PAPA JOE'S Islamorada Florida Keys

09/11/2025

WE will never forget. 🇺🇸 In memory of all who lost their lives on that September morning 24 years ago, and for the many lost in the days since who suffered post-9/11 illnesses.

“When Americans lend a hand to one another, nothing is impossible. We’re not about what happened on 9/11. We’re about what happened on 9/12.” — Jeff Parness

09/08/2025

Who else remembers when they built the Metro Rail in the 80”s?

The Metrorail under construction in Miami in the early 1980s

Photo courtesy of the State Library and Archives of Florida

09/02/2025

✈️🇺🇸 Honoring Our Legacy in the Skies 🇺🇸✈️

I am a proud member of the Capital Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, carrying forward the stories of courage, sacrifice, and service that shaped our nation.

On this day, I remember George H.W. Bush, who at just 20 years old flew the Grumman TBM Avenger in combat during WWII. His bravery reminds us that the defense of freedom has always relied on ordinary Americans rising to extraordinary challenges.

This legacy also lives in my family. My father, George Gehrkens, served as Chief Engineer for North American Aviation and contributed to some of America’s most iconic aircraft — including the F-86 Sabre jet, A-5 Vigilante, P-51 Mustang, and OV-10 Bronco. These aircraft carried our nation’s pilots into the skies of history and stood as symbols of innovation and freedom.

From the decks of carriers in the Pacific to the runways of the Cold War and beyond, this heritage of service and ingenuity endures. As part of the Commemorative Air Force, I honor all who have flown, served, and sacrificed — and I pledge to keep their stories alive for generations to come.

09/02/2025

🌴 Florida Keys Life Moment 🌴

Had the pleasure of catching up with my good friend Dr. Bob Foley while in Key West. An incredible retired veterinarian, Dr. Bob has given so much of his life to caring for animals and our community here in the Keys. 🐾💙

The Florida Keys are full of unique people and stories — and Dr. Bob is truly one of the treasures that make this place special.

Here’s to friends, legacy, and the island spirit that connects us all. 🌅

KEYS LIFE

09/01/2025

This Labor Day, we honor the workers, dreamers, and builders who keep the American spirit alive. 🇺🇸🌅 From the docks of the Florida Keys to every corner of this country, hard work and perseverance light the way forward.

At Papa Joe’s of Islamorada, we stand firm in defending not just a name, but a legacy — proof that truth, justice, and the Constitution still matter.

Enjoy this day of rest and reflection, and know that the fight for fairness and freedom continues — right here in the Keys. ⚖️✨

08/16/2025

🌴✨ A Glimpse Back in Time ✨🌴

Whale Harbor, Florida Keys — circa 1960 🐠⚓
(Photo courtesy of Florida Keys Public Libraries)

The Florida Keys have always been a place where history, ocean, and community come together. From the old seafood houses and fishing boats to today’s island traditions, our heritage is what makes the Keys unforgettable.

Papa Joe’s of Islamorada is proud to continue that legacy — celebrating the flavors, stories, and spirit of the Keys for generations. 💙🌊

Whale Harbor in the Florida Keys in 1960

Photo courtesy of Florida Keys Public Libraries

08/14/2025

ThrowbackThursday ✈️🏛️
A glimpse into Old Key West — the magnificent Gothic Revival Old City Hall stood proudly at the corner of Greene Street and Whitehead Street, serving as a hub for civic life in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Overhead, a majestic rigid airship glides through the Florida Keys sky — a rare sight in our island’s history, long before modern aviation took hold.

📸 Photo courtesy of the Monroe County Library Collection.

Photo courtesy of the Monroe County Library collection.

08/11/2025

Only in the Florida Keys! 🌊⚓
We love seeing our waters cared for and protected. Hats off to Monroe County and FWC for this incredible work — removing a 96-foot derelict submarine is no small task! Efforts like these keep our community safe, our waterways beautiful, and our Keys spirit alive. 💙

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08/09/2025

Knew all of them well!!!

Today, as the new Pape Joe’s Restaurant celebrates a highly successful first year, we want to flashback to a picture taken in the old Pape Joe’s establishment. Pictured are fishing guide legends (L-R): Jimmie Albright, Cecil Keith, and Jack Brothers. The beautiful lady between Jimmie and Cecil is Angie Lucas.

07/22/2025