Sunday, November 1, 2009

Sharp honored by American Cancer Society

Karen Sharp, president and CEO of First State Bank of the Florida Keys, has been appointed as honorary chairwoman for the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of the Lower Keys.

Sharp has been a member of the American Cancer Society board for nearly two decades, served as its president and has dedicated countless volunteer hours to the cause.

Other philanthropic contributions include: board member/treasurer of The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys; member of Florida Keys chapter of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants; adviser to WomanKind Inc; Girl Scouts of America; and Leadership Monroe County.

Karen holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from Florida Atlantic University and has a master's degree in business administration from Central Michigan University. She received her certified public accountant license in 1984.

KFCU's Cuneo celebrates 25 years

Julie Cuneo, senior vice president and chief operating officer, recently celebrated 25 years of service with Keys Federal Credit Union.

Cuneo joined the credit union in October 1984 as director of marketing. During her tenure, she has held many key positions, including vice president of operations. She received her current title in February 2000.

Cuneo has been honored with prestigious awards such as The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys' Unsung Hero Award in 2006, the Rotary Club of Key West President's Award for Service Above Self in 2006, and the Key West Chamber of Commerce Piece of the Rock Award for Community Service in January 2007. Furthermore, she achieved the Certified Chief Executive designation from the Credit Union Executive Society in 2005. She was honored with the society's Rising 100 Award for up-and-coming credit union leaders in August 2006.

Cuneo graduated from Mary Immaculate High School in Key West. She received an Associate of Arts degree from Florida Keys Community College and earned her bachelor's degree in public relations from the University of Florida. She is a graduate of the first class of Leadership Monroe County.

Schmidt honored with Standing Tall award

Diane Schmidt, general manager of the Westin Key West Resort & Marina, recently was honored with the Standing Tall award from the Dade County Police Benevolent Association, which represents the officers of the Key West Police Department.

"The Standing Tall award was given in recognition of Diane's continued and profound support of the police officers of Key West," said Sgt. Robert Allen of the Key West Police Department. "Over the past 10 years, we have only given out a handful of these to business and community leaders who have stepped forward and remained supportive of our officers, even during tough times."

Housing Authority employees recognized

The Key West Housing Authority's board of commissioners congratulated Chandra Tynes on her 15 years of service at its October meeting.

During her career, Tynes has served as an outreach worker, public housing manager and currently works as a property supervisor. She was selected as the Employee of the Year in 2003.

Also recognized was Giselda Brogli, who was chosen as Employee of the Fourth Quarter. She is known for being a patient and excellent teacher, as well as an exceptional team player, according to a Housing Authority press release.