Nominations are near for the annual Best of Upper Keys, where the people decide what businesses, food, people and organizations reign supreme.
Now in its fourth year, the Best of Upper Keys gives the people the opportunity to nominate their favorites in town from North Key Largo to Islamorada’s Lower Matecumbe Key. Earning one of the highly-coveted plaques on awards night, or just being nominated, is an honor coming from the community.
As the fourth Best of Upper Keys approaches, the Keys Weekly Newspapers is honored to recognize the island chain’s best, and it’s all determined by the people. Contrary to the annual rumor, the Weekly staff has nothing to do with the nominations or winners. All we do is provide the platform for people to nominate and vote.
Most importantly, the Best of Upper Keys supports a worthy cause. Since the inaugural Best of Keys in 2022, proceeds from the events — more than $70,000 — have gone to support the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter.
“When you have a community event that also raises money for any of our local nonprofits, it always reminds you of what’s important here at home,” said Jason Koler, Keys Weekly publisher. “One of my favorite parts of the Best of Upper Keys is the voting process and, of course, the awards party.”
“Our annual awards gala is one that brings people from all walks of life to laugh with each other and celebrate the Upper Keys community,” said Jim McCarthy, Upper Keys Weekly editor. “It’s just one evening where we can put aside our differences and have some fun with our neighbors and friends. If the last three Best of Upper Keys events are any indication, the fourth will surely bring lots of participation, excitement and pride from the Upper Keys.”
Stay tuned for all the details related to the nomination process and other important updates.
