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Florida Keys Journal proudly presents our 13th year of quality publishing services. We continue to focus on the Florida Keys. The lead article is the In The Keys section that offers opinions and even some editorializing. There are also articles concerning the local political beat. These articles may be published in other media outlets. They might edit them to suit their needs. We appreciate your visit and patronage. Please enjoy yourself while you are here and come back soon! Please do us a favor and sign up for our monthly reminder of the next upcoming issue of Marathon Florida Keys Journal. Please click on this link marathon_journal-subscribe@topica.com. When you get a return email to confirm your choice, sign up at Topica, but bypass all those solicitations. Thanks! In The Keys {for current news, see our Daily News Queue} [Trek to VA] [Mayor Helps Willi] [Intercontinental Ripoff] [Council 30th] ~Some articles have photos, go to http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.~ The trek to the Miami VA Hospital for a colonoscopy was an adventure and a trial, both at the same time. My driver and I left at noon on Sunday January 28. We had a pleasant drive through the Keys. We took Card Sound Road for the view and save time. We exited out into Florida City and Homestead. Before too long, we were on the turnpike. Using the GPS feature of my laptop streets and maps application, we got close to the Intercontinental Hotel along the Intercoastal Waterway. Finally, after avoiding all the barriers and construction, we got to the entryway to the hotel. Valet service parked my car. We checked in. Our baggage was brought up to our room on the eighth floor. The view was magnificent. We got to see all the cruise ships get underway, make their lumbersome turn in the turning basin, and finally head out to the ocean to parts exotic and fun. I took some photos, which are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. We wanted to tour the hotel, but I had to drink a gallon of this really bad stuff. I was bound to the throne of justice. I got up at 6:00 AM to complete ungodly preparations. My brother drove expertly through the downtown traffic to the VA Hospital. While my brother cooled his heels in the waiting room on the seventh floor, I was being probed by aliens. Well, actually the aliens were very nice, talented, and dedicated staff and doctors. I passed with flying colors. My brother and I left quickly to get down to Card Sound Road. We stopped at Alabama Jack's, took some more fun pictures on display at the link above, and then paid our toll. We arrived home in Marathon, a site very welcome indeed. There is no place like home. Monroe County Mayor Mario Di Gennaro appears to be going to bat for County Administrator Tom Willi this January 29. The two are facing an uphill battle, of course. The strategy at play may just be one more indicator of how business will be conducted during the Mayor's term. In an email from a reliable source, Mayor Di Gennaro "Apparently ... sent an e-mail to the division heads asking for a letter of support from each of them for the administrator." I hope to get a response from the Mayor. The above statement, if true, is very troublesome. The Mayor should not be interfacing with county staff in this way. This is really a matter between the administrator and the commission. Has the Mayor overstepped his bounds? Mayor Di Gennaro called Florida Keys Journal this morning [January 30]. He told us that he was trying to get to the truth on issues brought up by Commissioner Murphy and others. He asked staff for any negative and/or positive comments about County Administrator Tom Willi. The Mayor wanted that information to take to a workshop to address several issues. Among those issues are the Pigeon Key situation, unsatisfied county staff, the Key West Airport construction problems, and county budget issues. I will need to see all the documents in question, but at first blush both sides are earnest and want to get at the truth to do what is right for the entire county and its residents. The rest may just be politics, but that is the nature of the beast. More to come, I imagine. January 29 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Miami's Intercontinental Hotel at 100 Chopin Plaza like many such organizations take debit cards gladly, but the hold charge and the bill charge can overwhelm accounts quickly. If I was traveling and staying daily at various hotels, such double billing could wipe out substantial cash reserves. The long story starts with making reservations at the Priority Rewards Club website at http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/pc/1/en/home. You will recognize this chain by its Holiday Inn branding. The Intercontinental Hotel brand is supposed to be its top of the line. On January 28, we check in to this magnificent hotel. Everything is fantastic. As always, I use by TIB debit card. I have never had trouble with the many stays at all the various hotels in this brand series. I paid my bill, never was double billed, all over the country. I expected nothing to go awry, but I was wrong. We checked out January 29, and all seemed well. The night before, when I checked my account on the TIB website, I was billed the correct amount only once. There was no hold amount, as was explained days later. When I got home, the trouble began. I was double billed the same amount on January 28 and 29. I called the hotel. They said to call the bank. Even I knew that was wrong, but I did anyway so that I could get the expected answer. Assistant TIB Branch Manager DiVello explained that she couldn't do anything until the hotel released the amount supposedly on hold. She also explained that many people get sucked into such things. The safe bet is to use a credit card and not a debit card. I would rather use my debit card and have the hotel properly bill as they are supposed to do. I called the hotel back and asked for a fax to the bank to release the "hold" amount. The hotel representative said he would do that right away. It is now January 30, and no fax. I called again, and explained that I was doing a story on this wayward transaction. I emailed the hotel and corporate the outlines of the story. The hotel representative said that she would fax the release right away. January 31, and finally the fax is sent. The funny part of this story is that the fax got sent, after I said that I was writing a story on this mess. While I could afford this incursion into my cash reserves, there are a lot of people living pay check to pay check. They can't afford such nonsense as this. Upon further investigation, many hotels, motels, and such like have stopped using hold amounts to ensure that only one charge shows up. Apparently the legal ramifications and the uproar in complaints have swayed corporate America. Many states are looking into banning the practice outright. Where do I sign up to make that happen? January 30 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council met in a special call meeting at the Sheriff's Aviation Hangar 2nd-floor training room. The subject was a further refining of wastewater assessments for construction costs. Photos at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. The most interesting part of this meeting was the protesters holding signs at the entrance to the meeting location. Avenue I Coalition still want to keep the old wastewater treatment plant in operation to service their various needs. The fact that the plant has not been connected for seven months doesn't seem to matter. They refute the city's need to decommission the plant to build the new treatment plant quicker, more efficiently, and for less money. While the Deputy City Manager has explained gently numerous times, this group is taking activism to another level. Supposedly, if you keep asking the same questions, eventually the answers will change to their favor. At the meeting, finally, a large crowd gathered and many spoke. Overall, they wanted a fair and equitable way to share the construction costs of the new wastewater treatment system. The staff and council wanted the same thing. The precise percentages and methods were the focal point. There is a trade-off on residential units, commercial units, small users, large users, and even lots not buildable or vacant. Everyone will have to pay, one way or the other. There is a split method to assess costs: connections and flow. Community Services Director Susie Thomas started the meeting off. Cindy Lawson and Peter Rosasco provided financial expertise, while legal was covered by Jimmy Morales. Engineering was WEC Ed Castle and Mike Hatfield. Public Resources Management Group Tony Hairston presented a revised methodology that essential placed the burden more on larger users. The percentage changes were not really significant. Public discussion was very good and informed. Fred Endemann represented the Avenue I Coalition view. Sandra Walters, George Neugent, Donna Sadowski, John Whalton, Renee Cunningham, and others spoke. The council and staff interacted to bring about a good, healthy discussion. The current figure being bandied about was $82,250,000. That figure will grow the longer we drag our feet, but council discussion seemed to indicate that the process is on fast forward. As fast as a dead snake, but fast nonetheless. Each council member was informed and had a good grasp of the ramifications. Further refining of the figures and methodologies to assess a fair share of the construction costs will be ongoing. Mayor Chris Bull thanked everyone involved and especially the public for the turnout and excellent comments. January 31 - Boot Key Harbor - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Marina letter sent to boaters and captains, reprinted with permission. January 29, 2007 Dear Boaters and Captains, The City of Marathon is embarking on the third phase of installation of the Harbor mooring fields. This will affect the area east of markers Green 1A, 3B and 5B (City Marina Channel) only. The contractor will start the installation of 56 mooring balls February 19, 2007 and should be completed within three weeks. The remaining 108 mooring ball installation on the west side of the harbor will commence in April 2007. This does not affect vessels on the mooring ball rows A, B, C, & D. Your vessel has been identified as being within this proposed mooring field and as such, will need to be relocated west of the above mentioned markers. Please plan on moving your vessel no later than February 18, 2007, including all of your anchors, ground tackle, private moorings, engine blocks, etc. The marina staff has identified anchoring locations outside of the installation area where you may relocate your vessel. Please contact us and we will be happy to assist you in any way possible. Once the moorings are installed and functional, they will be available for your use on a first come first serve basis. I would like to extend our sincere apologies for any inconvenience this may cause you and extend our appreciation for your cooperation with this project. Should you have any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact me at 289-7788 or CJ Geotis, Deputy City Manager/Ports Manager at 289-4125. Sincerely, Richard Tanner cc: City Manager Mike Puto February 1 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Hall/Monroe County Library Architectural/Engineering RFQ, owner notified short-listed firms. Firms picked up packets from Community Services Director Susie Thomas. Jane and her husband from the 30th Street area sat down with Susie and this reporter at the annex conference room. Thomas explained that the RFQ booklets were already picked up by the interested parties, but that she would be glad to talk to us. I listened mostly as Jane and her husband went through a long list of issues with the city. Specifically, on the city hall/county library building, the government center would work, but that offer has been dangled in front of the city twice before. The cost to upgrade the building notwithstanding the purchase cost of the land lease and the building itself will be substantial. The best bet will most likely end up being the 98th/99th Streets lot. Susie Thomas represented herself and the city with manners, kindness, firmness, and most definitely patience. There is on argument to continue the successful city incorporation. Where would we be without the quality staff that we have, especially Susie? February 1 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon Near Shores Water Advisory Committee met at the Marathon Public Library. Photos at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. The only difficulty during this meeting happened at the beginning, when we couldn't find the flag for the pledge. Finally, old glory was located and the festivities began in earnest. January's minutes were approved. The new mooring field installation will start February 19. A letter was sent to boaters and captains explaining how the process would proceed. Hopefully, the job will be done in three weeks in the section chosen to start. 10 mooring buoys can be installed every day. After the installation is complete, debris cleanup will commence. Boats will then move back from the western side of the harbor to the new mooring fields. The new marina bath facility is in the engineering design phase. Questions as to where the electrical will go and floor plans need to be answered. After the plans are complete, pricing will be determined. Construction could begin in March or thereabouts. FDEP Inspector Ed Russell was down to do the five-year Clean Marina inspection. There were no negatives. The marina will most likely need a stormwater management elimination system certificate. Boat ramp status was a bit thin. The marina ramp is not moving forward. The location and its mitigation are the stumbling blocks. The 33rd Street Boat Ramp plans are progressing and on track. Staff will check the availability of Curry Hammock's ramp and report back next meeting. Marlin Bay Yacht Club had to mitigate the loss of public access by paying the city $180,000 as mandated by the state. Sandler at Greater Marathon Bay must be happy that they can now claim to be helping the city with its construction project built on the backs of residents. The committee would like a presentation on Florida Trails and its associated programs for the next meeting. Staff agreed to put the committee's minutes into a synopsis for the council to suffice as the committee's periodic report. Acting Ports Manager C. J. Geotis and Harbormaster Richard Tanner reported on installing another 40-foot section or dinghy dockage. The county might be able to help pay for this. The committee heard the continuing saga of the Avenue I Coalition complaints on the soon-to-be decommissioned sewage treatment plant. Geotis went through all the exhaustive steps taken to educate all those concerned of the necessity of the city's action. This is the story that won't quit. There was a discussion on harbor markers, lights, and buoys including placement and positioning. The next meeting and all subsequent meetings will begin at 6 PM vice 6:30 PM in the Marathon Public Library meeting room. The next meeting is scheduled for March 1. February 3 - Central Florida - L. E. Shaffer: Tornadoes ripped through central Florida. We have become numb with this kind of event. The only way that we can focus is if it is our home, our family, or our friends. Good friends, Bill and Missy, came down to the Keys to escape the cold up in The Villages. The tornadoes missed them by just a neighborhood away. Their acquaintances call constantly all day. Luckily, they were safe, and their house intact. Still, it was a shock to see their community torn apart. The rebuilding will certainly begin soon, yet the damage goes deeper than houses and vehicles. My first reaction was to call my Uncle Roy, Aunt Lee, and Cousin Becky. I heard the sweet voice of my aunt answering the phone. She was in shock, but disaster had passed them once again. She sounded tired and weary. Even a near miss is a wound to the heart. Their friends escaped, but what about next time? Governor Crist said the right things and did the right things. FEMA, bludgeoned from lessons in blood, reacted quickly and efficiently. Yet lives have been lost, homes destroyed, and those glad to be alive look to the skies. What next? February 4 - Miami - L. E. Shaffer: NFL Super Bowl displayed the talents of the Chicago Bears and the Indy Colts. In the middle of glitz and rain, the first play was a dazzler. Chicago looked to be on a roll, but slowly the Colts came back. Too much Colt offense and too little Bears scoring. The game was interesting with all the turnovers. At least it wasn't a blowout. Prince at half time wasn't half bad or maybe that is half good. Whatever. The second half was not as dazzling, but good football nonetheless. Among friends, chips, and some good chicken, the game spread across the television screen. Friends voices, stories, laughter, and the ever present camaraderie made this dreary, rainy day one to remember and savor. I wonder how long it will take to scratch our heads and try to remember the score or even the name of the teams? February 6 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council held a special call meeting on affordable housing. The meeting location was the Sheriff's Aviation Hanger 2nd-floor training room. The Housing Task Force and Planning Commission members were present along with staff and the public. Photos at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Planning Director Fred Gross presented the affordable housing impact fee schedule. The fees were based on the Clarion Associates Dr. James Nicholas Workforce Housing Support Study. Financial Director Peter Rosasco reported that staff had cut the proposed fees in half from what the study indicated. Council members generally agreed that the fees, even if cut in half, would have a severe economic impact and end up stopping the development and redevelopment of market rate and affordable housing. Frank Greenman, Josh Mothner, Bill Daniels Jr., Morgan Hill, Mike Cinque, John Herin, Sandra Walters, and Rick Casey all weighed in on the issue. The impact fees are desperately needed but must be balanced with their own impact on the economy. Council directed staff to consider the timeframe required to set the correct impact fee schedule based on those developments/redevelopments in the pipeline due to pay impact fees. Staff will also plug the figure into some real-world examples to help set the impact fee structure. Middle Keys Community Land Trust Executive Director Rick Casey reported that the CWHIP application was denied due to a form not being signed by FDEP. He stated that Islamorada's unique position dictated the FDEP was the permitting authority for a sewage treatment plant, but FDEP said they couldn't sign the form. A letter of coordination was provided instead. The Land Trust is expected to appeal the Catch 22 situation. The Land Trust spent a significant amount of time and money applying for the grant. Still, plans for developing the projects affected are being considered regardless of the disposition of the CWHIP grant. Marathon's Housing Task Force formally presented nine concepts to alleviate the workforce housing crisis. The recommended that the City of Marathon:
February 7 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council held a beneficial use hearing on Shands Key. Photos at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Marathon City Council Attorney John Herin started the hearing. He explained that the Shands family purchased the island off of Stirrup Key in the 1950s. The family wanted to either build on the island or be compensated to the tune of $3,000,000. Tom Wright, the Special Master, ruled in the initial beneficial use hearing that the Shands should be awarded either of the above in contradiction to a previous ruling on a very similar case. For the Marathon Planning Department, attorney Jimmy Morales, presented their case. He maintained that never once in over 50 years was a move made to develop the island or apply for a permit to do the same. Since the island was heavily impacted by environmental concerns, the property is on the Florida Forever list of acquisitions. The Shands family does have value in the property, and it can be used for recreational purposes. Adam Schachter provided further details on planning case law to bolster the Marathon Planning Department's case. Marathon Planning Department Biologist Patty Childress made a presentation. The island is 7.91 acres with 6 acres of upland area. The property has high quality hammock. Valerie Fernandez was the attorney for the applicants. She maintained that the assessed value of $791 indicated the island has no value under today's rules. She stated that her clients will not impact the habitat. Fernandez said that not granting the application would open the city to a takings case. Tom Shands made a short statement explaining that all the family wanted was to enjoy their island. Each council person asked questions and contributed to the discussion. The lawyers traded assertions. John Whalton from Grassy Key was the only public speaker. He wanted the city to preserve this invaluable habitat. Councilman Worthington moved to deny the application. Councilman Pinkus seconded the motion. Councilwomen Tempest and Mearns voted no, but the motion passed and the application was denied. The applicants indicated after adjournment that they would appeal the decision. February 8 - Key West - L. E. Shaffer: Monroe County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting to determine County Administrator Tom Willi's employment status. Mayor Mario Di Gennaro harassed Commissioners Murphy and Neugent asking for specific proof of their assertions against Tom Willi. When clapping came from the assembled public, he chastised them. Commissioner McCoy went on and on about his beloved Key West Airport. County staff, other officials, and other notables spoke for Tom Willi. Three organizations and some others spoke against Willi. Tom Willi himself seemed a bit smug knowing his 3 vote cushion. Overall, the whole spectacle was embarrassing, uncomfortable, and calls for action. Mayor Mario Di Gennaro doesn't have the disposition or experience to be county mayor. He should step down and gain some seasoning and practice his customer service skills. County Administrator Tom Willi has a record that can't be excused. He needs to be fired. I don't really cover county shenanigans, but this worsening situation has brought information from sources daily. And none of the source information is good. February 8 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Monroe County news organizations cooperate most times, but some have funny advertising policies. I have endeavored to share information, photos, and stories with all news media outlets, as I do not consider my little online company in competition with anyone. I have started advertising in various media outlets. The Marathon Weekly recently ran a couple of eighth-page ads in color, which resulted in an 11% increase of unique visitors to our website. That is not bad for a couple of ads. Conch Color and The Barometer have said they would be glad to advertise as well. February 8 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon Parks & Recreation Committee held its regular meeting at the Marathon Public Library. Since I could not attend this meeting, I asked Marathon's Parks and Recreation Supervisor Jimmy Schmidt to provide me an update when he could. He has graciously said that he would do that. He certainly is very busy with the Pigeon Key Arts Festival in full bloom this weekend of February 10 and 11. Schmidt sent me the information. The batting cage was completed. The Tennis Wall was installed on the 12th. The Skate Park posted new policies. A security system will be installed soon at the Skate Park as well. New picnic benches were installed at Sombrero Beach. That was the gist of the happenings. Thanks, Jimmy! February 12 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Middle Keys Community Land Trust board of directors met at Marathon City Council conference room. President Debbie Love called the meeting to order. She introduced a new board member, Dr. Feagin. He has a doctorate in planning. An executive session was scheduled at the end of the meeting. Josh Mothner gave the financial report and presented the 2007 budget. Larry Shaffer provided an IT update. Woods Corner will hopefully close at the end of February and construction begin soon thereafter. The Marathon five scattered sites are at the point of approving a construction contractor. The meeting adjourned about 8:30 PM. February 13 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council met at the Marathon Government Center EOC room. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. The monthly attorney report was contained in the agenda packet. Dr. Mark Szurek presented the Rural Health Network. He identified several problems with facilities and grant funding. Citizens' comments: Fred Endemann Avenue I Coco Plum spoke again about decommissioning the old wastewater plant. Staff maintained that this plant has to be decommissioned to make way for the new one. The old plant had not been hooked up to anything for over seven months. Morgan Hill spoke about the downstairs enclosure inspections. She believes that the city is too aggressive in enforcing the rules of other agencies. She also says that the rules are ambiguous. Hill maintained that the burden of proof should be on those agencies. Mariann Benvenuti opposed the location of sewer infrastructure near Crane Point Hammock. She doesn’t want any plants removed, especially the exotic natives. George Neugent also spoke in support of protecting existing plant life. Council made several appointments. They appointed David Thomas for the Firefighter Pension Board, since he was the only applicant. The council appointed the only Planning Commission applicants, incumbents Steve Williams and Morgan Hill. Consent item, council granted fee waiver and approval for alcohol sales for the following:
Consent item, council approved the minutes for 1.23.07. Council approved an amendment to a major conditional use for the redevelopment of Grassy Key Marina located at 59073 Overseas Highway Gulf. The owner is Argos Properties LLC. Agent is the Craig Company. Jack Brier adjacent property owner on the west said that he lived there about 24 years. He spoke about the Tiki Bar being double than what it was originally. Frank Greenman represents many of the surrounding residents. He spoke about the supposedly illegal Tiki Bar and the increased commercial size of the project. Eric Peterson echoed Greenman’s comments. The council conditioned approval on investigating the code complaint and report back on disposition. Other conditions on permits and affordable allocations were stated as well. Ordinance 2007-03 amended and restated Chapter 9.5 (The Land Development Regulations) of Marathon City Code. This ordinance deleted Chapter 19 (Miscellaneous Land Development Regulations) of Marathon City Code. The ordinance also provided for the repeal of all code provision and ordinance inconsistent with this ordinance. The council approved the new LDRs with modifications suggested by the DCA and other obvious corrections. The Coco Plum density rules will not allow for affordable housing. City Planning Director Fred Gross reviewed the proposed LDRs and accumulated changes. Keith and Schnars Contractor Debbie Love reviewed other changes and DCA requests. Reese Williamson spoke to marina requirements. Lynda Berrigan represents a number of homeowner associations. She thanked the council and staff. She restated their position on maintaining the community as it exists. Amedeo D’Ascanio stated that density is wrong, should be 10 not 4 units. Barbara Mitchell spoke on the zoning and intensity charts. Paul Joseph thanked council and staff. He wanted clarification on the RM-2 district and the four units per acre. Kenneth Cane complained about affordable housing zero lot lines being conditional. Consent item, Resolution 2007-18 authorized the city manager to enter into real property contract with Orion Bank for wastewater treatment plant area #4 site for $900,000. Consent item, Resolution 2007-21 authorized the city manager to execute a FDOT maintenance agreement regarding the perpetual maintenance of Sombrero Beach Road. The meeting adjourned soon after 11:00 PM due to contractual agreement with Monroe County not to go past 11:00 PM. Marathon 500 is a unique celebration of the Florida Keys and specifically Key Vaca. February 14th Bill, Missy, Lady the dog, and I went on a very nice boat on a trip from Vaca Cut around the island through Sisters Creek to Dockside and under the Boot Key Bridge through the new and the old Seven-Mile Bridges and back to our original destination. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. We started out from the canal out to the channel going out to the gulf by Shand's Key. Making a right around Stirrup Key, we avoided the shallows and caught the markers to Vaca Cut. The green and red markers are reversed leading to more confusion than normal. You know, red right returning? We fought the current and moved around the channel curving to the contours of Key Colony Beach shoreline. We headed west on the ocean side. We passed East Sister's Creek Island with the big home on it. Then we enter Sister's Creek and viewed Boot Key on the left and Sombrero Beach on the right. In the canal, we looked at all the very nice homes. Lady the dog barked at every boat that came near. She was our pirate lookout. We came out of Sister's Creek into a channel to Dockside for lunch and refreshments. We then left through the channel into Book Key Harbor, under the bridge, and docked at Burdines to fill up with gas. We needed a loan for that, of course. Paradise is expensive but pretty. We left the channel and turned right and raced through the new and old Seven-Mile Bridges and turned right again. We went by Rachel Key and to Shand's Key. We completed the Marathon 500 pleased with life, nature, and ourselves. February 14 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon Code Board met at the Sheriff's Aviation Hangar 2nd-floor training room. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Inspector Michael Storm presented his first case. Case No. C2006-0505 Rene and Jesse Gallo owners of 10726 3rd Avenue Gulf were cited for a structure placed on the property without a permit. The board found them in violation and gave them 60 days to comply. Case No. C2006-0376 Mark Hurnevich owner of 10801 6th Avenue Gulf was cited for not applying for a permit to make the connection to the on-site sewage treatment and disposal system. The board found him in violation and gave him 60 days to comply. Inspector Cynthia McPherson presented her first case. Case No. C2006-0069 Brian and Pamela Bauer Owners of 53 Avenue C, Coco Plum Beach, were cited for placement of several large boulders on the beach for a distance of approximately two hundred feet with three palms planted at the end of the area, and a tiki hut has been erected near the rock jetty without a permit. The granted a requested continuance for 60 days. The rest of the cases were hearings on affidavits of non-compliance. Inspector McPherson presented Case No. C2006-0165 Keys RV/Mobile Home Condominium Association Inc owner of 6099 Overseas Highway was cited for plumbing performed on four lots: 32W, 34W, 36W, and 38W without a permit. The respondent came into compliance too late and owed $5,500 in fines to date. The board did not assess a fine due to extenuating circumstances. Case No. C2006-0209 Keys RV/Mobile Home Condominium Association Inc owner of 6099 Overseas Highway was cited for repair and replacement of a dock without a permit. The respondent owed $2,900 in fines to date. The board did not assess a fine due to extenuating circumstances, but did order payment of the administrative fee. That fee pays for staff, lawyer, and material costs. Case No. C2006-0178 Mercedes and Simeon Prieto owners of 922 66th Street Ocean was cited for caged chickens on the rear of the property within city limits. The cages are still there. The fines to date are $5,500 to date. The board ordered the respondent to remove the cages within 30 days and pay the administrative fee. No fines were assessed due to extenuating circumstances, but fines will be assessed if the respondent does not remove the cages within 30 days. Case C2006-0162 Ricky and Barbara Allen owners of 2383 Dolphin Drive was cited for interior and exterior construction in progress without a permit. Fines accrued are $6,100 to day. The administrative fee was not paid. The board waived the administrative fee and the fines due to extenuating circumstances. Inspector Storm presented Case No. C2006-0099 John Cassidy owner of 215 Guava Avenue was cited for property and home in disrepair, the yard in need of maintenance, and an abandoned vehicle on the property. The case was continued. The Marathon Code Compliance Board adjourned, after a discussion among staff, the board, and the lawyers on the policy on fines and administrative fees. February 15 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: SOS Foundation board of directors met at Marathon City Hall Annex conference room. No photos are available. A review of the old seven-mile bridge efforts was conducted by President Marjie Mearns. She reported that the bridge most likely will be closed March 1st. The ferry RFP will probably go out for re-bid. The scope of services will change. The Pigeon Key Henry the little train is looking for a complete makeover. The historic preservation of the Old Seven-Mile Bridge and Pigeon Key is the foundation's priority. The hard work by all members is appreciated and ongoing. February 15 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Delta Airlines land at the new Marathon Airport amidst crowds, fanfare, and intense media coverage. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Walking toward the freshly refurbished Marathon Airport, one could see all the extra media, traffic, and people streaming into the terminal. The terminal was full of people, flashes, drinks, and food. People milled about gawking at the notables. Cameras ran for the evening news. It was like Marathon had arrived for the big time, whether a circus or a new age of something else, who knows for sure. TSA agents manned their posts at the Departure Lounge. Delta agents manned their counters taking tickets and luggage, while dispensing information to the departing passengers. The first passengers then went to the TSA entrance and removed various items including their shoes for scanning. Their whole body was scanned before entering into the Departure Lounge to await the arrival of the first Delta flight to Marathon. The festivities moved to the ribbon cutting with local government and task force members lining the ribbon. Cameras rolled and flashes went off taking in the scene. With oversized scissors, Monroe County Mayor Mario Di Gennaro cut the ribbon. The mass of people went out to the tarmac to await the Delta Connection regional jet. From the west came the sleek jet landing perfectly. It circled and came back toward us. The fire vehicles sprayed their water in welcome. The ladder came down, and the first arrivals walked out to cheers. The last event was the awards to all the participants responsible for bringing regional jet service back to Marathon. February 15 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council finished its February 13 meeting at the Marathon Government Center. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. February 18 - Monroe County - L. E. Shaffer: Cay Clubs, Pigeon Key Foundation President, and the County Mayor are moving by prior meetings, intent, and planning to develop Pigeon Key into an enterprise for high-quality, upper-crust people and their million-dollar homes. While the historic portions of the island will be showcased when residents allow, the end of Pigeon is not far off. Surely, then, when that happens, Mayor Mario will get the result he so ardently hoped for, county property that turns a profit. This is a report that I do not want to write. I don't want to commit myself to the time and energy to learn a new level of government. The City of Marathon is convoluted enough to keep me busy for a long time to come. Yet reliable sources at every level insist on telling me the stories. Some have shown me documents, but are now too afraid to give me copies, as they had before. Over the course of the last several months, I have meticulously pieced together an unbelievable story. I only hope that these rumors of rumors were nothing more than mere rumors, but the documents, the sources, and the confirmations by other informants can only lead to one conclusion. There is a move afoot to satisfy Cay Clubs long-planned take over of the old Seven-Mile Bridge and eventually Pigeon Key itself. The first move is to obtain the contract to run the ferry service, while the old Seven-Mile Bridge is replaced and repaired. Cay Clubs inadvertently missed the first RFP, but surely will not miss the second RFP. With the indirect and tacit help of the County Mayor and even the President of the Pigeon Key Foundation, Cay Clubs has a decent chance of gaining that foothold. The next move will happen at the same time as the first move, discredit the Pigeon Key Foundation. Then Cay Clubs will come to the rescue. The plan is to build high-end units on the island among the historic buildings. A special exclusive community will be built over time. There seems to be an unspoken approval to eventually remove the old historic portions of the island as well. The main players in this dim drama will deny again and again. The protest will be too much. In the end, what once was public and open to all will be a private club of exclusive clients catered by Cay Clubs. I hope that none of this is true. I can only wish for the evidence to be mistaken. I sincerely hope that I am terribly wrong. February 22 - Boot Key Harbor - L. E. Shaffer: The new mooring field is going in as this article is being written. Everyone is involved from the contractors to city staff at the marina. There were the preparations from splicing to assembling of the mooring buoy and its anchoring system. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Harbormaster Richard Tanner took me out on the city boat to observe the floating platform. We saw the line of floats marking the future location of each mooring buoy. The effort took years and many people from the county and the city. Richard directed me to Bruch Popham to get a more detailed list of those to recognize and list. When we get that interview, you will see that information published here. Pinkus Campaign Press Release 2-26-07 Jeff Pinkus I've known Jeff for a long time. He is one of the city's best advocates, and Jeff will be missed. His work for the city's residents was invaluable. He cared deeply for Marathon and its residents. This is, indeed, a very sad day in Marathon's short history. Still, he will be around to help us solve the affordable workforce housing crisis. Thanks, Jeff. L. E. Shaffer February 26 - Marathon Government Center - L. E. Shaffer: The Marathon Chamber of Commerce hosted a televised candidate debate forum 6:30 PM that was well attended. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. The seven areas of discussion were US1 beautification, working waterfront, improving city hall customer services, rent versus ownership in affordable workforce housing, sewer system, Marathon Yacht Club lease and bay-bottom contract, and fiscal responsibility. Candidate John Bartus promised to achieve rollback rate in the next city budget and challenged all the others to pledge the same. No one else took up that challenge. Candidate Marjie Mearns corrected other candidate misstatements and revealed a clear knowledge of how the city worked. Candidate Mike Cinque was impressive and bemoaned how the city has given rise to what he called "class warfare." Candidate Don Vasil asked residents to "give new people a shot" at city council service. Candidate Joanie Nelson seemed to see conspiracies around every corner, and couldn't quite handle specific questions with detailed answers. While all candidates did a great job, three rose to the top. John Bartus, Marjie Mearns, and Mike Cinque handled themselves professionally and knowledgeably. The next debate will be the same time, same place on February 28th with the Florida Keys Keynoter's David Ball, US1's Bill Becker, and Marathon Free Press's Rob Busweiller asking questions. The moderator will be Wayne Markham from the Keynoter Publishing Company. February 26 - Marathon City Hall - Arla Tanner: American Cancer Society Fundraising I want to personally thank everyone that participated in our City Employee’s Fund Raiser, “BE THE STAR YOU ARE”, and helped raise over $2000.00 for the American Cancer Society. It really was a Night To Remember and we have the pictures to prove it; for employee’s you can go to the H drive, Planning, then Photographs and they are under ACS Fund Raiser 07. If anyone else would like to see them, just let me know. What's Happening! I enjoyed covering the Marathon City Council elections. Early voting is taking place right now until near the actual election date of March 13th. If you don't vote, you don't count! I found that a sad day for Marathon occurred, when Jeff Pinkus bowed out of the election. The difficulty in running a campaign is great, and the reward are few. I would earnestly hope than new faces pop up during the next several years. Please vote! Miscellany: I got to go boating with friend. Of course, I miss my old boat. I don't miss the expenses and the hassles though. Some day I will get a trawler and buy a permanent dock. Then I can be a permanent liveaboard. My youngest son came down to the fab Florida Keys. I enjoy having him around, but he is looking forward to his own place too. Having family around does improve your outlook on life. Speaking of which, my son and I are going up to central Florida to visit family and friends. I am relieved that I will finally get some off time. Finally: Did you know that Nevada's state bird is the Mountain Bluebird? The flower is the Sagebush. The tree is the Single-leaf Pinon and Bristle Pine. The capital is Carson City. Statehood was granted October 31, 1864. The Original Marathon Seafood Festival is coming up early in March. Save up your nickels and dimes and get over to the Community Park to enjoy a Marathon staple. Otherwise, this month was a good beginning on 2007. ACRONYMS:
Kitty Talk
 Internet Stuff
Interesting websites we visited recently:
Poetry Corner Blindly into stars Darkly dripping Winged flight Dangerous Wings still © 2007 L. E. Shaffer
Hockey Puck PGA: Tiger Woods wins the Buick Open for a seventh PGA win in a row. NFL: Indy Colts beat Chicago Bears in the Super Duper Over Priced Super Bowl. The last NFL game of the season was the All-Star game in Hawaii. The AFC narrowly defeated the NFC 31 – 28. MLB: Spring training has sprung, while baseball pops up everywhere in Florida. Must be the sun, don't you think? WTA: Serena and Venus Williams are making a comeback. Good for them. Don't you just love tennis?
Book Three Twins of the Dark Star
The Dull Stuff Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company Internet URLs: www.RunesofAo.com Publication date: February 28, 2007
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