INTRODUCING…
February 28, 2020
The Cedar Key News has what it hopes will continue to endure as a new column entitled “Introducing….” The concept is Linda Dale’s, long time Cedar Key resident and Cedar Key Historical Society docent.
Dale's second in the series features a quiet Cedar Key person; she hopes you know him, but in case you do not, study the picture; you may well have seen him around. Rix has been integral to the design and construction of many buikldings and homes in Cedar Key.
Do, enjoy.
INTRODUCING Maurice "MOOSE' RIX...
1. What brought your family to Cedar Key? When was that?
In 1993 I came to Cedar Key to build a house for someone that I had worked for in Naples, then returned by request to remodel a home for a special person who had liked my work and asked if I was interested in doing so. Loved it and said I'm staying.
2. Tell us about your native American background.
My father's mother was 50% Potawatame and was from the Michigan area. I was told it was the only Indian tribe that never fought against the white man. They have a reservation in Wisconsin on the west side of the state.
3. As a builder you set a high standard for yourself, what inspires you?
The reward is in seeing the finished product, and to know that it was built to endure and to the best it can be done. Experience in the trade shows good work or shoddy work, band aids fall off. Also customer appreciation is very satisfying, and, heartbreaking when they are not happy.
4. Seems your cooking expertise rivals your talent as a contractor, any other 'hidden" talents?
Hopefully people can see that I am an honest, caring person to people I respect and if needed just call and I will be there if I can.
5. What is your favorite meal to prepare and enjoy?
Stuffed pork chops, baked redfish and fried oysters and shrimp.
6. I understand you were once mistaken for Burt Reynolds and it almost started a riot. How did you react to that?
Not too sure about this event, but I once was eating in a restaurant in Chapel Hill, North Carolina and the waiter said I looked like Clark Gable and HE was a dead ringer for Mick Jagger - some 20 years ago.
7. There is a large, tall house in Cedar Key you built almost single handed. How in the world did you accomplish that?
I was able to teach a couple of local guys to do what I needed and if you know how it goes together it works, one step at a time.
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