NOTE TO THE CEDAR KEY COMMUNITY
By Doug Lindhout, Cedar Key Chamber of Commerce Board
2023 SEPTEMBER 8
Hurricane Idalia brought various hardships to all of us, including destruction, grief, fear, stress, and a sense of helplessness. There was also anxiety and trauma, as well as inconvenience and more. But amidst it all, there was thankfulness and relief - for what was spared and for the lives that endured. We mourn the losses while cherishing what remains, and we're deeply appreciative of the overwhelming support our island has received.
Despite downtown flooding, the Chamber’s Welcome Center miraculously escaped damage. Even our 17-year-old AC system is still going strong! This allowed us to turn the building into a vital community hub for support groups serving CK residents and businesses. The Center offered a stable and private place for FEMA, Senator Rubio’s staff, and Congresswoman Kat Cammack’s staff.
Since Wednesday, after the bridges were declared safe, and as you read this, the Welcome Center has been consistently utilized as a resource for the community. It has four rooms available for people to meet with representatives in a tranquil, semi-private setting to discuss their situations.
Though it may seem small, the Center provided a taste of "normalcy." The front office was set up with our regular décor and furniture, and the temperature was kept comfortable. It was a refuge from the chaos outside - a place where, if only for a short while, one could focus on something else in a calm setting. We witnessed stress levels dropping as people entered.
We understand that not everyone could make it to the Center. Here's some contact information for your convenience:
- FEMA is now stationed in the parking lot across from the fire station. They plan to set up a disaster command center there in a few days. This will be a spacious, air-conditioned tent with amenities like water and wifi. They expect to be there for several weeks. The command center will also host the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Small Business Development Center (SBDC) groups, each offering various loan options for personal and business needs.
- Senator Rubio’s office: Matthew Dews, Deputy Regional Director, (904) 354-4300, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
- Congresswoman Kat Cammack’s office: Hallie Mallard, (352) 505-0838 [main], (352) 727-1381 [cell], This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Both of these offices are ready to assist you if you encounter any issues with FEMA or other government programs.
We at the Chamber deeply appreciate the unwavering support of our entire community. While we all relish the Chamber-sponsored celebrations, such as fireworks and the Christmas tree lighting, we take equal pride in offering a haven for service providers and resources during times of necessity. Please stop by for a visit. Meanwhile, and more importantly, please continue to support your family, friends, and our local businesses.
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