The Greater Key West Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for a busy summer of community engagement, business advocacy and educational programming, including a public candidate forum ahead of this year’s municipal elections.
Kerry Baker, executive director of the Key West Chamber of Commerce, joined Good Morning Keys on Keys Talk 96.9/102.5FM this morning to talk about upcoming events.
One of the chamber’s most anticipated events is a community candidate forum scheduled for June 23 at the Tennessee Williams Theatre.
The event will feature candidates running for mayor and city commission seats and will be open to the public free of charge.
A meet-and-greet session is planned from 5 to 6 p.m., followed by a moderated forum beginning at 6 p.m. Chamber officials have collected questions and topics from members to ensure candidates address issues important to both businesses and residents.
“We felt this was a really important election and wanted to allow more time for the candidates and the community,” Baker said.
The chamber expects discussions to focus on business issues, economic development, quality-of-life concerns and other topics affecting Key West residents.
The chamber’s June membership luncheon will focus on hurricane preparedness and emergency management as South Florida enters the height of hurricane season.
Featured speakers include officials from Monroe County Emergency Management, who will discuss storm preparation, business recovery programs and emergency response planning.
Baker said the program will help local businesses better understand available resources and preparedness measures while providing an opportunity for members to ask questions directly of emergency management professionals.
The Chamber will also honor 17 local businesses that have achieved four- and five-star status through the chamber’s education support initiatives.
The recognition highlights businesses that contribute to scholarships, classroom sponsorships, mentoring programs, teacher recognition efforts and other educational initiatives throughout Monroe County.
Baker noted that many participating businesses devote significant time and resources to supporting local students and educators.
“Our teachers do so much for our children, often far beyond the classroom,” she said. “It’s important that we recognize and support them.”
The chamber recently awarded its HR 100 Charley and Orcelina Toppino Memorial Scholarship to Key West High School graduate Gabriel Varela, who is continuing his education at the University of Central Florida.
The chamber continues to partner with the City of Key West through the Keep Key West Beautiful program, which recognizes businesses and employees who help maintain the appearance and character of the island community.
Residents are encouraged to nominate businesses that demonstrate exceptional property maintenance, customer service and community pride, as well as employees who consistently go above and beyond in serving customers and residents.
Award recipients are recognized by both the chamber and the Key West City Commission.
Looking ahead, the chamber is planning a professional development seminar in August titled Grace Under Pressure: Deliver Exceptional Service When It Matters Most.
The workshop will focus on maintaining employee engagement, professionalism and customer service standards during challenging economic periods and slower business cycles.
Baker said the training is designed to help employers and employees navigate difficult situations while maintaining a positive customer experience.
The Greater Key West Chamber of Commerce continues to offer networking events, educational workshops, business advocacy programs and community partnerships throughout the year.
Recent events have included business networking gatherings, membership luncheons and educational seminars designed to help local businesses succeed in an increasingly competitive environment.
More information about chamber programs, upcoming events and membership opportunities is available through the chamber’s website here: https://www.keywestchamber.org/.