The Legend Newsletter March 2026 by keylargochamber

March Members in Motion

The March Members in Motion was truly unforgettable with a record breaking number of members and non-members attending.

The delicious food and drinks at a beautiful venue with a perfect sunset made for an incredible experience. We were even treated to a dolphin show!

The evening brought together our vibrant business community for a night of connection and celebration. Events like this remind us what makes Key Largo so special.

We're grateful for the support of Dolphin Point Villas, Dolphins Plus, and Upper Keys BPW who helped make this evening one to remember.

In This Issue

President'sCornerPAGE3

ResourcesforFilingTaxesPAGE4

SunriseNetworking PAGE6&7

MembersinMotionPAGEs10&11

UpcomingEventsPAGE12

WhyBecomeaTrusteePAGE14

FIRM:Citizens2026RatesPAGE15

ChamberLuncheonPAGES16&17

2026BoardofDirectorsPAGE20

StoneCrabDeviledEggsPAGE23

TDCUpdate:Fundsto SupportMarathonServicePAGE24

ThankYouTrusteesPAGE27

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

X Lance Holmquist

President's Corner: The Power of Partnerships

Partnerships are at the heart of everything we do, and like any strong partnership, they require thoughtful negotiation, mutual respect, and a shared vision for the future.

Recently, we’ve had the opportunity to reaffirm one of our most important relationships as we negotiate our contract renewal for Visitor Information Services (VIS) with the Tourist Development Council (TDC), our District Advisor Council (DAC V) and the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC.) While the details of that agreement are being hammered out, what matters most is what it represents: a continued commitment to serving Key Largo at the highest level.

We take tremendous pride in our beautiful Florida Keys Visitor Center and in the role we play as the front door to our island chain. Every day, our team welcomes visitors, answers questions, and helps shape first impressions that last long after a trip ends. The support we receive through our county partnerships allows us to attract and retain quality staff, while continually enhancing the services we provide, not only to visitors, but to our Chamber members as well.

This collaboration is more than just an agreement; it is a shared investment in the success of Key Largo. When we work together to promote our community, the benefits ripple outward, strengthening local businesses, supporting jobs, and enhancing the overall vitality of our community.

We all understand that visitors are the lifeblood of the Florida Keys. Their presence fuels our economy and touches nearly every industry, whether directly tied to tourism or not. From restaurants and hotels to retail shops and service providers, our

entire community is connected to the experience we create for those who choose to visit us.

We are also deeply grateful for these partnerships that help us bring our community together through events. Support from our TDC and DAV V partners allows us to apply for and receive funding that makes beloved traditions possible. This year, we are excited about plans for our July 4th celebration and the return of Taste the Keys in October. These events not only attract visitors but also enrich the lives of our residents, creating shared moments that define what makes Key Largo so special.

At the same time, we recognize that with opportunity comes responsibility. The very environment that draws people here is both precious and fragile. That is why another key partnership focused on conservation and education is so important to our future.

Through our collaboration with environmental leaders like the Everglades Foundation, we have gained valuable insight into large-scale restoration efforts that are critical to the health of our region. Projects designed to improve water flow and quality throughout the Everglades ultimately impact the clarity of our waters and the health of Florida Bay, both of which are essential to the sustainability of our tourism economy. Clean water and thriving reefs are not just environmental goals; they are economic necessities for industries like fishing, diving, and boating. Be sure and join us for the April monthly luncheon where we will hear from Dr. Steve Davis of the Everglades Foundation.

Closer to home, our partnership with those dedicated to preserving and enhancing our state parks reflects the same balance we strive for every day,

Suzi Youngberg President of Key Largo Chamber of Commerce

welcoming visitors while protecting the natural resources that make this destination so unique. Improvements and investments in these spaces, such as John Pennekamp State Park, will elevate the visitor experience, while also reinforcing the importance of stewardship and education.

As travel trends evolve, we are seeing a growing interest in eco-tourism. More visitors are choosing destinations not just for their beauty, but for their commitment to sustainability. This presents an opportunity for Key Largo to lead by example, by encouraging respectful visitation and fostering a deeper understanding of our environment.

Ultimately, every partnership we build, whether focused on tourism, events, conservation, or community, serves a common purpose. Each one is a thread in the fabric that holds the Keys together. By working collaboratively, negotiating thoughtfully, and keeping our shared goals in focus, we can continue to strengthen our community, support our businesses, and protect the natural beauty that makes this place we call home so extraordinary.

Free Options and Resources for Preparing and Filing Taxes in 2026

The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who still need to file their 2025 federal tax returns that free options and resources are available on IRS.gov. Whether taxpayers prefer to prepare their own returns or need assistance, IRS.gov offers secure electronic filing options. E-filing remains the fastest and most secure way to file a tax return.

“IRS Free File demonstrates the IRS’s commitment to providing taxpayers an easy and secure way to prepare and file their federal tax return at no cost,” said IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano. “Free assistance and information is also available to taxpayers through other means as well, including VITA/TCE, MilTax, and IRS.gov.”

IRS Free File available on IRS.gov

Many taxpayers can prepare and file their federal tax returns for free using IRS Free File, available only through IRS.gov. The IRS Free File program is a public-private partnership between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, a coalition of tax preparation software companies.

Taxpayers whose adjusted gross income is $89,000 or less can use guided tax

preparation software at no cost.

Benefits of using IRS Free File guided tax software include:

• Multiple products to choose from.

• Step-by-step guidance through simple questions.

• Accurate calculations.

• Some providers offer free state tax preparation and filing. Taxpayers must begin their return from the IRS Free File page on IRS.gov to ensure free access.

Those taxpayers who are comfortable preparing their own tax returns can use IRS Free File Fillable Forms regardless of income.

Free help with tax preparation

• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance/Tax Counseling for the Elderly: IRS-certified volunteers provide no-cost tax preparation for eligible taxpayers.

• MilTax: Active-duty and reserve military members, including the U.S. Coast Guard, and certain veterans can prepare and e-file federal and up to five state tax returns for free through this Department of Defense program.

Free IRS resources

• IRS.gov offers tools and information to help taxpayers file accurately and on time:

• How to file your taxes: Step by step. A guide to completing Form 1040.

• Let us help you. A central hub for filing and payment resources.

• One, Big, Beautiful Bill Provisions. Information on tax law changes that may affect refunds or tax liability.

• Where’s my refund?. Refund status updates for a current-year return are generally available around 24 hours after e-filing, or 6 weeks or more for returns sent by mail.

• Pay electronically. Secure and fast payment options.

Helpful tips for taxpayers

• Create an IRS Individual Online Account. Available 24/7 to view tax records, check refund status, and communicate securely with the IRS.

• Use direct deposit for refunds. The IRS encourages direct deposit to receive refunds faster and more securely. The IRS is phasing out paper tax refund checks under the executive order,

Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account.

• Open a bank account if needed. Visit the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the National Credit Union Locator Tool to find out more.

Veterans may explore the Veterans Benefits Banking Program for options. Taxpayers should verify their routing and account numbers before filing.

• Watch out for tax scams and fraud. Learn how to recognize and report tax-related scams.

information

• Publication 5274, IRS Free File Fillable Forms User's Guide PDF

• How to use the Find Your Trusted Partner Tool (IRS YouTube video)

• How to create an account to use IRS Free File Fillable Forms (IRS YouTube video)

• Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax

Source: IRS.gov

Sunrise Networking: Coffee, Connections & Conversations

We were excited to launch our newest quarterly event, Coffee, Connections & Conversations: Sunrise Business Networking, held in the beautiful new Bar Victor space at Vicky Bakery. Our first gathering was a great success, with almost 30 people joining us bright and early and starting the day with us.

Guests enjoyed fresh coffee and café con leche alongside scrumptious pastries and savory treats, while connecting with fellow Chamber members in a relaxed, welcoming

atmosphere. We also appreciated valuable insights from Alexis Lamadrid of H&R Block, who shared helpful tips on taxes and smart business decisions.

Most importantly, the morning was filled with meaningful conversations, new connections, and plenty of laughter, the perfect way to kick off the day. Thank you to Vicky Bakery/ Bar Victor for hosting and to everyone who attended.

We look forward to seeing you at the next one!

4th of July

Start planning your float for The 5 0 th Annual Key Largo 4th of Parade celebrating America's 250th birthday! is coming!

Sponsorship opportunities will be announced soon.

March Members in Motion!

Our March Members in Motion event was a night to remember, filled with lively conversation and unforgettable moments. Guests enjoyed delicious food, a variety of vendors, and a fun, refreshing mocktail experience. The highlight of the evening was a magical dolphin performance. With an outstanding turnout and so many new and familiar connections, the night perfectly captured the spirit of our community, supporting local business, building relationships, and creating experiences that keep us all looking forward to the next gathering. A big thank you to our hosts: Dolphin Point Villas, Dolphins Plus, and Upper Keys BPW.

Saturday, April 4

Wednesday, April 8

Thursday, April 9

Saturday, April 11

Friday, April 17

Saturday, April 18

Monday, April 20

Thursday, April 23

Thursday, April 30

April Events

See all our up-to-date events on our website, www.web.keylargochamber.org/events

MarrVelous Pet Rescue’s Bets for Pets

A Criminal History of the Everglades at Florida Keys History & Discovery Center

Chamber Networking Luncheon: “The River of Grass” a conversation with Dr. Steve Davis from Everglades Foundation at Pilot House Restaurant

Vintage Dive Day from History of Diving Museum at Jules Undersea Lab

Cajun Night at Doc’s Diner

Drag Me to the Keys: Saturday Drag Brunch at Crooked Palm Cabana

ReMARCable Spring Soiree at Coconut Cove Resort

420 Tie Dye & Good Vibes Party at Florida Keys Brewing Company

Chamber Members in Motion at Bar Victor/Vicky Bakery

Full Moon Kayak Excursions! At Big Pine Kayak Adventures

Office of Insurance Regulation Files Final Orders for Citizens 2026 Rates

UPDATE: MONROE COUNTY RATES

We have finally received the Monroe County windstorm rates for Citizens and they will be effective 7-1-2026. This is great news for us after many years of never-ending rate increases and paying the highest rates in Florida.

Some of the highlights are as follows:

• Homeowners wind only – 5.7% decrease

• Condo Unit owners wind only –6.3% decrease

• Mobile Home wind only – .04% decrease

• Dwelling Fire (DP2) – 5% increase

While we had great news for residential rates, the same does not hold true for commercial rates, as we do have rate increases. The new rates are as follows:

• CR-M: Commercial Residential Multi-Peril – rate increase of 11.5% -Tailored for residentialuse commercial properties like apartment buildings, condominium associations, HOA common areas/residential buildings, and continuing care retirement community (CCRC) residential structures.

• CR-W: Commercial Residential Wind-Only – rate increase of 14.9% -Tailored for residentialuse commercial properties like apartment buildings, condominium associations, HOA common areas/residential buildings, and continuing care retirement community (CCRC) residential structures. WIND ONLY.

• CNR-M: Commercial NonResidential Multi-Peril – rate decrease of 5% – Examples include office buildings, retail stores, warehouses, or other business-operated structures.

• CNR-W: Commercial NonResidential Wind-Only – rate decrease of 5% -Examples include office buildings, retail stores, warehouses, or other businessoperated structures. – WIND ONLY.

On March 2, 2026 Florida’s Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky issued his final order for Citizens’ 2026 rates. Citizens filed its rate recommendations on December 15, 2025.

For most lines of insurance, the OIR’s approved rates are lower than

what Citizens recommended. For it’s Homeowners Multi-Peril (PLA and CA) and Wind-Only (CA) programs–the policies most common in Monroe County–Citizens proposed an overall average statewide rate reduction of 5.5% (yes! a reduction!) and a 5.1% increase for the wind-only program. Commissioner Yaworsky came back with a 8.8% reduction for the multiperil policies and a 5.1% reduction for wind-only policies. These numbers are statewide averages, and FIRM has requested a breakdown for Monroe County which we will share as soon as we have them. These rates take effect July 1, 2026, and you can read the Final Order here.

Source: Mel Montagne, Fair Insurance Rates Monroe (FIRM)

March Networking Luncheon

Our March luncheon was held at Holiday Inn Key Largo and featured an informative presentation from Richard Strickland, Director of Airports. Attendees received exciting updates on ongoing upgrades at Key West International Airport and upcoming improvements at Marathon Airport, both critical to supporting our local economy and visitor access. In addition to the program, we proudly inducted three new Chamber members and shared updates on upcoming events. It was a productive and engaging afternoon, bringing members and non-members together to stay informed, connected, and involved in the future of our community.

Katie and Bill.

JoNell, Erin, Richard, Holly and John.

Lisa and Paola. Lisa, Holly, Spenser and Monica.

JD and Katie.

Capt. Slate, Sue and Sylvia.

Andy and Tonya.

Amy, Yesenia and Suzanne.

New Members Ernie and Gaby of Avante Insurance.

Ben, Gabriel, Eli and Clark.

Ben and Suzi.

Lisa, Adriana and Monica.

New Member Eli of EG Tax & Accounting. New Member Sylvia of Aflac.

Bonnie and Henry.

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

Florida Stone Crab Deviled Eggs

Elevate your appetizer game with these Stone Crab Deviled Eggs—a luxurious twist on a classic favorite! Creamy egg yolks are blended with succulent stone crab meat, tangy dill pickle, and zesty Dijon mustard, all seasoned to perfection with blackening spice. Each egg is then garnished with pickled red onion and fresh chives for an extra burst of flavor and color. Perfect for entertaining or impressing your guests, these deviled eggs bring the taste of the Florida Keys right to your table!

Servings: 3-4

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time:30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

X 1 LB of Stone Crab Claws (Any Size)

X 8 Hard Boiled Eggs

X ¼ Cup of Mayonnaise

X 2 Tbsp Dijon Mustard

X 1 Tsp Minced Parsley

X 2 Tbsp Minced Dill Pickle

X 1 Tsp Blackening Seasoning

X Salt and Pepper to Taste

X Pickled Red Onion & Chives for Garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cut hard boiled eggs in half, long way. Save egg whites and put yolks in a bowl.

2. Crack Stone Crab Claws and pick meat. Add to the bowl with yolks.

3. Add mayonnaise, Dijon, minced pickles, parsley and blackening seasoning to the bowl.

4. Mix thoroughly. Once mixed, add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Using a spoon, fill the egg whites with the mixture.

6. Plate and garnish with a dash of blackening seasoning, pickled red onion and sliced chives. Enjoy!

Recipe Source: Keys Fresh Seafood Market

Funds to Support Marathon Air Service

The wheels are turning to bring commercial air service to Florida Keys Marathon International Airport. The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved use of $500,000 in Tourist Development Council funds at its March 11 meeting toward the airport’s request for a Small Community Air Service Development Program grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Other local community matching funds are expected to come from private donors from the Middle Keys community.

The strategic effort to attract commercial airline service to Marathon could reshape regional connectivity and expand access to the heart of the island chain.

The airport has already submitted an $8 million FAA grant application, along with completion of recent safety enhancements and airfield improvements.

“This is about positioning the Florida Keys for the future,” said Kara Franker, President & CEO

of Visit Florida Keys. “Strategic air service development can create meaningful opportunity for our businesses, our workforce and our visitors while ensuring growth is thoughtful, sustainable and aligned with our island communities.”

Even one daily flight to Marathon could generate 20,400 annual hotel room nights for the Middle Keys visitor economy. Due to Marathon’s central location, increased visitation would likely benefit businesses and lodging properties throughout the Florida Keys.

Airports Executive Director Richard Strickland said, “We’re extremely excited about the future of air service at Marathon International Airport and appreciate the Tourist Development Council's support and participation in this endeavor."

Americas 250 + National Travel & Tourism Week Commissioners also discussed using TDC funds for events, programming and other commemorative

activities in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary throughout 2026. A resolution is to be prepared to approve use of tourist development taxes paid by visitors as the source of funding for the series of events that will take place throughout 2026.

Visit Florida Keys is planning to kick off Monroe County’s America250 event series with a community celebration on May 4 for National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW).

NTTW is a national initiative promoted by U.S. Travel Association that is celebrated in communities across the country in early May, spotlighting the essential role travel plays to create jobs and power local economies.

Stay tuned for more details on the May 4 NTTW event, coming soon!

Tourism Trends

January delivered exceptional results across all key lodging markets, with The Florida Keys & Key West outperforming comparable Florida markets.

January by the Numbers

• $114.6M in hotel room revenues. (+16.4% YoY)

• ADR $429 (+11.9%, with peak nights exceeding $500)

• Occupancy 80.0% (highest January rate in three years)

• Top weekends: postNew Year's and Jan. 16–17 (occupancy surpassed 90%)

• RevPAR led all competitive set markets, including Fort Lauderdale and Miami

Preliminary February data shows continued strength: ADR up 6.9% to $494, with Key West leading at $526 ADR and 85.9% occupancy. RevPAR remains positive at +1.9%.

Bed Tax Collections

October–November combined bed tax collections reached $7.5M, with notable highlights:

• October up 2.4% YoY offsetting a slight November dip (-0.9%)

• DAC IV led gains: +18.8% in October and +10.4% in November

• Short-term rentals account for 36.2% of total

tax collections

Visitor Arrivals

• Air travel to Key West International Airport reflected strong visitor demand:

• 92,800 TSA checkpoint passengers in January (+8.2% YoY)

• 308,100 passengers October–January (+16.1% YTD)

Top origin markets: Philadelphia, Boston, Newark, and Washington

We entered 2026 with strong momentum. January's 16.4% RevPAR gain, driven by both rate growth and higher occupancy, positions the destination well heading into peak season. With leisure travel intent holding steady and U.S. travel remaining relatively affordable, the outlook remains positive.