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October 8, 2026

CELEBRATION OF THE SEA

Previewing REEF Fest 2026 | P. 14 RIDE HONORS THE FALLEN New fire chief pedals for a worthy cause | P. 4

FIELDING BIG IMPROVEMENTS Multimillion-dollar project underway at Founders | P. 6

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

NEW LISTING 912 LOBSTER LANE, KEY LARGO

NEW LISTING 6 ATLANTIC DRIVE, KEY LARGO

PRICE NEW REDUCED LISTING 74560 ISLAMORADA 108OVERSEAS ATLANTIC HWY, AVE, TAVERNIER

2 BR/2 BA - 1,360 SQ. FT. - $1,799,000 MM 95/ OCEANSIDE

3 BR/3 BA - 1,482 SQ. FT. - $810,000 C905/OCEANSIDE

4 BR/2 BA - 2,112 SQ. FT. - $525,000 MM 93/ OCEANSIDE

SALLY STRIBLING 305.283.2002

AMANDA RIVERON 786.907.5531

EMILY STRAIN 305.394.4681

PRICE REDUCED 21 MOCKINGBIRD ROAD, KEY LARGO

PRICE REDUCED 104350 OVERSEAS HWY, A204, KEY LARGO

PRICE IMPROVEMENT 993 GIBRALTAR ROAD, KEY LARGO

4 BR/3.5 BA - 1,352 SQ. FT. - $749,000 MM 106/ BAYSIDE

2 BR/1.5 BA - 947 SQ. FT. - $599,888 MM 104/ BAYSIDE

VACANT LOT WITH PERMIIT 5,293 SQ. FT. LOT - $325,000 - MM 102/ OCEANSIDE

YVETTE DOHERTY 786.236.8158

PHIL KRAVITZ 305.783.7983

JEANETTE SILVESTRI 305.619.0112

PRICE REDUCED 168 INDIAN MOUND TRAIL, PLANTATION KEY

PRICE REDUCED 895 ELLEN DR., KEY LARGO

PRICE REDUCED 88181 OLD HWY #B3 ISLAMORADA

4BR/3BA - 3,204 SQ. FT. - $3,425,000 MM 89/BAYSIDE

2BR/2BA - 1,410 SQ FT - $1,200,000 MM 103/BAYSIDE

2BR/2BA - 1,224 SQ. FT. - $865,000 MM 88/OCEANSIDE

CAROLINE HENDRIX 786.847.3705

ASHLEY LINDMAR 305.394.2815

CHRISTY HUGHES 305.393.6190

PRICE REDUCED 136 AREGOOD LN., ISLAMORADA

TWO DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS PACKAGE DEAL

YOUR PRIVATE SLICE OF THE FLORIDA KEYS

235 TARPON ST., TAVERNIER

2BR/2.5BA - 1,152 SQ. FT. - $785,000 MM 88.5/OCEANSIDE

2 WATERFRONT TDR’S IN THE VILLAGE OF ISLAMORADA $679,000

2BR/1BA - 1,000 SQ. FT. - $699,000 MM 92/OCEANSIDE

CHRISTY HUGHES 305.393.6190

PATTI STANLEY 305.393.4433

JAMIE ENGEL 305.394.2500 TAYLOR ENGEL 305.393.1232

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KEY LARGO 100430 Overseas Highway 305.451.4422 ISLAMORADA 85996 Overseas Highway 305.664.4470

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

ISLAMORADA | $4,350,000 | LISTING ID: 621393

The one that’s turn key

This newly completed, fully furnished coastal-modern residence delivers approximately 3,100 sq ft of refined luxury, with four bedrooms and four bathrooms. Completed in 2025 and professionally curated by Wright Interiors, the home showcases custom millwork, designer finishes, and integrated technology, with impact glass and a sleek metal roof, a quality build by CBT Construction. Seamless indoor-outdoor living unfolds across a summer kitchen, outdoor bar, heated and chilled pool, lush tropical landscaping, and two climate-controlled garages, with an elevator shaft ready for installation. Approximately 60 ft of concrete dockage beneath custom composite decking is expertly configured for both a center console and skiff, with direct Florida Bay access, a 20,000-pound boat lift, floating dock, shore power, and custom fish-cleaning station. Located in one of Islamorada's premier close-knit boating neighborhoods, with A-rated schools nearby, this exceptional residence offers an elevated Keys lifestyle for weekend escapes and full-time living.

81888 Overseas Highway | Islamorada 305.712.8888 | oceansir.com Each office is independently owned and operated.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 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

$2,419

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, 26-year-old Malachi Keasler of Clearwater was arrested and charged for stealing more than $2,400 in goods and services from an Islamorada resort. The report states a guest found her room was charged some $900 for drinks, food and apparel without knowledge or consent. Resort security soon learned more illegal charges were made in which the resort issued reimbursements of $2,419.

REEF Fest brings free ocean conservation seminars, engaging social gatherings and opportunities to explore marine life. Read more on page 14. TOM SPARKE/ REEF

NEW KEY LARGO FIRE CHIEF PEDALS FOR FALLEN FIRST RESPONDERS The 600-mile Brotherhood Ride Starts Oct. 17 KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

ver the last 18 years, Key Largo Fire Rescue’s new chief, Jeff Morse, has cycled thousands of miles in support of fallen first responders. “I want to do something to show the families we haven’t forgotten them,” said Morse, who along with his wife, Candy, founded the Brotherhood Ride. The idea came to them following a catastrophic fire inside a Charleston, S.C. furniture showroom and warehouse in 2007. Nine firefighters lost their lives when a blaze swept through a Sofa Super Store, causing the building to collapse. At the time of the tragedy, Morse was working as a firefighter in the North Collier Fire Department. As a member of the honor guard, he was all too familiar with the risks first responders take every day to protect their communities and the sacrifices some families are forced to endure. “So many times, being on the honor guard, you go to funerals and you always hear those famous words, ‘never forget, never forget’, and the guys mean it but we’re busy, everyone has their own lives and we go on,” recalled Morse, who made it his mission to make sure families of the fallen knew they were not forgotten. “The very first year we rode our bicycles from Naples, Florida to Charleston, South Carolina. It took us nine days to do it and nine guys had died, so we called it nine days for nine heroes,” said Morse. “We thought it was going to be a one-time deal,” recalled Morse of the ride. “We weren’t back in Fort Myers for about a month and officer Andrew Widman was shot and killed in downtown Fort Myers.”

Key Largo Chief Jeff Morse, pictured with firefighters and paramedics from Key Largo Fire Rescue, will soon be embarking on a Brotherhood Ride to honor fallen first responders and provide emotional and financial assistance to their family members. CONTRIBUED

Chief Jeff Morse, seen on the right, started the Brotherhood Ride after a 2007 fire in Charleston, S.C. left nine firefighters dead.

“They had given us a big police escort when we had done the Charleston Nine Ride, so they reached out to us and said ‘you did that for the firefighters, it was amazing, can you do it for our guy?’” recalled Morse of the second ride, which covered 413 miles around the state to honor slain Fort Myers Police Officer Andrew Widman and to raise money for his family. Widman’s badge number was 413. “And that’s kind of where the fire and police side of things came together and it’s grown since then,” said Fort Myers Police Department Captain Shawn Yates.

Fast forward nearly two decades later, and Morse and roughly 40 other current or retired first responder cyclists from around the state and country, including Captain Yates, are preparing to embark on another Brotherhood Ride for the 19th year. On Saturday, Oct. 17, the 600-mile ride will start in Fort Myers, travel up to the central part of the state, head back down the east coast, and end in Miami. It will take seven days. Along the way, the cyclists will meet with families of 22 Florida first responders who lost their lives last year. So far, $35,000 has been raised for this upcoming ride. CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

FIELD OF DREAMS Village of Islamorada and Monroe County School District officials gather for a ceremonial groundbreak of the new Founders Park baseball field on Oct. 1. JIM McCARTHY/ Keys Weekly

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Groundbreak marks start to improvements at Founders

ain drops and a wet, muddy ground didn’t stop village and school district officials, coaches and community members from attending a ceremony to mark the beginning of substantial upgrades to the Founders Park baseball field on Oct. 1. The ceremonial shoveling of dirt among school board members, village council members and other stakeholders culminated years of discussions within the community over the project. There were lengthy negotiations between the Village of Islamorada and Monroe County School District over the $3.8 million in improvements. For decades, the school district and Islamorada operated under an agreement that allowed the high school baseball program to use the field at the village-owned park for practices and games. With vast improvements proposed at the field, the agreement was reviewed and ultimately revised following a rare joining meeting between the governing bodies. Longstanding differences over certain controls over the project, as well as who’d bear certain costs, were settled. A 20-year pact was agreed to by the village and school district in late July. “This is an excellent example of governance. Two elected bodies, some similar interests, some divergent interests, came together for the good of this community,” Schools Superintendent Ed Tierney said. “We listened to the experts in the field. We listened to the naysayers, and we listened to people who really wanted this,” Islamorada Mayor Don Horton said. This is for

Superintendent Ed Tierney speaks.

our youth. This is for the future of our community, and we’re going to bring some good baseball players out of this.” An extreme Florida Keys environment carried challenges in keeping the natural field in decent shape for young ball players through the year. Add in the injuries sustained by Coral Shores players in recent years due to the playing conditions, and the push was on by the program and coaches to move to a safer surface for play. Both the Islamorada Village Council and school board agreed. During a July 2025 meeting, Islamorada Parks & Recreation committee member and retired pediatrician Jon Weare acknowledged concerns with artificial turf for soccer, lacrosse and field hockey due to various sudden movements. But artificial turf for baseball is a safe surface, he said. Many college baseball programs have moved to artificial turf due to its low maintenance and weather tolerance. In addition to an artificial surface, the project led by Keystar will construct new fencing, dugouts and batting cages. The improvements will be ready as baseball players take to the field for the upcoming season. A two-story building for a concession stand, bathrooms and press box, as well as bleachers, that were part of the original $6 million plan were set aside for future discussion.

BROTHERHOOD RIDE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

Over the last 19 years, the Brotherhood Ride, founded by Chief Morse and his wife Candy, has grown in popularity, with riders coming from around the country to participate. CONTRIBUTED

To raise money, riders are sponsored and outright donations are also collected. Over the years, the Brotherhood Ride has secured key sponsors who help keep costs down. One essential sponsor is the Elks Lodge. During the journey, the Elks provide hot meals and showers, and a place for riders to sleep on air mattresses. “The Elks are a huge sponsor of this, and without them, we wouldn’t be able to do the ride,” said Chief Morse. “We stay there to keep our costs to a minimum so our fundraising doesn’t go to hotels every night,” added Captain Yates. Yates started riding in 2019, one year after Fort Myers Police Department Officer Adam Jobbers-Miller was shot and killed during a robbery investigation. “I will continue to go as long as my body will let me,” he said, describing the experience as rewarding and moving. “I remember up in the St. Augustine area, we rode into a fire station that had lost one of their firefighters. Just to see the look on the children’s faces and the wife’s face, and what that meant to them — knowing these strangers were here to honor their loved one — was powerful,” said Yates. Every year, Morse asks families of those they have honored to share motivational letters with the riders, usually shared with the team after especially grueling days of the ride. In 2017, Jenny Terry lost her husband Steve Terry, a Hernando County firefighter/paramedic. The 53-year-old suffered a medical emergency while on duty and was found unresponsive by fellow firefighters. The Brotherhood Ride honored him the following year. In her letter to participants, the widow wrote, “You may find yourselves tired, sore, riding into relentless headwinds, wondering how many more miles your legs can manage. In

Chief Jeff Morse has cycled over 12,000 miles to support the families of fallen first responders. His bicycle is covered in stickers commemorating all of the rides he has completed over a span of nearly two decades. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/ Keys Weekly

those moments, please remember the families waiting along the way. Remember that behind every name you carry is a husband or wife, a mother or father, children, friends and coworkers whose lives were forever changed. To you, it may sometimes feel like another long mile on a bicycle. To a family of a fallen first responder, that mile says, ‘We remember.’” Chief Morse, who took the reins of Key Largo Fire Rescue in June, is already anticipating new riders from his department will participate in future rides. “I’ve already gotten a lot of interest in next year’s ride,” said Morse. “A lot of people here at this station have been very supportive and wished they could have joined if they had known earlier. I’ve already got a list of guys for next year.” For more information on how to donate to the Brotherhood Ride to support the families of fallen first responders, visit brotherhoodride.com. The website includes a list of the 22 first responders being honored during this upcoming ride.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

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LEGENDARY KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & FLORIDA KEYS VISITOR CENTER 305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088 events@keylargochamber.org 106000 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

FORMER TRAUMA STAR LOCAL MAN DIVISION CHIEF THOMPSON WHO FLED FOUND GUILTY ON 10 CHARGES FINAL DAY OF

TRIAL NABBED IN MEXICO

Editor’s note: Following news of the jury’s verdict, the Keys Weekly contacted multiple friends, family members and coworkers of Andrea Thompson, all of whom declined to comment on the case before sentencing.

n Sept. 30, following a six-day trial before Circuit Judge Mark Jones, a Monroe County jury found former Monroe County Fire Rescue EMS and Trauma Star Division Chief Andrea Arlene Thompson guilty on all 10 criminal charges presented to the jury. The jury deliberated for three hours before returning its verdicts. Thompson was convicted of two counts of official misconduct, three counts of giving false information to law enforcement during an investigation, two counts of attempted tampering with physical evidence and three counts of tampering with a witness. The case grew out of a 2022 investigation by Monroe County Sheriff’s Office detectives into missing controlled substances from Monroe County’s Trauma Star air ambulance program. Thompson held a senior leadership position within Monroe County Fire Rescue and ultimately served as division chief overseeing EMS and Trauma Star. As MCSO detectives worked to determine what happened to the missing controlled substances, Thompson’s own conduct became part of the investigation, including her actions involving investigators, evidence and witnesses. The two official misconduct charges involved Thompson’s actions as a public servant and efforts to obstruct, delay or prevent the communication of information concerning the commission of a felony to law enforcement. She was also convicted of providing false information to law enforcement on three separate occasions in 2022 with the intent to mislead or impede the investigation. The two attempted tampering with physical evidence charges involved efforts to alter, destroy, conceal or remove records, documents or other items to impair their integrity or availability during the criminal investigation. The three tampering with a witness charges

A Andrea Thompson. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

involved efforts to influence or interfere with the communication of information to law enforcement. The initial MCSO investigation coupled with the extensive Monroe County Clerk of Court's Trauma Star audit led proceedings before the Monroe County grand jury, which indicted Thompson in August 2024. Major crimes assistant state attorney Colleen Dunne handled the case through the grand jury proceedings and prosecuted Thompson at trial. Chief assistant state attorney Joseph Mansfield credited the MCSO detectives and witnesses whose work and cooperation helped bring the case to trial. “This was a lengthy and difficult investigation. We thank the MCSO detectives, the Monroe County Clerk's Office and all the witnesses who came forward,” Mansfield said. “We thank them for their persistence, and we especially thank them for their cooperation with our investigation and testifying in a very difficult situation. Their work and cooperation were essential to bringing this case before a jury.” Mansfield also recognized Dunne and the state attorney’s office staff who worked on the prosecution. “Major crimes assistant state attorney Colleen Dunne deserves special recognition for the years of work, preparation and persistence she brought to this case, from the investigation and grand jury proceedings through trial and the guilty verdicts,” Mansfield said. “I also want to thank our staff who spent countless hours preparing evidence, coordinating witnesses and supporting the prosecution, as well as the members of the grand jury and the trial jurors for their time and public service.” Thompson is scheduled to appear before Circuit Judge Mark Jones for sentencing on Thursday, Oct. 29 at 2 p.m. — Contributed

local man who left town on the final day of his trial for beating his ex-girlfriend, attacking a deputy, taking his vehicle and carjacking another woman was nabbed by U.S. authorities in Mexico, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office said. On Oct. 2, a five-day trial before Circuit Judge James Morgan ended with the jury finding 53-year-old Armando Lopez guilty on 11 criminal counts stemming from the violent December 2024 incident in Key Largo. The jury deliberated for approximately one hour before returning its verdicts. But before the jury began deliberating on Oct. 2, Lopez decided to skip and flee the area. He was previously released on a $460,000 bond. Judge Morgan issued a no-bond warrant for his arrest, and the proceedings continued in his absence. Sheriff’s office detectives tracked Lopez to the U.S. border of Mexico in Texas and contacted the U.S. Marshals Service who adopted the case and successfully tracked Lopez down in Mexico. “Thank you to the hardworking men and women of the Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service and all of our law enforcement partners for getting this dangerous criminal off the streets,” Sheriff Rick Ramsay said following his capture. Lopez was found guilty of burglary of a dwelling with a battery, aggravated battery, burglary of an authorized emergency vehicle, grand theft of a motor vehicle, resisting an officer with violence, battery on a police officer, burglary of a conveyance with a battery, carjacking, fleeing or attempting to elude at high speed or recklessly, and two counts of reckless driving with property damage. The jury acquitted Lopez on two additional counts, domestic battery by strangulation and false imprisonment. The case began on Dec. 22, 2024, when Monroe County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a reported domestic disturbance in Key Largo. According to the investigation, Lopez repeatedly struck the victim in the head, causing fractures and other injuries. When Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. James Hager arrived at

Armando Lopez. MCSO/Contributed

the residence, Lopez attacked him, tackling him to the floor, repeatedly striking him with a closed fist and attempting to take his duty firearm. Lopez then ran from the residence, entered Hager’s unlocked marked patrol vehicle and drove away. Lopez drove the marked MCSO patrol vehicle south with its emergency lights activated. He later stopped at the Sandal Factory in Key Largo, where he approached another vehicle and forcibly removed a woman from the driver’s seat. According to the investigation, the woman initially believed Lopez was a law enforcement officer because she had seen him exit the marked patrol vehicle with its emergency lights activated. Lopez then drove away in her vehicle. A Florida Highway Patrol trooper subsequently encountered the vehicle traveling northbound on U.S. 1 at an extremely high rate of speed and driving erratically. The vehicle collided with another vehicle, overturned and came to rest on its roof near mile marker 104. Lopez was removed from the overturned vehicle, taken into custody and transported for medical treatment. The case was investigated by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Highway Patrol. The case was prosecuted by assistant state attorneys Madeleine Thompson and Melissa Simmons. Victim Advocate Director Isnarlys Parker assisted the victim throughout the case and trial. “Assistant State Attorneys Madeleine Thompson and Melissa Simmons did an outstanding job presenting this case, and Victim Advocate Isnarlys Parker was there supporting the victim throughout the process,” said Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield. “This was a difficult case, and their work helped bring it to a successful conclusion with guilty verdicts on 11 counts.” Lopez faces the possibility of life in prison. Among his convictions are two counts of burglary with a battery, each a first-degree felony punishable by up to life in prison under Florida law. He will be sentenced by Circuit Judge James Morgan at a later date. — Keys Weekly staff report

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

GUIDING ISLAMORADA’S FUTURE Updated plan stresses need to prioritize housing A concept shows mixed-use buildings along U.S. 1 on Upper Matecumbe Key with commercial space on the bottom and affordable living quarters for workers on the second floor. CONTRIBUTED. Inset: Scan the QR code for the plan.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

300-plus page document seeks to guide Islamorada’s housing needs, address congestion issues on the road, bolster environmental protections and reinforce the village’s character, among many other goals. Notably, the updated comprehensive plan puts more priority on developing affordable and workforce housing, especially in a time when a vast majority of workers commute outside to the village. On Sept, 30, interested residents and village officials heard from the firm that’s led Islamorada’s comprehensive plan update for the past two years. Jason King, co-owner of Able City East, said the plan is the guide to directing capital improvements, evaluating development projects, enacting public policy and ensuring Islamorada is a place residents want it to be. “The plan influences everything from how easy it is to walk or bike safely, to whether affordable housing is available, to how well the village protects its coastal resources,” he said. “By tying local decisions to state and regional frameworks, the plan helps ensure Islamorada remains a livable, resilient community for generations.” Updates within the plan include prioritizing affordable and workforce housing projects. In 2012, the village had 70% of commuters coming to work in the village. By 2022, the figure increased to 80% commuters. An economist with Able City East who visited last year to discuss these statistics.

By the economist’s calculation, roughly 20 more commuters are added to Islamorada’s roads every year. King said that’s due to more jobs but not enough local housing. “Those people are driving in from Florida City and that’s your traffic. (The economist’s) solution for us was to try to build more housing in the Keys,” King said. “Those people will bike and they will walk. They will take transit. Those people will drive less far and that puts less cars on the road.” In creating more housing opportunities, the updated comprehensive plan takes valued assets in the community, like commercial buildings, and upgrades them to include workforce housing above. “It’s turning one story into two or three, but it’s creating a more attractive unit and those people are living above, and it’s helping the small businesses be able to recruit workers,” King said. In addition, the plan seeks to foster a stronger relationship with the nonprofit Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys on housing that’s affordable for families and workers. HfHUK works in partnership with people in need to build decent, affordable housing. The houses then are sold to those in need at no profit and with no interest charged. In 2021, HfHUK built 16 new affordable housing units at the Windley Point Condominium project at 84771 Overseas Highway. More recently, HfFUK completed the affordable housing complex on Gardenia Street, next to Plantation Key School. The complex features eight three-bedroom, twobathroom units. Visit keysweekly.com for the full story.

ISLAMORADA CHAMBER NAMES KATIE BRENNAN NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

he Islamorada Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center announced the selection of Katie Brennan as its new executive director. Brennan is expected to assume her new position in mid-October following the retirement of longtime Executive Director Judy Hull. For Brennan, the opportunity to lead the chamber is especially meaningful because Islamorada is already home. A longtime member of the Upper Keys community, she brings extensive local knowledge and a career that has touched many of the industries and businesses the chamber serves, including tourism, hospitality, real estate, marketing and events. Her professional background spans approximately 30 years and combines communications, customer service, community engagement and handson operations. Brennan currently serves as marketing director for Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate / Destinations & Star Properties Destinations, where she leads marketing, communications and brand development for a real estate brokerage and luxury vacationrental company serving the Upper and Middle Florida Keys. Her work includes publications, digital and print marketing, community outreach, events and partnerships with local businesses, tourism professionals, nonprofit organizations and media. Her earlier career includes positions in real estate, luxury hospitality and the restaurant industry, including serving as a concierge at The Islands of Islamorada. Those roles have given Brennan firsthand experience with both the visitor experience and the day-to-day realities of doing business in the Florida Keys. She is also active in the community as a Girl Scout troop leader in Islamorada. Brennan holds a bachelor of arts in communications and public relations from the College of Saint Rose. “Islamorada is where I’ve built my career, raised my daughter, and found a community I care deeply about. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the people and businesses here in a new way. I look forward to listening to our members and build-

Katie Brennan will assume the executive director position for the Islamorada Chamber later this month, following the retirement of longtime Executive Director Judy Hull. CONTRIBUTED

ing on the work Judy and the Chamber team have done.” Brennan said. Founded in 1962, the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center is a strong and successful business organization with more than 600 members representing more than 5,000 employees. Located at the entrance to Founders Park at 87100 Overseas Highway, the chamber serves the local business community while also welcoming and assisting visitors to Islamorada. The chamber provides year-round programs, networking opportunities and visitor services and produces two popular community festivals, Island Fest and Holiday Fest. Its mission is simple and direct: “To promote business by providing support, education and advocacy.” “Selecting the Chamber’s next Executive Director was an important responsibility, and our Executive Committee devoted a tremendous amount of time and thought to the process,” said 2025–26 Chamber President Rob Stober. “We conducted an extensive search, carefully reviewed the candidates and spent considerable time getting to know our finalists. We are extremely pleased that the process led us to someone right here in our own community. Katie knows Islamorada, understands the community she will be serving and is genuinely excited about taking on this role. The Board is very pleased to welcome her as our new Executive Director.” Brennan will work closely with the chamber’s board of directors, staff, members and community partners as she begins her new role leading the organization. — Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

RACING ON THE OLD HIGHWAY First-place finisher Peter Frezza glides to the final stretch.

Frezza cruises to second-straight win Participants take off from the starting line.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

breathtaking Florida Keys sunrise graced the roughly 150 runners and walkers as they took their marks for the annual Old Highway Run on Oct. 3. With the blaring of a horn, participants in the timed 5K took off from the starting line at Coral Shores High School. Running down the treeshaded and flat highway, runners and walkers looped around at Forest Tek and back up the Old Highway to the finish line at the high school. Islamorada’s Peter Frezza ran away with the race, cruising to victory with a time of 17 minutes and 16 seconds. This is his second-straight victory. Holly Smith of Tavernier came in second with a time of 19 minutes and 47 seconds, while Tavernier’s Cooper Cole took third place at 19 minutes and 54 seconds. The race was organized by HNO Productions and Henry Menendez. Cupacabana and Shaka Fresh offered refreshments to participants. Proceeds from the event will go to support the high school. Visit oldhighwayrun.com for more information and results.

Family members root on their loved ones in the race.

Photos by JIM McCARTHY/

Keys Weekly Full gallery at keysweekly.com.

Runners and walkers ranged from all ages and abilities. Even a dog went on a stroll with his owner.

Racer Patti Childress reaches the finish line before a determined young runner could catch her.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

FOR THE LOVE OF THE SEA REEF Fest brings free seminars, socials and water adventures

REEF Fest attendees can dive and snorkel with REEF Fest experience partners, offering everything from reef tours to fish survey dives. REEF/Contributed

eef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF) invites divers, snorkelers and ocean lovers of all ages to REEF Fest 2026, taking place Oct. 15-18 in Key Largo A Florida Keys tradition since 2015, this annual celebration brings free ocean conservation seminars, engaging social gatherings and plenty of opportunities to explore the marine life of the Florida Keys. Registration is now open at REEF.org/REEFfest. Most REEF Fest events are free to attend, but pre-registration is requested for planning purposes. Seminars and the welcome reception and happy hour social take place at the REEF Ocean Exploration Center, 98380 Overseas Highway in Key Largo. Ocean seminars Free educational seminars will be held Friday, Oct. 16, and Saturday, Oct. 17, at the REEF Ocean Exploration Center. This year’s lineup features scientists, naturalists and conservation experts, with additional speakers to be announced. Confirmed presentations include: • Aisha Rickli-Rahman, conservation biologist who will explore how forensic science is used to investigate wildlife crime and protect marine and aquatic animals. • Jennifer Rehage, Ph.D., associate professor at the Institute of Water and Environment at Florida International University, who will take audiences into the diverse fish communities of the Everglades and South Florida. • Kai Lopez, coral reef scientist with Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, who will introduce audiences to the reef fishes of the Florida Keys and the niches they occupy, drawing on 25 years of snorkeling,

diving and fishing in the Keys. • REEF scientists who will share the latest from REEF’s citizen science and marine conservation programs. Seminars are free and open to the public, but pre-registration is requested. For those who cannot attend in person, seminars will be livestreamed on REEF’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. For full talk summaries and speaker bios, visit REEF.org/REEFfest/ seminars. Socials and celebrations • Thursday, Oct. 15 – Welcome reception: Kick off REEF Fest at the REEF Campus, mingle with fellow conservationists and explore the Ocean Exploration Center. Free and open to the public. • Friday, Oct. 16 – Happy hour social: Unwind with food and drinks at the REEF Campus between seminars, followed by an evening presentation. Free and open to the public. • Saturday, Oct. 17 – For the Love of the Sea Celebration: A festive

waterfront evening from 5–8:30 p.m. featuring dinner, an open bar with local craft beer, wine and signature cocktails, a silent auction benefiting REEF’s marine conservation programs and a sunset over Florida Bay. Held at a bayside property next to Quiescence Diving Services, 103674 Overseas Highway in Key Largo. Tickets are $125 per person. Tickets can be purchased during online registration at www.REEF. org/REEFfest. • Sunday, Oct. 18 – Conservation activities: The weekend wraps up with hands-on conservation activities in the Florida Keys. Details to be announced. Diving and snorkeling: Explore the Florida Keys your way REEF Fest is a perfect opportunity to experience the marine environments of the Florida Keys. Throughout the weekend, attendees can dive and snorkel with REEF Fest experience partners, offering everything from reef tours to fish survey dives. Please note that, unlike in past years, these excursions are booked directly with the dive and snorkel operators rather than through REEF. A full list of REEF Fest experience and hospitality partners is available at www.REEF.org/REEFfest/ experiences. “REEF Fest is our favorite time of year — a chance to bring our community together to celebrate the ocean, learn from world-class scientists and experience the Florida Keys firsthand. Whether you join us for a seminar, a social event or a dive, there’s something here for everyone who loves the sea,” said Martha Klitzkie, co-executive director for REEF. For the full schedule and to register, visit www.REEF.org/REEFfest. Questions can be directed to events@REEF. org or 305-852-0030. — Contributed

Free educational seminars on Friday, Oct. 16 will welcome scientists, naturalists and conservation experts, with additional speakers to be announced.

taff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collec-

tion. What: “Rosemead” (2025) Why: Lucy Liu gives an indelible performance as an immigrant woman and single mother to a mentally ill teenage boy in “Rosemead,” a grim, powerful story based on actual events that occurred in California in 2015. Lucy Liu received the John Cassavetes Award for the film, a fitting tribute to a picture that deals so realistically with human idiosyncrasies and takes a naturalistic, documentary-style approach in its cinematography, spare dialogue, and authentic performances. Lawrence Shou is also excellent as her spiraling son who is fascinated by mass school shootings. Where: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming app. How: You can browse and request DVDs online 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: Michael Nelson, assistant director of operations. See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/post/reel-recs.

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HELPING UPPER KEYS FOOD COMMUNITIES GROW AND FLAVOR The master gardener volunteer program

Participants of the master gardener volunteer program get a lesson on entomology and vector-borne diseases. LIAH CONTINENTINO/Contributed

o you want to learn more about gardening while making a meaningful difference in your community? The MonLIAH roe County Master CONTINENTINO Gardener Volunteer is the University Program offers an of Florida, IFAS opportunity to do County Extension exactly that. environmental The University horticulture agent of Florida Institute and master gardener volunteer of Food and Agcoordinator. ricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program trains residents to become trusted sources of research-based horticultural information in their communities. Volunteers are the heart of the UF/IFAS Extension service. Trained master gardeners help ensure that accurate, relevant information reaches as many people as possible, offering education through workshops, classes, plant clinics, demonstration gardens, writing, oneon-one consultations and more. Their work supports UF/IFAS Extension’s mission to provide quality, relevant education and research-based expertise to foster healthy people, a healthy environment and a healthy economy. Master gardener volunteers come from all walks of life. Some are longtime gardeners; others are curious learners with a passion for the environment and a desire to give back. Regardless of experience level, participants share a common goal: helping their communities grow greener, healthier and more resilient. Volunteers empower neighbors to embrace sustainable gardening practices, pro-

tect water quality, conserve resources and create landscapes that are beautiful, resilient and ecologically valuable. The benefits of volunteering extend beyond impacts on others and the environment. Research consistently shows that volunteering improves quality of life for those who serve. Volunteers have reported feeling less time-constrained and more fulfilled than those who spend their free time only on themselves (Mogilner et al, 2012). Volunteering is also associated with improved physical and mental health, including lower rates of depression, greater functional ability later in life and even potential reductions in the risk of heart disease (Corporation for National and Community Service, 2007). The master gardener volunteer program has a rich history rooted in community. The program originated in 1972, when a Washington State Extension agent recognized that trained volunteers could help answer the growing number of gardening questions coming from residents. By 1979, Florida launched its own master gardener program, with pilot programs in Dade, Manatee and Brevard counties. Today, the program exists in all 50 states, Canada and several other countries. The impacts of this volunteer network are remarkable. In 2025 alone, master gardener volunteers across the United States directly served 5.4 million community members through help desks, plant clinics, presentations and outreach programs. In the same year, volunteers contributed more than 5.1 million service hours and helped establish more than 4,500 garden projects, including pollinator gardens, food gardens and environmentally resilient landscapes. In Monroe County, master gardener volunteers help residents make informed landscaping decisions, improve environmental stewardship and foster stronger connections with our unique island ecosystems. If the master gardener program sounds right for you, now is the time to get involved. Applications are open for the 2027 Monroe County Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program. For application instructions or to learn more about the 2027 Monroe County Master Gardener Volunteer Program, contact Liah Continentino, environmental horticulture agent, at Continentino-liah@monroecounty-fl. gov or 305-998-9580.

Monthlong culinary celebration brings signature dish showdown, trolley foodie tours

A Taste the Keys participant enjoys a dish at Italian Food Company in Key Largo. Taste the Keys is a monthlong culinary celebration, which brings Trolley Foodie Tours on Oct. 15 and Oct. 29. CONTRIBUTED

here’s no better way to experience the Florida Keys than through its food. From freshcaught seafood and islandinspired flavors to family-owned restaurants and creative chefs, the Upper Keys dining scene reflects the unique culture that makes this destination so special. In October, that culinary spirit takes center stage as Taste the Keys returns for a month-long celebration of local flavor. Running through Oct. 31, the annual festival invites both visitors and locals to discover specially crafted prix-fixe menus at participating restaurants throughout the Upper Keys, offering an affordable way to sample some of the area’s best cuisine. Each restaurant creates exclusive lunch, dinner or all-day menus that showcase signature dishes and seasonal specialties. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience favorite spots, or discover new ones, while supporting local businesses during the quieter fall season. Adding a little friendly competition to the festivities is the Signature Dish Showdown, where participating restaurants nominate one standout item from their menus to compete for the title of Best Dish in the Upper Keys. Diners become the judges, tasting their way through the month and casting votes online for their favorites. The winning dish will earn local bragging rights when results are announced in early November. For food lovers looking for a

In October, that culinary spirit takes center stage as Taste the Keys returns for a monthlong celebration of local flavor.

guided adventure, the Taste the Keys Trolley Foodie Tours offer an unforgettable evening on the town. On Thursday, Oct. 15 and again on Thursday, Oct. 29, guests will climb aboard the trolley and travel between featured restaurants, enjoying curated tasting menus and drink pairings at each stop. Forget bar hopping. This is bite hopping, Keys style. The tours bring together great food, local hospitality and a chance to experience multiple culinary destinations in one memorable night. From inventive flavors to waterfront favorites, Taste the Keys celebrates everything that makes dining in the Upper Keys unique. Whether you’re hunting for the next awardwinning dish, enjoying a progressive dinner aboard the trolley or simply savoring a great meal with friends, October is the perfect time to eat your way through paradise.

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THE GREAT KEY LARGO FOX ESCAPE Isla the fox came to Pawsitive Beginnings in Key Largo in May 2025.

friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” We had an inciREEF dent last week. THE FOX Isla attempted what I can Reef is a red fox only describe as that was saved “The Great Key from a fur farm. He now lives in Largo Fox Escape Key Largo with of 2026.” For his human, Nicole months, there Navarro. was apparently a mouse-sized opening in the ceiling above the porch. Nobody noticed it. My mother, Pawsitive Beginnings founder Nicole Navarro, didn’t notice it. I didn’t notice it. The other foxes didn’t notice it. Then Isla saw it. And Isla does not see a tiny hole and thinks, “That looks unsafe.” Isla sees a tiny hole and thinks, “Challenge accepted.” The tiny red menace somehow squeezed her goofy little head through an opening that should not have accommodated anything larger than a squirrel. Unfortunately, foxes are basically liquid with legs, so once the head went through, the rest of the body followed. I immediately screamed. Now, in fairness, I scream about many things. Dinner was three minutes late. A suspicious leaf. Someone touching something I had absolutely no interest in until they touched it.

But this was a legitimate scream. Mother came running and discovered a red devil dangling over the porch, apparently contemplating abandoning sanctuary life and starting fresh as an independent woman in Key Largo. For approximately 14 seconds, Isla had dreams. Freedom. Adventure. A new life beyond the walls. Perhaps her own apartment. Then she realized it was dinner time. Suddenly, the realities of independent living became painfully clear. Isla has never hunted for her own food. Isla has never had to locate fresh water. Isla has never scheduled a veterinary appointment, paid an electric bill or even opened her own Netflix account. The likelihood of Isla successfully providing for herself in the wild was somewhere between slim and absolutely none. The revolutionary movement ended immediately. Thankfully, mother got her safely back where she belonged, and the offending opening was secured before Isla could begin planning escape attempt No. 2. And that, friends, was a lesson in true fox antics for everyone involved. You can build habitats. You can inspect everything. You can secure every opening imaginable. You can stare at the same ceiling for months and see absolutely nothing unusual. And somewhere, a fox is staring at the one thing you missed thinking: “I bet my head fits through that.” That’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

EMMIE

hrough absolutely no fault of her own, Emmie is coming back to MPR after her adopter’s circumstances changed. Emmie is a 2-year-old, 14-pound terrier mix originally rescued from the Redlands, where she lived under a trailer with 15 other dogs. She has come so far, but she is still a shy, skittish girl who needs time and patience to trust. Once she feels safe, Emmie is incredibly sweet and loves being close to her person, she even sleeps tucked into bed with her every night. She’s not a fan of the crate, so a home where crating isn’t necessary would be best. Emmy needs a patient, experienced adopter, a quiet home without children, preferably no other dogs (meet & greets can be considered), someone extremely cautious with doors, gates and leashes, Emmie is a flight risk. Submit an adoption application at mprescues.org/adoption.

SAVE THE DATE Friday, Oct. 9 • “Sit and Sew” from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Key Largo library. Saturday, Oct. 10 • Upper Keys Sons & Daughters of Italy celebrate Italian Heritage Month with a wine tasting beginning at 6 p.m. Admission is $20. For tickets, contact Karen Gallo at 305-393-1847 or Gregory Biancini at 917-862-3979. • Sunset celebration to celebrate America’s 250th from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Old Seven Mile Bridge, Marathon. Complimentary parking available with trolley service from 7 Mile Marina and from 33rd Street/Stanley Switlik parking area. Sunday, Oct. 11 • 11th annual Oktoberfest from 1 to 9 p.m. at Florida Keys Brewing Co. Stein holding competition at 6 p.m., das boot competition at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13 • Islamorada Chamber of Commerce’s Village Council Candidate forum at 5:30 p.m. at the Founders Park Community Center.

Oct. 13-14 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. Wednesday, Oct. 14 • The Florida Keys History & Discovery Center’s 2026-27 fall lecture series opens with a chef’s panel at 6 p.m. at the center. Thursday, Oct. 15 • Art walk from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, Islamorada. Oct. 15-18 • REEF Fest 2026 in Key Largo. See the full schedule of events at REEF.org/reeffest. Oct. 16-17 • Casting for Cats Backcountry Tournament. Learn more at castingforcats.org. Oct. 16-18 • Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing tournament. Learn more at ladiesletsgofishing.com.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

THE ORIGIN OF FANTASY FEST Fantasy Fest 1985, ‘Birds of Paradise.’ WRIGHT LANGLEY COLLECTION/Florida Keys History Center

ey West’s 1978 summer tourist season was one of the best on record. When the summer of 1979 rolled around, people hoped the trend would continue. Through no fault of the people of Key West or the Florida Keys, things did not go as FLORIDA planned. KEYS 1979 was a special year, and not in a good way. Without HISTORY getting into the politics of the WITH Iranian Revolution that created BRAD an Islamic republic, one of the BERTELLI things that went wrong was Brad is a local Iran’s diminished oil production; historian, author, it led to gasoline shortages in speaker and the United States. Rationing and Honorary Conch long lines made headlines, as did who loves sharing signs saying, “Sorry, out of gas.” the history of the Florida Keys. For summer vacations, travel was inhibited by the fear of not being able to find gas. While the Florida Keys had no gas shortage, a liquid was being rationed that caused issues for visitors and residents alike. On Stock Island, a desalination plant was opened in 1967. The plant removed salt from ocean water, creating another source of freshwater for Key West residents. In 1979, it broke down, causing Monroe County officials to declare a state of emergency and ration water supplies. Tourists were warned that water in the Southernmost City was in short supply. Between the lack of gas and freshwater, tourists did not flock to the Florida Keys that summer. Unfortunately, more bad news was on the horizon. In late August, Hurricane David devastated the Caribbean islands, including the Dominican Republic, where as many as 1,200 people lost their lives. The storm set its eye on South Florida for the Labor Day Weekend. Hurricane warnings were issued from Key West to Palm Beach. Governor Bob Graham urged all Keys residents to evacuate.

While the storm turned and skirted the Florida coast before coming ashore north of Palm Beach, the threat of a hurricane was not over. Days after the warnings of Hurricane David were gone, Hurricane Frederic stormed to life. Though it passed well south of Key West, hurricanes are unpredictable and offered yet another reason to avoid South Florida and the Keys. All things considered, it was not a great summer for tourism in the Florida Keys, especially Key West. People started talking about a big idea that people had been talking about for years. For the reasons stated above, 1979 was the year that set the ball in motion. Joe Liszka, Tony Falcone, Bill Conkle and Frank Romano worked to bring a festival, like Mardi Gras, to Key West. The plan was to bring financial relief to the island. In a story about the event printed in The Miami Herald, Liszka called it “a party for grownups.” Liszka was one of the event’s founders. Like many others in Key West, he was a business owner suffering losses from an unfortunate summer season. He was also the president of the Tourist Development Authority. The hope was to bring 20,000 people to eat, drink and celebrate during what is the slowest part of the year. They would need hotel rooms. A key ingredient to a good party is alcohol, and this party was too big for an establishment; it was imagined as not just a street party, but a Duval Street party. One problem was that open containers were not permitted on the island’s streets and sidewalks. Officials drafted a letter to people in New Orleans and requested copies of the ordinances governing their Mardi Gras celebration. For the event, Key West commissioners waived the open container law. Local bar owners agreed to serve drinks in plastic cups so people wouldn’t parade over broken glass. The inaugural Old Key West Fantasy Fest ran for three days, kicking off Friday, Oct. 26. The Grand Mistress of Madness, Mary Ellen Toppino, arrived at Mallory Square in a black horse-drawn carriage. Calypso music played as the sun set. Local restaurants and clubs served island food. A

masked fantasy ball started at 10 p.m. The big event was Saturday night’s parade down Duval Street. Twenty-six floats participated, including a black sedan with a woman called Sister who was bare from the waist up, painted silver, and posed as a hood ornament. There was a costume contest. Top prize was $1,000. Tennessee Williams was tapped as one of the judges. According to newspaper stories about the event, on Sunday morning, it looked as if a hurricane had struck Duval Street. One of the people helping to sweep up the mess on Duval Street was Liszka. Restaurants served hangover brunches. The festival came to a close Sunday night with two costume balls, one at a gay club called Monster, and the other at the Fort East Martello Museum. While the first Fantasy Fest was not the booming success many hoped for, with fewer than half of the expected crowd showing up, it has grown a little bit over the years. That Saturday night, around seven thousand people lined up along Duval Street to watch the parade, and they ate, drank and spent the night in hotel rooms. Forty-seven years later, the cost of putting on Fantasy Fest has increased, as has the size of the crowd that lines up along Duval Street to watch the parade’s spectacle. While estimates vary, Fantasy Fest attracts about 75,000 people to Key West and helps to boost the economy during a historically slow period. It also serves as a fundraiser benefiting the community. This year’s theme is “Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals.” Expect an orchestra of puns and fabulous plays on words. With more things happening than can be counted on an entire family of fingers and toes, it is no longer just a party for grownups. While the Duval Street parade is always the big draw, there are a host of activities including the Goombay Festival, the Kinky Carnival and the always adorable pet masquerade featuring more than the island’s cats and dogs. More than 100 events and activities are scheduled, and there is something for everyone. The fun begins Oct. 16. Fingers crossed for drier weather.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

PHILANTHROPY MATTERS Giving season returns to the Florida Keys

The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys distributes more than $1 million in grants to local nonprofits throughout the island chain. CONTRIBUTED

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October can be a spooky and fun time of year. There’s the Oct. 15 tax extension deadline for those of us who like to live dangerously. Then we roll right into Halloween and the holiday ELIZABETH season. For the ComBROWN munity Foundation of the Florida Keys, ... is president it also means grants and CEO of the season. And for most Community nonprofits and chari- Foundation of the Florida ties throughout the Keys. Keys, it means the beginning of giving season. We’re already seeing the signs of giving. Our seasonal residents are trickling back. Nonprofit events are kicking into gear. And before long, those year-end appeals will start appearing in our mailboxes and inboxes. Those are all great things, but what if there was an additional way to make charitable giving easier and potentially more impactful? Cue the DAF. A donor-advised fund, or DAF, is a charitable giving account. You contribute to the fund now and then recommend grants to your favorite nonprofits. We invest the money so your fund grows and over time you have even more to give. DAFs let you separate the when from the where for charitable giving, allowing you to make a bigger impact on your own timeline. That can be particularly useful for tax planning. You might “bunch” several years of charitable contributions into one year when it makes sense to itemize. And if the stock market has been good to you, appreciated stock can also be a very tax-efficient way to fund your giving. (This is the part where I remind you to talk to your tax advisor.) But there are lots of places to

open a DAF. So why have one with your local community foundation? This is where I get to be a little biased. When your DAF is here, you don’t just have a charitable account. You have local people who spend their days talking with nonprofits, donors and community leaders throughout the Florida Keys. We know what’s happening locally, and we help connect donors with opportunities they might not otherwise know about. We think of it as philanthropic matchmaking. An example of that matchmaking is our In Paradise for Good grants program. Applications closed last week, and we’ll make awards next month. In between, we’re sharing those opportunities with our DAF holders and asking if they’d like to join us. Last year, those additional grants helped push our collective In Paradise for Good grantmaking past the $1 million mark for the first time ever. We make these connections all year long. Right now, two DAFs at the Community Foundation are offering matching dollars to support Wesley House Family Services’ Inez Martin Child Development Center in Key West for their food program and childcare scholarships. These matching dollars mean everyone else’s gifts go a little further together. There’s one more piece I particularly like. The fees from our charitable funds stay here, too, supporting the work of the Community Foundation — including our Center for Nonprofit Excellence and the programs we provide to strengthen local nonprofits, like our upcoming Leadership Success Academy. So your charitable dollars support local organizations. Your fund helps support the infrastructure behind local philanthropy. And we help you figure out where you can make a difference. It’s nice synergy.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

is your home for Florida Keys Football

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / OCTOBER 8, 2026

YOUR NOMINATIONS ARE IN! The Top 3 finalists in each category will be announced in the Upper Keys Weekly on Thursday, October 15!

FINAL VOTING AWARD CEREMONY

Voting opens October 15 at noon and runs through November 1 at midnight. Friday, Nov. 13, 6-9 p.m. at Playa Largo *The awards ceremony is by invitation only, with seating reserved for nominees. General admission will be available via waitlist only. To join the waitlist, email: Manuela@keysweekly.com.

All event proceeds benefit the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter.

Presented by

Sponsored by:

October 8, 2026

Hurricane win streak reaches 13 | P.4

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OCTOBER 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

THE SCOREBOARD

SEP. 28 - OCT. 3

Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Marathon

Volleyball

Southridge

9/29

W, 3-0

Coral Shores

Volleyball

Westwood

9/29

W, 3-0

Marathon

Volleyball

Posnack

9/30

L, 3-0

Coral Shores

Volleyball

Marathon

10/1

W, FF

Marathon

Volleyball

Archimedean

10/2

L, 3-1

Key West

Football

North Miami Beach

10/2

W, 23-13

Coral Shores

Football

Marathon

10/2

W, 41-20

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Emmett THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

OCT. 08 - OCT. 15

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

10/8

Key West

Football

@ Miami Central

8 p.m.

10/9

Marathon

Football

@ St. John Paul

7 p.m.

10/9

Coral Shores

Football

Palmer Trinity

7 p.m.

10/9

Key West & Coral Shores

Cross Country

@ 305 Classic

4 p.m.

10/14

All Keys Schools

Golf

@ Key West

2 p.m.

MERRYMAN

Sophomore, Marathon Golf

Emmett became the ﬁrst MHS golfer to make regionals last season, and he has picked back up where he was.” – Lance Martin, Marathon athletic director

38 strokes

ON THE COVER

OCTOBER 8

Heading into postseason play, the Coral Shores Lady Hurricanes volleyball team is on a 13-game win streak since Sept. 4. Clockwise from top left: Miracle Woods, Coralyn Frimpter, Abby Leigh, Bella Villalba and Jillian Thiery. Photos contributed

Marathon sophomore Emmett Merryman was twice the golfer to beat last week, firing matching rounds of 38 to earn back-to-back medalist honors. Merryman first shot a 38 at Ocean Reef Club on Sept. 30, finishing two over par and ahead of the field, then followed it with another 38 the next day at Redland Golf & Country Club to claim his second win in as many days. Merryman doesn’t put the clubs away when the high school season ends. The sophomore works on his game year-round, steadily improving in a sport he loves. “He has been consistent with his scoring all season and leading the way for MHS,” Marathon athletic director Lance Martin said. For his strong and consistent gameplay, Marathon’s Emmett Merryman is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

wins

Photo by NATALIE DANKO/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 8, 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

1-2. Lady Conchs Isabelle Magrath and Kerestin Hults are making a statement in Key West’s late-season run.

3. Coral Shores sophomores Jillian Thiery, left, and Abby Leigh are bringing high energy to the Hurricane lineup.

Photos by Natalie Danko and contributed images

OCTOBER 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

LUCKY 13

Hurricanes stretch win streak as Keys teams eye postseason

4. Marathon seniors Faith Edwards, left, Dahlia Westdickenberg, Ana Boose and Adelle Bainbridge.

5. Marathon freshman Shaina Robinson averaged double-digit kills against Dolphin opponents last week.

oral Shores volleyball continued its courtside dominance last week, adding three more wins to extend its streak to 13 straight and improve to 21-3. The Hurricanes have not lost a match since Sept. 4. The ’Canes made quick work of visiting Westwood Christian on Sept. 29, sweeping the Warriors 25-13, 25-12 and 25-22. Coral Shores was lethal from the service line, piling up 17 aces. Coralyn Frimpter accounted for more than half of them, serving nine aces to go with 11 kills and nine digs. Celene Walker led the attack with 13 kills, adding two aces and three digs, while setter Abby Leigh dished out 26 assists. Bella Villalba added three aces. Coral Shores faced a tougher test the following night on the road at Silver Palms, but the result was the same. The Hurricanes prevailed 3-1 behind another big night from Walker and Frimpter. Walker hammered down 21 kills while adding 15 digs, two blocks and two aces. Frimpter registered a doubledouble with 17 kills and 11 digs, while Leigh orchestrated the offense with 38 assists and nine digs. The Hurricanes were equally imposing at the net defensively, combining for 10 blocks. Kyla Myers led the effort with five, Jillian Thiery added three and Lela Godrich contributed two.

“Kyla stepped up big for us and made her presence known,” coach Sam Ovalle said. “She has been working hard and continuing to improve every time she steps on the floor.” Coral Shores made the trip south to Marathon on Oct. 1, but the match was canceled when officials failed to arrive. The Hurricanes were awarded the win by forfeit. Marathon had four matches on the schedule last week, though the Fins ultimately took the court for three. The Dolphins started the week strong, sweeping Southridge 3-0 on the road on Sept. 29. Shaina Robinson powered the attack with 17 kills, four aces and two blocks, while Kaya Hughes-Struyf and Adelle Bainbridge added four aces apiece. Bella Childress served three aces and Ashley Strama added three kills. Marathon returned home the following night, falling to Posnack in three sets before closing out the week Oct. 2 with Senior Night against Archimedean. The Fins celebrated seniors Ana Boose, Adelle Bainbridge, Faith Edwards and Dahlia Westdickenberg before battling the Lions in a 3-1 loss. Robinson again led the offense, knocking down 15 kills with three aces and two blocks. Childress made an impact all over the court with five aces, five kills and five blocks, while Katie VanderLee added six kills. Hughes-Struyf finished with 14 assists, three kills and two aces.

The seniors made their presence felt as well, with Boose serving three aces and Bainbridge adding three aces and two blocks in their final regular-season home appearance. Marathon finished the week with a 7-12 record as the Dolphins head into the final days of the regular season. Key West has been idle since closing out tournament play with a 2-0 win over Reagan High on Sept. 26. The Conchs battled through a pair of tight sets, defeating the Bisons 24-21 and 26-25 to secure their sixth win of the season. Isabelle Magrath led the attack with seven kills and added two blocks, while Catherine Miller finished with five kills and five digs. Kerestin Hults turned in an all-around performance, serving at 100% with an ace while adding five kills, four digs and two blocks. Journey Lamb anchored the back row with eight digs, and Sofia Niles added a pair of blocks. With the regular season concluding Oct. 8, Keys teams will turn their attention to the postseason as the Conchs, Dolphins and Hurricanes prepare for district tournament play.

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / OCTOBER 8, 2026

Fall postseason meets the start of a packed winter sports calendar

s fall sports begin their march into the postseason, winter is coming … winter sports, that is. In fact, one winter season is already officially underway. Girls weightlifting opened for practice last week, with the first official meets beginning Oct. 9. All three Keys public schools field established girls weightlifting programs, and all three have sent athletes deep into the postseason in recent years. Next up are competitive cheerleading and soccer. Key West and Coral Shores will begin official competitive cheer practices Oct. 12, with competitions getting underway Nov. 9. Boys and girls soccer also get the green light for practice Oct. 12, with matches beginning Nov. 2. Key West, Marathon and Coral Shores each field both boys and girls teams, ensuring plenty of intra-Keys action once the season gets rolling. Basketball follows later in the month. Boys and girls may officially take the court for practice beginning Oct. 26, with preseason action starting the week of Nov. 9 and regular-season games tipping off Nov. 16. Basketball adds a fourth Keys school to the winter mix, with Basilica School joining Key West, Marathon and Coral Shores on the hardwood. The final winter athletes to report for duty will be the Keys’ wrestlers. Girls may begin practice Nov. 2, with competition starting Nov. 23. The boys hit the mats for practice Nov. 9, with official competition getting underway Nov. 30. Key West, Marathon and Coral Shores all field wrestling programs, giving Keys fans another sport with plenty of opportunities for local bragging rights. With fall championships still to be decided, there is little downtime on the Keys sports calendar. Cleats, golf clubs and volleyballs will soon give way to barbells, basketballs, soccer balls and wrestling mats as another busy winter season gets underway.

From left: Basilica School’s Alex Bouttier Coral Shores wrestler Jack Brown Key West cheerleader Lily Smith Key West soccer star Sonny Bowden Marathon High School guard Sutton Sayer Photos by Natalie Danko, Maicey Malgrat and Tracy McDonald

WINTER IS C

OCTOBER 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / OCTOBER 8, 2026

RIVALRY & REVELRY Hurricanes claim Battle of the Keys while Conchs celebrate Homecoming win

attle of the Keys LVII is in the books, and like so many of the 56 meetings before it, the annual rivalry did not disappoint. Coral Shores had the first opportunity to score on Oct. 2, but the Marathon defense held strong. On the Dolphins’ first offensive possession, Jesus Gonzalez broke free for a 14-yard touchdown run to give Marathon the early lead. Coral Shores’ Charles Royal had an answer. His 25-yard touchdown run evened the score at 7-7 with 8:27 still on the clock in the opening quarter, and from there the two rivals settled into a battle that remained deadlocked deep into the second. David Beltran finally broke the stalemate, finding daylight and racing 58 yards to put the Hurricanes ahead 13-7. The Coral Shores defense then kept the Dolphins in check, giving its offense another opportunity before halftime. With just over five minutes remaining in the half, Royal found the end zone for a second time, extending the Hurricanes’ advantage to 19-7. The score held through halftime, but Marathon emerged from the break determined to make things interesting. The Dolphins took possession to begin the third quarter and simply refused to give the ball back. Marathon controlled the clock for nearly the entire period, grinding its way downfield before Mathew Machado capped the lengthy drive with a 20-yard touchdown run. By the time Coral Shores regained possession, just 1:26 remained in the quarter and the Hurricanes’ lead had been cut to 19-14.

OCTOBER 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS 1. Jesus Gonzalez (2) jukes out Coral Shores defender Keandre Dillon (22). 2. The Coral Shores and Marathon linemen line up in the trenches. 3. Charles Royal stiff-arms a Marathon defender for a first down. 4. Dominik Jimenez runs to

the sideline for a kick return touchdown. 5. Matthew Oviedo (5) runs to the North Miami Beach endzone. 6. Jayson Michel (12) resets for the next play. 7. James Augustin (59) and Byron Turner (10) chase after Xavier Perez (1).

Photos by Sean Westerband and Rocky Gonet

5 6

1 2

But Beltran had other ideas. The senior running back needed little time to answer, breaking loose for a 68-yard touchdown. Coral Shores added the twopoint conversion to stretch its lead to 27-14. Marathon still wasn’t finished. Gonzalez connected with Jeremy Thiboutot for another Dolphins touchdown, pulling the Fins back within a score at 27-20. “We fought to the end and I’m proud of the effort,” said Marathon head coach Sean McDonald. Beltran struck again on Coral Shores’ next possession, completing his hat trick of touchdowns with a 26-yard run and restoring a two-score advantage. A late touchdown pass from Sterling Keefe to Marco Gudino finally put the game out of Marathon’s reach and sealed a 41-20 Hurricanes victory. “I think the game lived up to the hype,” Coral Shores head coach Ed Holly said. “Both communities came together and cheered on a good game.” The victory marked Coral Shores’ eighth consecutive Battle of the Keys win, giving the Hurricanes the longest winning streak in the rivalry’s 57-game history. Coral Shores also extended its all-time series advantage to 32-25. With Battle of the Keys LVII decided, there will be little time for either team to dwell on the rivalry. Both schools turn their attention to homecoming week, bringing plenty of festivities and potential distractions ahead of their next games. Marathon hosts St. John Paul II at 7 p.m. Oct. 9, while Coral Shores welcomes Palmer Trinity at the same time and date. KEY WEST Key West gave its Homecoming crowd plenty to celebrate last week, picking up a crucial 23-13 district win over North Miami Beach. The Conchs struck first behind a strong touchdown run from junior Chace Gaertner, though a blocked PAT kept the advantage at six. Matthew Oviedo added to the lead with a 25-yard touchdown run, and Owen Lindley split the uprights for a field goal as Key West built its advantage. The Conchs’ defense got in on the scoring as well. Javier Perez scooped up a fumble and returned it for Key West’s final touchdown of the night, helping seal the Homecoming victory. Owen Lindley split the uprights for a field goal to add some insurance. The defensive front played a key role in keeping North Miami Beach in check. Josh Johnson registered a pair of sacks, with his ability to create disruption from the line helping the Conchs generate pressure and opportunities on defense. The win improved Key West to 3-4 overall and, more importantly, 2-1 in district play as the Conchs continue to fight for a spot in the postseason. That fight gets considerably tougher this week. Key West travels to Miami on Thursday, Oct. 8, for a pivotal district matchup against Miami Central at Traz Powell Stadium. The Rockets present a formidable challenge, particularly with their speed on the outside. “They are not as big up front as they have been in the past, but they’re elite on the perimeter,” Key West head coach Johnny Hughes said. With their postseason hopes hanging in the balance, the Conchs will need to find a way to contain that speed and come away from Miami with a win. Key West will then have a bye week to regroup before its final regular-season district matchup against Miami Springs.

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / OCTOBER 8, 2026

OFF TO THE RACES

Wheatley, Burns gallop to individual wins in Miami

wo Keys teams met at Larry & Penny Thompson Park in Miami for the 2026 Race of the Thoroughbreds on Oct. 2, and local runners came away with wins in both the boys and girls races. Coral Shores entered just one athlete in the girls race, but junior Ali Wheatley was a safe bet, winning the event in 21:38. Marathon’s Molly Joly was close behind in second place, crossing the line in 21:49. Teammate Rebecca Merryman was next for the Fins, placing 11th overall in 25:31, followed by Ariella Dworniczak in 28:26. June McKnight, Ava D’Ascanio, Sophia Roberts, Casey Torres

and Sophia Rodriguez rounded out the Dolphin competitors, helping Marathon to a third-place team finish. In the boys race, Marathon sophomore Lucian Burns rode away with the win, crossing in 16:39 and leaving the field far behind. Burns finished a whopping 1 minute, 46 seconds ahead of the runner-up, with his dominant performance helping propel the Dolphins to third place in the team standings. Tony Bursa was Marathon’s next finisher, placing 15th in 20:13, followed by Anthony Vargas, who claimed 20th in 20:30. Landon Anderson finished in 21:07 and twin brother

Top: Twins Brayden, left, and Landon Anderson completed Marathon’s scoring five at Larry & Penny Thompson Park. Bottom: Rebecca Merryman, left, Molly Joly and Ariella Dworniczak were Marathon’s top three finishers at the Race of the Thoroughbreds. NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly

Brayden crossed in 21:32 to complete the Dolphins’ scoring five. Burns was not the only Keys runner to crack the boys top 10. Coral Shores’ Victor Lopez placed ninth in 19:20, while teammate Wyatt Meyers crossed one minute later. Will Thies finished in 21:13, followed closely by Dillon Matthews in 21:15, with Tristan Sanchez crossing in 22:15. The Hurricanes’ scoring five combined for a fifth-place team finish. This week, the Fins will enjoy a muchneeded rest from racing while the Hurricanes and Conchs return to Larry & Penny Thompson Park for the 305 Classic on Oct. 9.

OCTOBER 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

38 SPECIAL

Merryman ﬁres matching scores to claim consecutive medalist honors

arathon’s Emmett Merryman made it two medalist finishes in as many days last week, leading local golfers through a pair of matches in challenging South Florida conditions. On Sept. 30, Key West edged Marathon by just two strokes at Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo on Coral Shores’ home course. Despite the Conchs’ team victory, it was Merryman who claimed the top individual spot. The Marathon golfer carded a 38, finishing just two over par. Key West swept the next three spots. Jakub Krytinar finished second with a 41, using a birdie on hole 6 to pull ahead of teammate Geo Twyman, who shot a 42. Mason Titensor was fourth, followed by Marathon teammates Cullen Coleman-Sayer and Roco Piscetello, who tied at 44. Coral Shores’ Sawyer Hendrix and Key West’s Sonny Bowden tied at 46, while Hurricane Scout Oliver finished with a 47. Marathon’s Jack Dunn rounded out the top 10 with a 48. In the girls match, Key West’s Lexi Finigan led the Keys contingent with a 53. Teammates Charlize Lopez and Mary Alice Davila each shot 55, followed closely by Marathon’s Makenna Haines with a 57. Marathon’s Elleanna Mowry shot 60, Key West’s Stella Tutlewski finished at 62 and Coral Shores’ Valerie Gabriel carded a 64. The Dolphins and Hurricanes were back on the course Oct. 1, braving stormy skies for a match against Riviera Prep at Redland Golf & Country Club in Homestead. Despite less-than-ideal course conditions, the teams managed to complete all nine holes, with Marathon defeating Coral Shores 178-189 and both Keys teams finishing ahead of Riviera Prep. Merryman was again the golfer to beat, shooting a 38 on the par-40 course for his second medalist performance in as many days. Hendrix was second among the Keys golfers with a 42, while Oliver and Marathon’s Piscetello tied at 44. Coral Shores’ Nash Andruski joined Marathon’s Coleman-Sayer and Jacob Reed in a three-way tie at 48, while Marathon’s Ethan Wohlers finished with a 51. Haines and Mowry were the only Keys girls competing in Homestead. Haines shot a 60, while Mowry finished three strokes back with a 63. Keys golfers will continue to battle one another in intra-Keys matches over the next few weeks as the regular season winds down. Then it’s postseason time, with the boys teeing off in district competition Oct. 26 and the girls following on Oct. 27. Marathon’s Emmett Merryman selects a club. Merryman claimed the top spot in back-toback wins last week. NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / OCTOBER 8, 2026

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME LAW PURSUANT TO SECTION 865.09, FLORIDA STATUTES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of AIS USA LLC, located at 239 JASMINE STREET, in the City of TAVERNIER, MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA 33070, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Monroe County, Florida, this 29th day of September, 2026. Name of Owner/Corporation: Alternative Investment Solutions (USA) LLC Publish: October 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

unit(s) will be sold: Unit 425- Kimble Kenney, 800 35th Street, Marathon, FL 33050 – Personal items. Property is stored at Big Pine Storage, 30677 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043. All items are sold as is, where is, and must be removed within 48 hours of purchase. Publish: October 8 & 15, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, November 24, 2026, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Construction, Engineering and Inspection Services for Key Deer Blvd (North of Watson Blvd) Roadway Rehabilitation Project 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:// monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub. com OR www.monroecountyfl.gov/BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. 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 24, 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 Tuesday, November 24, 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 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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 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

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

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

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of GODLY CADENCE ART, located at 638 WILLIAM STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations, Tallahassee, Florida, pursuant with Section 865.09, Florida Statutes. By: DKL Looking Glass Designs, LLC Publish: October 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given that Big Pine Storage, pursuant to the Florida Self Storage Facility Act, Florida Statutes (Section 83.801–83.809), will sell at public sale by competitive online bidding to satisfy the owner’s lien for unpaid rent, fees, and other charges. Sale to be held online at 11:00 AM on October 30, 2026, at storagetreasures. com. Contents of the following

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the Zoom meetings or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@ keysarts.com Executive Board Meeting October 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/863 24046193?pwd=MoWnb9LfPZf LrImwbbFafx0ZbEz1td.1 Meeting ID: 863 2404 6193 Passcode: 509237 Art In Public Places Committee Meeting October 20, 2026, at 12:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87 521140410?pwd=qHMaBVUNK DbvjYbZEJEHGKnMoU7H8Y.1 Meeting ID: 875 2114 0410 Passcode: 878615 Publish: October 8, 2026 The Weekly Newspapers

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The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will host a Public in-person and virtually, for e

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ing, both

in 5 30 m

County.

In-Person Public Meeting will be held at: o register scan the QR Code To Register for the Virtual Publi Scan the QR Code or visit the link:

Participants can also call in by dialing The will consist of a formal presentation followed by an open discussion. Staff will be available to answer questions as time permits, in the order received. If your question is not . responded to during the event, a response will be provided in writing following the Project contact: Community Outreach Specialist

at 305-470-5477 or

Public participation at this meeting is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family status. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations to participate in this Public Meeting is asked to advise the , P.E. at 305-470-5219 agency at least seven days before the meeting by contacting: or in writing: FDOT, 1000 N.W. 111 Avenue, Miami, FL 33172, email: If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the agency using the Florida Relay Service, 1-800-955-8771 (TDD) or 1 800-955-8770 (Voice).

Visit www.SouthFLRoads.com for more information. Publish: October 8, 2026. The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE SIXTEENTH CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 26-CP-434-K DIVISION: KOENIG IN RE: ESTATE OF CHRISTOPHER TODD SCHOFILL, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Christopher Todd Schofill, deceased, whose date of death was May 26, 2026; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, File Number 26-CP-434-K; and the address of which is 500 Whitehead St, 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, who have claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. FIRST DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS: OCTOBER 8, 2026 Personal Representative: Christopher John Schofill 250 Tifton-Worth Co Line Road Tifton, Georgia 31793 Attorney for Personal Representative: Regina W. Drennan, Esquire Florida Bar #: 64792 Law Office of Regina W. Drennan 4403 W. Tradewinds Avenue Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL 33308 Telephone: (954) 551-6305 Publish: October 8 & 15, 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

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.

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, 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

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 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 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,

OCTOBER 8, 2026 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOUSING FOR RENT

HOUSING WANTED

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

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

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

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

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 404-219-3359 and ask for Dave

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

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

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 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

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 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

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

PRIME COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ON US 1 available for rent in Marathon. 3,000 SF and 2,000 SF avail. Let's make a deal! Call or text Tony at 860428-1506 Email: 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

AUTOS WANTED

EMPLOYMENT

AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or N o t . $CASH 305-332-0483

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a parttime Bartender and Server. Flexible evening shifts 3:309:00 at a private club. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub. com or call 305-7436739 to schedule an i n t e r v i e w .

AUTOS FOR SALE

2002 Chevy Work Truck with tool body & rack. Dual rear wheels, v8 diesel with 72k miles. Runs perfect, new front brakes & bearings. Ready to work tomorrow. Located in Long Key. $5000 cash. Call 786-379-9277 PLACE YOUR AUTO FOR SALE AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305743-0844 or Email A n n e k e @keysweekly.com BOATS FOR SALE

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

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following position: Full-time Carpenter. 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.

Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer serviceoriented Server/ Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am-7pm daily. Full time/Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-219-3359 and ask for Dave. 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!!! PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke @keysweekly.com HOUSING FOR RENT

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 Studio Rental in Marathon, longterm, partially furnished, price includes internet, water, electric gas, garbage, pest, and lawn @ $1,800/mo + utilities. Call or text 305-433-0515 RENTED!!! PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-7430844 or Email Anneke @keysweekly.com

MISC. FOR SALE

Rosi's Secret Garden - Bromeliads, Episcias & Aglonemas For Sale Anytime. Located on Big Coppit Key. Call 305-296-7183 Cargo Container Storage Units For Sale in Marathon. 20'-50' long, various pricing. Call 305-610-8002 Scooter For Sale excellent condition, 7,541 miles, all service records, individually owned. $400 OBO. Located in Key West. Call Denny 305-294-5568 SOLD IN LESS THAN 2 WEEKS!!! PLACE YOUR MISC. FOR SALE AD HERE! $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305743-0844 or Email A n n e k e @ keysweekly.com WANTED TO BUY

P R I V A T E C O L L E C T O R WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 3057 4 3 - 4 5 7 8

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP/LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / OCTOBER 8, 2026

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844 WANTED TO BUY

YARD SALES

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

Oceanside at Duck Key and follow the signs across 3 bridges. Park with consideration.)

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

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

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

Key West Teller Assistant Maintenance Manager Marathon Customer Service Representative

YARD SALES

SARA’S ESTATE SALE on Duck Key @ 364 E Seaview Drive, Oct. 9-11, 9a to 1p. This is part 2 of GRANDMA’S COASTAL CHIC sale and it’s all about scrumptious French Country antiques, drinking & dining like a Queen! Standouts for Week 2: Vintage double seat white wicker back chair, antique marble top dresser, copper hall tree hat stand, crystal & fine china. To see the full sale, visit estatesales.net. (Turn off US1 at MM61

Islamorada Customer Service Representative Apply Online @ KeysBank.com/Careers

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

Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender

The Bourbon Street Pub Complex is now accepnng applicanons for: • Take Out Kitchen - Team Members Experience Required • Security

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

EOE-M/F/V/D

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.

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

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.

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.

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

IN ISLAMORADA

MARINA CASHIER

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.

NOW HIRING!

NOW HIRING

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)

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

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

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 8, 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

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

THEME: MOVIE QUOTES ACROSS 1. Give benediction 6. World’s oldest broadcasting company, acr. 9. Hoodwink 13. H, spelled out 14. Have a cold, e.g. 15. Dogma 16. Raja’s wife 17. Shel Silverstein’s constrictor 18. Extreme, prefix 19. *”____, my dear, I don’t give a damn” 21. *”Why so ____?” 23. “High” beverage 24. Fairytale’s second word 25. “Swan Lake” step, e.g. 28. Potassium hydroxide solution, pl. 30. Nincompoop 35. Month of Purim 37. At any time 39. Coastal town in southern England 40. Flick part 41. 4 x 4 race 43. Like most Brothers Grimm stories 44. “Peer Gynt” playwright 46. Actress Campbell 47. Please do not delay, acr. 48. Experienced sailor (2 words) 50. Dispatched 52. a.k.a. Tokyo 53. Window guards 55. Beer faucet 57. *”I’m mad as hell, and I’m not going to take it ____” 61. *”What we’ve got here is ____ to communicate” 65. Like United States Capitol 66. Food safety org. 68. Ritual basin 69. Tooth trouble 70. Husk of corn 71. Sharks’ domain 72. Fence board 73. Pastrami partner 74. Paper quantities

DOWN 1. Vomit 2. The one with pants on fire 3. Volcano in Sicily 4. *”I can smell the ____ of a woman... Honey oil, lavender, soap” 5. Israeli monetary unit 6. *”Hasta la vista, ____” 7. Life story, for short 8. Fastener 9. Hero shop 10. “Do ____ others...” 11. Paddington Bear’s homeland 12. Airport postings, acr. 15. Rutabaga cousin 20. Extra sweatshirt, e.g. 22. Long period of time 24. No-good 25. *”We’ll always have ____” 26. Hacienda brick 27. Mexican cuisine staple 29. *”She doesn’t ____ go here” 31. Party garb? 32. Not better 33. Homer’s famous poem, with The 34. *”Not quite my ____” 36. Donna or Lou 38. Techno dance party 42. Busybody, in Yiddish 45. *”____ puts Baby in a corner” 49. Toothy fish 51. Alterations specialist 54. Mention something 56. *”There’s no ____ like home” 57. Contributes 58. Season to be jolly 59. Village People hit 60. Source of protein 61. Cab payment 62. Eye layer 63. #74 Across, sing. 64. Sea eagles 67. *”Go ahead, make my ____”

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