REEF’S REPORT: HOLLYWOOD BUZZ AND HOMETOWN PRIDE

a woman sitting in a chair in front of a camera
Nicole Navarro, Pawsitive Beginnings founder, sits down at the fox sanctuary in Key Largo for an interview as part of a special project. CONTRIBUTED

Hi friends. Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report,” and let me tell you, things have been hopping at Pawsitive Beginnings lately.

First off, you might notice a little extra sparkle on my fur because we had some very fancy visitors recently. A director flew in all the way from California to film a super-secret project. I’m sworn to secrecy, so I can’t spill the beans, but I can tease you mercilessly. Here’s a clue: this Hollywood heavyweight has worked with Linda Perry (yes, the powerhouse behind 4 Non Blondes), the one-and-only Sean Penn, and now, wait for it, me. That’s right. Your favorite Key Largo fox is officially in the same sentence as Grammy winners and Oscar legends. Start practicing your “I knew Reef before he was famous” speech.

While I can’t reveal the plot, I can promise this: whatever lands on the screen next year will have more fur, more attitude and definitely more snack breaks than anything you’ve seen before.

Now, from Hollywood buzz to hometown pride: award season is officially upon the Upper Keys. Nominations are open until Oct. 5, which means it’s time to show some love to your favorite local businesses, restaurants and general do-gooders. Want to see your favorite bartender, boat captain, or fox (hint, hint) make the top three? You know what to do. 

Speaking of treats, our feathered neighbors at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center are flapping their wings for their annual Owl-Ween bash on Oct. 24. Picture this: kiddos in their cutest costumes, adults in their not-so-spooky cargo shorts and enough bird puns to keep even me hooting. Trust me, you’ll want to mark that on your calendar with a big, feathery exclamation point.

But let’s talk about everyone’s favorite part of Owl-Ween, the parking situation. Every year, cars line the highway for what feels like a mile, tourists get cranky and locals like me sit back and giggle. Why? Because suddenly everyone has to pay attention and actually drive the speed limit. Welcome to our world, out-of-towners. Consider it an immersive Florida Keys experience: nature, wildlife and a free defensive-driving refresher course.

So there you have it: a dash of Hollywood, a sprinkle of hometown pride and a friendly PSA to keep your eyes peeled for both owls and brake lights. 

Anywho, that’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

Reef the Fox
Reef was born on a fur farm on or around March 28, 2021. He was able to be rescued when his mother and siblings started to reject him. Reef is missing toes on his front, right paw and the tip of his tail is missing due to injuries sustained in his short time on the fur farm. Reef arrived at Key Largo on May 6, 2021 by Nicole Navarro, of Pawsitive Beginnings Inc.