Representatives from the Selection Committee of the National Registry of Historic Crime Places have announced their choice of Don’s Place as the Finalist for 2012. Citing “a service to the community, above and beyond normal commerce, as the first stop for local bank robbers”—the second being the Monroe County Correctional Center on Stock Island.
It seems the would-be Dillingers take their Keys life to heart and can’t resist downing a margarita or four to celebrate successful heists. “Sometimes, they head over to the titty bar,” explained Don’s manager Jill, “but always get 86’d. So it’s back here, where they have some ‘friends’ to impress. Not too bright, like them waving $100 bills around—and never leaving a tip.”
And speaking of tips, local detectives don’t need informants to know where to get their man. “Bank robbers are drawn like flies to a light—you think the word would get out—but evidently not. Maybe they like the atmosphere”
Buy that may all change once City Council members dedicate the Registry’s Official Plaque next month. Perhaps a large bronze on the door listing Don’s Place as participating in the FBI “Junior G-Man” program will send the robbers packing. Or at least encourage them to tip better.