 Marathon Florida Keys Journal
City of Marathon, Florida Keys, Paradise
Volume 14 † Issue 4 † April 2008
[In The Keys] [Kitty Talk] [Internet Stuff] [Poetry Corner]
[Hockey Puck] [Twins of the Dark Star] [Subscribe] [The Dull Stuff] [Advertising]
Marathon Florida Keys Journal proudly presents our 14th year of quality publishing services. We continue to focus on the Florida Keys in paradise. The lead articles are 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 The Marathon Florida Keys Journal. Please click on our subscription link at marathon_journal-subscribe@topica.com. When you get a return email to confirm your choice, sign up at Topica, but bypass all those solicitations. In The Keys {for current news, see our Daily News Queue} [Origins Leap Year] [Wastewater $$s] [Roller Night] [Leon Shell] [Vitamin D 7th]
[Pet First Aid 2] [Vitamin D 10th] [Council 11th] [Start Smart Baseball] [Army Band]
[Amazing FIP Cat] [Wastewater Test] [MKCLT Woods Corner] [Irish Party]
[Grace Jones Grant] [Senator Martinez] [Crane Point Volunteer Party] [Rotary Park Easter]
[Woods Corner Update] [Council 25th] [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. Or subscribe by going to~
~webcals://calendars.office.microsoft.com/pubcalstorage/tn7rzq5z82741/L._E._Shaffer_Calendar.ics.~ Or view at
~calendars.office.microsoft.com/en-us/pubcal/viewer.aspx?path=/pubcalstorage/tn7rzq5z82741/L._E._Shaffer_Calendar.ics&tz=-240.~ February 29, 2008 - California - Linda E. Hall: Origin of Leap Year and Sadie Hawkins Day.
 History of Leap Year
The Romans originally had a 355-day calendar. To keep up with the seasons, an extra 22 or 23-day month was inserted every second year, or so. They were not consistent in adding this month and by Julius Caesar's time, the seasons no longer occurred at the same calendar periods as in the past. To correct this, Caesar eliminated the extra month and added one or two extra days to the end of various months. Thus extending the calendar to 365 days. He also intended an extra calendar day every fourth year (following the 28th day of Februarius). However, after Caesar's death in 44 B.C., the calendars were written with an extra day every 3 years instead of every 4 until corrected in 8 A.D. So again, the calendar drifted away from the seasons. By 1582, Pope Gregory XIII recognized that Easter would eventually become closer and closer to Christmas. The calendar was reformed so that a leap day would occur in any year that is divisible by 4 but not divisible by 100 except when the year is divisible by 400. Thus 1600 and 2000, although century marks, have a Leap Day. We use the Gregorian calendar to this day. Our year of 365.2425 days, is only off from our solar year by .00031, which amounts to only one day's error after 4,000 years. Sadie Hawkins Day
FEBRUARY 29th is also known as Sadie Hawkins Day. Rules of courtship were more strict in years past. Women who were hoping to marry their beaus had to wait for a proposal; they were not allowed to pop the question themselves... except on one day, every four years. You guessed it, on Feb 29! Sadie Hawkins Day, developed out of the popular cartoon strip "Li' Abner" by Al Capp. In her article in the Baltimore Sun on Feb 29, 1992, writer Sandra Crockett writes- "a female character named 'Sadie Hawkins' who lived in the fictional town Dogpatch was having a tough time getting a man to propose to her. Her father, the mayor of said fictional town, declared one day, 'Sadie Hawkin's' day. The unmarried women in Dogpatch ran -- literally -- after unmarried men to propose that day." The tradition actually started with St. Patrick and St. Bridget (5th Century) in Ireland. St. Bridget complained to St. Patrick that the sisters in her nunnery were in despair because the prevailing tradition at the time -- that women had to wait for a proposal of marriage from a man. St. Patrick agreed to allow women to propose to men every four years, during Leap Year. Afterwards, Bridget proposed to Patrick only to be turned down! So women, February 29th is you're day to ask that special someone. Just keep your eye out for St. Patrick.March 4, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council Held a Special Call Wastewater Meeting. The  location was the new Fire Station at the airport. Photos are located at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. The only consent item was Resolution 2008-39 that adopted purchasing policies and procedures for proposed purchases that exceed $10,000 and are less than $25,000. Commissioner George Nugent presented his one-cent sales tax proposal to pay for sewering Monroe County. While Islamorada and Layton councils were receptive, Marathon City Council seemed reluctant. The council did agree to hear the progress made, if any is made in the future. If Commissioner George Nugent convinces State Representative to present his proposal to the Florida Legislature, then a referendum could appear on the November ballot to raise the sales tax for Monroe County sewer projects. The Saunders state bond proposal could affect the Nugent proposal. The council had to decide how to setup the system development charge. The charge is what residents pay to build the sewer infrastructure. There were four proposals from a previous resolution, the Cinque plan, the Worthington plan, and the Tempest plan. The hang up seemed to be how much Capital Infrastructure funds to use. Except the Cinque plan, the other three assume some state funding. Cindy Lawson, a financial specialist, explained each plan and presented the council a way to adjust numbers to see what would happen. After much discussion, the council voted on several associated items. The council voted 4 - 1 [Tempest] to establish that 15% of the Capital Infrastructure funds would be used to fund the wastewater/stormwater projects. They voted 3 - 2 [Tempest and Worthington] to adopt the Cinque plan that guarantees all the money up front, but hoping to offset that by grants and state funding. Then the council voted 3 - 2 [Tempest and Worthington] to fund no more than $11.5 million out of the Operating and Maintenance costs. The last vote [unanimous] approved that any additional funding would pay that $11.5 million down, which will reduce residents' monthly bills. Councilman Don Vasil presented a Bear and Stearns representative who explained how a comprehensive financial plan could provide all the funding up front. A RFP would be needed to contract all or pieces of that effort, if adopted. Representatives from Gulfpoint 1 and 2 pointed out some inequities of the sewer layout to their properties. Council directed that staff meet with these representatives to solve those problems in favor of the homeowner association involved as much as is possible. Some of the many speakers were Joan M., Fred Endemann, former Mayor John Bartus, Phil Snowberger, city council candidate Kevin Woodland, Glenn Popp, former Councilman Frank Greenman, and Dolly Sadowski. The room was filled to capacity and numbered near 75 residents. The meeting adjourned at 9:05 PM. March 5, 2008 - Marathon - Ali Adams: Roller Night at Community Park  Friday Night February 29th. Celeste Cabrera of Marathon, age 10, takes off her skates after enjoying Roller Night Friday night, February 29 at Community Park. A crowd of anxious young and old skaters enjoyed the cool air and Sam the DJ as they rolled the night away. Other events are continuing to be planned, including nightly events from 5:30-6:30 during Spring Break, Junior Olympics on May 3, and Camp Adventure (from June 16-August 15). Call the Parks and Recreation office for details. 305-743-6598. http://www.marathonflorida.org/index.asp?nid=27 is the Parks and Recreation web page. The Parks and Recreation Department is the most successful department in the city. This department is by far the best in Monroe County. The employees and volunteers are dedicated and have a lot of fun. That is a combination that is hard to beat. Get involved. Get engaged. The fun you can have is definitely yours to have. March 6, 2008 - Marathon - Christy Johnson: 10th Annual Leon Shell Memorial Sailfish Tournament Results. 
Captain Leon Shell 10th Annual Memorial Sailfish Tournament
February 29, March 1-2, 2008
Key Colony Beach
R E S U L T S - 110 Participants on 26 Boats (32 Participants from out of Florida) - Total 19 Sailfish Caught on 12 Boats - $28,250 Awarded in Cash Prizes - $35,000 Donated to Hospice of the Florida Keys & Visiting Nurse Association (Over $95,000 since 1998) Champion Boat - $25,000 cash prize + Sailfish trophy
Main Attraction II, Capt. Shelby Bentley, Mate DJ Luppens 1st Runner-Up Boat - $1,500 cash prize + Sailfish trophy
Sea Breeze, Capt. Bob Taute 2nd Runner-Up Boat - $1,000 cash prize + Sailfish trophy
Silver Queen, Capt. Chris Tong Champion Angler - Sailfish trophy
Richard Taute, aboard the Sea Breeze with Capt. Bob Taute 1st Runner-Up Angler - Sailfish trophy
James Snyder, aboard the Main Attraction II with Capt. Shelby Bentley 2nd Runner-Up Angler - Sailfish trophy
Capt. John Foster, aboard the It's On Champion Kingfish - $250 cash prize + hanger trophy
Bruce Coles, 20.9 lbs., aboard the Calcutta with Capt. Terry Fisher Champion Dolphin - $250 cash prize + hanger trophy
Joe Suroviec, 8.8 lbs., aboard The Natural with Capt. Reese Lewis Champion Tuna - $250 cash prize + hanger trophy
Don Hiller, 18.1 lbs., aboard the Main Attraction with Capt. Marty Lewis Champion Wahoo - $250 cash prize + hanger trophy
-- none -- Junior Division
There were no winners in the Junior Division. Special Thanks to - Capt. Cal Sutphin for an outstanding job as Master of Ceremonies
- Matt and Carolyn Anthony and Sparky's Landing for excellent hosting of both the Captain's Meeting and the Awards Banquet
- Jess Shows and the Pigeon Key Foundation for providing shuttle transportation aboard the Henry Express
- Stan Haines and Collectors Corner for outstanding awards and trophies
- Capt. Joe Suroviec for magnificent original art commemorating the 10th Anniversary
- Tournament Committee Chairman Capt. Terry Fisher
- Tournament Committee Members and Volunteers: Debbie Cronin, Capt. Mike and Ruth Long, Capt. Marty Sendecki, John Dixon, Mike Dixon, Joe Martz, Carl Krueger, Paul "Mitch" Mitchell, Leslie Coles, Capt. Chris and Christy Johnson
- Auction Committee Members and Volunteers: Lois Shell, Jill Bell, Sandra Henderson, Karen "Coop" Cooper
- Generous Sponsors (complete list on page 3)
- Countless local businesses who donated auction prizes
 SPONSORS 2008
Platinum - Halliburton
- Golden Sun Bus Service
- Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Gold- Island Fish Company
- Key Colony Beach Marina
- Marathon Jet Center
- Marathon Lumber
- Sparky's Landing
- Thunder Country and SUN Radio
- Vacation Boat Rentals
Silver- 7 Mile Marina
- A Deep Blue Dive
- American Custom Enterprises
- Big Time Bait & Tackle
- Collectors Corner
- Driftwood Marina
- Exit Realty Old Island Key West
- Into the Blue Boat Rentals
- The Johnsons Insurance Agency
- Mogills
- Old Island Property Management
- Outta the Blue Marina
- Port Consolidated
- Pump Out USA
- TIB Bank of the Keys
- Top Notch Charters
Bronze- 7 Mile Sign
- A Cut Above Hair Salon
- Ben Roche, CPA
- Cabana Breezes
- Champion Construction
- D'Asign Source
- Fish Tales Restaurant
- Flying Cow Design
- Greenman & Manz
- Kennedy Studios
- Keys Boat Works
- Kleen-Rite Services
- Marathon Electric
- NAPA Auto Parts
- Originals by Joe Suroviec
- Pancho's Fuel Dock
- Rhino Marine Services
- Salt Life Magazine
- Schmitt Realty
- Specialty Hardware
- www.Sportfishproducts.com
- The Weekly Newspapers
Christy Johnson
Leon Shell Tournament
www.LeonShellTournament.com
305.743.5305 March 7, 2008 - California - Linda Hall: Vitamin D and Your Health Deficiency
Vitamin D Deficiency Syndrome
Abstract We propose Vitamin D Deficiency Syndrome (VDDS) exists when 25(OH)D levels of less than 25 ng/mL are found in patients with two or more of the following conditions: osteoporosis, heart disease, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, certain cancers, depression, chronic fatigue or chronic pain. VDDS is more common among dark skinned races, the aged, and those who avoid the sun. Serum 25(OH)D levels are obtained when the disorder is suspected. Serum 1,25(OH)2D3 levels have no place in diagnosing the syndrome and will mislead the physician. Sunlight, artificial light, oral or parental vitamin D, or a combination, aimed at restoring circulating levels of 25(OH)D between 35-55 ng/mL is the treatment of choice. Controlled sunlight is the safest form of vitamin D repletion. Vitamin D3 cholecalciferol is the preferred form of oral vitamin D. Vitamin D is safe when used in physiological doses (those used by Nature). Physiological doses are 3,000-5,000 IU per day, from all sources (sun, diet and supplements). Should hypercalcemia occur with such doses, it is due to vitamin D hypersensitivity syndrome, not vitamin D toxicity. Vitamin D hypersensitivity syndromes include conditions such as primary hyperparathyroidism, occult cancers (especially lymphoma) or granulomatous disease (especially sarcoidosis). In such cases, treatment of vitamin D deficiency should be done under the care of a knowledgeable physician. A serum 25(OH)D, serum 1,25(OH)2D3, PTH, and SMA will lead the clinician in the right direction. What a "Syndrome" Is Webster's Dictionary defines a syndrome as a "group of symptoms or signs typical of a disease, disturbance, condition, or lesion...a set of concurrent things" while a disorder is a "derangement of function: an abnormal physical or mental condition." Webster's Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged. Copyright 1993 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. Stedman's Medical Dictionary defines syndrome as "the aggregate of symptoms and signs associated with any morbid process, and constituting together the picture of the disease." A PubMed search reveals 622,857 papers with the word syndrome in the title. If the search is limited to core clinical journals containing the word syndrome in the title, published within the last year, some of returns include: Pathological demand avoidance syndrome, Newson E, Le Marechal K, David C Pathological demand avoidance syndrome: a necessary distinction within the pervasive developmental disorders. Arch Dis Child. 2003 Jul;88 (7):595-600. Irritable bowel syndrome, Harris ML, Aziz Q Brain-gut interaction in irritable bowel syndrome. Hosp Med. 2003 May;64 (5):264-9. Insulin resistance syndrome or the metabolic syndrome, Miller JL Insulin resistance syndrome. Description, pathogenesis, and management. Postgrad Med. 2003 May; Spec No:27-34. Ginsberg HN Treatment for patients with the metabolic syndrome. Am J Cardiol. 2003 Apr 3;91 (7A):29E-39E. Fatal malignant hyperthermia-like syndrome, Hollander AS, Olney RC, Blackett PR, Marshall BA Fatal malignant hyperthermia-like syndrome with rhabdomyolysis complicating the presentation of diabetes mellitus in adolescent males. Pediatrics. 2003 Jun;111 (6 Pt 1):1447-52. Premenstrual syndrome, Girman A, Lee R, Kligler B An integrative medicine approach to premenstrual syndrome. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2003 May;188 (5 Suppl):S56-65. Organic dust toxic syndrome, Seifert SA, Von Essen S, Jacobitz K, Crouch R, Lintner CP Organic dust toxic syndrome: a review. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol. 2003;41 (2):185-93. Marshall's syndrome, Berlucchi M, Meini A, Plebani A, Bonvini MG, Lombardi D, Nicolai P Update on treatment of Marshall's syndrome (PFAPA syndrome): report of five cases with review of the literature. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2003 Apr;112 (4):365-9. Long QT syndrome, Viskin S, Justo D, Halkin A, Zeltser D Long QT syndrome caused by noncardiac drugs. Prog Cardiovasc Dis. 2003 Mar-Apr;45 (5):415-27. Acute respiratory distress syndrome, Derdak S High-frequency oscillatory ventilation for acute respiratory distress syndrome in adult patients. Crit Care Med. 2003 Apr;31 (4 Suppl):S317-23. Lynch Syndrome, Chung DC, Rustgi AK The hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer syndrome: genetics and clinical implications. Ann Intern Med. 2003 Apr 1;138(7):560-70. Non-S-T segment elevation acute coronary syndrome, McKay RG "Ischemia-guided" versus "early invasive" strategies in the management of acute coronary syndrome/non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: the interventionalist's perspective. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2003 Feb 19;41 (4 Suppl S):96S-102S. Sudden infant death syndrome, Beckwith JB Defining the sudden infant death syndrome. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2003 Mar;157 (3):286-90. Precordial catch syndrome, Gumbiner CH Precordial catch syndrome. South Med J. 2003 Jan;96 (1):38-41. Churg-Strauss syndrome, Noth I, Strek ME, Leff AR Churg-Strauss syndrome. Lancet. 2003 Feb 15;361(9357):587-94. Goodpasture's syndrome, Shah MK, Hugghins SY Characteristics and outcomes of patients with Goodpasture's syndrome. South Med J. 2002 Dec;95 (12):1411-8. Hashimoto encephalopathy syndrome, Chong JY, Rowland LP, Utiger RD Hashimoto encephalopathy: syndrome or myth? Arch Neurol. 2003 Feb;60 (2):164-71. and Chronic fatigue syndrome Afari N, Buchwald D Chronic fatigue syndrome: a review. Am J Psychiatry. 2003 Feb;160 (2):221-36.. Syndromes range from a group of behaviors (pathological demand avoidance syndrome), a group of signs and symptoms (irritable bowel syndrome and premenstrual syndrome), a group of clinical and lab findings (variably called the insulin resistance syndrome, metabolic syndrome, or syndrome X), a single clinical finding with various etiologies (organic dust toxic syndrome), a collection of clinical findings presumably of various etiologies treated with a single surgical procedure, tonsillectomy (Marshall's syndrome), a specific and abnormal EKG with multiple etiologies (long QT syndrome), a specific germline mutation usually resulting in colon cancer (Lynch syndrome), life-threatening cardiac dysfunction without a specific finding, QT elevation, whose etiology is multifactorial (non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome), a diagnosis of exclusion with various etiologies including parental murder (sudden infant death syndrome), a single but common symptom (precordial catch syndrome), a rare vasculitis with diverse diagnostic and pathological criteria (Churg-Strauss syndrome), a collection of acute multisystem dysfunction presumed secondary to an unknown hypersensitivity (Goodpasture's syndrome), a syndrome of encephalopathy associated with a high antibody concentration some call mythical (Hashimoto encephalopathy syndrome) to a syndrome diagnosed entirely on symptoms (chronic fatigue syndrome). Therefore the word syndrome has various medical uses, uses that fit the lay dictionary definition. For example, the ICD-9 contains a descriptive syndrome, misery and unhappiness disorder (313.1). ICD-9 World Health Organization International Classification of Diseases, 1998. Another example is false memory syndrome, a syndrome first coined in the legal arena, but now widely used in the psychiatric literature. Analysis of any of the multiple and varied syndromes listed above makes it clear to the reader that strict criteria do not exist for naming a new syndrome. All that is important is that the syndrome describes a useful clinical concept, grounded in medical science, which helps doctors alleviate suffering. VDDS Associated Symptoms We propose that Vitamin D Deficiency Syndrome is a group of symptoms or signs typical of a disease, disturbance, condition, or lesion, a set of concurrent things and a derangement of function. VDDS is the aggregate of symptoms and signs associated with the morbid process of vitamin D deficiency, and constitute together the picture of the disease. Osteoporosis, heart disease, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, certain cancers, depression, chronic fatigue or chronic pain. comprises potential manifestations of the syndrome. That is not to say these illnesses are caused by vitamin D deficiency, nor that repletion of the vitamin D system will cure these illnesses. At this point, all that can be said is that these illnesses are associated with vitamin D deficiency. D Deficiency-Illness Link In a series of upcoming posts to this website, we will use the following five criteria to link each illness in VDDS with vitamin D deficiency: - epidemiological evidence the incidence of each illness subsumed by VDDS has increased as UVB exposure has lessened
- evidence that each illness subsumed by VDDS is associated with low 25(OH)D levels
- evidence that the illnesses comprising VDDS show significant co-morbidity
- theoretical models that explain how vitamin D deficiency plays a causative role in each illness of VDDS
- clinical evidence that treatment with physiological doses of vitamin D improve each illness in VDDS
Using these five requirements, we propose that Vitamin D Deficiency Syndrome, or VDDS, exists when 25(OH)D levels are less than 25 ng/mL in patients with two or more of the following conditions: osteoporosis, heart disease, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, certain cancers, depression, chronic fatigue or chronic pain. VDDS is a group of diseases that are associated with chronic vitamin D insufficiency, and which cause a significant derangement of function. VDDS is more common among blacks, the aged, and those who either avoid the sun or are deprived of it. Multifactorial Illness It is important to clearly state once again, we are not saying these illnesses are all caused from vitamin D deficiency; they are all multi-factorial illnesses. We are not saying that vitamin D will cure all these illnesses; it will not, although it may help. We are only saying that evidence exists for a dictionary definition of a syndrome that associates vitamin D deficiency with these illnesses. Scientific evidence currently exists that some of these illnesses may be caused by vitamin D deficiency. Furthermore evidence exists that some of these illnesses may be helped by vitamin D repletion. The current evidence varies with each illness. For example, strong evidence exists that vitamin D reduces osteoporotic fractures, but only two small studies exist to show vitamin D helps depression. However, those practicing medicine are not practicing science. Scientists practice science by conducting controlled experiments. Physicians practice medicine by making clinical decisions. Clinical decisions are always made using a benefit versus risk analysis, with current scientific knowledge as the cornerstone of the decision making process. Practicing physicians use this formula in every clinical decision they make, with every patient and do so many times a day. They need to make the same decision concerning VDDS and vitamin D repletion. John Jacob Cannell MD
Executive Director
12-27-2003 March 8, 2008 - Georgia - B. J. Darnell Vitamin D News. Vitamin D, specifically vitamin D3 cholecalciferol, is quite the hot topic lately. Medical journals are overflowing with the latest research findings on vitamin D and the many ways it protects one's health. Almost daily, vitamin D appears to be dominating the headlines in the media, and people all over the globe are starting to realize that vitamin D is one nutrient that should not be overlooked. To help you stay informed, we've scoured the internet for a variety of the most exciting vitamin D news and compiled it here in one convenient, easy location. We've done all the work for you! Continuously updated, we hope the Vitamin D Council's Vitamin D News page will come to be your preferred resource for all the latest vitamin D news. Headlines The Charlotte Observer - 2008.02.26 Are you D deficient? The Charlotte Observer recently published an informative question and answer article about Vitamin D deficiency.
Scripps News Contra Costa Times A ArabianBusiness.com - 2007.07.02 UAE "vitamin D deficient" In certain Middle Eastern and other countries where conservative dress blocks exposure to sunlight, high levels of vitamin D supplementation may be needed to raise serum levels sufficiently in women, UAE researchers report.
Autism Today Babygooroo.com Baltimore Sun BBC News - 2007.07.28 Sunshine "protective" against MS People who spend more time in the sun as children subsequently have a lower risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS), a US study shows.
Canada.com CancerConsultants.com CBC News Chicago Tribune Diabetes Health - 2007.08.10 Milk Lowers Men's Metabolic Syndrome Risk According to the review, published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, people with the highest intakes of vitamin D and calcium had an eighteen percent lower risk of diabetes than those who ate the least.
Doctor's Guide EarthTimes.org Epoch Times Feel Great Coaching Wellness Blog - 2007.08.01 Vitamin D and Insulin If you have high blood sugar, taking vitamin D and calcium may keep it from rising further...
Fitness.com Foodconsumer.org - 2007.08.27 Sunny Side of Cancer Prevention Many studies have linked higher latitudes with greater breast cancer risk, and seasonal variations are now thought to influence cancer incidence and mortality. The pivotal mediators in these relationships are believed to be sunshine and vitamin D.
Freep.com - 2007.07.28 Bone up on health ...Take a vitamin D supplement. "Most multivitamins contain 400 units of vitamin D," says Henry Bone, MD, who runs the Michigan Bone & Mineral Clinic in Detroit, which treats medical disorders affecting bone and mineral metabolism, and conducts clinical research for new drugs for osteoporosis. "For good bone health, much larger doses are necessary (for adults), at least 800-1,000 units per day."
Globe and Mail Hamilton Spectator Houston Chronicle inthenews.co.uk - 2007.08.24 Calcium supplements "beneficial" for over 50s When people took calcium and vitamin D doses of 800 IU (international units) or more the risk was reduced by 16 percent. Vitamin D doses of less than 800 IU produced a reduced risk of 6 percent.
Independent.ie Indystar.com KaiserNetwork.org KPBS San Diego Laboratory Product News Media-Newswire.com - 2007.07.02 Press Release Somalis in Bristol at risk from vitamin D deficiency The reasons for the deficiency are various and include risk factors such as length of time since the patient left their country of ethnic origin, family history, wearing clothes that fully cover the skin and eating a restricted diet.
Medicexchange.com - 2007.07.27 Patients with osteoporotic fractures benefit from a year of calcium plus vitamin D Among patients with a recent low-energy fracture, a year of treatment with calcium and vitamin D reduces bone turnover, according to findings published in the July issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. The intervention increases bone mineral density (BMD) in those younger than 70 years of age, and decreases bone loss in older patients.
Minnesota Public Radio Mo Blogs - 2007.08.25 High cholesterol, low vitamin D and its significance Did you know that vitamin D is created from cholesterol? Provide your skin with adequate sunlight and excess cholesterol is turned into vitamin D, a hormone with responsibilities including calcium [metabolism], blood sugar regulation, blood pressure regulation, mental health function, diabetes prevention, and the list grows.
Natural Products Insider NIH News Nutra Ingredients - 2007.08.24 Calcium and vitamin D linked to cutting fractures A new meta-analysis on calcium and vitamin D supplementation in cutting osteoporotic fractures in people aged over 50 could quell concerns over conflicting outcomes of previous studies.
- 2007.07.25 Low vitamin D levels linked to higher blood pressure People with low blood levels of vitamin D may be at an increased risk of higher blood pressure, a problem that could be easily remedied with supplements, says a new study.
- 2007.07.19 Calls get louder to raise vitamin D levels Recommended daily intakes of vitamin D should be quadrupled to 800 International Units, says a leading US expert from Boston University School of Medicine.
- 2007.07.17 Low vitamin D levels may increase metabolic syndrome risk Low blood levels of vitamin D may increase the risk of developing metabolic syndrome among obese people, suggests a new study from Spain.
- 2007.07.09 Vitamin D, calcium boost bone health after fractures' study Supplementation with vitamin and calcium could cut reduce bone loss in patients with recent osteoporotic fractures, suggests a new study from Denmark.
- 2007.07.04 Vitamin D levels may affect heart health study Increasing levels of vitamin D could boost heart health, says a large study from the US that also calls for studies to assess a direct benefit of vitamin supplements.
- 2007.07.02 Vitamin D, calcium may prevent, improve diabetes Combined supplementation with vitamin D and calcium may improve blood sugar and insulin levels, suggests a new meta-analysis and review.
Press TV - 2007.07.27 Sun exposure reduces MS risk A new study conducted on identical twins suggests that children who spend more time in the sun have a lower risk for developing MS as adults.
Reuters Sacramento Bee - 2007.07.29 Nutrition Quiz Vitamin D is often known as the sunshine vitamin. Do you know why? Here's a quiz to find out how much you know about vitamin D and why it is an important part of a well-balanced diet.
Scotsman.com - 2007.09.18 Don't be sad Research has also indicated that vitamin D (the sunshine vitamin) can also help counteract sad, because it is connected to an increase in serotonin.
Telegraph - 2007.07.16 Why vitamin D is so vital Grey skies this summer mean that children are more at risk of developing weak bones and other diseases, says Oliver Gillie.
thisislondon.co.uk Times Online UCSD Medical Center Washington Post March 11, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council held its regular meeting at Marathon Government Center EOC Room. Photos are located at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/. Mayor Worthington is out sick. Council approved the agenda and consent agenda. An asterisk marks consent items [*]. Proclamations, Special Recognitions and AwardsVice Mayor Bull presented the Clean Marina Designation Awarded to Sombrero Marina. Vice Mayor Bull presented the Seagrass Awareness Month Proclamation. Vice Mayor Bull presented the city employee 5 Years of Service Awards.
Citizens' comments:City council candidate Joanie Nelson spoke about sewer systems and development. She decried bothering Mike Puto about messy desk. Commissioner Di Gennaro guaranteed that the city will get its fair share of any county, state, and/or federal sewer funding.
Special Orders and PresentationsCity Manager Mike Puto presented his report. WEC Engineer Ed Castle and Community Services Director Susie Thomas presented the wastewater status update. Marathon High School new auditorium hosted the Army Band. Everyone did a good job. Marathon Seafood Festival at the Community Park is March 15 and 16. City manager handed the Lobbyist Report to each councilperson. He explained items that affected the city. Financial Rep Cindy Lawson presented the Finance Quarterly Financial Report (10/07-12/07). City Attorney Jimmy Morales presented his monthly report.
City Council Items*Council approved previous meeting minutes. *Council waived the Marine Mammal Conservancy Walk/Run fee. *Council waived the Marathon Seafood Festival fee. *Council waived the Richard J. Fox Foundation Benefit Race fee. Councilwoman Tempest led the Skate Park Concession Stand. She wanted to finalize the location of a shed next to the stand. This would be a volunteer-operated stand following a set of rules laid out between the city and the volunteer group. She also requested funds to finish the job. The estimated cost is $250.00. *Council waived the Marathon United Community Church Sunrise Service fee.
Resolutions for Adoption*Resolution 2008-40 authorized the city manager to extend the Acqua-Tec, LLC agreement for mooring field buoy inspection for $43,776.00. *Resolution 2008-41 amended the Boot Key Harbor City Marina Facilities fees and rates. Continued - Resolution 2008-42 approved a right-of-way abandonment located on Wester Rood in the Meads Subdivision. Continued - Resolution 2008-43 approved a right-of-way abandonment located on Grassy Key North Drive, Crain's Subdivision. Continued - Resolution 2008-44 approved a right-of-way abandonment located on Old State Road 4A between 35TH and 39TH Street, Marathon Beach Subdivision. *Resolution 2008-45 allocated one (1) affordable housing permit allocation to Middle Keys Habitat for Humanity. *Resolution 2008-46 approved a Key West - Marathon memorandum of understanding to convey a Scotty Fire Safety Trailer Key West. The agreement has the assurance of Marathon's continued access to the equipment. *Resolution 2008-47 authorized continuing service agreements with Father Nature & Sons Landscaping and Applied Technology & Management for general trade services on an as needed basis. Resolution 2008-48 affirmed the city's completion commitment to citywide wastewater treatment facility capital project to meet HB 1993 standard, directing city staff, attorney, and engineers to proceed with contractual and regulatory actions necessary for project completion for all service areas. Councilman Cinque added an amendment to add a financial chart. Fred Endemann asked why this resolution doesn't authorize to proceed with Area 6. Staff is not ready to move forward until all contractor issues are solved. Councilman Vasil spoke to two concerns. He wanted to language strengthened addressing county, state, and/or federal funding. He also wanted language to request the state to waive the 2010 deadline on commercial properties. Council agreed to stronger outside funding language, but wanted the commercial property 2010 waiver presented as a separate resolution in the near future. Resolution 2008-49 calls upon the Monroe County School Board to allow boat trailer and vehicle parking at Stanley Switlik Elementary School on weekends and during the summer recess. *Resolution 2008-50 determined that the Mariner Electric 110 Gallon Portable Marine Wastewater Pump-Out System to be surplus equipment and sold though a public bid process. Resolution 2008-51 supports the Florida Keys Scenic Byways and All American Road designation and funding implementation for US1. Resolution 2008-52 supports the creation and funding by the Florida Legislature of a successor program to the Florida Forever Land Conservation Program. The resolution urges the county legislative delegation to support the creation and increased funding of such a successor program. The resolution directed the City Clerk to forward a copy of this resolution to Governor Charlie Crist, Florida Senator Larcenia Bullard, Florida Representative Ron Saunders, and the Florida Forever Coalition.
Citizens' comments: Joanie Nelson belabored the unfunded state mandate on wastewater 2010 standards. Adjournment: 6:59 PM March 12, 2008 - Marathon - Ali Adams: Start Smart Baseball Banquet at Community Park. Community Park's  main pavilion was buzzing with activity Wednesday evening, March 12, as beginning baseball players (ages 3-5) eagerly awaited the beginning of Start Smart Baseball's final spring meeting. As the banquet began, a pot-luck feast of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, dishes of macaroni and cheese, a grand selection of chips, baseball cupcakes, icing-filled chocolate chip cookie shells, bite-size pigs in blankets, and other numerous "kid-dishes" were enjoyed by baseball players and parent enthusiasts. Following the feast, the athletes were presented with certificates of achievement and trophies. The Start-Smart baseball program introduces young children to basic skills needed to successfully master the game of baseball. Beginning with batting from tees, to pitching and catching, to running the bases, parent involvement partnered with specific skill sets allow youngsters to enjoy learning baseball basics while having fun with parents and other children. This baseball program was one of several Start-Smart programs run throughout the year by Marathon's Parks and Recreation staff. Jimmy Schmidt, Parks and Recreation Manager and Tracy Boerkel, Program Assistant were program coordinators. March 12, 2008 - Marathon - Ali Adams: US Army Field Band & Soldiers Chorus - Photo Puto & Schmidt
 Bravo! The US Army Field Band and Chorus graced Marathon this past Saturday afternoon, March 8, with a world-class performance of band and choral music. The military musicians performed in the never-before-used auditorium at Marathon High School. The audience, consisting of locals and snowbirds, packed the acoustically-engineered auditorium to capacity. This elite band and chorus performs throughout the world and only tours in Florida every 2½ years. The assistant conductor shared that the band's last trip to Marathon was a decade ago. The accompanying photo is of Mike Puto, City Manager; LTC Beth Steele, the band's assistant conductor who conducted most of the performance; Jimmy Schmidt, Parks and Recreation Manager; and WO1 Jeff Price, a musician, and was taken following the performance. After leaving Marathon, the band performed the following day in Key West. The location of the Marathon concert had to be changed shortly before the performance due to high winds. In spite of this change, the concert was a huge success. Story and photo by Ali Adams, Marathon Parks and Recreation March 13, 2008 - Marathon - Jacque Setmayer: There is a possible natural cure for Feline Infectious Peritonitis [FIP]. Photos are located at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/. On December 8th 2006 I found a male kitten at a public farm in Myakka City in central Florida. I was in one of the shops there. Outside the door was this kitten crying nonstop. The kitten was 3.5 to 4 months old. When I mentioned the kitten to the owner there, the reply I got was "Oh, that's just a barn cat." I went and got some cat food and left it there for the kitten. I asked the owner of the farm that if I bought some food would they feed him until I came back through this way again. I would pick the kitten up on my way home to Marathon. About 2 weeks later, I returned to the farm, and there was the kitten. I couldn't get near him, and he was still starving. The bigger cats were getting his food. I bought a cat crate and proceeded to catch him. It didn't take long, as his hunger preceded his fear of humans. On our way back to Marathon I told my significant other that I was going to give the kitten to my sister so that he would let me bring him home. We already have four other cats. On December 18th we arrived home. The kitten went into an inside 4 x 5 x 2 cage. After a few days of carrying him around so he got used to me, I took him to see Dr. Gerry at the Marathon Veterinary Hospital [MVH - http://www.marathonvethospital.com]. I had him tested for the usual feline viruses (feluk, FIV, overall checkup). The tests were negative. Dr. Gerry noticed that his abdomen was somewhat enlarged and hard feeling. She mentioned FIP. I took him home and a couple days later I noticed worms that the kitten had vomited. So I wormed him, and he had quite a large amount of them. I attributed the worms to the abdomen being larger than normal and was a bit relieved. Now I was in the process of trying to talk my sister into taking the kitten, when he came down with a fever. My sister wanted the kitten checked out again before she would consider taking him home. She has about 10 cats. Back to the MVH, Dr. Gerry told me of a new test called the Rivalta test, which tests for FIP a rare and always fatal feline virus. This test is done by withdrawing a small amount of fluid from the abdomen, which is a symptom of the fatal FIP. The test came back positive. Dr. Gerry gave the kitten a month to live maybe two at the most. This kitten's abdomen was full of infected FIP fluid. My sister refused to take the kitten on hearing this. I went home and proceeded to research all the info that I could find on FIP. There was plenty of it. FIP kittens always die in a very short time after contracting this virus. There is no cure. I immediately went to work on Sonny Ray (his new name). He is orange and white. I am a veterinarian technician by trade and study naturopathy. I put him on an herbal formula called essiac and looked for a natural antiviral, which I found in olive leaf extract. I cooked organic chicken and carrots for him. My friend Sherry Gifford helped me with Sonny Ray and gave him his vitamins every day. The kitten got almost constant attention day and night, out of his cage and onto my couch keeping him a distance from my other four cats. He got to see many people, as we live in a marine store. This went on for four months, until his outside condo (equipped with A/C and a real palm tree) was completed. In my research on FIP, I came across some info on a Dr. Diane Addie who does research on FIP in the UK. She was having some luck with feline interferon (Virbagen Omega), which is not available in this country. I acquired it and soon started treatments keeping Sonny on the natural remedies as well. Sonny started with five injections, one each day, then repeated on the 14th day and then again on the 60thday .This feline interferon which consists of 170 amino acids is made from silk worms. The last set of shots was done on March 30th a year ago and Sonny Ray has been on only my natural remedies since then and organic food only. He is never in contact with any cleaning chemicals and his bedding is washed in organic soap as does his outside quarters. Sonny Ray will stay intact (not neutered), because of the stress factor of the surgery. Stress will cause this virus to accelerate. At 18 months old, I decided to look into neutering him. He was doing so well. I asked Dr. Gerry to come out and see him; she did and we discussed doing the surgery. When Dr. Gerry saw Sonny Ray, she said that he looked great and had never known of a kitten to survive this long with FIP. She was very impressed. Dr. Gerry said that she would like to do an ultra sound on his abdomen to check for FIP fluid while he was down for the neuter and I agreed. The neuter went well and Dr. Gerry called me in to look at the ultra sound as she moved the wand around his abdomen. I watched and she finally said to me "there is no fluid in this cat's abdomen". The joy that I felt at that time was beyond words. The other vet that was standing in the room with us also was in awe of why and how this cat is still alive. Not only is Sonny Ray still alive, but also thriving. I call Sonny Ray "My Little Miracle." I asked Jesus to help me on this one and He did. These natural remedies have definitely saved Sonny Ray's life. Is this a cure at this point? Only time will tell. Sonny Ray is now 19 months old. This is a first in the country that a cat has lived even half as long as Sonny Ray. I hope that by doing this article more people with FIP cats will be helped. Obviously, these natural remedies are working against Feline FIP. The proof is in my little miracle cat Sonny Ray. Anyone that has an FIP cat who would like to try these natural meds can reach me at Jimjacq64@bellouth.net. I would like to add that there is a lot of time and devotion involved in being successful. Most of all, love and determination. The meds are just part of the success. Quality time with the animal is very important. This to me is a breakthrough and possibly a cure. All I know is that my Sonny Ray is the first cat to reach 19 months of age with FIP. I invite anyone to get on the computer and look up feline FIP. All the information that I acquired states that no kitten has ever been saved past a few weeks with FIP. March 14, 2008 - Marathon - Councilwoman Tempest: This is a wastewater test. 1. Do you know how deep a  shallow injection well is? 2. What about a deep one? 3. What does EDU stand for? 4. What does MGD stand for 5. AWT? 6. BAT? 7. SRF? 8. When will the dozers be coming down your street? 9. Do you know where your vacuum pit is? If you cannot respond to the above questions, your WIQ (Wastewater Intelligence Quotient) is not where it should be. (Answers below.) This has been an important week for property owners in Marathon. This is the week that City Council directed staff to do what needs to be done by way of contracts and financing to assure that we move steadily forward on city sewers, and that all of our citizens receive this service at the earliest possible date. This week, Marathon received a grant of $1,000,000 from Army Corps to apply against the tab. We seek additional funds as well. There is a sense that this is a project for which the hour has come. So the text and tone of our discussion has totally changed. We used to ask, "Why do we need sewers anyway? Our septic systems work fine." "Where will we get the money?" "Who will get sewered; and who will not?" Now we know the answers. Our near shore water quality is steadily degrading; property owners will pay for all but the grants we are able to secure; and ALL of the City of Marathon will be sewered. These answers represent a commitment. It is a readiness to make some hard cost decisions and to engage in some strategic planning that will bring in funds to assist us. We may not have a whole lot of votes down here in the Keys, but we have persistence, and logic, and a righteous cause. We also have a staff that will move with skill and dedication to bring our costs to a level we can handle. We hope this includes some financing mechanisms to assist with lateral connections and portions of monthly Operations & Maintenance fees (O&M). These costs will be born solely by the individual business or residential owner. (As an aside, Marathon's wastewater team has done a yeoman's job to date, and I, for one, am grateful.) This shift of purpose is largely the result of an electorate that is aware of the law and our obligations to comply. But it is much more than that. Our citizens have an environmental bent, and know this has to happen to save our near shore waters, and our water based economy. They also know that there will be enforcement at some point in the future, and that enforcement is against individual property owners who have not complied. Sewers have been a conversation piece for years, but our thinking has gradually turned during that period and now embraces the need, and acknowledges the urgency. So now, let us be perfectly clear. It is not an Area 4 project or an Area 6 project, or Area 7, or Area 5. It is a Marathon project. In the immortal words of a former mayor of the City of Marathon, "Let's get her done." Marilyn Tempest, Councilwoman
City of Marathon {Answers: (1) 90 feet; (2) 3000 feet; (3) Equivalent Dwelling Unit; (4) Million Gallons per Day; (5) Advanced Wastewater Treatment; (6) Best Achievable Treatment; (7) State Revolving Fund; (8) Schedule is posted at Marathon City web site, City Hall on 99th St., and Weiler Engineering office at Gulfside Village; (9) Call 305-289-4161 for appointment.} March 15, 2008 - Islamorada - L. E. Shaffer: Woods Corner Workforce Housing Success Result of Hard Work by Middle Keys Community Land Trust. Photos are located at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/. Building workforce housing is harder than anyone suspects. First, you have to have a lot of money up front to get together the permits, plans, drawings, studies, inspections, and more than you could imagine. This upfront cost is out of pocket and not covered by any financing for the actual building project. The non-profit Land Trust calls this seed money. Where does that money come from? The last project should have generated enough money to pay staff, bills, and seed the next project. The local governments are responsible for land and waiving fees to help close the affordability gap. That gap is what it actually cost to get the land/build the house and the selling price. Financing usually dictates restrictions on the selling price. To save low, moderate, and middle-income workforce families is tied to those restrictions. That usually means a mix of income groups including low-income workforce. The biggest gap is the low-income workforce. The sales price is, for example, $135,000 while the total cost of the land and home is $395,000. The final and most important ingredient to guarantee success is cooperation at all levels of differing agencies from local governments to financial institutions. Even if all these agencies agree to help the Land Trust, it takes a good two years just to go from concept to move-in dates. Throw in an agency who doesn't get it or is used to moving at the pace of a dead snake, and the delays are mind numbing. How the Land Trust is able to get through all these obstacles is simply miraculous and totally amazing. March 16, 2008 - Big Pine - L. E. Shaffer: The fourth or fifth annual Casey Irish Party was a big success as always. We haven't quite figured out if the party is the fourth or fifth, but what the heck does it matter. Irish whiskey, shepherd's pie, trinkets, and a bit of green everywhere made this a great party. I look forward to this event. I always bring something. I got the hosts an Irish cookbook. Then I got the usual bottle of Irish whiskey. I set the bottle on the counter and forgot to bring it to the party. When I showed up and explained the oversight, they just laughed. I'll give them the gift Monday. The best part of this Irish special event was the people from all walks of life. They gathered in little groups talking and laughing. My brother and I met a lady that acted and looked 50ish, maybe early 60s, but was actually over 80. She still works. Her mind is a steel trap. She is a retired Navy chief. Everyone at the party was just as interesting and engaging. A last thought, though, is why the Casey party is not the O' Casey party? Aren't all those Irish folks O' Something? Well, apparently, that is not the case with the Casey last name. Maybe the O got lost in the haze of the immigrant crossing that connects us all throughout time. March 19, 2008 - Marathon - Spring 2008 Quarterly E-Newsletter From the Eckerd Family Foundation. Provided by Mayor Pete  Worthington via an email message. The graphic below is the header for the e-newsletter.
"EARLY CHILD CARE:
 Grace Jones Community Center
$100,000
Marathon, FL
A capital challenge grant for the renovation of this child care center serving children from low-income, working families. The center provides child care and after-school programming in a predominantly poor neighborhood. Every staff member has achieved the Child Development Associate status. The center has been a model STEPS, Early Learning Program for Head Start in the region and is the only licensed center serving infants in Monroe County."
March 20, 2008 - Marathon - Laura Fowler: US Senator Martinez's Trip to the Middle Keys. Due to strong  winds, Senator Mel Martinez recent sailing trip was postponed, allowing him to visit some of the unique attractions here in the Middle Keys. Accompanied by members of National Marine Fisheries and a Boy Scout Troop, the Senator visited both the Turtle Hospital and Crane Point. At the Turtle Hospital, administrator Ryan Butts led the group through the facility where they met all 42 patients currently being cared for and were told about the perils the turtles face in Florida's waters, including the high level of debris in the waters throughout the Keys and the effect that it has on marine life. Cigarette butts, plastic bags, and discarded fishing line resemble a food source for sea turtles and are often ingested. Executive Director Keith Douglass took the Senator and his group on a guided trolley tour of Crane Point's 63-acre tropical hardwood hammock and Natural History Museum. While at the Adderley House, the oldest house outside of Key West, the senator commented on the tabby construction and how it was similar to houses he grew up near while living in his native Cuba. The picture attached is of Sen. Martinez boarding the trolley tour at Crane Point., Exec. Director Keith Douglass is sitting in trolley. Laura Fowler
Outreach Director, Crane Point
305.743.3900
www.cranepoint.net
Rediscover the Natural Florida Keys March 21, 2008 - Marathon - Laura Fowler: Crane Point Volunteer Party.  Crane Point celebrated and thanked their volunteers for their hard work and dedication at a party on Wednesday, March 19th. All the volunteers were treated to a tour of the Crane House and explanation by Keith Douglass, executive director, of the renovation project currently underway to return the house to its original 1950s splendor and plans to utilize it for community events and as the headquarters for the Land & Sea Youth Camp. Volunteers help in a variety of way at Crane Point including: running trolley tours, leading interpretative walks through the Museum, working at special events such as the Bahamian Festival and Evening with the Stars and serving on committees including Master Plan & Education. Anyone interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities at Crane Point, please contact Laura Fowler at (305) 743-3900 or Laura@cranepoint.net Attached is a photo taken of many of our volunteers standing overlooking Florida Bay out at the Point. Laura Fowler
Outreach Director, Crane Point
305.743.3900
www.cranepoint.net
Rediscover the Natural Florida Keys  March 22, 2008 - Marathon - Ali Adams: Rotary Park Easter Photo Teresa Konrath, Parker Konrath, Easter Bunny.
Seen in Rotary Park on Saturday morning, March 22, were the Easter Bunny, Teresa Konrath, and her son Parker. All were enjoying a morning of Easter Egg Hunting, arts and crafts, face painting, and Easter fun. The Marathon Rotary Club hosted this event. Photo by Ali Adams, Marathon Parks and Recreation Department March 23, 2008 - Islamorada - L. E. Shaffer: Woods Corner Workforce Housing Update. The Middle Keys Community Land Trust nears another grand opening. Workforce home owners picked their units, got their mortgages, and are ready to move in. Landscaping has started. The first meeting of the Woods Corner Home Owners Association is coming up as well. Acronyms are really cheesy, but WCHOA does look cool. The successes of the Middle Keys Community Land Trust lead to more projects. Each successful workforce housing project saves the workforce for the Middle Keys and bolsters the sagging humane infrastructure. Naysayers be damned. Photos are located at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/. March 25, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council held its regular meeting at Marathon Government Center EOC Room. Photos are located at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/. Council approved the agenda and consent agenda. An asterisk marks consent items [*]. Proclamations, Special Recognitions and Awards 1. Continued to next meeting, Mayor Worthington presented city employee Eric Dunford his five years of service award. Citizens' comments: 1. Fred Endemann spoke about the Boot Key appraisal, and when it would be completed and announced. City Attorney Jimmy Morales answered that he received the appraisal, and he need time to evaluate carefully and will report to the council soon. An executive session needs scheduled thereafter. 2. John Whalton spoke about his opposition to the proposed right-of-way abandonments that have been continued twice now. Special Orders and Presentations 1. City Manager Mike Puto presented his report. a. Community Services Director Susie Thomas and Financial Department Rep Cindy Lawson led the discussion on the Fall 2008 system development charge assessments. She reviewed all the decision points to see if council all agreed, before she had to proceed to meet an April 1 deadline. Council approved a $10 million draw for wastewater/stormwater construction. Fred Endemann spoke on the issues. He also objected to assessing boat docks as commercial properties. Feebie Wright spoke about her possible connection problems. Claude Halioua asked about watering his plants, and Councilman Cinque said that would be addressed. b. Community Services Director Susie Thomas and WEC Engineer Ed Castle requested a motion to announce the notice to proceed for Globtec Construction's Service Area 6 wastewater and stormwater project. Fred Endemann strongly endorsed the action. All councilpersons voted yes. 1) Councilman Vasil wanted to discuss future wastewater and stormwater items. Area 5 won't be down until December 2010 that is beyond the state July deadline. c. Contractors Association Rudy Krauss made a presentation on unlicensed and/or unpermitted work. Councilman Cinque empathizes and encouraged the city's cooperation. d. Former Mayor Randy Mearns made a presentation on the upcoming power-boat races. May 16, 17, and 18 are the boat race dates. He sought the city's permission to continue using the Events Field for boat setup. e. Puto scheduled several special call council meetings. See http://www.marathonflorida.org/. f. Puto rescheduled the April 22 council regular meeting to April 29. Council approved. g. The city manager reported on the Seafood Festival successes. The estimated crowd exceeded 16,000. There were over 100 vendors, an increase over last year. h. The manager reported on House Bill 715. This bill requires a super majority vote on certain municipal taxes. Mike Puto requested a mayoral letter to object to this bill. Council approved the request. City Council Items 1. Continued to next meeting - *Council approved previous meeting minutes. 2. City Attorney Jimmy Morales led the discussion on the city manager search results. Human Resources Director Susan Funk and City Clerk Diane Clavier helped in the process. Sixty-eight nominees submitted for the job across the nation. Twelve applicants have city manager experience. Fifteen applicants have public service experience. Eight applicants come from the area. Sixteen applied from outside Florida. One application was returned for being filed too late. Nominees must be ranked by April 7 for the April 8 meeting and establishing a short list. Fred Endemann spoke about qualifications. Morgan Hill wants a city manager who knows the local area. 3. Council reappointed Peter Chapman to the Firefighter Pension Board. 4. Councilman Vasil appointed Teresa Konrath Park & Recreation Board Appointment. 5. Puto led the discussion on the Tranquility Bay Conference Room impact on affordable housing that was supposed to be completed prior to the conference room. The agreement between the city and Pritham Singh was proposed for council approval. Cinque and Vasil objected to giving an exception to the rules to any developer let along Singh. Mayor Worthington favors the exception for the sake of the sagging city economy. Vice Mayor Bull was satisfied with the information provided and favors the exception. Councilwoman Tempest said that Singh is close to abiding by the original development agreements and shouldn't be punished. Cinque and Vasil voted no. 6. Skipped - Heather Carruthers gave a FIRM Presentation, sponsored by Councilwoman Tempest. 7. Mayor Worthington spoke about a number of code complaints that he has received. Code Board and Code Compliance Board are addressing these issues, but ownership issues have slowed the process. Resolutions for Adoption 1. Continued to next meeting - Resolution 2008-42 approved a right-of-way abandonment for property located on Wester Road in Meads Subdivision, West of 43rd Street. 2. Continued to next meeting - Resolution 2008-43 approved a right-of-way abandonment for property located on North Drive, Grassy Key, Crain's Subdivision. 3. Continued to next meeting - Resolution 2008-44 approved a right-of-way abandonment for property located on Old State Road 4A between 35th and 39th Street, Marathon Beach Subdivision. 4. Resolution 2008-53 calls upon the Florida Legislature, FDEP, and the FDOH to allow residents and businesses additional time to meet Florida 2010 wastewater standards, allowing for connection to the city's wastewater collection and treatment system when completed. Vice Mayor Bull applauded Councilman Vasil's intent, but the details in the resolution could be more harmful than helpful. Except for Councilman Vasil, the other councilpersons reflected Bull's sentiments. Fred Endemann spoke about extension strategies based on input from State House Rep Ron Saunders. He thinks this resolution is premature. Vasil's motion died for lack of second. 5. Resolution 2008-54 authorized Lanzo Construction Company Contract Change Order No. 1. This allows payments for performance and payment bonds and insurance for Service Area 6. Fred Endemann is concerned about the delay. 6. Resolution 2008-55 established an annual allocation quantity for each category of dwelling unit allocations for the residential Building Permit Allocation System (BPAS) for the one-year period ending March 12, 2009. This also included the BPAS trimester ending March 13, 2008. The resolution provided for numerical adjustments of the allocations by resolution of the city council. Acting Planning Director George Garrett provided the staff report. 7. Continued to next meeting - Resolution 2008-56 approved the license agreement with the Educational Coalition for Monroe County. Marathon will permit the Coalition to locate and operate a food concession shed adjacent to the Skate Park. 8. *Resolution 2008-57 added the Coco Plum Recreation Trail upgrade to the Five Year Capital Improvement Program if Marathon received a Fiscal Year 2008 Recreational Trails Program Grant for the project. 9. Resolution 2008-58 authorized the city to pursue measures to become a "Green Local Government" through improved environmental performance. The Florida Green Building Coalition developed the criteria and standards associated with this effort. The resolution encouraged the state legislature and governor to support the Green Local Government Program. Vice Mayor Bull sponsored this resolution and explained the rationale for it. Green Team Chairman Michael Welber provided a report. Citizens' comments:
1. David F. spoke about unlicensed activity going on in Marathon; he said that staff is easy to work with in getting permits.
Council comments: 1. Cinque spoke on the contractor problems. The Planning and Building Departments are not as efficient as the Key Colony Beach departments.
2. Tempest spoke on FIRM issues on insurance.
3. Worthington commended staff in various departments.
4. Vasil didn't speak.
5. Bull gave a dog-park update. The Parks and Recreation Committee will consider the issue at its April 10 meeting. Adjournment 8:55 PM What's Happening! Grandchildren get older by the day, and you miss so much. The good thing about grandchildren though is that they are not permanently living in your home. I will soon have two teenage grandchildren. This is where the nice, calm kid turns into a monster until they emerge out of their 25th birthday. I wonder what chemical imbalances change these kids. Well, all we can do as grandparents is love and spoil them beyond all recognition. Then, more importantly, send them back to their parents for that shivering cold plate of sweet revenge. Miscellany: The arrival of unsigned letters and emails are simply unwarranted. I can assure you that the Marathon Florida Keys Journal will protect your information if you desire. Having a number of sources and relying on signed letters and emails helps shape a story and offer an opinion. We are all about stirring the discussion on local issues and even poking a bit of fun at some overly serious people. The bottom line is that unsigned letters and emails does not pass muster, and is simply useless. Finally: Water is becoming a valued commodity exceeding even the evils of oil. States are now fighting among themselves. Think of where we would not be without plentiful, clean water? Therefore, we must all get serious about conserving water anyway that we can. So, 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. Try some cisterns, rain barrels, and gutter collection devices to save water. Dance with some local natives to entice rain to fall from the skies. Rain, where art thou? Lake Okeechobee is getting lower. We need the rain up that way and how. Dance longer, harder, rain... I expect that we should get used to water shortages; it will only get worse. 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 | | FDOH | Florida Department of Health | | 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 | | FKSCA | Florida Keys Scenic Corridor Alliance | | 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 | | NIMBY | Not In My Back Yard | | NROGO | Non-Residential Permit Allocation System | | NSW | Near Shore Waters Advisory Committee | | PSA | Public Service Announcement | | 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 | | URS | United Research Services or URS Corporation | | WEC | Weiler Engineering Corporation |
Kitty Talk
These journals are dedicated to Kitty GreyCat's spirit. She is at RainBow Bridge 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. 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 the like will end up in the litter box! >^..^<  Ebony: I meow that a lot of catnapping and catnipping went into our meows this month. Abby and I are also trying to figure out why we aren't headlined on the Conch Color. Come on, us cats are the most popular area on the whole of that pesky Internet thing. >^..^<
Abby: Ebony, we had lots of interesting things happen this month. I got to explore the bean brother new apartment place. I nose you got to do that first, but you are braver than I am. Still, I am more photogenic than Ebony. I got a photo of me sitting in the mail outbox. I was proud of myself, I was. I got photographed after I burrowed under the Canadian blanket our human bean has folded on the big bed. I was comfy and well hidden until the camera flashes got me. >^..^<
Ebony: You just a big photo ham. Yes, I got to seed the human bean brother apartment first. I smelled everything, but human beans had to help me get on the window ledge to look out. Then one of them beans helped me get on top the refrigerator thing. I could see everywhere. When I meowed for some bean to get me down, they came over and helped me to the floor. Them human beans really know cat meows, they do. >^..^<
Abby: Then, Ebony, you have to admit that I teached them human beans all about meows. Yes, I nose it because I meow and meow and meow. Don't aggravate me with the oblivious. Them human beans sure nose how to pet and rub cats to a feverish purring frenzy. That be my three F law. I, Abby, have Abby Laws. >^..^<
Ebony: Well, human bean wished you weren't a projectile vomiter. He like it ifing you clean up after yourself. I can catfirm that them beans know how to massage kitties. Why human beans can make my paws scratch up a storm and even cause me to nibble my paws cause they tingle. >^..^<
Abby: Then, Ebony, stop telling peoples about my condition. I can't help it. I am nervous, skittish, and jittery too, but I can still whop you a good one. I nose you not fight back, cause you trying to be patient. I not care. >^..^<
Ebony: Use always been scaredy cat. I nose you getting used to Libby human bean next door. She did us a great favor by clearing her little garden and planting lizard attracting plants and rocks. I meow a big fangue. >^..^<
Abby: I think she is a cat saint. We can meow at her Saint Libby of the special cat garden. That big green thing with needles stickies all over is a bit overboard. That should be in a dog garden. They need them needles. >^..^<
Ebony: I never smelled a dog that didn't smell like a yucky dog. They no good creatures that chase and nip. But then you turn and hiss at them, and they turn and run. Abby, you like dogs. I seed you liking them. >^..^<
Abby: I hear that when you turn 12 that your cat brains dry out and ooze outta your ears too! >^..^<
Ebony: The only thing about you is that you not nose when to stop. You are evil and a dog lover! >^..^<
Abby: Yes, that is the only way you can win a cat spat. Well, all use human beans and deranged dog lovers out there. We almost made it through a whole article without cat fighting. Sorry, but there be next month. >^..^<
Internet Stuff
Here are the latest DVD films from http://www.NetFlix.com: “Pixar Short Films Volume 1” shows how Pixar came into being and got better as technology advanced. The various shorts were hilarious and well done. I've always liked animated film pieces. Somehow, the stories just seem more in tune with comedy and even the other genres. Try this out. “Rendition” is an ugly film about an ugly business. A father and husband arrive at the airport just a little drive to his pregnant wife, young son, and his mother. The man never makes it home. He soon finds himself rendered to a foreign place. Soon he will say anything. The problem of his innocence wears on the American official assigned to monitor the rendition. Only in a film can some small measure of justice play out. In real life many have fallen, many have perished. We all carry that heavy burden. “Beowulf” is a classic epic. The film is purposeful. The look, background, and characters larger than life. Demons were real. Magic was alive. Then Christianity began to overcome the legends and the heroes. Beowulf was one. He saved a kingdom at the loss of his soul, his purpose, his path. Then, at the last, the man, only a man, he did what he was born to do. Beowulf saved a kingdom at the loss of his son. He reclaimed humanity. This is a marvelous and fantastic film, an instant classic. “We Own the Night” follows a New York Police family. Two brothers chose different paths. A drug bust has gone wrong and starts that long trial by fire. The Russian mob put out hits. The father tries to protect his sons. The story goes from there. There are tense moments of raw emotion and moments of subtle grace. Yet no one is unaffected. Life is like that in a way. The film was good and left feelings and emotions on both sides of the families involved. “The Darjeeling Limited” is supposed to be a quirky comedy, but a few smiles are about all this film produces. The acting is good. The story is all over the place. Three estranged brothers get together after their father dies. They try to reconcile on their way to see their distant mother who is a nun. The brothers travel on the India train called the Darjeeling Limited. Against the grandeur of India, the brothers find their way and become family again. I didn’t get a lot out of this movie, but I wouldn’t consider it bad. It was just not my kind of film. “Family Guy: Blue Harvest” is a ridiculous movie cast from the popular series. While the family suffers from a blackout, the father tells a story. The only problem is that it is the Star Wars story with family members as the characters. That would not be too bad; except for the off kilter way the story strays. Frankly, this was the funniest 48 minutes that I have had in a while. If you want to escape your worries for a short bit, rent this film. “Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium” is a zest-for-life instant classic. The film is good for everyone. The fact there is a subtle lesson is well hidden in the comedy and human drama. The acting is really great from all the characters, but especially Dustin Hoffman. And the magic is real! “King of California” is an adventure film. Father and daughter discover the diary entries of a legend centuries old. It details a Spanish priest’s journey through California. The priest’s party loses their boxes of gold pieces. The daughter can hardly believe her father, based on his past failures. The father adds to the legend, and gains his daughter’s love and respect. “August Rush” is that rare film that outshone the trailers. This is a romantic story of loss and love found in a search through a full decade. This is about a musical genius in quest of his parents. They are connected by their music and their souls. Nothing stands in their way in their search for each other. The culminating end is beyond words. This film thrills the spirit. This most humane of film is the answer to what we are all about. “The Man from Earth” is an excellent science fiction film without any special effects. Well, the acting was very special. The dialogue was unique. For a movie with a lot of talking, I marveled at how I was glued to the outstanding story. The central question in this film is how a caveman survived into modern times. The revelations are even a bit controversial. “Gone Baby Gone” is a good movie with several twists and turns. The acting is real and gritty. The story explores what is right and wrong. At times, the hardest thing to do is what is right, down deep in the heart, the gut, the soul. In the rocky path to this universal right, men and women understand things about themselves and their loved ones. This movie is an intricate discovery of real people, their desires, their morals, and their spirit. “Hitman” follows a specialist trained since birth to take out certain targets for certain customers. The last hit went wrong. He knows he killed his target, but the target is seen the next day still alive. He tracks done the mystery. Killing his way to the solution, he finds something unique and rare in his business, love. The film is fast-paced, realistic, and great entertainment. “Highlander: The Source” is supposed to be the culmination of this epic series. The problem is that the original film could never be surpassed. Subsequent efforts fall short bit by bit, until this movie just sucks. The acting is forced. The action is contrived. It smacks of no effort whatsoever. If you watch this crap, be prepared to be disappointed. “The Kite Runner” is a heartwarming but realistic film about two boyhood friends and their bond across decades. Their fates are tied to their good memories of kite flying. One stayed in country, and the other escaped the Taliban to America. Then comes the debt between them. The American travels to save his friend’s son. The story is gripping and moving. “Enchanted” is a Disney animate-live action film. The movie starts out as a poor imitation of what you expect from the vaulted Disney Studios. If you don’t give up though, the story is captivating and fanciful. You see, the chipmunk saves the film, and your viewing pleasure is reassured. This isn’t the best ever, but it did bring a smile and a laugh. “Love in Time of Cholera” highlights a lifelong romance through the flush of youth. The couple destined not to marry as they wish. They travel separate ways. The woman married another man. The man saved himself for her, waiting for death to take the husband. She endures the rigors of life, knowing what could have been. He satisfies his love lost through enumerable women. Then, at the end of their lives, they come together at last. This romantic film is art in motion, love conquering all.
Interesting websites we visited recently: http://www.Dell.com is still the best all-around computer company in the world. http://www.BasicState.com is a good tool to monitor up and down times for your domain/website. http://www.USAA.com is a member-owned insurance company for veterans and military personnel. http://www.Targus.com carries many fine computer and laptop accessories. http://www.USPS.com just shows you that even the Post Office has a website, a good one too. http://www.Amazon.com is the place I go when I can't find it anywhere else. They are safe too. http://www.AlternativeWireless.com had the cell phone external antenna kit for a great price. http://www.CollectionsEtc.com had the little cat playhouse that the cats wanted, of course. http://www.ToysRUs.com had the birthday gift that my grandson Ricky will certainly like.
Poetry Corner
"Chaos"
April 6, 2008 Stars packed densely
Universe asunder
Far from creation
Something chaotic lives Eyes between life
And death between
Chaos and order
Between imagination And the unimaginable
Still, both apply and
Even none, such is
The chaos preferred By the so-called life
At the endless creation
And universes before
The existence of even Such creation and the
One greater than all
Infinity to the agents
First called and last To die and move on
Wherever one goes
Certainly this is not
All there is but There are those
Before creation
Who long for the
Time of utter chaos © 2008 L. E. Shaffer
Hockey Puck
NHL: The Florida Panthers handily defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 5 – 2. The Florida Panthers defeated the Atlanta Thrashers. The Florida Panthers defeated the New York Islanders to inch closer to an NHL playoff berth. The Florida Panther beat the New York Rangers for their sixth straight win. The Florida Panthers won seven in a row by defeating the Atlanta Thrashers. The Panthers are only two points out of a playoff spot. The Florida Panthers defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 4 – 2 to get 2 points closer to a playoff spot. PGA: Tiger Woods won the WGC Accenture Match Play Championship easily. Tiger Woods wins his seventh straight tournament at the Arnold Palmer Invitational near Orlando, Florida. NASCAR Sprint Cup: At the California NASCAR Sprint Cup race, Jeff finished 3rd, Bill 26th, and Dale Jr. 40th. NASCAR Sprint Cup racing at the Las Vegas track was very competitive. Dale Jr. finished 2nd and is 10th in points. Jeff finished 35th and is 22nd in points after three races. At the Atlantic speedway Jeff Gordon finished 5th and is 15the in points. Dale Jr. finished 3rd and is 6th in points. NASCAR Sprint Cup race at Bristol has Jeff Gordon finishing 11th, 14th in points. Dale Jr. finished 5th, 5th in points.
NBA: The Heat beat the Kings to break a long losing streak. The Heat beat the Sonics for another rare win. The Miami Heat beat the Milwaukee Bucks again. Imagine that. NFL: The New York Giants pulled off a Super Bowl upset over the previously undefeated New England Patriots. MLB: The Boston Red Soxs swept the Colorado Rockies in the World Series. The Florida Marlins did well in preseason. Now let us see if they do as well in the regular season. WTA: Venus and Serena Williams still doing well. Never count them out by any means. Serena defeated her sister Venus Williams to reach the final of the Bangalore Open. Serena Williams wins the Bangalore Open title. NCAA Football: Ohio State disappoints again. 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 a work in progress, but the writing goes very slowly because of the success of Marathon Florida Keys Journal. 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 Ebony and Abby. 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, 2008
Author: L. E. Shaffer
Company: Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company &
Shaffer Internet Publishing Company
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