February Members in Motion
Members enjoyed a fantastic evening at this month’s Members in Motion, where perfect weather, a beautiful venue, and an incredible atmosphere set the stage for a memorable night. Thank you to REEF Environmental Education Foundation for graciously hosting, the Florida Keys Council of the Arts for sharing the beautiful Connections art exhibit, and Italian Food Company for the beyond-delicious food. The evening was filled with networking, laughter, music, and meaningful connections — everything Members in Motion is meant to be!
In This Issue
President's Corner PAGE 3
Destination Cover Contest PAGE 4
Why Your Business Belongs in Destination Key largo PAGE 6
Members in Motion PAGES 8 & 9
Upcoming Events PAGE 10
Why Become a Trustee PAGE 12
Chamber Luncheonl PAGES 14 & 15
Empower You Event PAGE 16
2026 Board of Directors PAGE 18
Onion Crusted Yellowtail PAGE 21
TDC Update PAGE 24
Paws in Paradise PAGE 26
Customer Survey Best Practices PAGE 28
Thank You Trustees PAGE 30
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: The Power of Community
This time of year is always filled with community events throughout Key Largo and the Florida Keys. From fundraisers and gala celebrations to the Gigantic Nautical Market, our calendar is packed with opportunities to come together and celebrate the spirit of our island community. As our seasonal residents return and traffic increases along US-1, we are reminded how fortunate we are to showcase our incredible businesses and nonprofits while welcoming visitors back for the season.
As a recently inducted Rotarian, I find myself reflecting often on their motto, “Service Above Self.” It perfectly captures the dedication of the countless volunteers, organizers, and supporters who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make these community events possible.
While these gatherings provide fun and memorable experiences for both residents and visitors, they also serve a much greater purpose. Many nonprofit organizations rely on events such as galas as their primary source of annual funding. Others, like the Upper Keys BPW’s new Empower You! event, offer educational and inspiring programs that strengthen our community. While the Gigantic Nautical Market, for example, raises significant funds that directly support Keys students through scholarships and opportunities for success.
The Key Largo Chamber proudly contributes to this vibrant calendar as
well. From our monthly luncheons, after-hours gatherings and the brandnew Sunrise Business Networking, to signature events like the Fourth of July celebrations, Taste the Keys, and the Chairman’s Ball, these programs help fund the initiatives, advocacy, and services we provide to support our members year-round. If you are interested in getting more involved with the Chamber events and programs, please consider joining one of our committees.
At times, a full calendar of “must-attend” events — combined with seasonal traffic — can feel overwhelming. But it’s important to step back and see the bigger picture. These events, and yes, even the traffic, help sustain our island economy throughout the year. If you’re able to attend an event, that’s wonderful. If you can sponsor, even better. And if you volunteer your time to help make these fundraisers successful, you’ve truly embraced the spirit of community involvement. Giving back feels especially meaningful when you see the direct impact it has on the place we all call home.
Speaking of traffic, I must admit I’m happy to see the increase in out-ofstate license plates around Key Largo. Even if it sometimes means a slightly longer drive, it signals that visitors have arrived and our local economy is thriving. According to updates from our Tourist Development Council and Visit Florida Keys, this season’s
Suzi Youngberg President of Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
numbers are looking strong. You’ll find additional TDC updates later in this newsletter. Please remember to stay safe, be patient, and extend a warm Keys welcome to our visitors because tourism supports not only hospitality businesses, but every resident and business throughout our community.
As you enjoy this beautiful weather, I encourage you to explore the many events happening across Key Largo and the Florida Keys in the coming weeks. Embrace the energy, the visitors, and the opportunities to connect. The true power of community lies in its people, and we are fortunate to have the very best people right here in Key Largo!
Calling All Creatives: Design the 10th Anniversary Cover of Destination Key Largo!
As we celebrate the 10th edition of the Key Largo Chamber’s annual publication and visitor guide, Destination Key Largo, we’re inviting our creative community to help us make this milestone year truly unforgettable!
This year, we’re launching a friendly competition to design the front cover of our 2026 Destination Key Largo guide — and we want to see Key Largo through your lens.
Are you an artist? A photographer? A creative visionary who captures the spirit of our island paradise? We’re looking for original artwork or photography that represents the heart and soul of Key Largo — from our sparkling waters and vibrant sunsets to our marine life, local culture, and laidback island lifestyle.
The selected cover image will:
• Be featured on the front of our 10th anniversary edition
• Be seen by thousands of visitors and residents throughout the year
• Showcase your talent to an audience across the region and beyond
This is your opportunity to leave a lasting impression and help define how the world sees Key Largo in this special milestone year.
Sharpen your focus. Pick up your brush. Capture the magic.
Send your submission to Suzi at president@keylargochamber.org by March 30th to be considered. Start creating now!
Let’s celebrate 10 years of Destination Key Largo!
Key Largo Chamber 2026 Guide
Center Spread – Two Full Pages
Two Full Page Spread
Full Page
1/2 Page
1/4 Page
1/8 Page (Business Card)
Page 3 & 51 – Full Page
Inside Front or Back Cover – Full Page
Enhanced Listing – 40 words or less
DEADLINES
Artwork Deadline is March 30, 2026
Estimated Distribution in May 2026
Publication dates & deadlines subject to change
AD DIMENSIONS
80,000 Distributed & Downloaded Nationally and throughout the Florida Keys
Why Your Business Belongs in Destination Key Largo
Advertising in Destination Key Largo isn't just about visibility--it's about meeting visitors at the exact moment they're deciding where to eat, shop, explore and spend their vacation dollars. Every day we watch visitors pick up a copy at our Florida Keys Visitor Center. It's the first thing many travelers pick up when they arrive and ask us "what are the best things to do here?", they treat it like a trusted local guide. Your business deserves to be part of that first impression.
When your business is in these pages, you're not shouting for attention--you're being personally introduced to thousands of guests who want to experience the REAL Key Largo and Florida Keys. They're looking for the places locals love, the hidden gems, the stories that make our island feel so welcoming and authentic. Your ad becomes part of that story!
Destination Key Largo's year-round distribution means
your message keeps working all year long! Hotels, visitor centers, marinas, and attractions all keep it within arm's reach, giving your business steady exposure to new faces every single day. Did you know Destination Key Largo also is an e-book on our KeyLargoChamber.org website?
Yes! Again, year-round exposure! When you think of Destination Key Largo as part of your annual marketing plan, it makes total sense to make sure your ad is in this years edition. Remember, every impression is one step closer to walking in your door.
For many visitors, Destination Key Largo shapes their stay. Have your ad tell them, "You're in the right place".
Reach out today!
From Tonya Salomon, Membership & Marketing Manager Events@keylargochamber.org
February Members in Motion!
February’s Members in Motion event was simply perfect! Guests gathered for an evening of connection and conversation in an incredible setting, complete with beautiful weather, great music, and outstanding food. A special thank you to REEF Environmental Education Foundation for hosting, the Florida Keys Council of the Arts for showcasing the inspiring Connections art project, Italian Food Company for providing a truly amazing culinary experience, and the Mangrove Swamp Band for the great music. It was a wonderful night celebrating community, creativity, and connection.
Saturday, March 7
Tuesday, March 10
Thursday, March 12
March Events
See all our up-to-date events on our website, www.web.keylargochamber.org/events
Empower You!
Upper Keys Business & Professional Women all day event
REEF Fish & Friends: Florida Bay, Forever
Chamber Social Networking Lunch Meeting: "Cleared for Takeoff," A Conversation with Richard Strickland from Key West International Airport at Holiday Inn Key Largo
Friday, March 13 Light Up the Light with Island Dolphin Care
Sunday, March 15
Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys Annual Cocktail Party
Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute Band at Seminole Theatre
History of Diving Museum Guided Tours
Wednesday, March 18 Chamber “Coffee, Connections & Conversations," Sunrise Business Networking at Vicky Bakery
Thursday, March 19
Thursday, March 26
Friday, March 27
History of Diving Museum Free Immerse Yourself! German U-Boats in the Florida Keys
Chamber Members in Motion at Dolphin Point Villas & Dolphins Plus with BPW
The College of the Florida Keys 60th Anniversary Celebration, Key West
Saturday, March 28 PKS PTA presents Dueling Pianos, Howl at the Moon
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
We provide care in Private Homes, Assisted Living Facilities, Hospitals,Nursing Homes, Rehabilitation Centers and Senior Citizen Facilities.
INSURANCES WE ACCEPT:
We have the ability to bill your Long Term Care Insurance on your behalf.
• AF&L/ American Fidelity & Liberty • AIG
• American Heritage
• American Pioneer
• American Travelers
• Bankers Life
• Blue Cross Blue Shield-long term care
• Conseco
• Colonial American
• CNA Insurance Company
• GE Life Assurance & Annuity Company
• Genworth
• GTL Insurance
• John Hancock
• Kanawha
• Lincoln Benefit
• Metlife
• Mutual of Omaha
• Old American
• Penn Treaty Insurance
• Senior Health Insurance Company of Pennsylvania/SHIPP
• Trans America
• Transport Life Insurance
• Union Labor
• Washington National
(WE DO NOT ACCEPT MEDICARE)
Aventura
Coconut Grove
• Miami Gardens
• Miami Lakes
• North Miami Beach
• Ocean Reef
• Perrine
• Pinecrest
• South Miami
• Village of Palmetto Bay
February Networking Luncheon
The February Luncheon was truly one for the books! We gathered beneath the iconic tiki at Snook's Bayside Restaurant on a picture-perfect “Chamber of Commerce” day. The food was delicious, the hospitality exceptional, and the atmosphere full of energy. A special thank you to our event sponsor, Centennial Bank. We were honored to hear from Steve Cooper, Financial Advisor, who shared timely and invaluable financial insights with our members. We also proudly welcomed and installed new members and highlighted exciting upcoming events. With plenty of networking, laughter, and meaningful connections, it was an outstanding afternoon all around!
Jenn and Lisa.
Manuela, Christina, Lisa, Cathy and Paola.
Stephanie and Bruce.
Andy, Suzi, Tonya, Nola and Edward.
Mary Beth Harris, Centennial Bank - Our Sponsor.
Maria, Jesse and Bonnie.
Sabine and Michael.
Aura and Levis.
New Member Rex Air.
Brenda and Michael.
Pete, Berta, Lourdes, Lori and Nikki.
Cathy and Loretta.
New Member Ministerio Unidos en Amor. New Member Olive Morada.
Steve Cooper.
Your 2026 Chamber Board of Directors
Michael Rojewski 2025 & 2026 Chairman of the Board of Directors
Michael Rojewski Group – Owner
Roberto Alonso (2025 & 2026)
Borland & Associates President
Manuel Alvarez (2026 & 2027)
Verdeja, De Armas & Trujillo CPA
Berta Bravo (2026 & 2027)
SBI Windows & Doors Owner
Spenser Bryan (2025 & 2026)
Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Captain
Melissa Fernandez (2025 & 2026)
All Keys Concrete Communications & Sales
Cathy Gahagen (2026 & 2027)
The Catch Owner
Suzanne Holmquist (2025 & 2026)
Calypso Watersports & Charters Proprietor
Mary Houston (2025 & 2026)
Houston Insurance Agency Owner
Henry Menendez (2026 & 2027)
HNO Productions Owner/Operator
Yesenia Moreno (2026-2027)
New Edge Associates Managing Partner
Heather Turkay (2026 & 2027)
Playa Largo Resort & Spa Area Director of Sales & Marketing
Blaine Vernicek (2025-2026)
The Structure Group Manager
Violet Wahba (2026 & 2027)
Key Lime Products Owner
Onion Crusted Yellowtail
INGREDIENTS
Yellowtail:
X 4 - (6-8 ounce) yellowtail fillets, pin bones and blood line removed
X 1 large yellow onion, sliced thin for onion rings
X 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
X 1 and 1⁄2 cups flour
X 1 tablespoon Black Caesar’s Blackening Spice
X 2 eggs, beaten
X Vegetable oil for frying
Key Lime Butter (prepare in advance)
X 6 Key limes, juiced
X 1 stick of butter
X 1/4 cup of good quality dry white wine
Mango Salsa (prepare in advance)
X 1 ripe mango, diced
X 1 green pepper, diced
X 1 tomato, diced
X 1/2 red onion, diced
X 4 fresh Key limes, juiced Salt and pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
Yellowtail preparation:
1. In a large, deep saute pan or fryer, preheat enough vegetable oil to cover onions.
2. Heat oil to approximately 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. In a medium bowl place 1 cup flour and blackening spice.
4. Toss sliced onions in flour mixture and lightly shake off any excess flour.
5. Place dusted onion rings into hot oil, and fry for 45 minutes, stirring onions occasionally, until onions are dark brown.
6. Remove onions from the oil, and place on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
7. Allow onion rings to cool to room temperature.
8. Then using a kitchen knife or a food processor, chop onion rings until they are about the size of the panko bread crumbs.
9. Place chopped onion rings and panko bread crumbs into a medium bowl, and mix well.
10. Dredge the fish through remaining flour, then through the beaten eggs, and then press yellowtail filets into the onion ring and panko bread crumb mixture.
11. Place a large saute pan on the stove and add enough oil to just coat the bottom of the pan. Place battered filets into the saute pan and saute over medium high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until onion crust is lightly browned, and fish is white throughout.
12. Top with Key lime butter and mango salsa....and enjoy!
Key Lime Butter (prepare in advance)
1. Melt butter over medium heat, add dry white wine, and key lime juice.
2. Remove from heat and let rest at room temperature.
Mango Salsa (prepare in advance)
1. In a bowl, add diced mango, green peppers, diced tomatoes, red onions, Key lime juice, and salt and pepper, and mix well.
Serve and enjoy!
Recipe by Bobby Stoky
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council (TDC) met February 12 in Key Largo to review Q1 fiscal performance and strategic positioning.
Q1 Performance: Strength in a Softening Global Environment
The Board reviewed updated STR and bed tax data reflecting solid year-end performance:
• December RevPAR increased 8.2% year-over-year in the Florida Keys and 5.5% in Key West, despite the first national softening in international travel since 2020
• Occupancy grew 3.4% (Florida Keys) and 1.1% (Key West) yearover-year, while national trends declined
• Rate strength drove gains: ADR up 4.7% (Florida Keys) and 4.4% (Key West) signaling continued traveler willingness to invest in quality experiences
• Forward bookings are pacing positively January through May, with particularly strong projections in February and May
• This performance is notable given the international travel context: U.S. Travel Association data shows international inbound travel to the U.S. declined 5.4% in 2025, with Canadian visitation down 22%. The Florida Keys maintained occupancy growth and achieved RevPAR gains through rate strength and steady domestic demand.
Marketing Ecosystem Delivering Measurable Results
The Board reviewed Q1 marketing performance across integrated channels:
• $8.28 million in earned media
value; 961M+ broadcast reach
• 295.9 million paid media impressions
• 80.37% video completion rate on connected TV campaigns targeting high-intent travelers
• 490+ earned media placements, including national coverage through ABC's "50 States in 50 Weeks" sea turtle segment (11.2M viewers)
• 6.4 million followers reached through the Lilly Pulitzer partnership campaign with 45.7K engagement actions
• $1M+ in group sales room revenue generated through partnerships since December
• 16,000+ visitor interactions through an AI-powered website chatbot with personalized recommendations
• The Board also reviewed ongoing development of brand positioning work, informed by stakeholder input and consumer research testing. The Brand Task Force continues to refine messaging and differentiation strategy for a 2026 rollout.
Legislative & Policy Updates
It is week 5 of 9 in the 2026 Florida Legislative Session, and there is limited activity so far on issues directly impacting the tourism industry.
On a national scale, the Board reviewed ongoing U.S. Travel Association advocacy addressing
international travel headwinds, including efforts to eliminate the $250 Travel Deterrence Fee and restore Brand USA funding.
International PR agency selections were approved for the UK (Axis Travel Marketing), Germany/Benelux (Get it Across), and Canada (LMA Communications), strengthening strategic outreach in key feeder regions.
The Board approved a TDC Responsible AI Usage Policy, pending final legal review, to ensure appropriate guardrails around emerging technology tools.
Governance & Organizational Capacity
The Board received updates on:
• Ongoing implementation of risk assessment recommendations
• Advisory committee restructuring, including the establishment of the new Dive & Ecotourism Committee with appointments across all five districts
• DAC vacancy announcements and appointment processes (Call the TDC Office at 305-296-1552 if you are interested in applying or have questions.)
• Continued staff training and operational modernization initiatives
• Industry Engagement
• The Slow Season Business Insight Survey received more than 200 responses and industry input will directly inform seasonal demand strategies for late summer and early fall.
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ADMINISTRATIVE
Paws in Paradise
We’re excited to roll out Paws in Paradise at the Key Largo Chamber & Florida Keys Visitor Center! While we’ve always welcomed well-behaved, leashed pets, we’re making it official, and a little more fun. Stop by with your four-legged travel companion for a photo at our dedicated pet spot and a special treat, generously donated by Keys Kritters. Our staff will happily snap a picture, or you can share your own and tag us. Because in paradise, everyone’s welcome — two legs or four!
Five Essential Best Practices for Customer Surveys
Regarding customer surveys, comprehending best practices can markedly influence the quality of your insights. By defining clear objectives, you can tailor your questions to gather specific information. Crafting concise and engaging questions is vital, as it encourages participation and improves the quality of responses. Choosing the right survey platform guarantees ease of use and efficient distribution. Nevertheless, the process doesn’t end there. It’s fundamental to analyze feedback effectively and continually refine your approach. What other strategies can improve your survey effectiveness?
Define Clear Objectives for Your Survey
When you’re planning a customer survey, it’s crucial to define clear objectives first, as this sets the foundation for your entire project. Specific goals guide your design process, ensuring that each question aligns with the insights you want to gather. By writing down these objectives, you maintain clarity and direction, which improves the overall effectiveness of your survey. When thinking about what does a survey look like, keep in mind a focused approach eliminates unrelated questions that could confuse respondents. This focus minimizes the risk of vague or misleading items, ensuring the reliability of your data. Clear objectives additionally support actionable business decisions, allowing you to prioritize changes based on your findings. In the end, following these customer survey best practices will lead to more meaningful insights, making
your survey efforts worthwhile.
Craft Concise and Engaging Questions
Clear objectives pave the way for effective survey questions that resonate with respondents. To guarantee clarity, keep your questions short and focused. Lengthy phrases can confuse participants and lead to inaccurate answers.
Incorporate a mix of open-ended and close-ended questions to enrich your data, but limit the open-ended options to prevent overwhelming respondents. Avoid leading questions, as they can bias responses; each question should maintain a neutral tone, allowing for honest feedback.
Use relatable, straightforward language, steering clear of internal jargon that might alienate some participants. Testing your survey questions with a small audience is essential; this helps identify potential confusion or biases before full deployment.
Choose the Right Survey Platform
How do you select the right survey
platform for your needs? Start by evaluating the features each platform offers. For instance, SurveyMonkey provides an extensive library of predesigned templates, which can save you time in survey creation, whereas Qualtrics focuses on thorough experience management solutions. If you need something quick and user-friendly, Google Forms integrates seamlessly with Google Workspace tools and allows real-time response tracking.
Next, consider the platform’s distribution methods. Some tools offer varied options for reaching respondents effectively, which can improve your survey’s reach.
A user-friendly interface is also crucial, as it enhances the survey creation and response experience, leading to higher response rates and better quality insights.
Analyze Feedback for Actionable Insights
Analyzing feedback is essential for uncovering trends and patterns that can drive improvements in your
products and services. By effectively utilizing advanced analytics and sentiment analysis, you can proactively identify anomalies that highlight customer pain points. This allows you to adapt your offerings in response to customer needs.
Engaging respondents in the analysis process can furthermore encourage collaboration across your teams, leading to more actionable insights. Prioritizing changes based on the impact of customer feedback guarantees that you focus on improvements that notably enhance the customer experience.
In addition, regularly revisiting and updating your surveys based on previous feedback helps maintain their relevance and responsiveness to evolving customer expectations. This continuous loop of analysis and action not merely strengthens customer relationships but also positions your brand favorably in a competitive
market.
Finally, effective analysis of feedback is an essential step in implementing meaningful changes that resonate with your audience.
Continuously Improve Your Survey Process
As you endeavor to improve the effectiveness of your customer surveys, it’s vital to continually refine your survey process. Regularly review and update your methodologies based on feedback from previous surveys. This not just aligns you with best practices but likewise keeps your surveys relevant and engaging. Cultivate a culture of learning by sharing insights across teams to elevate decisionmaking and collaboration.
It’s important to adapt your approach to meet changing participant expectations. Utilize pilot testing with a small audience to identify confusing elements in your survey design before
wider distribution. Finally, set regular intervals for re-evaluating your survey processes to guarantee they meet the evolving needs of your customers.
Conclusion
By implementing these five best practices, you can improve the effectiveness of your customer surveys. Defining clear objectives guarantees your questions yield valuable insights, whereas crafting concise questions keeps participants engaged. Selecting the right platform simplifies distribution and collection. Analyzing feedback allows for actionable changes, and continuously improving your survey process guarantees ongoing benefits. By following these steps, you’ll not just gather useful information but likewise promote a better comprehension of your customers’ needs and preferences.
SOURCE: Small Business Trends
Make Life
Access: Register
Go to Bill & Pay to pay your bill or setup auto-pay.
Track your energy usage.
Go to Settings to select Paperless Billing and ensure your contact info is current.
Take FKEC on-the-go with the SmartHub Mobile App
Why Use SmartHub?
FKEC strongly encourages all members to sign up and use SmartHub, our secure online account management tool. Once you complete the easy one-time registration, you can access your FKEC account anytime from anywhere via your web browser or mobile device. SmartHub benefits and advantages include:
X Pay your bill online to prevent mail delays and late fees
Once you register your account, you will be notified as soon as your monthly electric bill is available, and you can easily make payments from your computer or smart device 24/7.
X Increase payment security Check your account balance 24/7 to prevent being scammed. Prevent mail fraud by not sending a paper check.
X Sign up for auto-pay, set your secure payment method, or go paperless
X Contact Us
Report an issue and submit a general inquiry from your computer or mobile device.
X Access your account anytime from anywhere 24/7
X Easily Access FKEC’s Live Power Outage Map
X Access energy usage data
Track your power usage trends daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly, create budgets, and more to use energy wisely. Reviewing your power consumption also helps you understand increases and decreases in your electric bills.
