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 K. Shylon “Shy” Martin of Tavernier, a local real estate agent with Engel & Völkers, the administrator of the Islamorada Moose and a property manager/pet sitter with partner Gary Falleur. She is a two-time honoree and three-time nominee for Keys Weekly’s Best of Upper Keys Best Volunteer.
How long have you lived in the Keys? For 40 years.
What drew you to the Keys? A sailboat brought me here. I sold a lot of real estate in the tri-state area of Maryland, West Virginia and Pennsylvania and decided to take a year off. Once here, I didn’t want to leave.
Weirdest experience you’ve had in the Keys? Quite a few, including one I can’t share. There was the time we were out lobstering and a hammerhead shark swam with me for quite awhile.
What do you enjoy most about your work? Finding people their dream homes, whether it is for a regular working person or retirees. With animals, what’s not to love about those furry, wonderful faces?
What led you to be in the occupation you’re in? A guy I was working with told me I would be really good at it since, he said, I know what people want before they even do.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be? My mom and dad. I would love to have another dinner with them.
If you had a super power, what would it be? Being able to raise a lot of money for not-for-profits.
Favorite Food? Sushi, then pizza.
Favorite movie? That’s a toss between “Avatar” – the first one – and “Finding Nemo.”
Favorite book? Not really. I enjoy different books but lack time to read. I mostly just read Keys Weekly.
What are your hobbies? Arranging gift baskets to be raffled off for fundraisers and events.
Is there a skill/talent you want to master? I wish I could paint. I admire those people who can.
What are you most proud of as you look back on your life this far? Being chosen as best volunteer two years in a row. I was up against other wonderful volunteers. I dedicate my wins to my mom and dad.
Do you have any regrets? That I didn’t spend more time with my parents as they aged.
What is the biggest daily challenge you face? Getting to everything I need to do and quieting my mind.
Know someone who would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?” Email jim@keysweekly.com.
