So that you are able to go to the store to get your sequestered supplies (toilet paper included), there are about 97 people in Florida, who face risk of all kinds before anyone - that’s our state’s Harbor Pilots. Laura DiBella, the executive director of the Florida Harbor Pilots Association, explains that every foreign flag vessel, by law, has to have a harbor pilot safely bring those ships into Florida ports. These brave men and women have to go out to sea to meet vessels coming from all over the world, 24/7/365 – rain or shine and, yes, pandemic included. The pilots she calls the “first responders of the blue economy,” help get ships to port to continue the economic supply chain, while protecting the environment, guiding ships through ripping currents, sand bars and other marine hazards – and all at no expense to taxpayers. DiBella was just 4 months into her new job when the coronavirus issue began. For the first time, her association has had to work with nearly all Florida Department sectors at the same time in an effort to keep all 97 pilots safe and secure in the disruption of cruise and cargo. For more, visit FloridaPilots.com. DiBella is pictured along with Les on the “Lunch With Les” telephone line.
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