Voices of History
The following individuals have generously donated their time and talents to help bring a professional quality to the Voices of Historic Markers Phone Tour. We thank each of them for their generosity and enthusiasm in supporting Key West History.
Kelly Friend
Born and raised in Key West, Kelly Friend is a 7th generation Conch. Her family dates back to 1820, the year Admiral Perry raised the American flag in Key West. Her great grandmother saw the first train arrive in Key West in 1912 and her grandmother survived the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane by hailing one of the last trains from Plantation Key to Key West. Stories passed down from mother to daughter, Kelly learned that her fourth-great-grandfather shipwrecked in 1870 and never returned to Belgium; instead he stayed in town and married his new Key West sweetheart. Currently, Kelly is the owner of Audio Video in Paradise and resides near Solares Hill in Old Town.
Mary McEllister
Mary has been a part of Key West since 1980, beginning as a tourist, and now spending half her year in Paradise. She loves working at Fast Buck Freddie's on Duval, playing tennis at 1800 Atlantic, sunning by the pool, enjoying the many fine restaurants on the island, asz well as voicing radio commercials all over North America and around the world. As a matter of fact, if you are ever in Dubai, staying at the Burj Al Arab Hotel, you'll hear her pleasant voice in the elevator as you ride up the tallest hotel in the world. The friendly people, great weather and easy-going attitude of Key West make her a very happy camper! We know her enthusiasm speaks for itself.
Dick Williams
Dick Williams is a 50 year veteran of Radio and Television. He's worked in major markets in both The U.S.A. and Canada. In the last decade, he's devoted his time to Voice Over Radio and TV commercials which air all over North America. He's heard on XM Sirius Radio around the globe, as well as Armed Forces Radio. Dick loves Key West and enjoys working from his fully-equipped digital studio in Old Town. Recognizing the unique place this island plays in Global History, and celebrating the diversity of Key West, he is proud to let you know more about the history that abides on our small and unique island.