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.
This week’s “Neighbor of the Week” honors Maggie DeMond. A devoted mother of six, Maggie’s commitment to the Middle Keys community is seen in her tireless efforts to assist others, from professional mentorship to helping to provide housing for those in need. Her resilience has been especially evident over the last year as she led her family while navigating significant personal health challenges.
Over the years, Maggie has helped many friends find jobs, offered guidance and encouragement during difficult times, and quietly stepped in when someone needed support. She personally helped me secure employment and opened her home to me by renting me an apartment when I needed stable housing. – Katya Tolkach
Maggie is a dedicated member of our community, known for always stepping up to help at local sports activities and in the concession stands. Whether she is participating in events or serving others, she brings kindness and positivity to everything she does.
– Ashley Schneider
MAGGIE DeMOND
Monroe County Property Appraiser
How long have you been in the Keys and what brought you here? I have been here 5 years. I came because my kids’ dad took a transfer here for his career.
What is your favorite thing about living in the Keys? I love the support and love in this small community and especially being able to see the ocean all the time.
What is your favorite Keysy meal? Coco’s General Store makes the best sandwiches to bring on a boat, the beach or the jumping bridge.
If you could be any character from a TV or movie, who would it be? Lily Houghton from “Jungle Cruise.” That lady wasn’t afraid of anything for a good adventure!
If you’re having a rough day, what’s the best way to cheer you up? I love walking on Coco Plum Beach and collecting sea shells. It melts away the stress.
If you could shop for free at any store (doesn’t have to be clothing) which one would you pick? Irie Island Eats gift shop always has the most unique and fun items and delicious fresh fruit. I would take it all.
What’s something you absolutely refuse to learn how to do? I will never learn to make my mom’s secret pie crust. It is the best in the world and to her disappointment I have no interest in learning to make it myself.
If you were an ice cream flavor, what kind of flavor would you be and why? I think I would be bubble gum flavor. I am always upbeat and bubbly.
What is your love language? Gifts are my love language. I love getting small things and also giving them.
If you won the lottery what would you spend the money on? I would pay off so many of my friends’ mortgages and of course my own. Down here that would eat up my winnings really fast.
If you could be any animal, what would you be and why? I would be a sea otter. They are great at diving and get to swim all day long, and never get cold.
What would the title of a movie about your life be and what actor/actress would play you? It would be called, “Let the Shenanigans Begin” and I would be played by Rachel McAdams.
What condiment could you not live without and why? I can’t live without ketchup. We use it on so many things.
What would we find in the center console of your car right now? In my center console you would find sea shells that I forgot to bring into my house.
What dessert could you eat every day and why? I would eat cotton candy every day. It’s my favorite food.
What’s something you’re really proud of? I’m very proud of my positivity through resilience. I have walked through a lot of dark times, and I just keep moving with confidence that good will be found in all situations.
What was in the last Amazon package that arrived? The last package was bunny food and his little treats. My kids and I adore our pet bunny.
What’s one of your all-time favorite movie quotes? I find myself quoting Harry Potter’s “mischief managed” quite often as I get myself into some wildly fun and precarious situations.
What’s a secret about you that people might be surprised to learn? I think a lot of people would be surprised if they knew I can fly a plane, and I love all airplanes. Know someone who would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?” Email keysweeklyjen@gmail.com.
