April Members in Motion
Business leaders gathered in a spirit of community, generosity, and joy at Wesley House Family Services in Key Largo. Thanks to our incredible host, the evening shined with meaningful connections and celebrated raffle winners. The event was a true reminder of the power of coming together.
See more photos on page 8
In This Issue
Presidents Corner PAGE 3
Amended Floodplain Regulations PAGE 4
Honorary Conchs Named PAGE 6
Members in Motion PAGES 8 & 9
Upcoming Events PAGE 10
How to Say No as a Business Owner PAGE 12
Luncheon Happenings PAGES 14 & 15
Mahi Taco Recipe PAGE 17
Trustee Members PAGE 19
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
Leadership That Inspires Growth
As I near the end of my first quarter as President of the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce, I’ve found myself reflecting deeply on what leadership truly means—not just for me personally but for all of us as business owners, managers, and community leaders–and how leadership shapes the success of not only our Chamber, but every organization we touch.
Effective leadership is the backbone of any thriving business or community initiative. Yet, it can be difficult to define because great leaders come in many forms. Some are charismatic and inspiring; others lead more subtly with quiet conviction. What they all have in common, however, are qualities and consistent practices that elevate their teams and organizations to new heights.
While some people may seem like “natural-born leaders,” I believe leadership is not just a talent but a skill set that can be developed with intention, reflection, and effort. Like any meaningful endeavor, leadership requires practice. The most effective leaders don’t just possess good qualities; they embody and act on them consistently. Let’s talk about three quality traits every successful leader should possess and practice.
At the heart of those practices is one powerful word: courage. Leadership courage is more than just confidence or fearlessness. It’s a mindset—one that empowers a leader to act with integrity, to be accountable, and to remain resilient even in the face of uncertainty. Courage in leadership means doing the right thing, not just the easy thing. It’s about making decisions grounded in values and vision, even when those decisions are unpopular or uncomfortable.
Courageous leaders admit when they’ve made mistakes. They take
responsibility. They embrace personal growth and encourage it in others. They understand that the success of their team is their success. They create environments where people feel safe, supported, and motivated to grow, and that’s how organizations thrive over the long term.
If courage is the heart of leadership, trust is the foundation. Without trust, there is no leadership. If your team doesn’t trust you, they won’t follow you. And if you don’t trust them, you won’t be able to delegate, empower, or grow your organization.
Trust is not given. It’s earned and built over time through consistent, honest communication and a demonstrated commitment to shared goals. As leaders, it’s our responsibility to create a culture of trust by showing up with integrity and by believing in our people’s potential.
Great leaders do more than manage; they mentor. They recognize potential in their team and create pathways for them to grow. They train, support, and celebrate the success of others. In fact, a truly great leader takes pride in seeing someone they mentored take on new challenges, even if it means watching them grow beyond the organization.
Another aspect of effective leadership is a clear and compelling vision. Vision gives people a reason to follow, care, and a sense of purpose in their work. As leaders, it’s our role to define that vision and communicate it in a way that energizes our team and reminds them of the larger mission behind the day-today tasks.
As I settle into my role of leading the Key Largo Chamber, my vision is one of collaboration, innovation, and support. I want to ensure we continue building a strong, resilient business community here in Key Largo, one that values
leadership development celebrates local successes and empowers its members to thrive.
I encourage you to take this moment to reflect on your own leadership style. What practices are you modeling in your business? Are you creating a culture of courage, trust, mentorship, and a clear vision? Are you empowering your staff to grow, not just in their roles, but as future leaders?
No matter the size of your business, your leadership makes a difference. Whether you’re running a large operation or a small local shop, your ability to inspire, empower, and guide your team can determine your success and theirs.
As we move through 2025 together, I am honored to walk alongside you, not only as your Chamber President, but as a fellow leader in this dynamic and growing community. Let’s continue sharing ideas, learning from one another, and lifting each other up. After all, great leadership doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens through connections and collaboration.
Suzi Youngberg
President of Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
FEMA Approves County's Request to Amend Floodplain Regulations
The Board of County Commissioners has been seeking Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approval to eliminate decades-old requirements and restrictions on the amount of square footage that can be enclosed for storage under stilted homes. After providing written documentation of regulatory efforts the county has pursued to assure FEMA the county is following federal regulations by requiring property owners to build all habitable space above the minimum required elevation to prevent flood impacts, Monroe County received a letter from FEMA supporting the elimination of the county’s 2004 remedial plan for flood inspection and compliance. This decision allows the county to move forward with key code amendments, enabling property owners to have additional enclosed storage space below the required flood elevation under their house while maintaining compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
With FEMA’s approval, Monroe County can now proceed with eliminating:
• The maximum square footage limit
for enclosed storage space below flood, which is currently 299 square feet.
• The requirement for an inspection at the time of a sale.
Code amendments will take eight months to a year to process.
The downstairs storage enclosures must remain limited to storage, parking, or building access and CANNOT be used as habitable space. The prohibition against habitable living space in downstairs storage enclosures is based on federal regulations. A property owner who seeks a permit to expand their storage enclosure must sign and record a non-conversion agreement, which will document the types of improvements permitted so future buyers can see what is legal and compare it to existing conditions when they purchase a home. This will allow purchasers to know whether there have been illegal improvements before they buy the house.
“This is a major step forward for Monroe County residents,” said County Administrator Christine Hurley. “The
county has worked diligently to meet and exceed NFIP compliance standards over the past decade, and FEMA’s support now allows us to update our codes to serve the community better and be on par with the cities.”
The county agreed to the 299-squarefoot limitation to avoid being suspended from the NFIP. The NFIP was enacted to provide affordable flood insurance to property owners at risk for flooding, and there are approximately 11,110 NFIP-backed policies in Monroe County. FEMA's minimum elevation standards were adopted to minimize the loss of life, property, and costs of cleanup that would be incurred if homeowners were allowed to convert their downstairs enclosures into habitable living spaces.
As part of FEMA’s ongoing oversight, its floodplain management team will conduct compliance reviews through Community Assistance Visits for a random sample of structures at sixmonth intervals throughout the year to ensure enclosures remain compliant.
Source: Monroe County BOCC.
Pictured, Monroe County staff joined Acting FEMA Region IV Administrator Robert Samaam and his staff in Atlanta regarding the county's request to change certain floodplain regulations at the end of March.
Two Upper Keys Residents Become Honorary Conchs
Two Upper Keys residents received distinction as Honorary Conchs during a Monroe County Commission meeting in Key Largo.
A special recognition to individuals who weren’t born in the Keys, but made significant contributions over the years within the island chain, Honorary Conch certificates were presented to Tony Hammon and Jimmy Anderson.
Hammon came to the Keys in the 1960s. He’s served the community in various capacities as a pastor at Island Community Church, educator at Coral Shores High School, administrator at Island Christian School, sports coach and volunteer for several nonprofits.
“I was 12 years old when I came as a
farm kid, and somehow got my roots in the water, became a marine biology teacher and eventually a pastor,” he said.
Commissioner Holly Raschein nominated Hammon for his community service, faith and friendship of the late Mike Forster.
“I could go on and on about your greatness. We hope you’re in our community many more years,” Raschein said.
Anderson moved to the Keys from Texas in 1976. He worked for Commissioner David Rice at the Monroe Alcoholism Rehab Center. Anderson also spent time as a child abuse and neglect investigator, probation officer and food stamp and welfare officer. He spent 13 years
with the county health department conducting HIV testing. He was also a disaster case manager during Hurricane Irma.
Rice said he’s admired Anderson’s work in various areas within the community. Raschein said his connection with the community is “incredible.” Anderson thanked the county commissioners, as well as Jill Miranda Baker, who requested he be named an Honorary Conch in recognition of his community work.
“I’ve enjoyed working here and living here,” Anderson said. “Please help us make this a better place to live, all of us.”
Source: keysweekly.com
April Members in Motion!
On April 24, we gathered for an insightful Members in Motion after-hours event at Wesley House Family Services in Key Largo. Just months after celebrating their ribbon cutting and grand opening, we had the opportunity to learn more about their incredible work in our community. The evening was filled with meaningful discussions on how we can support and expand their already impactful work in the community.
See all our up-to-date events on our website, www.web.keylargochamber.org/events or scan the QR Code
FLORIDA KEYS WINDOWS
LAS MARIAS MEDICAL CENTER ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION
WESLEY HOUSE - KEY LARGO
KEY LARGO KAMPGROUND
THE ROOM NAIL BAR SALON
How to Say No as a Business Owner (And Why You Should)
If you have kids, you might remember their very first words. Was it "Mommy" or "Daddy"? Congratulations! My son's first word was "NO!" Or at least that's the one I remember the most because it was pronounced with such conviction. Isn't it amazing how, as infants, we have so much self-esteem and no fear or guilt of voicing our disagreement, and then as we get older, we lose that and constantly want to please everyone? Especially when starting our own small business, we feel insecure; we feel as if we have to say yes to any opportunity without realizing that it can slowly lead our business to failure. Let's talk about some situations in which entrepreneurs should practice saying no without guilt.
1. SAY NO TO DOING EVERYTHING YOURSELF — As a small business owner, you probably have a limited budget and therefore think you have to do everything yourself: marketing, accounting, scheduling, networking, etc. But wearing all these different hats will quickly lead to being overwhelmed since you're not focusing on your core business or what you're good at. I'll give you an example: I dislike routine tasks! They bore me, so I get very sloppy and make mistakes. However, to have a decent presence on X, I want to have some scheduled messages every month. So you know what I did? I outsourced this monthly task to a virtual assistant. She's much faster than me, and I can focus my energy on more important tasks such as client acquisition, for
example. Don't do everything yourself! Virtual assistants are a great help for small business owners!
2. SAY NO TO GETTING YOUR BRAIN PICKED IN EXCHANGE FOR A COFFEE — "Can we meet for coffee, I'd like to ask you some questions?" Ah, how I used to dread this question. I knew very well that the person just wanted to pick my brain and not pay me for my know-how. But there was always this thought in the back of my head: "What if he's actually interested in my services?" If you want your business to grow, you will want to be very firm with your "coffee meetings." Yes, some of them will be worth your time, others just won't. Listen to your gut, and start to say "no" to those you know just want to pick your brain. Suggest a Zoom call instead, or answer their questions in a blog post.
3. SAY NO TO TOO MANY EXTRA PROJECTS — As entrepreneurs, we never lack creativity. There are so many ideas we could turn into projects. But in order to succeed, you need focus. Don't spread yourself too thin or you won't be able to give your best.
4. SAY NO TO SOME OF THE DEMANDS OF DAILY LIVING — If you work from your home office, you are probably familiar with some of the following demands of daily living: You need to be available for a worker to come fix your dishwasher. You agree to have your kids' friends over for lunch because their mom is
working (and you are not?!). You volunteer at your son's school to help out with homework supervision. You commit to baking two cakes for the yearly neighborhood barbeque. You are not Superman/Superman! Just because you work from home doesn't mean you can accomplish superhuman things and need to be available to everybody. Learn to say "no" to some of the non-critical demands placed on you.
5. SAY NO TO CLIENTS WHO ARE NOT A GOOD FIT — This is another difficult one. Especially in the beginning, you will be tempted to say "yes" to every client that comes your way. But that's not a good strategy. If you take on clients who are not a good fit, or who exhaust or frustrate you, you won't be able to do your best work. And this will then further complicate the collaboration because the clients get irritated, complain, don't pay, etc. Or, they are happy with your work and refer you to their friends, and you then end up with more clients who are not an ideal fit. So either way, the outcome won't be good. Michael Port says that every business owner should have a red velvet rope policy: "Think about a red-carpet event. They only let certain people through, and the people who do come through feel like VIPs. Your clients should feel like they are incredibly fortunate to work with you." What do you need to say "no" to right now?
Source: allbusiness.com
April Luncheon: Protecting Our Community
The presentation by Sheriff Ramsay on "Protecting Our Community was a resounding success, drawing a full house of engaged community leaders. Attendees asked tough, insightful questions and showed strong support for the Sheriff's efforts. As always, the Reefhouse provided exceptional service and delicious food, making it a memorable and beneficial event for all involved. A
special thank you to New Health Partners for generously sponsoring the lunch and helping to make this event possible. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Visit our Social Media platforms to see all the photos: linktr.ee/keylargochamberofcommerce
Adriana, Monica, Giovanna and Angie.
New member Eddy and Christine of National Trust Title.
Norma and Pete.
New member Terri of Events by Terri.
Naxelly and Michael.
Erin, Sue and Michelle.
Sheriff Ramsay Speaking.
New member Jonathan of MotorBreeze.
Lunch sponsors from New Health Partners with Sheriff Ramsay and Suzi.
The MCSO team with Holly Raschein and Michael Rojewski.
New member Jorge of Keys Criminal Defense.
Ana, Agnes and Roberto.
New member Joe and Carey of Le Boeufs' Marine.
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
Mahi Tacos
with Mango-Pineapple Salsa
Ingredients:
X For the Mango-Pineapple Salsa:
X ¾ cup mango, diced
X ½ cup pineapple (fresh or canned), diced
X 2 tablespoons red onion, diced
X 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
X 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
X 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
X ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
X
X For the Cilantro-Lime Crema:
X ¼ cup sour cream
X 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
X
X For the Mahi Mahi:
X 1 ½ teaspoons salt (optional)
X ¾ teaspoon black pepper
X ½ teaspoon chili powder
X 1 tablespoon olive oil
X 12 ounces mahi mahi (about 2 fillets)
X For the Tacos:
X 6 small flour tortillas
X ½ head iceberg lettuce, shredded
X Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, stir together all the salsa ingredients. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together all the cilantro-lime crema ingredients. Set aside.
3. To prepare the mahi-mahi, whisk together the salt, pepper and chili powder in a small bowl. Rub oil on both sides of each mahi mahi fillet, then coat each with the spice mixture.
4. Warm a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, cook the mahi mahi for 3 minutes per side, or until golden and flaky. Set aside to cool. When cool enough to handle, chop the fillets into bite-sized pieces.
5. To assemble the tacos, warm the flour tortillas in a skillet. Top each tortilla with a dollop of cilantro-lime crema, mahi mahi, shredded lettuce, a spoonful of mango-pineapple salsa, and a squeeze of lime juice, if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Serving size: 3 tacos
Calories: 758
Sugar: 19g
Sodium: 1146mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 91g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 43g
Cholesterol: 141mg
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