AWARDS BANQUET, GOOD DEEDS & TURKEY TALK

November CEO Newsletter

November is here! Believe or not we are approaching the holiday season and New Year’s! We also recently held our annual Awards Banquet and I am glad to say that we sold out with over 320 members in attendance! We had a wonderful time, some laughs, danced, gave out awards, and said goodbye and hello to Board members. I am honored to announce your newly elected Marathon Chamber of Commerce Board Directors for 2018: Steve Hurley (Chairman), Mike Kiraly (Chair-Elect), Sara Mathis (Secretary), Patrick Stevens, Greg Konrath, Jeff Smith, and Yunior Rodriguez. I would also like to recognize and thank Hawks Cay Resort for hosting us, my amazing staff (Jeanine and Erika), chamber ambassadors, and the chamber awards committee who all played a pivotal role in our banquet’s success.

BIG Raffle Contest

As it relates to our banquet, we hold our annual BIG Raffle Contest that culminates at the event. This year’s winner was Ron Snyder, whose family used to own Herbies for many years (recently sold it about five years ago). When I called Ron to inform him of the great news, he was happy but insisted on having his prize go to helping the Chamber and our community. So rather than choosing one of the vacations or the $2,000 cash option, Ron said to keep the $2,000 cash option and put it to something good. After getting direction from my Board Executive Committee, we decided to add $2,000 to our annual Marathon High School Scholarships. On top of the $5,000 we typically contribute/ award, in 2019 that amount will now be $7,000! Ron also asked that these extra scholarships be in his mother’s name, Gay Neth Snyder. I really am honored to share this story and good news with you all. Really goes to show that even our former Marathon Chamber members and business owners are still contributing and wanting Marathon to be its best.

New Board Members

Lastly, I want to acknowledge and thank three of our Board members who termed off the Board this year. They truly made a positive difference for your Marathon Chamber and personally for me in their direction and leadership: TJ Patterson (Past Chair), Sheila Cook (Past Secretary), and also Matt Lawrence (Director). Thank you TJ, Sheila, and Matt for your time and dedication; it was truly an honor to work for and with each of you!

Please always know your Marathon Chamber Board of Directors, staff, and I are all committed to working for and with you and also your business. Please be sure to get involved in our beneficial programs; ask questions, and put your Marathon Chamber to work for you. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday later this month; be safe in your travels! Be sure to wait at least 3-4 hours to drive after eating all that turkey and stuffing!

Happy November!

Most Respectfully, Daniel Samess, M.S.

 CEO Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce

(305) 743-5417 ceo@floridakeysmarathon.com

Marathon Chamber Website

Relocate to the Keys

Marathon Seafood Festival

History of Diving Museum Immerse Yourself! series presents Searching for Escort Destroyer, ORP Kujawiak, with the maritime archaeologist, Chris Kraska on November 21, 2018. 

Before you dive into some pumpkin pie, join HDM as we dive into the Mediterranean Sea in search of a lost WWII naval ship!  November’s Immerse Yourself speaker, Chris Kraska will take guests on the search to find the Polish naval ship his father was stationed on.

Chris’ father was a seaman in the Polish Navy and served aboard several ships in combat. It included the escort destroyer ORP Kujawiak.  While running missions off the coast of Malta during Operation Harpoon in June 1942, the Kujawiak heard a distress call from another vessel. When the Kujawiak went to assist, it too struck an underwater mine and sank to its demise. For decades the ship’s exact location in the Mediterranean was unknown. In 2014, Chris was part of a multi-national team of divers and archaeologists in conjunction with the University of Malta. That located his father’s ship. Over the next few years, they returned to the site, making several dives to map the wreckage and document the condition. In 2017, the team raised the ship’s bell for conservation and also a display at the Maritime Museum of Malta.

Marine Archaeologist

Chris is a marine archaeologist, divemaster and underwater photographer with hundreds of dives in warm waters as well as on Lake Erie.  He is a member of numerous maritime archaeology organizations as well as the Explorers Club and Royal Geographical Society.  His archaeological work has taken him around the world, including excavation on the wreck believed to be the “Lake Serpent” in Lake Erie.  Chris splits his time between Florida and Ohio with his wife Laurie.

The History of Diving Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is opened 7 days a week from 10 am to 5 pm. Divers and non-divers alike are amazed by over 4,000 years of “man’s quest to explore under the sea”. Check out DivingMuseum.org to find out about speakers, upcoming events, group discounts, or private tours. The facility is also available for private meetings and events. Email us to find out more:  programs@divingmuseum.org

Immerse Yourself! Series

The Immerse Yourself! Series, ongoing on the third Wednesday of every month since opening in 2005, is a FREE presentation open to the public. Museum members can call ahead to reserve a seat. Not a member? We invite you to join and help support educational outreach like the Immerse Yourself! series and also other special programming. Join today and make a difference!

Speaker Chris Kraska  with recovered Kujawiak bell

ORP Kujawiak

GET READY FOR SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY®.

• Let your customers know that you plan to participate in Small Business Saturday. Visit ShopSmall.com/MarketingSupport for free promotional assets, such as ready-made social posts, to show your support.
• On Nov 24, transform your store. Get free merchandise while supplies last to help your business make an impression. Don’t wait — apply for Small Business Saturday merchandise starting Sep 27 at ShopSmall.com/MarketingSupport.
• Terms apply.
• Connect with your community. Connect with other organizations in your community to see how you can work together on Small Business Saturday events and also promotions.

Shop Small

Welcome, New Member to the Marathon Chamber of Commerce

Better Than Most Watersports

Specializing in Florida Keys Watersports. Paddleboard/Kayak rentals, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, and sunset cruises. Come play on and underwater!

WHO ARE WE?

Website

NEWS

OUR 2018 THEME IS: “OH…THE GAMES WE PLAY!”

Whether you are a single player, multiplayer, or just a player, this year’s theme is sure to get your cranium creating some costume ideas. Become your favorite game show host, bring to life your childhood board games, or transport yourself into your most loved netherworld. The ideas are endless, so roll the dice on your favorite game to play and meet us in Key West for a game worth playing!

FANTASY FEST BACKGROUND

Fantasy Fest is an annual 10-day party in paradise for grown-ups. Started in 1979 by a small group of Key West locals, the party was created to bring visitors to the island in what was a typically quiet, but beautiful season. It worked. Fantasy Fest has grown every year since its inception and is now the wildest extravaganza around! Fun-loving revelers from around the globe bring their creativity and imaginations as they descend upon Key West each year in October for 10 days filled with costuming, parades, libations, and also excitement!

Fantasy fest

OneLife CBD

Welcome new member to the Marathon Chamber of Commerce!

OneLife CBD is a supplement derived from the Industrial Hemp plant, in compliance with the Colorado Department of Agriculture, and is legal in all 50 states.

*No medical card required- containing less than .3% THC as law requires. 

*Guaranteed purity, potency, and consistency
*100% Made in the USA
*Colorado Grown Hemp
*Vegan *Non-GMO
*Safe for Humans and Pets
*Pharmacist/Chemist Formulated
*Triple ISO Lab Testing/ METRC tagged

*Why we formulate with MCT oil

MCT, medium chain triglycerides are partially man-made fats. The name refers to the way the carbon atoms are arranged in their chemical structure. MCT’s are generally made by processing coconut and palm kernel oils in the laboratory. Usual dietary fats, by comparison, are long-chain triglycerides. MCT oil is gaining popularity for its many health benefits.

Cannabinoids are fat soluble, meaning they break down and are stored in fat rather than water, making cannabinoids most effective when consumed with fat, increasing their bioavailability.

Saturated fats are important carriers for cannabinoids to be absorbed into the body. Coconut and palm (MCT) oil contain saturated fat at levels close to 80%, giving cannabinoids the fat cells it needs to move through the body, encouraging faster processing and also use by the endocannabinoid system.

Specifically, coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides or fatty acids. Using coconut oil or other products that contain medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oils) triggers a relatively rapid release of cannabinoids when compared to other oils because MCT oils are directly metabolized into energy by the liver.

*MCT oil benefits

For anyone concerned about blood sugar levels, inflammation, and fat burning, MCT provides a host of benefits — especially when combined with cannabidiol (CBD). It is perfect for making Bullet Proof Coffee,  or refreshing smoothies. Using MCT oil instead of Hemp Seed Oil helps to make our product have a longer shelf-life. MCT oil is known for having antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral properties.

Website

Dive Into Fall with History of Diving Museum’s 13 Year Anniversary

ISLAMORADA, September 26, 2018 – The History of Diving Museum is excited to celebrate its 13^th anniversary with Monroe County residents this October!

Have you driven past the History of Diving Museum (HDM) and always told yourself, “I need to stop in there some time?”  Considered a “hidden gem” by many, the Museum is inviting locals of the Florida Keys to not just drive by, but dive in by offering a discounted rate on memberships.  All packages will be reduced by $13 through October 31. The standard adult price will be just $37 for a single adult membership, $62 for two adults* and $137 for a family membership* (same household please).

Becoming a member at the Museum has numerous benefits that you can share with family and friends!  Receive free admission 362 days of the year for member cardholders, and also 25% discount off additional visitor admissions.  Members can reserve seats for the free monthly Immerse Yourself! Presentation series on the 3^rd Wednesday of every month at 7pm.  Having a membership also means discounted rates or free admission for special events throughout the year.  Are you looking for the perfect gift for a diver, marine biologist, Keys history buff, or ocean lover in your life?  The Museum store has unique, museum-quality gifts available for all ages, with most items being discounted 10% for members.

Something for everyone at HDM

You do not have to be a diver to enjoy the Museum; there is something for everyone at HDM.  Exhibits focus on topics ranging from marine biology, history, military and also local treasure salvage.  The Featured Exhibit changes throughout the year, and also currently focuses on the development of technical diving and rebreathers. The whole family will enjoy scavenger hunts, interactive displays, and also more. HDM is even pet friendly!

The most important factor in becoming a member is how your support helps the Museum and its educational outreach program.  Throughout the year, the Museum works to provide outreach to 4^th grade classes throughout the Keys. Staff and volunteers go to the schools to teach, inspire, and also foster new ideas about how people interact with the underwater world around us. Your membership helps the Museum to provide such unique learning experiences. Visit the Museum in person or go to DivingMuseum.org to sign up to become a member!

The History of Diving Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that opened in 2005. It is located in Islamorada (MM83) and is a must see for anyone traveling along the Overseas Highway. Divers and also non-divers alike are amazed by over 4,000 years of “man’s quest to explore under the sea.” Become a Member today and support special programming. Check out DivingMuseum.org to find out more or email programs@divingmuseum.org for details.

###

The History of Diving Museum

The Story of Man’s Quest to Explore Under the Sea

82990 Overseas Hwy – MM 83

Islamorada, FL  33036

Phone 305-664-9737 Fax 305-664-9736

director@divingmuseum.org     |    Website

Agent Barbara Mckee

137 VACATION HOMES AVAILABLE

In the Heart of the Florida Keys

Call or Email Barbara McKee 1-305-289-6499 mckeebarbara1@gmail.com, Book Today!

MARATHON, KEY COLONY BEACH, GRASSY KEY, AND DUCK KEY

Website

One Year After Irma

As we come upon the one-year anniversary of Irma, I can’t help but reflect on all that has and is happening.  From tragedy, to rebuilding and repairing, to recovering, and some normalcy; we have truly come a long way. Most of our hotel rooms are now back online, including Hawks Cay, along with some new rooms at The Hampton Inn. We lost a few businesses but gained a few new ones (Isla Bella Resort, Keys Dance Academy, Hampton Inn, etc.), most residents are back in their primary homes but some have moved and relocated. Our hospital took a walloping but is open and serving our community and looking to completely rebuild.  We have new workforce housing units approved and looking to start construction within one-two years, and our canals are being cleaned (kudos to our City of Marathon).

In the meantime your Marathon Chamber continues to remain a healthy, and active organization dedicated you supporting your needs and success.  Since Irma we have been working with our County and City on economic development and recovery initiatives, held countless seminars and events to connect businesses to services, and have stayed the course on our annual programs such as donating $5,000 in scholarships to MHS seniors earlier this year; $10,000 to Marathon Chamber members for continuing education scholarships, $5,000 in scholarships towards Middle Keys students in the Take Stock in Children program, and also our annual Business Beautification Grant Program where we award up to ten (10), $2,000 beautification grants to business-members.

Seminar

We are also about to host a business seminar focusing on Digital & Social Marketing for your Business. Please contact us to sign up, as a member you receive a discounted rate.  I am very excited about this class as participants will learn how to put your brand/business in front of customers, no matter where they are looking, using digital advertising strategies.  I hope you can attend, please contact us ASAP to secure your space.

Election

Later this month you, our valued member will make another very important decision. Electing seven (7) new members to the Marathon Chamber Board of Directors.  You will receive your ballots any day now, so please be sure to vote!  The Board is dedicated to representing our business-members, as well as setting the overall direction of your Marathon Chamber of Commerce; therefore your vote definitely counts and determines the leaders you wish to have representing you.

BIG RAFFLE CONTEST

You will also have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for our annual BIG RAFFLE CONTEST. It culminates at our Awards Banquet on Oct. 5^th at (the newly opened) Hawks Cay Resort (save the date please).  Prizes include a luxury vacation of your choice or $2,000.00 cash, a 2-night stay at Isla Bella Beach Resort plus a $100 resort credit (for spa, dining, etc.), and multiple $100.00 gift certificates to great local restaurants.  Tickets are only $25.00 each and benefit our scholarship program; only 500 tickets max will be sold.  Please be sure to contact us anytime to get your tickets before they run out.

Have a great September everyone; please be sure to contact us for any business assistance, needs, etc.  Our doors are always open and no request is out of bounds. While we will never forget Irma I look forward to a fresh start and a strong finish to 2018!

Respectfully,

Chief Executive Officer

Daniel Samess, M.S.

Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce

12222 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

W: (305) 743-5417 / F: (305) 289-0183

Email: ceo@floridakeysmarathon.com

www.FloridaKeysMarathon.com