work sheet2

To the person wondering why duration of time spent on Big Pine comes up when a person trashes somebody. Time here IS an issue if you have lived here a long time. There used to be a happy time here when people didn't spend hours trying to figure how to tear somebody up. People moved here because they wanted to get away from the 'real world'. People moved here because the Keys have always been representative of a kind of people that live and let live. People who didn't judge others by the kind of car somebody drove. Money didn't matter, heart did. And then the bad thing happened.

'Others' found out about our wonderful place and decided to move here and change things. The result is as you see here in this column. The new attitude here has made those of us who have lived here for a while look at each other in a different way. Now somebody who was at one time only an acquaintance is now a long time friend. We all long for the time when there were a handful of year-round residents. When we used to save up our money in February and March to pay our rents in September and October. When we used to dive for our supper because we HAD to because we were all in the service industry and we had some very lean months. When I used to roller skate down US 1 in the summertime because there was absolutely no traffic then.

Instead of trashing each other, we helped each other. Yes, there were stories that went around. Mostly unfounded and nothing brutal. In retrospect, even those were fun. We used to say that if you had a boarding evening the night before, just wait a day and the Big Pine rumor mill would re-create an exciting evening for you. Now think about what the virtually extinct natural conch thinks about the changes here. Many of you drive by the few remaining homes belonging to these rare wonderful people and comment how they should be torn down or replaced. They have been here for generations, living through this mosquito ruled place long before any of us were here taking away their homes. YES, time here is an issue here.

Thank you to all that participated in the Toys for Tots Bike run. What a delightful day it was for a bike ride. Let's all quit our fussing and concentrate on the good things people do.

What day will the Christmas parade on Big Pine be this year? Does anyone know yet?

Boat ramps. Yes. Why should the tax payers of the fabulous Fl. Keys who do not have an open canal, and have to trailer there boats to these ramps at Spanish Harbor, S.R. 4, etc.(?) In the past 4-5 years we have complained about this. The county did put a few sand bags in Spanish Harbor ramp, though not enough. SR4 is really bad. Why should we pay to ramp our boats in and out? That's what the tourists are here for. Just call and complain enough they'll fix it just like I did a few years back. Remember the squeaky wheel gets the oil. Call, Call, Call, they'll fix it. Grass not being cut call Public Works they'll come too. Quit whining and start calling.

Bahia Honda State Park has the best boat ramp anywhere. If you get an annual recreation pass, (something every resident should have because the park is such a great place), the ramp fee is nothing as well as the entrance fee. It's all included in the pass fee. Even when it's windy, using the ramp is a breeze because of the protection of the basin. give it a try.

Confucius say: Two wrongs not make right, three lefts do.

To the person that wrote about the Packers truck on the 22nd. Get a little information before you go trashing something. That truck belonged to a long term resident that died a few years ago. His name was Jerrin Linderman and he was a good hearted man. The truck stays there in memory of him. Those that loved Jerrin didn't trash the truck. One of you lowlifes who didn't know him did that. I don't see the broken window when I pass his truck. I see Jerrin and remember him with fine memories. He lives as long as we remember him as does everybody who passes on. Jerrin was in his very early 40's when he passed. He had a teenage daughter and a very young son. Jerrin had a lot of friends here. He was an asset to our community. All of us that knew him were blessed by him.

Hello my fellow Piners. I just wanted to say thanks for your support and here is a work in progress of the Christmas Truck.

Hey, Mike! Congratulations. You have joined the long list of fine Big Pine people who have been chosen by the sad-ones to be trashed. The list is long and most of the people on the list make Big Pine what it is. I believe eventually, everybody good here will be trashed by somebody who should go back to where they came from. I had my turn a few weeks ago. Who else here remembers the Big Pine rumor mill of old days? The things that went around that were mostly lies but were funny and amusing. Nothing hurting. Nothing painful. What has happened to the people here that are making this fun column into a foul spirited trash talking waste of time?

Here's another cat that loves his cosmic kitty catnip. he lives in homestead, his name is Dewey. He sure looks loaded.

Please allow me to whine. I arise at 4:30 AM every day. Even on my days off. I don't like coffee so the gossip column is my booster for the day. I have DT's if daily posts aren't ready by oh, let's say 10Am. So Mr. Editor could you please rearrange your life so as not to inconvenience mine? Just kidding. I seriously would like to donate a new flag. Perhaps as a holiday gift to all of us. I know there is a mystery as to who you are, etc. Do you have a P.O. Box where I might mail a gift? Would you prefer a monetary gift? Please don't even print this unless you want to. I am fulfilling a lifelong dream to be in print. Should have done like Mama said and joined the Navy. On second thought what do you need worse than money or a flag?
(Ed: Ok, I just changed my life. What do we need? Advertisers and a flag; or some other thing to hang from the pole on the webcam. Send any lavish gifts to: Bigpinekey.com, PO Bx 431755, Big Time Key, Fl., 33043-1755. Merry Christmas. P.S. How does one live without morning coffee?)

Re: The last post of Sunday or was it the first? The one with the sunset picture. I wholeheartedly agree. No more bitchin' from me. "Come together right now".

To: The law is the law. I don't agree with you, but you forgot something. How about the removal of "In God We Trust " on every single piece of paper money the government prints? Personally I would be totally dismayed if that phrase was to be removed, but just thought I'd let you know that you forgot about that.

Restaurant Review: With all the restaurant reviews going on here lately I feel it is necessary to praise what I think is the best thing to hit The Lower Keys: Square Grouper. I have been there over a dozen times. Each time the food is great, service is the best. They have nightly specials that are out of this world. The prices are fair. It is a true class act and deserves to be recognized. I hope the owners read this and give their staff the praise they deserve. THANK YOU to all who work there. I will be back many times.

I keep hearing about all the guys cheating on their wife or girlfriend. Why? I am a single guy who finds it very tough to be single in The Keys and wonder why anyone would need to cheat once you have a good thing. If it is not good then have the balls to end it. You guys give the local women here such a bad impression about all men that it is tough for us single guys to get a date. You say you cheat because sex feels good. You're right, sex does feel good, very good; and if you have someone to have sex with everyday, why cheat? Well, now that I have gotten that off my mind. Any Single women here in the area that agree about these a** holes cheating and want to get together for a drink and see if sex outside of cheating feels good too? Who knows? Maybe we will end up not being single after we meet. There are still some good single guys like me around. Ha, ha cheaters, single guys are available too.

Today, Sunday is the first day of Advent. What is Advent? p.s. Now it's the 2nd day of Advent.

Thanks for the info Re: Full screen view of webcam. It works. Idiots should not own computers.

Confucius say: War not determine who is right, determine who is left.

Mike, put more lights then ever on your truck. I'm sorry Ebenezer Scrooge lives here amongst us. Looking forward to seeing you in the Christmas parade.

Mayhap the Chihuahua punter and the truck basher be the same?

Request from a non-resident: More pictures of Mike's truck when he gets it tricked out for the season. And more pictures of his work for any special occasion he's done, like the flags that were mentioned.

I think Mike and his truck have been unofficially made members of the Loosely Associated Non-Conforming Eccentrics of BigPineKey.com, even without a nickname.

Bashing Mike is about as low as a lowlife mainlander can get. I personally don't see the difference between Mike's truck and all the hummer's running around the island, except the price. Lets see who arrives when you lock your keys in the car, (a lot of us can't afford OnStar). Let's see who's on the scene if you get in an accident. I'll bet you that Mike would be first to drop a buck in a charity pot faster than most of you pusillanimous freaks, that have just moved here, with all your money.

How come whenever people disagree with someone else on this site the offendee accuses the offender of not living here long enough? My guess is that they figure an uptight attitude can't survive lengthy exposure to the Keys.

The reason people who have lived here for any length of time think an attitude that promotes pettiness is a northern trait is because we can see the change in people's attitudes over the years. The longer you're here the more you see. Open your eye's for you are but infants in an older society.

To the woman with the natural 40D breasts. When you reach over 25 and they fall, or when you have children and nurse them (which is why we have breasts in the first place), and they find a new position. When they no longer look as they did when you were 18 and they were perky, tell me you feel the same way about augmentation. People have and should always have the right to do with their own bodies as they desire. Nobody gets hurt if the doctor is a good one and the person wanting the surgery is properly screened. Unless my breasts come in contact with you (which they won't), they are none of your business. Do not judge me or anybody that has some kind of cosmetic surgery unless you are in their shoes and understand everybody's individual reason.

Brother James, AKA Jim or Jimmy or what the hell else you're friends call you. You'll always be the James that used to bend my arm backwards until it almost broke. That explains the rotator cuff injury I now endure. Welcome to the fabulous Fl. Keys. Your timing is uncanny. God bless the prodigal Brother.

We live in Big Pine because it is the most beautiful place in America from what we've seen.

I have decided to stop bitching because I live in Paradise. We are not here for the two

radio stations, the people with their funny nicknames, the odd couples who cheat, the yard dogs,

the "deplorable" realtors or the bars, the druggies and the drunks. Like the mantra seems to be: Live & Let Live. We officially disconnect from all of the above pettiness and love living in Paradise.

Re: Christmas truck. Phone number is 872-1563. As to the comment about the Deliverance truck I'll just keep my mouth shut and let my fellow Big Piners handle you.

It never stops here on BigPineKey.com. Now we have a "Big Pine Elite" trashing Mikes truck. You should never disrespect a man's vehicle, that's grounds for a stomping in my book. You know you must feel really good about yourself in your "Rich" car, guess what? Not all of us are so fortunate. You are extremely low to think your sh*t doesn't stink, buddy, it does. Mikes truck is part of Big Pine History to me. It'd be sad to see it go. Speaking of it going: When it does kick the bucket it goes to B & B not Cudjoe Landfill. Mike, I know this isn't getting to you one bit. I cannot wait to see what you do this year to the truck. I saw you tonight over at the Santa thing already getting started. You have my support.

We love the Christmas truck. Mike is a local home town boy all grown up. After 9/11 he out did that truck in American flags, we support him and all his support for our American soldiers

That truck is our local wrecker service and by the way he is a local fire dept. guy, so I really hope you are not laughing at his truck when he pulls in your yard to help put your fire out. Think before you ever make your comments. Big Pine loves mikes Christmas truck.

Mikes Christmas truck, Sure its a huge truck for the Keys, sure the tires are huge, and so is the fellow that drives that oversized Chevy. To the person that thinks the truck needs to be in the dump, I feel sorry for you. The Christmas truck has been in the fire truck parades around the keys for many years. You ever wonder why? Maybe, just maybe, it's his way of sharing the holidays with all of us, not for money or advertising. To bad to sad, you can't see the spirit of the season with that lighted orange truck. Even tonight, he is at Santa's gathering on Big Pine, not completely lighted, but a good start.

This is in reply to the person bashing the orange truck. 1) Get a life. 2) That truck most likely has been here longer than you have. 3) I would imagine you and most of the people you know who laugh at the truck and wonder about the character of the owner (who, by the way, invests time and money to decorate it for Christmas every year) have way to much time on your hands and a false sense of superiority to boot; and probably wouldn't be a very fun bunch to hang out with.

To the person complaining about Mike's truck - You should be absolutely ashamed of your self. Mike is a hard working, dedicated man. He is also a volunteer for the fire department which he has used that truck to help numerous people. I bet if your car went into the ocean you wouldn't care what color or what size tires the truck had that pulled it out. So in other words, when something happens to you in your car I am sure that we will laugh at you, and crack jokes as he pass you by, which you thoroughly deserve. I feel safer knowing that truck and it's owner are on the road. As for being socially acceptable, screw you. That is why a lot a people live here. It doesn't matter if you drive a Pinto or a Massarati you are accepted here. He decorates it every year out of the goodness in his heart and it is one of the things my children and I look forward to. So Mike, don't let idiots like this bring you down. I know you as a trustworthy, dependable father who brings smiles to children's faces with your truck. Merry Christmas to you and your family.

I just read the Email about J. C. Massey. If he is that great, I think we should honor him. To the person that posted the info about him, we could have a J. C. Massey Day on Big Pine. We could have a parade on Key Deer Blvd. or a cook out or something in his honor. If you would start something, let us know, I would be willing to work or participate in any way.

Confucius Say: When man he bring wife flowers for no reason, there usually reason.

Is there a local place, Marathon to Key West that can take treasured old photos and put them on a photo CD without damage to the photographs. We do not have negatives.
(Tech help: scan the photos> save them in the My Pictures folder>burn the folder to CD. Or bring them to CoconetKey Internet Cafe and Joss will do it for you.)

Mystery: Could someone tell me why people stand in lines and get stampeded to go shopping the day after Thanksgiving? Surely the same merchandise was available the day before Thanksgiving.

RE: feces. I have a neighbor who encourages me to let my dogs go in his yard and my dogs are trained to go under a tree or bush so it won't get stepped in. Free fertilizer he says.

Far as I'm concerned, once the turkey's off the table you can turn on the Christmas lights and crank up the music. A month of "Christmas season" is just fine.

I was joking around with my friends about making a turkey omelet. Woke this morning and gave it try. It wasn't bad but I don't think I will do it again!

To the author of "The Law is The Law" - (It should not discriminate) - We share your sentiments as well. We received a letter from our son in Canada who writes he is taking JUDO. Why would a boy who was raised in a good Christian home turn against his own?

The Law is the Law
(It should not discriminate.)

So if the US government determines that it is against the law for the words 'under God' to be on our money, then, so be it. And if that same government decides that the 'Ten Commandments' are not to be used in or on a government installation, then, so be it. And since they already have prohibited any prayer in the schools, on which they deem their authority, then so be it.

I say, "so be it," because I would like to be a law abiding US citizen. I say, "so be it," because I would like to think that smarter people than I are in positions to make good decisions. I would like to think that those people have the American Public's best interests at heart. But, do you know what else I'd like? Since we can't pray to God, can't trust in God and cannot post His Commandments in Government buildings, I don't believe the Government and it's employees should participate in the Easter and Christmas celebrations which honor the God that our government is eliminating from many facets of American life.

I'd like my mail delivered on Christmas, Good Friday, Thanksgiving & Easter. After all, it's just another day. I'd like the US Supreme Court to be in session on Christmas, Good Friday, Thanksgiving & Easter as well as Sundays. After all, it's just another day. I'd like the Senate and the House of Representatives to not have to worry about getting home for the "Christmas Break." After all, it's just another day.

I'm thinking that a lot of my taxpayer dollars could be saved if all government offices & services would work on Christmas, Good Friday & Easter. It shouldn't cost any overtime since those would be just like any other day of the week to a government that is trying to be 'politically correct'.

In fact I think that our government should work on Sundays (initially set aside for worshipping God) because, after all, our government says that it should be just another day.

To all the people who complain about our little town. I'll bet that half of you haven't been to the places that you are complaining about. You listen to your friends who had a bad time, where ever there were. No matter what your choice of music, food, or bartenders and waitress are, if you are a happy person and want to be a happy person, all the bulls**t that you complain about is minute. No one has the right to say that someone is better than the other. If you choose to have a good time you will. If you choose to have a bad time you will. Let go of all your negativity and you will have an awesome time. Because no matter what you believe, we were all born the same and everyone is equal. So get off your high horse and stop judging people, because someday, someone might judge you.

I just wanted to say that I am a local girl, business girl, that works everyday, all day long. I finally went out this holiday weekend and totally enjoyed myself. I went from Boondocks (Bo Foder and the Hitchhikers) to the Tiki (I don't know name of band) bunch of local guys and they were awesome. Then a bunch of us went to House of Music and they were awesome too. We have a lot of dyn-o-mite musicians locally, right here in our town. I just wanted to say to everyone of the entertainers that you guys are truly appreciated here on Big Pine Key. It was really hard to pick what place I wanted to be. Boondocks, Ramrod Tiki Bar, and House of Music. You guys inspire a lot of us, who work so so hard, that it is a true pleasure to enjoy all of your music at all 3 places. Don't compare one to the other cause each one of them have there own karma and style. It's nice to be able to choose where you want to go. Isn't that what life is all about? Being able to choose what you do and where you go in life? Big Pine/Ramrod Key rocks. If you don't like it here, go somewhere else and try to find what you looking for. Watch what you wish for, cause it might just be right in front of you and you never know it. Kick back and enjoy the ride. Life is too short to judge anyone. Look in the mirror and if you see a perfect person, run as fast as you can, cause no one is perfect. You just might think you are. Smile and be happy and every thing else will come to you.

This sight is censored!

Confucius Say: No husband ever been shot while he do dishes.

I do not know the woman in question, but I'd like to know where there is a 'local very upscale restaurant' anywhere within 30 miles.

A Big Pine Key rock road. I thank the Key Deer everyday for preventing development here.

To Mike with the Christmas truck. We have a 5500 Generac XL you may borrow. It was tuned up this year for hurricane season and really needs to be used. You can use it to make all the kids happy. Then we'll get it back and hopefully by next year we'll donate it as we hope to get a 'whole house' generator by next Christmas. Please post a phone # here and we'll make arrangements for you to pick it up.

Mike the Gumby Babyboy. I've seen your garish orange truck with the tires so huge they would probably float the thing on water, and I've wondered what kind of person would be forced to drive such a ridiculous aberration of a vehicle. Reading your item on this website surprised the heck out me because you actually seem proud of this vehicle. I know this sounds mean, but for your own good, I need to tell you that your truck is the butt of jokes among most of the people I know who have seen it, and I have seen people laugh at it when you drive by. For your own self esteem (and the further beautification of the keys), please drive that thing over to the Cudjoe landfill and have a friend drive you up to the mainland where you can get a good deal on a socially acceptable Ford, Chevy, or even a Dodge hemi that doesn't make you look like an extra in the movie "Deliverance."

RE: Webcam, could you tell me how to make the webcam view full screen. In the beginning you had a click on to do this. At times I was able to make it full screen thru Windows Media Player but I can't remember how or if it is still possible to do that. Thanks for being here.
(Ed: Double-click on the image for full screen viewing. To return to normal size, right click and select, normal viewing, or something like that.)

To the person referring to the 65 year old ladies. Thank God for me. I had a person in the back and a person on the phone when that conversation took place; and never once did I raise my voice. Heart conditions are by not taking care of yourself. Unfortunately I did not have the experience with her as loving and generous as others I unfortunately got lot's of gossip and disrespect towards my partner as you have proven by your insinuations into my personal life. Remember there are two sides two every story and I am not a bad human being.

I have a very big thank you to give. We bought a brand new propane cooker to deep fry our turkey this year. The grease was not getting hot enough to cook the turkey. My daughter called her boss Dave to see if we could borrow his thermometer to make sure the new one wasn't defective. Buy this time I was trying to cook the turkey at the wrong temp. When my daughter got to Dave's house he GAVE her one of the turkeys they had smoked. Needless to say this wonderful gesture of thanksgiving saved our Thanksgiving day meal as our turkey turned out to be disaster. So Dave from the bottom of our (Bob, Heather, Steve) hearts thank you very much. You made our Thanksgiving.

We moved here and struggled to make it. And look around...Boy, are we blessed!

It's Thanksgiving morning here in paradise. I am very thankful for having the had the experience of living here in the Keys for the past 9 months. My first visit to Big Pine was last Dec., then, in Feb., my boyfriend and I leased the largest Penske and moved here forever, we thought. We have met many diverse and unique people during our stay. Made memories that will linger forever. Saw the sky, with it's overwhelming beauty as though we were seeing it for the first time. Looked into the innocent eyes of a Key Deer as he gently nibbled on my finger (Honest, I was not feeding him. He just came up to my truck and thought I had something for him to eat.) Somehow, we imagined we could make it here. Now, having depleted our bank accounts, without sufficient means of replenishing them, we are pulling anchor, trying to find local storage, and heading north to the Crystal River area where it is more economically feasible to live.

I will miss this place and all that goes with it. Good and bad. Landlords without a conscience, Realtors with deplorable tactics, and let's not forget the bugs. Oh boy, negativity has momentarily taken over my brain .... Let's talk about people, I've made friends of all ethnicities and incomes. I've dined with the homeless, the druggies, but also with lawyers and doctors, all of whom have inspired and enlightened me. Now, as I pack to leave and move on, I wonder if I could have done something different that would have enabled me to stay here in your Key's World. Maybe I didn't work hard enough, or explore enough possibilities. For whatever reasons, it's time to admit defeat and move on to life's next adventure. Goodbye to all my friends. Memories last forever. So as I leave my home, here on Little Torch, I want you to all know, that in my heart I'll always be, big pining for you.

I'm with you on the Christmas music. I enjoy it when the time comes, but the local Wal-Mart was playing carols before Halloween. Wrong mood music.

I just wanted to let everyone know that the Christmas truck (big orange truck) will be up and running with lights this year in about 10 days. Last year I had about 4,500 lights on it; this year I'm trying for 6,000 to 7,000 lights. If anyone out there has a 5000 watt or bigger generator they want to sell or donate for a good price please let me know. My number is in the book. I hope everyone had a great turkey day and see you all on the road. Mike (aka babyboy/ big country/ Gumby/ and the tow truck man).

Jerry McClain, you are loved more than you could ever imagine.

Amongst us lives a man, J.C. Massey, that is as good a man as there ever was or will be with the exception of One. He knows of who I speak.

I am going to add to the numerous complaints regarding the Big Pine feces problem. Dogs and horses have already been addressed, but no mention has been made of those excrement dropping machines we call Key Deer. My yard is covered with their pellets. Is deer scat protected under some archaic law down here? I suggest that we elect a 'Poop Czar' of Big Pine to determine which poop is beneficial and which has to be disposed of properly. I am sure if we put our heads together we can come up with some suitable candidates for that position.

Why is it Winn Dixie continually has prices ring up wrong, and never on the short end. Even after being made aware of a price, it will ring up wrong a week later. There should be a criminal investigation into this sneaky thievery.

So 2 for $20 is going under new management and a new staff? Funny, I work there and have never heard of that. In fact, I asked about that yesterday when I got to work. We roared in laughter at the site of your post. Well, thank you for the days of laughter you've given me. So what else is going to happen Ms. Cleo?

Confucius say: Woman who cook collards and peas in same pot very unsanitary.

Hey, Punk! Please note that I claimed membership in your Eccentric's club, I just haven't achieved 'named' status as yet. Give me time. I'm sure I'll earn it one of these days. Meantime, I truly do enjoy the entertainment. That's not a slam, I love the variety of outlooks that show up in here.

Your more than welcome to join up. Our first club meeting will have kool-aid and stale W/D brand cookies complete with sour milk. Why? Because we have no funding. Just look at those perks! I've been thinking, maybe I'll get a shirt made up reading "19 year old punk" and maybe some Eccentric Club bumper stickers.

Para todos mis amigos latinos. La semana pasada un amigo y residente de Big Pine Key, Que vive en las avinidas llamado Billy Leopold fue asaltado y pegado muy malo que hasta fue trasladado a Miami adounde esta muy gravemente herido. Se ofrece una recompensa de $500.00 para imformation. En busqueda de los asaltantes.Toda information es confidential. Se puede llamar o ir a Aromas el cafe ayi en avenida A y County Rd. Cualquir information sera agradicida. Vamos a juntarlos para buscar estas personas malas para que hayga justicia. Muchas gracias.

No Sirs, oh me. There's another Victim. The confrontation we are talking about is not to one you we so quick and so wrong to mention. The Generous, lovely 65 year old woman isn't even in town. And she doesn't even paint and was not at the Art Fair, oh Great One. She has been hospitalized up North. You are wicked and evil. You have a Great Thanksgiving and sleep well at night.

Life on earth is so short,

Always try to be a good sport,

and especially never try to rule.

As one is growing old,

take it easy and slow.

When we leave this world,

who knows where we will go.

They put me in the ground,

now i am gone for good.

I will always be around,

because HE told me i would.

This is the best place there ever was,

one day you will be here to.

You can bet on that, because,

I have finally met the man above.

Big Pine Drug Addict

Happy Thanksgiving. I love Big Pine Key. That is why I stayed here for 25 years when I thought maybe a year or so would be a good change from corporate America. There is so much to be thankful for around here I won't even bother to try to convince you. If you feel it, you know it. I have seen this island pull together for numerous people in need with the social benefits. Personally, I try to contribute when I can even if it's just with a smile and eye contact with you. If you hate, then leave. Not that easy? Try acceptance of individuals. America is diverse and supposedly 'free'. Use some of your extreme negative energy on the thoughts of our friends and neighbors who have met with unbelievable tragedy in just the short time this site has become available to us. Indiscretion is inevitable anywhere in the world and if you want to call someone on their behavior, they will get your message without bashing their livelihood or sense of integrity by using names. Give yourself some integrity and honor by confronting those people face to face and let it alone at that. Give yourselves a break and sleep well at night knowing you did the best you knew how today; and if you haven't, then make your amends tomorrow. I love Big Pine Key. Happy Thanksgiving.

One of the things I'm thankful for is this column. I enjoy most of the posts, especially those with some humor. It's a fun place to visit and a good place to 'vent'.

To the person who asked if I informed Bahama Jack about the faults in my house he built. I called his office at least 12 times and got his secretary every time and he was not available. I left my name, number and address which was about 5 doors up from where he was living at the time. My steps warped, my railing fell off, my deck cracked, my dry wall tape came off, my plumbing leaked. He made no attempt to fix the issue or even call me. As for his son and the lobster poaching, it is true. Check with the FMP, Fish and Wildlife or the court. He did it. I see Bahama man gave up building for a restaurant and from what I read in here the restaurant sucks as bad as his houses. Good luck Bahama Jack. Maybe next you can try a lemon-aid stand.

Roberto Tomato did not retire. I did call him, he said, "I takey care ov my brother, he hasy the oldtimers mya wifa can't watchy him if I go to keys all weeken. I be back as soona asa L can." Well, that's what he told me in his own words; so soon as he can, he will return to the flea market. We all miss him.

The tomato man, Roberto is taking care of a family member. He'll be back.

I think it was the Ignorant Public Servants who came up with the cougar plan for Iowa.

This site is really starting to suck wind. Politics should be kept to a local concern. There are plenty of other sites to voice your concerns unless your to ignorant to know how to Google.

To the person giving the local business person, the middle finger. Get your facts straight. That 65 year old woman was a b**ch to the owner, first! And she is not hospitalized, she worked an art show this past Sunday, selling her paintings. She acted inappropriately, by using foul language first. She would not have gotten that response, if she had acted like the generous person you claim she is. Get to know your friends a little better, and before you take sides, you'd better listen to both sides, because you are wrong about that confrontation.

Sounds like holiday stress is also being vented here.

The Eccentric Trio is in fact a trio. I realize that the comma after the word 'me' threw you off, and I could have sworn I removed that. Maybe I didn't, maybe it was edited wrong. Just to clear it up, the word me was referring to the 19 year old punk, which would be me, the person who wrote that.

HEY! HEY! David and Carrie from Blue Water Plumbing are two of the hardest working people around here I know. They totally re-did all of our plumbing at our house and unless your walking in somebody else's boot's you should keep your bulls**t opinions to yourself. David is a human being and would give the skin off his back for people, that is people who respect him. Have you ever been pulled from all directions before? Obviously not. Have you ever tried to run a business down here? Obviously not. This site is getting to be really hurtful to hard working, good people in this community. We can't all get along, but remember, one day your name could be bashed on this site and you'll experience the hurt. We all, including myself, need to make forgiveness part of our daily practice. David, remember all the people you made happy. We can't please them all.

No. It was not a Dummiecrat but a Rat-publican that has set poor endemic cougars lose in Iowa. I mean, gee, after all they were there long before there was such a thing as Rat-politicians or Ignorant public servants.

Not only do the reporters need to get out of Iraq, the troops need to get out of Iraq! I support our troops, but hell, why should they risk their lives fighting for oil. Go find Bush's buddy, Osama.

2 for 20 will be under all new management and staff. Any ideas on how to make it a good place?

These on-line auctions are becoming very popular.

To the person who wrote Married people cheat: I fully agree. I feel the same way. Are you male or female? It is not love it is sex and sex feels good. I would never leave my home life or partner but I do see others. It keeps the sex life fun and the marriage together.

Beware ye! For TUSSA is out of jail. Hopefully he'll turn things around this time.

Looking back through a lot of the pictures that have been in this column, I noticed the picture of "Big Pine Key before development" looked similar to the current live webcam shot, except that tallest palm in the distance has grown strobes!

A few of us would like to say a special, middle finger, thank you to the owner and operator of a local business. (Located near the Floating Island, Napa, and the Real Estate Co, (Cannot remember the name). You did a fabulous job of verbally assaulting a 65 year old female customer one bright and sunny morning recently. You chewed her up and spit her out! There was absolutely no reason, other than your own disgust of the human, female race! Many, many of us know her and love her as a beautiful, loving and generous woman. She, as you know (because she told you) experienced chest pain at the time of the confrontation. So, you keep raking up the bucks and the good things in life, and suck up donations and taxpayer's bucks. You know what? One day Karma will visit you. We are praying that this Victim's Children and Grandchildren will have peace during this time knowing that although she is hospitalized, she is safe. P.S. we are not all local.

I also know the answer to the 9/29/04 question. I is: humility.

The person asking for Roberto, who sold tomatoes at the Flea Market: As the prices went up, Roberto went down. We understand that he has given it up and retired.

Has anyone, but me been politically skewed by a particular bait/gun shop owner?

I hate you guys.

Any info out there on Wendy's? WD benches? It is a sorry sight to see employees of a big corporation sitting on the ground.

To all of you Big Pine Key Idiots. You need to get a real life and move to the main land where there is more to life then getting high and, of course, drunk!

Hey, Punk! Please note that I claimed membership in your eccentric's club, I just haven't achieved 'named' status as yet. Give me time. I'm sure I'll earn it one of these days. Meantime, I truly do enjoy the entertainment. That's not a slam, I love the variety of outlooks that show up in here.

Is it just me or does anybody else find it tough to be single and straight in The Keys? If you agree let's plan a way for people to meet.

Stopped in to see the band at the House of Music Wednesday night. Lots of local talent got up and showed their stuff for open mike night. Its amazing some of the talent on this Island. And the Moondogs sounded great. One thing bothers me though, the names of the band members. Lucky, Rover, Boomer, and Scooter. What in the world were their mothers thinking?

Sure The House of Music is doing a good job, but they brought all those spaced out barmaids from the Tiki bar that make you feel invisible. Want a drink? Wait until I'm ready.

From Jay Leno; "To all the women who feel compelled to say 'you know those aren't real', may I say on behalf of all men...we don't care."

Addict, you inspired my poetic side...

I'm grabbing my stick

I'm stirring the sh**

all I hear is piss and moan

please lock your door and stay at home

Nothing for you to do but pick...

If that's your case, get on a 3 ft level and suck my..HAHAHAHA!

Addict, I bite your style....but I now have a new found respect for your words....that was a little bit of a challenge

To the person who wrote: bashing on the Key Deer Bartender and his wife, the comment made was about the difference of class of clients that go to Rob's and Key Deer bar. It was a statement that Robs is a nice family restaurant that you can bring ladies and children too and not worry about what they see. Notice I said "Ladies", the tramps that hang out at Key Deer are not ladies. It was not a shot at the bartender. He is a great guy. I sat at his bar at Montego Bay, another respectable place. PS: No this is not Rob.

I truly want to say a sincere and humbled thank You for erecting the Flagpole on the Webcam. It really creates more interest and is a good indicator of the conditions for boating activities, etc. At work everyday I get calls from people with reef reports to enable me to sell trips on the water. Now I can just check the webcam. Gotta love it!

I'd have to agree with you about the webcam flag; beautiful as it always is, this one is overdue for an honorable discharge.

Restaurant Review: I ate at Bahama Jack's today and agree with the person who wrote earlier about not seeing the server. The food was OK, not great, but I have had worse. The server however, was more interested in flirting and playing with her co-workers than she was in taking care of her customers. My advice to the server: Pay more attention to your customer and your tips will increase. I am sure you noticed I left you $2 on a $38 dollar check and that was $1.99 more than you deserved. T. I. P. S. is an acronym for "To Insure Proper Service." My advice to the owners and managers of Bahama Jack's: If you want to keep any customers, work on your staff.

The NASCAR races were in Homestead this weekend and the Superboat Championships were in Key West this weekend. Are you sure that you were in the right city and state of mind?

Does anyone know what happened to "Roberto" who sold tomatoes and Vegetables at the Flea Market? Haven't seen him there for over a month.

It's pretty obvious when seeing the Green Bay Packer truck in front of the Key Deer Bar that the Packer fans are a bunch of losers. Smashed windshield, weeds growing around it. Where's your pride Packer Fans? Too busy getting drunk and doing jello shooters to clean up your mess?

I just got out of stock Island jail and I must say that was some of the best lobster and key deer I have ever eaten. Keep it up Coppers!

Ok, so far we have Poetic Druggie, 19 Yr Old Punk, and Tall Crazy BP Woman. Gotta love a neighborhood full of eccentrics. I happen to be a member myself and it's an endless source of entertainment!

The restaurant review of 11/21 had to be written by Rob himself as no one I know ever experienced anything like that. Only bad food and abuse from him.

It sounds like Rob's had at least one good day! Maybe there's hope; pray for a string!

Web Cam: The flag shows up real well at night! Do you have a light on it?
(Ed: No, it is an infrared equipped camera. We, really must get a new flag, though. This one looks like it was in Falluja.)

Swimming Hole on Ramrod? Where is it, please?

Restaurant Review: Bahama Jack's. Was told to seat ourselves if we wanted. Never saw a server, a menu, or food. Oh yeah, the server was out once from the back of the counter to tell 2 other customers there was a NASCAR race in Key west this weekend and she was surprised she hadn't seen any cars being brought in yet. We figured it was a bad day at BJ's and went to another local establishment for our lunch. Keep trying and thumbs up to anyone trying to start a new restaurant around here. We're not mad, in fact we thought the whole incident was pretty amusing.

Restaurant Review: I have been reading all the comments comparing Rob's Island Grill to Key Deer Bar. The two are so far apart how can anyone compare them? Robs is a nice family style restaurant. Key Deer is a dive barroom where only 10% of the customers bath and have teeth. I am very comfortable taking visitors, family and customers to Robs and know they will get great food, great service and a nice environment. In fact, I just had lunch there today. The staff is friendly and the food is great. Upon leaving Rob personally saw us out the door and said "Good Bye, Thanks for coming". The only thing I ever liked at Key Deer was watching the toothless woman hitting on the drunks so they will buy her a round. Since the bartender from Montego Bay came over to Key Deer that has added some entertainment too. Thank you to Rob and the great staff for giving us one place in Big Pine we can take our family out for a meal and experience a great time with great food.

For photo developing, try taking them to Winn-Dixie. Even though it's not the greatest grocery store around, we started dropping off our film there over a year ago. It takes about 4 days, but they come back very clear. They aren't over or under developed. If you drop off your film for one-hour developing, it is a rushed process, therefore more mistakes are likely to be made. If you can wait a few days, take your film there and drop it off, pictures are better, and I think it's cheaper, too. Haven't had bad photos yet, unless it was our photo taking.

We have a local pharmacist who also refuses to fill birth control prescriptions. But, he owns his own pharmacy and isn't part of a chain, so it's a little hard to argue with his decision. I wonder if the right-to-life folks are going to start protesting cooperative pharmacies next.

No wonder you like to punt tiny dogs and things. You are a weenie like all bullies.

The local news reported the story of a man who punted a small dog. The dog died. The man is in jail on animal cruelty charges. Now, if you want to punt fake boobs, that's fine so long as they're not attached to someone at the time.

This is Jill Hardy, for the person who was asking about me, I am not moving back from Boston. I have heard from a lot of people that I am, I don't know where that came from, but it is not true.

Let's hope Jill Hardy is coming back. I know a lot of people who sure would be happy.

There are many nice folks in Big Pine and thankfully most of them take the time to ask how you are doing instead of holding others hostage with their continuous chatter all about themselves, their bow-n-arrow and their leaky implants. Funny how we are not subjected to any information on all those children. Wow, a bath would be a good thing so she doesn't stink up the room; plus it could create a reflection for Narcissus for further admiration.

I would pronounce tufts exactly the way it looks. The T is not silent.

Tufts: On AOL type in dictionary and it will give you an audio pronunciation of any word as well as the meaning and other details.

Get well soon, Glenda. Your family loves you. Take it easy and rest.

Everyone wants to talk some s**t.

They are really just jealous,

because I have so much wit.

and especially don't steal.

Don' t put up such a fuss,

cause you're afraid to live life for real.

You are only here for six months at a time,

and think you own the Keys.

You never could put together a rhyme,

since you're so worried about the CRACK thieves.

The water down here is so so blue,

but only if you really knew.

The keys is the way it is,

so mind you're own damn biz.

Don't put up such a fuss

The Big Pine Moose is putting on a Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings 1-4pm. Donations accepted. Come join the fun bring the whole family. See you there.

I thought my wife was the only one that had an incredibly bad experience with CVS she dropped off 5 rolls of film for one hour service it took two days. The film processing machine broke and they lost the roll of film that had photos of a friend that we may never see again. God, I cannot wait until Walgreen's open on Big Pine where Scotty's is now.

I met the tall blonde woman last night. Wow, what a woman!

It's good to see people will stand up for their neighbors in here. Human nature tends toward the negative, sometimes it needs a reminder that life may not be fair, but it's not bad.

Great blues show at the House of Music. Why is it that when people are having a good time some a**hole calls the law to have it stopped? I realize there is an ordinance, but the music was not that loud. It simply could be heard because the show was outside. House of Music Keep on Rockin'.

Kudos to Captain Dan of Key Deer Bar. He tells it like it is. I'm proud to be his neighbor here at the Big Pine House Of Music. We're all here together, doing things the way we think is best. The difference in each place is what makes each unique and that makes it worthwhile to visit each place & come away with a different experience. Hopefully everyone can have a good time. If you don't have a good time & then try to cause someone else not to be happy, are you really doing any good?

I heard Jill Hardy is coming back from Boston. Does anybody know?

To the 'Tall crazy Big Piner Woman': I think I know who you are, you are tall. You are also a very kind and caring person, and not crazy. Don't let one of our village idiots get you down. I have noticed that there are a few people on this site that do nothing but bitch and complain about everything. But, yet, do nothing but wallow in their own negativity. It's a hard to let karma take care of it's own, but be patient, karma will bite them in the butt. Unfortunately, most miserable people don't realize that they are the cause of their own miserable life. These are shallow people and don't deserve your attention. Live life, be happy, and let karma take it's course. Karma is the best judge and jury that we have. Karma can be a little slow because of the back-log of cases it has to deal with.

It seems to me that those who have to talk about "fake boobs" as if they were a bad thing are the ones who want them and can't afford them; or want their wives to have them and can't afford them. In either case, those who have something to say against them are those who aren't happy with their own bodies. Jealousy does rear it's ugly head with statements like those. I say, get a job and save your money like all those lucky women who bought their own did. If you aren't happy with some part of your body, them change it. It is that simple. But don't trash the people who made the change, whatever it may be.

Great concert at the House of Music last night. Anybody that missed it, missed a great thing. Ronnie Baker Brooks, Lonnie Brooks' son played until the noise ordinance put an end to his rockin' blues. I hope they keep doing the same thing in the future. Maybe they will get Tinsley Ellis to play there when he plays in Key West. I haven't been in that place since it was Dick's Bayside. Everything that was there in between was a sad excuse for a bar. I was surprised to find out the perpetual smell that lingered for years was gone. That's progress.

I like to punt the people who punt Chihuahuas. Try punting mine, Lucky and I might have something to say about it. Oh, yes, I bet you pull wings off butterflies as well.

To the punt kicker of Chihuahua's: I would like to punt kick your b**ls over the moon. And everyone else of your ilk. About the "Tall Blond". Leave that beautiful and unique lady the f**k alone.

What is the Moose Lodge doing for Thanksgiving?

Where's all the Kudos? I see nothing but a bunch of cry-baby Whiners. Mom always said if you can't say something good about someone, don't say anything at all.

I love this site. Thanks for being here. I never miss a day and have family members from afar and locals alike also intrigued. Now about that Flagpole. I will send a donation. Kudos to Kudos!

To the person who votes the 'Tall crazy Big Piner woman with the bow and arrow' off the island. Guess who this is? That's right! The tall crazy big Pine woman. I guess you are one of the six people who live here that doesn't know me. I feel very sad that you judge me for a conversation you apparently overheard that wasn't directed to you. Let me clarify something for you. I do not hunt Bambi. Or Bambi's mother. Do you fish? Guess what, That's hunting. Do you eat meat? Beef? Pork? Chicken? Fish? Lobster? Stone Crab? How about Veal? If so, how dare you judge me for filling my freezer in a slightly different way than you do. I do eat all of the prior mentioned except veal because of the cruel raising practices. I prefer venison above beef because I'd rather eat and feed my children meat that isn't saturated with hormones and antibiotics. I think there is a huge difference between bragging and excitement, but maybe you have never been that excited about anything so far in your young life. . How sad for you! Let me give you more to talk about...

Yes, I hunt, I fish, I spearfish, I dive, I snorkel, I photograph animals and birds in the wild, I hike, I run, I ride my bike very long distances with a silly helmet on (sometimes). I work full time. Most importantly, I live, I love, I raise my children to the best of my ability and try to teach them the value of life and of this precious place we live in. I cherish every moment of my life without regret. I experience as much life has to offer that I can. I am always willing to try something new. I try to speak only kind words and not create nasty gossip about other people. I accept different lifestyles and different opinions others have without trashing them if I don't agree. And, I sometimes use Ted Nugent's cookbook to prepare my meals.

Can't honestly tell if that's a blurry date in the corner of the cougar/deer photo or Japanese characters. I can tell you Iowa gets a lot of hunter tourism during whitetail deer season and pheasant season, from surprising distances.

I hope Bahama Jack can build a better sandwich then he does a house. I would hate to see my hamburger fall apart all over the floor like my house did six months after he built it. Hey Jack, are you going to have lobster on the menu? Maybe you can send your son diving to poach a few hundred more.

Update on the current status of the McClain family. Last Friday Glenda went to the doctor with chest pains who sent her immediately to the emergency room. Then they provided a nice Trauma Star helicopter ride to Mount Sinai. Within twenty minutes they had begun the procedure to remove the blockage in her heart and install two stents. Fortunately all went well. Glenda avoided an impending heart attack and is now home recuperating. Keep them in your prayers.

KEY BEER BAR. Way to go Capt. Dan. You are so right about the local watering holes and their place on Big Pine Key. You do have good food and well mixed drinks. Keep up the good work.

Happy birthday Ginger!

In my 40+ years of direct experience of the so-called 'Drug Culture', I have heard many excuses attempting to justify addiction. Not just drug use or abuse but ADDICTION, and I thought I'd heard them all. Silly me. Now, it's about nonconformity. You obviously know less than a spoonful of which you speak. Being self-employed most of my life, getting by 25 years in the Keys without what many would consider a "real job," and having experiences at and before Woodstock (the real one), the last thing I have ever been called in a conformist. Throughout my life, myself and my associates have always danced to a different drummer; and most often brought our own band. This will be my last posting on this subject of excuses for addiction; as my accumulated wisdom seems to be falling on deaf and addicted ears. I never enter a battle of wit or intelligence when faced only with an unarmed opponent who obviously has no knowledge of the subject. P.S. What about the drug addicts whose idea of creativity is robbery, spousal abuse, rape, murder and more? Is that your idea of nonconformity? I sincerely hope not. I repeat for the last time ADDICTS NEED HELP, NOT PRAISE.

The only reason Rob's is cleaner is because it is a newer building and built to modern codes. The rest of the establishments in the area are 20 to 30 years old. Rob's will look the same in that amount of time and has been through 10 or more owners. I do like the food and drinks there and Rachel

Just left House of Music and had another great time. Thank you, Angus. You are doing a wonderful job. Everyone seems to be happy and having a good time. Thank you again, Angus for a great late night kind of place. The food was served late at night and it smelled good.

Rob's Island Grill, clean. Everywhere else is dirty. R.I.G. booze in drinks, Everywhere else, measured or metered (TIKI Ramrod). R.I.G. good food, Everywhere else, tee-hee-hee. R.I.G. clean, Everywhere else, tee-hee-hee. R.I.G. real sports at an advertised sports bar, Capt. Dan's Key Deer, ha-ha. See a pattern here?

I don't choose to hunt, but I recognize the role it plays in conservation. I have family in Iowa, where there is hunting, but it hasn't been effective enough to control the deer population. In their overzealous bureaucratic wisdom, the powers-that-be have reintroduced cougars, which are now decimating the domestic pet population, terrorizing livestock, and scaring the bejeebers out of kids and parents when the cougars scream at night. If I still lived there, I would be sitting up at night with daddy's 30.06 and start fixing the new problem.

This photo was taken from a ground hunting blind just after sundown. The deer was believed to be healthy, because no signs were evident (blood/limping/distress) they got a picture of the cat stalking the deer right before the kill. If a cat can get that close to deer without alerting it, it makes you wonder if you should look behind you more often while in the cornfield. These predators have been reintroduced into farm country in Iowa.

Roll Me over, I'm done.

Prettiest Kitty-Kitty in Big Pine.

I was at the House of Music last Wednesday and they had a great band called Moondogs playing backup for anyone that wanted to perform. They said they are there every Wednesday; so if you have some musical ability stop in and make some noise. If you do, be careful, the drummer might lift his leg on you.

Hey Newcomer, check out The Big Tease for that new do. Brandon and Fletch are the best, nice to look at too.

Oh, my gosh. Now I feel horrible that I even mentioned the trash/junk pile. It sounds like you are a decent sort dealing w/ a sorry sort. Please accept my "I'm Sorry" for making a bad situation worse. Post when pick-up will occur and I'll be there to help. YOUR neighbor.

In regards to Theresa Axford. She is a caring principal with an excellent staff behind her. My children received a top notch education at Sugarloaf and are excelling in their higher studies because of it. To the person who keeps complaining about Sugarloaf, Mrs. Axford and the SAC-what is your problem? Do you have nothing better to do than complain about good people? The SAC is run by the state statutes as you well know. The people on the SAC have always done the best for the children of Sugarloaf and are not afraid to voice a difference of opinion. Thank you Mrs. Axford, Mrs. Douthett, Mr. Hall and all Sugarloaf teachers and staff! Most of us appreciate your hard work!

Editor: How about erecting a flagpole in the lens' range of the Webcam? Perhaps a Conch Republic Flag. At least, a white rag.

Saturday November 27 2004	The Law is the Law (It should not discriminate.) So if the US government determines that it is against the law for the words 'under God' to be on our money, then, so be it. And if that same government decides that the 'Ten Commandments' are not to be used in or on a government installation, then, so be it. And since they already have prohibited any prayer in the schools, on which they deem their authority, then so be it. I say, "so be it," because I would like to be a law abiding US citizen. I say, "so be it," because I would like to think that smarter people than I are in positions to make good decisions. I would like to think that those people have the American Public's best interests at heart. But, do you know what else I'd like? Since we can't pray to God, can't trust in God and cannot post His Commandments in Government buildings, I don't believe the Government and it's employees should participate in the Easter and Christmas celebrations which honor the God that our government is eliminating from many facets of American life. I'd like my mail delivered on Christmas, Good Friday, Thanksgiving & Easter. After all, it's just another day. I'd like the US Supreme Court to be in session on Christmas, Good Friday, Thanksgiving & Easter as well as Sundays. After all, it's just another day. I'd like the Senate and the House of Representatives to not have to worry about getting home for the "Christmas Break." After all, it's just another day. I'm thinking that a lot of my taxpayer dollars could be saved if all government offices & services would work on Christmas, Good Friday & Easter. It shouldn't cost any overtime since those would be just like any other day of the week to a government that is trying to be 'politically correct'. In fact I think that our government should work on Sundays (initially set aside for worshipping God) because, after all, our government says that it should be just another day.
27	Winn Dixie�s continuing wrong prices. I also think it�s intentional on the store�s part. I suggest you keep notes and dates on this scam and when you have a few examples go to the State�s attorney�s office with it.
27	I think you could make waffles from the Pumpkin Pancake recipe if you added about a quarter of a cup of oil (or more) to the recipe.
27	To the person who wrote about the Pumpkin Pancakes. Do you think you could use the same batter and make waffles instead, I am not a big pancake lover, but it sounds like it would be yummy waffles. Let me know, ok?
27	Kudos to the Rain God for making all of Big Pine look so healthy and green. I love this time of the year.
27	Another nice thing about this cooler weather is I don�t have to use a cool cup.
27	Building Review. I think The House of Music has the right idea, really good food, great music, friendly staff. But they have to clean it up to get the majority of the towns respect. A nice paint job, a couple of loads of pea rock, some really nice front foliage, a professionally ordered tasteful front sign; then I think they would stand a chance of long-term success. It's a shame that most people judge a book by it's cover, but that is what's happening here. Every time I tell the guys at work how delicious the food is, they say they'll try it when the place is cleaned up.
27	What is the deal with adults in The Keys and nicknames? I have never in my life met so many people who go by a name (most of the time a ridiculous one at that) other than their real one. Are they hiding from someone or something like the truth, reality or a spouse? It makes me wonder if I ever really new the true person.
27	To all the people who complain about our little town. I'll bet that half of you haven't been to the places that you are complaining about. You listen to your friends who had a bad time, where ever there were. No matter what your choice of music, food, or bartenders and waitress are, if you are a happy person and want to be a happy person, all the bulls**t that you complain about is minute. No one has the right to say that someone is better than the other. If you choose to have a good time you will. If you choose to have a bad time you will. Let go of all your negativity and you will have an awesome time. Because no matter what you believe, we were all born the same and everyone is equal. So get off your high horse and stop judging people, because someday, someone might judge you.
27	It must be raining - everyone is posting.
27	I just wanted to say that I am a local girl, business girl, that works everyday, all day long. I finally went out this holiday weekend and totally enjoyed myself. I went from Boondocks (Bo Foder and the Hitchhikers) to the Tiki (I don't know name of band) bunch of local guys and they were awesome. Then a bunch of us went to House of Music and they were awesome too. We have a lot of dyn-o-mite musicians locally, right here in our town. I just wanted to say to everyone of the entertainers that you guys are truly appreciated here on Big Pine Key. It was really hard to pick what place I wanted to be. Boondocks, Ramrod Tiki Bar, and House of Music. You guys inspire a lot of us, who work so so hard, that it is a true pleasure to enjoy all of your music at all 3 places. Don't compare one to the other cause each one of them have there own karma and style. It's nice to be able to choose where you want to go. Isn't that what life is all about? Being able to choose what you do and where you go in life? Big Pine/Ramrod Key rocks. If you don't like it here, go somewhere else and try to find what you looking for. Watch what you wish for, cause it might just be right in front of you and you never know it. Kick back and enjoy the ride. Life is too short to judge anyone. Look in the mirror and if you see a perfect person, run as fast as you can, cause no one is perfect. You just might think you are. Smile and be happy and every thing else will come to you.
27	This sight is censored!
27	Married Cheater: Maybe you should get tested for STD's. That woman you cheated with could have slept with anything. If my man cheats, he's out- forever. Too many loose, nasty people who are willing to spread their diseases.
27	Can I play my Christmas music, yet?
27	Q: What is worse than having Christmas music playing in Wal-Mart before Halloween? A: Over voice sale promotion announcements spoken in SPANISH.
27	Confucius Say: No husband ever been shot while he do dishes.
27	I do not know the woman in question, but I'd like to know where there is a 'local very upscale restaurant' anywhere within 30 miles.
27	A Big Pine Key rock road. I thank the Key Deer everyday for preventing development here.
27	To Mike with the Christmas truck. We have a 5500 Generac XL you may borrow. It was tuned up this year for hurricane season and really needs to be used. You can use it to make all the kids happy. Then we'll get it back and hopefully by next year we'll donate it as we hope to get a 'whole house' generator by next Christmas. Please post a phone # here and we'll make arrangements for you to pick it up.
27	Mike the Gumby Babyboy. I've seen your garish orange truck with the tires so huge they would probably float the thing on water, and I've wondered what kind of person would be forced to drive such a ridiculous aberration of a vehicle. Reading your item on this website surprised the heck out me because you actually seem proud of this vehicle. I know this sounds mean, but for your own good, I need to tell you that your truck is the butt of jokes among most of the people I know who have seen it, and I have seen people laugh at it when you drive by. For your own self esteem (and the further beautification of the keys), please drive that thing over to the Cudjoe landfill and have a friend drive you up to the mainland where you can get a good deal on a socially acceptable Ford, Chevy, or even a Dodge hemi that doesn't make you look like an extra in the movie "Deliverance."
27	Hi everyone � hope you had an awesome Thanksgiving. We had a wonderful time. We drank raspberry margaritas, ate too much turkey and played a fun game of Pictionary which made us split our sides laughing (why can�t my husband ever draw the first word first?) Please don�t put me on his team again! I was given the task of preparing green bean casserole for the first time in my life. It made everyone pee their pants when they saw how much I�d prepared. We hardly made a dent in it. I would just like to give special thanks for a few people by name because they hold a special place in my heart. Firstly: Banks & Patty Prevatt (ex-Sandbar Restaurant and also our landlords) who are the sweetest couple ever and have made us feel like their family since we arrived in the Keys and found them the next day. Secondly: Randy (General Manager of Hall�s Diving Center, Marathon) & Julie (travel agent extraordinaire at Sea The World in Marathon) Botteri who made this transition to the Keys a truly enjoyable and welcoming experience and with whom we have shared many joyful moments. Thirdly my husband Chris Cooper (Training Director at Hall�s Diving Center on Marathon). Without this man I would wither and die. He is my world and I have been giving thanks for him since I met him 7 years ago. I give thanks for all the wonderful people I�ve met since coming here including the editor of this section (You know who you are.) and Karl, Judy, Billie and Pat at Sun Communications. 'Harry' (dog) would like to give thanks to all our dear customers for allowing him to love each and every one of you as you enter our internet 'caf�' (the licking will continue until morale improves!). We have put the business up for sale (see www.banksprevatt.com for details) and hopefully I�ll be giving thanks for a vacation soon.
27	The Cracked Egg is the best for breakfast, hands down! Good food, reasonably priced, and free entertainment. That place rocks.
27	RE: Webcam, could you tell me how to make the webcam view full screen. In the beginning you had a click on to do this. At times I was able to make it full screen thru Windows Media Player but I can't remember how or if it is still possible to do that. Thanks for being here. (Ed: Double-click on the image for full screen viewing. To return to normal size, right click and select, normal viewing, or something like that.)
27	I just saw the comment on the Eccentric's club. What is the eccentric's club? Sounds interesting. I would like to join your meeting. Can you tell me more?
27	In reply to 2 for 20 pizza being the only place open during the hurricanes. I recall Rob's Island Grill and The Cracked Egg being open every day. Learn your facts. My hat goes off to anyone who could stay open during all that chaos. Happy holidays Big Pine.
27	To the person referring to the 65 year old ladies. Thank God for me. I had a person in the back and a person on the phone when that conversation took place; and never once did I raise my voice. Heart conditions are by not taking care of yourself. Unfortunately I did not have the experience with her as loving and generous as others I unfortunately got lot's of gossip and disrespect towards my partner as you have proven by your insinuations into my personal life. Remember there are two sides two every story and I am not a bad human being.
Friday November 26 2004	I have a very big thank you to give. We bought a brand new propane cooker to deep fry our turkey this year. The grease was not getting hot enough to cook the turkey. My daughter called her boss Dave to see if we could borrow his thermometer to make sure the new one wasn't defective. Buy this time I was trying to cook the turkey at the wrong temp. When my daughter got to Dave's house he GAVE her one of the turkeys they had smoked. Needless to say this wonderful gesture of thanksgiving saved our Thanksgiving day meal as our turkey turned out to be disaster. So Dave from the bottom of our (Bob, Heather, Steve) hearts thank you very much. You made our Thanksgiving.
26	We moved here and struggled to make it. And look around...Boy, are we blessed!
26	It's Thanksgiving morning here in paradise. I am very thankful for having the had the experience of living here in the Keys for the past 9 months. My first visit to Big Pine was last Dec., then, in Feb., my boyfriend and I leased the largest Penske and moved here forever, we thought. We have met many diverse and unique people during our stay. Made memories that will linger forever. Saw the sky, with it's overwhelming beauty as though we were seeing it for the first time. Looked into the innocent eyes of a Key Deer as he gently nibbled on my finger (Honest, I was not feeding him. He just came up to my truck and thought I had something for him to eat.) Somehow, we imagined we could make it here. Now, having depleted our bank accounts, without sufficient means of replenishing them, we are pulling anchor, trying to find local storage, and heading north to the Crystal River area where it is more economically feasible to live. I will miss this place and all that goes with it. Good and bad. Landlords without a conscience, Realtors with deplorable tactics, and let's not forget the bugs. Oh boy, negativity has momentarily taken over my brain .... Let's talk about people, I've made friends of all ethnicities and incomes. I've dined with the homeless, the druggies, but also with lawyers and doctors, all of whom have inspired and enlightened me. Now, as I pack to leave and move on, I wonder if I could have done something different that would have enabled me to stay here in your Key's World. Maybe I didn't work hard enough, or explore enough possibilities. For whatever reasons, it's time to admit defeat and move on to life's next adventure. Goodbye to all my friends. Memories last forever. So as I leave my home, here on Little Torch, I want you to all know, that in my heart I'll always be, big pining for you.
26	I'm with you on the Christmas music. I enjoy it when the time comes, but the local Wal-Mart was playing carols before Halloween. Wrong mood music.
26	It's disappointing that they play Christmas music before Thanksgiving which diminishes this special holiday. I find it odd that corporate America hasn't been able to commercialize the Thanksgiving holiday.
26	I just wanted to let everyone know that the Christmas truck (big orange truck) will be up and running with lights this year in about 10 days. Last year I had about 4,500 lights on it; this year I'm trying for 6,000 to 7,000 lights. If anyone out there has a 5000 watt or bigger generator they want to sell or donate for a good price please let me know. My number is in the book. I hope everyone had a great turkey day and see you all on the road. Mike (aka babyboy/ big country/ Gumby/ and the tow truck man).
26	Jerry McClain, you are loved more than you could ever imagine.
26	Amongst us lives a man, J.C. Massey, that is as good a man as there ever was or will be with the exception of One. He knows of who I speak.
26	To all you horse poop haters. Instead of being negative think positive and consider it free fertilizer.
26	I am going to add to the numerous complaints regarding the Big Pine feces problem. Dogs and horses have already been addressed, but no mention has been made of those excrement dropping machines we call Key Deer. My yard is covered with their pellets. Is deer scat protected under some archaic law down here? I suggest that we elect a 'Poop Czar' of Big Pine to determine which poop is beneficial and which has to be disposed of properly. I am sure if we put our heads together we can come up with some suitable candidates for that position.
26	Why is it Winn Dixie continually has prices ring up wrong, and never on the short end. Even after being made aware of a price, it will ring up wrong a week later. There should be a criminal investigation into this sneaky thievery.
26	It's nice to know even the Blind can enjoy some reading!
26	To the person who wrote about woman with married men trying to get pregnant: Get a life. I am a happily married man and I have had extra affairs. Both of them have been married women who were also bored with their sex life at home. It may not be the right thing to do, but it has kept me and the "Other Woman" happy and may have kept our marriages together. We both know and accept that the other is married. It is not love it is just sex for the sake of sex, and, yes, it does feel good. Anyone else want to try?
26	Married cheater: I don�t worry about hurting my partner. I only fool around out of the country to protect her feelings.
26	Top three Restaurants: For consistently good food I go to Big Pine Restaurant and Coffee Shop. The burgers/fries and fried fish sandwich are good at Key Deer (if you can stand the waitress) Dirt bags hanging out at House of Music but the pizza is good. Rob�s is clean and bright but to hell with Rob and his nasty attitude.
26	Restaurant Review: To the tourist wondering about K.D.�s. It is now called Conchenstein (I know, it�s a stupid name) and is at the same location and owned by a nice couple. Food is so-so to O.K. (depends on who�s in the kitchen I guess). Inside bar area is small, nothing to brag about and the service is good. They have opened a Tiki bar outside in the back. It�s kinda cute, clean and food service is available there also. Beer is fairly priced, but mixed drinks are a bit over priced and premium liquors and shots are way overpriced and served in little plastic cups (cheapo).
26	In regards to 2 for 20 being under all new staff and management. What a way to learn that your no longer going to have a job. From a gossip column! I was shocked, to say the least, but at the same time wish them the best. Hopefully all of the good citizens of Big Pine and surrounding areas will continue to enjoy the food and service provided by this establishment. I know they do try to maintain the highest quality of food and service for a very reasonable price; and also hope that the new management will continue to follow in some of the same footsteps as the old. (Reaming open during all of the hurricanes when no other restaurant was open sticks out in my mind.) Good job to the old and good luck to the new.
26	2 for 20 Pizza: It�s simple to make a pizza place a success. Use the best ingredients. Make your own dough and sauce and use quality cheese instead of the pre-packaged Sysco plastic cheese. The word will get out and the dollars will come in. (Ed: The word will get out faster if they advertise on Bigpinekey.com. Only $4.99 a week for 10-13,000 visitors only interested in these Keys.)
26	So 2 for $20 is going under new management and a new staff? Funny, I work there and have never heard of that. In fact, I asked about that yesterday when I got to work. We roared in laughter at the site of your post. Well, thank you for the days of laughter you've given me. So what else is going to happen Ms. Cleo?
26	Confucius say: Woman who cook collards and peas in same pot very unsanitary.
26	Hey, Punk! Please note that I claimed membership in your Eccentric's club, I just haven't achieved 'named' status as yet. Give me time. I'm sure I'll earn it one of these days. Meantime, I truly do enjoy the entertainment. That's not a slam, I love the variety of outlooks that show up in here. Your more than welcome to join up. Our first club meeting will have kool-aid and stale W/D brand cookies complete with sour milk. Why? Because we have no funding. Just look at those perks! I've been thinking, maybe I'll get a shirt made up reading "19 year old punk" and maybe some Eccentric Club bumper stickers.
26	Para todos mis amigos latinos. La semana pasada un amigo y residente de Big Pine Key, Que vive en las avinidas llamado Billy Leopold fue asaltado y pegado muy malo que hasta fue trasladado a Miami adounde esta muy gravemente herido. Se ofrece una recompensa de $500.00 para imformation. En busqueda de los asaltantes.Toda information es confidential. Se puede llamar o ir a Aromas el cafe ayi en avenida A y County Rd. Cualquir information sera agradicida. Vamos a juntarlos para buscar estas personas malas para que hayga justicia. Muchas gracias.
26	No Sirs, oh me. There's another Victim. The confrontation we are talking about is not to one you we so quick and so wrong to mention. The Generous, lovely 65 year old woman isn't even in town. And she doesn't even paint and was not at the Art Fair, oh Great One. She has been hospitalized up North. You are wicked and evil. You have a Great Thanksgiving and sleep well at night.
26	Re: "This site is really starting to suck wind. Politics should be kept to a local concern. There are plenty of other sites to voice your concerns unless your to ignorant to know how to Google. "That's beautiful. "Your to" ignorant, instead of "you're too" ignorant. Pots calling kettles names. It's gold, Jerry, gold.
26	A talent contest at the C.C.(?) was last weekend. Not a word in the local papers as to who won. Jonahon Sattele won his age group and the overall for the evening. Maybe if a young Key Wester, not someone from the lower keys had won, we would have seen it in the papers. Way to go, Mr. young Sattele.
26	Life on earth is so short, don't be so cruel. Always try to be a good sport, and especially never try to rule. As one is growing old, take it easy and slow. When we leave this world, who knows where we will go. They put me in the ground, now i am gone for good. I will always be around, because HE told me i would. This is the best place there ever was, one day you will be here to. You can bet on that, because, I have finally met the man above. Big Pine Drug Addict
Thursday November 25 2004
25	Happy Thanksgiving. I love Big Pine Key. That is why I stayed here for 25 years when I thought maybe a year or so would be a good change from corporate America. There is so much to be thankful for around here I won't even bother to try to convince you. If you feel it, you know it. I have seen this island pull together for numerous people in need with the social benefits. Personally, I try to contribute when I can even if it's just with a smile and eye contact with you. If you hate, then leave. Not that easy? Try acceptance of individuals. America is diverse and supposedly 'free'. Use some of your extreme negative energy on the thoughts of our friends and neighbors who have met with unbelievable tragedy in just the short time this site has become available to us. Indiscretion is inevitable anywhere in the world and if you want to call someone on their behavior, they will get your message without bashing their livelihood or sense of integrity by using names. Give yourself some integrity and honor by confronting those people face to face and let it alone at that. Give yourselves a break and sleep well at night knowing you did the best you knew how today; and if you haven't, then make your amends tomorrow. I love Big Pine Key. Happy Thanksgiving.
25	You've really got to try those Pumpkin Pancakes. They are the most delicious holiday pancakes you'll ever eat. Pumpkin Pancakes
25	One of the things I'm thankful for is this column. I enjoy most of the posts, especially those with some humor. It's a fun place to visit and a good place to 'vent'.
25	Winn Dixie did it. They were playing Christmas music Wednesday when everyone else was shopping for Thanksgiving. Couldn't they wait just one more day?
25	To the person who asked if I informed Bahama Jack about the faults in my house he built. I called his office at least 12 times and got his secretary every time and he was not available. I left my name, number and address which was about 5 doors up from where he was living at the time. My steps warped, my railing fell off, my deck cracked, my dry wall tape came off, my plumbing leaked. He made no attempt to fix the issue or even call me. As for his son and the lobster poaching, it is true. Check with the FMP, Fish and Wildlife or the court. He did it. I see Bahama man gave up building for a restaurant and from what I read in here the restaurant sucks as bad as his houses. Good luck Bahama Jack. Maybe next you can try a lemon-aid stand.
25	Hello. I write PC World's Answer Line column. The magazine's Letters Editor forwarded your question to me. First, depending on your version of Windows, you may have to change the format of the photo. Most digital photos are .jpg files, but earlier versions of Windows could only display .bmp files as wallpaper. If you have Windows XP, you can display .jpgs as well as .bmps. I don't remember off-hand whether 2000 and ME can display .jpgs. 98 cannot. You can convert a .jpg to a .bmp in Windows Paint (which is on the Accessories menu). Paint can load .jpgs but can only save .bmps. To select the picture for your wallpaper, right-click the desktop and select Properties. Click the desktop tab. Click the Browse button, find the photo, and select it. Select how you want the photo displayed (stretched, tiled, or centered) and click OK.
25	I agree with the person who is disgusted with the horse riders. Clean up your poop! I see it on the bike path every now and then and I want to throw up in my truck. As for Tussa, he is a pile of horse poop himself and a heaping pile of feces will never lose its smell completely. And the guy who authored "three restaurant reviews" on Wednesday sounds like a very sad human who is likely happy with nothing in his life. Finally, a very big KUDOS to the women who walk down Key Deer Boulevard and pick up the litter. Thank you for trying to keep Big Pine green.
25	Sorry to disillusion you about Iran, but they just gave up their nuke program and are allowing the NRC and the UN into Iran to dismantle their nuclear weapons program. Do you really think that would have happened if Kerry was president? I think not.
25	To cheaters: Be careful the girlfriend doesn't 'accidentally' get preggo. Women who 'oops' the married men live on that child support for the next 18 years. Why work when they can just spread their legs? Feels good? Too funny!
25	Roberto Tomato did not retire. I did call him, he said, "I takey care ov my brother, he hasy the oldtimers mya wifa can't watchy him if I go to keys all weeken. I be back as soona asa L can." Well, that's what he told me in his own words; so soon as he can, he will return to the flea market. We all miss him.
25	The tomato man, Roberto is taking care of a family member. He'll be back.
25	I think it was the Ignorant Public Servants who came up with the cougar plan for Iowa.
25	This site is really starting to suck wind. Politics should be kept to a local concern. There are plenty of other sites to voice your concerns unless your to ignorant to know how to Google.
25	To the person giving the local business person, the middle finger. Get your facts straight. That 65 year old woman was a b*ch to the owner, first! And she is not hospitalized, she worked an art show this past Sunday, selling her paintings. She acted inappropriately, by using foul language first. She would not have gotten that response, if she had acted like the generous person you claim she is. Get to know your friends a little better, and before you take sides, you'd* better listen to both sides, because you are wrong about that confrontation.
25	Sounds like holiday stress is also being vented here.
25	The Eccentric Trio is in fact a trio. I realize that the comma after the word 'me' threw you off, and I could have sworn I removed that. Maybe I didn't, maybe it was edited wrong. Just to clear it up, the word me was referring to the 19 year old punk, which would be me, the person who wrote that.
Wednesday November 24 2004	Holy Moley, everyone take a deep breath. On Thursday we all have a lot to be thankful for. We made it through one more Hurricane season. You were able to get out of bed this morning and have enough that moves you to write and complain about eateries and bars. How is your Mom and Dad or your kids or your grandma? Take a minute and make someone know you are thankful that they are in your life. Be humble and say thanks to the big guy up there for being here in paradise able to live the life you chose to live. When you came here I'll bet you one of the first things you learned is 'live and let live'. Let's try to work at that a little better. Some of your friends and mine are dealing with life-threatening illness. Don't we all feel better when we can lift them up a little? We all worked so hard to help find a cure for Mr. McClain hiccups and felt so good about helping. How many of you guys have no one to join for a turkey dinner? Some one to make that favorite family thing you had as a kid? We all have more to be thankful for then not to be thankful. Be a little kinder and if you need a little help ask us. You all know our true spirit is helping each other out and I think we are pretty good at it. Ask a friend to dinner. Happy Turkey Day.
24	I don't think that they should play Christmas music in public places (KFC) until after Thanksgiving.
24	HEY! HEY! David and Carrie from Blue Water Plumbing are two of the hardest working people around here I know. They totally re-did all of our plumbing at our house and unless your walking in somebody else's boot's you should keep your bulls*t opinions to yourself. David is a human being and would give the skin off his back for people, that is people who respect him. Have you ever been pulled from all directions before? Obviously not. Have you ever tried to run a business down here? Obviously not. This site is getting to be really hurtful to hard working, good people in this community. We can't all get along, but remember, one day your name could be bashed on this site and you'll* experience the hurt. We all, including myself, need to make forgiveness part of our daily practice. David, remember all the people you made happy. We can't please them all.
24	This used to be one fine Coon Dog. Ruined Forever!
24	No. It was not a Dummiecrat but a Rat-publican that has set poor endemic cougars lose in Iowa. I mean, gee, after all they were there long before there was such a thing as Rat-politicians or Ignorant public servants.
24	Not only do the reporters need to get out of Iraq, the troops need to get out of Iraq! I support our troops, but hell, why should they risk their lives fighting for oil. Go find Bush's buddy, Osama.
24	Too late now! See NY Times today (11/23)? http://www.nytimes.com/2004/11/23/national/23poll.html Americans Show Clear Concerns on Bush Agenda. After enduring a brutally fought election campaign, Americans are optimistic about the next four years under President Bush, but have reservations about central elements of the second-term agenda he presented in defeating Senator John Kerry, according to the latest New York Times/CBS News Poll.
24	To remove the reporters person: You voted for Bush. I didn�t. You made your bed, now it�s time to lie in it. If it wasn�t for the reporters we�d have a lot more prisoner of war scandals and more atrocities. I even think they should show our dead returning in flag draped coffins. If we�re supposed to be a country of honor and democracy and openess we need the imbedded reporters as the first line of truth. Truth never needs explaining or defending no matter what our enemies show on TV.
24	This is to the person who wants to 'pull all reporters out of the war'. HELL NO. I want to see more of this autrocity on all evening news reports. How else will we know the horrors of this unjust war being waged at the hands of an illegal administration to monetarily benefit their "Carlyle Group" coffers. Don't like what you see? Too bad you got four more years of this crap. Iran is next. If you have children of the ages 18-25 you'd better beware. Welcome to Jesusland.
24	New problem: I wanted to say that I think it�s just appauling that people that ride horses just clob through our residential neighborhoods with no care about their horses crapping in the middle of our streets. When I walk my dog I bring a bag so that I don�t leave an unpleasant gift along the road or in front of a person�s house. You horse riding people should be made to do the same. I know there are such gadgets that you can fit a horse with that catches the poop while it walks. I�ve seen them on horses walking in parades. If you can�t do this then stay the hell away from our neighborhoods! Maybe I�ll just have to come out to the road to let you know you aren�t welcome if you are going to crap on the street in front of my house. If that doesn�t work, maybe, I�ll just make sure I take my dog out for a walk in front of your place over on Lytton�s Way and let him crap right in front of your place. Stay out of our neighborhoods. You aren�t wanted without a poop catcher.
24	I wonder how many emails I loose because I delete them thinking that they�re junk mail?
24	2 for 20 will be under all new management and staff. Any ideas on how to make it a good place?
24	Re: Making the key deer mating picture as your desktop. I wrote to PC World and they answered me in one day! To set an image as your desktop wallpaper, find the image file in Windows Explorer or any folder window, right-click it, and choose "Set as wallpaper." I hope you find this information useful. Thanks again for writing, and for reading PC World. Dennis O'Reilly, Senior Associate Editor PC World Magazine.
24	These on-line auctions are becoming very popular.
24	To married cheaters: Aren't you afraid you would hurt your partner if they find out you cheat? What would your partner do?
24	To the person who wrote Married people cheat: I fully agree. I feel the same way. Are you male or female? It is not love it is sex and sex feels good. I would never leave my home life or partner but I do see others. It keeps the sex life fun and the marriage together.
24	Beware ye! For TUSSA is out of jail. Hopefully he'll turn things around this time.
24	The way it was and still is thanks to the key deer. I love them.
24	Looking back through a lot of the pictures that have been in this column, I noticed the picture of "Big Pine Key before development" looked similar to the current live webcam shot, except that tallest palm in the distance has grown strobes!
24	A few of us would like to say a special, middle finger, thank you to the owner and operator of a local business. (Located near the Floating Island, Napa, and the Real Estate Co, (Cannot remember the name). You did a fabulous job of verbally assaulting a 65 year old female customer one bright and sunny morning recently. You chewed her up and spit her out! There was absolutely no reason, other than your own disgust of the human, female race! Many, many of us know her and love her as a beautiful, loving and generous woman. She, as you know (because she told you) experienced chest pain at the time of the confrontation. So, you keep raking up the bucks and the good things in life, and suck up donations and taxpayer's bucks. You know what? One day Karma will visit you. We are praying that this Victim's Children and Grandchildren will have peace during this time knowing that although she is hospitalized, she is safe. P.S. we are not all local.
24	I also know the answer to the 9/29/04 question. I is: humility.
24	The person asking for Roberto, who sold tomatoes at the Flea Market: As the prices went up, Roberto went down. We understand that he has given it up and retired.
24	Three Restaurant Reviews: Tried Bahama Jack�s and it really sucked. Totally lousy food and bad service from an airhead waitress. I guess this is what happens when someone with no clue about food service tries to open a restaurant. Rob�s is bright and clean, but too loud and poor quality for the price. That and Rob�s bad attitude and non-existent people skills and very bad temper in front of employees and customers will keep me away forever. (Not to mention the un-remarkable blah Denny�s-like menu) I guess this is what happens when a total a**hole tries to be in the food service business. Key Deer is dark and dumpy with some real sleaze bags hanging around both inside and outside. The food is O.K. if you can get it from the sometimes good sometimes really bad servers. Then there is the Captain walking around like he is the star of the show. (Hint to Captain Dan: Stay in the back room and don�t try to entertain your customers. It doesn�t work) The bar service is good. I guess that�s what happens when an old goat tries to open a restaurant. Really, I can�t wait for Wendy�s to open at Winn-Dixie where I can grab a decent burger at a fair price and not have to be surrounded by Jack�s, Rob�s or Dan�s.
24	Billy Leopold. God bless you and get better quick. There is a reward to find the 'guys' that did it. Cubans? Let's not go there. We know that within our community there are people from all over. Within the Spanish speaking community there are people from Cuba, Nicaragua, Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, Belize and elsewhere. The police understand this and I hope they are out there speaking Spanish to the 'community' and letting the Spanish-speaking community know of the reward for info. leading to the arrest of those 'guys' that beat Billy. I would say post a reward notice in Spanish and place it around the Ave's now.
24	Has anyone, but me been politically skewed by a particular bait/gun shop owner?
24	I hate you guys.
24	Any info out there on Wendy's? WD benches? It is a sorry sight to see employees of a big corporation sitting on the ground.
24	I take great offense at the comments made by the simple minded and mis-informed person who referred to the Key Deer bartender�s wife as a �fall-down-alcoholic.� I have known Tom and his wife since they moved to the keys. His wife is a management executive with a nation-wide company with an office in Key West. I consider them both good friends, have played golf with Tom, have socialized with them both numerous and been to their lovely home many times. His wife does not frequent Key Deer at all. In all of the time Tom has worked there (since Montego Bay burned) I know of only a couple of times when his wife was there. Once with out-of-town guests for lunch and another time with Tom at a charity fund raising event. (By the way, the other two bartenders are not married so it isn�t them either) If you folks want to bash a business for bad service or bad food or because the help is unfriendly or provides bad service please do so. We have the right to know. Likewise, if you get good service and good food we like to know that too. But, keep the mean spirited and inaccurate personal attacks to yourself. You obviously have no idea whatsoever who or what you�re talking about!
24	My thoughtful insight keeps being thrown back in my face.
24	To all of you Big Pine Key Idiots. You need to get a real life and move to the main land where there is more to life then getting high and, of course, drunk!
24	Blessings to everyone for this holiday. We all have so much to be thankful for.
24	The Eccentric Trio. So far it's me, The 19 year old punk, The crazy Piner Woman, and the Poetic Junkie. Since when do four people make a trio? It sounds more like a quartet to me.
24	Hey, Punk! Please note that I claimed membership in your eccentric's club, I just haven't achieved 'named' status as yet. Give me time. I'm sure I'll earn it one of these days. Meantime, I truly do enjoy the entertainment. That's not a slam, I love the variety of outlooks that show up in here.
Tuesday November 23 2004	Scathing Restaurant Review: Bahama Jack�s on Summerland Key. After reading the other reviews I went there for lunch Monday expecting bad service and OK food. I got neither. The service was excellent and the food was bad. I asked the cook what was fresher, the grouper or snapper. He hesitated then said he got the grouper in last night (Sunday night�no one delivers fresh fish Sun. night). After stalling again, he then said he got the snapper Sunday night too. I ordered the blackened grouper sandwich for $9.95 and a Red Stripe beer for $3.50. The sandwich was a few chunks of frozen grouper that didn�t even cover the piece of WHITE bread that it was served on. They were out of cole slaw so I had potato salad. The potato salad was more like potato soup because there was so much watery mayonnaise in it. Awful. The rest of the plate was the usual frozen fries and another piece of white bread with a piece if iceberg lettuce, a tomato slice and lemon wedge on top. It was the same old crap that keeps me from eating out more often and highly reminiscent of a McDonalds fish sandwich which only costs $2 not $10. I'm so glad this site is here. I just had to vent my frustration.
23	Married people cheat because we�re bored of sex with the same partner. I love my partner that I cheat on. With the cheatee, it isn�t love. It�s only sex. It�s as simple as that. I would never even thing of leaving my partner.
23	Live Free or Die Trying. Even if you don't support the war, Support our troops. They are your brothers and sisters. Sometimes the only way to peace is through superior firepower. And freedom has never been free.
23	Is it just me or does anybody else find it tough to be single and straight in The Keys? If you agree let's plan a way for people to meet.
23	Stopped in to see the band at the House of Music Wednesday night. Lots of local talent got up and showed their stuff for open mike night. Its amazing some of the talent on this Island. And the Moondogs sounded great. One thing bothers me though, the names of the band members. Lucky, Rover, Boomer, and Scooter. What in the world were their mothers thinking?
23	T'WAS THE NIGHT OF THANKSGIVING, BUT I JUST COULDN'T SLEEP. I TRIED COUNTING BACKWARDS, I TRIED COUNTING SHEEP. THE LEFTOVERS BECKONED - THE DARK MEAT AND WHITE, BUT I FOUGHT THE TEMPTATION WITH ALL OF MY MIGHT. TOSSING AND TURNING WITH ANTICIPATION, THE THOUGHT OF A SNACK BECAME INFATUATION. SO, I RACED TO THE KITCHEN, FLUNG OPEN THE DOOR, AND GAZED AT THE FRIDGE, FULL OF GOODIES GALORE. GOBBLED UP TURKEY AND BUTTERED POTATOES, PICKLES AND CARROTS, BEANS AND TOMATOES. I FELT MYSELF SWELLING SO PLUMP AND SO ROUND, 'TIL ALL OF A SUDDEN, I ROSE OFF THE GROUND. I CRASHED THROUGH THE CEILING, FLOATING INTO THE SKY, WITH A MOUTHFUL OF PUDDING AND A HANDFUL OF PIE. BUT, I MANAGED TO YELL AS I SOARED PAST THE TREES.... HAPPY EATING TO ALL - PASS THE CRANBERRIES, PLEASE. MAY YOUR STUFFING BE TASTY, MAY YOUR TURKEY BE PLUMP. MAY YOUR POTATOES 'N GRAVY HAVE NARY A LUMP. MAY YOUR YAMS BE DELICIOUS. MAY YOUR PIES TAKE THE PRIZE, MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING DINNER STAY OFF OF YOUR THIGHS.

23	Sure The House of Music is doing a good job, but they brought all those spaced out barmaids from the Tiki bar that make you feel invisible. Want a drink? Wait until I'm ready.
23	From Jay Leno; "To all the women who feel compelled to say 'you know those aren't real', may I say on behalf of all men...we don't care."
23	To the lovely person on the 18th who wanted to comment more about Jack than Bahama Jack's. Jack has been building houses in the keys for over 30 years and all of his houses are still standing; so if you have a problem with your house you should tell Jack personally or he doesn't know to fix it. I've always known the man to go out of his way to make customers happy. As far as his son poaching lobster do you personally know this to be a fact? You might do better to get your story straight. As far as Bahama Jack's the food is very good. They've had a rough start, I'm sure, just like any business.
23	We have a club now! "The Eccentric Trio". So far it's me, The 19 year old punk, The crazy Piner Woman, and the Poetic Junkie. Now, if you want in on this Eccentric club, you first have to do or say some thing so off the wall that you offend the upstanding (ha,ha) citizens of Big Pine so badly that they name you. So all the people that were named by the "Big Pine Elite" That never do wrong: SQUAD UP!
23	Did a Democrat come up with the idea to set cougars loose in Iowa to kill the deer? I'm just curious.
23	We need to pull reporters out of this war. They are causing our troops great harm. Al Jazeera only shows video when our troops look bad and our reporters are supplying it. Notice Al Jazeera refuses to show the video of the Iraqi woman being shot to death by the insurgents. This is an outrage and our sons and daughters are paying the price for these reporters aka "traitors!"
23	Addict, you inspired my poetic side... I'm grabbing my stick so thick, so strong I'm stirring the sh** all day long. I made a ripple and created a wave you tip a nickel and rant and rave all I hear is piss and moan please lock your door and stay at home Nothing for you to do but pick... If that's your case, get on a 3 ft level and suck my..HAHAHAHA! Addict, I bite your style....but I now have a new found respect for your words....that was a little bit of a challenge
23	To the person who wrote: bashing on the Key Deer Bartender and his wife, the comment made was about the difference of class of clients that go to Rob's and Key Deer bar. It was a statement that Robs is a nice family restaurant that you can bring ladies and children too and not worry about what they see. Notice I said "Ladies", the tramps that hang out at Key Deer are not ladies. It was not a shot at the bartender. He is a great guy. I sat at his bar at Montego Bay, another respectable place. PS: No this is not Rob.

Saturday November 20 2004	The Big Pine Moose Lodge is having it's annual Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiving Day at the Lodge from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. The Lodge is also having an Open House day so the people of our community can have a chance to visit the Lodge and get an opportunity to learn what the Moose Fraternity is all about. We welcome all and hope you come and enjoy a great meal and meet with your friends and neighbors.
20	The Big Pine Moose is putting on a Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings 1-4pm. Donations accepted. Come join the fun bring the whole family. See you there.
20	Did you know that the rest of the world has free satellite radio? Only North America and Western Europe has to pay for it. You can buy a boom box for about $150 that has a small, fixed plastic dish on top. You just rotate the radio until the signal is the strongest. It�s way cool. You can be in the middle of the jungle and listen to the latest music or talk shows.
20	How do you pronounce �tufts� as in grass tufts? Do you say tuffs? What happens to the �t�? Is it silent?
20	Re CVS: I read an article recently about some CVS stores' policy NOT to fill prescriptions for birth control pills. It was against their religion. Has anyone had a problem with that at the BPK CVS? Christian Taliban pharmacists refuse to fill birth control ... ... for birth control pills, informing her that she did not "personally believe in birth control." When Lacey's husband went back to the CVS shortly thereafter to ...
20	I thought my wife was the only one that had an incredibly bad experience with CVS she dropped off 5 rolls of film for one hour service it took two days. The film processing machine broke and they lost the roll of film that had photos of a friend that we may never see again. God, I cannot wait until Walgreen's open on Big Pine where Scotty's is now.
20	I met the tall blonde woman last night. Wow, what a woman!
20	It's good to see people will stand up for their neighbors in here. Human nature tends toward the negative, sometimes it needs a reminder that life may not be fair, but it's not bad.
20	Great blues show at the House of Music. Why is it that when people are having a good time some a**hole calls the law to have it stopped? I realize there is an ordinance, but the music was not that loud. It simply could be heard because the show was outside. House of Music Keep on Rockin'.
20	A big Hell, Yeah to the Angus Banger Babes for having a total kick ass show last night with Ronnie Baker Brookes. It was a wicked, awesome show and I hope many more follow. The music was high caliber and the crowed was obviously in great spirits. I just wish I could have stayed out longer on a Thursday night.
20	How are plans for the �boat parade� progressing? Is it still scheduled for the 18^th? Even though I don�t own a boat, this sounds like a really great idea. I hope it gets lots of participants.
20	I accidentally typed www.bigpine.com In error trying to get onto this site. Got some interesting facts about a town out west called Big Pine. I guess you can call her our sister city (Even though we technically are not a city). Check it out it looks like a nice place.
20	Dream as if you'll live forever, Live as if you'll die tomorrow. --James Dean
20	Kudos to Captain Dan of Key Deer Bar. He tells it like it is. I'm proud to be his neighbor here at the Big Pine House Of Music. We're all here together, doing things the way we think is best. The difference in each place is what makes each unique and that makes it worthwhile to visit each place & come away with a different experience. Hopefully everyone can have a good time. If you don't have a good time & then try to cause someone else not to be happy, are you really doing any good?
20	A big thank you to all my fellow business folks who came to the chamber dinner at the Key Deer Tuesday evening. I apologize for not getting a chance to say hi to everyone, but keeping the vittles coming kept my chef's and myself quite busy. Thank you again for being with us, and we wish all of you a healthy and happy Thanksgiving. Capt. Danny McLaughlin
20	I really like to punt people who don't like to punt Chihuahuas like footballs. Hey, I like to punt things. My favorite thing to punt is fake boobies.
20	I heard Jill Hardy is coming back from Boston. Does anybody know?
Friday November 19 2004	I brought only 12 slides into CVS to get them printed on to a photo CD. The sign advertised CD�s $2.99 plus cost of developing. When I went to pick them up the bill was $64. The helpful clerk called the company and they said that the charge was correct. I didn�t pay it and left. I was in there two weeks ago and they wouldn�t take a $100 bill for my $9 purchase. They said it was company policy.
19	Editor, "We will print anything except attacks on individuals" is what it says on you website. Your actions, however, are contrary to your words. I refer to several instances lately, but specifically to the attack on "Bahama Jack" in a posting on the 18th. What say You? (Ed: Ok. We'll remove that statement about printing anything.)
19	To the 'Tall crazy Big Piner Woman': I think I know who you are, you are tall. You are also a very kind and caring person, and not crazy. Don't let one of our village idiots get you down. I have noticed that there are a few people on this site that do nothing but bitch and complain about everything. But, yet, do nothing but wallow in their own negativity. It's a hard to let karma take care of it's own, but be patient, karma will bite them in the butt. Unfortunately, most miserable people don't realize that they are the cause of their own miserable life. These are shallow people and don't deserve your attention. Live life, be happy, and let karma take it's course. Karma is the best judge and jury that we have. Karma can be a little slow because of the back-log of cases it has to deal with.
19	It seems to me that those who have to talk about "fake boobs" as if they were a bad thing are the ones who want them and can't afford them; or want their wives to have them and can't afford them. In either case, those who have something to say against them are those who aren't happy with their own bodies. Jealousy does rear it's ugly head with statements like those. I say, get a job and save your money like all those lucky women who bought their own did. If you aren't happy with some part of your body, them change it. It is that simple. But don't trash the people who made the change, whatever it may be.
19	Great concert at the House of Music last night. Anybody that missed it, missed a great thing. Ronnie Baker Brooks, Lonnie Brooks' son played until the noise ordinance put an end to his rockin' blues. I hope they keep doing the same thing in the future. Maybe they will get Tinsley Ellis to play there when he plays in Key West. I haven't been in that place since it was Dick's Bayside. Everything that was there in between was a sad excuse for a bar. I was surprised to find out the perpetual smell that lingered for years was gone. That's progress.
19	I like to punt the people who punt Chihuahuas. Try punting mine, Lucky and I might have something to say about it. Oh, yes, I bet you pull wings off butterflies as well.
19	To the punt kicker of Chihuahua's: I would like to punt kick your bls over the moon. And everyone else of your ilk. About the "Tall Blond". Leave that beautiful and unique lady the fk alone.
19	Temporary weather research station at the swimming hole on Ramrod last year
19	What is the Moose Lodge doing for Thanksgiving?
19	Where's all the Kudos? I see nothing but a bunch of cry-baby Whiners. Mom always said if you can't say something good about someone, don't say anything at all.
19	My name is Yukon Denali and I was born in Lowpoint, Illinois on May 25, 2000. I'm an American Eskimo with an attitude and an extraordinary ability to empathize, comfort and ameliorate any distress in the human condition by my love and loyalty. My owners flew all the way to Illinois to bring me home to the beautiful Florida Keys. Am I special or what? If I would only quit unraveling the toilet paper roll and picking fights with my uncle, Juneau Fairbanks, I would be a really good dog. But, hey, good isn't any fun; and oh, how I love to have fun.
19	The trees, like Buttonwood, grow so crooked because they don�t have to struggle for sunlight like the trees up north do.
19	This is a cool coon cat.
19	Happy Birthday Spinny!
Thursday November 18 2004	I love this site. Thanks for being here. I never miss a day and have family members from afar and locals alike also intrigued. Now about that Flagpole. I will send a donation. Kudos to Kudos!
18	Trashy neighbors. Mine threw a mattress outside 11 months ago. Yes, the filthy mattress is still there, leaning up against the house. It attracts rodents & rodents attract snakes. Their porch roof is rotten & falling in too. Four illegal men who work construction live there with their families. Between the 4 of them, why can't they fix the roof & discard the mattress? Vomit!
18	This is in reply to the whiner of 11/13 that doesn't like woman hunters. I have lived in the keys for most of my 50 years and have seen them destroyed by people like you. You destroy the place where you lived then move here to wreck my life style. I vote you back to Yankee land. The woman you refer to is my ex-wife and the mother of our three wonderful children. She is a great mother and a hard working honest woman that would not use chicken hearted anonymous comments to try to hurt someone. You don't even have the integrity to leave your name. Well you are a fool. As for the fake boobs I happen to think they are great and know you wish you had some.
18	To the person who votes the 'Tall crazy Big Piner woman with the bow and arrow' off the island. Guess who this is? That's right! The tall crazy big Pine woman. I guess you are one of the six people who live here that doesn't know me. I feel very sad that you judge me for a conversation you apparently overheard that wasn't directed to you. Let me clarify something for you. I do not hunt Bambi. Or Bambi's mother. Do you fish? Guess what, That's hunting. Do you eat meat? Beef? Pork? Chicken? Fish? Lobster? Stone Crab? How about Veal? If so, how dare you judge me for filling my freezer in a slightly different way than you do. I do eat all of the prior mentioned except veal because of the cruel raising practices. I prefer venison above beef because I'd rather eat and feed my children meat that isn't saturated with hormones and antibiotics. I think there is a huge difference between bragging and excitement, but maybe you have never been that excited about anything so far in your young life. . How sad for you! Let me give you more to talk about... Yes, I hunt, I fish, I spearfish, I dive, I snorkel, I photograph animals and birds in the wild, I hike, I run, I ride my bike very long distances with a silly helmet on (sometimes). I work full time. Most importantly, I live, I love, I raise my children to the best of my ability and try to teach them the value of life and of this precious place we live in. I cherish every moment of my life without regret. I experience as much life has to offer that I can. I am always willing to try something new. I try to speak only kind words and not create nasty gossip about other people. I accept different lifestyles and different opinions others have without trashing them if I don't agree. And, I sometimes use Ted Nugent's cookbook to prepare my meals.
18	Pretty white kitty-kitty. She is stunning! Best in show. Happy Birthday to the 14 year old Chihuahua. More pets photos oh please.
18	To Japanese in Iowa, you need glasses! Looks more like a date / time to me!
18	Can't honestly tell if that's a blurry date in the corner of the cougar/deer photo or Japanese characters. I can tell you Iowa gets a lot of hunter tourism during whitetail deer season and pheasant season, from surprising distances.
18	Stop the guy on the road who has the sign on his vehicle (no to the property association). He'll tell you why he doesn't want the association to put in a walkabout on Pirates Rd.
18	I've been to Rob's three times--enough to formulate a valid opinion. The first time was curiosity. However, inherent acoustic issues due to a combination of architecture and lack of sound-absorbing materials were obviously not anticipated by the owner. The blaring reverberations from chairs dragging across tile floors, handling of dishes and flatware, over-amplified conversations and noise from the bar and TV compromised our comfort level and sanity to such a point that leaving immediately was the only alternative. After a few months, we returned with a group of friends (let's give Rob's another chance). The menu was limited and what we did order was over-priced and certainly not memorable. We would never have gone back the third time had we not been invited by a friend to listen to live music. No surprises--same boring greasy fare accompanied by blaring noise that drowned out the live music we came for in the first place. Ok, Rob, you don't like locals--your bread and butter! Let's see how long you can keep the tourists interested; or is your business strategy simply to bait and gouge once, the incidental passer-by.
18	I hope Bahama Jack can build a better sandwich then he does a house. I would hate to see my hamburger fall apart all over the floor like my house did six months after he built it. Hey Jack, are you going to have lobster on the menu? Maybe you can send your son diving to poach a few hundred more.
18	Big Pine Key before development.
18	Mystery: Why doesn�t a duck's quack echo? No one knows why.
18	Update on the current status of the McClain family. Last Friday Glenda went to the doctor with chest pains who sent her immediately to the emergency room. Then they provided a nice Trauma Star helicopter ride to Mount Sinai. Within twenty minutes they had begun the procedure to remove the blockage in her heart and install two stents. Fortunately all went well. Glenda avoided an impending heart attack and is now home recuperating. Keep them in your prayers.
18	The only two clich�s to live by that you need to know to live right are: �What goes around comes around� and �a man�s got to do, what a man�s got to do.� All others are just variations on these clich�s.
18	Boat lighting can be accomplished a number of ways. 12 volt lights are available but can be expensive and hard to find. I don�t think most boat shops carry them. The easiest way is to use an �inverter� that converts 12 volts from your on-board battery to 110 VAC. The smaller inverters are not too expensive and can power a number of strings of lights. Be sure to use lights that don�t draw a lot of power, like the newer, smaller outdoor lights. They can be purchased at Eckerd (oops, CVS), Walgreen's or K-Mart and are very cheap. Attach them to railings, masts etc. with nylon cable ties (also called zip strips or zip ties). Use your imagination and you�ll have a great lighting effect. Have a great Holiday Season.
18	KEY BEER BAR. Way to go Capt. Dan. You are so right about the local watering holes and their place on Big Pine Key. You do have good food and well mixed drinks. Keep up the good work.
18	I like to punt Chihuahuas like footballs.
18	Happy birthday Ginger!
Wednesday November 17 2004	Dear friends and neighbors, I finally have to speak up and explain my position as a business owner. I don't have time to read this Kudos page often, but some of my employees keep me up to date occasionally. This is in answer to the party who mentioned the Key Deer in their posting recently. First of all Rob, of Rob's Island Grill is a neighbor of mine. We've been friends before we had our restaurants and we're still friends. We each have our idea's on how to run a business and are both successful. They are two different style businesses. Rob's place is like Rob--neat and clean. Now, our place is an older building, but very clean. Our men's and ladies rooms are very clean. Our liquor is free-poured to clean glass's. Each shot is a minimum of 1 1/2 oz. Next we are not a sports bar, per say. We are a NASCAR bar, and the Greenbay Packer Backer bar; and proud of both. We have 8 TV's. Two are 62". Our TV's are intentionally placed so you can watch only one at a time. No complaints yet. We are always open to suggestions; and we love our locals, appreciate the snow birds, our diners, and our great local entertainers. So, to the the party that knocked all the Big Pine watering holes: Check all the facts before reporting and visit them all. I do; and like all our local places. Thank you, Capt. Dan, Key Deer Bar and Grill.
17	Ok, I can�t let this pass. The other night there was the AMA, or something, awards on TV. There was a hip hop riot after someone stabbed someone else at this awards show for them. Pardon me, my black brothers, but these creeps were niggers. They�ll never be black men. They have everything going for them and they still can�t act civilized.
17	I didn�t know they wrote in Japanese in Iowa. If Tuesdays� picture of the Cougar stalking the deer was taken in Iowa, as the writer states, then how come there is Japanese writing on the photo? Is there a large group of Japanese-Iowan hunters living there?
17	The signs saying 'no to the property association' is all about the part time winter residents who want the islands to be like their homes up north.
17	Best looking and oldest Chihuahua on the island. And it is her 14th birthday on 16 Nov. That's 98 in doggie years. Herm is mama's girl. You go Ginger.
17	This year�s new phrase: Red States. Meaning, the states that voted republican in this year�s election.
17	In my 40+ years of direct experience of the so-called 'Drug Culture', I have heard many excuses attempting to justify addiction. Not just drug use or abuse but ADDICTION, and I thought I'd heard them all. Silly me. Now, it's about nonconformity. You obviously know less than a spoonful of which you speak. Being self-employed most of my life, getting by 25 years in the Keys without what many would consider a "real job," and having experiences at and before Woodstock (the real one), the last thing I have ever been called in a conformist. Throughout my life, myself and my associates have always danced to a different drummer; and most often brought our own band. This will be my last posting on this subject of excuses for addiction; as my accumulated wisdom seems to be falling on deaf and addicted ears. I never enter a battle of wit or intelligence when faced only with an unarmed opponent who obviously has no knowledge of the subject. P.S. What about the drug addicts whose idea of creativity is robbery, spousal abuse, rape, murder and more? Is that your idea of nonconformity? I sincerely hope not. I repeat for the last time ADDICTS NEED HELP, NOT PRAISE.
17	Trashy Renters: I vote Tim & Jenny off the island.
17	The only reason Rob's is cleaner is because it is a newer building and built to modern codes. The rest of the establishments in the area are 20 to 30 years old. Rob's will look the same in that amount of time and has been through 10 or more owners. I do like the food and drinks there and Rachel
17	Hey Mr. R.I.G., you, obviously must be related to Rob or be Rob himself. You have totally missed the point. Not one person has said Rob's wasn't clean, or the food wasn't good or any reference to sports. An owner with a bad attitude can be worse than a dirty place or a bad meal because a friendly smile and good kudos' can make you forget all about the negative. On the other hand when you are mistreated or embarrassed by an owner you will never go back. For a place with such potential its too bad Rob just doesn't get it and neither do you.
17	Definitely the cutest kitty in the Keys.
17	I am an artist and need drugs to work- asthma & arthritis meds. Pain meds when I cannot walk. I don't justify nor encourage illegal drugs or abuse. Sure, many people could qualify as creative artists without drug use. In order to name any, one would have to know the intimate, personal habits of all artists. Drug abuse is a form of escape. Have enough compassion not to condemn these souls. Are you perfect? Do you smoke? Overeat? Drink?
17	Conch-n-Stein. My new favorite hang out. Courteous people, good, consistent food and great Karaoke. Keep up the good work Conch-n-Stein (Robs Island Grill. Never again)
17	Remember this: any business that thinks it's cute or funny to mosh words together to make up their name usually implies that your food/service will will be the same too.
17	Just left House of Music and had another great time. Thank you, Angus. You are doing a wonderful job. Everyone seems to be happy and having a good time. Thank you again, Angus for a great late night kind of place. The food was served late at night and it smelled good.
Tuesday November 16 2004	Colin Powell resigned yesterday. He was the only cabinet member in the Bush administration that I felt safe with and trusted. Who will be his replacement? Jerry Falwell?
16	I don�t think the writers here have been encouraging drug use for creativity. It looks like they are just acknowledging that it plays a major part in creativity. No one should encourage drug use.
16	Restaurant Review: We have ordered from Slice of Paradise numerous times since they opened. We love the Greek Pie, try it. We have never waited too long for delivery either.
16	Kudos' to the new movie Polar Express. A marvel of modern technology, sure to delight the young, old and in-between. This is a great movie to see at the theatre and will kick off the holiday season on just the right note.
16	I had similar bad experiences at Robs' as did friends of mine. My credit card was overcharged for tips & it was a hassle dealing with Rob to correct it. The attitude he had was that I was asking for a handout, rather than correcting his staffs' mistake. My friends also were in there on another night & wound up in an argument with Rob over the cost of a draft beer. They were overcharged & called the staffs' attention to it. Was was rude to them too. Looks like Robs' is not locals-friendly. I never went back, I have never sent anyone there & if asked recommend against it.
16	Rob's Island Grill, clean. Everywhere else is dirty. R.I.G. booze in drinks, Everywhere else, measured or metered (TIKI Ramrod). R.I.G. good food, Everywhere else, tee-hee-hee. R.I.G. clean, Everywhere else, tee-hee-hee. R.I.G. real sports at an advertised sports bar, Capt. Dan's Key Deer, ha-ha. See a pattern here?
16	What's with the signs saying, "Say no to Jolly Roger's property association"?
16	Hey, Parrotdice. If you want more business give us the sunset trip back.
16	I don't choose to hunt, but I recognize the role it plays in conservation. I have family in Iowa, where there is hunting, but it hasn't been effective enough to control the deer population. In their overzealous bureaucratic wisdom, the powers-that-be have reintroduced cougars, which are now decimating the domestic pet population, terrorizing livestock, and scaring the bejeebers out of kids and parents when the cougars scream at night. If I still lived there, I would be sitting up at night with daddy's 30.06 and start fixing the new problem. This photo was taken from a ground hunting blind just after sundown. The deer was believed to be healthy, because no signs were evident (blood/limping/distress) they got a picture of the cat stalking the deer right before the kill. If a cat can get that close to deer without alerting it, it makes you wonder if you should look behind you more often while in the cornfield. These predators have been reintroduced into farm country in Iowa.
16	Roll Me over, I'm done.
16	Bealls Outlet store is by far the filthiest business on the island. There must be 3 inches of dust in the dressing room floor. The owners of that establishment ought to be ashamed of themselves and get off there butts and clean that disgusting place. Don't put the job of doing it on the employee's cause they are always busy. It looks like it has never been cleaned not even one time. For God's sake, it's the only store we have to buy clothes.
16	Prettiest Kitty-Kitty in Big Pine.
16	I was at the House of Music last Wednesday and they had a great band called Moondogs playing backup for anyone that wanted to perform. They said they are there every Wednesday; so if you have some musical ability stop in and make some noise. If you do, be careful, the drummer might lift his leg on you.
16	Hey Newcomer, check out The Big Tease for that new do. Brandon and Fletch are the best, nice to look at too.
16	BIG PINE KEY drug addict poet: Well, I really didn't think any of you do-gooder types out there would be able to come up with any names of persons that did not have addictions and became well known artists. You see it's about non-conformity. Not adhering to your fabricated rules for someone else's supposed well being. Non conformity being something you wouldn't know much about I'd guess. F-O-L-L-O-W and do as your told. Off to your third job now, and do as your instructed.
16	Today it is Monday, November 15, not 14.
16	Oh, my gosh. Now I feel horrible that I even mentioned the trash/junk pile. It sounds like you are a decent sort dealing w/ a sorry sort. Please accept my "I'm Sorry" for making a bad situation worse. Post when pick-up will occur and I'll be there to help. YOUR neighbor.
Monday November 15 2004	Trash pile: That�s my trash pile across from the Episcopal Church. It was two neat piles. One was metal and the other was household waste. Before I could finish putting it all out (it took me seven hours) the Trash Aholes started picking and spreading it all over the place. I yelled at a few of them, but I couldn�t control them. What a bunch of losers grubbing through trash and crap. Now, Waste Management refuses to pick it up. I have to put it in a big pile again for them to pick it up. As soon as I pile it up again the Trash Aholes will return, thinking there�s a treasure under it all, and spread it all over again. The next time I�ll haul it to the dump myself. We apologize for the eyesore.
15	Trash Pile 2: That trash pile on Key Deer Blvd. is what�s left (after the Trash Aholes finished picking through it) of the ton and a half of rubbish that Tim Sherrill and Jenny Roberts** left. They were our tenants. Not only did they leave that mess, but they left a delivery truck, a dead automobile and golf cart that we had to pay $500 to get towed away. Plus a large rooster and iguanas that they let lose. Tim and Jenny were the former owners of the Shark�s Reef Saloon (which was a dump, too) which is now the House of Music. Big Pine will be a better place without their kind.
15	In regards to Theresa Axford. She is a caring principal with an excellent staff behind her. My children received a top notch education at Sugarloaf and are excelling in their higher studies because of it. To the person who keeps complaining about Sugarloaf, Mrs. Axford and the SAC-what is your problem? Do you have nothing better to do than complain about good people? The SAC is run by the state statutes as you well know. The people on the SAC have always done the best for the children of Sugarloaf and are not afraid to voice a difference of opinion. Thank you Mrs. Axford, Mrs. Douthett, Mr. Hall and all Sugarloaf teachers and staff! Most of us appreciate your hard work!
15	Editor: How about erecting a flagpole in the lens' range of the Webcam? Perhaps a Conch Republic Flag. At least, a white rag.
15	Please bring back the WD benches.
15	Here is the "Successful Hunt" picture as an attachment. (If I pressed the right keys.)
15	Drugs affect everyone differently, legal or not. That's why there are so many different ones developed to treat the same condition and why they all come with warning labels of possible side effects. Some people's creativity may actually be enhanced by banned substances, but to say it works for all is just not true, and possible side effects like brain damage, death or prison are enough to discourage me.
15	What makes it bad for drug users is drug abusers.
15	I find it totally sad that so many people justify, and even praise, drug addiction if it feeds creativity. Completely ignoring the pain and damage it puts on EVERYONE, not just the addict. The loss of lives, families, business, and so much more in the name of art is a sham, an excuse, a piss poor attempt to justify the addiction. Believe it or not, people can be very creative without the use of addictive substances. What a sad world it would be if only addicts could create beauty, and fighting personal demons is no excuse either. People can be saved from addiction with a little help from their friends and professionals. To praise the products of drug abuse only encourages the abuse and pain to continue and it always ends the same way, Badly! Please try to help these poor, destructive souls. Don't encourage their destruction.
15	I have a saying, What makes it bad for drug users, is drug abusers.
15	I enjoy this site so much I sent a link to our homeowners assoc. site and suggested they do something similar here. They won't have the guts, but I can hope.
15	Prettiest Doggie In Big Pine Key
15	To the person who wants to vote the tall blonde Big Piner off the Island. I believe I know who you are referring to. You should know that she has been a Big Piner for over 20years. You can always find her helping out at local events and fund raisers. She is a good neighbor to all of Big Pine. You are obviously just jealous because she's very pretty and a very intelligent woman. She speaks her mind and she has something interesting and worthwhile to say so you should listen to her. She cares about the Island as much as any long time islander. So she likes to hunt. I do not hunt, but I'm happy for anyone that can find a sport they enjoy. Please remember without controlled hunting the wildlife population would grow quickly and the species would starve to death in winter. Now it may be over population of the human race that has depleted the land for our wild life but this is not the tall blonde's fault. She is, however, providing an important service with her sport to secure the existence of our wildlife. Remember, she doesn't hunt endangered animals. She eats what she catches and follows all the rules and regulations for her sport. I'm proud that she will be a part of my family. You can voice your dislike for her hunting without being so rude.
15	Could someone advise how to put the fabulous picture of the Key Deer mating on my home page?
15	Editor: I think it is really neat how you put the pictures with our inane and spontaneous posts. Yea!
15	Talk of genocide in Dardur, Sudan is old hat. The Africans have been slaughtering each other since I can remember and the World hasn�t done much to stop it. I remember the Mau Mau slaughter from the 50�s to the 1970�s murderous war between the Yoruba and Ibo in Nigeria to the 90�s genocide of the Tutsi by the Hutu in Rwanda. Too bad they don�t have more oil to entice the US to invade.
15	Has Lucky been neutered yet?
15	Hey Larry, I'll bet you have a hangover from hell today. Burn Baby Burn, Disco Inferno, Burn Baby Burn.
Sunday November 14 2004	Boat fire: Thank you, Scott and Rusty. That's the kind of neighbors everybody wants.
14	Too the person that just found Lou Reed. Good on you. You are just beginning to experience what real music is all about. I hope you continue your journey.
14	Drugs to be creative. Just about every cutting edge creative artist I can think of used drugs of some kind. What gets me is that it's ok to be addicted to Prozac which stifles creativity and probably makes you feel less, but not ok to use drugs that make you feel good.
14	RE: BIG PINE DRUG ADDICT POET: To whomever named all those creative artists that had addiction problems. Can you name any successful artists writers etc. that did not? I think one's brain needs to be stimulated in order for the flow of ideas to begin. At least some caffeine, or alcohol. Funny how Ridlin is o.k. to give to young tykes in school who are overly active and can't focus, or so they say, but taking some drug and expanding one's thoughts past the immediate horizon is not. Poor kids. Try cutting out that rat poison refined sugar, we as a nation have grown so fond of over the last two hundred years. I enjoyed your poetry, once again, thank you.
14	Why are there no more 5.5 oz. cans of orange or grapefruit juice in either Winn Dixie or Publix? You know those little cans that come in a six-pack used for making cocktails. This isn�t due to the hurricanes it has been like this for almost a year.
14	Drug addiction isn't "cool." Neither is food addiction, smoking addiction, alcohol addiction. I just say don't put these people down, they may be running from demons. Not necessary to be high to be creative, but thank God some are creative in spite of addictions. Wish them well. None of us go before our time, we are simply given exit points to go back home to heaven.
14	If you substituted this for your current picture on home page, would anybody notice?
14	RE: 20'' WHEELS to answer the question why, do you remember bell bottoms and wide watch bands? I think its kind of the same reason why. Can you tell me why Cubans love to adorn their bodies with gold? Oro es muey importante. Yo no comprende. Bling, bling. I can understand the rum and cigars and a nice juicy steak, and a sweet nubile tica chica, but you can't eat or screw gold, so what's the deal? Is it for trade or show? Any ideas or answers to this monumental puzzle of life racing through my muddled brain?
14	If glass has been weathered too long it will be etched and can't be cleared. You might try Lime-away to see if the buildup wipes off easily, but you have to wash that off right away. If you let it 'soak' it will cause etching, too.
14	To whoever put the pile of junk and trash on Key Deer Blvd in front of St. Francis Church, you should be ashamed of yourself. At least you could have made a neater pile.
14	The 19 year old punk has returned home. After two weeks of 50 and below, chapped lips, and a cold I'm back in the wonderful keys. You never really seem to miss what you have here until you leave. I'm so happy to be back. FYI. Do not fly through Vegas. Some guy tried to pick-pocket me in the terminal. Now it's time to catch up with all the changes that have gone on up and down the keys since I left. I'm upset to hear about the kitten getting run over in Eden Pines. If you want to speed in neighborhoods, I suggest you go stand on the double yellow lines on US1 and get a feel for what your doing in the neighborhoods filled with pets and families. There is a time and place for speed. Too bad that place is all the way in Miami and once a month here.
14	Firing guns is the air absolutely is dangerous, and a sign of lack of education and responsibility. Those bullets come down with enough force to kill someone. We have it happen here nearly every New Year's Eve.
14	My mojo�s worn out. Damnit.
14	Live and work in the USA. more info
14	Superintendent Padget is not a politician and that is what people don�t like about him. It�s ironic that they feel that way because everyone always says that they don�t like politicians and when we finally get a successful businessman to work for us we scream and holler that he�s no politician.
14	Back on Teresa Axford. All those who support her must have kids in either kindergarten or first grade. By the time your kids are in middle school, you will all surely see through her vale of "greatness" and hopefully have a glint of what she's about. We all thought she was great until we experienced her for a while. Why is it considered good policy to influence a public school by stocking the SAC committee with your followers? Wake up folks and clear the mist from your eyes. Lets sack Teresa.

Saturday November 13 2004	Yesterday, November 11, 2004, I witnessed a horrific boat fire at my friends home. The reason I am writing this note is to thank the neighbors who risked their lives trying to help extinguish the fire. (The two men are Scott Wade and Rusty [Findley?]) Rusty lives on the street behind their home and jumped the fence and started spraying what he could with the hose. He also went into the home and made sure everyone was out and okay. Scott lives on the street in the front of the home and drove over in his car and assisted Rusty. If you see these two men out and about give them a pat on the back. It is nice to know that there are people around here that will help their new and old neighbors and friends out. Many Kudos go out to them. Big Pine Fire Rescue had already been called to come to the scene but, with the fact that it was a boat (Full of gas) and near the house it had just started burning so fast. Fire personnel arrived and secured the scene and put the fire out. The fire Department was fast and efficient. All in all everyone in the home was okay. The boat is a total loss and the home sustained some damage but, it will be repaired. My final note is: Good Karma, Bad Karma: What goes around comes around. Help your fellow man or woman, you never know when they may be the one who helps you in a situation.
13	My experience with Robs has always been great. I have even seen him interacting with the patrons and especially the little kids that come in with their families. He caters to them really well with a great kids menu which you can also color and he will even hang their art work up on the board which is special for the kids. I also think their food is great. I have never had a problem with his waiters or waitresses and they always go out of their way to make our dinner or lunch experience a pleasant one.
13	If you drink before forty, you�re a fool; and after forty, you�re a fool if you don�t.
13	Let me just make sure I've got this right. You say it's ok to be a drug addict as long as you are creative? Pappa ate his shotgun, Van Gogh cut off his ear, Jimi Hendricks, Joplin, Morrison, Lenny Bruce, John Bellucci and far too many, very talented, artists died long before their times because of their addictions. Does artistic ability have to be fueled by addiction; and does that make it alright? It still goes on today. Does that make it cool? I think not. I certainly don't have either horse nor money; just enough sense to see that drug addiction not only destroys the addicts, but the people around them and society in general. You must lead a very sheltered life to not see the real world around you, to not know someone whose life was ruined or lost by drug addiction. I hope no crack head ever needs a fix and robs or hurts you to get one. Open your eyes!
13	Yesterday I was astonished to hear Bush say, at the press conference with Tony Blair, that they�re promoting democracy so fervently because, �Democracies don�t go to war with each other.� Is that true?
13	I have several panes of glass that have been in the elements for too long; and have a film on them that I can�t remove with glass cleaner. Does anyone have any idea on how to get rid of this film without using abrasives?
13	My goodness, Last night I listened to the Velvet Underground� with Lou Reed up front. Cool.
13	For any local "young bucks" interested in helping hang the Christmas lights in Big Pine Key Saturday the 20th give Jim Cameron of Rotary a call 872-0711. We (Big Pine & Lower Keys Rotary) certainly would appreciate it. Breakfast that morning, hang the lights, done by noon or earlier.
13	Graphic example of culture clash: We see the chaos at Arafat's burial and find it laughable. When Iran buried Ayatollah Khomeini the crowd had the body out of the coffin and tossed it around mosh-pit style. To them this is showing extreme love and grief. It kind of demonstrates the differences both sides are working from and why it's so hard to find middle ground.
13	Why do people in those Arab Countries shoot guns up in the air? It's funny that such a dangerous and savage custom is so acceptable in those countries. I would think the bullets would fall down and kill or hurt people, because they always do it when they are in a crowd.
13	It's great to see that more Recipes have been added since I last checked. Thanks!
13	I don't know about real time interaction in here. We may all be better off with a little time buffer. There are some very uninhibited outbursts and responses as it is. Even 'live' talk radio uses a 7-second delay switch to keep some civility.
13	About Paradise Petroleum. It's not under new management, it's the same owners taking a little pride in their business to make things a bit better here on Big Pine. Hopefully, other businesses will follow suit.
13	www.MoveOn.org Great name. Good philosophy. Too bad they don't live it.
13	Walking to work is even better than a carpool. Excursive and energy conservation and fiscally responsible. I recommend it. Just watch out for the speeding-deer-cat-killing-hit-and-run-drivers.
13	See the Donna Britt Story in the Washington Post today? She says (and I agree) that the " Worst Voter Error Is Apathy Toward Irregularities" The point isn't just which candidate won or lost. It's that we all lose when we ignore that thousands of Americans might have been discouraged or prevented from voting, or not had their votes counted. If it were us (or the Republicans), we'd (they'd) be screaming bloody murder. We should all support the vote investigation so problems aren't repeated or multiplied in the future. http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/admin/emailfriend?contentId=A43630-2004Nov11&sent=no&referrer=emailarticle
13	There is a lovely little park on the grounds of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce at MM31. it has picnic tables and beautiful trees. Your local Rotary club did this about 10 years ago and it is a restful spot (it's called the Bob Eanes Memorial Park). There is a rest room there, too. Check it out.
13	Those gory photos of dead deer are sickening! Thanks for making me cry. I don't understand how or why people can shoot deer when they look like large, friendly dogs. Especially the tall crazy Big Piner woman with her bow-n-arrow who brags about hunting Bambi. What a freak with fake boobs. You and Ted Nugent are idiots. I'm voting you off the Island.
13	What it the point of the tower on Big Pine? How long is it going to be there? Why did they have to put those annoying spot light-looking things right in my front window? When I first saw them they scared the life outta me.
13	Lacy and Connor. R.I.P. They got him and finally: Justice prevails!! Go to hell Mark Garagos.
13	Peterson's guilty. Yeah!
13	I just learned of this Web site. Thank you. I'm new here and looking for a suggestion for a Hair Dresser. Any suggestions? (Ed: Business Directory listing Hair Care or Beauty Salon)
13	To the person defending Terry Axford. You must be one of the chosen few with the right last name. I am a very involved parent. I tried attending your meetings and they are run by a chosen few with the right last names. You don't want any input from outsiders. You only want us around to do all your grunt work. I still say let's AX Axford! We can do much better for our children. Don't give her an administrative position that she so desperately wants, get rid of her.
13	The Loaner There she sat. Her drawn out face Her hair uncared for, out of place Her aged eyes that could not hide The tears long kept inside. Tears brought on by years of pain To her Unjustified The lines had clearly marked her face Yet still she had her pride. Always keeping to herself And if asked she would of lied She knew no one could comprehend Though alive Her heart had died. "Maynard"
13	An Israeli doctor says, "Medicine in my country is so advanced that we can take a kidney out of one man, put it in another, and have him looking for work in six weeks." A German doctor says, "That is nothing, we can take a lung out of one person, put it in another, and have him looking for work in four weeks." A Russian doctor says, "In my country, medicine is so advanced that we can take half a heart out of one person, put it in another, and have them both looking for work in two weeks." The Texas doctor, not to be outdone, says, "You guys are way behind. Why heck, we just here recently took a man with no brains out of Texas, put him in the White House, and now half the country is looking for work."
Friday November 12 2004	After watching Arafat�s attempted funeral I wonder what kind of Palestinian state they will have when the people are so emotional that they can�t even get the coffin from the helicopter. All they know is violence and discord. Some state.
12	Wow! After having to stop into Paradise Petroleum I was truly amazed by the changes the new management has done. Brand new Pay at the Pump pumps, undergoing internal and external facelift, happy employees, low beer prices (some better than Winn Dixie), the list goes on. They have really improved in the last few months. Kudos to you, Paradise. Keep up the good work.
12	Re: Carpooling. I would rather walk to work, rather than having to ride with someone else.
12	Questions are swirling around whether the election was conducted honestly or not. We need to know -- was it or wasn't it? If people were wrongly prevented from voting, or if legitimate votes were mis-counted or not counted at all, we need to know so the wrongdoers can be held accountable, and to help prevent this from happening again. Members of Congress are demanding an investigation to answer this question. Join me in supporting their call, at: http://www.moveon.org/investigatethevote/
12	Cannon at Fort Jefferson.
12	The Hostess (Mangrove Mommas) in reference was a teenager who was there again the other night in the same dirty jeans and again, did not say, "Hello." I was not referring to the mom-to-be. Thank you as I ride off high on my horsie. Gippiup, Yeehaa!
12	To survivor: From get over it. I have formed an alliance and you are getting voted off the island.
12	Heaven is a mythical place. It�s all in the mind of true believers.
12	The only place left in Big Pine that you can sit on a park bench or picnic table, and have a bathroom that you are allowed to use is the flea market. A lot of us go there on Sat. and Sun. just to make friends and meet our neighbors. Everyone is welcome there, except those that misbehave.
12	WD benches are still missing. What a shame the main office should hold back the rent until the owners put back the benches. I don't know how true this is, but someone said at one time there were benches set up under the trees in different sections of the parking lot. Now you must not only carry a flash light with you, but a folding chair in case you may need to sit for a spell.
12	I am one of the founding members of the Moondogs. Thank you for your comments. We will return to the Looe Key Tiki Hut on Dec. 10. We will be at Coconuts Dec. 3. We also play every Wed. night for 'open mic night' at the Big Pine House of Music. Please come join the fun. Thanks again, Flip Flop Bob. AKA "LUCKY"
12	May I suggest that the administrator of Kudos and Whiners look to some of the PHP based forum packages to streamline the site and allow the site visitors to have more real time interaction? I suggest PHPBB, which can be found at: http://www.phpbb.com
12	Sorry to hear about the kitten. (hit and run) You are right. We need the police to go through Eden Pine and watch how some of these people speed down all the roads. Bittersweet is the worse. they use it as a speedway. The Sheriff's dept. would make a fortune in fines if they would stake out Key Deer Blvd. in the morning. 6am to 8am. Nighttime. 4 to 7. Prime time for speeding.
12	BIG PINE DRUG ADDICT: Poetry. You say drivel. Why, I rather enjoy reading it. Perhaps your pompous behind is just sitting up a little to high on your horse's saddle atop your steed of currency. Try looking ahead so as to see the branch that may knock you under. Write on, brother or sister. as the case may be.
12	For those who do not wish to hear a drug addict's poetry; remember Hemmingway was addicted to alcohol. Van Gogh as well and other great artists through the centuries had addictive personalities. Thank God for gifting these artists with the ability to imagine & create.
12	I'm not positive, but I'd guess the Federales insist on strobe lights for the tower. They get testy about planes flying into things that stick up in the air and want them highly visible, even in fog.
12	As for Rob at Rob's. He's not the first to have a little problem with keys disease. Many of us can remember back to that. Leave him alone and he'll learn the hard way. Just be glad you stayed home the night he pulls out a gun.
12	Hey Rob, perhaps you should learn how to treat your customers and your employees. You certainly have the dark cloud hanging over your head. They always say what comes around, goes around, and here's yours.
Thursday November 11 2004	Happy Veterans Day. Hug a Vet today.
11	Angels, angles. It was all apropos and awesome the Angles, the Angels flew. Have a Great Navy Day!
11	RE: Marine Birthday. The Navy just celebrated their 228th anniversary in mid October.
11	I can handle almost anything. But to continue to glorify admitted Drugs Addicts by publishing their drivel shaped as poetry seems counterproductive in the large effort nationwide to help drug addicts kick their habits; and perhaps become productive members of society. While I am a firm believer in the First Amendment, and a big supporter of K & W, it just bothers me to see these people made stars, when what they really need is help.
11	RE: Am I the only one thinking the " Big Pine Drug Addict" is only crying out for help?
11	Big Pine Drug Addict. I know who you are and I know you stole my bike to pay for your crack, so you better watch your emaciated back.
11	Does anyone know why the tower on Big Pine Key has an obnoxious flashing strobe light instead of less invasive red lights?
11	RE: Cheap gas. The question was what can you do? Try carpooling. It works for me and my supervisor. Cuts our gas bills in half. Surely there are more Piners that can share rides and take turns driving between BPK and KW or BPK and Marathon. This would be a good forum to put together some carpooling. Any thoughts?
11	Speeders Suck Rocks. Someone ran over a kitten in Eden Pines two days ago. The little girl was very sad. When many of you go to work & return home, you drive 40+ MPH down the streets where we live. Maybe some Police will monitor the individual streets instead of the major ones. I see the trash man & UPS going way too fast down my street. FYI: The speed limit is 25 M.P.H. Now that it's pitch-dark at 6 P.M. Please slow down so you won't murder a child, an adult or someone's companion animal. Not all critters live inside chain link fences, they're outdoors taking long walks. Please don't give us a cement nap just because you're in a hurry. Life is good. Slow down. This isn't the mainland.
11	Another cosmic kitty, Greyboy. Your right cats love this stuff (catnip).
11	Does anyone know about the trend in new vehicles of having big wheels? Some are even as large as 20 inches. Doesn�t this use more gas to get rolling?
11	A comment on the hostess at Mangrove Mamas by someone other than a person with the attitude of a hog. I too was at Mangrove Mamas for dinner with a full table of people. The hostess was very gracious, helpful and competent. Although she was the hostess she waited on us because they were short handed that evening. I enjoyed the coolness of the restaurant as well as the fabulous meal. If that was your first visit to Mangrove Mamas perhaps you were not in the best mood, in a hurry or you are just arrogant and demanding. Making comments that the hostess "waddled away," perhaps it's because she is seven months pregnant and if you have ever been pregnant and in your seventh month, standing working on your feet for hours, you may waddle some too! Get off your high horse because, most likely, your the only one who put yourself there.
11	About one mile south off Little Palm Island 25 feet under.
11
11	People that Bridge-fish need to clean up there fishing line. This is what kills our sea life. Myself and my friend, who was on vacation down here, rode our bikes across the fishing bridge entering the 7 mile bridge going north. It was a beautiful ride, but the trash and human filth on the bridge make us sick. I've lived down here 29 years and have never seen it this bad. Tourist leave all their filth behind from used baby diapers to using the bride as a toilet. How can we let this go on in this beautiful place? We need a bridge cleanup like the mangroves cleanup. And Winn Dixie, shame on you. Your parking lot looks like a trash dump. Trash and cigarette butts everywhere.
11	Regarding the bad credit card charge from Rob's. You've done step one by trying to resolve it with the merchant. Now notify your credit card company the charge is wrong. They are required by law to investigate and get back to you in a timely manner. Actually, I don't think you even have to do step one. Even if you don't wind up getting it reversed, they will at least give Rob a rough time; and they do have a lot more clout than you do, like canceling his authority to take their credit card from anybody. With apologies to the editor, complaining about it here won't resolve the charge. Call or write the credit card company.
11	Please don't post photos of dead deer! It makes me bipolar and want to re-start smoking sickarettes. Maybe it will slow down the speedy Big Piners. I see you folks all over the neighborhoods and on Key Deer Boulevard and wish that I could do something to slow you down. My middle finger wouldn't work.
11	No benches to sit upon in paradise: Now, why would you even consider having a place to sit up at the Big Pine Key shopping plaza? Don't you know you are supposed to just go there do your shopping, spend your money and then leave? It's not a park, nor a place to socialize. How dare you insinuate that one should have a place to interact with another human being in that area whilst sitting. What's next? A game of dominos in conjunction with sitting? I am amazed at this sort of behavior. I shall forward my report of this terrible way your acting to the authorities. If you want to socialize become better acquainted with the robotic automatic checkouts there at the Winn Dixie. Now off with you to your third job. Get going. Your bills are piling up. Read my lips 'No Loafing Allowed'. What, do you think this is a tropical paradise or something?
11	Biggest Business Mistake of '04. Removing the large Sandbar sign from the roof where traffic coming over the bridge could see it and replacing it with a small sign that no one can read. This is a good example of businessmen thinking of their own amusement instead of moneymaking.
11	Had a Slice of Paradise last night. Yum! Nice to have a decent pizza place in this neck of the woods. Keep up the good work.
11	Restaurant Review $-$$ (Low-Moderate) 1. Fish Cutters 2. The Galley 3. Big Pine Restaurant 4. China Garden $$-$$$ (Moderate-Moderate/High) 1. Mangrove Mama's 2. Fish Cutters 3. Slice of Paradise 4. Parrotdice Cafe $$$-$$$$ (Moderate-High) 1. Old Road Cafe 2. Square Grouper
11	Restaurant Reviews Sushi 1. Takara (reasonable prices, located in Marathon) 2. Ambrosia (higher prices but great atmosphere, located in Key West) Chinese 1. China Garden Pizza 1. Slice of Paradise big Breakfast 1. Big Pine Restaurant 2. Cracked Egg great Sports Bar and good food 1. Finnigan's Wake (Key West) 2. PT's Late Night (Key West) regional Italian, great atmosphere and reasonable prices 1. Abondanza (Key West) real Mexican 1. Chico's Cantina (Stock Island) good music, good drinks, casual atmosphere, decent food and decent crowd 1. Looe Key Tikki Bar/Julio's Grille extra special night out (under $200 for 2) 1. Martha's (Key West) 2. Latitudes (Sunset Key) 3. Pisces (Key West) 4. Antonio's (Key West) 5. Square Grouper (Cudjoe) NOTE Bahama Jack's is too new to do a fair review. The lunch I had there was good but not remarkable. Let's wait and see. If you don't care about good food, good service, value for your money or cleanliness Boondocks, Robs, House of Music, Conch and Stein, 2 for $20 Pizza.
11	Hi all Marvin Key Maniacs! Central Fl. is fine, but I really miss my friends at Marvin. I am not sure how many of you read this fine venting media, but if you do please say "Hi". Stop by and see me on your way to see Mickey.
Wednesday November 10 2004	Great Day! John Ashcroft is gone. Now, maybe he'll take Rumsfield with him.
10	I am amazed that Bush is still in office. What a let-down of a week. Get used to it, let-downs for the next four years. If you were complaining about the homeless before, just wait till you see how many folks Bush will put out in the streets.
10	There was a good Chamber of Commerce party last evening at Boondocks. Good people, food, booze, and atmosphere all make a good time.
10	To whom it may concern: The proper spelling is Blue Angels, not Blue Angles.
10	Does anyone know what happened to Bill Kamal? Why was he arrested? I missed this.
10	RE BILL KAMAL: our trusty weather man, sure he has a right to being innocent until proven guilty. It just seems a little odd to meet with a 10 year old boy from the internet and find out he's actually a 41 year old cop don't you think? Maybe he unsucessfully tried to get the 'Oh, do me, Jackie Johnson' the Ooo, La, La weather girl to dress up like a little boy for him; but she wouldnt, so he took his clean cut and suave demenor elsewhere, arh arh. Can't judge a book by it's cover, now, can you? I think I'll stay fairly normal and scruffy likeing the satin and lace type of female.
10	Man, I saw a band at Looe Key Tiki bar called the Moondogs and they were great. When are they going to play there again? Great music, and Julio cooking it up in the kitchen. It doesn't get any better than that.
10	Go to www.chromedivas.com Go to Chapter and then Pt.Charlotte Chapter. I'm in the Red a former Big Piner until Sept '04. I miss all the Big Pine Bikers. This past Sunday I road with these divas and diva duds. We had a great time. Big Pine should form a Big Pine Chapter or Southernmost Chrome Diva Chapter. The website gives all the instructions. It's a great organization for biker women. Miss my Big Pine Biker friends.
10	I was not aware of your website until I was telling someone about a very unpleasant experience I had with Rob at Rob's Island Grill. My husband & I have always enjoyed the food at Rob's. In October, we had guests and took them there for lunch. When I received my credit card bill I noticed two charges from Rob's on the same day. I checked my receipt and discovered they had charged me once for the food amount and a second separate charge for an amount that was twice the amount of the tip I had included in the receipt I signed. I called Rob & told him I had been in and had two charges from his restaurant and one was unauthorized. He began to immediately argue and insult me, so much so, that I had to ask who I was speaking to (not expecting such behavior from the owner, I had asked to speak to the accounting department and the person who answered the phone just said, 'what do you want?' and handled the call without identifying themselves). When I asked if this was this Rob he said 'yes' and continued to belittle me for having a problem with essentially a $5.00 overcharge. I tried to explain that my call wasn't about the $5.00 but the way in which it was taken. He told me I could just come get the money, but I felt that he had treated me so poorly on the phone that I should not be inconvenienced any further and asked him to credit my card. ( Which at the time of this writing he has not done). During his insults, laced with vulgarities, I reminded him that I was a local and I didn't have to eat in his restaurant. His response, 'maybe I don't want you to eat in my restaurant anymore'. Guess what? I won't, nor will any of my guests. I also will advise any friends who still want to patronize his place to scrutinize their charge card statements if they use a card at Rob's.
10	Re: Cheap Gas. Part of the problem is that any gas station south of the Seven Mile Bridge is charged $500.00 more dollars for delivery. The Keys are "zoned" by the fueling companies being Upper Keys, Middle Keys, and Lower Keys. The fuel trucks can only bring down 8,000 gallons per trip, because of weight limits on the bridges, so the math figures out to .06 cents per gallon more. It sucks, but what can you do?
10	Coming home from Big Pine Key on 11/09/04 we saw you hit the Key Deer and speed away. As the poor buck limped off into the woods, my four year old niece was horrified by your actions. I can only hope that you get what's coming to you, it's Kismet.
10	I went to Fishcutters' on Saturday night, and did "take out". It was the best Dolphin sandwhich I ever had.
10	Today is the 229 anniversary of the US Marines. Semper Fi!
10	Do the late school bus drivers get extra training, or extra pay to be rude? Moving slowly along US 1 and carrying a mile, or so, of cars behind they are so rude. Not to let the side road traffic out after the children are off. I sure hope they are paid for that rudeness.
10	Who is that guy than runs the phone depot, and where the heck is he from? To think you can come to the keys, our paradise and scrutinize people; and think you're better than anybody else. He is badly mistaken. He needs to pack up his crappy phones and go back where ever it is he came from.
10	I miss the benches at WD and the friendly people to chat with.
10	What�s the story with Bahama Jack�s restaurant on Summerland? Has anybody tried it yet? Where�s the review?
10	" What We Do " We are sitting down to smoke, getting ready to play some dice. We set up the dope, and everything seems so nice. I'm telling you to roll, because it's your turn. I can't figure out the score, until i get that rock to burn. C & S for 14 days, put me in a little haze. Big Pine Drug Addict
Tuesday November 9 2004	Cheep Gas. Gas in the other end of Marathon, Oceanside is $2.09 Monday. It was $2.17 at Tom Thumb�s here.
9	Old seven mile bridge. A long time ago I was spending time in Key West with a female clown from Toronto and I bought her Rambler so she could go back to do some Canadian clowning. It needed a sun roof so I cut a large rectangle out of the top and made a hatch cover for it. I used some hooks and eyes to fasten the cover to the roof. Not very secure. That night Mad Jack and I took it on a shakedown cruise from Key West to Marathon over the Old Seven Mile Bridge (that seemed like it was about ten inches wide). The wind whipped the cover off the sun roof while we were going about 60mph and blew it into the air. I watched it in my rearview mirror and it looked like it was gliding in slow motion like a leaf except it weighed about forty pounds and if it hit another car we�d all be in trouble. I stopped the Rambler in the middle of the road and ran back and recovered the hatch cover. I then ran back and put it on the sun roof hole. This time we fastened all the hooks and eyes. My point is that in those days of the old bridge I could stop in the roadway (you didn�t have any choice it was so narrow) run all the way back and forth, fasten the cover and not a single other car was in sight. The times, they are a changin'.
9	RE: BILL KAMEL, the defrocked channel 7 weatherman. I was under the impression that an individual was innocent until proven guilty. When did this change?
9	Can we vote people off this island, like they do on "Survivor"? My first vote would be for Mr. "Get over it."
9	Slice of Paroadise phone number is 305-744-9718 pick up by land or sea. Sunday-Thursday: 11am-9pm, Friday-Sat:11am-11pm. Brandon LaChapelle is the owner. It is in the old dog house 24458 Overseas Highway, Summerland Key. Give them a call.
9	A Slice of Paradise. Summerland Key (old Rob's Dog House) (305)744-9718. Delivery too. I had their food twice now with no complaints. You can pick up their menu at Paradise Mobil. Has anyone had their Brownie Pizza or Chocolate Chip Pizza yet? I was wondering how It was.
9	Why aren't all the political signs gone?
9	Hey 'Punk'! Good to hear from you. I'm one of those who disagreed with your outlook, but this country needs and thrives on diversity. Hang in, Bro!
9	I know all these rumors are flying around about Rob. This is not a rumor this is a true story. A few months back he hired a girl to work for him. He did not bother to get any form of ID for her and hired her anyway. She lied to him and said she was 18. She was only 14 and a run away from Ft. Lauderdale.
9	Here is a new scam to be aware of. In Florida City at the gas stations I have seen the same guy 2 weeks in a row. He has a little gray hatchback car. He askes you if you can help him. He says he was in the Keys and ran out of money and needs gas. I gave him three dollars. He had 2 people in car with him. As I pulled out I realized his wife was drinking a new cold soda and eating out of a take out box form the next door restaurant. Then they did a nice job of pretending to put gas in their car as I drove away. I think he hustles all the gas stations in Florida City. As long as he puts up his hood they think he is checking oil so they don't notice he is begging. I had Tusa flashbacks. A really nice guy, well dressed and polite. Be careful.
9	Hearing all this lighting advice makes me wish I had a boat. This parade sounds like great fun. Good luck to all. Make it great!
Monday November 8 2004	Get over its: Get over Bush whacking the horse-faced, lying Kerry - I have waited 37 years to see his Viet Nam record exposed. Get over Rob - don't go there and he will get the message that he is a dickhead. Get over the best take out - House of Music - The best pizza. No question. Try the Philly steak. Get over the tax issue - You know the old saying 'death and taxes'. Get over Bill Becker doing his flunky dog and pony show for his buds. Get over the whole Key Deer issue. Phil Franks, the manager, has his palace in the woods on Sugarloaf. Get over the barometer constantly talking about how he loves his wife so very, very much. Yuk. Get over the Chamber on Big Pine not helping anyone but the chosen few get anywhere. Get over the fact that traffic always will get worse. Get over the fact that ROGO is for the rich and screw any one else. Get over the fact that jack London must have rolled over on Roberts, Hendrick, Herman and Singh. Get over the fact that the Big Pine 29 is really 49 and they know where you live. Get over the big Pine Civic Assoc. They have their palace in the woods. Get over the fact that your trailer lot on big pine is worth over $300,000 dollars. Get over the fact that we Piners all live together 125 miles out to sea. We must stick together to float. Get over the whole No capitals issue in Kudos & whiners. Can we go back to our Caps Lock key again?
8	At the Tiki bar Saturday-Sunday there was a car with the motor running for about 18 hours. I guess the person partied, started to go someplace else, forgot something and left the car running while they went for it and then lost their place.
	Come on, I don't think, for one minute, Strike Zone Larry did 18 months for being friends with a bad person! I worked with his wife Mary at Winn Dixie when Larry was there. That poor lady ran the business. They had kept the house going on Long Beach Rd. and she held a full time job at WD as a pricing manager. He only had one boat then. He was the Captain of record that sad night on No Name. He signed the captain's log, not thinking he would have a welcoming party waiting.
8	Biggest wrong business decision of 2004: Monty�s Seafood moving to a lousy location on the Boulevard in Key West and then having another more famous �Monty�s� open in Old town right on the water.
8	It sounds like most people just don't like Rob. I've met him several times and he is extremely pompous. I think he should work on his MoJo.
8	So where are the WD employees going to sit on there breaks and lunch hour? I'm sure they preferred being out side for some fresh air and sunshine after being indoors for hours. From what I understand from several other business owners at the WD center, every business received a letter from the managing agent stating no benches or vending machines are allowed. I wonder if it also means the soda and water machines must go.
8	To illuminate a small boat you can purchase an inverter. A 750 watt model is available at a large construction material supplier in Marathon for about $80. Hook that joker to a 12 volt baterry and you can run 1000 or more little lights for about an hour. Longer if your motor's running.
8	Boat Parade Lights. If you have an inverter you can hook that up to your battery and run regular Christmas lights from it. It�ll even run a blender if you�re a pina coloda type of person.
8	Nautical Gathering might be the best way to pull off a parade. Everyone coming from all areas and anchoring in the space between Big Pine and Little Torch. The boats coming from Picnic Island could have their lights on as they made the last turn and small boats could just add a small generator to the decks for lighting the boats at anchor or rafting together. The area would be an ever-changing sight of colors and lights.
8	Boat Parade: Wonderful. Wish I could go. Please post pictures.
8	The South Pine Channel Bridge should be the focal point of the parade. That�ll also be the best viewing place.
8	Lighting up a boat with x-mas lights. There are ways of doing this. I'm not sure how you would feel about doing this on a boat with water, but I'm sure it wouldn't be a problem. Go to an auto parts store or Home depot may even have them. Look for a "12volt power inverter". This converts the 12 volt power to a household voltage. If you are looking to go big, I would suggest a generator. The best way to hook up a power inverter is by the cigarette lighter adapter. If you do not have one on the boat, cut the wire about 2 inches from the lighter adapter piece, connect posive to positive on the battery and negative to negative on the battery or on another grounded location. I've been running an inverter in my car for near 2 years for ps2/dvd entertainment with little problems. Get an inverter to fit your needs, Inverters are great investments. A friend of mine used an inverter to charge his cell phone during the aftermath of the hurricanes. Keep the parade going, just make sure traffic is kept at a safe speed. That's where I saw the most danger the last time.
8	By the NAS and Rockland Key traffic was moving at a snail�s 40mph while the drivers were rubbernecking the Blue Angles. I�m glad there were no accidents on the road, or in the air, for that matter.
8	Air show. It�s like every other amazing thing. You can�t be fully impressed unless you see it in person.
8	Blue Angles. How can anybody drive a machine that good?
8	Blue angles: This is the cream of the crop. The pilots are America�s best and the jets are technical marvels. You had to see it to believe it. I�m so proud.
8	Air show. I was parked on the highway on Rockland Key watching and the Sheriff told me to move. He was so nice I wanted to tell him.
8	Air Show necessities: chair, hat, sunscreen, full water jug.
8	I have not left for Canada, however I'm pretty close to Canada now. I'm writing to all my "fans" from the beautiful state of Washington. To answer the question, yes, I am very cold. Don't cheer just yet. I'll be back soon. Back to work. For the person that wrote I'm hardworking and such, thank you. Bagels? St33v3? I'm disappointed to see that my post-election entry was not put up. I'm guessing because of the picture that was attached to the e-mail, oh well. This is all I have to say for now, Ill see you all very soon. Yours truly, "The 19 year old punk"
Sunday November 7 2004	I remember a few years back when Parmer's sponsored the boat parade. It was a great family event. Cars lined up along the causeway and it was fun for all. I would definitely be there to watch another one. As for problems with insurance, why can't people decorate their boats and go out for a "Sunset Cruise"? Don't call it a parade, call it a "Boat Boasting Exhibition". See you on the 18th.
7	Boat Parade: We can go back an forth from Picnic Island to Parrotise dock. How's that sound?
7	Boat Parade At Sunset. Saturday, December 18 in Pine channel. We should all go in the same direction. I suggest we go counter-clockwise in the parade because this is Florida, the land of the Hurricane.
7	Parade. We don't need no stinking insurance. Just show up. There is no organization or sponsors or meetings. We just need to go in the same direction.
7	Does one have to be a Rocket Scientist to string their vessel with Holiday lights? Color me in on the Boat Parade if my pea-sized brain can figure out how to do the lighting effects. Do I attach them to the battery or do they make boat lights that run on everyday batteries? Is it expensive and where do we get our Boat Lights? Do we tape them on to the vessel? Please don't laugh at this first-time boat owner. Thank you to the nice man at the Bittersweet boat ramp this week who helped the dumb blonde on Heinekens.
7	That sounds like a good idea for the boat parade. I don't understand why Palmers Place was involved in the previous boat parades anyway. There is no need for prizes. The whole thing about a boat parade is to go by boat. No need for any silly meetings or the same old boring judges. We don't need them. Yeah.
7	Boat Parade. I'll go. How do you light a boat if it's just a small boat without a generator? Any cheap ideas?
7	So what and where is Slice of Paradise? I do not see a listing in the Business Directory. (Ed: We don't have their number yet. Does anyone know their number? Thanks)
7	I think this site is neat, just browsed all the comments and it seems that a lot of people have faulty memories, or weren't here to speak of what they talk of. The Big Pine 29 arrest happened off Beach Road in 1983 or 4, and were Key Westers. The Glass Works made fine blown glass vases and figurines, many sent to Europe and won awards for their quality. Many of their employees were from the Road Prison. Who ever heard of Crook & Crook? And then again Peg Legs had the neatest bar in the area. Then of course you had Island Jim's where you could order breakfast any way but Joannie gave it to you her way.
7	The Key West Air show was great! The Blue Angels are so awesome. If you go bring a chair because none are provided.
7	Take 2:40 minutes to hear this patriotic rendition. Click on a link below to listen to Bruce Springsteen performing his interpretation of "The Star-Spangled Banner" Windows Media - Broadband-DSL: http://www.sonymusic.com/clips/selection/fu/BruceSpringsteen/BruceSpringsteen_ StarSpangledBanner_full_100.asx Dial-up: http://www.sonymusic.com/clips/selection/fu/BruceSpringsteen/BruceSpringsteen_ StarSpangledBanner_full_56.asx QuickTime - http://www.sonymusic.com/clips/selection/fu/BruceSpringsteen/BruceSpringsteen_ StarSpangledBanner_full_ref.mov RealAudio - http://www.sonymusic.com/clips/selection/fu/BruceSpringsteen/BruceSpringsteen_ StarSpangledBanner_full.ram
7	You can grow your own catnip, we do and the cats love it. You can buy the plants very reasonable at the flea market. See Charlie at the plant booth.
7	I agree with your troubling problem with the benches at Winn Dixie. They should return them to their old spot on the sidewalk. They should also hook up a couple of 220 lines to them with wet seats so when the loud mouth drunks that line them all the time start their crap they just need to flip a switch and cook their asses to shut their vulgar crap up. So leave the benches in the trash. I'm sure the employees Can go out and have a quick smoke in the peace and quiet now.
7	I think Vodka is the perfect alcohol. Gin makes you sin, Whiskey makes you frisky, Rum makes you numb. You know all those things are true, but vodka just makes you drunk; and drunk I can handle.
7	Just to get the record straight, the employee that got fired at Rob's Island Grill did not get fired over "missing money." She got let go because she was a lousy, incompetent server that could not handle her job with the public. She has had a rough time in the past year and needs to deal with her personal life before she is ready to deal with the public. I wish her the best of luck.
7	Rob's father is not retired. Get your info right before printing it.
7	Best Restaurants: 1) Parrotdise Bar & Grille 2) Mangrove Mamas 3) Square Grouper
7	Looking at that mostly-red election-results map; us "rich, righteous, or redneck" types seem to be the majority. I wonder what it is about living jammed together that seems to cause such a loss of cooperative independence. Maybe that's why so many people crossed the ocean years ago? Maybe that's why they still do?
7	I voted for Bush and I'm not rich, or a redneck. I am educated and I'm not swayed by left wing media blitzes. Funny how 3 days after the election the economy is better, the stock market is at the highest it's been in a year and a half, the unemployment rate is at it's lowest since 1996 and oil prices are going down....Hmmmmm.
7	Larry Threlkeld has done his time. He worked hard for what he has now and none of it came from the "business". All he was charged with was conspiracy and it was his friendship with John Robinson. And editor don't discriminate the truth.
7	The KEROSENE light in mention was the one in front of the Reef Light gift shop run by Pete Rosin in the 70's and 80's. It is now Strike Zone charters. The light will again be shown on Big Pine Key in front of Sea Center.

Saturday November 6 2004	Big Pine and Lower Keys lighted boat parade will be on Sat. Dec.18 between Parrot Dice dock and Pine Channel Estates at sunset. Just show up. We would like to hear if there is any interest. Sound off on this site.
6	There was a cop in CVS/ Scotty�s parking lot giving tickets to those autos taking a short cut through the lot. He seemed to be doing a good business.
6	On Little Palm Island this week a guy rented the island for his daughter�s wedding ($$$) and one of the Polish contract workers there got drunk and kissed the bride, disturbing the whole wedding. The father slapped the Pollock; and to make the story shorter: the father got all his money back (many thousands) and the Polish worker got fired.
6	RE yesterday's comment: Good things that are happening in the world because of the United States. I'd like to ask, like what?
6	Another thing of the past on Big Pine, the benches have been removed from WD. When I inquired at WD they said the landlord wanted them removed. I called the managing agent and they said WD requested them to be removed. Well it doesn't matter who said what. Where will the people who shop and wait for car service sit? Not inside because the drivers won't come in and look for them. The benches were a friendly welcome area for the shoppers. Come on people, call up WD and get the benches back. It's one more nice home town friendly spirit taken away. Any news on Wendy's? Maybe they will put out benches like, sweet, Miss Edie did. WD 872-4124.
	Kudos to Rodgers Furniture�s new look. They cleared the lot next door which looks good also.
6	Wendys. I say nay, nay. We could have had the Marnier Resort reopened, but too much traffic. They said nay, nay because they want the basin filled. We could have had a McDonalds, but too much traffic. Again, another nay, nay. Most kids had a swimming hole close to route one. It was okay for helping the whales, but too much traffic for the kids to swim. Now it's slated to be filled. Another nay, nay.
6	The Houseboats, and Liveaboards (Oceanside) in Big Pine and Newfound Harbor are getting to be out of control and an eyesore. My tax bucks pay for my septic system inspections and trash pickup. Many of us pay for local storage units. I have never, ever seen Authorities checking to see where those residents are dumping their trash; and where there feces and urine are going. As a 30+ year around nearby resident, I would prefer some sort of control and cleanup now, before our swimming canals, snorkel and diversities are posted with contamination signs saying, 'Swim at your own risk'. The storage barges tied behind those vessels need to go.
6	Hello, I am a whiner. To our neighbors on 19th Street with the nightly, all night long outdoor dog barking concert. I have a few suggestions for you. 1. Please put your dogs in at night where they obviously want to be. 2. Bring them over to our house. Our dogs will be happy to teach them the etiquette of evening hours. 3. Trade up for dogs that are not afraid of every snail, frog or mosquito that comes within 100 yards of their path. 4. Think about exchanging them for quieter pets like cats, hamsters or iguanas (which are even free here). 5. Distribute sleeping pills to your sleep deprived neighbors. To be fair about all this there is an up side. No homeless people will use our neighborhood as their place of residence. It is much too noisy.
6	Restaurant Review: You are so right, Julio's Looe Key has great food. He has the best cheeseburger in town and you can't beat the prices. He has specials for lunch and I always call to see what he has. Try it, you will love it and don't tell anyone. It is a nice, secret place to eat when everyone else is drinking. Kudos to Julio.
6	Owner Review: Julio's Grill is good food and consistent. It is a shame that it is on Joe Glenn's property. Somehow he has always managed to get decent hardworking people; maybe it is just the fact that it is the Keys and there are so few jobs around. Between Joe Glenn and his new Manager "Chip" they have managed to get rid of most of the honest, hard working crowd. If you "want some fun" like their help wanted ad says, sleep with Chip first, (possibly Joe as well) they are not adverse to "group fun". To the "expert" on Joe Glenn, get your facts straight. You must have been sleeping with him to believe his lies. He has conned more people in the Keys than he hasn't. Does anyone else remember the real truth?
6	It's like Rob once said, that he does not want the lowlife from the Avenues coming to his restaurant, but has he ever thought about it? It is the lowlifes that make him money. And then he still has the nerve to scream to them. My lowlife workers, do not let this bully abuse you. Just bitchslap him and see if he stands up. Remember bully's are cowards. People like him do not know how hard we all work. We never had daddy to give us money. Rob, you are just a daddy's boy.
6	I�m not surprised to read of Rob�s treatment of an employee in front of other employees and customers. I know from speaking to others that this was not an isolated incident. I was in the restaurant quite some time ago when a little dog came to the side door and was looking in the low window. A person at our table asked the waiter for a paper cup or bowl to give the dog some water. This was mid-summer and the dog was obviously suffering and thirsty in the heat. The waiter said �No�, adding that animal control had been called to take the dog and that Rob said that he didn�t want give the dog water and have it �hanging around.� I have heard other examples of Rob�s abusive treatment of employees and customers as well. If a business owner needs to speak to an employee about a problem it should be done in private and in an adult and intelligent manner. A concept and ability that Rob seems to lack understanding of. He has also been overheard making disparaging remarks about local businesses and organizations. He never (or rarely) participates in community events. I ceased doing business there for these exact reasons and will never again spend my money in his establishment.
6	I've been reading the Kudos and Whiners for about 2 months now, and just wanted to say how interesting I find it. I wonder how many of us read and never send? By the way, I love Big Pine and am really going to miss it when I move. This has been a very unique experience and I wouldn't have missed it for a million dollars. Hey, have you all heard the one about how to be a millionaire in the Keys? Come here with six million and in no time at all you'll be down to one.
6	As far as the weatherman (Bill Kamel pedophile) from channel 7 goes: I thought he was great, and provided the best damn coverage of all the hurricanes that Florida had. Well, that goes to show you how a little persona can hide a lot. The court made a wise decision in not granting him bond.
6	Principal Review: Terry Axford is not as nice as she seems. Don't be fooled. Some of you people need to look a little closer.
6

Monday November 22 2004	We, the friends of Billy Leopold need help from anyone who knows anything about the three Cubans that attacked him Saturday night. He is in intensive care in Miami and we are all praying for him. There is a reward. Please write back on this website; or leave some kind of message at Aroma's Deli. All confidential. Please help.
22	The Donald is in bankruptcy. You're Fired.
22	I truly want to say a sincere and humbled thank You for erecting the Flagpole on the Webcam. It really creates more interest and is a good indicator of the conditions for boating activities, etc. At work everyday I get calls from people with reef reports to enable me to sell trips on the water. Now I can just check the webcam. Gotta love it!
22	I'd have to agree with you about the webcam flag; beautiful as it always is, this one is overdue for an honorable discharge.
22	Who could help, but to love this face?
22	Restaurant Review: I ate at Bahama Jack's today and agree with the person who wrote earlier about not seeing the server. The food was OK, not great, but I have had worse. The server however, was more interested in flirting and playing with her co-workers than she was in taking care of her customers. My advice to the server: Pay more attention to your customer and your tips will increase. I am sure you noticed I left you $2 on a $38 dollar check and that was $1.99 more than you deserved. T. I. P. S. is an acronym for "To Insure Proper Service." My advice to the owners and managers of Bahama Jack's: If you want to keep any customers, work on your staff.
22	Everyone should name a new folder on their computer �Catch All�. It should be the default folder for everything you save that you don�t know what to do with right now; pictures, stuff people send you, stuff that you copied, etc. And every now and then you can go and clean out the catch all folder by cut and pasting the files to where they actually belong in your computer.
22	Fake boobs: I am a woman with natural size D boobs. Flat-chested women who buy boob implants are insecure & need a lift. As long as fake boobs look natural it's fine. With the bowl effect or placed too far apart, fake boobs are obvious. Not a good thing. It's like a man having a penis implant or wearing a rug on his head.
22	The NASCAR races were in Homestead this weekend and the Superboat Championships were in Key West this weekend. Are you sure that you were in the right city and state of mind?
22	Has my wife been talking to any of you? I got 5 ads for Viagra in my inbox this morning.
22	Why do married people cheat? Why not get a divorce? Why get married in the first place?
22	To the Whiner bashing on the Key Deer Bartender and his wife. Is that you Rob? I have had the pleasure of knowing both the bartender and his wife and they are an asset to this community. It is too bad you have to put others down in order to make yourself look better. I would much rather dine at the key deer than at Robs. The locals here work hard for their money and I'm not spending mine watching Rob yell at his help in front of me. I have never had issues with Rob, but he obviously has issues in dealing with his staff in a professional manner. I don't care how clean his place is or how good the food. I'll spend mine with Capt. Dan any day because he is a generous and courteous man. And if it's not Rob writing the e-mail, hopefully you'll get your kick in the pants just as you deserve. Shame on you.
22	Question from a tourist. (We help keep Big Pine Key green$) There was a restaurant called KD's at about mm31 across Rt.1 from the Big Pine Motel. I have heard that it changed hands. Can anyone advise the new name and any information?
22	Does anyone know what happened to "Roberto" who sold tomatoes and Vegetables at the Flea Market? Haven't seen him there for over a month.
22	It's pretty obvious when seeing the Green Bay Packer truck in front of the Key Deer Bar that the Packer fans are a bunch of losers. Smashed windshield, weeds growing around it. Where's your pride Packer Fans? Too busy getting drunk and doing jello shooters to clean up your mess?
22	I just got out of stock Island jail and I must say that was some of the best lobster and key deer I have ever eaten. Keep it up Coppers!
22	Ok, so far we have Poetic Druggie, 19 Yr Old Punk, and Tall Crazy BP Woman. Gotta love a neighborhood full of eccentrics. I happen to be a member myself and it's an endless source of entertainment!
22	It�s amazing how this site has lampooned everyone except Rob�s for the last few years and all of a sudden they discovered Rob. Poor thing. I sure hope you folks don�t discover me.
22	The restaurant review of 11/21 had to be written by Rob himself as no one I know ever experienced anything like that. Only bad food and abuse from him.
22	It sounds like Rob's had at least one good day! Maybe there's hope; pray for a string!
Sunday November 21 2004	Web Cam: The flag shows up real well at night! Do you have a light on it? (Ed: No, it is an infrared equipped camera. We, really must get a new flag, though. This one looks like it was in Falluja.)
21	Hey, I just got hooked up with DSL and discovered that your live web cam picture actually changes. Whoa, can see individual rain drops. Thanks.
21	Swimming Hole on Ramrod? Where is it, please?
21	Restaurant Review: Bahama Jack's. Was told to seat ourselves if we wanted. Never saw a server, a menu, or food. Oh yeah, the server was out once from the back of the counter to tell 2 other customers there was a NASCAR race in Key west this weekend and she was surprised she hadn't seen any cars being brought in yet. We figured it was a bad day at BJ's and went to another local establishment for our lunch. Keep trying and thumbs up to anyone trying to start a new restaurant around here. We're not mad, in fact we thought the whole incident was pretty amusing.
21	Restaurant Review: I have been reading all the comments comparing Rob's Island Grill to Key Deer Bar. The two are so far apart how can anyone compare them? Robs is a nice family style restaurant. Key Deer is a dive barroom where only 10% of the customers bath and have teeth. I am very comfortable taking visitors, family and customers to Robs and know they will get great food, great service and a nice environment. In fact, I just had lunch there today. The staff is friendly and the food is great. Upon leaving Rob personally saw us out the door and said "Good Bye, Thanks for coming". The only thing I ever liked at Key Deer was watching the toothless woman hitting on the drunks so they will buy her a round. Since the bartender from Montego Bay came over to Key Deer that has added some entertainment too. Thank you to Rob and the great staff for giving us one place in Big Pine we can take our family out for a meal and experience a great time with great food.
21	I think, since it's been well over a year since it came up, that the Walgreens deal fell through because so many Big Piners complained about it. Personally, I would much rather see a nice neat Walgreens store than Scotty's big tin building. It wouldn't stick up as much above the trees either.
21	For photo developing, try taking them to Winn-Dixie. Even though it's not the greatest grocery store around, we started dropping off our film there over a year ago. It takes about 4 days, but they come back very clear. They aren't over or under developed. If you drop off your film for one-hour developing, it is a rushed process, therefore more mistakes are likely to be made. If you can wait a few days, take your film there and drop it off, pictures are better, and I think it's cheaper, too. Haven't had bad photos yet, unless it was our photo taking.
21	CVS: I dropped off a prescription for chemo pills on the 11th of Nov. And said I would pick them up on the 16th. We had to start on the 17th. I went in on the morning of the 17th and they didn't have them. They weren't even ordered. All they had were 5 pills. The script is for 3 in the morning and 3 in the evening. So I turned them down; no sense starting something on the wrong foot. They said they would be in the following morning. They weren't. They called at 4:30 in the afternoon and said it was ready. We are now 2 days behind on our regimen. If this happens every month within 6 months we are over a month behind in our fight of this cancer. I think that could be a big difference in our recovery.
21	We have a local pharmacist who also refuses to fill birth control prescriptions. But, he owns his own pharmacy and isn't part of a chain, so it's a little hard to argue with his decision. I wonder if the right-to-life folks are going to start protesting cooperative pharmacies next.
21	No wonder you like to punt tiny dogs and things. You are a weenie like all bullies.
21	The local news reported the story of a man who punted a small dog. The dog died. The man is in jail on animal cruelty charges. Now, if you want to punt fake boobs, that's fine so long as they're not attached to someone at the time.
21	This is Jill Hardy, for the person who was asking about me, I am not moving back from Boston. I have heard from a lot of people that I am, I don't know where that came from, but it is not true.
21	Let's hope Jill Hardy is coming back. I know a lot of people who sure would be happy.
21	There are many nice folks in Big Pine and thankfully most of them take the time to ask how you are doing instead of holding others hostage with their continuous chatter all about themselves, their bow-n-arrow and their leaky implants. Funny how we are not subjected to any information on all those children. Wow, a bath would be a good thing so she doesn't stink up the room; plus it could create a reflection for Narcissus for further admiration.
21	Surprise!
21	Way to go Tall Crazy Big Piner Woman. Big Pine is just filled with "Grown Children" That have nothing to do but talk bad about others on this site. I think you should keep your given name for this site as did I when I was called the 19 year old punk.
21	Happy Belated Birthday wish to my old neighbor, the oldest Chihuahua, Ginger!
21	I would pronounce tufts exactly the way it looks. The T is not silent.
21	Tufts: On AOL type in dictionary and it will give you an audio pronunciation of any word as well as the meaning and other details.
21	Get well soon, Glenda. Your family loves you. Take it easy and rest.
21	Addicts Opinion Everyone wants to talk some s**t. They are really just jealous, because I have so much wit. I never ever cuss, and especially don't steal. Don' t put up such a fuss, cause you're afraid to live life for real. You are only here for six months at a time, and think you own the Keys. You never could put together a rhyme, since you're so worried about the CRACK thieves. The water down here is so so blue, but only if you really knew. The keys is the way it is, so mind you're own damn biz. Don't put up such a fuss