Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” On the morning of Jan. 9, my mother, Pawsitive Beginnings founder Nicole Navarro, left the sanctuary for what she described as a “very important community moment.” Naturally, I was skeptical. However, after careful review, I have determined that this outing was, in fact, acceptable.
Mom attended the start of a Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride at the VFW Post 10211 at the Armory Speakeasy in Key Largo, an event dedicated to honoring and supporting wounded veterans as they begin a meaningful journey from Key Largo to Key West. The Wounded Warrior Project exists to support veterans who have sustained physical or mental injuries during their military service, providing programs focused on mental health, physical rehabilitation, career counseling and long-term well-being. In short, these are individuals who have already given more than most and deserve every ounce of community support they receive.
Also present was our newest board member, Lt. Mario Benedetti with Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, who was providing safety and logistical support as the riders began their route south. I have not yet met this Benedetti in person, but I have examined him from a distance and assessed his overall demeanor. He appears alert, capable and like someone who could respond quickly in a situation that requires calm authority.
This is important to me.
While mom may technically run the sanctuary, I am the one who evaluates trustworthiness. And after reviewing his role at the event, I officially approve of Benedetti’s newly earned seat on our board. Anyone tasked with helping protect wounded veterans during a long, symbolic journey can certainly be trusted to help look after a sanctuary full of rescued foxes.
Events like this remind us that community care comes in many forms, whether it’s supporting veterans as they heal, ensuring their safety along the way or showing up simply to say, “We see you.”
So yes, mom left me for the morning. Yes, she came back smelling faintly of pastries, sunshine and responsibility. But for this cause, I’ll allow it.
Some missions are bigger than my need for constant adoration.
Anywho, that’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!
