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 Vianey Diaz, a personal lines account manager at Regan Roth Insurance Agency, who lives in Tavernier. Born in Mexico City, she moved to the U.S. with her parents when she was 10 years old. She lived in Oklahoma City, Michigan, Sarasota and Miami before settling in the Upper Keys. She is mom to Diana and Sebastian, both graduates of Coral Shores High School.
How long have you lived in the Keys? While I have worked in the Keys since 1999, I permanently moved in 2009.
What drew you to the Keys? Work as well as a better quality of life and better school system for my two children.
What do you enjoy most about your work? Helping customers find the right coverage and together figuring out their individual needs. Cheap is not always the best.
What led you to be in the occupation you’re in? I stumbled into insurance. I applied for a customer service job at the old All State office in Tradewinds Plaza.
Weirdest experience you’ve had in the Keys? My purse was stolen from my van in a church parking lot while I was inside picking up my kids from day care. This happened shortly after I moved here. And also the many unique and fun events, like the Zombie Bike Ride. Only in the Keys.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be? My parents. I would ask them if I made them proud.
If you had a superpower, what would it be? I wish I could be invisible and whisper good things in peoples’ ears so they do the right things, like Jiminy Cricket.
Favorite Food? Pineapples. Fresh slices in water or vodka. Pineapple and mint on the boat is a must.
Favorite movie? “Blazing Saddles” with Gene Wilder.
Favorite book? “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne. I go back and reread this often and it is something we practice as a family. The law of attraction is strong.
What are your hobbies? Arts and crafts. I recently took up crocheting. I like to see the end product. I also read a lot.
Is there a skill/talent you want to master? Patience. There is always room for improvement. I need to remind myself to take a step back.
What are you most proud of as you look back on your life this far? My children.
Do you have any regrets? Taking too long to make decisions. I tend to be indecisive and that’s a waste.Favorite local event? Upper Keys Rotary’s Gigantic Nautical Market. It is a great end result for the kids in our community. My daughter benefited from their scholarships.
