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

Volume 13 † Issue 5 † May 2007
[In The Keys] [Kitty Talk] [Internet Stuff] [Poetry Corner]
[Hockey Puck] [Twins of the Dark Star] [The Dull Stuff] [Advertising]

Marathon Florida Keys Journal proudly presents our 13^th 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}

[FKCA: Larry] [FKCA: Tommy] [NSW Committee] [Pet Food Recall] 
[Islamorada Anne's Beach] [Pet Food Recall Update] [Council 10th] [Parks/Rec] 
[Captain's Table] [Smokey] [Planning Commission] [Fishcutters] [Landscaping Workshop] 
[Pet Food Recall 3] [Smokey 2] [Montessori School] [Tommy Speaks Out!] [Council 24th] 
[Pet Recall 26th] [Village Gourmet] [Roxanne] [What's Happening!] [Miscellany] [Finally] 
[ACRONYMS]

~Some articles have photos, go to http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.~
~Events scheduled to be covered, go to http://runesofao.com/schedule/index.htm.~

April 1, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Florida Keys Council of the Arts annual meeting was held at the Marathon Yacht Club. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

Tommy and I went to the Florida Keys Council of the Arts annual meeting held at the Marathon Yacht Club this year. This was the April Fool's party too. There were Spike and his Pirate Crew singing sea chanties, a jazz band, and a song from the local theatre from the play Gigi. Devin Clark, Mariah Cheatam, and Sharon Williams who were members from the cast. They did a nice job. Juggling was performed by Bounce, Ooh Lala, and Daniel.

I was especially enamored with the cookies. We took pictures and enjoyed ourselves. We saw John Dick and Duncan Matheson from the school board. We also noticed Marathon Councilman Don Vasil and his crew. All the notables from the FKCA were there as well, Terri Axford, outgoing President and Executive Director Monica Haskell, C. J. Groth, David Cohn, Lois Giffen, Alison Schaeffler-Murphy, and Nancy Perez Miller.

The essential business of approving the minutes from the last annual meeting and other reports and awards was conducted with alacrity and efficiency.

April 2, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Florida Keys Council of the Arts annual meeting was held at the Marathon Yacht Club. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

The Marathon Yacht Club hosted the Florida Keys Council of the Arts board members and faculty on April 1 for their annual meeting.

Karen Margil greeted all at the door with her lovely accordion playing. Daniel Margil was teaching the young ones how to joggle. Traveling around the Keys schools, they teach their arts to the students.

Spike and his Pirate Crew sang the songs of the sea-weary pirates. Leo Gullick and Richard Haden provided visual arts. Amy Dean also provided pleasant works of art that were adorned all around the club.

Terri Axford welcomed and introduced all the board and attendance. The board showed their gratitude for her hard work on the counsel. Approval of the April 6, 2006 meetings minutes brought an end of the meeting.

 Socializing was the theme of the night among the crowd. I spotted Don Vassal, newly elected city council member, enjoying the conversations of friends. The buffet was also a big hit. Larry Shaffer, Editor of Marathon Florida Keys Journal indulged in the chocolates.

After dinner, Bob D’Antonio provided entertainment. In all it was a good time.

PET FOOD RECALL .. HOW IT AFFECTS YOUR PET by B. J. Darnell April 4, 2007
The latest news on the Pet Food Recall an almost daily occurrence it seems has established that Purina Pet Foods and Pedigree Pet Foods are the safe pet foods on the market today. Neither is connected with the manufacturing plants that have been affected.

Purina has only one product manufactured by the aforementioned plants and that is due to a buy out of Mighty Dog. They had yet to switch to their own manufacturing plant. I do not think it will take long for that change over to go into affect now.

NO DRY FOODS WERE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL ONLY CAN FOODS AND OR POUCHES OF FOODS.

If you are interested you can check out the latest PR release and the list of brands on the MENU Foods website. Go to this address www.menufoods.com/recall. Or the phone number to call is 1-866-895-2708.

The dates they are giving for the bad pet foods were manufactured from 12/3/2007 to 3/7/07. The PR release did mention they had just changed suppliers of one of contents of the pet foods.

The current press release from Menu Foods asked that the release not be given to the U.S. new services. That in is a very strange statement since the pet food recall affects Canada, United States and Mexico. In case you can’t remember that is the entire North American Continent.

The FDA had increased the dates to 3/15/07 as of this morning listing. According to the FDA the recall was prompted by consumer complaints received by the manufacturer and by tasting trials conducted by the manufacturer. There has been a small number of reported instances of cats and dogs in the United States that developed kidney failure after eating the affected product. To date, Menu Foods, Inc. has reported 14 animal deaths to the FDA. Nine cats died during routine taste trials conducted by the company. Consumers reported deaths of four cats and one dog. The firm has undertaken extensive testing of the pet food products in question, but to date has been unable to find the source of the problem. More deaths and illnesses made the morning news as of 3/22/07. 

It takes about 5-8 days for the symptoms to show up in the animals and most often the damage is so severe there is no hope for the animal. The liver and kidney damage is beyond fixing or reversing.

If you have been feeding your pets any of the foods on the list.. please check the labels to see if you have placed them in danger. Stop feeding the food and get a brand that has not been affected by the recall.

NO DRY FOODS WERE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL ONLY CAN FOODS AND OR POUCHES OF FOODS.

Watch your animals for signs of kidney failure (such as loss of appetite, lethargy and vomiting) and consult with your veterinarian immediately.

Return the suspected foods to the place where you purchased them for an immediate refund. Hopefully, you retained your receipt.

UPDATE: Another week and we are no closer to a definitive answer as to what exactly is causing our pets to die. We do know that the center of the controversy surrounds the Menu Foods recall of contaminated dog and cat food for the majority of U.S. Pet Food companies. The poor handling of the recall by the Canadian Company and those U.S. Corporations who had hired them to manufacture American’s Pet Foods now stands in question.

Question 1. Why did they wait so long to recall the food? Since they had animals die during the testing of the food. Were they afraid to inform the American companies hoping that the problem would just go away?

Question 2. After the recall why did it take the super markets so long to remove the offending products from their shelves? As of the end of this week PETA has made an announcement that they would be in Washington on the 30th to lobby for stronger actions. PETA wants the FDA and the companies to extend the recall to dry foods that have received complaints, chemically test it and perform necropsies on the animals involved. It also wants companies prosecuted if the FDA's probe turns up wrongdoing. A FDA spokesperson said they did not know how many of the more than 7,000 complaints the agency has received have concerned dry pet food. The FDA plans to release preliminary results from its investigation into the recall Friday.

Today, I want to focus on those left behind. How do you explain to someone that something as innocuous as their animals pet food killed them? That just doesn’t compute in this day and age. I am sorry for thinking the worst of today’s American businesses but it often seems that the dollar drives this nation. Talking to someone about the loss of a pet you didn’t know I found is much harder than sharing the loss with someone you know over a pet you yourself had learned to care for over the years. Because of this disaster, today I faced that problem. Joining me on Wednesday at 6:30pm on Animal Crackers {UCTV-3} is John Culpepper [City of Chickamauga Utilities Manager] to explain why he is so vehement about getting to the bottom of this problem. John just wants to help keep other people from feeling his loss. John lost his little Pomeranian buddy to bad pet food last week. John feels that the people responsible should be held accountable. He is working toward that end here in Georgia. It isn’t happening somewhere across the country is it happening right here in our area.
People need to watch their pets health and keep on top of this current crisis.

Ms B. J. Darnell, VMT, CKO

April 5, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon Near Shore Waters Committee met today at the Public Library conference room. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

The committee approved the March minutes. Committee members thanked Acting Ports Manager C. J. Geotis and Harbormaster Richard Tanner for their part in this year's successful Seafood Festival. Acting Chairman Bennett Orr gave Seafood Festival t-shirts to Geotis and Tanner.

Over 100 mooring buoys will complete the Boot Key Harbor mooring field by April 9. Boot Key Harbor will soon become the premiere cruising community. Current pricing structure will be studied for any needed modifications.

During marina inspections to ensure anti-dumping regulations, everything went fine until the inspection of Keys Boart Works. The trouble was pump out issues. The city and D'Asign Source are working the problems out.

Geotis reported that Curry Hammock State Park has no boat ramp. There are 29 campsites that patrons may stay for two weeks at a time for a total of six weeks aggregate. DCA has said that there would be no RVs during hurricane season.

Geotis agreed to investigate increasing the Sheriff patrols in and around Boot Key Harbor.

The question of how long boaters may stay at the buoys was answered. City buoys have no restrictions. State buoys have a six-month limit. Then the boats must move. The anchoring area northwest of Boot Key Bridge has a 30 day limit before a boat must move.

Marina and mooring field regulations are on the rental agreement.

The closing discussion centered on the future improvement to the marina and Boot Key Harbor. Those future improvements may include a restaurant, marina store, lighted boardwalks east and west of the marina. These items most likely will be on the November committee agenda. One improvement project is on track to add more bathhouses.

The next meeting is scheduled for May 3 at 6:00 PM at the Marathon Public Library conference room.

April 6, 2007 - Islamorada - L. E. Shaffer: Anne's Beach and environs are really beautiful and part of paradise in the Florida Keys. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

Marathon's Coco Plum Beach is at the beginning of the transformation into a very nice passive park. There are composting toilets and tons of sand thanks to a hurricane. Boardwalks and other passive structures are planned to enjoy the habitat in all its natural beauty. These improvements will ensure human enjoyment but not encroachment.

April 8, 2007 - Florida Keys - B. J. Darnell: Contact your government representatives. We need everyone who owns a pet to contact their elected officials at EVERY LEVEL — write a letter put it in an envelope and mail it. Then call or go see them. Most are home for Easter Break. Don’t rely on form letters. State your purpose, make your request and thank them for their time. They may not care about the loss of your pet, or not think that’s very important. So don’t forget to stress the economic loss as well. Tell them what it cost you to save your pet, or that you spent, even though you lost your pet. A major veterinary emergency hits hard on the family budget. Please do this even if you have not lost a pet but are concerned about this massive recall.

There must be complete Congressional investigation into how this event was occurred and was mishandled. It needs to be followed by a full public report. The Senate was due to start discussion on this today. www.PetConnection.com is suggested the following:

1) New labeling requirements:

* Product labels should be required to list not only the company that’s marketing the food, but also the company that made it. With full addresses and 800 numbers.
* Product labels should be required to list the country of origin of the ingredients. It’s clear now that this information is every bit as important to a consumer trying to make an intelligent decision as the ingredients and nutritional analysis on those labels now.

2) A true, national system for getting information to veterinarians and collecting information from veterinarians. This is important not only for our animals, but for ourselves. It’s quite possible a problem in animals can signify a developing threat for humans. Veterinarians are an essential link in our national security and public-health systems, and we’ve now seen how little respect they get in this role.

Have proposed a national, centralized system to which veterinarians could submit morbidity and mortality data during crises like the current one. This is a long-overdue idea, and I urge pet owners to press the idea on their congresspersons. I also urge them to agitate at the state level. I see no reason why the states cannot develop their own reporting structures (perhaps in conjunction with the federal government). Doing so will allow local information to be disseminated more quickly and will give states the information needed to more effectively manage crises like the present one. If you’re concerned about how the pet food recall has been handled, don’t forget to work for change at the local level as well as the national.

As of 4/5/07: 3,240 pets have been reported as deceased to the Pet Connection database. 1,729 are cats and 1,511 are dogs due to contaminated pet food. Folks! This is only a small accounting as many people did not seek veterinarian attention and just buried their animals.

While you are waiting out all the recalls here are some sites with healthy pet food and treat recipes:
http://www.healthrecipes.com/pet_supply.htm
http://www.cooksrecipes.com/category/pet-recipes.html
http://wwwrecipegoldmine.com/pets/pets.html
http://www.treatworld.com/
http://hungrymutt.com/
http://www.recipezaar.com/recipes/pet-food

I have added these as the recall just continues to grow. Many pet treats have been added to the list this week. The latest was Sunshine Dog Biscuits yesterday. We are now working with a Salmonella scare on many basted bones and treats. Have a safe week.

fl_governor@myflorida.com
fl_ltgov@myflorida.com
http://martinez.senate.gov/public/
http://billnelson.senate.gov/
http://www.house.gov/ros-lehtinen/

Ms B. J. Darnell, VMT, CKO

April 10, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council met at the Government Center EOC. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

Citizens' comments: John [Pops] Stiglitz encouraged everyone to see the new Marathon High School facility. The students are proud. He also asked why it takes two months to obtain a permit to get a gas stove. Jeff Pinkus made a Relay for Life announcement. Fred Endemann waxed on Area 6 sewer system once again. Morgan Hill asked why the Marathon Housing Task Force was involved in affordable housing impact fees.

Selection of Mayor and Vice-Mayor was once again a study in personalities. The first round saw Don Vasil and Chris Bull nominating themselves. Mike Cinque nominated Tempest. The votes were Tempest – 2, Vasil – 1, and Bull – 2.

In the second round, Bull read a Citizen’s editorial about his being Mayor and a good candidate to be Mayor again. Cinque advocated for Tempest and thought Vasil saying things were petty politics was petty politics itself. The second round voting produced the same result.

Mayor Bull opened nominations again as suggested by Don Vasil. Vasil nominated Worthington; Cinque nominated Tempest; and Bull nominated himself. The third round vote was Bull 1, Worthington 2, and Tempest 2.

Worthington withdrew his nomination. The fourth round voted was Bull 3 and Tempest 2. The council voted Chris Bull as Mayor for a second year in a row. While this was a bit messy and funny at times, this was also democracy at its best.

Vice Mayor nominations saw Vasil nominating Tempest, Bull nominating Worthington, and Tempest nominating Cinque. When the first round vote didn’t produce a winner, Cinque withdrew his nomination. Tempest won 3 – 2 over Worthington. For a second year in a row, Marathon has a woman Vice Mayor.

The Mayor proclaimed the month of April as Water Conservation Month.

Board and Committee Appointments: Land Acquisition Board appointments were continued to the next council meeting. Near Shore Waters Committee appointments were Jayne Packard by Cinque and Bennett Orr by Vasil. Bennett Orr was a reappointment. Parks and Recreation Committee appointments were Robin Woodland by Cinque, and Vasil will make his appointment at the next council meeting. Unsafe Structure Board has to be re-advertised, because Jeff Coldren, a roofing contractor, removed himself and applied for Planning Commission. Planning Commission had four applicants: Kevin Woodland, local developer; James Tashjian, BellSouth employee; Mark Smith, local contractor; and Jeff Coldren, a roofing contractor who applied late. Mark Smith spoke about his long residency and long-term development experience. James Tashjian stated that he was a twelve-year resident and familiar with community. James Tashjian won and was appointed to the Planning Commission to replace Mike Cinque who is now a councilman. Nomination of Councilmember to County Pigeon Key Train Replica Committee was made by Tempest. She nominated Marjie Mearns. She was appointed.

City Manager's Report: RFP for storm removal and monitoring went out to FEMA and then to advertising; due at next meeting.

Tallahassee lobbyist Jorge Chamizo reported status to Mike Puto via his wireless handheld BlackBerry. Chamizo reported about house bill HB529 that is the preemption of local control of cable systems. The companion senate bill SB998 was amended to require phone companies to build out and serve low income individuals, which would require negotiating with local governments. A settlement is possibly in the works between the two bills.

Budgeted $20 million was not safe, but working on it. State Senator Bullard filed a request of $19.6 million from the general fund. She filed another request for $19.6 million of nonrecurring monies. Senators Alexander and Bullard’s third amendment provided funding of $500,000 from other sources. All funding requests were for Marathon’s wastewater treatment program. That could add up to almost $40 million.

There is also movement from the Senate on property tax reform that probably contains homestead exemption doubling and portability. The Senate version does not increase sales tax or abolish property taxes like the House version.

Deputy City Manager C. J. Geotis provided a Boot Key Bridge traffic update. The count over a three-week period nearly tops 200 trips daily. That is confirmed with a similar study done two years ago that proved there were over 300 trips daily. Boot Key road and island needs cleaning due to a lot of illegal dumping. Geotis proposed closing the road from 7 PM to 7 AM daily using a lock and chain. The radio station complex personnel and emergency crews would have a key. Councilman Worthington asked about camera surveillance. Mayor Bull responded that the lock and chain was simpler and more effective. That was the direction given to staff.

Camp Adventure is in the budget and coming up soon. Puto wanted to inform the council. The City Manager thanked Geotis and staff for working hard on improving customer service issues. Councilwoman Tempest has been working with staff in that regard.

Councilman Cinque and staff are working together to put out a bid for appraisers and a building contractor for Unsafe Structures Board.

The council continued the Marathon Yacht Club update to next meeting.

Building Official Bob Welch and Community Services Director Susie Thomas made a presentation on the proposed Area 4 site by the Winn-Dixie shopping center and Orion Bank area. Someone else other than Winn-Dixie owns one area of the parcel. That may constrain the project, but construction can still proceed. Winn-Dixie wants more for their small part, about $18,000. Council approved the purchase.

Attorney Jimmy Morales gave his monthly report. See page 8 of the agenda packet for details.

In the fire station update, many of the walls and floors are up. Pre-casting of the component is 100% produced and 80% up. The construction project is on schedule, on budget. Councilwoman Tempest asked for specific numbers.

The council extended his FEMA trailer use for 8 months in granting Fred Bye’s administrative relief request.

The council waived permit fees for Gary Roberts due to Hurricane Wilma damage. Building Official pointed out that this is the third waiver request.

Ordinance 2007-06 amended the City Charter by changing the date of the annual Mayor and Vice-Mayor Election. This ordinance changed the date to quality for office. This ordinance changed the date of elections and run-off elections. This ordinance changed the existing terms for council members. Elections moved from March to November.

Continued to next meeting; Ordinance 2007-07 required property owners to mow grassy right-of-way area located between the lot and the public street.

Ordinance 2007-08 adopted amendments to “Emergency Temporary Housing” section of the city code. The ordinance created a mechanism to extend, on a case-by-case basis, the temporary placement of RVs in all land use districts. The city is attempting to fast track this by the DCA. Bob Welch proposed to broaden the scope of the ordinance, but that amendment comes later.

The council continued Resolution 2007-44 to the next meeting. The resolution would have approved a modification to an existing development agreement for Key Colony Bay Development, LLC, for the redevelopment of the property located at 13351 Overseas Highway, Fat Deer Key.

The council continued Resolution 2007-45 to the next meeting. The resolution would have approved the Key Colony Bay Development LLC request for an amendment to a major conditional use permits, authorizing the redevelopment of the Key Colony Bay Resort at 13351 Overseas Highway, Fat Deer Key. 

Continued, Resolution 2007-52 authorized the City Manager to enter into a second amendment to a lease agreement with Dewey Broberg, Jr. Trust and Mary Lou Broberg Trust for trailer space at City Hall in the amount of $______ per month.

Continued, Resolution 2007-53 authorized the City Manager to renew the fourth lease agreement with Oxford Business III Corporation as successor-in-trust to the Dewey O. Broberg, Jr., Trust and the Mary Lou Broberg Trust, to extend the lease terms on units 1, 5, and 6, at the 100^th Street Center until May 1, _____, for a total monthly payment of $_______.

City wanted a month-to-month lease so that they can move everything to 4 or 5 trailers on the Event’s Field.

Resolution 2007-54 established a new council meeting time of 5:30 PM, starting May 8^th. 

Consent item, Resolution 2007-55 approved Amendment No. 1 to Department of Environmental Protection Coastal Zone Management contract CZ719 and authorized the City Manager to enter into Amendment No.1 to revise the completion date of the contract.

Consent item, Resolution 2007-56 authorized the City Grants Coordinator to apply for and administer a Florida Boating Improvement Program Grant on behalf of the City of Marathon.

Resolution 2007-57 approved a John Lakes Pointe II, LLC request for a final plat approval for a portion of the Palms Subdivision Key Vaca, Monroe County, Florida.  

Consent item, Resolution 2007-58 approved an interlocal agreement with Monroe County to reimburse the city up to two thousand ($2,000) as payment for reimbursement for off-duty Marathon Fire Rescue employees to participate in a disaster drill training exercise held February 8, 2007.

City Hall / Library moved to spending meeting.

104^th Street RFP: Planning director Fred Gross said city is not builders. Monroe County Affordable Housing Representative Jerry Coleman pointed out that the city needs to borrow forward on affordable housing allocations. Marathon and Monroe Housing Task Force member Josh Mothner is also on the Middle Keys Community Land Trust. He advised that the city should use the county team and not duplicate efforts.

Middle Keys Community Land Trust Executive Administrator Rick Casey made a report to the council. He presented a summary of areas requested. He touched on topics about the financing being assembled, a contractor being selected, and the type of unit models. Complete financing package is within 90 days. He gave an overview on the Islamorada Woods Corner project – 16 units. He reported on the survey of affordable housing deed restricted stock – issued 57 permits, 34 owner, 10 rentals, and 13 under construction. There are 210 units total including above number. There are an unknown number of county deed restricted properties. He reported that status of deed restrictions. 30 were properly done. The Land Trust fixed 10. Nine homeowners record their own, which totals 57, leaving 8 homeowners not recorded or cooperating.

The council granted the following fee waivers:

• Consent item, Marathon High School Jr./Sr. Prom at Community Park Amphitheatre on 4/28/07
• Consent item, Marathon High School Class 1958-1968 Reunion at Community Park Amphitheatre on 4/20/07 – 4/22/07 and permission to consume alcohol (beer and wine)
• Consent item, Marine Mammal Conservancy Walkathon on 5/26/07

Mayor Chris Bull reported on the upcoming trip to Tallahassee and Washington D.C.

He also report that the Quay property has 60 days, or the city must take action.

April 12, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: The Marathon Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee met at the Marathon Public Library. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

The committee approved the minutes from the last meeting. The first item of discussion was finding property for a dog park. The Events Field was suggested along with a portion of Coco Plum Beach. None of those suggestions seemed viable at the moment though. Kay Gradick said that the dog park couldn't be a dog-sitting service. People had to stay with their pups.

From the public audience, Bettye Chaplin said that a more important need was men and lady's softball fields as well as other adult sport venues. Parks and Recreation Supervisor Jimmy Schmidt said that has always been a problem. Phase III Community Park could address. Meanwhile, the suggestion was made to put up temporary fields at the Events Field. When special events occur, the temporary setup could be taken down. Further suggestions for the Events Field were a dog park, softball fields, running track, and horseshoe pits.

Schmidt introduced two new employees. Ali Adams and George Holzhauer are the two new hires. Ali attended the meeting taking notes. She also reported that the Organized Fishermen of the Keys helped with money for pizza and stuff for the kids' event at the beach next week, Art in the Park.

Tina Belotti gave a detailed skate park update. They found money for the desired improvements. The temporary solution is to stage the television, music, and monitoring/security systems under the structures. Permanent solutions are coming. She also discussed having consistent rules and enforcement of same for the kids.

An unidentified lady complained about nudity at Coco Plum Beach. She was especially concerned about families on the beach being unaware of the de facto nudity at the western end. She suggested a clothing-optional sign to warn people. Schmidt said that signage was coming, but that the council would have to address nudity issues.

Committee Member Robin Woodland, twin of Kevin Woodland, requested some action on minor Community Park problems. Jimmy Schmidt said that he was taking care of those issues already.

The next meeting is scheduled for May 10 at 6:30 PM at the Marathon Public Library conference room.

April 13, 2007 - Islamorada - L. E, Shaffer: Islamorada's Captain's Table Oceanfront Restaurant is a great stop for some rest, relaxation, a general pit stop, and even better service and food. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

The location is absolutely beautiful up and down US1. The front of the restaurant is inviting. Once inside you can belly up to the bar and hear stories from the locals. In the back is the restaurant. The interior was decorated in a bright Keys style.

The menu items were reasonably priced. We looked over the lunch menu and had a hard time to make a selection. I picked one of the many lunch specials, a BBQ Pork Sandwich with crinkle fries. Tommy selected the Steak Bomb that consisted of fine cuts of steak, onions, green peppers, mushrooms, and other good stuff.

We had a pleasant conversation with a couple from Boston. All of us enjoyed the view out the back window of the boats, pelicans waiting for a free handout, and the ocean vista. Topped with warm, blue skies, we definitely had a good time. The service was relaxed and comfortable. Overall, we are going to visit this nice place often.

April 14, 2007 - Islamorada - L. E. Shaffer: Key Islamorada Days Inn & Suites, 82749 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036 has a story to tell. Their website information is located at  http://www.ihsadvantage.com/h/hotelInfo/Islamorada/FL/United_States/9874/?pfs=788.

Along the trail on the journey to deliver all the Conch Colors, we stop at a small hotel called Days Inn of Islamorada. The best part is that the nice old cat that answers to Smoky. He always meets me at the door.

Now Smokey is a little camera shy, but he does not know how persistent I am. There will be a picture of Smokey in future articles.

As I enter, I will usually see Smokey lounging on top of the one or two Conch Colors left over. For some reason, he has come to the idea that he can charge a dime for every issue. Come to find out, he thinks he is getting a little old, and he would like to get a tummy rub.

As I leave, he always gives me a flick of the tail to let me know that he got his way and didn’t have to give up the stock that he has invested in the Conch Color.

April 16, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: The Planning Commission met at the Sheriff's Aviation Hangar second-floor training room at 5:30 PM to consider a full agenda. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Current Vice Chairwoman Morgan Hill called the meeting to order. Commissioner Larry Shaffer corrected last month’s minutes. The corrections were minor typographical errors.

Commissioner Larry Shaffer nominated Morgan Hill for Chairperson and Commissioner James Tashjian seconded the motion. Steve Williams was elected to Vice Chair.

On the agenda was a resolution approving the Market Rate residential dwelling unit allocation for Period 3, Year 15 and affordable housing residential dwelling unit allocation for Period 3, Year 15. Vice Chairman Williams objected to the ROGO system. He objected to the people on the list for three months being higher than those on the list for three years. After short debate, Commissioner Shaffer moved to approve the ordinance. The planning commission voted approval.

An ordinance adopted the Amendments to “Emergency Temporary Housing” of the Marathon Code. The ordinance created a mechanism to extend, on a case-by-case basis, the temporary placement of recreation vehicles in all land use districts. This issue was about the FEMA trailers, and how long they can be used. Planning Director Fred Gross spoke on the changes they have made to the ordinance. The changes were mainly the wording and how long the trailers can be used and who grants permission to use. Chairwoman Morgan Hill expressed that she likes the changes and thanked city staff for the work and cooperation on their request. Commissioner Mark Bartlett moved to approve the ordinance, and Commissioner Shaffer seconded the motion. The ordinance was approved.

Also on the agenda was the ordinance to adopt and set affordable housing impact fees. A lot of heated discussion about the topic ensued. Some of the public spoke out about their distaste of impact fees. Vice Chairman Steve Williams spoke out about the impact fees being just another way of taxing the citizens of Marathon. Chairwoman Morgan Hill stated that we need to fix what we have in place and not start something new. Commissioner Mark Bartlett stated that the impact fees are a necessary evil, that we need to ensure the workforce stays in Marathon. The ordinance failed to pass with a 3 to 2 vote.  

April 19, 2007 - Summerland Key - L. E. Shaffer: Fishcutters got a good story in the Conch Color last week, but we didn't know that. While waiting on the Conch Color deliver guy, the Taz Robert person, we marveled at how busy we found Fishcutters. The lunch crowd overflowed into the adjoining room. Marathon Florida Keys Journal is always looking for good stories. So we decided to take some pictures and write a little story. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

Fishcutters is located at mile-marker 25 on the gulf side of US1 in Summerland Key. Their phone number is 305-744-3335. The Conch Color and Marathon Florida Keys Journal meet there every week on Thursday to exchange information and load up on papers to distribute up and down the middle and upper Keys. We have enjoyed many a pleasant lunch in the airy, bright, and cheery restaurant and fish market. There is a marina in the back too.

They are open from 11:00 AM to 9 PM. The owners have overhauled the inside and the outside. The food is fast, delicious, and well priced. The local catch will cost a bit more, but fishermen have to make a living too, you know. We are beginning to know the staff as they are taking a liking to us as well. At least we think so anyway. So if you see us loading bundles of the Conch Color into a little car with a Marathon Florida Keys Journal sign on both sides, stop and say hello before you go inside Fishcutters for some good food, fun, and conversation.

April 19, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: City Council held a Landscaping Beautification Workshop at the Sheriff's Aviation Hangar second-floor training room. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

FDOT representative Norman Wartman made a presentation. FDOT will fund creating and implementing a Landscaping Master Plan. That plan determines the need, placement, and types of vegetation to be planted and maintained. Creating this plan will include workshops. FDOT will also fund a study of the city's needs. The consultant to do the study would be hired by the city.

FDOT will do a sample section. They will acquire and install trees and plants that need low maintenance and are salt-water tolerant. FDOT won't fund all the maintenance required, but it is important that the city commit to fund the rest.

One of the first items to accomplish is establishing a Landscaping Beautification Committee that would include city staff, residents, and FDOT officials. Staff would apply for the grants. That ended Wartman's presentation. He then took council questions. Planning Director Fred Gross also asked a few questions. Norman Wartman answered them all quite ably.

Former City Councilman Frank Greenman made his presentation in support of the beautification effort. He stated that every $1 in landscaping brings $10 in value to the local economy. He suggested drip irrigating the medians. He cited Santa Clara, California as an example of success. Greenman reported that Crane Point Hammock offered kids and trees, but failed for lack of a sponsor. He reiterated that landscaping beautification efforts were long overdue.

Residents had their chance to speak. Kevin Woodland, Claude from TLC Nursey, John Whalton, Amedeo D'Ascanio, Charlene Wylie (Monroe County Scenic Highway Coordinator), and Linda Cunningham (Marathon Garden Club) among others all spoke either in favor or not. When a request was made for a show of hands in favor of proceeding with the FDOT-assisted beautification project, over 90% raised their hands.

After each council member had their say, Mayor Bull closed the meeting by saying that he would work with city staff to make this happen.

April 20, 2007 - Georgia - B. J. Darnell: Second & Third Tainted Pet Foods Recalled due to contamination.

As of this morning, an Industrial Chemical has been found in Rice Protein shipped to U.S. and in Corn Gluten shipped to South Africa from China. The industrial chemical is melamine the same one that contaminated the wheat gluten found in pets foods at the end of last month.

 I learned this morning that 19 dogs have died of Renal failure so far in South Africa. The Pet Food Industry of South Africa has contacted veterinarians who handle the tainted foods. These veterinarians are currently contacting their clients who have purchased these pet foods.

 "Vets Choice" a dry dog food is sold by veterinarians. Vets Choice is owned by Royal Canin, a French company. They import many international brands. Eukanuba is a Dutch company but imported from USA. Pedigree canned is imported from Australia.  Dry Pedigree is made in country under license. Hills is imported but origin was not supplied.  They also make their own brands, but whether there are imported ingredients in them is not currently known . Only 1 food has been recalled so far.

  The discovery this week of tainted rice protein expands the month long trail of recalls to include many more brands and varieties of pet foods and treats that have tainted by the melamine.

 We are currently learning that the safety standards for pet foods are not in place. These recalls have shaken the consumers' confidence in the pet food industry's adherence to food safety standards. Which causes one to wonder about the human food chain.

  The chemical  melamine contaminated rice protein concentrate used to make a variety of Natural Balance Pet Foods products for both dogs and cats according to the FDA.

  The FDA says there is no evidence so far to suggest any of the rice protein went to companies that make human food, however the FDA has not accounted for all the imported ingredient.

   The chemical was found to contaminate wheat gluten used by at least six other pet food and treat  manufacturers over the past 5 four months.

  Both ingredients were imported from China, though by different companies and from different manufacturers. The FDA on Wednesday began reviewing and sampling all rice protein concentrate imported from China, much as the agency has been doing for wheat gluten.

  A lawmaker said Wednesday the Chinese have refused to grant visas to FDA inspectors seeking to visit the plants where the ingredients were made.

  The recalls now include products made by at least seven companies and sold under more than 100 brands. Natural Balance believes the source of the contaminant was rice protein concentrate, which the company recently added to the dry venison formulas.

  The ingredient was resold by the supplier to five pet food manufacturers, including Diamond Pet Foods Inc. of Meta, Mo. Diamond manufactured the dry dog and cat foods recalled by Natural Balance. The identities of the company's other four customers were not released, except to say two tested the ingredient and found no melamine. Wilbur-Ellis has not heard from the other two, both of whom received limited amounts of the ingredient. Be careful out there people. This is not over yet.

Ms B. J. Darnell, VMT, CKO

April 20, 2007 - Islamorada - L. E. Shaffer: Day's Inn has a famous ghost cat it seems. Smokey is that all too elusive trickster. As you can see, Smokey is not at his post. Rumor has it that he has learned the cat is out of the bag on his money scheme. Maybe I do not have my photo. However, I did run into Smokey’s employees, who informed me that he might still meet me. Only, if I can hook him up with a true beauty. Well, we might be in luck; I happen to know of Abraxas WhiteCat, here tail flickering dance is most hypnotic. I will have to bribe her with nummies, but I think Smokey is in for it. I hope that I’ll have his portrait next time. Photo is at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

April 20, 2007 - Islamorada - L. E. Shaffer: Mother's Day Spa Gift Basket for Montessori Island School projects. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

On my way in to the Islamorada Winn-Dixie to deliver the weekly paper, this little kid by the name of Ryan Fleming was doing his best to get my attention. On my way out, I saw him again. He and his mother, Bridget Fleming, informed me that he was having a mother’s day raffle. He also wanted me to buy a ticket. What am I to do? I gave him five dollars and got a ticket. The raffle is for a Spa gift basket. First prize is a $1,500 value basket with one dozen roses from Enchanted Florist, hair styling, manicure, pedicure, and a facial Ciao Bella. There are also ten yoga lessons, massage, and a t-shirt from Paradise Yoga. To top it all off, there is a $1,000 gift certificate from Stacie Krupa Gallery.

            Second prize consists of a sunset champagne sail from Casa Morada. The tickets are five dollars for one and five tickets for twenty dollars. The raffle will benefit educational class field trips from Montessori Island Charter School, a free public charter school. The drawing will be held Friday May 11. For tickets, you can call 852-3482. I would like to see everybody to get a ticket and support one of our local schools. If not for the school, then do it to help all the kids in their hard work. For more information on Montessori Charter School, you can look them up at http://www.montessoriisland.org/.

April 21, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Editorial on Today's Keynoter Letter to the Editor from Islamorada's George Long.

This morning, I grabbed the Keynoter for some pleasant reading. To my surprise, I encountered an article that offended me deeply. I shed a tear for the man who took time to write it. That is how much his letter affected me. I am not going to take any of my free time quoting this offensive letter to the editor.

I am going to tell you about someone living a life that, in my opinion, would make even Jesus smile. His story starts in a small farming town. His father all of his life dreamed of having twins. The answer to all his prayers gave him a beautiful pair of identical twins. After ten years in a happy home, there was a tragic accident where the mother, father, and sister of the twins died in a car accident.

A preacher in their religion adopted one boy. A foster family received the other twin. The interesting part about this story is both brothers turned out the same way. They both lived a life of drugs. And they suffered all the other of the sins that come with that life.

Today they are both accomplished members in a society that does not accept closed-minded idealism. As a recovering drug addict, I would like to inform Mr. Long that addiction is a disease of the worst kind. You cannot test for it nor can you cure it. There is only one way to have any reprieve from the symptoms of self. That is trust and love from a higher power.

I suggest that Mr. Long open his closed world, talk to a recovering addict, and learn that we do not need “sympathy.” God bless you, Mr. George Long.

April 24, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: The City Council met at the Government Center EOC. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

Citizens' comments: Hans Stiglitz said that his contractor was the problem with the slow permit. Bettye Chaplin thanked Mike Puto and everyone involved in the MHS class reunions. Fred Endemann questions wastewater once again on Area 6 treatment plant. Joanie Nelson implored the council not to displace anyone else, especially with the new wastewater treatment project coming soon. Frank Greenman explained the FDOT Enhancement Program that helps with US1 beautification projects through grants.

Proclamations and Awards:
1. Equal Pay Proclamation
2. National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Proclamation
3. Equal Opportunity Housing Month Proclamation

Board and Committee Appointments:
1. Land Acquisition Board (Cinque and Vasil were not ready to appoint.)
2. Parks and Recreation Committee (Vasil made a friend his appointment.)

City Manager Mike Puto's Report:
1. Wastewater EDU and rate special call meetings scheduled for June 5 EDUs and July 12 Rates. Community Services Director Susie Thomas and WEC Engineer Mike Hatfield reported the time for each meeting as 6 PM at the Sheriff’s Hangar. Area 4 RFP split the collection system and plant. The city rebid the plant, because the bidder didn’t have one of required addendums.
2. The council approved the sale of the surplus fire rescue office trailer.
3. Boot Key Bridge broke in the open position. Puto thanked Smorgasboat for ferrying services.
4. Puto reported the closings on Winn-Dixie property tomorrow and Orion property Monday.
5. The city worked on preparations for hurricane season starting June 1.
6. The judge dismissed all remaining claims on the Jolly Roger case.
7. The state house and senate are in conference over tax reforms.
8. The lobbyist also reported that some version of video franchising will pass at the state legislature.
9. Wastewater has funds but no project was identified yet.
10. Insurance reform is moving slowly.
11. Puto instituted a hiring freeze until the budget is fleshed out and council reinstates same.

Ordinance 2007-07 amended the Code by adding a requirement that property owners mow grassy right-of-way next to their properties. Josh Mothner has concerns about vacant properties and uncooperative owners. This might be more work than what is being done now. Councilman Don Vasil explained his attempt to save some money by asking residents to help. Councilman Mike Cinque stated that residents want value for their dollar. This ordinance does not do that. Vice Mayor Tempest has reservations about enforcement issues. Councilman Worthington doesn’t think this ordinance would be effective. Vasil moved adoption. No second, motion failed.

Ordinance 2007-09 amended the Code by modifying and creating certain sections dealing with impact fees and the fair share affordable housing impact fee. Fred Gross gave the staff report. The mayor called for public input. Josh Mothner favors. Bruce Schmitt opposes. Karen Wilkinson opposes. Morgan Hill opposes. Vasil moved to continue to May 8. Bull stated that if we don’t fix affordable housing, we will have no one left in service and professional areas. Passed 3-2, Cinque, Worthington no.

Ordinance 2007-06 amended The City Charter by changing the dates of the Mayor and Vice-Mayor annual election, office qualification, elections, and run-off election. Passed 4-1, Cinque no.

Ordinance 2007-08 adopted the amendments to Code by creating the mechanics to extend the temporary placement of RVs in all districts. This deals with emergency related problems.

Applicant previously requested a continuance from the April 10 meeting. Resolution 2007-44 approved the Key Colony Bay Development existing development agreement modification for the redevelopments of property located at 13351 Overseas Highway, Fat Deer Key. Cinque reported that the developer wants to continue this to investigate putting affordable housing on the ground. Continued to May 22nd.

Applicant previously requested a continuance from the April 10 meeting. Resolution 2007-45 approved the Key Colony Bay Development request for a major conditional use permit amendment that authorizes the redevelopment of Key Colony Bay Resort located at 13351 Overseas Highway, Fat Deer Key. Continued to May 22nd.

Consent item, Resolution 2007-52 authorized the city manager to enter into a second amendment to the Dewey Broberg, Jr. and Mary Lou Broberg Trust lease agreement for City Hall trailer space $573 monthly.

Consent item, Resolution 2007-53 authorized the city manager to renew the Oxford Business III, Corp., fourth lease agreement as successor-in-trust to the Dewey O. Broberg, Jr. and the Mary Lou Broberg Trust to extend the lease terms on units 1, 5, and 6, at the 100th Street Center, for $8,065.59 monthly.

Resolution 2007-58 approved an interlocal agreement between Monroe County and Marathon for reimbursement from the county for the floating docks installation for $10,000.

Resolution 2007-59 established a final ranking of proposals for real estate appraising services. The resolution authorized the city manager to negotiate a professional services contract with Appraisers of the Keys.

Resolution 2007-60 established a final ranking of proposals for building contractor services. The resolution authorized the city manager to negotiate a professional services contract.

Consent item, Resolution 2007-61 amended the ambulance-fee-schedule mileage charge.

Resolution 2007-62 endorsed the U.S. Mayor’s Climate Protection Agreement. GLEE representative Doug Unknown spoke in favor. FKEC representative Mr. T. J. Patterson spoke in favor.

Consent item, Resolution 2007-63 authorized the City Land Steward to submit a proposal for and administer a Florida Department of Environmental Protection $50,000 grant to remove invasive exotics from conservation lands in Crain’s and Sunset Bay Subdivisions on behalf of Marathon.

Resolution 2007-64 approved the market rate residential dwelling unit allocation for period 3, year 15, and affordable housing residential dwelling unit allocation for period 3, year 15 per code.

Resolution 2007-65 created the Landscaping Master Plan and appointing a Beautification Advisory Board. 7 members consisting of 1 chamber rep, 1 FDOT, 1 FDEP, 1 Garden Club, 1 landscaping, and 2 at large.

Consent item, council approved the 3.27.07 meeting minutes.

Council discussed a proposal requiring warning signs to pregnant women regarding dangers of drinking alcohol. Council directed staff to do a resolution to exempt the city.

Informational Items (No Action Required):
A. RFQ Real Estate Appraising Services
B. RFQ Building Contractor Services
C. RFP Debris Management and Removal Services
D. RFP Monitoring of Disaster Generated Debris Management and Technical Assistance

Citizens' comments: None.
Council comments: Vasil encouraged people show up at spending workshop Thursday. Tempest asked residents to contact their state representatives. Vice Mayor, Mayor, and Rosasco went to Washington DC. Get some money, not all wanted. Little Venice road improvement after the entire sewage destruction-construction request made an impression. Worthington reported on near shore waters issues, funding and other requirements.
Adjournment: 9:39 PM.

April 26, 2007 - Georgia - B. J. Darnell: from Animal Notes The Pet Recall Update:  Congress' investigative arm stated yesterday that the federal government should have the authority to order companies to carry out food recalls. Congress is outraged over the FDA's lapse of food-safety during the past year's E. coli and salmonella outbreaks that resulted in deaths and caused thousands of illnesses.

    The two primary agencies responsible for the safety of the food supply, the USDA. In addition, the FDA, can issue the calls for food recalls but they are only voluntary by law.

   At the time of their review Lisa Shames, acting director of Natural Resources and Environment at the Government Accountability Office, noted these agencies did not know how promptly and completely companies were carrying out recalls, did not promptly verify that recalls had reached all segments of the distribution chain, and used procedures that may not have been effective to alert consumers to the recall.

    The FDA said yesterday that thousands of U.S. hogs might be affected when the agency's investigation confirmed livestock feed contamination with melamine.

Geez that sounds very familiar doesn’t it.

    Ms. Shames in her testimony yesterday before the subcommittee reiterated a call by the GAO for legislation granting the USDA and the FDA similar recall authority to that of other government agencies. The Consumer Product Safety Commission, for example, can fine a company almost $2 million if it does not inform the commission immediately about an unsafe product.

    In September, three women died and more than 200 people became ill after eating spinach contaminated with E. coli.  In February, Peter Pan peanut butter, made by ConAgra Foods Inc., was found to contain salmonella.

    At about the same time, the massive pet-food recall took place after pets began to die from wheat gluten imported from China that contained melamine. Now the nation's hogs are at risk. Livestock feed that may have been contaminated with melamine was sent to hog farms in North Carolina, South Carolina, California, New York, Utah and possibly Ohio. Seems some pet food companies were selling pulled pet food to the hog food manufacturers. What they won’t do to recover part of their losses.

   Representatives of the food companies apologized to Congress yesterday and assured the House Energy and Commerce Health subcommittee it would not happen again. But lawmakers are angry federal agencies were not able to prevent the outbreaks.

   In the case of Peter Pan, salmonella was found in the peanut butter in 2004, but the company did not report it to the FDA, despite an agency’s request for information. ConAgra has 100 manufacturing facilities in 30 states and produces other popular brands such as Chef Boyardee and Healthy Choice.

    The Chairman said he will hold another hearing next month and intends to call on FDA officials to testify. The GAO has added the federal oversight of food safety to its list of high-risk programs needing "urgent attention and transformation."

     PetSmart like many retail chains quickly pulled several varieties of wet dog and cat foods made by Menu Foods. However, while the recall left empty spaces on the shelves of PetSmart's 908 outlets, the stores still carry cans and pouches of food made by the same company.

  "We are continuing to receive some products not affected by the recall from Menu Foods.” "They're a significant supplier for everybody who does wet pet food. Unfortunately, for consumers, there were only three or four retailers named. But virtually any major retailer that sells pet food relies on Menu Foods, according to a company official."

  PetSmart is not alone in buying from Menu Foods, whose plants in Canada and the United States are still operating while investigators try to determine what went wrong with the recalled products.

  Menu Foods executives said this week that the company was still shipping products to Procter & Gamble, which has contracts with Menu to produce some Iams and Eukanuba wet foods. Procter & Gamble failed to respond to requests for comment.

Most of Menu Foods customers do not have long-term supply contracts tying them to the company, but it seems they have nowhere else to take their business.

 Menu's name was not known because it doesn’t produce a house brand. In the past few years, it has dominated the business of producing wet pet food for other companies.

 Moreover, it is has become a widely used contract producer for brand-name companies such as Procter & Gamble.

  Many major producers of wet pet food, like Nestlé-Purina, avoid contract work for other companies. Del Monte on the other hand is fully booked by Wal-Mart. There are other companies in the industry, including American Nutrition, but they lack the production capacity to replace Menu Foods.

  The recall affects only wet dog and cat foods that are chopped up and mixed with a sauce, known in the industry as "cuts and gravy." It is not possible to determine how many retailers and manufacturers continue to buy other types of wet food from Menu.

  In a statement, the executives of Menu Foods are currently extremely focused on the pet food recall right now. They are working diligently testing finished products to determine where the problem lies.

A spokeswoman for Wal-Mart, said its stores had removed all Menu products. She added that Menu had produced only selected sizes of house-brand products for Wal-Mart. Citing company policy, she declined to say whether Wal-Mart would continue to use Menu as a supplier.

  Several other Menu customers, including Safeway, Kroger, and Pet Valu, have not responded to requests for interviews or statements.

  Menu Foods expects the recall will cost as much as $35 million. Donald Green founded in Menu Foods 1971 when it bought a pet-food plant in Toronto from Quaker Oats.

  In 2001, Doane Pet Care, a major contract producer of dry foods in the United States, was acquired. In 2003, the company acquired a Procter & Gamble plant in South Dakota.

Today, Menu Foods remains the largest wet pet-food manufacturer in North America. More as it becomes available.

Ms B. J. Darnell, VMT, CKO

April 27, 2007 - Islamorada - L. E. Shaffer: Village Gourmet and their famous host Bucko provides a welcoming atmosphere in this homey restaurant, bakery, deli, and pizzeria. They even have a kitchen sink too. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

The Village Gourmet of Islamorada was established in 1994 and re-vitalized in 2004. The business is family owned. They take pride in the most authentic preparations of classic and contemporary cuisine. Their brochure has the menu along with hours of operation. They are open Monday through Saturday 5:30 AM to 10 PM. On Sundays they are open from 5:30 AM to 2 PM.

They are located at 82751 Overseas Highway near mile-marker 82.7 oceanside in the great city of Islamorada, the Florida Keys, of course. Their phone number is 305-664-4030 and fax is 305-664-0777.

Their host is only a year and a half old and goes by the name of Bucko. He has that Keys laid back attitude, but loves to welcome everyone. If you throw his ball, he will chase it, if he feels like it.

Tommy had the Philly Cheese Steak. I decided on the lasagna and a salad. The salad was fresh and delicious. The lasagna was excellent and hot. Some of their gourmet sandwiches go by names like Tavernier, Plantation, Windley, Matecumbe, and even an Islamorada.

For dessert, I had the big, fat brownie. I enjoyed dessert. It was big, fat, and a brownie. What more could you ask for?

April 28, 2007 - Georgia - B. J. Darnell, VMT, CKO: “ Roxanne…the littlest therapist” Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. I believe the Fort Oglethorpe Nursing Center has been given a heaven-sent gift in the form of a 10# mixed terrier. She has fast become a devoted bundle of love for the residents and visitors of the nursing home.

This pup just showed up on the front lawn this past summer and has been frolicking, dancing and allowing her small body to be hugged and petted while entertaining those who are ambulatory with her antics. She has learned to walk beside the wheelchairs and to stay out of the way of walkers.

Roxanne is now sporting a new collar and tags. She was taken to visit the veterinarian and received a complete physical and was declared healthy and fit. A collection was taken up by the nursing staff to pay for her visit. On the bulletin board inside has appeared a notice welcoming Roxanne as the newest resident of F.O.N.C., complete with photo placed there by the head of administration. Her prime caretaker is James Hunter who is currently working with her on some obedience training from his wheelchair. James is a stroke patient who has been recovering at the nursing home. She has restored in him a sense of purpose, and something for which to be responsible.

There are daily questions to be answered about how Roxanne is doing from patients, staff, and visitors. She has acquired a doghouse and a bed and several new toys in the past few days. Gifts from her many admirers. Evenings finds James and Roxanne touring the halls looking in to see that everyone is settled in and waiting for that goodnight hug or kiss. Roxanne knows which friends are waiting and whether she can just sit and visit or be invited up on the bed.

Roxanne will be spending a few days with one of her nursing buddies next month as she is scheduled for surgery. Can’t have her producing puppies when we have been working on teaching pet owners to be responsible for their pets. Statistics abound in the medical field and in universal studies on the importance of animals in hospital type settings for both children and adults. This is a wonderful comment on the therapeutic value of our four-footed friends. Animals like Roxanne are rays of sunshine in an otherwise dreary day for many senior citizens who are alone in skilled care facilities.

Animals have long been recognized as being a positive force in the healing process. Dogs have a calming and therapeutic effect. They help people cope with the emotional issues related to their illness. They also offer physical contact with another living creature, something that is often missing in an elder’s life. They always invoke pleasant memories of past pets. Best of all, they divert a person’s attention from the pressing problems of the day. For long-term elders, it is not so much the stress of daily problems, but the boredom, loneliness, and lack of control. Everyone benefits from the mere presence of these canine health care providers – the residents, visitors and staff.

Dogs are an antidote to depression – and an easy pill to take. Life in a long-term care facility can be lonely and boring and quite frustrating. When you consider the numbers of citizens in the overall population who are facing retirement, senior living centers and assisted living, having a cuddly a fuzzy cold nosed friend around is just the ticket to daily peace of mind. It can change outlooks on life and sometimes simply fill hearts and touches senses long thought gone.

Many places have weekly or monthly pet visitors. A long series of pups, dogs, cats and kittens even a few rabbits have graced the doors of F.O.N.C. as part of an ongoing pet therapy program in the community. But F.O.N.C. is the only nursing facility I know of to have a resident four-footed therapist on staff. Roxanne was an honored guest on my local cable TV show and was a very good girl and most photogenic. Six people called and wanted to know if she was up for adoption. Shortly thereafter, a phone call came from the nursing home to reiterate to everyone just where she currently resides. The TV in the general room as well as many in the nursing facility were tuned in to UCTV that night to see their beloved Roxanne.

Need to know more on the subject? Here is a list of current articles/books.

• Voelker,R (1995).
“Puppy love can be therapeutic, too.” The Journal of the American
Medical Association, 274 (24), 1897-1900

• Draper, R.J., Gerber, G.J., & Layng, E.M. (1990)
“Defining the role of animals in psychotherapy.”
Psychotherapy Journal Of the University of Ottawa. 15 (3) 169-172

• Therapy Dogs Today: Their Gifts, Our Obligation. By Kris Butler

• The Healing Power of Pets: Harnessing the Ability of Pets to Make and Keep People Happy and Healthy by Marty Becker.

• Handbook on Animal Assisted Therapy: Theoretical Foundations and Guidelines for Practice by Aubrey H. Fine.

• Pet Assisted Therapy: A Loving Intervention and Emerging Profession – Leading to a Friendlier, Healthier, and More Peaceful World by Pearl Salotto.

• Creature Comfort: Animals That Heal by Bernie Graham.

• Therapy Pets: The Animal-Human Healing Partnership by Jacqueline J. Crawford, Karen A. Pomerinke & Donald W. Smith.

Ms B. J. Darnell, VMT, CKO

What's Happening! Summer is so close now. The weather is hotter, and that is the way we like it. The water temps are creeping up. Snorkeling is so much fun, even without a boat now. My son and I went to Veteran's Beach at the western end of Seven Mile Bridge to test out our snorkeling gear. That was really nice. Living in paradise in the fabulous Florida Keys is still the best. I loving living here, and all the characters that live here too.

Miscellany: One of our Microsoft Natural Keyboards starting typing gibberish instead of the right stuff. Like the "a" would type "b'2". Microsoft was really good about the whole problem and sent a new keyboard via FedEx. FedEx promptly slapped a label on it and delivered it to Curry Hammock State Park. They were expecting something more important than a keyboard. They called me. I picked up my keyboard. Last I heard, FedEx has yet to deliver the right stuff to Curry Hammock State Park.

Finally: Did you know that New Hampshire's state bird is the Purple Finch? The flower is the Purple Lilac. The tree is the White Birch. The capital is Concord. Statehood was granted June 21, 1788. Yellow, yellow let it mellow; brown, brown flush it down. Good words to save water. Shower with friends. That can be fun. Use bathwater to keep plants green. Dance with some local natives to entice rain to fall from the skies. Rain, where art thou?

Kitty Talk
These journals are dedicated to Kitty GreyCat's spirit. She is at RainBow Bridge now along with her human friends, Leo and Doris. We all loved you, Kitty! Click the cat graphic to visit her Memorial page. Kitty born June 6, 1982. Died July 9, 1997. Please use our email form linked below to make suggestions or offer praise. Now, really, the cats have thoughts and meows that are badly interpreted by a human for publication here. So believe what you will, but enjoy nonetheless. All complaints, flames, & the like will end up in the litter box! >^..^<

Ebony: This is the blackest most beautiful cat there ever way. I can hunt, chase, and eat anything twice my size. I even can ride in the car with my human bean and meow at him at all the wonderful things I am seeing. That car is hot before we start though, meow. >^..^<
Abby: I think I is going to projectile vomit. Ebony is so full of herself. She is right about one thing though. It has been hot. I like it hot, as long as I can get back into the cold inside. That human bean like it cold, that is for sure. Outside is hot and sunny that bring out creatures that are wonderful and strange. I caught a grasshopper that tasted nasty, but it was fun to play with. It jumped. I jumped higher. It jumped long and far. I jumped higher, farther, and longer. I totally amazed my human bean. That Ebony embarrassed too cause I can jump longer, faster, and higher than her. >^..^<
Ebony: I not embarrassed by anything you do, that is for sure. I always share my catches with you so you can play with it and tenderize it. You not even invite me to play with that grasshopper. It fly away, and you found the limits of your lead, that you did already alight then. >^..^<
Abby: Catching birds is your lucky thing to do. You got arthritis in your spine and hips. You can't jump must anymore. I feel sorry for you, but I prefer to eat your nummies cause you are slowing down, old grandma cat. I have human beans who feed me every time I meow. >^..^<
Ebony: Those human beans only feed you yummy nummies cause they can't stand all that begging, whining, and meowing. I do like it when you get them human beans to feed us extra nummies though. >^..^<
Abby: Human beans are ever so gracious with their affections and such. Why there be one human bean who pinch my ears and make me all pinky all over. I like him. He makes me purr and be ever so happy. >^..^<
Ebony: Abby, you are way too touchy feely. Human beans are afraid to pet me cause I snap, growl, and even bite them sometimes. Once in a while I let them lavish their attentions and love upon my royal personage. >^..^<
Abby: Ebony, I think the sun done shrunk your feeble brain. I heard that live is over for a kitty over 11. You are a great grandma kitty now. You need to sleep and stay out of my fur, uhh, I mean stay out of trouble. >^..^<
Ebony: I like to meow to you that you are only 4 human bean years behind me. You not a kitten anymore. Why I seed your belly hanging lower every day. >^..^<
Abby: Your sagging belly collect gigantic dust bunnies. And, for once, I like to get on the human bean newspapers before you do. You crinkle them and get loving attention from human beans for being cute. And cute you is not, and that is for sure. >^..^<
Ebony: I'll meow for sure to you. You are not grateful at all for all the trouble I put up with you being around and disturbing my life. >^..^<
Abby: Ebony, human bean ought to shave you bald. Meow, already. I am calmer now. I tell all you human beans out there that we have a lot of important things to meow, but, once again, we got to wait until next month! >^..^<

1. Subscribe to our calendar, go to webcals://calendars.office.microsoft.com/pubcalstorage/tn7rzq5z82741/L._E._Shaffer_Calendar.ics.

2. http://www.papajohns.com is the pizza place for sure. Yum.

3. http://www.orbitz.com is a fine place for airline tickets on the cheap.

4. https://adcenter.microsoft.com/?mkt=en-us is where we do our online advertising campaigns.

5. http://clickbank.com is our online credit, debit, checking, PayPal, and other financial provider.

Poetry Corner
"That Long Ago"
May 1, 2007

Raining hard
During the night
Shadowing the moon
Like music soon

That is gone
That melancholy
Forever come
And gone

Like pearl tears
Stirring a volcano
Of dust once
Down they go

Upon the furrow
Ground cracked
And dry, a grey
Death like

Crazy geometric
Chunks came
That life
So long ago

When the rain
Did fall not
Even gently
Loveless and

Lonely the
Arms outstretched
Into the distance
That long ago

© 2007 L. E. Shaffer

Hockey Puck
NHL: Florida Panthers have to wait until next season to once again try to break into the playoffs. The Stanley Cup playoffs are very entertaining. I can't wait for the thrill, when the final winners skate the cup.

PGA: Tiger Woods finished second in the Augusta, Georgia Masters. He was two strokes behind.

NASCAR NEXTEL: At Texas Motor Speedway Dale Jr. crashed out and finished 36^th to end up 18^th in points. Jeff finished 4^th and is now 1^st in points. The Phoenix Arizona NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race saw Jeff Gordon win his first race there. Dale Jr. finished 19^th. Jeff is first in points, and Dale Jr. 15^th. Talladega saw Jeff win and stay number one in points. Dale Jr. finished 5^th and ended up 12^th in points.

NBA: The Miami Heat defeated the Cleveland Cavs to clinch a playoff spot and move closer to the number three seed. The Miami Heat outlasted the Boston Celtics to stay in first place in their division. The Miami Heat clinched their third divisional title in a row by outlasting the Washington Wizards. Late in the season, the Heat overtook the Wizards in the standings after having been seven games down to them. The Miami Heat beat the Indiana Pacers and are getting hot just before the playoffs. They clinched their division. They are the fourth seed so far. Well, now, the playoffs did start and our Miami Heat did falter. They didn't win one game against an improved Chicago Bulls club. O, well, there is always next year, I suppose.

NFL: Indy Colts are still the chumps, oops, champs, but football will be gearing up again soon.

MLB: Florida Marlins started strong, stumbled, and now have come back at 13-13.

WTA: Williams sisters are dominating again. Life is sweet.

Book Three Twins of the Dark Star
Book One Tears from Ao, Book Two The Mountains of Ao and four poetry collections, Pages of Life, Visions of Life, Moments of Life, and The Book of Kalian Mysticism are available at http://RunesofAo.com/aobp/. The Runes of Ao project is ongoing. Book Three Twins of the Dark Star novel is in the outlining phase and will most likely take a while as the complexity of the Ao series increases. Falling Star poetry collection is a work in progress. A collaboration with K. Young on a novella called Dragon Embers is now published on the fan site known as Runes of Ao.com. Other dragon artwork is available as well. Finally, in collaboration with K. Young and Linda Hall, a group novel project is in progress and currently titled Starsongs. We currently are at an impasse.

The Dull Stuff
All opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of this magazine, company, or its advertisers. Inputs, email, suggestions, and letters to this journal are subject to approval by the Journal Editor. Submittals may be edited for content and length and become the creative property for the one-time nonexclusive publication of:

Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company
Shaffer Internet Publishing Company
Merchant Occupational License #48210-0076151
PO Box 501833
Marathon FL 33050-1833
(305) 743-9648 BUSINESS
(305) 289-4180 HOME (305) 289-4167 FAX

Internet URLs: 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: April 28, 2007
Author: L. E. Shaffer
Company: Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company &
Shaffer Internet Publishing Company
© 1995 - 2011, 2012 L. E. SHAFFER
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED WORLDWIDE
PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
FIRST PRINTING; ELECTRONIC & PRINT MEDIA

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