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 Marcus Martin, a Tavernier resident and long-time employee at Florida Keys Electric Coop. He moved to the Keys from Georgia some 20 years ago following college, first working as the head coach for the Coral Shores High School boys basketball teams, then joining FKEC. He is currently a right-of-way crew chief and serves as a sports official for youth and high school sports.
How long have you lived in the Keys? 20 years.
What drew you to the Keys? The mother of my children was from the Keys and she wanted to come back.
What do you enjoy most about your work? Meeting different people and learning new things. Everyday brings a different approach.
What led you to be in the occupation you’re in? I had an interview with Jason Richards and took the job.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be? LeBron James. He is my favorite athlete.
If you had a superpower, what would it be? I’d put on a cape and try to get into the NBA.
Favorite Food? I like random things but my favorite is steak and shrimp together.
Favorite movie? Equalizer 1, 2 and 3 with Denzel Washington.
Favorite book? I enjoy reading the sports magazine SLAM. It covers all things basketball.
What are your hobbies? Hanging out with friends and family.
Is there a skill/talent you want to master? Become more mechanical so I could fix vehicles.
What are you most proud of as you look back on your life this far? The way I raised my three kids and the approach I used. Everything seems to be going well with them and I’m about to become a granddaddy.
Do you have any regrets? No regrets. Life is good. I go to work and come home safe to the family.
What is the biggest daily challenge you face? Making sure my guys who work under me go to work and get home safe to their families.
What drives you to officiate in so many sports? I’ve been reffing since about 2012. I love working with the kids and if I don’t ref, then the kids don’t play.
