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 present our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue.
Our neighbor of the week is Erin Garcia, a retired teacher and co-owner of Denny’s Latin Cuban Cafe in Key Largo with her husband, Rafael. She’s dedicated her time to giving back to the community as a local Rotarian, leading the group’s monthly socials with the seniors at Oasis Nursing & Rehab Center. And she steps up in times of need for the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club. Last June, the club named her Rotarian of the Year.
How long have you lived in the Keys? I’ve been in the Keys for three years.
What drew you to the Keys? My husband’s parents have lived here for 30 years. My husband brought me here to propose and I fell in love with the beauty of the ocean. We moved to Miami 20 years ago for work, and 4 years ago we bought a restaurant and made the move to the Keys.
Do you have a favorite spot to go in the Keys? Anywhere on the water.
What do/did you do for a living? I was a teacher.
What do/did you enjoy about the profession? I enjoyed watching students learn and grow through the years. It was never the same each day.
Who influenced you in your professional journey? My high school teacher/my family.
What’s something you’re really proud of? My daughters. They have grown into amazing young women.
Who is one of your real-life heroes? My husband. He works very hard and has sacrificed a lot for my family.
What is your most treasured possession? My family.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be? Marco Rubio.
If you could be a superpower, what would it be? Make people happy.
Best vacation you ever took? Spain.
What was in your last Amazon package? Christmas gifts.
What show are you currently watching? “High Potential.”
What are your hobbies? Crossfit, reading and fishing with my husband.
Know someone who would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?” Email jim@keysweekly.com.
