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 spotlight our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue.
Our neighbor of the week is Monroe County Fire Rescue Lt. Arturo Aulet. He has been with Monroe County for 12 years, the past six as a lieutenant. Prior to joining the county, he had five years with the Key Largo Volunteer Fire Department. He lives in Key Largo and has a 6-year-old daughter, Anastasia, who is in first grade at Treasure Village Montessori.
How long have you lived in the Keys? For 33 years. My family moved here from Miami when I was 3 years old. I went to Key Largo School, Coral Shores High School and the FKCC (now College of the Florida Keys).
What kept you in the Keys after graduating? My family. My mom lived here until recently. One of my sisters lives here with her four kids, which is great for my daughter.
What led you to be in the occupation you’re in? My late father. He was a firefighter for 27 years. I loved the family aspect of that community. It was such a draw for me while I was growing up and it was a natural career path.
Weirdest experience you’ve had in the Keys? We had an emergency call that took us to a nude beach in the Lower Keys. A guy who got too drunk needed care. We trekked about half a mile with our stretcher and medical equipment before we reached this part of the beach. We were quite a spectacle to the beach goers.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be? Ernest Hemingway. I’d love to hear about the Keys of his time and of his world travels.
If you had a superpower, what would it be? To fly places, especially now that gas prices are so high.
Favorite Food? Steak. I’m a meat-and-potatoes guy. I love carbs too, rice and pasta.
Favorite movie? “Step Brothers” with Will Ferrell and Adam Scott.
Favorite book? “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien. That book got me into reading.
What are your hobbies? Chasing after my daughter. Spending time with family is important to me. So is being out in nature and staying active.
Is there a skill/talent you want to master? I think it would be fascinating to be a woodworker. It looks like a peaceful, beautiful craft.
What are you most proud of as you look back on your life this far? My daughter. She is the single greatest thing I’ve done in my life. She has an amazing heart, is so kind and sweet. Seeing her grow is a blessing.
Do you have any regrets? I don’t like to think of regrets but rather lessons. Life is full of ups and downs. It is what you make of them.
What is the biggest daily challenge you face? Parenthood. Trying everyday to be the best version of myself.
