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KEY WEST, FL – November 6, 2025 – Lower Keys Medical Center hosted an awards ceremony honoring Jessica Laino, RN, and Sandra Harry, Patient Care Technician, for the care and service they provide to patients.
Jessica Laino, a registered nurse on Labor and Delivery, was nominated for the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses by a patient and family, who lauded her professionalism, leadership and ability to perform under pressure during an emergency situation. Her communication and leadership within the caregiving team was credited for the successful outcome. She has worked at Lower Keys Medical Center since 2018. Jessica was presented with a hand-carved Healer’s Touch sculpture, a DAISY certificate and a signature bouquet of daisies. The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that was established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died in 1999 from complications of an autoimmune disease. His family was inspired to create the Foundation to honor nurses who make a profound difference in the lives of their patients and families. Sandra Harry, patient care technician in Labor and Delivery, has been at Lower Keys Medical Center for over 30 years, serving patients with her signature kindness, empathy and hands on compassionate care. She was nominated by a patient’s family member and numerous colleagues as the first employee to receive the new Sunflower Award, recognizing non-nursing staff who contribute significantly to the patient care team and provide exemplary patient care. Sandra was presented with a certificate, a Sunflower pin and a bouquet of Sunflowers at the reception. Michael Hales, Chief Nursing Officer at Lower Keys Medical Center said, “Congratulations to Jessica and Sandra on receiving these prestigious awards. They both embody the standards of our Community Cares Culture and play an important part in the delivery of quality, compassionate care and service to our patients.”
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Two Days and Evenings of Festive Fun Surround 17th Annual Rudolph Red Nose Run in Key West, Florida11/6/2025  Two days of lively activities surround this year’s Rudolph Red Nose Run, one of Key West’s most whimsically wonderful 5Ks. (Photo: Carol Tedesco/APSMC.org) Holiday cheer meets sparkling island energy December 12-13 as two days of lively activities surround this year’s Rudolph Red Nose Run, one of Key West’s most whimsically wonderful 5Ks.
Presented by A Positive Step of Monroe County (APSMC) and the Key West Southernmost Runners Club, the family-friendly 5K, now in its 17th year, welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. The Southernmost Beach Café, 1405 Duval Street, is to serve as the 5K hub, while the Southernmost Beach Resort, 1319 Duval St., will host the run’s surrounding pool parties and special events. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12
Splash into the weekend with a pool party set to the rhythms of steel drum artist Jannik.
Learn the island’s traditional call and compete for bragging rights.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 — RACE DAY & MORE
1:00–4:00 p.m. — Recovery Pool Party Southernmost Beach Resort Pineapple Pool. Dive into an afternoon of fun set to live music with the Channel 3 Reggae Band.
Shop local artisan wares and farmer’s market offerings.
DJ entertainment, poolside fun, and photo ops with mermaids.
Rudolph Red Nose runners are encouraged to continue the revelry and compete in the pageant! “For 17-years the Rudolph Red Nose Run has been a joyful way for people to come together in support of local kids and families—and our new, surrounding events promise to make it an even more memorable weekend for residents and visitors alike,” said APSMC founder and executive director Billy Davis. Rudolph Run registration includes a complimentary event t-shirt. Proceeds benefit the APSMC Idle Hands Summer Youth Employment Program, which serves some of Monroe County’s highest risk youth and their families. Donations are tax deductible. A Positive Step of Monroe County, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has served high-risk youth and families since 1999, providing essential support, mentorship, and opportunities for success. For more information and online registration visit https://www.apsmc.org/annual-5k.  Key West, FL — The Key West Artisan Market continues its 2025–26 season on Sunday, November 16, from 10 am to 2 pm at Indigenous Park at Higgs Beach with the “Charting the Course” Edition, featuring the Key West Community Sailing Center. This week’s market celebrates life on the water while supporting the organization’s mission to make sailing accessible and affordable for everyone in the Keys.
The Key West Community Sailing Center offers youth instruction, educational programs, and affordable memberships for locals and visitors who want to experience the joy of sailing the island’s clear turquoise waters. Representatives will be onsite to share details about lessons, volunteer opportunities, and ways to help keep this vital community program thriving. Each Sunday, the Key West Artisan Market transforms Indigenous Park into a lively waterfront bazaar where creativity, flavor, and island culture come together. Visitors can browse fine crafts and original art from Florida Keys makers, discover hand-poured candles, tropical apparel, and one-of-a-kind jewelry, and meet the artists who create them. The Market also features local authors, specialty foods, and unique island souvenirs — a perfect blend of shopping and strolling that captures the heart of Key West. Guests can sip Bloody Marys and mimosas from Great Events Catering’s full-service bar or enjoy freshly brewed coffee, pressed juices, and squeezed lemonade. A tempting mix of food trucks and stalls offer eat-here or take-away dishes, from artisan cheese, breads, and seafood to fresh Florida produce and international flavors from the Mediterranean, Argentina, India, and the Caribbean. Keys Yacht Rock Station 93.7 will broadcast live from the market with island tunes, on-air interviews, and community updates throughout the day, along with a live musical performance from a featured local artist. Visitors can also explore the newly remodeled Key West Wildlife Center, located within Indigenous Park, to see firsthand the important work being done to care for the island’s native birds and wildlife. The Key West Artisan Market pairs community causes with a celebration of local creativity and entrepreneurship, giving residents and visitors alike the chance to shop small, eat well, and give back. Each edition highlights a different nonprofit partner working to strengthen the island community. Admission and parking are free, and guests are encouraged to bring reusable shopping bags. The Key West Artisan Market takes place select Sundays at Indigenous Park at Higgs Beach, offering a rotating lineup of themes and nonprofit partners throughout the season. For updates and upcoming editions, visit https://www.facebook.com/KWArtisanMarket. For vendor information, email [email protected] or apply online at https://bit.ly/KWAMVENDORS.  MONROE COUNTY, FL – The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners recently approved the county’s 2026 State Legislative agenda. Legislative Affairs Director Lisa Tennyson outlined Monroe County’s priorities for the upcoming legislative session, which will start Jan. 13, 2026.
This year’s legislative priorities reflect the county’s ongoing dedication to preserving the unique environment, economy, and quality of life in the Florida Keys, while also addressing challenges related to insurance affordability, property tax stability, and flood resilience. Key highlights of the 2026 legislative agenda include: • Property Tax Monitoring: Monitor any state or executive proposals that could reduce or eliminate property taxes, which serve as the county’s most reliable funding source for essential services like law enforcement, emergency response, and public health. • Water Quality Protection: Advocate for a $20 million appropriation under the Florida Keys Stewardship Act and continued funding for Monroe County’s vessel pump-out program and other water quality projects that protect coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and canal systems vital to the Florida Keys’ tourism and fisheries economy. • Land Acquisition (Florida Forever): Support the continuation of the $5 million Florida Forever set-aside through 2036 for land acquisition to retire development rights and protect environmentally sensitive areas. The county is also requesting $2.5 million in appropriations for targeted land acquisition to mitigate military encroachment and support affordable housing initiatives. • Affordable and Workforce Housing: Pursue state legislation to exempt Habitat for Humanity from construction performance bond requirements on county-leased land and seek authorization for ad valorem tax relief for long-term workforce rental properties. • Wind and Hurricane Insurance Affordability: Advocate for the restoration of the 10 percent annual rate cap on Citizens Property Insurance, an increase in coverage limits to $1.5 million, and the rollback of flood insurance mandates for properties outside designated flood zones. • Resilience and Flooding: Continue to secure Resilient Florida Grant Program funding for county road elevation and flood mitigation projects that address tidal and storm-related flooding, which threatens homes, infrastructure, and public safety. • School Readiness Program Eligibility: Support legislation to raise the income eligibility threshold for Monroe County families, allowing more working parents to access early education opportunities that prepare children for school success. • Area of Critical State Concern and ROGO Protection: Advocate for exemptions to state land-use preemptions that could override Monroe County’s Rate of Growth Ordinance (ROGO), Comprehensive Plan, or environmental protections that safeguard the Florida Keys’ fragile ecosystem. “Monroe County has benefitted greatly from the leadership of our delegation members, Senator Rodriguez and Representative Mooney, and the ongoing support from the legislature and the Governor’s office. Our successful collaboration with state leaders enables us to continue preserving the uniqueness of the Florida Keys and our unmatched environment,” said Legislative Affairs Director Lisa Tennyson. “This year’s agenda continues that partnership, addressing emerging issues and reinforcing our commitment to the sustainable future of the Florida Keys.” More information about Monroe County’s legislative priorities can be found at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/legislativeaffairs.  BIG PINE KEY, FL – Monroe County Parks and Beaches, along with the Lower Keys Rotary, will start a new tradition with the inaugural Big Pine Key Tree Lighting on Friday, Nov. 21, at Big Pine Key Community Park. The event begins at 6 p.m., and the official lighting of the 14-foot-tall holiday tree will take place at 7 p.m. The event is free.
Families are invited to ring in the holiday season with an evening full of festive fun, including games, a holiday hayride, live entertainment, s’mores, and hot cocoa. Young guests can visit Santa’s Village for holiday cheer and a chance to meet Santa Claus. “This is a great opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate the spirit of the season,” said Parks and Beaches Director John Allen. “We’re excited to start this new holiday tradition with our local families and neighbors.” For more information about Monroe County Parks and Beaches events, visit www.ParksAndBeaches.Fun.  Key West, FL — November 4, 2025 — Win fame for your cat and a $500 swag prize for you! Sloppy Joe’s Foundation is putting out the call to all cat lovers and their photogenic felines! The Foundation has launched its first-ever Top Cat Contest to find the next furry face of Caturdays 2026, the popular year-round fundraising program that blends Key West fun with community giving.
Cat owners are invited to submit up to three of their favorite photos of each of their cats to enter the contest. The winning feline will become the official “Face of Caturdays 2026", featured in promotional materials, social media, and events celebrating the Foundation’s charitable work. “Caturdays are all about joy, generosity, and the quirky spirit that makes Key West special,” said Jeff Allen, Chair of the Sloppy Joe’s Foundation. “We wanted to create a contest that celebrates our island’s love of cats and the people who support our community each week through this fun tradition.” Each Saturday, Caturdays participants who make a donation to Sloppy Joe’s Foundation receive the signature cat ear headbands, a lighthearted symbol of giving that helps fund programs supporting the people who live and work in Key West. The Top Cat Contest gives everyone a chance to share their favorite feline and join the fun. Voting will be open to the public December 1 - 31, and the winner will be announced by January 6, 2026. The winning cat gets the fame of being the face of Caturdays and the owner takes home a $500 swag bundle. Contest Details:
For more information, visit https://sloppyjoesfoundation.org/events/top-cats/ or follow @SloppyJoesFoundation on Facebook. About Sloppy Joe’s Foundation Sloppy Joe’s Foundation is dedicated to supporting the people, animals, and causes that make the Florida Keys a thriving and compassionate community. Through joyful ways to give, like Caturdays, the Foundation raises funds for local needs while spreading the fun-loving spirit of Key West. On Wednesday, November 19th, the History of Diving Museum will host Dr. Jack Stein Grove as he presents on William Beebe in the Galápagos at 7 p.m.
2025 marks 50 years of active conservation work and research for Dr. Jack Stein Grove. Employed as a naturalist, dive master, and expedition leader across the seven seas, Jack has explored many of the most remote regions of the world’s oceans. For 7 years, he lived aboard the ship Bucanero in the Galápagos, working as a naturalist guide for the National Park Service, and doing research for the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History and the Instituto Nacional de Pesca in Guayaquil, Ecuador. His seminal book, Fishes of the Galápagos Islands, was published in 1997, and is the only comprehensive book of its kind. Today, Dr. Grove’s dedication to conservation, education, and research continues in his role as Executive Director of the East Pacific Corridor Alliance (EPCA). Join Dr. Grove as he takes us through William Beebe’s original research in the Galápagos Islands and what the islands and their creatures look like today. Prior to Immerse Yourself, the Museum will hold their November Member Mingle. Museum members and potential members alike are invited to see Celebrating 20 Years Featured Exhibit and enjoy light refreshments. New members will receive a free hat or shirt, as will members that refer them. The Member Mingle takes place in the exhibits from 5:30 PM to 6:45, followed by Immerse Yourself. If you are interested in attending the Immerse Yourself lecture either in-person or online via Zoom, visit divingmuseum.org to register. The Charles Darwin Research Station has also been invited to join virtually. This session will also be recorded and posted to the HDM YouTube channel. The Museum would like to thank this month's sponsors: the Misso Family and the Newton Family. The History of Diving Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in Islamorada (MM83). Divers and non-divers alike are amazed by over 5,000 years of “the quest to explore under the sea.” The Museum has 14 core exhibits plus two annual limited-time Featured Exhibits as well as a Museum Store with unique gifts. Check out DivingMuseum.org for more details, to become a member or shop online.  As Key West heads into its busy season, dozens of local businesses came to the dais at City Hall to celebrate tourism in the island city. Mayor Danise “DeeDee” Henriquez and the City Commission issued a commendation for “the vital role that tourism plays in strengthening our economy, preserving our heritage, and enriching the lives of all who live in and visit our city.”
Key West is world-renowned for its tropical beauty, historical charm, cultural diversity, and welcoming spirit,” reads the proclamation, “making it one of the most visited destinations in the United States.” It notes that sustainable tourism is the economic heartbeat of the community, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, protecting the environment and supporting the livelihoods of thousands of residents. “The City of Key West remains committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices,” the proclamation continues, “that protect our fragile ecosystem, preserve our cultural heritage, and ensure a quality experience for both residents and visitors. Tourism also fosters a sense of community pride and global connection, bringing together people of diverse backgrounds who experience and celebrate our island's One Human Family spirit.” It credits the success of Key West's tourism industry to the dedication and professionalism of hospitality workers, small business owners, tour operators, and community partners who make every visitor feel at home.  Key West Transit is convening two public workshops to give an overview of current routes and discuss service changes in the future.
These sessions will provide an overview of the current routes and services, outline planned updates, offer guidance on best practices for utilizing public transit, introduce trip-planning tools, and include a Q&A segment to address community questions and feedback. “Our goal,” said Transit Director Rogelio Hernandez, “is to ensure transparency, encourage public engagement, and support a smooth transition for all riders.” There will be two sessions:
Major Ed Coy and Sargeant Terry Varney-- U.S. Army veterans, CFK alumni, CFK employees  Photo (L to R): Monroe County Mayor and Navy veteran Jim Scholl, CFK marine engineering instructor and Army veteran Ed Coy, CFK President Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, CFK Dive Facilities Manager and Army veteran Terry Varney, VFW Post 3911 representatives Marine Corps veteran and CFK alumnus Mark Tobin and Army veteran Rod Delostrinos at CFK’s Community Day on November 1. KEY WEST, FL, November 5, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) honored veterans as part of its festivities on Community Day on Saturday, November 1 at the Key West Campus. CFK President Dr. Jonathan Gueverra delivered his annual Salute to Veterans, honoring Major Edward Coy and Sargeant Terrence Varney, both U.S. Army veterans who graduated from CFK and are now College employees.
CFK President Dr. Jonathan Gueverra’s 2025 Salute to Veterans: “This Veterans Day, please take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices that our service members bear for all Americans and for the principles of democracy. I salute all veterans as well as current service members, including my son Julius, who is serving in the Navy. I express my sincerest thanks to them and their families for their dedication and commitment, and for their continued service to protecting our freedom wherever they are deployed. Our heroes continue to serve in a variety of ways that benefit our communities. The Florida Keys and the College have indeed benefitted from the contributions of many veterans over the years. Each one deserves special recognition. Today, I salute two veterans in the CFK Family: U.S. Army Major Edward Coy and U.S. Army Sargeant Terrence Varney—both CFK employees and alumni, each with distinct stories of service. Major Edward Coy Ed enlisted in the Army right out of high school in 1973—seeking military service as a path to develop character and to provide for the family he intended to start with his high school sweetheart and new bride Denise. Shortly after basic training, he joined the 1/75th Ranger Regiment and moved to the 24th Infantry Division in Fort Steward, Georgia while starting a family. In a pivotal moment, young Ed found himself in legal trouble after accidentally driving through a roadblock. Fortunately, a Catholic priest and base Chaplain, came to his defense, convincing law enforcement to drop charges. Grateful for his kindness, Ed developed a friendship with the priest, which inspired a new purpose in his military career. Ed added the role of Chaplain to his other soldier duties, providing spiritual counseling, emotional support, and moral guidance to countless service members and their families struggling with challenges ranging from depression and marital problems to PTSD and suicide. He worked stateside and throughout the world on multiple tours including Korea, Egypt, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Guatemala. Initially retiring in 1992 as a Sargeant First Class, he was called back in 2006 to serve as the Chaplain Major deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, along with assignments to support soldiers and their families in Kentucky, Washington, D.C. and surrounding regions. Ed retired in 2016 as a Major following 30 years of service, receiving distinctions including the Armed Forces Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with two stars, Meritorious Medal, Army Commendation and Achievement Medals, Army Defense Service Medal, Combat Action Badge, and Airborne Badge. Upon his second retirement in 2016, he and Denise moved to the Keys, their favorite vacation destination. With boating as a retirement priority, Ed wanted to learn how to operate diesel engines. He enrolled in CFK and earned an associate degree in Marine Engineering, Management, and Seamanship. He was recruited back to the classroom after graduation, this time as an adjunct instructor. Ed also worked as the Veterans Affairs Coordinator in the College’s Financial Aid Office for one year, helping veterans, active-duty service members, and their dependents maximize their military education benefits like the G.I. Bill to earn college credentials. Today, he is a full-time faculty member in the marine engineering program, which serves many veteran students developing new skillsets and goals. Ed uses his Army Chaplain experience to provide support and guidance to his students beyond teaching the curriculum—including fostering camaraderie and community via the Veterans Student Club, which he founded two years ago. Sargeant Terrence Varney Like Ed, Terry enlisted in the Army right out of high school, setting forth on a career that would provide opportunities to develop skills and character, support a family, and serve our nation. Already equipped with basic technical skills after years of working for his father’s electrical and plumbing business, Terry started as an aviation mechanic in Bangor, Maine. He performed maintenance and repairs on aircraft, including structural, powertrain, and avionics systems, to ensure they are safe and operational. Noticing his talent and potential, his superiors promoted him to flight crew. Terry served as a dual status technician in the Army National Guard as well as a fulltime soldier—participating in missions from both divisions, as duty called. His service included multiple deployments to Germany and Iraq. The first half of his aviation career was dedicated to air combat duties. As the Unit Training Advisor, he ensured all members of the Huey helicopter flight crew were prepared to carry out complex assault missions. After 12 years, Terry’s career shifted to 14 years of medevac work, serving as the Crew Chief responsible for maintenance and security of the Black Hawk aircraft. While not typically required for his role, Terry enrolled in Combat Lifesaver School, acquiring essential trauma care skills that were put to use in critical rescue missions. In between medevac deployments, Terry’s family grew quickly upon marrying wife Kelly, becoming stepfather to a son and a daughter in 2004, and welcoming another daughter in 2006. In 2018, Terry retired as Staff Sargent E6. He earned two Air Medals as well as Master Aviator Wings during his 26 years of service. The family moved to Key West to enjoy retirement. Afraid he may spend too much time fishing, Kelly encouraged him to enroll in diving classes. He ultimately earned two associate degrees at CFK—in Diving Business Technology and Marine Engineering, Management, and Seamanship. After graduation, Terry stayed with the College, working as a lab technician before becoming the Dive Facilities Manager. In his role, he interacts with many students in CFK’s various marine programs, making special connections with veteran students who lean on him for extra support and guidance. It is with great honor that on this Veterans Day 2025, The College of the Florida Keys and I salute U.S. Army Major Edward Coy and U.S. Army Sargeant Terrence Varney. They exemplify the vast bravery, talent, and selflessness of the U.S. military. Thank you for your continuous service to our country, state, and community. May your achievements, sacrifice, and generosity serve as an inspiration for all.” |
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