Each year, a red carpet of sorts is rolled out for a handful of islanders and contestants vying to be the latest duo inducted to Key West’s longstanding “royals.” Specifically, in a town filled with noted personalities and artists, candidates hope to become the reigning “King” or “Queen” by raising the most money for charity. These days, that charitable beneficiary is the Florida Keys SPCA.
In 2023, the popular animal shelter tapped into an even bigger source of fundraising by becoming the newest beneficiary of Fantasy Fest’s Royal Campaign. This was a designation previously held for many years by AH Monroe.
This “Royal Campaign” sees contestants compete in either the “King” or “Queen” categories with the titles awarded to the respective highest fundraisers. These candidates compete by hosting a variety of events – ranging from sing-offs to orchid auctions. Every single dollar raised counts as a vote towards the candidate that banks it, with the two biggest takers crowned at a Coronation Ball that typically precedes the major events of Fantasy Fest.
This year features four new individuals making a go for the titles.
In the category of “Queen” are candidates Cindy Bensen and Mina Valdez. Bensen had already visited the island multiple times when her husband’s new job offer prompted a permanent relocation. The two love being on the water and are avid anglers who instantly fell in love with the area. While Bensen had never been involved in a prior campaign, someone else’s urging made her consider it.
“I have a friend who said to me one day — ‘Cindy, there will always be obligations in your life that will stop you from following your dream, but it is time for you to make the difference and follow your passion for the animals.” Bensen had been involved with the animal shelter since moving to the island.
Valdez, a first-generation “conch,” and “island girl” grew up immersed in her family’s Cuban and Honduran culture.
“My love for Key West is not just something I say,” she explained. “It is part of who I am. It’s in the stories passed down, the traditions I grew up with, and the island spirit that shaped me from the very beginning.”
Running for “Queen” was admittedly not in the plans. An upcoming milestone birthday pushed her to consider the challenge and celebrate life, laughter, and community.
In the “King” category, Floyd “Pepa Mahogany” Jenkins and Joe Wooten will face off. Jenkins, an executive assistant to the Key West Police Chief, relocated to Key West years ago for work and the island’s ideal settings. He remembers actively doodling oceans, dolphins, and other tropical themes throughout his childhood. In a sense, Jenkins thinks he manifested the move.
What really pushed him to start considering the idea of running more seriously were the people who approached him saying they thought he would present strongly. He added that this was not about a crown or title, but an extension of what he has already been doing. This was about using the platform to raise awareness and support the Florida Keys SPCA to make a lasting impact.
Finally, Joe Wooten, has called Key West his home for about a decade. The friendly bartender previously served in the Marine Corps in the infantry, eventually becoming a Staff Sergeant. Now, the bartender can frequently be found serving drinks at popular downtown spots.
Wooten has already previewed what will likely become one his most popular events, his half-funny half-raunchy fundraising car wash that sometimes happens right off of Duval. His involvement in the community has also included “Tats for Tatas,” hosted annually at the bar Tattoos and Scars for the nonprofit Womankind.
Candidates deliver opening musical and comedic numbers at the annual kickoff and assemble teams comprising treasurers, campaign managers, and volunteers for working the various events.
As Jennifer Rockford, FKSPCA Director of Development said, support basically comes down to the types of events each candidate holds and how that event reads to locals and visitors alike.
“Everybody in Key West likes to have fun – whether visiting or residing here full time - and they’re certainly going to have it by attending these events.”
