RIP Mike "Jetsetter" Jones

I don't know if anyone has posted this elsewhere, but I think it deserves its own post. Back in the day, "JETSETTER" (as he was known on TC) was a major presence and (I'm sure he hated this word) "influencer."

This is what James Teitelbaum wrote about his short-lived but influential Jetsetter Lounge ...

On TC, whenever he promoted his venue and events, it was as loud as his over-the-top style, usually starting with his catchphrase "CALLING ALL HIPSTERS, TIKIPHILES, SWANKSTERS, LOUNGE LIZARDS, ULTRA-MODS, AND OTHER JETSETTERS ..."

It was a shock to learn of Mike's passing from his daughter recently on Facebook ...

I was honored to know Mike and work with him at The Hukilau and events at the Mai-Kai ...

Here's my tribute. If anyone has photos or memories, please share!

Sadly, the Florida Tiki community has lost a trendsetter as well as a jetsetter. Mike "Jetsetter" Jones leaves a lasting influence even greater than his larger-than-life personality. From around 2006 to 2016, Mike was a dynamo, operating his own bar/restaurant (Jetsetter Lounge in Lake Worth) for two years, hosting his own event (Mod Miami), then transforming into the world's swankiest DJ. You might have seen him at The Hukilau, The Mai-Kai, or numerous other events over the years. Mike lost a battle with lung cancer and, we presume, is now hosting the hippest party in the afterlife. Okole maluna, my friend!

Sad news, indeed; although I never had the pleasure of meeting him, I had heard a lot about Mike's fervent generosity and his love for the genre. I'm not a spiritual person myself, but I hope he's at rest and that his family are comforted in this time...I have lost many friends and family to the Big C, and it's indeed devastating.

Rob