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Nominate all your favorites through Sunday, Oct. 4: keysweekly.com/buk26.

October 1, 2026

A ‘PAR-TEE’

On-the-water golf supports community | P. 6 BUDGET CRUNCH

Islamorada Council lessens tax hike | P. 4

BIG CATCH

Backcountry challenge reels in winners | P. 13

1¢

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

NEW LISTING 80902 OLD HWY, ISLAMORADA

PRICE REDUCED 74560 OVERSEAS HWY, ISLAMORADA WATERFRONT COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

PRICE REDUCED 74560 OVERSEAS HWY,ISLAMORADA ISLAMORADA 121 LISBON COURT,

4BR/3BA - 3,550 SQ. FT. - $2,950,000 MM 82/OCEANSIDE

3BR/3BA - 15,100 LOT SQ. FT. 100X151 LOT SIZE / $3,150,000 - MM 75/BAYSIDE

2BR/2BA - 1,228 SQ. FT. - $2,000,000 MM 74.5/BAYSIDE

CAROLINE HENDRIX 786.847.3705

ALINA DAVIS 305.393.0541 ELIZABETH JOLIN 305.393.0994

ALINA DAVIS 305.393.0541

PRICE REDUCED 98402 WINDWARD AVE, KEY LARGO

PRICE REDUCED 10833 2ND AVENUE, GULF AVE, MARATHON

PRICE REDUCED 88181 OLD HWY, #B3 ISLAMORADA

2BR/2BA - 778 SQ. FT. - $369,500 MM 98/BAYSIDE

5BR/3BA - 2,111 SQ. FT. - $898,000 MM 53/BAYSIDE

2BR/2BA - 1,224 SQ FT - $870,000 MM 88/OCEANSIDE

ALINA DAVIS 305.393.0541

KRISTIN HEROLD 786.705.8107

CHRISTY HUGHES 305.393.6190

LUXURY ISLAND PROPERTY 88547 OLD HWY, PLANTATION KEY

LUXURY ISLAND PROPERTY 77340 OVERSEAS HWY, ISLAMORADA

LUXURY ISLAND PROPERTY 704 GROUPER LN, KEY LARGO

4BR/3BA - 4,103 SQ. FT. - $6,500,000 MM 88.5/OCEANSIDE

2BR/2BA - 928 SQ. FT. - $3,999,999 MM 75/BAYSIDE

3BR/3BA - 1,716 SQ. FT. - $2,160,000 MM 95/OCEANSIDE

THE NEWMAN TEAM BRETT NEWMAN 305.393.1770

ELIZABETH JOLIN 305.393.0994

NANCY HERSHOFF 305.393.4061

LUXURY ISLAND PROPERTY 168 INDIAN MOUND TRAIL, PLANTATION KEY

4BR/3BA - 3,204 SQ. FT. - $3,450,000 MM 89/BAYSIDE

CAROLINE HENDRIX 786.847.3705

FUTURA YACHT CLUB RARE 3BR CONDO W/39 FT. DEEDED BOAT SLIP & 24,000 LB. BOAT LIFT 88540 OVERSEAS HWY #101 & BOAT SLIP 22, PLANTATION KEY

DISCOVER AN EXCELLENT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY IN THE FLORIDA KEYS! 159 CASA COURT DR. A, TAVERNIER

3BR/2BA - 1,262 SQ. FT. - $1,100,000 MM 88.5/BAYSIDE

4BR/2BA - 1,844 SQ. FT. - $799,000 MM 94/BAYSIDE

THE NEWMAN TEAM BRETT NEWMAN 305.393.1770

LIZETTE MILLER 305.522.0684 SANDRA SPAULDING 305.522.5735

CELEBRATING 70 YEARS AS THE MOST TRUSTED NAME IN FLORIDA KEYS REAL ESTATE realestatefloridakeys.com/customercare@cbschmitt.com

KEY LARGO 100430 Overseas Highway 305.451.4422 ISLAMORADA 85996 Overseas Highway 305.664.4470

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

Every tomorrow should have you in it. Regular breast cancer screening can help find cancer before it starts or catch cancer early, when it may be easier to treat. Learn more about breast cancer screening and schedule your mammogram at BaptistHealth.net/Mammo. Proud Partner of the American Cancer Society

Scan to learn more.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

KEYS

NEWSPAPERS

89240 Overseas Hwy. Suite 2 Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com Editor / Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Business Development Manuela Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com Staff Writers Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com Design / Pre-Press Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Controller / Lauren Pope lauren@keysweeky.com Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844 Se habla español THE UPPER KEYS 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. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials. Postmaster SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050 News Deadline Monday Noon Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m. @KeysWeekly @theWeekly Members of

3.50

When Disney World’s Magic Kingdom opened to eager visitors in 1971, the price for an adult ticket was all but $3.50. Arguably one of the most visited theme parks in the world, the Magic Kingdom in Orlando has come a long way from its early beginnings, with new attractions and advanced technology. Today, the one-day ticket price for those ages 10 and up is $119.

Conch Scramble participants dressed to a tourist and flamingo theme gather at the first hole at Safe Harbor Plantation Key on Sept. 26. DOUG FINGER/ Keys Weekly

ISLAMORADA COUNCIL APPROVES SPENDING PLAN, REDUCES TAX INCREASE ON PROPERTY OWNERS JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

slamorada Council members chose not to slap village property owners with a nearly 10% increase on their tax bills during a final budget hearing on Sept. 28 at the Founders Park Community Center. Instead, the council elected to set a millage rate that represents a roughly 7% hike from the previous year. Citing increases residents are facing on trash disposal, water and wastewater, councilwoman Deb Gillis suggested lowering the property tax rate from the proposed 2.7231, or $272 per $100,000 of the property’s assessed value. Gillis recommended the council go with a similar tax rate from last year of 2.6500, or $265 per $100,000 of a property’s assessed value. The council agreed. Councilman Steve Friedman said he wished the discussions surrounding a decrease in the millage rate happened sooner and not 36 hours before the new fiscal year. Council members weren’t presented with a revised budget reflecting the 2.65 mills until later in the meeting. Despite establishing the same tax rate from the 2025-26 fiscal year, the village will collect more property tax revenue due to the $491 million increase of taxable real estate in the village for the new fiscal year that begins Oct. 1. Revenue the village will get through property taxes is around $19.5 million, which is up from the $18.2 million collected the year before. The funds support the day-to-day operations of the village, from public safety and parks and recreation to building services, planning and development, finance, IT and code compliance. Village Manager Ron Saunders noted before the discussion that the village’s spending plan includes pay increases of 6% for firefighters as a part of a collective bargaining agreement. Police services are also

Islamorada Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney speaks on her support for bonuses over merit raises during a final budget hearing on Sept. 28. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

increasing to account for pay bumps for deputies. “Just those two areas count for about half the property tax increase we’re going to see this year,” he said. Day-to-day expenses for village operations totals $23.9 million, with public safety costs accounting for about $13.5 million. Village employees will receive a 3% cost-of-living adjustment while having the ability to receive up to a 3% merit increase based on performance, as part of the village’s approved spending plan for the coming fiscal year. Last year’s budget saw no increases for staff. Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney said she had a problem with the merit increase. She said the village council would essentially be giving employees a 6% raise when adding in the COLA. She preferred to see a bonus that could be given out on a yearly basis. “We have a great staff. I think they are compensated very well,” she said. “This is about the taxes for the community.” Saunders, who was tasked with asking staff about the bonus versus a merit raise, said there was pushback from staff on the idea. Council mem-

bers previously approved a tentative budget that included a 3% COLA adjustment and 3% merit raise. Gillis noted that many staff members aren’t receiving the money they should be making when compared to how other municipalities pay their employees. Mayor Don Horton was surprised to learn that no increases for exceptional performance were given out going back the past seven years. “I think that a merit increase is based on a set of guidelines and a way to actually score how an employee is doing,” he said. “And if they’re just answering the phones and coming to work on time, it doesn’t evolve into a merit increase.” The COLA and merit raises represent an increase of $282,641. By reducing the millage rate, the council proceeded to approve an adjusted spending plan for the coming fiscal year, which reflects less property tax revenue, cuts to overtime in fire rescue, more revenue through a franchise fee Island Disposal pays to the village, more revenue from the marina at Founders Park and a decrease in funds for the parks and recreation department for special events.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

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

Welcome Dr. Tabassian!

and cared no matter their family's circumstances.

A child's smile is priceless. So is their health. But for too many families, a toothache or a fever brings a quieter fear: what will this cost us? That fear makes parents wait, hope it passes on its own, and sometimes choose between their child's health and the rent or groceries. We've seen it ﬁrsthand, a kindergartner quietly living with a toothache because her parents didn't know where to turn, and couldn't have aﬀorded it if they had. A small cavity left untreated until it became a painful, costly emergency. Never because a parent didn't care. Only because they were afraid of the bill.

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

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

That's what this promise really protects: not just a child's teeth or health, but their family's peace of mind and future. No family should ever have to choose between their child's health and food on the table. We can't keep this promise alone. It's kept by everyone who believes our kids are worth investing in...every donor, every partner, every person who trusts us with their child's care.

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

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

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

Ask your TTS if you qualify qualify: f :

Are you between 35–80 years old Current smoker, r or quit within the past 5 years No Symptoms of Lung Cancer Willing & Able to be referred

In Partnership with

Working together to improve cancer prevention, education, and early detection throughout our community..

&YU

keysahec.org

305-743-7111 Ext 205 TobaccoFreeFlorida.com/QuitYourWay.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

‘FORE’ A WORTHY CAUSE 1

charity golf tournament on the water on Sept. 26 welcomed teams dressed as Minions, gods and goddesses, “Dodgeball’s” Average Joes and Globo Gym and more. A one-of-a-kind Florida Keys event, the annual Conch Scramble Charity Golf Tournament saw participants visiting various Islamorada waterfront venues to shoot fish-food golf balls onto floating greens. Taking first place was the Average Joes from Palm and Par. Best hole went to the Ekblom residence for the “Candyland” theme. The most spirited team went to Team Globo Gym, also from Palm and Par. “We have so many special people behind the scenes that make this whole thing happen — our amazing volunteers — and most of all, our board,” said Sam Arce, board chair for the event. Event proceeds will support the Coral Shores High School’s soccer and wrestling programs, Elite Dance of the Keys and Florida Keys History & Discovery Center. — Keys Weekly staff report

1-2: Boats with costumed participants arrive at the first hole. 3-5: Teams of local community members dress to various themes, a signature part of the Conch Scramble. 6: State Rep. Jim Mooney dresses as a tourist in his pink flamingo button-up shirt. 7: A floating green on a canal. 8: A golfer takes aim at a floating green at SD Marine. Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly Full gallery at keysweekly.com.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

E T S TA

UG H THRO

BER 2 O T C TO

026

SAVOR THE FLORIDA KEYS Discover Key Largo’s Best Bites

Locations and Menus, Showdown Dishes, and Trolley Tickets available online!

TasteTheKeys.com

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

VISIT FLORIDA KEYS & KEY WEST NAMES DANNY CUELLAR AS NEW CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER

Global brand leader and storyteller brings more than two decades of creative firepower

rom jetliners to Super Bowls, Daniel “Danny” Cuellar has spent more than two decades turning Daniel Cuellar big ideas into brand experiences that connect people with places, passions and possibilities. Now, he’s bringing that creative firepower to the Florida Keys, with his sights set on helping the destination’s next era of marketing take flight. Visit Florida Keys & Key West has appointed Cuellar as its new chief marketing officer, adding an accomplished global brand strategist and storyteller to its executive leadership team as the destination looks to reimagine how it tells its story to the world. In his new role, Cuellar will lead the destination’s brand and integrated marketing strategy, overseeing everything from campaigns and content to agency partnerships and emerging technology. He will also help shape how Visit Florida Keys & Key West connects with travelers as AI-powered search, generative platforms and tripplanning tools continue to transform the way people discover and plan travel. Cuellar most recently served as vice president of Americas marketing for Qantas Airways, where he helped propel brand awareness. His work included leading the airline’s first bespoke U.S. brand campaign in more than a decade, “Australia in the Sky,” an integrated business-to-business and business-to-consumer campaign spanning paid, owned, earned and partner channels. Before Qantas, Cuellar took his creative talents to one of the biggest stages in sports as senior director of global brand and consumer marketing for the National Football League. There, he directed marketing for tentpole events like the Super Bowl, NFL Draft and International Games, with work that included the league’s Emmywinning Super Bowl LVII campaign. Before joining the NFL, Cuellar spent more than a decade at United

Airlines, leading global advertising, helping launch United Polaris Business Class and building tourism partnerships to support route and destination growth. Earlier roles included Continental Airlines and Burson-Marsteller Public Relations. He earned a bachelor of journalism from the University of Texas at Austin, specializing in public relations with a minor in business foundations. It’s that breadth of experience, paired with Cuellar’s creative instincts and storytelling expertise, that Visit Florida Keys & Key West President and CEO Kara Franker says makes him such a strong fit for the destination. “Danny knows how to take what makes a brand special and turn it into a story people want to be part of,” said Franker. “He brings that rare combination of big-picture thinking and creative instinct, and that’s incredibly exciting for us. I’m looking forward to seeing where Danny, our team and our agency partners take it next.” Among Cuellar’s first major initiatives: Leading the creative development, production and rollout of “Play in Your Own Key,” the destination’s new flagship brand campaign. “Travelers are looking for experiences that feel authentic and personal, and the Florida Keys delivers that in a way few destinations can,” Cuellar said. “Every part of the island chain has its own character and culture, giving us an incredible opportunity to find fresh and unexpected ways to tell its story. And personally, getting to call Key West home, become part of the community and experience more of the Keys myself is a dream come true.” Cuellar will work cross-functionally across the organization and with its agency partners to build demand, find new ways to connect with travelers and push the Florida Keys story forward — all while keeping the distinctive character of the island chain and its communities at the heart of the brand. For more information about the Florida Keys & Key West, visit www. visitfloridakeys.com. — Contributed

KEY LARGO FIRE & EMS GETS NEW VESSEL Harlie 3 honors young girl

ey Largo Fire Rescue & EMS District recently received a new emergency response vessel in the “Harlie 3.” The vessel is named after the late Harlie Smith, who died following a tragic 2017 boat propeller strike on Cudjoe Key. At the time, there was no swift response and aid on the water. But that’s changed in recent years, with fire rescue vessels in Ocean Reef, Key West, Islamorada and now Key Largo. The fire and rescue district said the vessel will bring enhanced service to the community, while protecting citizens and visitors on the water. The district said it’s looking forward to the training and putting its water emergency team in action in the future. KEY LARGO FIRE & EMS DISTRICT/Via Facebook

STUDY: CHILDREN ARE MOVING TO BOOSTER SEATS TOO EARLY

AA found that many children are moving to booster seats and seat belts before they’re ready, while many child restraints are not being used correctly. Data collected during child passenger safety inspections in 2025 found that 95% of Florida children had moved to an adult seat belt before it fit correctly, while 32% had transitioned to a booster seat too soon. The same research found that 72% of child restraints inspected in Florida were being used incorrectly. Common issues such as loose harness straps, poor seat belt fit, or improper installation can reduce the protection a child restraint is designed to provide during a crash. This research is based on child passenger safety inspections conducted by certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians across Florida and nationwide. National crash data also shows child restraint use declines sharply as children get older. Between 2020 and 2024, 78% of injured 3-year-olds

involved in crashes were riding in a car seat or booster seat. By age 6, that figure dropped to 45%. “Parents would never knowingly put their child at risk, but many don’t realize a seat belt that looks like it fits may not actually provide the protection their child needs,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. What should parents check? • Check seat installation. A car seat should not move more than one inch side to side or front to back at the belt path. • Check the harness. Straps should be snug enough that no extra webbing can be pinched at the child’s shoulder. • Check the tether. Use the top tether whenever possible with forward-facing car seats. • Check seat belt fit. The lap belt should fit low across the hips and upper thighs, and the shoulder belt should cross the chest and shoulder. — Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

ELECTION FORUM EXPLAINS CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS Voters to hear from wastewater treatment district candidates

MOSQUITO CONTROL BOARD APPROVES BUDGET District will generate same tax revenue as last year

he Florida Keys Mosquito Control District’s (FKMCD) fivemember board convening for a Sept. 15 public hearing unanimously approved an adjusted millage rate and budget for the coming fiscal year. The FKMCD board approved an annual millage rate of 0.3777 for 202627 fiscal year, which begins on Thursday, Oct. 1. The rate represents a “rollback” of the fiscal year 2025-26 budget, generating $19,974,774 in ad valorem tax revenue for FKMCD, which is the same amount collected the previous fiscal year. Officials from the district say the 2026-27 millage rate and budget demonstrate a continued trend of fiscal responsibility and mindful spending while prioritizing protection of public health and the district’s mission. The district is the official mosquito control provider for the Florida Keys. As a special taxing district within the state, FKMCD was created by a vote of the people more than 75 years ago when it became apparent that a specialized entity was needed to combat mosquitoes and protect the business interests, quality of life and health of the tropical paradise. The district's five-person elected board provides policy and direction for the executive director and staff of about 75 trained and licensed mosquito control professionals. More information is at keysmosquito.org. — Contributed

pper Keys League of Women Voters will host a candidate forum and a presentation on the three constitutional amendments that will appear on the November general election ballot. The event is on Tuesday, Oct. 6 at 5:30 at Coral Isles Church (MM 90). Attendees can talk to the candidates from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Light refreshments will be available. There will be a presentation by the League of Women Voters on the Florida constitutional amendments and voting information by Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Sherri Hodies. A forum concludes with the Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District candidates responding to questions pertinent to the Upper Keys voters.

Ann Helmers, vice president of the league, will be moderator. The forum will be live-streamed on the “Upper Keys League of Women Voters” Facebook page. A recording will be available there after the event. “Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy, and the league is incredibly proud to serve the public as a trusted resource for voters with events like these,” said Barbara Overton, Upper Keys League of Women Voters president. The Upper Keys League of Women Voters (www.upperkeyslwv.org) is nonpartisan and does not endorse candidates or support political parties. Overflow parking is available at Coral Shores High School. — Contributed

Ann Helmers will serve as moderator of the Tuesday, Oct. 6 election forum held by the Upper Keys League of Women Voters. CONTRIBUTED

BRIEFLY Three arrested for disturbance at resort Three intoxicated men staying at an Islamorada resort were arrested on Sept. 27 after they were reportedly fighting among themselves, banging on other guests’ doors, threatening to fight other guests and activating a fire alarm for no reason. The sheriff’s office was called to the Hadley Resort + Marina at 6:32 a.m. regarding three men acting disorderly. All three were quickly located. Witnesses reported hearing an ongoing ruckus caused by the suspects between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. One witness stated the three were combative when asked to respect the sleep of other guests. Christopher Alan Stasiewicz, 35, of Naples; Keith Vincent Stasiewicz, 34, of Boynton Beach; and Christopher David Wilson, 31, of Cape Coral were arrested and charged with disorderly conduct and intentionally activating a fire alarm when no threat existed. Man charged with trafficking fentanyl A 30-year-old Edgewater man was arrested on Sept. 25 for allegedly possessing and trafficking 4.7 grams of fentanyl. Ben McBee was also charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.

The sheriff’s office said McBee was found slumped over in a vehicle on Lignumvitae Drive in Key Largo on June 5. A white powdery substance was in plain view inside the vehicle. McBee stated the substance was fentanyl and that he used it. He was treated by paramedics. Tavernier man arrested following reported road rage A 62-year-old Tavernier motorist was arrested on Sept. 23 after he reportedly threatened a juvenile motorist with a rock during a road rage incident. Colin Peter De Verna was charged with aggravated assault and stalking. The 17-year-old victim told sheriff’s deputies that De Verna began following him at about 11:30 a.m. after he accidentally committed a traffic violation and cut off the suspect. The victim pulled into a Tavernier parking lot and De Verna exited his vehicle, picked up a rock and threatened the victim. The victim fled and called 911. De Verna continued to follow the victim until the sheriff’s office stopped De Verna on U.S. 1. A witness corroborated the victim’s statements. De Verna was taken to jail. Motorist charged with child endangerment The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office said a 51-year-old man arrested

for DUI on Sept. 27 is also facing a child endangerment charge as there was a juvenile in the vehicle. The sheriff’s office stopped a Dodge Durango driven by Rodney Alan Brooks at approximately 9 p.m. near mile marker 83 for traveling 73 mph in a 45-mph zone. There was a child in the vehicle, who was subsequently turned over to the care of another family member. Brooks was also charged with driving with no license. He was taken to jail. There were no injuries reported. Two cited for undersized snapper On Sept. 26, Islamorada marine deputy Jason Farr was on patrol at the Whale Harbor Bridge at approximately 5 p.m. when he observed William Ortega Ramirez, 24, and Melany Marquez-Sanchez, 19, both of Fort Lauderdale, fishing. Both stated they had not caught anything, but they possessed four undersized mangrove snapper in a bucket. Both then admitted they each caught two. They stated they couldn’t identify the species and did not have a measuring device. Both received a mandatory notice to appear in court.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

THE ARMORY SPEAKEASY

WE WOULD APPRECIATE YOUR NOMINATION FOR BEST BAR, BEST LATE NIGHT SPOT, BEST MARTINI

VOTE HERE!

HIDDEN IN THE KEYS. REMEMBERED EVERYWHERE. THIS IS THE ARMORY

Post 10211 Hidden entrance through bunker tunne| | 102255 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo FL Wednesday-Sunday | 4PM - 12AM

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

COUNTY COMMISSION KEYS KIDS INVESTS IN DISCOVERY GO FISHING Islamorada Charter Boat Association CENTER AT JPK hosts 29th derby for young anglers

A rendering of the new Discovery Center & Aquarium at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. CONTRIBUTED

Funds support a new visitor experience

onroe County Commissioners recently approved allocating $2 million toward the new Discovery Center & Aquarium at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. The allocation, the largest single contribution to a capital project in the Florida State Parks Foundation’s 33-year history, will help fund state-ofthe-art educational experiences that create connections between Florida’s coral reef and park visitors. Construction on the $52 million facility is underway. The foundation and the park’s official citizen support organization, the Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, have teamed up on a capital campaign to pay for new interpretive and educational elements. The Discovery Center & Aquarium is expected to open in 2028. “This is a monumental day for the foundation, for John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Friends, and for every park visitor who will enjoy this incredible new Discovery Center and Aquarium for years and years to come,” said Julia Gill Woodward, CEO of the parks foundation. “This $2 million allocation is beyond generous — it is a truly extraordinary contribution that will have a tremendous impact on this project.” “This is not just an investment in a beautiful, state-of-the-art new facility,” said Monroe County Commissioner Holly Raschein at the ground-breaking in April. “It’s an investment for future generations to visit Monroe County, connect with our precious natural and cultural resources, and continue our legacy of conservation and environmental stewardship.” In addition to more than 23,000 gallons of aquarium space devoted to

native marine wildlife and ecosystems, the Discovery Center & Aquarium will feature several interactive experiences, exhibits and displays designed to foster a sense of stewardship for Florida’s coral reef — the only living reef formation on the coast of North America. The facility will also further the work conducted by the Mote Marine Laboratory, whose scientists have restored more than 200,000 corals to Florida’s reef and will continue their efforts in and around the park. “We are so thankful to the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and everyone who had a hand in making this a reality,” said Chuck Hatcher, Florida State Parks director. “John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the gateway to the Florida Keys, and the new Discovery Center & Aquarium will serve as an amazing centerpiece for millions of visitors who come to explore our state parks and natural resources in the area.” Originally created in the 1950s, the park is visited by some 400,000 people each year. Beyond its role in coral reef conservation and restoration, the park is also a destination for scuba diving, saltwater fishing, snorkeling, swimming and paddling. “People come to the Florida Keys from all over the world to experience one-of-a-kind places like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park,” said Kara Franker, president and CEO of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. “The park is an incredible economic driver for our region, and our hotels, restaurants and local businesses will all benefit from this new facility. We are proud to support the new Discovery Center & Aquarium and cannot wait to see it come to fruition.” — Contributed

A young angler shows off a snapper. The 29th annual Keys Kids Fishing Derby returns to Lorelei in Islamorada on Sunday, Oct. 4. CONTRIBUTED

he Islamorada Charter Boat Association presents the 29th annual Keys Kids Fishing Derby on Sunday, Oct. 4 at the Lorelei in Islamorada. The derby is for anglers ages 10 and under. There is no charge to enter but anglers must be Monroe County residents. There are three fishing divisions: shoreline, backcountry and offshore. Awards will be made for three age groups: 4 and under, 5 to 7 and 8 to 10. There are lots of prizes with winners in all divisions. The first 100 registered anglers are guaranteed ditty bags. Registration is available at Tackle Center of Islamorada, at the Lorelei, or at www.islamoradacharterboatassociation.com. Shoreline fishing will be allowed at the Lorelei with waters chummed, and bait provided, by Tackle Center of Islamorada. There will be plenty of folks on hand to help bait hooks, tie lines etc. Those

with fishing rods are asked to bring them. Fish Florida will be supplying a limited number of rods this year. Ditty bags and free donuts thanks to Lorelei will be available any time after 7 a.m. Lines are in at 9 a.m. and weigh-in closes promptly at 1 p.m. Hot dogs and drinks will be supplied compliments of Lorelei. There will be a casting contest starting at 11 a.m. Mote Marine, Marine Lab, FWC and others will be on the property during the day. Key Breeze Engraving awards sponsored by IFACT, Pasta Pantaleo prints and other prizes will be handed out to the winners on the Lorelei beach at 1:45 p.m. To donate to help defray costs, please make checks to the Islamorada Charter Boat Association, a nonprofit organization, and mail to P.O. Box 462, Islamorada, FL 33036. To donate items, or for more information, call Dianne Harbaugh 305-522-4868. — Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

COACH JIMMY JOHNSON VISITS WITH MCSO Jimmy Johnson knows a thing or two about building a winning team. The coach for the national champion Miami Hurricanes and coach for the Dallas Cowboys, which won backto-back Super Bowls in 1992 and 1993, Johnson brought his experiences and lessons to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office during a recent visit at the Marathon hangar. Johnson also had the opportunity to see the new Trauma Star helicopters while meeting with Monroe County Fire Rescue leadership. MCSO/Contributed

A BIG CATCH AT THE BACKCOUNTRY CHALLENGE

he Key Largo Rotary Club celebrated a successful Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge from Sept. 25-27, marking the 26th year of the annual catch-and-release fishing tournament benefiting Take Stock and scholarships for local students. This year, 50 anglers competed across kids, junior and adult divisions, targeting snook, redfish and trout throughout the Florida Keys backcountry. Grady Temkin of Tavernier was crowned the 2026 Backcountry Champion with a combined 83.5 inches. Nash Andruski of Key Largo earned Junior Backcountry Champion with 77.75 inches, while Reed Tutor of Key Largo was named Top Guide and Kris Hanson of Key Largo earned Top Pro. Other notable catches included a 38-inch snook caught by Hanson, a 32-inch redfish caught by Braylon Briggs Lindmar and a 23.5-inch trout caught by Temkin.

The weekend kicked off the evening of Sept. 25 with a captains meeting at Doc’s Diner before anglers hit the water Sept. 26-27. Festivities concluded Sunday evening at the Elks Lodge in Tavernier, where anglers, families, sponsors and Rotary members came together for the awards celebration, food and fellowship. The Backcountry Challenge has continued thanks to the generosity of the community. The Key Largo Rotary Club thanked every sponsor, donor, angler, captain, volunteer and local business that contributed to this year’s event. The sponsorships, donations and registrations help the club continue investing in the education and future of local students. Final scholarship fundraising totals are still being calculated. Follow @keylargorotary on social media for updates. — Contributed

Key Largo Rotarians help make the Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge possible. CONTRIBUTED

Take Stock in Children Backcountry winners pose with their hardware during an awards ceremony at the Elks Lodge.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

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Anglers have been having success catching redfish, permit and bonefish amid the king tides and full moon. CONTRIBUTED

THE FULL MOON AND THE PERMIT PURSUIT King tides are opening new flats over the bay

ig moons, king tides and happy fish. The recent full moon has brought a nice push of permit into the backcountry. Cooler weather has made chasing these fish all day more pleasant as well. Permit fishing has been getting better in the Upper Keys this month. We’re seeing fish in larger schools and

sizes moving inches under the surface. Catching fish on live crabs, we’re sight fishing them as they push a wake or tail. Large crab fly imitations have been working as well. Recent king tides open up new flats all over Florida Bay, which are only accessible during these high waters. Snook, redfish and tarpon all take advantage and hunt these waters as well. Shrimp fly patterns and a quick cast have tricked snook and redfish. Tarpon have been loving the trusty black and purple.

FISH FACT A popular sport fish, permit is often confused with a smaller look-alike, the Florida pompano. Permit commonly weigh 40 pounds and may reach 50 pounds. The fish may show orange or golden tints around the breast and anal fin. FISH TIP Anglers cast live crabs to schools of permit hoping to catch one of these line-stripping fish, which also take shrimp, clams and occasionally small fish.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

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Maxine Enkey JIM McCARTHY

Maxine Enkey. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

jim@keysweekly.com

o matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to spotlight our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue. If you’ve had a medical appointment at the Tassell Medical Arts Building at Mariners Hospital, chances are you met a petite, jovial volunteer by the name of Maxine Enkey. She provides a warm welcome and enthusiasm to patients coming through the automatic double doors. She’s arguably the greatest greeter around town. And she’s logged thousands of volunteer hours in her 16 years at Mariners Hospital. Enkey has called the Keys home for 40 years. She grew up on the south side of Chicago, where she says everybody once got along. She also spent some time in Phoenix, Arizona before moving to the island. Many people remember Enkey from her days behind the pharmacy desk at Winn Dixie. What led you to volunteer at the hospital? Having worked for Winn Dixie, I knew a lot of people who worked here (at Mariners Hospital). I met volunteers here who said ‘Why don’t you come and volunteer at the hospital?’ I thought about it and knew people who worked here, locals. So I thought it would be the perfect place for me. And it is. I love hanging out there. What does a normal day here look like for you? Every day is different. It may be busy, it may be slow. I like to help people. If they ask where the doctor’s office is or I see them looking at the board, I just don’t tell them where to go, I take them. They appreciate it. When new parents come in with babies and have never been to the pediatrician, I take them to the two doors; one is for well patients and the other is for sick ones. What are some of your duties as a volunteer? I help take people to the doctor’s office who don’t know where they’re going, or don’t know where the Wellness Center is. In that case, I get their name and introduce them at the desk and say ‘so and so wants to know about Wellness Center.’ I always make sure there’s a wheelchair available for those who need it. After they’re done with it I wipe it off and clean it before putting it back.

Do you have a favorite memory in all your years volunteering? When a lady came in with her arm in a sling, she wanted to know where the orthopedic office was. I helped her and opened the door to the office, and she said, “You made me feel so much better.” Tears were in her eyes and she gave me a big hug for just taking her up there. What are you doing when not volunteering? I find something to keep myself busy. I get up in the morning, let the day unfold and whatever happens happens. Before volunteering here, what were you doing? I worked at Winn Dixie for 24 years. I worked for Monroe County in home care for the elderly; I had a CNA in home health. I got to meet a lot of people and heard stories from back in the old days. Sometimes, I was the only person to talk to them for the week. The county was going to do away with the program, so I went back to Winn Dixie, and they never did away with the program. The last 10 years of my career I was a certified pharmacy tech. I had a lot of one-on-one with locals. Is there someone who’s influenced you in your life? My parents were a good influence on me moneywise. They always stressed don’t waste money on things you don’t need. We were well to do. My parents never had credit cards; if you can’t afford, don’t buy it. They were always there for me whatever I did. It made me be there for my kids. I have a daughter in Clearwater and a son and grandson in Phoenix. What are your hobbies? I like to read real books. I’ve been reading Sue Grafton from A to Z. I like gardening and taking care of my butterfly plants. I love butterflies. When they fly by my face, I say, ‘Mom, I know you’re watching.’ If you had a superpower, what would it be? To be able to make all turmoil going on in the world come to a stop, and let there be peace. If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be? I would like my family in heaven to come and have dinner with me. My mother can make her famous liver and onions. Also, I’d like to have dinner with Max Thieriot from “Fire Country.” What is the biggest daily challenge you face? Not eating so much sweet stuff. I love my sweet stuff. What are you most proud of as you look back on your life this far? Getting my CNA, becoming a home health aide and getting my pharmacy technician license. I never thought I’d pass the test, and I did.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

SHORTCUT THROUGH KEY LARGO

The Marvin D. Adams Waterway

wo excellent places to see the limestone underbelly of the Florida Keys are Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park and the Marvin D. Adams Waterway. Both are in the Upper Keys; one is easier to reach than the other. At Windley Key, exposed limeFLORIDA stone walls standing eight feet KEYS tall were left exposed by quarry HISTORY operations that went on for decades – drive in, park the car and WITH walk right up. As advertised, they BRAD BERTELLI reveal the fossilized remains of an ancient coral reef. Brad is a local To see different exposed limehistorian, author, stone walls that tell the same story speaker and Honorary Conch from a different point of view, the who loves sharing waterway requires a little extra the history of the effort: a boat ride through the Florida Keys. middle of Key Largo. The waterway was not naturally formed; technically, it split the largest island in the Florida Keys into two pieces. Key Largo’s size was one reason a plan formed to carve it through the middle of the island. The waterway connects Largo Sound, on the ocean side of the island to Blackwater Sound on the bay side. Its creation took time and vision. Marvin Adams used both to accomplish the feat. Marvin Dow Adams was born in Lamar, Missouri, on Aug. 11, 1898. As a young man, he married Leila Jane Sweeting; they had two children. About 1925, they moved to Miami, where Frank Egbert Sweeting, his father-in-law, liked to vacation and fish. He also made several real estate investments. Sweeting lived in Bloomington, Indiana, and worked at the Beich Company. The firmmade confections, including Katydid Peanut Clusters and, much later, Laffy Taffy, launched in 1971 and introduced as a tie-in to the movie “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.” Sweeting introduced the family to Key Largo. In those days, the only way to reach the island was by boat or railroad.

Barney Waldin cuts through the limestone to create what would become the Marvin D. Adams Waterway. JERRY WILKINSON COLLECTION

He bought property on the island in 1923 that included a fisherman’s cottage built in 1917, and he retired from the candy business in 1925 to spend more time fishing and developing his South Florida properties. One tract he purchased included the fishing cottage overlooking Largo Sound near what is now MM 103. He subdivided the tract into about 300 lots and named it Anglers Park; F. E. Sweeting developed, owned and operated the project. The real estate office was in Miami; Adams was the sales manager. An advertisement printed in the Aug. 29, 1926, Miami Herald declared: “Key Largo ‘Isle of Dreams’ is destined to become one of the most noteworthy and exclusive residential communities in the Southland. The most charming and desirable spot on Key Largo is Anglers Park.” Adams was more than a sales manager. He had a law degree from the University of Chicago. In 1926, he served as president of the Miami Agency insurance group. In 1933, he was a director at the First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Miami. He served as chairman of the Turnpike Authority in 1953-1954. He was also a direct descendant of John Quincy Adams, the sixth president of the United States. After the death of his father-in-law in 1950, Adams bought land on Key Largo, about 50 acres that included the Sweeting property and the island’s narrowest stretch. At about one-half mile wide, that stretch of the island is now recognized as the Marvin D. Adams Waterway The plan was to create a shortcut. For Key Largo boaters traveling from the oceanside to the bayside, there were two choices: Jewfish Creek and Tavernier Creek. With nearly 20 miles between them, a third option was welcomed. The United States Coast Guard liked the idea, too. Carving an island the size of Key Largo into two pieces was no small task. The project began in the late 1950s and required 18 months of excavating. Mathew “Barney” Waldin did the digging. Much of the work was done with dynamite dropped into holes drilled 32 feet deep, which blew the coral rock into pieces. The sides were cut with a machine designed and created by Waldin

with the help of an investor named Vining. They built something that could, according to a quote from the Miami Herald on May 25, 1976, “cut through coral rock like cheese.” Waldin did not charge Adams for his service; instead, he was given all the coral rock he dug up, which he then sold. There was a lot of coral rock. When he finished carving out the waterway, he left the ends standing so no water could flow through it. Alonzo Cothron took out the ends, opened it to the sounds, and let the water pass through. The average depth of the cut is about 25 feet. The limestone walls, Key Largo’s underbelly, rise about 15 feet from the waterline. It was called the Key Largo Waterway when it opened to boat traffic on Feb. 26, 1961, and not formally dedicated for years. Mayor Harry Harris wrote a resolution to rename it to honor the man responsible for its creation. When it was finally dedicated on Sunday, May 23, 1976, the name was changed to the Marvin D. Adams Waterway. Though Adams died of a heart attack at his home in Coral Gables on Dec. 29, 1977, the family still has roots navigating the Key Largo limestone. Of course, there is the waterway, but also the family home overlooking Largo Sound, where the fisherman’s cottage still stands. The property hasn’t been forgotten and will host a murder mystery dinner fundraiser for an excellent cause: the Good Health Clinic. They have offices in Tavernier and Marathon. Both work to provide health care to the financially struggling, uninsured residents of the Keys. Donations are a prime source of their funding. One annual fundraiser is the Kahuna Challenge. It invites people to donate to keep their doors open. Jaclyn Kelly, broker/owner at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Destinations and Star Properties Destinations, is working to earn the title of 2026 Big Kahuna. Kelly’s big fundraising event is a murder mystery dinner created with the help of her right and left hands, Samantha Arce and Katie Brennan. To support the Good Health Clinic and learn more about the Kahuna Challenge and how you can participate, visit thegoodhealthclinic.org.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

A SUPER SENIOR SEPTEMBER AT JOY

Grant offers another day of programming

FLORIDA KEYS BULL SHARKS DONATES SPORTS EQUIPMENT TO FLORIDA KEYS CHILDREN’S SHELTER

An Ocean Reef Community Foundation grant has expanded programming to three days, with yoga activities on Thursday. CONTRIBUTED

E.G. MERKEL www.keysweekly.com

eptember’s National Senior Center Month brought some celebrations and the addition of another day of JOY programming at Just Older Youth Inc. On Sept. 15, Monroe County Parks and Beaches invited more than 20 agencies and vendors to celebrate the month and highlight resources for seniors. This second annual event at the Plantation Key Community Center allowed for a little food and fun along with awareness of services. JOY is grateful for its strong partnership with Monroe County Parks and Beaches. Everyone wants even more joy, right? Thanks to a $20,000 grant from the Ocean Reef Community Foundation, JOY has rolled out a third day of programming. Sept. 17 brought Thursdays into the mix. The third day will build on high-demand programs and

Diane Smith with art students.

allow for the piloting of new classes and pop-up experiences. Currently, the schedule includes three different types of classes. JOY Jam (11:30 a.m to 1 p.m.) brings instruments and singers together for impromptu music jam sessions. Intermediate Yoga Flow (1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.) opens room for expanding skills for yogis wanting a little more challenge. And, Painting with Diane brings back JOY’s artist in residence from last year for two back-to-back classes involving painting (11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.) and creative expression (1 p.m. – 2 p.m.). Last year’s art classes were funded thanks to a Community Foundation of the Florida Keys grant. The new classes are available with a fee for supplies. Check out more information on registration for classes and any changes to times and offerings at justolderyouthinc.org.

JOY activities include strumming on guitar and ukulele.

From left, the Florida Keys Children Shelter’s Maile Horn, Katya Andrade, Alison Potter, Anyssa Verdin and Ben Kemmer receive new sports equipment from Sam Steele, president and founder of the Florida Keys Bull Sharks. CONTRIBUTED

he Florida Keys Children’s Shelter recently received $2,000 worth of new sports equipment from the Florida Keys Bull Sharks, made possible through a grant from the Ocean Reef Community Foundation. Sam Steele, president and founder of the Florida Keys Bull Sharks, personally delivered the equipment to the shelter. The donation will provide the young people served by the shelter with new opportunities to stay active, build confidence and experience the teamwork and connection that sports can provide. “Many children who come to the shelter are already involved in athletics or have dreams of becoming athletes,” said Ben Kemmer, president and CEO of the shelter. “This

generous donation will help provide them with the equipment and encouragement they need to pursue those goals.” The Florida Keys Bull Sharks is a registered nonprofit youth sports organization based in the Keys. The organization operates competitive travel baseball teams, including 7U, 8U and 9U divisions, while working to remove financial barriers that may prevent local children from participating in athletics. The Florida Keys Children’s Shelter thanked Steele and the Florida Keys Bull Sharks, as well as the Ocean Reef Community Foundation for providing the funding to the Bull Sharks that made this donation possible. — Contributed

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WELCOME TO EVENTS SEASON

Dolphin Life holds community day, plus some upcoming spooky events

ATLAS Meet the dolphin pod, including Ripley, while getting a behind-the-scenes look at Dolphin Life during a community open house Sunday, Oct. 4. File photo

i friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” So, some of you may be wondering what I’m REEF doing now that THE FOX I have graciously resigned from Reef is a red fox that was saved the Best Local from a fur farm. Celebrity race in He now lives in the Upper Keys. Key Largo with First of all, you’re his human, Nicole welcome, human Navarro. candidates. I assume morale has improved tremendously. As for me, retirement has been less golf-and-cocktails and more Benadryl-and-personal-suffering. I’m still battling allergies, so it was probably a good year to step down. Normally, this face is GQ. Right now, it’s giving Temu. My mother has been working diligently to get everything under control, but between the rain, pollen and whatever the heck else blows in from the sea, my delicate little system has had enough. Fame is exhausting. Apparently, so is existing outdoors in Florida. Thankfully, the event season has arrived, and some of our nonprofit and community groups have plenty

happening around the Upper Keys. Dolphin Life is kicking things off with a free community open house on Sunday, Oct. 4 from 3 to 7 p.m. Then Mote Marine Laboratory is putting your questionable collection of random knowledge to work with trivia night on Oct. 19 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Florida Keys Brewing Co. With October come the spooky events. MarineLab gets appropriately creepy with its Haunted Lagoon on Oct. 24 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Even better? It’s free for everyone. In Islamorada, the village parks and recreation department will host the eighth annual Trunk or Treat at Founders Park on Oct. 24. Those wishing to decorate a trunk and give out candy and trinkets have until Oct. 19 to sign up. And last, but certainly not least, our feathered buddies at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center are hosting their annual Owl-O-Ween on Oct. 30 from 4 to 8 p.m. So get out there. Attend one. Attend them all. Have fun and support some fantastic Upper Keys nonprofits while you’re doing it. As for me, I’ll be here concentrating on my recovery, avoiding pollen and trying to restore my face to its former award-winning glory. Retirement is going beautifully. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

tlas is a 9-week-old Rottweiler-mix puppy with all the wonderful qualities you’d expect from a happy, playful young pup. At 20 pounds already, he’s growing fast and is expected to be a large dog when fully grown. Like any 2-month-old puppy, Atlas will need patience, training and plenty of love as he learns the ropes. Because of his expected size, a fenced yard would be ideal for giving him the space he needs to play, exercise and thrive. If you’re looking for a loyal best friend and a wonderful new family member, Atlas may be the perfect match for you. Interested parties may complete an adoption application at mprrescues.org.

SAVE THE DATE Oct. 1-4 • The Key Players present “Dear Evan Hansen” at the Coral Shores High School Performing Arts Center. More information and tickets at thekeyplayers.org. Thursday, Oct. 1 • MarrVelous Pet Rescues’ “Yappy Hour” from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Catch, Key Largo. Dogs must be vaccinated, leashed and wellsocialized. Friday, Oct. 2 • Sit and Sew from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Key Largo library. • Happy Hour fundraiser for Good Health Clinic from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Bar Victor, Key Largo. The event supports Kasandra Ibanez and Candace Rybak’s campaign for Big Kahuna. • A Plot to Die For: A Murder Mystery Dinner at Historic Shadow Point in Key Largo. The event supports the Good Health Clinic and Jaclyn Kelley’s Big Kahuna campaign. Call Kelley at 305-923-1042 for tickets.

Saturday, Oct. 3 • Old Highway Run, a 5K run and walk, at 7:30 a.m. at Coral Shores High School. Learn more and sign up at www.oldhighwayrun.com. • Florida Keys Quilters meeting at 9 a.m. at the Key Largo library. Sunday, Oct. 4 • Guided nature walk with Florida Bay Forever at 9:30 a.m. at Green Turtle Hammock Nature Preserve, Islamorada. Learn more about the free walk at floridabayforever.org/events. • 29th annual Keys Kids Fishing Derby at Lorelei Restaurant, Islamorada. Pick up a ditty bag and free donuts any time after 7 a.m. Lines are in at 9 a.m. and weigh in closes promptly at 1 p.m. Sign up at islamoradacharterboatassociation.com. • Karaoke night from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Catch, Key Largo. The event supports Yesenia Moreno’s Big Kahuna campaign for Good Health Clinic. Oct. 6-7 • 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.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026 OBITUARY

CHARLES ‘CHUCK’ BRODZKI

1954–2026

harles “Chuck” Brodzki, known to generations of friends, clients and fellow anglers as the “Rear Admiral,” or simply “RA,” passed away on Aug. 29, 2026, in Bozeman, Montana. Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 1954, Chuck lived an accomplished, eclectic and wonderfully unconventional life. He was a Wharton graduate, attorney, educator, record-setting tournament angler, professional fishing guide, racehorse owner, storyteller and humorist. Above all, he was a remarkably loyal friend. The son of Holocaust survivors Ludwik and Pola Brodzki, Chuck grew up with his sisters, Bella and Gayle, in Fort Lauderdale. Chuck began fishing at a very early age, beginning a passion that would ultimately shape the course of his life. Chuck attended St. Andrew’s High School and went on to the University of Pennsylvania, where he graduated from the Wharton School. He later earned his law degree from the University of Miami School of Law and returned to Fort Lauderdale to enter private practice. Ever since he was one of the owners of the racehorse named Run For The Honey, winner of 18 races, Chuck became a devoted racetrack enthusiast and was almost as happy following horses as he was fishing. But the water was never far from Chuck’s thoughts. He became an exceptionally accomplished fly fisherman and tournament angler. His long record included major honors in the Miami MET, Don Hawley Tarpon Fly Tournament, Gold Cup Tarpon Fly Tournament, Golden Fly Tarpon Tournament, Redbone and numerous other competitions. Chuck was a longtime member of the Rod & Reel Club of Miami, where he earned numerous honors and its Master Angler Achievement Badge. Among his proudest achievements was earning Miami MET Master Angler. He also held two IGFA world records and three Florida state records on fly tackle. In 1996, Chuck made the decision that would define the next chapter of his life: he left the practice of law and became a full-time professional fishing guide.

For nearly three decades, Chuck followed the seasons and the fish. Summers were spent in Bozeman, guiding anglers on Montana’s rivers. Winters brought him to Islamorada and Florida Bay, where he specialized in fly fishing and particularly loved pursuing tarpon at night. A trip with Chuck was a performance. When a client hooked a monster tarpon or challenging trout, RA became part guide, part coach, part play-by-play announcer and part comedian. His clients were always fair game for his irreverent commentary, and newcomers could expect to be initiated into Chuck’s world as “googans.” His fishing reports became legendary. They weren’t merely accounts of what was biting; they were elaborate stories filled with exaggeration, humor and affectionate abuse of his clients and friends. For all his own fishing accomplishments, Chuck took enormous pleasure in watching other people catch fish, particularly beginners. He understood that a great day on the water was measured not simply by the fish caught, but by the laughter, friendship and stories that came home with you. Yet behind the larger-than-life Rear Admiral persona was an extraordinarily thoughtful man. Chuck loved sending cards and personal notes. He remembered birthdays and celebrated his friends’ accomplishments. His friendships weren’t casual. Some began during childhood in Melrose Park and lasted the rest of his life. Others were forged at St. Andrews, Wharton, UM, the legal community, on Montana rivers, in the Florida Keys and through countless days spent together on the water. Chuck could also be wonderfully mischievous. Friends knew that whenever he had done something he probably shouldn’t have, his familiar defense was likely to follow: “You think I want to be like this?” Chuck leaves his sisters, Bella and Gayle, along with an extended family of lifelong friends, fellow anglers, clients and fishing companions whose lives were made considerably more interesting — and usually more entertaining — because they knew him. Funeral arrangements are pending.

NAVIGATING A CHANGING NONPROFIT LANDSCAPE Annual gathering offers ideas and strategies for organizations

Representatives from nonprofit organizations throughout the Florida Keys gather at Faro Blanco Resort in Marathon for the 2026 Florida Keys Nonprofit Day. CONTRIBUTED

ore than 135 nonprofit leaders representing nearly 60 organizations throughout the Keys gathered at Faro Blanco Resort in Marathon on Sept. 16 for the 2026 Florida Keys Nonprofit Day, an opportunity for the local nonprofit community to learn, connect and share ideas. Presented by the Florida Keys Funders Alliance — a collaboration of the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, Ocean Reef Community Foundation and United Way of Collier and the Keys — and sponsored by First State Bank, the event brought nonprofit professionals together for educational sessions focused on strengthening their organizations and navigating the changing nonprofit landscape. Featured speaker Robyn Faucy, CEO and owner of Results 1st and a TEDx speaker, shared strategies to help nonprofits raise more money, increase participant engagement and develop scalable, high-impact programs. Leah McDermott, vice president of policy and programs for Florida Nonprofit Alliance, provided a statewide perspective on the chal-

Robyn Faucy, CEO and owner of Results 1st, addresses nonprofit leaders at the 2026 Florida Keys Nonprofit Day.

lenges, trends and opportunities in the state, including at the state legislative level. The day also provided an opportunity for nonprofit professionals serving communities throughout the island chain to meet, exchange ideas and develop relationships with organizations facing many of the same opportunities and challenges. The Florida Keys Funders Alliance hosts the day annually as part of its ongoing effort to strengthen nonprofit organizations throughout the Keys. — Contributed

From left, Florida Keys Brewing Co. owners Craig and Cheryl McBay and Anais Diaz, Florida Keys Children’s Shelter community development director. CONTRIBUTED

DOLLY DAY GIVES BACK TO LOCAL YOUTH F

lorida Keys Brewing Co. recently brought a little extra heart to its Dolly Day celebration in Islamorada, hosting a book drive benefiting the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. By the end of the evening, 31 books had been donated for local children and youth. The shelter thanked Florida Keys Brewing Co. and everyone who helped turn a fun night of boots, bling and brews into something meaningful for local kids. The shelter is also accepting donations of new books and art supplies. From a favorite children’s story to coloring supplies, sketchbooks, paints and other creative materials, every gift gives a young person another opportunity to read, create and express themselves. — Contributed

Dolly Day celebration attendees with Diaz.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

SHELF HELP

taff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection. What: “Wolf Worm” by T. Kingfisher Why: If T. Kingfisher writes it, I will read it. I am obsessed with how Kingfisher renders her narrators’ inner worlds. In “Wolf Worm,” Sonia is an accomplished illustrator, struggling to find consistent and fulfilling work after the death of her father. She leaves a steady but underwhelming job as a teacher, moving to the remote North Carolina woods. She begins illustrating Dr. Halder’s expansive and creepy insect collection for his upcoming publication. Yet there are far more sinister things lurking in the surrounding woods. Sonia is isolated and unsure whom to trust, what is real, and if she will survive. Where: You can borrow this as a print book, e-book, and e-audiobook from the Monroe County Public Library. How: You can request books, including e-books and e-audiobooks, at keyslibraries. org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? keyslibraries.org/ contact-us. Recommended by: Riona Campbell, senior branch manager, Key West library branch. See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/post/ shelf-help.

taff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection. What: “It’s Dorothy!” (2025) Why: In L. Frank Baum’s 1900 book “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” Dorothy Gale is not physically described, except for being 8 or 9 years old. Since then, she has contained multitudes, most indelibly Judy Garland’s portrayal in the 1939 movie. This documentary investigates that role, and Garland’s subsequent importance for the gay community especially, but also many more recent interpretations on page, stage, and screen, from “The Wiz” to “Wicked.” One person describes “The Wizard of Oz” as “the only big pop culture property that’s been around for every generation that’s alive right now” – a really striking way of recognizing its longevity, impact and adaptability. We all have our own relationships with Dorothy and her journey. No single documentary could capture everyone’s, but this film illuminates a lot of them and introduces you to how many others have perceived this story, which is both entirely American and somehow universal at the same time. Where: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming app. How: You can browse and request DVDs by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to keyslibraries.org and click on Kanopy to learn how to set up an account with your library card. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? keyslibraries. org/contact-us. Recommended by: Nancy Klingener, community affairs manager. See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/post/reel-recs.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

CELEBRATE AMERICA 250 ON OLD SEVEN MILE BRIDGE

LOCAL REPORTING BY LOCAL JOURNALISTS

County plans Oct. 10 sunset celebration

In 2023, Monroe County celebrated its 200-year anniversary as a county with a sunset celebration on the Old Seven Mile Bridge. On Oct. 10, the event will take place to commemorate the United States’ 250th anniversary. COUNTY FILE PHOTO

Attendees watch the sun’s final glow at a 2023 celebration for Monroe County’s anniversary on the Old Seven Mile Bridge. Another event is planned for Oct. 10. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

onroe County and the Tourist Development Council, along with the city of Marathon, will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a special semiquincentennial sunset celebration on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on the historic Old Seven Mile Bridge.

The free event will feature live music and dancing with the Pierce August Band, Caribbean-inspired appetizers prepared by Marathon High School’s culinary team, and a sunset toast featuring Grimal Grove juices. Sunset is about 7:05 p.m. The celebration offers residents and visitors a chance to come together at one of the Florida Keys’ most iconic landmarks while commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary. No parking will be available at the bridge. Complimentary parking will be available at the parking lot for Pigeon Key’s trolley at the city’s 7 Mile Marina, and van service will be available from the 33rd Street/ Stanley Switlik parking area. Attendees may also walk to the event from Knights Key under the bridge. — Contributed

TRUSTED EXPERTS IN THE FIELD For 22 years, Keys Weekly has been the ONLY locally-owned and operated news source covering all of the Keys with our boots on the ground and our butts in the seats at meetings.

Jim McCarthy, Editor Upper Keys Weekly 305.363.2957 jim@keysweekly.com

Mandy Miles, Editor Key West Weekly 305.453.6928 mandy@keysweekly.com

Alex Rickert, Editor Marathon Weekly 305.743.0844 alex@keysweekly.com

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

NEVER BOUGHT. NEVER SOLD. ALWAYS LOCAL.

CELEBRATING 22 YEARS OF LOCAL MEDIA UPPER KEYS WEEKLY • MARATHON WEEKLY • KEY WEST WEEKLY

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

Founded by Betty Debnam

HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN

MINI FACT: Statues of Hans Christian Andersen are scattered throughout the world, including Central Park in the U.S.

Photo by Dan Alcantara

Courtesy of Wikipedia

Have you read “The Ugly Duckling,” “The Little Mermaid” or “The Emperor’s New Clothes”? They were written by Hans Christian Andersen. His fairy tales are some of the most popular stories in the world. Even today, 151 years after his death, his stories are being told again and again, in many different Hans Christian Andersen ways. They have been translated into more languages than any other fiction. He wrote 156 stories in all. Some of his stories have been made into movies, plays, ballets, TV shows, video games, board games and card games. Although we think of his fairy tales as being children’s stories, he wrote them for adults as well. Much of his humor and moral messages were intended for grown-ups. EARLY LIFE Andersen’s life was much like a fairy tale. He was born in Odense, Denmark, in 1805. The family was very poor. His mother was a washwoman, his father a shoemaker. When Hans was 11, his father died. To help support the family, Hans worked in a tailor’s shop and later in a tobacco factory.

He left home at the age of 14 to seek his fortune in Copenhagen. He tried to make a living as an artist, an actor, a dancer and a singer. He failed at them all. He was so poor he nearly starved to death. Andersen became friends with a theater director who helped him get a scholarship that enabled him to go back to school. HIS WRITING Andersen began to write plays, novels, poems and travel books. During his life he wrote three different books about his own life. Many of his plays were big hits in Denmark. Some of his poems were turned into songs that Danish kids still sing today. Much to his surprise, it was his fairy tales that made him famous at home and in other countries as well. HIS PERSONALITY Andersen loved the attention given to him by royalty, artists and other authors. He was very ambitious and enjoyed his success. He was sensitive and became upset when someone wrote anything bad about his books. Andersen was often sick and was known as a worrier. Although he traveled a great deal, he often arrived at the station hours before the train was to leave. He carried a rope with him so he could escape out the window if a hotel caught on fire. Andersen was a deeply religious man. Because of his very humble beginnings, he was a thrifty man.

THE FAIRY TALES His first fairy tales were printed one at a time in little pamphlets. Later, collections were put into books. When he was telling stories out loud, Hans Christian Andersen would make paper cutouts filled with scenes from his tales. He cut and folded the paper to create pictures. EARLY TRANSLATION This is how Andersen’s “The Emperor’s New Suit” begins: “Many, many years ago lived an emperor, who thought so much of new clothes that he spent all his money in order to obtain them; his only ambition was to be always well dressed. He did not care for his soldiers, and the theater did not amuse him; the only thing, in fact, he thought anything of was to drive out and show a new suit of clothes. He had a coat for every hour of the day...” HIS LOVES Andersen proposed to several women but was rejected by all of them. When he died in 1875, he was carrying a letter from his first love, a woman he had met more than 40 years before. As he wished, the letter was burned unread. Andersen reminds us of one of his most famous characters, the Ugly Duckling. In spite of his lonely life, he was able to write some of the most magical stories of all time.

RESOURCES ON THE WEB • bit.ly/4vZhory AT THE LIBRARY • “An Illustrated Treasury of Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tales” by Hans Christian Andersen and illustrated by Anastasiya Archipova

FIND IT ARTISTS, DENMARK, DUCKLING, EMPEROR, FACTORY, FAIRY TALE, LITTLE, HANS, MERMAID, ROPE, ROYALTY, SHOP, STORY, SUIT, THEATER, THRIFTY, WRITE.

Words that remind us of Hans Christian Andersen are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

T A F R E T A E H T

R L E R R T I S O D D E P I V G E A U F E M P E X R W E Y E P S B M Y T P O H S

O Y A L T Y T S L Y D Q N M A R K I H R A Y R L Q Y R W K S R O R C W X T Z U Y M S F D Y R O T F I R H T L E L T T I L

U T I U B N S C L Y

E N I I A T J A J Y

G T U H R V F F H E

J E L A T Y R I A F

ECO NOTE The Brazilian Amazon is offering a rare measure of good news. Satellite observations show forest clearing has fallen to its lowest 12-month level since Brazil’s current rapid-monitoring record began in 2014, continuing a decline that has accelerated in recent years. The improvement means fewer trees cut, less habitat destroyed and less pressure on Indigenous lands and protected forests. It also suggests that stronger enforcement and renewed environmental oversight can make a difference in one of the world’s most important ecosystems. The decline offers hope, but the dry season will test whether Brazil can protect against a hotter, fire-prone future under climate change. Adapted with permission from Earthweek.com

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

is your home for Florida Keys Football

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 1, 2026

Presented by

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NOMINATIONS

Thursday, Sept. 17, 12 noon to Sunday, Oct. 4, 11:59 p.m.

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October 1, 2026

The rivalry returns | P.9

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OCTOBER 1, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

THE SCOREBOARD

SEPT. 21 - 26

Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Coral Shores

Volleyball

South Homestead

9/22

W, 3-1

Marathon

Volleyball

Posnack

9/23

L, 3-1

Coral Shores

Volleyball

Key West

9/24

W, 3-0

Marathon

Volleyball

Horeb Christian

9/24

W, 3-0

Marathon

Football

Babcock Ranch

9/25

W, 41-8

Coral Shores

Football

Oxbridge Academy

9/25

W, 20-14

Key West

Football

True North

9/25

L, 30-17

Coral Shores

Volleyball

Somerset College Prep

9/25

W, 3-0

Key West

Volleyball

LaSalle

9/25

L, 2-1

Key West

Volleyball

St. Brendan

9/25

L, 2-0

Key West

Volleyball

True North

9/26

L, 2-0

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Andrew

CONNOLLY

Senior, Coral Shores Football

OCT. 1 - 8

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

10/1

Marathon

Volleyball

Coral Shores

5:30 p.m.

10/2

Coral Shores

Football

Marathon

7 p.m.

10/2

Key West

Football

North Miami Beach

7 p.m.

10/2

Coral Shores & Marathon

Cross Country

@ Race of the Thoroughbreds

4:45 p.m.

10/2

Marathon

Volleyball

Archimedean

5 p.m.

10/5

Coral Shores

Volleyball

@ Keys Gate

5:30 p.m.

10/5

All Keys Schools

Golf

@ Marathon

1 p.m.

10/6

Key West

Volleyball

Marathon

5:30 p.m.

10/7

Key West & Coral Shores

Swimming

@ Coral Shores

4 p.m.

10/7

All Keys Schools

Golf

@ Ocean Reef

1 p.m.

10/8

Marathon

Volleyball

@ Keys Gate

5:30 p.m.

Andy is a dynamic player with a great work ethic. He is a good football player and an even better person.” – Ed Holly, Hurricane head coach

solo tackles

ON THE COVER

OCTOBER 1

The Keys’ most storied football rivalry will be renewed this weekend under Friday Night Lights, as the Marathon Dolphins travel north to take on the Coral Shores Hurricanes in the 57th Battle of the Keys. See page 9. Photos by Natalie Goodwin and Natalie Danko

Coral Shores senior Andrew Connolly made his presence felt in the Hurricanes’ 29-14 win over Oxbridge Academy. Connolly registered three solo tackles and five assists, including three tackles for loss and a pair of sacks. A dynamic defender with a knack for making big plays when they matter most, Connolly brings more than stats to the Hurricane defense. His love for the game shows in his play, but it’s his willingness to put the team ahead of himself that makes the senior a leader on and off the field. For his impact in a key Coral Shores win, Connolly is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

assists

Photo by NATALIE GOODWIN/Keys Weekly

tracy mcdonald SPORTS WRITER

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

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / OCTOBER 1, 2026

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert

alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Business Development

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

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design

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

MARKET EDITORS

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classiﬁeds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

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. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Oﬃce: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

FINAL SPLASH Key West seniors shine against Firebirds in last home meet

he Key West swimming program celebrated its seniors on Sept. 26 at the College of the Florida Keys pool, honoring the Conchs and Lady Conchs making their final home appearance of the season. Seniors Kennedy Morgan and Mary Searcy represented the Lady Conchs, while Santiago Gonzalez, Andres Aguero, William Gjerding, Hugo Blinckmann and Filip Hrabec were honored for the boys. Several made the most of their final races in home waters. Gonzalez swam away with a win in the 100-yard freestyle, touch-

ing in 51.97 seconds, while Blinckmann made his final home 50 free a memorable one, winning a thriller in 23.87, just two hundredths of a second ahead of the runner-up. The two teamed up later with Max Blinckmann and Hrabec to win the 200 freestyle relay in 1:37.29. Hrabec added an individual Senior Night victory of his own, claiming the 100 breaststroke in 1:10.03. Aguero turned in a pair of strong swims, finishing fifth in the 100 butterfly in 1:07.25 and fourth in the 500 freestyle in 6:37. The Lady Conchs had plenty to cel-

OCTOBER 1, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

ebrate as well. Christina Rice swept the sprint freestyle events, winning the 50 in 26.17 seconds and the 100 in 58.18. Amelia Korzen captured the 200 freestyle in 2:23 and later joined Veronica Ter Azaryan, Ashlyn Picco and Rice for a first-place finish in the 200 freestyle relay. Molly Martinez added another individual win for Key West in the 100 backstroke, finishing in 1:19.60, with Searcy making the most of her final home appearance by taking second in 1:22.76. Doral ultimately claimed both team wins, defeating the Lady Conchs 97-71 and the Conchs 105-65. The final home meet may be in the books, but Key West will stay close to home on Oct. 7, joining Coral Shores and Braddock for a tri-meet at Founders Park. The three teams hit the water at 4 p.m. in the final stretch before postseason competition begins. Key West dives into the 2A District 12 Championships Oct. 27, while 1A Coral Shores takes to the water the following morning. 1. The Conchs enjoy a final dip in home waters. 2. Key West seniors make a final splash in their home waters. 3. Haven Andrade races against his opponent in the 100-yard butterfly. 4. Hugo Blinckmann cheers on Andres Aguero in the 500-yard freestyle.

5. Senior Filip Hrabec dives in to his final home breast stroke race. 6. Senior Filip Hrabec breaks his personal best in the 100yard breaststroke as his teammates cheer him on. 7. The boys dive into the 100yard breaststroke. Photos by Rocky Gonet and Jennifer Searcy

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / OCTOBER 1, 2026

11 5 6

3 4

OCTOBER 1, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

MEET IN THE MIDDLE Burns, Wheatley set the pace as Keys teams converge in Marathon

heridan Hills Christian’s cross country team made a trip south last week looking for speed. The Sharks joined a field dominated by Keys programs hoping their runners could use the area’s fastest athletes to set the pace and push their times. Marathon’s Lucian Burns had a similar idea. Burns hoped the added competition might provide a pace car of sorts at the front of the boys race. Instead, the Dolphin standout found himself with no one to chase but the bike clearing traffic ahead. Burns ran away with the individual title in 16:28, crossing the line a full 45 seconds ahead of the runner-up and fueling Marathon’s first-place finish in the team standings. The Dolphins packed three runners into the top five. Allan Taylor placed fourth overall in 17:35, followed by Tony Bursa in fifth at 18:00. Anthony Vargas (20:02) and Landon Anderson (20:05) finished 10th and 11th, respectively, to round out Marathon’s scoring five. Key West juniors Sawyer Hill and Alejandro Caridad crossed nearly side by side, placing eighth and ninth. Hill finished in 19:41 with Caridad just a quarter of a second behind. Noah Taylor (20:58) and Cruz Matarazzo (21:00) took 16th and 17th, respectively, while Colin Palomino rounded out the Conchs’ scoring five and the race’s top 20 in 21:30. Coral Shores’ top five finished just over two minutes apart, led by Victor Lopez in 12th place. Lopez’s 20:08 was followed by Wyatt Meyers (20:26) in 13th and Will Thies (21:24) in 19th. Dillon Matthews (22:05) and Tyler Cope (22:36) claimed 22nd and 23rd to com1. Violet Jangraw, left, Lynn Noah and Ali Wheatley show off their medals at Marathon’s home meet Sept. 24. 2. Marathon’s Lucian Burns looks strong despite the heat. 3. Key West’s Julian Polak (29) keeps the mood light despite the hot conditions on Sept. 24. Kaleb Blakely keeps him company. 4. Key West’s Ryah Bushey shows that cross country can be fun as she and Matthew Barrett finish the first mile astride. 5. Noah Taylor stays in

plete the Hurricanes’ top five. In the girls competition, Coral Shores’ Ali Wheatley had no shortage of runners to help set her pace. With the boys and girls racing together, the speedy junior had plenty of company around her; it just happened to be male company. Among the girls, Wheatley had no such company near the finish line. Her 20:11 secured the individual win by more than a minute, though Key West ultimately prevailed in the team standings. The Lady Conchs claimed three consecutive spots behind Wheatley, with Lynn Noah (21:24), Violet Jangraw (23:06) and Hazel Matarazzo (23:38) finishing second through fourth. Emma Bradshaw was Key West’s fourth scorer and placed 8th overall in 25:31, while Ryah Bushey (27:59) finished 10th to complete the Lady Conchs’ scoring five. Behind Wheatley, Coral Shores senior Kate King captured sixth place in 24:43, while junior Aria Booton was seventh in 25:12. Catalina Armstrong finished 11th in 29:33, and Ellaina Biondoletti placed 13th in 30:21. Marathon did not have enough high school girls in the varsity 5K to register a team score, with the majority of the Lady Dolphins competing in the middle school race. Rebecca Merryman led Marathon’s varsity runners with a fifth-place finish in 23:47. Teammate Ariella Dworniczak broke into the top 10, placing ninth, while Sofia Rodriguez finished 15th. Key West will take a week away from competition, while Marathon and Coral Shores head to Larry and Penny Thompson Park for the Race of the Thoroughbreds on Oct. 2.

front of a small pack chasing him. 6. Marathon’s Brayden Anderson (42) and Kolton Wright (52) work toward the turnaround at Marathon’s home meet. 7. Lynn Noah looks strong as she cruises to a secondplace finish. 8. Ariella Dworniczak is all smiles at the two-mile mark. 9. Coral Shores senior Kate King smiles for the camera mid-race. 10. Marathon’s Tony Bursa and Allan Taylor draft behind a pair of Sheridan Hills runners.

11. Sawyer Hill (25) and Alejandro Caridad (23) work hard to break the top 10 at Marathon. 12. Key West’s Colin Palomino and Coral Shores’ Victor Lopez help pace Coral Shores’ Ali Wheatley as they race down Sombrero Beach Road. 13. Connor Daniels conserves his energy for the final stretch. 14. Lucian Burns stretches his lead on his home course. TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / OCTOBER 1, 2026

1 2

oth sides are rolling with some momentum ahead of the Keys’ most storied football showdown.

MARATHON The Dolphins of Marathon traveled to Punta Gorda on Sept. 25 to take on the Trailblazers of Babcock. The Fins’ defense came up big on the Blazers’ first drive, then Marathon made a statement with a quick score to take an early lead it would hold for the duration. Marathon had five athletes reach the end zone, beginning with senior Mathew Machado, who broke free for a 38-yard run. With a little more than a minute left in the first quarter, classmate Israel Gonzalez carried the ball 49 yards for a touchdown, followed by his twin brother Jesus, whose 64-yard score sent the Fins into halftime with a 21-0 lead. Junior Mel Val scored back-to-back touchdowns, the first from 33 yards and the second from 23. Then, with the end of the game quickly approaching, freshman Maverick McDonald broke loose for a 46-yard score. McDonald followed that up with an interception on defense to end the Trailblazers’ hopes for another score of their own.

1. Jesus Gonzalez has plenty of room to run after his blockers clear a path. 2. Marathon’s coaching staff addresses the team following the Sept. 25 road win. 3. Senior Ekon Edwards is poised to make his final Battle of the Keys count; Edwards had two solo tackles, seven assists and one tackle for a loss against Oxbridge last week. 4. Mathew Machado (1) and Jesus Gonzalez (2) celebrate Machado’s 38-yard TD run.

Photos by Natalie Goodwin and Stuart Godoy

SETTING THE TABLE Fins, ’Canes earn wins ahead of 57th Battle of the Keys

The Fins racked up 477 total yards. Defensively, McDonald added seven tackles, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and a pass defense to his interception. Colton Huff had eight tackles and a fumble recovery, while two of Israel Gonzalez’s six tackles were for a loss. Jeremy Thiboutot added seven tackles and a pass defense, and Ray Lackey, a newcomer to the team, had four tackles, including one for a loss, and a sack. The win, Marathon’s first of the regular season, gives the Fins some momentum as they head into a contest with their closest neighbor and longest-standing rival, Coral Shores.

CORAL SHORES The Hurricanes created plenty of confidence the same night, defeating the ThunderWolves of Oxbridge Academy in Miami, 29-14. Coral Shores amassed 327 yards on 35 carries, scoring twice on the ground and once through the air. Dominik Jimenez rushed three times for 25 yards and hauled in three catches for 48 more, including a touchdown reception from Sterling Keefe. Keefe added 34 yards on the ground. Charles Royal led the Hurricanes’ rushing attack with 109 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries. Kevin Williams Jr. added 48 yards and a score on six carries, David Beltran rushed seven times for 42 yards and John Oughton picked up 69 yards on just four attempts. The Hurricane defense made life difficult for the ThunderWolves all night. Senior Andrew Connolly registered three solo tackles and five assists, including three tackles for loss and a pair of sacks. Billy Holly added three

solo tackles and a quarterback pressure, while Ekon Edwards was in on nine tackles, including one for a loss. Jack Brown delivered one of the defense’s biggest performances, finishing with two solo tackles, six assists, three quarterback pressures, two sacks and a safety. “Coming off an emotional win at home, I thought they played well on the road,” head coach Ed Holly said. “We were able to eliminate their big plays.” With both Marathon and Coral Shores coming off victories, attention now turns to the 57th Battle of the Keys. The Dolphins make the short trip north on Friday, Oct. 2 for a 7 p.m. kickoff in Tavernier, where Coral Shores will attempt to extend its sevengame winning streak in the rivalry and Marathon will look to end it. As for Holly’s thoughts on the annual showdown, he kept it simple: “We’re looking forward to it!” KEY WEST For Key West, it was a tale

of two halves Sept. 25 against visiting True North Classical Academy. The Titans got on the board first, but the undeterred Conchs struck back, capitalizing on a recovered fumble to put three points on the board with a field goal. Soon after, Key West took the lead when Roman Van Loon connected with Cain Hughes, then Reef Guyet punched one in from six yards out to give the Conchs a 17-7 lead at the half. The Conchs came out of the locker room with the lead, but their offense hit roadblocks on each possession in the third and fourth quarters. VanLoon was sidelined with an injury early in the second half, and the bad luck kept coming. Three fumbles, a safety, a stalled drive and an interception kept Key West off the scoreboard while the Titans took advantage, piling up 23 unanswered points to come away with a 30-17 win. Despite the score, head coach Johnny Hughes was proud of his team. “We made a couple mistakes that cost us dearly, but the guys put out a great effort,” he said. “It was a physical game. I’m proud of their effort.” Key West hosts North Miami Beach Oct. 2 in a district matchup.

OCTOBER 1, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

Hurricanes chase a record eighth straight as Dolphins look to turn the tide

hen Marathon and Coral Shores meet on Friday, Oct. 2, more than one number will be at stake. The 57th Battle of the Keys gives the Dolphins an opportunity to halt Coral Shores’ seven-game run and gives the Hurricanes a chance to establish the longest winning streak in the rivalry’s storied history. Coral Shores enters the 7 p.m. contest on their home turf holding a 31-25 advantage in a series dating back to 1970, making it the longest-standing rivalry in Keys sports. The Hurricanes have won every meeting since Marathon’s 14-0 victory in 2018, matching the Dolphins’ seven-game streak from 2003 through 2010. An eighth consecutive Coral Shores victory would establish a new series record. The Hurricanes will have history and home field on their side, along with several advantages on paper. Ed Holly’s squad enters the matchup fresh off a 29-14 victory over Oxbridge Academy, a team Sean McDonald’s Dolphins fell to in week 2. The Hurricanes also have the deeper roster, dressing 46 athletes to Marathon’s 26, and their 13 seniors give Coral Shores a significant edge in experience. But Marathon has been making the most of its young roster. Despite having just five seniors and a thinner look on the sidelines, the Dolphin underclassmen have been making waves in recent weeks. If the Fins can stay healthy heading into the matchup, their record may not tell the whole story. Marathon’s single-wing offense is well suited to smaller rosters and undersized athletes, relying on the whole-team approach the Fins have been showing in recent weeks. When each player executes his assignment, the offense can be remarkably difficult to contain. Its punishing ground game can steadily wear down opponents — provided the Fins, many of whom rarely leave the field while playing offense, defense and special teams, don’t wear down first. Despite having just one win on the books, Marathon is averaging more than 25 points per game. The Dolphin arsenal includes seniors Jesus and Israel Gonzalez, twins whose running styles could hardly be more

different. Jesus relies on speed and elusiveness to evade defenders, while Israel is more inclined to lower his shoulder and power through them. Classmate Mathew Machado provides the Fins with a do-it-all option, willing and able to fill whatever role is needed to keep the offense moving. Coral Shores brings a different offensive look to the rivalry. Holly has been airing things out more this season, showing confidence in senior quarterback Sterling Keefe, who has connected with multiple receivers. But the Hurricanes have hardly abandoned the ground game. Coral Shores remains a scrappy, physical team willing to grind out yards and fight through contact, giving its offense balance and multiple ways to move the chains. Few players embody that toughness better than senior David Beltran. Keefe’s favorite target is also a versatile running back with speed and the ability to break free, but Beltran can be just as effective when there is nowhere to run. When opponents do manage to get their hands on him, he often takes them along for the ride, fighting through contact and squeezing extra yards out of seemingly finished plays. That same tenacity runs throughout the Hurricane offense, where backs and blockers have made the running game a formidable complement to Keefe’s increasingly productive passing attack. Both programs also appear to be trending in the right direction as they head toward the annual rivalry game. In the most recent rankings released Sept. 24, Coral Shores stood at No. 386 statewide after climbing 61 spots following its shutout of Glades Day. Marathon was ranked No. 538, moving up 15 spots despite its loss to unbeaten Evangelical Christian the previous week. Both teams have since added wins. And while records, rankings, roster sizes and winning streaks provide plenty to measure heading into the 57th meeting, rivalry games have a way of making the numbers matter a little less once the ball is kicked off.

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / OCTOBER 1, 2026

THE HOME STRETCH Keys volleyball teams enter ﬁnal week before district play

ith playoffs on the horizon, Monroe County volleyball squads sharpened their game against familiar faces to close out September. Marathon split the week with a win and a loss, rolling to a 6-10 record as teams head into the final week of the regular season. The Lady Fins traveled to Posnack on Sept. 23, where they overpowered the Rams 25-15 in the first set but lost momentum, eventually falling 3-1. The following day, Marathon packed the vans again, this time traveling to Horeb Christian, where they had no problems overcoming the Mustangs in straight sets. Shaina Robinson fired off seven aces and eight kills while Kaya Hughes-Struyf added four aces and eight kills to bring home the win. The Fins remain unbeaten in their 1A District 8 Rural classification. Also unbeaten in their district are the Hurricanes, who continued to dominate their opponents last week. Coral Shores dispatched Somerset South Homestead Sept. 22 in a 3-1 road win that highlighted

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1. Bella Villalba (5) attacks the ball at the net as Key West defenders challenge the play during the match against Coral Shores. 2. Coral Shores and Key West meet at the net before the match to wish each other good luck. 3. Alex Burson (12) uses a forearm pass to control the ball for Coral Shores during the match against Key West. 4. Kerestin Hults (11) rises for an attack at the net as two Coral Shores defenders go up for the block. NATALIE GOODWIN/Keys Weekly

the ’Canes’ multitalented roster. Sophomore Coralyn Frimpter hammered 19 kills and added 10 digs, a block, an ace and a 100% serve percentage. Senior Celene Walker added a dozen kills, 18 digs and a pair of aces while Jillian Thiery added six more kills to the team total of 41. Coach Sam Ovalle had plenty of praise for sophomore Miracle Woods, who he deemed the team’s defensive specialist. “She isn’t afraid to go after the tough balls,” he said. Ovalle also credited his libero, Alex Buirson, for being a game-changer. “Alex plays with heart and gives everything she has for the team,” Ovalle said. Two nights later, Key West made the trip to Tavernier with hopes of avenging an early-season loss to the Hurricanes. But the ’Canes proved their earlier win was no fluke, beating the Conchs in straight sets behind more strong performances from the Coral Shores roster. Frimpter led the way with 13 kills, four digs, an ace and a block. Walker fired off 10 kills, a pair of aces, two assists and 10 digs in the win, while Abby Leigh set things up for the Hurricanes with 21 assists, 21 digs, three aces and a pair of kills. The team’s nine total aces against a talented Key West front highlighted Coral Shores’ strength at the service line. Coral Shores closed out the week on Sept. 26 with another sweep, taking down Somerset College Prep 3-0 to improve to 18-3 heading into the final week of the regular season. After coming up short against Coral Shores, Key West turned to a busy weekend at the Florida Christian tournament. The Conchs opened tournament play on Sept. 25 against Immaculata-LaSalle, battling past the Royal Lions in an opening set that needed extra points to decide before dropping the next two in a 2-1 loss. Key West returned to the court later that evening against St. Brendan, falling to the Sabres 2-1 before closing out tournament play on Sept. 26 with a 2-0 loss to True North Classical Academy. With regular-season schedules winding down, district action begins Oct. 12. Coral Shores and Key West will enter the 3A District 16 bracket, where the two Keys rivals could meet again. Marathon will take a different postseason path, competing in the 1A Rural classification.

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OCTOBER 1, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI Notice is hereby given that on October 5th, 2026, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The

sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows: Location: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 Behrendt, Jessica 1755 McClain, Don 1655 Murgas, Alex 1580 Publish: September 24 and October 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Latin America (LATAM) Sales Agency Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive

solicitation notices can be viewed at: www.floridapublicnotices. com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecountyfl.bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request.

at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com, no later than 3:00 P.M. on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended

decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in

ALTERNATIVES PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING

Card Sound Road Bridge

Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Phase

Financial Project ID: 453765-1-22-01 Efficient Transportation Decision Making (ETDM) Number: 14539 The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will host an Alternatives Public Information Meeting for the Card Sound Road Bridge PD&E Phase. The project limits extend from south of Milepost 5 to Milepost 6.242 along County Road (C.R) 905A/Card Sound Road in Monroe County. The purpose of this project is to evaluate alternatives that will address the structural degradation and substandard design elements of the existing Card Sound Road Bridge, including improved emergency evacuation/response times, and the need for bicycle/pedestrian facilities. This meeting is an opportunity to provide you with an overview of the proposed alternatives and potential social, environmental, and economic effects, followed by a question-and-answer session. The meeting will be held simultaneously in person and virtually.

Reunión Pública Informativa sobre Alternativas

Puente de Card Sound Road Fase de Desarrollo del Proyecto y Medio Ambiente (PD&E)

ID de Proyecto Financiero: 453765-1-22-01 Número de toma de decisions de transporte eficiente (ETDM): 14539 El Departamento de Transporte de Florida (FDOT) organizará una reunión pública informativa sobre alternativas para la Fase PD&E del Puente de Card Sound Road. Los límites del proyecto se extienden desde el sur del poste de milla 5 hasta el poste de milla 6.242 a lo largo de la Carretera del Condado (C.R.) 905A/Card Sound Road en el condado de Monroe. El propósito de este proyecto es evaluar alternativas que aborden la degradación estructural y los elementos de diseño deficientes del puente de Card Sound Road, así como mejorar los tiempos de evacuación y respuesta de emergencia, y la necesidad de instalaciones para bicicletas/peatones. Esta reunión es una oportunidad para ofrecerle una visión general de las alternativas propuestas y los posibles efectos sociales, ambientales y económicos, seguida de una sesión de preguntas y respuestas. La reunión se llevará a cabo simultáneamente en persona y virtual.

Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Presentation starting at 6 p.m.

Jueves, 8 de octubre, 2026, de 5:30 p.m. a 7:30 p.m. Presentación a partir de las 6 p.m.

Virtual Option: To participate virtually from your computer, tablet, or smartphone, please register using the following link https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/ae4cdee5-5418-4983bb03-f2a5a9ed56d6@4cf2e5a9-7553-47d9-b3c4-b29299a853a9 or scan the QR code provided.

Opción Virtual: Para participar virtualmente desde su computadora, tableta o teléfono inteligente, regístrese utilizando el siguiente enlace https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/ae4cdee5-5418-4983bb03-f2a5a9ed56d6@4cf2e5a9-7553-47d9-b3c4-b29299a853a9 o escanee el código QR proporcionado.

Phone Option: Call in by dialing (689) 223-3081 and enter access code 852 272 578#.

Opción de teléfono: Llame marcando (689) 223-3081 e ingrese el código de acceso 852 272 578 #.

In-person Option: Murray Nelson Government Center, BOCC Room, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

Opción en persona: Murray Nelson Government Center, BOCC Room, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 Hampton Inn

Murray Nelson Government Center

Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status. Persons who need special assistance under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 or who need translation services (free of charge) should contact Yulet Fernandez, P.E., at 305-470-5219 or in writing to Florida Department of Transportation, 1000 NW 111 Avenue, Miami, FL 33172 or by email at Yulet.Fernandez@dot.state.fl.us at least seven days prior to the meeting. Your attendance is encouraged and appreciated. If you would like further information about this project, please contact the FDOT Project Manager, Claudia Gutierrez, P.E., at Claudia.Gutierrez@dot.stat.fl.us or 305-470-5268. You may also visit the project website at www.fdotmiamidade.com/CardSoundBridgePDE. The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried out by FDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. § 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated May 26, 2022, and executed by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and FDOT.

Se solicita la participación pública sin distinción de raza, color, origen nacional, edad, sexo, religion, discapacidad, o estado familiar. Las personas que necesiten asistencia especial bajo la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades del 1990 o que necesiten servicios de traducción (sin cargo) deben comunicarse con Yulet Fernandez, P.E., al 305-470-5201; o por escrito al Departamento de Transporte de la Florida, 1000 NW 111 Avenue, Miami, FL 33172; o por correo electrónico a Yulet.Fernandez@dot.state.fl.us al menos siete días antes de la reunión. Su participación es bienvenida y apreciada. Si desea más información sobre este proyecto, por favor, póngase en contacto con el Gerente de Proyecto del FDOT , Claudia Gutierrez, P.E., a Claudia.Gutierrez@dot.state.fl.us o 305-470-5268 . También puede visitar el sitio web del proyecto al www.fdotmiamidade.com/CardSoundBridgePDE. La revisión ambiental, la consulta y otras acciones requeridas por las leyes ambientales federales aplicables para este proyecto están siendo, o han sido, llevadas a cabo por el FDOT de conformidad con 23 U.S.C. § 327 y un Memorando de Entendimiento de fecha 26 de mayo de 2022, y ejecutado por la Administración Federal de Carreteras (FHWA) y FDOT.

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / OCTOBER 1, 2026

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal. The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: October 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/ mailed/physically delivered bids/ proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted. The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com, no later than 3:00P.M. on November 4, 2026. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Wednesday, November 4, 2026. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: October 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, PROBATE DIVISION FILE # 26-CP-389-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF ANNE HARRIS Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of, ANNE HARRIS, deceased, whose date of death was 1 February 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is October 1, 2026. Personal Representative: Diana Harris 155 Harbor Drive Key Largo, FL 33037

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Professional Architectural and Engineering Continuing Services Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www.floridapublicnotices. com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecountyfl.bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request.

John D. Verghese, M.D.

Keys Plastic Surgery & Dermatology 2901 Overseas Highway, Suite # 2 Marathon, Florida 33050 Dr. John D. Verghese will be retiring and closing his practice, Keys Plastic Surgery & Dermatology, located at 2901 Overseas Highway, Suite # 2, Marathon, Florida 33050, effective October 12th, 2026. Please call the office at 305-289-1975 with any questions. Patient’s medical records will remain with Dr. John D. Verghese. Patients who wish to receive their medical records may contact the office at 305-289-1975. Publish: September 10, 17 & 24 and October 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES Attorney for Personal Representative: Tom Woods, Esq. Florida Bar No.: 0525197 116 Porto Salvo Drive Islamorada, Florida 33036 Phone 305.664.2200 Fax 2205 Primary Email: tom@ tomwoodslaw.com Secondary Email: eserve@ tomwoodslaw.com Publish: October 1 & 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-000216-M DIVISION: MARATHON IN RE: ESTATE OF HELEN E. CUNNINGHAM Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Helen E. Cunningham, deceased, whose date of death was December 21, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court 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 October 1, 2026. Personal Representative: Kathleen B. Conder 7195 Coreopsis Cove Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800 E-Mail: rmiller@floridakeyslaw.com Secondary: service@ floridakeyslaw.com Publish: October 1 & 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-000327-M DIVISION: MARATHON IN RE: ESTATE OF ALEXANDER EVAGELOS TERPOS Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ALEXANDER EVAGELOS TERPOS,

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

deceased, whose date of death was October 13, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court 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 October 1, 2026. Personal Representative: Dimitria Nicole Terpos Bailey 154 Guava Avenue Marathon, Florida 33050 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800 E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com Secondary:rmiller@floridakeyslaw. com Publish: October 1 & 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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 October 1, 2026. Personal Representative: David K. Campbell 7766 Aviation Blvd Marathon, Florida 33050 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800 E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com Secondary:rmiller@floridakeyslaw. com Publish: October 1 & 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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: September 24, 2026. LISA SPELLMAN, Petitioner JOHN P. SEILER, ESQUIRE Attorney for Petitioner, Lisa Spellman Florida Bar Number: 776343 Seiler Sautter Zaden Rimes & Wahlbrink 2850 North Andrews Avenue Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311 Telephone: (954) 568-7000 E-Mail: jseiler@sszrlaw.com Alternate E-Mail: lsasser@ sszrlaw.com RAYMOND J. POWERS, Petitioner JODY LESLIE, ESQUIRE Attorney for Petitioner, Raymond J. Powers Florida Bar Number: 773174 LESLIE & McLAUGHLIN, LLP 6750 North Andrews Avenue Suite 200-2038 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309 Telephone: (954) 779-1772 E-Mail: service@leslie-law.com Alternate E-Mail: lmservice.2400@gmail.com Publish: September 24 and October 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-000435-M DIVISION: MARATHON IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT CARDER CAMPBELL Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Robert Carder Campbell, deceased, whose date of death was May 7, 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-458-K DIVISION: PROBATE IN RE: ESTATE OF CELESTE M. SCHETTIG Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of CELESTE M. SCHETTIG, deceased, whose date of death was August 6, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the Co-Personal Representatives and the Co-Personal Representatives’ 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 THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-486-K IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT LOUIS BRESLIN Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ROBERT LOUIS BRESLIN, deceased, whose date of death was March 31, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: September

OCTOBER 1, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

24, 2026. Personal Representative: MICHAEL ALLEN BRESLIN 6667 Stadler Road Monroe, Michigan 48162 Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN FERRARI, JR. Attorney Florida Bar No. 111132 Ferrari Elder Law 7100 S. Beneva Road Sarasota, Florida 34238 Telephone: (941) 960-1676 Fax: (941) 296-8656 E-mail: johnf@ferrarielderlaw. com Secondary E-mail: pollyb@ ferrarielderlaw.com Publish: September 24 and October 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

September 24 and October 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-487-K IN RE: ESTATE OF JEAN M. MCGROARTY Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of JEAN M. MCGROARTY, deceased, whose date of death was March 25, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: September 24, 2026. Personal Representative: CHERYL ANN AJAX 1930 Glenoak Drive Corpus Christi, Texas 78418 Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN FERRARI, JR. Attorney Florida Bar No. 111132 Ferrari Elder Law 7100 S. Beneva Road Sarasota, Florida 34238 Telephone: (941) 960-1676 Fax: (941) 296-8656 E-mail: johnf@ferrarielderlaw. com Secondary E-mail: pollyb@ ferrarielderlaw.com Publish:

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION IN ADMIRALTY CASE NO.: 4:26-cv-10161LEIBOWITZ IN RE: PETITION OF SPRAY WATER SPORTS, LLC as Owner of a 2025 11’ YAMAHA MOTOR CORPORATION, U.S.A. PERSONAL WATERCRAFT, hull identification YAMA0252G425, and its engines, tackle, apparel and appurtenances, Petitioner, __________________/ NOTICE OF PETITION FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY NOTICE is hereby given that Petitioner, Spray Water Sports, LLC (“Petitioner”), as Owner of a 2025 11' YAMAHA MOTOR CORPORATION, U.S.A. PERSONAL WATERCRAFT, hull identification YAMA0252G425 (the “Vessel”), has filed a Petition claiming the benefit of exoneration from and/or limitation of liability according to law and as provided in Section 30501 et seq. of Title 46, United States Code, Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and the statutes supplemental thereto and amendatory thereof, and also contesting liability independently of the limitation of liability claimed in said Petition for any loss, damage or injury occurring on or about May 25, 2025, in navigable waters in the area of Islamorada, Florida as described in the Petition and said Petition also stating the facts and circumstances upon which exoneration from and/or limitation or liability is claimed. All persons or corporations having claims arising out of the events mentioned above and as more particularly described in the Petition must present them as provided in Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, to the Clerk, United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, Key West Division, located at 301 Simonton Street, Room 130, Key West, Florida 33040, and serve on or mail copies thereof to the Petitioner’s attorney, Charles S. Davant, Esquire, Davant Law, P.A., 100 NE 3rdAve, Suite 440, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301, on or before November 13, 2026 or be defaulted. Personal attendance is not required. Any claimant desiring to contest the allegations of the Petition shall file and serve on counsel for Petitioner an Answer to the Petition on or before the aforesaid date unless the Claim includes an Answer so designated or be defaulted. Publish: October 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-DR-001080-P TAMARA HELENE ARRINGTON, OBO PCH Petitioner, and In Re: Name Change, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR NAME CHANGE FOR MINOR CHILD NAME CHANGE TO: JOHN HOLMES RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: UNKNOWN YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for FAMILY CASE - PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME (MINOR CHILD) has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on TAMARA HELENE ARRINGTON, whose address is 1032 GIBRALTAR ROAD, KEY LARGO, FLORIDA 33037 on or

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

before OCTOBER 31, 2026, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at Monroe County Clerk of the Circuit Court, 88770 Overseas Hwy, Ste. 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: August 23, 2026 Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Katherine Soto Deputy Clerk Publish: October 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-DR-1043-K JOSEPH COLABELLA, JR., Petitioner, and KYLIE G. HINE, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: KYLIE B. HINE RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 7505 SE 28TH STREET, APT. 302, MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040 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 JOSEPH COLABELLA, JR, whose address is 1360 6TH STREET, REAR, KEY WEST, FL 33040 on or before OCTOBER 10, 2026, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: September 10, 2026 Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: September 17 & 24 and October 1 & 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed to the address 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: September 8, 2026 KEVFIN MADOK, CPA, Clerk CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Monroe County, Florida By: Leslie Turner Deputy Clerk Publish: September 10, 17 & 24 and October 1, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time Bartender and Server. Flexible evening shifts 3:30-9:00 at a private club. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub. com or call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

Experienced FT Line Cook needed at the Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club. 10AM - 5PM, Good Pay. Small friendly staff. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave

AUTOS WANTED

Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/ Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA FAMILY DIVISION CASE NO.: 2026-DR-000345-M IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF OMAR FLORES RIVES, Petitioner/Husband, and MABEL ARZUAGA PEREZ, Respondent/Wife. NOTICE OF ACTION TO: Mabel Arzuaga Perez Respondent/Wife 7151 Overseas Hwy, Apt. 301 Marathon, FL 33050 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on the petitioner’s attorney, ADA M. BARRETO, P.A., whose address is 782 N.W. 42ND Avenue, Suite 440, Miami, Florida 33126, on or before October 10, 2026, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at the Family Division, 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050, before service on Petitioner’s attorney or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. 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 a Notice of Current Address, Florida Family Law Form 12.915.)

Boat Slip &/or Rack For Rent in Marathon at The Boat House, Vaca Key. Call Tony 561-346-6400

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 26-DR-1056-K MATTHEW R. HOWARD, Petitioner, and JACLYN E. HOWARD, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: JACLYN E. HOWARD RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 3910 SOUTH ROOSEVELT BOULEVARD, 203N, KEY WEST, FL 33040 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 MATTHEW HOWARD, whose address is 3910 SOUTH ROOSEVELT BOULEVARD, 203N, KEY WEST, FL 33040 on or before OCTOBER 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: September 22, 2026 Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Publish: October 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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

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

23' Aquasport dual console boat for sale. In excellent condition, new 200hp Suzuki under 50 hours in excellent condition. Aluminum trailer incl. Located in Summerland Key. $18,000 215-510-6296 PLACE YOUR BOAT FOR SALE AD HERE! $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com BOAT SLIP/RACK FOR RENT

PLACE YOUR BOAT SLIP FOR RENT AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 3057 4 3 - 0 8 4 4 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT

PRIME COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ON US 1 available for rent in Marathon. 3,000 SF and 2,000 SF avail. Let's make a deal! Call or text Tony at 860-428-1506 E m a i l : R2tpinc@gmail.com PLACE YOUR AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Full-time Carpenter, Journeyman Electrician, Grounds Caretaker. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: greenel@kwha. org or 305-296-5621 ext. 225. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a Line Cook. 20-30 hours a week at a private club, primarily dinner shifts, Tuesday-Saturday. $24/hr or negotiable based on experience. Must provide photo ID, social security card, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub. com or call 305-7436739 to schedule an interview. HIRED IN LESS THAN ONE MONTH!!! 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!!! Specialty Hardware of Marathon - Looking for full time or part time person. Hardware knowledge an absolute must. Must have knowledge of hardware, plumbing and electrical. Apply in person at 10730 Overseas Hwy. Marathon 1-305-743-3382 HIRED!!! PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 3057 4 3 - 0 8 4 4 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com HOUSING FOR RENT

SUDOKU SOLUTION

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / OCTOBER 1, 2026

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

MISC. FOR SALE

YARD SALES

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

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

Cargo Container Storage Units For Sale in Marathon. 20'-50' long, various pricing. Call 305-610-8002

TURN YOUR CARDS INTO CASH! Marathon collector buying any and all Pokemon cards & collections. Call 401-256-0645.

Scooter For Sale excellent condition, 7,541 miles, all service records, individually owned. $400 OBO. Located in Key West. Call Denny 305-294-5568 SOLD IN LESS THAN 2 WEEKS!!!

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

mirror, barrel back cane armchair & stunning long drop leaf table. The living room set is vintage bamboo (couch, chair, coffee & console tables). Table & kitchen goods range from a Rosle roasting pan to MCM blue glassware to adorbs trivets. Art includes African American originals to New Orleans to Coastal. There is a “Power Hour Preview” on Sat, Oct. 3 from 2-3p of Part 2 of the sale for customers to cash ‘n’ carry. To see the full sale, visit estatesales. net. (Turn off US1 at MM61 Oceanside at Duck Key and follow the signs across 3 bridges. Park with consideration.)

2BR/2BA Single Family Waterfront Home for rent in Marathon. Fully furnished. 70' dock. $4,500/month includes all utilities, internet & TV. Available for 4 months Jan - April. 727-278-1105 3 BR/2 BA home for rent in Key Colony Beach. 75' premium dock. $3,800/ month + utilities. F/L/S 786-229-0228 2 BR available in Marathon for long term rental. On the water, gated property, $2,200/month includes limited electricity. First/Security. Small pets ok for separate fee. Call 305-610-8002

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

HOUSING WANTED TO RENT. Long-term rental at Cobia Point, Marathon. Will pay top dollar. Current Daytona Beach resident. Former Keys resident who wants to return. Please call Jan Burch at 251-978-6267 MISC. FOR SALE

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

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & W a t c h e s . Call 305-743-4578

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

BOAT RENTAL STAFF

FLEXIBLE HOURS & COMPETITIVE WAGES Need to have experience driving boats and a working knowledge of the Islamorada area by water. Duties include taking reservations, giving captains lessons and routine boat maintenance. Email Matt at eliteboatrentalsmatt@gmail.com. Please include contact information and any relevant experience.

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

YARD SALES

SARA’S ESTATE SALE on Duck Key @ 364 E Seaview Drive, Oct. 2-3, 9a to 1p. This is part 1 of GRANDMA’S COASTAL CHIC sale and it’s that good! Standouts for Week 1: solid teak patio dining table & chairs, huge selection of plant pots (from tiny to 30 gallon!) – glazed, unglazed, ceramic & cement! Outdoor decor ranges from glazed and copper spheres to fish art. Super cute guest bedroom set (new queen mattress & frame) featuring wicker sidetable, dresser &

PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE! $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-7430844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com

• Take Out Kitchen - Team Members Experience Required • Barback

Full and Part-Time Posiions Available

Apply in-person at 724 Duval Street: Pizza Joe’s or New Orleans House Front Desk. English Speaking required with valid idennﬁcanon. Call 305-293-9800 for more informaaon

Finish Carpenter Experienced finish carpenter needed for high end residential work. Must have own tools and reliable transportation. Attention to detail and dependable work ethic required. Interior and Exterior work. Competitive pay and benefits. Working Project Construction Foreman Competitive pay and benefits.

NOW HIRING! wants you to join their team!

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

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

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

MARINA CASHIER

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

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

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $48.47/hr. - $54.28/hr.

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

Pool & Landscape Technician Experienced technician needed for pool plumbing, electrical, irrigation, lighting and outdoor audio. Must have strong troubleshooting skills and experience with hand/power tools. Reliable, hardworking and able to perform physical outdoor work. Competitive pay & benefits.

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

The Bourbon Street Pub Complex is now accepnng applicanons for:

• Security

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

(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)

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.

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

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

OCTOBER 1, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

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

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

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

KEY LARGO Behavioral Health Counselor (Child, FT)

KEY WEST Crisis Counselor (PT or FT) *Mental Health Technician (FT)

MARATHON Maintenance Specialist (FT) Driver (CDL NOT required) (FT, PT) Registered Nurse (PT) Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult, PT) Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, FT) *Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT, PT) *Behavioral Health Technicians (FT, PT) *No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary. Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip

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

IS HIRING for The Heron Assisted Living Facility! Interested in gaining health care experience in a comfortable canal front home? Like giving care & assisting with life skills for 16 residents? Well-rounded team player able to handle a variety of responsibilities? Able to make meals, do paperwork, and hold a clean three yr. driver’s license? Available for PT or FT shifts 8am-4pm, 2pm-10pm Monday-Sunday? If so, you would be a great SUPPORT WORKER! No experience required for this position, we will train. A caring heart and helpful hands are necessary.

We offer flexibility; a minimum 16 hrs. & shift differentials! Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip

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

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered. 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

OPENINGS AVAILABLE PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

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

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST - Pool Radiation Therapist

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

Key West Assistant Maintenance Manager

Islamorada Customer Service Representative

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

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

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

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

APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net

Apply Online @ KeysBank.com/Careers

Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender

EOE-M/F/V/D

WHERE LUXURY LIVES

Let Our Connections Become Your Connections

305-664-4966 | 305-451-4078 Islamorada | 81800 Overseas Highway Key Largo | 99900 Overseas Highway

AMERICANCARIBBEANRE.COM

ISLAMORADA

KEY LARGO

115 Villa Bella Dr

52 S Andros Rd

Experience turnkey luxury in the

This concrete home offers a private pool and spa, deep-water

renowned Venetian Shores community with 70' of dockage.

dockage and quick ocean access.

4 BEDS | 4 BATHS

Offered at $4,899,000

Offered at $2,900,000

KEY LARGO

TAVERNIER

202 Atlantic Blvd

Ocean Pointe 4207

Turnkey & furnished pool home

Oceanfront condo sold fully

with bonus guest quarters area is

furnished. Resort-style amenities

warm and inviting.

and great rental opportunities.

3 BEDS | 4 BATHS

2 BED | 2 BATHS

Offered at $2,700,000

Offered at $579,000

Serving the Florida Keys since 1987 — the exclusive Christie's International Real Estate affiliate. AMERICANCARIBBEANRE.COM · FB.COM/AMERICANCARIBBEAN