No matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to present our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue.
Our neighbor of the week is Kimberly Hickson, who is a recent addition to the Walgreens team but is no stranger to Marathon, having lived in the Florida Keys her entire life. She thoroughly enjoys working with the public and has a natural knack for helping others and meeting new people. Outside of work, she stays active in the local community, frequently visits the beach, local parks, the library and Bealls with her daughter. She is deeply grateful for the strong support of her father and her family.
How long have you been in the Keys and what brought you here?
I have been in the Keys all of my life. I was born in Key West and we moved to Marathon when I was 2.
What is your favorite thing about living in the Keys?
I love how peaceful it is, the weather and being by the water.
You’re a familiar face around Marathon! What is your favorite local spot to unwind with your daughter on a day off?
The Marathon Public Library is my all-time favorite place to unwind with my daughter.
If you won the lottery, what would you spend the money on?
A house for me and my daughter.
What part of the human face is your favorite and why?
Definitely teeth because that’s the first thing people see is when you smile.
Customer service can be a tough gig, but you genuinely love working with the public. What’s the secret to making a great connection with someone new at Walgreens?
I like to show concern and compassion and listen fully before responding.
What are three essential items you pack in your suitcase when going on vacation?
My toothbrush, my charger and my deodorant.
What is your favorite board game and why?
My favorite board game is Monopoly because I’m organized with money.
Between being organized enough to master Monopoly and making sure your charger and toothbrush are packed, you seem pretty prepared! What’s your best tip for staying organized day-to-day?
I make lists of everything to keep organized.
If you could eat one food for the rest of your life what would it be?
Growing up on an island it would have to be fish.
Who is your favorite Disney character and why?
Mickey Mouse because I am classic and I can relate to the character.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
People are often surprised to hear that I know a lot of Spanish and sign language.
Many people wouldn’t guess that you know sign language and Spanish. How did you learn them, and have they ever come in handy while helping customers?
I learned some in school and picked it up along my career dealing with guests from different countries.
What’s a valuable piece of advice or lesson from your dad that has stayed with you over the years?
He always said to be a leader and not a follower and to have my own mind.
Know someone that would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?”
Email keysweeklyjen@gmail.com.
