Volume 10 Issue 25 | October 22, 2026

Fire Safety Visit a Hit with Academy Students

ORCA Fire-Rescue visited The Academy on Friday, October 16, for its annual Fire Safety presentation, always a favorite with students.

The day wrapped up with a hands-on highlight: every child got a turn spraying the fire hose.

“Our children are still talking about it, a level of recall we don’t typically see at this age," said Head of School Jerome Murphy. “But it’s about more than the content. It’s the people who made such an impression on our kids, and that same culture carries into their work with every member and visitor they serve.”

General Election Reminder

The General Election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Key dates are:

• Early Voting: Open through Saturday, October 31
• Election Day: Tuesday, November 3, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

To find polling locations, or see other important election information, visit the Monroe County Supervisor of Elections website.

Please remember that per the ORCA Member Handbook (page 54), political signs, banners, and flags may not may not be displayed anywhere visible from common areas. 

Mosquito Update: 
Tips and an Upcoming Talk

On Wednesday, December 16, Phil Goodman, Chairman of the Florida Keys Mosquito Control Board of Commissioners, shares the history of mosquito control in the Keys and here at Ocean Reef, how science protects both people and our ecosystem, and the new tools being used against today’s disease threats. A chemist, longtime Keys resident and familiar face in our community, Goodman will also explain why it all matters for tourism, real estate, and the outdoor life we love.

The topic is timely. Florida has seen more locally acquired dengue cases than usual this year, mostly in the Tampa Bay area. There are no local cases of any mosquito-borne illness in Monroe County, but since many of us travel to the mainland, a few simple habits help:

• Use an EPA-registered repellent, especially at dawn and dusk
• Wear long sleeves and pants outdoors
• Drain standing water weekly (saucers, birdbaths, buckets, gutters, boat and pool covers)
• Keep screens in good repair

Learn more at keysmosquito.org, or report a mosquito problem at (305) 292-7190.

Halloween Safety Reminders

Halloween festivities are almost here, and we want everyone to enjoy a safe and spooky celebration! Whether you’re walking, riding a golf cart, or driving, please stay alert. Keep your golf cart headlights on at all times, and remember: no lap riders. Every passenger needs their own seat, especially little ghosts and goblins.

ORCA Public Safety will be on patrol, but everyone’s help is needed to keep our Halloween festivities safe and fun for all!

The next issue of ORCA News will be published on November 5

We want to hear from you. Send your questions or comments to communications@orcareef.com.