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 Islamorada resident Linsey Ekblom, who recently became board president for the Upper Keys Youth Lacrosse League, a nonprofit organization formed in 2021 to provide opportunities for boys and girls ages 3 to 14 to learn the sport or to enhance their skills. The league serves as a feeder program for the high school competition teams. She also is on the board of the Plantation Key School Parent Teacher Association. Ekblom is married to Brett Ekblom of Native Construction and they have three children, Blake, 12; Bradley, 10; and Charlotte, 8.
How long have you lived in the Keys? I first started coming to the Keys when Brett and I met in 2008. We married in 2013. I’m originally from Wisconsin and came to Naples, Florida for graduate school.
What drew you to the Keys? Brett.
What do you enjoy most about your work? While I started my career as a cardiac physician assistant, I now work as an assistant designer with Wright Interiors in Islamorada. Design has always been my passion.
What led you to be in the occupation you’re in? I love the creative outlet and making things better than I first found them.
If you had a superpower, what would it be? Well, it doesn’t need to be flying since Brett is a pilot. I would say mind reading so I can know if my kids are lying to me.
Favorite Food? Anything Mexican.
Favorite movie? The 2005 adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice” with Keira Knightley. It’s a classic romance.
Favorite book? I love reading but my favorite is probably “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah.
What do you do with a book once you’ve read it? In 2022, I registered with Little Free Library to place a book exchange box outside my home. It took me a while to finally put it in place but now books rotate through the box. One resident texted me recently to let me know her 90-year-old dad takes longer walks now just to get a new book from the free library. I love that!
What are your hobbies? Running, tennis and reading.
What are you most proud of as you look back on your life this far? I’m proud of the life Brett and I have built. I love our family, business and great community circle.
Do you have any regrets? Not becoming an architectural designer sooner.
What is the biggest daily challenge you face? With three kids, it is scheduling.
Know someone who would be a good “Neighbor of the Week?” Email jim@keysweekly.com.
