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According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, there are 17.9 million people living in areas of the country experiencing drought conditions. About 82% of Florida is currently in a drought. The dry conditions have fueled wildfires, including a recent one near the 18-Mile Stretch.
Miss Coral Shores 2026 winners, from left, Julia Rusch, second princess, Natalie Goodwin, Miss Coral Shores 2026 and Mallory Hughes, first princess. JACKSON GARCIA/Keys Weekly
6 MILES OF NEW WATER TRANSMISSION MAIN ARE IN THE GROUND
A lane is closed on U.S. 1 on north Plantation Key in February 2025 to allow for the installation of new water transmission main. Inset: Crews install a new, 36-inch diameter steel pipe into the ground on Plantation Key. FKAA/Contributed
Connections, paving, restoration remain
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Alengthy endeavor to replace outdated and worn water transmission main through a majority of Islamorada was completed last week.
In March 2025, contractors for the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority began work to install 6 miles of new and larger steel water pipe from the north end of Snake Creek Bridge to Julep Road in Tavernier. The age of the existing pipes made them susceptible to corrosion, leaks, storm surge and other effects.
With the existing pipe being beyond its lifespan, the new pipe is designed to be protected from corrosion. A new transmission main was also installed underwater at Tavernier Creek Bridge to prevent deterioration from potential storms.
Aaron Cutler, project manager, told Islamorada council members at a May 12 meeting that the most recent project on Plantation Key to Tavernier saw 34,362 feet of transmission main successfully installed. Cutler’s statement was met with resounding applause from residents in attendance for the meeting.
“I can’t say enough how much I appreciate the public, the council and the patience and support you’ve shown,” Cutler said.
A small section of U.S. 1 near Julep Road remained closed on May 13 to allow for some final work. Otherwise, northbound traffic lanes on U.S. 1 in Tavernier were fully reopened for smooth traffic flow. In addition, the intersection at Creekside Inn and U.S. 1 in Islamorada was reopened after being shut down to allow for a better traffic flow.
Cutler said there’s still a bit more work ahead before the project reaches 100% completion. Now through June, crews will be working to connect the new pipe to the existing system at six points. Those areas include Julep Road and Old Highway, north of Tavernier Creek Crossing, near the Creekside Inn and U.S. 1 intersection, south of Plantation Key School, in front of Founders Park, and north of Snake Creek Bridge.
No night work will be taking place, as Cutler said crews will be working during the day on the connections. Once that work is completed, paving and restoration will conclude the project.
Pipe installation was originally scheduled to be completed in March
2026. It wasn’t done until May, however, due to delays from high groundwater levels, especially during king tides. There were also some unforeseen utility line conflicts.
Mayor Don Horton said while it’s been a long endeavor, the contractors and FKAA deserved a hand for their work.
Work to replace the old water transmission main dates back to 2023 when crews began installing 22,152 linear feet of new, 36-inch pipe between MM 79.5 and MM 84. The first transmission main project in Islamorada cost about $42 million, with $20 million funded by grants and the balance funded through low-interest loans.
Next, a mile and a half of the existing 30-inch transmission main was replaced on Windley Key beginning in May 2024. That project cost $15 million.
FKAA is now shifting its focus to replace water transmission main at Channel 2 Bridge. The village recently agreed to apply for a Community Development Block Grant administered by FloridaCommerce to help FKAA fund costs associated with installing 2,200 linear feet of transmission main beneath the water at Channel 2 Bridge. It’s expected to cost $4.8 million.
FIGHTERS FOR EVERGLADES RESTORATION GET GOVERNOR’S MEDAL OF FREEDOM
Mary Barley speaks during a ceremony in which Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis presented her the Medal of Freedom for her leadership and work to help protect and restore the Florida Everglades. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE/Contributed
One of Florida’s highest honors was bestowed to a couple known in the Florida Keys for their work to advance Everglades restoration.
During an April 28 ceremony in Palm Beach, Gov. Ron DeSantis presented the Governor’s Medal of Freedom to Mary Barley and her late husband George Barley. Established in 2020, the medal is awarded to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the state and its citizens.
“Thanks to their efforts, future generations will have the priceless opportunity to enjoy our state’s natural treasure,” DeSantis said.
George was a businessman and environmental visionary who led the Everglades restoration movement. A Florida native and Harvard graduate, Barley co-founded the Everglades Foundation in 1993 to advance science-based solutions for protecting South Florida’s ecosystem.
He advocated for restoring natural water flows and holding polluters accountable, bringing together stakeholders to address growing environmental challenges. His legacy continues to shape restoration efforts.
George died in a plane crash in 1995 en route to a briefing on Everglades restoration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. His vision and legacy continue to drive the foundation’s work.
A conservationist and Islamorada resident, Mary continued her husband George’s work to advance Everglades restoration following his passing. A founding director of the Everglades Foundation, Mary served as board chairwoman from 1995 to 2002 and later as vice president. She remains actively involved.
As the Everglades Foundation notes, she has played a pivotal role in advancing environmental policies,
including the passage of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) and a constitutional amendment that established accountability for environmental damage caused by nutrient pollution.
An avid fly fisherman, Barley is one of only 100 who has been named “Hero of the Planet” by TIME magazine. Honored by both the U.S. House and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida for her stewardship, Mary was inducted into the Everglades Coalition Hall of Fame in 2025 — making her and George the only couple ever inducted.
In addition to the Barleys, DeSantis presented the medal of freedom to Paul Tudor Jones II, a nationally recognized investor, philanthropist and conservationist who has been a driving force behind Everglades restoration efforts for more than three decades. He founded Tudor Investment Corporation in 1980 and later co-founded the Robin Hood Foundation to combat poverty. In 1993, he co-founded the Everglades Foundation, where he has served as chairman of the board, leading science-based efforts to restore the historic “River of Grass.”
The late Nathaniel P. Reed was also presented a medal for his efforts to halt projects that threatened the Everglades, including the proposed jetport in Big Cypress and the Cross Florida Barge Canal. The medal was presented to Reed’s daughter Lia.
“Their courage shaped not only the growth of our organization, but also the impact we continue to make every day in the effort to restore America’s Everglades,” said the Everglades Foundation CEO Eric Eikenberg.
“We are profoundly grateful for their perseverance and belief in what was needed to restore this vital watershed from the very beginning.”
— Keys Weekly staff report
COUNTY OVERTIME COSTS DRAW SCRUTINY
Clerk issues advisory on costs & oversight
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Monroe County’s overtime pay policy, which is more generous than federal requirements, cost the county nearly $365,000 in 2025, and recently prompted a closer look by the county clerk’s finance department.
The clerk’s office last month sent an advisory to County Administrator Christine Hurley outlining its findings and concerns. The county’s overtime policy, enacted in 2021, allows hourly employees to get overtime pay (time and a half) even if they don’t physically work more than 40 hours in a week.
“With the passage of its policy, the county commission broadened the definition of ‘hours worked’ to include holiday vacation, sick time or compensatory time in addition to physical hours worked when calculating an employee’s overtime pay,” the advisory states.
In other words, if an employee works on a federal Monday holiday, and then uses a vacation day on Tuesday, the eight hours of vacation time count toward the 40-hour tally under the county’s policy. Under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), overtime is only paid when an employee physically works more than 40 hours in a week.
Airport overtime draws scrutiny
The clerk’s advisory also questions the amount of overtime being paid to salaried, non-hourly employees who are exempt from overtime pay except during emergencies.
“While the intent of the policy is that exempt overtime should be a rarity, exempt (non-hourly) employees were paid $209,051 in 2025 when there was no obvious event to necessitate an unusually large amount of overtime,” the advisory states.
More concerning, the review notes, is that two airport managers received 70% of that overtime amount in 2025.
“The assistant director of airports and the deputy director of airport operations and security were
paid a combined total of $146,996 in overtime in the past calendar year,” the document states.
In 2025, the deputy director of airport operations and security, Luis Garay, earned a salary of $162,831 plus an additional $91,973 in overtime, despite being an exempt, nonhourly worker.
Similarly, the assistant director of airports, Scott Guidry, who was hired in March 2025 with an annual salary of $167,213, received an additional $55,023 in overtime in 2025. Garay did not return messages seeking comment, and Guidry was not listed in the county’s online staff directory as of May 12.
“For the deputy director, whose employment began in September 2019, overtime has been consistently and increasingly inordinate for many years, indicating that the supervisor has not taken effective action to mitigate the recurring charging of overtime,” the advisory states. “Likewise, the assistant director, who was hired in March 2025, is beginning his employment with a similar overtime pattern.”
The clerk’s office review found that the two employees regularly pre-filled their time cards, claiming overtime in advance.
“This practice of pre-filling out timecards includes the observed practice of using the ‘Auto-Fill From Prior Week’ function to copy timecards using the same overtime schedule on multiple successive time periods,” the advisory states. “The recurring and preplanned nature indicates that overtime does not appear to be driven by emergencies or on an as-needed basis.”
The county commission will discuss the overtime advisory at its May 20 meeting in Key West, where they will also hear from the county’s director of airports, who oversees the two positions in question and approves their overtime requests.
“There will be an investigation to see if any wrongdoing took place,” Hurley said when the Keys Weekly asked whether the county intends to investigate any potential fraud, misconduct or falsification of documents.
Early
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COLLEGE GRADUATION GROWS
150 grads need two ceremonies
The College of the Florida Keys on May 8 held its 72nd commencement exercises.
For the first time in the college’s 60-year history, two ceremonies were needed to honor more than 150 graduates in CFK’s spring class of 2026.
The celebrations, held at the Tennessee Williams Theatre on CFK’s Key West campus, coincided with CFK’s 60th anniversary and the country's 250th.
Student voices
Jessica Rojas, who earned a bachelor’s degree of applied science in supervision and management, delivered the student address at the morning ceremony. Araceli Dominguez, who received her associate’s degree in science in nursing, spoke at the afternoon ceremony.
Yesenia Bathelmy, who earned her associate’s degree in science in nursing, performed the national anthem at both ceremonies.
2026 Distinguished Alum
Christina Belotti, who earned her associate’s degree in arts from CFK in 2004, was named the 2026 Distinguished Alumnus and addressed graduates at both ceremonies. An educator for nearly 20 years, Belotti has taught at Sugarloaf School and Marathon Middle High School.
Keynote address
Tim Stockwell, “Papa 2025” of the Hemingway Look-Alike Society, delivered the keynote address at both ceremonies. Stockwell is vice president of the board for the Sloppy Joe’s Foundation. He and his fellow Hemingway look-alikes have tirelessly supported CFK for nearly 27 years, donating more than $250,000 for scholarships that have helped more than 300 students further their education.
The society’s $750,000 endowment is the largest at CFK.
Honoring nurses
CFK nursing instructor Laura Cox pinned nursing graduates and Michelle Fortney, interim dean of nursing, arts, science and hospitality led graduates in the Florence Nightingale Nursing Oath, a tradi-
tion marking their entry into the profession.
Upon passing the national licensure exam, each will become a registered nurse. CFK’s exam pass rate consistently ranks well above state and national averages.
2026 Instructor of the Year – it’s a tie
Nursing instructors Laura Cox and Michelle Ho were both named CFK’s Instructor of the Year. At the end of each semester, the students vote for an outstanding professor to be recognized at graduation.
A class of stories
The Class of 2026 reflected the range of students CFK serves. Among the graduates were six students from the Project ACCESS program for students with intellectual disabilities, and one alum of the program who returned to complete a bachelor’s degree of applied science in supervision and management.
Thirteen dual-enrollment students from Monroe County high schools received associate degrees and/or certificates. The class also included siblings who earned their associate’s degree in science in nursing simultaneously, and two international students who completed their degrees.
Honoring CFK’s pioneers
In recognition of CFK’s 60th anniversary, two alumni among the college’s earliest graduates received honorary degrees:
Joey Garcia, who earned his associate’s degree in arts in 1967, was awarded an honorary bachelor’s degree of applied science in supervision and management.
Judi Knowles Vaeth, one of the first students to receive an associate’s degree of arts in 1966, was honored with an honorary bachelor of science in nursing.
The full commencement ceremony can be viewed on the college’s Facebook page at facebook.com/TheCollegeoftheFloridaKeys.
— Contributed
Group A, top, and Group B from CFK's spring Class of 2026 on the Key West Campus. CFK/Contributed
Angelica Mendaros receives her diploma for an associate’s degree in science in nursing from CFK President Jonathan Gueverra.
CFK President Jonathan Gueverra presents Isaiah Stevens with a certificate of completion for Project Access.
College President Jonathan Gueverra congratulates Samantha Gabriella Figueroa on her associate’s degree in science in nursing.
Tim Stockwell, Papa 2025 of the Hemingway Look-Alike Society, gives the keynote address.
JONATHAN RECKWERDT
Aug. 16, 1986-April 18, 2026
Jonathan Michael Reckwerdt, 39, passed away on April 18, 2026. Born on August 16, 1986, in Miami, Jonathan grew up in Islamorada in the Florida Keys at his family’s marina, where he developed a lifelong love for the ocean and everything connected to it. Fishing, diving, boating, exploring and life on the water were part of who he was from the very beginning.
Jonathan worked as a mobile marine mechanic and was known by many as a true jack of all trades when it came to marine work. He had a natural talent for fixing things and took pride in helping others. His knowledge, work ethic and calm approach earned him the respect and friendship of many throughout the Keys community and beyond.
Jonathan was easygoing, funny, adventurous and deeply loved by those who knew him. People were naturally drawn to his old soul and kind nature. He loved cars, especially his Toyota Supra, video games, playing pool, traveling, and creating memories with his daughter, Aeris. One of his most cherished recent adventures was a road trip through Georgia with Aeris, visiting waterfalls and enjoying time together.
Jonathan had recently entered an exciting new phase of life with the purchase of his new home, planning to make future steps for his daughter also by starting his own business as a mobile marine mechanic.
He is survived by his beloved daughter, Aeris; his father, Michael Reckwerdt; his mother, Annie Reckwerdt and his siblings, Cailin Reckwerdt, Anna Reckwerdt, Robbie Reckwerdt and Caroline Reckwerdt.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on May 16, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Island Community Church in Islamorada, Florida.
Jonathan’s life is a reminder to appreciate the people around you, and enjoy every moment life gives you. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.
The Alzheimer's Association, Southeast Florida Chapter, serves eight counties through care, support, research, awareness and advocacy. The Association provides education and support to all those facing Alzheimer’s and other dementias throughout the South Florida community, including those living with the disease, caregivers and healthcare professionals. The Association and its network of volunteers are commi ed to advocating for the needs and rights of those facing Alzheimer’s disease, raising awareness about detection and early diagnosis, and advancing critical research toward methods of treatment, prevention and, ultimately, a cure. Free resources are o ered in-person and online.
NEW ANTI-DEI LAW STRIPS FUNDING FROM FUTURE LGBTQ EVENTS IN THE FLORIDA KEYS
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Thousands of visitors will visit the Southernmost City in less than a month to celebrate Pride. Historically, Key West Pride has received county funds to promote the festivities and attract people outside the island chain and Sunshine State.
A new law signed on April 22 by Gov. Ron DeSantis, however, slashes those dollars from LGBTQ events like Key West Pride beginning next year.
“Although Key West Pride 2027 won’t be funded by the TDC (Tourist Development Council), we’re not going to allow that to stop us from holding Key West Pride,” said Rob Dougherty, executive director for Key West Business Guild, a nonprofit devoted to promoting Key West to LGBTQ+ travelers.
In March, Florida legislators passed a series of crackdowns on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in the state through Senate Bill 1134 by Republican state Sen. Clay Yarbrough. For local municipalities, the new law prohibits government funding, promotion or implementation of DEI initiatives.
“At a time when many Floridians are struggling to afford groceries and gas, millions of taxpayer dollars should not continue to be wasted by local governments on DEI initiatives, even more so because they are failing to do what they claim,” Yarbrough said following the governor’s signing.
Monroe County and TDC officials were required to review event applications and funding allocations to confirm compliance per the new state law. The TDC uses advisory committees in five districts, as well as a cultural umbrella committee, to review and award funds under the TDC event grant program.
Out of the review, grant applications for funding were deemed ineligible under the new state law for the 2027 events Key West Pride, Tropical Heat Key West and Womenfest Key West.
“I think that for many of us, and I’m not just speaking for our staff and board of directors but also LGBTQ+ allies in Key West, we were
disappointed by the bill. But after the abrupt removal of (rainbow) crosswalks, I don’t think we were surprised,” said Dougherty, referring to the state’s earlier efforts to remove rainbow crosswalks from public roads and streets.
Dougherty added that the funding supports media marketing of events.
“It allows the opportunity to engage with communities outside of the Florida Keys and throughout the nation,” he said.
Several events occurring before the Jan. 1, 2027 effective date saw their funding reduced. Those events included Aquanettes: Past, Present and Future, reduced to $20,000 from the original $35,000; Randy Roberts Live, reduced to $8,750 from the original $35,000; Sons and Daughters of Italy, reduced to $3,500 from the original $25,000; and The Birdcage Cabaret starring Christopher Peterson, reduced to $20,000 from the original $35,000. Those events won’t be eligible for funding next year if they maintain the same event specifics, the county said.
County officials said no other events in the Keys were affected by the new law.
Funds are still in place to promote this year’s Key West Pride, Tropical Heat Key West in August and Key West WomenFest in September. TDC funds used to promote events are collected from visitors to the Keys who pay a 4% tourist tax when they stay at a short-term rental, hotel or motel.
“What people fail to recognize is that for every LGBTQ+ traveler,
STATE LEGISLATORS CONVENE TO HASH OUT BUDGET
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
State legislators left session in midMarch with no budget approved for the coming fiscal year. On May 12, members in the Florida House and Senate returned to the state capital to hash out $1 billion in spending differences between their proposals.
there are two to four allies who travel with the same values. Those are seats in restaurants, trolleys, bars and on our beaches,” Dougherty said.
Dougherty said dollars were also cut to support the Gay Key West Visitor Center.
Not all Republicans in the Florida House supported Senate Bill 1134, which passed 25-11 in the Senate on March 4 and 77-37 in the House on March 10. State Rep. Jim Mooney, who represents the Florida Keys and south Miami-Dade, was one of five Republican House members to vote “no.”
“I understand the pushback that you don’t want government waste. No one wants that. I saw it as there are better ways to take care of fiscal responsibility,” Mooney said. “I grew up in the Keys, so I’m a little different. We care about one another, we’ll do anything for anybody when people or organizations are in need.”
Mooney said the events together bring in tens of millions of dollars to retailers, hotels and bars. Dougherty said when the going gets tough, Key West pulls together.
“We see it on a regular basis here. Whether there’s a family in need, the community pulls together and helps them. If it’s a nonprofit in need, the community steps up,” he said.
The bill states a county or municipality isn’t prohibited from issuing event permits and providing safety services, or complying with state and federal laws or regulations.
State Rep. Jim Mooney, who sits on the House Budget Committee, said members began a special session with committees meeting to work through discrepancies in spending on certain items. Before the legislature concluded a 60-day session in March, the House passed a proposed $113.6 budget. The Senate proposal was a little higher, $115 billion. Both spending plans were less than Gov. Ron DeSantis’ $117 budget proposal for the coming fiscal year, which begins July 1 and ends June 30, 2027.
While the special session is planned for 18 days, Mooney expects legislators to get the work done in three.
“I think we’re close. The big stuff has been hashed out,” he said. “We should be out by the end of the week and return after Memorial Day to satisfy the 72-hour cool-off period.”
A cool-off period is the time between the final budget’s release and the vote by the Legislature.
Mooney said he expects the budget will be leaner compared to previous legislatively-approved spending plans. All in all, he said the House and Senate will likely meet in the middle on the $1 billion spending difference.
House and Senate proposals include funding for institutions like the College of the Florida Keys for education and projects including the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority for a reverse osmosis facility on Crawl Key and the school district for an affordable workforce housing project on Trumbo Road in Key West.
There’s also $20 million in Florida Keys Stewardship Act funding, which supports water quality projects throughout the island chain. House and Senate proposals include the full funding amount requested by Keys officials.
Once approved, the budget will head to DeSantis’ desk for approval. He also has the ability to veto budget items. This is the second straight year the Legislature failed to approve a budget before the end of the regular 60-day session.
State Rep. Jim Mooney
Key West Pride 2025 was highlighted by the Still Rising Parade on June 29, 2025 when Duval Street burst into a sea of rainbow pride. LARRY BLACKBURN/Florida Keys News Bureau
COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER FOR DAY OF PRAYER
The public and local churches convened on May 7 to celebrate the 75th National Day of Prayer at Key Largo Volunteer Fire Rescue Museum. “Glorify God among the nations, seeking Him in all generations” was this year’s theme. The event featured music, guest speakers and prayers for family, education, business, government, churches, military and arts and entertainment. Representatives from local churches were on hand throughout the day to share information on the program. CINDY SMITH/Contributed
OLD HIGHWAY RUN PROCEEDS SUPPORT SCHOOL
Last November’s Old Highway Run/Walk witnessed runners and walkers enjoying a shady, flat course that began and ended at Coral Shores High School. Recently, race organizer Henry Menendez presented a $350 check to the high school for supporting the race. The 5K will return to the high school on Oct. 3. Awards will be presented to the overall top three finishers, male and female; overall masters, male and female; and top three male and female from the various age groups. More information is at oldhighwayrun.com. CONTRIBUTED
Current and prior board members celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys. Front row: board chair Laura Lietaert; board members Heidi Morris, Robyn Still and Andrea Spottswood, and CFFK president Elizabeth Brown.
Back row: past board member William Porter; board member Warren Leamard; incoming board member Kevin Trapani; board members Jodi Weinhofer, Bobby Highsmith and Larry Nolt; founder and past board chair Tom Clements; board adviser Ron Burd; board member Ken Silverman; past board chair Will Langley; and incoming board member William Monroe. CONTRIBUTED
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF GIVING
Charitable organization helps donors help the Florida Keys
The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys last week celebrated its 30th anniversary with a gathering at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, where nonprofit leaders, donors, volunteers and residents reflected on three decades of local philanthropy and effect.
Begun in 1996 by residents who believed the Keys could build its own permanent charitable resources, the foundation has helped mobilize more than $36 million in grants, scholarships and disaster relief throughout the island chain. What began as a small local effort has grown into one of the Keys’ largest charitable institutions.
The evening featured a proclamation read by Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln designating May 6 as “Community Foundation of the Florida Keys Day,” and recognizing the organization’s role in connecting people, resources and needs across the Keys for nearly three decades.
The celebration included performances by student musicians from the Southernmost Youth Orchestra, led by Irie Monte, and the Island City Youth Choir, led by Crystal Hendricks. Both groups are part of the after-school music enrichment program offered through the Keys Community School of the Arts, which recently received a grant from the foundation to provide scholarships and instruments for participating students.
In 2025, the foundation distributed more than $2.5 million, including more than $1 million through its “In Paradise for Good” community grants program supporting 73 local nonprofits.
“The foundation is a connector and convener,” said Elizabeth Brown, president and CEO. “Our role is to help bring people together, strengthen local organizations, and help charitable resources go further.”
The program highlighted stories from several recent grant-supported initiatives, including a partnership between Good Health Clinic and SOS Foundation that combines health care services with nutritious meals for vulnerable residents in the Upper and Middle Keys; CoastLove’s mangrove restoration projects; and the Key West Art Center’s ArtSpark program, which connects local students with professional artists for mentorship and arts education.
“Thirty years ago, some people cautioned that a community foundation would never work here. They thought there were not enough local resources or support,” Brown said. “But the Keys are stitched together by people who care deeply about each other, and that’s why it works.”
The foundation manages more than $44 million in charitable assets through donor-advised funds, nonprofit endowments, scholarships, designated funds, and unrestricted community funds supporting local needs across the island chain.
“Behind every one of those funds,” Brown said, “is a local person, business or nonprofit organization who saw an opportunity and decided to start something good.”
More information is at cffk.org.
— Contributed
GOODWIN CROWNED MISS CORAL SHORES 2026
Annual scholarship contest brings out the best
Contestants begin the show in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
Chi Sigma chapter of Beta Sigma Phi and Coral Shores High School hosted the 73rd Miss Coral Shores scholarship contest on May 2. Thirteen finalists competed for the title of Miss Coral Shores 2026.
Coral Shores juniors Harlee Beeler, Isla Zlockie, Peyton Mead, Natalie Goodwin, Julia Rusch, Chloe Cummings, Kimberly Kerns, Gabriella Raffanello, Olive Welch, Abbie Andersen, Alexandra Brehm, Mallory Hughes and Katelynn Simpson were selected for their academic excellence. Their next hurdles were writing a spontaneous essay and sitting for a personal interview with a panel of judges: Julia Waterman, retired judge Carol Rose and Jeffrey Evans.
A series of rehearsals led these finalists to showcase their talents and academic achievements before an audience on May 2 at the Performing Arts Center. In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the contestants kicked off the show with an opening number choreographed by Rebecca Bartlett.
Each girl performed a personal showcase. They demonstrated their poise during the evening gown competition and then the top six were challenged to give an answer to “What is a value or belief you hold strongly, and how has it shaped the way you treat others?”
Natalie Goodwin was crowned Miss Coral Shores 2026. The first princess was Mallory Hughes and second princess was Julia Rusch.
Miss Congeniality went to Hughes, chosen by the contestants; and the Miss Judy Hoke award to
Alexandra Brehm, selected by the members of Chi Sigma in memory of a sorority member who gave generously of her time and talents to the Miss Coral Shores Contest for more than 25 years.
For 73 years, the Miss Coral Shores Scholarship Contest has been a tradition in the Upper Keys community. The program was created to encourage personal growth, confidence, leadership, community service and showcase their unique talents. Many former contestants have gone on to become leaders, carrying with them the friendships, confidence and life lessons gained through the program.
Chi Sigma thanked Coral Shores High School, the many supporters, parents and their largest contributor, Shell World of Key Largo, for continued investment.
— Contributed
From left, Alexandra Brehm, Miss Judy Hoke award winner; Julia Rusch, second princess; Natalie Goodwin, Miss Coral Shores 2026; and Mallory Hughes, first princess and Miss Congeniality. JACKSON GARCIA/Keys Weekly
Miss Coral Shores contestant Mallory Hughes sings during her personal showcase.
Isla Zlockie with her father, Bobby.
Miss Coral Shores contestants on stage.
Joshua Acosta Christina Cory
Angel Alvarez-De Leon Krystin Guerra
Alvin Annylusse Salome McIntosh
Edward Baker Corey Perloff
Nadjie Baptiste Ebenson Michelin
Leandro Batista Robert Maykut
Rasul Cooper Milas Leconte
Nakathy Dort Clare Keller
Eva Drozdetskaia Daylin Starks
Cheila Fernandez Amanda Velazquez
Christa Francois Dr. Jerome Covington
Yaneicee Grimon Alyson Crean
Tamika Kelly Orlinda Lorente
Alexandra Konecna Judie Klitenick
Myroslav Kuts Jonathan Ingham
David Martinez Sam Steele
Rafael Martinez Anthony Pappion
Whitney Nervilus Samantha Grizzle
Cristopher Acosta Katrin O’Marah
Ava Artigue Daylin Starks
Shnyka Blanc Marc Pierre
Anela Ewing-Fisher Rebecca Rice
Nalia Hernandez Nunez Liz Goldstone
Seava Lamontagne Juan Benitez
Changing the Lives of Exceptional Students since 2019!
Aleeya Norat-Nieves Victoria Lombardo
Youdline Plaisir Adinay Chevez
Rodolfo Posada Alfonso Raymond Ruzek
Janelle Rodriguez Darlene Eslick
Erin Saulnier Krystal Thomas Brianna Service Denise Santiago
Vlannier Borrego Salado Michael Millard
Adriana Calvo Doris Hawkins
Tinashay Cunningham Marianne Finizio
Aiden Gilday Brad Hager
Vianka Hernandez Reyes Elizabeth Herrera
Sophia Hutchins Martin Runyon
Ayme Maradiaga Julie Johnson
Nqobile Masango Jody Del Gaizo
Shynell McGuire Robyn Still
James Rider Shannon Wiley
Natalie Rodriguez Amanda Lee
Mia Sanchez Jennifer Ward
Marie Noel Colleen Reed
Jessica Reyes Tito Jamie Strunk
Tamia Stevens Rosa Diaz
Eduardo Garcia James Leonard
Justice Lee Isom Angel Jones
Brenda Medina Collazo Katrina Wiatt
Danna Valenzuela Ordonez Michelle Franck
Daysi Williams Diane Culver
Osvany Barajas Bradley Kerns
Andres Fernandez Christopher Mendez Lopez
Angelyn Gonzalez Mayredys Gonzalez
Christian Gonzalez Christopher Ramos
Carla Hernandez Moreira Dawn Michelini
Madison Heskett Catherine Guinovart
Niveah Howard Stacey Bean
Pablo Marin William Jones
Eli Smith Daniel Carrico
Sara Vega Kirsten Walsh
Jovana Zijic
Clarinda Hefner
Jakub Nurkiewicz Daniel Wise
Claudia Steling Natasha Lane
Jeremiah Stastny
Patricia Biagi
Emileano Barrios Alvin Bentley
Karla Gutierrez Carol Kurz
Xavier-Eric Johnson Frank Derfler
Kadence Ziemer
Evelyn Betancourt
Emily Nolasco-Ferrufino Paris Winter
Mobley
Lissette Castillo
Caton
a Mentor application. MonroeCountyEdFound.org Monroe County’s TOTAL of TSIC Graduates:
Keys Children's Foundation
Ocean Reef Community Foundation
Golden Fleece Foundation
Edward B & Joan T Knight Foundation
Upper Keys Rotary Foundation
Key West Rotary Club Foundation
Key West Sunrise Rotary Club of the Conch Republic
We are so proud to announce another 69 New 2026 Graduates in Monroe County!
On behalf of the Monroe County Education Foundation, it is my honor to congratulate the Take Stock in Children Class of 2026! As Board President, after three years of service on the Board and having served as Vice President last year, I am especially proud to celebrate this remarkable group of 69 scholars. Representing 10% of all Monroe County graduates, they now step forward to begin the next chapter of their educational journeys with the support of Florida Prepaid college scholarships.
For more than 25 years, Take Stock in Children of Monroe County has transformed lives across our community, equipping 1,165 academically capable and financially deserving students with the resources, guidance, and encouragement needed to pursue postsecondary success. This year alone, the Foundation is awarding an extraordinary $2 million in Florida Prepaid tuition scholarships, which is an investment not only in these students, but in the future of Monroe County.
Behind each graduate stands a powerful network of support. Our Take Stock team, led by our Executive Director Chuck Licis-Masson, and our College Readiness Coaches, work tirelessly in collaboration with our mentors and parents to ensure our program achieves its goals. We are deeply grateful for the unwavering commitment of our more than 400 volunteer mentors who dedicate their time each week to guide, challenge, and inspire our students. Their consistency and care are foundational to the success of this program.
Equally inspiring is the determination of our students themselves. Balancing academic demands with personal responsibilities, they have remained focused on a clear goal: earning a college degree or career certificate and creating brighter futures for themselves and their families. Their resilience and ambition define the very spirit of Take Stock in Children.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to our community partners and supporters from Ocean Reef to Key West, and to the Golden Fleece Foundation which provides educational experiences beyond our county borders. Your continued investment makes this life-changing work possible.
To the Class of 2026... Congratulations! Your hard work has brought you to this milestone, and we look forward to all that you will accomplish in the next chapter of your life’s journey.
Marianne L. Finizio
Are you wondering how YOU can help change the future of a student’s life... one child at a time?
With just ONE HOUR a week, you can give a deserving local student a COLLEGE EDUCATION! Volunteer today! Call 305-293-1546 for details and a Mentor application. THANK YOU!
‘Video’ Dave
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Key Largo is synonymous for being the gateway into the Florida Keys. Commonly referred to as the dive capital of the world, Key Largo is home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the infamous Caribbean Club.
When locals think of the Key Largo community, one can’t help but bring up “Video” Dave, or David Kay. For decades, he was the man who took out the camcorder, and later the digital camera and iPhone, to capture all the fun happenings. From big events like Light Up Key Largo and chamber functions to concerts, church services and library activities, “Video” showed the community and the social media world through Facebook Live what Key Largo is truly about.
“I used to cover every event. For the last two to three years, my legs haven’t wanted to play like they used to,” he said. “I still stay busy, but most of the things I do are stationary.”
Before moving to Key Largo in 1997, “Video” spent his years in Ormond Beach. He had several jobs, including video work and lawn care.
In the Keys, he spent 18 years working with Florida Keys Mosquito Control District in the spray truck. He picked the camera back up after he retired, not for work, but for fun. He also volunteers his time running food from the grocery store to the Burton Memorial Methodist Church pantry.
He’s battled some health issues in recent years. On May 13, he was headed in for another surgery. But he said he doesn’t let that get him down. And he doesn’t miss the opportunity to capture a Florida Keys sunset.
“Life is good,” he said. “I enjoy and appreciate every minute of every hour of every day.”
How did you get the nickname “Video”? I don’t remember exactly when. Obviously, it’s because of all the videos I’ve been doing. It’s been many years I’ve been doing it here, and they just started calling me “Video” Dave. Very seldom do I ever hear someone calling me David.
What are some of your favorite things to record? I’m very happy to do my First Baptist Church of Key Largo. I just enjoy that. I also enjoy shooting concerts. I’ve met so many people and musicians. I’ve become good friends with the group Alligator Alley. And the Pops in the Park concert series, I’ve gotten to know quite a few of the musicians.
When I look at my Facebook Live and see 1,000 views, that shows me it’s getting out there. They recognize what I do and thank me … that makes you feel pretty good. I never expect anything and don’t want anything. It’s nice to be noticed.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to face in your life? My scooter accident roughly 10 years ago was pretty serious. But not once was I worried or concerned or feared of dying. It was a long hard struggle. We run across hurdles all through our lives. And just like anything we do, we handle it the best we can.
What are you most proud of as you look back on your life? Family and friends. You can’t beat either one of them.
Is there a skill/talent you wish to master? I feel like I do what I can do to the best of my ability. I started videoing in 1983. I was one of the first in town to get a video camera outfit; it sat on my shoulder and came out pretty far. I went through a few of those before I got to heaven, that was a camcorder. Then I eventually went to the Sony digital camera. I use an iPhone 15 now.
What’s your favorite food in town? Burger Monday with fries at Sharkey’s. You get the burger with everything and anything you wanted on it. I’d get it with blue cheese and mushrooms and pepper jack cheese and peanut butter. And they said peanut butter? And I said “yeah.” They put it on there, a couple people saw that and said, “Oh god it must be horrible.” Different people started trying it, next think you know they put it on the menu so you could add it to the burger.
Marianne L. Finizio President, Monroe County Education Foundation
Many in the local community refer to David Kay as ‘Video’ Dave. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
THE TIKTOKING FISHERMEN
‘All it takes is one video to make 20 million views to change everything’
CHARLOTTE TWINE
www.keysweekly.com
The life of a Florida Keys commercial fisherman holds many daily tasks: Securing bait. Fueling up. Wincing at gas prices. Fixing traps. Checking market prices and the weather report. And looking at the number of views on their latest TikTok post.
Yep, TikTok. The salty commercial fishermen from decades past might have been shocked at the turns that their profession has taken in modern times. Checking analytics on a social media post? What on earth is that?
But that’s exactly what Islamorada commercial fishermen Jesse Hayes, 43, and Conner Rachowicz, 25, have been doing: Showing their catch in videos on not just TikTok, but also several other platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and SnapChat.
And they’ve been “kicking ass,” according to Hayes. The two fishermen have about 400,000 followers between them, across all their social media platforms. Hayes’ most popular YouTube video, which explains how a stone crab regrows its claws, drew 7.5 million views. Rachowicz’s views for a
Conner Rachowicz holds a puffer fish in a recent TikTok, seen here. Puffer fish are popular with his followers — one video of the sea
video in which a puffer fish inflated in his trap clocked in at 28.4 million. And, in an odd twist, their content is so stunning that they both regularly get accused of using artificial intelligence.
While the popularity of their videos keeps growing, Hayes and Rachowicz have been building a community of loyal followers who regularly thank them for their videos, and even getting an important source of income.
The fishermen mostly focus on their bycatch in the videos. The diversity of the sea creatures that land in their traps is dazzling to people in other parts of the world who have never seen a puffer fish or a moray eel. Or a baby octopus. Or an urchin. Or a sargassum fish …
Hayes and Rachowicz both developed a curiosity for marine life as children.
“I would spend hours in the fish room of a pet store in the mall as a kid in Alaska,” recalled Hayes. “All the stuff I thought was cool is here in the Florida Keys, and it’s f–king normal.”
“I grew up loving fishing in Chicago, and there is not much diversi-
ty,” said Rachowicz. “I came here, and it’s a million different species.”
“It’s rewarding to share this,” said Hayes. “I have had people reach out to me who say watching my livestreams has helped them get through hard times.”
“I feel happiest when I read, ‘I never knew that animal existed,’” said Rachowicz. “Or things like, ‘You inspired me to go to the beach today.’”
And since the market has been soft for their target species — stone crab and lobster — the profit from a video can be helpful.
Hayes, who runs a solo commercial fishing operation, said, “There are still good days going home when I do a touchdown dance, but it’s certainly not every day. I do supplement the income from fishing with social media revenue. I would have bailed out of fishing two years ago. It makes that much of a difference.”
“We’re still doing all right, but social media revenue helps aid with the necessary expenses,” said Rachowicz, who has a larger commercial fishing business with his grandfather.
The fishermen are surprised at
their success on social media platforms.
“Let’s be realistic,” said Hayes. “I’m probably too old to do OnlyFans, but just young enough to do TikTok. When my views exceeded the population of my home state, I knew I had something. It was my fourth or fifth video, where I caught a moray eel, and I remember sitting up all night and hitting refresh and watching the numbers go and go. It was awesome.”
Hayes’ community enjoys his narration on the videos, which at times gets a little spicy. He calls himself the “Degenerate Steve Irwin,” but “a lot of nicknames for me have cropped up on there,” he says, laughing. “Like, OffBrand Aquaman.”
Rachowicz is more straightforward with his content, preferring just to keep the camera on his catch and his hands as he opens his trap. “I’m ‘Blue Gloves,’ that’s how they know me,” he says, smiling.
Hayes has been inspired to create another channel of YouTube videos called Tidal Watch 4K. His passion project is made up entirely of hours of underwater footage filmed with a customized rig, and the content is so jaw-dropping that his viewers ask him if he has used AI. He has not, and puts a label on his videos that say so.
“That’s how amazing our content is — the sea creatures,” said Rachowicz, shaking his head. “I’m accused all the time of being AI.”
As for the future, the fishermen will keep doing what they love to do.
“If it ever gets to a point where the content-creating is work, then I’ll stop,” said Rachowicz. “But all it takes is one video to make 20 million views to change everything.”
You can catch Conner Rachowicz on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and SnapChat on @FishingWithConner. Jesse Hayes can be found on TikTok and YouTube on @incidentally_awesome and on YouTube @Tidal Watch 4K.
Conner Rachowicz is an Islamorada commercial fisherman who loves to share his bycatch on social media; he has just over 300,000 followers across all platforms. CONTRIBUTED
creature clocked in at 28.4 million views.
Jesse Hayes’ video of finding a moray eel curled up in a bait cup, seen here, garnered about 4 million views on TikTok.
Commercial fisherman Jesse Hayes, seen here in a video holding a stone crab, is based out of Islamorada. His most popular YouTube video, in which he explains how a stone crab regrows its claws, drew 7.5 million views.
Florida Keys
FISH REPORT
MAHI MADNESS
The phones light up in May. Everyone wants to catch a mahi — first-timers, lifelong offshore guys, doesn’t matter. Mahi madness hits this island chain every spring like clockwork, and I love that it does. They’re the prettiest fish in the ocean. Gold, electric blue, neon green, lit up like a Vegas sign the second they hit the boat. They jump, they fight on the surface, and they make a first-time angler look like a hero. Of course everyone
MOBLEY
is a fish captain specializing in deep sea charters off Islamorada. KIT
wants one. I want one every time I leave the dock.
The catch is: Mahi don’t live here. They’re migratory, on their schedule, not ours.
Atlantic mahi spend their winters down in the Caribbean. Come spring, they ride the Gulf Stream north — through the Antilles Current, up our edge, then on toward the Carolinas and the Mid-Atlantic. By midsummer some of them are off New England.
The Dolphinfish Research Program — the satellite tagging outfit at dolphintagging.com that S.A.F.E. (South Atlantic Fishing Environmentalists) safefishing.org works with — has the data to prove it. Tagged fish move 30 to 50 miles a day. One, out of Puerto Rico, carried a tag almost 570 miles in three weeks. So yeah, mahi don’t text you their ETA.
So when somebody calls in late March wanting a guaranteed mahi trip, I have to be straight with them. They’re not here yet. You’ll hear about the run-and-gun guys burning a tank of fuel sunup to sundown, hunting birds, weed lines and floating debris. A few connect. Most don’t. That’s the math of chasing a fish that hasn’t shown up.
Then mid-April hits, and things start to move.
Not the wide-open schoolie bite of June. Little pushes. Singles, pairs, the occasional small wolfpack. And here’s what most folks don’t expect — the early pushes are almost always bigger fish than the schoolies that come behind them. Slammers in the 15- to 30-pound range scouting ahead of the run.
Case in point: On May 9 aboard
the Miss Penny out of Robbie’s of Islamorada, we ran out to 1,200 feet of water with regulars Alan, Lisa and their girls Mary Pat and Emily. The mission was mahi. What we found was a whole lot of water, plenty of grass and zero fish. We dropped deep on a handful of numbers. Nada. Zip.
Then a massive bull materialized behind the boat out of thin air. Mary Pat and Emily had been feeding him beef jerky sticks (I wish I was making that up). First bait spit, the bull swam back under the boat, I hopped up on the transom and started negotiating out loud. He turned. Alan pitched a bait, buried the hook, Chad spun the wheel, I had the gaff.
Thirty-two pounds of gold, green and bad decisions made right. Zero to hero on a single bite. Full report at dirtyboat.com/reports.
Anglers show off their success catching mahi. CONTRIBUTED
MUSEUM WELCOMES MILITARY FAMILIES
New exhibit debuts May 20, coincides with talk on Divers Alert Network
To honor and thank those serving in the military, on Armed Forces Day, the History of Diving Museum will hold complimentary guided tours included with an admission ticket.
Tours will take place on Saturday, May 16 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to kick off the 2026 Blue Star Museums program, a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families that offers free admission to active duty military and up to five members of their family.
The museum offers free admission to all active duty members of the U.S. military year-round, but the Blue Star Museums program allows it to extend this offer to their families. It is the only Blue Star Museum in the Upper Keys. The program begins on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 16 and ends on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7.
Saturday’s guided tours will offer an in-depth look at the History of Diving Museum’s exhibits, with special emphasis on the military history of diving and the critical work of Navy salvage and combat divers. Visitors can learn how World War II jumpstarted the development of modern scuba, and how salvage divers worked in deep, deadly environments to recover sunken ships and submarines from the seafloor.
On Wednesday, May 20, the museum will hold a grand opening of “Prescribed Pressure.” This limitedtime featured exhibit explores the world of undersea medicine and how pressure can harm and heal the body. It describes how the first people to suffer from pressure sickness were
not divers, and how life-saving treatments are given to divers today.
The event begins at 6 p.m. with light refreshments. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for 6:30 p.m. At 7 p.m., an “Immerse Yourself” presentation will take place in the library with Matías Nochetto for a talk on 45 years of Divers Alert Network (DAN).
Nochetto has been involved with DAN for more than two decades. In his role as executive vice president of global medical affairs, he oversees the organization’s overall medical direction, including medical policy, strategy, education and global partnerships that support divers and dive professionals. Originally from Argentina, Nochetto has given lectures internationally on a wide range of dive medicine topics, with a practical approach to dive safety grounded in real-world experience.
In his talk, Nochetto shares the story of DAN and its evolution over the past 45 years. This presentation also challenges common perceptions, highlighting that DAN’s role extends far beyond any single product or service.
Those interested in attending the lecture either in-person or via Zoom may register at divingmuseum.org. This session will also be recorded and posted to the museum’s YouTube channel. The “Immerse Yourself” and exhibit sponsors are the Carolan Foundation, DAN, Florida Arts and Culture, the Newton Family, Hyperbarics International, Silent World Dive Center and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. — Contributed
SECOND-TIME SAVE
Emaciated manatee calf rescued again by DRC after January release
CENTER/Contributed
On May 5, Dolphin Research Center (DRC) responded to an urgent call to assist in the rescue of a severely emaciated manatee calf at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
Upon arrival, the center’s trained response team assessed the calf, which was found to be in critical condition and in need of immediate intervention. DRC’s staff veterinarian administered preliminary care at the site of the rescue, stabilizing the animal for transport.
Following initial treatment, the manatee calf was safely transported to SeaWorld Orlando, where he will receive intensive, around-the-clock veterinary care and rehabilitation.
“This was a critical rescue effort where rapid response and collaboration were essential,” said Allie Proskovec, Director of Media & Marketing at Dolphin Research Center. “Our team worked quickly to provide lifesaving support and ensure the calf has the best possible chance for recovery.”
It’s not the calf’s first brush with the Florida Keys’ rescue and rehab teams. In May 2025, the two-day-old young manatee, later named “Argyle,” was rescued with his mother “Stripes” as she suffered from severe entangle-
ment. After a stint at SeaWorld Orlando, the pair were released back into Keys waters just four months ago.
“We had a positive ID on Stripes the other day, but we were unsure if the calf with her was Argyle because of his size difference from release,” Proskovec told the Weekly.
Weighing around 250 pounds at the time of his January 2026 release, she said, the calf’s weight had dropped to roughly 70 pounds at the time of his second rescue. His appearance was so drastically different, she said, that rescuers were unable to confirm his identity until a scan later in the day by an FWC transport team en route to Orlando.
“We have not heard from SeaWorld about the root cause of the emaciation yet, but they have him on formula and we all have our fingers crossed,” Proskovec said on May 11.
DRC remains committed to the protection, rescue and rehabilitation of marine mammals throughout the Keys and beyond. The organization encourages anyone who spots a manatee that may be injured, entangled or in distress to call the FWC wildlife alert hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).
– Keys Weekly staff report
History of Diving Museum’s new featured exhibit, ‘Prescribed Pressure,’ explores the world of undersea medicine and how pressure can harm and heal the body. Pictured here is George Stillson’s diving team aboard the USS Walke. CONTRIBUTED
Manatee calf ‘Argyle’ is rescued for the second time from John Pennekamp State Park on May 5. Following a release with his mother in January 2026, the emaciated calf had dropped from an estimated weight of 250 pounds down to roughly 70. DOLPHIN RESEARCH
A MEETUP WITH LINDA PERRY
REEF THE FOX
fur farm.
Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report,” reporting live from the Florida Keys where I was abandoned this past weekend so my mother could run off to New York City and apparently become famous-adjacent without me.
First of all, let’s discuss the betrayal. I was left behind. The face of this organization. The talent. The star. The emotional support fox. And for what? So my mother could go gallivanting around Manhattan meeting celebrities and attending screenings while I sat at home screaming into the void and aggressively rearranging mulch.
And who did she get to meet? Oh, just the one and only Linda Perry. Yes. That Linda Perry.
The woman responsible for some of the most iconic songs ever written. The powerhouse behind “Beautiful,” “Get the Party Started” and approximately every emotionally devastating song humans cry to in their cars
HENRY
Tat night. Meanwhile I was in Key Largo suffering in extreme humidity. Apparently my mother attended a screening of “Let It Die Here,” the documentary about Perry’s life and creative process directed by filmmaker Don Hardy. There was also a Q&A and an acoustic performance, because clearly the universe enjoys tormenting me personally.
Frankly, I would have thrived there. I belong in New York City. I have the attitude. I have the dramatic flair. I already yell at people for no reason. I could absolutely make it in Manhattan. Some of you can barely survive Publix and yet somehow I’m considered “too chaotic” for public transit? Disrespectful.
The worst part? She came home acting all emotionally inspired talking about how powerful the film was and how meaningful it was to meet Perry in person. Meanwhile I’m sitting there like … cool. Did you at least tell her about me? Did she hear about my journalism career? My weekly column? My ongoing advocacy work? My ability to hold a grudge for six to eight business months? Nothing.
So congratulations to my mother on her glamorous NYC weekend while I remained here in Florida living like a forgotten Victorian child. Anywho, that’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!
his 3-year-old mix is a sweet and playful pup. Weighing around 20 pounds, he’s a professional napper and loves snoozing upside down and other funny positions (he knows he’s cute). When awake, he loves to play, learn new things (he already knows “sit”) and hang out with people. He has the perfect mix of fun, cuddly and easygoing. If you’re looking for a best friend who will make you laugh and snuggle up right next to you, Henry is your guy. Contact MarrVelous Pet Rescues at 305-453-1315 or visit our website www.mprescues.org to learn more about our adoption process.
SAVE THE DATE
EVENTS
Thursday, May 14
• Bingo for the Birds at 6 p.m. at Dive Bar, Tavernier.
May 15-17
• “Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing” Screamin’ Reels Tournament in Tavernier. Learn more at ladiesletsgofishing.com.
Saturday, May 16
• Guided bird walk with the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m at Green Turtle Hammock Nature Preserve.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
• Scan the QR code for a comprehensive list of arts and entertainment in Islamorada.
Thursday, May 21
• Art Walk from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, Islamorada
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS Thursday, May 14
• Florida Keys Children Shelter’s second annual Community Pickleball Tournament from 8 a.m. to noon at Key Largo Park. Register 24 hours before the event by scanning the QR code.
• Guided tours at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the History of Diving Museum. Tours are included with the admission price.
• Cancer support group at 11:30 a.m. in person at Mariners Hospital or via Zoom. Scan the QR code to join.
May 19-20
• Just Older Youth Inc. (JOY) activities from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Plantation Key Community Center, 53 High Point Road.
Reef is a red fox that was saved from a
He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.
American musician Linda Perry with Pawsitive Beginnings founder Nicole Navarro during a screening of ‘Let It Die Here’ documentary in Manhattan last weekend. CONTRIBUTED
BRIEFLY
New congregate meal site opens
Monroe County Community Services Social Services department hosted a grand opening of the relocated Plantation Key congregate meal site and office on May 13. The new site, located at the Plantation Key Community Center at 53 High Point Road, also serves as social services’ Upper Keys office. It provides a central location for residents to access programs, information and assistance. Social services offers a range of community support programs, in addition to meal sites, including the State Housing Initiatives Partnership program and the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program.
“Previously located in Key Largo, the site will continue providing nutritious meals for older adults in the Upper Keys,” said Cathy Crane, Monroe County director of community services. “The program supports health and social connection, offering a welcoming space for seniors to gather, engage with others, and access supportive services available through Monroe County Social Services.”
Visit monroecounty-fl.gov/socialservices to learn more.
Lecture highlights Homestead’s history
open to the public. Come learn why J. Edgar Hoover once stayed at the historic Redland Hotel. Or perhaps what you know about the founding of Everglades National Park is only part of the story. For more information call 305-393-0940.
College offers dual enrollment information
The College of the Florida Keys invites Monroe County high school students and their parents to learn how dual enrollment can provide a head start on college. CFK will host a virtual information session on Wednesday, May 20 at 5:30 p.m. to present the advantages of taking dual enrollment classes, requirements to participate and the application process.
Through dual enrollment at any CFK location, high school students can simultaneously earn college and high school credits at no cost, potentially saving their families thousands of dollars.
Interested students and parents can sign up for the event and learn more at www.cfk.edu/de. More information is available from Marissa Owens, recruitment manager, at recruiter@cfk.edu or 305-809-3207.
MONROE COUNTY RECOGNIZES LAW ENFORCEMENT MEMORIAL WEEK
MThe Matecumbe Historical Trust’s next free presentation – on “Homestead Florida: From Railroad Boom to Sonic Boom” – will be on Tuesday, May 19 at 6 p.m. at the Islamorada library at 81830 Overseas Highway. The talk will highlight events and individuals who weave together the history in and around Homestead. Homestead was born among the pine trees of South Florida and quickly became a city. From the simple act of how the name “stuck” to decades of ordinary life touched by tragedy and change, enjoy a range of stories shared from the Homestead Town Hall Museum.
Katherine Fleming serves as the acting director of the Historic Homestead Town Hall Museum. She first became associated with the museum more than 15 years ago when she volunteered to be the museum’s archivist. She soon became a member of the Museum Board and Treasurer for the organization. The presentation is free and
Fire rescue helps ‘beat the heat’
Monroe County Fire Rescue (MCFR) will host “Beat the Heat” events this summer at locations throughout the Keys. MCFR will provide a gentle misting stream of water for children of all ages to enjoy in a safe, fun environment. It is a great way to meet your neighborhood firefighters, learn about fire prevention, and cool off. Children are encouraged to wear a bathing suit and water shoes, and bring a bottle of water and a towel. In the Upper and Middle Keys, events take place on on Saturday, May 30 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Harry Harris Park in Tavernier and Saturday, June 6 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Layton Community Baptist Church.
“These events are one of our favorite ways to connect with families in the community, giving kids the chance to meet our firefighters and enjoy some time cooling off in the summer heat,” said Fire Marshal Marcos Osorio. “It’s also a great opportunity to share important summer safety tips while having fun at the same time.”
More information is available at 305-289-6005. The events are subject to cancellation due to inclement or threatening weather.
onroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln and the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners have proclaimed May 10-16 as Law Enforcement Memorial Week in Monroe County, honoring the service, sacrifice and dedication of law enforcement officers who protect communities each day under often difficult and dangerous circumstances.
The proclamation recognizes the commitment law enforcement officers provide 24 hours a day, seven days a week, while acknowledging the risks they and their families face each time they report for duty. It also honors the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities, including the hundreds of public safety officers lost during the tragedies of Sept. 11, 2001.
“Law enforcement officers put themselves in harm’s way every day to keep our communities safe,” said Lincoln. “Law Enforcement Memorial Week is an important opportunity for Monroe County to pause, reflect and honor those who gave their lives in service and to recognize the dedication of the men and women who continue to serve our residents and visitors today.”
The community is invited to attend the annual law enforcement memorial ceremony on Friday, May 15, at 5 p.m. at Bayview Park in Key West. Hosted by the City of Key West and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the ceremony will honor fallen officers and recognize the ongoing service of law enforcement personnel throughout Monroe County. Lincoln will also be reading the proclamation at the event.
— Contributed
Florida East Coast Railway depot in Homestead. CONTRIBUTED
County commissioners present Sheriff Rick Ramsay with the Law Enforcement Memorial Week proclamation at the April BOCC meeting. KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County
KLS EVERGLADES AMBASSADORS CREATE BEAUTIFUL MURAL
1: Key Largo School Everglades Ambassadors proudly show off the mural they designed and painted for Earth Day. For the second year in a row, KLS students celebrated Earth Day with a mural. The theme this year was manatees and seagrass. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly. 2: Besides designing manatees, students painted creatures for the seagrass on the bottom row. DEB RIOLO/Contributed 3: Members of the Everglades Ambassadors club from Key Largo School had a ball watching their creation come to life.
Earth Day artwork focuses on manatees and seagrass
For months, the Everglades Ambassadors from Key Largo School met after school on Mondays and Tuesdays to design and paint a stunning Earth Day mural for the second year in a row.
“Everglades Ambassadors choose one theme to focus on each year. This year, we decided to raise awareness about manatees,” said teacher Pam Caputo.
“They really had an artistic perspective on everything they did,” she added.
This year, 15 students from fifth grade and up serve as Everglades Ambassadors. They write an essay to join the afterschool program, which focuses on learning about and preserving our fragile environment.
To help bring their vision to life, Caputo enlisted her friend and KLS volunteer Deb Riolo. Riolo is a graphic designer who taught graphic design at a vocational school for 36 years before retiring to the Keys. She runs @ BellaNonaArt, where she donates her time and skills to help nonprofits with fundraising.
“The fun part is that on Earth
Day, we hosted kindergarten through fourth grade, and the ambassadors helped them put their handprints on the manatees,” said Riolo.
From start to finish, the project took about 30 hours. Berry’s Paint of Key Largo generously donated the paint. For the students, it was a handson learning experience that was very personal.
After finishing the mural, the Everglades Ambassadors invited younger students from Pre-K to fourth grade to a presentation.
“We had to learn a lot of information because we needed to teach them about manatees and these creatures,” said sixth grader Ani Horn. “We learned many facts about manatees while we were trying to teach them.”
“We got to teach them about the Everglades and not to touch manatees,” said fifth grader Scarlet Hanks.
“Don’t feed manatees and go slow in the no-wake zones,” added fifth grader Matthew Riquelme.
“It’s illegal to touch them,” emphasized fifth grader Melissa Hernandez.
Once the manatees were painted, the students added colorful sea creatures to the bottom row in the seagrasses.
“The Everglades Ambassadors were a joy to work with, and in my opinion, that whole bottom row is the show,” said Riolo.
“My favorite part of the project was just seeing everyone included,” said fifth grader Katelyn Shalvatis.
“I knew we could do it because of teamwork,” added fifth grader Jacob Medina.
“We did a great job,” said sixth grader Maryana Arraval.
For students growing up in the Keys, the Everglades is part of everyday life. Learning to coexist with nature and protect it is the core of this program.
“I just want to raise awareness because of how bad the earth is right now. We need to try to fix it and slowly make it better,” said sixth grader Gabby Castano Polo.
Key Largo School has collaborated with the Everglades Foundation for five years. Caputo believes that lessons learned from these Everglades Ambassadors will greatly benefit the environment.
“When you start teaching them in kindergarten about not feeding manatees, they will go home and tell their parents ‘We shouldn’t do this,’” said Caputo.
KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL
CLEAN WATER BEGINS ON LAND
is the University of Florida, IFAS County Extension environmental horticulture agent and master gardener volunteer coordinator.
In a place like the Florida Keys, characterized by coastlines, coral reefs and marine life, clean water is essential to our way of life. Protecting and conserving water begins on land, and how we manage and design our landscapes may have a greater effect than we realize.
The Green Industries Best Management Practices program was created in response to growing community concerns about water quality and quantity across Florida. It teaches environmentally safe landscaping practices that help conserve and protect Florida’s water resources. The program has a strong focus on reducing non-point source pollution – meaning pollutants that come from many small, widely dispersed locations, and a single source cannot be identified.
It is often unintentional. Pet waste left on lawns or sidewalks, grass clippings washed into storm drains or canals, fertilizers left on driveways or not watered in – all these add up. During rainfall or excessive irrigation events, pollutants are carried across driveways, roads, rooftops and compacted soils straight into storm drains, canals and eventually our bays and oceans. The Environmental Protection Agency has identified stormwater runoff as Florida’s primary water quality issue. Addressing this is vital to protecting our environment.
The best-management program is crucial in the Keys. What happens in a yard or along a road can quickly reach canals and nearshore waters. Careful landscape management is essential to maintaining the
delicate balance between our built environment and surrounding marine ecosystems.
The program is a partnership among the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), and the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/ IFAS). The university’s Florida-Friendly Landscaping program delivers this training to professionals, homeowners, municipal workers and developers through county Extension offices.
The training covers a wide range of topics, including landscape planting and maintenance, efficient irrigation practices, responsible fertilizer use and proper pesticide application.
The benefits of these practices extend well beyond the environment. When landscapes are designed and maintained correctly, homeowners and property managers can save money, time and effort. Healthy plants require fewer inputs, irrigation systems use less water and properly managed landscapes reduce the need for costly corrective treatments.
The primary audience is referred to as the “green industry.” Landscapers, groundskeepers, irrigation technicians, fertilizer applicators, pest control operators, supervisors and business owners all benefit from bestmanagement training. It is required for all commercial fertilizer applicators. The program also provides four CEU credits to FDACS license holders.
While designed for professionals, the training is open to interested residents, especially those who manage their own landscapes and want to better understand how their practices affect local water resources.
The Monroe County Extension office is offering a workshop on Thursday, May 14, from 9 a.m. to 4:20 p.m. at Marathon Garden Club. More information is available from the UF/ IFAS Monroe County environmental horticulture agent at 305-998-9580 or continentino-liah@monroecounty-fl. gov.
JOY HOSTS SUCCESSFUL ARTIST IN RESIDENCE CLASSES
E.G. MERKEL www.keysweekly.com
Just Older Youth (JOY) Inc. fulfilled many requests to offer art classes thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys. The series of four six-week classes recently ended and everyone’s wondering when it can happen again.
The excitement is due to the amazing instructor, Diane Smith. She instilled skills and confidence in the 63 individual participants across all the classes. Mini art shows after each set of classes revealed People’s Choice Best in Show winners. Winners received a $20 Amazon gift card to, hopefully, use toward art supplies to continue to hone their talents.
Winners from the first set of classes were:
• Watercolor – Becky Zinn.
• Drawing – Jan Price. Winners from the second set of classes were:
• Watercolor – Janna Charette.
• Creative Expression Arts – Terry Willner-Tainow.
Also deserving recognition are those students who got 100% out of each class by attending 100% of the time.
• Drawing: Eva Merkel, Cheryl Saccente, Ushy Knauer, Peggy Chamberlain, Rebecca Zinn, Marilyn Carriere.
• Second watercolor: Linda Britton, Debora Heald and Theresa Hendrix.
• Creative expression arts: Debora Heald.
The final mini art show featured a birthday celebration for Smith and included entertainment from Ukulele JOY.
With each set of classes and each art show offering lessons on how to improve providing this type of programming, JOY will be looking at ways to bring more art classes to its membership.
Non-point source pollution can lead to harmful algal blooms. DAIL LAUGHINGHOUSE/ UF-IFAS
The President’s Own
Each branch of the U.S. military has a band that represents that part
Americans will celebrate Memorial Day on Monday, May 25. Memorial Day is a special day set aside to honor our service members who have lost their lives while serving in the military.
You might attend a parade or a concert where military bands play patriotic music.
Military music has a long tradition. Thousands of years ago, the Greeks and Romans used drummers to help the troops march in step at the same speed.
Today, the branches of our military have bands that play to entertain and inspire those in the armed services as well as civilians. Military musicians are on active duty.
The U.S. Marine Band is our oldest professional musical organization, founded in 1798 by an act of Congress. It has grown from 32 members to about 130.
‘THE PRESIDENT’S OWN’
In 1801, the U.S. Marine Band played for President Thomas Jefferson’s inauguration. He named it “The President’s Own.” It has played for every inauguration since.
The mission of the U.S. Marine Band is to play for the president of the United States. The band performs at concerts and ceremonial events as well. For instance, the band plays at the White House for the National Christmas Tree lighting, for the Easter Egg Roll and on Independence Day. Marine Band musicians appear at the White House about 200 times each year.
JOINING THE MARINE BAND
Musicians must audition to join the Marine Band. First, a musician performs behind a screen so that the judges can’t see him or her.
FIND IT
A committee from the band then interviews musicians chosen from the auditions. Once accepted, musicians join the Marine Corps. Members of this band are not asked to go into combat.
THE UNIFORM
Members of the U.S. Marine Band wear scarlet, or red, coats with blue or white pants or skirts. Their hats are white. These uniforms have been used since the Revolutionary War, when field musicians were used to send signals on the battlefield and in camp and needed to be easily recognizable.
Along with a large bearskin hat, the drum major wears a fancy sash across his chest called a baldric. He uses his mace, or staff, to signal directions to the musicians.
Words that remind us of the U.S. Marine Band are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
The 17th director of the Marine Band, John Philip Sousa (SOO-za), gets credit for developing the band to a high level of excellence. His father was a member of the Marine Band, and as a child he studied many instruments, but he loved the violin.
When John was just 13, he became an apprentice member of the Marine Band, and he remained a band member until he was 20.
In 1880, when Sousa was 26, he was offered the director position with the Marine Band. He was a strict director, and the band got better. Sousa also wrote many marches for bands. Eventually he became known as the March King. Listen for his music at Memorial Day or Independence Day celebrations.
RESOURCES
On the Web:
• marineband.marines.mil
• bit.ly/41s7Mrq
• youtu.be/YvnnzDgNj6o
At the library:
• “John Philip Sousa” by Mike Venezia
ECO NOTE
Nineteen cities across Europe, North America and Asia — including London, San Francisco and Beijing — have cut dangerous air pollutants by at least 20% since 2010, with some reducing levels of fine particles and nitrogen dioxide by nearly 45%, according to new research from the Breathe Cities initiative. Measures such as low emission zones, adoption of electric vehicles, cleaner home heating and expanded routes dedicated to cycling were credited with the gains. Beijing and Warsaw led reductions in fine particulate pollution, while Amsterdam and Rotterdam achieved some of the steepest declines in nitrogen dioxide generated by vehicle traffic.
Mini Fact:
of the military.
photo courtesy U.S. Marine Band
photo by Master Sgt. Kristin duBois,
photo by Staff
The Marine Band plays for some funerals at Arlington National Cemetery.
A new mace arrived in Washington, D.C., in May 2022 from Birmingham, England, where it was made.
Founded by Betty Debnam
JOHN PHILIP SOUSA
photo courtesy U.S. Marine Band
photo courtesy
U.S. Marine Corps
John Philip Sousa
The Sousaphone is named for John Philip Sousa.
CHAMP STATUS
Lifters, track & field stars hit the podium | PGS. 6,8
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
5/14
5/15
5/15
BATISTA
Athletes from Marathon and Key West returned from the FHSAA Track and Field and Weightlifting State Championships with medals around their necks. Clockwise from top: Max Childress, Ariel Newton, Isaak Vallejo, Justice Lee Isom, Leo Batista and Audrey Smith. Photos by Natalie Danko, Tracy McDonald and Rick Mackenzie.
— Key West track and field coach Dave Perkins
52’2”
shot put place state medal
4TH
Leo is the definition of a competitor. He went into the state meet up against the best in Florida and walked away with a fourth-place medal and a new school record.”
Key West’s Leandro Batista delivered a standout performance at the state meet last week, breaking the school record in the Class 2A boys shot put and earning a spot on the podium. Batista launched the 12-pound shot 15.92 meters (52 feet, 2 inches), surpassing the previous mark and finishing fourth in a highly competitive field.
Known as a fierce competitor, Batista’s path to success hasn’t been conventional. Once a sprinter, he made the transition to the throwing events and committed himself to mastering the discipline. That work paid off in a big way, as he not only competed with the state’s best but rose to the occasion when it mattered most.
His record-breaking throw and podium finish cap off a remarkable season and highlight the results of his dedication and drive to make Leo Batista the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
Se habla español THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.
Clockwise from top: Key West celebrates their mercy-rule win May 6.
Junior Lilee Gage awaits the batter to bring her home from third base.
Lilee Gage awaits the pitch in Key West’s quarterfinal game against Lourdes. Gage ended the game with two hits and two RBIs.
Sophomore Aaliyah McLeod takes a big swing in the Conchs’ regional quarterfinal matchup May 6.
ROCKY GONET/Keys Weekly
Lady Conchs chasing state glory after two weeks, two wins
The Lady Conchs lined up with a familiar opponent for their FHSAA 4A regional quarterfinals on May 6. Lourdes Academy made the trip to Key West for another go at the Southernmost softball team, after losing to the Conchs April 29. The quarterfinals proved even more of an overwhelming win for Key West, who defeated Lourdes 15-0 in just three innings.
The Key West bats were ablaze with a dozen hits, including two each from Lucy Katz, Arianna Garcia and Lilee Gage, plus a Charlie Bracher home run. Kaleya Cervantes, Maicee Gage, Shylo Sanchez, Kaleaya Dickerson and Aaliyah McLeod all contributed to the hit count.
The Royal Lions could not touch pitcher Brianna Brenner’s delivery. Brenner struck out five, walked one and tossed three innings of no-hit softball to win in a resounding mercy-rule victory.
Next up for the second-seeded Conchs was a May 12 regional semifinal (result not available at press time) in Key West’s Backyard with third-seeded Somerset Academy, the squad that knocked out Key West’s baseball team this season.
Marathon and Coral Shores each qualified athletes for the FHSAA 1A Boys Weightlifting Championships, held last week in Lakeland, with Marathon turning in a strong performance on the state stage.
The Dolphins were led by senior Max Childress in the 183-pound weight class, who brought home a pair of medals from Lakeland. He placed fourth in the Olympic lifts and sixth in the traditional competition, highlighted by a 265-pound bench press, a 275-pound clean and jerk, and a 205-pound snatch.
Junior Isaak Vallejo also reached the podium for Marathon, earning a fourth-place medal in the traditional division at 199 pounds. Vallejo posted an impressive 335-pound bench press and a 235-pound clean and jerk.
Senior Matthias Martinez-Velez added to the Dolphins’ success, cracking the top 10 with an eighth-place finish in the traditional competition at 139 pounds. He recorded a 245-pound bench press and a 185-pound clean and jerk.
The state championships closed the book on a strong season for both the Hurricanes and Dolphins. Both teams will waste little time prior to hitting the weight room again as they look to carry that momentum into the offseason to continue to develop strength and depth.
ENDING ON A STRONG NOTE
Lifters Childress & Vallejo bring home state medals
Clockwise from top: Max Childress flexes on his competition.
Isaak Vallejo shows off his muscles after winning fourth place at states.
Isaak Vallejo hoists a snatch lift over his head.
Matthias Martinez-Velez prepares for a clean and jerk lift.
Isaak Vallejo, left, Matthias Martinez-Velez and Max Childress show off their state-medalwinning guns.
Photos contributed
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STATE SURGE
Keys tracksters bring home seven medals, break four records at state championships
All three Keys schools sent representatives to the FHSAA 1A and 2A State Championships on May 6 and 7, and when the final race was over, Monroe County athletes made seven trips to the podium and rewrote four records.
Marathon senior Justice Lee Isom did what no other Dolphin had done before; Lee Isom captured a state championship in track and field, striking gold with a 41’ 0.25” shot put throw. The mark set a new PR and school record for the most decorated athlete in Marathon history.
Lee Isom went on to win a second medal, this one bronze, in the discus event with a 112’ 6” toss. Her ninth-place javelin effort was one place shy of a medal, but a trio of top-10 finishes made for a phenomenal end to her high school career.
Also medaling for Marathon was freshman Lucian Burns, whose PR in the 3,200-meter race sent him to the podium. Burns’ 9:58 finish was good for eighth place. Senior Caleb Shelar cracked the top 10 in the 400-meter hurdles, finishing in 59.06 seconds for a new PR and school record to cap off his senior season in style.
Marathon set the tone May 6 in the 1A competition, but they were not the only Keys team to shine at states. Key West and Coral Shores competed the following day in the 2A division, and junior Ariel Newton soared to a silver medal in the pole vault event. Newton’s 11’ 9.75” mark tied with the gold medalist, but a miss at an earlier height gave the other athlete the advantage in the rankings.
Finishing in fourth place for a medal and a trip to the podium was senior Audrey Smith, who tossed the javelin 121’ 8”. Classmate Leandro Batista’s 52’ 2.75” shot put throw reset the school record and landed Batista in fourth place as well. Jeff Dejean medaled in the long jump, leaping 21’ 0.75” for seventh place.
The final broken record came from the Lady Conchs’ 4x100 meter relay team. Despite not medaling, the foursome ran the fastest time in school and Monroe County history, finishing in 49.56 seconds. The team of Jordan Green, Ariel Newton, Demarla Thompson and Mirakle Humphrey are all juniors and will have a chance to shave off even more time next season.
1. Justice Lee Isom stands atop the podium in first place in the 1A shot put competition.
2. Key West’s Jordan Greene, Ariel Newton, Demarla Thompson and Mirakle Humphrey are the new school 4x100 meter relay record holders.
3. Leandro Batista holds up his fourth-place medal from states in the 2A shot put competition.
4. Jeff Dejean is all smiles with his state medal in long jump. Dejean finished seventh in the 2A competition.
5. Audrey Smith shows off her state medal from the javelin event.
6. Marathon freshman Lucian Burns finishes strong in the 3,200-meter race.
7. Marathon senior Caleb Shelar sails over a hurdle in his record-breaking race.
8. Justice Lee Isom hurls a school record-breaking shot put, winning the Dolphins’ first track and field gold medal in school history.
9. Jeff Dejean defies gravity with his seventh-place long jump.
Photos by Rick Mackenzie
Redruello, a team captain, led her squad in scoring and anchored the offense throughout her four-year career. Her leadership and attacking presence set the tone for her team and made her a constant threat in the final third.
Engelmeyer was a key piece of her team’s defensive unit and a four-year starter who will next play at Briar Cliff University. Her consistency and awareness helped anchor the back line and limit opposing opportunities.
Mandozzi controlled play from the midfield, and was a team captain and four-year starter who will continue her career at North Carolina Wesleyan University. Her vision and composure helped dictate tempo and connect play across the field.
2026 ALL KEYS GIRLS SOCCER TEAM
Monroe County’s girls soccer season featured competitive district play across three classifications, with Key West and Coral Shores both making runs into the district semifinals. Key West finished 10-6-4 in Class 4A District 16, opening the season with a tie against Coral Shores before earning a win in the rematch and sweeping Marathon during the regular season. The Conchs advanced through the district quarterfinals before falling in the semifinals. Coral Shores posted a 5-7-2 record in Class 3A, tying Key West once, defeating Marathon twice, and reaching the district semifinals after a quarterfinal victory. Marathon completed the year at 3-12-1 in Class 2A District 16, finishing without an in-county win and exiting in the first round of district competition.
Searcy and Jim McCarthy
Goodwin was a steady presence in the back line and an integral part of her team’s success as a captain and four-year starter. Her leadership and reliability made her a cornerstone of the defense.
A four-year starter for the Lady Conchs, Kilduff capped her senior season with an outstanding 22 goals and six assists, leading the offense with consistency and versatility. Equally effective at striker and in the center midfield, she proved to be a dynamic playmaker, combining a high work rate with exceptional vision and passing ability to elevate the entire attack. Whether finishing chances or creating opportunities for her teammates, Kilduff was the engine that kept Key West’s offense running smoothly.
Beyond the stat sheet, Kilduff’s leadership and positive presence made her an invaluable part of the program. Her energy, composure and understanding of the game set the standard for those around her.
Kilduff will continue her soccer career at the collegiate level, a well-earned opportunity that reflects years of hard work and commitment to her craft.
Photos by Natalie Danko, Jen
Collins, a captain, was a steady presence in the midfield, helping control tempo and contributing on both ends of the field. Her experience and leadership were vital in guiding her team throughout the season. 16 14 14
| MHS
A newcomer who made an immediate impact, Skaarup brought intensity and consistency to the back line, earning recognition as a top defender. Her relentless effort and physical play helped disrupt opposing offenses throughout the season.
Rodriguez emerged as a freshman with a dominant defensive presence, earning team MVP honors while anchoring the back line. With her composure and strength, she shows the potential for a very bright future.
McKnight developed, over four years of starting, into a physical and reliable center back, leading the defense with strong decision-making and consistency. Her toughness and leadership helped define the team’s defensive identity.
| KWHS
Andrew contributed both defensively and in the midfield over four years, providing leadership and stability throughout the season. Her ability to adapt and lead made her an invaluable presence on the field.
Gage contributed across multiple positions, tallying eight goals and three assists while also stepping into a key defensive role. Her adaptability and competitive edge brought a new dimension to the team’s lineup.
Searcy stepped into the goalkeeper role and recorded five shutouts, providing steady play and leadership from the back. Her calm presence and continued growth make her a key athlete moving forward.
Montilla recorded six goals and four assists as a midfielder, while helping drive the team’s offensive flow. With her technical ability and field vision, she is poised for an even bigger impact in the seasons ahead.
Alondra
Maicee
• Access and manage your account from anywhere in the world with mobile banking.
Adam Dailies
In The Bleachers
Brevity
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Half Shell Raw Bar located at 231 Margaret Street, Key West, Florida 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
By: Moro Management Inc.
Publish:
May 14, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statute 328.17, Robbies Key West, Inc. claims a possessory lien on the following described vessels:
Owned by Lana Nichole Savage and Ricky Alton Savage for unpaid storage fees: a 1998 26’ Bayliner (HIN: BL1B76STA898)
Sealed bids will be accepted on May 27th , 2026 at Robbies Key West, 7281 Shrimp Rd, Key West, FL 33040.
Robbies Key West, Inc. reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
Publish:
May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 26-CP-000147-K IN RE: ESTATE OF RAYMOND RENE VAN EDEMA, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of RAYMOND RENE VAN EDEMA, deceased, whose date of death was March 5, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified
under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes.
The written demand must be filed with the clerk.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: May 14, 2026.
Personal Representative: NICOLE ELIZABETH GIRARD
1241 SW 84th Terrace
Pembroke Pines, FL 33025
Attorney for Personal Representative: TERRY ABRAMS BERGER, ESQ.
Florida Bar No.: 046000 BERGER LAW, LLC.
P.O. Box 60519
Palm Bay, Florida 32906
Telephone: (321) 574-5295
Facsimile: (321) 574-5551
e-mail: tab@berger-lawllc.com
secondary e-mail: abodden@ berger-lawllc.com
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 26-CP-000064-P IN RE: ESTATE OF DANIEL BRIAN ULMAN
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the Estate of Daniel Brian Ulman, deceased, who died on January 16, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, FL, Probate Division, whose address is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The Personal Representative’s name and the name and the address of the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent's Estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent's Estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
A Personal Representative (or Curator) has no duty to discover whether any property held at the
time of the Decedent’s death by the Decedent or the Decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228 applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor or a beneficiary as specified under s. 732.2211.
The date of first publication of this notice is May 7, 2026.
Personal Representative: DAVID L. ULMAN
4876 East Robin Court Rolling Prairie, IN 46371
Attorney for Personal Representative:
DONALD C. SIDER, ESQ.
Florida Bar No. 308978
6751 N. Federal Hwy., Suite 200 Boca Raton, FL 33487
Telephone: (561) 391-1100
Email: dsider@siderlaw.com
Publish: May 7 & 14, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO. 26-CP-000165-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF: MICHAEL JOHN MITZNER
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Michael John Mitzner, deceased, whose date of death was December 25, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council has funding available to governmental entities and non-profit organizations for capital projects.
The project/facility must have the primary purpose of promoting tourism and must fall into one of the following categories:
Convention Center, Sports Stadium, Sports Arena, Coliseum, Auditorium, Aquarium, Museum, Zoological Park, Nature Center, Fishing Pier, Beach or Beach Park Facility, Channel, Estuary, or Lagoon, Public Facilities in Accordance with Conditions set forth in the Florida Statutes. The deadline for receipt of applications is Tuesday, June 30th, 2026, and applications must be downloaded from the County’s Bonfire platform.
For more information, please email grants@fla-keys.com.
Publish: May 7, 14, 21 & 28 and June 4, 11 & 18, 2026. The Weekly Newspapers
BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is May 7, 2026.
Attorney for Personal Representative: ALEX CUELLO
Attorney for Personal Representative
Florida Bar Number: 84778
Cuello & Hernandez
2655 S. Le Jeune Road, Suite 1008 Coral Gables, FL 33134
Telephone: (305) 567-0799
E-Mail: acuello@probatesfl.com
Secondary E-Mail: csh@probatesfl. com
Personal Representative: Richard Lee Mitzner
15740 SW 98th CT Miami, Florida 33157
Publish:
May 7 & 14, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 26-CP-145-M
DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF ANTONIO ROBERTO GRAZIANO MELIA
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Antonio Roberto Graziano Melia, deceased, whose date of death was March 24, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: May 7, 2026.
Personal Representative: Francesca Bologna 13 Ibis Lane Marathon, Florida 33050
Attorney for Personal Representative:
Richard E. Warner
Attorney
Florida Bar Number: 283134
RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A.
12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-6022
Fax: (305) 743-6216
E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com
Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com
Publish: May 7 & 14 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 26-CP-171-K
IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH THOMAS JURKOWSKI, JR., Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of JOSEPH THOMAS JURKOWSKI, JR., deceased, whose date of death was February 25, 2026, Case: 26-CP-171-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: May 7, 2026.
Personal Representative: NGOC LAN MURPHY
JOHN MURPHY
c/o Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq.
Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A.
3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040
Attorney for Personal Representative: Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0144304
Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A.
3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040
Email designation for service: Service.Probate@samkaufmanlaw. com
Telephone: (305) 292-3926
Fax: (305) 295-7947
Publish: May 7 & 14, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE COUNTY COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO.: 26-CC-221-M NOTICE BY PUBLICATION CENTENNIAL BANK, an Arkansas banking corporation, Plaintiff, -vs.LISA TIPSWORD, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS TRUSTEE OF THE ANGELINA M. BLANCO TRUST UNDER WILL DATED MAY 15, 2017 OF GIOIA MANCINELLI F/K/A GIOIA M. PERKALL, ALL UNKNOWN PERSONS WHO MAY BE HEIRS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, GRANTEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, ASSIGNEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS OF GIOIA MANCINELLI f/k/a GIOIA M. PERKALL, DECEASED, AND ALL OTHER PERSONS CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST HER AND ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY; COUNTY OF MONROE, ANGELINA M. BLANCO and UNKNOWN TENANT(S) IN POSSESSION, Defendants.
NOTICE OF ACTION
CONSTRUCTIVE SERVICEPROPERTY
TO: All unknown persons who may be heirs, devisees, legatees, grantees, lienors, creditors, trustees, assignees or other claimants of Gioia Mancinelli f/k/a Gioia M. Perkall, deceased, residence unknown, if alive, and if dead, Gioia Mancinelli f/k/a Gioia M. Perkall’s heirs, devisees,
legatees, grantees, lienors, creditors, trustees, assignees or other claimants and all other parties claiming interests, by through, under or against Gioia Mancinelli f/k/a Gioia M. Perkall, and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property herein described. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to the above-styled foreclosure action by the abovenamed Plaintiff and encumbering the following described property in Monroe County, Florida: Lot 12, Block 41, CRAINS SUBDIVISION OF GRASSY KEY, according the map or plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 1, Page 51, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida. has been file against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any to it on Plaintiff’s attorney, Richard B. Storfer, Esquire, of the firm of Lorium Law, whose address is 101 NE 3rd Avenue, Suite 1800, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33301, on or before June 6, 2026, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorneys or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act you are advised that his law firm is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purposes. WITNESS my hand and seal of said court at Monroe County, Florida, this 24th day of April, 2026. Kevin Madok, CPA As Clerk. Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Leslie Rodriguez
Deputy Clerk of Court
Publish: May 7 & 14, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-366-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit C11, Week 10, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 10th day of April 2026. Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MARYLYN DEE FRANK GEORGIAN, AKA MARYLYN D. FRANK, DECEASED Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-366-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-397-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit F12, Week 11, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) VII entered in a case pending in said Court, the 10th day of April 2026. Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST PETER JOHN GENTILE, DECEASED; JEROME R. GENTILE, JR., AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO PETER JOHN GENTILE; AND SUSAN DIAMANTOPOULOS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO PETER JOHN GENTILE Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-397-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-399-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe
Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM
SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S)I
entered in a case pending in said Court, the 13th day of April 2026.
Style of which is:
WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION
NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST GENEVA THURSFIELD GOUGH, DECEASED; RICHARD W. GOUGH, JR, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO GENEVA THURSFIELD GOUGH; AND CHRISTOPHER GOUGH, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO GENEVA THURSFIELD GOUGH
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-399-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 5TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court
Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-397-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit F14, Week 2, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 13th day of April 2026. Style of which is:
BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff
vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN
PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MAUREEN ANNE JACOBS, DECEASED; MELANIE BARNEY, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MAUREEN ANNE JACOBS, AND JASON JACOBS, AS POTENTIAL
HEIR TO MAUREEN ANNE JACOBS
Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-397-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2025-CC-384-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit E24, Week 3, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 10th day of April 2026. Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST BARBARA JULIANO MEYERS, DECEASED
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-384-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-399-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5523, Week 19, Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S)V entered in a case pending in said Court, the
13th day of April 2026.
Style of which is:
WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff
vs. BARBARA THOMPSON PHILLIPS AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST DONALD DE WAYNE PHILLIPS, DECEASED
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-399-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 5TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CC-399-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5733, Week 19, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S)VI entered in a case pending in said Court, the 13th day of April 2026.
Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. PAULA J. CARMODY, AKA PAULA CARMODY SAMORIS AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST SAMIR SAMORIS, DECEASED
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-399-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 5TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk
Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish: May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2025-CC-397-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit F34, Week 27, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I entered in a case pending in said Court, the 10th day of April 2026. Style of which is:
BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff
vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST BETTY ROSE SCHRYVER AKA BETTY R. SCHRYVER, DECEASED; DAVID ROJAS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO BETTY ROSE SCHRYVER AKA
BETTY R. SCHRYVER; AND FRANCIS ROJAS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO BETTY ROSE SCHRYVER AKA
BETTY R. SCHRYVER
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-397-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK
Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish:
May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL
CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2025-CC-397-K
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 2nd day of June 2026 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit D24, Week 27, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to the IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) V entered in a case pending in said Court, the 13th day of April 2026. Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE
OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST ROBERT JARRETT STANKIEWICZ, DECEASED; RACHEL MCOWEN, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO ROBERT JARRETT STANKIEWICZ; AND DEAN STANKIEWICZ, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO ROBERT JARRETT STANKIEWICZ Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2025-CC-397-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 4TH day of MAY 2026
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk
Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.
Publish:
May 14 & 21, 2026
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION
CASE#: 44-2026-CA-452-K
JUDGE: TIMOTHY J. KOENIG
ERIC TEVES AND MICHAEL SCOTT BURAU, Plaintiff, Vs. CONRAD MCKINNEY, deceased, his unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under and against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known to be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through, or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described, AND ROY HAMLIN, deceased, his unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under and against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known to be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through, or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described, Defendants.
NOTICE OF ACTION
TO: CONRAD MCKINNEY and ROY HAMLIN, deceased, their unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under and against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known to be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through, or under those unknown natural persons; and the several
and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described,| YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a Complaint has been filed against you by the Plaintiff in the above-style court for the purpose of quieting title to the following described property situate and being in Monroe County, Florida: Parcel 1: On the Island of Key West, and known as Part of Lot Two (2), Square Two (2), Tract Three (3). Recorded in Plat Book 2, Page 47, Public Records, Monroe County, Florida. Commence at a point Ninety-seven (97) feet from the Northeast corner of Olivia Street and Baptist Lane and running thence in a Westerly direction Forty-five (45) feet; thence at right angles in a Northerly direction Seventy-nine (79) feet; thence at right angles in an Easterly direction Forty-five (45) feet; thence at a right angle in a Southerly direction Seventy-nine (79) feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: A parcel of land on the Island of Key West, and known as Part of Lot Two (2), Square Two (2) Tract Three (3) according to William A. Whitehead’s Map of said Island delineated in February 1829, said parcel being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows: Commence at the intersection of the Northwesterly right of way line of Olivia Street with the Southwesterly right of way line of Baptist Lane and run thence Northwesterly along the Southwesterly right of way line of Baptist Lane for a distance of 97.00 feet; thence Southwesterly and at right angles for a distance of 79.00 feet to the Point of Beginning; thence Northwesterly and at right angles for a distance of 45.00 feet; thence Southwesterly and at right angles for a distance of 5.20 feet to an existing chain link fence; thence Southeasterly and at right angles along the said chain link fence for a distance of 45.00 feet; thence Northeasterly and at right angles for a distance of 5.20 feet back to the Point of Beginning, containing 234 square feet, more or less.
YOU ARE REQUIRED to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Richard J. McChesney, Esq., Spottswood, Spottswood, Spottswood, & Sterling, PLLC, Attorney for Plaintiff, whose address is 500 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040, on or before the following date: June 8, 2026, and to file the original with the Clerk of the Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter, otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. WITNESS my hand and seal of this
Court on 4TH day of May, 2026. Kevin Madok, CPA as Clerk of the Court By: Shonta McLeod as Deputy Clerk
Publish: May 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-DR-440-K CARLOS ALBERTO MEDINA JIMENEZ, Petitioner, and ILIANA MIRABAL CARDENAS, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT)
TO: ILIANA MIRABAL CARDENAS RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN
ADDRESS: UNKNOWN YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on CARLOS ALBERTO MEDINA JIMENEZ, whose address is 2307 PATTERSON AVENUE, KEY WEST, FL 33040 on or before May 30, 2026, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE
Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: April 23, 2026
Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson
Deputy Clerk Publish: April 30 and May 7, 14 & 21, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers
Located in Marathon. $800.00 260750-6479 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!!
PLACE YOUR AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
BOATS FOR SALE
PRICE DROP! 22' Mako
Center Console Aluminum like new float on trailer, 2001 250hp Yamaha, hull 1979, 2 stroke, runs great, many extras. $10,999 OBO Located at MM74. Gary 305-393-1415
PRICE DROP! 21' Mako
Center Console Float on Aluminum Trailer, 250 2 stroke Yamaha 2005?, hull 1979, New Transom, $8,999 OBO Located at MM74. Gary 305-393-1415
BOAT SLIP/RACK FOR RENT
Dockage up to 60’ Islamorada - Bayside,50 amp service. Price LOWER than marina. Call 860-982-4517
Boat Slip &/or Rack For Rent in Marathon at The Boat House, Vaca Key. Call Tony 561-346-6400
EMPLOYMENT
Hiring for busy pediatric office in Tavernier. Full-Time Medical Assistant/RN - Pediatric experience preferred. Must multitask in fast-paced setting. Pay is commensurate with experience. Email resume to: flkeyspeds@gmail.com
Safety Staff- We are seeking a reliable, dedicated, and responsible Safety Staff member to join our team. Full-time & Part-time availability starting at $18/hr. To apply, call 305-664-4860 Ext 1, e-mail: aaron@orlk.org or apply in person at Outdoor Resorts at Long Key, 65821 Overseas Hwy, Long Key
Specialty Hardware of Marathon - Looking for full time or part time person. Hardware knowledge an absolute must. Must have knowledge of hardware, plumbing and electrical. Apply in person at 10730 Overseas Hwy. Marathon 1-305-743-3382
Groundskeeper/Maintenance person, KCB, Sea Isle Condominium, 20 hrs. per week, $27 per hr., apply by e-mail to HardingThomasL@aol. com, text or call 734-476-0531.
Paver Dave now hiring PartTime Office Help. Working some days in Marathon and some days in Big Pine Key. Call for more information 305-741-7688.
Paver Dave how hiring a Job Supervisor/Sales in the Lower Keys. Must have a driver's license. Bob Cat experience a plus. Call for more information 305-741-7688.
Experienced Full-time Line Cook needed at the Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club. 10AM - 5PM, Good Pay. Small friendly staff. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-219-3359 and ask for Dave.
Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service- oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am-7pm daily. Full time/Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-219-3359 and ask for Dave.
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Full-time Carpenter, Electrician, Housing Assistant & Custodian (Marathon). To apply, please contact Human Resources at: greenel@kwha.org or 305-2965621 ext. 225. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.
Part-time Office Clerk, $18/ hr, Thu/Fri/Sat, 9:30am-7pm. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-219-3359 and ask for Dave HIRED!!!
Boat rental company in Marathon looking for help with boat detailing & boat cleaning. Call 305-481-7006 HIRED!!!
HIRING: Office Administrator in Marathon. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), experience with QuickBooks or other accounting software preferred and must have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Full time – Mon-Fri. Pay TBD - based on skill. Email: Natalie@cecflk.com HIRED!!!
HOUSING FOR RENT
2BR/2BA waterfront furnished & equipped apt. for rent in Key Colony Beach. Nice patio, open water view & dock. No Pets. Long term lease. $3,000/ mo + utilities. 786-251-0954
3BR / 3BA fully furnished home for rent in Marathon. Available June 30. $3,790/month incl. utilities 618-559-9143
2BR/1BA Condo Unit at Schooner Condominium for rent in Marathon. Newly renovated, furnished. Pet negotiable. Annual lease. $2,900/mo F/L/ Security negotiable. 305-4310577 alicia@keysrealestate.com
LONG TERM RENTALS: Furnished Studio AND 2 Bedroom unfurnished, all appliances, renovated, for rent in Marathon. On the water, gated property. Section 8 possible. $1,500 - $2,500 month - includes water, sewer, electric & garbage. Call 305-610-8002
Key Largo- 6 months+ Canal front rental on Blackwater Sound. 40' dockage, 1 BR/1 BA Trailer with 1,000 sq. ft. living area. $2,300/mo. 904237-9090 or 904-338-1207 RENTED!!
PLACE YOUR AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
Gated storage & dockage available in Marathon oceanside. Starting price $10/ foot per month for storage and $20/foot per month for dockage. 305-610-8002
VACATION RENTAL
3BR/2BA Contemporary Home for rent on Big Pine Key. Pool, 40' dock w/davits, screened-in porch. Sleeps 6 ppl. Avail. month of July & Sept. 2026. $7,000/ mo. Call Brian at 267-374-7063
WANTED TO BUY
PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
SWORDFISH BILLS - Fresh or aged. Located in Key Largo. Call 303-990-0619
TURN YOUR CARDS INTO CASH! Marathon collector buying any and all Pokemon cards & collections. Call 401-256-0645.
YARD SALES
BIG YARD SALE this Sat. May 16th from 8am - 2pm, 17 Kyle Way East, Marathon. Baby items, Cigar boxes, toys, games, some furniture and lots of miscellaneous items.
PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@keysweekly.com
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:
SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN
(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hr. - $51.94/hr.
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
Must be able to multitask in greeting guests, managing incoming calls, handling mail and providing
APPLY IN PERSON AT: Bone sh Bay Motel & RV Sites 12565 Overseas Highway, Marathon or Email: bfb@bone shbayresort.com
wants you to join their team!
Full-time. $19/hour to start.
EMAIL resume to: TurtleHospital@TurtleHospital.org
APPLY in person: 2396 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL
GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!
JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 53 YEARS!
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO
Behavioral Health Counselor (CAT) Case Manager (Adult)
Mental Health Technician
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Children) Crisis Counselor
Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Prevention Specialist
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)
MARATHON
Mental Health Technician
Driver (CDL NOT required) (FT, PT)
Registered Nurse (FT, PT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult, PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT)
*Behavioral Health Technicians (FT, PT)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS
- Medical Assistant, Ortho-Tavernier,
- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, Upper Keys Internal Medicine, $5k Bonus
MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST
- Director Nursing Services, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus
- Patient Access Scheduler, Operations Support Key West, $5k Bonus
- Pool Radiation Therapist
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- Clinical Pharmacist,
- Construction Project Manager, FL
- Exercise Assistant, Mariners Wellness Center, Per Diem
- Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem
- Food Service Worker, Dietary,
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT Scan, $50k Bonus
- Mechanic, FT, 7A-3:30P
- Medical Staff Coordinator, Mariners Hospital, FT
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Echocardiography, Per Diem
D'Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available.
Home Décor
Sales Consultant
Customer-focused sales professional with experience in retail or customer service. Creativity and interest in home décor a must. Help customers discover pieces that turn everyday spaces into something special.
Kitchen Design Specialist
Individual who brings creativity, functionality, and style together in kitchen and bath design. Design kitchens that become the heart of the home.
Associate Interior Designer
Detail-oriented and creative individual to assist with residential design projects. Education or experience in Interior Design required. Help bring inspired residential interiors to life.
For complete details and to apply, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers
MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
- Cook, Dietary, PT
- Driver, Marathon/Keys Supply Chain, FT
- Lead Med Technologist, Laboratory, $20k Bonus
- Manager Environmental Services, FT
- Medical Staff Coordinator, FT
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray), Radiology,
- Patient Care Manager (Nurse Manager), Surgery, $20k Bonus
