Marathon Florida Keys Journal
_{City of Marathon, Florida Keys, Paradise}

Volume 12 † Issue 4 † April 2006
[In The Keys] [Kitty Talk] [Internet Stuff] [Poetry Corner]
[Hockey Puck] [Twins of the Dark Star] [The Dull Stuff]

Marathon Florida Keys Journal proudly presents our 12^th year of quality publishing services and continues to focus on the Florida Keys. The lead article is the In The Keys section that offers opinions and even some editorializing. There are also articles concerning the local political beat. These articles may be published in other media outlets. They might edit them to suit their needs. The most popular part of the magazine is still Kitty Talk. We appreciate your visit and patronage. Please enjoy yourself while here and come back soon!

In The Keys {for current news, see our Daily News Queue}
~Some articles have photos, go to http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.~

~Acronyms are explained after the last article in this section.~

City of Marathon City Council Runoff Election Results: April 11th, with 5 precincts reporting 100% of the votes cast of 1,442 out of 6,498 total registered voters, the following results are reported: Marilyn Tempest won Seat 2 with 726 votes [50.35%] to Don Vasil's 716 votes [49.65%]. There were 98 absentee votes and 360 early votes. Tempest only won Precincts 20 [Kirk of the Keys Polling Place] and [Moose Lodge Polling Place] 21. Seat 2 was won by only 10 vote. This was one of the closest races in recent memory. If the margin of victory had been 1 vote less, an automatic recount would have been triggered. So 1 vote DOES count! Congratulations to Marilyn Tempest and Don Vasil for running such a spirited race.

The Marathon City Council met February 28th at the Government Center. The first agenda item was Mayor John Bartus presentation of the Seagrass Awareness Month Proclamation.

City Manager Mike Puto’s reported included a presentation of the improved city website. Executive Plans Coordinator Rose Ann Hightower did the presentation. She also got approval to allow CGI Communications to produce a website welcome video. The service would be provided free.

Deputy City Manager C. J. Geotis then reported about the contracted study results of the city’s pay structure. He recommended adopting the recommendations. Specifically, some employees will get a bit more money based on their jobs and tenure. The new pay structure will help retain valuable city employees.

Geotis also made a report on the options regarding Boot Key Bridge improvements, replacement, or closing. After some discussion among the council, there was no good option. Councilman Jeff Pinkus will work with Geotis to investigate possibly getting Federal money.

The City Manager’s request to extend the permitting fee waiver deadline for homes damaged by the recent hurricanes was approved.

Mike Puto announced that the Sombrero Beach Road wastewater/stormwater project bid was being advertised now.

Puto reported that city consultant Pat McNeese would submit the results of her study on the listed properties affected by the FEMA court case to the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service by the middle of March.

The City Manager reported that their first check from the gas tax was received in the amount of $289,000.

Councilwoman Mearns will work with staff and Grassy Key Beach Resort owner Mark Mathena to mitigate requirements for his redevelopment.

Mayor Bartus upon hearing about the condition of 2nd Avenue volunteered to look into fixing the problems.

Resolution 2006-031 approved the current rankings of the Non-Residential Permit Allocation System (NROGO).

Resolution 2006-016 approved what is essentially a moratorium on developing or changing the land use of mobile home parks as defined by Florida Statute Chapter 723. The moratorium ends when applicable Land Development Regulations (LDRs) are developed or 270 days end, whichever comes first.

Resolution 2006-021 would have contracted with the Four Gates Co. to implement the Marina Siting Plan. The council decided to ask Keith and Schnars if such work would be covered under the scope of the current contract.

Resolution 2006-026 adopted the third amendment to a legislative consulting services contract with Barreto, Cunningham, May, Dudly, and Maloy.

Council appointed Steve Williams to replace Robert Maison on the Planning Commission.

The top three ranked construction manager applicants will make presentations starting at 6 PM before the March 9th City Council meeting.

The Marathon City Council held a special call Land Development Regulations [LDRs] meeting March 1st at the Garden Club. The crowd was largely real estate, developers, agents of same, and city council candidates.

Several citizens spoke to the council about their concerns. John Whalton wanted the ability to replace mobile homes with mobile homes. Rick Servais criticized Keith and Schnars, the contractors working on LDRs along with city staff. Joanie Nelson wanted the process to go faster to protect the Jolly Roger Travel Park residents. Morgan Hill was worried that the city would miss the July 7th deadline with the Florida Department of Community Affairs.

The council authorized the City Manager, Mike Puto, to sign permit applications for Florida Department of Environmental wastewater/stormwater or water reuse.

Planning Director Gail Kenson and Keith and Schnars contractor Debbie Love presented the staff and contractor versions of the Transfer of Building Rights [TBR] ordinance.

This ordinance’s purpose and intent is “… for the transfer of existing lawfully established Dwelling Units, Transient Units, and Commercial Floor Area from their existing location to other locations in the City.” The city is trying to reduce excessive density, provide alternatives to the Building Permit Allocation System [BPAS], eliminate inconsistent uses, encourage revitalizations of the city’s commercial centers, protect environmentally sensitive land, protect existing affordable housing, and provide for new affordable housing.

The devil is in the details though. Council, staff, and the public were all concerned about unintended consequences. After a long discussion including public input, the council decided to send both versions back to staff and contractor to merge the two documents. The new draft ordinance should be ready for the next regularly scheduled council meeting.

The Marathon City Council Candidate Forum was held March 2nd at the Government Center. The Keynoter and Monroe County Television sponsored this event.

The moderator was The Keynoter publisher Wayne Markham. The media panelists were The Keynoter reporter David Ball, US 1 Radio personality Bill Becker, and The Marathon Free Press reporter Adam Karlin.

Seat 1 candidate incumbent Bob Miller was pitted against former councilman Pete Worthington. The questions ranged from people friendly staff and government to city hall locations. In our opinion Bob Miller handily won this debate. Pete Worthington only won a few points.

Seat 2 candidate Joanie Nelson, Marilyn Tempset, and Don Vasil answered the same set of questions with a few exceptions. Some of their questions involved perceived incorporation failures to eminent domain concerns. Nelson didn’t score any points whatsoever. Marilyn Tempest narrowly won the debate over Don Vasil.

Seat 5 candidate incumbent Chris Bull debated Kevin Woodland. Their questions included recreation issues and affordable housing. This debate was a complete failure for Woodland. Surprisingly Chris Bull won every question and has come a long way from his first two years on council.

Thanks to the candidates, The Keynoter, and Monroe County Television for hosting this very interesting set of debates. Now please vote early or on March 14th. If you fail to exercise your vote, you cut yourself off from the process. Please vote!

The Marathon Land Acquisition Advisory Committee met March 9th at the city hall conference room. All members were present with Derrick Johnson on conference call. Beth Bergh, Wendy Dyer, and Gail Kenson were from city staff. Frank Greenman joined the committee a bit late.

There was a long discussion on whether or not to set a percentage for environmental and affordable housing lots. The committee decided to discuss this, when the land acquisition list is more detailed. They didn’t want to limit their opportunities. The committee wanted to keep their flexibility.

The next item was consideration of an Islamorada type of land acquisition resolution. The committee wanted the process streamlined to decrease the time and effort to nominate properties. The forms were good though. They wanted legal to review such a resolution.

In talking about grant opportunities and other sources of money, the committee directed staff to keep Monroe County Land Authority’s Mark Rosch informed. Another revenue source could possibly be from the Florida Forever Program and the Florida Community Trust Grant.

While reviewing a potential list of properties, Frank Greenman nominated 3 lots for affordable housing. The committee approved this and scheduled a special call meeting at 5 PM on March 14th to discuss this and other items in more detail.

The Marathon City Council met a half hour early March 9th at the Government Center. The early item was to listen to presentations from construction 3 management firms for a city construction manager.

President Ed Parker Jr. of Biltmore Construction made a presentation. He also answered council member questions. Vice President Brian Morris of URS Construction Services made their pitch. Carrie Sanchez would be the construction manager, if that firm were picked. They answered council questions. Owner Bill Sprague of E. W. Sprague made his presentation. He answered some council questions. Council ranked the above firms with Sprague first, Biltmore second, and URS third.

City Manager Mike Puto requested a Wastewater Special Call City Council meeting be scheduled. City Project Manager Susie Thomas explained the meeting would be to discuss assessment methodology and make some other decisions. A meeting was scheduled March 21st at the Sheriff’s Hangar training room at 6:30 PM.

Deputy City Manager C. J. Geotis gave an update on the Boot Key Bridge problems. Councilman Jeff Pinkus and Geotis talked with Joe Nascone, owner of the radio station complex. Several studies are being or have been done. All the options are being explored in depth. A final dollar number should be determined within 30 days.

Council waived the special event permit fee for Request Relay for Life being held this weekend at Switlik Elementary School. The special event permit fee was also waived for the Cystic Fibrosis Walkathon.

Weiler Engineer Ed Castle gave a wastewater update. Surveying continues. Planning is almost completed. Some designs have been completed. Permitting has started. Mandatory pre-bid meeting is scheduled for March 21st. City Project Manager Susie Thomas explained how wastewater, stormwater, and reuse infrastructure would be done before FDOT repaves Sombrero Beach Road. Council wanted to be able to do this citywide.

Colonel Rick Ramsey from the Sheriff’s Department presents the city a check of $80415.87 that accrued from careful management of funds. Mayor John Bartus accepted the check on behalf of the city.

Under citizen’s comments one Sean Cannon who lives across from the Marathon High School construction complained about Heery Construction noise. Mike Puto will take action.

Christopher Boyle, Smorgasboat owner, announced his website address of http://www.smorgasboat.com. He thanked them for all their help in keeping him operational.

City Council Candidate Joanie Nelson commended TLC Claude and Erma, but she did not know their last name. She then proceeded to bash Pritham Singh. She apologized to Jim Rhyne, who allowed her campaign sign on his property. She had previously railed at him for getting right of way to his property from the city.

George Steinman talked about a boat ramp at Harbor Drive. He suggested that the city purchase the property adjacent to the ramp to increase parking and other services for the boat ramp. Council discussed the possibility. Staff will investigate.

City Council disapproved a variance regulating minimum side yard for property at 958 East 105th Street. The applicant was requesting a variance to intrude the 10-foot side yard setback. Staff and Planning Commission recommended approval. The lot was buildable without a variance though. The problem can be fixed with zoning districts to encourage improvement in each community.

City Council disapproved a variance regulating minimum side yard for another property at 960 East 105th Street. The applicant was requesting a variance from the minimum side yard established in City Code Section 9.5-28 1 (a) for principal structures. Staff and Planning Commission recommended approval. Again, the lot was buildable without a variance. The problem can be fixed with zoning districts to encourage improvement in each community. Marilyn Tempest spoke about how the city needs to get people out of trailers before the next series of hurricanes.

Resolution 2006-021 authorized the City Manager to enter into an agreement with the Four Gates Company to implement the Marina Siting Plan, cost not to exceed $33,470. City Land Stewart Beth Bergh made a presentation. Keith and Schnars Eric Silva reported to City Manager Puto that the Marina Siting Plan is not covered by their contract.

Resolution 2006-025 approved a second amendment to City Manager Mike Puto’s contract. Extended the time of the contract to October 31, 2006, but no raise.

Resolution 2006-030 authorized the City Manager and the City Attorney to enter into negotiations with E. W. Sprague for construction management services citywide.

Resolution 2006-032 approved a project agreement with Weiler Engineering Corporation for engineering and construction oversight for the improvements at Coco Plum Beach for $14,500. The project would include composting toilets, parking improvements, and a boardwalk. The City of Marathon wished to make improvements to the beach at Coco Plum. Weiler Engineering will assist the City in the design, permitting, and construction administration of the above improvements.

Resolution 2006-033 approved a Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to fund amenities for the Community Park and Marina for $200,000. The grant money would be used for baseball field renovation, tennis court improvements, floating docks, mooring buoys, boardwalk construction, parking improvements, and restroom/shower construction.

Resolution 2006-034 approved the purchase of 2 new ambulances from Elite Fire and Safety Inc for $353,900.

Resolution 2006-035 approved the purchase of 2 new pumper truckers from Ten 8 Fire Equipment for $697,723.

Resolution 2006-036 established the policy that all applications for building permit allocations after March 13th will be automatically converted to the Building Permit Allocation System.

CGI Communications agreement to produce a welcome video on the city website was reviewed.

John Bartus has been our councilman all six years of the city’s existence and is being termed out. He has been mayor twice and one of our best mayors. John is the face of Marathon and has served the citizens in an exemplary manner. John loves and cares for the city and its citizens. We hope that this is not the last time we see John as our mayor. Until then, we bid farewell to our Mayor. Thanks, John!

The Florida Keys Airport Task Force met March 10th at the airport departure lounge.

Monroe County Commissioner David Rice welcomed all the attendees. He introduced several elected officials from Marathon, Key Colony Beach, and Key West. He then introduced Joel Cortez, representing Continental Gulfstream. Commissioner Rice then reported that Delta is apparently “keenly interested” in providing regional jet service to the middle keys.

Monroe County Airport Director Peter Horton and Boyd Group contractor Mike Mooney updated the task force on the progress of attracting airlines to the Florida Keys Airport. Mike reported on negotiations. Delta is very interested. US Airways out of Phoenix is interested if they can’t start a Key West to Fort Lauderdale to Charlotte route.

Peter reported on the Gulfstream contact, which was negotiated over the last 3 months. The revenue guarantee to Gulfstream would be $300,000. The airline would have no rent, landing fees, or utility costs. If Delta signs on later, that would help both airlines succeed. Tourist Development Council would fund advertising and promotions.

Several task force members and attendees from the public asked a series of questions, which were answered mostly by Mike Mooney. Peter Horton chimed in to answer some questions as well.

The next meeting was scheduled for May 19th at the airport departure lounge at 1:30 PM.

The Middle Keys Community Land Trust held its regular board meeting March 13th at the City Hall Conference Room.

Treasure Josh Mothner gave his report. He provided some details in the follow-up to the last financial audit.

Family Selection Committee Chairman Bill Daniels reported on their screening of 13 applicants that had passed the first screening and qualification process. Four applicants were picked and ranked based on several factors including residency, income, credit, need, membership, and household size. Although this is a very difficult process, those not screened were encouraged to wait for the approximately 27 units the Land Trust hopes to build this year.

Administrator Rick Casey and Director Larry Shaffer provided an update on the Overseas Village Home Owners Association.

The Land Trust won a grant to help provide workforce housing in Marathon and Islamorada. Monroe County State Housing Initiatives Partnership [SHIP] Local Housing Assistance Plan sent the Land Trust a commitment letter to help with funding in the Islamorada Wood's Corner project.

Rick Casey updated the board on the Islamorada Motel project.

Dave Purdo was appointed to fill a board vacancy until the next annual meeting. He along with six others were nominated for the board for the election of board members to be held at that annual meeting. The annual meeting was scheduled for March 29th at 6:30 PM at the Overseas Village Unit 4.

The meeting closed with discussion of the lease-to-purchase option. Generally, the board felt that the current programs were working and viewed the lease-to-purchase option negatively in general.

The Marathon Election Canvassing Board met March 14th at 5:PM at the government center. Belinda Brown is the Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Marathon representative. She handled the entire process from absentee ballots to early voting results to precinct results. The Election Canvassing Board is comprised of all those Marathon City Council members not standing for election, which, in this case, were Jeff Pinkus, Marjie Mearns, and John Bartus. Marathon City Clerk Cindy Ecklund was involved as well. A photo gallery is available for a short period of time at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

At 5 PM, 98 absentee votes were counted. 174 additional votes were early voting, which were tallied in the precinct results. Precinct results came in a bit after 7 PM. The total results were faxed to Key West. The report that came back constituted the officials results. The table below lists the 2006 City of Marathon Election Results. 1,912 votes were cast out of the total registered voters of 6,461 for a 29.6% turnout.

This one is very important for everyone who has children [March 17th] or knows children. It's a really great site that you input your address into to find people who harm children in your neighborhood. It also, if you click on the colored boxes will allow you to see their address, their picture and what they did to protect you and your children. Blessings and keep em safe! Jaci

Okay, here's the deal... enter an address... it will show a house, that's yours... all the little colored boxes are Sex
Offenders...

Click on them and you get a name & picture of the person along with his crime... pretty amazing and scary... you can zoom in also...It also shows where the schools and playgrounds are.

Pass this on to your friends and family who have children or your family members who are teenagers so they can see the faces of the people who live in their area and protect themselves if you aren't around. .

http://www12.familywatchdog.us

To a better day in every way - Jaci Rae - The Rae of Hope http://www.jacirae.com

© 2006 Jaci Rae

The Day After St. Patty's Day saw an array of interesting events. March 18th opened with Larry Shaffer, a director of the Land Trust, taking over for President Debbie Love at the Middle Keys Community Land Trust booth at the annual Seafood Festival at the airport. The Land Trust shared a tent donated by First State Bank with FIRM, which stands for Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe. Tamara Lundstrom, another Land Trust director, relieved Larry for the last shift of the day.

On the FIRM side, Marilyn Tempest, runoff candidate for Marathon City Council, helped at their booth. Their website is http://www.fairinsuranceratesinmonroe.com, where everything you want to know about FIRM resides.

Taking a break from the Seafood Festival, we stopped at the Two Scoops store on the corner of US1 and 91st Street. The ice cream was delicious. We will take photos and do a review for the upcoming April edition.

The exciting day closed out with the world-famous St. Patty's Day party at the Casey's. Irish favors, food, and drink under the stars. Good conversation and fun was had by everyone at this fantastic party of shamrocks.

Two Scoops Ice Cream & Sandwiches was a great find, while returning from the Seafood Festival March 18th. It is now March 25th. This is the article that we promised. You can find photos of this quaint and charming corner store at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. These photos will be there only for a couple of months or so.

The small mom-and-pop business was clean and well organized. The staff was courteous and quite friendly. We got a refrigerator magnet that listed the address at 9071 Overseas Highway right across from the Florida Keys Airport in Marathon.

While we were there enjoying delicious ice cream, business was brisk even though the crowds were all at the Seafood Festival. Is there a line running out the door, when there are not other activities in town? We wonder.

Two Scoops serve specialty sandwiches of which the Cuban mix is the most popular. This unique service also delivers. They are open Monday through Saturday 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. You can call them at (305) 743-9400.

The prices are low, and the portions large. Daily specials offer 20% discounts for local bank employees on Monday, local Office Depot and Home Depot employees on Tuesday, all local keys residents on Wednesday, Monroe County School employees on Thursday, and local utility and government employees on Friday. Students on the honor roll get a break as well.

The March 20th Planning Commission meeting went off early at 5 PM due to a large agenda. We didn't send a reporter, because the City Council will make all final decisions. The effort would be duplicated. The importance of the Planning Commission is actually very little. There are more interesting things to do. If you want to know what the Marathon Planning Commission considered, go to the city website at http://www.marathonflorida.org/ and click on the Planning Commission Agenda link.

The Overseas Village Home Owners Association Board of Directors met March 27th at Unit #4. The short meeting served to put out community information and make minor decisions on several issues.

A treasurer's report was presented and accepted. The status of Unit #4 sale was reported.

Several items were approved for a special association meeting of the full membership next month.

Other action items were discussed, including fence repairs, website updates, and the front gate locking system. The website is located at http://www.mkclt.org/ovhoa/. The next meeting will be held on the third Monday of April.

The Marathon City Council met at the government center March 28th.

Resolution 2006-043 accepted the March 14th city election results. Councilman Miller spoke about his thanks and accepted the warm applause. Mayor Bartus said that the city owed him a great deal of thanks for his long service. Chris Bull and Pete Worthington were sworn in as council members for new terms.

Pete Worthington thanked his supporters. Chris Bull thanked his supporters, not easy to be an incumbent. He then said let’s “get back to work!”

Mayor Bartus presented a city proclamation for Water Conservation Month to Cecelia Weaver and Jane Tallman.

City Manager Mike Puto received approval for an agreement with Camp Adventure Youth Services summer camp program for $17,850.

The council gave approval to the manager to dispose of city assets, namely the marina gulf cart damaged during the hurricane adventures.

City Clerk gave a Relay for Life update. The city came in 3rd place with $101,318. “Staff did a phenomenal job,” Mike Puto said.

Project Manager Susie Thomas updated the progress on Phase II Community Park. A temporary certificate of occupancy was obtained so that the park can be open, except for the amphitheatre. The city is waiting on the on amphitheatre warranty work before scheduling a grand opening.

Puto request that council members research their board appointments for the April 10th meeting.

Councilman Jeff Pinkus presented the proposal for a community park fence around the amphitheatre area. The May boat race will use the amphitheatre, and a control fence for primarily for security is needed. Pinkus produced proposed drawings. The cost would be under $40,000 paid by Cay Clubs.

Mike Puto explained that Cay Clubs requested a plaque, because they donated the amphitheatre fence. Chris Bull preferred one fence instead of two near US1 and the little lighthouse. Councilwoman Marjie Mearns agreed with Bull. Pinkus was willing to modify the drawing. The council approved the modified fence and placement of a Cay Clubs plaque.

Four Gates contract limited increases to $5,000. Puto asked what about change orders? The council decided that $5,000 was appropriate for that as well.

Council then discussed the Dodge Lake Boat Ramp project near Aviation Boulevard. The change order would cost about $7300. The Keys Constructors owner said that the change order wouldn’t delay the project. Hurricane damage would make the project cost more. Pictures were presented.

Weiler Engineer Mike Hatfield recommended a design evaluation. Project Manager Thomas said that she doesn’t agree with the change order. Peter Rosasco said there was no money to pay for a change order without a trail connecting the original change order to the current change order request. He wanted to send this back to staff to extend the contract so Keys Constructors could get paid. Pinkus moved to extend contract to July 20th with weather days included. Mearns seconded. Approved.

The Near Shore Waters Advisory Committee Chair George Garrett gave a report about the committee.

Marathon Land Steward Beth Bergh gave the Land Acquisition Advisory Board report. The board requested consideration of possibly purchasing the Chinchette 4 parcels along Sombrero Beach Road starting from Sombrero Boulevard, but it is not known if he is a willing seller. Approved.

Dockside owner Rick Servais recommended that the Land Acquisition Advisory Board be allowed to do a complete package of acquisition proposals and bring back to council. City Attorney Morales said that rules were being determined for the board.

The council discussed a swimming pool public referendum. Pinkus requested, “Should City of Marathon construct an aquatic facility?” Bartus wanted the referendum to provide options as choices. Bull agreed with the Mayor. The council decided to wait for Bull to do a business plan and gather more public support monetarily.

The council then talked about City Charter amendments. The two questions most often discussed were term limits being 2, 3, or 4 years and doing away with seat designations to elect at large to avoid runoffs. Staff time would be required, but mostly city attorney work.

Ordinance 2006-04 approved the Transfer of Building Right [TBR]. Planning Director Gail Kenson made the presentation. Planning Commissioner Morgan Hill explained the Planning Commission changes and suggestions. John Wolf was in favor. Brian Schmitt said that this was a compromise between encouraging people to avail them of this and putting workforce housing on the ground as well as preserving same. Debbie Love from Keith & Schnars thanked everyone involved. Pinkus, Bull, Worthington leaned toward more restrictive than commission proposed. Bartus liked the commission’s changes, otherwise this ordinance would not be used for its intended purposes. Bull moved 50% of the value of the TBR vice 20%, Pinkus seconded. Failed 2-2. Worthington moved to reconsider with Bartus voting no. Upon reconsideration the 50% rule passed 3-1. The ordinance then passed 4-0.

Ordinance 2006-05 amended ROGO affordable housing allocations to primarily to permit fractional [.5] allocations, allow more than 20% allocations by council super majority vote, and allow rollover of unused allocations with market rate ones being converted to affordable. The ordinance also set the maximum affordable square footage to 1500 square foot and deed restricted affordable for 50 years.

Ordinance 2006-06 amended the definition of Conditional Redevelopment Units to allow on-site use as an affordable/workforce housing dwelling unit. These are what have been called banked allocations from the density reduction from the use of the hotel/motel ordinance.

Resolutions 2006-038, 039 denied minimum side yard setback variances for Javier A & Ava Rodil plus Gerardo & Maria Rubio in the Palms subdivision. Councilman Worthington requested this to be removed from the consent agenda. Worthington promised to do so during his city council campaign. The council adopted the resolutions to deny. Worthington abstained, because he said that he was not on the original council that heard these requests for variances.

Resolution 2006-040 authorized the city to enter into an agreement with the Federal Highway Administration for reimbursement due to the hurricane damages. The Florida Department of Transportation Emergency Relief Program would pay $11,751,858.33.

Resolution 2006-044 authorized the city manager to create a Public Works Manager position to be paid up to a maximum of $37,125.

Resolution 2006-046 addressed windstorm insurance rates and actions taken to mitigate it.

Resolution 2006-047 addressed the use of Hurricane Reconstruction Sales Tax to relieve the increase in windstorm insurance.

Resolution 2006-048 recommended specific reductions to Citizens Windstorm Insurance rates to reflect actual costs.

Resolution 2006-049 set forth actions to be taken to address windstorm insurance rates.

Resolution 2006-050 published recommendations to the proposed windstorm insurance rate provision legislation to protect affordable rental housing that is not homesteaded.

Avenue K update was provided by Project Manager Susie Thomas. She suggested that to get the neighbors on board before assessing $55,000 each. Option 2 was an easement - build on upland. Option 3 would abandon the road and let the owners do it. It is already too late to do it 2005 and early 2006, because of the time constraints of state rules. The council decided to let Thomas try again with letters to owners. The deadline would have the item back by May 1st to meet deadlines for a special taxing assessment.

Johnson Insurance requested 3 affordable allocations to build 3 units on top of their existing business facility. They would build 2 right away. Approved.

Marathon citizen Joanie Nelson doesn’t want a Community Redevelopment Act [CRA] project. She lives on 46th Street and doesn’t want to be kicked out of her home.

The long meeting adjourned at 11:00 PM.

Press Release [March 28th] submitted by F.I.R.M. Media Spokesperson Teri Johnston. F.I.R.M. forms powerful alliances in windstorm insurance battle.

The grassroots organization fighting to stop unfair and unaffordable windstorm insurance rate, F.I.R.M. – Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe, announced today that they have formed an alliance with the law firm of Hogan & Hartson LLP in Washington, D.C. Patrick M. Raher, partner at Hogan & Hartson offered their lobbying services pro-bono after attending a FIRM public forum meeting in Key West. Raher, F.I.R.M. organizers and local pro-bono counsel Robert Cintron, Jr. from the law firm of Morgan & Hendrick met today to map out their lobbying strategy on Capitol Hill. This alliance will coordinate F.I.R.M.’s efforts with windstorm insurance advocates such as Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. Ros-Lehtinen is co-sponsoring the Homeowners Insurance Availability Act of 2005 (H.R. 846) and the Homeowners Insurance Protection Act of 2005 (H.R. 4366). Both of these bills will establish a Federal reinsurance program to improve the availability of homeowners’ insurance.

Ros-Lehtinen has personally contacted Governor Bush, Florida Senate President Tom Lee, Florida House of Representative Speaker Allan Bense and Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee Michael Oxley requesting action on the pressing issue of windstorm insurance issues. F.I.R.M. has invited the Congresswoman to speak at their upcoming public forum and is awaiting her reply.

F.I.R.M. will also be extending speaking invitations to Attorney General, Charlie Crist and Florida Chief Financial Officer, Tom Gallagher to address this critical windstorm insurance premium topic at a future meeting to be announced.

The Middle Keys Community Land Trust held it annual meeting at the Overseas Village Unit #4 March 29th. Members, the Board, and Officers were introduced by President Debbie Love. Administrator Rick Casey reported the status of various current and future projects and activities.

Love handed out awards to a number of Board Directors for their hard work. Casey presented Debbie Love a plaque with a gavel on it for her successful tenure as the Land Trust President.

Rick Casey presented the By-Law Working Group report. After careful discussion and consideration by the members of that group, no changes were proposed.

Director Tamara Lundstrom conducted the nominations and voting for the 6 Board Director positions up for election. In each case, without further nominations and by acclamation, the following Directors were reelected to their positions for another two years: Jill Bell, Bruce Ferraro, Larry Shaffer, Dave Purdo, Morgan Hill, and Frank Greenman.

Florida Keys Council of the Arts Middle Keys Arts Alliance held its meeting at Marathon Tranquility Bay Butterfly Cafe March 30th. Photos of the event are available for a few months at http://RunesofAo.com/press/.

Tranquility Bay was simply beautiful and elegant in appearance and function. Butterfly Cafe was truly a five-star experience. The service was excellent. Executive Chef "Shadow" Henahan came to the table offering his adice and services. The prices were worth the exquisite dishes and treats. The coffee was outstanding.

As to the meeting, the members mapped out future activities and then settled into a long, pleasant conversation about the City of Marathon and the pace of changes.

What's Happening! Mayor John Bartus will soon step down as Marathon's mayor. He has served twice as mayor and done so admirably. He is the face of Marathon. He will be sorely missed. One can only hope that John Bartus will be back after a year off. Fair winds and following seas, John. Don't be a stranger!

Marathon's annual Offshore Grand Prix is slated for May 18th through 21st. Festivities include music, concerts, good food, and, of course, high-speed boat racing. Visit the official website at http://www.keysoffshore.com.

Miscellany: We've had the pleasure of seeing the new development all over town. Except for Sandler at Greater Marathon Bay, all the other developers have worked with the citizens of Marathon. Many of us hate to see the changes that are happening and those that are coming much too soon. Unfortunately, you can't stop change, but maybe you can shape, mold, and control such change to benefit all of us living in our fair City of Marathon.

Finally: Did you know that Minnesota's state bird is the Common Loon? The flower is the Pink/White Lady Slipper. The tree is the Norway Pine. The capital is St. Paul. Statehood was granted May 11, 1858. Selections from the Florida Keys Council of the Arts Who What When and Where brochure: On second and third Wednesdays, the Marathon Garden Club presents the Wonder Garden series of Keys friendly gardening classes. Marathon Garden Club, 5270 Overseas Highway [MM 50 bayside], Marathon. Call 305-743-4971 for information and required advanced registration. http://www.keysy.com/mgc. Middle Keys Arts Alliance meets the last Thursday of each month; call Alison at 305-743-7869 for locations and times certain. On April 12th, "Jimmy Sawgrass." Presentation on Native American history showcasing new Aboriginal Fishing Camp exhibit. $10 adults/members free. Crane Point Museums & Nature Center, 5550 Overseas Highway, Marathon. Reservations 305-743-3900.

ACRONYMS:

Kitty Talk
These journals are dedicated to Kitty GreyCat's spirit. She is at RainBow Bridge now along with her human friends, Leo and Doris. We all loved you, Kitty! Click the cat graphic to visit her Memorial page. Kitty born June 6, 1982. Died July 9, 1997. Please use our email form linked below to make suggestions or offer praise. Now, really, the cats have thoughts and meows that are badly interpreted by a human for publication here. So believe what you will, but enjoy nonetheless. All complaints, flames, and such like will end up in the litter box! >^..^<

Ebony: Us cats don't care if we make sense with our meows or not. We don't care if we meow in a rambling sort of cat way. We just meowing. And English is NOT our best meows. Not Spanish neither. Like I meow; we just meowing about all sorts of cat stuffers. So there! Now you can click on one of these thumbnails to see us cats all cute, sassy, and royal! >^..^<

Abby: I not like that first picture of me. I wasn't done cleaning up for my photo shoot. Actually, the other two are of me cat bathing too. That bean needs scratched, I meow. Ebony and I were happy to see our human bean. He had been gone long time. We were both full of fleas. Ebony was missing more fur, while I had more bloody spots. It was war on the fleas fur sure, but first some snacks, I meow >^..^<
Ebony: Bean got us some cat snacks. Abby was excited when bean come home with grocery bags. I was not worried about snacks and chased a black, tiny lizard off the bed. I was under the bed trying to track the creature down for a long time. Abby loved on Tony bean and our human bean all night last night, while they talked and listened to music. That damned lizard never come out to play either. I gave up and got on the bed. >^..^<
Abby: I and Ebony were on Toni’s bed with Toni, Sophie, and all of us getting along. I was under the covers. Ebony opened the locked cat door, after some lengthy effort. We were locked in bean's bedroom, while Toni Lee got some equipment for her new fish. I was more worried about more fleas actually. >^..^<
Ebony: Abby had one flea, while I had seven. I was napping near bean, but I left after bean flea combed me. Abby is sleeping in the bathroom litter box. Human bean took us to the new apartment to wait on the cable guy. Abby hid under the stove. I cleaned the tops of the open walls with my sagging belly. I liked looking out the front windows by the door. Then bean caught Abby to put stuff in her ears. >^..^<
Abby: Human bean put ear stuff in my ear, which I didn’t like, of course. Ebony escaped and rolled on the sidewalk out back. Ebony didn’t like being manhandled, while bean groomed her. I purred on bean's chest and gave him a complete bath, even if he did put stuff in my ears. Ebony got interested in the cat on the computer screen. It was hilarious. I was mad about having my ears flushed out. I think I have ear mites. >^..^<
Ebony: Abby was back and forth on Tony and our human bean laps. I was sleeping on the newspapers. Bean flea combed me to get me to move off the piece that bean wanted to read. I was sleeping on the bed. Abby has been sleeping in the litter house. She is strange. >^..^<
Abby: Ebony’s over grooming is getting worse. My ears are still dirty, maybe mites. I wanted my special yummies. Bean fooled me with Ebony’s yummies. Bean got some cat grass seed and Science Diet cat food at Whalton’s. I chased and swatted at Sophie today. I was atop the stacked furniture that is waiting to be placed in the living room. I was busy that day, for sure. >^..^<
Ebony: I got outside and then came back in and joined Abby atop the furniture. I is sleeping on the old newspaper on bean's bed now. I came with Tony and bean over to the apartment. I was on top of the open wall between the bedroom and living area. Abby is 9 today. I be 10 in May. >^..^<
Abby: Ebony and I got outside. I rolled in the dust. Ebony watched the tree for lizards. Ebony has adjusted well, sleeping on the futon. I is all over the place, meowing repeatedly, poor me. I was hiding my eyes from all the bright lights at the apartment. Ebony watched television with me later. >^..^<
Ebony: I was exploring the bathtub. Abby caused the front curtains to come down. Bean put more ear-cleaner fluid in Abby’s ear. She was none too happy. I has been a happy mood. Human bean ruined that by spraying me down with flea stuff. I only had two fleas on me. >^..^<
Abby: Ebony is catnapping on the little black futon couch. I is on a cushion. Later I went under the bed covers, when Tony showed up. Ebony got outside on the leash attached to the truck ball hitch. Ebony actually was biting bean, when bean played with her belly fat. I chased the little cap off a new bottle of water. Ebony played with the cat toy with fur on it. I was jealous and played with it too. I also batted a plastic piece from the handle of an orange juice plastic container. Ebony has been chasing the leather/fur-strip toy too. I likes paper wads. Ebony went with bean to check the electric meter. I was kneading the blanket on the bed, purring loudly at bean. We got really boring meows, don't we? I think next month we will get back to crazy cat meows and stuffers. >^..^<

Internet Stuff
Here are the latest DVD films from http://www.NetFlix.com: Walk the Line is the story about the love of June Carter and Johnny Cash. The music is placed in the story just perfectly. The acting is the best of this year’s crop of films. This movie is the best I’ve seen in months. Walk the Line is a must see, about the legends, the man, the woman. Madagascar was a great and fun animated film about zoo animals that find themselves in the wild. Their zany and amusing misadventures make you laugh way too much. The Fog (2005) is a remake of a horror classic. This film doesn’t stray far from the original story and is just as good or maybe even a bit better. Revenge is a dish best served cold. Serenity is the movie version of the television show called Firefly. This science fiction/action/adventure is simply brilliant. The story is rock solid, and that is what is most important. The effects were for the story not the story for the effects. This is a great film. Red Eye is a thriller with horror elements. An assassination depends on a hotel manager moving the victims to another room or her father will be killed. The film was distinctive with a Hitchcock-like feel, but Wes Craven made it his own with layered and building climax. Mr. and Mrs. Smith was warm, funny, full of twists and turns, and plenty of action. The film is not predictable and quite good. I was surprised at how much I like the movie. In Her Shoes is a lovely, warm, and charming film about real life, real characters, struggling to overcome themselves and repair their relationships. The movie makes you smile and identify with the characters and the story. The remake of Yours, Mine and Ours was cute, fun, and entertaining. The film is loosely based on the original and explores how a diverse family eventually comes together through the comedic romance of the parents. I enjoyed the move and laughed at several scenes. The 40-Year-Old Virgin isn’t original, but the rude, crude, and sometimes-witty character interactions make the film quite entertaining. Best of all, the entire movie is funny in an odd sort of way. A History of Violence displays subtle shades of violence. A man’s past comes back to tear his family apart. Those he loves are endangered. He faces his past to try to recover his present. The film is understated and overwhelming, all at the same time - brilliantly done. Cinderella Man follows the boxing career of James Braddock through the depression years especially. When he was older, hurt, and about out of options to feed, clothe, and warm his family, he came back to win the world championship. Ron Howard has fashioned a masterpiece that uplifts the spirits of us all. Braddock won that championship for each of us.

Interesting websites we visited recently: We downloaded the movie soundtrack to Walk the Line from http://downloads.walmart.com/swap/. Our credit/debit, PayPal processing company http://clickbank.com added PayPal now. Our BellSouth FastAccess DSL Xtreme 6.0 is super fast, and my favorite spot is http://speed.fastaccess.com/.  Check this guy's videos out at http://www.thekidfrombrooklyn.com/. They are extremely funny, rude, and crude. As part of the ongoing integration of Atomz into WebSideStory, the login page is moving to the WedSideStory web site. The new login page is located at http://www.websidestory.com/login/. If you currently have bookmarks to http://www.atomz.com/login/, you will want to update them accordingly. That was from our WebSideStory Support Team, Search & Content Solutions. http://www.mkclt.org has a new logo, but we can't figure out how to make it smaller and still be legible. The full-sized logo is at the bottom of each web page.

Poetry Corner [guest poet Majorie Kanter]
Larry:
Thanks, Margie is an excellent writer and well known in Europe. It is nice to have her work published in her country. The book is for sale in http://www.Amazon.com (USA) entitled I Displace the Air as I Walk (Paperback).
More about her in: http://www.elasunto.com/mkd.htm
Sincerely.

Jose Luis Delgado Guitart
La Espiral Escrita
laespiralescrita@telefonica.net

---

The Potato Chip Eater: Conventions and Inventions
Madrid, 1967. Marjorie Kanter.

A Casa de Comidas.
It is her first time outside
the USA,
this American young lady
who enters.
Her eyes are caught by one particular scene.
A cloth-covered-table.
A bottle of wine.
A copa.
A pitcher of water.
(And) a plate holding a filete and a pile of potato chips.
Behind all this sits a suited man.
The American pays attention
to this gentleman's behavior:
to his etiquette:
to his eating habits: because
he's eating the potato chips with great precision and astounding
co-ordination.
He carefully pushes each chip one by one onto the back-side of his fork
and then carries it
balancingly
to his mouth:
which opens
just in time
to receive the whole crunchy item in one fell swoop,
(and) then
snaps down
and chews
determinedly.
Once in a while he stops to
carefully
cut
a piece of meat
and fork it
into his mouth,
(left-handed).

She wonders
how she will ever
acquire
the specialised skill required
to successfully execute
this chip(ped)
etiquette.

http://www.elasunto.com/laespiralescrita.htm

© 2002 Marjorie Kanter

© 2006 L. E. Shaffer

Hockey Puck
The NHL Florida Panthers wiped the Ottawa Senators, a very good team, 6 – 2, garnering their 24^th win. The Florida Panthers won over the Carolina Hurricanes for their 25^th win. The Panther won another over the Hurricanes for their 26^th win. The Florida Panthers beat the New York Islanders for win number 27. The Florida Panthers scored their 28^th victory by defeating the Washington Capitals 4-3 in a thrilling shootout. The Florida Panthers won victory number 29 over the Tampa Bay Lightning, currently the champs. The Florida Panthers beat the Washington Capitals for their 30^th win of the season. The Florida Panthers win in overtime over the New York Rangers for their 31^st win. The Panthers went to overtime with the Bruins for victory 32.

PGA Tiger Woods won another PGA event at the Ford Doral Open.

NASCAR NEXTEL at Las Vegas saw Jeff finish 5^th and Dale Jr. 27^th. The Atlanta NASCAR NEXTEL race ran this morning. Dale Jr. got 3^rd place, while Jeff finished 4^th. NASCAR NEXTEL at Bristol resulted in Jeff Gordon finishing 21^st and Dale Jr. 11^th.

The NBA Heat beat Boston for victory 37 against 20 losses. The Miami Heat won a last second game over the Atlanta Haws on Mourning’s dunk. The Heat won its 38^th game of the season. The Heat beat the Charlotte Bobcats in overtime on a last shot. This is the Heat’s 39^th victory, having won 9 straight so far. The Miami Heat just got by Washington Wizard for their 40^th victory. The Miami Heat won their 41^st game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Miami Heat swept the Utah Jazz this season for their 42^nd victory. The Miami Heat came back from a 29-point deficit to beat the Boston Celtics. This is their 43^rd win! The Miami Heat beat the Chicago Bulls for their 44^th victory. The Miami Heat won victory 45 over the New York Knickerbockers. The Miami Heat beat the Charlotte Bobcats for win number 46. The Heat beat the Pacers for win 47.

The NFL needs another commissioner; the current one is retiring. Let the no fun league begin.

The MLB Florida Marlins have done quite well in preseason. The regular season will be a complete mystery, of course.

Twins of the Dark Star
Book One Tears from Ao and four poetry collections, Pages of Life, Visions of Life, Moments of Life, and The Book of Kalian Mysticism are available electronically at http://RunesofAo.com/aobp/. The Runes of Ao project, Book Two The Mountains of Ao novel is currently in final edit.  Book Three Twins of the Dark Star novel in early stages and Falling Star poetry collection are works in progress. A collaboration with K. Young on a novella called Dragon Embers is now published on the fan site known as Runes of Ao.com. Other dragon artwork is available as well. Finally, in collaboration with K. Young and Linda Hall, a group novel project is in progress and currently titled Starsongs.

The Dull Stuff
All opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of this magazine, company, or its advertisers. Inputs, email, suggestions, and letters to this journal are subject to approval by the Journal Editor. Submittals may be edited for content and length and become the creative property for the one-time nonexclusive publication of:

Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company
Merchant Occupational License #48210-0076151
PO Box 501833
Marathon FL 33050-1833
(305) 743-9648 voice/fax

Internet URLs: www.RunesofAo.com
www.RunesofAo.com/roa/
www.RunesofAo.com/aobp/
www.RunesofAo.com/ebony/
www.RunesofAo.com/abby/
www.RunesofAo.com/LarryShaffer/

Publication date: March 28, 2006
Author: L. E. Shaffer
Company: Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company &
Shaffer Internet Publishing Company
© 1995 - 2009, 2010 L. E. SHAFFER
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED WORLDWIDE
PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
FIRST PRINTING; ELECTRONIC & PRINT MEDIA

Digital Sail [wireless Internet services] @ 1-305-289-5600 USA	Easy Does It Hair Shop Across from Home Depot at mile marker 49.5 @ 1-305-743-3934 USA
http://www.temporaldoorway.com
The Lure of Black & Silver http://www.crosswinds.net/~blackandsilver	Web Hosting with world-class support http://xfireweb.com
Place your ad here!	Marathon Computers 5160 Overseas Highway Marathon FL 33050 @ 1-305-289-0472 USA
	Roads in Shadow http://www.slapalmedesigns.com/rdsis/
	TWO SCOOPs Ice Cream & Sandwiches We Deliver 9071 Overseas Highway Marathon FL 33050 MM 52.5 @ 1-305-743-9400 USA

Subscribe!

Enter your email address to join Marathon Florida Keys Journal email reminder list today!

[Previous Journal] [Journal Index] [Next Journal]