New Year's Eve 2008

[Uncle Jay’s Year End Episode] This is really good. http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/3dbd7af54f/uncle-jays-yearend-episode-from-unclejay

[DirecTV Rip-off] There was an additional $5.99 charge on my DirecTV bill this month. When I called to inquire about it I was informed that I added insurance to my bill. I told them I didn’t add any insurance as I’ve never called them since I had the service. They said they were sorry and would remove the insurance for an additional $10 charge.

[What's Not Good About A.A.] I just can't resist: This is a searching and fearless moral inventory
 of Alcoholics Anonymous. It doesn't work. We can do better than this. This is the year 2008, and we can come up with a better answer to alcoholism than "It's hopeless, so abandon yourself to God." Not only does the A.A. 12-Step "treatment" not work, but it kills as many people as it saves. That is a very strong damnation, but the numbers back it up. There are always lots of A.A. defenders who will swear that A.A. saved their lives, and lots of A.A. boosters who claim that A.A. is keeping millions of alcoholics sober, but all objective, fair tests of A.A. that have ever been done show
no better success rate than no treatment at all.

The only possible mathematical explanation is that A.A. kills one patient for each one that it saves, thus making the effective success rate balance out at zero. And that is, in fact, actually believable, given just how bad the so-called "treatment program" really is, and how high the A.A. failure rate and the A.A. death rate really are. Read on.

Bill Wilson actually bragged about that problem at the memorial service for Dr. Bob. Bill described the early days of A.A. this way: You have no conception these days of how much failure we had. You had to cull over hundreds of these drunks to get a handful to take the bait.

If you have to cull hundreds of drunks to get a few success stories, then that sounds like a one or two percent success rate. But wait! That is only the gullible victims who "take the bait", as Bill Wilson called it, just the ones who believe Bill Wilson's religious ravings and join Alcoholics Anonymous. How many of those joiners actually stay sober for any appreciable length of time, like several years? Even less, for sure.

At first nearly every alcoholic we approached began to slip, if indeed he sobered up at all. Others would stay dry six months or maybe a year and then take a skid. This was always a genuine catastrophe.
The old-timers in Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous brag about all of their friends that they have buried. They talk like they are the last survivor of the Lost Patrol -- which many of them really are. They don't seem to be able to recognize the fact that if the treatment program actually worked, then they wouldn't need to be burying all of their friends.

My husband made pumpkin pancakes again this year on Christmas morning. We got the recipe some time ago here on the Coconut Telegraph. Thanks again to whomever originally posted it. Yum! http://bigpinekey.com/Recipes/pumpkin_pancake_recipie.htm

[Financial Crisis] This is what these logos will look like when the crisis is over.
 

Quoting troop deaths as a way of protesting the Iraqi war is fine.  But to do so in order to bash the Republican Party is pretty ignorant, considering about 3000 more troops died during Clinton's term than during Bush's term.

[Notice: Classified Ads] Because of the crummy economy, BigPineKey.com will now except commercial ads from those of you looking for work or extra income and we will waive the usual $20 charge for those types of commercial ads until further notice.

[Traffic] On Monday night my co workers and I were returning to Big Pine from Marathon and once we got to the Bahia Honda Bridge the traffic was stopped.  It took us 30 minutes to make the light in Big Pine.  While we were sitting I called the sheriffs office to see if there was an accident as a sheriffs car had come up behind everyone with its lights and sirens on and the dispatched told me “no the officer needed to check in for work, that was why they did what they did.”  Excuse me! 

As residents of the Keys we have been at the mercy of this traffic situation for over 20 years.  My question is, why don’t they put an officer under the light when they know this is happening?  Don’t the residents of the Keys deserve to get home in a timely manner to pick up their children from sitters, or make appointments on time?  What about the frustration level of everyone?  Doesn’t that make for dangerous driving situations once people pass the light on BP trying to make up for lost time?  What about the issue that the officers drive patrol cars from Marathon to Cudjoe Key to sign in?  I think we need some answers here. 

The dispatcher also told me that the light was the Highway patrols responsibility.  I will be calling them to find out.  I have been told in the past by the sheriff’s dispatchers that the sheriffs don’t direct traffic nor are they taught the art of it.  Well go figure!  Then why do they direct traffic by the flea market and the seafood festival in Marathon, but do not grant us the ability to take care of local business in a timely manner when these events occur?   Fantasy Fest, Bikers week, New Years.  I think the general public deserves some answers.   The light in Big Pine has always been the problem and it can not be fixed by any other measure except for a cop under there directing traffic.  What a sham.  I will be interested in hearing from the authorities that be.

Kudos to First State Bank on their new building at the stop light. I think it looks great. I would also like to say Kudos to First State Bank for hiring local businesses to do the work. The outside looks beautiful and the inside is just as nice. The company who did the cabinet and teller line work was right on. It looks great and to think they are here locally, just makes it all the better. If there are any more new banks going up or businesses, they should check with First State Bank and find out who did their work. Lets keep it local, gang. I also agree that it’s time some places clean up. A new paint job can go a long way.

[Is Nothing Sacred] Once again I was disqualified from the neighborhood's "Best Decorated House" contest due to this humbug attitude!

Does anyone know what is going on with Trudi (True Arts Bakery)? Is she still on BPK?

Reset your mouse for 2009. This is important.  You should actually do this every year.  Even more often is recommended by Kim Kommando (the computer guru) if you spend a lot of time on the computer. I was shocked to see how well this works, and how far off mine was! To re-calibrate your mouse, click and hold on the g (on the right) below, then drag the g toward the Y.  If it doesn't work immediately, you might want to clean your mouse, as the calibration is off. I'm sure you will recommend this to all your friends once you see how much smoother and better the mouse works after being  calibrated.

You dumbass, you’ll believe in anything

[Yawn] This is boring history, but it's important. Think about Jan ’05 Senate Bill S.190, The Federal Housing Enterprise Regulatory Reform Act of 2005, Republican sponsored legislation, designed to increase oversight of Fannie and Freddie. The Republicans  predicted that if the bill were not enacted, that Fannie and Freddie would collapse leading to fiscal disaster. The bill was defeated in the House and blocked in the Senate by efforts of Democrats and liberal voting Republicans. In support of the Bill John McCain said “If Congress does not act, American taxpayers will continue to be exposed to the enormous risk that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac pose to the housing market, the overall financial system, and the economy as a whole”. That bill was but one of a host of attempts to reform F/F dating back to the 90’s. In 2008 alone Bush raised the alarm at least 18 times. In each instance reform was blocked by Democrat influence and lobbyist in the pay of F/F. Senator Chris Dodd has received more money those lobbyist than another legislator with then Senate rookie Obama a close second. It’s true that some Republicans have blood on their hands in this fiasco, but the lion’s share of blame falls squarely on Democrat shoulders. Those who are really interested should take a look at: http://www.highway278.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=51736 or do a little of your own research. The facts are irrefutable. It’s history now, but it’s of importance because we must consider the judgment and ethics of the party currently in power.

Why can’t we all get along? Happy New Year!

[Executing Border Violators] You did go a little overboard my friend! It's not necessary take a life, just break both their legs and take them to the nearest border post. They won't be back for at least 8 weeks, for sure.

Contribute to the George W. Bush Presidential Library! The George W. Bush presidential Library is now in the planning stages and accepting donations. The library will include: 
The Hurricane Katrina Room - which is still under construction.
The Alberto Gonzales Room - where you won't be able to remember anything.
The Texas Ari National Guard Room -  where you don't even have to show up.
The Walter Reed Hospital Room - where they don't let you in.
The Guantanamo Bay Room - where they don't let you out.
The Weapons of Mass Destruction Room -  which no one has been able to find.
The National Debt Room - which is huge and has no ceiling.
The Tax Cut Room - with entrance only to the wealthy.
The Economy Room - which is in the toilet.
The Iraq War Room - (after you complete your first visit - they make you go back for a second, third, fourth and sometimes a fifth visit).
The Dick Cheney Room - in the famous undisclosed location, complete with shotgun gallery.
The Environmental Conservation Room - still empty.
The Supreme Court Gift Shop - where you can buy an election.
The Airport Men's Room - where you can meet some of your favorite Senators.
The Decider Room -  complete with dart board, magic 8 ball, Ouija Board, dice, coins and straws.
The Library will also feature an Electron Microscope Laboratory to help you locate and view the President's accomplishments.

One of the Library's best features may be actual and now Famous Quotes by George W. Bush, such as but not limited to:
"The vast amount of our imports come from outside the country."

"If we don't succeed, we run the risk of failure.”
"The future will be better tomorrow."
"We are ready for any un foreseen event that mat or may not appear."
"It isn't pollution that's harming the environment, It's the impurities in our air and water that are doing it."

[Blame Clinton] Using the convoluted logic of the "Blame Clinton for 9-11 poster" I guess it’s fair to say that any attack against the United States by terrorists after Obama takes office means that since it was planned during Bush’s term it’s his fault. My how short sighted can one be? The new phrase of the republican party should be "Anyone but us." How come the blamer didn’t lay the blame on Bush Sr. when the World Trade Center was attacked the first time in Clintons first year of office? Oh yeah, I forgot, anyone but us.

Men in Training
        

[Red & Blue] Ask a Liberal a question and they'll tell you what they feel.  Ask a Conservative and they'll tell you what they think.  Try it. It's true.

Happy New Year! I want to thank everyone for a great 2008. We will be open New Years Eve until 2pm with a fresh load of vine ripe tomatoes, fruits and vegetables. We will be closed New Years Day and Friday due to Chuck being in the hospital. I will be back bright and early Saturday and Sunday morning. I wish the best for 2009 to all the locals. Thank you so much for all the love and support.  ~Lisa

[Conch Republic] Mr Anderson and all those who did not stand up publically and protest mayor McPherson’s calling in Federal troops to raid the bong shops on Duval St have no say in the Conch Republic. The whole idea was to protest federal interference in our affairs yet they gave a pass to that fat  ex-doper. You all are only in it for the money. the true spirit of the Conch Republic died with Capt Tony and Wilhelmina Harvey.

[Blaming Clinton for 9/11] George Bush was the blame for 9/11. Wake up, it was on his watch and he was asleep at the wheel.

Beer ad from the 1930s.

Every time I've built character, I've regretted it.  ~Calvin and Hobbes

Bring in the new year at Rob's!  We’ll have great drink specials all night and free champagne for everyone at midnight, plus the kitchen will be open until midnight.

[God] Democrats want the word God excluded from everything. Man, now I understand the phrase: liars and the liars that tell them.

Plant a garden of peace in the New Year. This one is of lettuce.

[Gravity Back Scratcher] Video

[New Year's Prediction] Levi dumps Palin's daughter, saying baby isn't his.

It's important in life to reach out, to strive for greater achievements, to go for that greener grass that is on the other side of the  fence. But one  must also be careful, sometimes  you can reach too far. But  when you find yourself over-extended and you're stuck in a situation that you can't get out  of, there is one thing you should  always remember. Your government is there to help you!

[More Bull] Redneck Bull Carrier

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Wednesday December 31, 2008

Monday December 29, 2008

[Illegal Aliens]  The post the other day regarding the impact illegal aliens have on social security and the fact they probably will return even if they're deported wasn't intended to be an endorsement for their presence here.  Illegal immigration is a violation of federal law and in many cases conflicts with state and local laws with regards to employment.  The post was intended to show that this issue is complicated and can't be solved just by deporting them all because of impacts not only on the economy but also relations overseas.  I hoped other posters can overcome what appears to be hate and detest for illegal immigrants and discuss possible solutions rationally. 

Let's face it, deportation doesn't work.  First, let me make a couple of points to correct a few things previously posted.  First, illegal immigrant have no rights.  Therefore, they don't have the right to free legal representation.  Immigration lawyers get paid by their clients, not the taxpayer.  Second, www.numbersusa.com  is a good website that explains the cost of illegal immigrants.  Roy Beck, the owner has been active on this issue for years.  However, the site is one-sided and whether you like it or not, illegal workers do provide a benefit. 

Rather than deportation, I do have several other proposals to end illegal workers here.  First, let's boycott all business who employ illegal workers.  If businesses hire undocumented workers, then let's pull their license and seize their inventory.   Second, insure all renters can prove they belong here by showing a U.S. passport or an alien registration card.  On a national level, let's encourage our elected officials to enter into expanded trade agreements like NAFTA to ensure "those" people stay on their side of the border.  Companies who take jobs overseas should make provisions for Americans to keep their jobs and pay for their move overseas.  Finally, let’s insure everyone who comes here on a tourist visa has a return ticket in their possession when they enter.  If they aren't on the airplane on that date, then an arrest warrant should be issued immediately.  Lastly, anyone who applies for a marriage license to a non-American should pay a fee of at least $2500.  If the non-American is shown to be on an overstayed visa, then they should be immediately deported. 

[Big Box Chain Stores] Be very careful what you ask for. If you want your surroundings to look just like Anywhere, USA, then perhaps you should move to Georgia or Texas. Don't move here to get away from where you came from and all it's problems, then try and make Big Pine look just like where you came from! In fact, why don't you just go home so you can enjoy your Applebees and Circuit City?

[Soul For Sale] Here is the outcome for eBay’s Super Holiday Deal! One Soul- Original Owner, Christmas One if a kind Gift (scroll down) Super Holiday Deal! One Soul- Original Owner, - eBay (item 190274307312 end time Dec-22-08 03:30:14 PST)

[Crooks] The people who invested the $50,000,000,000 with Bernie Madoff were told not to ask any questions about the investments. They trusted Madoff to be a shrewed crook who had some nefarious scheme to make them money. Those investors are as guilty as Madoff because he played on their greed and with his great reputation they figured he could make them money in an un-kosher way.

I was in Winn Dixie this beautiful, warm, and sunny morning (Sunday), and I finished my shopping and was ready to check out.  I like going to the automatic checkout machines.  I like to check out my own items and bag them myself.  But, to my surprise, all 6 ACMs were closed.  I have never had a problem like this in any other supermarket.  I thought the ACM's were suppose to be open all the time.  Even when it is super busy, there are always several of the ACM's down.  I don't care to shop at Winn Dixie, I only do because of proximity.  I actually work in Key West and prefer to shop at Publix and Albertsons.  I never have a problem with the ACMs in Albertsons, they have great sales, and great people working there.  Publix is clean, has better prices than Winn Dixie, has very fresh produce, and have so many people working that their service is quick and painless.  I do have one positive thing to say about Winn Dixie. They do carry a good quality of meat.  I do praise the meat department for always putting out fresh meat and being helpful to customers.  With that said,  open up your ACMs, Winn Dixie.

[School Board] There’s a proposal to send the entire Monroe County School Board to a special class where they’ll be taught to play nice with each other. They sure are a fiery board. Everyone seems to hate each other. It’s a good thing they don’t allow guns in school.

Islamorada’s sewering is going to cost them another $1.5 million over budget. I’ve never seen a big project come in on budget. That’s because contractors make their money on change orders or things that they’ve seen in the plans that they knew were in error that they knew they could charge more for once they got the contract. There’s never been a good contract supervisor in any municipal government. If they were any good they’d be the private sector making bunches of money--not in a cushy job with no accountability when they're wrong.

Today in 1845 Texas became a state.

[Financial Meltdown] People wonder why we question the integrity of the news? This video shows that George Bush tried to warn Congress in 2002 that this economic crisis was coming, if something was not done.  But congress refused to listen, along with Barney Franks.  This video says it all. The liberal media did not want this video on You Tube, so they had Time Warner threaten a law suit (proprietary rights) if it was not taken off.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMnSp4qEXNM&NR=1   

[Least Competent Criminals] Muoi Van Nguyen, 31, was arrested in Spokane Valley, Wash., in November, charged with breaking a window with a hammer at a state liquor store and grabbing a bottle of wine valued at $9. Earlier, Van Nguyen had tried unsuccessfully to break the window with a rock, but decided he needed a hammer to do the job and went to a nearby store, where he purchased one for $11!

[Brunch for Charity] Jamaican Me Hungry next to the Salvation Army building on Flagler Av will host its first fundraiser this Sunday, January 4 from 8 am-3 pm for Habitat for Humanity of Key West & Lower Florida Keys.  Chef Warren Leamard is planning some spectacular items that are sure to excite his hungry guests.  Toast the New Year with Mimosas or Bloody Marys then order your own special omelet.  There will be featured items throughout the day, but you can also order off the regular menu.  Habitat will receive 50% of the day's sales.   There is plenty of parking, and you can dine indoors or outside on the patio.  Bring your family and friends to this tried and true restaurant at its new location. Bulletin Board

[9/11] Since a republican was good enough to thank the democrats for the deaths in Chicago last year I thought that in a spirit of good will I would like to remind him of the deaths of over 4,000 American troops for lies in Iraq given to us by the Good Ole Republican Party. Let’s not even mention the bang up job you did to the economy. God did help us. Your party’s over. Better get to spinning quick.

[…inside of my nose itches so badly that I’ll never use it again]  How're you going to smell stuff?

[Illegal Aliens] Kudos to the very first person who posted . The rest of the posts are a prime example of the prejudice that lies beneath their comments and is widespread in this country. If the truth be told, most Americans are too lazy to work the jobs done by these foreigners. Jobs that are vital to our survival.  They want to get paid a lot for doing little or nothing and take no pride in their work. Time and time again I hear the comment "They can not even speak  English".   How prejudiced, considering that most peoples great grandparents came from another country when entrance requirements were more lax.  In those days nothing was thought of exploiting the land and destroying the lives of American Indians.  Little has changed.  In the depression era a program was put in place to employ people and keep them from starving even though it was menial labor and low pay.  As Obama puts a similar program into place,  watch as crime rises and the holier than thou so-called Americans do not want the jobs offered. 

Sure to put a smile on the wife's face.

WD employ's about 100 locals and with the high rate of unemployment here in the Keys many more are applying for positions. Now it seems it's the place to work.

[Gaza Slums] If you tried to keep a nice house in Gaza the other ones there would call you a traitor and kill you.  The mess they live in is all part of their ongoing political campaign to gain the World's sympathy in their fight against Israel.

[Bagel Island] Just a reminder for those of you new to the area or are just here visiting. Bagel island has Gluten free bagels for those Celiac's out there. We also have home made gluten-free Black Bean soup. We’re looking forward to seeing all our old friends back and meeting the new ones. 

CIA Buys Afghan Chief's Loyalty with Viagra. Make Love, not War. CIA Buys Afghan Chief's Loyalty with Viagra | CommonDreams.org

[UFO] Maybe people would come to Key West to meet the extraterrestrial, who, instead of being fetched up and rescued by the mother ship, as he has long hoped would happen, somehow ended up an elected official in the weirdest of all human cities. Maybe even the people who go to Roswell, New Mexico, and attend MUFON meetings would come to the real UFO headquarters on this planet: Key West.

You can see I’m in a really good mood today. When I awoke at 2:30 a.m., trying to come to terms with this pig crap, several drunks were in the parking lot of the Key West City Hall, talking loud, arguing, laughing at their own jokes, making asses of themselves. If they were homeless people, the Key West police would be all over them. But they are not homeless people. They are either tourists or Key West residents. They are Key West, whether I like them carrying on outside my apartment at 2:30 a.m., or not. The more of them we draw to Key West, the more revenues the city’s businesses, thus the city, will have.

I’m not joking. Early this year, or maybe it was the year before, our own part-time resident pollster Lou Harris did a survey of Key West visitors. The number-one reason they gave for coming here is the night life. That’s right. Not the architecture, not the art galleries, not the museums, not the fishing or diving, not the water sports and tours, not the artificial beaches, but the night life.

The night life isn’t why I’m in Key West. I can’t drink or use any human drugs, except ibuprofen when I hurt real bad because I feel poisoned, like I felt at 2:30 a.m. I don’t go bar hopping, because I don’t like being around humans who are drinking and smoking cigarettes and making a lot of noise. I don’t go dancing, because I don’t have anybody to go dancing with. Our city’s night life means very little to me, but it’s the most important reason humans come here, and we need to use it to our advantage. Meaning, we need to promote the night life in our advertising.

A great way to begin any Friday night crawl, unless you are homeless and have no money, is to show up at 6 p.m. at Aqua in the 800 block of Duval Street, and hear the nightingale belt out her beautiful notes. Likely as not, you will see her daddy there, Marathon district’s colorful county commissioner, puffing away on a big Cuban cigar. Vanessa Di Gennaro’s singing is well worth being in a smoke-filled bar with humans cutting three sheets into the wind.

Mario told me this past Friday night at Aqua just how much he loves Key West, what a great city it is. He said he has been wondering when he might appear in my blog again. Now he doesn’t have to wonder.

From the city of “One Human Family,” unless, perhaps, you live on the street.

Tom Thumb’s gas went up 11 cents to $1.859 for regular on Sunday afternoon. What are they doing?

[Illegal Aliens] Kudos to the very first person who posted . The rest of the posts are a prime example of the prejudice that lies beneath their comments and is widespread in this country. If the truth be told, most Americans are too lazy to work the jobs done by these foreigners. Jobs that are vital to our survival.  They want to get paid a lot for doing little or nothing and take no pride in their work. TIme and time again I hear the comment "They can not even speak  English".   How prejudiced, considering that most peoples great grandparents came from another country when entrance requirements were more lax.  In those days nothing was thought of exploiting the land and destroying the lives of American Indians.  Little has changed.  In the depression era a program was put in place to employ people and keep them from starving even though it was menial labor and low pay.  As Obama puts a similar program into place,  watch as crime rises and the holier than thou so-called Americans do not want the jobs offered. 

Happy Birthday Kevin! (Ed: Betty J. sent 7 emails to make sure you got the message.)

[Human Pretzel] This guy doesn’t need much room. I’ll bet his apartment is real small too. There was a guy in KW doing this same act. It it the same guy? Video

[Brian Roberts playing at Parrotdise]  Has it now become okay to post commercial ads in the Telegraph? (Ed: Yes, we’ve always done it for our advertisers. That’s how we keep this thing going. Money talks and we listen to our advertisers. Parrotdise Waterfront has been supporting us for a long time and we enjoy promote their entertainment and specials.)

Celebrity deaths of 2008. Life is Moments. Photo Gallery: Celebrity deaths of 2008

This is not magic, he really cuts a guy in half for this show—I think! Video

[Illegal Aliens] You try pulling the same crap they do in this country in their home countries and see where that gets you.  Their Gov'ts won't deport you, you will languish under deplorable conditions in prison. The jail food here would be considered gourmet fare there. Our corrupt politicians (both parties) are selling this country down the river for their own personal gain. They are the ones who should be put up against the wall. I'd even buy the ammo and enjoy pulling the trigger.  They are traitors who deserve no respect.

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Monday December 29, 2008

Sunday December 28, 2008

[Illegal Aliens] Yesterdays kind hearted posters comments about illegal aliens painted a picture of a nation that is victimizing unfortunate, downtrodden immigrant souls. The poster says the plight of the illegals is your fault. That’s like blaming a homeowner for the crime of the burglar. You and I do not owe the illegal’s anything, not a job, not a living, nothing.  If  they pay into the Social Security system, it is scant recompense for what they cost in free medical care, free schooling, crime, urban decay, jobs lost to American citizens, and the free immigration lawyers costs of our Criminal Justice system that shields them from obeying our laws.

The notion that SS will suffer absent their contribution is patent nonsense. SS is already threatened and is in dire need of reform. The illegals are fully aware that the SS cards that they illegally purchase are nothing more than a ticket to the show, akin to paying union dues; no card, means no job. The poster admits that the vast majority of these illegals have so little respect for our nation and our laws that they return knowingly in violation of our laws. They have so little fear of the consequences that they sneer at us. We currently have adequate laws and procedures that have been designed to protect Americans and American business from the havoc that the illegals bring with them.  Those laws lack only rigorous enforcement. There is substantial evidence of the value in enforcement evident in our west where illegal immigration is on the decline. Changing those laws and procedures to accommodate the comfort of the illegals would be insanity. Our nation is enriched by the hosts of legal immigrants who respect themselves and our laws. 

[Found Wallet] Major kudos to the folks that called about a found wallet. You returned money and credit cards to the owner. Thank you for taking the time to call the number on a card you found inside. Bless you.

[Judge Race. Can you believe they’re still arguing over who won] Yes, and good for it. And if it was you that had seen the votes recounted many times without ever getting the same answer twice, and absentees ballots get accepted, then rejected, then re-accepted, and heard 3 different election officials each give different answers to the exact same question - then you would be doing the exact same thing.

Regardless of which election, all election results must be 100% verifiable to and for all candidates. That is the foundation requirement. Trying to rush the resolution, or circumvent the verification process is suspicious. Determining the winner is what it is, takes what it takes. Candidates' supporters won't change or influence the outcome with their post election complaints.

[Stirring The Pot] We seem to be short of things to bitch about, so let’s try bitching about the lack of decent big box chain stores on BPK. It’s just plain wrong that the greedy short-sighted local yokels who control this little flea speck have only permitted three chain stores on BPK. There’s Winn Dixie that always has the very best in fresh wholesome food and service by a caring and ever courteous staff. There’s CVS, always eager to serve and staffed by an extremely knowledgeable professional and friendly group of MIT grads. And of course there’s the relative new comer, Radio Shack (I’m a little suspect of Radio Shack, I think that it might actually be a local owner and staff). Of those three, I think it’s only WD that saves us all from having to live cheek by jowl with their staff, because it looks like a goodly number of them are bused in. Thank goodness, after all, no decent person would want to live near too, or have to associate with the working class. I have heard a rumor that some of "them" actually live here! Nonetheless, we desperately need more big box chain stores and shuttles to the main land to supply the minimum wage earners.  Save yourselves from the terrors of local enterprise, don’t support those greedy bloodsucking locals who want to take your money, shop big box or the net so that we can have more of Dade County life here on our backwater paradise.

[Death Threat] What was the story of the Key West police chief who received a death threat and quit his new job and left the Keys? It was only a few years ago that this happened. Is there really a Conch Mafia?  I still believe that they killed the fire chief Bum Farto in the 70s.

Obama ran his entire campaign saying he would govern from the middle. I don’t know of a single democrat that’s surprised at all. If you think Democrats have buyers remorse you haven't been paying attention. We’re damn glad the Bush/Conservatives got their hats handed to them. I’m with Joe the Plumber, I agree "McCain is appalling" to borrow Joes own words. Democrats with buyers remorse? You're dreaming. 

Israel is bombing Gaza City again. They blasted Hamas headquarters and killed about two hundred bad guys and innocents. What a mess over there. They also wounded over four hundred people. This took place after the 6 month cease fire expired and Hamas lobbed about three hundred missiles into Israel. I don’t know why they keep trying to piss off the Israelis, it’s never done any good in the past. They must know by now that the Israelis have a temper and cool war stuff.

Someone was there and said that the Palestinian houses are derelict and absolutely filthy; the people live in filth. He also said that the same poor people’s houses of the Israelis are spotless and neat and the people are very proud. The Palestinians spend all their time hating. It’s a country pastime.

Most Mom and Pop businesses need a "season", so far this one is not happening. Our little business has been here a long time and we are off our usual revenues. I can tell this will be a very tough year if the snowbirds don’t show up soon. I also know that some of us find them a pain in the bottom, but it’s very clean money and most everyone gets a little bump. For the small Mom and Pop operation it’s not only counted on, but necessary for the rest of the year to survive. I do hope the new year is one that most of us can live with. It hurts when you see someone go down the tubes. With that being said, Happy New Year to all!

[Damn Sunpass Lanes] He tried to switch lanes at the last second.

[Jail Food] Be thankful you get fed. You put yourselves there so deal with it. If you don't want to eat jail food stay the hell out of jail. Jail is not a country club but a place they put people that break the law. It’s supposed to be a bad place. I know for a fact in jail they feed you nutritional food. It might taste like crap, but it’s of nutritional value. No sympathy here, that's for sure. I am a mother of two that I support on my own and, yes, I have a job. We eat what we call jail food as well. I'm lucky if I can give my kids milk everyday. Most people would love to eat 3 times a day and a place to sleep. Get your crap together and stay out of jail and you to can eat what you want. People in jail get no sympathy in my house. You did the crime now you have to pay the time. Get over it.

[Leukemia & Lymphoma Fundraiser] Teaming up to save lives one putt at a time. Key West’s Team In Training (TNT) is raising funds for the  South Florida Leukemia & Lymphoma Society  to support blood cancer research Join us in putting for the cure. Saturday January 3, 2009 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Boondocks Grill and Draft House Ramrod Key. Mini-Golf Tournament. Live Music. Silent Auction. Raffle Prizes. 50/50 Cash Raffle. Tickets are $10.  Includes one round of mini-golf (good thru April 2009),  discount on Boondocks Grill menu items, and special drawing for a fabulous prize! For tickets, call Anne 872-3390. All proceeds benefit the South Florida Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. For more information, visit us on-line at www.teamintraining.org/sfl

Israeli ground forces are entering Gaza today. Oh oh!

I got one of those nose hair trimmers for Christmas. You know those things that look like a fountain pen with a Remington on one end. It works real good, but now the inside of my nose itches so badly that I’ll never use it again.

[Artificial Reef] Instead of paying millions of dollars for a retired battle ship to use as an artificial reef, we should have used the Boot Key Bridge. Didn't anyone ever think of that?  No, for a bunch of reasons. Why fix a bridge just for a few locals? And remember who's behind Mario's Folly--politicians, and money pursuers. Face it, this is about money. There's no long term financial anything attached to fixing a bridge.

[Decorations] We didn’t celebrate Christmas this year which was awful, but looking on the bright side, we don’t have any decorations to take down and put away.

[Illegal Aliens] They are criminals who do not respect the border or the laws of the country. I quote Stormin' Norma Swartzkopf on your sentiments for illegals "Bovine Scatology". The illegals cost the American taxpayer billions every year. They are keeping Social Security afloat? The hell you say. Are you trying to make a joke? They are illegals, using fake documents, and you think they should be rewarded for this? You must be nuts. You should put an armored infantry division on the border, locked, and loaded. It is absolutely absurd that a great power like the USA is unable to secure it's southern border.

[Illegal Aliens. 1 - They are paying into the social security system without the possibility of ever receiving benefits.  Many of these workers also pay federal taxes using the same fake social security numbers. 

2 - They do this not only so they can work but also many truly believe that if they pay taxes over the years, one day the government will give them amnesty and they'll be able to become Americans.]

1 - Their choice. And they are smart enough to know how to get fake SS numbers, so they know their employment realities. And they do get benefits - every time they walk into a hospital and say they can't pay. And every time they get car loans and mortgages and then don't pay their obligations. And when they don't pay, we get stuck absorbing the companies losses.

2 - That is an old misconception used years ago to make illegals appear sympathetic. They do not truly believe that, and have not for years. It is no longer a viable argument, and is only used now by illegals trying to "work the system", with which they are very familiar, thanks to those who aid the illegals.

Actually, it's the lawyers who are perpetuating the illegal system. The lawyers see all the illegals as potential clients - think of it - enough clients to keep lawyers employed for generations.

Sorry you can't understand. Have you looked in your wallet lately? Have you looked at www.numbersusa.com lately? Have you done anything to find out how much money illegals cost US citizens?  If we got rid of illegals, we could get rid of a lot of court cases and jail expenses (another source of lawyer clients).

[Soul For Sale] Does anyone know what became of the woman selling her soul on eBay?  I was out of town for a while, and missed seeing the final bid.  Seems like a lot to do for your fifteen minutes of fame?

[Winn Dixie] Have you noticed that W/D changes the ethnicity of their employees periodically?

Timothy McVeigh, Oklahoma's very own terrorist bomber was caught escaping from his dastardly deed because he was driving a car with no license plates. That’s should be a capital DUH!

[Illegals are paying into the social security system without the possibility of ever receiving benefits]  Hey man, that's exactly what I've been doing for 37 years and I was born here!

Found dog in Big Pine in the Eden Pines area. White female Bull Terrier, Tattoo ID:  GA 7471-8, Looking for the owner, Please call Nicole 305-218-0441

[How Much Chuck Could A Chuck Chuck Wood] The Marines in Iraq are teaching the locals everything from running police stations to governing democratically.  Literally, they are teaching them everything!  A short video from my nephew deployed somewhere near Fallujah. http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/shotcalla104/?action=view&current=MOV01486.flv

n 2003 I lived in a homeless shelter and was running for mayor of Key West the first time. I was put up to it by Father Stephen Braddock, who headed up Florida Keys Outreach Coalition, and Bill Verge, who then was on the Key West Planning Commission and now is a Key West City Commissioner. For all I know I was the first and may still be the only homeless person to run for mayor of an American city. Or of any city.

I was the only candidate with a vision for Key West to move forward, attract more visitors, and generate more revenues. I was the only candidate concerned about the environment and making peace with Mother Nature. I was the only candidate with no financial stake in Key West. I was the only candidate who owed no money or favors and had no political alliances. I was the only candidate who refused campaign contributions, had no campaign workers, used no signs, posters or car stickers, or media advertising.   More...Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

[Snowbirds] Everything I said yesterday about the snowbirds not showing up--not to worry. They are here! It took me 48 minutes  to get from Spanish Harbor to the stop light on Big Pine Key. Now let’s making some money.

[Chicago. Who Runs It]  Senators: Barack Obama & Dick Durbin  Representative: Jesse Jackson, Jr.  Illinois Governor: Rod Blagojevich (arrested last week)  Illinois House leader: Mike Madigan  Illinois Attorney General: Lisa Madigan (daughter of Mike)  Chicago Mayor: Richard M. Daley (son of Mayor Richard J. Daley) The leadership in Illinois?... all Democrats. Thank you for the combat zone in Chicago.  Body count in the last six months: 292 killed  (murdered) in Chicago 221 killed in Iraq State pension fund - $44 Billion in debt, worst in the  country. Cook County (Chicago) sales tax -  10.25% highest in country.  Chicago school system - rated one of the worst in the country. 

Of course, they're all blaming each other.  They can't blame Republicans though,  because there aren't any. This is the political culture that Obama comes from in  Illinois. And he's going to fix Washington politics  for us?  Good luck and may God help us.

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Sunday December 28, 2008

Saturday December 27, 2008

[Illegal Aliens] I can't understand the frustrations of the poster yesterday saying we should pay a bounty for each illegal alien.  Having been associated closely with a Miami-based immigration lawyer for the past couple of years, perhaps your opinion would change if you saw first hand what is really happening with illegal (undocumented) workers in this economy.  First of all, many undocumented workers are working in jobs with false social security cards.  They are paying into the social security system without the possibility of ever receiving benefits.  Many of these workers also pay federal taxes using the same fake social security numbers.  They do this not only so they can work but also many truly believe that if they pay taxes over the years, one day the government will give them amnesty and they'll be able to become Americans.  It doesn't work that way. 

As far as deportations go, many will get an immigration lawyer (like my friend) and can conceivably avoid deportation.  Either way, they're guests of the American taxpayer while they are in detention.  If they are deported, that's paid by the American taxpayer.  And guess what?  Over 80% of the illegal aliens that are deported come back into the United States illegally.  So yesterday's poster is proposing we spend more money on a problem that's not going to go away through deportation.  If you round them all up and ship them home, it's very likely the social security system will collapse.  Many financial experts opine that it should've collapsed years ago but it was kept afloat by undocumented workers. 
 
Probably the best way the situation is handled is to ensure we have a viable visa program where we can account for non-Americans within our borders.  Given current economic conditions, it's possible the undocumented worker problem will take care of itself as unemployment grows and these workers will be replaced by unemployed Americans who will be willing to work for the same wages.  After all, that's why there are undocumented workers--they're willing to work for wages other Americans won't!

[Kids Drinking] 50% of teenagers in Key West say they have consumed alcohol in the last month. That number seems low. Now we have flashlights that detect alcohol. Years back the Grand Jury made a recommendation that the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco open an office in Key West. An office was opened and was staffed by 1 supervisor and 1 agent.  The office soon moved to the Professional Plaza on 12^th Street, Key West. The staff increased to 1 supervisor, 4 field agents and 1 licensing person. The office closed last year and now there is only 1 field agent that works out of his house. The Division used to send numerous agents down to work spring break, fantasy fest and other special events. Spring break court was set up to handle the large number of arrests that were made for underage drinking and fake ID’s. This year for Fantasy Fest they sent zero agents. There doesn’t seem to be any preventative enforcement of underage drinking now that the Division closed its office in Key West.

I heard that the bird rescuers had to kill the badly damaged birds and everything is okay with them and the feds now. I hope so.

[Tuell and Kahn And Their Newspapers Nazi Puppets] On Christmas Day, a friend, who had just been released from the Stock Island jail for the second time this year, told me the jail food is indeed awful. I said I needed to hear that from someone I personally knew, who knew first-hand, to back up what I was hearing from Lorri Szostak, M.D., who has a friend in the jail.

Two or maybe three times, when interviewed by the Editorial Board of Key West Citizen about my running for office, I told them the free press and plaintiff lawyers are all that stand in the way of America becoming a totalitarian state.

When I learned early this year that Tom Tuell, Editor of the Citizen, and Larry Kahn, Editor of the Keynoter, were in bed with Sheriff Rick Roth and Sheriff-Elect Bob Peryam, and when I saw they wrote nothing but praise reports for Roth and Peryam and the sheriff office, I started to think Tuell and Kahn were like the German journalists who promoted Adolph Hitler’s ascent in Germany.

After Lorri Szostak and I attempted in vain to get the mainstream press interested in this deplorable situation in the jail kitchen, I became convinced that Tuell and Kahn, and their newspapers, are Nazi puppets.

Sheriff Roth and his jail Commandant, Major Tommy Taylor, and the Stock Island jail manager, Penny Phelps, are fully aware of the Consent Decree of the McIntyre United States District Court case, which came out of Roth being sued for running the worst jail in Florida, according to the plaintiff lawyer, Randy Berg, who specializes in representing jail inmates. The food service section of the McIntyre Consent Decree is reproduced on my website; it sets out in fine detail how the jail food is to be selected, prepared, served and tested.

Roth, Taylor and Phelps knew all along that the jail kitchen and food were not in compliance with the food services section of the McIntyre Consent Decree. They never intended to comply. Roth, Taylor and Phelps are in contempt of the United States District Court and should locked up in the very jail they are supposed to run properly, and made to eat the same awful food they have been feeding to the inmates, for as long as the McIntyre Consent Decree has been in effect. Roth, Taylor and Phelps’ employment, and employment and retirement benefits, should be terminated by the United States District Court and used for the inmates’ benefit. Roth, Taylor and Phelps should prosecuted under the criminal provisions of the United States Civil Rights laws, for willingly and knowingly torturing inmates in violation of the Eight Amendment ban against cruel and unusual punishment.

Inasmuch as Roth, Taylor and Phelps never had any intention of complying with the food service section of the McIntyre Consent Decree, the United States District Court needs to take over the jail kitchen and appoint a Custodian to run it at Monroe County’s expense, indefinitely. There is no other way to insure the jail kitchen will be run properly.

This is the kind of case I would bring in the United States District Court, if I were Randy Berg, who is still the inmates’ lawyer of record in the McIntyre case. I would ask for nothing for myself, because God work cannot be done correctly, if I am looking to get anything back; and because I did not stay on top of the jail kitchen and food situation after the Consent Decree was entered. 

[That’s a Lot of Drugs for Peace] I am not a drug addict. I do not take all these pills every day. I just saw the Prozac Nation mini-challenge and thought it would be cool to make a peace symbol out of all the bottles, etc., I could find in the house. That being said, I do have to take medication for "stability." I have severe anxiety/panic attacks and depression. For the past six months, I have been going to a doctor to find something/some combination that would work for me. Some pills gave me insomnia, others gave me acid reflux so bad that all I could really eat were grapes and animal crackers. I had panic attacks what seemed like for hours, and I was popping anti-anxiety medication at that point to knock me out.

I eventually went back to what I had been originally taking because I knew my body and nothing else was working for me. I still have my ups and downs, but I haven't had to take any anti-anxiety medication in over a month. And that in itself is a blessing. So, yeah, I don't like taking meds, but I will to have some peace. 

[Sewer Fees] Stock Island might be getting some sewer relief from their $50 a month sewer bill. They’re considering billing them on their fresh water use. If they use a lot of water on their gardens or washing their things, they’ll pay more accordingly. Although it will benefit most users I think there should be some option for a user to pay for installation of some sort of shit meter that will measure the actual amount of waste going into the sewer. Big users like my family will be paying twice for our water. We have a very large tropical garden. What will be the provisions for real large water users like ball fields, parks and golf courses?

[School Safety Person] The Citizen reported recently that the school superintendent paid an extra $9,000 to the School Safety person because she worked twelve months this year and was only on an eleven month contract.  It was apparently some kind of special project with FEMA.  Now I believe that people should be paid for the work that they do.  The questions I would ask, though, are:
1.  Did she work the entire month (4 1/3 full weeks)?
2.  Did she work a minimum of five 8-hour days during each of those weeks?

If the answer to either of those questions is "no", it's just another example of his steering monies to a crony.

If Sunny Booker, the Safety Coordinator for the school district makes $9,000/month, that's $108,000 per year.  Not a bad gig for a job that's part-time for every other district of our size in Florida.

[How 'Bout A Date] I want to applaud the single Mom who not only thought enough to look on here for Christmas gifts but then was polite enough to post on here thinking everyone.  Humble yet thankful and put your kids first.  That is a true class act.  Why is someone as good as you single?  More so, why didn't I meet a single woman who is a class act like you?  Since you like the classified ads I'm going to put one in the personals.  I hope you answer. Classified Ads > Personals

Thanks for the beautifully decorated December 25 Telegraph.  Hope you had a very Merry Christmas.  Best wishes for a fun and prosperous 2009.

Transvestite: A guy who likes to eat, drink and be Mary.

[Shopping local] I own a a local business and its hard to match the prices of the big guys, we would if we could. That being said, I found myself looking for a flat screen TV. No one in the keys could help me. The online cost was approximately 1600 dollars. The best deal I could get down here was over 2000 bucks.

I understand when you can buy a "widget" from someone one else and save a bunch, but you would have to be nuts or very wealthy not to shop around and get the best deal. On day to day widgets I will pay a little more just to spend my beans on Big Pine Key. It helps us all.

The candidacy of both McCain and Obama presented me with a serious moral dilemma because neither had any substantial record of acting in a fashion that was in concert with my core beliefs. Obama simply had no record of accomplishment of anything and McCain’s substantial record was largely contrary to my conservative belief system. Obama’s history and campaign sloganeering suggested strongly that his problem solving approach would be ultra liberal, while McCain’s history and sloganeering showed a glimmer of hope that he would be nearer to the center. I chose McCain simply because he did not appear to be the most evil of these two lessers. Now that Obama is preparing to shoulder the burdens of the Presidency he is signaling that he will continue pursuit of much of the Bush agenda, which shows unexpected wisdom on his part. I commend him. It strikes me that many Obama’s decisions to date are directly contrary to what one would expect of the liberal ideologue that he professed to be. This fact gives me a small measure of reassurance but it is thoroughly enraging to his liberal base. I’m beginning to believe that the man Obama may have won, but that a more conservative approach to governance by Obama may actually emerge. My thanks to Martha Stewart for saying “That would be a good thing”.

A few of the laws Santa Claus broke the other night:

~Every December 25, the illegal immigrant known as Santa Claus crosses the border into the United States without a passport. He carries concealed contraband, which he sneaks into the country in order to avoid inspection by the U.S. Customs Service. And just what's in all those brightly colored packages tied up with ribbons, anyway? The Drug Czar and Homeland Security want to know.

~Look at how this international fugitive gets around: Santa flies in a custom-built sleigh that hasn't been approved by the FAA. He never files a flight plan. He has no pilot's license. In the dark of night, he rides the skies with just a tiny bioluminescent red light to guide him -- a clear violation of traffic safety regulations.

~Pulling Santa's sleigh: Eight tiny reindeer, a federally protected species being put to hard labor. None of these reindeer have their required shots, and Santa's never bothered to get these genetically- engineered animals registered and licensed. It's no wonder: He keeps them penned outside his workplace in a clear violation of zoning laws.

~But Crooked Claus the Conniving Capitalist harms more than just animals -- he's hurting hard-working American laborers, too. Isn't Santa's Workshop really Santa's Sweatshop, where his non-union employees don't make minimum wage and get no holiday pay? Add the fact that OSHA has never inspected the place, and you have a Third-World elf-exploitation operation that only Kathy Lee Gifford could love.

~No wonder Santa is able to maintain his monopoly over the toy distribution industry: He's cornered the Christmas gift market. Santa dares to give away his products for free in a sinister attempt to crush all competition -- just like Microsoft's Internet Explorer. Antitrust Lawsuit memo to the feds: Is Santa Claus the Bill Gates of Christmas?

Santa should be arrested and either sent to Gitmo to determine if he's a terrorist or tried, convicted and put away for a long time! Where is the rule of law when it comes to Santa?

Mike's Christmas truck video from 08. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moixPpVFGAM 

[Bird Rescue] Does anyone else see the irony in the fact that Maya Totman is being hassled by code enforcement for her bird sanctuary being in a residential neighborhood, but if she were a commercial fisherman, she could run her business in a similar location with impunity?

[Hermaphrodite] What do you get when you cross a snowman with a vampire? Frostbite!

If Craig Cates runs for Mayor I would vote for him.  He’s one of the most honest  and nicest  people I’ve known in Key West in the more than 35 years I’ve been  here.    

[Recreation District...approved by a majority of registered voters within those boundaries] I am neutral on this project. But because I want the endeavor to be a fair and balanced attempt by the Ad-Hoc committee please note that neither of the terms "registered voters" or "active registered voters" are used in the ruling statutes. Neither are Monroe County's 2 categories of voters ("registered" or "inactive"). This could be important as the basis for potential legal challenges. Prior to any Ad-Hoc petitions being counted or submitted, the submitting and accepting agents have to agree (in writing) on the required number of petitions, and which voters' signatures are eligible.  According to the Statute, "inactive" voters are also eligible to sign the petitions, which also increases the number of required signatures. The Supervisor of Elections office keeps the "registered" and "inactive" names on 2 separate lists, so the Ad-Hoc committee may need to work with both lists.

[Fishing] Soon we’re not only going to have to buy Florida fishing license, but an additional State license. Christ, in a few years we’ll probably have to hire a lawyer just to go fishing.

[Fiasco] that was a great book review. It sure got my interest. I always thought the poor treatment of citizens by occupiers ferments insurgency.

[Judge] Can you believe they’re still arguing over who’s going to be the judge in the keys?

I think Rev Rick Warren as Obama’s choice of clergy to swear him in is good. Obama, like Clinton, campaigned on liberal matters, but when faced with the reality of being the President correctly moved to the center. That’s how a country should be run—from the center. A little something for everyone.

[Kwanza] I guess for the next 4 years it's going to be Happy Kwanza instead of Merry Christmas. What next?

Conservative comments about Obama are downright pleasant compared to some of the rhetoric that’s boiling over on the left winger stew pots. For example : Liberal Utopia says Obama is a race traitor. Because of Rick Warren the gay marriage supporters are chewing their leashes. The Daily Slate says “Obama is a sell out.” The Americablog.com says : “There don't (sic)  seem to be any liberals in Obama's cabinet.” Couple this with his abandonment of most of his promises targeted at pleasing left wingers, you have a very pissed off because of being pissed on base. Unfortunately for our progressive pals, there is no Lemon Law for Presidential elections.  You guys voted for him, you’re stuck with him. The midterm elections are less than two years away, the Dems have had control of the budget and lawmaking for well over two years now.  Remember it was two years ago when we started sliding towards the edge of the fiscal cliff.

[Fiasco] Is that a book predicting the future about Obama?

I guess after the obamagate scandal(?) and this economy that Obama will have the decency to not have a big and expensive inauguration. Have some class, buddy.

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Saturday December 27, 2008

Friday December 26, 2008

[Book Review] I received Pulitzer Prize winner Thomas Rick’s Fiasco for Christmas and couldn’t put it down until I finished it last night (much to the chagrin of my family). Basically it’s an account of the buildup to the Iraq war and the first eighteen months of engagement. Fiasco is an apt name. Although the author doesn't say it the reader can see how we helped create the insurgence by our World War II tactics trying to fight an insurgency and how quickly we lost the noble position of  liberator and became occupiers. That is how the Iraqis saw us.

The similarities to Vietnam are chilling. It took us years to learn how to fight that war and all that hard earned knowledge was swept aside in our wishful thinking that we would be welcomed with smiles and flowers. Initially we were welcomed as liberators, but soon squandered all that good will by our heavy-handed and indiscriminate tactics. We never considered the culture of honor of the Arab. That is all they have and that is an important reason they’re never been at peace with each other. (I’m simplifying here) If someone has been dishonored they will hold that grudge for centuries until the original sleight has been forgotten. They don’t forgive and forget or kiss and make up like we do in the west.

In war there are two critical parts that are imperative for victory. Strategy and tactics. Strategy is the overall plan of goals, etc. Tactics is the actual way the troops fight--bang bang. Bad strategy equals disaster for any military operation. The Commander for the “Coalition” (the coalition was a token effort at best) General Sanchez’s strategy was “Kill the bad guys”. That was it! It wasn't until General Sanchez and the Coalition Provisional Authority’s Bremmer were replace in 2005 that there finally was a stated strategy.

The book makes the case based on military leaders’ accounts and the military’s own account that they never had enough troops to do the job they were tasked to do. The Army’s indiscriminate round up of Iraqis, the brutal and humiliating treatment of it’s citizens and the horrors of Abu Ghraib did more to feed the budding insurgency than anything else happening in the country. Abu Ghraib was just one prison of many. All the prisoners in all the prisons were abused, Abu Ghraib was just the most famous. There never was a plan to handle prisoners of war because we simplistically thought that we would be out of the country in three months and the Iraqis would take over.

All commanders in the east, south and west of Baghdad did everything wrong and each contributed to the insurgency by their attitude towards the people of Iraq and their iron-fisted tactics. The only real successes were primarily in the north of Baghdad by Generals Petraeus and Mattis and Col McMasters who didn’t need to be told to implement classic counterinsurgency tactics.

I was not surprised at the disparity of Washington’s view of the war and the actual fight. It was as if Washington was talking about an entirely different war. The false statements and blatant omissions from the administration are tragic as is the lack of direction and leadership from Rumsfeld and Bremmer. It reminded me of Westermorland’s false body counts from the Vietnam war. The administration kept criticizing the media for only reporting the bad things while the insurgency continued to grow and Iraq was on the brink of all out civil war. There was nothing good to report. Everything good that was done was soon destroyed.

Rick’s book tells account after account of the brave man and woman who sweated and bled to fight a war they were not trained to fight. They were so overextended, over worked and had no date to fix on for when they would go home that moral was abound fifty percent negative. When they did get a date it would be canceled and their deployment extended without any future date to look forward to.

In the end Fiasco clearly proves that some of America’s most highly respected civilian and military leaders were derelict in their duty to the brave soldiers and to our nation. The book overflows with the military’s own official critique of these actions.

Kwanza begins today and ends January 21. They light a candle each to commemorate a positive thought.

[Winners and Losers] A poster in here was really trying to insult Obama which failed miserably but in the end he said "I'm getting dizzy here". Not to worry that happened to a bunch of McCain supporters. It comes from finding out that Joe the Plumber went public saying that he was appalled by McCain by the time the election ended. It seems, after all, the right man was elected. Kudos to the American voters.

Key West Pops raffle of a Zenn electric car to raise money during our 10th anniversary season. It's a full size electric car with AC. You can plug it into your home wall socket. It is a perfect car for the Key West as it goes 50 plus miles on a charge and can reach speeds of up to 35 mph. Key West is going Green and this energy efficient vehicle is the Pops way of doing its part for the City and raising much needed money at the same time. They are only selling 750 tickets at $100 each with the drawing on March 8 at our 10th anniversary concert. Just go to www.keywestpops.org  to check it out!

[Answers] Here are a lot of helpful answers from the U of Florida Extension. UF/IFAS Extension: Solutions for Your Life

I hope everyone has enjoyed the holidays so far. I know I have and I am blessed to have my sister, Kenzie with me through the New Year.

Years ago there was no Winn Dixie to complain about. About two times a month we went to Key West and did our shopping.  I learned to speak Spanish here. In those days almost all locals were bilingual.  They have since lost their heritage thanks to being a top tourist destination since 1982 when the 7 mile bridge had to be rebuilt.  In the first year of Winn Dixie's opening they did as much business as was predicted to take three years to accomplish. It was a very welcome business for the locals who were too busy with life to worry about complaining.

[Peace] I was just walking by and found somebody had left us this piece (peace) of beach art. Rather touching, really.

Deer Editor, Thanks for the freedom to express on your website.

The next computer club meeting is coming up this Saturday, December 27, 10 am at the BPK library.  We hope to see you there.  Bulletin Board

[More bar wisdom] They should tell you before you get married that Einstein got divorced. Do you think you're smarter than Einstein?

Merry Christmas to all (with Timber's help) from Key West Copper Art and RamrodRuthy's!

[Greed] On Christmas day a poster took the time to complain about greed, especially the “outrageous” greed of local landlords and retailers. His remedy? Don’t shop locally. Isn’t it heat warming to read tracts such as this on the day we celebrate the birth of a being who gave all he possessed including his life for his fellow man. I’m confident that the complaining poster takes not one cent more in wages that he requires to meet his most basic needs. He must be a wage earner; his principles would stop him from making profit as an employer. We can be sure that the poster diligently volunteers time, labor and money to worthy causes. His charitable giving surely exceeds 10% of his income. We can be confident that the poster will not succumb to greed, for he will surely refuse even one cent in profit from the sale of his home or any of his goods. We can be sure that the poster lives a simple life, free from TV, cars, cell phones, computers, air conditioning, radio, stylish clothing, or any other manifestations of greed or envy. Most certainly the poster used the free computer at the library to make the posting. You can be certain that the poster refused to accept tax payer dollars from the government in the form of “stimulus payments”. Without a doubt the poster will not take profit such as interest from his savings or investments. It’s heartwarming to hear from our socialist neighbor  who would end all private profit. I’m sure that the poster’s motive for not spending locally is not the greed of seeking lower prices elsewhere, but is a simple good faith act of principle. I’m certain that the posters urging “keep your money in your wallet” was not a statement of greed, it was just a mistake, and he really wishes all of his local neighbors nothing but happiness and prosperity.

[Dr Paul] Anyone seeking chiropractic care should contact Dr. Paul Barrett. I have had back problems all my life and have been to countless chiropractors from Key West all the way to New Jersey throughout the last 25 plus years. Dr. Paul is the only doctor that gets the full adjustment. He even actually made a special appointment to adjust me on Christmas Eve. I can't say enough about how grateful I am for that. We need a chiropractor like that on Big Pine. I went to Norman for years and he could never quite get the full adjustment (and, no, he didn't  try to fondle me, but then again I'm a man). Thanks again doc,  I'll bring you some fresh fish and lobster the next time I go fishing! Merry Christmas.                                          

[Chain Stores] The original poster wrote “most” of the money leaves the Keys. That means that a small portion of the money stays here in the form of employees’ pay. What pedestrian readers there are here.

A belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to the poster who gives us a daily dose of his rose colored views of the past eight years.  I would have thought you would take Christmas off, but then again I suppose you feel less than fulfilled if you can't see yourself in print puffing up your political agenda.  Why not do something positive in '09 and hold a sore losers inaugural party on January 20 for all those lost souls who just can't get over the last elections.  There is a reason you lost so big in almost every arena.  I have another party to attend on 1/20 but I would be happy to donate the Crow and the Kool-Aid to yours.

[Landlords Greedy] I resent the poster who wrote that landlords are greedy. Maybe short term landlords are , but the rest of us price our units as low as practical in order to keep tenants long term.

[Jail Food]  If you want better food stay out of jail.

[Immigration. DHS. USBP. Sucks!] And so does Mr. Jerkoff. My God, 12 million illegals, that's 2 million more than the population of Hungary. From this 12 million they only managed to deport 891,000!  If that doesn't show gross inefficiency and incompetence in government than I don't know what does. With the budgets of DHS, and USBP They should be doing a lot better job. Hell, if you see footage of the USBP, every second officer is a Mexican. The foxes guarding the chicken coop. I think if the State or Federal Government would offer a cash bounty for the apprehension of illegals, the problem would be solved in months. Say $50 a head. Good hunting everyone.

[Keep Your Ball. We've Got the Possum] The heck with Times Square, I'm going to North Carolina. The lights are strung, the stage is set and Baby New Year is waiting in a cage, hissing. Brasstown, once again, is ready for the Possum Drop. Yes, the annual New Year's Eve Possum Drop, the one and only, inspired by the dropping of a certain illuminated ball 670 miles away. On Thursday, at the stroke of midnight, at the exact moment that hundreds of thousands of people holler in the New Year at Times Square, with millions more tipping back champagne flutes and watching it on TV, a few hundred people will huddle at a CITGO station in this little Appalachian town, wearing hunting jackets and hats with dangling ear flaps, to cheer the descent of one confused marsupial. Talk about parallel universes.

It started 13 years ago, when someone said to Clay Logan, owner of Brasstown's only gas station and vendor of kitschy possum products, ''If New York City can drop a ball, why can't we drop a possum?'' Mr. Logan could think of no reason why not. At midnight, as he lets a rope slip between his fingers, lowering a possum in a Plexiglas cage from the roof of his gas station, Mr. Logan will call out, as he has every New Year's Eve since 1990, ''5, 4, 3, 2, 1!'' And then, as the crowd starts going bananas, ''The possum has landed!'' The possum is alive, of course, and will be released at the end of the night unharmed, if a little cranky.

Why is all cough syrup cherry flavored?

[Sloan] Yesterday morning, I ran into a fellow I know, who had just gotten out of his second stint this year in the Stock Island jail. He said the food is awful and the word among inmates at the jail is that Sloan Bashinsky has gone to bat for them. Yeah, and so has God, who put me up to it, with no small amount of help from Lorri Szostak, a board certified forensic psychiatrist.

What can I say? Yesterday was rough as hell. I was laid low most of the day.

I called Lorri and we talked some about how it is when God takes a special interest in someone. From that moment on, you move toward God, or away. There is no staying where you were before God came calling.

When Lorri asked if I was hopeful about the jail food situation correcting itself, I said I wasn’t holding my breath. I’d been involved in too many rough situations to expect people to change, and I had seldom seen miracles or direct divine interventions that scared people into changing. I said I felt Randy Berg, Esq., who represented the inmates in the McIntyre case against Sheriff Roth, was the best hope I saw

I had Christmas dinner yesterday evening with Todd German and his daughter, Valerie, at the Yacht Harbor, where Todd lives on his boat, 99 to Life. Just after arriving, I saw three man o’ war birds circling and soaring over the harbor, and shook my weary head.

Over dinner, I spent a while getting to know Craig Cates, who told me he is going to run for Mayor of Key West next year. He owns the NAPA distributorship in Key West and is a third-generation conch. When I said I’d heard Andy Griffith was going to run, Craig said Andy decided not to run after he, Craig, decided to run. When I asked Craig what he would do as Mayor, if he could call all the shots and not have to deal with the six city commissioners, he said he would try to get everyone in Key West to start all getting along. He said there is way too much division and disagreement.

When I later shared this with Todd, I said that isn’t my style. Todd agreed, said everybody is different. I found myself thinking that God hasn’t been able to get everybody to all get along since Cain killed Abel. Key West hasn’t been able to get everyone in Key West to all get along after adopting the One Human Family creed of the gay community. I silently wished Craig luck, as I thought of ways to revive the Key West economy.   More...Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

What peace in the New Year?

[Shop Local the money does go back into the local economy because the people who work at these retail chain stores are indeed locals] No they are not "indeed locals", and they do not spend their paychecks here. The majority of the retail chain stores' employees commute to and from Miami-Dade County.  Most locals who are employed in the Keys do not work at the retail chains. They work for businesses owned by locals. And yes, I do shop at both the locally owned stores and retail chains, so I see who's where.

It's easy to put an end to this ongoing discussion. All Monroe County employers should answer 2 questions: Are you a retail chain and what are your employees' home zip codes.

[Out of Date Beans]  They were not canned beans they were W/D brand in a plastic container, and they were slimy.

[A Single Mom] I got my son's best presents from your classified ads, one was even free!   Thanks for all you do through out the year, and may next year be your healthiest and happiest ever. 

Brian Roberts will be performing tonight, Friday, on the Beach/Waterfront at Parrotdise Waterfront Bar & Grille. Happy Hour is from 3PM-7PM with $1 off of all sandwiches and beers. Well drinks will be $3.50 and Wines at $4. Full service indoor dining until late night. Prepare to Party to start the New Year.

[Recreation District] Florida Statute Chapter 418 provides for the Creation of Recreation Districts, by petition, for the purpose of acquisition and improvements to public recreation facilities in unincorporated areas of counties. With provisions for alternate financing methods other than just using ad valorem  taxes. The method an ad-hoc committee of Key Largo Citizens has chosen to pursue, is the creation of such a recreation district for unincorporated Key Largo by Petition to the Monroe Board of County Commissioners to pass an Ordinance creating the Key Largo Recreation District. That Statute requires that the Petition contain the boundaries of the unincorporated District and be approved by a majority of registered voters within those boundaries.

The original proposal was based on prior information from the office of the supervisor of Elections office the updated registration list is that used for the November 4, 2008 voter registration list. In consultation with the Plantation Office of voter registration the following corrections are made to that information and will be used for this petition .

Unincorporated Key Largo Starts from the Center Line of Tavernier Creek MM 91.5 and extends North to MM 112.5 and includes Ocean Reef..  Within these boundaries are voting precincts 27-33 with a total registration of active voters of 9,835, Therefore a majority of signatures for an acceptable petition would be 50% plus one or 4,919. The petition would be validated by the Supervisor of Elections prior to it's submission to the BOCC. Any signatures on the petition other than voters in the areas described would be stricken . However they would not invalidate the petition itself.

Use of Registered voters signatures are used for petition purposes only. The Ad-Hoc Committee at it's inception voted that this project would be non-political .Any one residing within the Boundaries as described regardless of their political affiliation or views would have the right to participate in the creation of the District, by signing the petition, or not, as they so choose.

When this Ordinance is created by the BOCC the elected official of the County Commission will sit as the Board of Directors of the Key Largo Recreation District and will have the authority to appoint an unpaid volunteer committee to assist them in developing recreational properties as described for their approval.

Two tentative proposals that  have been suggested for consideration ,by the Key Largo Recreation District. The first by the Ad-Hoc committee,  the purchase and development of a bayside municipal park at the site of the former Rowell Property. The Second by Jerry Wilkinson and  Dr. Jim Boilini  a combination historical and marine Museum possibly using the Ninehouser  Property.

Planning is now under way to circulate this petition by the Ad-Hoc committee.

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Friday December 26, 2008

Christmas Eve December 24, 2004

Kudos to the anti war protestors from the author of the recent critical posting. It appears that you folks exemplify protest as it should be, constructive and positive. I must assume that the vicious signage I have previously seen on BPK was displayed by some other folks who lack your patriotism or calm sensibilities.  My ire is aimed at those who vilify all conflict, all war, and any leader who would resort to war. As a just nation we must take all prudent measures to avoid war, because all war is horrific. But there are instances wherein prosecution of a war is essential for the manifest good of our nation or humanity. On those rare occasions, we must win.  I trust that you folks also support our leaders as well as our troops, because it has been our national leadership’s war policies that have kept us safe in our homes for the past 7.5 years.  It is those policies that have minimized al Qaeda's ability to wreak worldwide terror. We will again feel the pain of homeland attack if we are once again relabeled as being a nation of weak will and shallow conviction. It’s especially interesting to note that it’s highly unlikely that the new administration will substantially modify those policies. I commend you for your patriotism, generosity, and dedication.

[Brain Exercise] The findings suggest that videogames that keep players "on their toes" might help older adults keep their brains sharp.  Videogames may do the aging brain good | Health | Reuters

[Winn/Dixie] Check your out of date stamps. The BBO beans were out of date for 7 days. I emailed the corporate office. They will foreword the complaint to the appropriate people. Two days later the slimy beans were still on the shelf. Gas is cheap again. I'm going to Publix.

[200 People Peace Sign] I was at the park on Veteran's Day and saw maybe 100 people form the peace sign.  Was there one twice as big that I missed?

The Flying Santa at Boston Light on Little Brewster Island.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HaMIeDV_I34

[Christmas Carol] http://www.month2month.com/resources/swf/Rockin%20Santa%20Final.swf

[Shop local] That doesn’t apply to chain stores because all that money leaves the Keys. Shopping at chain stores does very little for the local economy.

[Is it really a refuge?]  I am the last person to protect the US Fish & Wildlife Service in the Florida Keys because everything you wrote about what they are doing is true.  They do not rehabilitate any wildlife, pure and simple; any critter hurt is killed.  However, the bird slaughter resulted because of the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. 
 
You are also correct about "uninformed or apathetic citizens."  Even before feral cat trapping started on Federal property, I emailed numerous people warning them that the project was but the tip of the iceberg - all of Big Pine and No Name would become targets.  It fell on deaf ears.
 
In order to save wildlife, it will take forming a group of concerned citizens to deal with the bureaucracy - such as Firm and Citizens Not Serfs.  The Key Deer Protection Alliance wasn't interested in rehabilitating deer when I approached them, so unless something has changed, forget them.  This refuge is unlike all others with refuge land interspersed with private property, and to let deer suffer in sight of citizens, which is where most deer are, is unconscionable.

[Complaining About County Employees] Tuesday 9 A.M., I just did some business with my local bank--TIB. I could not get in the parking lot because a county truck was parked very poorly, blocking my way, kind of half in and half out of the parking space. Now with all that's going on with bailouts and government needing more money and on and on, someone could get the wrong impression on what this guy was doing. One may think that he is on county time, in a county truck parked in such a way that the county could be sued if someone was hurt trying to get around it. Merry Christmas to all; and no, I didn’t say a word.  I was on my best Christmas behavior.

[Goodbye to Zack the Dog] Thanks for posting the picture of Zack and your kind remarks.  We have placed his picture on our memorial page.  To see our gallery of photos, visit www.cruzanimalhospital.com .  Happy Holidays and may peace be with you!

[Chain Stores]  Why do people write in that have no clue what they are writing about?  The display of ignorance is amazing.  Ace is not a chain store or a franchise.  Nor is True Value, for that matter. Radio Shack is a locally owned franchise.  CVS and Winn Dixie are chain stores.  I could explain the differences, but I need to get back to work. So you do a little research before you spout off.

All the merchants at WD plaza should be smiling. I had a hard time finding a place to park. I really don't think we need that BBQ wagon there taking up our valuable space.  Other than that my shopping experience was really great. I bought Christmas decorations at Belles, a great shirt and jeans at  Bert and Frannies, and the new owner at Radio Shack ordered me a new phone and then on to WD.  Shop local they're really trying hard.

[Life's a Breeze in the Florida Keys] Made my cry.  I miss the Keys so much.  Even 600 miles away seems like away.  No ice and snow, just lots of blue hairs and boredom.

[Chum Price] I have a cat named Chum, so does that count?  At three o'clock in the morning when he is attacking me while I try to sleep I am sure I would give him to you, free of charge.  Can't get much cheaper than that.

[Sock Hop] My husband and I would like to say thank you to all who participated in the Presents in Paradise 1950's sock hop at Boondocks. A big thank you to Kelly, Lanny and John for helping us bring this together and letting us use their restaurant. We would also like to thank Jennifer St.  James at FM104.1 for supplying the music and being a great DJ. We would also like to thank Sunset Water Sports, Fury, Yankee Freedom, Little Palm Island, Babys Coffee, Heather Fowler Interiors, Aroma's Cafe, No Name Pub, Turtle Hospital, Reef Light Tackle, Crazy Fish, Cracked Egg and Jigs Bait n Tackle for their donations of services and goods.

Another special thank you to a woman in the local playgroup who donated a trailer for a mother in the shelter and to Grassy Key Bob to help us get the bike from the Bike Shop in Marathon.

We wouldn't have met our goal if it weren't for Mary Lou and the girls of Girls Night Out Club" in Key West--thanks ladies. Thank you everyone for making this a special Christmas for the kids in the shelters from Key West to Key Largo and the teens in Wesley House.

Way to go, gang!

Photoshop in action. Slide Show

McAfee Security System has released a generic.dx trojan as an update that recognizes pc games as being infected.  It has crashed computer games worldwide. Thanks McAfee.  And Happy Holidays!

Ho Ho Ho Lost Cargo will be open today, Christmas Eve for the last minute shoppers until 3pm. We will also have a fresh truck load of vine ripe tomatoes delivered today along with many other goodies.
I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and thank you for all your wonderful support thru these hard times.   ~Lisa & family

This bizarre animation is painted entirely on city walls. It’s very original art and very weird. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuGaqLT-gO4

If you obey all the rules, you'll miss all the fun.  ~Katherine Hepburn

Sending one of these cards take real nerve. someecards.com | ecards for when you care enough to hit send | home

[Dead Dog Zak] Goodbye to an old friend. God bless you and your old friend, the rainbow bridge is an absolutely awesome concept.

[Pacman Tree] File this one under "missing the point".  I might have been convinced if you could actually play it or it did something. YouTube - Arbol Navidad "Comecocos" Pac Man Xmas tree Madrid

The nicest cat in the world was hit by a car in Cudjoe and crossed the rainbow bridge.  Please slow down. Road kill is horrific, especially when it is someone’s pet.  We have only two lanes down here and it is  really dumb to be a drunk driver and or aggressive.  Why don't you turn on some pretty music and enjoy the scenery during the drive?  Thanks to the lady who called with the info.  Be kind to animals, Monroe County.  (Deer Ed, you can remove the classified ad for the lost cat.)

Lost on 12/23/03 in or near Winn Dixie Plaza (I think) - black knit cap by Disney with pirate skull. Sentimental value. Reward. 434-0093.  Classified Ads > Lost & Found

[Stranded Horses] They hope to rescue two starving horses, trapped in two meters of snow, by Christmas. They literally found them late one afternoon and the next morning there were people heading up and taking feed to them. There are horse blankets up there now. There are people going up every day taking feed to the horses, working on digging the trail.  edmontonsun.com - Canada - Volunteers digging to free horses

[Afghan Line Dancers] Love the beat, but the uniforms and bullet proof vests detract from the full effect. LiveLeak.com - afghan soldiers putting it down doing the national dance attan

[Tainted Pancake] I'm a snowbird ready to fly south. I read in the Telegraph a while back about some infested flour or pancake mix that got some one real sick?  I want to make sure my mate doesn’t mess with my cake! Remember that?  Left over the months on the shelf, if not sealed properly, is there a danger?

[Global Hot or Colding] It’s really simple once you get the hang of it: The last few years of worldwide record cold weather is proof that the world is in the grip of human caused global warming. I think I’m getting it! Obama will be a great and honorable President because  many of his friends and associates are either corrupt, bigoted, anti American, or just plain terrorists. It’s getting clearer! Obama will be a great and honorable President because he learned politics in Chicago’s sewer political culture. OK, I’m learning.  Hillary Clinton will be a great steward of American foreign policy as Secy of State because her husband has accepted millions of dollars from  a multitude of foreign governments, foreign individuals and foreign groups who have a stake in American foreign policy. O.K. there’s not even a whiff of conflict in that, it's as pure as an intern's heart.  Now it’s getting clearer.  Obama will be a great President because he’s keeping Gates as well as a whole gang of Bush appointees. That’s a little confusing, doesn’t that mean that Obama agrees with Bush on a whole bunch of stuff? Obama is even endorsing Bush’s policies by getting ready to expand the War on Terror. He’s even floated a plan to keep Gitmo open. Rev. Rick Warren, pro life heavy hitter and anti gay marriage activist will give the benediction at O’s coronation. I’m getting a little dizzy here,  but I guess that just means that no change really is change and that’s why Obama won. Yes, Obama won, but it sure is looking like the left wingers that voted for him lost, big time.

[Wall St Bailout]  Sponsor an executive. Video

[Chum] Good luck finding a ten count case of chum anymore. All distributors have gone to smaller cases so that all of the old tightwads can lift it.

Merry Christmas Ed:  After all you put up with all year long, You deserve the Merriest of Christmas.

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Wednesday December 24, 2004

Tuesday December 23, 2008

[Night Life] About twenty-five years ago the TDC surveyed tourists and the reason they said they came to Key West was for it’s history and the large birds in nature and the reef. The recent Harris Poll concludes tourist’s main reason for coming to Key West is for the night life. We have the developers to thank for that.

[Female Singer Wanted] The Band Reach has been faced with a situation, Miss Jamie Olwell, or lead vocalist has been forced to leave the band do to a very serious work load, So now we are presented with a situation of replacing her position which is going to be hard to do. If there is a  Female singer and if you play keyboard that will be an extra  special plus, with front person capabilities that likes to perform with a professional, and very good working Band doing R&B, pop, blues, classic rock-n-roll. If this sounds like you  and you are professional minded please give me  a call to set up a time for an audition. The keyboard part is not a requirement but would surly take this band over the top. We are booked for Gigs thru April  Please call 305 942-9395 and ask for Dennis.  Classified Ads

[Summation of thoughts of a Big Pine Christmas (warning: may take three or more Scotches)] No Spam, canned pineapples and instant mash potatoes at the Winn Dixie. After the sixth bottle of Boones the AC shaker unit in the trailer gets ripped out so Santa can get in.  You throw orange peels on your roof for the iguanas because they sound like reindeer.  The neighbors "roast" taste like a pine tree with a hint of hibiscus.  The last time you had snow on Christmas it left lines on the coffee table.  You go to Teasers to shop for perfume.  Red duct tape is wrapping paper.  A tooth brush is a stocking stuffer because you stole hers to shine the chrome on your bike.  You are using a credit card at The Buck Store. Your nativity set is a shoe box with three matchbox Harley's and a travel trailer. Your dreaming of your old lady in motorcycle boots and the little Santa outfit high up on the left wall of Belles and then she steals your red duck tape and wire ties to make bows for the lawn ornaments.  Your Christmas tree has roots so you can return it to the refuge.  You use paper clips to hang ornaments.  You upgrade to the more expensive Budweiser lager because the cans are festive.  You’re taking a break from your scoot ride outside of Baby's and people try and put money in your coffee.  To all a Merry Christmas, and all a good night may we meet again at the Winn Dixie; the isle to the right.

[Goodbye To An Old Friend] Over Thanksgiving we lost a very special member of our Mile Marker 24 family. Zack, our Golden Retriever left this world and went to the Rainbow Bridge, ending a twelve-year love affair. We feel so blessed to have had him in our life and all the wonderful things he taught us. Number one being, you can never have enough tennis balls! We miss him terribly and want to thank Dr. Cruz and his staff for their compassion and helping us get through this tough time.

[Is It Really a Refuge?] When we moved to the Keys several years ago, it was with the belief that it was a kind and caring community located in a unique place in the world and, at least at some level, thankful for this place.  The place is indeed unique.  There are some fine people, but so many that have proven disappointing, especially in their apathy and self-centeredness.

That said, I am writing following the recent postings on BigPineKey.com in which the forced slaughter at the local bird rehabilitation center was addressed.  That in itself is a horribly senseless and cruel act.  There are few people who would commit their selfless caring, compassion, morality, and hard work to aid helpless, injured creatures.  I have heard so many stories, including several recently, about the ruthlessness and cruelty of the government employees at USFWS and the Key Deer Refuge.  Two days ago, in the course of a general conversation, a professional woman, who cares about our wildlife, told of calling the “Refuge” when a fawn came into her yard hurt.  They reportedly slaughtered the fawn then and there.  I called them last year when I found a doe in my yard that had been hit by a car.  The coward that hit her ran away and left her there to suffer with two shattered hind legs.  I naively called the “Refuge,” who cornered her, threw a net over her, threw her in the back of a pickup, and hauled her away, with no regard to her pain.  There was open defiance on the part of concerned citizens after Hurricane Wilma left the deer with no food or water.  The “Refuge” and other responsible parties refused to help them, claiming that it was a “natural” event.  I suppose it was, but that hardly justifies the unconscionable and immoral act of standing by and insisting that helpless animals be left alone to starve and die of thirst.  

The result of acts such as these have left a great many caring people refusing to call USFWS or the “Refuge” for assistance of any kind out of fear of the acts of violence or negligence they’ll commit.  Like the person on Little Torch who called them because she’d trapped a mischievous raccoon in a live trap.  A government employee showed up and shot the raccoon in front of this person. There’s a person who cares for and relocates raccoons just down the road.  And then there are the “burns”.  A circle burn a few years ago that obviously caught many living things in it’s center that were burned to death.  The plans last year to burn 20 or 40 acres of habitat on Big Pine to improve habitat for marsh rabbits, all because a biology intern needed to do an experiment for a thesis.  That act might be a little more palatable if there was concrete evidence that there are any marsh rabbits in that area, and if some meaningful effort was made to protect other living creatures from being burned to death.  I often see people stop on Key Deer or Wilder, including myself, to move a box turtle across the road before someone who doesn’t care for or respect life runs over it.  How are the box turtles, and many other creatures, going to get out of a burn area?  Some will say, “no big deal”.

A couple of years ago, I was asked by a local feral cat care group to look at the research being used by USFWS/USDA and the Key Deer Refuge to justify the trapping and slaughtering of feral cats.  Having a fairly extensive background in research, I agreed to do that.  After several days and many hours of wading through over 200 pages of material, I ended up writing several pages of critique and returning it to the feral cat group.  I also posted some of my impressions on this site in what ended up being a fruitless effort to inform the local community of what these agencies planned to do, and why.  In short, the research used by these agencies was badly flawed with highly questionable conclusions. It was not conducted on Big Pine Key, but 20 miles south of here on the fenced-in naval reservation.  The public outcry consisted of one individual who I was told was either an employee of the “Refuge” or a former employee, who dripped in vitriole and spouted reams of nasty nonsense in an effort to discredit my postings (all of which are/were supported by data).  There are those that will go to any length to censor the truth.   The other poster made a comment to the effect of, “I’m tired of hearing about marsh rabbits.”  As a consequence of this level of apathy, and since our government employees couldn’t find enough feral cats to justify their $50,000 project, they started trapping and killing raccoons, including the rare red raccoon.  They managed to slaughter over 40 raccoons before the National Humane Society stepped in and forced them to stop.  The irony is that there are numerous uninhabited keys with suitable marsh rabbit habitat and no rabbit predators that have been successfully used to re-establish colonies of rabbits.  Additionally, research has been published detailing effective programs for trapping and relocating feral cats.  Evidently, no one is this area read any of it.  And by the way, there are those here that have purchased land elsewhere for the relocation of trapped cats.  Our government employees reportedly aren’t interested.  Humane and morally responsible alternatives are evidently not an option.   

The author of the major research used in the marsh rabbit project wrote a rebuttal to my critique, which had been written by another individual, and which was printed in The Citizen.  I broke this rebuttal down and went back into the research, again, to verify each statement made by the student, such as “I watched cats killing rabbits on two occasions.”  That statement is non-existent in the original research. Another assertion had it that the researcher performed autopsies on every dead rabbit and confirmed cat predation. The original research reported that only two autopsies were performed and those on bodies that were so badly decomposed that the results were highly questionable.  Cat predation was presumably confirmed by an “expert” who identified tooth marks on the bones of the dead rabbits.  This presumed that the tooth marks were those of cats, and that the rabbits were killed by the cats and not already dead.  There was no evidence either way and a number of other explanations for why the rabbits were dead.  Many other rebuttal statements in the article were convoluted and inaccurate.  I didn’t bother to post this information but sent it on to the cat rescue group.

I was subsequently contacted by a “mediator” with Fish & Wildlife.  I met with him, shared all of my information which included giving him copies, listened to all the condescending and patronizing rhetoric which included asking me if I would be willing to volunteer with the Refuge as a research consultant, etc., etc.  I said “yes”.  I was informed that in order to work with the community, these agencies were going to form study groups to come up with plans for wildlife management, especially as relates to the marsh rabbit, and that he would call me when the first meeting was scheduled.  He must have lost my phone number, because I never heard from him or any other government employee again.  And since I don’t subscribe to the newspaper, which was for a long time paid for and rarely delivered, I didn’t find out about these meetings until they were history.

I’ve been told that these meetings took place over a series of weeks.  After all the community input, the governmental agencies said they would review the information and then put together their own plan to save the marsh rabbit.  One of the instrumental members who questioned the governmental agencies reported that the public input will have made no difference and that these agencies will do as they choose.  

For all of you out there who care, there’s a wonderful book entitled Reverence for Life.  It’s a book based on the writings of Albert Schweitzer and speaks to the glory and the value of life to all living creatures and our moral responsibility to preserve life, and not just that of humans.  Other living beings feel, and hunger, and want to survive. It should be required reading for anyone going into biological sciences or the helping professions, but obviously is not.  

So for now, in spite of all the evidence to the contrary, the government employees will continue with the slaughter of our wildlife including raccoons, iguanas, cats, deer when convenient, hurt birds and anything else caught in their crosshairs.  They’ll be assisted by those uninformed or apathetic citizens with their pellet guns and traps with resounding cries of “invasive exotic, kill it”.  And our government agencies will whistle a happy tune claiming that their charge is not the wildlife, but their habitat.  I’m still trying to figure out what the Forestry Service and the National Parks Service do since F&W is doing their job instead of caring for and protecting fish and wildlife.

*Writer’s Note:  Since my presence at the community forums was either not wanted or avoided, I can only speak to what others have recently written or told me following the conclusion of the meetings.  I suspect it’s pretty accurate based on events of the past.

I want to thank Winn Dixie for such a positive experience over Thanksgiving, I had to make several trips and each time the same folks were pleasant and helpful. We are lucky to have this store. Sure I like Publix, they definitely have a better bakery, but I spend way too much money there compared to Winn-Dixie. Right now I have to stretch the dollar like everyone else and I am getting more bang from my buck at the Winn-Dixie. So thanks, crew, don’t let a bunch of whiners from big cities get you down, hang in there. Happy Holidays everyone!

Why would retired racecar driver Michael Schumacher donate 5 to 10 million dollars to Bill Clintons library in Arkansas?

[Life’s a Breeze in the Florida Keys] I love this time of year and especially love living in the Keys. I know everyone’s busy getting ready for the holidays. I just returned from a few days trip to the Midwest to visit my family. I had forgotten how difficult it is to scrape ice off windshields. I much prefer using the same tool for removing barnacles off the bottom of my boat. As I boarded the small prop plane, which is my favorite leg of the flight, the leg to Key West, my hat, gloves, scarves, all packed away in my bag not to be used for a long time. When the plane started it’s decent and popped out of the clouds, I caught a glimpse of some lights out over the horizon. It took a second to get my bearings then I recognized the beautiful lights of Marathon. As I study it further, I see the rotating beacon at the airport confirming my original thought. I am 50 miles from home. I now am like a child going for his first airplane ride. My face is glued to the window soaking up every sight I can find in this beautiful night sky. As the landing gear starts going down and the plane turns to line up with the runway in Key West, I know I am home. There is a wonderful feeling getting off an airplane in Key West. It’s the smell of the ocean, it’s wonderful and it’s the smell of being home. I love this place! I am writing to you from my porch, coffee in hand and dogs at my feet. I get goose bumps just writing this. It is a beautiful day in the Keys, the wind had picked up and has created mother natures own sound track as the palm trees do a little sway and the gentle breeze slides through with a whisk. The sun is out in full force and it looks to be another wonderful day here in the Conch Republic.

[Pet Food Alert] Thank you to the person who reported the Beneful alert. I have a new puppy and was feeding her Pedigree Puppy Food and switched to Beneful because it seemed to have more flavors. I will now switch back to pedigree. Thanks again.

[Gun Control] Finally, an unbiased report on gun control from the mainstream media!  Click here: YouTube - Myth: Gun Control Reduces Crime

[Global Facts]  At any given moment: Fact: 79,000,000 people are engaged in intercourse. Fact: 58,000,000 are kissing. Fact: 37,000,000 are relaxing after having sex. Fact: 1 lonely person is reading emails…you hang in there sunshine!

[Mile Marker 24 Band] New Year’s Eve at Sugarloaf/Key West KOA Resort – the fun starts at 8:30PM and goes through the New Year!  This is a great place for a family to spend New Year’s Eve together. The KOA pool is right by the tiki, which by the way has a full bar and is always open to the public. 

[More Troops] Will someone please tell me why aren't we leaving too? U.S. troops headed to southern Iraq as British forces leave | Freep.com | Detroit Free Press

Beijing’s coldest December in 57 years. Severe cold wave headed for Europe. All of Canada may see first “white Christmas” in nearly 40 years. Record cold, record snow throughout U.S. 2007 saw the coldest winter in 90 years in South America. Pakistan has lowest temps in 70 years. Antarctic  has  record ice cap growth. Feb 08: record low temperatures killed at least 654 people in Afghanistan this winter.  Goshallfishooks, this global warming is getting downright chilling in its implications.

[Tipsy Rings] Astronomers call the phenomenon a "ring plane crossing." As Saturn goes around the sun, it periodically (once every 14 to 15 years) turns its rings edge-on to Earth. Because the rings are so thin, they can actually disappear when viewed through a backyard telescope. Saturn's Crazy Christmas Tilt

The Coral Shores Leadership class would like to ask you for a favor not only for us, but for the community as a whole. For the last five years students in this class has given their time, money, labor, sweat and tears to a plot of land located on the bay side just past Tavernier Creek Bridge. Though it is more than just a plot of land, most people don't know what it is or what it stands for.

The plot of land that I referred to is the Children's Memorial Tree Garden. What it is, is a place where families that lost a young one can plant a small tree and watch it grow, symbolizing the life and growth of the person lost. It helps those in a state of mourning to alleviate some of the pain and hardship caused by the loss. For the last few years, the Leadership Class through the support of Monroe Youth Challenge Program, have produced project after project to help clean up, improve, and secure the Tree Garden's place in this great community.

Now that you have an idea of what it's about, the reason I'm writing this letter is for a different reason. Someone has done a terrible thing to this wonderful place. A group of people decided to decimate a gazebo, built by the construction class through a service learning grant and supported by many local businesses and community organizations, and trash the entire area. The gazebo was torn apart, benches were found flipped and thrown about, alcoholic beverage containers were strewn about the garden and plants and trees of the departed where mutilated. Repairs are possible, but sadly to repair the damage might invite more vandalism.

I'm not asking for charity, just a favor. If you would be so kind, I would like to request a small article in your website to help boost the community's knowledge about the Tree Garden. The only reason for this is that people may feel the need to donate time, money, equipment, or supplies to the cause. If you choose to help the Tree Garden by putting an article in your site, and need to learn more, please notify me, Jordan Swanson through Kay MacKenzie, Leadership Class teacher.  Her e-mail is kay.mackenzie@keysschools.com

[Crash] Just moments after the plane came to a rest, Mr Wilson used his mobile phone to send a message to all of his Twitter followers: "Holy f**king s**t, I was just in a plane crash!”  Mike Wilson updates Twitter from scene of Continental Airlines 737 crash in Denver | World News | News.com.au

[Yuk!] Beverly Hills doctor Craig Alan Bittner turned the fat he removed from patients into biodiesel that fueled his Ford SUV and his girlfriend's Lincoln Navigator.  Fill 'Er Up With Human Fat - Forbes.com

[Wounded Warrior Dive]

The electrifying source of energy fueling this event was without limit. The unconditional and generous giving by these citizens and businesses became a common and contagious virtue. The United States Marines, along with their brothers and sisters in arms from the United States Army, were visibly propelled and catapulted into a healed, and magnificently altered state of consciousness by this outpouring of support.

During the week as I listened and spoke with these Purple Heart Medal recipients, a dramatic change took place in them. It was nothing short of miraculous. I enjoyed this healing as a by-product, simply through my presence at some of their scheduled events. These veterans and their civilian counterparts, brought out the great potential which resides within us. It served as a reminder to a lesson taught me long ago, and oftentimes forgotten, that there is indeed an inexplicable 'Joy in Giving'.  I re-learned that lesson this week, as I had the privilege to be in the company of some remarkable individuals, who pledged their honor and fortunes to those who shed their blood, so that we may maintain a fitting place to call our 'Home'.

Please allow me to identify some of those responsible for the 'Wounded Warrior' dive' week. Kenny Wheeler and Ginger from Ocean Divers North. Bob and Julie Marshall of Rib Daddy's Steak & Seafood and Marshall's Kountry Kitchen Restaurants. The Islander Resort in Islamorada housed our visiting warriors. The VFW and Auxiliary Post 10211, American Legion and Auxiliary Post 333, the Elk's Lodge BPOE 1872 in Tavernier, and the VFW and Auxiliary of Homestead all provided magnificent dinners and fellowship. Sharkey's, Coconuts and the Galley Restaurants were magnanimous in their care for our guests. President of our Chamber of Commerce Jackie Harder and Dr. Sally Bauer from the History of Diving Museum graciously met the needs of these soon to be divers. Dean Vitalies' company provided turbo thrusters so that they could navigate safely underwater.

Deena and Peter Hoagland of Island Dolphin Care offered a therapeutic swim with their Dolphins to these traumatized men and women.  Shannon and Gina Shockley had a cookout at their home for them.  Coach Jimmy Johnson and his wife; and Claudia Moriarty were an enormous inspiration to everyone. 

 David Ball of "The Reporter" newspaper, brilliantly memorialized the diving experience of these veterans with an awe-inspiring video published on-line by that papers' editor, David Goodhue.  The respectful and delicately worded, yet probing, interviews initiated by Mr. Ball were nothing short of spectacular.  It was clearly evident that the Captain of the boat, crew, dive and safety instructors were incredibly competent and angelic.

There are always many unsung heroes, although critical in successfully accomplishing the mission, they go unrecognized.  Please accept my apology, for perhaps you will remain known only unto God, and those that you served.

The new firearms instructor's first day.

[Shop local] I don’t think so. Today in CVS on BPK I asked a sales clerk (male) where to find the item I was looking for. He couldn’t understand me. I thought maybe he couldn’t hear. He couldn’t speak English. I went home, ordered it online, 30% less, no tax, no shipping. Computers understand English!

[Economic Summit] What to me was a most interesting division developed at Mayor Morgan McPherson’s economic summit a couple of weeks ago. I saw this division in the speakers’ presentations. I saw it in the discussion at the table where I sat with Mayor McPherson, the market research director of the TDC, the Commander of the Navy Base, an Assistant Key West City manager, and two Key West business women. And I saw it in the reports from the individual tables. The division, quite simply, is that many people understand that Key West’s economy is tourist driven, and many people do not understand this, or want it to be that way.

One speaker explained a survey that had been sent to businesses which had applied for business licenses in Key West. He said thirty-five percent of the businesses that responded said their revenues came from tourism. Many people in the room assumed this meant sixty-five percent of the businesses’ revenues came from non-tourism. So I raised my hand and when I got the nod I said the thirty-five percent of the businesses which rely on tourism probably make up seventy percent of all business revenues. The speaker said that probably was true, and even the businesses that did not report reliance on tourism depended on it, because many of those businesses’ customers depended on tourist dollars.

When I made the same point at our table discussion, the Assistant City Manager said Key West’s economy definitely is tourist driven. The Navy Commander seemed to agree. The Assistant City Manager and the Navy Commander did not argue with me when I mentioned the survey that had been done (by Lou Harris) last year, in which the number one reason given by people surveyed for coming to Key West was the night life. The Assistant City Manager and the Navy Commander did not take issue with my saying Key West is known as a place that is very different, where people can come and let their hair down and be who they really are, which they cannot do where they live. Key West is a zoo, I said. We need to keep hammering that home. The Assistant City Manager and the Navy Commander did not disagree. Mayor McPherson and three women did disagree.    More...Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

[Why We Need Sewers]  Very near to me, on my canal, there is a single family size house with appropriately sized standard septic system that is currently being short term rented for the holidays to about 5 carloads of adults and children.  What chance does the septic system have against all that?  The same goes for illegal downstairs enclosures. These septic systems weren’t designed for crowds.

[Chum Price] E Fish has once again raised their chum prices. Now its a five block case for $25. Can anyone tell me where to get the old ten block case at a reasonable price?

[Least Competent Terrorist] British Muslim convert Nicky Reilly, 22, pleaded guilty in October in Exeter, England, to attempted terrorism for detonating a homemade nail bomb in the Giraffe restaurant. The plan failed when Reilly triggered the bomb in the men's room, intending to take it into the dining area, but then could not unlock the men's room door to get out. His lawyer called him perhaps the "least cunning" person ever to be charged with terrorism in Britain.

[Complaining About County Employees]  Someone has to do the job. I’m sorry you did not get the job. I did and it’s the best thing I ever did.

We are surely blessed. Video

Saudi court rejects divorce plea from EIGHT-year-old girl married to 58-year-old man | Mail Online

[Free Sex] I want to thank my boyfriend for cheating and thank Craig for creating Craig's List.  My sex life has gotten 100% better since I discovered both.  In this politically correct world girls can go out to get laid if guys can.  I have found everything my boyfriend won't give me all on one website.

Are you people all sheep and just follow blindly?  Nice tattoos.  Not!  Baaaaa.

Youth loses face in explosive sex act. It is suspected that alcohol may have been involved. http://www.phuketgazette.net/queernews/index.asp?ref=200732011239 

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Tuesday December 23, 2008

Monday December 22, 2008

A union supporting poster made a couple of glaring errors in his support of unionized policing. He said “don’t join the union, if you don’t want to join, you don’t have to.” In the legal sense, he’s right, but he doesn’t tell you that whatever collective bargaining entity might be present is, in fact, the single biggest and most important social/professional presence in any law enforcement shop. If a newbie wants friends and contacts he has to join. If a newbie fails to join he/she is often ostracized, and cold shouldered. In police work that can be dangerous.

I have had many scores of friends and acquaintances in law enforcement, both union and non union.  Far too often the union types spend nearly as much energy in disputes with their management and in increasing their own power as they do in keeping our streets safe. It is common for unionized cops to have more allegiance to their union than to their employing agency and the people that they swore to serve. Far too often an “us versus them” them mentality is encouraged by the union, with the “us” being the union members, and the “them” being everybody else.

I spent about a year as a patrolman. For a couple of years I was an FOP union, then a PBA member. I quit them because I observed union leaders fomenting serious conflict in the workplace that was antithetical to professional law enforcement. The balance of my career was spent as a detective. The agencies that I worked for did not permit “take home” cars. Detectives and uniformed personnel got to and from work on their own nickel, if their duties required, they took a car from the motor pool.  Only “call out duty” personnel were required to take home police vehicles, and then only during the duty assignment--typically a month. Certain personnel used their own private vehicles on the job, kept daily logs, and were reimbursed for expenses. It is a good system, it works, and it is fair. 

There was no strong union presence in the agencies where I worked. Nonetheless my pension system is alive, well, and not threatened by our current fiscal situation. My pension was totally employer provided, it provides 25 year retirement, and fine benefits. We even have a cost of living adjustment annually. The unions provided this proudly retired cop with absolutely nothing, I am proud of my employer and my career. I earned what I have.

[Downstairs Enclosures] What ever happened to our rights? About 15 years ago I became disabled and had to retire. We bought a home here in the Keys, that had a great ground floor apartment. This was good for me since I can't go up stairs, and we could rent the upstairs and live in the downstairs apartment.  We recently went to the Monroe County Building Department to get a permit for a little project. They informed me that the ground floor apartment is not legal now and if we get a permit or have a flood insurance inspection, we could be forced to remove our apartment. Does anyone know if there is any organized effort to fight this taking of property?

[Chain Stores] Islamorada has lost it’s fight to keep chain stores out of that city. Big Pine Key is next. The end is near.

[Trailer Accident] Does anybody have any information about the boat that fell off its trailer at the intersection of Key Deer and US1?

[Bridge to Nowhere] The City of Marathon has decided to remove the unsafe Boot Key draw bridge leaving that island stranded from vehicular traffic. It was the only practical thing for them to do. Since there are no houses there the best thing would be if the City could buy the island and the few fishing docks and the radio station and turn it into a nature park.

[$80,000 Day Off] Let me get this straight, the county employees were upset because of the cut backs saying that they're forcing people to do more work for the same money thus putting county employees behind their work schedules? So to fix the problem the county figured it was wise to give everybody an extra day off with pay?  Isn’t that what vacation pay is for? Just ignore the county commissioner's whining about money because they can never figure out how to throw enough money away while poor mouthing the entire time.  Are they thinking, “Let’s give people more paid time off so they don’t have to use their own vacation time.”

Great idea, geniuses. But like the county boss said, "They wouldn’t be doing much anyhow." How comforting.

The Four Candles

The Four Candles burned slowly.
Their Ambiance was so soft you
could hear them speak...

The first candle said, "I Am Peace, but these days, nobody
wants to keep me lit." Then Peace's flame slowly
diminishes and goes out completely.

The second candle says, "I Am Faith, but these days, I am
no longer indispensable." Then Faith's flame slowly
diminishes and goes out completely.

Sadly the third candle spoke, "I Am Love and I haven't the
strength to stay lit any longer."
"People put me aside and don't understand my
importance. They even forget to love those who are
nearest to them." And waiting no longer, Love goes out
completely.

Suddenly...A child enters the room and sees the three
candles no longer burning. The child begins to cry, "Why
are you not burning? You are supposed to stay lit until the
end."

Then the Fourth Candle spoke gently to the little boy,
"Don't be afraid, for I Am Hope, and while I still burn, we
can re-light the other candles."

With Shining eyes the child took the Candle of Hope and
lit the other three candles.

Never let the Flame of Hope go out of your life.
With Hope, no matter how bad things look and
are...Peace, Faith and Love can Shine Brightly in our lives.

[Time and a Half] All Fire Rescue personnel are getting an extra 8 or 16 hours pay for the day after Christmas. Sheriffs are also getting extra, but I’m not sure of specific details yet.

We all had a blackout at the tiki bar Friday night. It was kind of cool, you could see all the stars!

Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.   ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

[Sea Plane Landing] Why it's not a good idea to leave "spiked eggnog" for Santa. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DkUceluIIvg

[Sarah Palin] Special to yesterday’s poster about Sarah Palin: You folks sure are scared of Miss Sarah, I don’t blame you. I checked your sources and learned even more from them. It turns out that Yo Mama and Bristol’s boyfriend’s mother’s boyfriend’s sister are cousins who got arrested together for turning tricks in a logging camp in the Yukon. Your source has posted that you are the product of a midwinter orgy (because of Yo Moma’s looks, it must have been a very dark winter night or it never could have happened even with a drunk Inuit) wherein a group of drunken Inuits retained the services of a traveling group of Yo Mama’s Berkeley “sister womens” (it was rumored that many actually were brothers) who were demonstrating safe sex practices, eco narcissism, caribou masturbation, and delivering “piece” throughout Nunavit. The entire project, funded by Madonna and Al Gore, was cast into disarray and disrepute by Yo Moma because when she learned of her “delicate” condition, she refused the sacrament of abortion. Pity.

[Jim Bob from Arkansas and his 18 kids] I, for one, hope that yesterdays poster that commented on this, has never bred and never will. Society's gene pool would be so much better off without such negative people.

[Peace] The "we hate war feel-gooders" just raised money by holding a Vietnam veteran's fundraiser on Big Pine Key that was given to the Disabled American Veteran's Post in Marathon. We also collected boxes of canned goods and delivered them to St. Peter's food pantry. We also connected 200 people in a human peace sign during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony. And we continue to support our troops in prayers daily. Understandably we do this because we are Americans! Support the troops. Thank you for our freedoms.

[Politics 101] A conservative lean does not make a person a Republican nor does a liberal lean guarantee a Democrat.  It's painfully obvious that the leadership of both the Dems and Repubs have steered them into something quite different than the founding fathers envisioned for our country.  And it’s a damn shame.     

Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, and Happy New Year from Key West the USA land down under!

[Happiness] One thing I know: The only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve.  ~Albert Schweitzer

This is why men don't design Christmas wrapping paper.

[Unhappy] There is a lot of scum down here and thankfully it is deposited in Big Pine and Stock Island.  You people shouldn't breed with your cousins.

The editorial in yesterday’s Key West Citizen lamented Mayor Morgan McPherson’s failure at yet another of his economic summits to come up with concrete ideas for turning the Key West economy around, and at the same time blew off increasing tourism as a way to do it. For some time now I have felt that the Citizen needs to require its editorial staff to put their names on what they write in the “we,” when only one of them writes it with the help of the Citizen’s Editor, Tom Tuell. I feel the people of Key West and the Keys are entitled to know precisely whose views they really are reading in a Citizen editorial. The Citizen requires letters to the editor to show who wrote them, and what’s sauce for the hen is sauce for the rooster.

At a recent Key West City Commission meeting, Mayor McPherson remarked that he did not know what was the best way for the City to developed the Truman Waterfront land given to it by the Navy, and he did not think the retirement/convalescent home the City’s voters had said last year should be built on maybe seven acres of that land was going to pan out, because the people who came up with that idea, which the Citizen fully backed, have not been able to find a developer to build the retirement/convalescent center, even through the City was going to give the land to whoever built it. The Citizen, in its economic brilliance, overlooked the provision in the conveyance to the City from the Navy, which required that the City use the land to make money for the City. The Citizen, in its legal brilliance, encouraged the City to breach the terms of the conveyance. The Citizen, in its entrepreneurial brilliance, offered no way for the City to make money of that maybe seven acres, nor off any of the fifty-plus acres the Navy gave to the City, so it could make money off it.

I take no satisfaction in saying that the Citizen sometimes strikes me as a gadfly publication. And I take no satisfaction in saying, while I applaud Mayor McPherson for saying he doesn’t know what is the best way to develop the Truman Waterfront land and he is now open to suggestions, I wonder what is he doing being our mayor, if he is unable to come up with any suggestions himself that will make the City money? I can say the same thing for the entire Key West City Commission, which still seems willing to give over the maybe seven acres of that land to a developer, for free, to build a retirement/convalescent home, which will make the City nothing. It gives me no great pleasure to say this makes me want to pull my hair out by the roots and scream! As did I want to pull out my hair and scream at the Mayor’s economic conference, when sitting at his table with a representative from the Tourist Development Council, who spoke at the meeting, they denied that last year a public poll was done (by Lou Harris), which revealed from the people surveyed that the number one reason given for coming to Key West was its night life.

Okay, I suppose I need to step up to the plate and put my money where my mouth is. So here’s what I would do, if I had the say so with the fifty-plus acres of Truman Waterfront the Navy gave to the City, less the maybe six acres of it the City already dedicated to Bahama Village, which, the way it has been going so far, does not seem to be likely to be particularly remunerative for the city, although it may end up helping that part of the city be restored, which is a far better outcome than giving the land to a private developer to build a retirement/convalescent home, on which the developer will make money and the City will get zip.

First, I will hire out a bulldozer to erase in broad daylight, so folks can get good pictures of it, the Southard Street guardhouse into Truman Annex on Southard Street. Under the conveyance of the Truman Annex property from the Navy to Pritham Singh many years ago, Southard Street was to remain an open road to the land the Navy had retained on the Truman Waterfront and the way into the navy housing to the south of that land. After whacking the guardhouse on Southard, I will lumber the bulldozer through Truman Annex and bulldoze the gates already erected that block the public access into Truman Annex on Caroline and Front Streets. I will do this one hour after holding a press conference and saying all three of those streets were supposed to remain open, and the rich folks who live in Truman Annex and want the city to provide it fire and police protection, sewerage collection and treatment, street cleaning and garbage pick up, but then don’t want the rest of us in there after dark. Well, they are just going to have to become part of our city, whether they want to become part of it or not. If they can walk, bike, moped and drive their cars around Key West anytime they want to, then the rest of us can do the same in Truman Annex.

No doubt, all of this will cause a great commotion in the local, national and international news media, for a city known around the world for being one-of-a-kind different-squared. Gosh, maybe the Citizen will make some mention of the Mayor of Key West, in pirate attire, hopping up on a bulldozer with the operator and tearing the rich folks a new one, all the while loudly daring through a bullhorn any state court judge to throw him in jail for enforcing an agreement the state courts have yet to enforce. Daring the judge to do it, under threat of the judge being harpooned to death in the media.     More...Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

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Monday December 22, 2008

Sunday December 21, 2008

I do know one thing, the first time some human contracts a disease emanating from her facility, the whole place will be closed down for good, never to reopen. Maya should be grateful the forces that be did not close her down immediately, but continue to allow her to pursue her rescue endeavors. All you folks that are so damned concerned get off your wallets and help the poor woman continue her good work.

[Daylight Savings] Why Saskatchewan doesn't do daylight savings time. Saskatchewan listened to a wise old Indian. When told the reason for daylight saving time the old Indian said, "Only a white man would believe that you could cut a foot off the top of a blanket and sew it to the bottom of a blanket and have a longer blanket."

To the person who said "give the county workers a break."  Did you know it costs over $80,000 to give the county employees that day off?

[Snowbirds] In the late 70s I worked at the entrance to Key West for a couple of years and for two years in a row the tourist flood arrived on December 22. The day before, traffic was normal, but on the 22 it was a constant stream that lasted almost until Easter. As Big Pine braces itself for this year’s flood, soon to come any day now, we have to remember that these much needed tourists and snowbirds are our life’s blood. Most of us can’t survive without their much welcomed dollars (If only they’d learn to drive).

[Jim Bob from Arkansas and his 18 kids] That’s such a typical name for some redneck hillbilly from Arkansas who just had his 18^th child. They’ll probably name it Billy Bob or Thelma Sue if it’s a girl. That guy should keep that thing in his pocket. Who wants to bet that they’re not getting some sort of public assistance from the government? I find those people disgusting. They’re not people, they’re breeding stock.

Lost Cat in Cudjoe Key.  The love of my life is missing!  Little grey shorthaired male cat last seen Wednesday night sashaying in Cudjoe with break-a-way red collar.  He likes to kiss and has a bump in the end of his little grey tail.  Totally heartbroken family prays for his return. Classified Ads > Lost & Found

The “We Hate War”  feel-gooders were out to play again today at U.S. 1 and Key Deer.  They were having a fine old time, socializing and congratulating one another about the righteousness of their cause and the nobility of their bravery while standing there waving signs at passersby. I wonder if even one of them gave any thought to the fact that it was war and sordid conflict that have made it possible for them to demonstrate, wave their signs, and feel smug in their demonstration of outraged morality.

Think about just a few of our wars for their freedom. The Revolutionary War, The War of 1812, The Civil War, World War 1, World War 2, and Korea. I’ve purposefully left off a whole host of conflicts wherein Americans died protecting our freedoms and the freedoms of other nations. Had our leaders not had the courage to go to war to protect our freedoms, those protesters would not have  the right to protest. One must wonder how a “Saddam is a Beast” sign waving protester would have fared in 2001 Baghdad.  Never forget that war is horrific, but there are far too many occasions wherein it is the only option if we wish to retain our freedoms.

The movie made me more aware of how oil was the reason we invaded Iraq. Mugabe is a far worse dictator than Saddam ever was, but Zimbabwe doesn’t have oil so we just let him continue his terror. If Zimbabwe had oil we would have brought them “democracy” too. Don’t kid yourselves.

[Unions make it hard for good cops to be good cops] Then don’t join the union. You don’t have to. Let me guess, the union forced you to have a take home vehicle and made you let them pay for your gas and insurance. I have a feeling that if you wanted to, they would have let you put your own gas money in to run back and forth from work. Did you?

As for the automakers the entire cost of pensions and labor only make up 10% of the carmakers expenses. I think there is better ways to cut costs. Such as why do numerous members of the board of directors lease private planes? It’s easy to fool some of the people some of time. You’ve been fooled. You enjoyed the union benefits and I’m sure you took full advantage of every one. Guess you found your wisdom after you retired. How telling.

Seed bank preserves Earth's flora. Seed bank preserves Earth's flora - Yahoo! News Photos

Sarah Palin has been hanging out with drug dealers in Wasilla.  The other grandmother of daughter Bristol's pending illegitimate kid got busted on six drug counts including the manufacture of methamphetamine.  When are Bristol and the father going to get married?  Never, is my guess.  Sorry, neocon religious nuts, the jokes on you.

Hey, bird lady, you have the right to bear arms. Anyone entering my property and telling me to kill all the animals that I dedicate my life to saving and protecting, would first have to take a bullet. You do an unimaginable service for these animals and its sad that after saving them from their natural predators you end up loosing them to the worst predators on the planet. Don't give up the fight for all of these magnificent animals. Nobody else fights for them!

Yesterday the global warming true believer who suggested that the current frigid weather is a natural phenomenon of winter also provided us with even more proof that he embraces global warming as a religion. That poster said that those who do not believe are “beyond redemption”; i.e. we “unbelievers” are not worthy of being freed from the sin of non-belief in man made global warming. That poster apparently is ignorant of the fact that we have not yet arrived in winter; the winter solstice will occur today.  Further, this year’s record frigid weather actually arrived very early, at the end of October. That poster refuses to accept the fact that annual global temps are actually on the decrease, and that the recent decrease has wiped out the temp gains of the last century. A fascinating facet of the hot earth crowd is that some of them claim that record cold events actually provide proof of warming. Look for those folks to being tunneling toward the moon.

Governor Rod Blagojevich 'nude painting' http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/arts/chi-talk-ale-artdec19,0,5136319.story

[Automatic Money] Following is a shining example of defining arrogance:  With the ongoing financial turmoil in our country,  congressional salaries just received a pay increase of $4,700 for next year.  The average U.S. lawmaker currently makes $169,300 this year.  Speaker of the House Pelosi pulls down $217,400. An honest effort was made by Rep. Harry Mitchell, a first-term Democrat from Arizona, who sponsored legislation earlier this year that would have prevented the automatic pay adjustments from kicking in for members next year.  But, of course, the bill failed to make it out of committee. Congress has set it up now so that it’s wired - you actually have to undo the pay raise rather than vote for a pay raise. This, with their automatic health plan for life after only 'serving' one year sums up what we have elected to office.  As voters, we keep these people in power.  Until the American people take some time to research the people they put there instead of believing all the political rhetoric, we deserve what we get.  Please, wake up America.

Where is the Wild Bird Rescue? I’d like to go by and give her some money. How do I get there?

[More people who put their brains on "standby" while using satellite navigation systems] In  July, a truck driver hauling a 32-ton load from Turkey through several European countries headed for Gibraltar in the southern tip of Spain missed his destination by about 1,600 miles, winding up at a dead end in Skegness, England. (Gibraltar is a British territory, though nowhere near the British Isles, but both places have a "Coral Road," which was the destination.)

Clydesdale horse snowball fight. Video

[Inventors of Air Conditioning] The four Goldberg brothers, Lowell, Norman, Hiram, and Max, invented and developed the first automobile air-conditioner.  On July 17, 1946, the temperature in Detroit was 97 degrees.  The four brothers walked into old man Henry Ford's office and sweet-talked his secretary into telling him that four gentlemen were there with the most exciting innovation in the auto industry since the electric starter.  Henry was curious and invited them into his office. They refused and instead asked that he come out to the parking lot to their car.  They persuaded him to get into the car, which was about 130 degrees, turned on the air conditioner, and cooled the car down immediately. The old man got very excited and invited them back to the office, where he offered them $3 million for the patent.  The brothers refused, saying they would settle for $2 million, but they wanted the recognition by having a label,  'The Goldberg Air-Conditioner,' on the dashboard of each car in which it was installed. 

Now old man Ford was more than just a little anti-Semitic, and there was no way he was going to put the Goldberg's name on two million Fords. They haggled back and forth for about two hours, and finally agreed on $4 million and that just their first names would be shown.  And so to this day, all Ford air conditioners show Lo, Norm, Hi, and Max on the controls.

Adam Sandler original Chanukah Song. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vrd9p47MPHg

[Bird Lady] Someone said all her trouble comes from one code enforcement person. That is what we hire them for—to enforce the codes in residential areas and commercial areas. If she’s running a facility in a residential neighborhood that is impacting the neighborhood she should be brought into compliance. Just because she’s doing a good deed and has a big heart doesn’t get her a free pass. How would you like to live with that smell wafting into your bedroom? How would you like to try to sell your house if you lived next door? That's why we have code enforcement--so we're all playing on the same field.

[Rhode Island Reds] While walking through the shopping center parking lot on Big Pine Key the other day. I had a large flock of chickens run by when I overheard  a couple of middle age ladies say, there's a couple of the best looking cocks they have seen in quite a while!

[They’re Back] I don't know about UFOs, but last night I saw a UFJW (Unbearable Fat Jersey Woman) at the local watering hole.

Those daring young men and their flying machines. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De5AsC5ULQs

[Bird Rescue] I applaud people who look out for the less fortunate, be it people or animals. But sometimes it gets out of hand. Just about every other neighborhood has a cat lady. It’s usually a single old lady who takes in stray cats. I’ve never seen an old man do it. If you’ve ever gone into these houses the stench will make you gag. There will be cats everywhere, on everything. The wood floors and carpeting will be stained. When you have that many cats it takes more than one person to care for them in order to keep the smell clean. The same thing is probably true for the bird lady’s place on Big Pine (although I’ve never been there). A lot of any creature in a small area is bound to stink unless they have a lot of help or state of the art facilities for their care.

[Boyfriend looking to sew his oats] Is that like stringing popcorn, only much smaller?

Wonderful Elevator. Video

Test your knowledge of world geography alone or against another online player. Geosense: an online world geography game

[Here , Fido. Nice doggy] The dogs were described as a 4-year-old, 107-pound male, part pit bull and part mastiff, and a 52-pound female pit bull, about 6. Rubidoux man mauled to death by own dogs | Inland News | PE.com | Southern California News | News for Inland Southern Californi

The flip side of war. One human family or the other side of the coin?

Roses are reddish/Violets are bluish/If it weren't for Christmas/We'd all be Jewish. ~Benny Hill

[For Rent] A while back, almost every business had a help wanted sign in their window. These signs have now been replaced with for rent or for lease signs.

[Christmas Truck] I wanted to wish everyone on Big Pine a very merry Christmas.  Sorry I wasn’t there for the Christmas parade. I didn’t have the cash for fuel. ~Mike and the kids aka The Christmas Truck.
    

Can the bird lady team up with the animal shelter on Industrial Rd? They have all that room in front of the house and no neighbors to complain and it’s properly zoned.

[Pirates] Desperate Chinese sailors fight off Somali pirates with beer bottles and Molotov cocktails. Pictured: Desperate Chinese sailors fight off Somali pirates with beer bottles and Molotov cocktails | Mail Online

Finally! The real true affordable housing for the keys at $40k per unit. http://jaam.powweb.com/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1

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Sunday December 21, 2008

Saturday December 20, 2008

[Florida Keys Wildlife Rescue] I take exception to the poster who wrote that the pelicans do not receive humane care at FKWR. Have you ever observed pelicans or other birds in the wild? They crowd together! At FKWR, there is plenty of room for the individual who wants to wander away from the crowd. The dirt floor is, in fact, sand which allows water to seep through, thereby eliminating standing water in the worst of storms. As well, Maya spends much time sifting that same sand to remove debris, keeping it as clean as is humanly possible.
 
Wildlife Rescue’s "downfall" is that they do not want to kill every wild bird or animal which cannot be released - or worse yet, kill perfectly healthy exotic birds, such as has been done at another bird rescue facility. They, as do I, feel that every animal, including the human animal, is one of God’s creations, and as such, should be helped, not killed. Government officials, however, with their supposed wisdom, do not feel the same way. However, those same government officials are now spending time rectifying the errors of their predecessors while, unfortunately, making new errors. With government it’s a vicious circle - never ending - and never right.
 
Maya has searched for a better place for her facility, but time and again has been let down by people offering to help her. A benefit for FKWR? They would be thrilled.
 
With respect to the feds giving FKWR so much grief. It’s not the feds, it’s one particular person in Code Enforcement, a power-hungry person who has a personal agenda. This person is responsible for other authorities being called in. The person even wanted Animal Control to cite FKWR for animal cruelty--an unfounded accusation. If that’s not personal, I don’t know what is.
 
Through the years that FKWR has operated they have assisted with disabled wildlife through numerous people and organizations, including the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department who have called or come by in the middle of the night when no other rescue organizations answer their phones or man their facilities. They have provided a tremendous service to the County by showing residents and visitors alike that someone does care to help injured wildlife found sitting by a road or in other places where they are visible to concerned citizens. They have also helped to clean up trash in the Keys, constructed and erected the first monofilament recycling bin for proper disposal of fishing line in the entire Florida Keys, convinced AT&T to clear their wires of fishing line which traps birds, and conducted educational programs and field trips to teach our young people to respect wildlife and the environment. They have supported the community. 

Without FKWR, expect to see more disabled wildlife with no one to help them. Expect to see more trash in the environment. Expect to see more uneducated, therefore more unconcerned children and adults. Expect to see degradation in the quality of life in the lower Keys.

[Sammy Mays] In reference to the County Commissioners naming former tabloid reporter Sammie Mays Honorary Mayor of the Florida Keys. At the coronation celebration Mayor Gonzo Mays vowed to “give away as many political favors as humanly possible and to except all bribes no matter how insignificant.”  Finally an honest politician!

[Unions] The poster who said yesterday that it’s wrong to disgrace the Democrats by tying them to union support is goofy. How is it possible that the Democrats could be any more disgraced by the fact that unions are almost universally Democrat? Shoot, Democrats like Barney Frank, Chris Dodd, Al Sharpton, William Jefferson, and R. Blagojevich are pretty much all the disgrace anyone could ask for. On the other hand, isn’t it the union’s arm-twisting that has ratcheted up labor costs on cars so that U.S. Big Three can’t make a profit and might go tits up? What about this new union push to steal the right of the secret ballot from workers in unionizing drives?  And what about unionized cops and other unionized public employees? 

Yesterday’s poster on this topic said that unless you’re a Democrat don’t bother to call the police for help.  That type of thug comment sure sounds “union” to me and feeds into the lousy image a lot of folks have about cops in general. I was a cop for nearly 40 years. I know that like all professions there are stars and there are slugs. The slugs always cried for the union to cover their butts when they screwed up. The union almost never turned them down no matter what the offense.  As a result a lot of slugs got away with a lot of crap. Union work rules universally slowed down good police work and made it damned hard to discipline screw offs. Unions make it harder for good cops to be good cops and easier for bad cops to get worse.

[This Site Doesn't Suck] To the poster who said that this site sucks, I say, if you we're a member of any club or group you should always strive to make it better. This site can only be as good as it's players.

[Alcohol Study] A recent study found that the average American walks about 900 miles in a year.  Another study found Americans drink, on average, 22 gallons of alcohol per year.  That means, on average, Americans get about 41 miles to the gallon.  Kind of makes you proud to be American.

[Bird Lady] No question, Maya Totman is devoted to birds and does wonderful things for them. I am in awe of her devotion and spunk. I've seen her go in the water (in winter)  to save a pelican, brrrrrr! I'm not sure but I thought I saw her chewing food for baby woodpeckers spitting it out for them. Her operation needs to move to a more suitable and larger location. A residential property is not the place for an operation that large. Some days the stench of all that bird shit is overpowering as you drive by.

[Raise in Pay] Are all of you Democrats feeling warm, fuzzy, and victorious after your recent win of the White House and gains in Congress? Now it’s time to add a little pride to your emotions. Congratulations! Your Democrat legislators voted themselves a dandy raise, their new salary in 2009 will be $174,000 per annum. Pretty good huh? Do you suppose it’s a merit raise for the wonderful job that they did in overseeing the banking/credit industry, and saving us from fiscal melt down?  Maybe it was for the sterling job they did in getting credit flowing again, or for “saving” the auto industry, or maybe it was for, well, just because. Or maybe it was in gratitude for how good the housing market is!  By the way, how much of a raise did you get this year? Thanks Democrats, you guys are the gift that keeps on giving, oops sorry, make that taking!

[Lady, it's a womb, not a clown car] An Arkansas woman has given birth to her 18th child. Michelle Duggar delivered the baby girl by Caesarean section Thursday at Mercy Medical Center in Rogers. The baby, named Jordyn-Grace Makiya Duggar, weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20 inches long.  "The ultimate Christmas gift from God," said Jim Bob Duggar, the father of the 18 children. "She's just absolutely beautiful, like her mom and her sisters."  The Duggars now have 10 sons and eight daughters.  "We both would love to have more," he said. 

"Our whole family is excited about Jordyn's addition to our family," Jim Bob Duggar said. "She's just perfect in every way."

Jeff Foxworthy Redneck 12 Days of Christmas. A classic. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6XeYv3I3A8s

[UFO] I saw it too at the same time and same place.  It looked like a shiny, bluish ball coming down through the atmosphere.  It didn't look like a flare.  

[Memory] An elderly couple had dinner at another couple's house, and after eating, the wives left the table and went into the kitchen. The two gentlemen were talking, and one said, 'Last night we went out to a new restaurant and it was really great. I would recommend it very highly.'  The other man said, 'What is the name of the restaurant?'  The first man thought and thought and finally said, 'What is the name of that flower you give to someone you love? You know . . . The one that's red and has thorns.'  'Do you mean a rose?'  'Yes, that's the one,' replied the man. He then turned towards the kitchen and yelled, 'Rose, what's the name of that restaurant we went to last night?'

Returning to Naval Air Station Key West's Boca Chica Field, the Chief Petty Officers' Association was joined by the air station's First Class Petty Officer Association to gather eight large boxes of toys collected at the air station over the holiday season.  The toys were then distributed by the Marine Corps Reserve to local children charities throughout Key West and the lower Keys.
         

[Women over 40] This is what Andy Rooney (60 Minutes Correspondent) thinks about women over 40:  As I grow in age, I value women over 40 most of all. Here are just a few reasons why:  A woman over 40 will never wake you in the middle of the night and ask, 'What are you thinking?' She doesn't care what you think. 

Older women are forthright and honest. They'll tell you right off if you are a jerk, if you are acting like one. You don't ever have to wonder where you stand with her. Yes, we praise women over 40 for a multitude of reasons. Unfortunately, it's not reciprocal. For every stunning, smart, well-coiffed, hot woman over 40, there is a bald, paunchy relic in yellow pants making a fool of himself with some 22-year old waitress. Ladies, I apologize.  For all those men who say, 'Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free? Here's an update for you. Nowadays 80% of women are against marriage. Why? Because women realize it's not worth buying an entire pig just to get a little sausage!  Andy Rooney is a really smart guy.

Oil is just $34 a barrel today. I’ll bet that same $34, that the price won’t stay that low for very long, so I’d better fill up!

[Content of Website] t amuses me when people write in complaining about the content of this website and how it used to be, but they offer no content of the type they would like to read. Where do they think the content comes from? Do they think the editor has reporters throughout the Keys digging up dirt to post?  If they want to see different content, send it in. I like this site as it is, even though sometimes it’s great and at other times it sucks.

[Bocce Comes To Big Pine] Big Pine Bocce Association is starting a spring season league at the new park in Big Pine.  League starts January 19.  Call Angie to sign up your team for the night you want to play 305-395-1332.  League day/times are Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs 6pm-8pm.  The cost for the league is $100 team and $20 person.  Call now as slots are limited.  Bulletin Board

[Bird Lady] To the poster who suggested that the initial poster over-reacted to the FWC action: We probably need less retarded gov't agents like yourself and more funds for admirable charities such as the BP Wildlife Rescue.  I also don’t quite get the swipe at Miami. Are you a native conch? A freshwater conch? A native Floridian? Or are you just another transplanted pollutant from somewhere colder? Unfortunately, there are more of those who trash-talk like yourself then people like Maya who actually do something for the common good. 

So here’s an idea: Why don’t you and the rest of your parasitical, civil service retards quit your overpaid over-benefitted government jobs so we can use that hard earned taxpayer money for a better purpose, i.e. Maya’s outfit. And if you can’t afford to live here, just move back to Detroit or wherever you were spawned. I’m sure GM has a spot for you.

[UFO] The object you saw as a bright light was me on my motorcycle. Maybe you had too much vodka. Where is FHP when I need them?

[Financial Meltdown] Obama actually criticized government’s oversight of the financial industry.  He said that government has been “asleep at the switch”, and that there’s not a lot of “adult supervision” of the industry. Damn, if he had said that during the election process, I might have voted for him. The thing is that the industry rules are made by the Democrat controlled Congress, and for the last two years they’ve been overseen by committees headed up by Rep. Barney Frank and Senator Dodd. Both of these Democrat hot shots are actually in the pay of the industry they’re supposed to regulate. These goons were loudly warned that the house of cards was going to crumble.  President Bush and the Republicans did their damndest to pass legislation that would have prevented our current mess, but that legislation was savaged and blocked by the aforementioned dangerous duo and the Democrat leadership. Is it even possible that Obama might call for real investigation? Nah!

[Free Day Off] Would our Government people take that day off without pay?  Time and a half at that! Let's all get on the band wagon and screw the County. No, Bad thought. There's nothing left.

[Sloan’s Dreams] My horoscope today says “When conversing with friends, avoid talking about offensive topics of those that are too personal. You’ll save yourself a lot of frustration and/or heartache. Keep everything light and breezy.”

Maybe I’ll just say I hope Santa brings me something warm and fuzzy for Christmas, and that I wish President Bush had told the Gang of Three in Detroit to take their medicine in bankruptcy court, or had paid for the bailout his own selves.    More...Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

The Big Pine Key Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 1303 held their annual Change of Watch at Buon Appetito on December 9, 2008.  New officers were sworn in, and many awards were presented to members who have worked hard to promote boating safety in the Keys.  Anyone interested in learning more about the CGA should contact new Flotilla Commander Jan Kittsmiller at 305-744-0043 or don@floridacoins.com

[Hearing Problem] Morris, an 82 year-old man, went to the doctor to get a physical.  A few days later, the doctor saw Morris walking down the street with a gorgeous young woman on his arm. A couple of days later, the doctor spoke to Morris and said, 'You're really doing great, aren't you?'  Morris replied, 'Just doing what you said, Doc: 'Get a hot mamma and be cheerful.''  The doctor said, 'I didn't say that. I said, 'You've got a heart murmur; be careful.'

An outdoor kitchen is the kind of amenity that makes coastal living special and they are becoming more popular in high-end homes.
   

[Hook-up Gal] I want to thank the woman who turned to Craig's List to find physical satisfaction.  I hadn't visited CL in quite some time and she reminded me of it.  I've since re-visited the personals after finding my boyfriend looking to sew his oats outside of my field.  What's good for the goose is good for the gander and trust me, I got it good.  Three different guys too.  I hope my Jack-Ass is reading this wondering if it's me.  If you are a guy and you are cheating I just might be your girlfriend writing this. 

Girlfriends, if you need to get your fix and your guy isn't performing, go elsewhere.  He probably is too.  It’s time we act like guys and get our fill.  I think I'm going to answer another ad this weekend.

[UFO Sighting] That was just Sloan returning from a visit to his friends on the planet Dreamo.

[Free Day Off] Are the County Employees going to get the Friday after New Year’s Day off too. I’ve got to work or I’ll be fired. Working for the county is a cushy job. I wish I could work there.

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Saturday December 20, 2008

Friday December 19, 2008 

[Free Day Off] When Christmas falls on a Thursday, all levels of government have always awarded Friday off to employees.  Who cares?  Why would anyone complain about others getting to spend more time with their families during the holidays?  It takes an awfully shallow person to make such a complaint.

[Bird Rescue] It is very admirable that Maya Totman, along with others, devote their lives to wildlife rehab.  Unfortunately, the number of animals that Maya deals with makes it a very daunting task.  At last sight, she did not have the available space or manpower to care for all of the animals in a humane manor.  Example:  one pen of mostly pelicans, allowed each bird approximately 4 square feet of floor space per bird.  This is an extremely crowded situation.  Combine this density with the dirt floor, which cannot be cleaned and the sum is a very unpleasant living condition for such magnificent birds that were meant to soar above the ocean. 

Wildlife Rescue cannot see compassion through the lens of rescue, cannot see release through the lens of need, and cannot see failure through the lens of hope, this is their downfall.  The poster on the 18th jumped at the chance to attack state and federal governments,  this is typical of those who cannot separate fact from fiction and who miss the forest from inspecting the trees.  Please remember that learning is a life long exercise and that you would do more for the world by ingesting the truth, not regurgitating your delusions. 

Please Mrs. Poster head down to Maya's place and donate time and money to this cause.  She desperately needs more space and with the housing situation here on Big Pine you could buy her a larger facility.  Please help the wildlife of the FL keys by bulldozing the improvements on your lot, filling in your canal, restoring your lot to native conditions, donating the lot to a conservation organization, and promptly moving to Miami.  

[Auto Bailout] This morning Bush gave the Big Three a 90 day ultimatum in order to gat bailed out. Basically he said either shit or get off the pot. Make a new plan for success or go bankrupt. He’s going to use the money approved for the Wall St bailout for the auto industry. At least he wont appoint a car czar. None of those czars have ever done a damned thing.

[Merry Christmas From Sloan] When four of Santa’s elves got sick, the trainee elves did not produce toys as fast as the regular ones, and Santa began to feel the Pre-Christmas pressure. Then Mrs. Claus told Santa her Mother was coming to visit, which stressed Santa even more. When he went to harness the reindeer, he found that three of them were about to give birth and two others had jumped the fence and were out, Heaven knows where. Then when he began to load the sleigh, one of the floorboards cracked, the toy bag fell to the ground and all the toys were scattered. Frustrated, Santa went in the house for a cup of apple cider and a shot of rum. When he went to the cupboard, he discovered the elves had drunk all the cider and hidden the rum. In his frustration, he accidentally dropped the cider jug, and it broke into hundreds of little glass pieces all over the kitchen floor. He went to get the broom and found the mice had eaten all the straw off the end of the broom. Just then the doorbell rang, and irritated Santa marched to the door, yanked it open, and there stood a little angel with a great big Christmas tree. The angel said very cheerfully, ‘Merry Christmas, Santa. Isn’t this a lovely day? I have a beautiful tree for you. Where would you like me to stick it?’ And so began the tradition of the little angel on top of the Christmas tree.    More...Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

[Site Sucks] This site was once a wonderful place for local gossip. It has become a bore. I can get political news from the media. Maybe you can split the site into Politics and local gossip if there are enough locals left. Thanks for a once great site.

[Artists Network] The first meeting of 2009 for the Lower Keys Artists Network will be held Monday, January 5th, 7 PM, at The Artists in Paradise Gallery, Winn-Dixie Shopping Center, Big Pine Key.  The program to be presented will be a demonstration by award- winning artist Kim Workman, AKA Kimian. She will be making imprints of things found in nature, such as seashells and plants. Objects are pressed onto a canvas, covered with thick modeling paste which leaves an exact imprint. It is then painted and glazed. The finished product can resemble an ancient cave drawing or petroglph, depending on the subject matter used. This is a fun and easy process for the novice or professional. Kim is a member of the Artists in Paradise Gallery, Key West Art Center and the Nature Printing Society. Come to the gallery on January 5th for her inspiring demo.  The public is invited to attend and the meeting begins at 7 p.m.  Refreshments will be served and please bring a chair. For further information call Dale at 872-9404 or the gallery at 872-1828. Bulletin Board

[Tipping Threat] I think the bad tipper should watch the movie "Waiting" it would be a real eye opener for him.  I have worked in a restaurant for 20 years and can say that I have seen everything that was done in that movie.  I would like to point out to the bad tipper that the restaurant staff is pretty much like a family, and family sticks together.  So the next time you decide to visit an establishment and tip poorly, do not return, because if you do you might find yourself in the restroom for the next couple of days.

Grudgingly, very grudgingly, I offer Kudos to Obama for some of his recent decisions. His decision to have his inauguration benediction delivered by Pastor Rick Warren was courageous. Warren, of course, is a very prominent evangelical minister, who is very vocal in his pro life preaching’s and his opposition to same sex marriage. Gay leaders are apoplectic. His choice of Arne Duncan and Robert Gates were sterling. On the other hand, he will rue his choice of Eric Holder, Holder has fingerprints on 9/11, our current fiscal whirl pool, and Clinton’s pardon-gate debacle. Some of his other choices, like Clinton, Richardson and Vilsack are real head scratchers, what in the hell could be have been thinking! To date, this right wing nut is pleasantly surprised at general quality of some of his choices, and bemused at most of the other. The far left, his most rabid backers, are having a major case of buyers remorse. The lefty long knives will soon be out.

[Wildlife Rescue] I realize your frustration with the recent situations that have been unfolding at Fl. Keys Wildlife Rescue at Big Pine Key. This is what happens when our populous gets layers and layers of pseudo experts for every problem imaginable that we may encounter. When common sense tells us that one segment is being sorely neglected and citizens take the initiative to try to correct the problem to the best of there ability. This presents a marvelous opportunity for one of our countless Gov. experts to exhibit their expertise and authority; never mind that common sense will once again take a back seat. If it is not officially condoned by a bureaucrat it will be besmirched as not up to their level of competence, blah, blah blah.

Indeed we have become so inured to this type of behavior that we are surprised when it doesn't happen. Again we have allowed ourselves to be dictated to by the those with the least individuality, vision. The dullards of society are taking over.

Some more of Nixon’s tapes have been released. It’s chilling how little regard for the law or the Constitution that man had. He was a brilliant politician, but he was still a “crook”!

[New twist on a Yard Sale] Pay want you want!  Many, many free items.   Starting on Saturday, Dec. 20th  (noon-ish) and running until Dec. 30th.  After many happy years in Big Pine we are moving to Texas.  We will put out new items everyday, many of them free or you can drop a donation in our Moving Fund. There will be furniture, household items, books and some tools, and much more.   Come and see!  30121 Linda Street, corner of Loma and Linda.  (Loma is across the highway from the health food store.  Come and pick up some needed items and say good-bye to Us.  We're going to miss you guys!

[Stockings for Troops] After weeks of hosting booths, making public pleas, and sitting on church stoops, MYCP Seasons of Service Team, MYCP’s Leadership Class at Coral Shores, and San Pedro youth group have collected $2,665 for the Red Cross Stockings for Troops project. In the camouflage stocking, soldiers serving overseas may expect to find much-needed socks, toiletries, phone cards and a personal note from the person who donated the $10 to have it sent.

The Seasons of Service (SOS) club members are students from the Upper Keys who voluntarily serve in the community. Monroe Youth Challenge Program District Prevention Coordinator Michele Sutter, whose passion has inspired the Stockings for Troops project locally for the last seven years, turned the donations in to the Red Cross. It was enough to provide 266 stockings to service men and women serving in places like Iraq and Afghanistan.

Carnell A. Armstead, the client services coordinator for the American Red Cross Greater Miami & The Keys wrote back to Sutter, “Please let me say that we thank you and your organization so much! I am retired Air Force and I know how the troops will feel. It is nice to see that even if these tough times, people want to support our servicemen.”

The SOS Team and CSHS Leadership Class is supported by MYCP. Monroe Youth Challenge Program is a project of the Monroe County Education Foundation to foster acceptance, respect, and success in the youth of Monroe County. For more information contact Michele Sutter at (305) 852-1884 or visit http://www.monroe.k12.fl.us/mycp

Photo: Kelly Walsh, a senior at Coral Shores High School, enjoys her volunteer efforts as she collects donations for the Stockings for Troops at the Island Christian School Christmas Festival. Photo credit: Michele Sutter/MYCP

[Seasons in Texas] Miss Sally Edwards is a highly esteemed third grade teacher at Jacksboro Elementary. In an effort to prepare her students for the all-important TAKS test, she compiled an exam consisting of 20 questions, which she administered to her class. The exam purposely covered a broad array of topics. I call your attention to question # 11, which simply read: List, in any order, the four seasons. 67% of the students gave the following answer:
1. dove season
2. deer season
3. quail season
4. turkey season
God bless the rural kids of Texas!

[UFO] We were driving home from K.W. on Thursday afternoon about 5:00 and saw a strange glowing object go across the sky on the right side of the road headed toward Big Pine (we were on Cudjoe). It only lasted for a couple of minuets and then was gone. Did anyone else see this? Does anyone know what it was?

[Old Timer] Let's start with Buzzy and Marcus.  They're fine and doing very well. Rob passed away, Uncle Tony has been gone a long time.  So has Carol.  Little Tony is here and doing well, still "painting". Phil is here and is also doing just fine. Fred has not been around for many years. Mikey and Diane and Mark Mark, I'm not too sure about--probably gone for a long time too.  Not-So-Plain Jane fell in love and moved away.  Bud, I am not sure about. I am sure some of us that are still here will add to this. 

The Gangplank has been out of business for a very long time. It has been opened several times under different names but has not done well. There have been a few changes, however. 

The Super Wal-Mart is a big help, it just about put K-mart and Sears out of business, but with all 3 stores on this island, everything is dirt cheap.  The Hilton has put a very nice resort in where the Big Pine Fish Lodge used to be next to the Spanish Harbor Bridge.   The marina is well equipped and  full of those multi-million dollar sports fisherman.  It cost too much for the locals to go there.  I think the best job was done by the Marriot who bought The Old Wooden Bridge Fish Camp.  They could only go up 3 stories but there was a bunch of land to use, so it's spread out nicely. The four-lane project is really a mess now but it should be done in a year or two.  Well I hope this has been helpful.  Have a very Merry Christmas and God Bless.  ~Joe Britz

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2008/12/18/obamas-rick-warren-inauguration-pick-sparks-gay-fury/

[Tipping] To all of you people who go out to dinner and don't leave a tip. I would hate to be related to you on any given holiday. People in other countries don't leave tips because the working staff is paid a salary, and they even get paid vacation time, but here in America the people work for tips and a measly few bucks hourly wage.  Most of the locals here work their butts off all winter long serving foreigners that don't tip; and barely make ends meet during the slow summer months.

I enjoy sitting across the bar from people like you and watching as the bartender walks past your empty drink until you finally get so upset that you leave. That is good summertime entertainment. Lord knows we all get bad service from time to time, but there are ways to avoid this. Here’s a quick lesson for you, cheapo, go to a restaurant where you’re not known for leaving  crummy  tips and eat there for an entire week and leave a nice tip. You will be amazed at the service you receive. Or don't go out to eat--period. I'm not even in the bar or restaurant business and I can't stand people like you. God bless your family during the holidays, we all know they need it!

A Boating Skills and Seamanship program will be presented by the US Coast Guard Auxiliary Big Pine Flotilla 1303 at the Habitat For Humanity building, 30320 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, Fl.   Programs begins at 7pm and end at 9:30pm. Classes run for three weeks on Monday's and Wednesday's beginning January 12, 2009.  Topics include: Equipment for your boat , Rules you must follow , Boat handling, Weather and boating , Your “highway” signs, Charts (piloting), Which boat is for you?, Radio use and Safe trailering.  There is also an official Saturday Patrol on the Water. Classes are taught by highly experienced CGA members who can share a lot of valuable information with boaters new to navigating the waters here in the Keys.  Fees are $55 per person, which includes materials.  For more information Bulletin Board

Habitat for Humanity of Key West & Lower FL Keys received a grant from Historic Tours through the Community Contribution Tax Credit Program to help defray some of the costs of their recent purchase of six units at Fogarty Corner Condominiums.  These units are currently occupied as affordable rentals; three of the units will be sold as affordable homes as Habitat proceeds through their application process. 

There will be many new opportunities for local businesses to put their tax monies to work locally as Habitat for Humanity proceeds with new homes at Bayside Landing on Big Coppitt Key.  The Community Contribution Tax Credit Program is a state funded incentive to encourage businesses to partner with those who provided affordable housing.  Eligible contributions are matched by the State of Florida with tax credits.

This program is a great way for you, a business owner/manager, to support Habitat for Humanity as it works to create solutions to our workforce housing crisis in the Lower Keys.  For more information on this exciting program, please call Bob Calhoun at 305.872.4456, ext. 109.

[Sammy Mays] A proud moment for former tabloid reporter when Monroe County Commissioners /Mayor George Neugent declare humor writer, Sammie “The Gonz” Mays, Honorary Mayor of the Florida Keys!

[NY Senate Seat] It’s fascinating to observe the media and the Democrat elite united like co-joined siblings at their hypocritical hips in their support for Carolyn Schlossberg to become an appointed Senator in New York State. The twins still quiver with indignation and spew invective at the mere mention of Governor Palin, a successful, experienced, hugely popular, and actually elected public official, yet they’re orgasmic at the prospect of Ms. Schlossberg becoming a Senator.  They opine that her vast experience at having been a Kennedy, well,  a Kennedy from another state will make her a great choice. Does the term carpet bagger have any resonance? Do you suppose that her Dad’s name had any impact? The twins are the same mouths that roar with indignation at the suggestion of another Bush family member (Jeb Bush) offering for public service, they rail against “dynasty”. Go figure.

[Fl. Keys Wildlife Rescue at Big Pine Key] As I understand it the Feds want Ms Totman to kill the critters she’s cared for that are too messed up to be returned to nature. If this is the case they should just let her keep caring for the critters until they die a natural death. What’s wrong with that?

[Unions] Someone in here tried to disgrace the Democrats by saying that it’s horrible that unions support them. Maybe that person doesn’t have high regard for the Police, Sheriffs, teachers and nurses, but we welcome them into the Democratic party. Unions are here to stay so you might as well not call a Democratic supported union Policeman or Sheriff when you need help. Let me know how that works out for you!

[Global Cooling] Vegas: Biggest snow in 30 years, Chicago: One foot of snow, Malibu, CA: Freak snow, NYC: Heavy snow due. Arizona: Snow warnings.  And it’s going to get worse, there are at least 3 major record breaking frigid winter systems marching eastward before Xmas. To the global warming acolytes this is actual proof of their dogma. I wonder how many of them will be out there shoveling snow in their bathing suits? Groucho Marx must have been thinking about Al Gore when he said “Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?”

[Automaker Bailout] Sen. Rich ard Shelby of Alabama has doomed the industry, calling it a dinosaur. No Mr. Shelby, you are the dinosaur, with ideas stuck in the '70s, '80s and '90s. You and the uninformed journalist and senators that hold onto myths that are not relevant in today's world.  When you say that the Big Three build vehicles nobody wants to buy, you must have overlooked that GM out sold Toyota by about 1.2 million vehicles in the U.S. and Ford out sold Honda by 850,000 and Nissan by 1.2 million in the U.S. GM was the world's No. 1 automaker beating Toyota by 3,000 units.

Chevy makes the Malibu and Ford makes the Fusion that were both rated over the Camry and Accord by J.D. Power independent survey on initial quality? Consumer Report rated Ford on par with good Japanese automakers.  Big Three's “gas guzzlers” include the 33 mpg Malibu that beats the Accord. And for '09 Ford introduces the Hybrid Fusion whose 39 mpg is the best midsize, beating the Camry Hybrid. Ford's Focus beats the Corolla and Chevy's Cobalt beats the Civic.  When you ask how many times are we going to bail them out you must be referring to 1980. The only Big Three bailout was Chrysler, who paid back $1 billion, plus interest. GM and Ford have never received government aid.

[Bird Rescue] It's a shame that the feds are giving the bird lady so much grief. they should let her alone.

I just read about a turtle lady who was arrested for protecting loggerhead nests in South Carolina. She was made to serve a day in jail even after she demonstrated that her methods were more effective than the Feds’. Her house was right on the beach and she grew up watching the breeding cycles of the turtles. She was an old woman when she went to jail. I think it’s really a matter of control. The Feds want it all even at the expense of the critters; and they won’t accept input from anyone without a college diploma in that particular science.

[Tipping] I always leave 20% even for lousy service. Most service in the Keys is lousy. I figure it’s a small town and they’ll remember me if I stiff them. Servers never admit to giving bad service. I believe it’s because they just don’t know what good service is, or they usually have have some other excuse.

Here’s a picture of Lou, Kay and Elizabeth (Lizzie) VanDGejuchte's dedication last evening at their new home in Habitat Landing on Big Pine Key.  Rev. Jack Clark, one of our board members, delivered a brief message and blessed the house.  The family has been painting, decorating and, in short, making this house their home. 

[Extra Days Off]  I do not believe in this day and age, given the fiscal state of the County, layoffs, closing of libraries, firing school crossing guards, etc. I think these so-called public servants (our neighbors) are taking part in this scheme. This is a slap in the face of all Monroe County citizens who will not get Christmas day off, never mind the day after! I have to work and be productive or face disciplinary action at my place of employment.

What does this mean for New Years Day and day after? Is this a two-fer?

[Bill Clinton disgraced the White House Oval Office. I don't believe in a million years Bush would ever do anything like that] Please, please tell me you are joking. If not what color is the sky were you are from?

[Ron Widmaier] Effective this week I have changed brokers from ERA to GMAC Schwartz. Stop by the my new office at the Winn Dixie Shopping Center and say hello.

Enjoy this piece of exceptional wisdom. Slide Show

Congressional Motors Announces The First Car for 2012, The Pelosi. It's in the way you dress. The way you boogie down. The way you sign your unemployment check. You're a man who likes to do things your own way. And on those special odd-numbered Saturdays when driving is permitted, you want it in your car. It's that special feeling of a zero-emissions wind at your back and a road ahead meandering with possibilities. The kind of feeling you get behind the wheel of the Pelosi GTxi SS/Rt Sport Edition from Congressional Motors.

[Iron Man Santa] Now that's what I call Christmas music. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRW2poUfJ34

[Children Day with Santa] I haven't seen anything on here about the Moose Lodge and the Children Day with Santa they put on? It was wonderful and so great of them to do something like that for the kids of the community.

[Gas Price] Have you all noticed how the gas prices have gone up 5+ cents a gallon and oil has gone down $4 a barrel? I may be wrong but I think you get 42 gallons out of a barrel, at $40 a barrel, that's under a $1 a gallon. I know the oil companies need a little profit for exploration but that’s too much.

The Bird Lady of Big Pine is a truly rare breed of person who deserves the support of anyone who lives down here.  She needs her own space off the beaten path to pursue her noble activities if she wants it. How about a benefit to make this happen? 

The pot calling the kettle…

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Friday December 19, 2008 

Wednesday December 16, 2008

[New State Motto] Illinois, where our governors make our license plates.

[Tipping 20 percent] I have got some news for you. That is only in the US, most of the rest of the world it is 0%, which is pretty much what the service in the Keys deserves, overall. It is not an entitlement. If your service, food, or establishment sucks, you get the going world rate from me.

[Monica Gate] Thank you for speaking for all foreigners. Over the last 10 years I've lived in 4 different countries outside the US. I have yet to met a single person who admires or supports George Bush. Not one! On the other hand, Bill Clinton is universally loved around the world. Say what you want about Clinton, but you know nothing about foreigners. Hell, I'll bet you've never even been out of the country. I feel lucky to have been gone for all of Dubya's term. What a colossal embarrassment he is.

[Bailouts] After reading the NY Times article about the oil companies I guess now they will need a bailout too. Look how good AIG has done with their bailout money. The gov't could buy all their stock for less than they gave them. Their market cap is 4.7 billion they are selling at $1.74 a share, that's less then 8 billion.  Maurice "Hank" Greenberg, former American International Group boss, has questioned whether the troubled insurance company sold securities to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York fund at a higher price than they were marked on the insurer's books.  This must be a lie AIG would never cheat the US govt. If they need money give them all shovels and let them dig the Keys waste water system for us for free they got our money already.

[Coconut Telegraph’s Entertainment Editor] I have a blast sending stuff to your site.  All these interesting tidbits that grab my attention or tickle my funny bone just must be shared and you provide me with a much bigger audience than I have on my own!  Plus, you've probably saved most of my friends from being bored or aghast at some of my interests.  Also, there are days when I feel I absolutely have to break up the bellyaching humans need to spew when they overload your site on the "whiners" side.  It makes me feel good when someone writes in that they enjoyed some odd bit I sent you and you posted.  That's a doubled benefit; I enjoy your column and I feel like I added a little to somebody else's fun. Win-win-win!

The presidential campaign spawned Barack Obama and John McCain-themed condoms with corresponding slogans ("Who says experience is necessary?" for the former, "Old, but not expired" for the latter).

[Shoe Thrower] In their latest bid to beef up their pitching rotation for the 2009 season, the New York Yankees today signed Iraqi journalist Muntadar al-Zeidi to a three-year deal worth $32 million. The right-handed al-Zeidi, 28, impressed the Yankee scouts with his performance in Baghdad this week when he threw both of his shoes at President George W. Bush. While neither of the shoes hit their target, both throws "had great velocity and good movement," said Yankee owner Hank Steinbrenner. "The first shoe was high and outside but the second one was right down the middle," Mr. Steinbrenner said. The Yankee boss said that he was also impressed with Mr. al-Zeidi's fighting spirit when Secret Service agents tackled him. "That could come in handy when we have a series with Boston," he said.

[Piss on China] The gentlemen is right and the only problem is there is nothing made in the USA any more.  I wrote in a few weeks ago about my iron.  You might think it is not a big deal, but the truth of the matter is we have no industry left in America except for autos and we know where that is going.  One day China is going to shut the doors to us and we will have no clothes, no tools, no shoes, no irons no nothing. Wake up America.  Get your heads out of your bottom and stop purchasing from foreign nations. Make the government bring the jobs home again.  We need to redesign our industries to be environmentally sensitive and support American citizens.  Someone also posted the other day that they smell the decay of our society.  I agree, just look around.  We are a spoiled nation that is going down and will never be able to recover if we do not do something soon.

[At Last, a Reliable Contractor] I want to thank you guys at bigpinekey.com for having such a wonderful web page. I've been coming down here for over ten years (yes I’m a dreaded snow bird) and have always had trouble finding a reliable contractor in the yellow pages. My husband and I went on your web site and called Perfect Choice Fine Carpentry, and were very pleased at the professionalism and the quality of workmanship that they brought to our home. It was a very pleasant experience, they also gave my husband some pro-finishing tips, god knows he needed them. What a great bunch of guys, they’ll be around for a long time. Thank you once again!

[Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire] If you can’s see similarities between that empire and ours you’re not paying attention.

[Smoky The Snowman] This video is wrong on so many levels. This group promotes improved technology research for the coal-based power plant industry to reduce its emissions. There is nothing even close to clean coal yet. So far it’s all coal smoke and mirrors. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5DR1oyr4g8

[How arrogant! ] The oft-repeated exclamation of our American-born, European-thinking, ex-pat contributor. Too bad this requires an explanation, but I will try.  Nobody mentioned groveling at the feet of those who give, just appreciation instead of an attitude of indignant entitlement.  I was raised to share of my own volition with those I can help.  All that's expected is a "thank you".  There have been times I needed help and was very grateful when it was offered.  No one demanded my dignity, and I did not consider it undignified to show how much the help was appreciated. It is called kindness and the appropriate response involves proper manners.

[Ponzi] A guy last night at the Tiki bar told me that the word Ponzi came from a Happy Days episode. He said is was a combination of  the names Potsie and Fonzi.  Could this be true? I don't recall that episode.

[A day or two before oral sex ]  There are people who plan to this degree?

The Night Before Christmas  --South Florida version:

Then chuckling aloud, seeming very contento,
He turned like a flash and was gone like the viento.
And I heard him exclaim, and this is verdad,
Merry Christmas to all, and Feliz Navidad!

[No, Virginia, he's dead] How little Billy found out he wasn't going to get that Red Rider BB Gun for Christmas.

[Entitlement] It appears another lefty proves another Reaganism. “It's not that our liberal friends are ignorant, it's just that they know so much that isn't so”. You think that I want someone to feel humility for my benefit? Well my friend, you could not be farther from the truth. Humility is for the benefit of the recipient. The lack of humility that accompanies the feeling of entitlement has now ruined generations of low income Americans. When you feel entitled to what someone else has struggled for and acquired, what difference does it make if it's given to you by the government or if you just go take it from them yourself? You wonder why crime rates are so high among those that are reliant upon government subsidies?

I give you exhibit A. When you can acknowledge in your heart and mind that some or many have freely given to make your life easier, you can retain your sense of ambition and seek to improve your life and give back to others. My life is made more meaningful by giving my time and treasure to those less fortunate than I. But, if I am giving in a way that only affords basic needs and does nothing to help people to the point where they to can know the joy of giving, what good have I truly done?

I encourage you to consider the facts. Government sponsored welfare, in all it's forms, have done nothing to really improve the lives of those who have become reliant upon it. They have become serfs of the state, feeling entitled to the treasure of others simply because they are alive, and beholden to the whims of the agency that controls their existence.  What kind of life is that?

The poster who said Ford’s factories are now all foreign is all fouled up. First, Ford is not asking for a bail out, it’s the only one of the Big 3 that says it can survive without it.  Second, Ford is hugely profitable overseas; the overseas profits float the world wide Ford fleet. Third, Ford has the same legacy and labor cost problems that the American unions have foisted on them, it simply costs a whale of a lot more to make cars in unionized factories. That’s why foreign car makers are doing so well. Labor and legacy costs are so high that the Big 3 can’t make a profit. No profit means a doomed business. No business, no jobs, no union.  Hurrah, the golden goose is DOA! 

The so called Big 3 bail out is not intended to bail out the businesses, it’s to bail out the unions.  If they get the fed money, it will be a total waste, unless they get rid of high labor costs and huge legacy costs, the Big 3 can’t make a profit. Bush is wrong, the Dems are wrong; the only way to cure the Big 3 is by the aggressive surgery, radiation, and the chemo therapy of bankruptcy. Unpleasant, painful and risky, but without it the patients will surely die taking with them all the bucks that have been wasted on quack treatment.

[Shoe Thrower] The Iraqis showed how much love they have for our President. The reporter who threw the shoe now has 2 broken arms, broken wrist, broken ribs and some head and facial trauma. You know what they say “Don't do the crime if you cant do the time.”

Charles Ponzi (1882–1949) was an Italian immigrant to the United States who became one of the greatest swindlers in American history until this week’s Bernard Madoff 50 billion ripp-off. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Ponzi

[Workers install steel posts] This has been posted several times. The solid steel post unbolt at the base. The truck is parked there to be out of the way. When they are done they will remove a post and drive away. I know you feel silly, but how were you to know that they had done this before? Be nice and Merry Christmas to all.

[The Mom Song] This is great. You’ll love this. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMhuAtyFCrw

[Big Egos] Miriam Webster: meg·a·lo·ma·nia 2 : a delusional mental disorder that is marked by feelings of personal omnipotence and grandeur. The poster who suggested yesterday that a delusional mental disorder is a positive attribute for a President of the U.S. certainly seems to be very pleased with Obama. I’m not. I prefer a President who recognizes that he/she is a fallible human being fully capable of making horrific error. I prefer a leader who is humbled by the magnitude of the responsibilities of the office. The President should be humbled and honored by the approbation of the voters, and not view the office as “his/hers” by some warped sense of "divine right". The Nixons, Hitlers, Tojo’s, Kim Jong il’s , Clintons, and Obamas of this world eschew personal responsibility and truly consider themselves to be transcendent. According to that poster, great Presidents such as Truman, Eisenhower, Lincoln, Washington, who were all humble and self-effacing leaders, lacked the attributes to hold that office.

[Peace] You do not need to be a grandmother to wage peace, however it helps. PEACE GRANDMOTHERS PETITION TO PRESIDENT-ELECT OBAMA Petition

[Unions] You can certainly tell why the unions are loyal members of the Democratic camp.  They both think the same. I recently saw an interview with a bunch of UAW members.  They were boasting about all the concessions they had already made.  When you listened closely, however, you discovered that the "concessions" were really just slow downs in the rate of increase.

It sounds like when Democrats howl about the "cuts" in social programs when in reality it's just that they were not growing as fast as they had in the past.

[First Rule of Warfare] Only bring artillery if you want to kill everyone! Artillery lends dignity to what would otherwise be a vulgar brawl.

Rolling Ball Sculpture http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dT8pdv0LVY

No Christmas presents for this pilot!

[Iraq] I've been waiting 7 years for an Iraqi to come up to me and thank me for his handout. Now they are captured animals learning to live off America’s workers.

[Obongo]  Gee Ed, I would have to bet that you get some feed back on that one. I do love this web site. Boy are you in trouble. (Ed: We hate bigotry and we get hundreds of bigoted posts every month. So our editorial board figured we’d post just one of them in the Christmas spirit.)

[Ya’ gotta love those Muslims] Blind man turned away from Indian restaurant after owner says guide dog is against his Muslim beliefs | Mail Online

[Development] Not everyone in Key West likes development.

[Prison Food] Maybe Sloan is correct about the jail food. Have you noticed the mug shots on Monroe County Arrest Report? Many of our Keys finest are looking drawn and gaunt. at least we don't have as much of an obesity problem anymore.

[And I’m Not  Going To Tell You] You people bashing The Big 3 and the union are so far out of touch with the reality and the facts of the current situation in American automobile industry that it's pathetic.  You don't even know what you are ranting about.

[Microwave Jingle Bells] The only thing I can thing is that these guys must work in the Sears warehouse. Where else would they get so many microwaves? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgBUqJzgvBo

[Shoe Thrower] I can just see what happened in Iraq. The Secret Service wasn't facing the audience like they do without reservation here in America. That was probably so they wouldn't offend anyone in the Iraqi audience by showing mistrust.  Good thing the show thrower didn't have a gun.  I don't care for "W" but he is still my President.

[Coach] I am not interested in coaching girl's flag football. I am, however, interested in coaching a ladies Jell-O wrestling league.

The Dan Band  "I Wanna Rock You Hard This Christmas" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54sDzkyhx_Q

[$40 a barrel for oil] Aren’t you glad we didn’t listen to Bush/McCain and drill offshore and in our parks? The only way I’d approve of a bailout for the big 3 is if they agreed to spend all the money on alternative fuel vehicles. Never trust anything your government tells you because there's always a hidden agenda behind what they do.

[Ford Foreign Plants] Toyota has suspended construction of its latest US assembly plant.

A plethora (that’s sort of like a gang) of dreams starting two nights ago and running through naps and night slumbers sez I’m moving away from this here sheriff and lawyer bizniz into sumtin’ else I might be able to name but prefer to lay low and see what actually comes in. As the magnet a woman I dearly loved in one of my former lives had stuck on her refrigerator said, “We plan, God laughs!
 
Meanswhilst, what I feel like mentioning next today is two movies I saw in Key West in the past two days. Mention, not review, because to review either movie would, in my estimation, ruin it for anyone who saw it with the review in mind. So all I will say is that I believe “The Day the Earth Stood Still” (Regal Cinema) and “The Boy in Stripped Pajamas” (Tropic Cinema) should be required viewing for all people living in modern civilization. Especially all Americans and Germans. Especially them. The tree huggers will come in their britches over the cool ending of “The Day the Earth Stood Still,” and I’m not saying nuttin’ more ‘bout den stripped pajamas.
 
Further meanwhilst, perhaps I should mention my latest abduction adventure. This happens every few years, and invariably the aliens decide after a few days that they made a big mistake and bring me back to where they found me. It’s really quite distressing, because every time they come, I say, “Oh, goody, I’m outta here!” But no, it isn’t the right ETs, it isn’t the rescue. It’s just another case of mistaken X-File, or maybe wishful thinking. A bad dream, some might say, while others might say hallucination.  More...Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

As far as the financial mortgage meltdown goes, if risky mortgages were the drugs then real estate agents were the dealers!

Lego today issued a statement which reads: "LEGO UK is not associated with the toys being sold by BrickArms, which have been customized without LEGO UK’s knowledge or permission. Lego terrorist threatens democracy • The Register

[Semen-based recipe book] This is getting more sicker every day. I figured I’d do my little part. Mixed reviews for semen-based recipe book • The Register

“Sprouts can cause bouts of flatulence in animals and humans. But I don't think any of us were prepared for a smell that strong.” Zoo-keepers have apologized to visitors for the stench coming from a gorilla enclosure after feeding the animals sprouts. Zoo apologises after animal farting outbreak | Metro.co.uk

You'd think the Chinese economy was in enough trouble without misplacing 130,000 pairs of boobs. Luckily they were finally recovered. I wonder who was the boob that lost them. Oz men's mag recovers inflatable jubs • The Register

Frosty the Snowman’s baby picture.

I Can't Get The Printer To Work! Video

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Wednesday December 16, 2008

Tuesday December 16, 2008

[Read My Lips] It’s bad enough that the county is forcing Trauma Star financing on us, but county staff has added an additional insult. Regardless of your position on Trauma Star, the "repayment debt" money is about to come out of your wallets.

We need to do something about this.  It’s bad enough people are going to get stuck paying for the helicopter service, but they do not have to pay for past debts.

The former chairman of Nasdaq got caught bilking investors in the largest Ponzi scheme in history. Bernard Madoff masterminded a intricate scheme where he would pay some investors from the deposits of others and guaranteed them 1% profit per month. The rip-off fell apart when too many investors demanded to cash in their portfolios at once. It is estimated that this crook stole fifty billion dollars.

[Presidential Candidates was/is convinced that they are superior beings] I wouldn’t want anyone running the country that didn’t think he was a superior being. Another poster called Clinton a “megalomaniacal” clown.  Megalomaniac, elitists, superior and ego driven are the requirements to be the most powerful person on the planet, in effect, the ruler of Earth. No one less could do it.

[Charity] Someone in here wrote a post saying that if someone is given some type of support or entitlement it shouldn’t be done through an agency; it should be done face to face so you can allow them the chance to show their humility. How arrogant! That’s the type of smug thinking that led to the failures of the Republican Party. Can you imagine someone not donating to a food kitchen unless the head of the kitchen comes before the almighty donor and shows humility? Please keep your money or food or anything else you can clutch onto with your last breath. We want to spare you the shame of donating without your rightful praise and lessons.

As for me I know in my heart that the people of Hurricanes and landslides are entitled to help from other Americans. Of course to many of us it’s not an entitlement it’s a responsibility we all carry to make the world a better place. I don’t owe people food because they are entitled to it. I make enough income for myself and am more then willing to help others. If they cannot work or are just plain lazy then they are the ones that will have the hard time finding shelter and clothing. I could never, ever live the way they do, but then that’s my choice. I will help with what I can and they will do without a lot by their own choosing. I don't want them to show me how humble they are before me. But then again,  I don’t need the attention and praise.

[World Sex] The reason foreigners were laughing at us over Clinton’s sex follies is that they don’t think sex is such a big deal, at least not enough to bring down an American President.

Rod Blagojevich announced that Caroline Kennedy is the highest bidder for Hillary’s New York Senate seat.

[Photography Show] Friends And Volunteers Of Refuges (FAVOR) is proud to showcase Paul Carmichael as the 2^nd of 6 monthly wildlife artists at the Key Deer Bookstore.  Paul has been a Keys photographer, accomplished pilot, boat captain and dive master is life’s consummate student driven by and excited by the adventure yet to be lived. A Natural Celebration Photography Exhibit Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center Winn Dixie Plaza, Big Pine Key Now Thru Jan 8th

[Jail Food] At the Marathon facility the inmates cook the food at the Guidance Clinic kitchen and then bring it over to the jail and they all eat it along with all the Guidance Clinics patients. The rule is they have to save a meal every day in case of complaint or a patient gets ill from the food. I know this because I used to work there and the food was awful then. They had a menu that was approved by a supposedly dietician and the Guidance Clinic staff.

[Bail out and Union Busting] GM and Chrysler don’t have to take the loans. If the company doesn’t want to make concessions that’s okay, don’t take the money and if the Union doesn’t want to make concessions then tell the company not to take the money. They must not need it that bad if they won’t give a little themselves. The gall to say “give me the money and I’ll keep doing things that got me in trouble and it’s none of your business how I do things.”

Human Peace Sign event. Thanks to all who attended.

[Snowbirds] This is directed at the ones writing in about the snowbirds. First of all, most of us were snowbirds at one time. We all didn't grow up here. We all came from somewhere else so quit knocking the snowbirds. If you owned a business down here you would be thankful for the snowbirds because they help us make a living so that we can stay down here.  They help so that you can keep your job so shut up!  Be thankful for being able to live here and not have to shovel your butt out of your driveway or scrape the ice off your windshield so you can see.  We are all so fortunate that we can live here and share this beautiful place. Just make positive statements.  It will make you and everyone else feel better.   Smile and have a happy holiday.

Dog Having a Blast in the Snow - Video

Help our Local 104.1FM/ U.S.1 Radio  DJ ,Chuck Thomas' daughter, Colleen, attain her 15 minutes of fame. Visit this eBay website to help "viewing hits" draw attention. Perhaps, Leno or Letterman will have her on as a guest! Super Holiday Deal! One Soul- Original Owner, - eBay (item 190274307312 end time Dec-22-08 03:30:14 PST)

[Tips on Tasty Ejaculation]  A day or two before oral sex eat or drink:  Pineapple juice, cinnamon, parsley, celery, any kind of fruit. Drink lots of water 10-12 16oz bottled waters. works really well! Pineapple Juice 6-10 8-16oz  Don't eat or drink:  Alcohol, coffee, red meat, onion, garlic, dairy foods (especially milk), broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus and chocolate, smoke.  More info http://www.holisticwisdom.com/ejaculate-sweeter.htm

[Bailout] GW does it to us again! Executive pay limits may prove toothless. Loophole in bailout provision leaves enforcement in doubt. You can read the whole article here http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28232631/

[More bleach in the gene pool] These men are concreting solid steel pillars to stop vehicles from parking on the pavement outside a sports bar downtown. They are cleaning up at the end of the day.  How long do you think it will be before they realize where their vehicle is parked? Thank you God for your really stupid people.  They bring the rest of us so much joy.

[Sloan] Do you ever start reading a comment and then go, Oh damn It’s Sloan dreaming again and you glaze over and scroll.

[Shoe] The whole Arab world, most of all Iraqis, are rejoicing over the reporter that threw the shoe at Bush (and the USA). There was a large demonstration in Iraq yesterday supporting the reporter.

NASA Television will provide live coverage of the Dec. 22 spacewalk of Expedition 18 Commander Mike Fincke and Flight Engineer Yury Lonchakov. The spacewalk will start at approximately 6:15 p.m. and last six hours. Fincke and Lonchakov will deploy and retrieve several Russian experiments on the station's exterior. They also will install a device to measure electromagnetic forces imparted on station hardware as the complex moves through low Earth orbit. Russian specialists believe electromagnetic interference may have contributed to past problems on the Soyuz spacecraft's pyrotechnic bolts, which allow sections of the vehicle to separate properly during its return to Earth. NASA - NASA Multimedia Page

[Xmas Lights] Does anyone know who conducts the residential holiday lighting contests on Big Pine?

[The humbleness one should feel when receiving a hand out from their fellow man]  Excellent post all the way through, but that line especially is bang-on.  If the incentive to earn your own way is removed, people will become little more than fenced-in domesticated animals.  Without that incentive the great inventions and breakthroughs would have never happened and will become very rare.

Burnout in the USA, Europe and Iraq. Video

[Will it be an inauguration or coronation] The evil emperor is dead, long live the new King!

[Help Wanted] Position:  Surveyor. Qualification:  Must be fast on your feet.

[Bad Taste] As a male, I am laughing at the woman, or women, commenting on their preference to finish or not to finish the oral pleasantries with a mouth full.  Not that I have ever put one of those in my mouth, but I can totally understand.  I dated a woman who was always on some nutty diet and different pills and cunnilingus wasn't very pleasant either.  Keflax made the smell cause me to about puke--never mind the taste.  I was afraid to lick that thing for months.  Talk about ruining a very enjoyable act.  Maybe it's just a hygiene thing?

[Tipping] To the person bragging about cutting back on their tips for waiters: Enjoy your "special sauce".

[Bailout] In response to GM’s request to call legislators and ask for a bailout for the United States automakers,  please consider the following, and please also pass this onto Troy Clark, the president of General Motors North America for me.

You are both infected with the same entitlement mentality that has bred like cancerous germs in UAW halls for the last countless decades, and whose plague is now sweeping the nation, awaiting our new "messiah" to wave his magical wand and make all our problems go away, while at the same time allowing our once great nation to keep "living the dream”. The dream is over!

The dream that we can ignore the consumer for years while management myopically focuses on its personal rewards packages at the same time that our factories have been filled with the worlds most overpaid, arrogant, ignorant and laziest entitlement minded "laborers" without paying the price for these atrocities; and that still the masses will line up to buy our products.

Christmas diner will be fabulous in Key West this year.

The purpose of fighting is to win! There is no possible victory in defense. (waiting for attack). The sword is more important than the shield, and skill is more important than either. The final weapon is the brain. All else is supplemental.

1. Don't pick a fight with an old man. If he is too old to fight, he'll just kill you.
2. If you find yourself in a fair fight, your tactics suck.
3. I carry a gun cause a cop is too heavy.
4. When seconds count, the cops are  minutes away..
5. A reporter did a human-interest piece on the Texas Rangers. The reporter recognized the Colt Model 1911 the Ranger was carrying and asked him 'Why do you carry a 45?' The Ranger responded, 'Because they don't make a 46.'

Obongo. Video

[Global Warming] “The time for delay is over; the time for denial is over," Thus sayeth the Obama when recently speechifying about global warming.  There is a huge and growing chorus of global warming apostates.  For example,
~IARC-JAXA report that in October of 08 Arctic sea ice coverage is nearly 30% higher than it was same date last year, and it’s growing at a record pace.
~NASA headline Jan 08: “Solar cycle may cause dangerous global cooling”.
~Daily Tech.com: “Twelve-month long drop in world temperatures wipes out a century of warming”. ~Yesterday the lowest temps recorded ever spread over much of the western U.S.
~The numbers of scientists who deny man caused global warming grows by the hour. 

And yet the clergy of the Global Warming religion insist that record global cooling is proof of global warming.  Night is day, good is bad, up is down, and black is white. Hallelujah.

[The Shoe Heard Around the World] I think the Iraqis will probable bronze the shoes thrown at Bush. Will they make the Iraqis attend press conferences shoeless from now on?

If you don't have a sense of humor, you probably don't have any sense at all.

Louis Armstrong’s Christmas in New Orleans. Video

Free Personal Finance Software, Online Money Management, Budget Planner and Financial Planning | Mint.com

[Bailouts] Back in 1990, the Government seized the Mustang Ranch Brothel in Nevada for tax evasion and, as required by law, tried to run it.  They failed and it closed.  Now we are trusting the economy of our country and our banking system to the same nit-wits who couldn't make money running a whore house and selling whiskey.

http://www.northpole.com/Kitchen/Cookbook/cat0005.html

Be careful reading the fine print. There's no way you're going to like it.

[Ponzi Scheme] By now we’ve all heard about the biggest Ponzi rip off ever. A hugely powerful and popular Wall Street type has ripped his clients off for billions of dollars.

The deal is that when you sign up, you regularly pay in. Then, some folks start to take money out. To keep it going, new people have to always be signing up. The incoming money immediately turns around and goes right out to earlier signers. That new money is provided by the new suckers. There’s no investment of any of the money that comes in, thus all of the money that’s going out has to be replaced by more and more new people putting in bigger and bigger shares of money. Eventually this pyramid has to fall apart and the last folks buying in lose the biggest share. Everybody loses except whoever started the scheme. 

The foregoing was an accurate portrayal of Social Security. I hope that enough new suckers keep signing up to keep paying my benefits, but I doubt it will last.  Wise up folks, the next time the Republicans try to reform Social Security, support it. The pension you save may be yours!

A new activist group is forming. KeyProgressiveForum.com - Responsibility & Accountability In Government

[Cool Beaches] A computer-controlled system of coolant-filled pipes under the sand will keep temperatures comfortable. Ananova - World's first refrigerated beach

[Unions] I received a call today from a NC Senator’s office regarding a proposed piece of legislation before congress. It is the "employees freedom of choice act" also known as card check. It is no where near freedom or choice. It will set a platform for employees to unionize any and all small and medium sized businesses. I own a small business here and if anyone wants to make my shop a union shop they can simply write me a check for my business and they can destroy it themselves. It's late and I have been working all day, but I invite you folks to do some homework regarding the above bill and the desire of the new administration to unionize as much of America as one can make possible.  Any person who owns a small business needs to be very aware of what Obama and company have in store for his redistribution of your wealth. And please folks lets not talk about how GW and his band of a**holes screwed things up—that’s old news. If anyone has any balls they will write their public servants (yes, your senators and congress folks are public servants not us) and put an end to this union crap.
 
The bottom line is: If you don't like your job, your boss or how much you get paid, quit and find a new job. If you want to open your own business do what I did--take the risk. if you don't, then don't blame me for your lousy job and don't blame your boss. You have no right to demand of anyone the better things in life other than yourself. If you want it you go get it. The govt owes you crap. Unions owe you crap. They both will make your life crap. They will control your life not you.

Google: card check or employee freedom of choice act. You will be shocked at how low profile this stuff is. This really is no joke, Obama and company need to find cash and he will get it from you. Do some homework, you'll be shocked at how this bill is voted along party lines.

You all sleep well. I'm fighting for my right to own my business and no one will tell me who to hire, pay, fire or manage any part of my business. If you want my business I have a pen for you to write me a check. Until then stay the hell out of my affairs.

[Piss on China] Somebody please franchise this guy's signs, the wisdom needs to spread!

[Bailout] Ford has spent the last thirty years moving all its factories out of the US, claiming they can't make money paying American wages. Toyota has spent the last thirty years building more than a dozen plants inside the US. The last quarter's results: Toyota made 4 billion in profits, while Ford racked up 9 billion in losses.

Ford folks are still scratching their heads, and collecting bonuses. If this weren't so true it might be funny!

[Trauma Star Tax] No, I do not want the county to continue Trauma Star because why pay for something we can get for free, and public safety is met with any helicopter service, not necessarily only the one run by the County. 

Dirty Secret #1 is that continuing Trauma Star keeps a few very special and well-connected people employed, and Commissioner Neugent's ardent support of Trauma Star is 100% driven by the father of one of those employees, which leaves a lot of room to question the Commissioner's objectivity and ability to listen to other opinions.  Everybody knows this, but nobody wants to say it out loud.

Dirty Secret #2  is that not all of the Trauma Star expenses have been fully disclosed and accounted for.  Fire Rescue pays some (a lot) expenses too.

And how did county staff come up with that current rate of 8 cents per $1000? Because there’s actually no way to calculate the current rate because so many expenses are paid by so many different sources.

[Uterus Vase] That post was very well written, but it brings to mind a question. If I made a vase shaped like my ball bag, would anyone buy it? I didn't think so.

[Take a Shoe] Bush still has the moves, but how come the Secret Service Agent didn't take a shoe for him?

[Email while Sleeping] She sent emails to people asking them over for drinks and caviar. Ananova - Sleeping woman used internet

[Generator] We're working to creatively, quickly, and cost-effectively to develop brand new technologies to generate usable electricity from the estimated 6,000,000 trucks and 250,000,000 cars on America's roadways. Generating Electricity From Moving Vehicles

[Bravery] Don't ever question the bravery of an American soldier.

[Banned Bridge Player Finds New Game] Yesterday, my duplicate bridge partner and I played well, scored high, and came in first in Marathon. I made one bidding miscue, but still it was the best I have played in the Keys, after being told in a dream in March 2004 that I needed to learn how to build bridges. Later that day, as I recall, I learned of the Conch Bridge Club in Key West. Some of the Marathon bridge club players played in Key West, and that is how I learned about and started playing with that club, too.   More...Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

[Coaches Wanted] Anyone interested in coaching girls flag football? We would really appreciate some help. Some of the local schools are having girls teams and we need more coaches. Please email me if you are interested. Coach Diane iwffa@iwffa.com

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Tuesday December 16, 2008

Monday December 15, 2008

Someone threw a shoe at Bush while he was in Iraq yesterday at Camp Victory (ha ha, Camp Victory). To Iraqis, throwing a shoe at someone is tantamount to throwing a bag of shit.

I did not vote for Obama in November, nor would I vote for him now.  However, that being said, he is our president-elect and I wish him well.  I am slightly optimistic for our foreign policy futures.  He is coming to grips with reality in regards to Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the war on terror in general.  He is continuing to obfuscate his 'surrender at any cost' stance he took in the primary in order to get the support of the pinko surrender monkey crowd.  He is really pissing them off now.  You have to admit, it is fun to watch the wacko left throw a hissy fit.

Though I think he may end up doing the right thing regarding our wars, the social agenda that he and the Congress are proposing is down right scary.  The only thing he has moderated on so far is raising taxes.  The push for 'cradle to grave' control of every aspect of our lives is alive and well.  The concept that somehow the government controls the economy, creates wealth, creates jobs, and is responsible for our well-being is prevalent within the Democratic party.   That folks, is the road to ruin.  We need to do everything we can to stop this from happening.  We all will most likely agree that we are our brother’s keeper, and those among us who are in need of a helping hand should get one.  But, that hand needs to be given face-to-face, not through an agency of our government.  That breeds an entitlement attitude that removes the humbleness one should feel when receiving a hand out from their fellow man.  The Democrat base is rampant with entitlement seekers, and the Democrat leadership is more than happy to continue the handouts with no regard to the consequences put upon the folks seeking the entitlements.  The Democrat party leadership pretends to care, but they don't.  They want to control you.  By controlling your money, housing, food and health, they will accomplish that, all in the name 'fairness' and 'equality'. 

Some things I think, I think.
1. People seem to be less friendly when the snowbirds arrive. I wonder if its them or us?
2. No more political ranting on here. My candidate won so I'm taking the high side from now on. No politics.
3. There isn't a better old style car in the entire history of the world then the 1950s era Corvettes.
4. In a country that's as rich as ours I find it kind of sad that people would actually think that an unemployed person or someone who wasn't born with social skills should starve if they cannot support themselves. My how mankind has fallen.
5. Christmas still rocks.
6. Screw the foo foo drinks. There's nothing better then a glass of Crown Royal whiskey and water. Little ice.
7. Houses smell great at Christmas.

That’s it for this week. Thanks Ed for the soapbox.

[First State Bank Sign] That large sign is grandfathered in and not subject to current ordinances.

No Name Key won’t be getting electricity at this time after all. The DCA has rejected the County Commission’s approval to electrify the island in order to bring sewers there. The several residents that want juice usually wait a year or so and then file another law suit or find some other way to get electricity. This has been the way it’s been going for about twenty years or so.

[Alcohol and Fellatio] I grinned from ear to ear as I showed my husband the posting today about tonic water and fellatio.  I have been telling him for years that it tastes bad when he has been drinking a lot and he refused to believe me.  He gets more horny and more demanding when he drinks and I want to satisfy him less, or at least not finish the job. When he is drinking and he pushes me more to, would “consume” be the politically correct way of saying it?  I'm sure you get the idea.  He has insisted for years that I use pleasuring him as a tool to get him to slow down on drinking or I use his drinking as an excuse not to do it.  Truth be known, if he would eat and drink a more healthy diet I would enjoy the taste and do it everyday.  Yes guys, that's a hint.  Girls don't dislike doing it we just dislike things that taste nasty.  Anything that tastes nasty that is.  Sorry for the blunt wording.  Wine on a Sunday will do that.

(Ed, I just posted the alcohol and fellatio email and realized I was on my husband's email account.  See what happens with wine and emails.  Kind of like drinking and dialing.  It was me, he's not at home.)

[When my bank gives me 20% interest on my paltry savings, then I'll tip you that much] One has nothing to do with the other. When you go out to eat the tip is for the service you received. What your bank is paying in interest doesn't have anything to do with that unless you are trying to live off your "paltry savings." And if that's the case, I think you need to stock up on groceries the next time Winn Dixie has a sale. Why should a good waitress or waiter suffer because you're broke?

The normal tip these days is between 18 and 20 percent for decent service. Then at most places, a certain percentage of that tip is split between the bartender, busboy and at one local place, the cooks and prep staff.  So after "tipping out" the server, most of the time, winds up with around 13 to 15%. 

[Kick Alarm] In a fit of fatherly devotion, a man constructed a device that notifies him when his unborn baby kicks inside the womb. Even better, he's training his kid to post on Twitter right from conception. Kickbee: Now the World Can Know What Your Fetus is Up To

Unconditional war can no longer lead to unconditional victory. It can no longer serve to settle disputes. It can no longer be of concern to great powers alone. For a nuclear disaster, spread by winds and waters and fear, could well engulf the great and the small, the rich and the poor, the committed and the uncommitted alike. Mankind must put an end to war, or war will put an end to mankind.  ~John F. Kennedy

[Bad Gift Wrapping] Women like to think that their husbands and boyfriends took the trouble to wrap the present themselves, even if they made an appalling hash of it.