 Florida SBDC Network State Office (Pensacola, Fla.) – The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, the state’s principal provider of small business assistance, encourages small businesses to participate in Small Business Saturday, which will be held Saturday, November 30, and urges consumers to support small businesses during this day and throughout the holiday season.
Created by American Express in 2010, Small Business Saturday serves as the ceremonial kickoff to the holiday shopping season for small businesses across the United States. Small Business Saturday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses and strengthening communities across the country. In 2023, U.S. reported projected spending among customers who shopped at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday reached an estimated $17 billion according to the 2023 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey commissioned by American Express. Additionally, of those surveyed, 61% strongly agree that they found a small business or independently owned restaurant on Small Business Saturday where they are likely to return and become a regular customer. “When you shop small, you’re doing more than making a purchase—you’re investing in your neighbors and strengthening your community,” said Greg Britton, state director of the Florida SBDC Network. “The Florida SBDC Network invites everyone to support local businesses by shopping small this Small Business Saturday and throughout the holiday season.” The Florida SBDC encourages consumers to consider shopping small this holiday season. Some reasons to shop small include:
The network encourages small businesses to consider participating in Small Business Saturday. Some ways to participate include:
Small businesses and consumers may learn more about Small Business Saturday and how to get involved by visiting ShopSmall.com.
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 Key West, FL - November 22, 2024 – Bangkok Happy Bowl Asian Bistro, a go-to spot on Duval Street, is thrilled to reveal its December nightly music schedule. Pairing delectable Asian dishes with live music from some of Key West’s top local talents, Bangkok Happy Bowl offers an unforgettable dining and entertainment experience for residents and visitors alike.
Located at 816 Duval Street, Bangkok Happy Bowl serves a vibrant fusion of Thai and Japanese cuisine in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy their meals indoors or on the picturesque garden patio. From bold, savory curries to expertly prepared sushi rolls, the menu celebrates authentic Asian flavors. Signature dishes like the famous pad Thai and fresh sushi rolls are crafted using only the finest ingredients, transporting diners to Southeast Asia with every bite. To further enhance the dining experience, Bangkok Happy Bowl features live music four nights a week, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Performances will run on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, offering a variety of genres such as Roots Rock n’ Roll, Reggae, R&B, Pop, and Soul. There will not be live entertainment on Wednesdays and Thursdays in December but guests are still invited to enjoy the restaurant's delicious Thai and Japanese cuisine menu in a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to join us for live music performances on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, showcasing various talented local artists.
“We’re excited to bring live music to Bangkok Happy Bowl throughout December,” says Kirk Coult, owner of Bangkok Happy Bowl. “Our goal is to provide a welcoming space where guests can enjoy outstanding food and immerse themselves in the rich musical culture of Key West.” Whether indulging in a signature dish or soaking in the sounds of live music, Bangkok Happy Bowl is the ideal destination to unwind and experience the unique vibrancy of Key West. To explore the full menu, visit Bangkok Happy Bowl Key West Menu. For more information about Bangkok Happy Bowl Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar, please visit Bangkok Happy Bowl.  The Wicker Guesthouse, located at 913 Duval St. in Key West, is one of the festive locales that will be visited and explored by revelers during the 2024 Holiday Historic Inn Tours, taking place on December 6 and 13. (Photo: Carol Tedesco/KeyWestHolidayFest.com) During two Friday evenings, December 6 and 13, the annual Holiday Historic Inn Tours present an enchanting opportunity for locals and visitors alike to explore the beautiful architecture and unique history of some of Key West’s most charming locales while enjoying light sweet and savory holiday treats and libation samplings among festive company. From 6:00-8:00pm each night, revelers can visit the various properties, enjoy self-guided tours, and delight in the island’s warm tropical holiday ambience.
Participating December 6 destinations are the Hemingway Social Club at Papa’s Pilar Distillery, the Lighthouse Hotel, Wicker Guesthouse, and the Gardens Hotel. December 13 destinations are Key West Butterfly Conservatory, The Mansion on the Sea, Island City House, and The Mermaid & The Alligator. Advance tickets are recommended and will be available for pick-up after 5:30pm at each evening’s first tour location – the Hemingway Social Club at Papa’s Pilar Distillery on the 6th and Key West Butterfly Conservatory on the 13th. If not sold out in advance, tickets will also be available for walk-up guests the night of each tour at the first destination only. Presented by Key West Historic Inns, Ocean Key Resort and Spa, Pier B Key West, The Lodging Association of the Florida Keys and Key West, and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. Tickets can be purchased at https://keystix.com/allevents/#holidayhistoricinntour or by calling 305-296-4959.
MONROE COUNTY, FL – To support Veterans, Monroe County illuminated the Harvey Government Center in Key West and the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo green from Nov. 4 to 11 as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans, a nationwide effort uniting counties to support military Veterans. The initiative, led by the National Association of Counties, raises awareness about the unique challenges many Veterans face and the resources available at the county, state, and federal levels to assist Veterans and their families.
"Participating in Operation Green Light for Veterans shows our gratitude and support for those who have bravely served," said Cathy Crane, Director of Monroe County Veterans Affairs. "A green light signifies that their sacrifices will never be forgotten and that our community stands with them." For more information on Operation Green Light, visit https://www.naco.org/program/operation-green-light-veterans. To learn more about Monroe County Veterans Affairs and the services offered, visit www.monroecounty-fl.gov/va. Key West Holiday Fest, the southernmost city’s annual island-wide celebration of the season, is set to kick off on Thanksgiving eve, Wednesday, Nov. 27. For a full month, revelers of all ages can experience a plentitude of magical, tropically infused holiday activities and merry-making as only Key West can conceive. Here’s a sampling of what’s ahead:
Wednesday, Nov. 27, pre-sunset: People of all ages, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus, gather at Greene Street Plaza where it meets Lazy Way Lane at the Historic Seaport for the countdown and 6:00pm lighting of the giant “Fishing Buoy” Christmas tree and the Key West Harbor Walk of Lights. At 7:00pm the “Lobster Trap” Christmas tree at Margaret St. Plaza at the Historic Seaport will be officially lit. Wednesday, Nov. 27, through New Year’s Eve, Key West Harbor Walk of Lights at the Historic Seaport: Explore Lazy Way Lane at the Green Street Plaza to the Ferry Terminal at Grinnell Street while reveling in a wonderland of holiday displays and thousands of lights adorning trees, ships, shops, restaurants and watering holes, adorned in celebration of the season and honoring the maritime history of Key West. Friday, Nov. 29 through Christmas Eve, the MARC annual Christmas tree lot: Christmas trees, wreaths, garlands, holiday accessories, ornaments, and wonderful locally produced gifts. More than 1500 trees travel from North Carolina to Key West and are available until they run out or Christmas Eve, which ever comes first. 1401 Seminary Street. Friday, Nov. 29, Black Friday Shopping Extravaganza at Truman Waterfront Park, 10:00am-6:00pm: Join the Key West Artisan Market, the Truman Waterfront Farmers Market and Shop Mom & Pop Key West, artists, crafters, makers and providers offering one of a kind gifts, unique handmade items, exquisite art, along with delicious culinary delights, yummy beverages and exquisite views. Nov. 29 – 30, Dec 5-6, Fiesta de Navidad, 8:00pm: Get ready for a holiday dance performance extravaganza like no other! Fiesta de Navidad is here to light up your season with beloved holiday characters and incredible Latin dance from salsa to cha-cha-cha. Highlighting the rich cultural influences that make Key West so unique, this show is a high-energy spectacle that will have everyone from kids to grandparents dancing. San Carlos Institute, 516 Duval St. Sunday, Dec. 1, “Messiah” concert, 7:00pm at Key West United Methodist Church, 600 Eaton Street. Sunday, Dec. 1, Schooner Wharf Bar 2024 Tree Trimming Party and Toy Drive, from 6:00pm: Maritime merrymakers will deck the halls and make dreams come true at the popular waterfront winter wonderland. Help decorate the tree and participate in a “Best Handmade Ornament” contest for prizes (bring your own hand-decorated ornament). All tree trimmers will be treated to a free holiday cocktail. Participants are invited to bring an unwrapped gift for the Cheryl Cates Memorial Toy Drive for “Angels Just 4 Kids.” Local authors and artists will be on hand, signing and selling original creations for holiday gift giving. Monday, Dec. 2, City of Key West Tree Lighting Ceremony, 6:00pm at Bayview Park, 1320 Truman Ave. Tuesday, Dec. 3, The ReMARCable Decorated Table Top Tree and Wreath Auction takes place at Opal Key Resort, 245 Front St., presented by First Horizon Foundation. Preview at 5:30pm; live auction at 7:00pm. Thursday, Dec. 5, Pet Pictures with Santa, hosted by All Animal Clinic, 6:00-8:00pm: Pack up Fifi, Fido, and the family and delight in Pet Pictures with Santa at the nautical Christmas tree at the foot of William Street at the Key West Bight Marina/Harbor Walk of Lights. For a cash donation of $25 you’ll receive a professional high resolution digital image. Benefits the Boys & Girls Club of the Keys. Thursday, Dec. 5, The 11th Annual POSH (Paws Often Steal Hearts) Florida Keys SPCA Fundraiser, 6:00pm, a catered gala event at the Audubon House featuring live dance music raffles, and a silent auction. Dec. 5-8 and 13-15, Nutcracker Key West: Sugarplum fairies trade tutus for sea fans, and the battle between the mice and the soldiers takes on a whole new flavor. Some 200 local children and adults and 16 professional dancers from New York City will join together in 2024 to produce this outstanding historical recreation of Key West's enchanting version of the Nutcracker ballet at the Tennessee Williams Theatre. Friday, Dec. 6, Holiday Historic Inn Tours – Night 1, 6:00pm-8:00pm: Explore four beautifully decorated locations and their unique architecture and history while enjoying light sweet and savory holiday treats and libation samplings: the Hemingway Social Club at Papa’s Pilar Distillery, the Lighthouse Hotel, Wicker Guesthouse, and the Gardens Hotel. Tickets can be purchased at https://keystix.com/allevents/#holidayhistoricinntour or call 305-296-4959. Friday, Dec. 6, Wesley House Family Services Holiday Village and BeLighted Bike Ride at Coffee Butler Amphitheater, 5:00-9:00pm: Celebrate the holidays with a family friendly party with Santa Claus, music, crafts, food trucks, goodies, games, and rides for the kids, and a festive lighted bike ride through the streets of Key West, which will depart the Amphitheater at 8:00pm and conclude with a “Best Bike” contest. Admission fee includes Holiday Village and Bike Ride, and benefits Wesley House Family Services. Saturday, Dec. 7, Key West Hometown Holiday Parade, 6:30-9:00pm: Spectators line the streets for the homegrown parade which kicks off at Bayview Park and travels along Truman Ave and Duval Streets with festooned floats and marching groups consisting of adults, children, and elves, along with assorted hoofed and whiskered friends. Sunday, Dec. 8, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Christmas on the Farm, 1:00-3:00pm: The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office invites everyone to come meet the animals during its annual Christmas on the Farm event. 5501 College Road, Stock Island. Donations welcomed! Sunday, Dec. 8: Eaton Street Christmas Stroll, 3:30-7:30pm. Arts and cultural venues and churches unite for this annual community Christmas stroll. Stroll Eaton St. between Whitehead and Simonton, and enjoy stops at venues like Williams Hall for a concert from the Bahama Village Music Program, Tropic Cinema for classic cartoons, The Studios for cocktails and art, and ending at St. Paul’s for a traditional Christmas concert. Admission is free; tickets required and available at https://www.tropiccinema.com/ Dec. 9-10 and 13-23, Conch Tour Train Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Tours: Multiple nightly tours depart from Key West High School and convey caroling passengers through streets and neighborhoods to revel in the magically illuminated city of Key West. Dec. 9-23, Old Town Trolley Holiday Lights & Sights Tours: Multiple nightly tours begin at Mallory Square and convey caroling passengers through magically decorated streets and neighborhoods. Friday, Dec. 13, Holiday Historic Inn Tours – Night 2, 6:00pm-8:00pm: Explore four beautifully decorated locations and their unique architecture and history while enjoying light sweet and savory holiday treats and libation samplings: Key West Butterfly Conservatory, The Mansion on the Sea, Island City House, and The Mermaid & The Alligator. Tickets can be purchased at https://keystix.com/allevents/#holidayhistoricinntour or call 305-296-4959. Dec. 13-23 and 26-28, Key West Waterfront Winter Wonderland: The Coffee Butler Amphitheater at Truman Waterfront Park will welcome revelers of all ages to a holiday wonderland with beautiful lighting displays, an ice skating rink, exciting rides, attractions, music and more. Friday, Dec. 13, Holiday Concert & Bazaar at the Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House, 5:00-9:00pm: This festive free party features some of Key West’s finest artisans, musicians and choirs, along with a spectacular holiday light show. 281 Front Street. Saturday, Dec. 14, A Positive Step 5K Rudolph Red Nose Run, 7:00am check-in, 8:00am start time: Don your festive holiday jammies and join in the 15th A Positive Step 5K Rudolph Red Nose Run, starting and ending at the Southernmost Beach Café, 1405 Duval Street. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are welcome. Saturday, Dec. 14, Schooner Wharf Annual Key West Lighted Boat Parade, 8:00pm: A glittering parade of illuminated watercraft. Arrive at the Key West Bight Marina at the Historic Seaport early in order to stroll through the magical Key West Harbor Walk of Lights. Sunday, Dec. 15, 11am-3:00pm, Holiday Classic Car Show: See classic cars from a variety of eras and choose a People’s Choice winner with your votes. Located at the Conch Republic Seafood Company parking lot at the corner of Greene and Elizabeth Streets. Attendees are asked to bring an unwrapped toy for the Monroe County Domestic Abuse Shelter. Sunday, Dec. 15 and 22, Christmas Cantata concerts at Fifth Street Baptist Church, 1311 Fifth Street, 11am: The church choir will perform a selection of contemporary music and Christmas carols. Sunday, Dec. 22, Key West Artisan Market Shop Local Edition, featuring Santa Claus, at Indigenous Park at Higgs Beach, 10:00am-2:00pm: Shop for the holidays at a curated outdoor market offering fine crafts and art from talented Florida Keys makers, a wide variety of food and libations, local musicians and authors, and glorious ocean views along with a visit from old Saint Nick himself. Tuesday, Dec. 24, Holiday Jazz in the Gardens, 5:00-7:00pm: The Gardens Hotel at 526 Angela street welcomes holiday-goers to festive outdoor jazz in its famous garden, with a full cash bar on site and a 20% Christmas discount on bottled wine and bubbly. Dec. 18-24, Cocoa and Carols: Live Holiday Music Cruise Aboard Schooner America 2.0, 7:00-8:30pm: A festive cruise featuring holiday live music, hot cocoa, cookies, and cheer aboard the beautiful 105-foot Schooner America 2.0. Wednesday, Dec. 25, Christmas Day Brunch Aboard Schooner America 2.0, 10:00am-12:30pm: A 2.5 hour Christmas Day Brunch with complimentary mimosas, Bloody Mary’s, wine, beer, soft drinks, and H2o. Brunch includes spiraled ham, bagels and pastries, meats and cheeses, smoked salmon, crudités, and other delicious holiday treats. Sunday, Dec. 29, City of Key West Menorah Lighting Ceremony, 5:00pm at Bayview Park, 1300 White Street. Tuesday, Dec. 31: For your midnight toast, chose between an array of uniquely Key West New Year’s Eve Celebrations, including the world-famous Red High Heel Drop at the Bourbon St. Pub; the annual “Conch Shell Drop” at Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Duval St.; the “Lowering of the Pirate Wench at Midnight” at Schooner Wharf Bar and Galley and more. Key West Holiday Fest is presented in part by The Lodging Association of the Florida Keys and Key West and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. For event links and information, visit www.keywestholidayfest.com or https://tinyurl.com/KeyWestHolidayFest on Facebook. For more information contact the Lodging Association at 305-296-4959. MONROE COUNTY, FL – At Tuesday’s Board of County Commissioners meeting, the board recognized National Weather Service Key West’s Chip Kasper and Jon Rizzo with Honorary Conch certificates, recognized Dr. Mark Whiteside of the Florida Dept. of Health in Monroe County and Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin for their service, Florida Keys AHEC for Smoking Cessation Month, and November as National Aviation History Month. Below are the highlights.
National Weather Service Key West’s Chip Kasper and Jon Rizzo Presented Honorary Conch Certificates The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners recognized the National Weather Service Key West’s Chip Kasper, meteorologist-in-charge, and Jon Rizzo, warning coordinator, with Honorary Conch certificates. “While not native to the Florida Keys, they have demonstrated their dedication to our island home through continued service in our community,” said Monroe County outgoing Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein. “We congratulate them and are grateful for all that they do for the community.” The NWS-KW, Kasper, and Rizzo are trusted partners for Monroe County Emergency Management throughout hurricane season and other weather events throughout the Florida Keys. Dr. Mark Whiteside Presented Conch Certificate and Recognized for Dedicated Medical Services for Florida Keys Residents The Board of County Commissioners presented Dr. Mark Whiteside of the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County with an Honorary Conch certificate as a pillar of public health in the Florida Keys for more than 40 years. Staff from the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County and his family joined him for the recognition. Whiteside, trained in infectious and tropical diseases, has been at the forefront of research and clinical work. His exceptional leadership and medical expertise have been critical in safeguarding the Florida Keys community on numerous public health crises, including managing the flu, H1N1, Zika, HIV, and Dengue outbreaks, helping to prevent and mitigate the impact of these diseases on community members. “His dedication to public health is matched by his passion for environmental sustainability and advocacy for preserving natural ecosystems,” said Mayor Jim Scholl. “He recognizes the critical connection between a healthy environment and healthy communities.” Photo – Whiteside: KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin Recognized for her Invaluable Service to Monore County Residents The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners recognized Joyce Griffin for her remarkable career, dedicated service, and extraordinary contributions to the Florida Keys community. Griffin devoted 40 years of service to Monroe County, beginning in 1984 as a clerk typist, working every clerical position in the office, then being elected to Supervisor of Elections in 2012 after working under five different Supervisor of Elections. She became known as the “do it girl” as she prides herself on completing the needed work. Her staff joined her at the recognition. “Joyce has served as the Monroe County Supervisor of Elections with distinction, overseeing the fair, accurate, and transparent conduct of elections, ensuring that every eligible citizen can vote and have their voice heard,” said outgoing Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein. “Joyce has been a trusted leader and an advocate for innovations by streamlining the voting process and successfully moved Monroe County into the future with computer voting machines helping to enhance voter accessibility and increased voter participation.” Throughout Griffin’s tenure, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, tirelessly working to safeguard voters’ rights and improve the electoral system. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude for her leadership and wish her a well-deserved retirement filled with health, happiness, and fulfillment,” said Mayor Jim Scholl. Photo – Griffin: KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County Commissioners Recognize EYW and AHEC Partnership; and November as Smoking Cessation and Lung Cancer Awareness Month Key West International Airport (EYW) joined smoke-free airports around the globe in 2023 by closing its outdoor smoking patio during ongoing construction and continues to improve service with its new concourse set to open in 2025. EYW supports Florida Keys Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) by donating $2,000 annually through its community relations program. AHEC provides free tobacco cessation services for Monroe County residents that have helped thousands of Monroe County residents quit smoking through counseling sessions and nicotine replacement therapy. Those who wish to quit smoking, visit KeysAhec.org and begin their cessation journey today. The commissioners also recognized November as Smoking Cessation and Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of death in the U.S. The United States Department of Health and Human Services has found tobacco smoke to contain more than 7,000 toxic and carcinogenic chemicals, and lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., accounting for about 1 in 5 of all cancer deaths. November is National Smoking Cessation Lung Cancer Awareness Month, paired with the Great American Smokeout on the third Thursday (Nov. 21). Photo – AHEC: KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County November is Aviation History Month The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners recognized November as Aviation History Month by presenting a proclamation to Monroe County Airport Director Richard Strickland that recognizes the importance of the industry’s evolution and significance. “Aviation plays a vital role in our local, state, and national economy, creating jobs and driving innovation, as well as connections across borders, disaster relief, and national security,” said Mayor Jim Scholl, an avid aviator. “The Florida Keys have a rich history of aviation dating back to 1913, and commercial service began at Key West International Airport (EYW) in 1928 at what was then known as Meacham Field.” Award-winning EYW continues to transform and improve service with plans to open its new Concourse A in 2025, providing nonstop commercial service to more than 20 destinations. The airport has an economic impact of $1.6 billion. Florida Keys Marathon International Airport opened in 1943 and served the U.S. Navy as an auxiliary airfield for Naval Air Station Key West. It was transferred to the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners for use as a civilian airport at the end of WWII. Marathon airport is estimated to have a local economic impact of $235 million. “It is important to recognize the significance of local aviation and its transformation throughout history while honoring those who have dedicated their working lives to the prosperity of both Key West and Marathon airport facilities,” said Commissioner David Rice, also an aviator.
Key West, FL — Queer Keys and A.H. Monroe have announced a new partnership aimed at strengthening HIV prevention efforts and community support for LGBTQIA+ individuals, starting in Key West with plans to expand throughout the Florida Keys. By uniting resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to health and empowerment, this collaboration will deliver life-enhancing support to LGBTQIA+ youth, seniors, and transgender individuals through targeted resources and expanded programs.
Creating a Healthier, Safer Community Together Queer Keys, the only LGBTQIA+-specific nonprofit in the Florida Keys, has long been dedicated to supporting, educating, and celebrating the queer community. Now, in partnership with A.H. Monroe—a trusted leader in healthcare and support for individuals affected by HIV—the two organizations are bringing fresh energy and innovation to HIV prevention and outreach efforts designed for the unique needs of the LGBTQIA+ community. “Through this partnership, we’re creating a pathway for individuals to access not only critical health resources but also a supportive community,” said Scott Pridgen, Executive Director of A.H. Monroe. “It’s a powerful step forward in addressing the specific needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals across the Keys. Our goal is to make these essential services accessible to everyone who needs them, no matter where they are on their journey.” Innovative HIV Prevention and Education for Youth and Beyond The partnership blends the strengths of Queer Keys and A.H. Monroe to build comprehensive, inclusive HIV prevention and education programs. In Queer Keys’ youth program, new engaging safe sex workshops, facilitated by educators from the Monroe County Health Department, will provide LGBTQIA+ youth with tools, resources, and knowledge, including PrEP education, to help them make informed choices. “Every member of our community deserves to feel seen and supported,” said Chris McNulty, Executive Director of Queer Keys. “By uniting with A.H. Monroe, we’re creating a foundation where everyone— regardless of age or identity—can access the basic life opportunities needed for stability and the potential to thrive. This partnership brings people together in ways that bolster our resilience and strengthen our connections.” Dedicated Support for Transgender Wellness For the transgender community, Queer Keys' TransConnect program and A.H. Monroe’s care services will collaborate on essential HIV prevention, testing, and counseling. This partnership means that transgender individuals in the Keys will have compassionate and affirming access to HIV-related health services tailored to their needs. Creative Condom Distribution to Foster Safer Choices Through their combined efforts, Queer Keys and A.H. Monroe will reimagine the condom distribution program with approachable, engaging packaging and messaging that make safer sex resources accessible. Collaboration with distribution sites and feedback from community members will help create a comfortable, supportive approach to safer sex choices throughout the Keys. Fostering Connection and Support for LGBTQIA+ Seniors Looking ahead to early 2025, the partnership will launch a program specifically for LGBTQIA+ seniors, providing social support and health resources to enrich lives and foster community connections. This initiative will cultivate a stronger sense of belonging and ensure that LGBTQIA+ seniors have access to resources that meet their unique needs. Showing Up and Standing Proud in the Keys Queer Keys and A.H. Monroe plan to amplify their message together at events like the Key West PRIDE Fair and Parade, underscoring their joint commitment to health and community support. This partnership goes beyond HIV prevention; it’s about showing up and standing proudly with the LGBTQIA+ community at every step. Through this dynamic collaboration, Queer Keys and A.H. Monroe aim to make lasting changes in the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals in the Keys, ensuring they have the knowledge and resources to lead stable and fulfilling lives. For additional information, please reach out to the media contacts listed above.  MONROE COUNTY, FL – At Tuesday’s Board of County Commissioners meeting, the board chose Mayor Pro Tem Jim Scholl to serve as Monroe County Mayor and Commissioner Michelle Lincoln to serve as Mayor Pro Tem for the next year. Mayor Scholl has been a commissioner since he was appointed in April 2022, and Mayor Pro Tem Lincoln since elected in November 2018.
Mayor Scholl, Mayor Pro Tem Lincoln, and the commissioners recognized outgoing Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein for her mayoral duties for the past year and for leading the County through important conversations like ROGO throughout the year. The mayor’s title is given to the Board of County Commissioners chairperson. The commissioners choose the designee based on a majority vote, usually at the November board meeting. A mayor pro tem is also designated to fill in when the mayor is unavailable. The mayor presides over the Board of County Commissioners meetings and serves as the Monroe County representative at ceremonial occasions. The mayor is also responsible for signing and cosigning documents with the County Clerk.  STEPHEN FRINK/Contributed  DANIELLE SATTERLY/Contributed KEY LARGO, FL – Jacobs Aquatic Center’s competition pool in Key Largo reopened on Saturday after a long-anticipated refurbishment. Monroe County Project Management worked with Parks and Beaches and StandGuard Aquatics, the pool’s operations company, to lower the impact of the closure on the community and patrons of the pool. A TDC grant funded the refurbishment.
“This was a real multi-departmental effort that would not have been possible without the cooperation of the Key Largo Volunteer Fire Department, FKAA, StandGuard Aquatics, Monroe County Roads and Bridges, Parks and Beaches, and others,” said Monroe County Senior Project Manager Suzi Rubio. “Thanks to this joint effort, we completed the refurbishment, filled, and opened the pool eight days earlier than anticipated.” The pool liner refurbishment is the first since Jacobs Aquatic Center opened in 2002. The center is the home of the Orange Bowl Swim Classic, held the first weekend in January each year, and the management company also offers various community-centered programs, including Zumba, water fitness classes, swim lessons, and summer and break camps for children. For more information on the pool, visit https://jacobsaquaticcenter.org/.  MONROE COUNTY, FL – A Monroe County Building Department Unlicensed Contractor Investigator cited an unlicensed asphalt paver and the business owner who hired the company last week. The asphalt company was from New Jersey. Fines could be up to $2,000 for the violations.
“The public needs to know that there are people out there who will try to do work like this, and it is not legal without the proper permits,” said Monroe County Building Official Rick Griffin. Monroe County requires all property owners or licensed contractors to pull a permit for things like paving and asphalt. The property owner could also incur additional fines from Code Compliance for unpermitted improvements to the property. If you feel you are being targeted by an unlicensed contractor in unincorporated Monroe County, call 305-289-2516 or email [email protected]. |
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