Key Largo is synonymous for being the gateway into the Florida Keys. Commonly referred to as the dive capital of the world, Key Largo is home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the infamous Caribbean Club.
When locals think of the Key Largo community, one can’t help but bring up “Video” Dave, or David Kay. For decades, he was the man who took out the camcorder, and later the digital camera and iPhone, to capture all the fun happenings. From big events like Light Up Key Largo and chamber functions to concerts, church services and library activities, “Video” showed the community and the social media world through Facebook Live what Key Largo is truly about.
“I used to cover every event. For the last two to three years, my legs haven’t wanted to play like they used to,” he said. “I still stay busy, but most of the things I do are stationary.”
Before moving to Key Largo in 1997, “Video” spent his years in Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach. He had several jobs, including video work and lawn care.
In the Keys, he spent 18 years working with Florida Keys Mosquito Control District in the spray truck. He picked the camera back up after he retired, not for work, but for fun. He also volunteers his time running food from the grocery store to the Burton Memorial Methodist Church pantry.
He’s battled some health issues in recent years. On May 13, he was headed in for another surgery. But he said he doesn’t let that get him down. And he doesn’t miss the opportunity to capture a Florida Keys sunset.
“Life is good,” he said. “I enjoy and appreciate every minute of every hour of every day.”
How did you get the nickname “Video”? I don’t remember exactly when. Obviously, it’s because of all the videos I’ve been doing. It’s been many years I’ve been doing it here, and they just started calling me “Video” Dave. Very seldom do I ever hear someone calling me David.
What are some of your favorite things to record? I’m very happy to do my First Baptist Church of Key Largo. I just enjoy that. I also enjoy shooting concerts. I’ve met so many people and musicians. I’ve become good friends with the group Alligator Alley. And the Pops in the Park concert series, I’ve gotten to know quite a few of the musicians.
When I look at my Facebook Live and 1,000 views, that shows me it’s getting out there. They recognize what I do and thank me … that makes you feel pretty good. I never expect anything and don’t want anything. It’s nice to be noticed.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to face in your life? My scooter accident roughly 10 years ago was pretty serious. But not once was I worried or concerned or feared of dying. It was a long hard struggle. We run across hurdles all through our lives. And just like anything we do, we handle it the best we can.
What are you most proud of as you look back on your life? Family and friends. You can’t beat either one of them.
Is there a skill/talent you wish to master? I feel like I do what I can do to the best of my ability. I started videoing in 1983. I was one of the first in town to get a video camera outfit; it sat on my shoulder and came out pretty far. I went through a few of those before I got to heaven, that was a camcorder. Then I eventually went to the Sony digital camera. I use an iPhone 15 now.
What’s your favorite food in town? Burger Monday with fries at Sharkey’s. You get the burger with everything and anything you wanted on it. I’d get it with blue cheese and mushrooms and pepper jack cheese and peanut butter. And they said peanut butter? And I said “yeah.” They put it on there, a couple people saw that and said, “Oh god it must be horrible.” Different people started trying it, next think you know they put it on the menu so you could add it to the burger.
