We’re sorry to confirm that, as you may have heard or read, a fire recently destroyed three businesses in the 500 block of Key West’s famed Duval Street. However, despite the loss of the popular La Creperie Café and two art emporiums, firefighters worked heroically and kept the flames from harming two Key West landmarks beside them: Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville complex and the historic San Carlos Institute.

Jimmy Buffett, whose music epitomizes the easygoing Key West lifestyle, performs in a recent appearance at his Margaritaville Cafe.

The Margaritaville Café and Margaritaville Store, a mecca for “Parrot Head” fans of the multi-talented Buffett, reopened just a few hours after the fire was doused. Eager Parrot Heads swarmed in to savor “cheeseburgers in paradise” and purchase gifts and casual garb — all reminiscent of the singer/songwriter/author, sometimes known as Key West’s “pirate laureate,” whose greatest hits were inspired by his life in the island city.

At the San Carlos, some cleanup was necessary before things could get back to normal for the historic Cuban heritage center. However, a scheduled concert series by beloved Keys singer/songwriter Howard Livingston is going on as planned.

The majestic San Carlos building is unique and somewhat surprising to find alongside Duval Street’s colorful shops, galleries and cafes. Rich in Cuban history, it was the site where Cuban patriot Jose Marti launched his drive for his homeland’s independence in 1892.

Island troubadour Howard Livingston hosts a popular concert series at the San Carlos -- going on as planned since the fire spared the landmark building.

Sadly, the fire blew out a window at the San Carlos that came from Cuba in the 1920s, making it irreplaceable. Other treasures including documents and art were untouched — thanks in great part to firefighters and police officers that carried art pieces to safe locations to keep them from harm.

Shortly after the fire, San Carlos administrator Alex Pascual and Margaritaville’s management team, along with many Key West residents and visitors, talked regretfully of the destruction of La Creperie, the art sign shop Montage and American Royal Arts.

Yet with hungry Parrot Heads crowding the Margaritaville Café and shoppers exploring nearby stores, it’s probable that the businesses will rebound with support from the community — and Key West’s resilient spirit will continue to flourish along the 500 block of Duval.