NORTH KEY LARGO -- Two Florida residents died early Monday, Feb. 4, on Card Sound Road in a single-vehicle accident, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Joshua Lee Patchell, 29, of Lakeland, and Brittany Anne Mcleod, 25, of Brandon, were heading north in a 2005 GMC around midnight near the C-5 mile marker when they slid off the road and over-corrected, landing partly upside down, according to the incident report.

Trooper David N. Riso wrote that the vehicle became airborne and struck the treeline on the driver's side door. Both occupants were wearing seat belts and it is unknown if alcohol was a factor, he reported.

The accident marks the third and fourth traffic-related fatalities in the Keys this year.

Highway work

KEY LARGO -- State construction crews began work Monday on a 7.5-mile fence installation project along the northbound lanes of U.S. 1 from mile marker 108.5 to 116.

No lane closures are expected during the six-month project, said Florida Department of Transportation Spokesman Brian Rick.

A fact sheet on the construction provided by Rick says the fence will prevent wildlife from trying to cross the highway. The estimated cost for the project is $875,000.

GOP dinner

KEY LARGO -- The Upper Keys Republican Club will host a Valentine's Dinner Meeting at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 13, at the Holiday Inn's African Queen Room, mile marker 99.9, oceanside.

A dinner buffet will be offered for $20 and a cash bar is available.

Please RSVP to Kate at (850) 508-1770 or Vicky at 451-5517 by Monday, Feb. 11.

TCA meeting

TAVERNIER -- Monroe County Commissioner Sylvia Murphy will address the Tavernier Community Association at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, at the Tavernier Volunteer Fire Department, 151 Marine Ave.

Following a short business meeting, Murphy will address the association and answer questions.

Annual dues of $10 must be paid by the close of the meeting for members who want to vote in the March election of directors.

Public attendance is encouraged and refreshments will be served.

For more information, call John Hammerstrom at 852-8722.