The College of the Florida Keys receives national designation for excellence in maritime training2/29/2024 CFK named a 2024 Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education KEY WEST, FL, February 29, 2024— The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) announced that The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) is among 32 entities designated as Centers of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education (CoE) in 2024. This is the second consecutive time that CFK has received the designation, which it will hold for the next five years. The College was among the first recognized by MARAD in 2021, the last time the designations were bestowed. The CoE designation recognizes colleges and training institutions that are demonstrably successful at preparing students for careers in the maritime industry. These institutions are located in 17 states and one U.S. territory. CFK is one of two organizations and the only college in Florida to receive the designation.
“Our country depends on a highly-skilled mariner workforce to strengthen both our economy and our national security,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a press release from MARAD on February 22. “The 32 Centers of Excellence we're designating today will promote training opportunities outside of traditional four-year degree programs and will bring more Americans into these great maritime careers.” For over 50 years, CFK has supported local and regional maritime industries with education and training opportunities at its waterfront Key West Campus, situated between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Programs include an Associate in Applied Science in Marine Engineering, Management, and Seamanship, certificates in Marine Technology and Welding, as well as non-credit courses. Through these opportunities and others, the College provides professional training for careers in many maritime sectors, including gasoline and diesel engine repair and maintenance, welding, fiberglass boat building and repair, small boat handling and operations training, diving business and technology, marine environmental technology, and ecotourism and hospitality. Over the past year, the College has expanded its marine science programs, including marine engineering courses, to its Upper Keys Center in Key Largo. With the CoE designation, CFK can now work with MARAD to enhance programs and services for students and faculty, to upgrade facilities, to award credit for military service, and to potentially receive assistance in the form of surplus equipment or temporary use of MARAD vessels. “This honor is a testament to the caliber of CFK’s maritime education and career training programs. It speaks to our dedication and effectiveness as a premier workforce provider,” said Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, CFK President and CEO. “The CoE designation is an important stamp of approval that CFK’s reputation and relationships with industry partners is among the best. Our students and faculty can be proud of the programs’ quality, and our partners now have additional validation of our efforts.” CFK currently has active partnerships with industry and workforce education providers such as Yamaha Motor Corporation, the National Maritime Workforce Alliance, and the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI). The College is a member of the Marine Trades Accreditation Program (MTAP) with the American Boating and Yacht Council (ABYC), the American Welding Society, the American Academy of Underwater Science (AAUS), and Diver’s Alert Network (DAN). Such collaborations ensure that students and graduates are equipped with the academic and industry credentials and skills necessary to succeed in their field upon graduation. “The Center of Excellence designation from MARAD is verification that CFK’s Marine Science and Technology programs and esteemed faculty are training well-prepared, highly skilled, and qualified graduates for the growing industry of maritime professionals,” said Jack Seubert, CFK Dean of Marine Science and Technology. “CoE designation opens the door for cooperative agreements that increase student and faculty recruitment, training opportunities, and expansion of programs and facilities, ultimately contributing to an innovative and resilient maritime workforce.”
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 Key Largo, FL – The Celebration of the Sea Foundation announced they will donate hundreds of water sports, snorkel gear, swim aids, toys, shoes, and other related items to community organizations and local schools in the Florida Keys.
The donations will be distributed during a special event hosted by Monroe County Mayor Holly Raschein and City of Layton Mayor Bruce Halle, who also serves as Celebration of the Sea Foundation’s treasurer, at the Jacobs Aquatic Center in Key Largo, on Thursday, Feb. 29 at noon. Collaborating organizations who will receive the donations include Monroe County Parks and Beaches, Key Largo School, Ocean Studies School, Coral Shores High School, Founders Park, Ron Levy Aquatic Center, Boy Scouts of America’s Florida National High Adventure Sea Base, Marine Lab, Jr. Scientists in the Sea, Marine Mammal Rescue, Florida Keys Children’s Shelter, Wesley House, and Samuel’s House. “We are so grateful to the Celebration of the Sea Foundation for providing all these amazing items for our community,” said Raschein. “It’s so wonderful to see their generous support for all of our incredible organizations that provide these critically important learn-to-swim programs and other social services for our children and families.” Monroe County Parks and Beaches works closely with Keys Kids Swim, a water safety and swim lesson program providing free swimming lessons to Monroe County kindergarteners. “Our learn-to-swim programs are extremely important for our schools and families,” said Dr. Jim Boilini, one of the program’s founders and a Parks and Beaches Advisory Councilmember. Rita Case and Ron Cacciatore provided the funding for the donations. Celebration of the Sea Founder and CEO Patxi Pastor said, “Teaching our children water safety and the joy of swimming is so near and dear to our foundation’s heart, and we appreciate their wonderful support from the donors who made this possible for the foundation. Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is helping coordinate and transport all the donations. To learn more about the Celebration of the Sea Foundation, visit www.CelebrationoftheSea.org.  KEY WEST, FL (FEBRUARY 28, 2024) - Lower Keys Medical Center welcomes Giovanni Campanile, MD, FACC, ABIHM, FAARM. Dr. Campanile has joined Keys Medical Group Cardiology, effective February 20, 2024. A Harvard University-trained and board certified cardiologist, Dr. Campanile treats cardiac conditions including hypertension, lipid disorders, coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, congestive heart failure, and arrhythmia. He conducts inpatient and outpatient cardiology consultations, and performs and interprets diagnostic studies such as echocardiogram, transthoracic echocardiograms, treadmill and nuclear stress testing, tilt table testing and heart rhythm monitoring.
Dr. Campanile completed Cardiology Fellowship at Lahey Clinic in Burlington, MA, and Interventional Cardiology Fellowship at New England Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, MA. He also trained at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA. He is Assistant Professor of Medicine at Rutgers University Medical School in New Jersey and has been an instructor for Cardiology Fellows at Lenox hill Hospital in New York, and Columbia University at Mount Sinai in Miami. Dr. Campanile served as a Cardiologist to Former President George H. W. Bush and has been named "Top Doctor" in Cardiology by New Jersey Monthly Magazine for multiple years. An author of multiple scientific publications, Dr. Campanile and his wife, also a physician, are also authors of a best-selling book, "The Sicilian Secret Diet Plan", related to the Mediterranean diet. He recently presented a keynote lecture at the Integrative Health Symposium in New York City, entitled "The Heart of Anti-Aging". "I believe each patient's story is unique and I consider all of the factors in their individual environment and lifestyle that may be influencing their wellbeing. Nutrition and lifestyle factors are the cornerstones of my practice," said Dr. Campanile. Lower Keys Medical Center CEO David Clay said, "We are pleased to welcome Dr. Campanile to our hospital and community. His level of experience and skill will add to the services and care we are able to provide to our residents." Keys Medical Group Cardiology is located at 1111 12th Street, Suite 210 in Key West. Appointments may be requested at (305)294-5727 or online at KeysMedicalGroup.com. Keys Medical Group is a multi-specialty physician practice offering primary care, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics and sports medicine, gastroenterology, cardiology, and psychiatry. Telemedicine virtual visits are available with most providers.
Located at 816 Duval Street in Key West, Bangkok Happy Bowl offers an enticing fusion of Thai and Japanese cuisine in a charming setting complete with a garden patio. From traditional Thai dishes to exquisite sushi creations, every bite at Bangkok Happy Bowl is a journey through the flavors of Asia.
Adding to the ambiance, Bangkok Happy Bowl presents live island music performances every evening from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Guests can enjoy a diverse lineup of talented artists spanning various genres, promising something to delight every musical palate. Here's a sneak peek at some of the talented artists scheduled to perform throughout March:
"Bangkok Happy Bowl is thrilled to offer not only an exceptional dining experience but also an opportunity to enjoy the best of local music talent," says Kirk Coult, co-owner. "Our nightly music schedule adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your meal, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for our guests." Whether you're craving authentic Asian flavors, live music, or both, Bangkok Happy Bowl is the ultimate destination for a memorable dining experience in Key West. Bangkok Happy Bowl in Key West is set to become a go-to destination for those seeking an unforgettable Asian dining adventure. Join us at 816 Duval Street. To review the menu, visit https://www.bangkokhappybowl.com/key-west-fl-menu. For more information about Bangkok Happy Bowl Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar, please visit: https://www.bangkokhappybowl.com/ and try out the other restaurant locations in Breckenridge, Aspen, CO and Kauai. Empowering Tomorrow's Marine Science Leaders through Educational Opportunities  Florida Keys – United Way of Collier and the Keys (UWCK) is thrilled to announce the opening of applications for its Marine Science Educational Advancement Scholarship. This initiative is designed to support Monroe County residents who are pursuing degrees in marine science and/or marine technology-related fields. Now entering its third year, this scholarship program reflects UWCK's unwavering commitment to sustainability, ensuring that educational opportunities are intricately linked with conservation efforts in the Florida Keys.
In the 2023-2024 academic year, UWCK awarded scholarships to 4 deserving recipients, and 10 to date, underscoring its dedication to fostering education and environmental stewardship. Now, UWCK invites new applicants to participate in this transformative opportunity, starting today through April 17. A dedicated Scholarship Committee will review applications, considering factors such as educational achievements, career aspirations, involvement in school activities, references, and financial need. Recipients will have the chance to reapply annually as they progress in their educational journey. Through this initiative, UWCK aims to not only support educational pursuits but also to bolster local employment opportunities in marine science, contributing to the ongoing reef restoration efforts, including NOAA’s Mission: Iconic Reefs. "United Way of Collier and the Keys is thrilled to offer this scholarship program, empowering residents to pursue their passion for marine science while contributing to the preservation of our precious marine ecosystems," said Jessica Dockery, Reef Revitalization Project Liaison at United Way of Collier and the Keys. For more information about the Marine Science Educational Advancement Scholarship, to apply, or for any questions, please visit htps://uwcollierkeys.org/marine-science-scholarship/ or contact Jessica Dockery at [email protected] Get your tickets now for an evening of art, community and special musical tribute to musician, artist and avid diver Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead. Bands have a shelf life, but great music thrives—and this is perhaps truest of the Grateful Dead, whose repertoire is now being performed by hundreds of bands. Among the best of them is Waynard Scheller and Rainbow Full of Sound (RFoS).
RFoS took shape in 2012 when a group of Dead Head musicians decided to replicate the Dead’s legendary 1980 Radio City Music Hall run. They had so much fun they never stopped. A rotating cast of members keeps things lively and the music fresh. The continuing link is Waynard, whose roots in music include a ragtime-piano-playing grandfather, guitar-toting hippie babysitters, and a mom who taught him classics like “Heart and Soul.” Enjoy a night under the stars at Safe Harbor Angler House in Islamorada. Celebrating Jerry’s love of diving and protecting our oceans, the Jerry Garcia Foundation donated limited-edition museum quality giclees of his art to the History of Diving Museum. Prints will be on display and available for purchase. In addition, there will be a drawing for one print. Each piece of fine art comes with a JGF Certificate of Authenticity that is hand-signed by Jerry's wife, Manasha and daughter, Keelin. Along with dinner and dancing “Dive Into Art & Music” on March 29th, from 5:30-9:00 pm, there will be a fun photo op area provided by Keys Westys with a ’70s hippy style VW van and community booths to share coral restoration efforts from Key Largo to Key West. Seating will be limited, with several options available: Poolside access, dinner by M.E.A.T Eatery and Tap Room, admission to the History of Diving Museum and a Jerry Garcia art raffle is $125 per person. For $3,000, a sponsor will receive their very own signed giclee, VIP reserved seating and dinner for four along with admission passes to the History of Diving Museum. There will be a limited number of general admission tickets available at $50 per person which is packaged with a Jerry Garcia art raffle ticket. You can purchase tickets for the event at the Museum or on their website: https://divingmuseum.org/. The event will be held, rain or shine, and if unable to attend, you can view remaining art available for purchase at the Museum. The History of Diving Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in Islamorada (MM83). Divers and non-divers alike are amazed by over 4,000 years of “the quest to explore under the sea.” The Museum has 14 core exhibits plus two annual limited-time Featured Exhibits as well as a Museum Store with unique gifts. Check out DivingMuseum.org for more details, to become a member, or shop online. Key West Artisan Market 'Gone to the Dogs' Edition for the Florida Keys SPCA Sunday, March 32/26/2024  Key West Artisan Market has 'Gone to the Dogs' for the March 3 edition, 10 am to 2 pm at Indigenous Park/Key West Wildlife Center at Higgs Beach. Meet the volunteers of the Florida Keys SPCA and maybe a pup or two! Bring your well-behaved four legged friends - the market is always pet friendly and right next to the dog park!
The Market offers bloody marys, mimosas along with a full bar, coffee, natural juices and cut fruit, plus multiple food stalls offering eat-here or take-away. Shop a curated outdoor market offering fine crafts, art and jewelry from talented Florida Keys makers. Stock the pantry and fridge with fresh produce, artisan cheeses, local seafood, honey, pickles, pastries, cigars, soaps and much more. Bring a lawn chair and listen to awesome musicians and support the featured charities. The market is conveniently located close to the Higgs Beach, free West Martello Tower botanical gardens, White Street Pier and the Atlantic ocean across the street. Open 10 am to 2 pm every Sunday in February, March and April by locals, for locals. The next show is March 10 and is the Education Edition featuring May Sands Montessori. The event offers free entry and ample free parking. Guests are encouraged to ride bikes and BYOB (bring your own bags). Lunch and Learn Offered at The Studios of Key West Community members are invited to a free presentation on the benefits, challenges and logistics of donating real estate to charitable organizations. The speakers will be attorneys Samuel J. Kaufman and Suzette Alfonso from the Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A., each of whom have decades of experience in this area.
The event will be held in the Helmerich Theater at The Studios of Key West on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, from Noon-1:30 p.m. The doors will open at Noon with a light lunch and the one-hour presentation will start promptly at 12:30. The event is co-hosted by the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys and The Studios of Key West to encourage charitable giving to support nonprofit and faith-based organizations in Key West and the Florida Keys. The session is recommended for property owners, real estate agents, and financial professionals who want to learn more about giving options including an enhanced life estate option, with the donor gifting a home to charity but continuing to live in it (or someone else does) and gifting utilizing revocable living trusts to avoid probate. All options allow you to specify how you would like your charitable gift to be used, such as housing for nonprofit staff or clients, establishing scholarships, or supporting Florida Keys nonprofit organizations. No tax advice will be provided by the attorneys. Registration is required at cffk.org/realestate.  "Broken Dolls” by Alberto Sautua, Acrylic on Canvas The Florida Keys Council of the Arts presents the ongoing art exhibit: “Paint the Music and Dance the Paint”, an exhibition of contemporary Cuban Art, curated by Alaen Ledesma Fernandez, at the Historic Gato Building. This collective exhibition represents the artwork of more than 25 established Cuban artists, is free to attend and free parking is available. The show will continue through April 30th and the Gato Building is open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 p.m. Closed Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal Holidays.
This exhibition of contemporary Cuban art brings together great established artists who inspire and have inspired artists for decades. With over 60 original works of art on display, many different styles of the Cuban school of arts will be on view. From drawing and painting to sculpture, each piece tells a story of beauty, love, passion, despair: the stories of human existence. All artwork is available for purchase. The exhibit is part of the Arts Council’s Art in Public Buildings program, designed to offer an opportunity for artists to exhibit their work beyond a traditional gallery space and enhance the environment of those who work and visit the Gato Building. This exhibit was sponsored in part by the Florida Keys Council of the Arts, the State of Florida: Division of Cultural Affairs, as well as other supporters. Additional support comes from donations by show visitors. For more information, please call the Arts Council at 305-295-4369 or email [email protected]  Malia Alexander studies at CFK's Upper Keys Center. KEY WEST, FL, February 22, 2024—The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) invites prospective students to learn more about the various academic and career training opportunities available at CFK through its “Future Student” virtual event on Wednesday, March 6 at 5:30 p.m.
Topics to be covered at the information session:
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