Untitled - Key Largo Chamber of Commerce

305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
Adams Cut ................................................31
Automotive, All Things ...............................21
Bayside vs. Oceanside ..............................27
Boat Registration ......................................13
Boating Regulations, Florida .......................9
Boating Safety ............................................2
Business Licensing ...................................29
Conservation/Preservation ........................30
Courts .........................................................4
Dagny Johnson Park .................................17
Drivers Licenses .......................................21
Endangered Species in Key Largo ............17
Fire and Emergency Medical Services ......11
Fishing ......................................................26
Florida Boating Regulations ........................9
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary ...31
General Information ..................................26
Geography ..................................................4
Geology .....................................................32
Government, State and Local .....................8
Growth Management ................................31
Harry Harris Park ......................................11
Hiring a Licensed Contractor ....................33
Hurricanes and Preparedness...................32
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park ...20
Key Largo Chamber of Commerce ............3
Key Largo Woodrat....................................17
Largo Florida and Key Largo .....................10
Law Enforcement .....................................24
ADT ...........................................................25
Ana Zalesky, PA .........................................22
Andersen Financial Services .....................12
Atkins Engineers ........................Back Cover
BayView Homes ..........................................9
Borland & Associates ............Ins. Back Cover
Charter Pest Control ..................................14
Coral Reef Title Company..........................23
First State Bank ........................................13
FloridaKeys.com .......................................16
GreenspoonMarder (Mark Siedle, Esq.) ......5
H & R Block ...........................Ins. Back Cover
Hershoff, Lupino & Yagel, LLP .....................4
Islamorada Investment Management .......13
Island Smoke Shop ...................................24
Kenneth E. Grossman, DDS ......................19
Key Largo Fisheries ..................................27
Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District .15
Keys Accounting & Tax Service ...................2
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
Digest Information
Advertisements
INDEX
Lizards and Iguanas ..................................18
Legislative ...................................................5
Lobster Seasons .......................................23
Local Government .......................................8
Marriage Licenses ....................................31
Mile Markers .............................................30
Mosquitos .................................................27
Overseas Highway ......................................6
Parks .........................................................20
Pet Shelters...............................................15
Population .................................................10
Post Offices ...............................................18
Recycling ..................................................14
Roads and Bridges ....................................14
Sales Taxes .................................................4
Schools .....................................................10
Scouting ....................................................30
Service Organizations ...............................30
Sewer Emergencies ..................................15
Social/Human Services .............................30
Spiegel Grove ............................................31
State Government .......................................8
Transportation ...........................................28
U.S. 1 ..........................................................6
Upper Keys Schools ..................................10
Utilities ......................................................29
Veterans ....................................................30
Voter Registration .....................................17
Weather ....................................................15
Keys Lake Villas ........................................22
Keys Sanitary Services .............................28
Mariners Hospital ......................................19
Marr Properties, Inc. ..................................23
Melendi Photography ................................20
Monroe County Recycling .........................14
Mull Capital Management .........................12
Patricia Gessel, PL ......................................5
Riva Watersports .........................................7
St. James the Fisherman ............................6
Sunshine Printing ........................................2
Sunshine Title ...........................................22
The Law Offices of Restivo & Reilly ............5
Travis Bennett, DMD .................................18
Tropic Homes ............................................23
Tropical Tax Solutions .................................2
Tyco Integrated Security ...........................24
Upper Keys Marine Construction ................8
Visiting Nurse Association/Hospice ...........19
Member Listings
Accounting ..................................................3
Advertising/Printing/Public Relations ..........3
Attorneys .....................................................4
Automotive ..................................................4
Boat Sales and Repairs ...............................4
Business Services .......................................6
Churches ....................................................6
Civic Organizations .....................................8
Computers ..................................................9
Construction................................................9
Education ..................................................10
Electrical/Electronics .................................11
Emergency Services .................................11
Employment Services ...............................11
Engineering ...............................................11
Event Planning ..........................................11
Financial Services .....................................12
Funeral Services .......................................12
Health Clubs..............................................13
Household Services ..................................14
Insurance ..................................................15
Interior Design ..........................................15
Internet Marketing/Website Design ..........17
Legal Services ..........................................17
Marinas and Marine Services ...................17
Medical and Health ...................................18
Museums ..................................................20
Notary Services.........................................20
Photographers ..........................................20
Publications and Publishers ......................20
Radio Stations ...........................................20
Real Estate Services .................................22
Salons .......................................................24
Security Services ......................................24
Shopping...................................................24
Social Services .........................................27
Supporters ................................................27
Transportation ...........................................28
Utilities ......................................................29
Veterinarians .............................................30
Weddings ..................................................30
The Local Information Digest is published by the Key
Largo Chamber of Commerce annually in September
with 15,000 copies in circulation. Call 451-1414 for
more information and advertising opportunities.
Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy;
however, the chamber shall not be held liable for any
errors or omissions. No part of this publication may
be reproduced in any form whatsoever, including
electronic and Internet applications, without written
permission from the publisher. Copyright 2012.
Area codes are 305 unless otherwise noted.
1

2
Boating Safety
Always wear a personal flotation
device (PFD) or LIFE JACKET
• Most boating fatality victims were
found (recovered) NOT wearing a
PFD.
• Always carry extra PFDs
adult and child sizes.
Avoid alcohol
• The probability of being killed in a
boating accident doubles when
alcohol is involved.
• Operating a boat under the
influence is just as dangerous as
driving a car after you’ve been
drinking.
• Boating while intoxicated laws are
strictly enforced and carry
penalties similar to driving while
intoxicated.
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
The Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
has been a testament to the dedication
and commitment of its members since
the late 1930s, when a group of Upper
Keys business owners got together to
discuss how to improve their business
environment.
Incorporated in the 1970s, the Upper
Keys Chamber of Commerce became
the Legendary Key Largo Chamber of
Commerce in 1985, capitalizing on the
enormous power of name recognition.
Key Largo is a renowned destination
and a name that experience has proven
guarantees an enthusiastic and positive
response.
Since its inception, the focus of the
Legendary Key Largo Chamber of
Commerce has been the promotion of
the economy through support of good
business, good government and good
citizenship.
The Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
works closely with all local organizations
and Institutions to improve the
quality of life for all. We interact with
government on the local, state and
federal levels on issues of importance to
the business community.
The Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
is active in all aspects of community life,
and through various projects and
committees, our members show they
share the chamber's commitment to
community and business service.
The island of Key Largo, and the Florida
Keys as a whole, relies on its major
industry - tourism. The chamber
promotes the importance of maintaining
and enhancing this industry with the
knowledge that all businesses in the
community benefit from a thriving
tourist economy.
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
www.keylargochamber.org • 451-1414
Every dollar spent by a visitor for
accommodations, attractions, dining or
shopping filters down to our accountants,
attorneys, bankers, contractors,
electricians, hairdressers, insurance
agents, painters, physicians, veterinarians
and on and on.
The chamber provides many opportunities
for community and personal growth
through its committees. Members are
encouraged to become an integral part
of the progress of the chamber and the
community through investing time in
their special area of interest.
We Mean Business!
The key to the chamber's future
success lies in the membership. Let the
chamber know about your business
concerns and allow the chamber to
demonstrate how it can serve you. The
members define the direction of the
chamber, and your voice needs to be
heard. Join us as we endeavor to bring
a healthy, happy successful working
environment to the communities in
which we live, and a prosperous future
to all.
The chamber’s website contains a
wealth of information about businesses,
as well as a number of specials reports
on everything from highway beautification
funding sources to workforce studies
to managing emergencies and more.
Networking Opportunities
The chamber provides all members
opportunities to promote your business
or service through monthly luncheon
meetings and Members in Motion
after-hours business socials.
C
Accounting
Anita M. Garmon Inc.
942-6903.
Catarineau & Catarineau LLC.
852-4833, www.taxcatcpa.com
H&R Block.
451-2562, www.hrblock.com
Keys Accounting & Tax Service.
451-3464, www.keysaccounting.com
Pribramsky and Zuelch.
735-4325, www.pribramskyzuelch.com
Tolley & Hill PLLC.
852-9898.
Tropical Tax Solutions.
451-4tax (4829), www.tropicaltax.com
Advertising/Printing/
Public Relations
Comcast Cable & High Speed
Internet Service.
800-266-2278, www.comcast.com
Florida Keys 360 Inc.
360-2636, www.fla-keys360.com
Hibiscus Marketing.
451-1888, www.hibiscusfloridakeys.com
Island Information Services.
451-4601.
Keys Discounts LLC.
786-567-8830, www.keysdiscounts.com
Newman PR.
461-3300, www.newmanpr.com
Padgett Signs.
395-8325.
Sunshine Printing.
451-5517, www.floridakeysprinting.com
T-Toons Screenprinting.
451-9557, www.companycasuals.com/
ttoons
Area Code is 305 unless otherwise noted.
3

Attorneys
Gessel, Patricia PL.
453-5277, www.gesselkeyslaw.com
Greenspoon Marder P.A.
Mark Siedle, Esq., 451-2119, www.gmlaw.com
Hershoff Lupino & Yagel LLP.
852-8440, www.tropicalaw.com
Law Office of Andrew M. Tobin.
852-3388, www.mattsonlaw.com
Law Offices of Erik S. Bloom P.A.
290-0690, www.floridatitleattorneys.com
Mark E. Kohl, Attorney at Law.
394-0760.
Restivo & Reilly.
453-4961.
Automotive
John R. McKenzie Jobber.
(McKenzie Petroleum). 852-2881.
Largo Honda.
451-3555, www.largohonda.com
Tim’s Mobile Service.
942-3698.
Wheaton’s Service Center.
451-3500, http://keylargoautorepair.com
Boat Sales and Repairs
Action Marine & Dive Inc.
451-1840, www.actionmarineonline.com
Boats Direct USA.
453-6668, www.boatsdirectusa.com
4
Sales Taxes
The state sales tax 7.5% in the
Keys. If you stay in a hotel, motel,
campground or other short-term
accommodation, you’ll pay an
extra 5% for a “bed tax.”
The bed tax helps fund tourism
promotion, local events and major
tourist-related building projects.
Photo by Karen Beal
Attorneys at Law
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Geography
Key Largo
14.4 Square Miles • 5,186 acres
8 feet average elevation
25˚ 05.1’ N Latitude
80˚ 26.7’ W Longitude
Plantation Key
9.4 Square Miles • 3,374 acres
8 feet average elevation
24˚ 58.7’ N Latitude
80˚ 38.1’ W Longitude
Courts
Clerk of the Circuit (State) Court 853-7456
Clerk – County Courts 853-7456
County Court Judges 852-7155
Monroe County Jail 853-3266
Probation and Parole Office 853-3262
Public Defender’s Office 852-3232
State Attorney’s Office 852-7170
REAL ESTATE • LAND USE
GENERAL PRACTICE
305-852-8440
www.tropicalaw.com Fax 305-852-8848
90130 Old Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
The hiring of an attorney is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.
Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
THE LAW OFFICES OF
Restivo & Reilly, LLC
Bernadette Restivo, Esq.
Jessica Reilly, Esq.
Catherine Vogel, Esq.
Family Law ~ Criminal Law
Serving South Miami to Key West
The Pink Plaza
103400 Overseas Highway Suite 237
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-4961
The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that
should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before
you decide, ask us to send you free written information
about our qualifications and experience.
Personal Injury Attorney
Mark Siedle, Esq.
All Accidents
Auto Accidents
Boating Accidents
Motorcycle Accidents
Slip/Fall
Wrongful Death
Free consultation
No Fee, No Costs, if no recovery
Key Largo Office: Upon appointment
1.888.491.1120 ext. 1098
305.451.2119 | Cell: 954.849.0477
www.gmlaw.com
Main Office: 100 W. Cypress Creek Rd., Suite 700
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
PATRICIA GESSEL, P.L.
ATTORNEY AT LAW
REAL ESTATE
Real Estate Closings & Title Insurance
Mortgage Refinance Closings
Purchase/Sales Contracts
Short Sale Negotiations
Like Kind (1031) Exchanges
ESTATE LAW
Probate
Wills • Trusts
Asset Protection Planning
Charitable Gift Giving
BUSINESS LAW
Formation of Business Entities
Shareholder & Partnership
Agreements
Buy/Sell Agreements
SE HABLA ESPAÑOL
305-453-5277
99530 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, #2 • KEY LARGO, FL 33037 • pgessel@aol.com
The hiring of an attorney is an important decision that should not be based soley on adverisements.
Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and expertise.
Legislative
County Admin. Offices 852-1469
Monroe County Commissioners:
Dist. 1 – Kim Wigington 292-3440
Dist. 2 – George Neugent 292-4512
Dist. 3 – Heather Carruthers 292-3430
Dist. 4 – David Rice - Mayor 289-6000
Dist. 5 – Sylvia Murphy 453-8787
State Rep. Ron Saunders 853-1947
State Sen. Larcenia Bullard 668-7344
Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen 668-2285
U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson 536-5999
U.S. Sen. Mario Rubio 418-8553
Gov. Rick Scott 850-488-4441
Property Appraiser 852-7130
Tax Appraiser 292-3420
Supervisor of Elections 453-8740
Tax Collector 852-7150
Some of these officeholders will change as of the
November 2012 election. Please consult the
appropriate website for updated information.
All area codes are 305 unless otherwise noted.
5

Business Services
Key Dynamics Coaching and
Consulting Inc.
451-9295, www.key-dynamics.com
Keys Business Solutions North LLC.
853-1211, www.kbsnorth.com
Keys Imaging.
292-2679, www.keysimaging.com
Merchant Services.
302-453-9983, www.merchantsvcs.com
Ocean Reef Chamber of Commerce.
367-3646, www.chamberatoceanreef.org
Shirley Wilson Social Media
Management.
394-1987, www.shirleywilson.com
Upper Keys Business &
Professional Women.
522-1697, www.upperkeysbpw.org
Verizon Wireless/
Cellular Sales of South Florida.
651-470-2121, www.cellularsales.com
Churches
Key Largo has many houses of worship
representing all major religious
denominations, including Catholic,
Protestant and Judaism. Please check the
phone book or go online to find yours. Key
Largo chamber members are listed below.
Coral Isles Community Church.
852-5813, www.coralisles.org
First Baptist Church of Key Largo.
451-2265, www.fbkl.org
Key Largo Baptist Church.
451-1642, www.keylargobaptistchurch.org
Lighthouse on the Rock.
852-5311, www.christianity.com/
lighthouseontherock
St. James the Fisherman
Episcopal Church.
852-8468, www.stjamesthefisherman.org
6
Area Code is 305 unless otherwise noted.
Photo by Anneliese Heiner
A Road By Any Other Name
Photo by Andy Newman/Monroe County Tourist Development Council
U.S. 1 through the Keys is also
known as Overseas Highway.
The highway was built parallel to
the original route of the Overseas
Railway, opened officially in 1912.
Much of the railroad was
destroyed in the Labor Day
Hurricane of 1935 and later taken
out of commission entirely.
But even before the storm, road
sections and highway bridges
allowed automobile traffic to travel
from Miami to Lower Matecumbe
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Key, where a car ferry connected
with another roadway section
through the Lower Keys.
After the hurricane, some of the
original railway bridges were
converted to carry the highway
roadbeds. These bridges were
used until the 1980s, when new
highway bridges were built
alongside.
Many of the original railroad and
highway bridges remain today as
pedestrian fishing piers.
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
MORE BRANDS = MORE $AVING$
3671 North Dixie Hwy.
Pompano Beach, FL 33064
Tel. (954) 785-4820
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
BRING
US YOUR
TRADE!
www.rivamotorsports.com
102550 overseas Hwy.
Key Largo, FL 33037
tel. (305) 451- 3320
11995 Southwest 222nd St.
Miami, FL 33170
Tel. (305) 258-2000
375944
7

Civic Organizations
American Legion Post 333.
453-0307.
Florida Keys Elks Lodge No. 1872.
852-1872, www.elks.org/lodges/contactus.
cfm?lodgenumber=1872
Florida Keys Foster Adoptive
Parents Association.
522-1956.
Florida Keys Gator Club.
394-4546, www.keysgators.org
Forgotten Soldiers Outreach.
378-6437, www.forgottensoldiers.org
Friends of Islamorada State Parks.
664-4746.
Friends of the Key Largo Cultural
Center.
396-7000, www.fklcc.org
Friends of the Key Largo Library.
852-9114.
Habitat for Humanity
of the Upper Keys.
453-0050, www.habitatupperkeys.org
Key Largo Civic Club.
451-9833.
Key Largo Community
Preservation Foundation.
451-5044,
www.keylargopreservationfoundation.org
Key Largo Downtown Association Inc.
451-4885, www.keylargodowntown.com
Key Largo Firefighters Benevolent
Association.
619-0143, www.keylargofirefighters.org
Key Largo Moose Lodge 2287.
451-1333. www.moose2287.org
Keys to Peace.
619-0534, www.keystopeace.com
Kiwanis Club of the Upper Keys.
451-1532.
Pirates on the Water (Parrot Heads).
345-5792, www.piratesonthewater.com
8
Everyone who lives in the Florida
Keys is officially a resident of
Monroe County, but there are also a
number of cities in the Keys.
They include Key West (the county
seat), Key Colony Beach, Layton,
Islamorada and Marathon. Fewer
residents live in unincorporated
Monroe County, including the
residents of Ocean Reef, Key Largo
and Tavernier.
The Monroe County Commission,
our legislative body, oversees
normal city-like services (although
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
State & Local Government
Monroe County website:
http://www.monroecounty-fl.gov/
not to the same degree as cities).
There are five members on the
County Commission, who represent
specific areas. However, they are
chosen by the voters of the entire
county.
Other agencies such as the School
Board, Florida Keys Aqueduct
Authority (water), Sheriff’s Office,
Tax Collector, Elections Supervisor,
Property Appraiser and Florida Keys
Mosquito Control all are statecreated
agencies and are not
controlled by the County Commission.
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
Florida Boating Regulations
Florida does not have a “boating license.”
However, in order to operate a motorboat
of 10 horsepower or greater,
Florida law requires anyone who was
born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, to
successfully complete an approved
boating safety course and obtain a
Boating Safety Education Identification
Card issued by the Florida Fish & Wildlife
Conservation Commission (FWC).
Non-residents must also comply with
the boating safety education requirements.
However, if you have proof in
your possession that you have
completed a boater safety course or
equivalency exam that meets or
exceeds Florida's requirements
(usually in the form of a certificate or
card), you would not need to have a
Florida Boating Safety Education
Identification Card.
• In an emergency, dial 911 from any
Florida Keys land or cellular phone.
• Or contact the United States Coast
Guard, via Channel 16, on a marine
VHF radio. United States Coast Guard:
http://www.uscgboating.org/
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission: http://myfwc.com/boating
289-2320
FWC is responsible for enforcing safe
and environmentally friendly boating
and fishing practices in the Keys. FWC
officers patrol docks, bridges and
waters.
• Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary:
http://www.fknms.nos.noaa.gov/
292-0311
The Florida Keys National Marine
Sanctuary sets regulations for boating
and fishing in the Keys, and offers safe
boating tips.
Comprehensive Development Services
for Residential & Commercial Projects
We do all Design, Permitting, and Construction
for Modular & CBS Structures
305-453-4521
www.bayviewhomes.biz
99198 Overseas Highway, Suite 2 • Key Largo, FL 33037
Rotary Club of Key Largo.
451-1040, www.keylargorotary.org
United Way of the Florida Keys.
735-1929, www.keysunitedway.org
Upper Keys Rotary Club.
852-2431, www. upperkeysrotary.org
Upper Keys Sons & Daughters of Italy.
451-0781.
VFW Post 10211.
451-2120.
Computers
Geeks R Us.
393-3998.
Upper Keys Macintosh Users Group.
451-4601, www.ukmug.org
Construction
Bayview Homes.
453-4521, www.bayviewhomes.biz
CBT Construction & Development.
852-3002, www.cbtconstruct.com
Construct All Building Service Inc.
453-0505.
Cottrell Welding & Fabrication.
451-1551.
Florida Keys Contractors Assoc.
743-9409,
www.floridakeyscontractorsassoc.com
Houston Air.
852-2960, www.houstonair.com
Isa’s Glass & Mirror Shop.
852-0142.
RMB Construction & Development Inc.
522-1590.
S.T. Sparks Construction Inc.
522-4167, www.stsparksconstruction.com
Southeast Marine Construction.
853-5300,
www.southeastmarineconstruction.com
Upper Keys Marine Construction.
853-2644, www.upperkeysmarine.com
9

Education
Coral Shores High School.
853-3222, http://csh.keysschools.com
Early Learning Coalition of
Miami Dade/Monroe.
296-5557, www.elcmdm.org
EcoWeek Events.
394-1227, www.ecoweekfloridakeys.com
Florida Keys Seminars.
453-6407, www.floridakeysseminars.com
GLEE (Green Living & Energy Education).
809-3509, www.keysglee.com
Hodges University Inc.
239-513-1122, www.hodges.edu
Key Largo School.
453-1255, http://kls.keysschools.com
Leadership Monroe County.
289-9400, www.leadershipmonroecounty.org
Marine Mammal Conservancy Inc.
451-4774,
www.marinemammalconservancy.org
Marine Resources Development
Foundation.
451-1139, www.mrdf.org
Reef Environmental Education
Foundation.
852-0030, www.reef.org
10
What’s in a Name:
Some people mistakenly believe
that “Largo” is the shortened
version of “Key Largo.”
Not so! Largo is a city on the gulf
coast of the state, northwest of
Tampa/St. Petersburg.
Population
Key Largo 12,971
Tavernier 2,557
Total 15,528
Coral Shores High School
Principal: Dave Murphy
89901 Old Highway
Tavernier, FL 33070
853-3222
Island Christian School
Principal: J.L. Roper
83400 Overseas Highway
Islamorada, FL 33036
664-4933
Upper Keys Schools
Florida Keys Community College
President: Dr. Jonathon Gueverra
89901 Old Highway
Tavernier, FL 33070
852-8007
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Montessori Island School
92295 Old State Road
Tavernier, FL 33070
852-3483
Key Largo School
Principal: Julia Hoar
104801 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
453-1255
Plantation Key School
Principal: Vanessa Strickland
100 Lake Road
Tavernier, FL 33070
853-3281
All public high school students in the Upper Keys attend Coral Shores High
School. Elementary and middle-school students living from north Key Largo
to approximately MM 95 attend Key Largo School.
Those who live south of approximately MM 95 attend Plantation Key School.
Students entering Monroe County Public Schools for the first
time must present the following documents:
• An original birth certificate or alternative
• Proof of age and legal name
• Proof of a current physical examination including a tuberculosis
clinical screening, appropriate follow-up and a certificate
of immunization (physician provides this form, DH-680)
• Proof of current address (homestead exemption card,
mortgage payment book, lease agreement, house insurance,
voter's registration card or most recent utility bill are
acceptable)
Schools will request transfer records from the previous school.
Be sure to contact each school prior to admission for additional
requirements.
There are a number of day-care and pre-school facilities in the area, as well as
other private schools. Please consult the telephone book for more information.
For information on all public schools, go to www.keysschools.com.
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
Harry Harris Park
County-owned, this is the only
public park on the island that has
direct access to (and view of) the
Atlantic Ocean. It is located in a
residential area in Tavernier.
Photo by Paul White
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
Photo by Jackie Harder
Fire and Emergency Medical Services
Fire and emergency medical services are provided through mostly volunteer departments.
The Key Largo Volunteer Fire Rescue
Department officially began providing
services to rural Key Largo in 1955
shortly after the Tavernier Fire Department
gave Key Largo an older fire truck
to fight fires in the community.
The fire department has two stations,
one at MM 99 (the original) and a later
one built at MM 106.
Key Largo Volunteer Fire Rescue
Department operations and administration
is overseen by the corporate Board
of Directors and the fire chief. For more
information about the department,
please visit www.keylargofire.com.
Tavernier Vol. Fire & Ambulance
852-9860
In case of emergency, dial 911.
The Key Largo Volunteer Ambulance
Corps has been serving Key Largo and
surrounding communities since 1955.
They supply advanced life support
services with four ambulances, two
of which are run 24/7.
The Ambulance Corps is also a satellite
campus for Florida Keys Community
College and Emergency Educational
Institute International, training first
responders, EMTs and paramedics.
CPR and First Aid are also taught here.
Key Largo Volunteer Ambulance Corps
operations and administration is
overseen by a Board of Directors and
EMS chief. To learn more, go to
www.keylargoems.com.
Electrical/Electronics
Custom Electric.
852-3599. www.customelectricflkeys.com
Dunn Electrical Service Inc.
360-7576.
ProTech e2.
453-0010, www.proteche2.com
Wire Nuts Electric.
451-0939, www.wirenutselectricsfl.com
Emergency Services
Key Largo Volunteer Ambulance
Corps.
451-2766, www.keylargoems.com
Key Largo Volunteer Fire Rescue
Department.
451-2700, www.keylargofire.com
Sheriff’s Office.
853-3211, www.keysso.net
Employment Services
Labor Finders of Miami Inc.
877-717-9339, www.laborfinders.com
Youth Co-op/South Florida
Workforce.
853-3540,
www.southfloridaworkforce.com
Engineering
Atkins Engineers.
451-4556, www.atkinsengineers.com
W. F. McCain & Associates Inc.
735-8282, www.wfmccain.com
Event Planning
Upper Keys Business Group.
394-0205.
Area Code is 305 unless otherwise noted.
11

Financial Services
Andersen Financial Services.
451-1099, www.andersenfinancial.net
Capital Bank.
451-4660, www.capitalbank-us.com
Centennial Bank.
676-3121 (Key Largo); 664-5424 (Isla.),
www.my100bank.com
Chapman & Cardwell Capital
Management.
451-0408, www.chapmanandcardwell.com
Community Bank.
451-5733, www.communitybankfl.com
DeMoss Financial.
664-0034, www.demossfinancial.com
First State Bank of the Florida Keys.
852-2070, www.keysbank.com
Islamorada Investment
Management LLP.
522-1333, www.islainvest.com
Mull Capital Management LLC.
852-8025, www.mullinvestments.com
Wells Fargo.
451-2300, www.wellsfargo.com
Wells Fargo Home Loans.
766-0643, www.wellsfargo.com
Funeral Services
Allen-Beyer Funeral Home.
451-1444. www.beyerfuneral.net
12
Photo by Paul White
Photo by Jackie Harder
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Only 44% of Americans know how
much money to save for retirement.*
Specializing in
Financial Services
and Retirement Planning
www.andersenfinancial.net
*2009 Retirement Confidence Survey, EBRI
William A. Andersen
Certified Public Accountant
Certified Financial Planner
Tel: (305) 451-1099
Fax: (305) 451-3125
99330 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037-2435
bill@andersenfinancial.net
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
Boat
Registration
Registration is required on all
boats with motors, regardless of
size (including personal watercraft).
A valid out-of-state
registration of any pleasure craft
is recognized for up to 90 days
in Florida. After that, Florida
registration is required.
Fees vary according to the
length of the boat.
Newcomers from out of state
should bring their title and/or
registration. Licenses and
registrations are obtained at the
Tax Collector’s Office, Plantation
Key Government Center, or at
Tradewinds Plaza, near Publix,
MM 101.4. 852-7150.
Health Clubs
Mariners Hospital Wellness Center.
MM 91, 434-3700.
Froggy’s Fitness.
MM 91.8, 852-5099.
Pilates in Paradise.
MM 103 Pink Plaza, 453-0801.
Photo by Karen Beal
13

Household Services
Bayside Plumbing & Maintenance.
453-5435, www.baysidecompanies.com
Beach House Gardens.
453-9377, www.beachhousegardens.com
Berry’s Paint Wallpaper & Flooring.
451-0077, www.berryspaint.com
Castle Services Inc.
242-0536, www.castleservicesinc.com
Chapman Septic Service Inc.
661-0628.
Charter Pest Control.
451-3389, www.charterpestcontrol.com
Compass Self Storage.
248-0101, www.compassselfstorage.com
Davis Sales & Extinguishers.
451-3128.
Florida Certified Plumbing LLC.
510-6636.
Island Coin Laundry.
451-4575.
K & W Self-Storage Units.
394-0969, www.kawkeys.com
Maid in the Keys.
453-0963.
McCullough Premium Water.
451-1196.
Monroe County Public Works/
Solid Waste/Recycling.
292-4432, www.monroecounty-fl.gov/
pages/MonroeCoFL_Waste/index
Reef Tropical Pool & Lawn.
367-2005, www.reeftropical.com
Stanley Steemer.
304-5647, www.stanleysteemer.com
Superior Lawn & Maintenance.
453-1390.
Tropical Cleaners.
451-0023,
www.tropicalcleanersofthekeys.com
Wastewater Services of the
Upper Keys.
451-4400, www.wastewaterkeys.com
14
BUGS? PESTS?
WE KILL THEM ALL
CHARTER
PEST CONTROL
“YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS”
HOUSEHOLD AND
COMMERCIAL PEST CONTROL
Prompt, Professional Service
30 Years in the Keys
Call for an Estimate
305-451-3389
1-800-471-0166
300 ATLANTIC DRIVE
KEY LARGO, FLORIDA 33037
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Help keep our islands clean and green!
Don't teach your trash to swim!
• Protect wildlife & wild places: place all discards
in trash or recycling
• Recycle monofilament line: containers on fishing
bridges and at marinas
Recycling is EASY!
Look for recycling bins at businesses, lodging and public areas.
No sorting is required; everything goes in the same bin.
Accepted recyclables:
• Plastic bottles and containers (recycling symbols 1-7)
• Clean paper products (nothing food coated)
• Aluminum and metal cans
• Glass bottles and jars
Please empty containers.
No food, plastic bags, Styrofoam, or trash
Check local supermarkets for plastic bag
and Styrofoam recycling.
Have questions?
Call Monroe County Recycling:
305-289-6037
Recycling
is fun!
From the county line to Mile
Marker 0, the Florida Keys
stretches 112 miles.
Once you arrive on the island of
Key Largo, you are 106 miles
from Key West. The drive takes
approximately 2-2½ hours.
There are more than 1,700
islands altogether in the Keys –
the vast majority of them
accessible only by boat.
There are 42 bridges that
connect the major islands and
population centers.
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
Pet Shelters
Humane Society
MM 101
451-3848
Upper Keys Animal Shelter
MM 106
451-0088
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
Weather
(Monthly Averages)
National National Weather/Marine Services Services 1- 305-229-4522
229-4522
National Hurricane Center - www.nhc.noaa.gov
Key Key West West 305-295-1316 295-1316
Max.Temp. Min. Temp. Rainfall Water Temp.
January 77.0˚ 67.3˚ 2.2” 73˚
February 76.7˚ 66.1˚ 1.9” 72˚
March 77.9˚ 65.9˚ 0.7” 73˚
April 83.2˚ 73.7˚ 1.2” 76˚
May 85.9˚ 74.8˚ 3.0” 78˚
June 87.6˚ 78.0˚ 6.0” 79˚
July 88.6˚ 79.5˚ 2.0” 82˚
August 89.1˚ 78.9˚ 9.6” 85˚
September 88.7˚ 78.0˚ 7.7” 85˚
October 84.0˚ 75.5˚ 12.6” 82˚
November 78.7˚ 70.8˚ 0.4” 78˚
December 78.1˚ 67.2˚ 0.7” 75˚
Insurance
A-Rated Insurance Group.
451-9463, www.a-ratedinsurance.com
Borland & Associates.
451-0090, www.borlandassociates.com
Keys Insurance Services.
453-1445, www.keysinsurance.com
Meritain Health.
866-907-5614, www.meritain.com
Regan Insurance Agency.
852-3234, www.reganinsuranceinc.com
T.R. Jones & Co.
453-4333, www.trjones.com
Tanenbaum Harber Insurance Group.
954-883-2900, www.thflorida.com
The Morgan Insurance Group.
451-4788, www.rayhampson.net
The Porter Allen Company Inc.
294-2542, www.porterallenco.com
Interior Design
Artsy Studio.
1604 Monmouth Lane, 786-564-6214.
Island Décor.
MM 91.9, 852-2029.
Island Interiors at Ocean Reef.
8 Barracuda Lane, 367-2450.
Key Largo Art Gallery.
MM 103.2 Central Plaza, 451-0052.
Area Code is 305 unless otherwise noted.
Photo by Jackie Harder
15

16
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
Endangered Species in Key Largo
There are five federally endangered species living in the hardwood hammocks
of Key Largo – the woodrat, American crocodile, indigo snake, Key Largo cotton
mouse and Schaus swallowtail butterfly.
The Key Largo woodrat, which lives in the hardwood hammocks along C.R. 905,
is found nowhere else in the world. It is a shy, nocturnal creature that lives on
plants and avoids humans. Feral cats are the biggest threat to woodrats and
other native birds and mammals.
In addition, there are at least seven state-protected animals, and 20 state-listed
plants, such as the threatened white-crowned pigeon and Miami black-headed
snake and the endangered lignum vitae tree, prickly apple, tamarindillo,
powdery catopsis (a native bromeliad) and long strap fern.
The Key Largo woodrat uses many of these plants for building stick nests,
shelter or foraging.
Dagny Johnson
Key Largo Hammock
Botanical State Park
This park was created on the site
of a condominium planned for the
area on C.R. 905 north of Key
Largo proper.
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
Photo by Karen Beal
Photo by Clay DeGaynor
Internet Marketing/
Website Design
floridakeys.com.
853-7277 Ext. 24, www.floridakeys.com
Legal Services
Jennifer Belz Reporting Inc.
283-7643.
William A. Becker Consulting LLC.
321-4142, www.williamabecker.com
Marinas and Marine
Services
Environmental Moorings
International.
451-5984, www.emimoorings.com
Keys Marine Electronics Inc.
852-4668, www.keysmarineelectronics.com
Markey Marine Service.
852-3337, www.markeymarine.com
Neptune Atlantic Boat Lifts.
853-9400, www.neptuneatlanticboatlifts.com
Sea Tow Key Largo.
451-3330, www.seatow.com
Photo by Jackie Harder
Voter Registration
To be eligible to vote, you must declare
Monroe County as your place of
permanent residence and be 18 years
old. There is no length of time
residency requirement. However, the
registration books close 30 days prior
to an election. For details on how to
register, contact the Supervisor of
Elections, Plantation Key Government
Center, MM 88.8, 852-7106.
17

Medical and Health
Area Health Education Center.
852-9551, www.keystoquitsmoking.com
Boilini Eye Care.
451-1481, www.keysvision.com
Community Health Ministries.
852-1612, www.baptisthealth.net
David F. Coppola, Holistic Doctor, DC.
451-1819. www. drdavidcoppola.com
Everyone Loves a Gentle Dentist.
451-2616, www.traviswbennettdmd.com
Florida Keys Orthopedic Center.
453-3633.
Florida Keys Pediatric &
Adolescent Center.
853-0558, www.fkpac.com
For Smiles Dentists,
Esther Santana, DMD.
852-5099, www.forsmiles.com
Froggy’s Fitness.
852-8623, www.froggysfitness.com
Good Health Clinic.
853-1788, www.thegoodhealthclinic.org
Guidance/Care Center Inc.
434-7660, www.guidancecarecenter.org
Hands On Therapy &
Rehabilitation Center.
852-8600.
Harmony Healing Center.
852-3232, www.harmonyhealingctr.com
John Torregrosa, DPM.
853-5151, www.ankleandfootsurgery.net
18
Lizards & Iguanas
Post Offices
Key Largo
451-3155
100100 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
Tavernier
853-1052
91220 Overseas Hwy
Tavernier, FL 33070
No sell dentistry...
state-of-the-art office with a staff that cares!
Dr. Travis Bennett DMD
Implant and General Dentistry
Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists
Fellow, Misch International Implant Institute
Dr. Nikia Burns DMD
Board Certified Orthodontist
Dr. Jered King DMD
Board Certified Endodontist
Joleen Barrett, RDH
Laureen Wheeler, RDH
Dennis Lee, RDH
*Free consultations for orthodontics,
implants, and cosmetic dentistry
Implant Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentistry
Orthodontics
Root Canal Therapy
Teeth Whitening
Oral Surgery
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Green anoles, Cuban anoles, mourning geckos, curlytail
lizards and even green iguanas (which turn orange as they
age) are fairly common sights in Key Largo.
None of them are indigenous.
Anoles and geckos are adorable little lizards that are great for
insect control; iguanas love to snack on landscaping, orchids,
flowers, fruits and veggies.
Everyone Loves a Gentle Dentist
Offering comprehensive dental treatment including:
Crowns and Bridges
Veneers/Lumineers
Preventive Gum Care
EveryoneLovesaGentleDentist.com • MM 103 Oceanside • (305) 451-2616
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
Kenneth E. Grossman, D.D.S.
Microscopic Endodontics
35 Years Experience - Over 30,000 Root Canals Performed
National & International Teacher & Lecturer • Published in the Journal of Endodontics
Listed: America’s Best Doctors & Professional Who’s Who
Life Member: American Dental Association • Florida Dental Association • American Association of Endodontists
305.451.1251
99105 Overseas Highway • Key Largo, FL 33037 • drkegrossman@aol.com
Kenneth E. Grossman, DDS.
451-1251.
Keys Consortium Drug & DNA
Testing.
853-7259, www.keysconsortium.com
Mariners Hospital.
434-3000, www.baptisthealth.net
OneBlood.
744-5183, www.oneblood.org
Paul E Berger, DDS.
453-1811.
Pilates in Paradise.
453-0801, www.pilatesinparadise.net
Susana May, MD, Keys To Wellness.
852-8670.
Visiting Nurse Association and
Hospice of the Florida Keys.
Tavernier, 852-7887; Key West, 294-8812,
www.hospicevna.com
Area Code is 305 unless otherwise noted.
We proudly offer a full
range of inpatient and
outpatient surgeries and
services.
91500 Overseas Highway ■ Tavernier
Main Hospital Number: 305-434-3000
Emergency Department: 305-434-1600
BaptistHealth.net
19

Museums
History of Diving Museum.
MM 82.9, 664-9737,
www.divingmuseum.org
Notary Services
Conchcierge to the Keys & the Seas.
741-7411.
Photographers
Melendi Photography.
453-5441, www.melendiphotography.com
Stephen Frink Photographic.
451-3737, www.stephenfrink.com
Publications and
Publishers
Coconut Telegraph.
304-2837, www.theconchtelegraph.com
Florida Keys Phone Book.
453-9475, www.tcdirectories.com
Miles Media Group/SEE
Magazines.
407-363-7977, www.see-florida.com/
florida-keys
Reporter.
852-3216, www.keysnet.com
The Redbone.
664-2002, www.redbone.org
Yellow Book USA.
664-3995, www.yellowbook.com
Radio Stations
Clear Channel.
852-9085, www.keysradio.com
Keys Radio Group.
394-3736, www.themixtrueoldies.com
WKLG Inc. (Star 102.1 FM).
451-2202, www.wklginc.com
20
Area Code is 305 unless otherwise noted.
Parks
Harry Harris County Park, MM 92.5 852-7161
Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge, CR 905 451-4223
Jacobs Aquatic Center, MM 99 453-7946
Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock, CR 905 451-1202
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park 451-1202
Everglades National Park 242-7700
Key Largo Community Park (YMCA) 453-3422
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary 852-7717
Monroe County Public Works is responsible
for maintaining county-owned facilities.
852-7161
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
John Pennekamp
Coral Reef State
Park
This was the nation’s first underwater
park, which celebrated its
50th anniversary in 2010.
It is located at MM 102.5.
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
Automobile Insurance
Florida requires that after 90 days of
legal residency, resident’s vehicles
must be covered by Florida “no-fault”
insurance. For more information, call
Florida Department of Financial
Services at 800-342-2762
Automobile Registration
New residents must register their
vehicles and obtain Florida license tags
within 10 days of establishing legal
residency, by the day they begin
working in Florida, or by the time they
register their children in school.
Proof of ownership and insurance, as
well as previous out-of-state title, a
completed State Form 82042 (vehicle
identification number and odometer
reading) are required.
In the Upper Keys, you may register
your vehicle(s) and obtain license tags
at the Tax Collector’s Office, Plantation
Key Government Center, MM 88.8, or at
Tradewinds Plaza, near Publix, MM 101.4.
852-7150.
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
All Things Automotive
Driver’s Licenses
A driver’s license is required within 30
days of any driver who becomes a
resident of Florida, is employed in
Florida, or registers a child in a Florida
public school.
Those wishing to obtain a new license,
legally change their name prior to their
renewal date, or immediately replace a
lost or stolen license or ID card will be
required to visit a driver license office
and show proof of identification, Social
Security number and residential
address (two items).
New residents are required to pass
only a visual examination if they have a
valid driver’s license from another
state. However, if you are a newcomer
and applying for a license for the first
time in Florida, you must register your
vehicle(s) first and bring a copy of that
registration with you.
The standard, Class E driver’s license
(new or renewed) costs $48. A new
license costs $20 and is valid for six
years. Replacements cost $25.
Drivers must be at least 16 years old to
qualify for a driver’s license and 15 to
get a restricted learner’s permit. Those
licenses and permits also cost $48.
Check with your Keys’ school for
attendance and special class requirements
prior to applying for a driver’s
license. School verifications will be
required before a license can be
obtained for anyone younger than 18.
Driver’s licenses are issued 7 a.m. to
6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday,
101495 Overseas Highway, MM 101.4,
Tradewinds Plaza. 853-3562.
www.hsmbv.state.fl.us
Rules of the Road
SAFETY BELTS: Florida law requires all
drivers and passengers in cars, pickup
trucks and vans operating on Florida
roads to be buckled up. Any child five
and younger must be restrained by an
approved car seat.
MOVE OVER LAW: When you see a
patrol car or an ambulance or any
other emergency vehicle on the side of
the road or interstate, you must move
over into the next lane if possible. If
not, you must slow down.
Summary of the Move Over Law:
• On a two-lane roadway, you are
required to slow down to a speed
that is 20 mph less than the posted
speed limit.
• If the speed limit is 20 mph or less,
you must slow down to 5 mph.
• If you are driving on an interstate or
a roadway with multiple lanes of
travel in the same direction, and
you approach an emergency or law
enforcement vehicle parked along
the roadway, you must vacate the
lane closest to that vehicle as soon
as it is safe to do so.
Violating the Move Over Law can result
in a fine and three points on your driver
license.
Photo by Jackie Harder
21

Real Estate Services
Ana G. Zalesky, Realtor®.
394-1404, www.floridakeysrealestatenow.
com
Barbara Eads Realty.
451-1946, www.keysforsale.com
Carol Betts Keller, Realtor.
394-1767, www.floridakeyscarol.com
Century 21 Schwartz Realty.
451-0601, www.c21schwartz.com
Coastal Title & Closing Services.
852-1477.
Coral Reef Title Co.
451-6200, www.coralreeftitle.com
CSI Management Services.
954-308-4308, www.csimsi.com
Florida Keys Board of Realtors.
852-9294, www.flkeysboardofrealtors.com
Island Equity Real Estate.
852-0400, www.islandequityrealestate.com
Keys Lake Villas LLC.
735-4192, www.keyslakevillas.com
Marr Properties.
451-4078, www.marrproperties.com
Realty World-Freewheeler.
852-4400, www.freewheeler-realty.com
Sally Stribling, Realtor.
453-7552. www.keysbestproperty.com
Sunshine Title of the Keys.
451-0032, www.sunshinetitlekeys.com
Walker Key West Properties Four Inc.
296-4087.
22
Photo by Jackie Harder
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
It’s a great time to buy in the Florida Keys,
so get hooked up with a local!
VIRGINIA PENNELL
PRESIDENT
Title Insurance
Real Estate Closings
Military Discounts
ph 305-451-0032 • fax 305-451-3220 • www.sunshinetitlekeys.com
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
Lobster Seasons
The most important thing to
remember about lobster mini and
regular seasons is that rules are
different for each.
Lobster Mini Season
Dates: July 25-26
Bag limit on the water: Six per
person per day in the Keys, and no
more than six per person per day
while you are on the water.
Bag limit on shore: No more than six
per person on the first day, and 12
per person the second day. Possession
limits are enforced on and off
the water.
Size minimum: Carapace (bony body
portion) must be larger than three
inches in the water. You must carry
a measuring device at all times.
Night diving: Prohibited in Monroe
County (only during the mini
season).
Regular Lobster Season
Dates: Aug. 6-March 31
Bag limit: Six per person per day;
you may possess no more than the
bag limit while on the water.
Size minimum: Carapace (bony body
portion) must be larger than three
inches in the water. You must carry
a measuring device at all times.
Additional regulations for Monroe
County can be found online:
http://myfwc.com/media/1483464/
Lobster_Brochure.pdf
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
Oldest Title Company
in the Upper Keys
2 Oces to Serve You:
Key Largo Islamorada
305-451-6200 305-664-9200
Gretchen Holland
& Lisa Miller
Carla Bahn
Email: info@CoralReefTitle.com
23

Salons
Shear Paradise.
MM 99.3 Cedar Towers, 451-7110.
Security Services
ADT Security Services.
786-258-8893, www.adt.com
Tyco Integrated Security.
619-4841, www.tycois.com
Shopping
Bluewater Potters.
MM 102.9, 453-1920.
Circle K.
MM 106.5, 849-2609.
De Paula Jewelers.
MM 91.2 Tavernier Towne Shopping Center,
852-4881.
Divers Direct.
MM 99.6, 451-0118.
Florida Keys Jewelry.
MM 101.4 Tradewinds Plaza, 453-0177.
Florida Keys Key Lime Products.
MM 95.2, 853-0378.
Florida Keys Outlet Center.
250 E. Palm Dr., Florida City, 248-4727.
Flying Fisherman.
MM 91, Tavernier, 852-8989.
Forever Summer.
MM 103.2 Central Plaza, 484-6558.
Island Smoke Shop.
MM 103.4 Pink Plaza, 453-4014 or
800-680-9701.
Key Breeze Engraving.
MM 103.2 Plaza 103 Unit 11, 451-9787.
Key Largo Chocolates.
MM 100.5, 852-1791.
24
Area Code is 305 unless otherwise noted.
“ Although our name has changed, you
can count on the same commitment,
passion, leading-edge technologies
and reliability you’ve come to expect
from the commercial security industry
leader. With more than 100 years of
experience in commercial security, Tyco
Integrated Security will continue to
deliver the most efficient and innovative
security solutions that help
customers meet the needs of their
business.”
Brian McDonald
Tyco Fire & Security COO
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Law Enforcement
Florida Highway Patrol
800-358-3298
U.S. Coast Guard
664-4404
U. S. Customs
664-2955
Tyco Integrated Security is
committed to the businesses of
Monroe County.
To show our promise of exceptional
customer service, we have
established a local presence to
ensure your operations the
productivity, profitability and
safety that you and your customers
expect, while giving you the
peace of mind you deserve.
For a free security review or general consultation, please contact
Lee Moore at 305.619.4841 or lbmoore@tyco.com. Visit us at www.tycois.com
Tyco Integrated Security is proud to be a member and supporter of the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce.
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
For more than 135 years,
we’ve helped protect
what matters most.
At ADT, we help make homes, small businesses and people safer.
Our services include:
• Residential
Burglary, Fire, Carbon Monoxide,
ADT Pulse SM Interactive Solutions
and More
• Small Business
Loss Prevention, Risk
Management, Business
Operations and Video Surveillance
Contact your local ADT Sales
Representative at 954.266.5009.
License information available at www.ADT.com or by calling 800.ADT.ASAP. FL: EF0001121. ©2012 ADT LLC dba ADT Security Services. All rights reserved.
ADT, the ADT logo, 800.ADT.ASAP and the product names listed in this document are marks and/or registered marks. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
• Custom Home Services
ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions
and World-Class Service
• Home Health
Security Services
ADT ®
Companion Service ®
Can Help You or a Loved One
Maintain Independence
25

Shopping, continued
Key Largo Fisheries.
MM 100, 451-3782.
Office Depot.
MM 99.6 Waldorf Plaza, 453-4933.
Petals With Pizzazz.
MM 90.2 Tavernier, 852-8771.
Phantom Fireworks.
MM 106.1, 451-1198.
Pink Junktique.
MM 98.2, 853-2620.
Publix Market.
MM 101 Tradewinds Plaza, 451-0808.
Riva South Motorsports.
MM 102.5, 451-3320.
Royal Furniture.
MM 99 median, 451-5700.
Sandal Factory Outlet/T-Shirt City.
MM 102.4, 453-9644.
Sands of the Keys.
MM 86.4 Islamorada, 852-4378.
Shell World.
MM106, 451-9797 and
MM 97.5 median, 852-8245.
Tiki Water Sports Inc.
MM 94.3, 852-9298.
The Art Box with
Key Largo Pack & Ship.
MM 100.6, 451-5461.
26
General
Information
Monroe County Library
Key Largo Branch
451-2396
U. S. Passport Office
Tavernier
853-7456
Bayside vs. Oceanside
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
It’s pretty self-explanatory. Bayside is the side of the road
closest to Florida Bay. Oceanside is the side closest to the
Atlantic Ocean. That means, heading to Key West, everything
on the left side of the road is called “oceanside.” Everything on the right
side of the road is called “bayside”…until you get to about Long Key.
That’s where (give or take) the body of water on the right side of the road
turns into the Gulf of Mexico. Which means that everything south of Long
Key is either “oceanside”or “gulfside.”
Confused? You ain’t heard nothin’ yet.
North and South…or East and West? U.S. 1 in the Keys, for the most part,
goes east and west.
So why do they call it going “north” or “south” on U.S. 1? It’s because U.S. 1
starts in Fort Kent, Maine, and the only direction you can go from there is
south…no matter how many different twists and turns the road
takes…until you get to Key West.
Although there’s actually a spot on Big Pine Key where you’re going north on
southbound U.S. 1!
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
Florida residents and visitors need a Florida saltwater fishing license unless
they are a member of one of the groups of people listed below.
A fishing license is required to attempt to take fish. If you are not a member of
one of the groups listed below, and if you cast your line, catch nothing, catch
and release, or catch and keep, you need a license.
A saltwater fishing license is also required to attempt to take any native or
nonnative marine organisms, such as crabs, lobsters and marine plants.
Some of these exemptions apply to Florida residents only. Please be aware of
the Florida state residency requirements.
You do not need a recreational hunting, freshwater fishing or saltwater fishing
license or a snook or spiny lobster permit if:
• You are younger than 16.
• You are a Florida resident 65 or older possessing proof of age and residency
or possessing a Resident Senior Citizen Hunting and Fishing Certificate.
Residents 65 or older may obtain, at no cost, hunting and fishing certificates
from county tax collectors’ offices.
• You are a Florida resident certified as totally and permanently disabled and you
possess a Florida Resident Disabled Person Hunting and Fishing Certificate.
• You are a resident who is a member of the Armed Forces of the United
States, you are not stationed in this state, and you are home on leave for 30
days or less, upon submission of orders.
• You are observing or filming someone else who is fishing or hunting and you
are not assisting in the take in any way. If you help or assist in the take,
whether you actively fish or hunt, you must have a license.
Licenses are available from the Tax Collector’s Office, Plantation Key Government
Center, 852-7150 or 888-347-4356 or substations ranging from bait
shops to drug stores and discount stores such as Kmart.
Please note that fishing regulations change frequently. For the latest information
on saltwater fishing, call the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission at
289-2320 or visit website at www.myfwc.com. For emergencies or to report
wildlife alert violations, call 800-432-2046.
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
Fishing
Social Services
American Cancer Society.
292-2333, www.cancer.org
Center for Independent Living of
the Keys.
453-3491.
Florida Keys Children’s Shelter.
852-4246, www.fkcs.org
HelpLine.
853-0907, www.keyshelpline.org
Monroe Association For
ReMARCable Citizens.
852-3282, www.marchouse.org
The Salvation Army.
587-3665.
Supporters
Avellino, Lou Alice.
585-269-9723.
Bowes, Ginny.
451-3631.
Cronin, Harry.
360-0897.
Fisher, Lilly.
852-5991.
Genovese, Tom.
407-808-0216.
Grech, John.
451-1824.
Griffiths, Andy.
797-2639
Hench, Doug.
453-4095.
Kanzler, Walter.
924-2463.
Marr, Stuart.
(honorary member).
451-5516.
Rosenthal, Henry.
664-3343.
27

Supporters, continued
Senk, Bob.
451-0461.
Stewart, Emilie.
451-2739.
Stuart, Robert.
394-3878.
Tharp, Tom.
451-5044.
U.S. Postal Service.
451-3155.
YMCA.
453-3422.
Ziegler, Lila.
451-3417.
Transportation
Davis Group, The.
367-2329.
Emerald Transportation.
852-1468, www.emeraldtransportation.net
Keys Shuttle.
289-9997, www.keysshuttle.com
Sea the Keys Party Van.
896-7013,
www.floridakeysgrouptransportation.com
28
Transportation
Mosquitos
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
• Residential and Commercial
• Solid Waste Collection
• Roll-off Service
• Clam Shell
• Recycling Service
305-451-2025
Fax 305-451-5954
P.O. Box 345 • Tavernier, FL 33070
American Coach (Metrobus) 891-3131
Greyhound 296-9072 or 800-410-5397
Keys Shuttle 289-9997 or 888-765-9997
Amtrack- Rail 800-872-7245
Key West Airport 296-5439
Marathon Airport 289-6060
Fort Lauderdale Airport 954-359-1200
Key West Express (Ferry) 888-539-2628
Miami Intl. Airport 876-7000 or 876-0200
What’s that buzzing sound? During
the wet summer months, it could be
one of two things – mosquitoes or
the sound of the Florida Keys
Mosquito Control District’s aerial
skeeter-busting fleet.
There are more than 80 types of
mosquitoes in Florida, more than
any other state. In the Upper Keys,
they are mostly salt-marsh mosquitoes
that visit from Everglades
National Park.
Male and female mosquitoes feed
on flower nectar; however, it’s the
female that lands on you for a blood
meal. It’s that blood that allows her
to lay her eggs, and create more of
those unwanted summer guests.
Mosquito Control is not allowed to
spray in Everglades National Park,
which is why in the summer the
skeeters seem so ferocious – and
plentiful – in Key Largo.
Locals believe that mosquitoes are
less of an issue on the Oceanside
side of the island. Given the fact that
the bayside is closest to the
Everglades, they’re probably right.
Protect yourself in the summer by
wearing long-sleeved shirts and
long pants, and using bug repellant
on exposed skin.
Mosquito Control 453-1290
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
Electric: Electrical service is provided by the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative,
a member-owned utility. When you connect (or have billing transferred to
your name), a deposit and other information is required.
The cooperative purchases power at reduced rates from the mainland and
consequently we enjoy a relatively lower rate than elsewhere in Florida. 91605
Overseas Highway, MM 91.5, Tavernier. 852-2431 or 800-858-8845.
Natural Gas: No pipeline gas is available in the Keys. Household utility
service is provided by various propane tank service systems. In addition, various
companies provide small tank service filling for barbecues and RVs.
Mosquito Control: Need help controlling mosquitoes? Call the Florida
Keys Mosquito Control District, 453-1290.
Recycling: Your solid-waste fee, included in your annual property tax bill,
entitles you to weekly residential curbside recycling. Self-deposit bins for many
recyclable items are located at principal shopping centers and other locations.
451-2025.
Or you may take your recycling to the Monroe County Recycle Collection Center,
MM 100.1 oceanside, 453-0788. Electronic and harardous items can be
recycled the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.
Solid Waste: Solid waste pickup is done through a franchise agreement
between the garbage haulers and Monroe County.
Your solid-waste fee appears on your property’s annual tax bill.
Each property is entitled to two household garbage pick-ups per week, one
pick-up per week of yard trash, and on-call pick-up of household “white goods”
(sofas, refrigerators, etc.) For pick-up days and regulations, call Keys Sanitary
Service, 451-2025, before 2 p.m.
Transfer Station: You can also take yard waste to the transfer station
on CR 905, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 853-7306.
Water: Potable water is provided by the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority, a
state agency. Deposits are required for connection of service. 91620 Overseas
Highway, MM 91.6. 853-1996 or 853-1999.
Sewer Treatment: Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District is a local
governing agency governed by a 5-person elected board. MM 98, P.O. Box 491,
Key Largo. 451-5807. Report problems: 451-4019.
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
Utilities
Utilities
Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority.
853-1996, www.fkaa.com
Florida Keys Electric Co-op.
852-2431, www.fkec.com
Florida Keys Mosquito Control.
292-7190, www.keysmosquito.org
Key Largo Wastewater Treatment
District.
451-4019, www.klwtd.com
Keys Sanitary Service (solid waste).
451-2025.
Terra Nova Net Inc.
453-4011, www.terranova.net
U.S. Water Services Corporation.
853-5122, www.uswatercorp.com
Doing Business
Anyone wishing to open a business in
Monroe County must apply for and
receive an occupational license. In
order to qualify, businesses must be
located at a commercially zoned
property or have a home-occupation
permit. Apply at the Plantation Key
Government Center, MM 88.8.
853-7350.
29

Veterinarians
Animal Care Clinic.
453-0044,
www.animalcareclinickeylargo. com
Weddings
Keys Dream Weddings.
304-8848, www.keysdreamweddings.com
30
Area Code is 305 unless otherwise noted.
Photo by Karen Beal
Mile Markers
Those little green signs
next to the highway are
more than mile markers.
They often substitute as
addresses. So a business
might give its address as
MM 106 instead of
106000 Overseas
Highway.
Photo by Paul White
Photo by Paul White
Service Organizations
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla #1308 852-9848
Habitat For Humanity 453-0050
Florida Keys Elks Lodge #1872 852-1872
Key Largo Moose #2287 451-1333
Kiwanis - Upper Keys 451-1532
Lions Club 451-4332
Mariners Hospital Auxiliary 852-8629
Masonic Lodge #336 852-8156
Parents for Teens 852-4902
Rotary Club - Key Largo 451-1040
Rotary Club - Upper Keys 712-1818
Salvation Army 451-2882
Shriners - Upper Keys 852-4325
Upper Keys Youth Association 453-3865
Social/Human Services
Center of Independent Living 453-3491
Domestic Abuse Shelter 451-0809
24/hour hotline 743-4440
Florida Department of Children and Families 853-3243
Florida Keys Children's Shelter 852-4246 x222
Monroe County Social Services 852-7125
Disabled/Elderly Transportation 852-7148
Medical Vans 293-7570
Homemaker / Nutrition Programs 852-7125
Monroe County Public Health Dept. 853-3240
Monroe County Senior Citizens’ Center 852-7133
Veterans
American Legion Auxiliary 852-7398
American Legion Post 333 453-0307
Monroe County Veterans Affairs 453-8777
Veterans Council of Monroe County 289-6009
VFW Post 10211 451-2120
Scouting
Boy Scouts - Sea Base (MM 73) 664-5612
Boy Scouts - Troop 588 451-0131
Girl Scouts of Tropical South Florida 852-9365
Conservation/Preservation
Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabiltation Center 852-4486
Garden Club - Upper Keys 453-4799
Historical Preservation Society 852-1620
Key Largo Community Preservation Foundation 451-5044
All area codes are 305 unless otherwise noted.
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088
Photo by Karl Swartz
Spiegel Grove
The coordinates of the
U.S.S. Spiegel Grove
– Key Largo’s largest
artificial reef – are
24˚ 04.00’ north and
80˚ 18.65’ west.
Florida Keys National
Marine Sanctuary
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
now includes the former Key Largo
National Marine Sanctuary.
Signed into law by President George
Bush on Nov. 16, 1990, the sanctuary
encompasses approximately 3,801
square miles and surrounds the islands
of the Florida Keys.
It includes waters of Florida Bay, the
Gulf of Mexico, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Within the boundaries of the sanctuary
lie spectacular, unique, and nationally
significant marine resources, from the
world’s third largest barrier reef,
extensive seagrass beds, mangrovefringed
islands, and more than 6,000
species of marine life. The sanctuary
also protects pieces of our nation’s
history such as shipwrecks and other
archeological treasures.
WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG
Growth Management
The Growth Management Division includes
the following four departments:
• Building
• Code Compliance
• Geographic Information Systems
• Planning and Environmental Resources
Photo by Jackie Harder
Marriage Licenses
A marriage license can be obtained at any County Clerk’s office in Florida.
Applicants must be 18 years old to obtain a marriage license. If 16 or 17, you
must have both parent’s consent. If you are younger, parent's consent/consent
of a county judge, and proven pregnancy may apply, depending on the age and
situation. Both applicants must appear in person at the time of application.
Applicants must provide a valid picture-type ID, with date of birth shown, such
as a driver’s license, passport, student ID card, military ID or Alien Registration
Card.) There is no residence or citizenship requirement.
If either applicant has been previously married, the exact date of the last death,
divorce or annulment must be provided. You should bring a copy of your divorce
decree with you at the time of application.
A marriage may be performed by regularly ordained clergy, judiciary, State of
Florida notaries, the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Deputy Clerks.
A marriage license cost $93.50, payable by cash or check. The exception is if
both parties are Florida residents, have both provided proof of a premarital
class, cost is $61.
The Monroe County Clerk’s Office is located in the Plantation Key Government
Center, MM 88.8 bayside. 853-7456. Source: Clerk of the Circuit Court
The Upper Keys offices
(except GIS) can be found at
the Murray E. Nelson
Government and Cultural Center,
102050 Overseas Highway,
453-8800.
Code Compliance 453-8806
Adams Cut
The Marvin D. Adams Waterway –
known to locals as “The Cut,” is located
at MM 103.6 and was completed in
1961. The 15-foot sheer walls of the cut
allow boaters to pass from one side of
the islands to another without a long trip
down to Tavernier Creek to the south or
Angelfish Creek to the north. The Cut
allows boater transit time to be halved.
31

32
Geology
The Upper Keys islands are
remnants of large coral reefs,
which became fossilized and
exposed as sea levels
declined. The Lower Keys are
composed of sandy-type
accumulations of limestone
grains produced by plants
and marine organisms.
KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Hurricanes and Preparedness
In almost any area of the United States,
one can expect some sort of severe
weather – tornados in the Midwest,
floods along almost any river or stream,
“nor-easters” in New England, Santa
Ana winds in California, earthquakes
along the Pacific Coast, and avalanches
in almost any snow-prone area.
South Florida and the Keys are no
exception, except for one very important
factor: You generally know well enough
in advance to do something to protect
yourself and your personal property
during a hurricane.
Hurricane Andrew (1992) and Hurricane
Georges (1998) have been the only
major storms in South Florida in the
past 30 years. Periods of Keys history
have had runs of severe storms for
several years, and even several severe
storms in one year.
In moving to the Keys, one must not fear
a hurricane, but be prepared in the
event one does happen. Once you’re
here, should a hurricane threaten, much
information will be available; however,
just so you’ll be prepared, listed below,
you will find some basic facts.
1. Hurricane shelters are not for
personal escape – evacuation to the
mainland remains your only viable
alternative. Additionally, shelters are
only capable of withstanding
Category 1 and 2 storms (learn
about these “categories” when you
are here) – in the most deadly
storms (category 3, 4 and 5) shelters
will be closed.
2. Shelters are only for safe haven, as a
last resort. After a storm, they serve
as temporary shelter. Do not expect
substantial meals, comfort or
medical care.
3. After you arrive, get a list of “things
to do” from local lumber stores,
newspapers, etc., (particularly during
August and September). These lists
provide information as to stocking of
food supplies, boarding up of
structures, safety precautions,
reserves of batteries, gasoline and
lighting supplies and “before” and
“after” tips.
4. All Monroe County residents are
issued car decals identifying
occupants as county residents. They
are obtainable at the Sheriff’s Office
on Plantation Key, MM 88.8. Following
a hurricane, roadblocks keep out
sightseers and others who might
take advantage of storm’s effects;
therefore, your sticker will provide
return permission, when allowed.
5. Don’t listen to “old timers” who
survived Hurricane David (a very
weak storm passing some 100 miles
away) – the Keys have not experienced
a “killer” hurricane since
Donna hit on Labor Day in 1959.
Hurricane Andrew, passing some 30
miles to the northeast, and Hurricane
Georges, touching ground in the
Middle and Lower Keys some 50
miles to the south, left little damage
in Key Largo, although power was
out for several days and emergency
supplies were at a premium.
6. Do learn about hurricanes, be
prepared for hurricanes, and take
advice from official sources should a
hurricane threaten.
National Hurricane Center:
nhc.noaa.gov
NOAA: 852-7717
Monroe County Rumor Control:
800-955-5504
Monroe County Emergency Management:
289-6018
Federal Emergency Management
Administration: 800-621-3362
INFO@KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG