 Marathon Florida Keys Journal
City of Marathon, Florida Keys, Paradise
Volume 13 † Issue 4 † April 2007
[In The Keys] [Kitty Talk] [Internet Stuff] [Poetry Corner]
[Hockey Puck] [Twins of the Dark Star] [The Dull Stuff] [Advertising]
Marathon Florida Keys Journal proudly presents our 13th year of quality publishing services. We continue 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. We appreciate your visit and patronage. Please enjoy yourself while you are here and come back soon! Please do us a favor and sign up for our monthly reminder of the next upcoming issue of Marathon Florida Keys Journal. Please click on this link marathon_journal-subscribe@topica.com. When you get a return email to confirm your choice, sign up at Topica, but bypass all those solicitations. Thanks! In The Keys {for current news, see our Daily News Queue} [Council 27th] [Candidate Debates 28th] [NSW Committee]
[All Hail Monica] [Observations] [Atlantic Civil] [Parks & Rec] [Seafood: Larry]
[Seafood: Tommy] [Council 12th] [Marathon Elections: Larry] [Elections: Tommy]
[Code Board] [Protect Children] [Coco Plum Turtles] [Help FIRM] [MKCLT Groundbreaking]
[Drive Carefully] [Planning Commission] [Marathon Mayor?] [Upper/Middle Keys]
[Arts Festival] [Airport Task Force] [Council 27th] [Lencho's] [GLEE] [Upper Keys]
[What's Happening!] [Miscellany] [Finally] [ACRONYMS] ~Some articles have photos, go to http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.~
~Events scheduled to be covered, go to http://runesofao.com/schedule/index.htm.~ February 27 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: The Marathon City Council met at the Marathon Government Center EOC Room February 27, 2007 at 6:30 PM. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Under the city manager’s report, the Near Shore Waters Committee Chairman George Garrett provided an update. Captain Peryam presented a check to the city for $19,666.69, a refund of funds not used. The city sent the new LDRs and planning maps to the DCA for final review and approval. City Manager Mike Puto thanked everyone involved. The council discussed the Quay and Gators old properties to mitigate the unsafe and unkempt buildings. The manager reported that Historic Preservation Committee needs a resolution to stand it up and then take appointments. Two council persons wanted to name their nominees early. Larry Shaffer was Marjie Mearns’s appointment, and Bill Sampsel was Jeff Pinkus’s appointment. C. J. Geotis headed an internal city committee to improve customer services starting with speeding up permit issuance. Marilyn Tempest appointed Luis Gonzalez to replace Chris Gratton on the Parks and Recreation Committee.
Frank Greenman presented a FDOT landscaping plan for Marathon with the help of an FDOT expert. FDOT will help with implementing and maintaining the plan. A local committee will make important decisions. A Rotary representative spoke in favor of doing this immediately. Mayor Chris Bull set up a workshop for March 19th.
Peter Rosasco presented the financial report for 1st quarter. He reported that the city collected 66% of its Ad Valorem taxes. He stated that the city was within budget targets. Fund balances are very healthy; reserves are on target for $15.5 million. FEMA was told by President Bush to pay more of the hurricane expenses, which resulted in over $537,000 more for the city.
Planning Director Fred Gross announced the DCA’s approval of the Transfer of Building Rights ordinance, starting April 1st.
Community Services Director Susie Thomas and Parks & Recreation Supervisor presented the amphitheatre rental agreement procedures and forms.
Building Services Director Rose Ann Hightower presented a report on the Code Enforcement Board. The $250 admin fee issue is whether it can be waived or not. Code Board member Jeff Coldiron wanted the fee raised or lowered so that it is not the same as the after the fact permit fee. Code Board member Kevin Woodland presented info on waiving the admin fee. Code Compliance Inspector Michael Storm suggested that the fee is once per case. The council decided that the $250 admin fee is mandatory, and directed the manager to change the ordinance to charge a different amount than the after the fact permit fee and set amounts by resolution.
Community Services Director Susie Thomas, WEC Engineer Mike Hatfield, and Biologist Darla Williams presented Crane Hammock subdivision wastewater ROW issues. The community wanted existing vegetation preserved. Many plants are not native. Construction equipment limited the options as well. Public comment followed: David Rice spoke against affecting existing vegetation. Residents Captain Ed Davidson, Larry Benvenuti, George Neugent, and Ali Adams all requested that the sewer/stormwater infrastructure be built to least impact existing vegetation. John Whalton from Grassy Key requested, “Put it through the road and leave the trees alone.” Council directed staff to do the least impact on existing vegetation.
Council decided the 33rd Street Boat Ramp options. The options were a 20’ ramp, 40’ ramp, or 2 20’ ramps; the council picked the 40’ ramp option.
Susie Thomas introduced architect presentations for City Hall/Public Library Project. The projected $6 million construction cost is split between city and county. Cartaya & Associates Architects; Currie, Sowaros, Aguila ATA; and Hays/Cumming Architects PA. made their presentations to the council. The council picked Cartaya & Associates. All three were scored very closely to each other.
Citizens' Comments: Candidate Don Vasil spoke about bumping citizen comments up the agenda. Walter Farmer requested to extend the FEMA time limit of 18 months. Puto wanted to help if council will direct the attorney to do so. The council directed that action.
Resolution 2007-25 authorized the city to negotiate a contract with Cartaya and Associates as the architectural/engineering firm for the City Hall/Monroe County Library construction project. This resolution also authorized the city manager and attorney to negotiate the terms and conditions of the agreement. Tempest voted no.
Resolution 2007-26 approved an amendment to a major conditional use for the redevelopment of a commercial property known as Grassy Key Marina, located at 59073 Overseas Highway, Gulf and further described as Lots 11, 12, and 13, of San Souci Subdivision, Grassy Key. Planning Director Fred Gross reported that there were never any code violations. He further stated that the Tiki doesn’t affect the surrounding community. A nearby resident disputed the staff report and provided evidence that the Tiki was expanded beyond what was originally approved. Attorney Frank Greenman provided evidence that the Tiki was illegally expanded from what was originally there in the 1980s. Another resident wanted to prevent the noise that a Tiki Bar would bring to the surrounding community. Owner’s agent Barbara Mitchell from the Craig Company disputed the assertions. Council changed Tiki Bar to Tiki Hut. Bull voted no.
Resolution 2007-27 requested the Monroe Board of County Commissioners to authorize the County Administrator to negotiate with the City of Marathon. This resolution is about the possibility of transferring the ownership of the government center at 2798 Overseas Highway to the City of Marathon.
Resolution 2007-28 directed the Planning Department to defer the acceptance and processing of new building permit allocation application commencing March 14, 2007. This policy will continue until the new Land Development Regulations are approved by the DCA or until the passage of 180 days, whichever occurs first. This item was continued to next meeting.
Consent item, Resolution 2007-29 approved the Public Resources Management Group, Inc. (PRMG) agreement for a wastewater utility rate study in an amount not to exceed $29,800. THIS WAS TABLED BY STAFF UNTIL THE 3/12/07 MEETING.
Consent item, Resolution 2007-30 approved Amendment #1 to Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Bureau of Water Facilities Funding – Division of Water Resource Management Grant #LP6116 delineating Service Area 4 project schedule. This resolution also authorized the City Manager to execute the amendment.
Consent item, Resolution 2007-31 approved and accepted a land dedication from Buttonwood Enterprises LLC. This resolution authorized the recording of the appropriate warranty deed in the Monroe County Public Records. This resolution found and determined the property will be used for a municipal or public purpose.
Consent item, Resolution 2007- approved and accepted a land dedication from Mary Dean Schaumloffel. This resolution authorized the recording of the appropriate warranty deed in the Monroe County Public Records. This resolution found and determined the property will be used for a municipal or public purpose.
Consent item, Resolution 2007-33 approved and accepted a land dedication from Modular Homes of the Keys. This resolution authorized the recording of the appropriate warranty deed in the Monroe County Public Records. This resolution found and determined the property will be used for a municipal or public purpose.
Consent item, Resolution 2007-34 approved and accepted a land dedication from Paul Palmer. This resolution authorized the recording of the appropriate warranty deed in the Monroe County Public Records. This resolution found and determined the property will be used for a municipal or public purpose.
Consent item, Resolution 2007-35 approved and accepted a land dedication from Raymond Poole. This resolution authorized the recording of the appropriate warranty deed in the Monroe County Public Records. This resolution found and determined the property will be used for a municipal or public purpose.
Consent item, Resolution 2007-36 approved and accepted a land dedication from Salty Dog Financial LLC. This resolution authorized the recording of the appropriate warranty deed in the Monroe County Public Records. This resolution found and determined the property will be used for a municipal or public purpose.
Consent item, Resolution 2007-37 approved and accepted a land dedication from William Korff. This resolution authorized the recording of the appropriate warranty deed in the Monroe County Public Records. This resolution found and determined the property will be used for a municipal or public purpose.
Resolution 2007-38 rejected the recommendations of the Special Master in the Beneficial Use Application of Rodney Shands, Robert Shands, Kathryn Shands Edwards, and Thomas Shands. Mearns voted no; Tempest voted no.
Councilman Worthington requested a workshop to start planning now to build workforce housing on the 104th Street property.
Councilman Worthington wanted to rehash the local option gas tax. Islamorada gets more per lane mile than Marathon. This situation needs to be corrected. Council appointed Worthington to ramrod this with staff support.
Consent item, Council approved the 1/30/07 and 2/6/07City Council minutes.
Consent item, Council waived KAIR Permit Fee for March 10th.
Staff presented the RFQ for Building Contractors (Unsafe Structures), RFQ for Computer Programmer, and the RFQ for Real Estate Appraisers (Unsafe Structures) for informational purposed.
Citizens' comments: None
Council comments: None
Adjournment February 28 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: The Marathon Candidate Forum sponsored by the Florida Keys Keynoter was held at the Marathon Government Center EOC room. The debates were broadcasted on Comcast cable channel 76 as well. Early voting is currently ongoing at the 63rd Street county facility. March 13 will be the at-large election to fill two seats. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. There are five candidates after Jeff Pinkus withdrew his candidacy. There are John Bartus, Mike Cinque, Vice Mayor Marjie Mearns, Joanie Nelson, and Don Vasil. The moderator was Wayne Markham, Keynoter Publisher. The media panel consisted of Keynoter reporter David Ball, US1 Radio's Bill Becker, and Free Press reporter Rob Busweiller. The panel asked 10 questions. [paraphrased - Ed.] Why did Coco Plum get treated differently for workforce housing? Has the city strayed from the original purpose of incorporation? Should city council base its future decision on moving the elections to November on the straw ballot question March 13th? Should the city reduce taxes further back than rollback? Describe a difficult decision and how it was arrived at. Is it time to give the Planning Commission more real power? How do new council members overcome the learning curve? And why should incumbents be re-elected? What would each candidate change about themselves to improve city council? Is the 104th Street workforce housing project a long-term solution to the crisis? The final phase was the lightning round where candidates got to ask questions of each other. Marathon Florida Keys Journal scored each candidate on their performance. We has Marjie Mearns winning the debate over John Bartus and Mike Cinque by a close margin. Not far back was Don Vasil and Joanie Nelson. March 1, 2007 - Marathon Public Library - L. E. Shaffer: The Marathon Near Shore Waters Committee met at 6:00 PM. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. The committee approved last meeting's minutes. Marathon Harbormaster Richard Tanner presented his report on the new mooring field installation. He stated that 61 were complete with 31 pickup lines being installed tomorrow morning. There is a waiting list to get on the new mooring buoys. The 103 mooring balls left for the west side of Boot Key Harbor will be completed no later than April 1st. Captain Marti Brown made a presentation for the Boot Key Harbor Tropical Telegraph Emergency Communication System. She is a registered nurse, three-time author, and a sailor on her 31' sailboat. She explained how the harbor is divided up into four different communication zones. The purpose of the system is for hurricanes, health emergencies, crime prevention, and homeland security. Implementation meeting at the city marina is scheduled for March 18th. There will be potluck, beer, and soda. The scheduled presentation on Florida Trails by Debra Stucky was continued to the next meeting. The committee was provided a dredging update on the Tingler and Treasure Island areas. Acting Ports Manager C. J. Geotis reported on the progress on the boat ramps. 33rd Street boat ramp is going into engineering by WEC. It will be a 40' ramp. The committee recommended removing the restrooms to make room for five more parking spots. Aviation Boulevard boat ramp is getting rave reviews according to Geotis. The next meeting is scheduled for April 5th at 6:00 PM, located in the meeting room at the Marathon Public Library.
From Arts Council Board Chair Connie Grath | | To all our Arts Council friends and supporter -- I want to take this opportunity to let you know that the Florida Keys Council of the Arts is beginning a search for a new chief executive to succeed our friend Monica Haskell. Monica is stepping down from her full-time position as President and Executive Director at the end of her contract on June 30. I know we will all miss Monica greatly, but she has been leading the Arts Council for 10 years and she tells us she is ready for something new. She has graciously offered her services to the Arts Council on a consulting basis as needed after her contract expires. In addition to being Executive Director of the Arts Council, Monica also currently serves as staff for the Art in Public Places Committee for Monroe County as well as the TDC's Cultural Umbrella committee which disburses funds earmarked for the arts throughout the county. As the leading cultural organization in the Florida Keys, the Florida Keys Council of the Arts (FKCA ) links audiences around the world to galleries, theater, museums, festivals, literature, dance, music and more from Key Largo to Key West. We aid artists and cultural organizations in the Keys by helping them get the resources, information and audiences they need. We do this many ways -- publicity, our website www.keysarts.com, weekly cultural calendar, publications and speeches, grants and re-granting programs, organizing exhibitions and concerts, and being the Keys-wide conduit of arts information and programming. It always amazes me how much the Arts Council accomplishes. Those of you in the performing arts know how vital your support personnel are -- well, I think of the FKCA as the support group for arts and culture in the Keys. We aren’t the group in the limelight because our job is to highlight others. The FKCA doesn’t blow its own horn because it’s busy trumpeting the wonders of the Florida Keys cultural community to locals and visitors. But I’d like to let everyone know that Monica has been an outstanding leader of the Keys cultural community and we thank her from the bottom of our collective hearts. I hope those of you who have benefited from her leadership and help will let her know your sentiments. Her email is: monica@keysarts.com. The FKCA Search Committee has been meeting for several weeks and is now placing ads for a new Executive Director. If you are interested in applying for the position, please send a letter of interest and resume to info@keysarts.com. The Search Committee is composed of the following individuals who are all current or past members of the FKCA board: Shirley Freeman, Key West; Tom Butler, Key Largo; Nancy Perez Miller, Islamorada; Rocky Hubert, Key Largo and Key West (don’t ask us to explain); and myself (Key West). Monica is an ad hoc member. Shirley is chair of the committee. We are sad to see Monica leaving, but are excited about taking the Arts Council to the next level. We would like to get input from our membership and friends about what you think we should look for in a new executive. In the coming weeks, you will be given notice of three meetings in the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys where your advice will be solicited. Of course, always feel free to email myself or other members of the committee regarding your thoughts. I’ve included their email addresses at the end of letter. Thank you for your continuing support. | | Connie “C.J.” Groth Chair, Florida Keys Council of the Arts | Email addresses of committee members:
Shirley Freeman svfkw@bellsouth.net;
Tom Butler tomkattoo@bellsouth.net;
Nancy Perez Miller nancynpma@bellsouth.net;
Rocky Hubert rocky_hubert@doh.fl.us;
CJ Groth cgroth@keywestphotos.com | www.keysarts.com |
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Observations from the underground are nothing but thoughts and vapor from this corner of Marathon proper. This fine March 7th has brought some interesting tidbits from those ever-present reliable sources and other media tidbits as well. First, we have something from the county yet again. Why was an $8 million bond waived for DRC Emergency Services? Second, we have that immortal question of the day. What makes the Keynoter endorsements tick? Third is the Citizens exclusive elitist columnist Regina E. Corcoran and her so called affordable housing missive. Just, why? Last and not least, the Pigeon Key debacle will not die. Should Pigeon Key Foundation President Jim Rhyne resign? Sources have told the Marathon Florida Keys Journal that Monroe County's contract with DRC Emergency Services spelled out post-hurricane vessel removal and canal cleanout. In winning the bid from the RFP, DRC Emergency Services $8 million bond was waived. Additionally, DRC Emergency Services no longer wanted to do the hard work in cleaning out canals. In contacting the mayor's office, the response was swift and helpful. The Marathon Florida Keys Journal was directed to Marine Resources Director George Garrett. He explained the bond was supposed to be a bid bond. Upon further investigation, he found that was not required but optional. Therefore, that bond requirement was waived. Garrett also stated that the canal cleanup is going to be bid out again due to DRC Emergency Services high costs to do the job. Getting as many sides of the story is really rewarding sometimes. Communications seems to be the only problem in this story. The Keynoter endorsements came out today. They picked Bartus and Cinque. The Marathon Florida Keys Journal picked Bartus and Mearns. Frankly, with five good candidates, a choice for endorsement was very difficult. We tried to stick to positive points this time. The Keynoter used some negatives to exclude the others and particularly singled out Mearns. All of us, including media organizations, are biased in some way or another. At least we admit to this, the Keynoter lives in a fantasy land as to what things should be according to their biases and not the way things are. In Sunday's Citizen was regular columnist Regina E. Corcoran in all her holiness. For a long time now, we have had to twinge at her exclusive elitist attitude. This column was about affordable housing and how hard work, good credit, and a willingness to live in paradise are all that is required. Her logic is flawed. One example proves her wrong. The Middle Keys Community Land Trust by the end of this year will have 52 units on the ground. People have to be residents, get their own loan, earn 70% of their income in the county, and have a history of paying their bills. The average stay in a typical Land Trust home nationwide is a bit over 11 years. Regina, poor creature, your assertion is disproved 52 times, and we have not even considered Habitat for Humanity. I really believe that she is not an elitist, but her ideas and words are exclusivity at its worst. Of course, the case could be made about me being elitist, but I would maintain that I already admitted to being biased! See the third paragraph. Lastly, the story of Pigeon Key and the Old Seven-Mile Bridge will not die. Pigeon Key board member Marjie Mearns has resigned to the delight of her enemies. While she thought first of Pigeon Key, the Old Seven-Mile Bridge, and the good of all the residents, her enemies crowed in success. Still, now, the Pigeon Key board of directors will have Marjie back along with some new members to set things right. Jim Rhyne owns Coconut Cay Resort that is slated for redevelopment. That is, if the investors stay put. Sources report that Jim has lost his investors and was in search for new investors. Why now who would you suspect has been talking to good old Jim? Cay Club's VP for Acquisitions Frank Rego naturally. Jim Rhyne is also Pigeon Key Foundation President ever ready to tow the Mayor Mario Di Gennaro line. Adding up all these tidbits of information leads to a conflict of interests and ethics. Jim Rhyne should now be the one to resign! Atlantic Civil Property at Card Sound Road & Florida Keys -- layout modified to fit - Ed.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Mayor Mario Di Gennaro, District 4
Mayor Pro Tem Dixie M. Spehar, District 1
George Neugent, District 2
Charles “Sonny” McCoy, District 3
Sylvia J. Murphy, District 5District 4 Office:
Fx: 305 289-6306
Em: boccdis4@monroecounty-fl.gov
March 8, 2007 To Whom It May Concern: As Mayor of Monroe County, I was pleased to read that Atlantic Civil and Lennar have opted to forego the large-scale development south of Florida City. I have watched this development move through the permitting process with great concern. First as a resident, then as a Commissioner, and now as Mayor, the possible irrevocable damage from such a development to one of the nation’s most environmentally fragile and ecologically diverse areas is a cause for anxiety. The gateway to the Keys is an area that needs our protection in order to ensure that future generations can enjoy out two national parks, and to ensure the quality of life for the residents and visitors of the Florida Keys. Every hurricane season we are reminded how vulnerable we are in South Florida, in particular the Florida Keys. The traffic leaving the Keys through Card Sound Road during an evacuation already creates a back log. The proposed addition of 6,000 homes and 18,000 residents would have created congestion beyond imagination and put our ability to evacuate the Florida Keys in jeopardy. Any development on this site needs to proceed under the strict level of scrutiny and the developers must be held to the highest standards. It would be preferable to reintegrate this area to the Everglades Restoration. However, given the unlikelihood of that occurring, I hope that State and Federal regulators will be prudent as they move forward in granting any permits for rock mining. Sincerely, Mario Di Gennaro, Mayor
Monroe County Board of Commissioners March 8, 2007 - Marathon Public Library - L. E. Shaffer: The Marathon Parks and Recreation Committee met March 8 at the Marathon Public Library. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. This meeting was well attended for the ECMC presentation on the Marathon Community Park Skate Park. Notables in attendance were Councilman Pete Worthington, City Manager Mike Puto, Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest, Deputy City Manager C. J. Geotis, Community Services Director Susie Thomas, community activist Bettye Chaplin, Capt. Bob Peryam, and ECMC representative Tina Belotti. Interim Chairman Bill Sympson introduced new committee member Louis Gonzalez. Councilwoman Tempest had previously appointed Gonzalez to the Parks and Recreation Committee. Gonzalez made some introductory remarks. He said that he had kids at all levels of participation. Officers were elected. Bill Sympson was elected chairman. Amedeo D'Ascanio was chosen as Vice Chairman. ECMC Representative Tina Belotti made a presentation for improvements to the Skate Park. They want to expand recreational programs, add a sound system, add a TV and DVD/Tape player, install more benches, and improve the shade system at the park. She handed out an outline of an ambitious program to get ECMC's Skate Association more involved in the Skate Park. Belotti requested approval from the committee to proceed. City staff, committee members, and members of the public discussed particulars of the presentation. The following issues were addressed: enforcement of rules, involvement of parental support group, shed security, liability, and equipment warranties. Parks and Recreation Supervisor Jimmy Schmidt expressed his reservations, but committed to working together with folks to improve the Skate Park. Bettye Chaplin said that she was "astounded at what kind of success it (the Skate Park) was". There was a need for more organization and competition. There is definitely a need for this (the Skate Park). Community Services Director Susie Thomas gave the staff perspective. She said that they had come a long way in addressing liability concerns, massaging the rules, staff pay, and pursuing security equipment and other items to improve the park. Capt. Bob Peryam said that the whole idea was to keep things simple. He urged everyone to not get stuck on details, and keep focused on the really important thing, the kids. At the end of the meeting, the staff and ECMC representatives were already working on finding a way to accommodate the kids that was acceptable to the city and its safety, reliability, and warranty requirements. The meeting adjourned at 8:03 PM. March 10, 2007 - Marathon Seafood Festival - L. E. Shaffer: The Seafood Festival this year was held at the newly minted Marathon Community Park. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. All kinds of tents and booths were set up. Their wares were as unique as the vendors attending. I bought two hats for the journal. My son and I gobbled up drinks and food as well. The music wafted over the whole park from the new amphitheatre. John Bartus and his friends played a variety of songs. They really did a good job too. We wowed ourselves at the brand new shiny boats displayed on the east end. I want one, but the wallet said no. The kids climbing the rock wall were impressive. This is something I wouldn't do, that is for sure. The little girl playing small bongo drums at the unusual artifacts tent was so cute. That photograph was one that we will keep. We met Marilyn Tempest and Colleen Repetto who were wo-manning the FIRM booth. Thank God for FIRM. All of our insurance nightmares are not so scary at present, but we all need to stay vigilant. I liked the Whiskers & Paws tent. Anything about cats is interesting to me. My two cats, Ebony and Abby, rule my life, of course. Strange items abounded at the various tents and booths. Glass balls that ward off evil spirits were strange. The Exit Realty tents were not strange at all. Paula Nardone and Morgan Hill have smiles that brighten up any occasion. No stranger to Marathon City affairs was Deputy City Manager C. J. Geotis and his lady. Strange but true was former Marathon Mayor Randy Mearns reloading the soda wagon. City Manager Mike Puto was listening to a resident and smiling for our photographer. That is quite normal for him, you know! We closed out our all day fun by visiting the US Coast Guard Auxiliary booth. Then we admired the Southernmost Chapter Abate of Florida display of nifty motorcycles. When we exited the Seafood Festival grounds, we saw how well the Sheriff's Department controlled the crowds and cars at the entrance. What a day of seafood and fun! March 11, 2007 - Marathon Seafood Festival - L. E. Shaffer: This year’s seafood festival was full of wonderful things to see and eat from the venders, the food court, the kid’s rides, and the charitable organizations. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.
The soccer field had all sorts of tents and booths. Many interesting things caught my eye. Clothing, jewelry, face painting, and wind chimes were appealing. Overall, I thought the vendors did a very good job with the variety and low cost of items. The only thing that I was not pleased to see was the pipes and paraphernalia of questionable usage. Come on, people, there is a time and a place for everything. This was not the place.
For this Nebraska-grown farm boy the seafood food court was a pleasant change of pace. With plenty of different styles of seafood to pick from the similar theme was the low cost. But, of course, the main staple for me was the food court offering the basic burger and dog.
The kid’s rides were your basic small carnival style. The air-filled trampoline and the air slide was a little overpriced in my opinion. It was $5 for three slides down, which was one of the reasons it was the least used. The most popular of all was the tried and true dunk-the-adult attraction, which is still my favorite.
I was very pleased to see the charitable organizations out in full force. There was the Veterans Haven Inc. It was good to see because we need to support our troops that are currently fighting overseas. We especially need to remember those who have served to better our life and protect the world’s freedoms.
 My favorite was Daycamp at Seacamp. They had a stand for kids to make shark tooth necklace. There also was a living sea-life exhibit. The kids were encouraged to hold the sea life to learn more about them. They also had an information bulletin board with plenty of colorful pictures and information. Overall, the exhibit was very well organized and operated. The best part was it was absolutely free. To learn more about this wonderful organization you can look them up on the web at www.seacamp.org or call them at 305-872-2331.
Overall, I thought this year’s Seafood Festival was super cool. It was a fun way to spend the day in the sun. The day was full of pleasant shopping, food, and music. This was a great way to experience the City of Marathon. March 12, 2007 - Marathon EOC - L. E. Shaffer: The Marathon City Council met at the Marathon Government Center EOC Room, 2798 Overseas Highway on Monday, March 12, 2007 at 6:30 p.m. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Citizens' comments: Fred Endemann spoke about Coco Plum Avenue I wastewater treatment plant decommissioning. He and his neighbors still want the old plant to stay operational. City staff has explained repeatedly that they are unable to start the new plant construction without decommissioning the old plant.
City Manager Mike Puto requested removal of resolutions 2007-29 and 2007-40 off agenda.
City Manager's report: Puto gave the lobbyist status report. He also reported on the Grassy Key turn lane and 33rd Street boat-ramp job progress. The Sea Grape project by Wooden Spoon might get a curb cut. Bus stop improvements are ongoing. Deputy City Manager Geotis is working on streamlining the permitting process.
Responses to citizens’ comments: WEC Engineer Ed Castle addressed wastewater treatment issues. Building Service Director Rose Ann Hightower addressed building permit issues. Building Inspector Bob Welch reported on the trailer on end of 90th Street. After inspection, building inspector Bob Welch posted an unsafe structure notice. The owner was noticed in 2001 but couldn’t repair it. The owner is now trying to save the trailer. Welch stated that staff was trying to put together in procedures to address this type of situation in the future. Over the years, the climate has changed to save trailers if possible.
Councilman Pete Worthington appointed John Stiglitz to the Housing Task Force.
Attorney Monthly Report – Jimmy Morales reported on the successful conclusion to the Bott litigation. He further stated that expenses increased due to the establishment of the Unsafe Structures Committee, cost recovery work, and growth management. The rest are on budget.
City Customer Service Initiative – Councilwoman Tempest reported on the effort to improve customer services under Deputy City Manager Geotis direction. There are three factors concerning procedures, cost, and how the customer was treated. Geotis reported on his efforts to improve customer services. Organizational problems will be fixed.
US Sewer Summit – Councilwoman Mearns reported that Tempest, Geotis, and Rosasco attended a summit with Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. She said that the city could be proud of being the only unit to plan to reach the 2010 wastewater goal.
Councilman Jeff Pinkus reported on the continuing effort to convert Marathon Government Center to Marathon City Hall. Jeff Pinkus said that concern is still on track.
Historic Preservation Board discussions lead to the board just being advisory. City Attorney Jimmy Morales put together a resolution to create one. He needed to know what the council wanted the board to do – advisory or more power.
The council approved a modification to an existing Development Agreement between the city and Key Colony Bay Development, LLC, for the redevelopment of the property located at 13351 Overseas Highway, Fat Deer Key. The Development Agreement specifies the development conditions and requirements. The modification specifies a change in ownership and the addition of a restaurant. Affordable housing component originally would be eight units at $100,000 each equaling $800,000 or using new rules 15 units at $200,000 each equaling $3,000,000. Jose Gonzalez on behalf of the applicant made a presentation. The council decided to amend the original motion to include eight units at $200,000 each. The vote was 3 – 2. Pinkus and Tempest voted no on that amendment. The original motion passed overall 5-0
City Council approved the Key Colony Bay Development, LLC request for an amendment to a Major Conditional Use Permit, authorizing the Key Colony Bay Resort redevelopment. The property is located at 13351 Overseas Highway, Fat Deer Key. The permit accommodated the change in ownership and an increase in square footage of each hotel unit from 1,200 square feet to 1,500 square feet.
Council approved the James Chaplin, LLC, request for a Major Conditional Use Permit amendment, authorizing the development of a restaurant, swimming pool, deck and patio area on vacant parcel in Knight’s Key Village, Knight’s Key, Monroe County, Florida. The request is for a one-year extension to submit a building permit and develop wastewater treatment plant plans.
Ordinance 2007-05 established a uniform speed zone throughout the city. The speed just on city streets except school zones is set at 25 MPH. After some surveys, speeds will be designated by separate ordinance.
Continued to next meeting, Resolution 2007-26 amended a Major Conditional Use for the redevelopment of a commercial property known as Grassy Key Marina, located at 59073 Overseas Highway, Gulf, San Souci Subdivision, Grassy Key.
Resolution 2007-28 directed the Planning Department to stop accepting ROGO allocation applications commencing March 14, 2007, declaring that applications under the new BPAS will be available and accepted commencing May 7, 2007. Pinkus voted no.
Consent item, Resolution 2007-39 approved an agreement with Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Bureau of Water Facilities Funding for Wastewater Grant LP6802 in Service Area 4 for $1,000,000.
Resolution 2007-41 approved a lease agreement with the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund of the state of Florida for the management of city properties purchased for the purpose of conservation. The resolution also authorized the city manager and the city attorney to finalize the terms and conditions of the agreement. The resolution authorized the city manager to execute the agreement.
Resolution 2007-42 rescinded Resolution 2003-132 regarding individual submerged land leases.
Consent item, the council approved the minutes for 2/13/07 and 2/15/07.
104th Street Property options: Worthington said that now CWHIP funds are not forthcoming, what is the next action. He suggested possibly putting out an RFP. MKCLT Rick Casey presented the financial figures dealing with affordable housing. Judi Gopman spoke about a former proposal on affordable housing. She said that you need a subsidy and need to form partnerships. Get it done now. Worthington favored a subsidy and and RFP. Pinkus favored rentals and an RFP. Tempest agreed with Pinkus. Mearns moved to consider an RFP.
Councilman Worthington accused City Manager Mike Puto of approving contracts without council approval. City Attorney Jimmy Morales stated the city manager didn’t do anything illegal. The council could further refine the rules under which the manager operates though. Finance Director Peter Rosasco reported that all managers have treated all contracts in the same manner and that was not wrong. He also said that council could refine it rules if it wanted something different. John Whalton thought it was a good idea to narrow the manager’s contract abilities.
Council comments: Seafood Festival was a success and received rave reviews. Parking was not an issue at all. Everyone thanked Councilman Jeff Pinkus for his four years of service to the city and its residents. March 13, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: The Marathon City Elections wrapped up with Mike Cinque and Don Vasil winning over John Bartus, Marjie Mearns, and Joan Nelson. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Correction: Jeff Pinkus and Mike Cinque pointed out that the election report is incorrect in their percentages. Cinque 53%, Vasil 47%, Bartus 37%, Mearns 22%, and Nelson 23%. The percentages add up to more than 100% because every one voter got the opportunity to vote twice. The percentages don't add up to 200%, because not every voter voted twice. Plus some votes came in for Jeff Pinkus, even though he withdrew from the race. With 32% of the registered voters voting, Mike Cinque and Don Vasil won the two city council position up for election. Former Mayor John Bartus and incumbent Marjie Mearns lost in a shakeup of the Marathon City Council. Joan Nelson had no bearing on the election. 1,891 voters out of 5,784 registered voters cast their votes for Cinque 997 [28%], Vasil 882 [25%], Bartus 709 [20%], Nelson 439 [12%], and Mearns 422 [12%]. The fact that two council members have been elected with 28% and 25% respectively is an atrocity. Fortunately, Cinque and Vasil will most likely do good jobs. They will need about a year to get on their feet though. The job is not easy, and no matter what you do, you are wrong. My reporter and I made the rounds at the various precincts. Early on the turnout was slow according to Belinda Brown who runs the Marathon Elections Office at 63rd Street. As the election ended at 7 PM, the numbers got better. At the Moose Lodge where Precincts 21 and 23 were polling, we were challenged repeatedly about being within the 100 foot demarcation line. Michael Dolan wouldn't let the issue go and got quite belligerent. My reporter and I were certainly getting on Michael Dolan's last nerve. Sorry, Mikey. We finally escaped his evil clutches to go talk with the Supervisor of Elections Harry Sawyer. You remember our hero don't you? He is responsible along with all his poll volunteers for keeping Monroe County the best in elections in the whole USA. Of course, that is our opinion. Anyway, Harry and I had a long conversation, while we were getting some pertinent data on the election. I found out that I could get the information that I wanted from the Marathon 63rd Street Elections Office. Harry found out that Mikey D. was upset and a bit pissed off. Something Dolan is wont to do according to those that know him. Harry said he would talk to the young fella. That was okay with me. Who am I to cause trouble, right? So off we went to the Event's Field City Hall Annex to watch the absentee ballots get processed by the Election Canvassing Board made up of City Clerk Diane Clavier, Councilwoman Tempest, Mayor Chris Bull, and Councilman Pete Worthington, who was grateful that he wasn't up for re-election! After waiting around for a tardy touch-screen count, we finally got the winners and the losers. It is a shame that anyone had to lose. We had really good candidates. Good luck to one and all. Now onto the hard part, that being a real, live city council person in all its glory and rowdiness. PS Moving the election date to November got 977 [57%] yes to 710 [42%] in the straw vote. City council will make it official soon. Eight more months with this council is a joy and pleasure to behold, isn't it? March 13, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: The city elections from a newcomer's point of view. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Today was very interesting and informing for this 28 year old. I never voted or took much interest in voting. I have learned how citizens can vote, the ways citizens can vote, and the way a small group of trusted individuals count the votes. At the polls, there was not much action. Some precincts had better turnouts than others did. Of about 5,000 plus registered voters only around 32% of the register voters turned out. There were not too many young voters at the voting booths today. I would like to ask the community of marathon to teach the younger voters to take pride in voting. It is not a right it’s privilege. On my travels to the different voting precincts, I met many interesting people. Alison Murphy had a lot of insight into the community and the different kid of voters. She had the same observation that the lack of younger voters showing up. Next, I met Marjie Mearns, who was very knowledgeable of Marathon’s charitable organizations. I warmed up to her easily. She seems to be a kind soul. John Bartus reminded me of the old farmer trying to help every kind soul that crossed his path. Mr. Bartus is the type of person we need in our city. It only takes one smile to light up someone’s day and John’s smile made my day. The next precinct I went to there was a lot of activity, not by the voters, but by Michal Dolan. Beyond my knowledge, cameras and camera cell phones are not allowed within a hundred feet of the voting booths. That was okay, but I guess if you do not leave the grounds immediately and run to your car, you will be arrested. All things aside, it was good to see that the rules strictly upheld. We found comfort and solace in Harry Sawyer at the Marathon’s Election Office. The meeting did not start out well. There was some heated discussion between Larry Shaffer and Harry Sawyer. After our intentions were clearly stated, Harry Sawyer turned out to be a very knowledgeable and a nice person. He also is very passionate about his job, which is what we need in our leaders. I learned form Mr. Sawyer that there are two ways of voting. The optical scanning requires the old trusted pen. The touch screen requires the trusted finger. From what was explained to me, the touch screen is a very accurate way of casting your ballet. The computer will ask you two times if you are sure your want to cast your ballet. Inside the City Hall Annex, I met a lovely bunch of trusted servants. A lovely woman by the name of Marlin Tempest, she reminded me of my grandmother. She is always trying to solve the world’s problems. I met Marathon City Manager Mike Puto not Pluto Puto. His office was decorated with memorabilia of his life in Marathon. A picture hangs on the wall of his childhood baseball time. Mike Puto has been a citizen of Marathon since childbirth. Thank you for the eats. It was the first time I was provided dinner by a city manager. As the counting process started, I knew I was going to be there a long time. The process seemed long and tedious. The ballots are processed with the utmost respect. There is a very specific routine to handling and counting the ballots to insure proper counting and no tampering. As the counting started, the atmosphere changed. As other reporters arrived, I met Jason Kohl of the The Weekly Newspapers. Now, he is a likable character, tall, but likable. I found him very entertaining and respectful, overall a real asset to the news media industry. As the candidates arrived, John Bartus stuck out the most with his colorful hat and wide smiles. As the tallies started to come in Bartus was in the lead with 136 votes, Cinque with 134, Nelson had 79, and Vasil 135 votes. When the next round of numbers came, Cinque had the lead with 662 votes, and next was Vasil. Falling behind was Bartus and Nelson. Upon the next round of numbers, it was clear that winners were Cinque and Vasil. As John Bartus left, my heart sank a little. I was at his heals trying to get a quote. After his first short interview with another reporter, I decided to let him go. If I had it to do over I would not try to get a quote, I would give him one. “John, you ran a good race, and the community will be hoping you run again. I think you have a good idea about what needs to happen to better this community. A warm heart is what every community needs, so keep your head up. You have many supporters that want you to stick around.” Overall, I learned today that the city is in safe hands. Not only do we have smart people on the city council. We also have capable people that, hopefully, will not quit trying to better our community. Therefore, to the new city council members please do not forget the people that voted for you. You have an obligation to them to uphold your campaign promises and to make well-informed decisions for our city. Marjie Mearns taught me that. March 14, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: The Marathon Code Board met at the Sheriff's Aviation Hanger 2nd-floor training room. Marathon Code Compliance Board met March 14, 2007 at 6:30 PM. They met at the Sheriff’s Aviation Hanger on the second-floor training room The meeting started with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call. The board approved the last-meeting’s minutes. Witnesses were sworn in. Michael Storm presented the Case No. C2006-0246 Joseph V. Sciascia owner of a vacant property on Coco Plum Drive. Mr. Sciacia was cited for noxious material and debris, parking of trucks, trailers over one ton within city limits. Mr. Sciasia pleaded his case, and the board found him in violation and order him to come into compliance within 60 days and to pay the administrative fee of $250. Inspector Strom presented Case No. C2007-0008 William E Ruef, Jr. owner of a duplex on 103 Alynn Place was cited for noxious material and debris and unlawful disposal of solid waste. Mr. Rueff was not present, but his neighbors were. Two families presented their case. The board declared the residence a health risk to the public and ordered Mr. Rueff to come in compliance in 7 days and pay an administrative fee of $250. Inspector Cynthia J. McPherson presented Case No. C2006-468. Wende Dupler owner of a house on 349 27th street Ocean was cited for expiration of a building permit. Wende Dupler was not present. The board cited Wende Dupler a fine of $100 a day, until she comes into compliance the city code and shows a building permit. Inspector McPherson presented Case No. C2006-0545 105th Street, Inc. owners of property at 10499 Overseas Highway. The violation was for expiration of building permit. The board found that a permit was granted and dismissed the case. McPherson presented Case No. C2006-0429 Rober A. Dublis owner of property at 2480 Coco Plum Beach Drive. Violation was for expiration of building permit. The board found that a permit was granted and dismissed the case. Next on the agenda was a hearing of Non-Compliance. Inspector McPherson presented Case No. C2006-0125 Larry J. Breedlove owner of a commercial vacant lot adjacent to 13900 Overseas Highway. Mr. Breedlove was cited for environmental restoration standard and agreement plus illegal removal of vegetation. Mr. Breedlove was not present his lawyers spoke for him. The board found Mr. Breedlove in non-compliance and ordered $100 a day until he is in compliance. Inspector Storm presented Case No. C2006-0192 Peter Karras owner of a house on 500 70th Street Gulf. Mr. Karras was cited for not having a building permit. The board found non-compliance was in order and gave authority to the city’s attorney to purse foreclosure to get the balance of fines. The lawyer attempted to make contact before pursuing with foreclosure. This was the third time this case was heard. March 14, 2007 - Email - Linda Hall: Protect Every Child's Right To Survival
Dear Friends,
I have just read and signed the petition: "Protect Every Child's Right To Survival"
Please take a moment to read about this important issue, and join me in signing the petition. It takes just 30 seconds, but can truly make a difference. We are trying to reach 80,000 signatures - please sign here: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/411200543
Once you have signed, you can help even more by asking your friends and family to sign as well. I do not like to sign petitions but this one hit home straight to my heart So many children miss out on a real life. They have a right to all that life has to offer. And survival should be one of the prerequisites of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Thank you! Linda Hall http://www.thePetitionSite.com March 15, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Turtles and beach raking clashed at the Marathon Coco Plum Beach. Notables from all sides were there to tour the beach and discuss corrective actions. Ritchie Moretti from the Turtle Hospital along with former Ports Manager Harry Delashmutt seemly butted heads with City Manager Mike Puto and Deputy City Manager C. J. Geotis.
Community Services Director Susie Thomas worked very hard to improve Coco Plum Beach and maintain its passive, environmental nature. Future improvements will enhance the passive beach. Still, the improvements can make a few twitch here and there. Of course, the city cares a lot about preserving turtle habitat. Ritchie Moretti is committed to the turtles that make the Florida Keys so special. His reasonable requests in preparation for the upcoming turtle-nesting season are not a problem for the city. Their mutual interests match. With the introduction of Harry Delashmutt, you must put up your political antenna and listen closely. He has an agenda that is not in the interest of the city or the turtles. His in-your-face style does not hide the fact that his people skills suck. His claim to experience in this particular area is thin. A look into his background sees time in park services. Nowhere else he has been has benefited from his stewardship. After all the long walks on the beach and the longer discussions, the city and the turtles will survive without the so-called skills of one Harry Delashmutt. ****** F.I.R.M **** WE NEED YOUR INPUT! March 16
In an attempt to improve the claims processing of Citizens Property Insurance, FIRM is doing a survey of their performance in Monroe County. If you filed a windstorm claim within the past 2 years, please answer these questions emailing Robbiekw@bellsouth.net: - When (for which storm or storms) did you file a claim?
- Has the claim been paid?
- How long did it take Citizens to pay your claim?
- Did someone inspect your property before the claim was paid?
- Did the amount Citizens agreed to pay equal your contractor’s estimate?
- After your deductible was reached, did you receive enough for repair?
- Was the process of filing and collecting your claim handled well?
- Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about the customer service experience with regards to Citizens claims?
FIRM continues to work with our representative and other Tallahassee legislators to see that the gains made in the Special Session are improved and made permanent. Keep up the pressure – don’t let the insurance lobby change the rules again to the detriment of consumers! Watch for more updates!
JOIN FIRM: www.FIRMkeys.org
Get Involved…..
We still have much to accomplish & we need your HELP !!!
Robbiekw@bellsouth.net
Robbie Hopcraft March 17, 2007 - Islamorada - L. E. Shaffer: The Middle Keys Community Land Trust held the Islamorada Woods Corner groundbreaking March 17th with a number of notables in attendance. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. The Middle Keys Community Land Trust broke ground at Islamorada Woods Corner location with quite the crowd of officials and a number of prospective applicants. The Land Trust Executive Administrator Rick Casey hosted the gathering with the able assistance of Programs Assistant Dee Lloyd. President Debbie Love was unable to attend. Vice President Morgan Hill got caught in traffic from an accident near the east end of Marathon. She finally arrived in the middle of the groundbreaking ceremony. Directors Jeff Pinkus, Larry Shaffer, Clarence Feagin were also in attendance. Islamorada council members attending were Mayor Chris Sante, Councilman Don Achenberg, Vice Mayor Michael Reckwerdt, and Councilman Dave Boerner. Village Manager Gary Wood was there as well. From the Workforce/Affordable Housing Citizens' Advisory Committee were Chairwoman Deb Gillis and Vice Chairman Dave Purdo. Dave is also a director on the Land Trust board. First State Bank Betty Brown, BayView Homes Jim Saunders, and Architect Nancy Perez Miller were there ready to turn shovels. The Florida Housing Finance Corporation and Monroe County SHIP representative could not make it. Monroe School Board Duncan Mathewson attended as well. After Rick Casey welcomed everyone and introduced all the above notables, a number of individuals involved in the project made comments. Then representatives from each sector manned their golden shovels for pictures of the first shovels in the ground. Woods Corner will consist of 16 three-bedroom, two-and-a-half bathroom homes. There will be four buildings of three units each and one building of four units. Entrances/exits will be from/to Woods Corner and Gardenia Street. This location on Plantation Key right across from Coral Shores High School will see a community of workforce families in the low to moderate-income range. Currently, homes are estimated to cost from $135,000 to $185,000 depending on applicant income. Everyone involved should be commended for doing workforce housing that is so hard for many to even attempt. Saving one workforce family at a time is the Land Trust's mission. March 18, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Drive carefully. The life you save may be your own or a loved one. At the corner of US1 and 91st, a bicycle rider was hit and thrown into the path of the vehicle that killed the rider. We all know that US1 is a killer. The side roads of Marathon are a bit safer, but not by much. Years ago I was hit on my bike at the corner of US1 and 39th Street. The driver looked right at me, but did not see me. He drove his car right into my bike. I was lucky. I got 15 stitches in my lip. Why US1 is such a killer is up to debate. Another life is gone though. Family and friends put up a cross with some personal effects and flowers. I want to put some flowers there too. Is this a tribute or remembrance? Could it be a reminder how fragile life has become? Maybe, better yet, the cross is a hint to drive carefully. Watch out for pedestrians, bicyclists, skate boarders, rollerblader, or anyone on the sidewalks. Don't be careless; don't be a killer. Slow down and look out for others. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. March 19, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon Planning Commission met at the Sheriff's Aviation Hangar second-floor training room to consider a short agenda. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.
There were two articles on the agenda, the final plat for La Palma and an ordinance to adopt amendments to Section 9.5-277 “Emergency Temporary Housing”.
The proposed plat for the La Palma project consists of eight lots. The city purchased Lot 1 for 40 units of affordable housing. John Lakes Pointe II LLC proposes to construct residential dwelling units on lots 2 through 8. The vacating and re-platting of existing lots with seven ROGO entitlements will be distributed among lots 2 through 8 at a rate of 1 per lot.
The city staff recommended approval of the final plat of La Palma subdivision. The ROGO allocations were vested and will not expire. They also recommended development of single-family homes on lots 2 through 8 to proceed at the discretion of the developer.
Commissioner Williams moved to approve the city’s recommendations. The rest of the commission agreed.
The city council asked staff to come up with an amendment to section 9.5-227 of the city of Marathon Code. They wanted to extend the time of use with the FEMA trailers to a case-to-case basis. The commission was concerned with the trailers staying for so long. They wanted the building official to have the final say on who stays. The matter was continued to the next meeting so the city staff can rewrite the city ordinance. March 20, 2007 – Marathon – L. E. Shaffer: Marathon is looking forward to a new mayor and vice mayor. The city has been blessed with great mayors. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Bob Miller was mayor early on and helped form the young city. John Bartus served two terms and most admit that he was one of the best mayors in Marathon’s seven-year history. Randy Mearns was a steady influence during his tenure. He was helping at the recent Seafood Festival loading sodas into the Pepsi wagon. Jeff Pinkus provided grace and character to his mayoral term. He is stepping down after four years on council. Currently serving as mayor is Chris Bull. He sought ways to include more resident input at the meeting over the last year. Now the interesting question is who will be our next mayor and vice-mayor. Possibilities are endless. Chris Bull has a good chance at being Marathon’s first back-to-back mayor. Odds are good that Marilyn Tempest and Pete Worthington have the best chance. Then again, the newcomers have the outside chance of becoming mayor as well. Mike Cinque or Don Vasil the two rookies in the running for mayor or even vice-mayor. Mike Cinque did a decent job chairing the Marathon Planning Commission this last year. Regardless of who becomes Marathon’s mayor and vice-mayor, there will be a lot of fun just conjecturing. You know how the Coconut Telegraph works, right? March 24, 2007 – Marathon to Key Largo - L. E. Shaffer: Over the last several weeks, we have been manning the Marathon to Key Largo Conch Color express. We deliver a carload, literally, of the colorful photographic chronicles to all the Keys places from Marathon to Key Colony Beach known for its famed Sadowski Causeway. Grassy Key where the dolphins swim at the Dolphin Research Center to Duck Key finds us enamored with the beauty of the Florida Keys, ocean to gulf. Tommy and Larry then slow down for Layton on Long Key before we miss the innate charm of the place. Islamorada has the best US1 corridor to gaze at and admire. Anne’s Beach is hard not to stop at, but we got many papers to deliver yet. O, then there is Tavernier with its picturesque entrance/exit signs. We really like Key Largo, because we can stop at Wendy’s for a couple of chocolate frosties. Full of ice cream, we complete our delivery journey by heading back the way we came. It is double the pleasure to see all the same sights on the rebound. Be assured that we are going to do articles and take photos on all those great places mentioned above. Do you have a hankering to be in one of our articles and photos? Call us at 305-743-9648. We will be glad to oblige. Tom & Larry. On March 25, 2007, the Art Fest was at the Marathon City Events Field. About a dozen local artists showed up to display their original artwork. The attempt to make money was the main theme. Some artists were more than happy to inform and teach about their methods of creating original art. Tim Dressing was also there providing pleasurable music. Nadine and Glen showed various original oil paintings ranging from portraits of local sea life to the all-too-abundant Key West chicken. The landscape paintings were especially interesting. Framed in old lobster traps, I found the artwork to be unique and resourceful way to recycle. Anne Schroeder’s work displayed modified feathers put together in an original way. Parrots and exotic pheasants provided feathers, naturally shed. The primary resource of the feathers is parrot rescue missions and rare bird aviaries. When asked if she had any local bird feathers she promptly responded, “No that is illegal.” Sea Glass Jewelry designed by Loren and Kathy Bell was a popular spot. A necklace made with glass, that had wire in it, was not only beautiful, but it was educational. The wire strengthens the glass. It adds a unique flare to the piece. They also had bracelets made from sea glass. This was also a resourceful way to recycle. Photography by Mike and Gayle Hewlett was also on display. One picture caught my attention. The tunnel picture reminded me that there is always something beautiful on the other side. Rocky Ferris had a plentiful amount of fantastic watercolor artwork on display. A piece that depicted a lizard on stars that lead to a doorway was my favorite.March 27, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon Airport Task Force met at the Sheriff's Aviation Hangar second-floor training room. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Monroe County Director of Airports Peter Horton and Boyd Group Contractor Mike Mooney led the meeting. Clearway-Stopway and seat attendance were the main topics at the meeting. Peter Horton explained that the FAA denied the Clearway-Stopway application. They have asked the city for building permits to modify the west end of the airport so they could meet the FAA requirements. Mike Mooney discussed the community’s buzz about the cost of airline tickets being too expensive. The reason for the fluctuation of pricing is a direct result of only having one flight to Atlanta a day. If there were more than one flight, the option of connection in Atlanta would drive the ticket price down. Mike Mooney reported that 84 percent of the seats are being filled. Flight delays for our small airport are very low with only three flight cancellations. Clearway - "an obstruction free rectangular plane, extending from the end of a runway, over which an aeroplane taking off may make a portion of its initial climb to 35 feet (10.7 m) above the ground at the end of the Clearway. Stopway - "a rectangular area of ground, originating at the end of a runway, on which an aeroplane may be stopped in the case of an aborted take-off. A Stopway may be used to achieve the financial savings associated with lower strength pavement and the absence of runway marking and lighting. What's Happening! The Marathon City Council has gone way conservative and penny-pinching with the addition of Cinque and Vasil. That is not necessarily a bad thing either, as long as services to all residents remain at high quality levels. A spending workshop coming up soon will tell the tail about what direction the council will go. The council will do the right thing; they have to. Property rights do not allow the trampling of the rights of all city residents taken together. City Council has also put out rebids for contracts. Let us hope that this is not a ploy to get other contractors some big-money contracts that they don't deserve otherwise. No council person should favor a friend or campaign contributor. Let us be on guard to the City Council and its new members and makeup. Miscellany: Jeff Pinkus, Marjie Mearns, and John Bartus are doing well. All three continue to be active in their community and now actually have more influence and flexibility than before. Being a city council person is a thankless and hard job. No matter what you do, it is wrong. No matter how hard you try; you don't get anything done worthwhile in a quick manner. Refer to Randy Mearns, "Government moves at the pace of a dead snake." Well, enough of that. I got my grandson Michael a new laptop for his education and recreation. I'm glad that I can now do things like this, spoiling grandkids that is. Meanwhile, the Conch Color, News Barometer, Marathon Weekly, and the Marathon Florida Keys Journal continue to cooperate and help one another. What a refreshing idea, huh? Finally: Did you know that New York's state bird is the Bluebird? The flower is the Rose. The tree is the Sugar Maple. The capital is Albany. Statehood was granted July 26, 1788. Yellow, yellow let it mellow; brown, brown flush it down. Good words to save water. Shower with friends. That can be fun. Use bathwater to keep plants green. Dance with some local natives to entice rain to fall from the skies. Rain, where art thou? ACRONYMS:| ACOE | Army Corps of Engineers | | AYSO | American Youth Soccer Organization | | BPAS | Building Permit Allocation System | | CAMP | Creative Arts and Music Program | | CWHIP | Community Workforce Housing Innovation Pilot Program | | DCA | Florida Department of Community Affairs | | ECMC | Educational Coalition for Monroe County | | EMS | Emergency Medical Services | | EOC | Emergency Operations Center | | FAA | Federal Aviation Administrator | | FDEP | Florida Department of Environmental Protection | | FDOT | Florida Department of Transportation | | FEMA | Federal Emergency Management Agency | | FIRM | Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe County | | FKAA | Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority | | FKCC | Florida Keys Community College | | FKEC | Florida Keys Electric Cooperative | | FLUM | Future Land Use Map | | FRDAP | Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program | | FWC | Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission | | GIS | Geographic Information System | | GSG | Government Services Group | | H4H | Habitat for Humanity | | HOA | Home Owners Association | | HR | Human Resources | | HUD | US Department of Housing and Urban Development | | IS | Improved Subdivision | | ISD | Improved Subdivision Duplex | | IT | Information Technology | | LDRs | Land Development Regulations required by the Comprehensive Plan | | MCSO | Monroe County Sheriff's Office | | MGS | Marathon Garbage Service | | MHS | Marathon High School | | MKCLT | Middle Keys Community Land Trust | | MSTU | Municipal Service Taxing Unit | | MU | Mixed Use | | MUC | Mixed Use Commercial | | NROGO | Non-Residential Permit Allocation System | | NSW | Near Shore Waters Advisory Committee | | PIO | Public Information Officer | | OVHOA | Overseas Village Home Owners Association | | RFP | Request for Proposal | | RH | Residential High | | RM-2 | Residential Medium - 2 [applies to Coco Plum community only] | | ROGO | Rate of Growth Ordinance | | ROW | Right of Way | | RV | Recreational Vehicle | | SC | Suburban Commercial | | SHIP | State Housing Initiatives Partnership | | SR | Suburban Residential | | SRF | State Revolving Fund | | TBA | To be Announced | | TBR | Transfer of Building Right | | TDC | Tourist Development Council | | TRIM | Truth in Millage | | TSA | Transportation Security Administration | | UR | Urban Residential | | WEC | Weiler Engineering Corporation |
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, & the like will end up in the litter box! >^..^<  Ebony: I made it into the Conch Color as Critter of the Week. Now I nose how special I am to everyone. Famous cats get lots of catnip and yummy nummies. >^..^<
Abby: I think that you are special too, Ebony. You are so special that fleas love you way more than me. And that, my dear Ebony, makes you a flea bag supreme. At least I am the one who can get lots of yummy nummies because I just meow until the human beans give me some. You just come running along to sponge off my special talents. >^..^<
Ebony: You have a talent for aggravating everyone around you, even me. We have a new human bean staying with us, and you can get both of them to cave in to your constant meow demands. >^..^<
Abby: Catching birds is your special talent. You have been accused of being a bird murder. I just watched you and played with it a little bit. You nose, the cat in me just had to come out sometimes. >^..^<
Ebony: Abby, we were both bird murderers. Just cause I caught the wayward beastie, doesn't mean you were not an necessary after the fad. So you are just as guilty as me. So pipe down. >^..^<
Abby: Human bean made sure everyone nose you the bad cat. He sent in your factuals to that the couch cholera thing magazine or whatever it is. I'm the innocent one. How was I to nose what you killed. You always let me play with your catches. >^..^<
Ebony: Abby, you are prefabricating. When I have my birthday, you are not going to get any of my presents. Human beans take me for long walks and rides in big truck things. >^..^<
Abby: Ebony, I don't like noisy things. You can have long rides in a truck. I rather be outside somewhere full of frisky lizards where it all quiet and stuff. >^..^<
Ebony: I like the traveling and all the new smells and people. You can be reclusive if you want to. I am a brave cat. I have almost 11 years which is like 60 bean years. >^..^<
Abby: Yes, you got the saggy stomach for it. Why four of your kitten feeders drag the ground when you walk. I not have a big sag, because I am a smaller cat. >^..^<
Ebony: I'll meow you about your fat head. I always been a big-boned kitty. >^..^<
Abby: Ebony, human needs to put you on a bread mill. Well, folks and cats, that all there is this month. You nose, meow. >^..^<
Internet Stuff
Here are the latest DVD films from http://www.NetFlix.com: The Heart of the Game follows a high school girl's basketball coach and the successive teams it took to reach the pinnacle of success. The story follows a young black girl through her difficulties to reach her height of success as well. The documentary is very entertaining and worth watching over and over again. Facing Giants is exactly what it purports to be, a spiritual and inspirational story on a low budget. You can predict almost every scene. The acting was good and better at the end. The religious backdrop doesn't get in the way, considering the school is a Christian high school. While this is not based on a true story, you really hope that it was. I was very surprised at really wanting the movie to succeed and end in victory. I gave the film 4 stars for not pretending to be anything but what it was. A Good Year is a good Russell Crowe film. The movie is part romance, comedy, and pathos. When his uncle dies, the nephew must go back to France and settle the estate with its unique character and boyhood remembrances. The nephew comes to realize what life is truly about. The film centers around the vineyard and the secrets slowly are exposed. Crossover is an excellent but predictable movie. Two friends dream of their futures, one on basketball, and the other on being a doctor. They get girls, money, and a commercial. Yet the tables turn. What one never wanted, the other obtains in defense of his friend. The film follows a familiar story and is worth watch. Jesus Camp is a well done documentary. The film follows children through their church and religious activities. The adults take great care to teach their children the precepts they hold so dear. The movie was disturbing in that children under 12 were subjected to what amounted to indoctrination. Children should be taught how to exercise their self-determination skills. Stranger than Fiction kept you on the edge of your seat wanting, needing to know what came next. This movie is something unexpected, well crafted, and captures a sense of life. The film is part comedy, romance, and tragedy. A voice speaks to an IRS agent who measures his life by the number of seconds, steps, and routines he experiences. The man slowly changes his life and faces his own death resolutely. The ending must be left to you, or this extraordinary story would be ruined. A Brush with Death is a movie about some girls who visit this house. A dead boy supposedly haunts the house. Frankly, the acting sucks, the story sucks, and even the music sucked. The B movie isn’t even good enough to be a B film. This film sucked big wads. Casino Royale is a very interesting James Bond movie with depth. You get to see how it all started from the drink to his name. His first kill is followed by his first love. The character is molded by his first mission as 007. The casino scene is classic. The action is real. The spy game, surreal. Good movie, rent it. The new Flicka is a story that will always be good no matter what. The novel was great. The previous movie versions were great. And this film was even better. This is a timeless story of free mustangs and one in particular. Human and horse learn to love each other to make this a good, clean movie. The Holiday is a warm, funny romance story about two women who swap homes for Christmas. They are running away from failed relationships. They both meet new men who fall in love with them. The acting was good and natural. The cast fit together well. The side story of the 90-year-old Hollywood writer was well done as well and added to the fabric of the movie. Overall, I was impressed and suitably entertained. The film put a smile on my face. Eragon is a fantasy movie about a dragon and the young boy that bonded with the creature. The story goes on to show how the two change their world. The ending leaves you open to an Eragon II. There are some complaints about the quality of the film, plot, and acting, but I find the movie fun and interesting. No, I didn’t read the book, and that might be why I enjoyed the movie. Of course, I like anything with intelligent dragons in it. Everyone’s Hero is an animated film project that came about due to Christopher and Dana Reeves, who didn’t survive to see their impact. This is more than a children’s movie, but a love affair with a story of never giving up, baseball, and loveable characters. The animation is spot on for a different time of ideals and hope. This is a wonderful, must-see film. The Nativity Story is a gritty, realistic depiction of the birth of Jesus. Every scene links to future events and sometimes brings tears. The compelling story is still relevant even today religion notwithstanding. The setting, actors, and music come together to make one fantastic film. Rocky Balboa is a movie about heart, going back, and how to live one’s life. Rocky has lost his beloved wife, his son is estranged from him, and life has some demons for him. He is troubled by those demons and confused at why he isn’t happy. Then he befriends an old friend and reaches out to his son. To get his demons out of his system, Rocky goes to the ring one more time to teach the existing champion what a real fight is all about. Both are champions, and that is the way the film ends. I was glad to relive a Rocky Balboa movie one more time.
School for Scoundrels is supposed to turn men into lions. Only things don’t quite work out that way. And the teacher somehow goes wrong in pursuing the woman of someone else’s dreams. This is a comedy full of life and great acting. The story is well told and worth watching.
The Pursuit of Happyness is on solid movie. A father gets an internship for six months at no pay. He loses his wife, but keeps his son. He strives to keep things together. The interplay between father and son is classic. The film is one of the better ones of the year. You definitely want to see it.
The Prestige is a Victorian story brought to life by performers who are addicted to the tricks of magic. These two spend a lifetime trying to learn each other’s secrets. The pursuit of the obsession has consequences. The journey taken in this story, in the performance, and in the characters culminates into one unusual movie. You can’t wait to get to the end and be astounded.
Interesting websites we visited recently: http://www.myspace.com/klingons_rock is very interesting. http://www.comcast.com/payonline has all the info you need for Comcast Cable, which sucks compared to DirecTV. Comcast fades in and out at the most inopportune times. Service is lost often. Signal quality is iffy. Channel selection is limited. The price is outrageous for such lousy service. Go satellite TV. http://www.sunpass.com is a great service and saves on tolls. I like it. www.capitalone.com offers timely financial service from car loans to nasty credit cards. It's okay. www.cingular.com contains all the tools to make us happy cellular customers. www.sirius.com has all the musical details for my satellite radio. How did I ever live without it! www.papajohns.com is for delicious, delivered pizza, pizza. www.naturesavenger.com is nice to nature not to weeds! Nature's Avenger Organic Herbicide. From Green living. Also, www.cuttingedgeformulations.com. www.xlr8sun.com is about a solar car.
Poetry Corner
"East to the West"
April 4, 2007
From the east
They came
Traveling dusty
Rearing at the heat
Snorting at the peaks
Far off to the west
A valley beyond
Green and lush
And on they
Traveled by
Stars at night
And clouds
Lining the day
Dreary and hot
Simmering in
A land yet to come
In the passes then
They picked the
Path carefully
Fearlessly and
Their eyes lit
Up the night
As the west
Opened forever
Before them
And at last
The lake
Shimmered life © 2007 L. E. Shaffer
Hockey Puck
NHL: Florida Panthers beat Dallas Star in overtime win. They finally reached 500. The Florida Panthers beat the Philadelphia Flyers and creep up toward a playoff spot. The Florida Panther defeated the Atlantic Thrashers to get even closer to a playoff spot. The Florida Panthers defeated the New York Islanders to stay in a playoff chase. Florida Panthers beat the Tampa Bay Lightning to stay in the playoff race. Yesterday the Florida Panther beat the Washington Caps to stay in the playoff hunt, although they need some teams to lose more than they win. PGA: Tiger Woods leads the field at the Arnold Palmer Classic. Tiger Woods won at World Golf Championships-CA Championship. Tiger is third in the FEDEX Cup.
NASCAR NEXTEL: Jeff Gordon finished 2nd, while Dale Jr. ended up 11th at the Las Vegas NASCAR race. In the Atlanta NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race, Jeff finished 12th and Dale Jr. 14th. At Bristol Jeff Gordon finished third, and Dale Jr. came in seventh. Jeff is 1st in points, while Dale Jr. is 17th. Jeff Gordon finished second in Martinsville and stayed number one in the points. Dale Jr. finished fifth and went up to number eleven in points.
NBA: The Miami Heat beat the Atlanta Hawks to climb to sixth seed in the playoffs. The Miami Heat blasted the Chicago Bulls to shore up their spot in the playoffs. The Miami Heat beat the Minnesota Timberwolves for a fifth win in a row. The Miami Heat defeated the Washington Wizards to pull within one game of the division lead and third seed in the playoffs. The Miami Heat beat the Utah Jazz to keep winning and moving up in the standings. The Miami Heat won their eighth in a row by downing the New York Nets. The Miami Heat keep winning by defeating the Sacramento Kings for the ninth straight. Miami Heat beat the Minnesota Timberwolves to regain first place. The Miami Heat beat the Toronto Raptors to regain first place. NFL: Indy Colts are still the champs, but football will be gearing up again soon. MLB: The season opened with two wins for the Florida Marlins right out of the gate. WTA: Serena Williams moved into the quarterfinals in the Sony Ericsson Open yesterday. Serena Williams beat Justine Henin in the Sony Ericsson WTA event.
Book Three Twins of the Dark Star
Book One Tears from Ao, Book Two The Mountains of Ao and four poetry collections, Pages of Life, Visions of Life, Moments of Life, and The Book of Kalian Mysticism are available at http://RunesofAo.com/aobp/. The Runes of Ao project is ongoing. Book Three Twins of the Dark Star novel is in the outlining phase and will most likely take a while as the complexity of the Ao series increases. Falling Star poetry collection is a work 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. We currently are at an impasse.
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
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www.RunesofAo.com/LarryShaffer/ Publication date: March 28, 2007
Author: L. E. Shaffer
Company: Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company &
Shaffer Internet Publishing Company
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