September 23, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council held its regular meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Hwy. on Tuesday, September 23, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. Photos are available for a couple of months at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/.  

1.         Call to Order

2.         Pledge of Allegiance

3.         Roll Call

4.          City Council approved the agenda and consent agenda. [Approval of consent agenda passes all routine items indicated by asterisk (*).] 

5.         Citizens' comments: Morgan Hill spoke about Equivalent Dwelling Unit [EDU] methodology discrepancies. City Candidate Dick Ramsay requested a lateral summit. This should generate ideas, organization, and fewer taxes. City Council Candidate Joanie Nelson bemoaned the high cost to each resident on wastewater. 

6.         Special Orders, Awards and Presentations

            A.        City Manager's Report included routine announcement and information.

1.      Mayor Worthington presented a service award to Vice Mayor Bull.

2.      Council considered a sewer assessment appeal for 4680 Overseas Hwy. Council voted to consider these appeals together at special call meeting to be announced.

3.      Council heard a sewer assessment appeal for Gulfside Village Condo Association. Council voted to consider these appeals together at special call meeting to be announced.

4.      City Manager Burnett presented the Feasibility Report of Resolution 2008-157 concerning bookkeeping duties. He recommended keeping the contractor. Council accepted the recommendation

            B.        Council accepted the Marathon Chamber of Commerce donation to Beautification Committee. The amount was $10,000.

            C.        Jimmy Morales presented the City Attorney Monthly Report.

            D.        Mayor Worthington presented the Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation.

            E.         Mayor Worthington presented the Proclamation for Fire Prevention Week, October 5 – 11^th. 

7.         City Council Items

            *A.      Council approved City Council Minutes.

            B.        Mayor Worthington presented Jimmy Schmidt his five-year employment anniversary award.

            C.        Mayor Worthington led the street flooding discussion. Residents spoke about constant flooding. Community Services Director Susie Thomas spoke on the city’s plans. Ted Luke spoke about Flamingo Isle community. Diane Chaplin-Colvard spoke on flooding problems on Sombrero Boulevard. Bill Wilkinson spoke briefly about flooding. City Council Candidate Joanie Nelson spoke about 46^th Street flooding.

            D.        Councilman Vasil led the council policies discussion. He faulted staff on not enforcing the Dodge Lake Boat Ramp being open from sunset to sunrise. City Manager Burnett reported that some councilmembers now want to do a workshop on parking issues. Councilman Vasil insisted that council direction be acted upon. Vice Mayor Bull praised staff on actions so far.

            E.         Councilman Vasil led the Building Department discussion. He asked the City Manager to give an update on Building Department issues. Burnett suggested that M. T. Causley be contracted for building inspectors on as needed basis.

            F.         Council discussed the city attorney services agreement. 

8.         Ordinances for First Public Hearing and Enactment 

            A.        Ordinance 2008-26 amended Chapter 106 and Chapter 110 of the Land Development Regulations allowing for the distinction between riparian mangrove fringes and isolated mangrove communities. 

9.         Ordinances for First Public Hearing

A.                Ordinance 2008-25 amended Chapter 32 of Marathon Code to prohibit parking in fire lanes. City Council Candidate Joanie Nelson spoke in support of this ordinance. Jerry Mayotte spoke about Fishermen’s Point, trap yard fire.

B.                 Ordinance 2008-27 amended Chapter 36 on waterways, providing for a definition of wet storage. Further this amendment provided for a prohibition on wet storage of wet storage within the city managed mooring field and anchorage areas, providing for a prohibition on liveaboard vessel rental or lease for the purpose of habitation within the city managed mooring field and anchorage areas. Near Shore Waters Committee Chairwoman Jeri Sears spoke in favor. Jerry Mayotte spoke against wet storage west of Boot Key Bridge. City Candidate Joanie Nelson spoke in favor. 

10.       Quasi-Judicial Public Hearings 

A.        Ordinances for Second Public Hearing and Adoption 

            1.         CONTINUED - Ordinance 2008-03 amended the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Medium (RM) to Mixed Use Commercial (MUC) for property at 23^rd Street Ocean. 

            2.         CONTINUED - Ordinance 2008-05 amended the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Low (RL) and Residential Medium (RM) to Residential High (RH) for property at the Aloha Properties. 

            3.         CONTINUED - Ordinance 2008-06 amended Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Low (RL) to Residential Medium (RM) for at Avenue L Coco Plum. 

            4.         CONTINUED - Ordinance 2008-07 amended for the Future Land Use Element of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, Policy 1-3.2.1 “Allocated Density Defined”, as shown in Table 1-1 “Future Land Use Density and Intensities”. This adjusts workforce housing densities across several different land uses. 

            5.         CONTINUED – Ordinance 2008-08 amended the Future Land Use Element of the City’s Comprehensive Plan Policy 1-3.5.3 “Residential Building Permit Allocation System (RBPAS)”.  This updates language. 

            6.         CONTINUED - Ordinance 2008-09 amended the Future Land Use Element of the City’s Comprehensive Plan Policy 1-3.5.7 “Commercial Building Permit Allocation System (CBPAS)”.  This clarifies the language.        

11.       Resolutions for Adoption  

            A.        CONTINUED - Resolution 2008-110 authorized the award of Construction Contract To Lanzo Construction Co., Florida for construction of Service Area 5 collection system for wastewater and stormwater for $19,126,494. 

            B.    *Resolution 2008-123 recreated, composed, appointed members, and adopted By-Laws for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Citizens Advisory Task Force. 

            C.        *Resolution 2008-137 recognized the Ocean Conservancy and Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary for their efforts in organizing and carrying out a keys wide beach cleanup on September 20, 2008. 

            D.        Resolution 2008-138  allowed the borrowing of $10,000,000 from Branch Banking and Trust Company. This is to finance a portion of the wastewater system and stormwater system construction and improvements. The issuance of a wastewater system revenue bond, series 2008 is part of the resolution. There are more details not pertinent to the main purpose of the resolution. In essence, it is legalese blah blah blah. Interest is about 3% with a term of thirty-nine months. Cost to the city is about $21,000. Councilman Vasil still thinks that the city is going too fast. He won’t support any further action beyond Service Area #4. Councilman Cinque said that we can’t panic; we need to proceed. Vasil voted no, but it passed 4-1. 

            E.         Resolution 2008-139 authorized Change Order # 2 to contract Universal Beach Services for $6,166.25 monthly. 

            F.         PULLED - Resolution 2008-140 restricted parking around Dodge Lake Boat Ramp. 

            G.        *Resolution 2008-141 authorize Change Order # 1 to Randall G. Tedder Construction Contract for additional subsurface work for $47,000. 

            H.        Resolution 2008-142 approved hiring RBC Capital Markets Corporation as financial advisor to assist the city with the financing of the wastewater and stormwater utility projects. City Candidate Joanie Nelson asked questions. Vasil voted no, motion carried 4-1. 

            I.          *Resolution 2008-143 approved Tourist Development Council Interlocal Grant Award Agreement No. 512 for amphitheatre lighting and sound system installation. 

            J.          *Resolution 2008-144 approved between $10,000 and $25,000 to purchase additional FEMA insurance. 

            K.        *Resolution 2008-145  approved the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA) purchase and installation of taps and various fire hydrants in Grassy Key for $100,000. 

            L.         Resolution 2008-148 approved the Islamorada and Marathon interlocal agreement to share services of Islamorada’s Fire Chief. Fire Chief William Wagner spoke and answered questions. He praised Marathon’s firefighters and EMS personnel. 

            M.        *Resolution 2008-149 approved the EssentialNet Solutions agreement to provide IT services, you know, computer stuff.                       

N.        *Resolution 2008-150 authorized Marathon a billing services agreement with Professional Practice Support. 

            O.        *Resolution 2008-151 adopted a Wastewater Utility Operation and Maintenance Rate for the Little Venice Service Area for the fiscal year commencing October 1, 2008. 

            P.         Resolution 2008-152 approved Monroe County interlocal agreement with Marathon to transfer about fifteen not fifty Transferable Development Rights across jurisdictional boundaries. This is a one-time occurrence. Donald Craig presented the case for the applicant Land and Sea Trust. Karen Wilkinson spoke against the resolution. She is concerned about the city’s assets. An ECMC representative was tentative about favoring this resolution. Joanie Nelson spoke once again. 

            Q.        *Resolution 2008-153 awarded a consulting contract to Public Resources Management Group for a stormwater and wastewater financial feasibility report for issuance of utility revenue bond financing for $26,505. 

            R.        Resolution 2008-154 authorized the Professional Emergency Services agreement that provides the Medical Director services. 

            S.         Resolution 2008-155 authorized M. T. Causley agreement concerning addition Building Department services as needed.  

            T.         Resolution 2008-156 authorized Bishop, Rosasco and Company agreement to provide Financial Director services. 

            U.        Resolution 2008-157 approved a ground lease agreement to post storm staging and debris storage for property located at JoJo’s on Grassy Key. 

12.       Citizens' comments: City Council Candidate Joanie Nelson spoke once again.

13.       Council comments: Vice Mayor Bull announced soccer events. Councilman Vasil talked about his Boot Key Harbor improvement program. Mayor Worthington said Marathon was lucky to have Hurricane Ike going south.

14.       Adjournment: 9:28 PM.

October 1, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council Special Call Meeting on Dodge Lake Boat Ramp. Photos are available for a couple of months at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/.

Initially, council directed staff to put up a chain and close the Dodge Lake Boat Ramp from dusk to dawn. Then as the local community surrounding the boat ramp got used to these circumstances, many wanted the ramp restored to its previous hours. Many others still complained about parking, noise, boat trailers everywhere, speeding, and general disregard for the peace and quiet of the neighborhood. Many from the community spoke on both sides of the issue.

The council decided to address the issues by putting together a resolution to take care of immediate concerns. An ordinance dealing with specifics and possibly citywide parking issues will come to the council in the near future. Each councilperson spoke to the various ways to solve the problem. With the ramps at 33rd Street and the former Quay, the city will direct boats and trailers to these boat ramps vice the Dodge Lake Boat Ramp. Signs need to be installed as well as no wake buoys. Infractions need to be ticketed.

Many spoke at the meeting, but notable were Tom Wright from the immediate neighborhood and Colonel Rick Ramsay from the Sherriff's Office. Common sense will prevail and supposedly everyone will live happily ever after. On the other hand, a riot at Dodge Lake Boart Ramp could be very interesting and slightly photogenic.

Taking public input is a primary responsibility of city council. Still, the above coming together of the minds took an excruciating amount of time. Where is Randy Mearns when you need him?

October 4, 2008 - Marathon - Jeri Sears: Near Shore Waters Committee met October 2nd at the library. The following information is from my meeting notes. The notes are not official.

1. Working Waterfront discussion - Richard Tanner gave each member a copy of the approved Marina Siting Plan. The NSWC unanimously approved a recommendation to the City council to support the Constitutional amendment # 6 which is on the Nov. 4 ballot. The amendment is titled Assessment of Working Waterfront Property Based Upon Current Use. George Garrett presented us with useful information in regards to the waterfront properties. He also said the City will need to add Working Waterfronts to the Comp. Plan if the city decides to go forward with waterfront issues. Rich Jones is going to send out a PowerPoint presentation on Working Waterfronts.

2. Pump out Procedures of Private Marinas with Willy Guerra was moved to Nov 6.

3. Wet Storage Ordinance - Mary Belden brought forth issues with the ordinance as written. Several residents of the Harbor Neighborhood presented their views on the wording. Mary, Richard, and C. J. will work with George Garrett to modify the language to bring it in line with the Mooring Field Lease agreement.

4. Anchorage west of Boot Key Bridge - the committee heard from Jerry Mayotte on the problems at Fisherman's Point and the surrounding areas. C. J. is working on this problem. The NSWC will discuss this with Deputy Guerra at the Nov. meeting.

5. Bus Stop Benches are installed. Thanks to Pete Worthington for his assistance.

6. The permits for the additional Dingy Docks should be ready soon.

7. Marina Bath Facility is moving along nicely. The walls are going up. If you get a chance stop at the City Marina to see all of the improvements.

8. Boat Ramps - Quay is finished, 33rd St. hopefully the permits will be approved soon, Banana Bay is not available to the general public, Knight's Key will be discussed at a meeting with George Garrett on Tues.

9. Permanent markers in Boot Key Harbor should be installed in 6-8 weeks. The markers will be pilings with informational signs attached. The markers will not only show shallow areas but will delineate the boundaries of the Mooring Field and the Leased anchorage area.

10. Future of Boot Key Harbor and the City Marina - ideas on this topic will be held once the Working waterfront is complete.

Jeri Sears

October 6, 2008 - Marathon - Capt Marti Brown, RN, MSN: Open Letter to Marathon City Council.
Gentlemen and Lady,
It is with great concern and outrage that I write you regarding the proposed ordinance 2008-27 as was read at the last City Council meeting on September 23rd.

The intent of this proposed ordinance as I have learned by speaking with Richard Tanner at the City Marina, is to provide the harbormaster/City with legal recourse to prevent wet storage boats from being left in the harbor. This ordinance came about as a result of the lack of contractual/legal authority on the part of the City to manage those vessels that anchor on either the City bay bottom or the State Bay bottom that is leased by the City. Please note that the City Marina already has contracts and recourse for those of us that are living in the mooring field. While the intent of this ordinance appears sound, the wording and the implementation of this plan fall far short of logic and common sense. In addition, this ordinance threatens to undermine the civil liberties of the law abiding citizens that rent a mooring ball from the City Marina. Let me give you some examples of what I found in the ordinance that I feel are outrageous:

Point One:
“The registered owner of any vessel anchored or moored in the anchorage areas or mooring field must be present and available and is responsible to attend his/her vessel at all times.”

This could be legally interpreted as; “It’s okay for you to liveaboard your boat but you just can’t get off your vessel.”
How could you Mr. Mayor, Mr. Vice Mayor and Councilpersons Cinque, Vasil and Tempest have nodded your heads yes to this at the meeting when it was read by you on September 23rd? We are all aware that our Federal government has lost touch with reality. This lack of scrutiny on your part makes me wonder if you, the elected officials on the City Council, have also lost touch with Main Street as well. I wasn’t at this City Council meeting, but apparently you all nodded your heads pretty enthusiastically as one of the Marathon papers reported (in error) that this ordinance had actually been passed and was a done deal!

Point Two:
“No liveaboard vessel anchored in the anchorage areas or moored in the mooring field may be rented or leased to another party by its registered owner for the purpose of habitation.”
This is absolutely laughable. As written, this statement also makes it illegal for charter vessels to anchor in Boot Key Harbor or from using the mooring field. Is this yet another example of how you all on the City Council and the City Planning department have lost touch with “Main Street?” Let me give you an example of just who this will affect. This will essentially not allow any of the Boy Scout charter boats or any charter boats for that matter to use the harbor anchorage or moorings. The wording of the ordinance you read on September 23rd would adversely affect the entire boat charter business in Marathon and throughout the Florida Keys.

Point Three:
Here’s another interesting statement in the proposed 2008-27 ordinance I think the ACLU might have issue with and that I think clearly demonstrates that you all on the City Council and the City Planning Department have lost touch with us here on main street:
“Should the owner of a live-aboard vessel utilizing the City of Marathon designated anchorage areas or mooring field wish to leave his or her vessel un-attended for any period of time greater than twenty four (24) hours, the owner must notify City marina staff in writing.”
In my 56 years of living on this planet, I have never been required by a landlord to provide any notice of my whereabouts.

I met with Richard Tanner at the City Marina and gave him some logical, alternate suggestions on how to achieve his goals without losing touch with main street ethics and civil liberties. Then, I attended the Near Shore Waters Committee meeting last Thursday and provided comments and suggestions. After hearing my and other law abiding liveaboards’ comments, they agreed to look into changing the wording of the ordinance.

October 14th I believe you will get to review the revised 2008-27 Ordinance. Main street is watching.

Respectfully submitted;
Capt Marti Brown, RN, MSN

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October 7, 2008 - Marathon - Jeri Sears: Final Beach Report for 2008. Save-A Turtle of the Florida Keys wish to thank everyone who worked so hard this nesting season. We have a lot of people involved in surveying our beaches at first light everyday and we thank them.  We wish to thank the group that takes part in the Stranding and Salvage of sick and deceased turtles.   Thank you to the Beach Coordinators who make sure someone is available to walk the beaches, and then compiling all the data for our Technical Advisor – Pat Wells.  We have Board Members who not only give of their time by attending the monthly meetings but who also spend time on other Save-A-Turtle projects.  We thank the interested members and guests who attend our monthly meetings and help at different functions.  We also wish to thank the supporters of our Flippered Friends for their generous donations.

Sincerely,
Jeri Sears
President of Save-A-Turtle 

Save-A-Turtle Final Beach Report for 2008
YTD  Beach            Crawls    Nests             Information on Nests
Bahia Honda                   75                 18                      8 nests hatched / 664 hatchlings emerged
Long Key SP                   25                 7                        7 nests hatched / 442 hatchlings emerged
Long Key                        8                   2
Coco Plum                       20                 11                      3 nests hatched / 307 hatchlings emerged
Sombrero                         11                 6                       6 nests hatched / 670 hatchlings emerged
Key West                        1                    1                       1 nest  hatched / 104 hatchlings emerged
               Sea Oats           24                 19                      3 nests hatched / 245 hatchlings
Long Beach                     1                   0
Key Colony                     1                    1
* KWNWR                     82                  34           

*Key West National Wildlife Refuge 

Most of the nests that did not hatch were lost due to water inundation caused by “Fay”.

Monroe County Beach coordinators reported 124 nests and 2432 hatchlings.  Statically we should get 2 to 3 turtles back to nest in 25 or 30 years! Just think- in 25 to 30 years we might only see 2 or 3 turtles coming back to Monroe County to nest from the 2008 season.

October 7, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon Debates at the Marathon Government Center in the EOC Room.  Photos are available for a couple of months at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/.

The candidate debates of various groups were interesting, somewhat amusing, and really did not break any new ground. The debates covered the Marathon City Council, Monroe County Superintendent of Education, Districts 1 and 4 of Monroe County Mosquito Board, and Monroe County Property Appraiser. I took some snapshots of items that caught my attention. Other news media will do the regular new reporting end of things.

The Marathon Business and Professional Women’s Club, Inc [BPW] and Chamber put together this series of debates and did a good job at that. First up were the Marathon City Council candidates. They are John Bartus, Mayor Pete Worthington, Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest, Dick Ramsay, Ginger Snead, Kevin Woodland, Allen Pedersen, and indomitable Joan Nelson.

Opening statements were reflective of each unique candidate. John Bartus talked about the economy, funding wastewater projects, and solving flooding problems. Joan Nelson stayed on her continuing topic of helping the little people and ranting against unfunded mandates. Allen Pedersen listed sewer funding, affordable housing, and improved marketing of the city. Dick Ramsay wowed everyone with a bold proposal right out of the box. He wants to suspend permit fees, temporarily stop impact fees, and green light all permits. The only problem with that is the taxpayer will make up the difference. Ginger Snead spoke about her experience and looking toward the future from the city’s tenth anniversary. She did not actually address any issue. Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest spoke about her two-year experience on the council, staying the course, and her successes. Kevin Woodland detailed his community involvement, but did not specify any issues. Mayor Pete Worthington reported that the city’s financial situation is quite good. He was upbeat and said that he would continue to attack the tough issues.

The first question addressed the infamous wastewater/stormwater project. Joan Nelson said no money, no sewer. Allen Pedersen asked what all the rush was about the 2010 mandate. Rick Ramsay stated that the project has to continue and funding is needed to offset the burden on residents. Ginger Snead spoke about reducing resident costs. Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest reported on all the progress so far and agreed that resident costs need reduced. Kevin Woodland suggested that the FKAA was better to do the work and charging assessments now is too soon. Mayor Pete Worthington stated that the city is progressing quickly and sharing the costs citywide reduces resident costs. John Bartus said that he would work with the state to reduce resident costs.

The next question dealt with US1 appearance and all the delayed development projects. Allen Pedersen said that a traffic study is needed to stop people in Marathon and shop here. He advocated for more signs. Dick Ramsay stated that this affects the local economy and needs action on all sides of the issue. Ginger Snead advocated for long-term visioning. Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest spoke about budgeting for US1 improvements among others. Kevin Woodland suggested that common sense solutions would help residents. Mayor Pete Worthington addressed several items needing Code Board attention. He also said that development agreements need strict timelines. John Bartus spoke about taking action and not just talking about these issues. He identified revenue sources from grants, public funding, and private donations. Joan Nelson loudly talked about not handing gifts to developers and no more Marlin Bays.

The next question was on impact fees. Dick Ramsay was emphatic that impact fees must be collected. Ginger Snead was more cautious and suggested that these fees be required on a case-by-case basis. Councilwoman Tempest said that some fees were too high and punitive on everyone. Kevin Woodland stated that lack of impact fees makes the workforce housing crisis worse. Mayor Pete Worthington talked about not forcing the issue and using a balanced approach. John Bartus reasoned that working with the community and the developer will lead to the results desired. Joan Nelson railed about shortening the time limits on development agreements. Allen Pedersen uttered something, but no one could discern exactly what he said or meant.

The moderator then asked what project would each candidate bring to the council should they be elected. Ginger Snead listed vision, goals, and a plan to address the top issues. Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest mentioned increasing the user friendliness of city hall and reviewing the Land Development Regulations [LDRs] to correct items that have changed since inception of the LDRs. Kevin Woodland sited US1 beautification. Mayor Pete Worthington talked about fire, EMS, police, and road paving improvements. John Bartus cited visioning by using the existing document paid for in the early years of the city, reducing red tape, and improving public safety. Joan Nelson shouted out no golden parachutes and fat contracts for developers. Allen Pedersen said that marketing and protecting what exists would be his top projects early on. Dick Ramsay wanted to use common-sense solutions to keep businesses from closing.

In closing statements, Councilwoman Tempest started first by stating that there were 8 great candidates. She assured residents that she would continue to reduce costs, fund sewers, and ease business restraints. Kevin Woodland said that he served on many city committees as well as volunteering for a number of community projects. Mayor Pete Worthington talked about his being approachable, moving forward, and addressing the economy. He was very upbeat about city prospects. John Bartus mentioned his long public service as two-term Marathon Mayor, three-term Vice Mayor, and 6 years on the first 6 councils. Joan Nelson reported that she would make sewers affordable, reinstate the volunteer firefighters, and ensure no more giveaways to developers. Allen Pedersen relied on his background in big business and promised change. Dick Ramsay indicated that the community and businesses need action now. Finally, Ginger Snead closed out the council debates by saying that she would set goals, establish a vision for the future, and come up with a plan to get beyond the past.

There was no new ground broken. No one stumbled. Everyone did okay. Those with a grasp of the issues and the ability to take action were Dick Ramsay, Ginger Snead, John Bartus, Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest, and Mayor Pete Worthington. Kevin Woodland sided more on demonstrating his ability to come up with common-sense solutions. Joan Nelson did quite well, even though some of the issues have passed her by.

Now I stayed for the other debates, although those areas are not specialty. The Monroe County Superintendent of Education debates between Randy Acevedo and John Colvard were a bit tame. Acevedo has been in charge for 4 years of excess taxes resulting in poor education. John Colvard promised to improve real education, while reducing costs across the board. Speaking of the Board of Education, it will be interesting if Colvard is elected. I’m all for better education for less money. I think that I am voting for John Colvard.

The debates between Joan Lord-Papy and Andy William for Mosquito District 1 and Bill Shaw and Daniel Zieg for District 4 were eye opening. Mosquito Control’s budget is twice what it needs to be. While Andy Williams has been arrested and released a number of times, he still makes more sense than Papy. Isn’t it amazing that voting for the alleged criminal could save us tax money? Daniel Zieg made even more sense by identifying a number of ways to reduce costs by at least half. Joan Lord-Papy has become too entrenched to understand the effect of her decisions on the taxpayer. Bill Shaw is abrasive, condescending, and full of himself. With those qualifications, it is no wonder he doesn’t get it. Stop spending more taxes than you need!

The last debate was for Monroe County Property Appraiser. The incumbent Ervin Higgs has steered the ship steadily for years. Times are changing though and require new thinking. Chris Sante has the guts to stop abuses, ensure correct appraisals, and stop taxing workforce housing out of existence. Sante understands that workforce housing, ownership and rentals, must be taxed as current use not the best and highest use. By doing that one little thing, workforce families can stay in their workforce housing. Lower taxes lead to lower insurance costs which all keeps workforce in affordable housing. Chris Sante gets it! Sorry, Ervin, the times they have passed you by. Adapt or get out of the way.

October 10, 2008 - Key West - L. E. Shaffer: Paradise Tattoo & Body Piercing on Duval.  Photos are available for a couple of months at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/. I had the chance to visit Paradise Tattoo on 627 Duval Street in Key West, of course. Every chance that I get, I visit the unique store. They specialize in tattoos and body piercings. They sell hats, shirts, and other branded items, all of which are high quality and very interesting to boot. They claim, “Simply the best place to get stuck!” Call them at 305-292-9002. Visit them at http://www.PardiseTattoo.com. The website is well made and a great place to browse.

I always like the music playing in the background. The air is cool, and the store is too. Yet the best part of this Eden of tattoos and piercings are the people. From owners to every artist at the store, they are exceptional characters. They are friendly and talkative. You genuinely feel that they consider you part of their business family. Happy people make other people smile. It’s catching.

I know a number of Paradise Tattoo artists, but I would like to mention one by name. She is Mysha, not only friendly but beautiful. She is an expert piercer and takes her time to explain every detail. She is there for any questions and aftercare as well. I was really impressed by Mysha and everyone in the classy store.

So take a stroll on Duval until you come to the Paradise Tattoo storefront, open and inviting. Browse the racks of exclusive products. Talk to the artists. Maybe even get tattooed and even pierced. Different strokes for different folks are extraordinary and desirable. Who wants to be plain ordinary anyway?

October 12, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: How to Cheat at the Marathon City Council election and get away with it legally. November 4, 2008 is the date for the Marathon City Council election for three open spots. There are eight candidates running. This is an at-large election whereby a plurality wins for the top three spots. Let’s see, a plurality means the “margin gained by election candidate: the number of votes that an election winner gets, or the number exceeding the nearest rival, when no one has more than 50 percent of the total votes cast”. Microsoft® Encarta® 2008. © 1993-2007 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. The city elections used to be the majority vote wins you a spot. That is 50% of the total vote plus 1.

I explained all that to inform you, the voter, how to cheat legally. You want your candidate to win? Then instead of voting for the top three candidates, you just vote once for your candidate. That essentially makes your one vote more powerful by a factor of three. If you have two really great candidates, then just vote for those two to make your two votes more powerful by 33%.

Another way to cheat legally is to have as many candidates running as you can. This ensures that the candidates with the most contributions, you know money, is most likely to win. Of course, it is possible that a fringe candidate could win because all the votes are split across multiple candidates. That is true if you have a field of good candidates like we do now. Just how many votes could each of the eight candidates get?

Then there are some who say if you don’t vote you don’t count. I thought that for a long time. Now, if a voter doesn’t vote on purpose, then that is a valid vote in my opinion. That is something like voting for none of the above. If you don’t vote for any other reason, you are letting others affect your life. Let me assure you that local governments have a great deal of impact on everyone in their jurisdiction.

You can vote early starting October 20th through November 1st at the county building on 63rd Street. Check with the county elections office for where you vote on November 4th. The City of Marathon’s city council section is at the bottom of a four-page ballot. I wonder how many people will get tired and bored before the bottom of page four? So much for city elections in November during a presidential election.

Former Marathon City Manager Mike Puto, Mr. Marathon to the rest of us, sent a reply to this article that is interesting to say the least. "I agree with you 100%. I have also stressed this same situation. The sad part is the people approved this type of format to save dollars on a run-off. Also, to change the date from March to November. This sounds good, however, we have elections every year, so every other year we are the only ones on the ballot, unless something else is added on. IE: This year is a Presidential year, next year is nothing. The year after is the Governors year, the year after that is noting and so on. I wonder what we actually accomplished. Like you said, some people might not look at both sides of the ballot. Also, the possibility of long lines could steer people away.

"People can go down to the elections office now and vote absentee just like early voting. All you do is go to the elections office on 63rd street and ask for an absentee ballot and they will give it to you. You then go into the hallway like early voting and fill out the ballot, put it into the envelope and you are done. Is this America or what!!

"What is going to be interesting is to see if the number of people voting will add up in all categories. How many people will actually vote for three? Or better yet, vote for four and have their vote not count in that category. I still think March would have been better." Mike Puto

October 14, 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/. If your name is misspelled, please let us know. We correct everything that we know about.

Before the regular meeting, the council met in a special call meeting to hear and decide non-profit grants for the next fiscal year. 

The council approved the agenda. The consent agenda is marked by an asterisk [*]. All such items are approved as routine items requiring no public input. 

Citizens' comments: Marie Schmitt reported flooding in her community and wants the city to fix it. Marathon City Council candidate Joan Nelson talked about no money, no sewage. Dolly Sadowski was worried about coconut palms causing hazards on US1.

Council Presentation / Discussion Items
City Manager Clyde Burnett introduced the local teachers for this school year. 

Councilwoman Tempest led the discussion on Florida Keys Water Assistance Foundation. This non-profit organization will help fund laterals for those least able to afford it. Their website is at http://www.goodwaterpeople.org. 

Council reappointed Charlie Miller and Bill Nicci to the Unsafe Structure Board. 

Mayor Worthington presented the Proclamation for National Massage Therapy week. 

Mayor Worthington led the nuisance abatement ordinance discussion. The Unsafe Structures Board could be empowered to address such problems. Councilman Cinque suggested that appeals would be heard by the council. Council directed City Attorney Jimmy Morales to bring back a proposed ordinance. 

Councilman Don Vasil reported on the visioning process to further enhance Boot Key Harbor.

Special Orders, Awards and Presentations
The Beautification Advisory Board updated the council on their progress so far. US1 improvements efforts are ongoing. Sombrero Beach Road improvements are forthcoming. Claude H. donated a bunch of plants to enhance the front of the airport. Vasil was the only one to vote no.  

Community Services Director Susie Thomas and WEC Ed Castle updated the council on the wastewater status. 

Staff reported the results of Resolution 2008-79 Fire Station/City Hall Feasibility Study. Fire Station #14 is built for a standard fire/EMS department. Staff recommends not putting any city hall functions in the fire station.

Burnett requested wastewater/stormwater administrative relief discussion and direction. 

Staff explained the reason for a recent emergency purchase. $9,800 was used to clean Coco Plum Beach for hurricanes. Boat lift repairs cost $2,600. 

Council heard Coco Plum Yacht Club’s sewer assessment appeal. This appeal was scheduled with the two previous. That meeting will be scheduled in a couple of weeks. 

City Attorney Jimmy Morales provided council his monthly legal report. 

Ordinances for First Public Hearing
Ordinance 2008-24 would amend the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Low (RL) to Mixed Use Commercial (MUC) for the property located at 101st Street. Planning Director George Garrett gave the staff report. Bill Shaw spoke against. July Sheon gave a biologist report for those against. Former Marathon Planning Director Gail Kenson represented Bill Shaw. She made a case for denial. Nancy Collier, Harmon Mezina, Renaya Cunningham, Phil Sanderson, and David Daniels asked for denial. Several more from the community spoke as well. Council voted and denied transmittal to the DCA. 

Ordinances for Second Public Hearing and Enactment
Ordinance 2008-03 amended the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Medium (RM) to Mixed Use Commercial (MUC) at 23rd Street Ocean. 

Ordinance 2008-05 amended the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Low (RL) and Residential Medium (RM) to Residential High (RH) for the Aloha Properties. 

Ordinance 2008-06 amended the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Low (RL) to Residential Medium (RM) for property at Avenue L Coco Plum. 

Ordinance 2008-07 amended the Future Land Use Element of the city’s Comprehensive Plan, Policy 1-3.2.1 “Allocated Density Defined”, as shown in Table 1-1 “Future Land Use Density and Intensities”. This adjusts the market rate and affordable rate ratios so that they equal. 

Ordinance 2008-08 amended the Future Land Use Element of the city’s Comprehensive Plan Policy 1-3.5.3 “Residential Building Permit Allocation System (RBPAS).” This adjusted the scoring system related to RBPAS and BPAS.  

Ordinance 2008-09 amended the Future Land Use Element of the city’s Comprehensive Plan Policy 1-3.5.7 “Commercial Building Permit Allocation System (CBPAS)”.  

Ordinance 2008-25 amended Chapter 32 of the City of Marathon Code to prohibit parking in fire lanes. 

Continued to next meeting, Ordinance 2008-27 amended Chapter 36, Waterways, providing for a definition of wet storage, prohibition on wet storage within the city managed mooring field and anchorage areas, and prohibition on liveaboard vessel rental or lease for the purpose of habitation within the city managed mooring field and anchorage areas. 

Quasi-Judicial Public Hearings
Resolution 2008-161 approved SH Marathon LTD request for a development agreement, authorizing the development of a Holiday Inn Express. The property is located at 13201 Overseas Highway, Ocean, nearest mile marker 54. 

Resolution 2008-162 approved SH Marathon LTD request by for a conditional use permit, authorizing Holiday Inn Express development at 13201 Overseas Highway, Ocean, nearest mile marker 54.         

Resolutions for Adoption
Resolution 2008-110 awarded a contract to Lanzo Construction Co., Florida for construction of Service Area 5 collection system for wastewater and $19,126,494. 

Resolution 2008-140 restricted parking on certain rights-of-way in the North Marathon Shores subdivision. 

*Resolution 2008-158 authorized an agreement with Monroe County to continue using the Marathon Government Center meeting room at cost. 

*Resolution 2008-159 approved State Financial Assistance Agreement Amendment No. 2 to DEP Agreement No. LP6802. The amendment concerns the $100,000 grand funding for wastewater construction. 

*Resolution 2008-160 approved purchasing Community Park security equipment for $18,500. 

Citizens' comments: None.

Council comments: Mayor Pete Worthington made some announcements. So did Vice Mayor Chris Bull. Councilman Don Vasil addressed local election items and encouraged everyone to vote. Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest made some announcements. Councilman Michael Cinque addressed local economic issues.

October 15, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon Permit Fees and Impact Fees, Who Wins, Who Loses. In the recent Marathon city council candidate debates, an idea was offered. New ideas are always welcome. The experienced and proficient councilmember though knows that you have to explore all sides of an issue. This ensures that embarrassment, gotchas, and those damned unintended consequences don’t bite you in the butt. This is an important nuance most newbie candidates don’t get. Why? Because you need experience in the job to realize every action has an equal and opposite reaction, sometimes quite unintended.

Mayor Pete Worthington said, "... I thought Ramsay was willing to waive impact fees. And Tempest thought they were too high and voted against them. We have two projects coming forward in the next month. He [Ramsay] wants to waive the impact and building fees? That could be $200,000 for these two projects that were moving forward without fees waived. Why? Who is suppose to pay for the $600,000 [planning and building] department? The residents that don't use it? ..."

So, let us figure out what is going on. One idea is to waive permit fees to help the local economy. Another idea is to suspend impact fees. Here is the problem with that. Where does the money come from to pay staff time now? Who pays that? Who pays for all the impacts any development produces, even if it just replaces what is there?

The idea is to make it easier for developers to build their tourist-attracting developments. Now, who loses, if developers are given a break on permit and impact fees? You, the resident taxpayer will pay and pay and pay. You are the loser. Someone has to pay for staff time and the impacts that development has on the city.

There is a balance here. Currently, the most important side of this question is Marathon residents. We are in a crisis that is growing daily. Valuable and irreplaceable workforce is leaving. Lack of workforce housing, increasing taxes, and insurance hikes are driving people out of paradise. Therefore, the emphasis at this time is to reduce the tax burden on locals and assess workforce housing at its current use not its best and highest use. Mr. Property Appraiser, are you listening? State statutes allow for this.

Keep the permit fees and impact fees on the developer. Otherwise, the taxpayer pays more. The taxpayer is an endangered species worth saving. Developers we will always have around nipping at our heels.

The above article has generated a lot of discussion. That was the intent. I always allow for responses from anyone, campaigns or not. Marathon City Council Candidate Dick Ramsay has been bold enough to come up with ideas, plans, and solutions before being elected. That is commendable and something quite new in Marathon elections. Ramsay sent a response to this article. I didn't reformat his response so you can see his emphases. I will share this with everyone, as it is quite enlightening.

"RE: Who Wins, Who Loses – Oct 15^th Marathon Florida Keys Journal Article. 

"A recent article asked “who wins, who loses” regarding an idea I put forth on expediting permits, permit and impact fees. 

"As a 35 year resident of Marathon, and a 40 year businessman, who not only ran a successful local business, but who also was Chairman of the Board of a major corporation; I state empathically that if we don’t recognize the (potential and probable) problems we will be facing, that they will indeed become serious problems.  

"If we don’t recognize and address these problems, if we don’t toss around ideas, if we don’t vet solutions, then WE ALL LOSE. 

"This was precisely my reason for discussing expediting permits, permit and impact fees:   To get the people of our City talking, to get the people of our City involved in the process, to get the people of our City and our Council to recognize that we have serious financial problems looming on the horizon.  We cannot take a “wait and see” attitude. We absolutely cannot, as one candidate suggested, “wait out” the Country’s economic crisis.  We must recognize and acknowledge that, while the City of Marathon is not in the dire financial situation that the County is in, we are not on solid ground. 

"In order to secure Marathon’s financial future for our residents, our children, and our grandchildren, we must act now, and not react later. 

"At the Marathon City Council forum night I was, as we all were, given a minute to introduce myself.  Instead of taking that minute to pat myself on the back, I chose to take that minute to once again discuss the uncertain economic situation, and throw out an idea that would get people talking. 

"I have presented several real ideas and real solutions that will result in enormous savings to our City.

"My proposals have included:

·         “Lateral Summit”.

·         “Cash for Cop-Cars  and

·         “Little Venice Airport Rate” programs.  

"My “Lateral Summit” proposal alone is expected to result in a $7 - $12 million dollar savings for the City of Marathon.   

"These proposals that I have put forth are not vague ideas, but are serious, well thought out and detailed savings plans. Part of the plan for this enormous savings package in my “lateral summit proposal” involves the City negotiating as a purchasing agent for the materials needed for these hook-ups thus harnessing the power of bulk purchasing; the savings in materials alone is estimated to be 40% -50%. 

"I am the only candidate who has taken time from campaigning to not only acknowledge the financial concerns, but to address them with real solutions; with detailed plans, not rhetoric.  I am the only candidate who has presented real ideas for real savings.  

"I have several other serious, detailed proposals that I will be bringing forth: proposals that are a part of my “Economic Stimulus Plan for the City of Marathon”.    

"But, if discussing expediting permits, impact and permit fees stimulated conversation I am happy to hear this, as that was my goal.

"We Must, absolutely Must, recognize and address the fact that Marathon is facing uncertain economic times; unaddressed this can quickly turn into a serious financial situation for our City. We Must discuss and vet ideas for securing our City, and our residents, economic stability. 

"I don’t believe in waiting until we are in a crisis, I believe in crisis prevention. 

"Therefore, I am glad to hear that the people at large, and the council candidates, are now talking.  I am proud if I had a part in stimulating conversation.   

"There are a lot of highly intelligent people in our community. There are people in our community with ideas that can help alleviate some of the economic stresses we are, or will be, under. We need to bring our community, and our ideas, out in the public light for vetting.  

"These conversations are a major step towards securing a stronger, healthier City of Marathon.

"We need our community talking, and we need representatives that will listen -This is the Only way we will ALL WIN.

"This is why my campaign statement has been, from day one, “You Talk- I’ll Listen”.   

~DICK

Dick Ramsay
Candidate for Marathon City Council
PO BOX 802
Marathon, FL 33050
raraircraft@bellsouth.net
www.Ramsay2008.com"

October 17, 2008 - Florida Keys - L. E. Shaffer: Amendment 6 Saving Waterfront by Current Use Assessment. I had help putting this article together. Thank you Mayor Pete Worthington and NSWC Chairwoman Jeri Sears for your information. Several articles were used as well from the Miami Herald and the Boating Industry.

This specific amendment fixes a problem for losing waterfront all over the state. You know, it seems like it is always about the money. Waterfront property supporting commercial fishing is more valuable as anything except commercial fishing property. Property appraisers all over the state determine taxable value of each property to its best and highest use. Remember the run up of property values that were probably a factor in the real estate bubble bursting.

So this amendment clearly spells out that waterfront property used for commercial fishing will be assessed to its current use, clearly less value that its best and highest use. Property appraisers are allowed is certain instances to determine taxable value on property to its current use. This is also part of the problem with workforce housing. Land Trusts and Habitat for Humanities work hard to put ownership and rental units on the ground to save the endangered species known as the workforce. Once a workforce family gets into a unit, they come up against the high property taxes that in turn increase insurance rates. If taxable value was determined at property's current use, workforce families have lower taxes and insurance.

Therefore, Amendment 6 is a start. Many of us urge voters to vote yes on Amendment 6. Here is the full text of Marathon's NSWC recommendation to Marathon City Council: "The City of Marathon's Near-Shore Waters Committee has begun looking at the issues relating to the Working Waterfront properties in the City of Marathon. One item has come up that should help the Working Waterfronts. A constitutional amendment is on the Nov.4th ballot that will directly affect the Working Waterfronts.

On October 2nd the City of Marathon's Near-Shore Waters Committee supports the "Constitutional Amendment Article VII, Section 4 Article XII, New Section" Assessment of Working Waterfront Property Based Upon Current Use.

"The NSWC would like to recommend that the Marathon City Council support this amendment.

Sincerely,
Mary Belden Rich Jones Bennett Orr Jane Packard

Jeri Sears
Chairperson"

Marathon City Council is currently working on a resolution supporting Amendment 6.

The urgency of this problem goes far beyond just Florida. Maine's lobster market is severely affected by lobsters sell for $3 a pound. Here in the Florida Keys the same thing is going on for stone crab and a variety of fish. Remember every bit of positive action pushes towards a solution. Again, vote for Amendment 6 to do your small part to a very large problem.

Internet Stuff
Here are the latest DVD films from http://www.NetFlix.com:

1. “R. L. Stine’s Mostly Ghostly” is nothing but a preteen movie. Understanding that makes all the difference. The film is fun, corny, and most importantly entertaining. Even an adult will enjoy the movie due to its unforced B film genre. The acting is not that good, but first-time actors make up for that by having fun regardless. The effects are cheesy on purpose. Try it out with your kids and let them be the judge. Either way it will be fun.

2. "The Bank Job" is a thrill ride. What is supposed to be an opportunistic robbery is so much more. The underground, the mob, and even the government are intricately involved, all for different reasons. A few smart ones figure out how to navigate through a number of deathly adventures. Are you really supposed to pull for the robbers? I did.

3. “Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead” is a movie about a robbery gone horribly wrong. Each participant’s viewpoint is explored. This can lead to confusion. It is a good story with some twists and turns. The storytelling got too fancy though. So so movie at best.

4. “Keeping Mum” is the quintessential English comedy with fine actors, outstanding dialogue, and all set in a little village. An old woman with a mysterious past comes to be the housekeeper for a family of Vicar, wife, teen daughter, and preteen son. They all have their problems. The housekeeper takes care of all their problems before revealing her past and the connection with this family. This is a dark and delightful movie worth watching repeatedly.

5. “Ben 10: Race Against Time” is a great kids movie with very little for the adults. A film from the Cartoon Network got the story right for its preteen target audience. The movie is not a cinematic, Oscar-winning tour de force. Entertain the kids, that is all there is and well done at that. A boy is the superhero against a bad-guy villain. The rest goes as expected.

6. “Sicko” is an eye-opening documentary on something we all know. The United States of America’s health care system sucks. Every industrial nation except ours takes care of everyone, no questions asked. The film borders a bit on propaganda, but the truth is undeniable. Common sense tells you that our health care system brings down the economy and more importantly kills people. Michael Moore reviled or adored does make a good documentary.

7. “Baby Mama” is a movie that I enjoyed quite a bit. It is one of those natural comedies with effortless acting and a strong story. A single woman yearns for a baby of her home. So far, nothing from adoption to in vitro fertilization has worked. She tries a surrogate service. Tina Fey portrays that girl. At first, it was for the money. The Fey character is not even pregnant, or at least that is what she thinks. She is pregnant with her boyfriend’s baby. She hides that from her “client”. As the movie moves along, the two women become friends. They each are attracted to two men, one the boyfriend for the surrogate and a brand new relationship for the single woman. As you would surmise, everything ends just right. Throughout the film is a lot of funny.

8. “Step Up 2the Streets” is a teen dance movie. I wondered how in the heck I put this in my queue. Being a trooper, I watched this film. I resisted in the beginning. Then the acting, the story, music, and dance blended into sitting on the edge of your seat movie. This is one of those good films. This feature is the kind that comes along only by accident and rarely. This is not perfection, but it grabs your eyes, ears, and soul. You cannot wait until the crashing, bang-up conclusion. You have seen the formula more than often, and you know what is coming. It still surprises and satisfies nonetheless.

9. “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull” is your typical Jones experience, lots of action, some romance, a few surprises, and yet again a bang-up story. This may be the best one yet. That is hard to do, but not for Spielberg and Lucas. Those two make quite the creative pair. This movie just possibly links the past to the future with Shia LeBeouf. I certainly hope another great movie comes along to keep this long-running series going. Their outlook on the world is always amazing and entertaining.

10. "Mongol" is just the kind of film that I like. Man conquers his demons and then the world. This is history in action, accurate or not. I love these movies. This one has subtitles, but hearing the original language is a plus. The movie has great actions scenes, but not enough of them. There are slow spots. Nonetheless, this is a good movie worth watching.

11. “Charlie Bartlett” is not your typical teenager in high school. Frankly, he has been kicked out of some swanky schools. He finally has to attend public school. Charlie wants to fit in. He finds a way by helping other students from his office in the boy’s bathroom. Along the way through this journey, he attains a little understanding about life. The film is warm, funny, and a joy.

12. “Saw IV” is more intense than the first three. That is hard to believe, but true nonetheless. There was an actual plot with some good acting. That by itself sets this movie apart from the rest. There is a mystery within a mystery. For those who like those sorts of things, this is that movie. For those who just want to be creeped out, this is their movie too. On top of all that, there is a Saw V coming. Will wonders ever cease?

13. “Into the Wild” is the depiction of a college graduate’s journey to Alaska. Alaska is supposed to be his pursuit to get away from everything. In the process of this long, circuitous journey, he meets a number of people who shape the future of his journey. Back home his parents and friends struggle to understand and become distressed as the years come and go. Finally, living in an abandoned bus in the middle of the Alaskan wild, he comes to grips with his life. The music is a perfect match. The acting is superb. The film is about a half hour too long, but that doesn’t detract from the overall effect. The ending, is it sad or joyful?

14. “Tales from the Neverending Story: The Gift” is another well-done story from the classic tale. This film is definitely for the kids. The adults might find it interesting if there is still some of that inner child within. Regardless, the movie was very good. It didn’t measure up to the original, but the film was close.

Interesting websites we visited recently:

Poetry Corner
"Never an End"
October 23, 2008

There was never
No end in sight
Hell, there wasn't
Even a beginning

Possum dead on
The road that
Never-ending road
Dusty dotted with

Tears a joy
To behold
A long lonely
Way never an

End and not
Quite a beginning
That cold icy
Stare eyes out

From the black
That goes on
And on without
Fear without soul

Only a spirit
Star dotted
Blue black sky
Goes on forever

Except there was
Never that long
The waiting but
A speck in my eye

© 2008 L. E. Shaffer

Hockey Puck
NHL: The Florida Panthers had a so-so preseason. They started the regular season a bit rough, but now are playing well enough to contend for first place in their division.

PGA: Tiger Woods had season-ending surgery. We will have to wait till next year for some more Tiger magic.

NASCAR Sprint Cup: At Kansas Jeff placed 4^th and points 6^th. Dale Jr. 13^th and 8^th. Talladega saw Jeff finish 38^th – 8^th points; Dale Jr. 28^th – 10^th. In the Charlotte NASCAR Sprint Cup race, Dale Jr. finished 36^th and remained 10^th in points. Jeff Gordon finished 8^th and 8^th in points. The top 6 in the Chase are widening their lead over the bottom 6. At Martinsville, Dale Jr. finished 4^th and 9^th in points, while Jeff Gordon finished 2^nd and 7^th in points. Four races remain to determine the championship.

Internet URLs: www.MarathonJournal.US
 http://www.keysweekly.com/
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: October 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

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