We don't know if Hurricane Debbie's going to do Duval or not. But if you're reading this on
Thursday, you know that Key West The
Newspaper published one day early to get out of the way of the lady if
she decides to call. We'll be back on our regular Friday publication schedule next week.
Florida Keys Community College is holding registration for fall term at all three campus locations:
Key West, Marathon and Coral Shores. Classes are scheduled to officially begin today, Thursday,
August 24th. However college administrators are keeping a close watch on Hurricane Debby and will notify
the public if campuses are closed. Students are advised to call the college's main phone line at
305-296-9081 for information, and to tune into US1 Radio for further updates. There are many courses still open.
Students may walk in Monday-friday from 8:30am-4pm and on Wednesdays until 7pm.
In preparation for Hurricane Debby, the Key West Police Department has implemented its emergency management operations plan. The plan works in conjunction with the City of Key West's overall plan. Steps taken include moving the department's patrol cars, trucks, motorcycles, and a boat on a trailer, to secure areas. Some of these, and city vehicles, will use the Park `n Ride garage.
Police are reviewing their emergency traffic plan in case evacuation is ordered.
The department yesterday moved into a schedule adjusted to accommodate police department employees' need to prepare their families and homes for the storm, while continuing to provide around-the-clock police presence. Twelve-hour shifts may begin early Friday morning, depending on what Hurricane Debby does.
Meanwhile, Key West public works employees are busy putting up hurricane shutters and securing city buildings.
The Key West Emergency Operations Center has been opened with a skeleton crew. It may be fully staffed late Thursday. The city's hot line number is 292-8301.