LITTLE WHITE HOUSE HOSTS HOLIDAY WEEKEND EVENTS | P. 12
February 13, 2025 KEY WEST AQUARIUM TURNS 90 GREAT DEPRESSION PROMPTED 1ST TOURIST ATTRACTION | P. 6
NEW COLUMN RELIVES GOOD OLD DAYS EXPLORE KEY WEST IN THE ‘70S & ‘80S | P. 19
I’m happy to report the crime rate for Monroe County dropped in 2024!
Crime is down 13 percent, according to figures collected by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Specifically, 1,665 crimes were reported to the Sheri ’s O ce in 2023 and 1,448 reported in 2024. Some of the significant drops included aggravated assault — which dropped from 134 in 2023 to 93 in 2024 — and simple battery. There were 389 reported batteries in 2023 and 323 in 2024. There was also a decrease in narcotics violations — from 309 in 2023 to 260 in 2024.
This overall decrease in crime is a strong testament to the hard work put in by the men and women of the Monroe County Sheri ’s O ce, our strong working relationships with all law enforcement at the local, state, and federal levels, and those irreplaceable community partnerships with our amazing citizens who I consider an extension of the Sheri ’s O ce and without whom none of this would be possible.
Thank you!
The Villas at the Islands of Islamorada is a meticulously designed enclave offering waterfront single-family residences. With every comfort considered, this residence exudes coastal living with four bedrooms, four and one-half bathrooms, and stunning ocean views. The three-floor villa offers 3,137 sq ft of interior and 930 sq ft of exterior contemporary island architecture with an open, airy, and light-filled design. Three bedrooms are king-sized with en-suite bathrooms; the fourth is a bunk or twin room. Residence amenities include a top-of-the-line kitchen, open-concept kitchen, dining and living spaces, elevator, a powder room, ample closets, two oceanfront balconies, a ground floor waterfront loggia, a laundry room, 8 ft interior doors, and a 2-car garage with electric charging and added storage. This turn-key home is maintenance-free, providing the possibility of passive income. The safe and secure environment within the club allows for effortless multigenerational vacations with a gated entry and attentive staff. The property delivers a luxurious experience with its 615 ft of pristine crescent-shaped swimming beach and a private boat basin with ample dockage. Enjoy two oceanfront pools, an oceanfront bar, and pickleball courts for some friendly competition. Surrounded by lush, mature landscaping, this offering provides a plethora of water activities, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the Keys lifestyle.
81888 Overseas Highway | Islamorada 305.712.8888 | oceansir.com
5450 MacDonald Ave. No.5 Key West, FL 33040 Office: 305.453.6928 www.keysweekly.com
Publisher / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com
Publishing Partner / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com
Editor / Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
Account Executive
Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com
Staff Writers
Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com
Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com
Executive Administrator
Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com
Comptroller
Sarah Simcic sarah@keysweekly.com
Design / Pre-Press Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com
Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com
Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com
Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com
Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844
Se habla español
THE KEY WEST WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR 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.
Members of
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recently announced it discovered the heaviest Florida panther on record at 166 pounds. The panther was fitted with a tracking collar by FWC biologists. Typically, male panthers can weigh up to 160 pounds while females can weigh as much as 100 pounds.
The Harry S. Truman Little White House, 111 Front St., where President Truman spent 11 working vacations during his 1945-1953 administration, will host several events for Presidents Day Weekend. See page 12.
The coordinates for Monroe County’s first deployment of artificial reef materials as part of its new program are now available.
Name: Gulfside 10 Mile Artificial Reef – Patch Reef #1:
GPS Coordinates (DDM): Lat 24º53.195 N, Long 081º42.205 W
GPS Coordinates (DD): Lat 24.886575, Long -81.703408
The Monroe County Artificial Reefs Department deployed 10 power poles to a new reef area
about 16 nautical miles northeast of Key West in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The concrete power poles were received from two sources, including the Florida Keys Electric Co-op’s Sea Oats Beach project in Islamorada. The poles were stacked in three layers to increase vertical relief and provide spaces of different sizes. The site is about 40 feet deep. When weather conditions improve, the remaining 35 poles will be deployed to the same site to create two more patch
reefs. After that, additional structures of different shapes and sizes will be added to the site to increase habitat complexity and space for marine life. The program is entirely funded through a grant from the state of Florida.
“It was very exciting being topside to watch the deployment and even more thrilling to see the structures hosting marine life, including schools of fish and cobia, just a few days later when we conducted our post-deployment dive survey,” said Monroe County Artificial Reefs Director Hanna Koch. “This site will be part of a network of artificial reef sites in this area that aims to support various ecosystem and economic-related services.”
In August 2023, Monroe County was awarded $10 million from the state to start an artificial reefs program in the Florida Keys. In June 2024, the state awarded an additional $5 million for the program. Artificial reefs can provide long-term, stable, quality habitat to marine life, take pressure off local natural reefs, and provide new fishing and diving opportunities.
Florida has more than 4,000 artificial reefs, and Monroe County recently joined the 37 coastal counties that already have an artificial reef program. In the Florida Keys, 62 artificial reefs, including wrecks, were placed mainly between 1982 and 1989. The most recent artificial reef placed in Florida Keys waters was the Vandenberg off Key West in 2009. Koch plans to apply a science-based and ecosystem-focused approach to designing, deploying and evaluating artificial reef materials in the Florida Keys.
More information is at www. monroecounty-fl.gov/reefs.
— Contributed
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Ready for some Key West trivia?
• What was the island’s very first tourist attraction, having opened 90 years ago this month, on Feb. 17, 1935, amid the depths of the Great Depression?
• Which attraction had to close seven months after it opened, when the 1935 hurricane destroyed the railroad that delivered most visitors to Key West?
• Which open-air, waterfront establishment was converted into a shooting range during World War II?
The answer is the same for each question — the Key West Aquarium.
It’s true. Key West’s first tourist attraction — and by extension its entire tourism economy — opened for business 90 years ago this month on Feb. 17, 1935.
The facility has a whole year of 90th anniversary activities planned for locals and visitors, but the official birthday celebration takes place Monday, Feb. 17, featuring free birthday cake for guests all day. In celebration of its 1935 opening, admission will be discounted to $19.35 for adults and is free for kids 4-12 all day on Feb. 17. At 11 a.m., Key West Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez will issue a proclamation designating Feb. 17 as Key West Aquarium Day.
History of the Key West Aquarium
By 1934, Key West was broke and 80% of its residents were on welfare. City and county officials declared a state of emergency, and handed control of the island to the state of Florida and Gov. David Sholtz.
“The city’s financial plight, as one magazine reporter later observed, ‘was just about the most desperate in the country,’” wrote Garry Boulard in a 1988 essay for the Florida Historical Quarterly called, “State of Emergency: Key West in the Great Depression.”
The governor placed the entire city under the jurisdiction of the Federal Emergency Relief Act (FERA) and its regional director, Julius Stone Jr.
Stone would forever change the trajectory of the island city, envisioning a tourism mecca that took advantage of the city’s weather, natural beauty, architecture, tropical plants and warm waters.
It wouldn’t be easy, but Stone had nearly unlimited power in Key West, and $2 million of FERA funds. The federal program would later become the Works Progress Administration, a federal jobs program that provided funding and jobs to put able-bodied Americans to work building roads, bridges, hospitals, libraries, parks and, yes, the Key West Aquarium.
Stone encouraged the 10,000 Key West residents on welfare relief to take part in their own destiny and volunteer for 30 hours a week to clean up the city.
They turned homes into guest houses, built thatched huts on Rest Beach for visitors; painted and cleaned restaurants and bars, planted dozens of coconut palms; razed dilapidated buildings; built a dozen playgrounds, parks and at least one major swimming pool.
Meanwhile, construction crews, many of them unemployed veterans, were building the Key West Aquarium at the end of Whitehead Street.
It would be the first and largest open-air aquarium in the country, and would be equipped with a pipe system that furnished salt water from the harbor to the tanks.
The idea was to attract visitors to the little island city, boost the local economy, and serve as a showroom for other aquariums wishing to feature Key West’s diverse native marine life in their own exhibits.
The peak of that first tourist season in Key West occurred in February 1935, the same month the aquarium opened. The same month, American Magazine wrote that Key West might become a ‘hot-cha roaring whoopee town. If so, all luck with them — certainly that’s better than the desolation of 1934.’”
Key West did become such a town, but the aquarium was forced to close seven months later when the hurricane of 1935 destroyed the railroad and once again separated Key West from the mainland.
The military leased the building from the city during World War II and converted it to a shooting range.
“By the late 1970s, the aquarium was showing signs of its age and was closed for several years to undergo restoration and expansion under the direction of two of Key West’s leading businessmen, Chris Belland and Ed Swift III,” states the aquarium’s website. “Interior exhibits were enhanced. One addition was the 50,000-gallon Atlantic Shores exhibit that provided space for large species of game fish, tropical fish, sharks, sea turtles and more, including a mangrove shoreline.”
The aquarium reopened in 1982, just as tourism was becoming the main economic engine for Key West and the Florida Keys.
Today the aquarium is home to over 250 specimens of fish, sharks and four of the five species of sea turtles that inhabit the waters of the Florida Keys.
“The aquarium really put Key West on the path as a tourist destination,” said John Hodge, operations manager. “The aquarium’s collection is reflective of the Florida Keys nearshore environment and gives both locals and visitors an opportunity to see up close the undersea residents of the Keys.”
Visit keywestaquarium.com for a schedule of special events taking place each month throughout 2025. Ninety never looked so good.
From top to bottom: The entrance to the Key West Aquarium as seen at its opening in 1935. Photo courtesy of the Monroe County Library.
The Key West Aquarium was Key West’s first tourist attraction, and was built as an open-air aquarium. The roof was added in the 1960s. Photo courtesy of the Monroe County Library.
The Key West Aquarium opened 90 years ago this month, features indoor and outdoor exhibits that explore the Keys underwater world and will host a year’s worth of celebrations. CONTRIBUTED
THEATER IN ITS PUREST FORM!
When Marco meets Marco, an unlikely friendship begins over a mutual love of comic books between two boys with the same name but different outlooks on life.
Three generations of Jewish women from a complicated family arrive in Vienna for an award celebration, discussing past, present and future while eating chocolate cake.
$45, $35 mbrs. per show. Executive Producer of First Look: Jeffrey Johnson AT THE STUDIOS OF KEY WEST, 533 EATON ST. | TSKW.ORG
“BLOSSOMING POSSIBILITIES”
February 25, 2025 1PM - 5PM
Tennessee Williams Theatre 5901 College Rd Key West, FL 33040
Together, let’s plant the seeds for a thriving tourism ecosystem, nurture collaboration and grow opportunities for all who call The Florida Keys home.
Guest Speakers: Don Welsh - CEO, Destinations International Brett Laiken - CMO, VISIT FLORIDA
Please RSVP by 2/19/2025 to confirm your attendance. fla-keys.com/tourism-advocacy-workshop
Hosted by Kara Franker
President and CEO of Visit Florida Keys
Gain Insights: Discover the latest tourism trends and data to help your business flourish Connect with Peers: Build meaningful relationships with fellow professionals and stakeholders
Support Sustainable Growth: Learn how we’re fostering a resilient, community-first approach to tourism
Our bright and airy space is a treasure trove of fashion forward essentials that embrace the island lifestyle.
Offering fabulous brands including Farm Rio, Trina Turk, Oliphant & more. Stop by and check out Key West’s go to spot for splurge worthy and on-trend styles.
drops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should. She’s married to a saintly — and handy — fisherman, and has been stringing words together in Key West since 1998.
Amid the recent flurry of presidential executive orders, and in the interest of true democracy, I’d like to propose a few executive actions of my own. Feel free to send me some of the ones you’d enact and I can do a follow-up column that includes our reader responses.
I’ll go first.
By the authority vested in me by absolutely no one, it is hereby ordered as follows:
• Robocalls and spam text messages are banned, including those seeking political donations — for anyone. That’s it. End of discussion. (I’ll give my dad credit for this one. He and I don’t agree on much in politics, but we’re fully aligned on this.)
• In the interest of airline comfort and common sense: when the plane has landed and is safely on solid ground, people may unshackle themselves and stand up like the adults we are. Once a plane is taxiing to a gate, it is moving slowly enough to be passed by a stand-up e-scooter. Meanwhile, we have high-speed trains, subways and buses with no seatbelts in sight, and no rules requiring people to remain seated. Hell, we let people dangle off San Francisco cable cars that climb 45-degree hills. But a giant airplane, on the ground, moving at 20 mph, poses such a significant safety threat that rational, reasonably intelligent adults have to remain strapped in and risk being harshly reprimanded — over the loudspeaker — if they have the audacity to unclip their seatbelt and rise to a bent-over crouch to alleviate a leg cramp.
• In addition, all flights 45 minutes or longer will be equipped with free wifi and TV screens on the seat backs.
• Modernize the U.S. Postal Service.
The entire operation is archaic given today’s technology. Why do stamps still exist and why are they not available in vending machines everywhere? Surely we can come up with some sort of prepaid postage account and a bunch of free-standing postal kiosks and package dropboxes all over town. If the USPS must charge by weight, then equip each kiosk with a scale and let me tap a card or use my phone to pay the required postage, drop my package in the repository and move on with my life. Publix trusts me to weigh my own bananas at the self-checkout. Surely the postal service can trust me to set a box or envelope on a metal square. If I don’t pay, my package goes nowhere. Simple. But then again, the air travel industry still finds it necessary to explain the intricacies of a seatbelt before every flight. So perhaps I’m asking a bit much.
I don’t even know how much a stamp costs these days, but I do know that any reasonably intelligent American would be more than willing to pay a whopping $1 to mail a letter if it would fund basic technological upgrades that would seemingly solve nearly all of the postal service’s problems and go a long way toward helping to alleviate its financial problems that are not entirely its fault, but rather a result of ridiculous financial rules put in place by the federal government, which doesn’t even fund the USPS.
• Self-checkout technology is reserved for people smart enough to use it.
• Hotels must have ice machines on every floor.
• Servers and bartenders are hereby required by law to inform a customer when a gratuity has been included in their bill OR print such a notice on the bill. Anything less is fraudulent deception.
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Monroe County property owners insured through Citizens Property Insurance Corp. can expect an increase in their premiums when they renew their policies later this year.
On Feb. 5, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) approved rate increases of 6.6% for the more common multi-peril coverage. Details weren’t provided in the order on specifically how much more policyholders in the Keys would pay. They can expect an increase, however, as the new rates take effect June 1.
Last June, Citizens’ board of directors approved a request detailing a 13.5% increase for all policyholders. As prescribed by law, Citizens must charge actuarially sound rates which aren’t competitive with the private market. The insurer must also comply with a glide path that only allows annual rate increases of 1%; in 2025 that cap was 14%.
A public hearing held in Tallahassee last August saw Citizens explaining the requested increases to OIR actuaries. Mel Montagne, president for Fair Insurance Rates of Monroe (FIRM), and Joe Walsh, vice president for FIRM, were the only two who provided testimony why OIR should turn down any rate increases in Monroe County.
“FIRM is still waiting for countyspecific rates to see where we are,” Montagne told Keys Weekly on Feb. 11.
OIR’s order approving the rate increases, albeit lesser than what Citizens initially proposed, came after months of uncertainty over what the result would be for policyholders. Citizens sought higher rates in several previous requests, explaining it charged less than private carriers. Tim Cerio, Citizens CEO, told state lawmakers the entity has been charging below-market rates during a subcommittee meeting at the state capital. He even said customers are receiving “subsidized insurance not based on any economic need.”
Gov. Ron DeSantis has lauded recent legislative reforms he says have produced a healthy insurance market. In 2022, the state Legislature passed a bill eliminating one-way attorney fees related to assignment of benefits, ending the incentive for attorneys to
mislead claimants. Legislation also prohibited roofers from paying or absorbing insurance deductibles.
Another bill tightened Citizens eligibility by steering potential and existing policyholders to private carriers if a comparable policy was available. Citizens had more than a million policies during 2022. By 2024, 477,000 policies were moved out of Citizens to private insurers offering competitive rates.
“It is common and appropriate for Citizens’ rate-making process to involve a deliberate and thorough regulatory analysis, especially after a particularly active hurricane season,” Citizens said in a statement following the order of approval. “Moreover, as Gov. DeSantis stated, the 2025 rates reflect the many positive developments that have taken place in the Florida property insurance market since our original recommendations were filed.” Montagne told state officials last August that, between 2003 and 2021, Monroe County policyholders paid premiums which helped Citizens profit by nearly $860 million. He also said the ever-increasing windstorm premiums are especially hitting working families who live in homes built by local Habitat for Humanity organizations in the Florida Keys. Montagne explained their mortgage payments are 30% of the household income, at the time of closing, for a period of 30 years. Any increases like premium hikes by Citizens could price families out of these homes. Legislation could be filed for the state Legislature’s consideration to mitigate the squeeze on working families who achieved the home-buying dream thanks to Habitat.
OIR’s rate approvals for Citizens come days after DeSantis said Citizens policyholders in Miami-Dade and Broward counties would see premium decreases during a visit at Florida International University on Feb. 5. Specifically, 75% of policyholders in Miami-Dade would get a 6.3% decrease, while 52% of policyholders in Broward would experience a 4.5% drop in premiums. Monroe County was never mentioned to receive a decrease during the governor’s visit. However, DeSantis said policyholders statewide would see an average decrease of 5.6%.
In addition, DeSantis announced auto insurance rate reductions for Floridians insured through GEICO, 10.5%, Progressive, 8.1%, and State Farm, 6%.
Feb.
Presidents’ Weekend is more than a Monday without work at the Harry S. Truman Little White House.
On Saturday, Feb. 15, seven descendants of U.S. presidents will participate in a panel discussion at the Harry S. Truman Little White House, 111 Front St.
A ticketed event that takes place before a live audience, the annual forum is the largest Presidents Day Weekend gathering of presidential descendants in the country. The event is produced by the Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation in partnership with the Society of Presidential Descendants.
Participants will discuss their famous relatives’ legacies and the topic, “Historic Preservation — artifacts, objects and sites. Preserving our nation’s history for future generations.” Descendants include James Carter, grandson of Jimmy Carter; Clifton Truman Daniel, grandson of Harry S. Truman; Ulysses Grant Dietz, great-greatgrandson of Ulysses S. Grant; Mary Jean Eisenhower, granddaughter of Dwight D. Eisenhower; Massee McKinley, great-great-grandson of Grover Cleveland; Tweed Roosevelt, great-grandson of Theodore Roosevelt; and Patricia Taft, greatgranddaughter of William H. Taft.
In addition to the obvious eyesore and pollution of the surrounding waters, derelict vessels pose navigational hazards and cause destruction of precious marine habitats. CONTRIBUTED
Cori Convertito, chief curator and historian for the Key West Art & Historical Society, will moderate.
Following the forum, the presidential descendants will introduce winners of this year’s Monroe County student essay competition, after which attendees can mingle and enjoy cocktails on the lawn.
Located at 111 Front Street in Key West, the Harry S. Truman Little White House, where President Truman spent 11 working vacations during his 1945-1953 administration, is Florida’s only presidential museum. In the past, the property has also hosted presidents Jimmy Carter, Eisenhower, Taft, Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton.
Forum tickets are $40 each for Harry S. Truman Foundation members, $60 for non-members. The forum discussion begins at 4:30 p.m., with doors and cash bar opening at 4 p.m.
Additional Presidents Day Weekend events at the Little White House take place from Feb. 13 through Feb. 17 and include “Happy Hour at Harry’s,” a cocktails and presidential trivia competition; two live performances of the acclaimed stage production, “Give ‘Em Hell, Harry”; and a Presidents Day cookout.
More information is at trumanlittlewhitehouse.org/foundation/ events. — Contributed
Since July 2024, when Monroe County entered into a $3 million contract with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), county contractors have made significant strides in removing derelict vessels from Florida Keys waters. In the first six months of the contract, 75 vessels have been removed, with another 46 scheduled for removal.
Derelict vessels create significant environmental and economic challenges for the Keys. These abandoned boats pollute water, obstruct navigation and endanger marine life, while the financial burden of addressing these issues often falls on taxpayers.
This initiative, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), is focused on improving water quality and enhancing public safety throughout the Keys.
“We are deeply grateful for the hard work and dedication of FWC officers and the exceptional efforts of the derelict vessel removal contractors,” said Brittany Burtner, senior administrator of the Monroe County Marine Resources Office. “The officers’ commitment to identifying and investigating abandoned vessels, paired with the contractors’ expertise in removing these hazards, has been essential to this remarkable progress.”
The cleanup efforts have spanned the entire Florida Keys, with notable progress in Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, the Boca Chica Basin and Key West.
Officials say this initiative, combined with the creation of new mooring fields to provide secure anchoring options, will help prevent future abandonments and ensure the waterways of the Florida Keys remain cleaner and safer for all.
— Contributed
• In observance of Presidents’ Day, all our o ces will be closed on Monday, February 17.
• As of February 4, 2025, the tax roll is 84% collected, or $381,324,567.82.
• Taxes paid in February will receive a 1% discount.
• 2024 real estate and personal property tax reminder bills for unpaid taxes will be mailed out.
• Reminder that mobile home registrations expired on December 31 and are required to be renewed.
• Any property that is being rented for six months or less must have a tourist development tax account.
• As a reminder, online rental platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) DO NOT remit the 5% tourist development tax to our o ce. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure the tax has been remitted.
• All rental properties must also have a local business tax regardless of how long they are being rented.
• Please visit our website and follow us on Facebook for helpful information, forms, applications, and important announcements. Follow
Hands-on training educates trainees on use of fire extinguishers
The Key West Fire Academy on Feb. 10 conducts fire extinguisher training at Station 3. The training covered several topics including the different types of fires, appropriate fire extinguisher use, and handling techniques in emergency situations. Students practiced using fire extinguishers in simulated scenarios. Retired Key West Fire Capt. Jeffrey Hernández donated his time and multiple fire extinguishers for the students’ handson training. CONTRIBUTED
Fringe Theater presents Broadway play about ‘The Tonight Show’
Fringe Theater Key West presents “Good Night, Oscar” by Doug Wright at the Key West Armory, Feb. 18 to March 1. The play, which ran for 123 performances on Broadway, is inspired by true events and filled with real-life characters.
The year is 1958, and Jack Paar hosts “The Tonight Show” on NBC. It’s sweeps week, when ratings are crucial, and Paar has scheduled one of his favorite guests, Oscar Levant. Actor, composer, pianist and TV personality, Levant promises an unpredictable and often outrageous evening of wisecracks and music. “It’s a fine line between genius and insanity,” Levant used to quip about his real-life struggles with drug addiction and mental illness. But tonight is not just any night. What could possibly go wrong?
“Our board president saw ‘Good Night, Oscar’ in Chicago before it went to Broadway, and was so excited by the story that he called me on his way home,” said Rebecca Tomlinson, Fringe’s managing artistic director and the show’s director. “‘Fringe has to do this show,’ he told me. And a few short years later, here we are.”
“Good Night, Oscar” juxtaposes the public and private realms, exploring how far people will go to get the laugh, the ratings, the notoriety that sustains them. And at what cost? At what point does entertainment become exploita-
tion? Doug Wright’s script is smart, funny and timely.
The show features Don Bearden as the eccentric Oscar Levant and Liz Cloud as his wife June Levant. In real life, Oscar and June were sometimes called “The Battling Levants,” in part because they each hosted their own local TV talk shows in the mid-1950s. But they were often at odds because of Oscar’s performance schedule, his addiction and his time in and out of psych wards. That fine line between genius and insanity could be crossed on national television.
Ray West plays “The Tonight Show” host Paar, who was the second host for the late-night talk show. Jim Argoudelis plays his boss, NBC president, Bob Sarnoff. The two men want different things for the night, the show and the role television plays in people’s lives. The cast is rounded out by Christopher Massicotte, who plays Jack’s assistant. Gregory James plays Oscar’s medical companion and Thomas Masat plays George Gershwin, who literally haunts Oscar Levant.
“Good Night, Oscar” runs Feb. 18 to March 1 at 7 p.m. at the Key West Armory, 600 White St. Tickets for can be purchased at.fringetheater.org or by calling the KeysTix box office at 305-2957676. Seating is limited.
— Contributed
Emeralds International is delighted to invite you to discover the latest novelties from the legendary watch brand Cuervo y Sobrinos during our trunk show on Friday, February 28th and Saturday, March 1st
Opening hours: 11 AM - 6 PM 104 Duval St, Key West
Welcome to this extraordinary property, a true gem completed in 2019, offering an unparalleled living experience with modern craftsmanship and exceptional features. Situated on an expansive double lot, this home blends beauty, durability, and functionality in every detail. Boasting solid Caribbean heart pine floors, pickled pine 20-foot ceilings, and custom-built kitchen cabinets, this home provides a warm and inviting atmosphere with a touch of elegance. Built to meet current Cat 5 hurricane codes, this home includes a foaminsulated roof, impact-resistant glass & doors, and an elevated foundation above base flood—ensuring peace of mind in extreme weather conditions. Featuring two large bathrooms and a convenient half bath, the home offers ample space for both comfort and privacy. Included on the property is a 1,548 square-foot commercial building, perfect for a business venture, workshop, or additional storage. This versatile space adds immense value to the property. Every inch of this home was built with attention to detail, ensuring a high standard of construction and design that stands the test of time. The oversized double lot provides plenty of outdoor space, allowing for a variety of possibilities from landscaping and entertaining. Plenty of room for a a large pool. Perfectly situated for privacy, yet close to essential amenities, this property offers the best of both worlds. This rare opportunity is a must-see for those seeking a one-of-a-kind home with added potential for business or personal use.
Skip the flowers and chocolates! Treat your Valentine to an enchanting evening of iconic music.
Join South Florida Symphony Orchestra as we celebrate the true romantics: R. Strauss’s insatiable Don Juan and touching Four Last Songs, Berlioz’s Shakespearean
King Lear Overture, plus, the world’s most famous waltz, The Blue Danube by J. Strauss II.
While most animals enter our shelter in good health and ready to be adopted, others arrive sick or injured, often requiring extensive veterinary care and/or medication before they can be placed for adoption.
This fund was named for Oscar, a miniature Schnauzer, thrown from a moving vehicle on Duval Street. He su ered a fractured shoulder and numerous abrasions, and found badly matted and full of fleas. Further testing indicated that Oscar was infected with potentially deadly heartworms. Under the care of Dr. Kristen Jensen at All Animal Clinic, Oscar’s shoulder healed. And, under the care of Dr. Ronit Berdugo, Oscar was rid of heartworms. Oscar was adopted by a special member of our Key West Community.
ALL DONATIONS MADE IN FEBRUARY WILL BE MATCHED, UP TO $100,000! HELP US MEET OUR MATCH TODAY!
So that all animals that come into our shelter get the same chance as Oscar, we established Oscar’s Fund. Donations to this fund go specifically to pay for the medical care of sick or injured animals.
CAROL SHAUGHNESSY
has lived in Key West for 40-plus years, witnessing and writing about the island’s renegade past, shipwreck salvage adventures and colorful presentday characters.
When I came to Key West in the late 1970s, I was a naïve 20-year-old Minnesota girl. I flew down to the exotic unknown island to meet my boyfriend John, who had friends here, and to thaw out after a frigid midwestern winter.
John had to make a stop in New York, so we flew separately.
Upon landing, I emerged from a tiny Air Sunshine plane (dubbed “Air Sometimes” because of its erratic schedule) into a third-world airport and bright white sun.
The taxis outside the airport were startlingly pink, and palm trees were everywhere. I gawked out the cab window until we reached a wood-frame house on Newton Street, home of John’s friend Wally, where we would stay.
After paying the cab driver, I jumped out eagerly, ran to the porch and knocked on the screen door.
Moments later, a cloud of pot smoke as thick as a Minnesota blizzard wafted through the screen. When it eventually cleared, a longhaired guy with a bushy beard was revealed.
“Hey there,” he said, eyes slightly glazed.
“You must be Wally,” I chirped. “I’m Carol, John’s friend from Minnesota. Is he here yet?”
Wally looked at me for a long, hazy moment.
“John?” he repeated. “Hey, how’s he doing? I haven’t heard from him in six months!”
Apparently John hadn’t told Wally we were coming — OR that we were staying with him. But with the easygoing acceptance of the era, Wally quickly decided any friend of John’s was OK with him. His spare room was all mine, he said, until John showed up — or until I figured out what I wanted to do next.
John never showed up.
But within 48 hours, I knew what I wanted to do next: spend the rest of my life in Key West.
The late ’70s and early ’80s were a fascinating time on the island — a time when one local mayor waterskied to Cuba on a single ski just to prove he could; when pot smuggling was considered more of a hobby than a crime; when seemingly half the populace was under investigation by the DEA; when Key West seceded from the Union and became the independent Conch Republic.
In those days, shrimpers in white rubber boots ruled the waterfront, fighting for their honor (or whatever) in dingy downtown bars. Homes that today stand pastel and pristine were neglected, their unpainted exteriors held together by little more than termite spit. Duval Street was so empty on summer afternoons that dogs drowsed on the blacktop.
Key West at that time was a magnet for adventurers — whether they were illicitly importing unnamed substances, heading for Colombia on assignment for Esquire magazine, or seeking 17th-century shipwreck treasure. There was a seductive, almost dangerous appeal about the tiny island at the end of the road.
It was also the site of an unaccountable literary renaissance.
Notable writers Phil Caputo, Tomas Sanchez, Tom McGuane, Jim Harrison and even Hunter S. Thompson were in residence, soaking up sun, inspiration and cocktails (among other items) in equal measure. And a young Jimmy Buffett played gigs in local bars, singing songs that would one day be known to millions.
To me, it was flat-out irresistible.
Not long after my arrival, I was unofficially adopted by a pack of colorful characters whose passion for Key West was as big as the island itself — and who were gracious enough to share their stories with a naïve Minnesota girl.
Eventually I realized they had made an unspoken bargain with me. They would share their lifestyle and the stories of it. I would be responsible for preserving those stories, and the spirit of Key West’s renegade days, however I could.
This column is written in the spirit of that bargain and will appear every other week. Come along for a reminiscent ride — and discover Key West “back in the day.”
In an effort to clear up a misunderstanding that duped even a few of our own Keys Weekly staff members, we’re putting out a public service announcement to our community. In 2024, many were delighted to learn that State Road A1A would officially be renamed as ‘Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway.’ An unveiling in August 2024 in Key West celebrated the change – but there’s a catch. In the Keys, State Road A1A only runs through a small portion of Key West, and the vast majority of U.S. 1 is still the good old Overseas Highway. Although the error has since been corrected, even Google Maps perpetuated a misnomer that tricked Keys locals for months after the name change. So, even though the Keys still love Jimmy, areas shown in red on the map are where the name change applies. CONTRIBUTED
As I entered the yard of the house on Dey Street, and walked past Cayman, building a giant frog out of foam, I could feel the creative energy coursing through the property. Tools lay everywhere, among colorful pieces of scenery and props in varying phases of completion. At the center of the controlled chaos were Johnny Veres and Beth Hataway, locally known as the singing duo Electric Blue Yonder. These two and a group of friends known as the Dey Street Depoo Artists were hard at work for the Micro Party Variety Show.
Together with Bravo Theater Key West, the Southernmost Youth Orchestra and the Helmerich Theater at the Studios of Key West, Electric Blue Yonder will bring nearly 40 local children to the stage in a variety show for all ages.
What started off as a single lullaby for their young nephew has blossomed into a full album by Electric Blue Yonder called “Micro Party” and a variety show based on nine of the songs. The show includes live music, performed by both Electric Blue Yonder and the Southernmost Youth Orchestra. Interspersed with some puppetry and magic, it also features interpretive dance performed by the child stars of Bravo Theater.
The Micro Party variety will take place at The Studios of Key West’s Helmerich Theater with shows Feb. 14, 15 and 16.
Veres and Hataway have been coming to Key West for over a decade and credit the island as their main inspiration for the Micro Party. In 2022, at the Coast is Clear
... a professional musician, singer, actor and executive director of the Key West Music Awards, is known to sacrifice his comfort for that of his cat.
Festival, Electric Blue Yonder played their full album live and it was a resounding success. The performance ended up being a rock and roll rave, but for kids. The response inspired them to make Key West their permanent home and the ball has not stopped rolling since.
The variety show aims to help children develop a love of learning and a creative curiosity. Using questions and activities designed to inspire ideas, kindness and curiosity, the show strives to create layers of learning. It’s based on the premise that children often are underestimated, and are capable of a deeper understanding of humanity and art than they get credit for, as evidenced by the simple themes and repetitive lyrics typically found in children’s songs.
One of the songs in the show describes how the smallest of things can make the biggest of differences. Using several examples, including the role tiny bacteria can play in the world, the show uses interactive mediums to encourage children to use their own critical thinking skills and gather information to come to a conclusion that includes facts, compassion and creativity.
The Micro Party takes place at The Studios of Key West on Feb. 14 at 6 p.m. and on Feb. 15 and 16 at 3 p.m. For more information, visit bravotheatrekeywest.com and tskw.org.
The College of the Florida Keys will continue its 2025 VIP Series with “Coral Restoration: Improvise, Adapt and Overcome” on Thursday, Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. in the Tennessee Williams Theatre on the Key West campus. Mote Marine Laboratory scientist Jason Spadaro will discuss applying new technology, novel methods and materials, and classic ecological theory to the restoration of Florida’s coral reef.
Spadaro’s research primarily focuses on the Florida coral reef, but extends to collaborative projects in the Caribbean, such as in Belize and Mexico, where he contributes to a multinational, multi-institutional team that investigates a large native crab species and its potential in facilitating extensive coral reef restoration. His research is funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Monroe County Tourism Development Council, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and
Jason Spadaro, a scientist with Mote Marine Laboratory, will discuss coral restoration at the college’s VIP speaker series on Feb. 20 at the Key West campus.
Mote’s Protect Our Reefs grant program.
Now in its 11th season, the college’s VIP Series features the views, ideas and perspectives (VIP) of speakers of local, regional and national prominence. CFK’s 2025 VIP Series is sponsored by Essential Net Solutions. Tickets for each event are $5 at the door. Admission is free for students at CFK and Monroe County schools. More information i s at 305-296-9081 or cfk.edu/vip. — Contributed
SATURDAY, FEB. 15
SUNDAY, FEB. 16
11 A.M. TO 1 P.M. DOUBLE DOWN
A diverse group of talented musicians from the Florida Keys featuring members John Mavis who is known for his work in country, classic rock, and blues fronting bands and also his solo work; top guitarist Ric Arra known for fronting Crossroads, the top Eric Clapton Tribute Band in the country in the early 2000’s; Drummer Sol Bradman and his driving drum rhythms; and guitar and bass player Chuck Freeman who has toured around the country, all who shared their passion for blending various genres of country, rock, and blues. The band quickly became a staple in the Florida Keys music scene, known for their lively performances and ability to connect with audiences.
1 P.M. TO 3 P.M.
A Key West local power trio that plays a wide variety of rock hits and original music. The band consists of Marshall Morlock, a prolific guitarist and singer raised here in The Keys. Scott Morlock, also known as “Marshall’s Dad” who plays bass, keyboard, and sings simultaneously. The Morlocks along with some of Key West’s best drummers make up MMB.
6 P.M. TO 8 P.M.
2 TO 6 P.M. ROCK LEGENDS
The Tribute™ fronted by the amazing female singer Jade, offers a unique and powerful take on the classic rock experience. Jade’s dynamic vocal range and commanding stage presence breathe new life into the timeless hits of rock’s greatest legends. Her ability to channel the raw energy and emotion of iconic rock vocalists sets her apart, making her the perfect frontwoman for this tribute band.
11 A.M. TO
The Bahama Village Music Program has been in operation for 21 years, bringing free musical education and instruction to children aged 6 to 16 in our community. BVMP is more than just an educational institution, the program creates a great sense of community spirit and pride, fosters important mentor relationships between local teenage musicians and their students, encourages parent participation, and enhances student’s self-esteem. Our target community, Bahama Village, is rich in cultural history and community involvement, inspiring our students to become not only better musicians, but also better human beings.
Maggie Baugh, hailing from Boca Raton, FL, developed a passion for classical music, songwriting, and performing throughout Florida. At just 13 years old, Baugh showcased her fiddling skills performing “Devil Went Down to Georgia,” with Charlie Daniels sparking her love for Country Music. With hit singles like “Think About Me” and “Drinking to the Broken Hearts,” Baugh achieved entry into Spotify’s Million+ Club. Her social media presence is strong, especially through her TikTok series, “Finish the Lick,” displaying her talent across various instruments and earning over 30 million views. Beyond her music, Baugh excels in songwriting, co-producing, engineering, and touring nationally. Baugh continues to expand her musical horizons. Recently, she showcased her musical talent alongside Keith Urban at the 2024 CMT Awards in Austin, TX featured on the mandolin and vocals. 2
THE SHANE DUNCAN BAND
The Shane Duncan Band is a high energy variety party band based out of South Florida. With an extensive playlist from genres such as Top 40, Dance, Disco, Pop, Rock, and Country the dance floor is always packed. Come party with us!
NOON TO 2 P.M.
Uncle Rico is a cover band based in the Florida Keys. The band was formed by vocalist and guitar player, Alex Caldwell (a Key Largo native) with the intention of playing a large variety of music from multiple popular genres such as, pop, alternative rock, classic rock, soft rock, metal, country, pop punk, 80’s, 90’s, hip hop, reggae, and folk. The band has been active since its creation playing music from Ft Lauderdale to Key West playing clubs, bars, and festivals as well as maintaining consistent gigs in the Upper Keys.
• EXCLUSIVOS
The Beachwear Lady
Key West Greeting Card Shop LLC
• The Greeen House
MarineLab
• WireWorks Creations Inc.
• Florida Keys National
Marine Sanctuary
• Nittaya Wright
11am
12pm
2pm
Bath Fitter
Living Towers
• Silent Flight Studios
Cachimba Cigars LLC
• Sun’s Up Studios
• Jet Lag Dive Charters/ Megalodon Shark Teeth
• Hudson River Inlay
Keys Greens and Things
Lucky Cajun
• Tatts N Tits
FishBone Design
• Seacamp
Antonioartstudio
Mount Sinai Medical Center
• Mystical Moon Acres
Rusticfish
Fish Print Shop
• Sweet Treats Cannery
Psychic Of The Keys
• Majestic Seas Luxury Charters & Travel Renewed Roots Homestead & Apothecary
U.S. Coast Guard Aux, Key West
Rural Health Network
• Florida Keys Mosquito
Control District
• Surfing Coconut
Kadan Swimwear The Label
Key West Flags LLC
• Dawgone ‘Licious LLC
Earth to Ocean
• Vacasa
• Nature’s Treasures
IslandGirlDesigns
• Camp-Out Inc.
C R Stuff
Sugar & Sand Candle Co
• LAUREN’S DESIGNS
Wild Soul Herb Farm
• The Turtle Hospital
• Floating Leaf Chairs
KEEZ BEEZ LLC
• Florida Fish & Wildlife
Conservation Commission
Key West Police Department
Love Fund
Castaway Coffee
The Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association values the importance of continuing education. By furthering your education, you can better identify where you can contribute most effectively to your chosen community. This belief underpins our commitment to providing scholarships to young men and women dedicated to academic success. While education alone does not guarantee success, it opens doors to numerous opportunities, paving the way for a fulfilling and rewarding future.
In the past 20 years, we have awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to Florida Keys seniors from our Seafood Festival!
We are local commercial fisherman from Miami River to Key West. Our members are as diversified and unique as the islands they hail from. Many members are pioneers in the fisheries, and it is not uncommon to find 3rd and 4th generation fishing families.
Our mission has us involved almost daily with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Division of Marine Fisheries Management, Law Enforcement, or the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute.
We participate in biology research projects and advise and help develop rules for current and future commercial fisheries and law enforcement management. For example, we were instrumental in three new rules to protect the stone crab fishery. We worked closely with FWRI biologists to help test and ultimately get final approval on a shorter crab season, increased claw size and escape rings to release by-catch and undersized crabs. These rules further protect the sustainability of the crab fishery.
We additionally take an active role in identifying and securing grants and disaster relief funds as they become available. Our participation and relationships at the federal and state levels allow us to identify this funding and participate in the decisions made with regards to disbursement formulas and eligibility.
Some additional efforts include cooperative scientific research that has helped sustain our fisheries, secure grant funding for special projects and educational programs, and promote environmental responsibility through marine debris clean ups.
Keys Fishermen are some of the toughest fishermen in the industry. Throughout hurricanes, fluctuations in the lobster and stone crab seasons, and the ebb and flow of the economy, they always endure. But wouldn’t it be nice to not worry about financial catastrophe if it strikes?
The Raby Family has provided insurance to commercial fishermen in Florida and the Southwest since 1966. We provide comprehensive policies to protect your assets while working on the water.
We offer insurance coverage not only to fishermen but also to owners of various marine-related businesses. Our services extend to marine construction, ferry operators, charter fishing boats, tug and barge businesses, and more.
is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com
This week, we get to dance under the light of the glorious monthly phenomenon of a full moon. With the sun in Aquarius, that places this full moon in the sign of Leo, which is asking us all to feel into the ways in which we physically and emotionally show up at the center of certain networks of influence. There are times when we are the side character, and there are times when we are the main character. How do you hold the torch for others when you are progressing the narrative for those around you? In addition to tapping into our center stage energy, this full moon has a very active and electric feel to it. With the sun conjunct Mercury in Aquarius, we are clearly and objectively thinking about how others perceive us while we are center stage, and we can use that information to determine how to behave in a way that benefits our audience. In addition, Uranus in Taurus is in a 90-degree square to the sunMercury conjunction in Aquarius and the moon in Leo – a formation astrologers call a T-square given the three-pointed shape. With Uranus in the mix, the best way to access the lesson of this full moon is to ensure that our actions are taken in order to achieve and promote freedom and liberation. Shine on and show the world how to be free in the best way that you know how. And as always with Uranus, expect the unexpected. Here are your horoscopes for the full moon in Leo. Read for your rising and sun signs.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
This full moon is allowing you to see yourself very clearly, which, in turn, offers you the ability to also see yourself reflected in your best friends and important partners. Know yourself through those who know you
the best, and trust what you learn. Feel it. Own it. Ultimately, this lesson serves to offer you freedom at or from home. Will you find liberation where you are or decide to change your roots?
Feb. 19 - March 20
As you can very clearly understand the importance of solitude and deep reflection right now, this full moon compels you to put that understanding into practice. How do you actively bring your inner awareness into the world through your hard work and labor? Is there alignment here? One way to interpret this full moon for you is actually not to think about it too much, and rather to find freedom in how you flow. Let your body’s wisdom take over.
ARIES
March 21 - April 19
You have friends and support networks on the mind, and this full moon is offering a reflection on the way that they help you achieve your bliss. Do these people push you to be creative? Do they set up the conditions for joyful moments? The way these folks hold you allows you to be free in ways that reflect your values. Trusting your friends allows you to make joy and hold a strong value system.
April 20 - May 20
Your career is in the spotlight, but your home is where your heart is. These two areas of life tend to be presented as contrasting spheres, but this full moon is pulling them together. How does your work light up your home and family? Honestly, the way to tie these two parts of life together right now is to liberate yourself from social expectations and tired stories. Open up your possibilities.
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
You may be feeling some tension between seeing a great adventure in your mind but feeling like you’re
physically held in your familiar surroundings. The way to clear this tension and find your full moon lesson is to dive into the freedom you find when you have time to yourself. Ultimately, here vs. there is not a problem when you find unexpected freedoms in your solitude.
June 21 - July 22
Your self-worth is under the spotlight, and that may bring up some deep emotions about shared resources and support. You’re seeing how others influence your financial or emotional security, but your real power comes from within. Liberation is found in unexpected connections, whether it’s a surprise shift in your community or a new opportunity arising from a friend. Keep your heart open to unconventional solutions.
July 23 - Aug. 22
This is your full moon, so all eyes are on you. You’re shining in your full radiance, but that means your closest relationships are also reflecting back important truths. What are your partnerships revealing about who you are? Your public image may be shifting in unexpected ways, perhaps giving you more freedom to be yourself. Lean into your authenticity as much as you can.
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
This full moon highlights your need for rest, but your daily life is demanding your attention. You may be feeling a pull between what your body needs and what your obligations require. The key to managing this? A shift in perspective. Your belief system is being shaken up, so let new ideas or unexpected insights guide you toward more balance and liberation.
Sept. 23 - Oct. 23
Your friendships, creative projects, and sense of belonging are all
being illuminated by this full moon. You can find so much joy in your networks, but this lunation is also highlighting where you need to reclaim your own power. Freedom is found in letting go. Release control, and see what unexpected magic comes through.
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
The full moon is shining on your career and public life, revealing the impact you’re making in the world. But just as much as you’re focused on your ambitions, there’s an equally strong pull toward home and family. An unexpected shift in your closest bonds may be the key to balancing your personal and professional life. Let the loves in your life offer a feeling of freedom.
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
Your vision is expanding, and this full moon is pushing you to go after what inspires you. However, while your mind is set on big ideas and grand adventures, true freedom is found in the details right now. Unexpected shifts in your work, routines, or health may offer the path forward, so stay flexible and let your curiosity lead the way.
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
You’re being asked to step into deeper trust with others, whether emotionally, financially, or both. This full moon highlights themes of shared resources and vulnerability, but it also asks: What does true security look like for you? Uranus is urging you to break free from rigid definitions of happiness, so let yourself embrace pleasure in unconventional ways.
MARK HEDDEN
... is a photographer, writer and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.
Why aren’t there any blue jays in the Lower Keys?
— Paul Z. Bandit
It’s pretty hard to avoid blue jays in the eastern half of North America — except down here. Key West is below both the squirrel line and the blue jay line, that line being anything south of Marathon. Why? The answer is nuts.
Blue jays (and squirrels) are acorn junkies, aka oak tree nut-dependent, but it’s not all they eat. Blue jays will eat butterflies, spiders, bugs, berries, the eggs of other birds in the nest, nestlings, mice, slow-moving small bats and small songbirds that have been struck unconscious after colliding with windows. Blue jays have also been known to imitate the calls of red-shouldered hawks to scare other birds into dropping their food so they can steal it. But acorns are a large and consistent part of their diet.
In one study, acorns and their like made up 43% of the blue jay’s annual diet, and 67% of their diet from October to March in the colder latitudes. They tend to build up caches of acorns near their breeding sites and can fly with up to five acorns in their mouth and throat at the same time. In one study, two jays that were tracked over three days made 1,270 and 1,959 visits to two pin oak trees, taking 3,175 and 4,897 acorns each.
There are live oaks in the Keys, usually as part of rockland hammocks. But the Keys are on the very edge of the live oaks’ range, and they slowly peter out, getting replaced by more tropical species, as you move from Key Largo to Marathon. Below that they disappear from the habitat. Hence the lack of blue jays in the Lower Keys.
Looking at eBird data, there have been three reports of them south of Moser Channel in the last 20 years, which makes sense as birds do sometimes go on walkabout. (Flyabout?)
I like the fact that we don’t often see blue jays in these parts, largely because I am no longer inured to their presence. And then I get all excited about them when I emerge back up onto the mainland.
Why do some birds have odd names?
Blue-footed booby. Tufted titmouse. Tinkling cisticola. Was alcohol involved in the naming process? — Nanook of the North
For the same reason Dick Cheney will probably be the last famous person named Dick in the English speaking world. Because like sandbars and moral codes, language shifts and changes. Today’s titillating diction is yesterday’s innuendo-free commonplace usage, and nearly any term is vulnerable to being turned into a double entendre.
ASK THE BIRD GEEK: IMPORTANT READER QUESTIONS ANSWERED
If enough people said, “Oh, man, that dude got hit right in the chicken corn chowder,” or “Check out the spokes on that woman,” those terms would also probably eventually take on cruder meanings.
Birds in the booby family are called boobies because they tend to breed on remote islands and not have a lot of fear of humans, so they were easy-to-kill meat for protein-starved sailors in the late 1500s, and back then, booby meant stupid, full stop. It came into a term of usage to describe human mammaries in the late 1920s, doing a bit of a linguistic slide from the term bubbies, which is also from the late 1500s.
Tit used to mean small; mouse used to mean tiny. So titmouse is two adjectives smashed together to create a noun used as the name for a genus of diminutive songbirds. The word was apparently once used to describe upper deck female secondary sex characteristics in Old English, spelled titt at the time. But that term dropped out of usage for several centuries. It came back as a reinvented term to mean female human embonpoints in the late 1920s, which was apparently a great era for bird name/lady parts linguistic crossovers.
Tinkling began to be used as a word to describe a series of soft, ringing sounds in the 1300s. It didn’t come to mean piddle, widdle or wee until the 1960s.
To answer your second question about whether they were drinking when they named these birds: Yeah, probably.
Is a flock of seagulls family?
— The Aptly Named Joy
I’m just going to assume you’re talking about the most famous band to come out of Liverpool, England, the early ’80s synth-heavy new wave act A Flock of Seagulls. And in that case, the answer is yes, at least partially. Founding members Mike Score and Ali Score were/are brothers. The other two members, Frank Maud-
sley and Paul Reynolds, were just guys from the neighborhood. Mike – the guy with the hair shaped like a combination of an ironing board, a paper airplane and a seagull wing – wrote and sang most of the songs, while Ali was the drummer.
I had a vague recollection of A Flock of Seagulls playing (I think) at The Reach sometime in the early ’90s, when I first moved here, and feeling too cool to go see them. (I was more of a Ramones guy.) And I think it did happen, because with a little Googling I found out that Mike Score actually lived in Key West for a while after the band’s heyday, having a brief second career as a boat builder.
On the odd chance you are talking about birds, it’s a little more complicated.
We have four or five species of gulls here, the most common by several magnitudes being laughing gulls. Laughers breed all over Florida, including the Keys. I was never sure where until I found a paper from 1986 saying they nested mostly in Florida Bay, and that the timing of their breeding and the size of their colonies were highly variable during a six-year study. I assume that info still holds, though the authors of the paper thought the colonies might have been somewhat nascent and growing, so they may have increased in size and success rates since then.
Young laughing gulls tend to be fed by their parents for the first 10 to 14 days after they learn to fly, and they remain in the general area of the colony for two to three weeks. And then something called post-breeding dispersal happens, where the birds move on to other places.
I guess the short answer is, if you happen to be in a boat in Florida Bay from April through August, and you see a small flock of laughing gulls, they may be family. And if you see a flock of laughing gulls down in the Lower Keys, there may be family members in it, but family isn’t the organizing force.
Marine Scientist, Mote Marine Laboratory
Dr. Spadaro will discuss applying new technology, novel methods and materials, and classic ecological theory to the holistic restoration of Florida’s Coral Reef. In collaboration with multiple nations and institutions, he is working with large native crab that have the potential to facilitate dramatic, large scale
Free for Monroe County & CFK Students - 7PM at Tennessee
Thru FEB. 22, 2025
A darkly-comic, fastpaced romp that cheerfully desecrates the stories of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle... Written by Kate Hammill Directed by Mimi McDonald Starring Susannah Wells, Mariah Woessner, Arthur Crocker, Morgan Fraga Pierson ... and, Costumes by Sushi
Friday, Feb 21, 2025 The Studios of Key West All art is available for purchase during the preview at a Buy it Now price
Doors open: 4:15 PM Auction: 5:00 PM
$30 General Admission $65 VIP Admission
Special Tribute to Anne McKee
Tickets available at the door and at www.mckeefund.org
Art preview Feb 6–20 at The Studios of Key West. No admission fee.
FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 2
5:30PM: VIP Champagne Reception & Appetizers 6:30PM: Doors open for General Admission THE TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE
• MC: STEVEN CRANE • MUSIC FAVORITE DUO: CARMEN
• CATERED DINNER BY (VEGETARIAN
Visit our Tavernier Branch on Thursday, 02/27/2025 from 10am-2pm!
Keys FCU is offering FREE credit reviews to all current and potential members who are looking for ways to build, repair, and better understand their financial wellness!
Our Tavernier Branch is located at 91200 Overseas Hwy, Suite 15, Tavernier, FL 33070.
*Restrictions may apply. See us for details. NCUA Insured. Membership is open to everyone who lives or works in the Florida Keys.
The Feb. 7 cleanup was held in New Town, where 57 volunteers tackled Kennedy Drive, Duck Avenue, Eagle Avenue, Flagler Avenue and 14th Street. In one hour, they collected 233 pounds of trash, 48 pounds of recycling and 2.5 gallons of cigarette butts. Special thanks to this week’s host, Southernmost Nail Bar and Spa, which provided breakfast and coffee to all the volunteers.
One hour a week makes a huge difference, and volunteers are welcome every Friday and some Saturday mornings, from 8 to 9 a.m., when the Key West Ploggers clean up a designated area of the island.
Gloves, pickers, buckets, vests, hand sanitizer and a parking pass are provided to all volunteers.
A troubling number of cigarette butts and plastic bags have been included in recent hauls. Please remember your reusable bags when shopping so we can keep the plastic off the streets, parking lots and, most importantly, out of the water. And dispose of cigarette butts in any receptacle rather than the street or sidewalk, as from there, they easily end up in the ocean.
The city of Key West and its residents ask everyone to do their part to help keep Key West beautiful. With simple steps like making sure you bag your trash before putting it in your Waste Management trash cans or Dumpsters, and making sure the lids on Dumpsters are closed, will keep a lot of trash from blowing into the streets. Call Waste Management at 305-296-8297 for any furniture items left on the city right of way.
Please pick up around your home or apartment complex. Every piece of trash picked up is one less that may end up in the ocean that surrounds and sustains our island community. It is not just the large
items you can see easily when you are walking, but the smaller items such as bottle caps and cigarette butts that are collected by the volunteers that make the biggest difference.
It takes committed community involvement to keep Key West beautiful and we are making progress with every cleanup event and every spot that’s adopted. Call Dorian Patton at 305-809-3782 to find out how your business, nonprofit or club can help.
— Contributed
Join a one-hour Friday morning cleanup. All events are 8 to 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted.
Feb. 14: Duval Street and Bahama Street. Meet in the parking lot behind St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Hosted by St. Paul’s.
Feb. 21: Smathers Beach. Meet in the sandy parking lot next to Margaritaville Beach House. This is a special fentanyl awareness event presented by Mona’s Light, Guidance/Care Center, Monroe County Coalition and the health department.
Feb. 28: Eaton and White streets. Meet in the front parking lot of Strunk’s Ace Hardware. 1101 Eaton St. Parking is limited. Hosted by Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation
The Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC. Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.
Junior, a 5-month-old, all-black Chihuahua mix is a happy, energetic pup looking for his forever home. He’s incredibly sweet and would thrive with a family that can spend lots of time with him. Junior is also super smart and will likely pick up on tricks and commands with ease.
the adorable 2-year-old orange tabby, is calm and playful. He is sweetnatured and easygoing, loves to relax, but still has bursts of energy for playtime. Eli is a versatile companion who would do well in a home with other pets or as your one-and-only.
Adzo. This 4-year-old all-grey cat is as handsome as he is sweet — even his cute little nose is grey. Although he is only 4 years old, his demeanor is that of an old soul. He loves pets, enjoys peaceful moments, and would thrive in a calm home where he can relax and be adored.
Penelope, the grey and white guinea pig who’s full of love. She is kind and gentle, loves attention, and even knows a few tricks. Penelope would make an excellent companion for someone looking for a small pet with a big personality.
Pirate, a 3-year-old tabby, is a true tomcat — big, strong and full of personality. He was adopted last year but was recently returned due to his owner’s poor health. A mix of affectionate and independent, Pirate enjoys pets and attention but also values his alone time.
If you’re looking for a sturdy, charismatic companion who knows what he wants, Pirate might be the perfect match.
Once slaves, these individuals found a better life on the island
Aformal celebration of Black history in this country began more than 50 years before Kent State University, in 1970, first celebrated Black History Month. The first U.S. president to recognize the event was Gerald Ford, in 1976. Every year since, each president of the United States has issued a proclamation honoring February as Black History Month.
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
February was chosen as it coincided with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. As with many aspects of the Florida Keys story, Black history is rich, engaging and inspiring. Take the story of Andrew “Sandy” Cornish, who was born into slavery in Maryland in 1793. He came to Florida when his owner hired him out to work on a railroad project. Cornish was able to earn money for his own labor, too, and, over time, was able to save enough money to buy emancipation papers for himself and his wife, Lillah, from his owner. After a house fire destroyed their papers, a group of slave traders captured him. Cornish took extraordinary steps to escape and proceeded to make his body undesirable for the slave trade by stabbing himself in the leg, slashing a muscle in his ankle, and cutting off one of the fingers on his left hand. After recovering from his self-inflicted wounds, Andrew “Sandy” Cornish and his wife, Lillah, eventually made their way to Key West in the late 1840s.
Circa 1850, they bought a farm in the present-day Truman Avenue and Simonton Street area, where they grew fruits and vegetables that were sold to locals, soldiers and Key West markets. The Cornish farm is said to have been the island’s first successful farm, and Sandy, as those around him knew him, grew to become one of the wealthiest men on the island. He also became one of Key West’s civic and spiritual leaders.
Another important moment in Black history is when James D. English moved to Key West circa 1850. Born in 1816, the era of slavery, he grew up as a free and educated man in St. Augustine. After moving to Key West, English became one of the island’s prominent citizens. English served as a county commissioner from 1868 to 1877, and in the late 1870s, he became a member of the Monroe County school board — the first Black man to serve in either position. His son, Nelson English, grew up in Key West and became Key West’s youngest and first Black postmaster.
Of course, Black history in the Florida Keys is not relegated to Key West. One of my favorite stories occurred in the Northern Keys, those nearly 50 islands found north of Key Largo.
It involves Israel Jones, who was born to parents who may or may not have been enslaved people in North Carolina. Looking for a different life, he hopped aboard a ship and eventually wound up in Coconut Grove, where he met his wife, worked hard and raised two sons.
His South Florida story began when he arrived in the burgeoning community of Coconut Grove and found work as a handyman at the Peacock Inn. Originally called the Bayview House, it opened circa 1883 and is considered mainland South Florida’s first hotel. Mozelle Albury, one of the inn’s housemaids, caught his eye. She and Israel married in
1895, by which time Israel had made an impression on some early South Florida and Florida Keys landowners.
It started with Walter S. Davis II, who owned 500 acres of Key Biscayne. Jones worked to improve it after being hired as his property’s caretaker. He cleared land for crops and built a two-story home for the Davis family. His hard work paid off. Two additional property owners, Ralph Munroe, founder and first commodore of the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club, and Dr. John Clayton Gifford, also hired Jones to manage their properties. They would not be the last.
Frank T. Budge, the owner of Miami’s first hardware store and its first brick building, also hired Jones. In addition to the brick store, Budge owned Totten Key, where he operated a 250-acre pineapple farm.
In 1897, Jones’ first child was born, Arthur Lafayette Jones. 1897 was also the year Israel Jones purchased his first island, the 63-acre Porgy Key, for $300. The following year, while stuck aboard a 22-foot sailing smack in the middle of Biscayne Bay, Mozelle gave birth to their second child, Lancelot Garfield Jones. The same year, Jones purchased the neighboring Old Rhodes Key.
Israel “Parson” Jones was a religious man who supported Miami’s Mt. Zion Baptist Church. He also helped create Jacksonville’s Negro Industrial School. The school, initially called the Florida Baptist Academy, was founded in 1892. It moved to St. Augustine in 1918 where the school underwent several transitions before moving to Dade County in 1965 and opening as Florida Memorial College in 1968. In 2004, the school became Florida Memorial University.
Israel Lafayette Jones died in 1932 at the age of 74. His sons were skilled fishermen who knew the local waters as well as they knew each other. In addition to catching fish for sport, the brothers fished commercially, harvesting lobster and stone crab they supplied to the Cocolobo Cay Club built on Adams Key by Carl Fisher in 1921. Lancelot, too, worked as a fishing guide for members of the club that included Daniel Topping, once owner of the New York Yankees, and Presidents Herbert Hoover, Lyndon B. Johnson, John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon.
Black history is a rich part of the Florida Keys story. It becomes a matter of special focus by museum professionals, educators and historians every February. Recognizing Black History Month has been a presidential prerogative since Ford first did it in 1976. In 2025, for the first time in nearly 50 years, Black History Month was not recognized by the United States government.
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (1939)
Why: Besides Disney’s, this is the most well-known adaptation of Victor Hugo’s classic novel for a reason. It’s not only one of the more faithful ones, but it removes a lot of the fatty detours in the original story that can make it a daunting read. Charles Laughton gives a career best as the put-upon Quasimodo, nailing the sorrowful nature of the character without coming across as cloying. Maureen O’Hara, at only 19, carries a maturity and grace as Esmeralda that Hugo’s original creation lacks. Films as relevant, absorbing and epic as this help make the case for 1939 to be widely considered as Hollywood’s best year.
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 kanopy.com/keyslibraries and 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? info@keyslibraries.org.
Recommended by: Kelvin Cedeño, library assistant, Islamorada library.
See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/reel-recs.
taff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “Dreadful” by Caitlin Rozakis
Why: I’m back here to try and sell you on yet another novel about a wizard who wakes up with no memory and spends the book figuring out what’s going on. I know, I know, “get a new oddly niche trope already” but hear me out. “Dreadful” by Caitlin Rozakis is really funny. It’s also a sincere reflection on the power that expectation bias, rejection and imposter syndrome can hold over a person, as well as the role of intentionality in determining whether something (or someone) is inherently good or evil. At the end, I was left considering, if I did not know myself or my own history, would I like what I learned about me? Heavy stuff for a novel with great banter and clever one-liners that had me actually laughing out loud.
Where: You can borrow this as a print book, e-book and e-audiobook from the Monroe County Public Library.
How: You can request books, including e-books and e-audiobooks, by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries.org
Recommended by: Faith Price, branch manager, Big Pine Key library branch See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/shelfhelp.
Florida Keys witnessed 1,000-plus crashes resulting in injuries
Driving along the Overseas Highway, or U.S. 1, in the Florida Keys is one of the most iconic road trips in the United States. The route, which spans over 120 miles from the mainland to Key West, offers breathtaking views of turquoise waters, charming islands and picturesque bridges.
However, this unique road comes with its own set of challenges, and it’s important to drive cautiously and responsibly to ensure a safe journey. With the busy season upon us, the traffic on U.S. 1 is becoming increasingly heavy. There are more cars on the road, and the risk of accidents increases, so it is important to take extra precautions to stay safe.
Although U.S. 1 is a major highway, much of it is narrow, with just two lanes and limited shoulder space. The speed limits can vary, ranging from 45 mph to 55 mph, and can drastically change quickly to speeds of 35 mph or less due to school zones, bridges, wildlife restrictions and construction. Staying vigilant of the speed limits and slowing down is essential to everyone’s safety.
U.S. 1 is a scenic drive, and it’s easy to get distracted by the stunning views. There are plenty of places to pull over, including scenic viewpoints, beaches and historical sites. While it’s tempting to speed up to reach your destination, it’s important to take your time and be patient; slow down and appreciate the beauty around you.
Being in a hurry and passing vehicles can be extremely dangerous
and often causes fatalities. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles there were 1,722 vehicle crashes, six fatalities and 1,246 vehicle crashes with injuries in 2024 alone. So, there is no need to race to your destination and endanger your life and possibly someone else’s life.
Watching for pedestrians and cyclists is also an important safety measure while driving on U.S. 1. Cycling is popular in the Keys, and many cyclists use the highway to travel between islands. Be mindful of cyclists, especially in areas without bike lanes or shoulders. Keep a safe distance and pass them cautiously. Pedestrians also enjoy a nice stroll or jog along U.S. 1 and are often out and about in high-traffic areas, particularly near shops, restaurants and attractions. Pedestrian safety is crucial, so always slow down when you see them and stop for crossing pedestrians when required.
Finally, remember to stay alert for wildlife. The Florida Keys are home to a variety of wildlife, and many animals cross the road, particularly at dawn and dusk. Keep an eye out for animals such as birds, iguanas and even small mammals, especially in less developed areas. Key deer are also a potential hazard, particularly in the Lower Keys. Avoid distractions and stay focused on the road to spot any animals crossing unexpectedly.
Driving U.S. 1 in the Florida Keys is a unique and beautiful experience that can also be dangerous if you do not drive safely. By staying alert, following road signs and traffic rules, taking your time, and being patient, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey through this tropical paradise. With the right mentality and cautious approach, your drive along U.S. 1 will be a safe ride whose stunning beauty reminds us why we love the Florida Keys.
Remember these three simple rules each time you recycle:
• Bagster® bags are
•
• Schedule your collection online or by phone.
Carrying
MONDAY - WEDNESDAY 11- 4
THURSDAY - SATURDAY 11- 6
SUNDAY 12-4
Voted BEST LOCAL RETAILER by the Key West People’s Choice Awards 2023 & 2024. And mentioned in Forbes magazine!
Founded by Betty Debnam
Feb. 17 is Random Acts of Kindness Day. With this special day, kids and adults are encouraged to keep kindness to others in mind every day of the year.
The Mini Page learned about the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation to find out more about this idea. The organization’s motto is “Make Kindness the Norm.”
During one summer in the 1990s, many violent acts took place in the area around San Francisco. They were labeled “random acts of violence.” (Random means done without a plan or method.)
This gave a woman in Berkeley, California, the idea of doing “random acts of kindness and senseless acts of beauty.” The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation grew from her idea.
The RAK Foundation tries to focus attention on core values, or standards of behavior, and provide ideas for putting those values into action. Some of those values include:
• leadership
• responsibility
• friendship
• courage
• sportsmanship
• confidence
• helping others
• believing in yourself
ACTS, BEHAVIOR, CARD, COMPLIMENT, CONFIDENCE, COURAGE, ELDERS, FACT, FRIENDSHIP, FUN, HELP, KINDNESS, LEADERSHIP, NORM, OPINION, RANDOM, TRUE, VALUES.
Random Acts of Kindness Day helps adults and kids increase their self-confidence and improve their views of themselves. As you might guess, this would be difficult in a family or classroom where people are bullying others or acting mean.
The RAK Foundation shares some activities that will help kids understand how to be kind to one another.
Is there a nursing home or assisted living facility nearby? Contact the activity director to get a list of names of elders at your chosen location. With classmates or family members, divide the list of elders and create kindness notes for them. The notes might include encouragement and happy artwork that they can keep and enjoy.
How do you feel when someone admires your hair or notices your talent for sports? People love to get compliments from others. Make a list of your friends, classmates or family members. Next to each person’s name, write down something you admire about that person. Write your compliment on the card, then find pictures from newspapers or magazines to illustrate your message.
Words that remind us of random acts of kindness are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
When you’re talking with others, it helps to be able to tell whether people are stating facts, which are true, or opinions, which are their beliefs about something.
In this example, can you tell who is stating a fact and who is giving his or her opinion?
Taylor: Hey everyone, how was your weekend?
Sarah: Taylor, you got a new backpack!
Justin: That is a baby backpack! How stupid! Now answer these questions:
• Who states a fact?
• Who gives an opinion?
• Is the opinion kind or unkind? Why?
• What could that person have said instead?
On the Web:
• bit.ly/MPpresidents
At the library:
• “Our Country’s Presidents” by National Geographic
In 2024, Earth experienced the hottest day ever measured, breaking the previous record by a tiny fraction of a degree, set a day earlier. Europe’s Copernicus climate service calculated through satellite observations that the average global temperature on July 22 was 62.76 degrees Fahrenheit. The planet’s average temperature was also 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 F) warmer than in preindustrial times across an entire year for the first time on record. The period from February 2023 to January 2024 reached 1.52 degrees Celsius of warming.
Conchs, Fins test preseason bats | P.8
2/19
“Daysi
In last week’s district championship game, the Fins had no idea what they faced in their new Rural District 8 bracket, but one thing was certain: Junior Daysi Williams was there to play. Williams registered a double-double, scoring 17 points and pulling down 12 rebounds in the championship game. In the semifinal game three days prior, Williams had a game-high 14 points with three blocks, making her an asset to the Fins’ wins and integral in earning their new hardware. For her constant improvement and steady hand under immense pressure, Marathon’s Daysi Williams is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
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.
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
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
Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com
Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com
Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com
Graphic Design 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.
9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050
Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com
While five girls weightlifting athletes from each team prepared for their state meet this week, the boys participated in their second regularseason meetup. The athletes from Marathon and Coral Shores were joined by Gulliver Prep in Marathon on Feb. 5, and the Keys lifters are already showing improvements in their overall lifts. Their steady gains will be crucial in order to outmuscle their opponents in their postseason, which begins in late March and culminates in April at the state championships.
Winners for Coral Shores included some familiar names. At 139 pounds, Coral Shores’ Tyler Bettner and Kristers Vutnans split the wins last week, but Bettner’s incredible increases placed him firmly on top of the weight class in meet number two. Bettner increased his traditional lifts by 60 pounds and improved by 75 pounds in Olympic. New to the leaderboard was Coral Shores’ Aaron Lykins, who won both events at 169 pounds in his first meet of the season.
Marathon’s Chase Leird won his second set of events in the 129-pound class. Leird improved his total lifts in both events by 15 pounds. Dolphin Damian Stasiewicz (183) improved his win in Olympic lifts last week by adding a first in traditional as well this week. Stasiewicz improved by 10 pounds in each category.
Teammate Max Childress also improved by 10 pounds in each event, claiming his second set of wins in the 199-pound category. Like Childress, Tanner Ross added 10 to both his wins this week in the 219-pound class. Braulio Garcia had the same increase in his lifts. The extra plates made the difference in the 238-pounder’s wins this week. He won both categories after finishing second in Olympic lifts one week prior. Adding to the Fins’ point total was Trevor Wofsey in the Unlimited category. In their first meet, no other teams fielded an Unlimited lifter, making Wofsey’s pair of wins a great addition to Marathon’s overall score.
The addition of Wofsey’s wins in both categories gave Marathon a nice boost in their team total; however, the standings were the same as in meet number one. Marathon was first in both categories and Coral Shores pulled away with a pair of seconds in the Feb. 5 meet. Gulliver was third in both events.
Top lifters at the meet were a trio of Fins; Ross took top honors, with Childress in second and Stasiewicz third, using the Sinclair algorithm. All three claimed the same spot in both events.
In their first season competing in Florida’s 1A Rural District 8 classification, the Lady Fins of Marathon brought home a district basketball championship.
Traveling to Moore Haven for the tournament, the Fins had no idea what to expect against a pool of opponents they had never faced. Common opponents were nonexistent and the FHSAA’s system of rankings has not always been reliable, so Marathon entered the tournament determined to play their best and leave it all on the court.
They started with a quarterfinal bye, then faced the Miners of Fort Meade on Feb. 4 in the semis. Daysi Williams dropped 14 on the Miners with Payton Junker and Elena Eubanks adding seven each in the 39-22 win. With the victory, the Lady Fins eliminated the second seed and the only thing that stood between them and a championship trophy was the top-seeded Moore Haven Terriers.
On Feb. 7, the Lady Fins found themselves in the district championship match against Moore Haven. The Fins were the underdogs in the finals and had to travel to Moore Haven twice in one week, as the top-seeded team earned hosting privileges for the tournament. Marathon came out shooting and outscored the Terriers 20-13 in quarter one, finding themselves up by four at the half. They stretched that lead out by two more in quarter three, then finished on top, 58-50, to seal their first district title since 2018.
Daysi Williams registered a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Marti’yana Kilbourne had 17 points, seven
Marathon’s girls basketball team throws up the Ws for a photo after their district championship over Moore Haven on Feb. 7. CONTRIBUTED
rebounds and eight steals. Elena Eubank scored nine with 13 rebounds and Shaina Robinson added 13, with nine coming from behind the 3-point line. Not bad for a team with three seventhgraders, Robinson included, who saw playing time in the championship game.
Even though Marathon methodically picked off teams ranked higher than themselves, their rating will likely not change enough to earn a home match in the Rural Sweet 16 State Championship series. They play their first match Feb. 13, and a win then would propel them into the regional finals, two more wins away from a state championship shot.
Coral Shores, ranked No. 3 in 3A’s District 16, faced No. 2 Keys Gate in their quarterfinal game. The ’Canes lost 72-44, but every single player gained the experience of being in a playoff matchup, and each contributed to the points total as well. Anna Barrow had a team-high 11 while Melanie Estevez added nine. Grace Leffler and Presley Bagwell scored six each with Gabby Thomas and Abby Vogt contributing four. Thomas was credited with 10 rebounds in her final game as a Lady ’Cane, while London Atkins finished out her first season with two points. The team finished the season 5-6.
Key West completed its season at 1-20 after a loss to the top seed in District 16’s 4A pool. With just four teams, quarterfinals were unnecessary, sending them each into the semifinals where No. 4 Key West drew the No. 1 seed as their opponent. Miami Northwestern defeated the Lady Conchs 60-21.
Three Keys teams tipped off the basketball postseason Feb. 3 with the hopes of making a run toward the state championship series. By the end of the day, only Marathon was still in the running.
Coral Shores played Miami Killian in the 3A District 16 quarterfinals and got off to a rocky start. Down by 14 at the half, the ’Canes regained their composure and began to narrow the gap. Still down by 10 in quarter four, and with Killian holding the ball to maintain their lead, Coral Shores knew they had to make something happen. Their intentional fouls, committed in hopes of regaining possession, did not play out, as the Cougars sank eight foul shots in succession to seal the Hurricanes’ fate.
a junior, hustled for 10 rebounds and three steals plus a pair of points. Despite the team’s drive, the Cobras came out on top by a single point. The heartbreaking 51-50 loss left the Conchs 9-12 on the season.
Junior Donovan Thiery scored 38 points in the game, many at pivotal moments for the team. Senior Ayden Lane added 14 in his final hardwood appearance as a Hurricane. Coral Shores finished with a 4-17 record after the 74-64 loss to Killian. Key West knew it would be a battle heading into the District 4A quarterfinals against the Cobras of South Miami High. Without their leading scorer, the Conchs would need all hands on deck if they had any hope to advance. The seniors left it all on the court, with David Aviles scoring 21 points to lead the charge. Classmate Tramane Scott scored 10 of his own and pulled down an incredible 20 rebounds. The freshmen lent a hand in a collective effort to keep their season alive. Tyrese Scott stepped up and sank eight for the Conchs and Judson Snider added five. Leo Batista,
Meanwhile, the Fins made the long trip to Moore Haven for the Rural Class District 8 tournament. Up first for Marathon was a quarterfinal matchup against the Gators of Glades Day School on Feb. 3. The Fins dispatched the Gators 56-46 in their first playoff win in their new district classification. In all, 10 Fins saw action in the quarterfinals, with Jack Chapman leading the way, scoring 17. Carlos Lezcano added 10 while Daeshawn Holmes scored eight with nine rebounds and six blocks. Briggs Roberts added seven to his stats to help seal the win.
Two nights later, Marathon faced the Moore Haven Terriers in the semifinals. Holmes added yet another double-double to his stats, scoring 11 and pulling down 14 rebounds. Roberts added nine and Lezcano eight, but Marathon faced an uphill battle against the district favorites who ended their season at Moore Haven, one game shy of the district championships. Despite the 5438 loss, coach Jim Murphy found a silver lining.
“We were able to play or see every team in our district and now know what we have to do to win the championship in the years to come,” he said.
The Key West Lady Conchs, including medalists Sunisa Kuhn, Emily Nolasco and Yarnesie Corrales, take a team photo after the Lady Eagle IBT tournament in Lakeland. CONTRIBUTED
Key West and Coral Shores traveled to Brandon for the annual Tony Ippolito Memorial Wrestling Tournament on Feb. 7 and 8. The Conchs placed 10th overall out of over 40 teams. Two athletes placed in the event, which hosted over 400 contenders.
Alfredo Corrales took home the bracket, winning first place in the 175-pound class. Teammate Abram Canet finished sixth at 132. Coral Shores did not have any athletes make the final six, but Costa Tuttle (106) and Finn McDonough (157) each won four of their six matches, gaining more experience in the final days of the regular season. The postseason for both teams begins Feb. 20 at the FSHAA District 16 1A finals, held in Tavernier this year.
While the boys battled it out in Brandon, the Lady Conchs were 30 miles away at the Lady Eagle IBT tournament in Lakeland on Feb. 8. Three Key West athletes brought home medals from the event. Sunisa Kuhn was the second-place winner at 157 pounds while Emily Nolasco (102) and Yarnesie Corrales (172) each placed third. Feb. 8 was the final day of regular-season competition for girls wrestling in Florida; districts for Key West’s girls is at Miami Coral Park Feb. 13.
Proudly serving Key West to Islamorada as the ONLY locally owned and operated concrete company in the Florida Keys.
Whether you’re building a large commercial building, FDOT bridge, or a custom-designed home, we have concrete mix designs for every project. Thanks to decades of experience, our team can create custom mixes with high-quality additives for specific project needs. We offer the largest variety of materials and operate the only FDOT-certified ready-mix plants in the Florida Keys.
With the regular season on the baseball diamond just days away, the Marathon Dolphins and Key West Conchs elected to play preseason games to test their skills.
Key West, known for scheduling the most challenging opponents they can find, did not break tradition last week, playing a series of two games against 7A Jupiter, ranked No. 25 in the entire state. Given the results of the games, the Conchs’ ranking of 127 by the FHSAA is likely underrated.
On Feb. 7, Jupiter got off to an early lead, scoring three runs in the second inning. The Conchs held their composure and bided their time until inning four when they made a comeback, evening the score. A disastrous fifth inning allowed the Warriors to open the flood gates and pour on five runs, a seemingly impossible lead so late in the game, but the everfocused Conchs battled back, scoring three in the sixth. Trailing by two in the final inning, Key West managed to put one man on base, but a fresh Warrior pitcher sealed their fate, ending the game 8-6 in favor of Jupiter. Sam Holland singled and doubled in the loss while Roman Garcia doubled. Auggy Davila, Caden Pichardo and Kade Maltz each singled for Key West. Jackie Niles batted two in off a hard groundout. Vinnie Moline got the start at pitcher in a game in which four Conchs got work on the mound.
The following night, the Conchs gave Christian Koppal the start, the first of five Conchs to see action on the mound. The Warriors scored two in inning one off a hit, an error and a wild pitch, but Koppal was unrattled and kept Jupiter scoreless for the final two of his three innings. Key West managed to get on base but left men stranded in innings one through three, then took advantage of a fatigued Warrior pitcher in inning four. Three singles, a hit batter and a walk-a-thon later, Key West was up 7-2.
In inning five, it was Jupiter’s turn to pour on runs. Four hits, three walks and a sacrifice fly tied things up before the Conchs had a chance to bat. Key West added a pair of runs, which Jupiter immediately negated with two of their own in inning six. Key West loaded first and second but couldn’t get their base runners home, putting the teams at nine apiece in inning seven. A Jupiter double and hit batter gave the Warriors hope, but they too left their scoring potential stranded. In the bottom of the seventh, freshman Kade Maltz stepped into the batter’s box and watched one strike go by. He sent pitch number two on a line-drive ride to center field, tripling and eventually scoring the winning run off a Jupiter error. Auggy Davila was credited with the win for Key West after a scoreless inning on the mound. Holland and Maltz had a pair of hits each while Pichardo, Niles and Xavier Perez had one each.
Marathon hosted the Knights of Highlands Christian for their preseason rival. The Knights traveled from Pompano Beach and stayed the night, playing the Fins Feb. 7 and then again the following morning. In game number one, Marathon got on the board first with a first-inning single from Jack Chapman, who reached home via a Gavin Leal double. The Knights scored one in the top of the second to tie things up, but that would be the only score they saw for the remainder of the shortened game. Marathon scored one of their own in inning two and held the one-run lead until inning four when the Fins found a chink in the Knights’ armor.
A pair of hit batters made seventh-grader Reef Rella’s monster triple all the worse for Highlands, and it didn’t get better for them after that. A walked batter plus Rella put two men on when Dylan Williams hit a hard ground ball to the corner of right field, scoring three on an inside-the-park homer. Three more walks and a pair of doubles, a second from Leal and one from Jason Stubblefield, gave Marathon 10 runs. Highlands Christian never recovered, giving the Dolphins the win in six and a half innings. Senior Mason Thornton got the start
pitching. Thornton lasted three innings, giving up one run and striking out four. Leal and Stubblefield had two hits each, with one hit apiece coming from Leo Mendez, Chapman, Williams and Rella.
The following night was more of the same for both teams. This time, Gabe Leal got the start. Leal spanned three innings, striking out and walking two each, and giving up no runs and no hits for the win. The Fins scored two in the first and one in the third, then enjoyed a 10-run fourth, which included two hit batters, four walks, five hits, an error and a fielder’s choice, to beat the Knights 13-2. Leal had a pair of singles. Chapman and Thornton each singled with four RBIs apiece. Stubblefield and Cameron Globe also registered hits in the mercyrule win.
Coral Shores is saving its debut for the regular season, which officially began Feb. 10 and runs through Apr. 11 with districts beginning Apr. 14. Key West competes in the 4A classification, while Coral Shores is 2A. Marathon baseball, like many of their athletic teams, is now classified as 1A Rural.
Boys lacrosse teams put finishing touches on their games in preseason
Coral Shores hosted a series of preseason lacrosse scrimmages to help work out the final details prior to the opening of official play. And though statistics were not taken and the games do not officially count, ’Canes coach Chris Carrow was pleased with his team’s play.
“We played Palmetto tough,” he said.
Miami Palmetto, one of the top teams in South Florida and in a classification larger than Coral Shores, struggled against a scrappy Hurricane defense led by junior goalkeeper Brock Bynum. Bynum’s performance was outstanding against the formidable Panthers.
“We were only down 1-0 at halftime, which is an incredibly low score in lacrosse,” Carrow explained.
Offensively, senior Lucas Carballo looks to be ready to begin his final campaign as a Hurricane. Carballo scored multiple goals against Key West in a separate scrimmage. Coral Shores lost to Palmetto 5-1, holding their own against the perennial powerhouse until a series of injuries defeated their spirits. They fared better against Key West, winning 7-3.
Key West and Coral Shores both participate in FHSAA’s 1A District 16 in boys and girls lacrosse, making the intra-Keys matchups between the schools all the more exciting. The regular season for lacrosse officially opened Feb. 10 and runs through April 5. Districts begin April 9. Coral Shores and Key West face off for real March 5 in Key West, then again on the 26th in Tavernier.
Sealed Bids for the construction of the 7th and Shelter Bay Drive Drainage Improvements project will be received by City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, at the of ce of the Mayor, Key Colony Beach City Hall, 600 West Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051, until March 13, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. local time. At that time, the Bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud.
The Project includes the following Work: Base Bid: Conversion of existing dry detention pond into a wet detention system with outfall structures and check valves. Miscellaneous drainage improvements, landscaping, and fountains. Additive Alternate No. 1 includes drainage improvements along 7th Street and golf course. Additive Alternate No. 2 include pervious paver work. Additive Alternate No. 3 includes an allowance for an observation deck.
Bids are requested for the following Contract: 7th and Shelter Bay Drive Drainage Improvements.
The Issuing Of ce for the Bidding Documents is: Mittauer & Associates, Inc., 580-1 Wells Road, Orange Park, Florida 32073, (904) 278-0030. Prospective Bidders may examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing Of ce, Monday through Friday (excluding holidays), and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing Of ce as described below.
Bidding Documents will be provided electronically as portable document format (PDF) les and as printed Bidding Documents, both for a non-refundable charge of $150.00 per set payable to “Mittauer & Associates, Inc.” Upon Issuing Of ce’s receipt of payment, the digital les will be emailed, and the printed Bidding Documents will be sent via UPS Ground. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Issuing Of ce. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing Of ce.
Bidding Documents also may be examined at City Hall, City of Key Colony Beach, 600 West Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051, (305) 289-1212, Monday through Friday (excluding holidays).
A Pre-Bid Conference will not be held.
Bid security must be furnished in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders.
To be considered quali ed the Bidder shall be licensed to engage in the business of contracting in the State of Florida by the Construction Industry Licensing Board. In addition, the Bidder shall have successfully completed, as prime contractor, a minimum of 3 projects of a similar nature within the past 5 years each having a minimum contract value of $300,000 with at least one project having a contract value in excess of $500,000.
The City of Key Colony Beach, Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Instructions to Bidders
For all further requirements regarding bid submittal, quali cations, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.
Publish: February 13, 2025.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statute 328.17, Silent Hunter Boat Yard, LLC dba-Marathon Boat Yard claims a possessory lien on the following described vessel:
Owned by Darryl Wayne Hansen for unpaid storage fees: a 1981 Formosa 51’ 6” vessel by Formosa Boat Bldg Co., “Dragonfly”, Florida Registration # FL4642RH and HIN #FBB510330481.
Sealed bids will be accepted on February 24, 2025 at Marathon Boat Yard, 2055 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. Silent Hunter Boat Yard, LLC dba Marathon Boat Yard, reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
Publish: February 13 & 20, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statute 328.17, Silent Hunter Boat Yard, LLC dba-Marathon Boat Yard claims a possessory lien on the following described vessel: Owned by Adrian Ramon Cabrera for unpaid storage fees: a 1984 32’ Topaz, “Game Changer”, Florida Registration # FL 1279 FN and HIN #TPP2R033D990. Sealed bids will be accepted on February 24, 2025 at Marathon Boat Yard, 2055 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. Silent Hunter Boat Yard, LLC dba Marathon Boat Yard, reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
Publish: February 13 & 20, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
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 Art in Public Places Committee Meeting (via Zoom)
Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025 at 4:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 889 2568 8348 Passcode: 544531 Executive Committee Meeting (via Zoom)
Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025 at 3:00 pm Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 854 5203 5168 Passcode: 490687
Publish: February 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
QUARTERLY MEETING NOTICE: LOCAL COORDINATING BOARD FOR THE TRANSPORTATION DISADVANTAGED
The Monroe County Local Coordinating Board (LCB) will be holding its regularly scheduled quarterly meeting on Friday, March 7, 2025 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at the Marathon Government Center, Room, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050.
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council has funding available to governmental entities and non-profit organizations for capital projects.
The project/facility must have the primary purpose of promoting tourism and must fall into one of the following categories:
The primary purpose of the Coordinating Board is to provide information and advice to the Community Transportation Coordinator on the coordination of services provided to the transportation disadvantaged population of Monroe County, pursuant to Chapter 427.0157, Florida Statutes. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting due to a disability or physical impairment, and any related questions or inquiries concerning this meeting should be directed to Anjana Morris at the Health Council of South Florida, Inc. at (305) 592-1452 ext. 101 at least 72 hours prior to the date of the meeting.
Publish:
February 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE PUBLIC WORKSHOP NOTICE: LOCAL
COORDINATING BOARD FOR THE TRANSPORTATION
DISADVANTAGED
The Monroe County Local Coordinating Board (LCB) will be hosting a public workshop on Friday, March 7, 2025 from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm at the Marathon Government Center, BOCC Room, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050.
This public workshop is open to community members who would like to present or discuss any comments related to the transportation disadvantaged. We welcome you to attend! Persons should contact the HCSF staff 48 hours in advance if they are interested in commenting. The primary purpose of the Coordinating Board is to
Convention Center, Sports Stadium, Sports Arena, Coliseum, Auditorium, Aquarium, Museum, Zoological Park, Nature Center, Fishing Pier, Beach or Beach Park Facility, Channel, Estuary, or Lagoon, Public Facilities in Accordance with Conditions set forth in the Florida Statutes.
The deadline for receipt of applications is April 22, 2025, and applications must be downloaded from the County’s Bonfire platform.
For more information, please email Maxine@fla-keys.com.
Publish: February 13 & 27, March 13 & 27 and April 10, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
Visit Florida Keys has funding available for those interested in applying for Destination or Turnkey event funding for events to take place between October 1, 2025 and September 30, 2026; or for pre-promotion funding for Destination events to take place between October 1, 2026 and December 31, 2026.
The deadline for receipt of applications is April 8, 2025, and applications must be downloaded from the County’s Bonfire platform.
For more information, please email Maxine@fla-keys.com.
Publish: February 13 & 27, March 13 & 27 and April 10, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
provide information and advice to the Community Transportation Coordinator on the coordination of services provided to the transportation disadvantaged population of Monroe County, pursuant to Chapter 427.0157, Florida Statutes. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting due to a disability or physical impairment, and any related questions or inquiries concerning this meeting should be directed to Anjana Morris at the Health Council of South Florida, Inc. at (305) 592-1452 ext. 101 at least 72 hours prior to the date of the meeting.
Publish:
February 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on February 19, 2025, at 9:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Harvey Government Center, 1200 Truman Avenue, Key West, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider adopting the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 18-7 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES, ENTITLED MONROE COUNTY SCHOOL BREAK CAMP PROGRAM; AND MODIFYING THE FEES TO INCLUDE ALL FIELD TRIPS; AND PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION INTO THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The proposed ordinance may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by viewing the agenda packet for the February 19, 2025, meeting, which will be posted beginning on February 13, 2025 at: monroecountyfl.iqm2.http:// com/citizens/default.aspx. The ordinance may also be viewed at the Monroe County Attorney’s office at 1111 12th St. Ste. 408 Key West, FL 33040.
The public can participate in the February 19, 2025, meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, FL by attending in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link can be found in the agenda at http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30a.m.—5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice- impaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners.
Dated at Key West, Florida, this 6th day of February, 2025. KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Ex Officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: February 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
that on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: KEY WEST INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT NOISE INSULATION PROGRAM GROUP 2 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. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request.
A MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE AND SITE VISIT: will be held on March 6, 2025, at 8:30 A.M. at the Harvey Government Center, Second Floor County Commission Chambers, 1200 Truman Avenue, Key West, Florida 33040. 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 3:00 P.M. on March 27, 2025. 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 March 27, 2025. 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: February 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Mobile Beachfront Concessions at Higgs Beach, Key West, 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. monroecounty-fl.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 3:00 P.M. on Thursday, March 13, 2025. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/ proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance
with public records law. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal.
The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity.
The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, March 13, 2025. 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:
February 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-30-M
DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS
IN RE: ESTATE OF HAROLD W. BROWN, JR., Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Harold W. Brown, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was December 26, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 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.
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. 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: February 13, 2025.
Personal Representative: JoAnn B. Brown 1500 Eastward Ho Lane Marathon, Florida 33050
Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134
RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-6022
Fax: (305) 743-6216
E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com
Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com
Publish:
February 13 & 20, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
I N THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 24-CP-579-K IN RE: ESTATE OF DESIREE DEE DIVINE Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Desiree Dee Divine, deceased, whose date of death was October 11, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
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. 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: February 13, 2025.
Personal Representative: Joan R. Regan 3814 Joyce Road Big Pine Key, Florida 33040
Attorney for Personal Representative: Gregory D. Davila, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 886998
Law Office of Gregory D. Davila, P.A. 1111 12th Street, Suite 411 Key West, Florida 33040 Telephone: (305) 293-8554
Fax: (305) 294-9913
E-Mail: E-Filing@ keywestlawoffice.com
Secondary E-Mail: gdavila@ keywestlawoffice.com
Publish: February 13 & 20, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
UPPER KEYS PROBATE DIVISION
CASE NO.: 25-CP-000039-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT D. KARROW, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of ROBERT D. KARROW, deceased, whose date of death was April 3, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. 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: February 6, 2025. Personal Representative: CHERI KARROW 3522 135th Ave NW Andover, MN 55304
Attorney for Personal Representative: VICTORIA MIRANDA, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 1015363 HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
E-Mail: VMiranda@HLYlaw.
com Publish: February 6 & 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2025-CP-22-P
DIVISION: PROBATE IN RE: ESTATE OF DAVID LEON JONES Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of DAVID LEON JONES, deceased, whose date of death was November 7, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: February 6, 2025.
Personal Representative: AMY L. BRUGGEMAN 17 SE Marlin Ave. Key Largo,FL 33037
Attorney for Personal Representative: URBAN J. W. PATTERSON, ESQ. Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com
Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@yahoo.com
Florida Bar No. 382035
Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036 Telephone: 305-664-5065
Publish: February 6 & 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-DR-914-K DIVISION: FAMILY TOMAS ZINDULKA, Petitioner, and WARD LEROY HAFNER, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE
(NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: WARD LEROY HAFNER
Respondent LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 3806 CINDY AVENUE KEY WEST, FLORIDA 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 the Petitioner, TOMAS ZINDULKA, through his counsel of record Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq., The Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A., whose address is 3130 Northside Drive, Key West, Florida 33040 on or before March 13, 2025, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at the following address: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on the 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: February 6, 2025 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: February 13, 20 & 27 and March 6, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL ACTION CASE NO.: 24-CA-000958-K CANDANCE ILENE VALLADARES
Individually Plaintiff, vs. Equity Link, INC.
A California Incorporated Company NuView IRA, Inc. f/k/a/ Entrust Administration Services, Inc. A Florida Profit Corporation Warren Lloyd Holtzman IRA, MINDY SILVERSTEIN, Individually JOSE MIRANDA, Individually Defendants _____________/ NOTICE OF ACTION FOR PUBLICATION To: MINDY SILVERSTEIN
Last known address: 16 Spring Street, Pleasantville, New York, 10570-2713 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to Quiet Title and to remove the cloud from title of the real property described as: PART OF LOT 51 ACCORDING TO MCDONALD’S SURVEY OF PART OF STOCK ISLAND RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 1, PAGE 55 OF MONROE COUNTY PUBLIC RECORDS AND IS MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: FROM
AVENUE A DISTANCE OF 250 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES AND NORTHERLY A DISTANCE OF 200 FEET TO A POINT; WHICH POINT IS THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUE NORTHERLY ALONG THE PROLONGATION OF THE PREVIOUSLY DESCRIBED COURSE A DISTANCE OF 70 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES AND WESTERLY A DISTANCE OF 125 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES AND SOUTHERLY A DISTANCE OF 70 FEET; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES
EASTERLY A DISTANCE OF 125 FEET BACK TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA with a physical address of: 6430 Sunshine Street, Key West, FL 33040. Folio Number: 00126510-000000 has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it, on Eric J. Sanchez PA, Attorney for Plaintiff, whose address is 4960 SW 72nd Avenue, Suite 206, Miami, FL 33155, (786) 408-9681 on or before March 3, 2025, a date which is within thirty (30) days after the first publication of this Notice in The Keys Weekly and file the original with the Clerk of this Court at Freeman Justice Center, 302 Fleming Street., Key West, FL 33040, either before service on Plaintiff's attorney or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default and judgment will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.
Dated: January 27, 2025 KEVIN MADOK, CPA, Clerk CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk
Publish: January 30, February 6, 13 & 20, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No. 2024-CA-000841-K HEATHER STAPLES, Plaintiff, vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/ OR BENEFICIARIES OF CATHERINE KNOWLES; and the UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/OR BENEFICIARIES OF ROBERT KNOWLES JR.; and the UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/ OR BENEFICIARIES OF MINNIE JUNE KNOWLES; and the UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/OR BENEFICIARIES OF BERNARD “BERNIE” STAPLES, Defendants. ________________/ NOTICE OF ACTION BY PUBLICATION TO THE FOLLOWING DEFENDANTS WHOSE RESIDENCES ARE UNKNOWN: CATHERINE KNOWLES, DECEASED, THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE KNOWLES, DECEASED AND ANY UNKNOWN SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS BY AND THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST, SAID DEFENDANT ROBERT KNOWLES JR., DECEASED, THE ESTATE OF ROBERT KNOWLES JR., DECEASED AND ANY UNKNOWN SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS BY AND THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST, SAID DEFENDANT
MINNIE JUNE KNOWLES, DECEASED, THE ESTATE OF MINNIE JUNE KNOWLES, DECEASED AND ANY UNKNOWN SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS,
CREDITORS, TRUSTEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS BY AND THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST, SAID DEFENDANT BERNARD “BERNIE” STAPLES, DECEASED, THE ESTATE OF BERNARD “BERNIE” STAPLES, DECEASED AND ANY UNKNOWN SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS BY AND THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST, SAID DEFENDANT
The above named Defendants are believed to be dead and, if dead, the unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, assignees, lienors, creditors, trustees, or other claimants, by, through, under or against said Defendants and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property described below.
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED of the institution of the abovestyled quiet title proceedings by the Plaintiff, HEATHER STAPLES, upon the filing of a complaint to quiet title for other relief relative to the following described property: On the Island of Key West and known as W.A. Whitehead's map of the City and Island of Key West, delineated on February 1829, as Tract (3), better described on a diagram of Part of Tract Three, which diagram is duly recorded in Deed Book "N", Page 554, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, as subdivision Eight; Commencing at a point on William's Alley distant from the corner of Olivia Street and said Alley, Eight-two (82) feet and six (6) inches and running thence along said Alley in a Southeasterly direction Fortyone (41) feet and three (3) inches; thence at right angles in a Southwesterly direction Eighty-nine (89) feet and four (4) inches; thence at right angles in a Northwesterly direction Forty-one (41) feet and three (3) inches; thence at right angles in a Northeasterly direction Eighty-nine (89) feet and four (4)inches to the place of beginning.
AND you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to the complaint, upon DAVID BERMAN, ESQ., 1331 N Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803, attorney for the Plaintiff, on or before thirty (30) days from the first day of publication herein and file the original with the Clerk of the abovestyled court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint.
DATED on 01/24/2025.
Kevin Madok
As Clerk of the Court
By: Marissa Lockwood
As Deputy Clerk
Publish: January 30 and February 6, 13 & 20, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD FOR ONLY $25/ WEEK FOR UP TO 5 LINES OF COPY. CALL 305-743-0844 TODAY!
ONLY 3,450 MILES!! FOR SALE: Mustang GT 2018. Standard Transmission, Black on Black, Excellent Condition Located in Marathon. $40,000. Call 305-942-6434
2000 21' Hydra Sport Center Console w/200hp Johnson, trailer, cover, potty, jackets +. Located in Big Pine. Runs well. $7,400. 919-621-0544
GREAT DEAL: Key Largo 21' Deep V Center Console w/trailer. New 150hp motor & electronics. Ready to fish. PRICE REDUCED TO $20,000. Located in Marathon. 201-696-8906
ALL KEYS GUTTER HIRING INSTALLERS $25/$35hrMajor Holidays Off - Benefits - Tavernier. Apply: call or text Jay 305-587-1581
Night Monitor – FREE Private Room in exchange for overnight availability at our Assisted Living Facility. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am plus weekly stipend, Drug & background screen required. www.westcare. com/join-our-team/
The SS Wreck & Galley Grill (mile marker 59) is looking for Bartenders and Servers, full or part time. Self-motivated, experience very helpful, quick learner, and team player. Salary includes 401k match up to 6%. Please call Nicole at 305433-0515 or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.
Specialty Hardware of Marathon is looking for a full time person, hardware knowledge a must. Apply in person at 10730 Overseas Hwy Marathon. 305-743-3382
Receptionist for law firm in Marathon. Computer and writing skills. Call or email 305743-9428 or service@ floridakeyslaw.com.
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time line cook. Private club, friendly atmosphere. Flexible lunch/dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring part-time servers and bartenders. Private club, friendly atmosphere, guaranteed gratuities. Flexible lunch/dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.
Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Resident Care Supervisor with min. 3 yrs. experience of an LPN, CarpenterFT-KeyWest, Housing Manager- FT-Marathon, Housing Assistant FTKey West Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621. 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
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD FOR ONLY $25/WEEK FOR UP TO 5 LINES OF COPY. CALL 305-743-0844 TODAY
HOBBIES/COLLECT. PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
2-3BR/2BA Beautiful home for year-round rental on Duck Key. Furnished, full size W/D, stainless steel appliances & granite countertops. Gorgeous pool with built-in bar stools, waterfall & Jacuzzi, 1 car garage, and covered porch for outdoor dining w/ views of the canal. $3,400/ month. Avail. May 1st. Address: 243 W. Seaview Dr, Duck Key, MM 61. Text/ call 774-263-8759 Email: dongamache@comast.net RENTED IN ONE MONTH!!
2 BR / 1 BA unfurnished apartment for rent in Key Largo. $1,500/month includes utilities. F/L/S Text: 786-559-5494 Email: apmz57@yahoo.com RENTED IN ONE MONTH!!
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD FOR ONLY $25/ WEEK FOR UP TO 5 LINES OF COPY. CALL 305-743-0844 TODAY!
VACATION RENTAL
Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/night. Sweet CarolineSeaport.com
HOME SUPPORT LIVE-IN CARETAKER (FT) – Key West
Seeking a full-time, live-in, In-Home Support Coach/Trainer to provide companionship and assist clients with training/support. HSD/GED & 1 yr. exp in a related field. 1 year of college can substitute for experience. Must be able to use a tablet for documentation purposes. The shift for this job is split shift with hours in the morning and the evening. We can be flexible on the hours but must be available to work both days and evenings as needed. *
DIRECT CARE STAFF – NIGHTS/WEEKENDS - GROUP HOMES 24/7 (FT)
This position is available at our Windsor Group Home. Providing direct-care services and support to our clients in their home. Must be willing to work flexible shifts including days, overnights on Thursday. Requires a minimum of high school completion or GED and 1 year of experience with care giving or 30 hours or college coursework. *
Responsibilities include management of developmentally disabled clients in independent living environments, management of office and in-home support staff. Must be available for some evenings and weekends. Bachelor’s degree in related field or experience working with developmentally disabled clients in lieu of degree. Must have a valid FL driver’s license. Salary commensurate with experience.
FT administrative, salaried position. Responsible for operations of Group Homes in accordance with State and Fed regulations. Oversight of staff and clients. Bachelor’s degree and Florida DL w/clean driving record req. At least 2 yrs of mgmt and admin experience req, and direct or comparable experience w/same or similar population preferred. Computer skills: moderate to advanced.
*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSTIONS
Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. EOE
Come join our family! Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32
The City of Key Colony Beach is seeking a full-time Public Works Foreman. The Foreman position is hands-on and works alongside the Public Works crew while assisting the Public Works Department Head in accomplishing department objectives and goals. The foreman is responsible for overseeing and working with a crew of three workers within the Public Works Department, coordinating daily operations, assigning tasks, and ensuring the safe and efficient maintenance and repair of public infrastructure such as roads, right of ways, stormwater systems, parks and facilities.
Salary: $75,000 to $85,000 DOQ
Benefits include Medical, Dental, and Life Insurance, Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, Holidays, and the Florida Retirement System (FRS). Application forms can be found at www.keycolonybeach.net; see “I WANT TO” then “APPLY FOR A JOB.”
Equal Opportunity Employer
Submit resume and application by mail or in-person to: City of Key Colony Beach
Attn.: Michael Guarino
P.O. Box 510141
Key Colony Beach, FL 33051
Or email Michael.guarino@keycolonybeach.net
The Advocate Program DUI school is hiring for part time positions.
Front desk: 3 days a week, high school diploma required. DUI instructors and evaluators: 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required.
Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.
THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!
JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS!
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO
Lead Certified Recovery Peer Support Specialist Advocate (FT) Front Desk Specialist
Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Adult PT, Child FT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)
Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)
MARATHON Care Coordinator (PT) Driver – PT (CDL not required)
RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (FT/PT) Advocate (PT)
*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT/PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living, PT)
*Night Monitor (Assisted Living - Free Housing)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
Apply at guidancecarecenter.org
Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip
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
- Medical Assistant 1, Upper Keys Internal Medicine, $5k Bonus
- Physician Assistant 1-Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier, $5k Bonus
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C), BHMG Multispecialty, Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant 2, General Surgery, Upper Keys, $5k Bonus
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C), Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier, $5k Bonus
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C), Multispecialty, Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Manager Physician Practice, Primary Care, Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Patient Access Associate, Multispecialty, Marathon, $1k Bonus
MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST
- Patient Access Associate 2, Operation Support, $1K Bonus
- Medical Assistant 1, Medical Oncology, $5k Bonus
- Registered Nurse, Chemotherapy Infusion, Fl Keys-MCI, $15k Bonus
- Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus
- Radiation Therapist, $12k Bonus
- Director Physician Practice Operations
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- Cook, Dietary
- Group Exercise Instructor, Mariners Wellness Center
- Mechanic 3, Facility Operations
- Radiology Technologist 1, Imaging-MRI, $40k Bonus
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (X Ray & CT), Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Patient Access Associate 1, Gastro, Tavernier, $1k Bonus
- Customer Service & Membershipe Coord., Wellness Center
- Food Service Worker, $5k Bonus
- Radiology Technologist 1, $40k Bonus
- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department
- Registered Nurse, ICU
MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
- Experience Advisor, Patient Experience
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Radiology Technologist 1, $40k Bonus
- Registered Nurse, $15k Bonus
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Pool RN, Emergency Department
- Medical Technologist 2, Laboratory, $50k 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
1. Past participle of spit
5. King Kong, e.g.
8. Greek portico
12. Not to be mentioned
13. Congeal
14. ____ cell carcinoma
15. Top of Kilimanjaro, e.g. 16. Periods of time
17. D-Day beach
18. *Holiday the day before Valentine’s Day
20. Shade of beige
21. Quantities on doctors’ prescriptions
22. Not amateur
23. *Letters to Juliet destination
26. Come to final conclusion
30. *Ultimate Valentine’s vow?
31. Purchaser
34. Zelensky’s capital
35. Move a plant
37. High-____, as in an image
38. Tubular pasta
39. Not Visa or MC
40. *Moving Valentine’s Day date option
42. “Annie get your ____”
43. a.k.a. ladybird
45. Maximum
47. “Rub A Dub Dub” vessel
48. Suburb of Dallas
50. Skunk’s defense
52. *Sweet Valentine’s gesture
56. Long stories
57. Rhythmic way of talking
58. Yours and mine
59. Send, as payment
60. The E of B.P.O.E.
61. A bit of water
62. Biblical paradise
63. Elfin
64. Sign of boredom
1. Doe’s mate
2. One of Three Bears
3. Cain’s brother
4. Prom night garb
5. Bird of prey’s nest
6. *Make them in advance of Valentine’s Day
7. “Or ____?”
8. *”Cupid” singer (2 words)
9. Russia’s Terrible one, e.g.
10. Pearl Harbor island
11. Between Fla. and Miss.
13. Ship’s floating wreckage
14. Afrikaners’ ancestors
19. Group of nine singers
22. For each
23. All over the internet
24. Possible allergic reaction
25. Lassoed
26. *Baby’s breath’s partner
27. Texting vocabulary, e.g.
28. *Cupid’s mom
29. Black tie ____
32. Snob
33. Gymnast’s goal
36. *a.k.a. “love hormone”
38. Deck alternative
40. Chicago baseballer
41. Defrauds
44. Explosion
46. Pleasing notes succession
48. At the same time
49. Too much egg middle
50. Newspaper piece
51. Five and ____
52. Staff leader
53. Heavenly glow
54. Think, archaically speaking
55. Sport spectator’s TV acronym
56. Before, old English
