marissa Heskett
Dominique Hickory
Thomas Hill
Suzanne Holmquist
Mary Houston
Cecelia Hoversen
Carrie Howe
Thomas Howe
Melinda Hudson
Terry Huff
Jennifer Hughes
Jackson Andrea Jacobs
Paulina Jara Galleguillos
Alejandro Joglar De Jesus
Bailey Johnston Kim Jones
Victoria Jones
Jordan
Sam Kaufman
Ashley Keeney
Tara Kennedy
Gail Kennedy-McManus
Bradley Kerns
Marc Kline
Dr. Michael Klitenick
Ali Knowles
Jason Koler
Matthew Koval
Jill Keuhnert
Jacob Kyer
Jessica Lariz
Peg Laron
Susan Latham
Cornelia Laverty O’Connor
Stefani Lawlor
Amanda Lee
Jim Leenhouts
Victoria Leonard
Karen Leonard
Esther Lerner
Elisa Levy
Eliza Lewis
Peter Liashek
Ann Liashek
Chuck Licis-Masson
Tanya Litz
Yoandra Lopez
Wilmaire Lopez
Samantha Lopez
Juan Lopez
Atavia Lopez Dor
Troy Lotane
Jacqueline Luhta
Sheri Lutz Taylor Lysiak
Keys Children's Foundation
Ocean Reef Community Foundation
Golden Fleece Foundation
Edward B & Joan T Knight Foundation
Upper Keys Rotary Foundation
Key West Rotary Club Foundation
Key West Sunrise Rotary Club of the Conch Republic
Key West Women’s Club
Rotary Club of Key Largo
Rotary Club of Marathon
Running for Rhonda Charity
Jean & Clark Shannon
The Vista Foundation
Jasam Foundation Fund A
Consortium of Florida Education Foundations
Hunter Ward Foundation
Margaret Shouvlin
Gregory Long & Scott Newman
Evan & Barbara Corns
The Goldstone Family Foundation
The Lookout Foundation
Lovett Woodsum Charitable Foundation
Singing For Chang
Charitable Foundation
The Sexton Family Foundation
The Thoroughfare Foundation
Lower Keys Rotary Club
Ron Jon Worldwide
Jason Williams
Denny Ellerman & Elen
Castedo-Ellerman
James & Kathryn Haymaker
John & Nellie Bastien
Memorial Foundation
Kruse Properties
Frances McKenzie
Kenneth Silverman & Catherine Regan
Adelaide Skoglund & Bill Legg
Gwenn & William Smith
Mendaros
Middlebrook
Melina Miller
Steve Miller Jill Baker
Monteagudo Andrew Morawski Jaylin Morawski
Tanisha Multy Jenny Mae Murphy
James Murphy Allegra Muzzillo Jasenia Naranjo Nicole Navarro Scott Naz
Neller Nicole Nored Derek Norman Kathryn Norris Lynn Obringer
O’Connell
Oelberg Lauren Oropeza Ayesha Osborne
Parra Corso
Pearson
Peixoto
Perez
Perry
Pitcher
Platt
Poholek Darlene Pointer
Powers
Rafter
Randoph-Bartnik
Ritchie
Rivett
Zofchak
One Blood
Marsha Williams
Mary Chambers
The Kirby Family Foundation
Harry Russell
D`Asign Source
Todd German
Dr. Elias Gerth
Maloney-Maykut Family Gift Fund
Jane Packard & James Rifkin
Neal Ruchman & Melissa McDaniel
Anne & Tim Sullivan
Dr. Jerome Covington
George Blaha
Manley deBoer Lumber Company
Anne Padget
Girls Night Out
Two Hearts, One Piano
Bergstrom Foundation
Clements Family Charitable Trust
Robert & Catherine Hesse
Dr. Jeffrey Leeds
Dudley & Alexander Mason
Marilyn Miller & Edward Pitts
Larry Plummer
Preferred Properties Key West
William & Renay Regardie
Brian Robinson
Spottswood Companies
Superior Electric
Kathryn Taras & Anthony Elitcher
Donna & Philip Wheeler
Brian Wruble & Kathleen Bratton
Strunk Ace Hardware
Deborah Batty
Bender & Associates Architects
The Gardens Hotel
Terry Huff
Key Largo Civic Club
Joelna Marcus
Kim McGuire & James Samsels
Robert N. Alfandre Foundation
Naomi & Michael Rosenfeld
Anne Shaver & Susanne Woods
Josselyn Simpson
Joy Brown Taylor
Alan & Jane Teitelbaum
The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy
James “JT” Thompson
Damian Vantriglia
Ricky's Blue Heaven
Mark & Lisa Laskow
Key West Business Guild
Jim & Mary McCulloch
Betty Rubenstein
Denny & Beverly Howley
Patricia Simpson
Sharron Dodge
Lynn Obringer
Dan & Cindy Urban
Lynne Vantriglia
Coastal Counseling Services
William Heller
We are so proud to announce another 69 New 2026 Graduates in Monroe County!
On behalf of the Monroe County Education Foundation, it is my honor to congratulate the Take Stock in Children Class of 2026! As Board President, after three years of service on the Board and having served as Vice President last year, I am especially proud to celebrate this remarkable group of 69 scholars. Representing 10% of all Monroe County graduates, they now step forward to begin the next chapter of their educational journeys with the support of Florida Prepaid college scholarships.
For more than 25 years, Take Stock in Children of Monroe County has transformed lives across our community, equipping 1,165 academically capable and financially deserving students with the resources, guidance, and encouragement needed to pursue postsecondary success. This year alone, the Foundation is awarding an extraordinary $2 million in Florida Prepaid tuition scholarships, which is an investment not only in these students, but in the future of Monroe County.
Behind each graduate stands a powerful network of support. Our Take Stock team, led by our Executive Director Chuck Licis-Masson, and our College Readiness Coaches, work tirelessly in collaboration with our mentors and parents to ensure our program achieves its goals. We are deeply grateful for the unwavering commitment of our more than 400 volunteer mentors who dedicate their time each week to guide, challenge, and inspire our students. Their consistency and care are foundational to the success of this program.
Equally inspiring is the determination of our students themselves. Balancing academic demands with personal responsibilities, they have remained focused on a clear goal: earning a college degree or career certificate and creating brighter futures for themselves and their families. Their resilience and ambition define the very spirit of Take Stock in Children.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to our community partners and supporters from Ocean Reef to Key West, and to the Golden Fleece Foundation which provides educational experiences beyond our county borders. Your continued investment makes this life-changing work possible.
To the Class of 2026... Congratulations! Your hard work has brought you to this milestone, and we look forward to all that you will accomplish in the next chapter of your life’s journey.
Marianne L. Finizio
Are you wondering how YOU can help change the future of a student’s life... one child at a time? With just ONE HOUR a week, you can give a deserving local student a COLLEGE EDUCATION! Volunteer today! Call 305-293-1546 for details and a Mentor application. THANK YOU!
Marianne L. Finizio President, Monroe County Education Foundation
KEY WEST HOSTS BIKE RODEO
Event provides helmets, lights & a police-escorted community ride
May is National Bike Month, and the city of Key West is celebrating.
In preparation for the May 15 Bike to Work Day, the city teamed up with the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County, FDOT, the county commissioners, Key West Transit, and a host of local businesses to hold a bicycle rodeo on May 9 at Key West High School.
The event included free bike helmets, fittings and bike lights. It culminated with a group ride escorted by the Key West Police Motor Unit.
There were over 50 helmet fittings, and the city provided over 100 rechargeable bike lights and bells. WeCycle provided bike tuneups, and Eaton Bikes gave away three new bikes.
“Throughout the month of May, the City of Key West will celebrate biking and the freedom, the joy and the well-being it imbues within us, as well as the power that more people riding bikes has in making life better for everyone,” a city proclamation states.
Key West has one of the highest rates of bicycle-commuting
Sheriff’s Office Capt. David Smith ensures a safe fit for a young bicyclist’s helmet at the city of Key West’s Bike Rodeo on May 9.
residents in the nation. The city has been recognized as a bronze-level bicycle-friendly community by the League of American Bicyclists.
The Department of Health, the University of Miami Bike Safe Program and Key West High School are promoting greater public awareness of bicycle safety during Bike Month and year-round in an effort to reduce collisions, injuries and fatalities.
— Contributed
ELECTIONS OFFICE GETS OUT THE VOTE
Supervisor Sherri Hodies speaks to high school students
Students at Somerset Island Prep charter high school hear a presentation by Supervisor of Elections Sherri Hodies about the importance of voting and America’s electoral process. Hoodies also helped students register to vote. CONTRIBUTED
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
Local high school students are getting a quick civics lesson on the importance of voting.
Supervisor of Elections
Sherri Hodies is making the rounds this spring, speaking at high schools, where her staff registers any 18-year-olds to vote and pre-registers 16- and 17-year-olds.
Hodies spoke at Somerset Island Prep charter high school
on May 11 and will be at the Basilica High School on Friday, May 15. She outlines Florida’s primary system and encourages students to get involved in the election process by researching candidates, attending debates and asking questions.
“I am so excited to see how you guys connect with candidates with questions and in ways that older generations wouldn’t even think of,” Hodies said.
More information is at votemonroeflkeys.gov.
The city of Key West’s May 9 Bike Rodeo ended with a community ride with a Key West Police escort. CONTRIBUTED
MARK HEDDEN
... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.
The Cloisters, we figured, were up there somewhere, though we weren’t totally sure where. Intermittently, as we walked, we could see part of a granite tower, and the Cloisters has a granite tower, but what if it was a different granite tower? Manhattan is a big place. Who knows how many granite towers there are?
We took the risk and started up the hill on a path that seemed to be going in the right direction, and after a while we did pass a sign telling us we were on the route to the Cloisters, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s satellite museum of medieval art and architecture. I suppressed the urge to find a way to move the sign to the bottom of the hill, where it would have been more useful.
It was a gorgeous spring day. Blue skies, light winds, minimal sirens and helicopter traffic. It was perhaps a little crisp, which made my wife and me happy, considering what the next few months would be like in the Keys. Our friend Alicia, who lives in New York and was coming out of a long winter, was a little less invigorated.
I was in a citified mood, not really thinking about nature other than noticing how much green there was in the middle of such an urban area. And then I noticed I was hearing a bird sing a really loud song.
If I’d been out by myself I would have stopped and spent some time trying to suss it out. But I flashed back to this very cold day years ago when my wife and I were walking through a park in England. I stopped and spent 15 minutes going back and forth between my binoculars and my field guide, trying to figure out what bird I was looking at.
It turned out to be a Eurasian robin, which inspired my shivering wife to say, “Great, you’ve identified the most common bird in England. Can we go now?”
And, well, this wasn’t a birding trip. And she had been wanting to go to the Cloisters for as long as I’ve known her. And it really would have been bad form to let my interests torture her the way I had in England. Not to mention Alicia, who had made no vows at all to put up with that kind of truck.
Also, I didn’t have binoculars with me. And the canopy was much taller and more shadowy than anything in the Keys. So if I did catch sight of the songster’s motion, I might be able to get to warbler or sparrow or thrush, but I probably wouldn’t have been able to discern his finer field marks and get to species.
I did have my camera, but in the interest of traveling light I only had a pair of light, short lenses in my bag.
One of the limiting things about being a birdwatcher in the Keys is that we don’t get a lot of birdsong. In other places, people get to
IT’S A WIZARD, IT’S A BIRD, IT’S AN APP
experience the wonders of the dawn chorus, but it doesn’t really happen here. Northern mockingbirds sing. As do prairie warblers and northern cardinals. Common grackles and gray kingbirds make noises, but to my mind they are too ratchet to count as songs. Sometimes out in the backcountry, if you are lucky, you might hear a yellow warbler. White-crowned pigeons, mourning doves, Eurasian collared doves and common ground-doves all make various cooing noises, but they tend to be more underscoring than vibrant. And I can’t really think of much else that adds to our soundscape.
If I lived in the northeast, or had spent more time birding there in the spring, I might have known what I was hearing. But I’ve never been one who can sit around listening to recordings of birds and then remember what they were when I heard them days, months or even years later. I need to hear it in the field, usually multiple times, before I can recognize a bird’s song.
All of which means, walking up that path, listening to those fast-paced melodies, I was officially befuddled. Not my favorite place to be.
Which is when I remembered Merlin. Merlin, of course, was a mythical wizard who lived in England – or technically the island that became England – during the medieval period. Despite our destination, that is not who I was thinking about. And I wasn’t thinking about the small-but-feisty falcon called the Merlin, which I thought was named after the wizard when I began typing this sentence, but whose name turns out to be a homophone, an identical word with a totally different meaning and etymology.
The Merlin I was thinking about was an app that was named after the bird but not the wizard, even though it has abilities that would seem like sorcery to the medieval mind.
The app created by the folks at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology is designed to help birders figure out what they were seeing in the field.
Honestly, there is a bit of a stigma in the bird world for people who rely too heavily on Merlin for IDs. Especially when they use photos, because with so many variables – camera angle, lighting, images shot on phone cameras with limited magnification, and changeable bird postures among them – the app is often wrong. Which is fine. The app is designed to lead you in the right direction, not to be definitive and not to replace your critical thinking skills. (The problem usually comes from inexperienced birders who take the app’s IDs as gospel and report rare birds, and then get mad when more experienced birds try to correct them.)
Merlin has a better track record with bird calls, though, where there are fewer variables and subtleties. (Interestingly, as I understand it, the app creates a sonogram of the bird’s song that comes through the mic, then does image search to compare it with other sonograms to make the ID.)
I hit the record button on the phone and watched the sonogram play out like a more scrawly EKG.
Nan and Alicia had stopped just up the path to wait for me.
Please please please don’t be an American robin, the most common bird in the northeast, I thought.
The sonogram showed a lot of minimal bumps from a city’s ambient noises, then a bunch of spikes and dips when the bird began to sing again.
Merlin said it was a black-throated green warbler. I’d actually seen one in migration a few days before at Fort Zach. And it seemed pretty logical that that was what I was hearing, as New York was well within their breeding territory. So I believed it and felt my befuddlement begin to ease.
I put my phone back in my pocket and hurried to catch up.
CHRIS McNULTY
is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com
This week offers us a dose of clarity and a fresh start. Mercury and the moon meet up with the sun this week, and the sun sheds the light of awareness whenever it is involved in an astrological connection. On Thursday, May 14, the planet Mercury conjoins the sun for what the ancients referred to as a cazimi, derived from an Arabic phrase for “in the heart of the sun.” When Mercury meets up with the sun, which it does roughly six times per year, we are granted an “aha!” moment, a dose of mental clarity, or a piece of direct communication that we have been missing. It is a time when we are granted information that helps to clear away some confusion we’ve been struggling with. So, depending on when you are reading this, pay attention to information you receive on Thursday morning or think back to what was going on at that time. There is a nugget of truth for you to uncover. On Saturday, we have the Taurus new moon, which tends to be the most beneficial new moon of the year. It is time for a real new beginning that will bestow blessings upon you, but you need to put in some tangible work to bring it about. What threshold are you ready to walk through, and are you ready to build the door frame? Under this new moon, cut out the mental chatter and really sit with what is right in front of you. There is a path for you to walk down, you just have to see it.
Here are your horoscopes for the Mercury cazimi and the Taurus new moon. Read for your rising and sun signs.
TAURUS
April 20 - May 20
Who are you, Taurus? There is an existential question sitting in your chest just waiting to be answered, and this week is a huge step in the direction of genuine self-awareness and,
hopefully, self-love. You are receiving a genuine insight into your true nature, and you can use that information for a fresh start. Our lives are about uncovering ourselves, so drop a layer this week. We love to see you.
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
Human consciousness is very much like an iceberg: There is a small visible or conscious portion and an enormous or vast unconscious beneath the surface. This week, you get to glimpse below your own surface to understand your own impulses or instincts better. What makes you tick that is usually on autopilot? Use that fresh information to embark on a new, material path of meditative reflection.
CANCER
June 21 - July 22
Each one of us is a hub or an axis of many relationships. Connections radiate out from us, and each one is different. Some are deep, some are shallow. Some are built on solidarity, some are transactional. This week, you get to see clearly the categorical nature of your relationships. Who is forever and who is just for now? Under the new moon, you can decide which relationships come with you on your journey.
LEO
July 23 - Aug. 22
You’ve been given some helpful, clarifying news related to your work or your public reputation. Perhaps you found out if a deal is going through or you discovered that you’re making some waves in town or you’re going viral without having known it. Whatever you’ve learned, take that information and make some tangible decisions about how you are going to move forward in the public sphere.
VIRGO
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
What are you learning and what do you believe, Virgo? Sometimes, the simplest truth can open up an entirely new worldview, and I think
you are experiencing something like that right now. Use your newfound clarity to start an entirely new journey of exploration. What is out there in the world that you need to find? Perhaps you won’t know until you start looking. Expand your horizon by taking the first step.
LIBRA
Sept. 23 - Oct. 22
Working with other people and being in partnership takes vulnerability and trust. This week, I think you will learn something very fundamental about how you practice vulnerability. Use this little dose of insight to move forward in life with either stronger boundaries or a greater willingness to let others in, depending on where you started. You decide what your needs are in a relationship.
SCORPIO
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
Who in your life is an important partner that deserves a fresh start? If you are already in a partnership, use the information you receive this week to look at your other with fresh eyes and allow your relationship to take a turn in a different direction. If you are not in partnership, this week bodes well for a new relationship if that is what you are looking for. Note: partnership does not immediately imply romance.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
This week, I think you will notice a certain pattern or cycle that you are caught in. Why do you always do things that way? Can you break the cycle? First, notice your routine and bring awareness to it. Then, under the new moon, make a serious commitment to create a new habit that better serves your wellness. What is one regular action, however small, that you can introduce into your daily activity?
CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
We are not always aware of our own creativity, especially if it doesn’t materialize in a painting or a song.
SEE AND DO
This week, you have the opportunity to see exactly how creative you are, probably without even trying. Take that awareness and bake it into an intentional creative project. Are you funny? Write a story. Do you have a good eye? Paint a scene. Make your creative expression manifest and discover a latent talent.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
Personal security isn’t always at the front of mind, especially when we’ve gotten used to the way things are. This week, I think you will gain some insight into your needs with home and family. Are you secure in those spaces? Can something be made better? Acknowledge the message you receive, then make some decisions about what you want to do. This new moon will support you.
PISCES
Feb. 19 - March 20
There is a vital piece of information coming at you from your local environment, a sibling or a neighbor. Listen deeply to the people and places that are most familiar to you, which is easier said than done. Under the new moon, take that information you’ve received and make some real, tangible changes. You have agency in your local environment.
ARIES
March 21 - April 19
Your financial well-being and your values are major themes this week. An important message about how you are spending or earning is coming through, and you get to decide whether or not your actions align with your values. Don’t be afraid to make real decisions to change course if you need to. You decide if you sell out or if you have bigger priorities.
PHILIP CAPUTO, VIETNAM VETERAN & FORMER KEY WEST RESIDENT, DIES AT 84
His war reporting won a Pulitzer Prize; his novel, ‘A Rumor of War,’ was a bestseller
By Marc Caputo
(Editor’s Note: Writer Marc Caputo is the son of Philip Caputo. He grew up in Key West and is a national political correspondent.)
Philip Caputo never wanted it to end this way: peacefully and in his own home. He hoped to die in the manner in which he lived — dramatically and with panache — as a writer, adventurer, warrior, sportsman and raconteur.
But cancer claimed him in his bed at home in Norwalk, Connecticut on Thursday, May 7. He was 84.
As a U.S. Marine, Caputo was among the first Americans to fight in the Vietnam War and then, as a reporter, was among the last civilians evacuated from Saigon as it fell—helicoptered out from an airfield.
Caputo then authored the bestselling book “A Rumor of War,” a memoir of his time in Vietnam, a classic assigned in history classes to this day. He also shared a Pulitzer Prize at the Chicago Tribune for investigative reporting of Mayor Richard Daley’s infamous voting fraud in 1972.
As a foreign correspondent for the paper, Caputo covered wars from Africa to Afghanistan to the Middle East, where he was captured and held hostage by Palestinian militants. In 1975, he was shot in Beirut by another faction of militants during Lebanon’s civil war.
“It was a simple malady in my boyhood, easily diagnosed,” he wrote in his second memoir, Means of Escape. “I wanted to wander the great world.”
No surprise that he spun spellbinding stories of his adventures.
Caputo caught a leviathan-sized blue marlin off Cuba’s shores, hunted big game in Africa, roughed it in Australia’s outback, cast fly lines in the world’s oceans and streams from Alaska to New England, and read books as voraciously as he wrote them: 12 novels, four works of nonfiction, and three memoirs.
He palled around with singer Jimmy Buffett in Key West, poet Jim Harrison in Arizona and Gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson in Saigon. He studied the heavens as an amateur astronomer. He attended Latin mass at
St. Mary Catholic Church. And he lived and died by the Stoic teachings of Marcus Aurelius.
CHAPTER 2: BABU
Caputo put family first, and is survived by his wife and life’s love, Leslie Ware; sons Geoffrey and Marc, daughter-in-law Erin Caputo, and granddaughters Livia, Anastasia and Sofia. He also leaves behind sister Patricia Esralew; sister-in-law Jennifer Ware and her husband, Joseph Falco; and niece Lindsay Ellis.
His requests to loved ones could prove challenging. For decades, he prepared his wife and sons for the time of his death, asking that they help him spend his last days in innovative ways: left on Mount McKinley to die; lashed to a boat’s bow and sent into an Atlantic hurricane; done in by hitmen.
That way, he wouldn’t die a more prosaic death in hospice.
The gallows humor underscored Caputo’s blend of stoicism, love of irony, and Marine Corps grit: He not only survived Vietnam and Lebanon as a young man, he also cheated death in middle age when he hid with the Afghan mujahideen behind a bush from two patrolling Soviet Hind helicopter gunships —and then, just before he turned 60, he flatlined in a tent in Kenya while researching the man-eating lions of Tsavo.
It was there, Africa, that he heard the term “Babu,” an honorific for a gentleman. And since “grandpa” sounded too old, he insisted his granddaughters call him Babu. He claimed the word was Swahili, and he liked the way it sounded. When told the word was Hindi in origin, he conveniently forgot that again and again.
Babu’s granddaughters gave him great joy. He spent every summer with them, from Montana to Key West, where he told them stories of the war and of sailing and how and why a green flash could light up the sky as the sun sets over the ocean.
CHAPTER 3: THE AHAB COMPLEX
And he could tell a fish tale like no other.
“The blue marlin is to the Gulf Stream what the lion is to the Serengeti; the living symbol of the world; the beauty, might, and mystery of the Stream made flesh,” he wrote in In the Shadows of the Morning’s chapter “The Ahab Complex” about the Hemingway fishing tournament sponsored by the Cuban government in 1978.
The marlin he landed measured 12 feet 3 inches and weighed 569.5 pounds, a record. He made a replica of the giant, which hung in the library of his Key West home on Caroline Street until he moved out after his divorce from his first wife, Jill. The mount then migrated to the Full Moon Saloon and, after that den of ruffians closed, he stashed it at proprietor Vic Latham’s house.
But there was a problem: The fish was too big to fit inside. So they stashed it in the bushes in front of Latham’s home.
And therefore there was another problem: This was Key West, and someone would find a way to steal a 12-foot marlin replica. So he slept in the bushes with it until morning, then hauled it to Sloppy Joe’s, Hemingway’s old bar, where it hangs today.
He also loved the land, his English setters, and the vast vistas near his adobe cabin in southern Arizona he shared with Leslie. On forced marches with her through the high desert, he would poke fun at himself: “When you’re dumb, you gotta be tough.”
As a father, he taught his boys early that “It’s not the size of the dog in the fight but the size of the fight in the dog.” Teddy Roosevelt was an inspiration. So was Muhammed Ali. Caputo was taking boxing lessons at the age of 78.
While he lived very much in the present, he brought the past to life, a bygone era of risk-taking reporting, Kiplingesque adventure and raising a good glass of Macallan’s.
“We smoked too much, drank too much,” he wrote of the good old days of journalism. “We dramatized ourselves as history’s assault troops, because self drama is necessary when you risk your neck for something so evanescent as a news story. Yet we were fired with a conviction that we were messengers who brought the light of truth to places where thugs and dictators tried to extinguish it.”
CHAPTER 4: THE THINGS HE CARRIED
Vietnam haunted him. A list of the fallen men of his company was printed on yellow legal paper (he preferred to write longhand before typing) in his perfect cursive on the wall of his home office, squared away with Marine fastidiousness.
Nor did he ever forget the two villagers killed by his men for being suspected Viet Cong, though they were likely innocent, just before his tour ended. It resulted in court-martial proceedings, though he received an honorable discharge.
“They had taught us to kill and had told us to kill, and now they were going to court-martial us for killing,” he wrote in “A Rumor of War,” a searing account of America’s greatest military folly.
Philip Caputo. CONTRIBUTED
Philip Caputo in Key West in the 1980s.
‘A Rumor of War’ is a 1977 memoir of Philip Caputo’s time in Vietnam.
“We kept the packs and rifles; the convictions, we lost,” he wrote. He remained, however, deeply patriotic. He snapped to attention when the Marine Corps Hymn played. He believed America is an idea as much as an ideal.
He carried another thing back from Vietnam: Agent Orange exposure. In tandem with the toxic drinking water of Camp Lejeune, the defoliant played a role in two prior bouts of cancer (bladder and prostate) before he detected the pain in his esophagus in February. By then, it would be too late.
In the final days, he spent his few waking hours talking to his friend Gary Schpero about the meaning of consciousness, the vestigial beauty of the crabapple tree blossoms outside his bedroom window and the hope of getting a last glimpse of the yellowcrowned night-herons in the nearby marsh.
He asked to hear Marc read the story of a 17th-century sea battle in the Caribbean. And Marc read him a touching tribute sent to him from author Tom Bissell, an understudy and son of Caputo’s old Marine Corps buddy John Bissell.
He talked to author John Katzenbach about casting one last fly line “to go out again, maybe just two hours.” He talked to boxing coach Adam Colberg about the old days. And he told his family of a dream where his parents were calling him home.
“We are all of us marching inexorably to the grave,” Caputo wrote when he was in his fifties, “and it may be that the whole point of our lives is the grace and dignity with which we meet our last moment.”
And when that time came, he reminded everyone that, as Aurelius said, “it is not death that a man should fear, but he should fear never beginning to live.”
WHAT’S COOKING, KEY WEST? Tropical fruits flavor cocktails
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY www.keysweekly.com
In the mid- to late 1800s and early 1900s, the Upper Keys area was renowned for its pineapple plantations. Benjamin Baker, a shipwreck salvager from Key West, is believed to have been the first large-scale pineapple producer — establishing plantations on Key Largo and Plantation Key that launched a thriving industry.
Other Keys residents followed suit, with so much success that one Florida newspaper reported in 1884, “The average shipments of pineapples alone will reach more than $200,000 per annum.” In the 1880s, a pineapple cannery was opened in Key West.
Pineapples — and other tropical fruits that were also farmed — played such a significant role in local history that one of Key West’s historic sites celebrates their bounty each summer. Truman’s Tropical Fruit Festival will be held Saturday, June 13, on the grounds of the Little White House, where then-President Harry Truman spent nearly six months of his 1945-1952 tenure.
Festival attendees can learn about tropical fruits and sample vendors’ food and specialty drinks that showcase their vibrant flavors — including mojitos provided by the Key West Cooking Show’s master mixologists.
Tangy and cool, mojitos blend fine rum and zesty lime juice with muddled mint leaves and housemade simple syrup. But the mojito is far from the only cocktail that relies on a type of tropical fruit to enhance its component alcohol. At Bar 1, the heritage-themed bar at the Key West Cooking Show’s 291 Front St. venue, patrons can discover a wide range of craft cocktails made with fresh-as-fresh fruit or juices.
Among them are the painkiller, which recalls the Keys’ pineapplefarming era — based on rum and pineapple juice, with a splash of fresh orange juice and cream of coconut. Pineapple juice and a pineapple wedge garnish are also
A Bar 1 mixologist pours a rum-based painkiller, made with pineapple juice that recalls the Florida Keys’ early pineapple-farming industry. KEY WEST COOKING SHOW/Contributed
featured in the classic rum runner and the Key West Sunset, whose coloration suggests the vivid hues that paint the sky as the sun goes down.
The juice or essence of other tropical fruits is also used in cocktails popular with Bar 1 patrons, including the passion fruit syrup that adds to the distinctive flavor of the hurricane and the uniquely named Fly Navy Grog.
Juice of the Key lime (or traditional lime) adds zest to libations ranging from the Key lime martini to the Key West Air Margarita — the latter recalling the Santa Margarita, a treasure-laden Spanish galleon that was shipwrecked off the Keys in a 1622 hurricane and discovered by modern-day salvagers more than 350 years later.
LAST CALL
Drink of the month: Key West Air Margarita. This delicious tequila-based refresher features fresh lime juice, agave syrup and a frothy topping of Key West salt air foam. Typically composed of water, lime juice, sea salt and an emulsifier, the foam provides a light salty yet citrusy tang that replaces the traditional salt rim on the cocktail glass.
Treat for tropical fruit fans: Learn to prepare Key lime pie, the Florida Keys’ signature dessert — and then enjoy a slice. The Key West Cooking Show offers multiple pie-making classes daily (except Sunday). Visit keywestcookingshow.com or call 305-294-COOK.
SHELF HELP
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “Shield of Sparrows” by Devney Perry
Why: Attention, all “romantasy” readers. If you enjoy slow-burn romance, witty banter, magic and monsters, and plenty of plot twists, you will devour this book. I was completely captivated by the dark, dangerous world, the romance (which is fantastic), and the creepy monsters hiding around every corner. The last few chapters had me screaming into the pages. This book sweeps you into another world, leaving you longing for more when it ends. And you’re in luck because the next installment in the series, “Rites of the Starling,” has just been released. Happy reading.
Where: You can borrow this as a regular or large print book, e-book or e-audiobook from the Monroe County Public Library.
How: You can request books, including e-books and e-audiobooks, by logging in to your account at keyslibraries. org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? keyslibraries.org/ contact-us.
Recommended by: Kaleila Freeman, senior library assistant, Big Pine Key library branch
See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/post/ shelf-help.
HELP KEEP KEY WEST BEAUTIFUL
JOIN A 1- HOUR CLEANUP FRIDAY MORNINGS
The May 8 cleanup was held in New Town, and started at Duck Avenue and 17th Street. In one hour, 48 volunteers collected 249 pounds of trash, 33 pounds of recycling and 2 gallons of cigarette butts. They also rounded up nine shopping carts to return to stores. Thanks to Vice Mayor Donie Lee for hosting and providing breakfast. The May 15 cleanup will take place at the Key West Sailing Center, 705 Palm Ave. 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: Before throwing something away, ask yourself if it can be repaired, reused or repurposed by someone else to keep it out of a landfill. Making thoughtful purchases and considering a product’s end-of-life effect can also help reduce waste and support a more sustainable community.
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.
Special cleanup: Thursday, May 14 from 8 to 10 a.m. at Smathers Beach for Keller Williams’ Red Day of Service. Meet in the parking lot to the left of Margaritaville Resort.
May 15: Garrison Bight along Palm Avenue. Meet at the KW Community Sailing Center, which is hosting.
May 22: Key Haven Road and U.S. 1. Meet in the Shell gas station parking lot. Hosted by Sales Sense Payments.
May 29: Petronia Street between White and Georgia. Meet in front of MCC Church, which is hosting.
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.
Penny, a 9-month-old Siberian husky, is full of energy and ready to find a forever family. She loves people and thrives on exercise, playtime and interaction. Penny was surrendered to the shelter through no fault of her own and is hoping her next home will be her last. Because of her high energy level, she’ll do best with an active family, but she can’t live with cats.
Meet Anubis, our current Good Dog Club Member, so his adoption fees are waived; he comes with his own crate, a bag of food and two free training sessions. Surrendered by his owner, the world can feel a little overwhelming to Anubis, who may take some time to warm up. But he’s shown his sweet side with his shelter caregivers who have taken the time to build a relationship. Anubis is also light sensitive, so he does best with shaded walks or with a stylish pair of doggie goggles to keep him comfortable. This sweet 2-year-old is looking for someone who understands that love doesn’t always happen instantly, but when it does, it’s something meaningful.
the 1-year-old domestic
chasing toys, zooming around with other cats and turning every moment into an adventure. When she’s done playing, she’s more than happy to curl up nearby for some affection and companionship. Pepa enjoys being around people, thrives on interaction and would make a wonderful addition to a home looking for a fun and loving feline friend.
Meet Tendi, the small but spirited orange kitty. She’s all heart and enjoys cozy naps and watching the world from a comfy perch. Once she warms up, she’ll happily share her space and affection with you.
Coriander is a young adult bunny with adorable pointy ears. He enjoys being petted, happily takes treats by hand and loves spending time with people.
Pepa,
shorthair, loves
Recycle Right Every Day.
Remember these three simple rules each time you recycle:
Need A BAGSTER®? BUY. FILL. GONE.
• Bagster® bags are available at home improvement stores and online.
• Bagster® bags are easy to use dumpsters in a bag that are strong enough to hold up to 3,300 pounds of debris or waste.
• Schedule your collection online or by phone.
HIT DOZENS OF YARD SALES IN ONE SPOT — AND SELL YOUR STUFF
Junk in the Trunk is set for May 16 at Truman Waterfront
CONTRIBUTED
Forget posting yard sale signs all over town. Selling your stuff has never been easier. Just load up your car or truck, show up and sell at the twice-monthly Key West Community Garage Sale: Junk in the Trunk.
The event returns Saturday, May 16 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Truman Waterfront Park.
Sellers are charged by the size of their trunk — $15 for a car, $20 for a truck/SUV and $25 for a van/ trailer. Payments must be made in cash the morning of the events. And don’t forget to bring cash to make change.
Sellers can show up the morning of and be placed as they arrive, or register in advance to save a few dollars. Bring your unwanted items, pop the trunk, and turn clutter into cash without the hassle of hosting a sale at home.
Expect a mix of household goods, vintage finds, fishing gear,
sports equipment, collectibles, clothes, kids stuff, quirky treasures, and the random items that make garage sales fun. It’s part community gathering, part flea market and part “what’s hiding in that trunk?”
Keep Key West Beautiful returns as the featured nonprofit partner, offering free reusable shopping bags while helping promote reuse, repurposing and waste reduction.
The event takes place along the East Quay Wall at Truman Waterfront Park and offers free parking with a residential sticker.
The sale is planned for the first and third Saturdays of each month, pending continued participation and community support. There will not be a sale on July 4.
More information is at bit.ly/ garagesalekeywest or from Sam Snodgrass at 573-694-9240.
— Contributed
FIRE ACADEMY CADETS GRADUATE
High school students earn firefighter certifications
Agroup of Key West High School students graduated on May 11 from the Key West Fire Department’s Firefighters’ Academy. Families, members of the local fire department and city officials attended the ceremony to acknowledge the work the students invested over two years of training for their future careers as first responders. The ceremony was held at the Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum.
These graduates earned certifications in firefighter I, emergency medical responder and hazmat awareness. The graduation marks the completion of physical training, over 191 hours of firefighter I training, and more than 50 hours of emergency medical responder training. Part of that training put them in the face of real-life firefighting challenges.
Capt. Dereck Berger, who oversees the academy, praised the group for the tenacity it requires to finish the academy, noting that they would do their grueling physical training in the early hours before head-
ing off to a full day of high school.
“I am proud of your dedication, sacrifice and perseverance,” Berger told the group. “As we have told you throughout the year, firefighting is one of the most honorable and rewarding professions you can choose. Whether you pursue this career or another path, this academy has prepared you for success. Carry forward the discipline, courage and teamwork you have gained here, and let it guide you wherever life takes you.”
Fire Chief Alan Averette congratulated the students and pointed out that many of the current members of the department began as graduates of the academy.
The two-year fire academy trains future firefighters while they’re attending their final two years of high school and provides them, upon completion, the equivalent training of a certified firefighter I, which puts them halfway through the training required to become a Key West firefighter.
The twice-monthly Key West Community Garage Sale: Junk in the Trunk takes place Saturday, May 16 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Truman Waterfront.
From left, Key West Fire Chief Alan Averette congratulates high school graduates of the Key West Firefighters Academy, including Tristan Barber, Christopher Fabelo, Santiago Gonzalez, Alex Means, Jack Neary, Paul Cassidy, Jeff Dejean, Gustavo Alfonso and Gionni Fernandez, along with Key West Fire Capt. Dereck Berger. CONTRIBUTED
REVIEWS FROM MILLIONS OF TRIPADVISOR TRAVELERS PLACE US IN THE TOP 10% WORLDWIDE. PULL
CHAMP STATUS
Lifters, track & field stars hit the podium | PGS. 6,8
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
5/14
5/15
5/15
BATISTA
Athletes from Marathon and Key West returned from the FHSAA Track and Field and Weightlifting State Championships with medals around their necks. Clockwise from top: Max Childress, Ariel Newton, Isaak Vallejo, Justice Lee Isom, Leo Batista and Audrey Smith. Photos by Natalie Danko, Tracy McDonald and Rick Mackenzie.
— Key West track and field coach Dave Perkins
52’2”
shot put place state medal
4TH
Leo is the definition of a competitor. He went into the state meet up against the best in Florida and walked away with a fourth-place medal and a new school record.”
Key West’s Leandro Batista delivered a standout performance at the state meet last week, breaking the school record in the Class 2A boys shot put and earning a spot on the podium. Batista launched the 12-pound shot 15.92 meters (52 feet, 2 inches), surpassing the previous mark and finishing fourth in a highly competitive field.
Known as a fierce competitor, Batista’s path to success hasn’t been conventional. Once a sprinter, he made the transition to the throwing events and committed himself to mastering the discipline. That work paid off in a big way, as he not only competed with the state’s best but rose to the occasion when it mattered most.
His record-breaking throw and podium finish cap off a remarkable season and highlight the results of his dedication and drive to make Leo Batista the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
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MARKET EDITORS
SWEET SIXTEEN
Clockwise from top: Key West celebrates their mercy-rule win May 6.
Junior Lilee Gage awaits the batter to bring her home from third base.
Lilee Gage awaits the pitch in Key West’s quarterfinal game against Lourdes. Gage ended the game with two hits and two RBIs.
Sophomore Aaliyah McLeod takes a big swing in the Conchs’ regional quarterfinal matchup May 6.
ROCKY GONET/Keys Weekly
Lady Conchs chasing state glory after two weeks, two wins
The Lady Conchs lined up with a familiar opponent for their FHSAA 4A regional quarterfinals on May 6. Lourdes Academy made the trip to Key West for another go at the Southernmost softball team, after losing to the Conchs April 29. The quarterfinals proved even more of an overwhelming win for Key West, who defeated Lourdes 15-0 in just three innings.
The Key West bats were ablaze with a dozen hits, including two each from Lucy Katz, Arianna Garcia and Lilee Gage, plus a Charlie Bracher home run. Kaleya Cervantes, Maicee Gage, Shylo Sanchez, Kaleaya Dickerson and Aaliyah McLeod all contributed to the hit count.
The Royal Lions could not touch pitcher Brianna Brenner’s delivery. Brenner struck out five, walked one and tossed three innings of no-hit softball to win in a resounding mercy-rule victory.
Next up for the second-seeded Conchs was a May 12 regional semifinal (result not available at press time) in Key West’s Backyard with third-seeded Somerset Academy, the squad that knocked out Key West’s baseball team this season.
Marathon and Coral Shores each qualified athletes for the FHSAA 1A Boys Weightlifting Championships, held last week in Lakeland, with Marathon turning in a strong performance on the state stage.
The Dolphins were led by senior Max Childress in the 183-pound weight class, who brought home a pair of medals from Lakeland. He placed fourth in the Olympic lifts and sixth in the traditional competition, highlighted by a 265-pound bench press, a 275-pound clean and jerk, and a 205-pound snatch.
Junior Isaak Vallejo also reached the podium for Marathon, earning a fourth-place medal in the traditional division at 199 pounds. Vallejo posted an impressive 335-pound bench press and a 235-pound clean and jerk.
Senior Matthias Martinez-Velez added to the Dolphins’ success, cracking the top 10 with an eighth-place finish in the traditional competition at 139 pounds. He recorded a 245-pound bench press and a 185-pound clean and jerk.
The state championships closed the book on a strong season for both the Hurricanes and Dolphins. Both teams will waste little time prior to hitting the weight room again as they look to carry that momentum into the offseason to continue to develop strength and depth.
ENDING ON A STRONG NOTE
Lifters Childress & Vallejo bring home state medals
Clockwise from top: Max Childress flexes on his competition.
Isaak Vallejo shows off his muscles after winning fourth place at states.
Isaak Vallejo hoists a snatch lift over his head.
Matthias Martinez-Velez prepares for a clean and jerk lift.
Isaak Vallejo, left, Matthias Martinez-Velez and Max Childress show off their state-medalwinning guns.
Photos contributed
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STATE SURGE
Keys tracksters bring home seven medals, break four records at state championships
All three Keys schools sent representatives to the FHSAA 1A and 2A State Championships on May 6 and 7, and when the final race was over, Monroe County athletes made seven trips to the podium and rewrote four records.
Marathon senior Justice Lee Isom did what no other Dolphin had done before; Lee Isom captured a state championship in track and field, striking gold with a 41’ 0.25” shot put throw. The mark set a new PR and school record for the most decorated athlete in Marathon history.
Lee Isom went on to win a second medal, this one bronze, in the discus event with a 112’ 6” toss. Her ninth-place javelin effort was one place shy of a medal, but a trio of top-10 finishes made for a phenomenal end to her high school career.
Also medaling for Marathon was freshman Lucian Burns, whose PR in the 3,200-meter race sent him to the podium. Burns’ 9:58 finish was good for eighth place. Senior Caleb Shelar cracked the top 10 in the 400-meter hurdles, finishing in 59.06 seconds for a new PR and school record to cap off his senior season in style.
Marathon set the tone May 6 in the 1A competition, but they were not the only Keys team to shine at states. Key West and Coral Shores competed the following day in the 2A division, and junior Ariel Newton soared to a silver medal in the pole vault event. Newton’s 11’ 9.75” mark tied with the gold medalist, but a miss at an earlier height gave the other athlete the advantage in the rankings.
Finishing in fourth place for a medal and a trip to the podium was senior Audrey Smith, who tossed the javelin 121’ 8”. Classmate Leandro Batista’s 52’ 2.75” shot put throw reset the school record and landed Batista in fourth place as well. Jeff Dejean medaled in the long jump, leaping 21’ 0.75” for seventh place.
The final broken record came from the Lady Conchs’ 4x100 meter relay team. Despite not medaling, the foursome ran the fastest time in school and Monroe County history, finishing in 49.56 seconds. The team of Jordan Green, Ariel Newton, Demarla Thompson and Mirakle Humphrey are all juniors and will have a chance to shave off even more time next season.
1. Justice Lee Isom stands atop the podium in first place in the 1A shot put competition.
2. Key West’s Jordan Greene, Ariel Newton, Demarla Thompson and Mirakle Humphrey are the new school 4x100 meter relay record holders.
3. Leandro Batista holds up his fourth-place medal from states in the 2A shot put competition.
4. Jeff Dejean is all smiles with his state medal in long jump. Dejean finished seventh in the 2A competition.
5. Audrey Smith shows off her state medal from the javelin event.
6. Marathon freshman Lucian Burns finishes strong in the 3,200-meter race.
7. Marathon senior Caleb Shelar sails over a hurdle in his record-breaking race.
8. Justice Lee Isom hurls a school record-breaking shot put, winning the Dolphins’ first track and field gold medal in school history.
9. Jeff Dejean defies gravity with his seventh-place long jump.
Photos by Rick Mackenzie
Redruello, a team captain, led her squad in scoring and anchored the offense throughout her four-year career. Her leadership and attacking presence set the tone for her team and made her a constant threat in the final third.
Engelmeyer was a key piece of her team’s defensive unit and a four-year starter who will next play at Briar Cliff University. Her consistency and awareness helped anchor the back line and limit opposing opportunities.
Mandozzi controlled play from the midfield, and was a team captain and four-year starter who will continue her career at North Carolina Wesleyan University. Her vision and composure helped dictate tempo and connect play across the field.
2026 ALL KEYS GIRLS SOCCER TEAM
Monroe County’s girls soccer season featured competitive district play across three classifications, with Key West and Coral Shores both making runs into the district semifinals. Key West finished 10-6-4 in Class 4A District 16, opening the season with a tie against Coral Shores before earning a win in the rematch and sweeping Marathon during the regular season. The Conchs advanced through the district quarterfinals before falling in the semifinals. Coral Shores posted a 5-7-2 record in Class 3A, tying Key West once, defeating Marathon twice, and reaching the district semifinals after a quarterfinal victory. Marathon completed the year at 3-12-1 in Class 2A District 16, finishing without an in-county win and exiting in the first round of district competition.
Searcy and Jim McCarthy
Goodwin was a steady presence in the back line and an integral part of her team’s success as a captain and four-year starter. Her leadership and reliability made her a cornerstone of the defense.
A four-year starter for the Lady Conchs, Kilduff capped her senior season with an outstanding 22 goals and six assists, leading the offense with consistency and versatility. Equally effective at striker and in the center midfield, she proved to be a dynamic playmaker, combining a high work rate with exceptional vision and passing ability to elevate the entire attack. Whether finishing chances or creating opportunities for her teammates, Kilduff was the engine that kept Key West’s offense running smoothly.
Beyond the stat sheet, Kilduff’s leadership and positive presence made her an invaluable part of the program. Her energy, composure and understanding of the game set the standard for those around her.
Kilduff will continue her soccer career at the collegiate level, a well-earned opportunity that reflects years of hard work and commitment to her craft.
Photos by Natalie Danko, Jen
Collins, a captain, was a steady presence in the midfield, helping control tempo and contributing on both ends of the field. Her experience and leadership were vital in guiding her team throughout the season. 16 14 14
| MHS
A newcomer who made an immediate impact, Skaarup brought intensity and consistency to the back line, earning recognition as a top defender. Her relentless effort and physical play helped disrupt opposing offenses throughout the season.
Rodriguez emerged as a freshman with a dominant defensive presence, earning team MVP honors while anchoring the back line. With her composure and strength, she shows the potential for a very bright future.
McKnight developed, over four years of starting, into a physical and reliable center back, leading the defense with strong decision-making and consistency. Her toughness and leadership helped define the team’s defensive identity.
| KWHS
Andrew contributed both defensively and in the midfield over four years, providing leadership and stability throughout the season. Her ability to adapt and lead made her an invaluable presence on the field.
Gage contributed across multiple positions, tallying eight goals and three assists while also stepping into a key defensive role. Her adaptability and competitive edge brought a new dimension to the team’s lineup.
Searcy stepped into the goalkeeper role and recorded five shutouts, providing steady play and leadership from the back. Her calm presence and continued growth make her a key athlete moving forward.
Montilla recorded six goals and four assists as a midfielder, while helping drive the team’s offensive flow. With her technical ability and field vision, she is poised for an even bigger impact in the seasons ahead.
Alondra
Maicee
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In The Bleachers
Brevity
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Half Shell Raw Bar located at 231 Margaret Street, Key West, Florida 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
By: Moro Management Inc.
Publish:
May 14, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statute 328.17, Robbies Key West, Inc. claims a possessory lien on the following described vessels:
Owned by Lana Nichole Savage and Ricky Alton Savage for unpaid storage fees: a 1998 26’ Bayliner (HIN: BL1B76STA898)
Sealed bids will be accepted on May 27th , 2026 at Robbies Key West, 7281 Shrimp Rd, Key West, FL 33040.
Robbies Key West, Inc. reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
Publish:
May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 26-CP-000147-K IN RE: ESTATE OF RAYMOND RENE VAN EDEMA, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of RAYMOND RENE VAN EDEMA, deceased, whose date of death was March 5, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified
under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes.
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: May 14, 2026.
Personal Representative: NICOLE ELIZABETH GIRARD
1241 SW 84th Terrace
Pembroke Pines, FL 33025
Attorney for Personal Representative: TERRY ABRAMS BERGER, ESQ.
Florida Bar No.: 046000 BERGER LAW, LLC.
P.O. Box 60519
Palm Bay, Florida 32906
Telephone: (321) 574-5295
Facsimile: (321) 574-5551
e-mail: tab@berger-lawllc.com
secondary e-mail: abodden@ berger-lawllc.com
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 26-CP-000064-P IN RE: ESTATE OF DANIEL BRIAN ULMAN
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the Estate of Daniel Brian Ulman, deceased, who died on January 16, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, FL, Probate Division, whose address is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The Personal Representative’s name and the name and the address of 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. 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 DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
A Personal Representative (or Curator) has no duty to discover whether any property held at the
time of the Decedent’s death by the Decedent or the Decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228 applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor or a beneficiary as specified under s. 732.2211.
The date of first publication of this notice is May 7, 2026.
Personal Representative: DAVID L. ULMAN
4876 East Robin Court Rolling Prairie, IN 46371
Attorney for Personal Representative:
DONALD C. SIDER, ESQ.
Florida Bar No. 308978
6751 N. Federal Hwy., Suite 200 Boca Raton, FL 33487
Telephone: (561) 391-1100
Email: dsider@siderlaw.com
Publish: May 7 & 14, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO. 26-CP-000165-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF: MICHAEL JOHN MITZNER
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Michael John Mitzner, deceased, whose date of death was December 25, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. 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
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council has funding available to governmental entities and non-profit organizations for capital projects.
The project/facility must have the primary purpose of promoting tourism and must fall into one of the following categories:
Convention Center, Sports Stadium, Sports Arena, Coliseum, Auditorium, Aquarium, Museum, Zoological Park, Nature Center, Fishing Pier, Beach or Beach Park Facility, Channel, Estuary, or Lagoon, Public Facilities in Accordance with Conditions set forth in the Florida Statutes. The deadline for receipt of applications is Tuesday, June 30th, 2026, and applications must be downloaded from the County’s Bonfire platform.
For more information, please email grants@fla-keys.com.
Publish: May 7, 14, 21 & 28 and June 4, 11 & 18, 2026. The Weekly Newspapers
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 May 7, 2026.
Attorney for Personal Representative: ALEX CUELLO
Attorney for Personal Representative
Florida Bar Number: 84778
Cuello & Hernandez
2655 S. Le Jeune Road, Suite 1008 Coral Gables, FL 33134
Telephone: (305) 567-0799
E-Mail: acuello@probatesfl.com
Secondary E-Mail: csh@probatesfl. com
Personal Representative: Richard Lee Mitzner
15740 SW 98th CT Miami, Florida 33157
Publish:
May 7 & 14, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 26-CP-145-M
DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF ANTONIO ROBERTO GRAZIANO MELIA
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Antonio Roberto Graziano Melia, deceased, whose date of death was March 24, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, 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: May 7, 2026.
Personal Representative: Francesca Bologna 13 Ibis Lane Marathon, Florida 33050
Attorney for Personal Representative:
Richard E. Warner
Attorney
Florida Bar Number: 283134
RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A.
12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-6022
Fax: (305) 743-6216
E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com
Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com
Publish: May 7 & 14 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 26-CP-171-K
IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH THOMAS JURKOWSKI, JR., Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of JOSEPH THOMAS JURKOWSKI, JR., deceased, whose date of death was February 25, 2026, Case: 26-CP-171-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: May 7, 2026.
Personal Representative: NGOC LAN MURPHY
JOHN MURPHY
c/o Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq.
Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A.
3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040
Attorney for Personal Representative: Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0144304
Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A.
3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040
Email designation for service: Service.Probate@samkaufmanlaw. com
Telephone: (305) 292-3926
Fax: (305) 295-7947
Publish: May 7 & 14, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE COUNTY COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO.: 26-CC-221-M NOTICE BY PUBLICATION CENTENNIAL BANK, an Arkansas banking corporation, Plaintiff, -vs.LISA TIPSWORD, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS TRUSTEE OF THE ANGELINA M. BLANCO TRUST UNDER WILL DATED MAY 15, 2017 OF GIOIA MANCINELLI F/K/A GIOIA M. PERKALL, ALL UNKNOWN PERSONS WHO MAY BE HEIRS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, GRANTEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, ASSIGNEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS OF GIOIA MANCINELLI f/k/a GIOIA M. PERKALL, DECEASED, AND ALL OTHER PERSONS CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST HER AND ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY; COUNTY OF MONROE, ANGELINA M. BLANCO and UNKNOWN TENANT(S) IN POSSESSION, Defendants.
NOTICE OF ACTION
CONSTRUCTIVE SERVICEPROPERTY
TO: All unknown persons who may be heirs, devisees, legatees, grantees, lienors, creditors, trustees, assignees or other claimants of Gioia Mancinelli f/k/a Gioia M. Perkall, deceased, residence unknown, if alive, and if dead, Gioia Mancinelli f/k/a Gioia M. Perkall’s heirs, devisees,
legatees, grantees, lienors, creditors, trustees, assignees or other claimants and all other parties claiming interests, by through, under or against Gioia Mancinelli f/k/a Gioia M. Perkall, and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property herein described. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to the above-styled foreclosure action by the abovenamed Plaintiff and encumbering the following described property in Monroe County, Florida: Lot 12, Block 41, CRAINS SUBDIVISION OF GRASSY KEY, according the map or plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 1, Page 51, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida. has been file against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any to it on Plaintiff’s attorney, Richard B. Storfer, Esquire, of the firm of Lorium Law, whose address is 101 NE 3rd Avenue, Suite 1800, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33301, on or before June 6, 2026, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorneys or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act you are advised that his law firm is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purposes. WITNESS my hand and seal of said court at Monroe County, Florida, this 24th day of April, 2026. Kevin Madok, CPA As Clerk. Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Leslie Rodriguez
Deputy Clerk of Court
Publish: May 7 & 14, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-366-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit C11, Week 10, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 10th day of April 2026. Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MARYLYN DEE FRANK GEORGIAN, AKA MARYLYN D. FRANK, DECEASED Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-366-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-397-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit F12, Week 11, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) VII entered in a case pending in said Court, the 10th day of April 2026. Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST PETER JOHN GENTILE, DECEASED; JEROME R. GENTILE, JR., AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO PETER JOHN GENTILE; AND SUSAN DIAMANTOPOULOS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO PETER JOHN GENTILE Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-397-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-399-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe
Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM
SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S)I
entered in a case pending in said Court, the 13th day of April 2026.
Style of which is:
WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION
NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST GENEVA THURSFIELD GOUGH, DECEASED; RICHARD W. GOUGH, JR, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO GENEVA THURSFIELD GOUGH; AND CHRISTOPHER GOUGH, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO GENEVA THURSFIELD GOUGH
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-399-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 5TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court
Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-397-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit F14, Week 2, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 13th day of April 2026. Style of which is:
BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff
vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN
PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MAUREEN ANNE JACOBS, DECEASED; MELANIE BARNEY, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MAUREEN ANNE JACOBS, AND JASON JACOBS, AS POTENTIAL
HEIR TO MAUREEN ANNE JACOBS
Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-397-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2025-CC-384-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit E24, Week 3, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 10th day of April 2026. Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST BARBARA JULIANO MEYERS, DECEASED
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-384-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-399-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5523, Week 19, Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S)V entered in a case pending in said Court, the
13th day of April 2026.
Style of which is:
WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff
vs. BARBARA THOMPSON PHILLIPS AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST DONALD DE WAYNE PHILLIPS, DECEASED
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-399-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 5TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-399-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5733, Week 19, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S)VI entered in a case pending in said Court, the 13th day of April 2026.
Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. PAULA J. CARMODY, AKA PAULA CARMODY SAMORIS AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST SAMIR SAMORIS, DECEASED
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-399-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 5TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk
Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2025-CC-397-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit F34, Week 27, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I entered in a case pending in said Court, the 10th day of April 2026. Style of which is:
BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff
vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST BETTY ROSE SCHRYVER AKA BETTY R. SCHRYVER, DECEASED; DAVID ROJAS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO BETTY ROSE SCHRYVER AKA
BETTY R. SCHRYVER; AND FRANCIS ROJAS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO BETTY ROSE SCHRYVER AKA
BETTY R. SCHRYVER
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-397-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish:
May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL
CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2025-CC-397-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit D24, Week 27, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) V entered in a case pending in said Court, the 13th day of April 2026. Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE
OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST ROBERT JARRETT STANKIEWICZ, DECEASED; RACHEL MCOWEN, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO ROBERT JARRETT STANKIEWICZ; AND DEAN STANKIEWICZ, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO ROBERT JARRETT STANKIEWICZ Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-397-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk
Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish:
May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION
CASE#: 44-2026-CA-452-K
JUDGE: TIMOTHY J. KOENIG
ERIC TEVES AND MICHAEL SCOTT BURAU, Plaintiff, Vs. CONRAD MCKINNEY, deceased, his unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under and against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known to be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through, or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described, AND ROY HAMLIN, deceased, his unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under and against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known to be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through, or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described, Defendants.
NOTICE OF ACTION
TO: CONRAD MCKINNEY and ROY HAMLIN, deceased, their unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under and against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known to be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through, or under those unknown natural persons; and the several
and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described,| YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a Complaint has been filed against you by the Plaintiff in the above-style court for the purpose of quieting title to the following described property situate and being in Monroe County, Florida: Parcel 1: On the Island of Key West, and known as Part of Lot Two (2), Square Two (2), Tract Three (3). Recorded in Plat Book 2, Page 47, Public Records, Monroe County, Florida. Commence at a point Ninety-seven (97) feet from the Northeast corner of Olivia Street and Baptist Lane and running thence in a Westerly direction Forty-five (45) feet; thence at right angles in a Northerly direction Seventy-nine (79) feet; thence at right angles in an Easterly direction Forty-five (45) feet; thence at a right angle in a Southerly direction Seventy-nine (79) feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: A parcel of land on the Island of Key West, and known as Part of Lot Two (2), Square Two (2) Tract Three (3) according to William A. Whitehead’s Map of said Island delineated in February 1829, said parcel being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: Commence at the intersection of the Northwesterly right of way line of Olivia Street with the Southwesterly right of way line of Baptist Lane and run thence Northwesterly along the Southwesterly right of way line of Baptist Lane for a distance of 97.00 feet; thence Southwesterly and at right angles for a distance of 79.00 feet to the Point of Beginning; thence Northwesterly and at right angles for a distance of 45.00 feet; thence Southwesterly and at right angles for a distance of 5.20 feet to an existing chain link fence; thence Southeasterly and at right angles along the said chain link fence for a distance of 45.00 feet; thence Northeasterly and at right angles for a distance of 5.20 feet back to the Point of Beginning, containing 234 square feet, more or less.
YOU ARE REQUIRED to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Richard J. McChesney, Esq., Spottswood, Spottswood, Spottswood, & Sterling, PLLC, Attorney for Plaintiff, whose address is 500 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040, on or before the following date: June 8, 2026, and to file the original with the Clerk of the Court either before 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 4TH day of May, 2026. Kevin Madok, CPA as Clerk of the Court By: Shonta McLeod as Deputy Clerk
Publish: May 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-DR-440-K CARLOS ALBERTO MEDINA JIMENEZ, Petitioner, and ILIANA MIRABAL CARDENAS, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT)
TO: ILIANA MIRABAL CARDENAS RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN
ADDRESS: UNKNOWN YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on CARLOS ALBERTO MEDINA JIMENEZ, whose address is 2307 PATTERSON AVENUE, KEY WEST, FL 33040 on or before May 30, 2026, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE
Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: April 23, 2026
Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson
Deputy Clerk Publish: April 30 and May 7, 14 & 21, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
Located in Marathon. $800.00 260750-6479 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!!
PLACE YOUR AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
BOATS FOR SALE
PRICE DROP! 22' Mako
Center Console Aluminum like new float on trailer, 2001 250hp Yamaha, hull 1979, 2 stroke, runs great, many extras. $10,999 OBO Located at MM74. Gary 305-393-1415
PRICE DROP! 21' Mako
Center Console Float on Aluminum Trailer, 250 2 stroke Yamaha 2005?, hull 1979, New Transom, $8,999 OBO Located at MM74. Gary 305-393-1415
BOAT SLIP/RACK FOR RENT
Dockage up to 60’ Islamorada - Bayside,50 amp service. Price LOWER than marina. Call 860-982-4517
Boat Slip &/or Rack For Rent in Marathon at The Boat House, Vaca Key. Call Tony 561-346-6400
EMPLOYMENT
Hiring for busy pediatric office in Tavernier. Full-Time Medical Assistant/RN - Pediatric experience preferred. Must multitask in fast-paced setting. Pay is commensurate with experience. Email resume to: flkeyspeds@gmail.com
Safety Staff- We are seeking a reliable, dedicated, and responsible Safety Staff member to join our team. Full-time & Part-time availability starting at $18/hr. To apply, call 305-664-4860 Ext 1, e-mail: aaron@orlk.org or apply in person at Outdoor Resorts at Long Key, 65821 Overseas Hwy, Long Key
Specialty Hardware of Marathon - Looking for full time or part time person. Hardware knowledge an absolute must. Must have knowledge of hardware, plumbing and electrical. Apply in person at 10730 Overseas Hwy. Marathon 1-305-743-3382
Groundskeeper/Maintenance person, KCB, Sea Isle Condominium, 20 hrs. per week, $27 per hr., apply by e-mail to HardingThomasL@aol. com, text or call 734-476-0531.
Paver Dave now hiring PartTime Office Help. Working some days in Marathon and some days in Big Pine Key. Call for more information 305-741-7688.
Paver Dave how hiring a Job Supervisor/Sales in the Lower Keys. Must have a driver's license. Bob Cat experience a plus. Call for more information 305-741-7688.
Experienced Full-time Line Cook needed at the Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club. 10AM - 5PM, Good Pay. Small friendly staff. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-219-3359 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 404-219-3359 and ask for Dave.
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Full-time Carpenter, Electrician, Housing Assistant & Custodian (Marathon). To apply, please contact Human Resources at: greenel@kwha.org or 305-2965621 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.
Part-time Office Clerk, $18/ hr, Thu/Fri/Sat, 9:30am-7pm. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-219-3359 and ask for Dave HIRED!!!
Boat rental company in Marathon looking for help with boat detailing & boat cleaning. Call 305-481-7006 HIRED!!!
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 HIRED!!!
HOUSING FOR RENT
2BR/2BA waterfront furnished & equipped apt. for rent in Key Colony Beach. Nice patio, open water view & dock. No Pets. Long term lease. $3,000/ mo + utilities. 786-251-0954
3BR / 3BA fully furnished home for rent in Marathon. Available June 30. $3,790/month incl. utilities 618-559-9143
2BR/1BA Condo Unit at Schooner Condominium for rent in Marathon. Newly renovated, furnished. Pet negotiable. Annual lease. $2,900/mo F/L/ Security negotiable. 305-4310577 alicia@keysrealestate.com
LONG TERM RENTALS: Furnished Studio AND 2 Bedroom unfurnished, all appliances, renovated, for rent in Marathon. On the water, gated property. Section 8 possible. $1,500 - $2,500 month - includes water, sewer, electric & garbage. Call 305-610-8002
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 RENTED!!
PLACE YOUR AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
Gated storage & dockage available in Marathon oceanside. Starting price $10/ foot per month for storage and $20/foot per month for dockage. 305-610-8002
VACATION RENTAL
3BR/2BA Contemporary Home for rent on Big Pine Key. Pool, 40' dock w/davits, screened-in porch. Sleeps 6 ppl. Avail. month of July & Sept. 2026. $7,000/ mo. Call Brian at 267-374-7063
WANTED TO BUY
PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
SWORDFISH BILLS - Fresh or aged. Located in Key Largo. Call 303-990-0619
TURN YOUR CARDS INTO CASH! Marathon collector buying any and all Pokemon cards & collections. Call 401-256-0645.
YARD SALES
BIG YARD SALE this Sat. May 16th from 8am - 2pm, 17 Kyle Way East, Marathon. Baby items, Cigar boxes, toys, games, some furniture and lots of miscellaneous items.
PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:
SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN
(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hr. - $51.94/hr.
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
Must be able to multitask in greeting guests, managing incoming calls, handling mail and providing
APPLY IN PERSON AT: Bone sh Bay Motel & RV Sites 12565 Overseas Highway, Marathon or Email: bfb@bone shbayresort.com
wants you to join their team!
Full-time. $19/hour to start.
EMAIL resume to: TurtleHospital@TurtleHospital.org
APPLY in person: 2396 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL
GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!
JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 53 YEARS!
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO
Behavioral Health Counselor (CAT) Case Manager (Adult)
Mental Health Technician
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Children) Crisis Counselor
Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Prevention Specialist
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)
MARATHON
Mental Health Technician
Driver (CDL NOT required) (FT, PT)
Registered Nurse (FT, PT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult, PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT)
*Behavioral Health Technicians (FT, PT)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS
- Medical Assistant, Ortho-Tavernier,
- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, Upper Keys Internal Medicine, $5k Bonus
MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST
- Director Nursing Services, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus
- Patient Access Scheduler, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus
- Pool Radiation Therapist
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- Clinical Pharmacist,
- Construction Project Manager, FL
- Exercise Assistant, Mariners Wellness Center, Per Diem
- Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem
- Food Service Worker, Dietary,
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT Scan, $50k Bonus
- Mechanic, FT, 7A-3:30P
- Medical Staff Coordinator, Mariners Hospital, FT
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Echocardiography, Per Diem
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 2, (Echo & Vascular w/Ultrasound Preferred),
- Pharmacy Technician, Mariners Hospital, $4k Bonus
- Physical Therapist, $25k Bonus
- Pool Clinical Pharmacist, Per Diem
- Pool Group Exercise Instructor, Per Diem
- Pool Medical Technologist
- Registered Nurse, ICU,
- Registered Nurse, Surgery,
- Security Officer, FT, 6A-6:30P
- Security Officer, Security/Safety, FT
D'Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available.
Home Décor
Sales Consultant
Customer-focused sales professional with experience in retail or customer service. Creativity and interest in home décor a must. Help customers discover pieces that turn everyday spaces into something special.
Kitchen Design Specialist
Individual who brings creativity, functionality, and style together in kitchen and bath design. Design kitchens that become the heart of the home.
Associate Interior Designer
Detail-oriented and creative individual to assist with residential design projects. Education or experience in Interior Design required. Help bring inspired residential interiors to life.
For complete details and to apply, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers
MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
- Cook, Dietary, PT
- Driver, Marathon/Keys Supply Chain, FT
- Lead Med Technologist, Laboratory, $20k Bonus
- Manager Environmental Services, FT
- Medical Staff Coordinator, FT
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray), Radiology,
- Patient Care Manager (Nurse Manager), Surgery, $20k Bonus
- Patient Financial Associate, Admitting, $1k Bonus
- Patient Schedular, Surgery, PT
- Pool Physical Therapist, Per Diem
- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Per Diem
- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, Various Shifts & Statuses
- Registered Respiratory Therapist, $25k Bonus
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- Registered Respiratory Therapist, PT, $12,500 Bonus
Officer, FT, 7A-7:30P
- Security Officer, Per Diem
