Key West Weekly 26-0903

“He created his own Kool-Aid reality and was able to illuminate himself by it.” — Richard Brautigan, ‘Trout Fishing in America’

September 3, 2026

BABY’S COFFEE CAUSES DOWNTOWN BUZZ

BELOVED COFFEE SHOP RETURNS TO ITS OLD TOWN ROOTS | P. 18

LICENSE PLATE CAMERAS COMING DOWN

SHERIFF RAMSAY CRITICIZES GOVERNOR’S REMOVAL ORDER | P. 4

‘LAUGHIN’ ABOUT ALL THE FUN WE HAD...’

JUST A FEW FRIENDS CELEBRATES BUFFETT WITH NEW EVENTS | P. 17

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

A NEW CHAPTER FOR A KEY WEST DENTAL PRACTICE

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Rebecc a Guzm an and Dr. Om ar Maur izio Altie ri

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ity, Aft e r m a n y y ea rs o f ca ri ng p ra ct ice o f t h e lat e D r. H fo r t h e K e y We st co m m u n ity, t h e e ct o r Gu z m d e nt a l a n h a s e nt e T h e p ra ct ice red a n e w c is n ow u n d e h a pt e r. r t h e own e rs w h o is h o n o hip o f D r. O red t o ca rry m a r M a u ri fo rwa rd t h e co nt in u e s e zio Alt ie ri, fou n d at io n rv in g his pa D r. Gu z m a t ie nt s a n d t n bu ilt a n d h e K e y We st As t h e n e w c o m m u n ity. own e r a n d d e nt ist, D r. t h e pe rs o n a A lt ie ri loo k s f l, co m m u n it o rwa rd t o p re y- f ocu s ed c w hile int rod s e rv in g a re pat ie nt s u cin g n e w t h a v e e c c h o n o log y, ex p a pp roa ch t o a n d ed s e rv ic m e t o k n ow d e nt ist ry. e s, a n d a m od e rn T h e p ra ct ice will m o ve fo rwa rd a s Va t h e sa m e c le nt De nt a l o m m it m e nt o f K e y We st t o ca ri n g fo , wit h r ou r pat ie n We a re g rat t s a n d co m e fu l to R e b m u n ity. e cca Gu z m o f t h e p ra ct a n fo r e nt ru ice t o u s a n st in g t h e n e d loo k fo rwa xt ch a pt e r rd t o ca rry in Wa rm re g a g it s le g a cy rd s, fo rwa rd.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

NUMBER OF THE WEEK KEYS

45

NEWSPAPERS

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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Books written by Theodore Roosevelt, including his autobiography, a biography of Oliver Cromwell and his best-selling personal memoir of the Spanish-American War, “The Rough Riders.”

ON THE COVER This year’s Just a Few Friends festival Sept. 3-7 celebrates the life and music of Jimmy Buffett, with outdoor concerts, a look-alike contest and screenings of the new documentary, ‘Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers.’ See page 17.

MICHAEL OCHS ARCHIVE/Contributed

PLATE CAMERAS – USED TO FIGHT CRIME, FIND THE MISSING – ORDERED TAKEN DOWN Governor’s decision comes with a safety cost, sheriffs say JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

F

or decades, law enforcement agencies in Florida have used a key piece of equipment to track and arrest criminals.

They’re known as automated license plate readers (ALPR), and they’re even used to help locate an abducted child, a missing elderly person or stolen car.

Ongoing national public outcry over the proliferation of these cameras and privacy concerns, however, prompted Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration to revoke all permits for automated license plate readers used by police on state rights of way.

An Aug. 31 memorandum from Will Watts, chief operating officer and assistant secretary for the Florida Department of Transportation, states all automated license plate readers, like Flock Safety cameras, must be removed within 30 days. Those readers not removed within the established timeframe will be removed by FDOT, the memorandum reads.

“While Florida law limits the issuance of permits for LPR systems to law enforcement agencies, the recent exponential increase in deployments along our roadways, coupled with concerning reports of misuse, data privacy concerns and surveillance schemes merit immediate action to preserve Floridians’ sovereignty and quality of life,” the memorandum reads.

Discontinuing the use of ALPRs in the Sunshine State has many Florida sheriffs criticizing the decision made by the DeSantis administration. Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay said the move essentially eliminates the most effective crime-fighting tool for law enforcement.

Automated license plate reader systems are used by law enforcement agencies as a tool to fight crime. They snap photos of a passing car, including license plate number. Police use the searchable logs to look for stolen vehicles or track down suspects.

Generated photo

“They make the community safer. I think in this case, the governor is making a quick, irrational decision that is going to affect the safety of the state of Florida,” Ramsay told Keys Weekly.

“As a result, this will only help criminals and will make communities less safe and secure and make it harder for law enforcement to find abducted children and respond to Silver and Amber Alerts.”

Ramsay said the sheriff’s office has license plate readers on the state right of way, although they’re not the Flock Safety camera brand. But they operate the same: The reader obtains pictures of a vehicle’s license plate and the vehicle. If the owner of the vehicle has an outstanding arrest warrant, the system will notify law enforcement. If the car owner’s license is suspended, it will alert deputies.

“The goal is to get criminals off the streets, so they don’t hurt citizens here or abroad,” Ramsay said.

Days before the Aug. 31 memorandum, DeSantis offered comments

that were critical of automated license plate readers. Much of the attention nationally has surrounded the Flock Safety cameras. More than 7,000 law enforcement agencies use Flock cameras. Some critics, including the American Civil Liberties Union, say tracking every passing vehicle violates personal privacy without individual consent.

“I’m all about having law enforcement to have the tools to hold criminals accountable. But I don’t want to have this become a surveillance state,” DeSantis said during an Aug. 26 press conference at Florida International University. “Whether it’s online with digital surveillance or with cameras, at what point are we just going to be free to not have to deal with any of that? I think it needs to be overhauled for sure.”

Before FDOT’s memorandum went out, and before DeSantis’ comments, a large group of state and national law enforcement associations issued a joint statement on how the technology is used every day in communities across the nation, and more importantly how it saves lives.

“When a child is missing, a trafficking victim is being moved across jurisdictions, or a violent offender is on the road, every minute matters,” the joint statement reads. “ALPR technology gives investigators a critical lead in seconds — helping law enforcement find someone in danger, identify a dangerous suspect or connect a vehicle to a serious crime before that opportunity is lost.”

The joint statement included the Association of State Criminal Investigation Agencies, Major County Sheriffs of America, Major Cities Chiefs Association, National Alliance of State Drug Enforcement Agencies, National Sheriff’s Association and the National High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Directors Association.

For full story see keysweekly.com

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

THE DUCK ON A STICK

KEY WEST BACK IN THE DAY

O

ne of the best birthday presents I ever bought anybody was a duck on a stick.

It wasn’t a decision involving long forethought. After all, a duck on a stick doesn’t instantly leap to mind when you’re seeking the perfect birthday gift for a friend.

However, this was the early 1980s in Key West and my options were limited, because I wasn’t making much money as a part-time waitress. But my friend Bob’s birthday was a big occasion, so the pressure was on.

Bob was an articulate, well-read former social worker whose dignified air hid a deeply skewed sense of humor. He and his wife owned a private compound of four small houses in Key West’s Old Town. They CAROL lived in one and rented out the SHAUGHNESSY other three.

The place was one of those has lived in Key tree-shaded compounds that West for 40-plus existed so unexpectedly in Old years, witnessing and writing Town, hidden behind an unasabout the island’s suming fence, with the houses renegade past, built around a tranquil swimshipwreck salvage ming pool. adventures and The pool was shared by colorful presentday characters. the compound’s residents, but that didn’t stop Bob from spending his afternoons in it … completely naked.

No matter who else was around, he could be found lazing bare-assed in the water — smoking cigarettes, drinking beer and usually reading an action-packed thriller.

At that time, one of the compound’s tenants was Larry Shames, who became famous for authoring a series of Key West novels that blend suspense and offbeat comedy. It’s probably not a coincidence that Larry, then writing the first book in the series, created an unforgettable character dubbed “Steve the Naked Landlord.”

When I headed out to get Bob’s birthday gift, I planned to choose a highbrow spy novel for him.

Instead, for some reason that will forever remain obscure, I bought him a duck on a stick.

1 2

3 1. Much to this quartet’s chagrin, no photos remain of the original duck on a stick.

2. Steve the Naked Landlord (a.k.a. Bob) was immortalized in Larry Shames’ novel, ‘Florida Straits.’

3. During his first visit to Key West, Michael (shown here with his wife Sanna at their Long Island summer home), developed a deep-rooted fondness for Cuban bread. CONTRIBUTED

Handmade and resting on wheels, painted in typical duck colors, it had ridiculous rubber flippers that rotated when it was pushed along via the stick. The duck was goofy, impractical, lacking any redeeming intellectual value — and absolutely irresistible to someone with a secret appreciation for the absurd.

Bob loved it. It stood out as my ultimate success in gifting … until my brother-in-law discovered Cuban bread.

This too happened some 40 years ago, when my sister Sanna and brother-in-law Michael visited Key West for the first time with their family.

Michael and Sanna are sophisticated New Yorkers. They live in a spacious, elegant apartment not far from Central Park, and escape during the summer to a beautiful Victorian home on Long Island. Michael is a former high-powered attorney — a guy who would look genuinely comfortable in a designer three-piece suit.

Yet after his initial trip to Key West, he abandoned his urbane air and carted a loaf of Cuban bread through the Miami airport.

Like so many people who vacation in Key West, Michael fell in love with the sights, colors and authentic flavors of the island — particularly the crisp, floury taste of fresh Cuban bread. When he left after that visit, a loaf left with him, to be enjoyed in the metropolitan sprawl of Manhattan.

So what did I send him for his birthday that year?

A loaf of Cuban bread from his favorite Key West bakery. By some strange coincidence, its long, baguette-like shape fit perfectly in a standard mailing tube. It wasn’t a duck, but it too ranked high as a successful gift.

Bob left the island long ago, although he remains immortalized as Steve the Naked Landlord.

The duck on a stick, unfortunately, never made it into the pages of a suspense novel.

As for me, I widened my list of Cuban bread recipients and still ship loaves to friends and family in several states. After all, there’s no better gift than the authentic flavor of Key West.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

SPCA DOES WAY MORE THAN ADOPTIONS Nonprofit provides animal control via county contract

By Mandy Miles & Alex Rickert

A

proposal to lower taxes should be an easy sell for the politicians and advocates pitching Amendment 3, the sweeping new property tax policy that voters will approve or reject on the Nov. 3 ballot.

Voting “yes” to lower taxes would seem a no-brainer, but Florida’s voters aren’t all convinced. An increasing number of residents, city and county officials, law enforcement agencies, nonprofits and civic organizations oppose Amendment 3, warning that property tax revenues fund essential city and county services, which may have to be reduced or eliminated.

If passed, the amendment will: • Increase the homestead tax exemption for non-school taxes to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028.

• Provide new residents with a smaller exemption until they've lived in the state for five years.

• Cap increases in assessed property value to 5% for non-homesteaded properties — commercial real estate, second homes and vacation rentals.

• Limit how counties and municipalities can spend property tax revenue on public safety, education, infrastructure, natural resource projects and flood control, local bonds, employee retirement and government operations.

“Florida counties, cities, towns, villages and special taxing districts — which include public hospitals — would see a significant reduction in property tax dollars that currently go toward public services,” according to the Florida Policy Institute. “State economists predict that Amendment 3 would reduce local revenue by nearly $12 billion statewide on a recurring basis.”

Most city and county government services — police, fire, ambulance, libraries, parks, infrastructure, social services and more — are funded with property taxes. If that funding goes away, what will replace them? What services will be reduced?

“We oppose the current Amendment 3. … Public safety should never become collateral damage with uncertain fiscal consequences,” Florida’s Fraternal Order of Police said in a statement.

Supporters of Amendment 3 say the measure will save homesteaded

Coast Guardsmen and police officers called animal control officer Noah Fox, who rescued four tiny puppies from under a rock pile in an abandoned lot in Marathon. CONTRIBUTED

residents thousands in taxes and help more people buy homes. They also say the amendment will rein in rampant spending by counties and cities.

Animal control protects people & pets While police, fire and ambulance services are getting much of the attention in the debate, animal control officials in Monroe County are hoping voters make an informed decision when they vote.

“Counties may find themselves having to make extremely difficult choices among valuable services — public safety, fire and emergency, infrastructure, animal control, and many others. Animal control is a service that residents may not fully understand until they need it,” Tammy Fox, executive director of the Florida Keys SPCA, said this week.

“Most people know the FKSPCA for adoptions and sheltering, but they may not realize that we also provide an extensive public safety service for the county,” Fox said. “Our animal control officers investigate cruelty and neglect, dangerous dogs and animal bites, manage rabies quarantines, respond to stray and injured animals and wildlife concerns, assist law enforcement, enforce animal ordinances, and provide safe sheltering for animals that have nowhere else to go.”

The Florida Keys SPCA’s animal control contract is a public/private partnership that benefits both organizations and protects the community, Fox said.

In 2025, Monroe County reimbursed

$1.4 million for animal control services, SPCA leaders told the Weekly.

That same year, the Key West campus responded to more than 80 different bite incidents, they said, all of which required detailed reporting for the Florida Department of Health.

“Property tax relief is understandably attractive to homeowners, but significant changes to how local government is funded can have consequences that deserve careful consideration,” Fox said.

In recent months, animal control officers rescued four tiny puppies from under a rock pile in an abandoned lot in Marathon. In another incident, officers had to remove nine goats, including babies, that were abandoned on a mangrove island off Shark Key, Fox said.

She has compiled research about the benefits of the nonprofit’s partnership with the county. Thanks to the generosity of donors, and grant funding the organization secures, the county doesn’t have to fund certain services and equipment that the SPCA provides, Fox said. County dollars don’t fund the SPCA’s affordable spay and neuter efforts, vaccines and microchips, its events team or adoptions for surrendered animals, among other items.

“If the county chose a different operational model, it would need to recruit, hire, train and retain qualified animal control officers, shelter managers, animal care professionals and veterinary personnel in one of Florida's most challenging workforce housing

markets,” Fox said. “It would also need to replace institutional knowledge, fleet vehicles, shelter equipment, dispatch capability, technology, facilities maintenance, veterinary infrastructure, administrative support, volunteer coordination, grant management and emergency response protocols. It would have to set up, coordinate and manage the island’s community cat and feral cat populations including working with colony managers, population control and/ or surrender for residents who remove such cats from their properties.”

“All of these things are interlinked – you can’t just remove one part of what we do to try and save money,” said Marathon operations director Tara Vickrey. “What we’re doing is operating an integrated public safety system. … It’s thousands of calls, hundreds of reports and citations. If we’re not there doing these things to protect the public, who do people call in the middle of the night or if they’re being chased down by a vicious dog?”

Fox emphasized that no decisions have been made or discussed about changing or ending the county’s contract with the SPCA. “This isn't about opposing property tax reform, nor is it about protecting an FKSPCA contract,” Fox said. “It is about helping our community understand what animal control actually provides and what it takes to maintain the public safety system Monroe County has spent decades building.”

Animal control officers recently were called to rescue nine goats, including babies, that were abandoned on a mangrove key off Shark Key.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

NEW TRAFFIC LIGHT COMING TO NORTH COLLEGE ROAD & U.S. 1 FDOT begins work on signal; temporary lane closures are possible

Florida Department of Transportation crews are installing a new traffic light at the north end of College Road, where it intersects U.S. 1. The work may require temporary lane closures and the light is expected to be finished this winter. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

T

o anyone who spends their days at the golf club, the college or the hospital, this one’s for

you.

Crews are installing a new traffic light at the north end of College Road, where it intersects with U.S. 1 across from Beach Weekend Marina. No more waiting impatiently to turn left onto U.S. 1 — or not waiting and taking your life into your hands with a deathdefying lurch to head north.

The Florida Department of Transportation has started work on the new traffic signal,

which should be finished and functioning this winter. The $1.5 million project includes installation of traffic signals, reconstructing a driveway, improving lighting, repaving and resurfacing and updating pavement markings.

“To minimize impacts to the community, work will be completed in phases,” states FDOT. “Temporary lane closures may occur weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. and at nighttime Sunday through Thursday from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Access to businesses and residences will be maintained at all times. Pedestrian and vehicular detours will be established with clear signage.”

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

A HEARTFELT THANK-YOU TO THE MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY To the Editor: I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank everyone who supported me during my campaign for the Monroe County School Board. Although I did not win the election, I am deeply honored and grateful for the confidence that 7,581 voters placed in me.

Receiving 48.41% of the vote was both humbling and meaningful. I am especially grateful because this campaign gave me the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people throughout the Florida Keys. From Key Largo to Key West, I appreciated the conversations we shared at candidate forums, community events and other gatherings. These meetings gave us an opportunity to talk openly about education in Monroe County, the challenges facing our schools and the opportunities we have to make a difference in the lives of our students.

As a former superintendent, I have always believed that education is one of the most important investments a community can make. Our schools are not simply buildings where children spend their days. They are places where young people develop the knowledge, confidence, skills and character they will carry with them throughout their lives. The quality of our schools affects not only our children and families, but the future of our entire community.

Throughout this campaign, I was particularly touched by the number of people who remembered my years of service in education and took the time to tell me about their experiences. Many people I met already knew me, knew my work or knew someone I had worked with during my career. Their encouragement and support meant more to me than I can adequately express.

Elections are ultimately about choices, and I respect the decision made by the voters of Monroe County. While I would have been honored to serve on the school board, I remain proud of the campaign we conducted and grateful for the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.

Most of all, I want those who voted for me to know that I do not take your support for granted. Every vote represented someone’s trust, and I am deeply appreciative of that trust. To the many friends, educators, parents, community members and supporters who encouraged me along the way: thank you.

It was a privilege to meet you, listen to you and share ideas about the future of education in Monroe County.

I will always be grateful for the experience and for the tremendous support you gave me.

With sincere appreciation, Theresa Axford

11

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

EXCLUSIVE: FANTASY FEST FEATURES

Mike Stack picked to be this year’s parade grand marshal ERIN STOVER www.keysweekly.com

Editor’s Note: T-minus 51 days until the 2026 Fantasy Fest parade. Join the Keys Weekly each week for exclusive Fantasy Fest features highlighting the people and projects behind the island’s biggest annual party.

L

ocal hip-hop artist Mike Stack is about to join a venerable group in Key West — the grand marshals of the Fantasy Fest parades. The first parade took place in 1979 and was, by all accounts, a scrappy and loveable DIY affair. The party quickly scaled up, and in 1983 Tennessee Williams led the festivities as the first grand marshal. Since then, several notable figures have held the reins on that first float, including actress Kelly McGillis (1991), athlete and author Diana Nyad (2013), and paranormal expert David Sloan (2024).

Each has imparted their own flavor into the parade, and Stack looks to be no exception.

When asked how it feels to be approached, his initial reaction is a resounding, “Let’s go! I’m excited to lead the way. I’m about to grand-marshal the heck outta Duval!” Expressing gratitude to the festival organizers, Stack, who is perhaps best known for his song, “I’m from Key West” written with D-Lew, said the phone call felt a bit like being inducted into the hall of fame, especially for someone born and raised in Key West, who has attended Fantasy Fest his entire life. The 2026 theme is “Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals.” Always modest, Stack said he doesn’t classify himself that way but appreciates the festival recognizing his ability to hold a crowd.

After the initial shock wore off, Stack dove right into planning the party. “They told me I can do whatever I want. They shouldn’t tell me that, though, because I’ve got a big imagination.” His vision is essentially a concert that travels the length of

Local hip-hop artist Mike Stack, known for his hit ‘I’m from Key West,’ will lead this year’s Fantasy Fest parade as grand marshal.

CONTRIBUTED

Duval, with fans dancing along with the float the entire way. He’s already recruited sound and lighting techs, a few other local artists and DJs, and his “right-hand man,” D-Lew. As for the fans, he plans to send out a mass text inviting anyone who wants to take to the street that night, to join the moveable show. “We’re going to take over Duval, we’re ready to have some fun. I want to look back and say, ‘Remember that time I was grand marshal?’”

It’s not all parade prep for Stack, though. Just a couple weeks prior to the big event, he’ll be hosting the second annual Stack’d Festival Oct. 9-11.

The weekend features free shows all over town, ranging from a heavily produced concert at Sunset Pier to more casual pool parties, acoustic showcases and nightly DJ sets. The energy he pours into that weekend proves that Fantasy Fest chose the perfect candidate to kick off the biggest party of the year in Key West.

HELP KEEP KEY WEST SEPTEMBER CLEANUPS Join a one-hour Friday morning cleanup. All events are 8 to 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted.

Friday, Sept. 4: Greene & Elizabeth streets. Meet in the Conch Republic Seafood Co. parking lot. Hosted by Just a Few Friends, Reef Relief, Fury & Conch Republic Seafood Friday, Sept. 11: Dead Man's Curve on S. Roosevelt Boulevard. Meet along the seawall. Hosted by Girls Night Out. Friday, Sept. 18: N. Roosevelt at 7th Street. Meet in the GFS & Mt. Sinai parking lot. Hosted by Mount Sinai Walk-In & Diagnostic Center Saturday, Sept. 19: 8-11 a.m.

International Coastal Cleanup at Smathers Beach. Meet in the city-owned gravel parking lot next to Margaritaville Resort. Do NOT park at the hotel.

Friday, Sept. 25: Duval & South streets.

Meet on South Street between Duval and Simonton. Hosted by Southernmost Beach Resort & Tobacco-Free Florida, Monroe County.

The Aug. 28 cleanup was again held on N. Roosevelt Boulevard near the Capitana Key West hotel. Sixty volunteers met at the hotel and spread out to cover the main roadway and side streets. In one hour, they collected 158 pounds of trash, 31 pounds of recycling and 2 gallons of cigarette butts. Special thanks to The Capitana for providing a poolside breakfast for the volunteers.

The Friday, Sept. 4 cleanup will be at Conch Republic Seafood Co. for the kickoff of Just a Few Friends weekend. 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.

12

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES TENTATIVE BUDGET

Superintendent gets rave reviews FRANK DERFLER www.keysweekly.com

M

onroe County School Board members approved a proposed spending plan for the next fiscal year and a millage rate during an Aug. 25 meeting at Coral Shores.

While the millage rate decreased to the lowest number in more than a decade, the 2026-27 proposed budget went up by 3.8%.

The largest part of the increase is going toward teacher and staff salaries and benefits.

The proposed budget of $179,920,680 is an increase of $6.5 million from last year.

The safety and security line item topped $4 million for the first time.

The proposed total millage rate is 2.817, which is 0.13 less than last year, or about $20.82 for every $10,000 of assessed property value. If a taxpayer sees a higher dollar amount on this year’s tax bill, it’s due to an increase in the property’s assessed value.

The board will hold a final budget hearing at Marathon High School on Tuesday, Sept. 8.

In other matters, the school board members completed Superintendent Ed Tierney’s initial performance review. They unanimously commended his knowledge, initiative and leadership. School board members offered scores ranging from 3, meeting requirements, to 5, outstanding on everything from understanding the budget, promoting the district mission, maintaining high ethical standards and improving reading proficiency among young learners.

“Your evaluation was impressive. It was an incredible first year, and incredibly excited for the second year,” school board member Mindy Conn said. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen anybody in their first year get an evaluation like this and I hope you stay with us for a long time to come.”

Board member Darren Horan said Tierney is the “most transparent person you could ever imagine.”

“He’s always available to the community. You look up transparency in the future, and you’ll see a picture of Ed Tierney,” he said.

Chairman John Dick requested the attorney draw up a new contract with the superintendent, extending it another year. School board members are expected to review a new contract at the next board meeting.

“Being here is better than what I thought it would be. We’re thrilled to be here and hope to be here a long time,” said Tierney.

Tierney and Deputy Superintendent Amber Acevedo presented a report on academic performance with special notice of improvements in language arts across the district.

School board member Sue Woltanski noted that some of the statistical gains might have come from a loss of students who were English language learners.

“I’m really proud of the gains that were made, but we’re going to need to know how much of that is a population change,” she said.

Acevedo also pointed out that 64% of the eligible students earn college credit, career certifications or both. The majority of students work and learn well above the typical high school level. Tierney emphasized the importance of good science and math programs with strong teachers in the third and fourth grades because it is difficult to catch up later.

Many students and parents know that Florida’s Bright Futures program, funded by the lottery, can provide tuition assistance as a reward for good test scores, academic performance and community service. The SAT score of 1330, providing full tuition in a Florida state school when combined with other criteria, is a goal for many students.

Tierney emphasized that there are other ways to earn Bright Futures awards.

Students who take advanced placement courses throughout high school can be exempt from the testing requirements for the highest level of Bright Futures awards if they earn a score of three or higher on four AP exams plus specialized research and seminar courses available online. They can earn what is called the AP capstone diploma and receive higher weighted scores on their grade point average.

Monroe County students also can take advantage of dual enrollment with the Col-

School board members gave Superintendent Ed Tierney a glowing evaluation during the Aug. 25 meeting at Coral Shores High School. Keys Weekly file photo

lege of the Florida Keys. This program allows high school students to earn high school and college credits simultaneously at no cost for tuition, registration or standard lab fees.

There are grade point entry requirements.

Some career technical education courses qualify for dual enrollment. Dual enrollment courses have a higher weighted grade point value when figuring the high school GPA. It is possible for students to earn an associate’s degree through dual enrollment that meets the core requirements for Florida colleges and universities.

In this academic year, high school students in the district can begin working toward an advanced international certificate of education (AICE) diploma. The program is popular throughout Florida because the Legislature exempted successful AICE diploma students from the Bright Futures standardized test requirements. Students must successfully complete at least seven AICE courses across specific subject areas.

They also complete 100 hours of approved volunteer service or paid work to receive the full Bright Futures tuition benefit.

Tierney said the AICE diploma option is considered to be more friendly for students. Those in the curriculum can choose courses from different subject groups, along with minimum core requirements, to meet the seven-course goal. At this time, the AICE program is available at Key West and Marathon high schools, with 530 students participating.

13

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

Key West & Cuba’s Museum Quality Regional Art Celebrating Cultural Resilience

Wayne Garcia

END OF SUMMER

SALE 25% – 75% OFF MAKING ROOM FOR FABULOUS NEW ARRIVALS!

Camp Barber, Intaglio, 19 x 11

Wayne Garcia, a third-generation Cuban American, began carving as a boy after watching Key West folk artist Mario Sanchez. His first carving was of his father’s boat.

Today, Wayne preserves Key West’s stories, characters, and history through wood carving. A longtime Key West contractor, he has demonstrated Mario’s traditional carving method at the American Folk Art Museum in New York and Cuba’s National Museum of Fine Arts in Havana—an honor recognizing his craftsmanship and dedication to Key West’s diverse heritage.

Works Available on Approval & Concierge Services from Key West to Key Largo The Gallery on Greene | 606 Greene Street | Key West, Florida galleryongreene.com | 305-304-2323

OPEN DAILY FROM 10 AM TO 5 PM 624 Whitehead Street | Key West 305.735.4674 | Instagram @floatkeywest

14

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 FISHWIFEKEYWEST.COM

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EXPERIENCE TOTAL BODY REJUVENATION. CONTACT WHITE STREET CHIROPRACTIC TO BOOK. White Street Chiropractic Bruce H. Lieske, DC 1217 White Street | Key West 305.292.7222 | www.wschiro.com

17

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

JUST A FEW FRIENDS FESTIVAL BRINGS BUFFETT FILM & NEW EVENTS First-ever look-alike contest set for Friday, Sept. 4

T

he life and legacy of Jimmy Buffett will be honored Sept.

3-7 in Key West, where the singer-songwriter developed the “tropical rock” style and carefree persona that made him a world-renowned musical icon.

“Just a Few Friends Key West” will feature events including a “second line” memorial walking parade, a come-one-come-all Party in the Park, concerts by Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band members and other musical friends, beach parties, insiders’ tales at the Chart Room Bar where he first performed locally, margarita-making classes, showcases by tribute bands, themed walking and trolley tours, onthe-water adventures, and other activities that recall the Key West lifestyle he sang about.

The events are not affiliated with or endorsed by Jimmy Buffett’s Estate or Margaritaville Enterprises.

Buffett, who died Sept. 1, 2023, discovered the island in the early 1970s and lived here during some of his most productive musical years. Key West — and its characters, landmarks and freewheeling vibe — helped inspire some of his most enduring songs, including the classic hit “Margaritaville.”

Many of his lyrics reference Key West locales like Fausto’s Food Palace, Blue Heaven restaurant and legendary bars Captain Tony’s and the Chart Room. In the mid-1980s, Buffett launched the original Margaritaville Store — and what began as a laid-back waterfront enterprise grew into an empire.

“Just a Few Friends” begins Thursday, Sept. 3, with events including Tales from the Chart Room, a “Cheeseburger Beach Battle” competition and oceanfront concert, and an after-party at the Margaritaville Café starring Coral Reefer vocalist Nadirah Shakoor.

Friday, Sept. 4, includes the City of Key West’s “Jimmy Buffett Day” proclamation ceremony outside his Shrimp Boat Sound recording studio — and a behind-the-scenes look at filmmaker Michael Kirk’s documentary-in-progress on the famed studio. That evening, Gary and the Landsharks — who backed Buffett during his surprise 1998 Duval Street concert — will return to recreate the spirit of that performance following a Bubba Look-Alike Show-

LEADERSHIP MONROE COUNTY ANNOUNCES CLASS XXXIV

L Jimmy Buffett lives the true parrothead lifestyle in this photo promoting the opening of the Margaritaville store in Key West.

JEFFREYCARDENAS.COM/Contributed

down, where contestants can channel Buffett’s signature look.

Saturday, Sept. 5, features a waterfront sunset concert by surf-rock storytellers the Wheeland Brothers, sunset sails, and two margarita bar strolls, each featuring 10 bars eager to prove they make the best margarita.

The Second Line Memorial Walking Parade, a procession for fans of Buffett’s music and fun-loving attitude, starts at 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept.

6, in the 100 block of Duval Street.

The march features strolling musicians, colorfully garbed participants, giant Buffett banners and impromptu singalongs.

Marchers will proceed up Duval Street, stop at the original Margaritaville and finish at Truman Waterfront Park for the Party in the Park.

Set for 6 to 10 p.m. Sunday, the free gathering features nonstop live music by performers including longtime Coral Reefer Mac McAnally; Will Kimbrough, co-writer of Buffett’s posthumous hit “Bubbles Up”; and Florida Keys trop rocker Howard Livingston and the Mile Marker 24 Band.

The festival concludes on Labor Day — Monday, Sept. 7 — with two performances by Kimbrough, a “pencil thin mustache” contest, and a waterfront sunset concert by Cayman and the Mango Men that evokes the spirit of Key West’s Buffett era.

The festival alsos supports the Key West community. Souvenir badge contributions have raised more than $75,000 for local causes the past two years, with proceeds benefiting Reef Relief, the Bahama Village Music Program and scholarships through the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys.

More information is at justafewfriendskeywest.com.

— Contributed

eadership Monroe County (LMC), the Florida Keys’ educational nonprofit community leadership organization, has announced the selection of Class XXXIV. Designed for residents in leadership roles across the private and public sectors, government and community organizations, the program produces a monthly series of intensive single- and multi-day sessions throughout Monroe County.

Participants explore key sectors affecting the region — including tourism, the environment, education, government, healthcare, the military, judiciary, law enforcement, emergency management, the arts and media.

Sessions begin Oct. 2-3 in Key West. Each is led by subject matter experts, policy makers and regional leaders, offering participants insights, dialogue on current challenges and networking opportunities.

Founded in 1992, LMC is a nonpartisan, independent nonprofit committed to building a network of informed, collaborative leaders to help guide the Keys toward a stronger future.

Class XXXIV members are: Julie Brown, community outreach specialist, Florida Department of Transportation.

Wayne Bush, investigating officer, United States Coast Guard, Sector Key West.

Wendy Carter, project manager, Monroe County Facilities Development.

Natalie Danko, owner, PhotoDesign by Natalie.

Jennifer DeBoisbriand, planning director, Islamorada.

Randy Detrick, market manager, Mount Sinai Medical Center of Florida.

Arlen Dieguez, JIATFS community engagement and development officer.

Robert Fowler, case manager supervisor, Guidance Care Center.

Christina Geer, health services manager, Keys AHEC Health Centers.

Greg Johnson, lieutenant, station commander, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

Angie Kemmer, regional director case management, Mariners Hospital.

Kris Kennedy, physician, Ret., medical director, treasurer, Womankind.

Andrea Leal, executive director, Florida Keys Mosquito Control District.

Katie Lindback, community engagement & marketing coordinator, Mote Marine.

Adam Linhardt, director of media relations, PIO, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

Rose Littlejohn, founder, Lead and Wellness Coach.

Melina Miller, owner, MKM Digital Marketing.

Manuela Mobley, vice president, marketing & partnerships, Keys Weekly.

Veronica Ornelas, director, member services, Florida Keys Electric Co-Op. Melinda Rice, vice president, premier relationship manager, First State Bank of the Keys.

Jared Rodriguez, councilman, City of Layton.

Melanie Rodriguez, chef storyteller, the Key West Cooking Show.

Charlene White, executive director of finance and performance, Monroe County School District.

Kelly Williams, real estate agent, Coldwell Banker Schmitt; president, Marathon Rotary.

2026-2027 LMC officers are: George Garrett, president; Cheryl Sullivan, vice president; Kathy McKinney, secretary; Bruce Halle, treasurer. Michael Shields is program coordinator.

More information is at www. leadershipmonroecounty.org or via email to mshields@leadershipmonroecounty.org — Contributed

18

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

BABY’S COFFEE IS BACK IN OLD TOWN Iconic coffee shop creates a buzz on Fleming Street MANDY MILES

1

mandy@keysweekly.com

A

buzzy chatter filled Baby’s Coffee Tuesday afternoon on Fleming Street, where curious customers were delighted to find the long-awaited downtown location open, inviting and serving the premium, high-mountaingrown coffee that has been satisfying Key West’s and the Lower Keys’ caffeine cravings for 35 years.

Wait, what? Baby’s Coffee? On Fleming Street? In Old Town? The same Baby’s Coffee from MM 15?

The one with the cool “eye-opening” logo? That’s the one.

Owners Joe Bracciale and Alessandra Torre bought the beloved Baypoint landmark in 2024 from Gary Teplitsky and Olga Manosalvas, who had been roasting, grinding, brewing and serving premium coffee since 1991, when they bought the original Baby’s Bodega at 1111 Duval St. They moved to MM 15 in 1995.

And to think, but for the flip of a coin, Baby’s Coffee would have been Baby’s Barbecue back in 1991.

“Olga and I were buying Baby’s at 1111 Duval St., from Baby Rodriguez in 1991,” Teplitsky recalled last week.

“Olga looked at me and said, ‘Heads coffee, tails barbecue.’ She flipped the coin and here we are. That was the last time I ever took a dare from Olga.”

But that coin flip paid off and carved Baby’s Coffee into a place of permanence in the Lower Keys.

“Every time we leave Key West and head north, we have to stop at Baby’s Coffee, so we’re thrilled they’re now open in Old Town,” customer K.P Agard said on Sept. 1 while enjoying the new location and perusing the merchandise counter of bagged coffee beans (ground or whole), shirts and hats.

“Our focus is always on the locals,” Bracciale said. “Obviously we’re here for the tourists and we love them. Hell, we ship 35,000 bags of coffee to them every month, all over the continent. But the whole business down here is about taking care of the locals.”

To that end, Bracciale and Torre are launching the Baby’s Breakfast Club for locals. They’ve installed a Dutch door that opens onto Bahama Street for easy online ordering and priority pickup.

2 3

4 ”If you’re a local with a local ID or a pay stub, then you can sign up, order online and pick up your coffee from the Dutch door. We know people come in on their way to work and if they peek in and see a line of tourists who aren’t in a rush, they’ll go somewhere else. We don’t want that.”

The new location, right across Bahama Street from Fausto’s Food Palace, is inside a former antique store and has been entirely rebuilt, complete with a new water filtration system to ensure the perfect cup of coffee each time, Bracciale said.

“The water coming into this building goes through three filters and new copper wire,” he said, walking upstairs to what will become a dark wood- and leather-appointed coffee lounge with balcony seating overlooking Fleming Street and huge pieces of history, including a giant Cuban flag from the 1800s and the original doors from the very first Baby’s.

“When we bought Baby’s in Baypoint in 2024, we were customers and we lived at Baypoint. The goal was not to change Baby’s when we bought it. We didn’t want anyone else to come in and change a great thing.

So our goal at mile marker 15 was just not to screw things up. Gary is one of the best-known coffee roasters in the country. I walk around national coffee conferences with this guy and it’s as if I’m with Elvis,” Bracciale said laughing.

“I’m like Joe’s little brother,” said Teplitsy, who still handles the artful alchemy of coffee roasting at both Baby’s locations. He learned the trade three decades ago on Duval Street from two Cuban roasters who came down from Miami to help him roast and develop what would become Baby’s signature Havana Roast and

5

Cuban Roast. Teplitsky made countless cups of coffee perfecting the process.

“Finally, one day, the Cuban roasters tasted what I offered and said, ‘That’s it. Stop. Don’t change a thing,;” Teplitsky said. “From that day on, that was and still is our exact Cuban Roast and Havana Roast.”

Ironically, Bracciale pointed out, actual Cuban coffee — as in beans grown in Cuba — have not been available in the United States since 1963, when the United States imposed a trade embargo on Cuban goods. “Our coffee is 100% high-mountain, Jamaican coffee.”

And Manosalvas, who designed the business’s iconic wide-eyed logo more than 30 years ago, was busy painting a new mural on the wall at Fleming Street this week.

“This location is about bringing Baby’s back home to Old Town,” Bracciale said. “Many people don’t know that Baby Rodriguez originally started at 1111 Duval St.” The original sign that hung over the old bodega now hangs in the window at 418 Fleming St., which is open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. — at least, Bracciale said.

“We’re consistent. We won’t shorten our hours. And we’re open 365 days a year,” he said. “In the coffee business, many of your customers come in five days a week. Those relationships are special and we never forget that.”

For more information and online ordering, visit babyscoffee.com and follow them on social media for updates about the upstairs coffee bar.

1. Alessandra Torre, a New York Times bestselling author, owns Baby’s Coffee with her husband, Joe Bracciale. MANDY MILES/ Keys Weekly 2. Bill Estes recalls his first cup of Baby’s Coffee at the original Duval Street location 30 years ago. He was back for more at the new Fleming Street location.

3. Nurse Nadine Balbi stops into Baby’s after picking up her niece, Reese Rodriguez, 7, and daughter, Kora Rodriguez, 5, from school.

4. Olga Manosalvas, who owned Baby’s Coffee from 1991 through 2024, is still an integral part of the business with her husband, Gary Teplitsky and current owners.

5. Coming soon: A brand new, comfortable coffee bar at Baby’s Coffee, with balcony seating, at 418 Fleming St. CONTRIBUTED

19

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

FIGHTING KIDNEY STONES?

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TREATMENT IS AVAILABLE IN THE KEYS.

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Marathon Weekly PATTI CHILDRESS 305.731.9628

Upper Keys Weekly MANUELA MOBLEY 305.967.9222

Reservations: 305.293.6250 or OpenTable Located at The Reach Key West 1435 Simonton St. Reserve Now

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20

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

WE WILL BE CLOSED FOR THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER, WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU WHEN WE REOPEN OCTOBER 1ST.

We love our locals

Enjoy 30% off our full menu and $15 bottles of house wine with the purchase of an entrée.

All day, every day.

All food. All drinks.

(Yes, even wine.)

Available to local residents with valid ID July 31–September 30, 2026.

Hilton Key West Resort & Marina 5950 Peninsular Ave, Key West, FL hiltonkeywestresortandmarina.com 786 862 6305

Les Steele

Thanks to all for such a wonderful season! It’s time for SUMMER FUN at the PopUp Shop at PocoPelo... the Hottest consignment shop and hair salon in town!

COME BY! a hair salon for women + men

627 Eaton at Elizabeth, next to Hilltop Laundry Salon appointments: call Les at 305 -731- 6557

CELEBRATING 31 YEARS IN KEY WEST! EST. 1995 1029 SOUTHARD (CORNER OF FRANCES) | WWW.CAFESOLE.COM RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED • 305.294.0230

21

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

Keys Kids Health Centers, we made a promise: every Welcome Dr. Zuba! At child who walks through our doors will be seen, heard,

Welcome Dr. Tabassian!

and cared no matter their family's circumstances.

A child's smile is priceless. So is their health. But for too many families, a toothache or a fever brings a quieter fear: what will this cost us? That fear makes parents wait, hope it passes on its own, and sometimes choose between their child's health and the rent or groceries.

We've seen it firsthand, a kindergartner quietly living with a toothache because her parents didn't know where to turn, and couldn't have afforded it if they had.

A small cavity left untreated until it became a painful, costly emergency. Never because a parent didn't care.

Only because they were afraid of the bill.

Dr. Stanley Zuba has spent nearly thirty years as the pediatrician Keys families trust, caring for children at Florida Keys Pediatric & Adolescent Center in Tavernier since 1997. A Fellow of the American Academy of �ediatrics and board�certified since 1990, he trained at Cook County Children's Hospital in Chicago and has served as Medical Director of Island Dolphin Care for over 25 years. Dr. Zuba is now joining Keys Kids Health Centers, continuing his commitment to ensuring every child in the Florida Keys has a doctor who knows them.

A Promise of Health Care for Our Kids!

So we changed the story. Every child we see is treated at no/low cost to their family, before small problems become painful ones. No forms standing in the way, no bill waiting at the end of the appointment, just a child who gets to keep smiling, and a parent who gets to breathe a little easier.

That's what this promise really protects: not just a child's teeth or health, but their family's peace of mind and future. No family should ever have to choose between their child's health and food on the table.

We can't keep this promise alone. It's kept by everyone who believes our kids are worth investing in...every donor, every partner, every person who trusts us with their child's care.

Dr. Lilia Tabassian is excited to join the team at Keys Kids Health Centers, bringing compassionate dental care to children throughout the Florida Keys. A Florida native, she completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Florida and earned her dental degree with honors from the prestigious �arvard School of Dental Medicine, followed by a two-year Advanced Education in �eneral �entistry residency in Nashville, Tennessee. There she developed a passion for public health and for helping young patients feel comfortable and confident in the dental chair. Dr. Tabassian believes every visit is an opportunity to build trust with a child.

Quitting Tobacco T Protects Protects More Than Your Y Lungs You Y Yo u may be eligible for a free Low-Dose CT (LDCT) lung cancer screening through Keys AHEC Health Centers

it tobacco, u q o t s p e your taking st If you're ready investing in you're al alth. future he

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22

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

Healthy

Life

By Dr. Alan Nieder

Men’s Urologic Health

KEY WEST REIMAGINES RAINBOW CROSSWALK — VIRTUALLY Sept. 9 event raises money for high-tech replacement & future plans

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Urologic conditions affect millions of men each year, yet many symptoms go overlooked. Recognizing the warning signs is the first step toward better health.

COMMON UROLOGIC CONDITIONS INCLUDE: Kidney Stones: Cause severe pain; risk factors include dehydration, diet, and family history.

Prostate Health: Prostate enlargement (BPH) and prostate cancer are common as men age. Early screening improves outcomes.

Testicular Cancer: Less common, but most often affects younger men. Awareness and self-exams are key.

Bladder & Urinary Issues: From infections to overactive bladder, these can disrupt sleep and daily activities.

When to See a Urologist: Don’t ignore symptoms— blood in the urine, frequent or urgent urination, pain or pressure in the pelvis, swelling, or unexplained discomfort. A urologist can diagnose and treat these problems, often with minimally invasive options for quicker recovery.

Take Charge of Your Health: Schedule your routine check-ups and have conversations with your doctor about your symptoms today.

To make an appointment with a Mount Sinai urologist, call 305.294.8334 (Key West) or 305.289.2910 (Marathon).

Dr. Alan M. Nieder is the Co-Chief of Urology at Mount Sinai Medical Center. He specializes in urologic oncology, bladder reconstruction, and kidney stone management.

A recognized expert in bladder and prostate cancer, Dr. Nieder has authored over 50 publications and is listed among America’s Top Cancer Doctors by Newsweek.

Key West www.reallygreatsite.com Sponsored by Mount Sinai Key West

The now-iconic photo shows Key West’s rainbow crosswalks at Petronia and Duval streets a week before the state mandated their removal. NICK DOLL/Contributed

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

I

t’s been nearly a year since state workers blacked out Key West’s rainbow crosswalks, as if redacting a document to conceal an identity.

But it’ll take more than blacktop to suppress the island’s identity.

The Key West Business Guild and its nonprofit partner, Gay Key West, will hold a fundraiser on Wednesday, Sept. 9 — the one-year anniversary of the rainbows’ removal — to replace them with permanent reminders of Key West’s LGBT history.

“Key West’s rainbow crosswalk was more than paint on pavement. It became a symbol of our community, our history and the welcoming spirit that has made this island a home for generations of LGBTQ+ people,” states a press release from Gay Key West.

“The colors may have been removed from the street, but the history cannot be erased. Join us Sept. 9 as we remember the past — and help create what comes next.”

The Rainbow Crosswalk Memorial fundraiser will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Bourbon Street Pub, 724 Duval St. The suggested donation is $10.

“Behind the scenes, the Key West Business Guild has been working with the City of Key West on a multistep approach to create a Rainbow Crosswalk Memorial and recognize the broader LGBTQ+ history of Key West,” the release states. “During this fundraiser, we will unveil renderings of several historical placards planned for Duval Street. Owned and managed by the Key West Business Guild, these placards will provide an opportunity for our community to tell our story and

exercise our freedom of speech. The placards will explore the history of Key West’s LGBTQ+ community, including the story and significance of the former rainbow crosswalks.”

The project includes plans for an augmented-reality experience connected to the rainbow crosswalk placard. Visitors will be able to scan a QR code with their phone and, using their camera, virtually see the rainbow crosswalk restored to the street in front of them, the release states.

“While this technology will enable residents and visitors to experience this piece of Key West history,” the group says, “developing and maintaining the AR experience requires a significant investment. Funds raised during this event will help make that technology — and the larger memorial project — possible.”

Each attendee will receive a piece of colored chalk — a small way for everyone to continue adding color to the island. The event will also include a silent auction.

A limited number of businesses will have the opportunity to sponsor one of the historical placards. Four such sponsorships will initially be available. Sponsoring businesses will receive recognition, including their logo on the sponsored sign as well as recognition on the website being developed to host the augmentedreality experience. Any individual or businesses interested in sponsoring a placard may contact Jordan Upchurch at itssocialtimesomewhere@gmail.com.

Scan the QR code to make a donation to the Rainbow Crosswalk Memorial Fund.

23

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

WEEK 1 FUNDRAISER EVENTS

BECOME A ROYAL SPONSOR, DONATE TO THE CANDIDATES DIRECTLY, AND PURCHASE CORONATION TICKETS AT OUR ROYAL KING & QUEEN WEBSITE: WWW.FKSPCA.ORG/DONATE/ROYAL-CAMPAIGN

ALL CANDIDATE FUNDRAISERS FRIDAY 9/4 KICK OFF, 6-8PM @The Key West Theater 512 Eaton Street Meet & greet the candidates, purchase swag, and get full event lists. Performances, cash bar, light bites and air conditioning!

Event is FREE. EVERY TUESDAY FROM 9/8 THROUGH 10/13 Royal Aqua Idol at the American Legion, 6-8pm 803 Emma Street Enjoy the evening as your candidates and Key West's greatest talents all come together for a competitive evening of singing! Cash bar! Event is FREE. WEDNESDAY, 10/14 5-7PM @The Gardens Hotel 526 Angela Street The King and Queen Candidates that raise the most money will win $2500 each towards their campaign thanks to sponsor Queen Kate Miano!

FANTASY FEST KING CANDIDATES 2026 Donations & Events

ANDREW FORESTELL

CARL J. RIECKE

VIBRATOR RACES THURSDAY, 9/10, 6-9PM @MaryEllen's, 420 Appelrouth Lane

RAINBOWS & RHINESTONES TEA DANCE SUNDAY, 9/20, 4-6:30PM @La Te Da 1125 Duval St. In addition to drinking and dancing the afternoon away, we'll also be hosting a Rainbow Fence Painting Party! Auction items also available! Free event.

"BAD SWIMWEAR" TEA DANCE SUNDAY, 9/6, 4-6:30PM @La Te Da, 1125 Duval St. Come dressed in your most outrageous, questionable, or downright bad swimwear and join us for an afternoon of fun at La Te Da. Free event.

www.fkspca.org

VIBRATOR RACES THURSDAY, 9/17, 6-9PM @MaryEllen's, 420 Appelrouth Lane

FANTASY FEST QUEEN CANDIDATES 2026 Donations & Events

Donations & Events

MARLENE KOLODZIEJ

CARRIE GRAVES

BRUSHES, BUBBLES & BIG ROARS: PAINT & SIP WEDNESDAY, 9/16, 6PM-8PM @ Alexander's Guest House 1118 Fleming St. Guided paint-and-sip experience with artist Lance Berry. Tickets are $55, spots are limited!

TEA DANCE @LA TE DA SUNDAY, 9/27, 4-6:30PM @ LA TE DA, 1125 DUVAL ST. Bring your best boogie, and your sparkliest disco flair, and your favorite friends for an irresistible mixer filled with dancing, mingling, and nonstop fun. FREE event.

ROAR CARD RALLY SATURDAY, 9/12, 4PM-7PM @ American Legion, 803 Emma St. Picnic-style food and a $5 drink ticket, an afternoon full of prizes, games, and community fun. $45 Entry Fee in advance or $50 at the door. Spots are limited!

Royal King & Queen Fundraisers are all benefitting the Florida Keys SPCA

Donations & Events

POOL PARTY & CANNONBALL CONTEST SUNDAY, 9/27, 1PM-4PM @ Southernmost Beach Resort Pineapple Pool, 1319 Duval Street Food & drink specials for locals, bring a can or bag of pet food for donation and receive 25% off your bar tab (food & drink). $20 Cannonball entries / free to attend.

24

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

KEYS MEDICAL GROUP WELCOMES NURSE PRACTITIONER

OBITUARY

Amanda DeBoer joins practice with psychiatry specialty

A

Psychiatric nurse practitioner Amanda DeBoer. CONTRIBUTED

manda DeBoer, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, joined the Keys Medical Group Psychiatry practice Sept. 1.

DeBoer is a graduate of Milwaukee School of Engineering, where she earned a master’s degree in nursing, specializing in psychiatric mental health. She will provide diagnostic evaluation, individualized treatment plans, individual and family psychotherapy, family support services, pharmacotherapy, crisis intervention and referrals to community resources.

DeBoer joins Lynda Woods, licensed clinical social worker, at Keys Medical Group Psychiatry at 1200 Kennedy Dr., Suite 1041, first floor, Key West. Appointments may be requested at 305-293-1299 or at keysmedicalgroup.com.

Keys Medical Group is a physician practice offering primary care, cardiology, gastroenterology, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics and sports medicine, otolaryngology, psychiatry and pulmonology.

— Contributed

KEY WEST HONORS ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11 ATTACKS Fire department & firehouse museum hosts memorial MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

I

t’s difficult to believe 25 years have passed since our world changed forever on a Tuesday morning in September 2001.

Anyone old enough to remember Blockbuster and busy signals damn sure remembers where they were, what they were doing and who told them to turn on the TV because our country had been attacked on Sept. 11, 2001.

The terrorist attacks that day killed nearly 3,000 people at the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. and a field in Stonycreek Township, Pennsylvania, where airplane passengers thwarted hijackers’ plans to crash into the White House, instead ambushing the cockpit and crashing the plane, killing all 44 people on board — including the terrorists.

Thousands more — mostly firefighters, police officers and EMTs — have since succumbed to cancer and other illnesses caused by the toxic dust and chemicals they inhaled while working to rescue survivors and recover bodies from the devastation at Ground Zero.

Each year on Sept. 11, the Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum, 1024 Grinnell St., and the city of Key West honor the first responders and all victims of 9/11 at a memorial ceremony.

The museum houses two memorial pieces of the World Trade Center that collapsed when two

Key West’s historic fire bell is struck each year on Sept. 11 at the precise times two hijacked planes hit the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City — 8:46 a.m for the North Tower and 9:03 a.m. for the South Tower.

LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

hijacked planes slammed into the skyscrapers that Tuesday morning.

Key West’s historic fire bell, which once rang in the cemetery to alert island residents of a fire, is struck twice on 9/11 at the precise times the hijacked planes hit the Twin Towers — 8:46 a.m for the North Tower and 9:03 a.m. for the South Tower.

This year’s 25th anniversary commemoration begins at 8:30 a.m. at the firehouse museum. All are welcome to join city officials, local firefighters and first responders.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF SANTY CODINA Santy Codina, 34, of Key West, passed away on July 15, 2026.

Santy grew up in Hialeah and later lived in Key West. He was a barber by trade, but was also an artist, a music maker, a dad and just an all-around, one-of-a-kind person.

Anyone who knew Santy knew he had a BIG personality. He was funny, always ready with a joke or a pun to make people laugh. He had one of the kindest hearts and was always there for the people he loved — and he loved his family so much.

Santy was also the kind of barber who cared about people, not just about getting paid. In his free time, he would give free haircuts to people who couldn’t afford them. Every August, he loved giving underprivileged kids free back-to-school haircuts.

And he never did it for any recognition.

Helping people was just something he loved and wanted to do.

His two daughters, Aliya Madison Codina, 13, and Mila Sky Codina, 2, were his world. He loved those girls more than anything. He worked hard to provide for them and wanted the best for them. Being their dad meant everything to him.

Santy loved drawing and was a talented artist. He also loved making beats and creating music. He could spend hours on hobbies he was passionate about. More recently, he enjoyed playing World Warcraft. He also loved watching basketball and football.

There are so many little things about Santy that are going to be missed. His jokes. His personality. His laugh. The way he could make a room feel different just by being in it. He was not perfect, but nobody is. He was Santy, and there will never be another.

Most of all, he was loved. He loved his family, and his family loved him right back.

His girls will grow up knowing how much their dad loved them. His family and friends will keep the memories, the stories, the jokes and all the little things that made him who he was.

Santy was taken from this world far too soon. He will always be loved, always be remembered, and he will always be a part of his girls and of the family he adored.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

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

T

he Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus.

From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.

The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC. Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.

Chewy is a 7-year-old boy with an apricot coat and a soft heart. His calm and loyal nature makes him a perfect companion. Chewy is searching for a family dedicated to his well-being and health. He does have a heart murmur that is causing him no issues currently.

A cardiac evaluation is recommended after adoption to help keep him feeling his best. Despite this, Chewy remains full of love and ready to enjoy life with a family by his side.

Meet Emmanuel. This 6-year-old old guy really likes people and wants you to help him open the snack container. He will gladly let you pet him in exchange for some treats. He can be found spending his afternoon in a warm sunny spot.

Once you pay attention to him, he’s all yours. He gets along well with others and has a lot of patience for treats.

Rex, the beagle, is tricolor sweetness.

At 11 years old, he still loves to go on walks where he stops to smell the roses, and the grass, and the bushes and, well, everything. Rex likes to play and can offer you a high five and can roll over. He entered the shelter with his sister Chloe and if possible, but not necessary, they would like to be adopted together.

This handsome kitty has three names: Meowchael Clark Duncan, but most importantly, he’ll have your heart. Meowchael is 6 years old and has been on a weight-loss journey. He’s feeling better than ever and is ready to start the next chapter of his life in a loving forever home. This guy is very friendly and loves to socialize and soak up attention from his humans. Meowchael has worked hard to become his happiest, healthiest self, and now all he needs is a family.

Meet Ms. Pepper. This adorable greyand-white girl is ready to wiggle her way into your heart. Nearly 2 years old, she’s a charming little companion with plenty of personality. Hamsters make wonderful pets for those looking for a smaller companion. With the right care and gentle handling, they can form a special bond with their people.

SPCA OFFERS FREE PET VACCINES IN LOWER & MIDDLE KEYS

Grant from Banfield Foundation makes immunizations possible

T

he Florida Keys SPCA will provide free vaccinations for pets in the Lower and Middle Keys.

The immunizations are made possible by a Community Care grant from the Banfield Foundation, a national nonprofit organization that provides millions of dollars annually for preventive veterinary care to animal welfare partners, including the Florida Keys SPCA, for pets in need.

The grant is part of the foundation’s commitment to helping organizations like the Florida Keys SPCA make preventive veterinary care possible by funding resources, including vaccines that combat preventable yet deadly diseases. This initiative ensures financial barriers don’t stand in the way of pets’ health.

Through this grant, the FKSPCA will be preventing the spread of rabies for both cats and dogs, parvovirus, distemper, adenovirus and leptospirosis in dogs as well as panleukopenia and feline leukemia in cats, the most prevalent deadly diseases affecting pets. There is a critical need for free pet vaccine clinics in communities like the Middle and Lower Keys and the local SPCA is grateful for its partnership with Banfield Foundation to supply vaccines to those who need them most.

The free vaccines, to be distributed at wellness clinics

from Key West to Marathon, including mobile clinics, will be rabies, DHPP, bordetella, leptospirosis, FVRCP and FELV vaccines. Wellness clinics will also provide other services such as heartworm and FIV/FeLV testing, and microchipping at the regular rates.

“Banfield Foundation’s partnership allows us to bring lifesaving vaccines directly to pet parents at no cost,” said Tammy Fox, FKSPCA executive director. “This partnership will provide our local pet owners who cannot afford this service access to free vaccinations, ensuring the health and wellness of our community’s pets.

Access to preventive care is critical. When we remove barriers, more pets stay protected — and that benefits our entire community.”

Pet parents who haven’t had access to vaccines due to financial strain, who are facing cost barriers to pet care and not yet connected to routine preventative services, can now receive the required or necessary vaccinations, regardless of income.

More information is available from the Florida Keys SPCA at jennifer@fkspca.org or 305-294-4857. More information about the foundation is at banfieldfoundation.org.

— Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

LIGHT UP THE SKY

TDC to fund Independence Day fireworks displays across the Keys

WHAT’S COOKING, KEY WEST? Cuban coffee adds zest to caffeinated martinis CAROL SHAUGHNESSY www.keysweekly.com

L Fourth of July fireworks displays throughout the Florida Keys, like this one in Key West, will receive a standing $25,000 in funding from the TDC moving forward.

KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

F

ireworks shows across the Florida Keys are getting a boost from the Monroe County Tourist Development Council in 2027 and beyond.

At the council’s Aug. 24 meeting, members voted unanimously to set aside $25,000 per year for each of its five tourism districts to help pay for Independence Day fireworks shows on July 3 and 4, a compromise reached after District Advisory Committee (DAC) 1 declined to recommend funding for a Key West celebration.

The Rotary Club of Key West had asked the TDC for $75,000 as a “turnkey” event — $45,000 for fireworks and $30,000 for marketing — but the application scored too low with DAC 1 to advance. While some attendees attributed the denial to confusion throughout the process, others pushed back, stating the “application simply did not score well enough to be funded.”

Board members debated whether overriding the work of the DAC’s funding recommendation would set a poor precedent and appear unfair to other applicants.

“What I don’t want to see us doing is an end-around where something was already decided,

and then we’re making a consideration,” said DAC 1 chair Steve Robbins. “It has nothing to do with fireworks, it’s about every application that fails to score accordingly.”

Instead, the board proposed a broader solution with unanimous support: a flat $25,000 for each DAC, earmarked for Fourth of July fireworks celebrations.

They clarified that while the approach mirrors a $15,000 annual donation from the Key West Airport to the Rotary Club or Chamber of Commerce in each district in support of Independence Day celebrations, the new funding would not affect that existing amount.

While supportive of the new funding, board chair Diane Schmidt reminded the council that the shows wouldn’t necessarily put new “heads in beds” and market the island chain – widely recognized as the goal of the TDC. “(But) I think the visitors that are here enjoy the fireworks, and they would expect it at any destination they go to,” Schmidt said.

“This is a way for the TDC to give back to our local families, who sometimes don’t have a very positive view of the TDC or tourist dollars,” said board member Robyn Still. “That would be a way for us to build some relationships.”

ocated closer to Cuba than to the U.S. mainland, Key West began welcoming its Cuban neighbors in the early 1830s.

Many were cigarmakers, and the city’s first cigar factory opened in 1831. By the mid- to late-1800s, Key West was known as the cigar manufacturing capital of the world.

The cigar industry eventually moved its headquarters elsewhere, but a significant Cuban population remained to enrich the island city. Today, the Cuban influence is reflected in everything from landmarks and historic sites to food and drink preferences.

Dishes like ropa vieja and mojoinfused roast pork top the menu at multiple island eateries, and scores of Key West residents start their day with sweet café con leche or a tiny bucci, loosely translated as highly caffeinated Cuban espresso.

Some days, however, the energy jolt delivered by a morning bucci just isn’t enough — which explains the popularity of the espresso martini at local hotspots like the Key West Cooking Show’s Bar 1. While the caffeinated cocktail didn’t originate on the island, it was quickly embraced by savvy bartenders and patrons who needed a happy-hour boost.

The basic ingredients are vodka, espresso liqueur that blends the flavor of cold-brewed Cuban-style espresso with a hint of dark chocolate and caramel, vanilla simple syrup and a pinch of espresso salt.

Mixologists at Bar 1, a welcoming establishment at 291 Front St., also add an ingredient that locals love: bold and potent espresso from the island’s Cuban Coffee Queen, often called America’s southernmost coffee roaster. The resultant concoction is served in a stemmed broad-bowled coupe glass and garnished with three espresso beans.

Despite its Cuban soul, the energyinducing martini was actually born in London in the 1980s. According to cocktail lore, Soho Brasserie bartender Dick Bradsell developed it after a famous model requested something intoxicating yet invigorating. The offering he created, with its sophisticated presentation and caffeinated kick,

A Bar 1 patron enjoys an espresso martini made with a jolt of caffeinated goodness from Key West’s Cuban Coffee Queen. KEY WEST COOKING SHOW/Contributed

became the go-to choice for London’s fashionable crowd.

Today it’s equally popular at Bar 1, where it revives tired patrons, and at the Key West Cooking Show’s Monday night trivia sessions — where players seeking a competitive edge hope it will boost their brain power.

The coffee-centric drink isn’t the only specialty martini served at Bar 1. Other much-requested selections include the Key lime martini, a liquid salute to Key West’s favorite citrusflavored pie. The luscious libation features vodka, Key lime pie liqueur, vanilla-citrus liqueur and fresh lime juice.

Because the actual pie is nestled in a graham-cracker crust and typically topped with whipped cream, the martini features alcohol-infused whipped cream and is served in a glass rimmed with graham-cracker crumbs.

It may not be caffeinated, but — like the espresso martini — it’s an ideal drink for toasting Key West’s colorful heritage.

LAST CALL Drink of the month: Cherry Almond Biscotti. Even alcohol-free mocktails can carry a caffeinated kick.

Bar 1’s zero-proof delight features espresso, almond-based orgeat syrup and house-made cherry syrup for a sweet wake-up call.

Explore a non-cocktail sensation.

Learn to prepare the perfect Key lime pie, the Florida Keys’ fabled signature dessert — and enjoy a slice. For more information about the lime treat, and a schedule of pie-making demonstration classes, visit keywestcookingshow. com or call 305-294-COOK.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

A double-crested cormorant seen in the Keys. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

What’s your favorite fun fact about cormorants?

— The Long Haul Swimmer.

I don’t know if it counts as a fact, but my favorite thing about cormorants is their eyes. I saw a couple thousand doublecrested cormorants before I clued in on their eyes, which are MARK the color of emeralds, the color HEDDEN of the most beautiful limpid green pool in the world’s most ... is a photographer, writer, and magical place, the color of the semi-professional reason to live. It’s like serenity birdwatcher. He in hue. has lived in Key I also love their dotted eye West for more ring, which brings a little more than 25 years and may no longer drama to their look. be employable in I suppose my favorite fact the real world. He about them is they swim better is also executive than they can fly. They swim director of the better than a lot of fish because Florida Keys Audubon Society. they have to in order to not starve. Also, I love the fact that in the winter, when large flocks gather and hang out in the ocean, you can sometimes see them flying en masse along the horizon and they look like a single entity. In olden times, before fast boats and high quality optics, these undulating flocks were sometimes thought to be sea monsters.

Do mockingbirds actually want a piece of my dog or are they just posturing? — Woman with a dog goin’ crazy on Caroline Street.

Northern mockingbirds don’t so much want a piece of your dog, they want the dog out of their territory, because they are ramped up on hormones and have a nest nearby. They perceive dogs as predators. Which some dogs can be. (Though of course not yours. Or mine.)

What tools does a mockingbird have to chase a dog away? Aggression, annoyance and whatever violence they can inflict. I mean, there’s a lot of bluff and bravado in there, but they will on occasion fly down and poke at a dog, or pull on the occasional ear or bit of fur. A mockingbird’s physical bravery is pretty damn impressive when you consider the fact that a one-and-a-half ounce bird won’t hesitate to take on a 60-pound dog.

It’s not just dogs. They will go after hawks and ospreys that get too close. And humans. I once found a chick that fell out of the nest, and I was using a ladder to put it back, and the whole time the parent of the chick kept zooming in and yanking on my ponytail.

The good news is breeding season is almost over, and their territoriality will soon end. At least until next spring.

Why are birds so judgy? — Nick the aptly named Oh, you know, Nick. You know very well. And you know they are right.

What are the best weeks in the Lower Keys for the upcoming fall migration, where are some people spots to see the migrating birds, and are there any migration watch events coming up? — Da Do Ron Ron I haven’t managed to make it over to Fort Zachary Taylor of late — life keeps getting in the

ASK THE BIRD GEEK: EVEN MORE QUESTIONS ANSWERED

way — but by the sounds of the birds chipping in our mahogany tree, the songbird migration has already begun. It will last through mid-September, possibly later, birds making up their own schedule and all.

The two best spots in the Keys to see migrating songbirds are Fort Zach and the Key West Botanical Garden. Indigenous Park on White Street can be good, too, but it’s hard to know when it is open.

We also get a pretty big hawk migration in the Keys. I feel like a broken record saying this, but Marathon consistently gets more migrating peregrine falcons than any place on the planet.

Without a doubt the best place to see, and learn about, migrating hawks, falcons, eagles and other birds of prey is the Florida Keys Hawkwatch which is located in the campground at Curry Hammock State Park in Marathon. And there will be counters working there this year from Sept.15 through Oct. 31, and they always love visitors.

How common are hummingbrids in Key West? I have not seen one yet! — A Gal named Su We get ruby-throated hummingbirds in the Keys, but they don’t breed here, so you won’t see them in the summer. A lot of them pass through during migration, and a few of them stay over the winter.

I do see them on the regular, but I spend a lot more time staring into bushes than the average Joe. Some people in the Keys put up hummingbird feeders and get them to come to their yard, but I am not one of those people. I have hung up a series of nectar-filled feeders hoping to get regular visitations from those crazy-fast flapping little beasts, but they never come and I always end up feeling sad and rejected.

I’ve considered therapy to assuage these unpleasant feelings, but the better and cheaper route would be to plant things with red flowers in our yard. Hummingbirds live jacked up on nectar, and apparently plants with red flowers have some

damn fine nectar. Fire bush is one of the plants they like. Also Hong Kong orchids. So if you’re roaming around town, keep an eye on things with red flowers.

What is the difference between gulls and terns, and why are they equally annoying?

— Rock House Heather Gulls and terns are all members of the larid family. But terns are definitely the classier cousins, the ones who go to the fancier schools, the ones who are into all the cool bands you won’t know about for another five years.

I don’t have a lot of disdain for gulls, but I get how you could. I do have a talk I’ve given a time or two called “Laughing Gulls Are Assholes,” but that’s just laughing gulls. Who are assholes. I’m okay with herring gulls, lesser black-backed gulls, ring-billed gulls, Bonaparte’s gulls, and any of the other ones that show up in these parts. They are omnivores and opportunists. Most of them are just trying to live their lives the only way they know how.

But how the heck can you be annoyed by terns? They live some of the most upright and proper avian lives out there. They’re pescatarians, so they don’t hang around garbage dumps and landfills. They catch their own food in the ocean.

Their calls have about a third of the decibels of gulls. They don’t poop on people at the beach or steal unattended sandwiches and french fries.

As far as looks go, where gulls can look mottled and vague, terns have definitive looking plumage made up of well-defined white, blacks and grays. Where gulls have dull, rounded wings, terns have sharp pointed ones. Where gulls have dull, rounded bills, terns have sharp, often brightly colored, pointed ones. Where gulls live lives of opportunism along the path of least resistance, gulls live lives of adventure and forbearance and self-sufficiency.

Gulls are the Goofus to the terns’ Gallant. They are not equally annoying at all, madam. Not at all.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

STOP AND SMILE We made it through another eclipse season. What CHRIS major shifts have taken place McNULTY in your life? What new trajecis an astrologer, tory do you find yourself on? wanderer, barEclipse season is like a tectender and tonic shift in our life stories. advocate for During this eclipse season, queer justice. He is a loquacious we saw devastating flooding, Gemini with a impactful elections and the cozy Cancer loss of beloved cultural icons. rising. Find him at Each of us went through hearthandheraldpowerful changes at the inastrology.com dividual level as well, and we are now in the integration phase as we accustom ourselves to our new environments. This week, our boundaries and focus take center stage. We will see the bounty of our hard work, but we will also experience frustration in our inability to get things done. Paradoxically, there is growth, but stymied movement. Both Jupiter and Mars are forming configurations to Saturn, which is currently retrograde in Aries, a position that weakens its influence. We may be noticing that our boundaries are rather porous, our standards are lowered and our focus is drifting. That’s par for the course with Saturn in Aries.

Our diminished ability to maintain firm boundaries and routines is allowing us to experience greater joy and abundance, but it is also preventing us from moving forward and asserting our will. This is a good week to let your guard down and celebrate what is right in front of you. Let go of the control and let the light in.

Here are your horoscopes for this week’s transits. Read for your rising and sun signs.

VIRGO Aug. 23 - Sept. 22 As someone actively invested in the community around you, it’s a good time to restructure your investments of time and energy. How can you reorganize your commitments in a way that works for you? You are probably feeling frustration with friends and joyful abundance in your solitude. Follow that energy and enjoy your time alone. It will help you prioritize.

LIBRA Sept. 23 - Oct. 22 You are shimmering, Libra. Your energy is magnetic right now. Your friends and supporters are showing up big time, and helping you work through the boundary adjustments with an important partner in your life. Work is a bit frustrating and causing some strife with your partner, but focusing on the joy that emerges with friends will clear the air.

SCORPIO Oct. 23 - Nov. 21 There are adventures you want to take, but now is not the best time to be acting on that impulse. Rather, it is a great time to be working because there is great abundance to be had. Putting your head down and focusing on repetitive action may frustrate your need for novelty, but it will also get you where you are trying to go.

It’s OK to find enjoyment in your work, and it’s there for the taking.

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22 - Dec. 21 Oh, the places you’ll go, Sag. Your creativity is opening doors for you that you didn’t even imagine a few months ago. Follow the opportunities. Your craft needs you to practice and fine-tune it, but don’t be so controlling that you prevent the joy from seeping in. You may be frustrated by some financial arrangements, but this week is about saying yes to new experiences.

CAPRICORN Dec. 22 - Jan. 19 You are restructuring your home and family life, but it is causing some agitation with an important life partner. That’s OK. Frustrated moments are opportunities to increase clarity. These changes at home are helping you to find joy and abundance in your investments. The more you give, the more you get right now, so be as generous as possible to see the returns.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20 - Feb. 18 You may notice your normal surroundings feel a bit constrictive at this time. You may even feel a bit of cabin fever, as if you can’t even engage in your normal routines. The more you want to get things done, the worse the claustrophobia feels. Your partner is your best source of relief and joy, whether that person is a romantic love, a good friend or a business partner. They will open up your communication and release the tension.

PISCES Feb. 19 - March 20 The more you find joy in creating routines in life, the more abundance you will discover financially. This isn’t hard-nosed rule-following, however. You are seeking a daily routine that allows you to flow, and the energy that opens up will invite more abundance into your life.

You are probably feeling stifled creatively, but focusing on your daily habits instead of creative output is your best bet now.

ARIES March 21 - April 19 Are you feeling frustrated at home? It seems there’s an anxious energy at home that you just can’t shake, and it is making you feel a bit unmoored. That’s OK. Channel that frustrated energy into something creative and you will find your bearings. As you engage in artistic or creative activities, you will find that your sense of self will come back into focus. Get making!

TAURUS April 20 - May 20 It is quiet time for you, Taurus. Spending time at home is so beneficial for you right now, allowing you to find peace in solitude. Your meditative space is asking you to give it some structure. You may find that your local community is particularly frustrating at the moment, as if there’s just too much of the same thing. But stepping away into your quiet retreat will help diminish that frustrated energy.

GEMINI May 21 - June 20 Your community and social circles are where you’ll find the most delight right now. Connecting with local groups and neighbors will bring much-needed warmth and fresh ideas. Financial anxieties or budgeting roadblocks might feel like a buzzkill, but don’t let temporary money tension keep you separated from others. Your network can remind you how supported you are.

CANCER June 21 - July 22 You might feel like you’re slamming your foot on the gas and the brakes at the same time.

Personal frustration or restless energy is real this week, Cancer. Shift your focus toward your career and public life. Your professional world is primed for joyful wins and recognition. Focus on your personal values, find joy and levity in them, and you will see exactly how that translates into abundance at work.

LEO July 23 - Aug. 22 You are experiencing a major cosmic glowup, and you are embodying joy and magnetism right now. However, hidden friction might bring up some self-doubt or a sense that behind-thescenes fears are holding you back. Don’t let quiet insecurity prevent you from taking the adventures that are being offered. Step boldly into the opportunities in front of you.

38

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

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SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

THE SCOREBOARD

AUG. 24 - 30

Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Coral Shores

Volleyball

Marathon

8/25

W, 3-0

Key West

Volleyball

Marathon

8/26

W, 3-0

Coral Shores

Volleyball

South Homestead

8/27

W, 3-2

Coral Shores

Football

Westminster Academy

8/28

L, 42-20

Key West

Volleyball

Westminster Academy

8/28

W, 2-1

Key West

Volleyball

South Fork

8/28

L, 2-0

Key West

Football

Palmetto

8/28

L, 35-7

Key West

Volleyball

Wellington

8/29

W, 2-1

Coral Shores

Volleyball

South Fork

8/29

L, 2-0

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Christina

RICE

Sophomore, Key West High School Swimming

SEPT. 03 - 10

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

9/3

Coral Shores

Volleyball

@ South Dade

5:30 p.m.

9/3

All Keys Schools

Cross Country

@ FNU Invitational

4 p.m.

9/4

Marathon

Football

Oxbridge Academy 7 p.m.

9/4

Marathon

Volleyball

Horeb Christian

4 p.m.

9/4

Coral Shores

Football

@ Pine Crest

7 p.m.

9/4

Coral Shores

Volleyball

Tourney Opponent 3 p.m.

TBA

9/5

Key West

Football

@ Miami Jackson

9/5

Coral Shores

Volleyball

Tourney Opponent 8 a.m.

TBA

9/8

Marathon

Volleyball

International Studies

5 p.m.

5 p.m.

9/9

Key West

Swimming

@ Wellington

3 p.m.

9/9

All Keys Schools

Golf

@ Ocean Reef

Noon

9/9

Key West

Volleyball

Coral Shores

5:30 p.m.

9/10

Coral Shores

Swimming

Westminster

4 p.m.

9/10

Coral Shores

Volleyball

@ Silver Palms

4 p.m.

9/10

Marathon

Volleyball

@ Pinecrest Prep

5:30 p.m.

Although she is only in her second year, Christina has a natural talent for swimming, a strong competitive drive and a genuine desire to lead and encourage those around her.”

– Conchs coach Lori Bosco

ST 1

place 50-yard freestyle

ON THE COVER

SEPTEMBER 3

Coral Shores’ Bella Villalba goes up for a kill against Marathon in the Keys teams’ matchup on Aug. 25. The Hurricanes prevailed 3-0. See page 8. NATALIE GOODWIN/ Keys Weekly

ST 1

Christina Rice wasted no time making her mark for the Conchs this season. Last week, the sophomore was a dominant force in the pool, earning a pair of first-place finishes in each of Key West’s two meets.

“Christina Rice is a returning swimmer who has made an immediate impact for the Conchs,” said coach Lori Bosco. “She earned first-place finishes in the 50-yard and 100-yard freestyle in both meets and has been a key contributor to our relay teams.”

With four individual wins in just two meets and contributions to Key West’s relay efforts, Rice has established herself as an early-season standout and is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

place 100-yard freestyle

Photo by ROCKY GONET/Keys Weekly

4

tracy mcdonald SPORTS WRITER

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

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West.

Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

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Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

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Business Development

Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com Manuela C. Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

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Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

TOUGH TESTS

Conchs and Hurricanes battle loaded opponents as Dolphins prepare for a rematch

K

ey West football got off to a late start on Aug. 28 as the Conchs awaited what was scheduled to be a 7 p.m. kickoff against the Tigers of Palmetto High School.

It turned out to be a late night for both teams, especially the Tigers, who made the trip to the Southernmost City from Bradenton.

That trip would prove well worth their time, however, as the Tigers drove home with a 35-7 win over the Conchs after nearly two hours of lightning delays pushed the start to just before 9 p.m.

Key West coach Johnny Hughes was well aware that the Tigers were stocked with talent. What he did not fully appreciate was the bonus Palmetto received when Booker High School’s varsity football program folded for the season and athletes there landed at nearby programs, including some top-notch talent at Palmetto. Booker’s program issues stemmed from recruiting violations, but the fallout ultimately strengthened

neighboring rosters, leaving the Conchs facing an even more formidable Palmetto squad than anticipated.

From a 6-foot-5 quarterback to a 6-foot-3, 250-pound receiver and comparably imposing tight end, the Tigers dominated up front. And despite Key West’s own sizable defensive line, Palmetto proved to be the stronger force last week.

“They were loaded,” Hughes said of the Tigers’ roster, which included a slew of Division I commits.

It was not all doom and gloom for the Conchs, though. Junior Matthew Oviedo scored Key West’s lone touchdown on the ground, and this week’s matchup, the Conchs’ first district test, should offer a much more evenly-matched opponent.

The Generals of Miami Jackson will host Key West in the first of a three-week road series for the Conchs.

“We match up well,” Hughes said of the Generals.

Graphic Design

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

MARKET EDITORS

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

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1 2

5

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

David Beltran

Jack Brown

3

5 4

7 6 1. Xavier Perez (1) stops a Palmetto Push.

2. Kelly Kasper (51) gives chase to Kemari Hinds (8).

3. Matthew Oviedo (5) pushes through Benny Williams’ (25) tackle.

4. Matthew Oviedo (5) tries to break the Tigers’ defensive line.

5. Roman Van Loon (13) breaks into Tiger territory.

6. Roman Van Loon (13) escapes Josh Tresalu’s (44) clutches.

7. Allens Alexandre (50) takes a much needed water break 8. Coach Hughes gives a pep talk.

8

Photos by Natalie Goodwin and Rocky Gonet

CORAL SHORES Coral Shores hosted Westminster Academy Aug. 28, holding its own against a team projected to remain a powerhouse among South Florida’s smaller schools.

The Lions jumped out to an early 14-0 lead, but some tough defense and an 8-yard touchdown run from Kevin Williams Jr. opened the gates for Coral Shores. On the Lions’ next possession, Hurricane Jack Brown tackled Westminster’s quarterback in the end zone for a safety, and Charles Royal capitalized on the Hurricanes’ momentum with a 3-yard scamper into the end zone to tie things up.

Marco Gudino’s quick interception made it look as if the comeback might turn into a reversal of fortunes for Coral Shores, but one play later, a fumble led to a Westminster touchdown just before the half.

In the final two quarters, David Beltran powered through the Lions’ defense for an 8-yard touchdown run, but Westminster tacked on three touchdowns of its own, making the final score 42-20 in favor of the Lions.

The Hurricanes racked up 316 yards on the ground, including 179 from Beltran, who also caught a 16-yard Sterling O’Keefe pass to finish just five yards shy of 200 all-purpose

yards. Royal gained 86 yards on 12 carries, while Williams added 58 yards to the team total. ’Canes coach Ed Holly was proud of his team’s tenacity, particularly its unwillingness to give up after falling behind.

And though the Hurricanes now stand at 1-2, Coral Shores remains undefeated in league play and has the potential to make a deep postseason run if the ’Canes can eliminate some mistakes and continue their upward trajectory.

“We played better week three than week two,” Holly said. “We played better on offense, defense and special teams. This has been a great learning experience for us.”

This week, Coral Shores hits the road for Pine Crest, where the Hurricanes will look to stop the Panthers’ strong spread offense.

“If we can tackle in the open field, it’ll be a great game,” Holly said. “If not, it’ll be a long night.”

MARATHON The Dolphins had an early-season bye last week, but return to action at home against Oxbridge Academy in a rematch of their spring classic. In that contest, the ThunderWolves escaped with a one-point win, giving Marathon plenty of reason to believe this week’s rematch could be another exciting one.

6

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

OFF THE BLOCKS

1 2

3

Key West swimmers dive into the season with a pair of home meets

K

ey West dove into its season with a pair of home swimming meets on Aug. 28 and 29. For their home opener, the Conchs dispatched the Pirates of Port Charlotte in both boys and girls competition.

The Lady Conchs outscored the Pirates 81-23, with strong times and performances from a talented group.

Mary Searcy, Amelia Korzen, Georgia Houze and Christina Rice started things off with a win in the 200-yard medley relay.

Rice went on to anchor the winning 200 freestyle relay alongside Houze, Korzen and Veronica Ter Azaryan, then beat out a large field of individual competitors in the 50 and 100 freestyle events. Rice finished those races in 26.27 and 58.50 seconds, respectively.

Houze won the individual 200 IM in 2:45 and the 100 butterfly in 1:18. Korzen picked up an individual win in the 100 breaststroke with a time of 1:19, while Searcy won the 100 backstroke in 1:23.

Taylor Thomason went the distance in the 500 freestyle, finishing in 7:22, then teamed up with Ter Azaryan, Summer Smith and Morgan Kennedy to win the 400 freestyle relay.

The boys team sent the Pirates off the plank, outscoring Port Charlotte 88-8. Blake Southgate, Hugo Blinckmann, Haven Andrade and Max Blinckmann got the Conchs on the scoreboard first with a win in the 200 medley relay.

1. Key West swimmers sing the national anthem prior to their home opener against Cooper City.

2. Mary Searcy (lane 4) and Charlotte Murray (lane 6) take off in the girls 200 medley race.

3. Mary Searcy shouts words of encouragement to a teammate.

4. Filip Hrabec edges out a Cooper City competitor at the Conchs’ home meet.

5. Hugo Blinckmann holds up the length number for a teammate in the 500 freestyle event.

6. Kennedy Morgan dives in for her race against Cooper City.

7. A crew of Lady Conchs dives in.

JEN SEARCY/Contributed

The Blinckmann brothers also swam legs of the winning 200 freestyle relay with the help of Filip Hrabec and Santiago Gonzalez. Hugo Blinckmann went on to win the 50 freestyle in 23.76 seconds, while Hrabec won the 100 breaststroke in 1:14.

Andres Aguero won the 200 IM in 2:39, then teamed up with Haven Andrade, Gonzalez and Mason Lark for a win in the 400 freestyle relay.

Gonzalez had a pair of individual wins to complement his relay victories. The senior won the 200 freestyle in 2:02 and the 100 freestyle in 52.67 seconds. Andrade added wins in the 100 butterfly (1:03) and 500 freestyle (6:49).

The following afternoon, the Cowboys of Cooper City rode away with the wins, defeating Key West’s girls 81-74 and boys 97-61.

Rice was the big winner for the Lady Conchs, finishing first in a pair of events. The speedy sophomore touched the wall first in the 50 freestyle in 26.30 seconds and won the 100 freestyle in 57.95. Houze won the 200 IM in 2:49 to round out the first-place finishes for the girls team.

Hugo Blinckmann was the fastest Conch in the pool Aug. 29, claiming first place in the 50 freestyle in 24.12 seconds. Blinckmann was the lone individual winner for the Conch boys, but the 400 freestyle relay team outswam a quartet of Cowboys. Andres Aguero, Jamie Konecny, Mason Lark and Santiago Gonzalez made up the winning team in that event.

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

4 5

1 2

3

6

1. Marina Daniel (23) reaches at the net for Coral Shores. 2. Bella Villalba (5) and Kyla Myers (3) block.

3. Bella Villalba (5) spikes the ball for a point. 4. Coralyn Frimpter (55) powers the ball over the net for the Hurricanes. 5. Miracle Woods (7) makes a play. 6. The Coral Shores volleyball team celebrates a win for the first home game of the season. 7. Marathon’s Shaina Robinson (9) and Key West’s Sofia Niles (3) and Kenley Rey (9) battle it out at the net. 8. Marathon’s Adelle Bainbridge stretches to block Sofia Niles’ hit in their Aug. 26 match at Marathon. 9. Katie Vanderlee hits toward Summer Bailey (10) in the Marathon/Key West match. 10. Kaya Hughes-Struyf reaches back for a hit. 11. Elisa Carillo hits the ball toward Kenley Rey (9) in Marathon’s home match against Key West. 12. Kenley Rey makes contact in a strong serve toward Marathon. 13. Gabriella Pichardo gets some serious air as she hits toward the Fins.

14. Summer Bailey dives to save the ball in the Conchs’ 3-0 win. 15. Isabelle Magarth clears the net.

Photos by Natalie Goodwin and Sean Westerband

9

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

8

9

SERVE IT UP

10

In-county clashes and Conch Cup action keep Keys volleyball teams busy

A

7 11

13

12

14

15

ll three of Monroe County’s volleyball teams tested their skills last week, with multiple in-county matchups as well as tournament action.

To start things off, Coral Shores hosted Marathon on Aug. 25, defeating the Dolphins 3-0. The Hurricanes saw action from 11 players, with strong serving and hard hits becoming synonymous with the Keys’ team to beat this season.

Abby Leigh served up five aces and registered three kills, three digs and a dozen assists against the Fins. Celene Walker was perfect at the service line with three aces, adding 11 kills and a dozen digs of her own. Coralyn Frimpter logged a pair of aces, 10 kills, eight digs and a block, while Maddie Jordan was also perfect at the line, adding an ace, nine assists and five digs.

Two nights later, South Homestead made the trip to Tavernier to try its luck against Coral Shores. In a battle of Hurricanes, Coral Shores dispatched South Homestead 3-2, with strong performances from multiple athletes making the win possible. Leigh dropped seven aces and added four kills, a block, 21 assists and 17 digs. Marina

Daniel registered seven kills, a block and a dig, while Jillian Thiery had six kills and a dig.

Jordan had another perfect night at the service line, adding 17 assists and five digs.

Frimpter had two aces, 16 kills, nine digs, a pair of blocks and an assist, while Walker added an ace, nine digs and an impressive 19 kills to her stats.

After taking care of business on their home court, the Hurricanes lost a pair at the Conch Cup on Aug. 28 and 29, falling to Wellington 2-1 and South Fork 2-0.

The Lady Conchs also found the win column last week. Key West met its closest neighbor, Marathon, on the Dolphins’ home court on Aug. 26, defeating the Fins in three sets. But the match was no walk in the park for the Lady Conchs. The Fins took them to extended play in the third set, but Key West prevailed 3-0 to pick up an in-county win before hosting its annual Conch Cup tournament.

Key West won again Aug. 28 against Westminster Academy in a 2-1 match, but lost to South Fork 2-0 later that night.

The following afternoon, the Lady Conchs got back on track with a 2-1 win over Wellington, picking up momentum as the young team continues to find its groove.

10

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

1

BURNS NOTICE Marathon sophomore sets a new personal best as Keys runners open the season

T

he Lady ’Canes kicked off their cross country season Aug. 27 at Palmer Trinity School in a meet that almost was not. All-too-familiar late-summer lightning delays postponed the start of the girls race long enough to prompt race directors to combine the boys and girls races.

The extra runners on the course, coupled with some already-anxious racers, led many of the top girls participants to run some extra distance. It made for a great training run, and though the times were solid for a first meet of the season, some racers were disappointed when they saw the clock at the finish line.

Ali Wheatley led the pack for Coral Shores, finishing fourth overall in 23:40, respectable even with the extra yardage.

Hayden Teal was next, finishing 36th in 28:00. Isabelle Jacobs finished in the top 50 and under the 30-minute mark, while Catalina Armstrong, Ainsley Golden, Kiri Crockett and Emma Sogegian crossed the line in rapid succession. Meilani Redruello also clocked in for the Hurricanes, giving the team eight strong competitors in the early-season run.

The following evening, Marathon traveled to Pine Crest for its first official race of the season. The Fins had been set to run the week prior, but the weather had other intentions.

The Lady Fins registered three varsity finishes, with many of their rostered athletes opting for the middle school race. One eligible runner who did not enter the middle school competition

2 3

was eighth-grader Molly Joly, who led her team with a 21:45 performance – less than half a minute off her PR in her first meet of the season. Rebecca Merryman and Ariella Dworniczak each turned in solid performances, with Merryman crossing the line in 25:37 and Dworniczak close behind in 25:58.

The boys had enough varsity finishers to register a team placement, and Marathon’s gentlemen did not disappoint, finishing ninth out of 24 teams, many from much larger schools. Leading the Fins and finishing sixth overall was Lucian Burns, who broke his PR in 16:37. According to coach Helena Bursa, Burns still had fuel in the tank when he crossed the finish line.

Behind Burns was Antonin Bursa, who crossed the line in 17:37, about 18 seconds shy of his best race. Next came Allan Taylor (18:24), Landon Anderson (20:47) and Anthony Vargas (20:49) to round out the top five. Brayden Anderson finished his first cross country race in 22:13, counting as the Fins’ sixth man.

This week, weather permitting, the race schedule kicks into full swing. All three Keys schools will compete at Larry and Penny Thompson Park for the FNU Invitational, while Marathon and Coral Shores will return to Miami Sept. 10 for King of the Hill at Tropical Park.

1. Coral Shores’ girls pose after their season opener Aug. 27 2,3. The Dolphin varsity cross country teams pause for a photo before their Aug. 28 meet at Pine Crest.

Photos contributed

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11

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given that Big Pine Storage, pursuant to the Florida Self Storage Facility Act, Florida Statutes (Section 83.801–83.809), will sell at public sale by competitive online bidding to satisfy the owner’s lien for unpaid rent, fees, and other charges. Sale to be held online at 11:00 AM on September 18, 2026, at storagetreasures.com. Contents of the following unit(s) will be sold: Unit 310- Farzan Nabbie, 295 Sunset Ridge LN, Lexington, NC 27295 – Personal items. Property is stored at Big Pine Storage, 30677 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043. All items are sold as is, where is, and must be removed within 48 hours of purchase.

Publish: September 3 & 10, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

Code of Ordinances.

DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 17, 2026, 10:00 AM LOCATION: Temporary Meeting Place for the City of Key Colony Beach at The Key Colony Inn, Back Patio, 700 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach, Florida.

The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2026-515], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA; AMENDING CHAPTER FOURTEEN OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, ENTITLED SEWERS AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL, SECTION 14-6 MONTHLY RATES AND CHARGES, AND PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ANY INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.” The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www.keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach.

Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and, for such purpose, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, September 17, 2026, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statute 328.17, Robbies Key West, Inc. claims a possessory lien on the following described vessels: Owned by Lana Nichole Savage and Ricky Alton Savage for unpaid storage fees: a 1998 26’ Bayliner (HIN: BL1B76STA898) Sealed bids will be accepted on September 11th , 2026 at Robbies Key West, 7281 Shrimp Rd, Key West, FL 33040.

Robbies Key West, Inc. reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

Publish: August 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT HEARING “SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2026-515” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s

LEGAL NOTICES Beach, FL 33051, and your comments will be entered into the record.

To be published: On or before September 7, 2026 City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach Publish: September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NUMBER: 26-CP-000436-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF: RALPH PLACENCIA, JR. Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of RALPH PLACENCIA, JR., deceased, File Number: 26-CP-000436-K, whose date of death was November 7, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 302 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040. The 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

MEETING NOTICE

MONROE COUNTY LAND AUTHORITY Notice is hereby given that the Governing Board of the Monroe County Land Authority will hold virtual/hybrid public hearings on the adoption of a budget for fiscal year 2027.

The hearings will be held using Communications Media Technology (CMT) in the form of a Zoom Webinar platform on September 9, 2026 at 5:05 p.m. and on September 14, 2026 at 5:05 p.m. Members of the public may participate in the September 9 hearing online by typing https://mcbocc.zoom.us/j/ 89204098700; or via telephone by dialing 1-646-518-9805 and entering Webinar ID 892 0409 8700; or in person at the Murray E. Nelson Government Center located at 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL and the September 14 hearing by typing https://mcbocc.zoom.us/j/89204098700; or via telephone by dialing 1-646-518-9805 and entering Webinar ID 892 0409 8700; or in person at the Harvey Government Center located at 1200 Truman Avenue, Key West, FL. The meeting agenda, the proposed budget, and additional details about accessing the hearings are available at www.monroecounty-fl.gov. For additional information or to submit written or other physical evidence for consideration at the meeting, contact John Beyers via phone at 305-295-5180; via email at Beyers-John@MonroeCounty-FL.gov; or via mail to Monroe County Land Authority, 1200 Truman Avenue, Suite 207, Key West, FL 33040.

ADA ASSISTANCE If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning 305-292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211.

The date of first publication of this notice is September 3, 2026.

Personal Representative Thomas Charles Grassi 1605 Trinidad Dr, Key West, FL 33040 (305) 797-5055 Attorney for Personal Representative Gabriel Bodner, Esq. Florida Bar No. 43340 Bodner Law Group, PLLC 382 NE 191st Street, PMB 18238 Miami, Florida 33179 Telephone: (305) 963-7211 E-mail Address: gabriel@ bodnerlawgroup.com Publish: September 3 & 10, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NUMBER: 44-2026-CP000408-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARK R. ANDRE SR. Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of MARK R. ANDRE SR., deceased, whose date of death was March 3, 2026, is pending in the Circuit 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. 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 personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s.

732.2211.

The date of first publication of this Notice is August 27, 2026.

MARK R. ANDRE, Petitioner 33 Holmes Farm Road Oakland, ME 04963 KENNETH A. NORMAN, Esquire Attorney for Petitioner Florida Bar No. 0742864 McCARTHY, SUMMERS, WOOD, NORMAN, MELBY, SCHULTZ, WOOD & VANVALKENBURGH P.A. 2400 S.E. Federal Highway, 4th Floor5 Stuart, Florida 34994 Telephone: (772) 286-1700 Primary Email: KAN@ McCarthySummers.com Tertiary Email: CRB@ McCarthySummers.com Publish: August 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

By: Kimberly Rolle Tonya C. Saffir, Esq. (Attorney for Plaintiff) NOTE: The defendant, if served personally, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of the Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty-one (21) days after the service of this summons, excluding the date of the service. The defendant, if served by publication or by personal service outside of the jurisdiction, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of the Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the attorney for the plaintiff within thirty (30) days after the completion of the period of publication or personal service outside of the jurisdiction.

Publish: September 3, 10, 17 & 24, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

Clerk of the Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty-one (21) days after the service of this summons, excluding the date of the service. The defendant, if served by publication or by personal service outside of the jurisdiction, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of the Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the attorney for the plaintiff within thirty (30) days after the completion of the period of publication or personal service outside of the jurisdiction.

Publish: September 3, 10, 17 & 24, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-000399-P IN RE: ESTATE OF LAWRENCE D. WILLISON,III Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of LAWRENCE D. WILLISON, III, deceased, whose date of death was June 21, 2026; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 26-CP-000399-P; the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ 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 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: AUGUST 27, 2026.

Personal Representatives: LAWRENCE DAVID WILLISON, IV 1740 Malcolm Ave #104 Los Angeles, CA 90024 ldwillison@gmail.com BRIAN JON WILLISON 321 Sked St. Pennington, NJ 08534 Willison.brian.j@outlook.com Attorney for Personal Representatives: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN Florida Bar No. 0147273 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, FL 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com Publish: August 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

SUMMONS IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS DISTRICT OF ST. CROIX CASE NUMBER: CV-2025-SX-196 ACTION: DEBT AND FORECLOSURE Association of St. C Condominium Owners Plaintiff vs Joseph Estes, Heather Estes and Vagabond Holdings, LLC Defendant To: Joe Estes Address: 4200 Estate St. John Unit A-201 St C Condominium St. Croix Within the time limited by law (see note below) you are hereby required to appear before this Court and answer to a complaint filed against you in this action. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment by default will be taken against you as demanded in the complaint.

Witness my hand and the seal of this Court this October 9, 2025.

Tamara Charles Clerk of the Court

SUMMONS IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS DISTRICT OF ST. CROIX CASE NUMBER: CV-2025-SX-196 ACTION: DEBT AND FORECLOSURE Association of St. C Condominium Owners Plaintiff vs Joseph Estes, Heather Estes and Vagabond Holdings, LLC Defendant To: Vagabond Holdings, LLC Address: 4200 Estate St. John Unit A-201 St C Condominium St. Croix Within the time limited by law (see note below) you are hereby required to appear before this Court and answer to a complaint filed against you in this action. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment by default will be taken against you as demanded in the complaint.

Witness my hand and the seal of this Court this October 9, 2025.

Tamara Charles Clerk of the Court By: Kimberly Rolle Tonya C. Saffir, Esq. (Attorney for Plaintiff) NOTE: The defendant, if served personally, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of the Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty-one (21) days after the service of this summons, excluding the date of the service. The defendant, if served by publication or by personal service outside of the jurisdiction, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of the Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the attorney for the plaintiff within thirty (30) days after the completion of the period of publication or personal service outside of the jurisdiction.

Publish: September 3, 10, 17 & 24, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers SUMMONS IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS DISTRICT OF ST. CROIX CASE NUMBER: CV-2025-SX-196 ACTION: DEBT AND FORECLOSURE Association of St. C Condominium Owners Plaintiff vs Joseph Estes, Heather Estes and Vagabond Holdings, LLC Defendant To: Heather Estes Address: 4200 Estate St. John Unit A-201 St C Condominium St. Croix Within the time limited by law (see note below) you are hereby required to appear before this Court and answer to a complaint filed against you in this action. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment by default will be taken against you as demanded in the complaint.

Witness my hand and the seal of this Court this October 9, 2025.

Tamara Charles Clerk of the Court By: Kimberly Rolle Tonya C. Saffir, Esq. (Attorney for Plaintiff) NOTE: The defendant, if served personally, is required to file his answer or other defense with the

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE #: 26-CA-000241-M Sun West Mortgage Company, Inc. Plaintiff, -vs.Michael F. Papish; Unknown Spouse of Michael F. Papish; United States of America Acting through Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; Unknown Parties in Possession #1, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s); Unknown Parties in Possession #2, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) Defendant(s).

NOTICE OF ACTION FORECLOSURE PROCEEDINGS-PROPERTY TO: Michael F. Papish: 57463 Goodley Street, Grassy Key, FL 33050 and Unknown Spouse of Michael F. Papish: 57463 Goodley Street, Grassy Key, FL 33050 Residence unknown, if living, including any unknown spouse of the said Defendants, if either has remarried and if either or both of said Defendants are dead, their respective unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, assignees, creditors, lienors, and trustees, and all other persons claiming by, through, under or against the named Defendant(s); and the aforementioned named Defendant(s) and such of the aforementioned unknown Defendants and such of the aforementioned unknown Defendants as may be infants, incompetents or otherwise not sui juris.

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action has been commenced to foreclose a mortgage on the following real property, lying and being and situated in Monroe County, Florida, more particularly described as follows: LOT 18, BLOCK 3, SUNSET BAY, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 5 AT PAGE 46 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. more commonly known as 57463 Goodley Street, Grassy Key, FL 33050.

This action has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defense, if any, upon LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP, Attorneys for Plaintiff, whose address is 750 Park of Commerce Blvd., Suite 130, Boca Raton, FL 33487, within thirty (30) days after the first publication of this notice and file the original with the clerk of this Court either before October 5, 2026 with service on Plaintiff's attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court on the 27th day of August, 2026.

Kevin Madok,CPA Circuit and County Courts By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Rules of Judicial Administration Rule 2.540 Notices to Persons With Disabilities If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact

12

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

Cheryl Alfonso, ADA Coordinator, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.

SPANISH: Si usted es una persona discapacitada que necesita alguna adaptación para poder participar de este procedimiento o evento; usted tiene derecho, sin costo alguno a que se le provea cierta ayuda. Favor de comunicarse con Cheryl Alfonso, Coordinadora de A.D.A Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 por lo menos 7 días antes de que tenga que comparecer en corte o inmediatamente después de haber recibido ésta notificación si es que falta menos de 7 días para su comparecencia. Si tiene una discapacidad auditiva ó de habla, llame al 711.

KREYOL: Si ou se yon moun ki kokobé ki bezwen asistans ou aparêy pou ou ka patisipé nan prosedu sa-a, ou gen dwa san ou pa bezwen péyé anyen pou ou jwen on seri de èd. Tanpri kontakté Cheryl Alfonso, Co-ordinator ADA, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652O'mwen 7 jou avan ke ou gen pou-ou parèt nan tribunal, ou imediatman ke ou resevwa avis sa-a ou si lè ke ou gen pou-ou alé nan tribunal-la mwens ke 7 jou; Si ou pa ka tandé ou palé byen, rélé 711.

Publish: September 3 & 10, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-000399-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 15th day of September 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5411, Week 18, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3RD day of August 2026.

Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST SONDRA LOREE STONE-FAGERBERG AKA SONDRA L. STONE, DECEASED Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-000399-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 21ST day of August 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: August 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST SONDRA LOREE STONE-FAGERBERG AKA SONDRA L. STONE, DECEASED Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-000399-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 21ST day of August 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: August 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5333, Week 21, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3RD day of August 2026.

Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST CHARLES F. ZAMBITO, DECEASED; CHRISTINE EVERLOF, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO CHARLES F. ZAMBITO; FRANK ZAMBITO, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO CHARLES F. ZAMBITO; AND NICOLE MANCINI, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO CHARLES F. ZAMBITO Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-000399-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 21ST day of August 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: August 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN PLAT BOOK 1, PAGE 43 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 2106 STAPLES AVE, KEY WEST, FL 33040 IF YOU ARE A PERSON CLAIMING A RIGHT TO FUNDS REMAINING AFTER THE SALE, YOU MUST FILE A CLAIM WITH THE CLERK NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. IF YOU FAIL TO FILE A CLAIM, YOU WILL NOT BE ENTITLED TO ANY REMAINING FUNDS. AFTER THE FUNDS ARE REPORTED AS UNCLAIMED, ONLY THE OWNER OF RECORD AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MAY CLAIM THE SURPLUS. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in a court proceeding or event, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.

Please contact Cheryl Alfonso, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida, 33040, (305) 292-3423, at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days: if you are hearing or voice impaired call 711.

Dated this 20th day of August 2026.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Publish: August 27 & September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

thence bear West for a distance of 280 feet, more or less, back to the mean High Water Mark along the Easterly boundary of Lot 12, Block 32A, of the aforesaid BIG PINE COVE; thence meander the Mean High Water Mark in a Northwesterly direction to a point due West from the Point of Beginning, thence bear East back to the Point of Beginning.

Property Address: 31641 Avenue D., Big Pine Key, FL 33043 (the “property”) Parcel ID/Folio# 00308710-000000 All bidders must have a valid Driver’s License with them and must register with the civil clerk at location of sale prior to start time of sale. I shall offer this property for sale, at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters building located at 5525 College Road Key West, Florida 33040 in the County of Monroe, State of Florida, on the 30th day of September 2026, at the hour of 10:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as possible. I will offer for sale all of the said defendant’s right, title, and interest in the aforesaid real property at public auction and will sell the same subject to all taxes, prior liens, encumbrances and judgments, if any, to the highest and best bidder for cash or cashiers check, in the exact amount of the bid, in hand. The proceeds to be applied as far as may be to the payment of costs and the satisfaction of the above described execution.

Dated at Key West, Monroe County, Florida, this 14th day of August, 2026.

Richard A. Ramsay Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida By: Donald Stullken Deputy Sheriff In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Civil Division no later than seven days prior to the proceeding at (305)809-3041 Publish: August 20 & 27 and September 3 & 10, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described, YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a Complaint has been filed against you by the Plaintiff in the above-style court for the purpose of quieting title to the following described property situate and being in Monroe County, Florida: Parcel 1: The Northeasterly one-half (1/2) of the following described parcel of land: A parcel of land on the Island of Key West, being a part of Tract 5 according to William A. Whitehead's map delineated in February, A.D. 1829, said land being more particularly described as a part of Lot 7 of Block 2 of W.C. Maloney's Estate Subdivision according to Plat Book 1, Page 2 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: COMMENCE at the intersection of the Northeasterly Right-ofWay line of Elizabeth Street and the Southeasterly Right-of-Way line of Olivia Street and thence N76°09'56"E along the said Southeasterly Right-of-Way line of Olivia Street for a distance of 71.00 feet to the Northeasterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, said point being the Point of Beginning of the parcel of land hereinafter described; thence continue N76°09'56"E along the said Southeasterly Right-of-Way line of Olivia Street for a distance of 3.00 feet to the Northwesterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence S13°50'04"E along the Southwesterly boundary line of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, for a distance of 100.26 feet to the Southwesterly corner of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence S76°21'50"W for a distance of 3.00 feet to the Southeasterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence N13°50'04"W along the Northeasterly boundary line of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, for a distance of 100.25 feet back to the Point of Beginning ("Parcel 1").

Parcel 2: The Southwesterly one-half (1/2) of the following described parcel of land: A parcel of land on the Island of Key West, being a part of Tract 5 according to William A. Whitehead's map delineated in February, A.D. 1829, said land being more particularly described as a part of Lot 7 of Block 2 of W.C. Maloney's Estate Subdivision according to Plat Book 1, Page 2 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: COMMENCE at the intersection of the Northeasterly Right-ofWay line of Elizabeth Street and the Southeasterly Right-of-Way line of Olivia Street and thence N76°09'56"E along the said Southeasterly Right-of-Way line of Olivia Street for a distance of 71.00 feet to the Northeasterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, said point being the Point of Beginning of the parcel of land hereinafter described; thence continue N76°09'56"E along the said Southeasterly Right-of-Way

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-000660-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 15TH day of September 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit B11, Week 42, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to the IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3RD day of August 2026.

Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

EDWARD FRANCIS MORRISON AND BARBARA DENISE MORRISON Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-000660-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 21ST day of August 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: August 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-000399-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 15th day of September 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5431, Week 19, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) IV entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3RD day of August 2026.

Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-000686-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 15TH day of September 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit D34, Week 26, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to the IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3RD day of August 2026.

Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

JOELLE BALMIR THEVENIN AKA JOELLE THEVENIN Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-000686-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 21ST day of August 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: August 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-000399-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 15th day of September 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO.: 26-CA-000156-K LEHMAN XS TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-15, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, Plaintiff, vs.

FRED M. UHLIG A/K/A FRED MCGEE UHLIG; MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC.; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF FRED M. UHLIG A/K/A FRED MCGEE UHLIG Defendants.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment entered in the above styled cause now pending in said court and as required by Florida Statute 45.031(2), KEVIN MADOK, CPA as the Clerk of the Circuit Court for MONROE County shall sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at the, KEY WEST COURTHOUSE (ALL SALES), 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040, 11:00 AM on the 15 day of September, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: ON THE ISLAND OF KEY WEST, AND KNOWN AS LOT 11 OF A SUBDIVISION OF SQUARE 4, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 2, PAGE 112 MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA RECORDS, SAID SQUARE 4, BEING SHOWN ON KEY WEST REALTY CO'S SUBDIVISION OF PART OF TRACT 21 AND LOTS 1, 2, 3, 4 AND 5, AS RECORDED

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 11TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MIAMI DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO: 2022-002703-CP-02 ALEX JESUS ANTON, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Beatriz Rodriguez Guerra Plaintiff Vs. MICHAEL T. GUERRA, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Oresme Gil Guerra, Defendant AMENDED NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE (TO CORRECT A SCRIVENER’S ERROR) NOTICE IS HEREBY given that pursuant to a Writ of Execution issued in the Circuit Court, of Miami Dade County, Florida, on the 19th day of March, 2026, in the cause wherein ALEX JESUS ANTON, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Beatriz Rodriguez Guerra is Plaintiff and MICHAEL T. GUERRA, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Oresme Gil Guerra, was defendant, being Case No. 2022-002703-CP-02 in said court, I, Richard A. Ramsay, Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida have levied upon all right, title, and interest of the defendant, in and to the following described real property to wit: SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY The following described land, situate, lying and being in Monroe County, Florida, to-wit: Legal Description: Lot 12, Block 32A, BIG PINE COVE, as recorded in Plat Book 3, page 131, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida.

AND A tract of baybottom land in Bogie Channel, East of and adjacent to Lot 12, Block 32A, BIG PINE COVE, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Plat Book 3, page 131, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: COMMENCING at the N.E. corner of Block 32 of SANDS SUBDIVISION, as recorded in Plat Book 1, page 65, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and bear East for a distance of 540 feet, more or less, to the mean High Water Mark of Bogie Channel; continue to bear East for a distance of 400 feet; thence bear South 112.1 feet, to the Point of Beginning of the tract of baybotton hereinafter described; thence continue to bear South 87.9 feet to a point;

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE#: 44-2026-CA-000780-KW JUDGE: TIMOTHY J. KOENIG PINEAPPLE HOUSE LLC A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, DAVID RICHARD STACK AND TREVA STACK, Plaintiff, Vs. ROBERT H. GIVENS, deceased, his unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under or against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION TO: ROBERT H. GIVENS, deceased, his unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under and against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known to be dead or alive, his several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through, or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown

13

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

AUTOS WANTED

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

line of Olivia Street for a distance of 3.00 feet to the Northwesterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence S13°50'04"E along the Southwesterly boundary line of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, for a distance of 100.26 feet to the Southwesterly corner of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3179, at Page 968 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence S76°21'50"W for a distance of 3.00 feet to the Southeasterly corner of the lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida; thence N13°50'04"W along the Northeasterly boundary line of the said lands described in Official Records Book 3157, at Page 2228 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, for a distance of 100.25 feet back to the Point of Beginning YOU ARE REQUIRED to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Richard J. McChesney, Esq., Spottswood, Spottswood, Spottswood, & Sterling, PLLC, Attorney for Plaintiff, whose address is 500 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040, on or before the following date: September 14th, 2026, and to file the original with the Clerk of the Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter, otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court on 7TH day of August, 2026.

Kevin Madok, CPA as Clerk of the Court By: Britney Bethel as Deputy Clerk Publish: August 13, 20 & 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

Dated: August 4, 2026 Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Britney Bethel Deputy Clerk Publish: August 13, 20 & 27 and September 3, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-DR-902-P CLAIRE GUAZZELLI SEHNERT, OBO LCL, Petitioner, and In Re: Name Change, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME (MINOR CHILD) TO: PHILIP LOVKA III RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 1530 TALLY CIRCLE, OVIEDO, FL YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME (MINOR CHILD) has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on CLAIRE GUAZZELLI SEHNERT, whose address is 178 CORAL AVE, TAVERNIER, FL 33070 on or before SEPTEMBER 21, 2026, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at Monroe County Clerk of the Circuit Court, 88770 Overseas Hwy, Ste. 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: August 17, 2026 Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Katherine Soto Deputy Clerk Publish: August 20 & 27 and September 3 & 10, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a Line Cook. 20-30 hours a week at a private club, primarily dinner shifts, Tuesday-Saturday. $24/hr or negotiable based on experience.

Must provide photo ID, social security card, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub. com or call 305-7436739 to schedule an interview.

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Full-time Carpenter, Journeyman Electrician, Grounds Caretaker, Superintendent (Middle & Upper Keys). 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.

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 HIRED!!!

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-DR-790-K KASSANDRA MAE MANGUBAT, Petitioner, and NAJEE D. STITH, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: NAJEE D. STITH RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: UNKNOWN YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on KASSANDRA MAE MANGUBAT, whose address is 3333 DUCK AVE, APT. G101, KEY WEST, FL 33040 on or before SEPTEMBER 10, 2026, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2026-DR-000695A0-01-KW ROBERTO LEONARDO DOMINGUEZ SAINZ, Petitioner, and YANET ANDARCIO RIVERO, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: YANET ANDARCIO RIVERO RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 6535 WATERFRONT XING, UNIT 04-210, LAKE WORTH, FL 33467 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 ROBERTO LEONARDO DOMINGUEZ SAINZ, whose address is 27962 SNAPPER LANE, SUMMERLAND KEY, FL 33042 on or before SEPTEMBER 25, 2026, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: August 20, 2026 Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Sheryl LaTorre Deputy Clerk Publish: August 27 and September 3, 10 & 17, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

WE’RE HIRING

PIZZA MAKERS, PREP & CASHIERS NEW KEY LARGO LOCATION – NOW OPEN: PIZZA MAKERS* PREP & DAYTIME CASHIERS MARATHON: PIZZA MAKERS* *Pizza maker experience is a must.

For all positions, applicant must be self-motivated, 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

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

Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT

PRIME COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ON US 1 available for rent in Marathon. 3,000 SF and 2,000 SF avail. Let's make a deal! Call or text Tony at 860-428-1506 R 2 t p i n c @ gm a i l. co m EMPLOYMENT

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.

E m a i l : Natalie@cecflk.com

S.S. Wreck on Grassy Key – looking for management, line cooks, fryers and prep.

Salary includes 401k match up to 6% and negotiable based on experience. Please call Nicole at 305-433-0515 Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/ Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips.

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

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

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, INC. “Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

IS HIRING for The Heron Assisted Living Facility!

Interested in gaining health care experience in a comfortable canal front home?

Like giving care & assisting with life skills for 16 residents?

Well-rounded team player able to handle a variety of responsibilities?

Able to make meals, do paperwork, and hold a clean three yr. driver’s license?

Available for PT or FT shifts 8am-4pm, 2pm-10pm Monday-Sunday?

If so, you would be a great SUPPORT WORKER! No experience required for this position, we will train.

A caring heart and helpful hands are necessary.

We offer flexibility; a minimum 16 hrs. & shift differentials!

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

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

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time dishwasher.

Private club, evening shifts Tues-Saturday, 4-8 pm.

Pay raise negotiable if you can also help with prep work. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub. com or call 305-7436739 to schedule an interview.

HIRED IN LESS THAN THREE WEEKS!!!

H A N D Y M A N WANTED- Seeking a reliable handyman in Marathon for general home repairs & misc. maintenance items. This is a part time position and hours may vary.

Must be dependable, expierenced, and have references.

Call 305-395-0478 HIRED!!!

PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com HOUSING FOR RENT

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 3 BR/2 BA home for rent in Key Colony Beach. 75' premium dock. $4,000/ month + utilities.

F/L/S 786-229-0228 2 BR/2 BA Half Duplex for rent in Key Colony Beach.

On canal with dockage. Newly renovated & furnished. 3 - 6 month rental. $5,500 month for Winter 26/27.

Call 239-285-1639 Studio Rental in Marathon, long-term, partially furnished, price includes internet, water, electric gas, garbage, pest, and lawn @ $1,800/ mo + utilities. Call or text 305-433-0515 RENTED!!!

SUDOKU SOLUTION

14

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 HOUSING FOR RENT

MISC. FOR SALE

WANTED TO BUY

LONG TERM RENTALS: EFFICIENCY, $1,400/ month, 1 Bedroom $1,950/mo, 2 Bedroom $2,200 limited elect. included. Located in Marathon. On the water, gated property. Section 8 possible. First/Security Call 305-610-8002

Scooter For Sale excellent condition, 7,541 miles, all service records, individually owned. $400 OBO. Located in Key West.

Call Denny 305-2945 5 6 8 SOLD IN LESS THAN 2 WEEKS!!!

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & W a t c h e s .

Call 305-743-4578

PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com

PLACE YOUR AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com VACATION RENTAL

HOUSING WANTED

WANTED TO RENT: Long-term rental at Cobia Point, Marathon.

Will pay top dollar.

Current Daytona Beach resident. Former Keys resident who wants to return. Call Jan Burch 251-978-6267

2 BR/2 BA Half Duplex for rent in Key Colony Beach. On canal with dockage.

Newly renovated & furnished. 3 - 6 month rental. $5,500 month for Winter 26/27.

Call 239-285-1639

TURN YOUR CARDS INTO CASH! Marathon collector buying any and all Pokemon cards & c o l l e c t i o n s .

Call 401-256-0645.

YARD SALES

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

WANTED TO BUY

MISC. FOR SALE

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

BOAT RENTAL STAFF

FLEXIBLE HOURS & COMPETITIVE WAGES Need to have experience driving boats and a working knowledge of the Islamorada area by water.

Duties include taking reservations, giving captains lessons and routine boat maintenance.

Email Matt at eliteboatrentalsmatt@gmail.com.

Please include contact information and any relevant experience.

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

MARINA CASHIER

NOW HIRING

Lead Receiver Seeking an experienced Lead Receiver: 2+ years in warehouse receiving and inventory, forklift required. Must be detail-oriented, efficient, and computer literate. Bilingual (Eng/Span) a plus.

Competitive pay and benefits. Full-time, non-climate-controlled environment.

Aquarium Encounters is looking for friendly, dependable, and enthusiastic individuals to join our team! Full-time and part-time positions are available.

Benefits available for full-time employees.

Guest Services • Welcoming guests, providing excellent customer service • Processing admissions and retail transactions • Answering questions about encounters and programs • Assisting with reservations and guest needs • Maintaining clean and organized guest areas • Working cooperatively with other team members Touch Tank Attendants • Answering questions about habitats, encounters and programs • Educating guests about touch-tank animals and proper interaction Level 1 Biologist • Front of house husbandry • Guest interactions which would include educational tours, public feedings and encounters, answering questions about habitats and marine life • Daily husbandry and tank cleaning tasks • Multi tasking • Open Water Cert. or Dive Instructor status is a plus • Affordable employee housing available for full time employees Dive Instructor • Pay: $160 per day • Guaranteed pay, tips plus commission • Affordable employee housing available

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

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

D'Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available.

Home Décor Sales Consultant Seeking a 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.

Finish Carpenter Experienced finish carpenter needed for high end residential work. Must have own tools and reliable transportation.

Attention to detail and dependable work ethic required. Interior and Exterior work.

Competitive pay and benefits.

NOW HIRING 81029 CARPENTER/ MASON Maintenance Lower Keys/Bruce Hall, reporting in Key West. Full-time job with benefits, vacation time and holidays.

Apply at keysschools.com or call 305-293-1400 ext. 53458

NOW HIRING 81024 AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION MECHANIC

Must have customer service experience working in a retail environment and using a point of sale system. Additional duties include restocking, completing purchase orders, daily ordering of basic items in the store, and maintaining a clean appearance in the store. This is an hourly position and compensation is based on experience. Work hours are flexible and we try to maintain a set weekly schedule.

Upper Keys, reporting in Tavernier.

Full-time job with benefits, vacation time and holidays.

Please respond by email (Matt at islamarinamatt@gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.

Apply at keysschools.com or call 305-293-1400 ext. 53398

NOW HIRING! wants you to join their team!

RETAIL GIFT SHOP ASSOCIATE Full-time. $19/hour to start.

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

SUNSET GRILLE NOW HIRING BARTENDERS WAIT STAFF - HOST/HOSTESS BUS PERSONS Apply in person at

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

15

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

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

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING! JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 53 YEARS! We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.

3

OPENINGS AVAILABLE PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

Behavioral Health Counselor (Child, FT) Case Manager (Adult)

- Medical Assistant, Ortho-Tavernier, $5k Bonus - Patient Access Associate, Multispecialty Marathon, $5k Bonus - Radiology Technologist, Ortho Surgical, Key West, $25k Bonus

KEY WEST

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST

KEY LARGO

Crisis Counselor (PT) *Mental Health Technician (FT)

MARATHON Maintenance Specialist (FT) Driver (CDL NOT required) (FT, 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: $48.47/hr. - $54.28/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

- Pool Radiation Therapist

A Great Place to Bank, is a Great Place to WORK! Key West

Full Time Teller Assistant Maintenance Manager

Stock Island

Assistant Branch Operations Manager

Islamorada

Customer Service Representative Assistant Branch Operations Manager

Key Largo

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Chaplain, Chaplaincy Spiritual Care, Per Diem - Director of Nursing Services, Intensive Care Unit/Oncology, $20k Bonus - Food Service Worker, Dietary, $5k Bonus - MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, MRI, $25k Bonus - Medical Technologist, Per Diem - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Echocardiography, Per Diem & FT - 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, $7k Bonus - Physical Therapist, Outpatient, $25k Bonus - Pool Group Exercise Instructor, Per Diem - Pool Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Per Diem - Registered Nurse, ICU, $25k Bonus - Registered Nurse, Surgery, $15k Bonus - Registered Respiratory Therapist 2, $25k Bonus - Supervisor Chef, Dietary

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Cook, Dietary, FT - Diet Concierge, Full Time - ED Team Coordinator, PT & FT - Lead First Cook, Dietary, $5k Bonus - MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT & X Ray, $25k Bonus - MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT & X Ray, Radiology, $25k Bonus - Manager Food Services, Dietary - Manager Plant Operations, Facility Operations - Medical Assistant, Urology, $5k Bonus - Medical Technologist 2, $20k Bonus - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray), Radiology, $25k Bonus - Patient Care/Nursing House Supervisor (MH/FCH), $20k Bonus - Patient Financial Associate, $10k Bonus - Patient Scheduler, Surgery, FT - Pool Physical Therapist, Per Diem - Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Per Diem - Registered Respiratory Therapist, $25k Bonus - Registered Respiratory Therapist, PT, $12,500 Bonus - Security Officer, FT, 7A-7:30P - Sr Phlebotomist, $10k Bonus All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. *Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.

APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net

Full Time Teller

Apply Online @ KeysBank.com/Careers

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