Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” So, if this doesn’t make the front page of the Keys Weekly, I am going on a writer’s strike. What other fox on the planet could get their mayor to stop by for an interview?
Monroe County Mayor Holly Raschein sat down with your favorite fox to answer some tough questions, so let’s get into it.
Reef: I read that you are originally from Alaska. That is quite a jump in climate. So, if you had to pick: extreme Alaska cold or extreme Florida Keys hot?
Holly: The fabulous Florida Keys for sure. I love Alaska and it’s beautiful in the summer; however, it’s freezing and dark for too many months out of the year. I’d rather be hot than cold!
Reef: I, myself, prefer having options. That’s why I convinced my mother years ago that we need inside AC and outside access. When you aren’t wearing your mayor’s hat, what is your go-to for fun here in the Florida Keys?
Holly: I love to be out on the water, of course, snorkeling, hanging at the sandbar and fishing. I also relish in spending time with my son, Drake. He’s into most sports, so there are always games or practices to go to. He loves to be outside as well so we bike, fish and he is currently trying to teach me how to ride his Onewheel. I’m not a fan.
Reef: What is your favorite event to attend in Monroe County throughout the year?
Holly: That is an impossible question to answer, I love to attend so many of our community events! I personally am involved in the following celebrations: the Bougainvillea Ball benefiting Mariners Hospital, Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys’ annual Cocktail Party and the Miami/Florida Keys Chapter of the Red Cross’ Garden Party in Key West. It warms my heart that our community bursts with so many things to do for good causes, there is always something on the calendar.
Reef: Do you have any pets at home?
Holly: This is an area that I need to improve in; currently we have two fish. I’m on the road most days and my schedule is not conducive to having a pet. However, you can always dream. A dog or a bunny are high on the list.
Reef: Well, I can tell you that foxes do not make good pets, just in case Drake tried to convince you otherwise. Now, who has the best Key lime pie in the Florida Keys?
Holly: Another impossible question to answer, there are so many delicious options! A few that come to mind are Sundowners, Mrs. Mac’s, and the chocolate-covered version from Key Largo Chocolates.
Reef: Many other cities across the country have elected rescued animals as honorary mayors. As you know, I am already a fan favorite here in the Upper Keys, taking home the title of Best Local Celebrity two years in a row. Since Key Largo is unincorporated, what are the chances of yours truly becoming the honorary mayor of Key Largo?
Holly: I’d say the outlook is good; let’s work on that.
Well, you heard it here first my friends. You could be looking at the new mayor of Key Largo this year. I have some research to do for Holly on how to hold a fox election but you better believe I am on top of it.
Anywho, that’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!
