Key West Weekly 26-0709

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

KEYS

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5450 MacDonald Ave. No.5 Key West, FL 33040 Office: 305.453.6928 www.keysweekly.com Publisher / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com Publishing Partner / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com Editor / Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com Account Executive Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com Staff Writers Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com Design / Pre-Press Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com Controller Lauren Pope lauren@keysweekly.com Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844 Se habla español THE KEY WEST WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR

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Members of

68,000

According to the latest figures, there are 68,000 women currently serving in the U.S. Air Force. The USAF accepted its first female recruits into the Women in the Air Force program on July 8, 1948.

A new board of trustees at the College of the Florida Keys is looking to replace college president Jonathan ‘Dr. G’ Gueverra, who has helped transform the college since 2012. See page 4.

CONTRIBUTED

NEW DESANTIS-INSTALLED CFK BOARD SEEKS TERMINATION OF LONGTIME PRESIDENT ‘DR. G’ JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

A

revamped college board — with six new members appointed by the governor in only the past six months — is seeking termination of longtime College of the Florida Keys President Jonathan “Dr. G” Gueverra.

Per an audio recording obtained by the Keys Weekly of the June 30 meeting at the Upper Keys Center, the seven-member board unanimously voted to consult with the Key West law firm Smith, Hawks PL to review whether the board has grounds to terminate an agreement between Gueverra and the college. The board would need to provide further approval if costs into examining possible termination exceed $15,000.

Bart Smith, one of the founders of the law firm, told the Keys Weekly on July 8 that the law firm is “still trying to figure out what we can and can’t do, because we already do some work for the college. So I can’t comment further on that as of now.”

The latest development at CFK follows a statewide pattern of moves DeSantis has made to install conservative members on college boards — it was an election pledge to root out diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives — and install allies as president.

Most notably, DeSantis’ hand-picked New College of Florida board was the subject of national attention. The former House speaker Richard Corcoran was chosen to replace the president at the college.

During the meeting, the CFK board seemingly criticized Gueverra over the recent veto by the governor of $3.5 million to update the college’s air conditioning system. The request was also axed by the governor last year.

Some members also believed there was a $2.2 million allocation in this year’s budget that was vetoed by

CFK President Jonathan Gueverra was selected as the college’s sixth president in 2012. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

the governor to expand the college’s marine science programs. That funding request was vetoed last year by the governor, and the request wasn’t included in the Legislature’s approved spending plan this year.

Conversations also revolved around an exchange between college board chairwoman Alexandria Suarez and Gueverra about his contract at a May 26 meeting. Some board members believed Gueverra was being disrespectful toward the chairwoman, saying he called her a liar. Gueverra denied those claims during the June 30 meeting. The Keys Weekly requested the May 26 meeting audio recording and hadn’t received it by press time.

“Dr. G’s done a good job, but he’s been here 13 years. I would move for termination,” Suarez said during the June 30 meeting. Suarez was appointed by DeSantis in 2023 and became chair in February. “I don’t think the college is getting what it needs to get. I think the actions, aside from not getting the appropriations, and the insubordination, and the way things have happened with leadership …”

Suarez added she spoke to Gueverra the Thursday before the meeting to go over the president’s assessment. She was “sincerely expecting an apology ... but I didn’t get it in spite of me stating that,” Suarez told board members at the meeting. “I’m not sure if it falls under insubordination. But, that is neither here nor there. My biggest concern is the college isn’t getting the money it needs.”

In addition to seeking termination, the board approved a motion to give Gueverra the chance to resign within 48 hours. Gueverra has not offered his resignation.

A previous board approved a three-year contract extension with Gueverra during a July 29, 2025 meeting. With the extension came a bump in his annual salary to $250,000. Some board members wanted to know why the contract was renewed prior to the expiration of the existing agreement.

At the May 26 meeting, they requested historical contract practices, contract renewal timelines and whether the contract renewal occurred earlier than expected.

Board makeup shifts On Jan. 30, DeSantis announced four new appointments to the CFK board. They included: • Eddie Kertis, a U.S. Army veteran who works at the college as captain and divemaster.

• Peter Batty Jr. is president and owner of United Atlantic Insurance Group and co-founder and chairman of the board for Gulf Atlantic Bank.

• Michael Downer is a proprietor at Key West Fine Wines who previously served as a senior lawyer and executive at Capital Group. His wife, Dr. Jessica Johnson, is Republican state committeewoman for Monroe County.

• Bob Broton is a retired director of engineering at Northrop Grumman. continued on page 6

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

continued from page 4

NEW DESANTISINSTALLED CFK BOARD SEEKS TERMINATION OF LONGTIME PRESIDENT ‘DR. G’ With the appointments, coming off the board were Kevin Madok, who served as chairman, vice chair Sheldon Suga and trustees Mike Puto and Richard Weinstein.

The four new board members were installed at a Feb. 24 meeting, where Suarez took over as chair and Batty became vice chair.

By the June 30 meeting, the governor’s latest appointments — Susan Raffanello, Islamorada resident and shareholder at Coffey Burlington, and Andrew Dulcey, a private practice attorney in Key West — were sworn in. The appointments filled trustee Dan Leben’s seat and a longstanding vacancy on the board.

Suarez is a lawyer and former assistant prosecutor with the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office. She’s also the current chair of legislative affairs for the Keys Republican Executive Committee.

Rhonda Rebman Lopez, who chairs the Monroe County Republican Executive Committee, has been closely watching the college board appointments, but denied having any involvement in the attempt to replace college president Jonathan Gueverra.

“I don’t have that kind of authority,” Lopez told the Keys Weekly on July 6. “Y’all are giving me too much credit. But I have had discussions throughout the community and perhaps the college trustees heard me saying that a college president’s main goal is to bring in money for the school, and in this case, that didn’t happen.”

Lopez pointed to the governor’s veto of $6 million in funding that CFK did not receive, although several community colleges’ requests were also left unfunded by the governor’s veto.

Lopez told the Keys Weekly that she thought Gueverra had already been removed from his position. When the Keys Weekly told her the college board instead had voted to hire a law firm to review Gueverra’s contract, Lopez said, “Oh, I think he’s been removed already. I have a strong feeling the board will go in a different direction.

But no one is taking orders from me. In my opinion, the president did not have a harmonious relationship with the governor, and that wasn’t good.

“I’ll be happy to work with the college foundation to raise money, because we need it. But the college’s lobbyists failed us. And there’s not a col-

CFK President Jonathan Gueverra oversaw construction of the Upper Keys Center, which was completed in 2021. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

lege or university in the country that, if they don’t get millions allocated, then no one’s going to be happy with the lobbyists or the college president.

I applaud what Dr. G has done and I look forward to working with the new president.”

Board evaluates Gueverra While Kertis didn’t object to seeking termination with Gueverra, he recognized how the president of 13 years was “the driving force in where the college is today.”

An assessment of Gueverra by the newly-structured board noted his high level of knowledge in education and how he was able to handle crises, initiate new ideas and change, and demand effective short- and long-range strategic plans.

“As I also noted in my evaluation, almost iconic the level of what he’s done here,” Kertis said.

But there were some criticisms from board members. There were questions about two senior leaders who left at the same time, one who suddenly resigned and a vice president leaving with no explanation.

There were also sentiments of disappointment in the assessment of how Gueverra interacted with the board in understanding his contract, as well as the exchange between Suarez and Gueverra at the May meeting.

The Keys Weekly contacted Gueverra for comment, but he didn’t respond by press time.

Suarez told Keys Weekly on July 6 that she wasn’t able to discuss details into the potential termination.

“We’re going through the process right now,” she said.

The CFK board will next meet on Tuesday, July 28 at 2 p.m. at CFK’s Middle Keys Center.

Guevarra’s track record Gueverra was selected as the college’s sixth president in 2012. During his tenure, CFK launched new pro-

grams to support vital industries in the Florida Keys, including hospitality and ecotourism management and culinary management in 2015. Guevara also oversaw the first year that the college’s first-ever student housing operated with 100 beds.

By 2017, the college launched the Keys’ first public baccalaureate degree, a bachelor of applied science in supervision and management. With support from the National Science Foundation, the college added an associate in science in engineering technology — renewable energy technician.

Outside of the programing, the college came to the aid of the community following Hurricane Irma in September 2017. The college rallied and helped more than 160 businesses secure more than $6 million in bridge loans through the Small Business Development Center. CFK also launched tuition-free construction apprenticeships in electrical, carpentry, plumbing and HVAC. In 2019, the baccalaureate-degreegranting institution was renamed the College of the Florida Keys. The same year, the college started a bachelor of science in nursing program in an effort to respond to the needs for highlytrained nurses on the island chain.

“Dr. Gueverra has done a superb job running the College of the Florida Keys. From taking the school from a two-year junior to a four-year institution, and establishing a brand new campus for our Upper Keys residents, the list goes on and on,” said Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln. “He’s an honorable man who’s done more to champion higher education than anyone else in the Keys.”

The expansions continued into 2020 with the college introducing a bachelor of science in marine resource management — the first degree of its kind in the nation. CFK also entered into the world of competitive sports with new men’s and women’s swim teams and membership in the National

Junior College Athletic Association.

By 2021, CFK expanded its presence in the Upper Keys from its original location at Coral Shores High School to a new, 38,000-square-foot center in Key Largo. The new center delivers a wide range of programming — from marine science and hospitality to nursing and apprenticeships in trades. Basic law enforcement training at the center offers aspiring officers the ability to complete a 770-hour program. A correctional basic training course at the center prepares students to become corrections officers in Florida, pending passage of a state exam.

In 2023, the college opened the CFK Academy, a tuition-free public charter high school on the Key West campus.

Madok served on the board for 12 years, with his final meeting being last January. A board chairman for several years, Madok said the accomplishments of the college were “nothing short of incredible.”

“I equate it to the 1971-72 Lakers when they went on a 33-game winning streak. We were on a winning streak and it was very exciting to be a part of it,” Madok said. “He’s a true educator first, and it amazed me how he literally knew the names of every student on campus. He’d sit out on the breezeway and students would come out and talk to him.”

A day after the June 30 meeting, CFK issued a press release stating that it’s fully and solely accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

The college has been transitioning to HLC since it was granted initial accreditation in November 2025 — maintaining dual accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) during that time. CFK’s membership with SACSCOC, which has accredited the college since 1968, ended on June 30, 2026.

“Reaching this milestone is a testament to the determination and dedication of our faculty, staff, and administration. As we conclude our 60th anniversary, completing this transition to the nation’s largest institutional accreditor is a fitting reflection of how far we’ve come — and the strong foundation we have established for an even stronger future,” Gueverra said in a press release. “Our students can be confident that their financial aid, their credits and their degrees are backed by a world-class accreditor, and this positions CFK to continue opening doors for our students and community.”

— Mandy Miles contributed to this report

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

THE HOUSE ON JOHNSON STREET A tribute to …

SARAH THOMAS www.keysweekly.com

B

ack in late February, my mom sent the following text to “The Fam” chat: “We sold our beloved family home in Key West yesterday. The couple that bought it are delightful people and love the house. But I had a hard time going to sleep last night – 49 years of memories flying through my head. My parents are most alive to me there.”

I knew this day was coming. My mom’s parents, Jane and Herbert Trammell, had bought the house in 1977 for what would buy you a bedroom in today’s Key West.

The house is two blocks from Higgs Beach and across from The Casa Marina. It was built in the 1950s in white brick (“slump stone,” Granny would correct), with a Key lime tree in the backyard and thick St. Augustine grass that the neighbors envied. My grandfather said he wanted a house somewhere that was hot year-round but still in the U.S. They drove to the end of the U.S. 1 and bought a house that was a stone’s throw from the Atlantic Ocean.

I first visited in 1983, at 2 months old. There were multiple beds in every bedroom, so we would “all be together.” Granny Jane insisted there was enough room for all of us, and if anyone argued, she would sleep in the garage.

As a child growing up in Washington, D.C., Christmases in flip flops felt unnatural at first.

There was never the possibility of snow, but at least it was one of the only houses on the island with a chimney, so Santa could find us.

By the time I spent my first summer on the island, at 10, I was a convert. I dreamed of living there someday and installing a pool in the backyard. When my granddad passed away in 2008, he continued to be an invisible presence in the garden – his later years were spent nourishing the tropical flora on the property: hibiscus, bougainvillea, shrimp plants and so many others that still remind me of him. Characteristically unsentimental, that Christmas Granny Jane wheeled out all of Granddad’s Hawaiian shirts on a wardrobe and said: pick what you want, the rest are going to the Salvation Army.

When I called Granny Jane from New York in the summer of 2015 and told her I was considering moving to Key West, she said I better hurry up, because she was about to turn 90 and might die soon. The next year, we celebrated our birthdays together – 91 and 33. Looking back, I realize it was a sacred time, one in which I got to know my grandmother as a friend and became a better writer (thanks in a large part to working at the Keys Weekly). I often walked through the front yard barefoot, searching for the rough place where the frangipani used to be that my cousins and I had loved to climb in the ’80s and ’90s, which had been lost in Hurricane Wilma in 2005.

1 Granny Jane continued to play tennis at the Higgs Beach courts well into her 90s. She often visited me when I tended bar at Salute! and made friends with the waitstaff. Jane was known in the neighborhood for sitting on the front porch sipping tea, shouting “Hotty Toddy!” to fellow Ole Miss alumni or chatting with passersby. She traveled all over the island on her bike, and when she was “Citizen of the Day” in 2018, she said: “I like it because it’s flat here.”

Around that same time, David Cuene came to Key West for a business meeting at the Casa Marina. He and his partner Jairo Rios saw the town not just as a vacation destination, but a potential future hometown.

“We kind of fell in love with the city,” David says. During the visit, he noticed the white house on the corner lot across the street from the hotel.

“We loved the architecture — it’s got some great old trees, and it has a nice sense of presence,” he says. He even saw Granny Jane in the yard, though he never met her. After that trip, the couple got more serious about calling Key West home. Their sons, 20-year-old twins Duke and Pablo, loved the idea.

When Jane died in 2024 at the age of 98, our family debated about what to do with the house, and we were strongly divided into “sell it” and “keep it” camps. But as is often the case with inherited property, the financial and logistical challenges proved overwhelming for heirs who lived over a thousand miles away.

Finally, the decision was made to sell in late 2025. When the time came to work with a real estate agent, the family was perfectly situated: longtime neighbors Lynn and son Jackson Kaufelt were happy to take on the job.

2 3

“The sale of 901 Johnson St. felt more personal than most,” Jackson Kaufelt said. “I grew up in the Casa Marina neighborhood as a teenager, so I had known the property for years.” He recalls his mom and Jane chatting in the front yard.

“When a house carries that much family history, it requires an understanding of what makes the home emotionally and architecturally important,” Jackson said.

Fortunately, he had some buyers in mind.

Jackson had been working with David and Jairo, who sought a house with enough space for their kids, their jobs and the ability to eventually make it their primary residence. continued on the next page

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

FRINGE THEATER PRESENTS ORIGINAL SUMMER MUSICAL

continued from previous page

Ben Harrison’s ‘Clouds Over the Sunshine Inn’ runs July 14-18 4 “The last part mattered to the sellers. … They did not want the home to lose its soul,” Jackson Kaufelt said.

When he took the couple to 901 Johnson St., Jairo said: “This is the one.”

While the buyers will keep the original footprint and many features of the house, including the parquet floors, they also have a vision for its new chapter. They will move the kitchen into the open living space to make room for another bedroom. Otherwise, the renovations will be modernizing and putting their personal stamp on a home that hasn’t seen many changes in 50 years. And the house will finally get a pool.

When Pablo and Duke visited with friends from college, the boys hauled all the mattresses from the

garage and studio into the second bedroom in the main house.

“We want to all be together,” they said, not knowing how much they were evoking the spirit of the previous owner.

I smile, imagining the new traditions that will unfold within the walls of 901 Johnson St., hearing the different laughter that will fill its rooms, the splashes in the swimming pool when the kids come to visit.

“Change in life is inevitable,” wrote Mom wisely in The Fam chat later that day in February.

When I’m ending my phone call with David, I say I hope to meet them someday when my family is in Key West. David doesn’t hesitate: “Just knock on the door.”

Maybe we’ll have tea on the front porch.

5

1. The Trammell family on the front porch of 901 Johnson St. circa 1989.

The author is on the bottom row, second from left.

2. Herb Trammell with his flowers in the back garden.

3. Herb and Jane Trammell on the front porch of 901 Johnson St. 4. The Trammell family during one of many back patio jam sessions in the 1990s.

5. The Cuene-Rios family on the front porch of 901 Johnson St. in 2026.

From left: Pablo, David, Jairo and Duke. CONTRIBUTED

The cast of ‘Clouds Over the Sunshine Inn’ will perform the new, original musical by local playwright and lyricist Ben Harrison July 14-18. Back row, from left: Mariah Woessner, Michael Robinson, Em Pucuhuaranga, Catəlyst Eidschun, Jamal Edwards, Bob Garver. Front row, from left: Phillip Cole White, Caira Johnson, Mathias Maloff, Cassidy Tims. FRINGE THEATER/Contributed

F

ringe Theater Key West presents “Clouds Over the Sunshine Inn,” a new musical comedy by local playwright, composer and lyricist Ben Harrison. This original production invites audiences into the world of the Sunshine Inn, a luxury resort empire where perfection is expected — and where cracks beneath the polished surface begin to reveal something deeper.

“Clouds Over the Sunshine Inn” follows a cast of characters navigating the tension between corporate success and authentic human connection. The musical asks whether true success is measured by profits or by the people whose lives we touch.

“Beneath its humor, colorful characters and joyful score is a story about authenticity,” said director Dominic Paolillo. “We live in a world that often celebrates appearances over substance, yet this musical gently reminds us that kindness, creativity and genuine human connection are what truly endure. My hope is that audiences leave the theater laughing, humming the songs and perhaps seeing the people around them with just a little more warmth.”

“We realized a couple of years back that summer was a great time to develop folks — new artists and familiar artists exploring new creative territory,” said managing artistic director Rebecca Tomlinson. “This produc-

tion is a wonderful blend of veteran performers and first-time actors, and it also marks our director’s first time fully staging a musical after a rich performance career in both New York City and Key West.”

Harrison, known for blending humor, music and local culture, drew inspiration from a memorable summer trip. “One thing led to another,” Harrison said, recalling a vacation discovery that sparked the musical’s central themes of indulgence, perception and self-awareness. “The thrill for me is writing the songs — each one has a job to do. Music adds an emotional dimension that words alone can’t achieve, especially in comedy.”

“Clouds Over the Sunshine Inn” features a cast that includes Jamal M. Edwards, Caira Johnson, Phillip Cole White, Bob Garver, Mathias Maloff and Cassidy Timms, with Em Pucuhuaranga, Mariah Woessner and Catəlyst Eidschun. Music direction and arrangements are by Michael Robinson.

Summer Fringe’s production team includes Tomlinson, Aramis Ikatu, Kendall Cameron and Samantha Laskey. Amber Nolan, Jack McDonald and Scott Shambaugh join the Fringe production team for this show.

Tickets are $45 and $65 and are available through the KeysTix Box Office which can be reached at keystix. com or at 305-295-7676.

— Contributed

12

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

Keys Weekly staff

AXFORD & HORAN VIE FOR SOUTHERNMOST SCHOOL BOARD SEAT

Candidates answer biographical questions

T

he Keys Weekly wants Monroe County voters to get to know the candidates who seek to represent them at all levels of city and county government. To that end, we’ve asked each candidate for the two school board races — Districts 1 and 5 — to answer the eight questions below in 500

words.

Although each of the five school board members represents a specific region in the island chain, all members are elected by all voters, whether they live in Key West, Key Largo or anywhere in between.

The responses here are as submitted by the candidates.

SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 1 THERESA AXFORD How long have you lived in the Florida Keys, where do you currently live, and what drew you here? My husband and I and our 5-year-old son Rob came to Key West on a vacation in 1976 to visit my sister. When we left Philadelphia, it was 17 degrees quite a contrast to the balmy island breezes of the Keys. We fell in love with island life and decided to close up shop in the Northeast and move to the Keys permanently. It was a very happy decision.

Tell us a little about your family – any kids, relatives, etc. here in the Keys? I have two amazing sons, both educated in Monroe County Schools and both very successful. I have three wonderful grandchildren: Layla, 7, and Gage, 9, live in Orlando with parents John and Molly. Isabella lives in Hillsborough, NC with Rob and Rebecca.

She recently graduated from Orange High School in Hillsborough and is attending the University of North Carolina in the fall.

What volunteer/civic organizations, clubs or other groups are you involved with in Monroe County? I was

a member of the Zonta Club of Key West for over 20 years and was president twice during my years in Zonta.

During my tenure, the ABC Breast Cancer Walk came into being. When work responsibilities overtook my available time, I retained membership in the Florida Keys Council of the Arts.

I was chairperson of the Arts Council from 2012-2020. In that role, working with executive director Liz Young, we created the latest grant program for the council, “Art Builds Community.”

These grants make available funds up to $10,000 for grants that support underserved populations in the Keys with opportunities to engage with the arts.

What do you do for a living, and what does a typical day look like when you’re not campaigning? I retired from county schools after 38 years on July 31, 2025. My most recent position was superintendent. My sister Rita lives in Germany so last fall, I traveled there and together we went to France, Belgium, Poland and Germany.

She has been living in Europe for 12 years and is an avid traveler. She knows all the right spots, so it’s fun traveling with her.

What made you decide to run for public office, and/or what drew you to a career in public service? I am very passionate about making sure our students in Monroe County have a high-quality education. I have a great deal of experience with delivering quality systems and I would like to continue doing that work as a school board member.

What personal or professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am most proud of my two sons – they are great people, responsible, proud Americans and have amazing wives

and children. It’s the ultimate reward of all those years of parenting.

live in the same house on Key Haven that I grew up in.

Where is your favorite spot in the Keys and why? My favorite spot in Key West is Higgs Beach. When we arrived, we spent a lot of time at that beach and it always symbolizes new beginnings and happiness for me.

What volunteer/civic organizations, clubs or other groups are you involved with in Monroe County? I’m the current vice-chairperson of the Monroe County School Board – District 1. I’m a current member and past-president (2019) of the Key West Military Affairs Committee; a former board member for the Greater Key West Chamber of Commerce; a former Rotarian; and the former vice-president of the Southernmost Seminoles.

What skills or experiences from your career or past service do you think will help you most in public office? The School Board sets policy, controls budget and oversees the Superintendent. These are consequential duties that deserve the perspective of someone who has lived them, not just observed them. I am the only candidate who has actually worked in Monroe County Schools and I have led schools from every possible level, teacher, assistant principal, principal, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning and Superintendent. I would like to share that wisdom and experience on the School Board.

What do you do for a living, and what does a typical day look like when you’re not campaigning? Aside from serving on the Monroe County School Board, I’m the managing partner of Horan Law. Outside of work, I’m usually spending my free time with my family or coaching youth sports.

What made you decide to run for public office, and/or what drew you to a career in public service? I wish I had a better answer, but the truth is I initially ran for the Monroe County School Board on a dare. Mindy Conn (who currently serves on the school board in District 3) dared me to run at a Christmas party back in December 2021. I’m really glad I accepted her challenge.

What personal or professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

Being a dad.

SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 1 DARREN HORAN How long have you lived in the Florida Keys, where do you currently live, and what drew you here? I’m a 6th generation “Conch” born and raised in Key West. I have lived in Key West all my life, with the exception of leaving for college and law school. My family currently resides near Key West High School (“KWHS”) in a house built by my wife’s grandparents in 1964.

Tell us a little about your family – any kids, relatives, etc. here in the Keys? My wife and I are both graduates of KWHS and we have three daughters, one of which also graduated from KWHS (2020), and the other two are still in school. My parents still

Where is your favorite spot in the Keys and why? The backyard of my parents’ house. My father and I have spent hundreds of hours back there, smoking cigars and overlooking the canal — all while “solving the world’s problems.” I find peace there.

What skills or experiences from your career or past service do you think will help you most in public office? Navigating a diverse board with varied backgrounds and viewpoints can be challenging, but having already served with other current Monroe County School Board members, I have a better understanding of their opinions and beliefs on certain issues. That insight helps move things along more efficiently.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

SUE WOLTANSKI & CHELYN SHAW SEEK SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 5 SEAT

Emergency Team many years, where we searched for missing divers, vessels, crime evidence, and assisted with many emergency situations. And when I’m not volunteering, I’m often taking care of my 130-pound “grand-dog”, who definitely keeps me busy!

blog, Accountabaloney, to help others understand Florida education policy.

SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 5 SUE WOLTANSKI How long have you lived in the Florida Keys, where do you currently live, and what drew you here? My husband and I purchased our home in Tavernier in 1999 and became full-time residents in 2008. We chose the Keys to raise our family in a close-knit community where our children could grow up surrounded by nature, great public schools, and extended family.

Tell us a little about your family – any kids, relatives, etc. here in the Keys? My husband, Tom, is a recently retired emergency physician. We have two children, both proud Coral Shores High School graduates. We moved permanently to the Keys so they could grow up next door to their grandmother. Although she has since passed away, we still enjoy a steady stream of snowbirding relatives.

What volunteer/civic organizations, clubs or other groups are you involved with in Monroe County?

Community service is important to me. I am a member of the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club, the Upper Keys League of Women Voters, Upper Keys Business & Professional Women, several local Chambers of Commerce, and a graduate of Leadership Monroe.

I also volunteer on local projects and organize our annual “Hello Summer” hygiene drive for students.

What do you do for a living, and what does a typical day look like when you’re not campaigning? I am a retired pediatrician turned public education advocate, now serving on the Monroe County School Board. My days are spent visiting schools, meeting with parents, teachers, and community members, attending school and civic events, following education policy, and writing my

What made you decide to run for public office, and/or what drew you to a career in public service? I never planned to run for office. My journey began as a parent and public education advocate. As I became more involved in education policy and school improvement efforts, I realized I could make an even greater difference by serving on the School Board.

I’ve always considered myself a public education advocate first—not a politician—and that continues to guide every decision I make.

What personal or professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

Personally, I am most proud of my two children and the creative, thoughtful, and compassionate young adults they have become. Watching them grow into confident adults has been the greatest privilege of my life.

Professionally, I am proud to have played a small part in strengthening Monroe County’s public schools for today’s students and future generations.

Knowing that the work we do today will continue creating opportunities for children long after my service ends is the most rewarding accomplishment I could hope for.

13

SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 5 CHELYN SHAW How long have you lived in the Florida Keys, where do you currently live, and what drew you here? I moved to Key Largo in October 2005, nearly 22 years ago, to be close to my family and the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys. The Keys have always felt like home to me. The Shaw family first owned property here back in 1946, so I’m connected to this community.

I can’t imagine a better place to call home.

Where is your favorite spot in the Keys and why? I love taking a boat out on Florida Bay. I never tire of seeing wild dolphins, the incredible colors of the water, and breathtaking cloud formations. Nest Key is probably my favorite destination, but the journey there is the best part of the adventure.

Tell us a little about your family – any kids, relatives, etc. here in the Keys? Faith in God & love for family is the center of my life. I’m the proud mother of three successful adult children and Nana to seven amazing grandchildren. Four of my grandchildren have attended Monroe County schools from Pre-K through graduation — three have already graduated, and one is still in school today. Watching them grow through our school system has given me a personal understanding of both its strengths and the areas where we can do better.

What skills or experiences from your career or past service do you think will help you most in public office? My medical training taught me to listen carefully, analyze complex information, and make thoughtful, evidence-based decisions. Before serving on the School Board, I spent years as a public education advocate, engaging with policymakers, building coalitions, learning how education policy is shaped and how collaboration builds meaningful results. Those experiences, and the relationships I’ve made, allow me to effectively advocate for Monroe County’s schools, ensure our community’s voice is heard, and deliver results for our students, educators, and taxpayers.

What volunteer/civic organizations, clubs, or other groups are you involved with in Monroe County? I believe a life of service is a life well lived.

I’ve taught Sunday School for 30 years and volunteer in many areas of my church. I’m Vice President of the Upper Keys Republican Club and serve as a Committeewoman with the Monroe County Republican Executive Committee. I volunteer with the American Legion Auxiliary, belong to the Moose Lodge, and I’m active in Southernmost Republican Club and Middle Keys Republican Club. Earlier in my life, I spent many years working with the Boy Scouts and I served on the Key Largo Volunteer Fire Department Water

What do you do for a living, and what does a typical day look like when you’re not campaigning? I’m self-employed as a licensed 200-ton U.S. Coast Guard yacht captain. Right now, I’m selling one business while launching another that focuses on yacht and estate management. Every day is different. I’m constantly answering client calls, coordinating repairs, solving problems, and making sure the yachts under my care are safe, maintained, and ready to go. My evenings and weekends are often filled with church activities, teaching, volunteering with the American Legion Auxiliary, and spending time with family. I attend monthly meetings for the civic organizations I serve.

What made you decide to run for public office, and what drew you to public service? Service to others has been foundational in my life. Whether through my career, my volunteer work, my church, or my family, I’ve always believed in putting others before myself. As I listened to parents, teachers, and taxpayers express their concerns about our schools, I realized something needed to change. I sought God’s guidance, and felt called to step forward. I decided to run because I believe our children deserve the very best education possible, our teachers deserve support and respect, and parents deserve to have a real voice in their children’s education.

What personal or professional accomplishment are you most proud of? Without question, my greatest accomplishment is being a mother and a grandmother. Raising three successful children and watching my grandchildren grow into kind, capable young people has been the greatest blessing of my life. Secondarily, I’m proud to be a lifelong learner and to have established a reputation for integrity and hard work.

Where is your favorite spot in the Keys and why? Anywhere on the water. Whether I’m running a boat, diving beneath the surface, or simply watching the sunrise over the ocean, that’s where I find peace. The water has a way of reminding me what’s truly important.

14

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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In the previous year, there were 1,840 certificates sold.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026 MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

CITY OFFICIALS AGREE TO REMIND NAVY OF CRUISE SHIP PREFERENCES

Commissioners to reaffirm one-ship-per-day policy

A

July 1 city commission resolution was described as “political pandering,” “political talking points,” “not worth the paper it’s written on,” and an act that “means nothing.”

Nevertheless, the commission voted 5-2 to approve it and uphold a majority opinion among Key West voters about limiting cruise ship visits. Commissioners Lissette Carey and Aaron Castillo dissented.

Commissioner Sam Kaufman, who is running in a heated race for mayor against incumbent Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez, placed a resolution on the July 1 commission agenda that sought to respectfully remind local U.S. Navy leaders that Key West voters overwhelmingly passed a voter initiative limiting cruise ships to one large ship a day in Key West.

The resolution comes during a time of uncertainty for the Navy-owned Outer Mole Pier, which the city for decades had leased from the Navy, welcoming large cruise ships at the pier.

But in November 2020, more than 60% of Key West voters approved an initiative that would limit cruise ships to one per day, and only at the privately owned and operated Pier B. The city, while it still leased Outer Mole PIer from the Navy, no longer used it for cruise ships.

The Navy has told Key West that it would be terminating its lease of the Outer Mole Pier in August, but is still determining how the pier will be used and by whom. Cruise lines have expressed interest in returning to the Outer Mole Pier.

Safer Cleaner Ships (SCS), the nonprofit group that spearheaded the 2020 voter referendums, has been keeping its supporters updated about the potential return of multiple large cruise ships each day to Key West.

Kaufman on July 1 sponsored the resolution that would reaffirm “the City’s longstanding one-ship policy and request voluntary cooperation from the United States Navy,” while still “recognizing federal jurisdiction over the Outer Mole.”

In other words, while the Navy is figuring out what to do with the pier, Kaufman, SCS and their supporters want the city to use the time to remind the Navy how Key West voters felt about cruise ships at Outer Mole Pier in the 2020 election, while fully acknowledging that decisions about its usage are entirely up to the Navy and federal government as the owners.

The federal government and the U.S. Navy prepared this map of the Outer Mole Pier in Key West while seeking interest from various entities who are interested in using the pier. NAVFAC/Contributed

At the July 1 meeting, three residents spoke in favor while two spoke in opposition to it. In addition, the commissioners each received written support from more than 100 people urging passage of the proposed resolution.

“At its heart, this is not about telling the Navy what to do,” said resident Sarah Compton, who is running for city commission. “What it does do is respectfully ask the Navy to respect the decisions the people of Key West have already made.”

Resident Margaret Romero urged the opposite. She told the commission that if the cruise ship referendum were on the ballot today, “We don’t need to be telling the Navy what to do. …

If the Navy wants our input on the Outer Mole, they’ll ask. I see this as political pandering now and that upsets me even more.”

Arlo Haskell, speaking on behalf of Safer Cleaner Ships, told the commissioners, “Our residents will strongly object to multiple cruise ships a day. If you vote no, you’ll show the Navy you’re out of sync with the population. You will appear to ignore 13 years of local legislative history and may weaken the Navy’s faith in the city as an honest broker for its citizens.”

Commission positions Commissioner Greg Veliz said he agreed with Romero about the “political pandering,” but added, “I think that ship has sailed, pun intended. I think last meeting we set the tone for political pandering — by both candidates.”

His criticism follows the May commission meeting when Henriquez and Kaufman both seemed eager to get credit for proposing to name the new fire station, which is neither fully funded nor built yet, in honor of the late longtime Fire Chief Eddie Castro.

Veliz on July 1 emphasized that the city commission was not there “to relitigate the fight. A large majority of people in this city voted to limit cruise ships. Now, I don’t think this letter will be worth the paper it’s written on, but I do believe the people of Key West supported that in the election of 2020. So while I don’t think it’s effective, and I empathize with those who were impacted by fewer cruise ships, I don’t think sending a letter about what the people voted for is damaging.”

In introducing his resolution, Kaufman said, “This is not us telling the Navy what to do. We support the Navy fully. This has to do with water quality, protecting our environment and doing the right thing. Whether you agreed with the cruise ship policy or not, we had 65 to 70% approval for those referendums.

Commissioner Monica Haskell said she would uphold the will of the majority of Key West voters with regard to cruise ships.

Carey said, “I’m still waiting for the oneship policy to improve our water quality and it hasn’t one bit.”

Henriquez said, “I agree this letter means nothing. Whether we approve it or not, it has no meaning as far as the military is concerned.”

Henriquez, Kaufman, Veliz, Haskell and Donie Lee ultimately voted to pass the resolution and remind the Navy of the city’s voterapproved cruise ship policy.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

KEY WEST HONORS ‘MY COMMISSIONER,’ BILL VERGE

LEARN TO BE A STORM SPOTTER National Weather Service offers training Aug. 15

M

onroe County Emergency Management invites residents to participate in a free SKYWARN storm spotter program on Saturday, Aug. 15 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Monroe County Public Library in Marathon. National Weather Service Key West’s Jon Rizzo will be teaching the certification class.

The program will provide participants with the knowledge needed to recognize and report potentially severe weather. Trained storm spotters can play an important role in public safety by providing timely, real-world observations during severe weather events.

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RSVP by Friday, Aug. 14, to Holly Winhoven at 305-797-1154 or Winhoven-Holly@monroecounty-fl.gov.

MANDY MILES

NEARLY 90, HE’S AS BUSY TODAY AS HE WAS WHEN WE MET ALMOST 30 YEARS AGO

I

don’t recall actually meeting Bill Verge. It’s more a sense that I’ve simply always known him, at least since 1998, when I arrived in Key West as a rookie reporter.

A year or so later, Verge would be appointed to the Key West Bight board, where he helped manage the city-owned properties around the downtown harbor — and was always the first board member to return a phone call from a reporter and explain any behind-the-scenes machinations that were taking place. The same was true when he was appointed to the Key West Planning Board and worked to balance residents’ quality of life with the island’s need for its tourism economy.

Then, from 2006 to 2010, Verge was elected to be “my city commissioner,” as I lived in the 400 block of Simonton Street and he represented District 1 in Old Town. He was the cool commissioner, the one known to pop into a nightclub called Wax. At one point, there was also a lifesized cutout of him looking out

drops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should.

She’s married to a saintly — and handy — fisherman, and has been stringing words together in Key West since 1998.

from an upstairs window of city hall.

He was also the commissioner who, with Jack Spottswood and the late Capt. Joe Weatherby, sank the Hoyt S. Vandenberg off Key West as an artificial reef. But then Verge turned his attention to keeping old ships afloat.

The historic 327-foot-long U.S. Coast Guard cutter Ingham, the military’s most decorated ship, has been docked alongside the East Quay Wall at Truman Waterfront since about 2009, offering tours, reunions for former Coast Guard service members, school field trips and sunset happy hours and private events.

The USCGC Ingham Memorial Museum is the only U.S. military ship still afloat that sank a German submarine in World War II. And Verge, who turns 90 next May, knows every inch of it, tailoring his tours for the age of the group. He also still swings down the ship’s metal stairs like a young Coastie preparing for shore leave.

But he mentioned his age last week when the Key West City Commission honored him with a proclamation of Bill Verge Day to pay tribute to his decades of public service, both in the Coast Guard and the city.

“Public service is one of the greatest things you can do,” Verge

said at the July 1 commission meeting. “Thank you very much for this honor. These things become important at this stage in my life, as I’ll be turning 90 next year. And I’m very grateful for the years I’ve been allowed to serve the city of Key West.”

Verge has spent the past 15 or so years proudly dedicated to the Ingham.

Verge remains a Coast Guardsman through and through, having served from 1955 to 1978, including a tour in Vietnam from 1965 to 1966. Following his military career, Verge was president and/or CEO of four large corporations involved in the computer, aviation, international security and marine industries throughout the United States and Europe, he said.

He would eventually buy a home on Key West’s Peacon Lane and move to Key West full-time to become “my commissioner,” well, among other things, apparently.

Verge remains a tack-sharp repository of history, information and unfiltered opinions, peppered with pride, patriotism and a continuing commitment to public service — with a hefty dose of biting sarcasm thrown in to make him more human than historical.

Congratulations on Bill Verge Day. I know I’ll celebrate every July 1.

— Contributed

The Key West City Commission on July 1 honored former commissioner Bill Verge with a proclamation of ‘Bill Verge Day.’ CONTRIBUTED

22

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026 The view of Bush Key, home to more than 100,000 nesting birds, from Garden Key at Dry Tortugas National Park.

MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

W

henever I take the ferry out to the Dry Tortugas, especially during the high heat of summer, I always worry, what am I going to do for four-and-a-half hours if there are no birds to speak of?

There are always a few MARK hundred magnificent frigateHEDDEN birds, 4,000 or 5,000 brown noddies, and 100,000 or so ... is a photograsooty terns. But what if, other pher, writer, and semi-professional than that, there are only a few birdwatcher. He brown pelicans and maybe has lived in Key a great blue heron around?

West for more than 25 years and What if I see all the species you are going to see within the first may no longer be employable in five minutes of getting off the the real world. He boat? is also executive What was I supposed to director of the do, learn about other things?

Florida Keys Splash around in the cool azure Audubon Society. waters? Make new friends?

Expand my horizons and explore other aspects of the fort and its environs?

Like the great Cher Horowitz once said: As if.

The worry, of course, is never warranted. In all the times I’ve been out there, I have never felt anything like boredom.

Also, there had been a few other hard-to-find species reported out there in recent weeks – a red-footed booby, a black noddy, and three or four bridled terns. All birds I had seen before, but not for a while, and always a challenge to find.

The one I really wanted to see was the redfooted booby, a species of the tropical seas that made appearances at the Tortugas every few years, and very rarely anywhere else in North America. I’d only seen one once before in 2006, and it had been a terrible look through a spotting scope through a half mile of heat shimmer.

We weren’t totally sure it wasn’t a more common brown booby until we’d stared at it for half an hour and it finally scratched its head and we could see the color of its foot.

I used to have the Tortugas down: Get off the boat, drop my bags at a picnic table, cross the drawbridge, hang by the fountain for a while before working around the buttonwoods and the parade ground. After that, head back out to the helipad and all the old pilings from the coal docks that used to be on the south side of the fort. After that, walk around the exterior to the pilings from the old coaling docks on the north side of the fort. Think about the fact that one of the coaling docks was the last bit of American soil that the USS Maine touched before sailing across the Florida Straits to its doomed fate in Havana Harbor.

On this most recent trip, when I suddenly realized that, jeepers, I hadn’t been to the fort since before Hurricane Irma in 2017, I felt somewhat discombobulated, but decided to center myself by following my old routine.

I dropped my bags at a picnic table and crossed the drawbridge, wistful about the fact that Cleatus, the 9-foot American crocodile who used to lurk in the moat, had been removed from the park since I’d last been back because he made the tourists nervous. When I got to the fountain it

TAKING THE LONG VIEW

was bone dry. Whether that was its new state or whether they only kept it running during migration, I wasn’t sure. But I sat on one of the surrounding benches for 20 minutes, hoping to see a lingering songbird, any one of the 60 or 70 species I’d seen out there before, but all I saw, other than the constant overflights of frigatebirds and terns, was a trio of cattle egrets hunting for palmetto bugs in whatever shadows they could find.

When I got to the helipad, it had been roped off for the season so as not to distress the loafing sooties and noddies, which is a good thing, until someone wants to land a helicopter. But you couldn’t really get a look at the pilings of the south coal dock, which is where you usually saw good things.

I followed the moat around to the north coaling docks. The last time I was out there the concrete apron was partly occupied by equipment used by the masonry crew that was shoring up parts of the fort, but you could still get close to the pilings. Now it was roped off as a kind of storage area for rubble, floatings docks and buoys, but also some more loafing grounds for the sooties and noddies. Great for the birds, not so great for the birdwatchers.

On the way out to the north coaling docks, I’d hurried by the small masses of sooty terns and brown noddies that had gathered at the edge of the path, clustering on the sea lavender and other bushes, as well as on a boat trailer and under one of the picnic tables. But I lingered on the way back, thinking about how few places in the world could get you that close to birds that spent months, even years, at sea. These tiny islands were the only bits of land they deigned to land on.

I’d been hauling around a camera, a spotting scope on a tripod, binoculars, and a water bottle, and back in the fort I sat down on a bench and just spaced out for a minute, trying to make peace with the heat. Which was when I noticed a small shadow moving through the shadows of tree branches. I looked up to find a yellow-throated warbler. Score one for the songbirds.

I soldiered on, crossed the parade grounds and climbed one of the granite spiral stairways (60 steps) up to the top of the fort so I could scour Bush Key with the scope. Which is when I realized I had about 15 minutes to get back to the boat if I wanted any lunch. So I scanned quickly, hoping to at least see the red-footed booby.

I wanted a better look than the one I saw in 2006, but all I saw was the white shape of a masked booby playing hookey from the colony over on East Key. It was about a quarter of a mile away on Bush Key, lounging with a hundred or so frigatebirds on a long patch of low bushes.

I made it back to the Yankee Freedom just in time to grab half a sandwich and some blessed air conditioning, but felt unsatisfied, as if I was missing something.

I dumped most of my gear at the picnic table and got back up, birder minimalist, with only spotting scope and binoculars, then headed back across the parade ground and up the 60 granite steps again.

I started scanning the crowd of perched magnificent frigatebirds, looking for something brown instead of black, and shaped more like a bowling pin than a vertical tear drop. Nothing.

The only thing that didn’t look like a frigatebird was the white shape of the lingering masked booby.

I pulled out my phone and looked at the Sibley app.

When I’d seen the red-footed booby in 2006 I’d had a printed copy of the Sibley field guide with me, and it only had a depiction of a brown juvenile, which matched up with what we were seeing. It was such a singular rarity that I never thought much more about it.

But it turns out that red-footed boobies have multiple color morphs. The Sibley app showed not only the brown morph, but also the white morph.

Which was what I had been looking at.

I was going to have to work a little harder to keep up with things out there.

23

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE STUDIOS TUESDAY, JULY 21, 7PM

AN ENCHANTED HOUR IN THE GARDEN Poet Peter Fortunato and pianist Jiayin Shen join forces for an intimate evening of poetry and music, weaving language and melody into a richly atmospheric program.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

LONGTIME KEY WEST DRAG BAR CLOSES

Aqua Nightclub’s ownership group ensnared in legal woes; fans hopeful for new owners

The gang was all there for the final ‘home game’ performance of the Aquanettes drag performers on July 5 at the now-closed Aqua Nightclub. RAHN CLAYTON/Contributed

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

T

he online tributes have been pouring in as Key West locals and visitors mourn the loss of longtime drag bar Aqua Nightclub, whose Orlando-based ownership group, Pride Holdings Group, is ensnared in financial and legal difficulties.

Aqua Nightclub, 711 Duval St., officially closed as of Monday, July 6. The Aquanettes, the club’s in-house drag performers, danced their last numbers on their home stage on July 5 to a standing-room-only crowd, but their shows will continue around the corner at the Birdcage Cabaret.

Aqua manager Brianlee Pavlicek posted to Facebook on July 3, writing, “To Aqua Staff: Everyone, I’m sorry to tell you this but we have been evicted from the Aqua (711 Duval St.) location.

I have just been informed shortly ago and after tears and confusion, broke news to some staff and now l’m telling you! We are closing Aqua’s doors this Monday (July 6). It breaks my heart, but I tried everything I could to help us avoid this, but it’s beyond me. We will be resuming shows through the weekend.

“We however are keeping the Birdcage Cabaret bar and going to continue business in that location for the future. Shifts/hours will change.

But we will move forward.”

The Aquanettes will continue to perform and 22&Co. bar, which was part of the Aquaplex complex, remains open and unaffected as of now due

to different landlords, according to local reports. Online but unconfirmed discussions have hinted at a possible return of the club’s former owners.

Until the future becomes clear for the Key West location, online accolades say it best:

KEY WEST ROTARY LIGHTS THE SKY

Club hosts July 4 fireworks for 50th year

Ryan Acker “My very first night in Key West, when I first moved to the island almost 20 years ago, I went to Aqua. This was the very first bar I went to, and the very first person I met in Key West was Laurie Thibaud. My mama of KW. Jill and Sandy hired me, this is where I learned to bartend.

Aqua will always have a place in my heart, as it does in countless others.

Much love being sent to those who are affected by the closure. This being said, the coconut telegraph shares rumors of a light at the end of the tunnel! I hope this is true, Key West needs Aqua.”

Landon Bradbary “Thank you, Aqua, for entertaining the hell out of visitors and locals alike. Thanks for making more than a few old white dudes a little uncomfortable. In turn, thank you for opening so many minds and hearts.

Big Love.”

Nate Paul “Thank you for the memories, and I hope that other young men can find their ‘home’ like I did. Being gay in the early 2000s was not an easy spot, but Aqua & the team there really made it a place of refuge for many of us.”

The Rotary Club of Key West hosts the island’s fireworks display for the 50th year.

LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

T

he sky to the south of Key West exploded in color the night of July 4, as the Rotary Club of Key West launched one of its biggest fireworks displays in the 50 years the club has been hosting the show.

In partnership with the City of

Key West and with Key West International Airport as a top sponsor, the holiday began with a picnic, bounce houses and games at Higgs Beach, followed by the fireworks display after sunset. For the nation’s 250th and the Rotary Club’s 50th year of hosting the festivities, the club also offered a private fireworks viewing party on the beach at the Casa Marina resort.

27

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

MONROE COUNTY SCHOOLS MAINTAIN ‘A’ RATING District celebrates growth across the Keys

Performing Arts Centers of Key West in talks with downtown theater

T

he Monroe County School District once again earned an “A” grade for the 2025-26 school year from the Florida Department of Education. This achievement comes alongside a rise in overall accountability points from 763 to 774, reflecting districtwide momentum and a shared commitment to student success.

“This ‘A’ rating is especially meaningful because it was earned in a year when the state raised the bar for excellence,” stated Superintendent Edward Tierney. “Rather than being discouraged by higher expectations, our students, teachers, staff and families rose to meet them.

This achievement reflects a culture of continuous improvement, an unwavering commitment to student success and the extraordinary dedication of everyone across our district. I couldn’t be prouder of what we have accomplished together, and this recognition affirms that when expectations rise, so do we.”

Public schools across Monroe County earned strong marks this year. Poinciana Elementary School celebrated its third consecutive “A,” while Plantation Key School continued its tradition of excellence with another strong “A” rating.

Even with Florida raising the bar for earning an “A,” four schools — Marathon High School, Key Largo School, Sugarloaf School and Coral Shores High School — finished within one percentage point of the new threshold, earning high “B” grades at 64%.

Gerald Adams Elementary and Stanley Switlik Elementary Schools strengthened their performance while maintaining solid “B” ratings. Horace O’Bryant School earned a “C” rating while still showing areas of improvement and Key West High School earned a “C” grade.

The district’s gains were driven by improvements in college and career readiness, graduation outcomes and English Language Arts (ELA) achievement. College and career acceleration rose from 58% to 64%, graduation rate climbed from 88% to 93%, and ELA achievement and learning gains

TROPIC CINEMA MAY HAVE SAVIOR

The nonprofit behind Tennessee Williams Theatre, bottom left, is in talks to help save the Tropic Cinema, top right. CONTRIBUTED

P The Marathon High School Class of 2026 celebrates their first day of senior year.

MHS was one of four Keys schools to finish within one percentage point of an ‘A’ rating in this year’s Florida Department of Education district evaluation. CONTRIBUTED

increased from 59% to 61%, including growth among the district’s lowestperforming quartile.

Charter schools also contributed to the district’s overall success. May Sands Montessori improved from a “C” to a “B,” Somerset Island Prep and Big Pine Academy both advanced from “B” to “A,” and Ocean Studies Charter maintained its “A” while increasing its overall points.

Additional “A”-rated charters include the College of the Florida Keys Academy, Sigsbee Charter School and Treasure Village Montessori.

With another “A” year secured, Monroe County School District remains focused on strengthening instruction, expanding acceleration opportunities and ensuring every student is prepared for success in school and beyond.

— Contributed

erforming Arts Centers of Key West (PACKW), the nonprofit organization that operates the Tennessee Williams Theatre at College of the Florida Keys, and KeysTix, has entered into discussions with the nonprofit Key West Film Society (KWFS), which runs Tropic Cinema, to explore strategic opportunities between PACKW and Tropic Cinema, the Florida Keys’ only nonprofit art-house cinema.

The discussions follow a recognition by both organizations that Tropic Cinema’s longterm future — and the health of Key West’s arts and cultural sector — would be strengthened by unified nonprofit leadership with the operational scale and infrastructure to sustain it.

If an agreement is reached, PACKW would take on responsibility for the operation of Tropic Cinema at 416 Eaton St., while preserving its identity, programming mission and its place as a cultural institution in Key West. The Key West Film Society’s founding mission — to exhibit, promote and celebrate independent, foreign, documentary, classic and culturally significant films — would be central to any future arrangement.

“The Tropic Cinema is a major part of Key West’s cultural identity,” said Matthew Rawls, executive director of Performing Arts Centers of Key West. “We believe that bringing Tropic Cinema within PACKW’s stewardship would allow us to protect and grow its mission for the long term, while giving it the support it needs to thrive. We are committed to preserving everything that makes Tropic Cinema special.”

Tropic Cinema has served Key West for more than two decades, presenting independent, documentary, international and classic films and providing a gathering place for film lovers throughout the community.

The Performing Arts Centers of Key West oversees the Tennessee Williams Theatre and operates KeysTix, a ticketing and promotional platform, and has the organizational capacity to support expanded arts programming across Monroe County.

— Contributed

29

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

HOMETOWN HOSTS CANDIDATE FORUM JULY 13 Aug. 18 ballot will determine Key West & the Florida Keys’ leaders

Nearly all political races to determine the leadership of Key West and Monroe County will be decided in the Aug. 18 primary election. The nonpartisan Hometown group will hold a candidate forum on Monday, July 13.

CONTRIBUTED

I

n the Florida Keys, in nearly every political race, the Aug. 18 primary election will determine who governs Key West and Monroe County.

Hometown! will hold its primary election candidate forum on Monday, July 13 at the Tennessee Williams Theatre on the Key West campus of the College of the Florida Keys.

The event is free and open to the public.

Candidates for one county commission race, two school board races, three Key West city commission races and the Key West mayor’s race will be featured, along with the two Key West Utility Board races.

Doors open at 4 p.m. for a public meet-and-greet with the candidates. The forum begins at 4:30 p.m. A cash bar will be available.

Panelists include Mandy Miles, editor of Key West

Weekly; John Carroll, editor of the Key West Citizen; Joe Moore, news director at US1 Radio; Richard Fowler, former judge and attorney; and Bryan Green, community leader.

Hometown! is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to informing voters and strengthening civic engagement. Its mission is to provide trusted, fair and nonpartisan opportunities for voters to hear directly from the candidates and make informed decisions at the ballot box.

A recording will be available to Hometown! supporters shortly after the event, followed by its public release on the group’s website and social media channels.

To learn more before the forum, Hometown! Board Chair Todd German will preview the event on US1 Radio on Friday, July 10.

— Contributed

FLORIDA KEYS MAN WINS KEY LIME PIE-EATING CONTEST Kevin Renly of Summerland Key devours dessert in less than a minute

Kevin Renly of Summerland Key, rises in triumph upon winning the World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship on July 4 at the Southernmost Beach Resort. Renly topped 24 competitors by devouring a 9-inch whipped-cream-topped Key lime pie in 59.6 seconds without using his hands. The competition is the centerpiece of the annual Key Lime Festival. CAROL TEDESCO/Key Lime Festival

K

evin Renly of Summerland Key claimed victory on July 4 at the World Famous Key Lime Pie-Eating Championship, devouring a whipped creamtopped, 9-inch Key lime pie in 59.6 seconds.

The annual Fourth of July competition, a highlight of Key West’s Key Lime Festival and the island’s tropical take on New York’s iconic Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest, drew a crowd of hundreds to witness 25 contestants plunge into pies, racing to finish without using their hands. Goggles and dive masks were permitted.

“Third time’s the charm,” said Renly, who also competed in 2024 and 2025, finishing just short each time and jokingly referring to himself as the “first loser.” Co-proprietor of Southernmost Bees with his wife, Julie, Renly said he didn’t want to go home after this year’s competition and tell her he’d lost again, particularly on their 37th anniversary.

Twenty years ago, Florida lawmakers designated Key lime pie the official state pie. The dessert is traditionally

Martin Huddleston of Chico, Calif., comes up for air on Saturday, July 4, 2026, during the World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship at the Southernmost Beach Resort in Key West. While competitors may not use their hands, dive masks and swim goggles are permitted.

made with Key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks in a graham cracker crust topped with whipped cream or meringue.

“There’s simply no July Fourth tradition quite like watching 25 people dive face-first into an equal number of glorious Key lime pies,” said festival director Nadene Grossman Orr. “It’s spectacularly messy, uniquely Key West and always leaves everyone smiling.”

— Contributed

31

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

How has this Mercury retrograde been treating CHRIS you? Have you been reflectMcNULTY ing on or reconsidering what is an astrologer, “home” means? This Mercury wanderer, barretrograde in Cancer is about tender and critically analyzing the ways advocate for we nurture one another queer justice. He is a loquacious while considering how we Gemini with a can care for one another cozy Cancer rising. Find him at better. “Home” is an energy we carry from place to place. hearthandheraldWhat does that look like astrology.com for you? If you’re not quite sure what your path forward is, Sunday, July 12 should offer a clarifying moment of vision when Mercury crosses the sun. In addition, Neptune is stationing retrograde this week. Neptune is the planet of ideals and illusions, and when it stations retrograde we are given a big dose of reality. Our belief system may be challenged or our dreams may be brought down to reality. This transit is about letting go of false hopes that do not reflect the evidence in front of us, but it’s also about committing to the beliefs that sustain us. We do not have the divine support to hold our idyllic hopes and dreams up for us while Neptune is retrograde, so we need to figure out how to keep our hopes alive on our own. It’s a challenge that strengthens.

Here are your horoscopes for Neptune’s station retrograde and Venus entering Virgo. Read for your rising and sun signs.

CANCER June 21 - July 22 What is your highest vision of your public presence and your work life? Particularly in our society, we are sold this view that our career is a major part of our identity. Is that the case for you? It’s certainly good to have dreams and goals, but remember that you come first. Don’t lose yourself in the desire to attain higher status. Also, ask yourself how you can be a better neighbor in the next few weeks.

LEO July 23 - Aug. 22 When you dream of the adventures you want to have in this lifetime, where does your mind go? Let your imagination soar. Now take those dreams and consider what is actually feasible for you. Too many dream destinations can be paralyzing, but a couple manageable options make your goals probable. Start to pay attention to your spending. Aim for quality, not quantity.

VIRGO Aug. 23 - Sept. 22 Invest your time, energy and money in ways that will bring you the returns you desire. When you merge with another person or share your resources with other people, there is a hope that

accompanies that interaction. Hope for the best, but pay attention to what is actually possible.

Protect your heart and/or your assets. For the next couple weeks, self-love is the name of the game.

LIBRA Sept. 23 - Oct. 22 Partnership is sold to us as the highest goal we can achieve. “True love” is part of the Disneyfication of our world. That’s not to say love and relationships aren’t great, but hyperromanticization can prevent us from seeing who is actually our other and how they are showing up. A real person comes with flaws. Can loving the flaws be the goal? See if you can love your alone time these coming weeks.

SCORPIO Oct. 23 - Nov. 21 There is an ideal way to go about your daily routine. But, rather than fitting yourself into a new structure, make the structure fit you. You don’t have to follow a TikTok fad or a fitness influencer’s demands. No external structure can compete with your own intuition. Lean into what makes your body feel healthy and keeps your mind pleasantly occupied. Love your diehard friends a little extra in July.

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22 - Dec. 21 Simply being alive is a creative act. We are all here with a creative impulse to put something out into the world that makes it a bit more beautiful, expresses our unique perspective and contributes to the evolution of the human spirit.

What do you put out there? Don’t be too lofty about your creativity because that can stifle the flame. Just share your unique spark. Bring your grace to work with you in the coming weeks.

CAPRICORN Dec. 22 - Jan. 19 Trying to get back home is an archetypal motif built into some of our greatest stories, from the Odyssey to Oz. Once we are born and thrown into a chaotic world, we are always seeking a return to the comfort and love of the womb. And yet, we are confronted with an imperfect reality and mere facsimiles. Carry the dream while holding the real. Some new attractions are coming your way. Embrace the adventure.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20 - Feb. 18 Many times, the medium is the message.

How we say something is just as important as what we are saying. Is there an ideal way to get your point across? Maybe. However, the ideal medium is not an abstract concept, it is a living message. Share your point of view in the best

HOLD ONTO YOUR DREAMS

way you know how and have faith you’re doing it right. Silence will get you nowhere. Do your best to practice some vulnerability.

PISCES Feb. 19 - March 20 When you picture your ideal surroundings, has it been organized by Marie Kondo or is it like a maximalist witch’s cottage? What you fill your space with is a direct reflection of what you fill your psyche with. You can dream of your perfect space and what it’s filled with, but you also need to work with what you have. Don’t fall into the trap of cheap and fast. Find items that last. Revel in partnership in the coming weeks.

ARIES March 21 - April 19 Our self-image is different from our actual self. We can think we have a good idea of who we are, but the reality of how we show up in the world can be quite different. I do not think it is possible to actually make our self-image align perfectly with our actual self, but there is a proximity we can achieve. Part of that is dropping our desire for perfection. Be a squirrelly mess and love it. Find ways to love the things you have to do.

TAURUS April 20 - May 20 In the age of quick dopamine and endless scrolling, deep reflection and genuine relaxation are harder and harder to achieve. We may think that we need a massage and a spa to enter into quiet meditation, but those are not always available. How can you unplug in your quiet time to realistically drop into calmness? Seek the achievable, not the perfect. Your creative juices are about to flow, so find your medium.

GEMINI May 21 - June 20 Sometimes, the illusion of support is all you need. If you believe there are folks who want you to succeed, you can set out to achieve whatever goal you set for yourself. This week, though, it’s time to take a good look at the folks who are genuinely rooting for you. Let their voices get louder and let the half-hearted platitudes be drowned out. In the coming weeks, home is where the heart is.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

MEET THE 2026 ALL-KEYS BOYS TENNIS TEAM Healthy blend of veterans and newcomers combine for strong season on the courts TRACY McDONALD alex@keysweekly.com

NATE BERGH Senior, Key West Bergh held down the No. 3 position for the Conchs and enjoyed an outstanding season, finishing undefeated in regular-season singles play. He reached the district semifinals in both singles and doubles and was known for his strong work ethic and leadership. Always willing to put in extra practice time, Bergh set a positive example for his teammates.

T

he Florida Keys continue to produce outstanding tennis talent season after season. From experienced players competing on national and international stages to rising stars developing through dedication and hard work, Monroe County's athletes proved they can compete with anyone. This year's All-Keys Boys Tennis Team features a blend of proven veterans, emerging underclassmen and selfless leaders who helped elevate their teammates and helped secure key victories and postseason success at the district level while representing their schools with pride.

JOHN PICCO Senior, Key West PLAYER OF THE YEAR

ANDREI LEHENE Sophomore, Key West The Conchs' No. 1 player brought elite experience and a high level of play to Key West's lineup.

The sophomore narrowly missed a trip to the district finals and consistently challenged the area's top competition. Despite a demanding travel schedule and opportunities to compete at a high level in Miami and internationally, Lehene remained committed to his school team. A leader by example, he willingly shared his extensive knowledge with teammates, helping elevate the level of play around him.

As Key West's No. 2 player, Picco was known for a serve that combined power and precision. The senior covered the court well and used his experience to help anchor the Conchs' lineup.

Alongside Lehene, he advanced to the district semifinals in doubles and provided steady leadership throughout the season.

GARRETT GOMILA Sophomore, Coral Shores Gomila served as Coral Shores' No. 1 player and team captain, showcasing maturity beyond his years. A wellrounded athlete, he competed with resilience and mental toughness while taking on the Hurricanes' toughest opponents throughout the season. His leadership and determination helped set the tone for the team.

37

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

WANT TO HELP OUR KEYS COMMUNITY? FIND OUT HOW AT

JACOB SANCHEZ Freshman, Coral Shores In his first season with the Hurricanes, Sanchez quickly made a significant impact. A team-first player with an upbeat attitude, he brought positive energy both on and off the court. Known for his strong work ethic, Sanchez was often the first to arrive at practice and the last to leave, making him a valuable part of Coral Shores' success.

CFFK.ORG MATT DELGADO Senior, Marathon Playing the No. 2 position, Delgado provided consistent play and invaluable leadership for the Dolphins. He finished the season with a 5-5 singles record and a 5-4 doubles record. More importantly, Delgado's positive attitude, sportsmanship and dedication made him the type of teammate every coach wants on the roster. His presence will be missed.

VOLUNTEER OF THE WEEK SHARON MULVEY & GINGER BONCEK METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH COOKING WITH LOVE

HELP KEEP KEY WEST JULY CLEANUPS Join a one-hour Friday morning cleanup.

All events are 8 to 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted.

TANNER SNOWDEN Freshman, Marathon Snowden took over the Dolphins' No. 1 spot and showed tremendous growth throughout the season. The freshman developed greater strength and improved shot placement, finishing with a 7-4 singles record and a 6-4 mark in doubles. His rapid improvement and competitive mindset make him a key piece of Marathon's future.

Friday, July 10: Atlantic Boulevard & White Street.

Meet at the bocce courts, 1301 Atlantic Blvd. Hosted

by Chris Massicotte.

GRAHAM MURPHY Sophomore, Marathon Marathon's most consistent player, Murphy occupied the No. 3 spot all season and compiled a 6-2 singles record and a 4-2 doubles mark. Despite having only two years of experience in the sport, he has produced winning records in both seasons. Focused and dependable, Murphy has established himself as one of the Dolphins' most reliable players.

Friday, July 17: Duval and Greene streets. Meet in the parking lot behind Irish Kevin’s. Co-hosted by Irish Kevin’s and Key West Military Affairs Committee.

Friday, July 24: Whitehead and Olivia streets. Meet across the streetfrom the Hemingway Home, which is hosting.

Friday, July 31: To be determined.

Before

After The City of Key West has launched a new Adopt-a-Drain program that encourages residents to keep storm drains clear of leaves, trash and debris. Residents and community groups can play an active role in reducing localized flooding by "adopting" nearby storm drains and ensuring they're clear. Scan the QR code to adopt a drain near you. CONTRIBUTED

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 305-809-3868 to find out how your business, nonprofit or club can help.

38

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

COUNTY ANNOUNCES NEXT ARTIFICIAL REEF DEPLOYMENT

MONROE COUNTY CELEBRATES PARKS & RECREATION MONTH

Gulfside 8 Mile Reef sits north of Sugarloaf Key

The map shows the location and identifications of native plants in Pine Channel Nature Park on Big Pine Key. CONTRIBUTED

Pine Channel Nature Park hosts July 11 event

T

his week, Monroe County’s artificial reefs program announced its second reef material deployment off Key West in the Florida Keys. These deployments help create new habitats, enhance recreational diving and fishing opportunities, and support the local marine ecosystem.

At press time, the following deployment was scheduled on July 8, beginning at 9 a.m.: • Gulfside 8 Mile Reef Site Latitude: 24.904 N Longitude: -81.556 W An additional deployment is planned at the following location, with the date to be determined: • Gulfside 9 Mile Reef Site Latitude: 24.899 N Longitude: -81.606 W Previous deployment on June 9, 2026: • Gulfside 5 Mile Reef Site Latitude: 24.79793 N Longitude: -81.69104 W 2025 Deployment: • Gulfside 10 Mile Reef Site Latitude: 24.886575 N Longitude: -81.703408 W The public may watch deployments from private vessels, provided they stay at least 500 feet away. For safety reasons, no one may enter the water during active deployments.

All published locations and dates are subject to change based on weather and sea conditions, contrac-

M On June 9, 32 structures were deployed across four patch reefs at the Gulfside 5 Mile Reef site. There are three different structural styles deployed. The reef sits at a depth of 42 feet. HANNA KOCH/Monroe County

tor availability or county scheduling needs. Last-minute changes may not be reflected immediately online. Anyone wishing to confirm deployment schedules before traveling to a site should text 786-847-5443 for the most current information.

Monroe County’s artificial reefs program provides valuable habitat for marine life while supporting the region’s world-renowned fishing and diving industries. The Monroe County artificial reefs program is sponsored by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the state of Florida. More information is at www. monroecounty-fl.gov/reefs.

— Contributed

onroe County Parks and Beaches and Monroe County UF/IFAS Extension Services invite the community to celebrate July Parks and Recreation Month at Pine Channel Nature Park on Saturday, July 11, from 10 a.m. to noon.

The free family-friendly event features the recognition of the 2026 Parks and Beaches Art Contest winners and the unveiling of the new Pine Channel Native Plant Pathway. The event celebrates the importance of parks in bringing communities together while highlighting local art, environmental education and outdoor recreation.

The art contest featured the theme “Under the Sea and Beyond the Shore.” Some 75 students submitted artwork and mascot designs. This year’s winners are two fourth graders, Olivia Sokolov and Tennyson Bozart, from the Basilica School of Saint Mary Star of the Sea in Key West. Their artwork will be showcased at the event.

In addition, guests are invited to walk the new Pine Channel Native Plant Pathway, created through a partnership between Monroe County UF/IFAS Extension Services and Florida master gardener volunteers. The path features a

Olivia Sokolov and Tennyson Bozart, both in grade 4, won an art contest and will be celebrated at the July 11 event.

self-guided walking trail showcasing native Florida Keys plants. Signs describe each plant and include QR codes linking to additional resources from the University of Florida.

The celebration will also include informational vendor booths, a hands-on fish art activity, free ice cream from Keys Vineyard Church, free native plant giveaways from the Key West Botanical Garden, and gardening advice from master gardener volunteers.

— Contributed

39

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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Book your table on Opentable or call 305.295.3255 Oceans Edge Resort & Marina 5950 Peninsular Ave, Key West, FL oceansedgekeywest.com/yellowfin-bar-kitchen (786) 862-6305

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

Healthy

Life

By Dr. Ettore Vulcano

Summer Without Setbacks Common Orthopedic Injuries & How to Avoid Them

Summer in the Florida Keys brings endless opportunities for adventure—from fishing and boating to pickleball and paddleboarding. However, increased activity can sometimes lead to aches, strains, and injuries that put plans on hold.

Orthopedic specialists often see shoulder injuries caused by repetitive overhead movement, foot, ankle, and knee pain from sports that involve quick pivots and stops, and wrist or hand injuries from unexpected falls.

Tips to Stay Injury-Free: • Warm up and stretch before any activity • Stay hydrated • Use proper lifting techniques • Wear supportive footwear • Increase activity levels gradually If you experience persistent pain, swelling, instability, or limited mobility, it may be time to see a specialist.

Early evaluation can help prevent more serious problems and get you back to doing what you love.

Schedule an appointment at Mount Sinai’s Primary Care, Walk-in Clinic and Diagnostic Center in Key West by calling 305.434.9205 today!

Dr. Ettore Vulcano is Chief of Orthopedics at Mount Sinai Medical Center and is internationally recognized for his expertise in foot and ankle surgery, as well as limb lengthening and deformity correction. He helped pioneer modern minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery in the United States and has performed one of the largest volumes of these procedures in North America.

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43

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS

THE DARKER SIDE OF CONVENIENCE

APPLY NOW FOR LEADERSHIP MONROE’S NEXT CLASS

W

e’ve engineered inconvenience out of almost every part of daily life.

Unfortunately, our bodies didn’t get the memo.

I have absolutely no desire to homestead because I genuinely love modernday conveniences. I think flipping JENNIFER a switch to HARVEY turn on a light ...is a Marathonis wonderful, based ACSMand I believe certified perair conditionsonal trainer and precision nutrition ing is one of humancoach who owns and operates ity’s greatest Highly Motivated inventions.

Functionally In fact, it’s Caffeinated LLC. something I regularly defend in my own house with the love of my life.

We all know how that conversation goes. One of you reading this is the person who says, “Oh my God, it’s hot in here!” (Hi, that’s me.) The other, usually the more budget-conscious one, replies, “You’re wearing pants and a long-sleeve shirt. Go change.” I could easily spend the rest of this article talking about household thermostat negotiations, but that’s not where I’m headed.

What I’m really getting at is this: We’ve become so good at making life easier that we barely have to lift a finger to meet our basic needs. Food can be delivered to our front door.

Groceries can be loaded into our car without us ever getting out.

We have robot vacuums, remote controls, power everything, golf carts, escalators, elevators, online banking, streaming services and apps that save us time with the tap of a screen.

None of those things are bad. In fact, many of them are incredible. I use plenty of them myself.

But every convenience comes with a trade-off. Every time

we remove a little bit of effort from our day, we also remove a little bit of movement. We walk less, carry less, climb less, squat less and generally ask less of our bodies than any generation before us.

For most of human history, movement wasn’t something people scheduled into their calendars. It was woven into everyday life. You walked because you had to. You carried things because there wasn’t another option. You climbed hills, knelt in gardens, scrubbed floors, hauled buckets and got up and down from the ground because life demanded it.

Today, many of us carve out 30 or 60 minutes for a workout, then spend the other 23 hours trying to avoid moving altogether.

We circle the parking lot looking for the closest spot instead of taking the first one we see. We take the elevator up one floor. We send a text to someone who’s in another room. We use the drive-through for coffee, the pharmacy, the bank and dinner. We ask Alexa to turn off the lights while the light switch patiently waits eight feet away.

We spend more time looking for the TV remote than we would have spent simply getting up to change the channel.

Individually, none of those decisions matter very much.

Collectively, they matter a great deal.

The human body is remarkably adaptable. Give it a reason to become stronger, and it usually will. Give it a reason to conserve energy, and it’ll gladly

do that too. Our muscles don’t know the difference between choosing convenience and being forced into inactivity. They simply respond to whatever we repeatedly ask of them.

That’s one of the reasons we’re seeing more obesity, more Type 2 diabetes, more high blood pressure, more chronic pain and more heart disease despite living in the most technologically advanced society in history. We expected convenience to improve our health because it made life more comfortable.

Instead, it quietly removed many of the ordinary movements our bodies still depend on.

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to give up modern conveniences to reclaim some of those benefits.

Park a little farther away.

Carry the grocery bags in two trips instead of one. Take the stairs. Walk to your neighbor’s house instead of texting. Mow the lawn. Wash the car. Walk the dog one extra block. Stand up while you’re on the phone. Let your body do a little more of the work it was designed to do.

I’m certainly not suggesting we throw away our air conditioners, cancel Wi-Fi or start churning our own butter. Trust me, I’m keeping my thermostat exactly where I like it, assuming my husband isn’t looking.

But maybe our bodies have been trying to tell us something all along. Maybe they were never asking for life to be harder.

Maybe they were simply asking us to move through it a little more. Because technology has evolved. Our physiology hasn’t.

Learn more at summer socials July 21-23

L

eadership Monroe County, the educational, nonpartisan, nonprofit community organization, seeks applicants for the upcoming Class XXXIV, which will launch on Oct. 2 and run through May 1, 2027.

The public is invited to attend any of three upcoming summer socials to learn about the program and its components and meet some of the program’s alumni members and board directors.

The socials will each take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and are set for July 21 at El Siboney Restaurant, 5501 5th Avenue, Stock Island; July 22 at the Marathon El Siboney Restaurant, 3574 Overseas Hwy; and July 23 at the Key Largo Civic Club, 209 Ocean Bay Drive. Refreshments will be provided.

Leadership Monroe County offers an opportunity for community leaders to experience and learn alongside a dedicated, committed group of peers, and through their engagement measurably increase their future impact within the community.

Celebrating its 34th year, with over 750 graduates, the program is aimed at residents who are active in leadership roles in the private sector, government or nonprofit community.

Through a series of one- and multi-day sessions, over seven months, topics include the environment and natural resources, tourism and the economy, government, education, military, the law and judiciary, emergency management, arts and culture, health care, human services, as well as leadership skill development.

The deadline to apply is Aug. 10. Applications are available at leadershipmonroecounty. org/apply.

More information is at 305-394-3804 or via email to info@leadershipmonroecounty.org.

— Contributed

44

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITES

KEYSWEEKLY.COM/BUBBAS26 VOTING STARTS JUNE 25 @ NOON & ENDS JULY 12 @ MIDNIGHT

THE BUBBAS ARE BACK FOOD & DRINKS Best Key Lime Pie: Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop / Blue Heaven / Key West Cooking Show Best Cuban Sandwich: Kim’s Kuban / Sandy’s Cafe / 5 Brothers Key West - Coffee & Cubanos Best International Restaurant: El Siboney Restaurant / Benihana / Fritas Cuban Burger Cafe Best Cup of Coffee: Kim’s Kuban / Cuban Coffee Queen / Baby’s Coffee Best Breakfast: Goldman’s Deli / Two Friends Patio & Restaurant / Moondog Cafe / Blue Heaven Best Brunch: Square Grouper - Key West / Hot Tin Roof Restaurant / Moondog Cafe Best Lunch: Moondog Cafe / Square Grouper - Key West / Hogfish Bar & Grill Best Bar: Irish Kevin’s / Virgilio’s / Green Parrot Bar Best Gay Bar: 22&Co / Aqua Bar & Nightclub / 801 Bourbon Bar Best Wine Selection: La Trattoria Oceanside / Grand Vin Wine Bar / Vinos on Duval Best Beer Selection: Cayo Hueso Brewing / The Retro Room / The Waterfront Brewery Best Mojito: Southernmost Point Bar / Pepe’s Cafe / El Meson De Pepe’s Restaurant & Bar Best Bloody Mary: Two Friends Patio Restaurant / Tipsy Rooster Liquor Store & Bar / Rams Head Southernmost Best Margarita: Tipsy Rooster Liquor Store & Bar / The Docks Restaurant + Raw Bar / Pepe’s Cafe Best Martini: Virgilio’s / Martin’s / Square Grouper - Key West / General Horseplay Best Bartender: Carlos Home - 22&Co. / BZ (Brian) - Green Parrot Bar / Shay Thomas - Hank’s Hair of the Dog Saloon Best Dog-Friendly Bar/ Restaurant: Mac’s Place / Hank’s Hair of the Dog Saloon / Grand Vin Wine Bar / The Retro Room Best Waterfront Dining: The Docks Restaurant + Raw Bar / La Trattoria Oceanside / Louie’s Backyard Best Pizza: Roostica / Duetto Pizza & Gelato / White Street Pizza Best Seafood: The Docks Restaurant + Raw Bar / Square Grouper - Key West / Hogfish Bar & Grill Best Steak: Prime Steakhouse / Tavern N Town / Broil Best Taco: Kim’s Kuban / Garbo’s Grill @ Hanks! / Hogfish Bar & Grill Best Food Truck: Southernmost Sandy’s Cafe / Fritas Cuban Burger Cafe / Garbo’s Grill @ Hanks!

Best Dessert Spot: Better Than Sex / Moondog Cafe / Square Grouper - Key West Best Ice Cream/Gelato: Flamingo Crossing / Duetto Pizza & Gelato / Rooster Treats - Soft-Serve Ice Cream & Mini Donuts Best Conch Chowder: Half Shell Raw Bar / Hogfish Bar & Grill / Conch Republic Seafood Company Best Wings: Roostica / Mac’s Place / Kaya Island Eats Best Smoothie: Smoothie Shuttle / Date & Thyme Organic Cafe & Market / Grain & Berry Cafe Best BBQ: Smoked BBQ (On the Water) / MacDooBBQ / Pop’s Smoke Shed Key West Best Sushi: Misohappy Sushi & Thai / Benihana / Origami Sushi Bar Best Raw Bar/Oysters: Half Shell Raw Bar / Square Grouper - Key West / The Docks Restaurant + Raw Bar / Pepe’s Cafe Best Ceviche: Bel Mare Restaurant / Square Grouper - Key West / The Docks Restaurant + Raw Bar Best Hamburger: Fritas Cuban Burger Cafe / Blackfin Bistro / Moondog Cafe Best Late-Night Spot: Green Parrot Bar / Mary Ellen’s Bar & Kitchen / Tattoos & Scars Saloon Best Catering Company: Catered Affairs of Key West / Destination Catering & Events / Great Events Catering Best Organic/Health Food: Date & Thyme Cafe & Market / Sugar Apple Organic Cafe & Market / The Koffie House / Grain & Berry Cafe Best Bar or Restaurant Restroom: 22&Co / Tavern N Town / Square Grouper - Key West Best Happy Hour: Boat House Bar & Grill / Pepe’s Cafe / Tavern N Town Best Restaurant Service & Staff: Two Friends Patio Restaurant / Square Grouper - Key West / La Trattoria / Boat House Bar & Grill Best Overall Restaurant: The Docks Restaurant + Raw Bar / La Trattoria / Moondog Cafe Food & Drink Category to add for next year: Best Fish Dip / Best Fish Sandwich / Best French Fries

OUR COMMUNITY Best Place to Take the Kids: The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory / The Waterfront Brewery / Key West Community Sailing Center Best Local Event/Festival: Fantasy Fest / Key West Songwriters Festival / Key West Pride / Mile 0 Fest Best Tourist Attraction: The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory / The Hemingway Home & Museum / Truman Little Whitehouse Best Local Celebrity: Key West Shawn / Bill Hoebee / Mike Stack / Beatrix Dixie Best Teacher/Professor/School Admin.: Keia Hughes - Horace O’Bryant / Ali Ferguson - Poinciana / Joe Dallas - Sugarloaf School Best Non-Profit Organization: Florida Keys SPCA / Key West Immigrant Support Network / Reef Relief / Key West Community Sailing Center

Sponsored by

Best Elected Official: Sam Steele - Monroe County Tax Collector / Dee Dee Henriquez - Key West Mayor / Sam Kaufman - Key West City Commissioner Best Local Musician: Oren Polak / Caffeine Carl (Wagoner) / Tony Baltimore Best Local Band: The Durtbags / Marshall Morlock Band / Zero Turbulence Best Local DJ: DJ Sanaris / DJ Dallas Wonderland / DJ Top Jimmy Best in Drag: Maya Montana / Beatrix Dixie / QMitch Best Artist: Lucy Hawk / Theresa Chiechi / Neil Lindley / Lance Berry Best Thespian/Performing Artist: Erin McKenna / Fritzie Estimond / Arthur Crocker Best Volunteer/Community Activist: Anne Brodsky / Kirby Myers / Lucy Hawk Best Live Music Venue: Green Parrot Bar / Key West Theater / Hanks Hair of the Dog Saloon Best Performing Arts Venue: Key West Theater / Tennessee Williams Theatre / Red Barn Theatre / Waterfront Playhouse Best Art Gallery or Studio: Sacred Space Gallery / The Studios of Key West / Gallery on Greene Community Category to add for next year: Best Tour Company / Best Karaoke Spot / Best Street Performer

THE BUSINESSES Best Accounting Firm: Oropeza & Parks / Zuelch & Zuelch Accounting & Tax / Pribramsky & Company Certified Public Accountants Best Law Firm: Oropeza Stones & Cardenas / Reed Palacios Law / Horan Law Best Charter Fishing Captain/Guide: Above & Below Fishing Adventures / Good Times Key West - Capt Justin Ferrell / Recon Sportsfishing Charters Best Furniture Store: Royal Furniture & Design - Key West / Soul House / Fast Buck’s At Home Best Bike Shop: Eaton Bikes / Key Lime Bike Tours / We Cycle - Key West Best Dive Shop: Captain Hook’s Dive Key West / Captain’s Corner Dive Center / Southpoint Divers Best Bait & Tackle Shop: Esky Rods / Key West Bait & Tackle / Key West Marine Hardware Best Watersports Company: Sunset Watersports / Fury Key West Watersports / Danger Charters Best Marina: Conch Harbor Marina / The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West / Beach Weekend / A&B Marina Best Customer Service: Strunk Ace Hardware / New You Health Clinic / Keys Federal Credit Union Best Resort/Hotel: Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton / The Key West Hotel / Opal Key Resort & Marina Best Grocery Store: Fausto’s Food Palace / Publix / Winn-Dixie Best Contractor: Key West Window’s / Charley Toppino & Sons / Kenna Construction / Keystar Construction Best Photographer: Nick Doll / Landon Jones / Larry Blackburn Best Doctor: Dr. Sandy Santiago / Dr. Melanie Youschak / Dr. Jerry J. Jackson Best Veterinarian: Keys Animal Center / Lower Keys Animal Clinic / All Animal Clinic Best Realtor: Chris Orth - Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Knight & Gardner Realty / Krystal Thomas - ShineGroup / Bascom Grooms - Bascom Grooms Real Estate Best Real Estate Office: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Knight & Gardner Realty / Bascom Grooms Real Estate / Shine Group Best Bank or Credit Union: Keys Federal Credit Union / First State Bank / First Horizon Best Jewelry Store: Jeff’s Gems & Nautical Designs / Neptune Designs / Key West Treasure Chest Best Bed & Breakfast/Guesthouse: Southernmost Point Guest House / The Gardens Hotel / Alexander’s Guesthouse / The Conch House Best Chiropractor: Dr. Michael Stern - Southernmost Sports Chiropractic / Dr Liz Morin - Excel Chiropractic / Dr. Darold Leto - Florida Keys Chiropractic & Therapy Best Dentist: At the request of the local dental community and our finalists, this category has been paused this year in memory & honor of the late Dr. Hector Guzman.

Best Florist: Love in Bloom Florist / Petals & Vines / Kutchey’s Flowers in Key West Best Liquor Store: Tipsy Rooster Liquor Store & Bar / Green Parrot Liquors / The Roost Best Local Retailer: Keyfillery / Timmy Tuxedos / Lost Boy Creations Best Fitness Center/Gym: FYT Key West / Sweat Society KW / Bodyzone Fitness Best Nail Salon: Younique Beauty Studio / Lee Nails / Nailtini Nail Bar & Day Spa Best Spa: Destination Wellness Spa / Ocean Wellness Spa & Salon / New You Health Clinic Best Hair Salon: Blown Away Hair Studio / Salty Roots / Kai & Co. Salon Best Barber: Blendz / Old Town Barbers / Beards & Brews Barbershop & Bar Best Summer Camp: Reef Relief / Key West Community Sailing Center / Critter Camp Best Family-Owned Business: Fausto’s Food Palace / Southernmost Point Guest House / Miami Subs / Above & Below Fishing Adventures Best Overall Business: La Trattoria / Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Knight & Gardner Realty / Miami Subs Business Category to be sdded next year: Best New Business / Best Tattoo Artist / Best Massage Therapist

ALL PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT

46

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2026

BREAKFAST SPECIALS:

 TUESDAYS: Biscuits and Gravy $15.95  FRIDAY: Pepe’s Famous Pulled Pork Burrito $19.95  SUNDAY: Morning Prime Rib Benedict $22.95

HAPPY HOUR:

- Shrimp 1/2lb Peel & Eat $8.45 - Raw Oysters $0.88/each - Baked Oysters (half dozen) $6.95 - Fish Dip $7.45

DINNER:

- (2) Famous Pork Chops with Choice of (2) Sides $29.95 - Black and Blue 16oz Bone in Ribeye $49.95

WEEKLY SPECIALS: JULY 9TH THROUGH 13TH BREAKFAST SPECIALS:

- Huevos Rancheros $17.95 - Pulled Beef Benedict $21.95 - Shrimp and Grits with Fergie Upgrade $19.95

LUNCH:

- Lobster combo (shrimp, scallops and 7oz lobster) $44.95

DINNER:

- Jambalaya $31.95 - Spicy seafood combo (blackened mahi mahi, spicy scallops, buffalo style shrimp) $35.95

14 PM EARLY BIRD SPECIALS:

- $18 for 18oz Bone in Ribeye and Choice of a Side - $18 for Shrimp Trio (coconut, scampi and steamed) and Choice of a Side

1

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JULY 9, 2026

In The Bleachers

Brevity

Adam Dailies

NEWS OF THE WEIRD One Scottish woman’s home has become a local attraction after she decorated it to look like Barbie’s Dreamhouse, the Mirror reported on June 9. Nicole Watt, 27, of Carluke, Scotland, says she was inspired by the Barbie fans in her life: her three young daughters. Watt says she spent six months and 5,000 pounds on the transformation, which included a Barbiethemed mannequin, palm tree, dressing table, surfboard, pink disco ball, flamingos and beach toys. She had some help, though: “The girls’ papa and gran made the house, the surfboards, pantries, lampposts and palm trees -- everything Barbie requires,” Watt said.

2

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JULY 9, 2026

Nancy Dailies

TODAY’S HISTORY

In 1850, President Zachary Taylor died in office of a stomach-related illness at the age of 65.

TODAY’S NUMBER

Brevity

1,720 — height (in feet) of the wave surge that hit Lituya Bay in the Gulf of Alaska on this day in 1958. The “megatsunami,” the largest in recorded history, was caused by an 8.3-magnitude earthquake on the Fairweather Fault along the Alaskan coast.

TODAY’S QUOTE

TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS

Ann Radcliffe (1764-1823), author; Matthew Lewis (1775-1818), author; Elias Howe (1819-1867), sewing machine inventor; Donald Rumsfeld (1932-2021), politician; Brian Dennehy (1938-2020), actor; Richard Roundtree (1942-2023), actor; Dean Koontz (1945- ), author; Chris Cooper (1951- ), actor; John Tesh (1952- ), composer/ musician; Lindsey Graham (1955- ), politician; Tom Hanks (1956- ), actor; Courtney Love (1964- ), singer-songwriter; Jack White (1975- ), musician/singer-songwriter.

“A lot of people in the media, and some everyday people, really aren’t in search of the truth. They’re in search of something worse than that. ... I think the media’s the kind of a thing where the truth doesn’t win, because it’s no fun.”

— Jack White

3

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JULY 9, 2026

Founded by Betty Debnam

photo by Vaidehi Shah

photo by marneejill

Amazing Whales Mini Fact: Whales leap out of the water for many reasons, including to communicate over long distances.

D

id you know whales are found in every ocean in the world? These large mammals can even dive more than 9,000 feet. The Mini Page takes a deep dive into the world of whales this week.

Whale sizes There are about 90 species of whales in the world. Some are small, like the dwarf sperm whale, which is only 6 to 9 feet in length. However, some whales are huge. The blue whale is nearly 100 feet long and weighs 200,000 to 300,000 pounds, which is about what 30 grown elephants weigh. The blue whale is the largest animal in the entire world. In fact, the top 10 heaviest animal species in the world are all whales!

Types of whales There are two main types of whales: baleen (buh-LEEN) and toothed.

Baleen whales have baleen plates in their mouths that filter food from the water around them. Have you ever sat on a sandy beach and used a sieve to try to find shells or rocks? The baleen plates in whales’ mouths are similar to that in the way that they sift through material, leaving the bigger pieces behind.

A toothed whale has teeth, and it eats things such as squid, fish and sometimes other marine mammals.

Eating habits With whales often being so large, they need to eat a lot, and they need to eat often. Whales consume a variety of things.

According to NOAA Fisheries, some whales take large gulps of water that contain their food, or prey. Eating this way is called lunging (LUNjing). Blue and fin whales eat their food this way.

Humpback whales can make bubble nets around a group of fish, called a school, and then the humpback whales rush through the bubble net to capture their food.

Right and bowhead whales are skimmers, which means they swim through the ocean with their mouths open and strain out their prey.

They typically eat small fish or crustaceans (crusTAY-shunz). A right whale needs to eat more than 2,000 pounds of copepods (KOH-puh-pods) per day to get energy. A copepod is a type of crustacean.

Baby whales A baby whale is called a calf. Depending on the type of whale, a mother can carry a calf for 9 to 16 months.

A newborn blue whale calf is about 25 feet long and weighs 6,000 to 8,000 pounds.

Whales are marine mammals, so calves drink milk. It doesn’t dissolve in water because it is as thick as toothpaste. Baby whales learn to swim within 30 minutes of being born.

Threats to whales Whales face many threats, including pollution.

According to Earth.org, more than 8 million tons of plastic make their way into the oceans each year.

Whales, as well as other marine animals, sometimes mistake plastic for food, which can cause blockages in their stomachs and breathing passages.

Endangered Species Act The Endangered Species Act was put into place to help protect endangered or threatened animals and their ecosystems. Twelve species of whales are on the list, including the North Atlantic right whale.

There are fewer than 400 of this type of whale left in the world due to whale hunting in the 1800s, getting caught in fishing gear and accidents involving ships and boats. Ocean noise levels from human activities can block whales’ communication, which can also lead to harm.

We can help save the whales by using less plastic, telling others what we learn about whales and joining adults at beaches to help clean up litter.

RESOURCES On the Web: • bit.ly/4285Bda At the library: • “Whales: An Illustrated Celebration”

by Kelsey Oseid

The Mini Page® © 2026 Andrews McMeel Syndication

FIND IT BALEEN, CALF, COPEPODS, CRUSTACEANS, EAT, FISH, HUMPBACK, LUNGING, MAMMAL, OCEAN, POLLUTION, PREY, RIGHT, SQUID, SWIM, THREAT, TOOTHED, WHALES.

Words that remind us of whales are hidden in this puzzle.

Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

I N O I T U L L O P R E Y J J I S W T H E H U M P B A C K P R L R W H A L E S M I W S A L B T A E R H T L D E H T O O T A O C E A N E D H H C T T L F L G W P L U N G I N G K D D L E W L A M M A M K G H S I F A E W T Z S N A E C A T S U R C N A M L Y F R I G H T F Q V J E J J S D O P E P O C P S J M

ECO NOTE Volunteers in southwest England have recorded sightings of the rare whiteletter hairstreak butterfly after planting hundreds of elm trees to restore its habitat. The butterfly had not been seen locally since 2008, but at least 11 individuals and several caterpillars have now been recorded. The species has declined by about 80% since 1973, according to the U.K. Butterfly Monitoring Scheme. The conservation group Friends of the Quantocks planted more than 400 disease-resistant elms across dozens of sites, addressing losses caused earlier by Dutch elm disease.The effort highlights how targeted habitat restoration can help revive species once thought to be disappearing.

4

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JULY 9, 2026

Join us for

2-4-1 HAPPY HOUR TAPAS MENU AVAILABLE

DAILY 5-7 PM

IN OUR BAR AREA ONLY PLUS A FREE ENTRÉE ON YOUR BIRTHDAY

3841 N Roosevelt Blvd | Key West | 305.296.8100 | www.tavernntown.com

5

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JULY 9, 2026

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of EValet located at 24 Mutiny Place, Key Largo, Florida 33037 intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations, Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Tropical Keys Holdings LLC Publish: July 9, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

was 12 January 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 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. 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 9 July, 2026.

Personal Representative: Athena Eitneier 139 S. Hammock Rd. Islamorada , FL 33036 Attorney for Personal Representative: Tom Woods, Esq. Florida Bar No.: 0525197 116 Porto Salvo Drive Islamorada, Florida 33036 Phone 305.664.2200 Fax 2205 Publish: July 9 & 16, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

5491 North University Drive, Suite 102 Coral Springs, FL 33067 Telephone: (954) 227-7320 Fax: (954) 227-7552 E-Mail: michael@feldmanesq.com Seondary E-Mail: laurie@ feldmanesq.com Publish: July 9 & 16, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss.

732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s.

732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is July 2, 2026.

Personal Representative: Robert J. Naberhaus III 7380 Murrell Road Suite 200 Melbourne, Florida 32940 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert J. Naberhaus III, Esq. Attorney Florida Bar Number: 476684 Dean, Mead, Egerton, Bloodworth, Capouano & Bozarth, P.A. 7380 Murrell Road, Suite 200 Melbourne, Florida 32940 Telephone: (321) 259-8900 Fax: (321) 254-4479 rnaberhaus@deanmead.com probate@deanmead.com Publish: July 2 & 9, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED 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: JULY 2, 2026.

Personal Representative: ALAN C. THOMSON 556 Bonito Ave Key Largo, FL 33037 alan@swensonrealty.com Attorney for Personal Representative: John Michael Lynn, PA JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0147273 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com Publish: July 2 & 9, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

Defendant.

NOTICE OF ACTION (formal notice by publication) TO: JOANNE FERNAN, deceased, and all unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, assignees, lienors, creditors, trustees, and all other parties claiming by, through, under, or against JOANNE FERNAN, deceased, whose last known address, residence, and whereabouts are unknown: YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to quiet title to the following property in Monroe County, Florida, has been filed against you: A part of Lot 2, according to the Plat recorded in the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, in Plat Book 1, Page 59, and being more particularly described by metes and bounds, as follows: Commencing at the intersection of the Southeasterly right-ofway line of U.S. Highway No. 1, and the North line of Section 5, Township 62 South, Range 39 East, bear Southwesterly along the Southeasterly right-of-way line of U.S. Highway No. 1 for a distance of 556 feet to the Point of Beginning of the part of Lot 2 hereinafter described: from said Point of Beginning, continue bearing Southwesterly along the Southeasterly rightof-way line of U.S . Highway No. 1 for a distance of 22. 98 feet to a point; thence at right angles and Southeasterly for a distance of 150 feet to a point on the Northwesterly right-of-way line of Old State Highway No. 4A; thence at right angles and in a Northeasterly direction along the Northwesterly right-of-way line of Old State Highway No. 4A for a distance of 22. 98 feet to a point; thence at right angles and in a Northwesterly direction for a distance of 150 feet, back to the Point of Beginning.

Containing approximately 3,447 sq. ft., more or less.

You are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to this action on Plaintiff's attorney, Nicholas W. Mulick, P.A., whose address is 91645 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, Florida 33070, and file the original with the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Monroe County, Florida, at 88770 Overseas Hwy, Suite 2, Tavernier, Florida 33070, on or before August 10th, 2026. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

Signed on this 6th day of July 2026.

Kevin Madok, CPA as Clerk of the Court By: Destiny Johnson as Deputy Clerk Publish: July 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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: June 10, 2026 Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Leslie Rodriguez Deputy Clerk Publish: June 25 and July 2, 9 & 16, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on July 15, 2026, at 9:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida, 33050, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider adopting the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE MONROE COUNTY CODE, BY AMENDING CHAPTER 22, ARTICLE VII THEREOF; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; AND PROVIDING FOR TRANSMITTAL AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The proposed ordinance may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by viewing the agenda packet for the July 15, 2026, meeting, which will be posted beginning on July 7, 2026 at: https://www. monroecounty-fl.gov/695/BOCCMeetings-Agendas. The ordinance may also be viewed at the Monroe County Attorney’s Office at 1111 12th Street, Suite 408, Key West, FL 33040.

The public can participate in the July 15, 2026, meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, FL by attending in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link can be found in the agenda at: https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/89204098700, or Live Closed Captioning is available via the MCTV portal at https://cloud.castus.tv/vod/ monroe/video/60832c9dcf67bb7a c0c21791?page=HOME&type=live.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30a.m. — 5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board of County Commissioners with respect to any matter considered at such meetings or hearings, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and for such purpose, that person will need to ensure that a verbatim record is made of the proceedings, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

Dated at Key West, Florida, this 4th day of July, 2026.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Ex Officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: July 9, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO: 26-CP-62-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF FONDA SMITHWICK OLIVER Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of, FONDA SMITHWICK OLIVER, deceased, whose date of death

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NUMBER: 21-CP-000277-K Division IN RE: THE ESTATE OF: RICHARD JAMES COLEMAN Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of RICHARD JAMES COLEMAN, deceased, whose date of death was MAY 22, 2021, 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 name and address 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. 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 July 9, 2026.

Personal Representative Kathryn H. Coleman 2123 Spanish Channel Drive Big Pine Key, Florida 33043 Attorney for Personal Representative Michael Feldman Attorney Florida Bar Number: 665401 Feldman & Feldman, Counsellors at Law, P.A.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NUMBER: 26-CP-318-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF DAVID EUGENE MECK, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of David Eugene Meck, deceased, whose date of death was April 4, 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, 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 July 9, 2026.

Personal Representative: PAMELA J. MECK 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: July 9 & 16, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-000268-K IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBIN WHITLEY HOOD, II Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Robin Whitley Hood, II, deceased, whose date of death was March 10, 2026, is pending in the Circuit

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-000234-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ALAN RANALD THOMSON Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ALAN RANALD THOMSON, deceased, whose date of death was February 17, 2026; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 26-CP-000234-P; 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA 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 27TH day of July 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: LOT 23, BLOCK 2, AMENDED PLAT OF COPPITT SUBDIVISION, (A RE-SUBDIVISION OF PLAT BOOK 3, AT PAGE 116) LOCATED ON GOVERNMENT LOT 5, SECTION 27, TOWNSHIP 37 S., RANGE 26 E., BIG COPPITT KEY, MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 4, AT PAGE 50, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. PARCEL ID NO. 00149800000000226726 PROPERTY ADDRESS: 728 PRADO CIRCLE, KEY WEST, FL 33040 Pursuant to ORDER ON PLAINTIFF’S MOTION TO RESCHEDULE FORECLOSURE SALE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 12TH day of June 2026 Style of which is: FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION Plaintiff VS. JOSEPH PATRICK CLEMENTS A/K/A JOSEPH P. CLEMENTS AND DEBRA LYNN CLEMENTS A/K/A DEBRA L. CLEMENTS A/K/A DEBBIE L. CLEMENTS; ET AL. Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2012-CA-363-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 17TH day of June 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: July 9 & 16, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO. 44-2025-CA-1181-P MARKEY MARINE SERVICE, INC., a Florida corporation, Plaintiff, vs.

JOANNE FERNAN, her Estate, her successors-in-interest, and all others in possession or claiming an interest by, under or through her,

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-DR-671-M ATASHIA JERODIEN BELLE, Petitioner, and JARVIS JABARR MCGEE, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: JARVIS JABARR MCGEE RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 4753 NW 42ND STREET, LAUDERDALE LAKES, FL 33319 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 ATASHIA BELLE, whose address is 1685 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, APT. 4, MARATHON, FL 33050 on or before JULY 25, 2026, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 3117 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON, FL 33050 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

AUTOS WANTED AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483 AUTOS FOR SALE Dodge Dakota For Sale.

ONLY 49k miles, 4 seats, mechanically sound, cold A/C, White in color, paint in good condition. Located in Summerland Key. $4,500 OBO 305-394-2777 PLACE YOUR AUTO FOR SALE AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy!

Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com BOAT SLIP/RACK FOR RENT Boat Slip &/or Rack For Rent in Marathon at The Boat House, Vaca Key. Call Tony 561-346-6400 PLACE YOUR BOAT SLIP AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy!

Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com EMPLOYMENT Hiring for busy pediatric office in Tavernier. FullTime Medical Assistant Pediatric experience preferred. Must multitask in fast-paced setting. Pay is commensurate with experience. Email resume to: flkeyspeds@gmail.com 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 Part-time help needed for small projects in the Marathon area. Call for information: 305-395-0478

6

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JULY 9, 2026

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

WANTED TO BUY

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

Part-time help needed for small projects in the Marathon area. Call for information: 305-395-0478

TURN YOUR CARDS INTO CASH! Marathon collector buying any and all Pokemon cards & collections.

Call 401-256-0645.

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time maintenance person.

12- 15 hours a week.

Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub.com or call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY - Concrete Field Testing Technician needed. Full-time. Year round. We train you to go to various job sites and collect samples. Vehicle provided. Must speak English and have clean driving record. Starting pay $20/hour. Pay rate will rise at intervals. Benefits included. 305-699-2555 catlabflkeys@gmail.com The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Full-time Carpenter, Electrician, & Custodian (Marathon).

To apply, please contact Human Resources at: greenel@kwha.org or 305-296-5621 ext. 225.

Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

Experienced FT Line Cook needed at the Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club.

10AM - 5PM, Good Pay. Small friendly staff.

Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

Serve/Bartend on the ocean!

The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer serviceoriented Server/Bartender.

Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips.

Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

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 305-6644860 Ext 1, e-mail: corrine@orlk.org or apply in person at Outdoor Resorts at Long Key, 65821 Overseas Hwy, Long Key HIRED!!!

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

305.743.0844

WE’RE HIRING

PIZZA MAKERS, PREP & CASHIERS

FOR THE NEW KEY LARGO LOCATION, OPENING SOON.

PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy!

Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com

Pizza Maker experience is a must.

For all positions, applicant must be selfmotivated, quick learner and team player.

Salary includes 401k match up to 6% and negotiable based on experience.

Please call Nicole at 305-433-0515 or email nicole@themoongroupfl.com

Email resume to: greg@oropezastonescardenas.com

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:

ANNUAL RENTAL Key Largo - 3BR/2BA new kitchen, Spacious Doublewide modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community $3500/ month 786-258-3127

NOW HIRING

3BR / 3BA fully furnished home for rent in Marathon. Available June 30. $3,500/ month 618-559-9143 2BR/2BA available in August.

Company Description The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center is dedicated to promoting and strengthening local businesses through support, education, and advocacy. The organization provides resources, programs, events, and networking opportunities that help businesses grow and succeed while supporting a vibrant and sustainable local economy.

Studio Rental in Marathon, long-term, partially furnished, price includes internet, water, electric gas, garbage, pest, and lawn @ $2,200/mo all in. Call or text 305-433-0515

Role Description The Executive Director is a full-time, on-site leadership position based in Islamorada, Florida, responsible for the overall management, strategic direction, membership growth and retention, and daily operations of the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center.

PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy!

Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com 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

Busy law office on Big Pine Key seeking a highly organized, detail and customer serviceoriented individual, who is computer savvy and can handle a fast-paced environment.

Duties include managing closing files, coordination with Realtors, sellers, buyers and lenders, regularly updating all involved parties.

Prior experience a plus. Salary, health insurance, bonuses, overtime pay and 401k.

HOUSING FOR RENT

LONG TERM RENTALS: HUGE EFFICIENCY, 650 SF, partially furnished $1,650/month AND 2 Bedroom unfurnished, all appliances, renovated, for rent in Marathon. On the water, gated property.

Section 8 possible. $2,000 month.

First/Security Call 305-610-8002

REAL ESTATE CLOSING POSITION

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the organization. The position represents the Chamber throughout the community and works to advance the interests of local businesses while promoting Islamorada as a world-class destination.

Qualifications • Proven leadership and management experience, including oversight of staff, budgets, and operations.

• Strong communication, public speaking, and relationship building skills.

• Experience in large public event planning, program development, and project management.

• Knowledge of financial management, budgeting, reporting, and organizational planning.

• Experience working with a Board of Directors and supporting board governance.

• Familiarity with marketing, publication development, social media, website management, and visitor engagement.

• Experience with grant writing, fundraising, sponsorship development, or revenue generation.

• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem solving abilities.

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent professional experience.

• Experience in tourism, economic development, community organization, nonprofit, chamber of commerce, or membership organizations is preferred.

• Ability to thrive in a highly visible leadership role and serve as an effective ambassador for the organization and the community.

Local knowledge is highly desirable

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.

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

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

7

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JULY 9, 2026

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 NOW HIRING DOCK HAND

FULL-TIME POSITION

POLICE OFFICER Requirements • Current Florida Law Enforcement Certification • Ability to successfully complete a background investigation, drug screening, medical exam, polygraph, and psychological evaluation Salary & Benefits • Starting Salary: $75,000 • Full Health & Dental Insurance • Florida Retirement System (FRS) • 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan

We are looking for a Dock Hand with excellent customer service to join our team. You would assist with the daily operations of our marina. Responsibilities include assistance with the daily marina tasks including helping guests arrive and depart from their dock, guiding guests over the radio, navigation, marina amenity cleaning, pressure-washing, assisting guests with golf cart rides and requests, and maintaining the marina.

Send resume to captpips@aol.com or come in the office to fill out application.

1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 CAPTAIN PIP’S IS AN AWESOME PLACE TO WORK, WE TREAT OUR EMPLOYEES GREAT. COME JOIN OUR TEAM!

NOW HIRING!

Email resume to: Chief of Police Jamie Buxton chief@keycolonybeach.net

wants you to join their team!

For more information: 305-289-1212 ext. 1

RETAIL GIFT SHOP ASSOCIATE

City of Key Colony Beach An Equal Opportunity Employer Preference in the selection of vacant positions will be given to eligible veterans and their spouses. The Key Colony Beach Police Department is an EEO employer and a drug- and nicotine-free workplace.

Work with the BEST

Voted BEST BANK 2014 - 2025 Key West

Full-time. $19/hour to start.

EMAIL resume to: TurtleHospital@TurtleHospital.org APPLY in person: 2396 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL

SUNSET GRILLE NOW HIRING

Full Time Teller

BARTENDERS WAIT STAFF - HOST/HOSTESS BUS PERSONS

Marathon

Apply in person at

Customer Service Representative

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

Islamorada Assistant Branch Operations Manager

NOW HIRING • DIVE INSTRUCTOR

Apply Online @ KeysBank.com/Careers

Pay: $160.00 per day Guaranteed Pay + Tips + Commission.

Affordable employee housing available.

FIRSr# srATE

• TOUCH TANK ATTENDANT • GUEST SERVICES

KeysBank.com

Call 305-407-3262 or email info@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com 11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON

MNK

SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!

NOW HIRING! GIFT SHOP (PT, Weekends) VETERINARY TECHNICIAN (Full-Time, Permanent) DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) organization specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.

DRC provides for the well-being of its employees with a competitive package including: a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays/vacation/sick days, an employee assistance program, in addition to, life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee. EOE

COME JOIN THE FAMILY!

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

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

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.

For complete details and to apply, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers

8

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JULY 9, 2026

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

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 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) (FT, PT)

MARATHON

Mental Health Technician Driver (CDL NOT required) (PT) Registered Nurse (PT) Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult, PT) *Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT, PT) *Behavioral Health Technicians (FT, PT) *No experience required for this position. Will train.

A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.

Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip

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.

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

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

OPENINGS AVAILABLE PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

- Medical Assistant, Ortho-Tavernier, $5k Bonus - Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus - Medical Assistant, Cardiology, Upper Keys, $5k Bonus - Medical Assistant, Ortho, Key West, $5k Bonus - Radiology Technologist, Ortho Surgical, Key West, $25k Bonus

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST - Director Nursing Services, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus - Medical Assistant, Outpatient Procedures, $5k Bonus - Patient Access Scheduler, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus - Pool Radiation Therapist

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Chaplain, Chaplaincy Spiritual Care, Per Diem - Clinical Partner, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, $3k Bonus - Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus - Customer Service & Membership Coordinator, Mariners Wellness Center - Exercise Assistant, Mariners Wellness Center, Per Diem - Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem - 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, (CT & X Ray), $25k Bonus - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 2, (Echo & Vascular w/Ultrasound Preferred), $25k Bonus - Pharmacy Technician, Mariners Hospital, $4k Bonus - Pool Clinical Pharmacist, Per Diem - Pool Group Exercise Instructor, Per Diem - Pool Medical Technologist - Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care, $25k Bonus - Registered Nurse, ICU, $15k Bonus - Registered Nurse, Surgery, $15k Bonus - Supervisor Chef, Dietary

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Cook, Dietary, PT - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray), Radiology, $25k Bonus - Phlebotomist, Laboratory, Per Diem, 7A-3:30P - Pool Physical Therapist, Per Diem - Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Per Diem - Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, Various Shifts & Statuses - Registered Nurse, Surgery, $15k Bonus - Registered Respiratory Therapist, $25k Bonus - Registered Respiratory Therapist, PT, $12,500 Bonus - Security Officer, FT, 7A-7:30P - Security Officer, Per Diem All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. *Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.

APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net

THEME: ROM-COMS ACROSS 1. Anti-seniors sentiment 6. Ingested 9. “Lights out” tune 13. *”Sweet” villa (2025) 14. Leo, in Moscow 15. Mood disorder 16. Blooming bulb 17. *It happened on how many nights? (1934) 18. Follow up on (2 words) 19. *Sleepless where? (1993) 21. *Certain London Hill (1999) 23. “____ Te Ching” 24. Future J.D.’s hurdle, acr.

25. Chips accompaniment 28. Tibetan monk 30. Celebrity 35. Please do not delay, acr.

37. S.A.T. section 39. Polynesian island country 40. Scarlet O’Hara’s home 41. Singing femme fatale 43. Rig or truck 44. Artist’s support 46. Italian money, 1861-2002 47. Petri dish gel 48. Like a longer route?

50. ____ Scotia 52. RNs’ org.

53. Morally reprehensible 55. Ensign, for short 57. *Not a wedding (1994) 61. *They were reaping benefits (2011) 65. Silly 66. Gone by 68. Generational divide 69. Oodles 70. Each one for himself?

71. Ouzo flavor 72. A whole lot 73. Pertinent 74. Not rights

DOWN 1. Without further ____, pl.

2. Departed 3. Hip bones 4. *Actor Foley of #13 Across 5. Kind of block 6. Healing gel producing plant 7. *How many days to lose a guy? (2003) 8. 0 and 2, e.g.

9. Diplomat’s forte 10. ____-perspirant 11. One quark plus one antiquark 12. Spilled the beans 15. Dull surfaces 20. Fertile topsoil, pl.

22. Boat propeller 24. Army bathroom 25. *Fifty of these, to jog her memory (2004) 26. Newton of science 27. Dissect 29. *AOL delivery (1998) 31. Org. with a mission 32. Last letter, to Homer 33. *Pretty one (1990) 34. Nigerian money 36. Part of a hammerhead 38. Villain’s rival 42. *When has she been kissed?

(1999) 45. Books, in Paris 49. Langley, VA org.

51. Fauna member 54. Peruvian beast of burden 56. Rive Droite and Rive Gauche separator 57. Hand-to-hand combat weapon 58. Unconstitutional and uncommon have it in common 59. Indian flatbread 60. Odds’ partners 61. Arial, e.g.

62. Naive, alt. spelling 63. Olden days “do”, second person singular 64. Files suit 67. Fall into it