July Members in Motion
July's Members in Motion was a blast at The Turtle Bar at Snapper's!
A big thanks to Samantha and her team for the warm hospitality, the delicious bites, and the breathtaking views from our private space. This month's gathering was extra special as it also served as a fundraiser for United Way of Collier and The Keys — bringing our members together for a great cause and a great time. We can't wait to see you all at the next event!
See more photos on page 10
In This Issue
President's Corner PAGE 3
Butterfly Nursery Opening PAGE 4
Celebrating Freedom PAGE 6 & 7
Welcome CHI! PAGE 8
Members in Motion PAGES 10 & 11
Upcoming Events PAGE 12
Luncheon Happenings PAGES 16 & 17
Increase Prices Without Losing Customers PAGE 18
Grilled Florida Lobster Recipe PAGE 21
Trustee Members PAGE 23
Credits:
Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
Market Design Connect with Nikki Dunn Cullen
Key Largo Chamber of Commerce 106000 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1414
www.keylargochamber.org
Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
Legacy Members
Join the Chamber's exclusive Legacy Member 100K Club to help raise $100,000 to pay off the chamber's mortgage and bolster reserves. The Key Largo Chamber is seeking 100 sponsorships of $1,000 per business or individual. Thank you to:
X Henry Quintana
X HNO Productions
X Michael Rojewski Realtor
X Gretchen Holland
X Coral Reef Title
X Arla Marr
X Borland & Associates, Roberto & Ana Alonso
X In Loving Memory of Stuart Marr
X Boilini Eye Care
X Dennis and Lee Caltagirone
X Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate
X Centennial Bank
X J.A. LaRocco Enterprise Inc. & All Keys Concrete, LLC
X SBI Window + Doors
President's Corner: Cultivating Good Leadership Habits
As the Leadership Monroe County application process opens for another year, I’ve been reflecting on the leaders in our community and what sets some apart. Whether you’re an aspiring new manager or a seasoned executive, the habits great leaders follow act like a compass, guiding them toward effective decision-making, resilience, and meaningful impact. Becoming the leader you envision begins with building good habits that create daily momentum.
Successful leaders aren’t driven by grand strategies alone; it’s also about small, consistent routines: morning habits, energy rituals, focused time blocks, and mental resets. What separates top-performing leaders isn’t just their vision but their habits. These daily behaviors form the invisible framework behind their success. From how they start their day to how they protect their energy and lead with intention; strong habits offer a roadmap for anyone seeking to lead with greater impact.
Start Strong with Intentional Morning Habits
• Rise early – Take advantage of quiet morning hours before emails and meetings begin.
• Make time for deep thinking – Carve out space for strategic reflection and planning.
• Clear your inbox – Achieving inbox zero helps reduce mental clutter and opens space for highlevel thinking.
• Move your body – Exercise isn’t a luxury; it’s a leadership tool. Regular physical activity boosts energy, resilience, and focus.
Optimize Your Energy with Strategic Priorities
• Treat energy like currency – Your energy, not your time, is your most valuable resource.
• Value rest – Rest isn’t downtime. It’s a performance multiplier. Prioritizing sleep and recovery sharpens clarity, creativity, and decision-making.
• Cultivate life beyond work – Invest in your relationships, hobbies, and personal joy. Whether it’s family dinners, creative outlets, or travel, a rich personal life helps you stay grounded and innovative.
• Reconnect with your passions – Spend time on the things that inspire you and reignite your sense of purpose.
Avoid Burnout
with Practical Strategies
• Acknowledge your feelings –Burnout is real. Recognizing and identifying its root causes is key to managing it effectively.
• Prioritize self-care – Nourish your body, mind, and soul. Selfcare isn’t selfish, it’s essential for sustained leadership.
• Don’t hesitate to seek support –Talking to someone you trust can provide perspective, validation, and guidance.
Suzi Youngberg President of Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
• Celebrate small wins –Acknowledge your progress, however small. Recognizing achievements fuels confidence and motivation.
Build Your Leadership Blueprint
Becoming a successful leader doesn’t happen overnight. It starts with microhabits like waking early, sending that first email, taking time to stretch. Over time, these rituals shape a leadership identity built on clarity, balance, resilience, and growth.
Start planting the seeds of good leadership habits now. Reinforce and refine the routines that support your success. With consistency, these habits become second nature, part of your identity, as you step into the leader you’ve always envisioned.
I encourage you to apply for Leadership Monroe County to deepen your habits and expand your understanding of leadership in our community.
Proud graduate of Class XXXI – “31 Fators” – Best class ever!
A Beautiful New Space Blooms in Key Largo!
The Key Largo Chamber is delighted to celebrate the grand opening of the JD Butterfly Garden Nursery, a peaceful oasis tucked away in the heart of Key Largo. Designed as a sanctuary for nature lovers, this special space offers a nurturing environment for butterflies and other pollinators, while also serving as a small bird sanctuary surrounded by tropical and native plants.
During the ribbon cutting, community members came together to
explore the garden’s thoughtful design, connect with those behind the project, and enjoy the tranquility of this hidden gem.
We’re proud to welcome the JD Butterfly Garden Nursery to our community and look forward to the peace and joy it will bring to families and local wildlife alike.
Visit this special spot at 99150 Overseas Hwy in Key Largo and experience the beauty for yourself!
Celebrating Freedom, Rain or Shine
The Key Largo Chamber’s 49th Annual Fourth of July Parade & Fireworks was a day to remember. Even with a little rain, the energy was high, the family picnic was a crowd favorite, and our community came together in true patriotic spirit.
We’d like to thank all the participants, volunteers, and spectators who made this event so special—and extend our congratulations to this
year’s float winners:
• Best Theme Float: Key Lime Sailing Club & Cottages
• Spirit of ’76: American Legion Post 333
• Most Patriotic Float: American Legion Post 145
• Best Nonprofit: Mote Marine Lab
• Most Beautiful: Marine Lab
• Best Business: Coastal Cleaners
We’ll be sharing photos of our winners with their plaques on social media as soon as they come in, so be sure to follow along.
The Fourth of July spirit is still going strong here in Key Largo—and we’re already looking forward to next year’s milestone 50th celebration coinciding with our country’s 250th birthday. We can't wait!
thank you july 4th SPONSORs!
Woltanski family
Welcome to the Neighborhood, CHI!
We’re thrilled to welcome Community Health of South Florida (CHI) to the Key Largo community! Their brandnew, state-of-the-art facility, located at 228 Atlantic Blvd, is now open and is already making a meaningful impact.
As a nonprofit healthcare organization with a deep commitment to compassionate, comprehensive care, CHI serves families throughout South Florida with a range of services, including primary care, pediatrics, OB/GYN, mental health, dental care, and more—all under one roof.
During the recent grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony, Chamber Trustees had the opportunity to connect with CHI leadership and enjoy a private tour led by Tiffani Helberg, P.A., which showcased the impressive new space. We’re excited to have CHI as part of the Upper Keys and look forward to all the ways they will help our community thrive.
Visit chisouthfl.org or call 305-252-4820 to learn more or schedule an appointment.
July Members in Motion!
Our Members in Motion After Hours at Snapper’s Turtle Club reminded us just how special it is to unwind with good company. With that breathtaking view, plenty of laughter, and meaningful conversation, it was an evening of connection, community, and a well-earned pause after a busy day!
Thursday, August 14
Upcoming Events
See all our up-to-date events on our website, www.web.keylargochamber.org/events or scan the QR Code
Social Networking Lunch meeting: A conversation with Kara Franker, CEO Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Saturday, August 16
Wednesday, August 27
Saturday, September 6 Keys To The Future, FKCS Beach banquet
Pawsitive Beginnings Day Sunset cruise The Big Splash! An event for the Kids
“Catch
Experts in what we do, bound by a code of ethics
Florida Keys Board of Realtors®
Board of Directors:
Claire Johnson
Karen Williams deCastro
Corie MaGraw-Abel
Michael Rojewski
Kathe Kaile
Erin Kiel
Amy Bruggeman
Christine GGarcia-Castellanos
Lindsey Davis
David Lazcos
Michaela Walters
Welcome to the Keys Side of Care.
Baptist Health is here for you in Monroe County, providing the compassionate, quality care you deserve.
Our local network includes:
y Mariners Hospital (Tavernier) and Fishermen’s Community Hospital (Marathon)
y Specialty cancer, heart and vascular, and orthopedic care
y Imaging, surgery, and physician therapy and rehabilitation
From care in your neighborhood to the full Baptist Health network across South Florida, your health is our top priority, wherever you are.
A Fulfilling July Networking Lunch at Pilot House
Great food, great people, and great conversations! Our Member Social Networking Lunch at the Pilot House was a hit—with a full house and special guest State Representative Jim Mooney giving us the scoop post-session. Nothing better than spending time with our amazing community. Thank you to Calypso Sailing for being our lunch sponsor
and to everyone who attended.
Our next lunch meeting is on August 14 at Playa Largo, featuring a conversation with TDC’s CEO Kara Franker.
Visit our Social Media platforms to see all the photos: linktr.ee/keylargochamberofcommerce
Lee, Kate and Nicole.
Annual Chamber events!
Mary and Jill.
Robert and Ricardo, owner of The Pilot House.
Marianne, Jill, Kim and Cindy.
Mirna and Dennis Ward.
THANK YOU LUNCH SPONSORS, Suzanne and Lance Holmquist of Calypso Sailing.
Welcome New Members
X DI of Monroe
X Lion Grace Llc
X Destination Florida
X Lujan Pest Control
X EZ Permits Inc
X The Medical Group at South Miami
X Enea Landscape Architecture
X Charley Toppino & Sons Inc
X Leadership Monroe County
X The Everglades Foundation
X Olimar Stone
X New Edge Associates
New members Mike and Rachel ofr Lujan Pest Control.
Adriana, Lisa, and Margie.
Guest speaker State Representative Jim Mooney giving a legislative updated.
Suzi presenting!
How to Increase Prices Without Losing Customers
By Zoe Fairfax, The Stradgy Group
Raising prices is one of the fastest ways to boost profit margins, but it’s also one of the scariest. Will customers walk away? Will sales drop? For many business owners, this fear keeps them stuck with outdated pricing that no longer reflects the value they deliver.
But here’s the good news: when done right, a price increase can actually strengthen customer relationships, improve perception, and grow your bottom line.
Here’s how to raise your prices without losing your best customers and some examples of businesses that did it well.
1. Lead with Value, Not Price
Before you make any pricing change, ask yourself: Have I clearly communicated the value of what I offer? Customers aren’t just buying a product they’re buying a result, a transformation, or peace of mind. If
your offer solves a painful problem or saves time, highlight that. Help them understand that the new price reflects a better experience or greater impact.
Example: A SaaS platform added AI-driven analytics to its dashboard. Rather than just raising prices, they messaged it as “an upgraded experience to help you make faster decisions and increase ROI.” Customers didn’t see it as a price hike they saw it as an enhancement.
2. Bundle Value to Justify Increases
Instead of raising prices on a single item or service, add value through bundling. By combining complementary services or perks, you give customers more while improving your perceived value.
Example: A marketing consultant increased her retainer by 20%, but added monthly strategy sessions and access to her private client Slack channel. Clients saw it as a “value
boost,” not a cost hike.
3.
Segment Your Pricing Strategy
Not all customers need to see the same price. Consider offering tiered options so that budget-conscious clients can stay at their level while others upgrade. This strategy allows you to:
• Retain hesitant clients with a lowertier plan (downsell)
• Capture more value from premium clients
• Test pricing across segments
Example: A digital agency offered a new “Lite” plan that excluded reporting and strategy, while raising prices on full-service packages. Entry-level clients stayed put, while premium clients happily paid more for added insights.
4. Give Advance Notice (and a Reason)
Respect your current customers by giving them a heads-up, and a reason. Transparency builds trust.
Let them know:
• Why the price is increasing
• What improvements they’ll receive When the change takes effect If possible, offer to grandfather them in for a limited time.
Example: A fitness coach sent out an email 30 days before increasing rates. She explained rising platform fees and her expanded offerings (new app access, meal plans). She let current clients lock in the old price for another 3 months. Most stayed and several upgraded.
5. Use Anchoring to Your Advantage
In psychology, “anchoring” refers to the human tendency to rely on the first piece of information offered when making decisions.
If you introduce a higher-tier option or premium version, your original offer becomes more appealing, even at a higher price.
Example: A software tool introduced a $199/month “pro” plan alongside its
• “We’ve added more to serve you better”
• “Your plan just got smarter”
• “You now have access to…”
Example: A copywriter who raised her prices rebranded her packages as “VIP intensives,” added faster turnaround times, and delivered her work in polished templates. Clients viewed it as a premium experience, not just a higher cost.
7. Time Your Increase Strategically
Avoid raising prices when customer trust is low or during times of crisis. Instead, time your increase when: You’ve recently launched a new feature or service Your business has hit a milestone (e.g., new location, new hires)
• You’ve proven results with testimonials or case studies
• Strategic timing helps frame the increase as a natural progression not a money grab.
significantly boosts profits. Just make sure you're keeping an eye on trends and adjusting accordingly.
9. Train Your Team
Your team needs to be confident in explaining the value of the new pricing. Equip them with:
• Talking points
• FAQs
• Support scripts
If your team wavers or apologizes for the increase, customers will sense it. If your team owns the value and can explain it clearly, customers will follow.
10. Remember: Customers Expect Increases
Inflation is real. Technology evolves. Costs change. Most customers expect that pricing will go up from time to time especially if they’re seeing improvements in quality, speed, or experience.
The key is to lead with empathy, transparency, and value.
Final Thoughts
Raising your prices doesn’t have to mean losing your customers.
If you’ve built trust, deliver results, and communicate with clarity, most customers will understand, and many will happily pay more. In fact, raising prices can often attract better-fit clients who see your service as premium.
So don’t let fear keep you from pricing your value correctly.
Your 2025 Chamber Board of Directors
Henry Menendez 2024 - 2026 Chairman of the Board of Directors
HNO Productions – Owner/Operator
Roberto Alonso (2025-2027)
Borland & Associates President
Angie Alvarez (2024 -2026)
Centennial Bank Branch Manager
Manuel Alvarez (2024-2026)
Verdeja, De Armas & Trujillo, CPA
Berta Bravo (2024 – 2026)
SBI Windows & Doors Owner
Spenser Bryan (2025-2027)
Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Captain
Kevin Donlan (2024-2026)
Publix Supermarkets, Inc
District Director
Melissa Fernandez (2025-2027)
All Keys Concrete Communications & Sales
Cathy Gahagen (2024-2026)
The Catch Owner
Suzanne Holmquist (2025-2027)
Calypso Watersports & Charters Proprietor
Mary Houston (2025-2027)
Houston Insurance Agency Owner
Michelle Kane (2025-2027)
Vernis & Bowling of the Florida Keys, PA Attorney
Michael Rojewski – Chairman Elect (2023–2025)
Michael Rojewski Group Owner
Ruth Schrader-Grace (2025 - 2026)
Keys Core Fitness Owner/Operator
Blaine Vernicek (2025 - 2027)
The Structure Group Manager
Grilled Florida Lobster with Cajun Butter
Source: mydeliciousblog.com
Prep time: 5 mins | Cook time: 10 mins
Ingredients
X 6 Tb. unsalted butter, softened
X 1½ tsp. Cajun seasoning (or a mixture of paprika, garlic powder [or fresh minced garlic], cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper)
X 1 tsp. lemon zest
X 1 tsp. minced parsley (alt. chives, basil, cilantro)
X Pinch kosher salt
X 4 Florida spiny lobster tails (approx. 6-7 oz.)
X Fresh lemon wedges
X Minced parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Just before you're ready to cook the lobster, combine butter, seasoning, parsley and lemon zest in a small bowl; set aside until ready to use.
2. Place lobster tails on a cutting board with domed shell upward.
3. Butterfly the tails: using a sharp chef’s knife or kitchen shears, cut through the tail lengthwise (if using a knife, be sure not to press all the way through to the bottom shell or the cutting board). Spread the shell apart with your fingers and carefully pull out the meat from top to bottom, leaving the bottom portion attached to the tail. Prop the meat back onto the shell so it covers the incision.
4. Heat a clean grill to medium/high and season the grates with a little vegetable oil.
5. Place tails on the hot grill, shell side down, and spread a little of the butter over the meat.
6. Cover the grill, cook about 5 minutes then open the cover and you'll likely notice the shells have turned bright orange/red. Spread on a little more butter (be sure to reserve about 1 Tb. for the final step) then flip onto the meat side and cook another 3-5 minutes, just until the meat is opaque/white and slightly firm.
7. Remove from grill, spread on remaining butter, sprinkle lemon juice and parsley, then serve in the shell.
Before the Power Goes Out
Make sure FKEC has your current phone numbers.
When you call FKEC, the phone system automatically matches your phone number to your electrical equipment. For faster restoration, make sure the number(s) you are most likely to call from to report an outage are registered to your account. Update via FKEC's SmartHub, or call 305-852-2431.
Stay in the know! Make sure FKEC has your accurate email address.
The cooperative uses email to communicate important timely information during storms and throughout the year. Update via SmartHub, or call 305-852-2431.
Make sure FKEC can access your meter.
To make repairs co-op crews must have 24-hour access to your meter.
If your power goes out, check your breakers first. Approximately 33% of all power outages are caused by breaker issues, which is the member’s responsibility to resolve.
Report the outage by calling or texting. Call 305-852-2431 or text “outage” to 45183 to report your outage. Note, your mobile number must be pre-registered with FKEC to communicate by text. Learn more at www.FKEC.com/outage-center/.
Safety
first!
Stay clear of all downed power lines or electrical equipment. Call 911 to report a downed power line if you feel the situation presents a clear and imminent danger. Then report the wire down to FKEC by calling 305-852-2431.
Understand the order of restoration.
In the event of a major storm with widespread outages, work is organized to restore power to the greatest number of members in the least amount of time. FKEC also prioritizes restoring power to life and safety situations and essential community services. Then, crews work to restore power to individual members with isolated issues. Whole-Home Surge Protection
Key Largo