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

Volume 14 † Issue 7  † July 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 14^th 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}

[FIRM Success] [Participation] [City Hall Trouble] [Save-A-Turtle Newsletter]
[Vitamin D Newsletter] [NSWC] [Pioneer D. Chaplin Passes] [Council 10th] [Cookshack]
[Conch Color] [2008 Pride Fest] [Commercial Fishing Endangered] [Colvard Letter] [July 4th]
[Recycling Bins] [Golfing With Turtles] [Council 24th] [Wild Bird Center] [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.~

May 30, 2008 - Monroe County - Provided by Pete Worthington: Good News on Insurance Rates.
Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe
Press Release

FIRM Scores Insurance Wins in Tallahassee
Bills passed during the 2008 Legislative Session extend some pro-consumer initiatives passed in 2007's HB1A, and present additional challenges for the future.

May 29, 2008 - Yesterday, Governor Charlie Crist signed a "homeowners' bill of rights" insurance bill, the most significant legislation regarding property insurance from the latest state legislative session (SB2860) which was introduced by Senator Jeff Atwater (R - Palm Beach) and amended by the House. 

Initially, the bill would have prevented Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (CPIC) from offering wind-only policies.  In the Florida Keys, this would have forced all of those with requirements to carry windstorm coverage to utilize CPIC for all property insurance, eliminating consumer choice and limiting available coverages.
 
FIRM, working with the Office of Insurance Regulation and Representative Ron Saunders, helped to remove that restriction.  Consumers can continue to select from a wide range of providers for most property insurance needs, relying on CPIC to fill the gap with windstorm coverage.
 
In addition, "use and file" has been repealed and current rates have been extended for another year.  Both of these provisions were aggressively pursued by FIRM.
 
The following is a summary of key aspects of SB 2860 that will most greatly impact consumers in the Florida Keys.  

GENERAL PROVISIONS (FOR ALL PROPERTY INSURANCE COMPANIES) 

Use and File.  The practice of insurers billing consumers for rates that have not been approved has been disallowed for another year, until January 1, 2010.  FIRM will continue to lobby for permanent repeal of use and file, and in support of prior rate approval.
 
Mitigation. A Commission is being formed to bring consistency to the application of mitigation credits that are developed pursuant to the uniform home grading scale (which may be amended should the Commission find it necessary) by February 1, 2011.  Policyholders will then have two years (until 2013) to obtain an inspection of their property and file for the new discounts.

As of January 1, 2010, any buyer of a home with an insured value of $500,000 or more must receive a written disclosure of the structure's "windstorm mitigation rating" from the seller.
 
Claims Handling.  Insurers must pay undisputed claim amounts within 90 days of the claim being filed.
 
Transparency.  Insurance companies can no longer withhold documents from regulators containing what they may determine to be "trade secrets."  Rather, they must submit such documents with each page clearly marked "trade secret" with the understanding that they will be treated with confidentiality.
 
Capital Build-Up Incentive Program
This program allows start-up companies to build the capital required to satisfy regulatory standards of solvency by offering funds from the state in exchange for surplus notes from the insurer.  The program is open to insurers that commit to increasing their writings of property insurance, including wind.  

The upside for consumers is the potential to increase the ability of the private market to cover wind and other property perils; the downside is that this will in part be financed by reducing any CPIC surplus.  The smaller CPIC's surplus, the greater the chance that CPIC will not be able to meet claims obligations should a catastrophic storm hit, which would force CPIC to levy assessments to make up any deficit.

CITIZENS PROPERTY INSURANCE PROVISIONS   

Rates.
- Rates in effect as of December 31, 2006, must remain in effect unless a subsequent rate was lower than the rate on that date.  (Monroe County's current rate, reduced in October 2006, will still stand.)
- CPIC must make an actuarially sound filing on July 15, 2009 that would take effect no sooner than January 1, 2010. 

Wind-Only Policies. A prior stipulation that would have prevented CPIC from offering new wind-only policies in the windborne debris regions (like Monroe) has been removed.
 
Homestead Distinction.  For purposes of potential assessment or rate differentials, the distinction between homestead and non-homestead homes has been eliminated.  This was a goal of FIRM.
 
Modeling Benchmark.  The Florida Public Hurricane Model must serve as the minimum benchmark for setting CPIC wind-only rates.  This was a goal of FIRM.  FIRM is preparing to meet with the developers of the Public Model to determine how Monroe County's unique geography, topography, history and building code are reflected in its calculations.
 
Two-million Dollar Home Exemption. As of January 1, 2009, CPIC may not cover homes with an insured value of over $2 million unless the property owner's insurance agent stipulates that such coverage was unavailable in the private market.  In that case, CPIC may offer coverage for the next three years, after which time the dwelling will be ineligible for CPIC coverage.  Originally, the cap was million dollar homes.  FIRM argued that the more expensive the home, the more likely it was to be well-built and have high deductibles, thus creating a lower risk.
 
Take-Outs.  Policyholders may be "taken out" of CPIC by another insurer as long as the new premium is no more than 15% greater than that of CPIC.
 
Manufactured and Mobile Homes.  CPIC coverage of manufactured and mobile homes constructed prior to 1994 is limited to actual cash value (not replacement cost).
 
Customer Relations.
- Consumers must have 180 days of written notice of any cancellation.
- Consumers who challenge a settlement must have access to all files pertaining to their claim and account.
 
Structural Considerations.
- Shutters.  As of January 1, 2009, any home with an insured value of $750,000 or more must have shutters to be insured by CPIC.
- Wind Mitigation Rating.  As of January 1, 2011, any buyer of a residential property (regardless of insured value) located in the windborne debris region must receive a written disclosure of the structure's "windstorm mitigation rating" from the seller.
- Code Plus.  A prior stipulation that homes constructed after January 1, 2009 within 2,500 feet of the shoreline must be built to "code-plus" standards in order to be insured by CPIC has been eliminated. 
 
Assessments.
- Assessments to cover existing CPIC deficits will now kick in when CPIC deficits exceed 6% of their projected direct written premium for that year.
- Emergency assessments may be required when/if regular assessments are insufficient to recover the existing deficit, and may be levied for as many years as necessary to eliminate the deficit.  Such emergency assessments may not exceed 10% of the amount required to eliminate the deficit or 10% of the statewide premium, whichever is greater.
- If a new deficit is incurred after 2008, all CPIC policyholders may be levied a surcharge of up to 15% for a period of 12 months to cover the deficit.
- Should CPIC actually collect surcharges in excess of any deficits, the excess will remain with CPIC to offset any future deficits (and the potential for any future surcharges or assessments).
 
Challenges. CPIC may not file an administrative challenge or judicial review of any final order of the Office of Insurance Regulation.
 
Transparency. Information regarding CPIC rate filings after July 1, 2008 will be made available to the public via a website.
 
CPIC's Future. The Citizens Property Insurance Corporation Mission Review Task Force will be created to return CPIC "to its former role as a state-created, noncompetitive residual market mechanism."   

UPCOMING CPIC POLICYHOLDER FORUM 

Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty and representatives from Citizens Property Insurance Corporation will be in Key West on Thursday, June 12 to discuss how the latest legislation may impact consumers in the Keys, and to answer any questions from policyholders.  The Policyholders Forum will take place at Key West High School from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on June 12, 2008, and is open to the public.

About FIRM

Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe is a grassroots advocacy group that has effectively fought for insurance rates in the Keys that are neither excessive nor unfairly discriminatory.  For more information, visit www.FIRMkeys.org.

Robbie Hopcraft, FIRM

June 3, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Where are the crowds that used to attend council meetings? Photos are located at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/. Many Marathon councilpersons are wondering why their meetings are not well attended. This recent phenomenon could indicate several things. Most pundits believe that the council is not representing the expectations of Marathon's residents. That is the reason that they give.

Frankly, the answer is simple. Believe it or not, low attendance is usually a good thing for the council. People are not up in arms over some issue. There is the implicit confirmation that the council is doing okay, not great, but adequate. The council is doing the wastewater/stormwater system. The council has resisted some silly ordinances and resolutions. The council is better able to make decisions and resist delay. There is nothing perfect, and our council is not anywhere near that standard, but they are doing okay.

Some declared council candidates will try to show how the council is all wrong and can't do anything right at all. That is probably another indication that the council is doing okay. When candidates have a hard time coming up with salient issues, the die is cast. Incumbency is not an attribute that residents vote for; they believe change is good. Something on the order of a council doing nothing is a council doing great work.

I am not usually an incumbency advocate and term limits seem quite necessary. I am changing my mind a little though. This time in Marathon's short history is critical. City infrastructure like the sewer system, city hall, recreational areas, boat ramps, city marina, and safety-health-environment constructs are absolutely essential. The longer we dilly-dally the more harm we do our economy and cause more residents to move out of the city. The human infrastructure is the crisis that requires experience, thoughtful councilpersons. Workforce housing, economic stimulation and slowing down the employee turnover rate are the issues that just may require incumbency to adequately and successfully address those crisis issues. I don't like it, but sometimes we have to take our medicine.

June 4, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: What the hell is going on at Marathon City Hall? Photos are located at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/. Marathon City Manager Clyde Burnett announced changes at City Hall recently. He made George Garrett the Planning Director, fired Human Resources [HR] Director Susan Funk, and hired [city financial contractor] Peter Rosasco employee. Diana Naylor will take over some HR duties as a Personnel Services Coordinator. I’ve monitored City Hall since Marathon’s inception in 1999. Something doesn’t feel right here. I’ve tapped on a number of reliable sources in and out of city government. While I hope for the best, I am concerned about the signals coming out of City Hall, the magnificent trailer complex.

Initially Key Colony Beach resident Clyde Burnett looked like a good choice. He has the moxie of Mike Puto and is more organized. Mike supported him. Puto kept City Hall open and transparent. That concept has been chilled with the messy way Burnett was chosen for City Manager. Former HR Director Susan Funk tried to keep the city’s hiring and firing policies above board and transparent. Her work to improve the quality of the workplace and keep HR policies free from politics just might have gotten her fired.

One of the city’s biggest problems has been and continues to be retention of quality employees not just through fair pay, but improved management-staff relations. That effort was shot down, and most likely because of politics. Politics should never factor into City Hall operations. The only thing Clyde needs to remember is the three council votes necessary to set policy. Key Colony Beach is not like the City of Marathon.

Burnett’s first order of business was to reevaluate the Deputy City Manager job. The last months of Puto’s administration were chilled by a clash of personalities. Having someone on staff who wanted your job has to be addressed. Puto deserved upper management support that he did not garner, and that atmosphere still exists. Clyde can’t carry a big stick without using it. The consequences appear to have an alarming ripple through staff. How do you make everyone happy, Clyde? How, indeed.

Then there is George Garrett. While he was badly treated by Monroe County, the city hired him after he was inappropriately fired. He is an asset in almost any situation. The problem is that the last three Planning Directors had the professional qualifications required for such an important department. Garrett’s experiences are nothing to complain about, but professional qualifications were not George’s strong suite. While I like George, he was the least qualified applicant. The city’s hiring and firing policies have taken on water. That is a step backward the city cannot afford.

Clyde, I supported your selection as Marathon’s City Manager, even if done in a politically inept manner. Yet, sir, what are you going to do to improve the staff, provide quality services to the residents, and keep the city hall trailers from floating away the first hurricane surge?

June 5, 2008 - Marathon - Jeri Sears: July President's Newsletter.
Dear Supporters of Our Marine Turtles:

Our June meeting was very informative. We had about 25 people for our general meeting. Our guest speaker was Dr. Doug Mader, MS, DVM from the Marathon Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Mader gave a presentation of the surgeries he has preformed at the Turtle Hospital over the last 15 years. It is awesome to watch the intricate surgeries being preformed on the turtles.

Our guest speaker for the July 7th meeting will be Tom Luebke. Tom is a Save-A-Turtle member and works at the Turtle Hospital. Tom will be showing a DVD on the release of a large green turtle that has be a patient at the Turtle Hospital for the last several months.

The beach cleanup at Long Key State Park was a huge success. We gathered 2 ¾ tons of debris! Thanks to everyone who helped.

We hope to see all of you at our monthly meetings that are held on the first Monday of each month at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon. The board meeting starts at 6:30 PM followed by our general meeting at 7:30 PM.

Have a safe month!

Jeri Sears
President of Save-A-Turtle
Jermax22@yahoo.com

Save-A-Turtle Monthly Beach Report
Month      Beach        Crawls    Nests    YTD      
April 08       Coco Plum          4              3           4C / 2N
                    Sombrero           3              1           3C / 1N

May 08         Bahia Honda      27             8
                     Long Key           8               2
                     Coco Plum         5               2          9C / 4N
                     Sombrero           4               2          7C / 3N
                     Key West           1               1
                     Sea Oats            3               3
                     Long Beach        1               0    

June 7, 2008 - California - Linda Young: The Vitamin D Newsletter May 2008. Yesterday's Washington Post article, To-Good-To-Be-True, sums up the April 9th vitamin D symposium at UCSD in San Diego, which was nothing short of spectacular.  Carole Baggerly outdid herself organizing it and explaining how she got involved.  Make no mistake; Carole is both serious and energetic.  She told about her efforts to introduce resolutions at upcoming meetings of various professional groups. Then she introduced the volunteers from the San Diego Black Nurses Association who made sure the conference went off without a hitch.  Then Carole introduced the four speakers.  The slides of each speaker are available at Grassroots Health. 

Before I tell you the highlights of the conference, I'd like to tell you about another conference, this one in Germany, this May 17th and 18th.  It is the Third International Symposium on Vitamin D Analogs in Cancer Prevention and Therapy.  Readers know how I feel about giving analogs to vitamin D deficient patients instead of vitamin D but speakers include Michael Holick, Reinhold Veith, Bill Grant, Tai Chen, Heidi Cross, David Feldman, and Roger Bouillon, all of whom know the importance of the nutrient.  Most of this conference is for scientists, not lay people.  However, Michael Holick is the first speaker and if you have not heard his latest talk about vitamin D, it might be worth a trip to Germany.

The first San Diego speaker was Dr. William Grant.  Since leaving NASA to begin a full-time career as a vitamin D researcher, Bill has published dozens of studies and has another dozen in the works.  Using ecological studies (from Greek oikos, house + German -logie, study or studying your own house) of UVB irradiance and cancer, Bill reported that 15 cancers (colon, esophageal, gallbladder, gastric, pancreatic, rectal, small intestinal, bladder, kidney, prostate, breast, endometrial, ovarian, Hodgkin's lymphoma, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma) are associated with lower UVB light.  He concluded that 257,000 cancer deaths in 2007 in the USA were accounted for by inadequate vitamin D levels.  Of course the problem with ecological studies is that it easy to be vitamin D deficient in Miami, all you have to do is listen to your doctor's advice and stay out of the sun.  Recently, a group from the Arizona Cancer Center found almost 80% of Arizonians had levels below 30 ng/ml.  So much for sunny spots.

Jacobs ET, et al. Vitamin D insufficiency in southern Arizona. Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 Mar;87(3):608-13.

The next speaker was Professor Cedric Garland.  I found myself wondering how he did it.  I became convinced that vitamin D prevents cancer five years ago.  Cedric and his brother Frank and his colleague Ed Gorham knew it 30 years ago!  I know what it is like to tell someone that vitamin D prevents cancer and see them think, "Here we go again, another miracle vitamin."  I know what it is like to try and explain and watch people die unnecessarily.  But I've only had that experience for five years.  Cedric has dealt with that frustration for thirty years.  Almost thirty years ago, Cedric and Frank Garland published evidence that vitamin D prevents cancer.  In fact, it was Cedric's first publication.  Thankfully, the paper was recently recognized as being so important that it was republished in 2006 by the International Journal of Epidemiology.  You can read the entire paper for free by clicking on the second link below and then clicking on "free final text", courtesy of Oxford Journals.

Garland CF, Garland FC. Do sunlight and vitamin D reduce the likelihood of colon cancer?  Int J Epidemiol. 1980 Sep;9(3):227-31.

Garland CF, Garland FC. Do sunlight and vitamin D reduce the likelihood of colon cancer? Int J Epidemiol. 2006 Apr;35(2):217-20. 

Cedric began by showing the incidence of type-1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis by latitude.  I had no idea that the latitudinal data was so strong for type 1 diabetes in children.  This disease is almost nonexistent around the equator.  Type-1 diabetes is but one of the three modern childhood epidemics caused by the sunlight-hating dermatologists, the other two, I think, are autism and asthma.  Next he showed latitude and 25(OH)D levels, which reminded me to be suspicious of high levels, unless they use accurate methods of detecting 25(OH)D.  Some methods used, even in this country, are over detecting vitamin D and telling patients their levels are above 50 ng/ml when they are, in reality, much lower.  Cedric's data showed Thailand had mean levels of 70 ng/ml, which I doubt and suspect were due to inaccurate 25(OH)D tests.  He then reviewed evidence of the 25(OH)D levels needed to prevent numerous cancers.  The safest levels are somewhere above 50 ng/ml.   Cedric spent most of his time presenting an entirely new theory of carcinogenesis, one dependent on vitamin D maintaining cellular junctions.  I suspect this paper will also be reprinted in 20 years.  The only disagreement I have is with his recommendation for cancer patients to start at fairly low doses.  For reasons I recently explained, the risk benefit analysis indicates cancer patients should take 5,000 to 10,000 IU per day and they may have no time to lose.  Why worry about the phantom of vitamin D toxicity if you may be dying of cancer?  Just have your calcium checked along with frequent 25(OH)D levels.  Get your levels up to 70-90 ng/ml if you have cancer.

Vitamin D Newsletter, Does vitamin D treat cancer?

The next speaker was Professor Bruce Hollis.  He reviewed basic physiology of vitamin D and emphasized that the entire system is designed to deal with an excess not with an insufficiency of vitamin D.  Numerous mechanisms are available in your body to prevent vitamin D toxicity but few are available to deal with insufficiency.  Then he briefly mentioned one of the most important discoveries about vitamin D in the last few years, one where Professor Neil Binkley of the University of Wisconsin was senior author.  (In the last four years, Professor Binkley has become a prolific vitamin D expert and I hope Carol Baggerly is able to get him to speak at some of the upcoming conferences she hopes to sponsor.)  As I have pointed out before, Hollis and Binkley's crucial discovery was that the body doesn't start storing the parent compound, cholecalciferol, until 25(OH)D levels reach about 50 ng/ml.  They showed, using basic steroid pharmacology, that 50 ng/ml should be considered the lower limit of adequate 25(OH)D levels.

Hollis BW, Wagner CL, Drezner MK, Binkley NC. Circulating vitamin D3 and 25-hydroxyvitamin D in humans: An important tool to define adequate nutritional vitamin D status. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2007 Mar;103(3-5):631-4. 

Bruce kept the audience enthralled with a review of all the disease states that indicate 25(OH)D levels need to be much higher than they are now, that is, the multiple biomarkers that suggest the lower limit of 25(OH)D levels should be above 40 ng/ml and closer to 50 ng/ml.  Then Professor Hollis spoke of his ongoing study in pregnant women and how he got approval to use 4,000 IU of vitamin D per day back in 2003, quite an accomplishment.  He also reviewed another one of his research projects, one that answered an age old question, why is breast milk a poor source of vitamin D?  How were prehistoric infants supposed to get their vitamin D, by lying out in the sun where saber tooth tigers would eat them?  No, they were hidden in caves and had to have another source or the human race would have died out long ago because rickets destroys a woman's and infant's chance to live through childbirth due to rachitic deformations of the mother's pelvis.  Carol Wagner and Bruce Hollis, together with their colleagues, answered that age old question, human breast milk is a poor vitamin D source because virtually all modern mothers are vitamin D deficient.  That is, when pregnant women keep their levels where we think prehistoric human levels were, about 50 ng/ml, breast milk becomes a rich source of vitamin D.  First Carol and Bruce gave 2,000 IU per day, then 4,000 IU per day and finally 6400 IU of D3 per day to lactating women.  Only at 6400 of D3/day did the women maintain both their own 25(OH)D levels and the levels of their breast feeding babies above 50 ng/ml.  On 6400 IU/day, the vitamin D activity of the breast milk went from about 80 to 800 IU/L.  Quite a discovery, and another reason for all of us to keep our levels above 50 ng/ml.

Wagner CL, Hulsey TC, Fanning D, Ebeling M, Hollis BW. High-dose vitamin D3 supplementation in a cohort of breastfeeding mothers and their infants: a 6-month follow-up pilot study.  Breastfeed Med. 2006 Summer;1(2):59-70.

Professor Robert Heaney went last, discussing 74 slides.  So much of what we know about vitamin D today is due to Robert's unceasing dedication to vitamin D, the most recent example being his and Joanne Lappe's randomized controlled trial showing that increasing baseline levels from 29 to 38 ng/ml reduced the risk of getting cancer by around 70%.  He again pointed out that the body does not begin to consistently store much vitamin D until your levels get to around 50 ng/ml.  He also went through multiple biomarkers of vitamin D.  That is, what level or intakes do you have to have to reduce the incidence of multiple diseases?  He covered calcium absorption, osteoporosis, risk of falling, muscle function, death and disability of the aged, TB, influenza, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and gum disease.  How can one vitamin be involved in so many diseases?  Simple said Dr. Heaney, "vitamin D is the key that unlocks the DNA library."  He then reviewed toxicity and concluded there is no evidence that it occurs at levels below 200 ng/ml or with intakes (total) below 30,000 IU per day.  Of course, we have no reason to think anyone needs 30,000 IU per day or levels of 200 ng/ml, which would be irresponsible.  But someone with a serious cancer should consider getting their level up to 70-90 ng/ml and that may take 10,000 IU per day or even more in some people.  As a rule of thumb, 1,000 IU will raise 25(OH)D levels by about 10 ng/ml.  

Then Professor Heaney addressed a public health question.  How much would we have to give all Americans to get 98% of people above 32 ng/ml without causing toxicity in anybody?  The answer: 2,000 IU per day.  Of course 32 ng/ml is not adequate but it would be a great first step.  Furthermore, of the people left out, a high percentage would be African Americans.  In fact, Dr. Talwar recently reported that 40% of African American women fail to achieve a level of 30 ng/ml even after taking 2,000 IU/day for a year.

Talwar SA, Aloia JF, Pollack S, Yeh JK. Dose response to vitamin D supplementation among postmenopausal African American women. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Dec;86(6):1657-62.

He also discussed his recent study giving healthy adults 100,000 IU as a single dose.  If you start with a baseline level of 28 ng/ml and take 100,000 IU as a single dose, mean levels will remain above 32 ng/ml for two months.  If you rely on such stoss doses, but you start with a lower level, or want your levels above 50 ng/ml, how often do you need to take 100,000 IU?  We don't know the answer to the last question but we know that Grey et al gave 50,000 IU per week for four weeks then 50,000 per month for a year to 21 patients with hyperparathyroidism.  Blood levels rose from a mean of 11 ng/ml at baseline to 30 ng/ml at one year and levels did not continue to rise after six months.  Remember, that means half the patients had levels lower than 30 ng/ml at the end of the year.  Also remember that the metabolic clearance (how quickly you use it up) might be higher in certain disease states.

Grey A, et al.  Vitamin D repletion in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and coexistent vitamin D insufficiency. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2005 Apr;90(4):2122-6. 

That last point, metabolic clearance, is only one of a number of reasons that patients vary in their response to vitamin D.  Remember, a surprising number of patients will tell their physician they are taking vitamin D when they are not, some will be taking preparations that have less in it than the label says, some will not absorb it, and some people weigh more than others.  As Dr. Heaney points out, even if you know patients took 100,000 IU, great variably exists in individual response.  At the end of two months some will have shown a minimal response and other much more.  This is a field where little is known.  Do different disease states use up vitamin D quickly?  The answer is probably yes.  Furthermore, variability also exists in how one metabolizes and catabolizes (breaks down) vitamin D.  Also, what is the interactive effect of drugs that use the same liver enzymes for catabolism?  We just don't know and that is why vitamin D blood testing is crucial.  Remember, the only test to have is a 25-hydroxy-vitamin D.  Do not let anyone get a 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D; it will not tell you if you are vitamin D deficient and is usually only indicated in evaluating high blood calcium.

As far as 25(OH)D levels go, many of you have written complaining about the high cost of a 25(OH)D levels at some labs.  I've got some good news.  For the next month, Life Extension Foundation is having a sale on their 25(OH)D blood tests, only $32.25, including the fee for drawing the blood.  (No, we don't get funding from Life Extension, I wish we did.)  Life Extension uses LabCorp, which, in turn, uses an accurate method to determine 25(OH)D levels, the DiaSorin Laiason method.  The only problem is that DiaSorin, LabCorp, and Life Extension all say that 30 ng/ml is acceptable.  It is not.  Take enough vitamin D or get enough UVB radiation to get your levels above 50 ng/ml.  To order the test, call Life Extension at 800 208-3444.  Unfortunately, this offer is not available in New York, New Jersey or Rhode Island.

Also, Dr. James Dowd has written a fine book about vitamin D, The Vitamin D Cure.  Get this, he is board certified in internal medicine, adult rheumatology, and pediatric rheumatology, an associate professor at Michigan State University, and runs his own Arthritis Institute and the Michigan Arthritis Research Center.  He gives a formula for how much vitamin D you need but stresses the importance of testing to know for sure.  He uses the formula of 2000 IU for every 100 pounds of body weight, which is as accurate an estimation as one can make without knowing baseline levels.  Of course it depends on so many things, as Dr. Dowd points out, such as percentage body fat, latitude, skin type, sun exposure and age.  He gives case after case examples of how vitamin D not just prevents disease, but seems to have a treatment effect.  He also stresses three other things I've written about before, acid base balance, magnesium and potassium.  If you can't get eat enough fruits and green leafy vegetables to obtain your potassium and magnesium and to get rid of low-grade chronic metabolic acidosis, then you should consider magnesium supplements and potassium bicarbonate supplements.

With these four experts and with this month's vitamin D news articles about breast cancer, brain function, artery blockage in the legs, soft skulls in babies, peripheral neuropathy in diabetics, childhood type-1 diabetes, colon cancer, and stress fractures and with the increasing number of scientists around the world jumping on the vitamin D express, why doesn't the government do something?  What will it take?  Like Carole says it will take a grassroots effort. 

The first thing to do is tell your family and friends about vitamin D.  Tell your doctor.  Get your family's 25(OH)D tested, including your children.  Once people begin to see it works, they will get their family and friends to take it.  They will feel better and then the word will spread.  All the government can do is make vitamin D illegal or limit the amount in each pill.  The first is unlikely but not the second.  With 5,000 IU capsules widely available, many people give no thought to taking one a day.  But if the government limits the sale of anything over 400 IU and people had to take 12 of the 400 IU tablets, instead of one of the 5,000 IU, they might balk at so many pills.  Before our officials in Washington take such a step, let's hope they read the Washington Post. 

John Cannell, MD
The Vitamin D Council

Vitamin D Links

These links for your benefit. They are for informative purposes only and should not be construed as an implied or express endorsement, or anything thereof, by the Vitamin D Council. We do not earn any money, kickbacks, or commissions from providing these links, which are clean with no attached affiliate codes. This is the end of my series on Vitamin D. My next series will be on Osteoporosis.

Linda Hall  

Forecasts and Assessment Tools

Current UV Index Forcast

U.S. National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center.

Erythemal Index—Forecast and Archive

Tropospheric Emission Monitoring Internet Service.

National UV Index Forecast Chart

Commonwealth of Australia Bureau of Meteorology.

Vitamin D3 Daily Dose—Forecast

Biometerology/Institute of Medical Physics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna.

Direct Labs—Vitamin D Test

Direct Laboratory Services, Inc.'s mission is to provide laboratory screening tests for individuals who desire to take charge of their own health and personally monitor their wellness, and to assist in the prevention or early detection of disease by providing low cost, high quality screening services directly and confidentially to consumers.

Webcast

Contemporary Diagnosis and Treatment of Vitamin D‑Related Disorders

Eight‑part presentation from the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. Windows Media format.

Vitamin D Information

Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Vitamin D

Office of Dietary Supplements, NIH.

Feature Articles On Vitamin D

Truth Publishing adheres to a strict policy of journalistic integrity and independence from the influence of advertiser money.

Health Research Forum

Nonprofit that aims to develop and disseminate new ideas for the improvement of public health in the UK and elsewhere.

Linus Pauling Institute's Micronutrient Information Center—Vitamin D

Micronutrient Research, Oregon State University.

SUNARC

Sunlight, Nutrition, and Health Research Center. Website of vitamin D expert William B. Grant.

Top Ten Vitamin D Myths

Gregory A. Plotnikoff MD MTS FACP of the Minnesota Medical Association

Unraveling the Enigma of Vitamin D

From the National Academy of Sciences' Beyond Discovery.

UV Advantage

Website of vitamin D expert Dr. Michael Holick.

UV Foundation

The UV Foundation is committed to funding educational efforts designed to increase the public awareness of the biologic effects of ultraviolet light.

Valuable Insights Into the Importance of Vitamin D and Sun

www.Mercola.com interview with vitamin D expert Dr. William Grant.

Vitamin D

Wikipedia.

Vitamin D Homepage

University of California, Riverside.

Vitamin D and MS

Vitamin D

Latest research into vitamin D and MS, from The Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre (MSRC).

Vitamin D3 and MS

Vitamin D3's role in Multiple Sclerosis, from MS‑information website All About Multiple Sclerosis.

Vitamin D and CLL

Vitamin D3: Essential for Health

CLL Topics provides information and support to patients and families dealing with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia.

Vitamin D and Your Pet

For Abby:

The Bearded Dragons Den

Dragons must have calcium and full‑spectrum UVB lights in order to maintain proper bone growth.

College of Veternary Medicine

Pet Reptiles Need Vitamin D and Calcium for Bone Health.

Musings on D3 and UV...

Herp and Green Iguana Information Collection.

Vitamin D (cholecalciferol)

Vitamin D and your horse.

Vitamin D in Birds and Mammals

Ron Hines DVM PhD.

Winged Wisdom

Calcium, Phosphorus, and Vitamin D3 In Your Bird's Diet.

Supplements and Vitamin D Related Products

bio‑tech Pharmacal Inc.

The best source for vitamin D3 cholecalciferol. Federally licensed and FDA approved manufacturer.

GenSpec

Genetically‑specific nutritional supplements.

Life Extension

High quality Vitamin D3 Cholecalciferol supplement.

LifeSpan Nutrition

The world's most advanced formulas, sells bio‑tech Vitamin D3.

Nature Made Multi Complete

New multivitamin with 1,000 IU vitamin D3.

UV‑Breathable Laminated Glass

Created by DuPont for "a living museum that will set new standards in terms of transparency—a very modern construction that will enable the plants and animals inside to really live and breathe."

Vitamin D Lamp by Sperti

The D/UV Lamp is intended for individuals who may not be able to receive either needed sunlight exposures or tolerate Vitamin D supplemented foods.

Vitamin D UV Meter

Solarmeter from Solartech, Inc. designed for both outdoor solar measurement and indoor UVR appliance measurement. 

Nutrition and Wellness

Bill Sardi's Knowledge of Health

Emphasis on Home Remedies and Dietary Supplements with no commercial influence.

International Health News

International Health News provides useful, authoritative online information about the latest research in health, nutrition and medicine.

Light and Health

Medical journal articles and conference papers documenting the effect of light on health. From the Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, New York.

Mount Rainier Clinic

Provides educational and public information on alternative and complementary therapies.

National Institutes of Health

US Department of Health and Human Services.

The Weston A. Price Foundation

Nonprofit, tax‑exempt charity founded in 1999 to disseminate the research of nutrition pioneer Dr. Weston Price.

Suggested Reading

Free PDF Downloads

Adobe Reader required to view PDFs.

The Healing Power of Sunlight and Vitamin D: an exclusive interview with Dr. Michael Holick

Learn the truth about sunlight and vitamin D that doctors and drug companies will never teach you...
Mike Adams, www.truthpublishing.com.

Is Fibromyalgia Just a Vitamin D Deficiency?

Bill Sardi, www.knowledgeofhealth.com.

Promoting Health and Preventing Illness with Vitamin D

Endocrine Metabolic Medical Center, www.endocrinemetabolic.com.

Vitamin D: Startling New Research Findings on an Old Bone Builder

Susan E. Brown PhD CCN, director Osteoporosis Education Project, www.betterbones.com.

Calcium and Vitamin D Really Don't Reduce Fractures? Take a Second Look

Susan E. Brown, www.betterbones.com.

Update on Vitamin D

Position statement by the UK Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN), 2007

Opinion of the Scientific Committee on Food on the Tolerable Upper Intake Level of Vitamin D

European Commission Health and Consumer Protection Directorate‑General, Scientific Committee on Food, europa.eu.int

Effectiveness and Safety of Vitamin D in Relation to Bone Health

Evidence report, August 2007. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), United States Department of Health and Human Services.

Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Fluoride

National Academies Press—Standing Committee on the Scientific Evaluation of Dietary Reference Intakes, FNB, IOM (free to read online in HTML format), nap.edu.

Vitamin D Expert Panel Meeting on Infants and Breastfeeding Mothers

CDC Report Oct. 2001, Atlanta, Georgia, (onsite).

Books

You Don't Have To Be Afraid of Cancer Anymore

Bill Sardi

Into the Light, Tomorrow's Medicine Today

William Campbell Douglass

Light: Medicine of the Future

Jacob Liberman

Natural Health Solutions

Mike Adams

Nutrition and Bone Health

Forward by Robert Lindsay, edited by Michael F. Holick and Bess Dawson‑Hughes

Nutritional Aspects of Osteoporosis (Serono Symposia)

Edited by Peter Burckhardt, Bess Dawson‑Hughes, and Robert P. Heaney

The Invisible Plague: The Rise of mental Illness from 1750 to the Present

E.F. Torrey and J. Miller

The Healing Sun: Sunlight and Health in the 21st Century

Richard Hobday

The UV Advantage: The Medical Breakthrough That Shows How to Harness the Power of the Sun for Your Health

Michael F. Holick

Vitamin D

Francis H. Glorieux and J. Wesley Pike

Vitamin D: Physiology, Molecular Biology, and Clinical Applications

Michael F. Holick

Link to Us: www.vitamindcouncil.org Vitamin D Council

Sample site description:

The Vitamin D Council is a nonprofit organization working to foster a better understanding in the public and health care sectors of the importance of vitamin D and its relation to human health.

June 8, 2008 - Marathon - Jeri Sears: Marathon Near Shore Waters Committee June 5th Notes. Ed. Jeri takes great notes, but these are unofficial notes not official minutes.

1. Richard Tanner was presented with a plaque from the NSWC for all his efforts in     making the harbor a great place to live. He is truly the leader of a great team at     the marina.
2. Rich Jones, newest member of the NSWC, was introduced to the Board members     present.
3. Dingy Docks survey to modify the lease is complete. The check and paperwork     will be sent to DEP next week.
4. Marina Bath Facility's contract for construction has been awarded. City is waiting for a start date from the     contractor. Construction is expected to take 120 - 180 days.
5. Marina Board walk construction is expected to start on Monday June 9th.
6. Wet storage in Marathon - under advisement with the City Attorney
7. Anchoring outside designated area - under advisement by the City Attorney
8. The permanent markers in Boot Key Harbor will be installed after the areas are dived for placement. The     markers are to show shallow - dangerous areas for the boaters.
9. Two Marina bus stop concrete pads have been poured and the benches should be installed within the next 30         days.
10. Water quality concerns in Boot Key were addressed. The water is tested and is safe. CJ will check into the       feasibility of posting the synopsis of the report on the City's Web page.
11. The Quay boat ramps RFQ was posted on June 5Th. Hopefully the ramp will be complete for mini season. The       33rd ST. ramp has another survey requested before permits can be issued.

Jeri Sears
member of the NSWC

June 10, 2008 - Marathon - Chaplin: Marathon Pioneer Dies. DELBERT C. CHAPLIN, 93, passed away peacefully on June 9 in the home he built on Sombrero Blvd. By his side were his son, Jim Chaplin, daughter, Diane Chaplin-Colvard, son-in-law, Fred Colvard and caregiver of two years, Katina Fantroy.

Delbert, known by his friends as Del, was one of Marathon’s pioneers. In 1952, he came from Moundsville, WV to Marathon with his wife, Cecelia “Celie” (a retired Marathon Realtor who preceded him in death in 1996) and family, Jim and Diane. He built one of Marathon’s first motels, Sea-Dell Motel, on the “outskirts” of Marathon which later became the center of town. A farmer, butcher, contractor and fishing captain in his early years, his retirement days were filled with fishing, hunting, gardening, canning, cooking, raising geese, ducks and honey bees.

A member of the American Legion, Post 154 in Marathon for over 50 years, he was a proud Army veteran and served his country in WWII as a Sergeant in the 1st Calvary Division. He fought in the Pacific conflict primarily the invasion of Leyte Island and the assault against the Island of Luzon in the Philippines. As a flame thrower and a leader of men, he was decorated many times for his valor and was awarded the Bronze Star.

In addition, he is survived by his daughter-in-law, Bettye Chaplin, his grandsons, James and Steve and his great-grandsons, Cooper and Camron. One of twelve children born to Mary and Albert Chaplin, his brothers, Howard, Dana, Frank, and sister, Evelyn, preceded him in death. Seven siblings survive him: Alberta Cheon of Marathon, nephews, Gary, Larry and Rodney. Almeda Leichter of Cameron, WV, niece, Mary. Eldean Komorowski of Moundsville, WV, niece, Maria and nephew, Fred. Edith Postlewaite of Glen Easton WV, nieces, Jane Ann, Donna, nephews, Richard, & Bobby. Marlene DiMarco of Clifton, New Jersey, niece, Roxanne and nephews, Ralph and Sammy. Arch Chaplin of La Quinta, CA. niece, Debbie and nephew, Archie. Loy and Nancy Chaplin of Paden City, WV, nephew, Chad. Other nephews and nieces include: Jimmy Chaplin of Morgantown, WV, Ralph and Elabee Chaplin of Proctor, WV, Barbara O’Brien, Phyllis Bogzvitz, Martha Fego of Zephyrhills, FL, Jack and Carmella Kornetti of Marathon, Bill Rabito of Branford, FL, Doreen Rabito Baumeister of Punta Gorda, Joe and Linda Rabito of Marathon, Marlene and Tom Slack and Tom Cheon of California

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to Hospice of the Florida Keys, 1319 Williams Street, Key West, FL 33040. A celebration of Del’s life will be announced at a later date.

June 10, 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. None.

Citizens' comments at time certain of 6:30 PM:
1. Jerry Mayett spoke on the need for a fire tanker truck. Fire Chief Dale Beaver answered those questions. Drive shaft problems took the old truck out of service. Old truck was only 1,800 gallons that was way too much for it. New truck has double capacity and is multipurpose. It is on order and expedited. Truck will arrive in September.

Special Orders and Presentations
1. City Manager Clyde Burnett presented his report. He covered a number of routine items both informational and action.
    a. Burnett reported on the Boot Key second appraisal effort. Staff was unable to identify a second appraiser. Council discussed the issue. Council approved a second appraisal by 4 – 1 with Vasil voting no.
    b. City manager led on Area 3 Wastewater Plant location discussion. FKEC denied second request to locate plant on their lot. Burnett requested action to meet deadlines. Council approved using part of Community Park Phase III lot to locate wastewater plant.
    c. City Manager Burnett provided a report on the recent fire. A tiki torch started the fire. There were limited amount of water. Loss of firefighters over the last few years contributed to the complete loss of structure. Ten fire hydrants are planned in the near future. A new fire water tanker is on order. Training and resources will be improved.
2. City Attorney Jimmy Morales present the monthly legal report.

City Council Items
1. *Council approved previous meeting minutes. Items marked with an asterisk [*] are consent items approved when the agenda is approved.
2. Council appointed Ralph Lucignano to the Code Board. Two applicants applied; one chosen by ballot.
3. Council appointed Dick Gibson to the Beautification Committee Citizen/Landscaper.

Ordinances for Public Hearing
1. ORDINANCE 2008-11 provided Chapter 6 amendment by amending Section 6-23 to allow waivers of certain fees for non-profit entities under certain circumstances.
2. ORDINANCE 2008-13 created City Code Section 36-88 to require property owners to maintain mangroves in a manner preventing the mangrove from impeding the navigability of waterways. John Whalton approved of the ordinance. Claude Halioua doesn’t agree with the ordinance. Passed 4 -1 with Vasil dissenting.

Resolutions for Public Hearing
1. None.

Resolutions for Adoption
1. Resolution 2008-90 approved a change order to Monroe Analytical Laboratories and Environmental Services, Inc Professional Services Agreement for quarterly water quality monitoring for $7,770.00.
2. Resolution 2008-91 amended the city employees and officials purchasing policies and procedures regarding city manager approval authority from $10,000 to $25,000. Ginger Snead spoke in favor of the resolution. Approval failed for lack of a second to Tempest approval motion. Council did increase of purchase orders from $1,000 to $2,500.
3. Resolution 2008-92 approved the first phase of US 1 Median Beautification Project. The city’s fiscal year 2007-2008 budget to appropriate city funds for the US 1 Median Beautification Project Phase I. The city’s Beautification Advisory Board is authorized to solicit donations for Phase II of the project. City staff is authorized to issue bids Phase I of the project. The city manager is tasked to separately account for funds donated by citizens and businesses. Curtis, the city grant writer, reported on grant details. Board members presented preliminary plans.
4. Resolution 2008-93 approved an interlocal agreement with Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority to design, prepare a request for proposals, and oversee the construction and installation of fire hydrants for Marathon.
5. *Resolution 2008-94 approved the project agreement between the city and Keys Contracting Services for demolition of an unsafe structure, authorizing the city to file a lien on the property.
6. Resolution 2008-95 authorized an indemnification agreement with Marathon Housing Associates LTD for service Area 4 wastewater treatment plant construction. Winn-Dixie sewage will be diverted to the Marathon Housing Associates plant, while construction of a city plant proceeds. This agreement allows all three parties to enter into such an agreement.

Citizens' comments:
1. David Schloper asked about having the fire meeting in conjunction with council meeting. Cinque said that they wanted a comprehensive meeting just on fire/rescue issues at the Airport Fire Station.

Council comments:
1. Vice Mayor Bull had no comments.
2. Mayor Worthington spoke on the recent fire.
3. Councilman Vasil had no comments.
4. Councilwoman Tempest had no comments.
5. Councilman Cinque addressed the recent fire.

Adjournment
1. 7:40 PM

June 11, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: New Lunch Place Called Cookshack. Photos are located at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/. This place is contained in a self-contained trailer full of stuff to make quick and delicious lunches for workers and passersby.

Affable Lloyd Saccomanno retired recently, and started Cookshack that offers sandwiches, smoked beef sirloin, and the trailer specialty of Carolina smoked pulled pork ten hours simmered, along with poor boy and "doctored" BBQ sauces plus the all-beef hot dogs.

This Cookshack is located between 42nd and 43rd Streets nearest the Discount and Sand entrance and close to Barracuda Restaurant. You can't miss the place, because the smells are heavenly. The phone number is 305-942-9613.

Lloyd has been open two weeks and doing well. He has good prices and good food. That is real food and the real deal. Stop by and try out the BBQ pulled pork. It is the best.

June 11, 2008 - Florida Keys - L. E. Shaffer: The Marathon Florida Keys Journal's successful relationship with the Conch Color has run its course. Our small partnership helped each company grow. Now we both must take what we have learned and experienced to go forward each in our specialized area.

The Conch Color broke new ground by specializing in good news and portraying the Keys life through the camera lens of the famous Tom O! Marathon Florida Keys Journal is a successful specialized online news organization dealing in Middle Keys events and the political craziness that is so much fun to cover.

I suspect that both our companies will join forces occasionally in the near future.

June 16, 2008 - Key West - L. E. Shaffer & M. Kisak: 2008 Pride Fest Event. Photos are located at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/. Well, all this fun had many parts along with a cast of unforgettable characters. The trip to Key West is always a treat to the eyes.

The Holiday Inn welcomed us into the city. We had a great room with an ocean view. You can't beat that. Prepaid reservations made the stay quite easy and convenient.

The Island House pampers you. A day pass is affordable. There is the sundeck, the pool, and two Jacuzzis. You could spend all your time there, but we were here to cover Pride Fest not to be lazy.

The cab service was timely and unique. We salute Peter of Five Sixes Taxi at 305-296-6666, easy to remember. Their website is www.kwtaxi.com. We met cabbie Joe Baert or "Joey B". His unique perspective tweaked our interest. We offered to publish his many stories. Call 305-394-4736 for familiar personal service and your repeat customer reward, valid only with Joe Baert.

"Naked Boys Singing" at the Waterfront Playhouse was the highlight of the first night. Not only was it entertaining, but the singing was spellbinding. The naked part was to demystify the human body. We do take ourselves too seriously about those parts.

The next day we had lunch at TGIFs, never disappointing. We then explored Duval Street from one to the other and back again. The Pride Fest Parade was a lot of fun. We shopped at the Artwear booth. Héctor and Meike can be reached at 305-490-3587 and visit the website at www.kwsuns.com. During the parade we took over 500 photos from the vantage of Blue Sky Rentals. They offer electric cars, scooters, and bikes. They provide free customer pickup. You can call them at 305-294-3900 or 305-296-8808. Blue Sky Rentals are open seven days a week from 9 AM to 9 PM. They are located in the heart of Old Town at 805 Duval Street and 1020 Duval Street. Their website is at www.keywestblueskyrental.com.

The next day we had brunch at La Te Da's, quite good too. The return home was satisfying. There is no place like home indeed.

June 16, 2008 - Florida Keys - provided by Mayor Pete Worthington. The email is flying about an act from the Florida Legislature that would affect most commercial fishing in the Keys. Here is a letter from the Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen's Association:
 

Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association
 (Formerly Monroe County Commercial Fishermen, Inc.)
P.O. Box 501404, Marathon, FL 33050
Phone: 305-743-0294    Cell: 305-619-0039
Email: fkcfa1@hotmail.com 

The Honorable Senator Mel Martinez
United States Senate
356 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510 

RE: S. 2645 and H.R 5594, “The Vessel Discharge Evaluation and Review Act of 2008” 

Dear Senator Martinez: 

The Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen's Association is requesting that you review S.2645 and H.R 5594. (Sponsored Sen. Ted Stevens (R-AK) and Rep. Don Young (R-AK). S. 2645 comes on the heels of the Environmental Protection Act's (EPA) National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirement for discharges that are “incidental to normal vessel operations.” 

If enacted, S.2645 and H.R 5594 would require the Commandant of the Coast Guard, in consultation with the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, to conduct an evaluation and review of certain vessel discharges (i.e., gray water, bilge water, ballast water and deck runoff), and suspend any permit requirement under any existing law for a discharge incidental to the normal operation of a vessel. Most importantly, S.2645 would specifically exempt vessels less than 79 ft. (which makes up 95% of Monroe County’s commercial fleet) from the proposed permitting requirements. The rule was originally made for large oceangoing vessels which produce a wide variety and significant amount of discharge. The FKCFA believes this rule is being wrongfully applied to smaller fishing vessels. 

The FKCFA believes the EPA/NPDES  permit will impose severe and unnecessary economic hardships on our fishing communities. The EPA will use tax payer’s monies to fund the employment and training of the large workforce needed to enforce the millions of required permits. Our commercial fleets are in no condition (especially with stock cuts and high fuel costs) to handle a permitting process of this nature. Furthermore, we believe that the public will not experience a greater level of conservation through the enforcement of a EPA/NPDES permit. 

As fishermen, we are dedicated to clean waters and sustainable fisheries. Fishermen understand the intricate balance between over-regulation and economic stability. It is clear that forcing the NPDES permit will seriously damage the functionality of Monroe County's commercial fisheries; which will have severe ramifications on the many local businesses already depressed by hurricanes and the loss of working waterfront. 

In the case its appeal is turned down, the EPA is gearing up to impose the NPDES permit system. The permit is scheduled to go into effect September 30, 2008. 

FKCFA is requesting that you review Senator Stevens proposal. If you are satisfied with its content we ask that you lend your support to passing this bill as soon as possible. 

The commercial fishing community sincerely appreciates all that you do to protect and preserve one of Florida’s most valuable industries. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. 

Sincerely, 

Scott E. Zimmerman M.Sc.,
Executive Director

Scott E. Zimmerman M.Sc.,
Executive Director
Florida Keys Commercial Fisherman’s Association
P.O Box 501404
Marathon, Fl 33050
Phone: (305) 619-0039
Fax: (305) 634-4794
Email: fkcfa1@hotmail.com
Website: http://www.fkcfa.org

June 17, 2008 - Monroe County - Fred L. Colvard, Ed. D.: Letter to Editor - School Board Budget Must Include Teacher Raises. June 15, 2008 Dear Editor: School Board Budget Must Include Teacher Raises

In 2004, Monroe County voters first approved the flexible funding formula which allowed the School Board to transfer $8.3M from the capital account to the operating account and those funds were to be used as raises for our teachers and nurses. At that time, for example, the teacher payroll was approximately $25 Million and based on the average teacher salary ($41,618.), teachers should have been entitled to as much as a 33% raise in 2004/2005. Instead the increase was 15%.

In the following years, teachers have only received raises similar to the state average. In reviewing previous school board budgets, it appears that the difference in dollars has been allocated towards questionable and unreasonable growth in school district administrators and other non-classroom positions.

Since taxpayers again approved four more years of flexible funding in January of this year, the School Board and the Superintendent needs to cut non-school based administrators and all excessive non-teaching positions so that those dollars may be directed towards providing teacher raises and improving the employee benefit plan.

The Monroe County school district needs to follow through with a raise for our teachers and they need to equalize the medical insurance premium benefit that is currently enjoyed by select school district personnel. A raise will also show the current, hard working teachers that they are appreciated for their commitment to our children and the long hours they spend working towards student achievement. This raise and improved employee benefit program will insure that our school district’s compensation plan is tops in the state. Our principals will be equipped with an outstanding compensation plan and we can take advantage of the tight job market for new teachers and maintaining our truly outstanding career-minded teachers.

The recent decline of real estate prices provides a window of opportunity for our teachers to finally realize the dream of owning a home in the Florida Keys. By giving our teachers commensurate salaries, the district will be able to attract and also retain a superior group of teachers who will have a positive affect on our children’s learning and success for many years to come.

I have been both a teacher and a principal during my 36 years in education. Next to strong parent involvement, an outstanding teacher makes the single greatest difference in a child’s life and that’s why our teachers must be given top priority.

As a past member of the Great Florida Teach-In committee, I was involved in teacher recruitment for the State of Florida and I strongly encourage the Monroe County School Board and the Superintendent to take advantage of these unique circumstances that would keep our valued teachers and provide a plan for future recruitment of highly qualified educators.

Fred L. Colvard, Ed. D. - Marathon

June 19, 2008 - Marathon - PSA provided by Marathon City Clerk Diane Clavier:
For Immediate Release June 18, 2008
City of Marathon, FL
For additional information, please contact Clyde Burnett 289-4130

Public Service Announcement
New Recycling Bins being distributed in Marathon

The Marathon City Council approved a contract to bring new recycling bins to the City of Marathon residents. The Recycling bins will be available at City Hall (9805 Overseas Highway) and at the regular City Council meetings at the Marathon Government Center (2798 Overseas Highway) to all Marathon residents.

Collection Guidelines: The following clean rinsed items placed in the recycling bins will be accepted for curbside pickup:
- Plastic bottles (water, soda, detergent, shampoo, others marked #1 and #2.
- Steel and aluminum cans.
- Glass bottles and jars (clear, green and brown)
- Newspaper-place in a separate brown paper bag.
- Batteries - place in clear bag.
- Cardboard - flatten and place in bin. No larger than 4x4 or in excess of 25lbs is accepted.

The collection schedule is as follows:

Wednesday - Knights Key thru 74th St. and Sombrero Beach Road and Blvd.

Friday - 75th Street thru Vaca Cut (including residences behind the airport)

Saturday - Vaca Cut thru Coco Plum, Grassy Key thru Conch Key

For any resident of the City of Marathon with questions pertaining to the new recycling bins, please call the City’s Public Works Department at 305-289-4115.

June 22, 2008 - Marathon - Jeri Sears: Response to “Turtles redirected by unconventional means” by P. J. Wieting. When I first read Mr. Wieting’s article on line at “Keysnews.com” (see “Letters to the Editor” dated June 19, 2008) I thought I must have misunderstood what I was reading. The second time I read the article I thought “he must be joking”. The sad truth is I am afraid this is a true article. Why would a retired Coastie (see “Letters to the Editor” dated June 22, 2008 article “Golfing with hatchlings is cruel and illegal”) write something like this if it were not fact? The men and women of the U.S.C.G. are helpful, honest, and hardworking. The Coasties I know go out of their way to help not only people but animals as well. I have only praise for the Coasties I know.

Save-A-Turtle in the Florida Keys supports the protection and wellbeing of the sea turtles in our waters. We have volunteers who give of their time everyday to make sure our turtle nests are watched and protected. We donate money to turtle research. We donate books and DVDs to the libraries and schools to educate the adults and children of the Florida Keys about the plight of the sea turtles.

I am not going to go into the possible legal repercussions of publishing an article about intentionally hurting or killing a Federally Protected species and actually signing your name to it. This is covered under the “Endangered Species Act of 1973.”

Mr. Wieting you should be ashamed!

Jeri Sears
President of Save-A-Turtle

June 24, 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. None.

Citizens' comments at time certain of 6:30 PM:
1. None.

Special Orders, Awards, and Presentations
1. City Manager Clyde Burnett presented his report.
    a. Financial Rep Cindy Lawson gave the quarterly financial report.
    b. Burnett reported on ordering a review or new Boot Key appraisal.
    c. Burnett is researching the city having a dedicated Comcast channel.
    d. City Manager requested permission for wastewater/stormwater construction at night to avoid daytime traffic.         A night that has the least impact will be scheduled.
2. Mayor Worthington presented awards to past committee members. Kevin Woodland. David Thomas. George Garrett.

City Council Items
1. *Council approved previous meeting minutes. Items marked with an asterisk [*] are consent items approved when the agenda is approved.
2. Council appointed Warren Bernard to the Fire Fighter Pension Board. David Foley was the other applicant.
3. *Council approved the next Seven Mile Bridge Run.
4. Mayor Worthington led the unlicensed contractor discussion. The city has an existing interlocal agreement with Monroe County to regulate unlicensed contractors. The city needs to renegotiate the current interlocal agreement.

Ordinances for Public Hearing
1. Continued to next council meeting - ORDINANCE 2008-13 created City Code Section 36-88 to require property owners to maintain mangroves in a manner preventing the mangrove from impeding the navigability of waterways.
2. Ordinance 2008-14 amended Chapter 26, of the Code, by creating Article IV "Debris Removal From Private Streets, Roads And Private Property". Deputy C. J. Geotis provided a report.

Resolutions for Public Hearing
1. None.

Resolutions for Adoption
1. Resolution 2008-96 established the terms and conditions of the proposed special assessments relation to relating to the construction of wastewater collection and treatment facilities. Fred Endemann spoke to this resolution.
2. *Resolution 2008-97 approved Grant Agreement FY 2006 Economic Development Initiative (EDI) - Special Project No. B-06-SP-FL-0208 (Marina Wastewater Infrastructure Upgrades).
3. Resolution 2008-98 accepted Randall G. Tedder Construction qualifications to reconstruct the Quay boat ramp. Roseanne Hightower spoke on this resolution, providing details of Coral Marine Construction qualifications.
4. *Resolution 2008-99 authorized city manager to enter into Globetec Construction, LLC Change Order # 1 for road repair changes for $69,002.32.
5. *Resolution 2008-100 approved certain purchases in excess of $10,000 and less than $25,000, waiving competitive bidding as sole source procurement.
6. *Resolution 2008-101 supplemented Resolution 2007-108 to provide for additional projects. Resolution 2007-108 is entitled, “A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Marathon, Florida Authorizing Negotiation of a Loan in an Aggregate Amount Not to Exceed $11,500,000 From the Florida Rural Utility Financing Commission for the Purpose of Financing the Cost of Improvements to the City of Marathon’s Wastewater System and Stormwater System, Approving the Execution of a Loan Agreement Between the City of Marathon, Florida and the Florida Rural Utility Financing Commission to Provide Interim Financing to the City of Marathon: Providing Certain Other Matter in Connection Therewith: and Providing An Effective Date”.
7. Resolution 2008-102 authorized the city manager to enter into Amendment No. 4 to Agreement No. H5M01 with the FDEP Bureau of Beaches and Coastal Systems to extend the termination date to June 30, 2008.

Citizens' comments:
1. None.

Council comments:
1. Vice Mayor Bull reminded everyone about the upcoming July 4th celebration at Sombrero Beach.
2. Mayor Worthington had all his announcements stolen by the others.
3. Councilman Vasil asked for more participation at meeting.
4. Councilwoman Tempest announced Rocketman benefit the 29th.
5. Councilman Cinque had no comments.

Adjournment
1. 7:06 PM

June 25, 2008 - Marathon - Provided by Pete Worthington: Marathon Wild Bird Center Newsletter. Welcome to the Marathon Wild Bird Center’s online newsletter!

Eagle soars back home in the Keys
In May, we let our readers know that for the first time in almost eight years the Marathon Wild Bird Center (MWBC) took in a sick eagle. The adventure began on May 11th, Mother’s Day, when volunteer Susie Ward delivered an emaciated juvenile bald eagle to the Bird Center after it was found floating in the waters near her home on Duck Key. We cared for it for 11 days, after which it was transported to the Audubon Bird-of-Prey Center in Maitland, Florida. There it fattened up and got stronger flying in their 100’-long flight cage. On June 13th, Lynda White and her husband, Bill, drove the bird back down to the Keys where Mary Barley, vice chairperson for the Everglades Foundation, released it at Curry Hammock State Park. Researcher Brian Mealey, executive director, Institute of Wildlife Sciences, banded and drew blood for a DNA sample. Brian’s research indicates that South Florida bald eagles and osprey do not migrate far from their wintering grounds during the summer. More than 50 friends and volunteers of the MWBC attended the glorious release!

Marathon Veterinary Hospital (MVH) hosts conference
MWBC’s Executive Director, Kelly Grinter, did double duty at the MVH’s 9th Annual Florida Keys Veterinary Technician & Office Personnel Conference held at The Turtle Hospital on June 8th. In addition to presenting an update about the Marathon facility’s latest activities, she also presented an update about our chapter facility, the Key West Wildlife Center (KWWC). Dr. Doug Mader introduced Kelly, adding that her presentation at last year’s conference was the program that attendees requested the most again this year. MWBC part-time staffer and volunteer Tracy Walraven and two volunteers from the KWWC also attended the conference.

Least Tern project update
As we mentioned last month, the MWBC staff and volunteers were going to participate in a project to monitor Least Tern roof-top colonies. Along with the KWWC, they’ve made it their goal to identify as many roof-top colonies as possible throughout the Florida Keys in an attempt to evaluate the conditions of these gravel-covered roofs. Sites that seem to be faring well are mostly in Key Largo and at the old Sombrero Resort in Marathon. The site that has had the most babies tumble off is at the Sigsbee Elementary School in Key West on the Navy base. The project, in partnership with the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center in Tavernier and the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), includes efforts later this summer, after the birds have fledged, to determine if temporary perimeter borders can be installed next season to protect the babies from falling off the roofs. The wee ones do so when they begin to walk around and seek shade while their parents are out fishing. To date, the MWBC has 31 growing babies that eat four pounds of fresh-caught glass minnows per day! We will release the birds in Key Colony Beach after they learn to fly (and fish) in mid-July. A special thanks to Dana, Aydan, and Hannah Child, MWBC volunteers, for netting 60 pounds of fresh minnows when we needed them the most at both the MWBC and the KWWC.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

We can’t offer fireworks for the Fourth of July, but we can promise to continue our own exciting work over the summer. We hope you can help. Because we are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, your check is tax deductible. Please mail a check of any amount to Marathon Wild Bird Center, P.O. Box 501328, Marathon, FL 33050 or call 305.743.8382 to make a credit card contribution. We will use the money to support our work in Marathon. However, you can specify that we use it in Key West simply by writing a check payable to the Key West Wildlife Center. Remember: if you ever find a sick or injured bird, please give us a call at 305.743.8382. We answer this line 24 hours a day.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Roseate Tern babies banded at the Marathon Government Center
It’s one thing to rescue, raise, and release baby Least Terns, but it’s quite another adventure to band baby Roseate Terns, also a threatened roof-top nesting bird. MWBC Executive Director Kelly Grinter received a call to join Ricardo Zambrano, FWC Southeast Regional Nongame Biologist, and three other volunteers to band the babies on June 16th. The “event” took place after 6:00 p.m. when the sun wouldn’t fry the babies as their parents temporarily abandon them during the process. The team has to work quickly and take breaks in-between sessions to allow the parents to feed their offspring. Babies of all sizes were on the gravel-covered roof. Some were a week old and some were only a day old. Kelly spotted two eggs among the still-unhatched ones that were hatching as they banded. Two eggs even had cracks and you could see the new babies’ egg tooth emerging from the tiny hole in the eggshell. In all, the group was excited to band 87 baby Roseate Terns. They only stopped because of time constraints and because they ran out of bands.

Key West Wildlife Center Update
Our chapter facility in Key West has slowed down with its rooster intakes, but the mother hens with their newly hatched broods keep rolling in. Susan Prince, full-time volunteer facility director, has not only been busy returning baby Least Terns to their roof-top rookeries, but has also been juggling dozens of mama chickens. The aviary, which the City of Key West is building with funding from the Tourist Development Council (TDC) also is making headway. After three years in the works, the first layer of river rock has been painstakingly added to the floor of the concrete aviary. Next, the silica sand will be delivered, an event that soon will be followed by a grand opening! Susan looks forward to the day she won’t have to balance the use of hospital carriers for wildlife and chickens because the new building will have plenty of pens for both types of birds. The wildlife intake in Key West may have slowed down a bit, but the odd migratory bird has still made its way to their door. A Yellow-billed Cuckoo and two Sooty Terns have made unexpected appearances this month.

Spread the word
Enjoyed this newsletter? Please forward it to a friend! And don’t forget to visit our web site at www.marathonwildbirdcenter.org for lots more information.

Marathon Wild Bird Center
P.O. Box 501328
Marathon, FL 33050
MM 50 at Crane Point Hammock
Phone: (305) 743-8382
Fax: (305) 743-8172
Website: www.marathonwildbirdcenter.org

What's Happening! Marathon's city budget process is about to begin. With the economic downturn, less tax collections, and ardent tax-cutters, the city faces some tough decisions and unfavorable results. It is time to pay for all the tax cuts or face voter revolt over lack of quality services that cover safety, health, welfare, and the environment.

Miscellany: August 26 is the primary; November 4 is the general election. You don't count unless you vote. Voting is easy. Register at the county building on 63rd Street; it is easy. Early voting is about 15 days prior to an election. Yes, you have two weeks to vote. You can even vote by mail. There is no reason not to vote. If I vote, and you don't? You have doubled the power of my one vote.

Finally: Water is becoming a valued commodity exceeding even the evils of oil. States are now fighting among themselves. Think of where we would 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 a little bit better. Still, 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.

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 had a load of fun this month. I escaped numerous times. Them human beans are silly chasing me all over the neighborhood. I really had too much fun. >^..^<
Abby: Ebony, you got one track mind with this going outside thing. I only want out once in a while, and I just roll around on the hot sidewalk. >^..^<
Ebony: You know, sometimes, I get out and want right back in. That sidewalk can be a scorcher on my paws. I always come inside to meow to human bean for wet food. >^..^<
Abby: I love wet food. I like the chicken one better than the tuna. It is, yum, good, but my gums are sore. I am afraid that human bean want my teeth cleans again. My fangs should be left alone. >^..^<
Ebony: Well, human bean made an appointment. I suspect we are going to the vet bean sooner than later. I really don't need anymore checkups, but human bean is crazy about our health. >^..^<
Abby: The vet beans can't open my mouth without putting me out. I don't like anyone inside my mouth. Why can them vet beans pick on dogs instead of us cats. >^..^<
Ebony: Well, Abby, I nose that you are going to get what for. You are getting fat. I seed your belly rubbing on the floor collecting dust bunnies and whatnot. >^..^<
Abby: You said bunnies? Ebony, tell me where I can get those bunnies. I never knew we had bunnies. Ebony, where are they? Please tell me. >^..^<
Ebony: I never meowed bunnies, you brainless white cat. I meowed that your fat belly was collecting dust bunnies. Dust bunnies are balls of crud and stuff. >^..^<
Abby: Crud? Are you call me a name? I will swat you silly, if you are calling me a name. >^..^<
Ebony: Goodness, Abby, you need mental help. Crud is what is in your ears and between them too. Crud is dirty dirt stuff and whatnot. >^..^<
Abby:  Yes, that is how you always are, Ebony. Picking on me is an art form for you. Never mind if I have to paw slap you once in a while to keep my sanity. Well, human beans and cats everywhere, that is all the meows this month. I got a black cat to bite. Bye. >^..^<

1. http://www.att.com is now the website of my cell phone company. Rollover minutes are cool.

2. http://www.papajohns.com makes ordering pizza way too easy.

3. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiQJ9Xp0xxU shows you why to vote Republican; this is in fun by the way.

4. http://www.prolific.com is where I got the virtual aquarium on my computer. I never have to feed them or change the water.

5. Hello all,
   For those who don't know, I write a weekly column for the Keys' Weekly Newspapers called "Keys Disease." I recently completed a four-part series on he most influential guitarists in the rock era, and now those columns will appear on my website: http://www.johnbartus.com I had a blast writing the columns, and I hope you'll click through and read them.
   Peace,
   John Bartus
   Live From The Florida Keys

Poetry Corner
"End of Ages"
June 26, 2008

Life is a deep well
Serene and languid
Mirrored reflections
A soul set free

From grief and toil
From love and hate
From this life's
Bounds and limits

Life is a long path
Filled with the stars
And the tapestry
Spirit wild and free

From shackles of life
From needs and desires
From the relentless
Pursuit of death

Life is the chasm
Of risk and love
Of death and woe
In that long journey

Upon that walkabout
Sand dunes hot and dry
Forests choked of light
Mountains cold and alone

On that day long ago
All was right when
Born to deathly fate
Until the end of ages

© 2008 L. E. Shaffer

Hockey Puck
NHL: The Florida Panthers are not in the playoffs. The Pittsburgh Penguins lost to the Detroit Redwings for the Stanley Cup championship. The NHL Detroit Redwings held off the Pittsburgh Penguins to win the Stanley Cup 4 games to 2 games. The series was much closer than the outcome would show.

PGA: At the US Open Tiger Woods played through a sore knee to force an 18-hole playoff with Rocco Mediate on Monday. They played 18 holes and ended up still tied. At the 19^th hole in sudden death, Rocco missed his shot to tie and lost the US Open. Tiger and Rocco played one of the best US Opens ever. Tiger Woods had a second surgery on his bum knee, which makes his performance in the US Open even more unbelievable.

NASCAR Sprint Cup: NASCAR Pocono saw Dale Jr. finish 4^th and 3^rd in points, while Jeff finished 14^th and 8^th in points. At the NASCAR Michigan race, Dale Jr. won and is 3^rd in points. Jeff Gordon placed 18^th and is 9^th in points. At Sonoma on the road course, NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Jeff Gordon finished 3^rd and 6^th in points. Dale Jr. finished 10^th and still 3^rd in points.

IRL: Danica Patrick was bumped out of the race late, while Dixon wins the 92^nd Indianapolis 500.

NBA: The Miami Heat are out of the playoffs. The NBA Lakers vs. Celtic finals saw the Lakers extending the series to a sixth game. The Lakers must win to force a game seven. The old Lakers - Celtics rivalry reprises this NBA finals, and the NBA Boston Celtics won their 17^th world championship beating the Los Angeles Lakers 4 games to 2.

NFL: The New York Giants pulled off a Super Bowl upset over the previously undefeated New England Patriots.

MLB: The Florida Marlins are in second place and look like they are going to stay there for a while. Will wonders ever cease to amaze me and all of you!

WTA: Serena Williams did well in her opening Wimbledon match, besting Kaia Kanepi from Estonia. Venus Williams defeated Naomi Cavaday at Wimbledon. Venus Williams defeated Anne Keothavong to move to the third round at Wimbedon.

NCAA Football: Ohio State disappoints again and loses the championship game.

 

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 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
Shaffer Internet Publishing Company
Merchant Occupational License #48210-0076151
PO Box 501833
Marathon FL 33050-1833
(305) 743-9648 voice/fax
(305) 289-4180
(305) 289-4167

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

Publication date: June 28, 2008
Author: L. E. Shaffer
Company: Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company &
Shaffer Internet Publishing Company
© 1995 - 2009, 2010 L. E. SHAFFER
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED WORLDWIDE
PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
FIRST PRINTING; ELECTRONIC & PRINT MEDIA

Advertising

	Easy Does It Hair Shop Across from Home Depot at mile marker 49.5 @ 1-305-743-3934 USA
http://www.temporaldoorway.com
Doc's Tattooz 10935 Overseas Hwy Marathon FL 33050 1-305-289-4651 USA In loving memory of D. W. Taylor	Web Hosting with world-class support http://xfireweb.com
http://www.keysweekly.com The Marathon Weekly http://www.conchcolor.com Conch Color http://newsbarometer.com News - Barometer http://keysnews.com KeyWestCitizen & Marathon/BigPine Free Press http://keynoter.com Florida Keys Keynoter	Marathon Computers 5160 Overseas Highway Marathon FL 33050 @ 1-305-289-0472 USA
	Roads in Shadow http://www.slapalmedesigns.com/rdsis/
	Plaza Hotel and Casino One Main Street Las Vegas, NV 89101 @ 1-800-634-6575 USA http://www.plazahotelcasino.com
Place your ad here!	Tyrone's Mobile Car Wash & Detail ☼☺☻☺☼ @1-305-731-4301 USA
	Sam Kennedy, Photographer 1-305-393-3939, 699 116th Street Ocean, Key Vaca, FL USA 33050
	Place your ad here!
	CONCH COLOR ◊ Florida Keys Photographic Chronicle Conch Color - Sales 1-305-797-5088, 292-5771; Office 1-305-294-7566
Place your ad here!	Place your ad here!
	KeysgrafixSigns 1417 Overseas Hwy Marathon FL 33050 @ 1-305-743-7724 USA  PAT & ERIC & DICK KEYSGRAFIX@BELLSOUTH.NET

Subscribe!

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

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