Archives of Old Kudos and Whiners
 


BigPineKey.com

In order to save computer space we delete all pictures after six months.

January 2008

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Thursday January 31, 2008


[biggest fear about voting is getting trapped in the booth] My mother, who was a real character, got stuck in the booth once. It was on of those old fashioned kinds with a curtain that had to be opened by a large lever in the booth. Ma, not being mechanical, couldn’t figure out a simple lever and ended up crawling under the curtain to freedom and everyone else’s amusement.

[Strategy] Have you noticed that Winn Dixie, who is undergoing a multi million dollar redo, doesn’t have many 2 for 1s or other sales? I think this is to let us know how expensive food is; and then when they have their grand opening all the sales will reappear and we’ll all be so grateful for all the new low prices and the very popular 2 for 1s.

My most favorite icon is the save icon. It has “save” my butt so many times when I’ve been writing the great American novel and my computer screws up and I don’t lose all my work.

I see just now on the internet that John Edwards has announced he is withdrawing from the race. Now we are down to Obama. Clinton, Romney and McCain. Romney and McCain are out of the question for me and Hilary is too much like them on the war, leaving Obama unless someone else runs as third party. You accurately describe Mc Cain as learning absolutely nothing from the Vietnam experience. He is definitely a warmonger–and he believes what he says about that.

Hawkman is an old Alabama amigo. Hawks are his spirit totem. In 1972, he participated in full military dress in Dewey Canyon III, a week-long Vietnam Veterans Against the War demonstration in Washington, D.C.  This was when John Kerry testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. This was the first time American vets opposed a war while American troops were still fighting in the war. In 2003, wearing his Vietnam ribbons, Hawkman marched in Washington D.C. with veterans and civilians against the Iraq War, which was one month old. In 2005, he marched in a similar demonstration in Atlanta. He often stood on street corners holding a “Peace” poster. He told me Vietnam Veterans against The War now mentors members of Iraq Veterans Against the Iraq War. He supported John Kerry in his bid for president, which I could not do, because Kerry started talking like he was more of a hawk than President Bush, in an effort to get the hawk votes. Kerry eventually disappointed Hawkman, too. GoodMorningKeyWest.com



I was in Key West yesterday afternoon about 3:30 and was surprised at how empty the streets were. There was a whole lot of parking available. I wonder if it was the weather or the economy that kept the tourists away.

The acting county administrator and the county staff clearly demonstrated that they believe in the "just us" system. They only care about themselves and their lucrative salaries and benefits packages. To all of the people who had their jobs eliminated, would you please contact me at golf12@earthlink.net




Chris Dean Blues Band
will be performing tonight at Coconuts (MM30 at the light). This is a special performance and the only night Coconuts could book this great blues band.

There are, I think, many of us who would like to know Tina's condition and learn of any progress, but there are too many sources of disinformation here.  People mean well many times, but their sources are not always dependable.  If there is someone out there who is a reader and has true and reliable information I would like to be the first to know.

Dubai in 1990 prior to the craziness.

[Hate] Time is a perishable commodity.  Money cannot buy this or good health.  Energy spent hating and committing petty crimes against people whom you dislike could make you sicker.  Instead of putting forth so much effort into your hate campaigns perhaps you could change your tapes and simply ignore them and try to do productive, positive things in your lives and attempt to have some integrity.  Hate takes a lot of work and a different path could lead you to happiness and peace.



Wow, it's great to hear that Cheeta is still around.  He was my favorite actor when I was a child and watching those Tarzan movies.

It’s getting easy to see that Americas have had enough of the neo-conservatives. Rudy got trashed and John McCain seems to be the man to beat. He is the most left leaning Republican that still has a chance. Hillary is getting ready to run away with the Democratic Party. I guess the independents, like me, are actually acting like a third viable party. If either person wins, moderates from both parties can celebrate. “Enough of the neo-cons” seems to be the way America is turning. It smells like victory. It’s time to regroup and regain our leadership of the free world.

Bashers of Republicans are a sorry lot, they screech and throw falsehoods like chimps toss crap in a zoo.  If they were to engage in just a little thought before tossing excrement, their message might have a smidgeon more weight.  Yesterday one poster whinnied that the illegals were crossing our borders at a higher rate than at any time in history.  The poster claims knowledge, yet shows us no proof of his claim.  Could his claim be pure political rhetoric?   Now, let’s consider what has happened to staunch the flow of illegals in the last 7 years. 

First, the old “Catch and Release” policy that began in an, ahem, previous administration, has been rescinded.  We’ve seen “Operation Jump Start”, a program whereby the National Guard provides assistance in patrolling the border in Texas, Arizona, California, and New Mexico, 6000 National Guardsmen were assigned.  Border Patrol increased the number of agents from 9,000 to 12,000, with an additional 6,000 requested.  Funding has been increased by 66%.  In excess of 6 million illegals have been apprehended and returned to Mexico. There have been many attempts to build fencing to enlarge on the existing 80 miles of (semi) secure fencing, but all attempts have been rebuffed by Congress.  Most importantly, there is a growing, already substantial body of anecdotal evidence that suggests that the numbers of illegal aliens are on the decline. There are claims that there are labor shortages.  

Let’s face it; Democrats do not want to have a secure southern border.  The Democrat establishment curries favor with the illegal alien populace. They want to spend our security and economy to buy the votes of the illegals, their families, and sympathizers   Please, please, someone challenge me on this, there is so much overwhelming evidence to support that charge that if I were a Democrat, I’d hide my head in shame.

I'm not sure why I did it.  I guess I was just bored.  By it was definitely 30 minutes of my life that I will never get back.  I actually took the time to scan over the internet sites created by our newest gang of three, otherwise known as the three S's (Sal, Sloan, and Sandy).  I am completely dumbfounded at what these people are claiming, some of which just can not possibly be true.  It always upsets me when people think they have it so bad here.  I guess you can't have a community without a few lunatics. 




This is chilling picture of a man with just seconds to live. 

["panic-buy" carrots] These people need a life and a job.

Spanish for your Nanny http://youtube.com/watch?v=5fda4_wo6JI


Pray for guidance and reserve your seat for the heavenly musical “Nunsense” by Dan Gogin.  This is Keys Kids 3rd production of the season and opens Wednesday Feb. 6th and runs until Sunday February 10th at Key West High School (no performances on Saturday).  This comedy is in the skilled hands of Director Mimi McDonald, Musical Director Bruno Casolari and Choreographer Penny Leto.  Tickets can be purchased at Mac Arthur music 294-9329 and start at $10 with a discounted family ticket. For more information contact nora.revelin@keysschools.com or 509-1370. 

Bulletin Board

[lowering the house price also lowers their commission]  Why would any realtor agree to lowering their commission rate at the time of sale because their client will walk away with less profit due to a high mortgage payoff?  Where the justification that a realtor should share the loss? Why would any realtor lessen the high mortgage payoff burden for the seller when the realtor had no ownership interest in the property?  The realtor must be nuts to agree to this arrangement.   When a realtor lists a property with an ownership interest, their are FREC rules that govern what must be disclosed, and, Real Estate office's have their own policy addressing commission rates.   

A commission rate is negotiated prior to listing the property.  The Realtor Commission Rate is crystal clear in the listing agreement and is binding throughout the listing period.  A commission rate reduction must be clearly addressed in the listing agreement; if not the commission rate that is written in the listing agreement is binding.  When a price reduction occurs without a commission rate reduction agreement during the listing period, the commission rate written in the listing agreement prevails. You are confusing rate vs actual dollars.  

Educate yourself, read the FREC handbook (oops, do you even know who FREC is).


Does anyone in the lower Keys have any info on the sport of powered parachuting?  I've flown in the two seat version, and have begun to get an itch to try the backpack version.  I'm wondering if there is a club, or an instructor in the lower keys?  I'd appreciate any info. 

Hillary said she will bring the troops home within 60 days. She never said that! She said it would take till at least 2010.



[Investing and the
stock market
Check out the Motley Fool website  www.fool.com.  Don't let their name throw you, you can get good advice there.

Does your doctor charge any less for a physical where he finds something wrong with you than he does when he finds you are healthy?  Probably not.  Why would your realtor lower his commission when you lower your over-priced house and finally sell it.  Maybe if you weren't so ready the day you listed it you would have sold it months ago and saved a lot of tax, insurance and mortgage money.  Don't be greedy and you might sell it.



[Crispy French fries]  Try soaking them in ice water before frying.  Pat them dry then immediately fry.  I always fry mine at a little lower temperature then most people. 

I just read the sandyforsheriff.com website.  It sounds more like a kid running for class President than a professional running for Sheriff.

If you remember these things Social Security will last through your lifetime, maybe!

[Bush Sr.] You’re right about him raising taxes, but the worst thing he did was barter with the democrats who insisted on raising taxes in concession for things he wanted to pass. Then as soon as he gave them their tax increase, they turned around and said, “Read my lips.”


[Investing] The best book I ever read was "The Wall Street Journal Complete Money and Investing Guidebook” (The Wall Street Journal Guidebooks, Paperback) Available on Amazon for 10 bucks. Whatever you do, don't pay attention to anything regarding investing on this site.

Finally a clear, researched and accurate definition of the Federal Reserve. Be gone all you of the paranoid mindset. (I heard that JFK recently called about an RV space at Lucky's Landing.)


[Amendment 1 passed] This is not a good thing. In years to come, as less money comes into the county coffers, and that $246 saved is a faint memory, people are going to look around ask how did it get this bad? Now my landlord can claim homestead exemption on his rental properties, so his tax liability will not increase this year. Guess what, my rent is still going up $75 more a month.

Key West documentary film trailer. Those were the days. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qE2wfzNi_s

Do you like real Piña Caldas?  Then you have to make them at home.  They help hot flashes!  In a blender add a bunch of ice, two shots of Bacardi rum, four ounces of Coco Lopez, four ounces of pineapple juice then blend, pour in to a pretty glass and garnish with a pineapple slice and a big straw.  A float of Meyers rum is optional and much fun if you're not driving.  If you want your favorite bar to make this, you may have to bring your own can of Coco Lopez as they serve a generic mix that sits in a tub for days and tastes awful. 

If you woke up today free to choose what you will have for breakfast, and where to eat it. If you spent most of the day working where you choose to work, doing what you wanted to do for your wages, or choosing to go work elsewhere. If you live in the Keys, or in New Jersey because you can. Be sure to thank our treasure of veterans, for without them you would not have those choices.

Canadian national health care http://www.freemarketcure.com/brainsurgery.php



[Q-tips] There were none to be found. I was told they would be on the next truck. W/D is good at brain teasers; Q-tips are on the aisle with the band aids.  Otherwise W/D is looking good.

[The realtor lost $3,000] Here's the really sad part. The realtor didn't lose anything because it's not their investment. They just make a little less. Convincing you to lower your sale price helps them complete the sale and make a commission before your contract expires and someone else gets a crack at it. They win if they sell it, regardless of price. I agree with the homeowners. They’re the one who takes the big hit. Ouch is right!

I hope someone at Winn Dixie can explain why they are taking up so much room for wine.

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[Is it an election or an auction] The buying of the president 2008 is online, with its own website. The Center for Public Integrity's signature political project is bigger than ever before. http://buyingofthepresident.org/

Has anyone heard of any of these stories?

Spooky Ghost Tales from Big Pine Key, Florida. This island appears like any other place in the States, but this town has scary mysteries concealed in the dark. Night is living-dead-time here. People who have never spent the night in this town will say to you it's lies, but seeing is believing and if you spend the night here in Big Pine Key, you may perhaps catch a glimpse of a phantom. These are some of the spooky things that have happened here recently.

The phantom of a man sporting a sheriff outfit has, every now and then, been seen striding through a Big Pine Key vicinity churchyard. One thing's for certain, this ghost undeniably is scary; one that should be avoided.

The phantom of an old guy with a huge white beard is, from time to time, spotted looking down by the water at Coupon Bight.

A lady with a sword sticking out of her head is rumored to have been witnessed on several instances pulling a cadaver across the dirt in Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve at midnight.

A medieval armor lacking a human inside can now and then be noticed pondering next to the water's edge at Long Beach. One of the local residents confidently says that this ghost enjoys startling unwise folks who come searching for ghosts in Big Pine Key.

The ghost of a female with a plastic bag strapped around her head has repeatedly been distinguished by The Grasses shuffling orbs around.

A big bloodcurdling spirit has been observed on a handful of instances appearing terrifying beside a deserted road near Big Pine Key around midnight. A number of the people here say this ghost may be the soul of a local resident who passed on here in Big Pine Key some decades ago.

The ghost of a tied up man may be distinguished repeatedly gazing irritably at the watcher in Friend Key Bank very late at night.

The phantom of a street bum is, every now and then, perceived standing by a wild road in the vicinity of Big Pine Key. In any case, this is a bad phantom that you’d rather not upset.

The ghost of a young lady covered in blood has allegedly been witnessed on a few instances flinging stones by Bahia Honda State Park. It has been said that this exact ghost is possibly the struggling ghost of a person who used to have a house here in Big Pine Key. Whatever people express, it unquestionably is a scary ghost that you wouldn't wish to bump into in the early morning hours before sunrise.

The ghost of an elderly hag can every so often be witnessed being carried by a bicycle on a dark road in the vicinity of Big Pine Key. One thing is for sure, this is an unsympathetic phantom that you shouldn't go looking for.

My God, you can really recreate history to meet your needs.  Bush Sr. did say "read my lips, no new taxes".  He said that while running for the presidency.  After he was elected, he reluctantly agreed, in an attempt to deal with a democratic congress, to raise taxes. You guys have packed that comment up his butt ever since. What it really proves to me is never trust a democrat.

[Federal Reserve] I thought that was a well laid out post. Getting to the basics of it without going thru pages and pages, made it concise and to the point. I don't know where the fellow is coming from that was asking the questions, so I won't attempt to go there. As to conspiracy theories, I think many people when they are young and  naive, morph into these ideas, but as we  get older and mature, most of us tend to cast off these childish views of the world and begin to recognize it as it really is.

Benedict Arnold set the standard for treason in America by consorting, plotting and scheming with and lending comfort to England. Rather than face the music, the hangman’s rope, he snuck out of America on a British naval vessel and moved to London.

It is not disputed by serious military historians that Franklin D. Roosevelt knew the Japanese fleet was headed toward Pearl Harbor and purposely delayed having that news sent to the U.S. Naval Base there because he wanted America to enter World War II and he correctly figured a sneak attack on Pearl bring that off. In substance, FDR, plain and simple, consorted, plotted, schemed and lent comfort to the enemy. In fact, he betrayed his own troops and country. Treason. He should have been hanged.

George W. Bush took America to war in Iraq over fabricated evidence furnished not by American intelligence agencies but by British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Intelligence of weapons of mass destruction America’s own intelligence agencies could not and would not confirm. Intelligence America’s own intelligence agencies doubted was accurate. All of which President Bush knew and went to war in Iraq anyway. Treason. He deserved to be hanged. He still deserves to be hanged. And his Vice President and Secretary of Defense. Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld. Hanged.
 
Amazingly, most Republicans still attempt to defend what they clearly know was and is treason. Even more amazingly, quite a few Democrats, including Hillary Clinton, still defend President Bush as well. So the question must be asked: What does it take for an American president to be tired and convicted of and hanged for treason? Would he be tried and convicted and hanged if he admitted on national television that it doesn’t matter that he went to war in Iraq over fabricated evidence because it was in America’s best interest? No, he would not be tried and convicted and hanged if he did that, because he already did it and he’s still alive.

Here's to the guy who rows the floating bookcase to Boot Key to work on his submarine. He's a dreamer with big plans that will never materialize. He'll never make a dime on his sub, but here's to him anyway. At least he has a dream and he's working to fulfill it.

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Thursday January 31, 2008

 

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Wednesday January 30, 2008


Darren Bell
has had his day in court for killing a young mother on the Big Pine channel causeway while recklessly driving on a suspended license.  He will be incarcerated for five years.  He must have been a good boy overall; having only been charged with grand theft and dealing in stolen property in 2000 (according to the MCSO web site's prisoner database).

[It is not Federal and has no Reserves] Allow me a few paragraphs to change your opinion, as it seems to be based in some sort of conspiracy theory and has no basis in fact. If you want an independent, internationally accepted, true, verifiable and undisputed factual view of what the Federal Reserve is (and is not) read the Wikipedia explanation and check out the many links in the appropriate sections: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Reserve_System.

Do you have gold doubloons stuffed in a chest somewhere? Are you bartering for your food with neighbors? How does it work when you take a quarter ounce of gold down to the Winn Dixie for a month’s supply of groceries? Can you take a stack of freshly caught grouper down to Radio Shack and get a new widescreen television?  Do you think that those nicely printed notes are worth the denominations printed on them because of their intrinsic value? Is a $100 bill really that much nicer than a $1 bill? No, even an economically challenged individual needs a way to purchase things.

Ever since the first Continental Congress, the United States has been printing money that was not backed up with gold or assets in a vault somewhere.  Please forgive me, all you economically sophisticated people, but I am going to over-simplify this so that even the people who believe that man did not land on the Moon and that JFK and Elvis is still alive, can understand. The bills that you spend at the grocery store represent credits in the Federal Reserve, collected by all the member banks. The mechanisms that the United States uses to transfer those credits between banks is managed by the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve Banks were indeed created by the United States Government by the Federal Reserve Act and are managed by a Board of Governors who are appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the United States Senate--so that would make them Federal.

The credits on deposit in the 12 Federal Reserve banks belong to the member banks (regulated commercial banks) and the United States Government, who deposit funds there. These are reserves.  Very simply, the credits issued to the Federal Reserve by the United States Government is part of our national debt.  In a complicated manner, many of these funds are guaranteed by the Federal Government.  Thus the appropriate moniker: U.S. Federal Reserve Bank. It is Federal. And is does provide a reserve function.




I'm glad this site is anonymous because I wrote something the other day and the next day someone rebutted it and made me really look stupid.

[2 front runners are both pro war] that’s not true. Hillary said she will bring the troops home within 60 days.

Amendment 1 passed with flying colors. We’ll all receive a savings of about sixty-six cents a day while enjoying fewer services. It doesn’t look that good, but as another person wrote “The more money you give them the more they will spend.” That is a truism.

I love the logic used by the realtor who wrote in about lowering the house price that also lowers their commission. This implies that the realtor and the owner share equally in the loss. The real story is that the owner takes a much larger "hit" than the realtor. For example, say I listed my house at $300,000 and owed $100,000 on it. If it sold at the listed $300,000 value my profit would be $200,000 less the 6% commission ($18,000) or $182,000. If I sold it at $250,000 my profit would be $150,000 less the 6% commission ($15,000) or $135,000. The realtor lost $3,000 by reducing the price and I lost $47,000. Can you say "ouch?"



Next January when all TV signals go digital your rabbit ears won't work.
Giuliani has dropped out of the Presidential race. My favorite comment was when someone said “The more you get to know him, the less you like him.
The rule was that the artist could use only one sheet of paper.

Does anybody else besides me get happy when I see an out-of-state plate heading north?

The poster trying to belittle the intellect of the person discussing euthanasia provided an explanation that was a bit of a head scratcher.  Actually, the word euthanasia comes straight out of the Greek "eu" meaning goodly or well "thanatos" means death. This equals “the good death”.  For 18th century writers in England that was what euthanasia meant, a good death. 

The most commonly understood meaning of euthanasia today is more than the old dictionary definition of dying well - a good and easy death.  It refers to the situation when a doctor induces the death with a lethal injection of a patient who is suffering un-relievably and has persistently requested the doctor to do so.  

I don't think any of the captured animals at the shelters in Key Largo or Key West have requested death.  My impression is that they have done everything in their power to stay alive.  There are some reasons to kill captured animals, such as untreatable injury or illness.  I don't think this applied when the woman on Little Torch captured a raccoon in a live trap and called the refuge to relocate it, only to have them show up and shoot the animal in front of her.  I don't think that refers to healthy animals that are slaughtered because it's more cost effective and less bothersome to do so.  I doubt that many, if any, injured key deer are treated.  I also doubt that they're euthanized, but rather are taken somewhere and shot. 

It's well and good to hide behind pretty words in a politically correct society that wants to feel good about themselves and to justify unconscionable acts, but the plain reality is that animals that are a bother are slaughtered because it's convenient.





Raising teenagers is like nailing Jell-O to a tree!

Mardi Gras time!  Web Cams Central




Cheeta to 'write' memoirs

I do not know Tina the bartender, but a colleague without a computer asked me to write that she is not dead.  Apparently Tina was taken off life support but is hanging on. My colleague was very upset that people seem to think Tina had passed.

Local non-profit organization in Big Pine is looking for efficiency or 1 bedroom at minimal cost for a client. It would be needed for about 2-4 weeks only. Our client has no pets, and is quiet. The client is a hurricane victim and we are helping to repair her home. She needs to move out for a short time so that we can repair the damage. If you can offer a clean place in Big Pine or surrounding areas beginning March 1st, please call. Thank you for helping us to help others. Call Katie at 305-872-8999.

[Treatment withheld from patients] Watch the movie "Sicko" and you will see how treatment is withheld even from people with top of the line health insurance by health insurance employees who receive big bonuses for denying procedures.






“Here comes the bus!” 
Why I was never late for school.

For the last 7 years nothing has been done to secure America’s southern border and illegals are coming in at higher rates then anytime in our country’s history. Yet a poster pointed out that a Democrat, if elected, wouldn’t handle the problem. If the last 7 years of a Republican President are any proof of how they want to curb illegals, I don’t think we want to let them "succeed" at any more attempts. America cannot handle any more great republican successes. 

[More republican hyperbole] A poster said yesterday that the top 3 democrats said they will raise your taxes; then went on to say how horrible that would be. I guess the last president that said "Read my lips, no new taxes" went on to win an election with that statement. Guess what, campers, he raised your taxes and he was Bush Sr--a republican. I guess some folks just hate it when someone is honest and tells you what might happen. Don’t be scared of honesty. We understand the Bush family doesn’t mind telling a tale or two.

Only two more days to support Florida Keys Wildlife Rescue in their work to help wildlife of the Keys. We can't win the contest, but your contribution will nevertheless help us help them. Go to http://www.networkforgood.org/pca/Badge.aspx?BadgeId=110335 to donate. Our wildlife thanks you. I apologize for yesterday's incorrect web address.



Is this what happened to all the Big Pine Key pine trees? John Deere 1270D. If I didn't watch this I'd never believe such a machine existed.
  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ei9LlLLZwAU

[Lower the price and lower the commission] And if the difference in the price needed to pay off the house would be reached by the Realtor lowering their 6% to 4% Hell will freeze over before they lower it. Maybe that's why there are so many For Sale by Owner signs in the Keys.

Tens of thousands of people worldwide are planning to "panic-buy" carrots as part of a joke campaign on Facebook. More than 91,000 Facebook users have signed up to a group called "On May 15, 2008, everybody needs to go out and panic buy carrots". They plan to go out at 2pm on the designated day and buy as many carrots as they can, reports Sky News. Student Freya Valentine, who created the original site, insists it is all just a bit of fun.

[2008 fiscal budget cuts]  Commissioner George Neugent stated at the BOCC budget meeting, that everyone has to participate in the budget cutting in an equitable manner. I agree with him 100%. So, why isn't the county staff participating in the budget cuts?  Their salaries and benefits remain high and unaffected by the budget cuts.  We must demand that their salaries be cut.  




Why we live in the Keys
.

In response to your ignorant comment about your vote: Do me a favor and don’t vote. Look over the past 100 years. Where would we be without the brave people that are and have served this great Country? Maybe collecting shopping carts in Japan at a food market. I love our Military.


You know you want to
! http://burntelectrons.org/media/fartbutton.swf

Republicans are like Chambers of Commerce in that they won’t do a thing to harm profits. I believe that is why they refuse to stop illegal immigration and deal with those illegals that are already here. It will harm business.

I know I am not the brightest bulb in the lamp, however, even in my mind a simple question stands out. The BOCC has been crying about the county being broke for months, to the point they have cut budgets, staff and county services drastically.

Yet last week a delegation went to Tallahassee (at taxpayer expense) supposedly to seek Wastewater Funding, which they already knew they weren't (documented) going to get, because they hadn't complied with the State’s prior request for County Wide Plans for completion . The Mayor even admitting he (the county) had no authority to produce such a plan because of the independent authorities in Marathon, Key West, Islamorada and Key Largo. Yet they went anyway.


Isn't what's good for the goose (the taxpayers) good for the gander (the BOCC)? Or just maybe we are not getting the full facts on available funds?

The Key West animal shelter contractor is costing the county a whopping $117,000 per year more than Stand up for Animals (SUFA), and the Key Largo shelter is costing Monroe county $17,000 per year more than SUFA.  Why does the Key West Shelter receive so much money and SUFA so little?  I have some questions for Debbie Frederick, acting county administrator.  Why would you penalize SUFA for being the most efficiently run shelter?  This doesn't make economic sense, and is not in the best interest of the Monroe county residents that you serve.  As a matter of fact, it sounds like a conspiracy and a personal vendetta.  Wouldn't it make sense to trim the excessive budgets of the other two shelters and bring their budgets into line?  Their budgets should be less than SUFA's, not more.  Is it your policy to embrace and give contracts to the highest bidders?  I certainly hope not.  This reflects very badly on you, and  you need to investigate this.  Maybe Deb Barsell, could give you an explanation.   ~fortsonphoto@earthlink.net




[There are so many people that I would love to tell off] Another chicken trouble maker who doesn't have the guts to face whoever they think is their enemy. That’s a typical citizen of today.

A couple of weeks ago I wrote in asking for comments, pro or con, on owning a hybrid car.  There have been zero responses.  With the worldwide readership of this site surely someone has an opinion.  I seriously have to do something about the amount of money I’m spending on fuel just to go to work.

I think the hacking story overshadowed my concerns. Now maybe Ed understands why I did not want anything published about the Sheriff’s Office.  Remember the illegal search of my home a few years ago?  That was the time they locked their keys in their patrol car and came back asking me for a wire coat hanger?  It’s still unbelievable to me.

I am enjoying the comments about investing and the stock market.  I’m trying to learn to “play”.  I am new to checking out the performance of my 401K.  I believe I am diversified but would not know how to switch or move selections around if I wanted to. I need a basic 401K how to. Could someone recommend a good book for newbies?  Yes, a book!. 

I was glad to see the electronic voting machines were gone for yesterday’s balloting.


 I nearly went postal at the Winn Dixie on BPK today with all the construction. One would not call it going postal though.  I need a new word.  I couldn’t find the Q-tips.  I couldn’t find an English speaking clerk.  Finally I found another brand in the baby aisle.  Where are the Q-Tips? They are not in health or beauty or any other logical place.

Only an ingrate would not be thankful to our veterans no matter what war they fought in.  Our POW men and woman deserve to be treated with respect and we should all be giving them gratitude for the rest of their lives. When a veteran is shot down as a pilot and spends 2 years in a box, eating eggplant without even salt on it, not to mention the torture and anguish they went through; and you want to sit on your ass and tell them that their service had nothing to do with your freedom or defending America?  How dare you use the words that were only given to you by the freedom that we have here in this country.  If you are that ignorant keep it to yourself, it only makes you look stupid.  If that is how and why you vote it's a pity you have received that right from the veteran who graciously gave it to you.






TABASCO tv commerical

The Village council is full speed ahead to pick another failure. One of the worst Islamorada managers has been Greg Tindle. Just put the names in a hat and pick one. We have a better chance to pick a winner that way than letting this dysfunctional council do the emergency picking. I hope the eighth manager has drawdown experience.  ~flkeybob@terranova.net



I am appalled and shocked by the greediness and selfishness of the acting county administrator and county department heads.  They are not willing to take a pay cut in their $100,000 plus a year salaries, but are quick to slash away at our community services and eliminate our jobs.  I implore the county commissioners to do what is right for the citizens of Monroe County, and mandate that they take a 20% cut in salary and eliminate their benefits. It would also be prudent to start an investigation into their unsound and unjust decision making.

I think CEO’s severance pay should be graded on the success of their tenure.



I voted reluctantly and it was the quickest ever.  To my horror I discovered I am a registered Democrat (insert horse’s ass). The polls have barely closed and already the news is reporting “glitches” in Florida voting. Déjà vu.

[Question of the day] If Hillary becomes president and she makes Bill Vice-President. Would Bill be eligible to be President if she died in office, having already served two terms as President?


Who invented French fries, them or the English (chips)? The bigger question is how can you make them crispy without additives or freezing them? I’ve been told that you cook the potatoes for a few minutes then remove them from the oil and let them rest for a few more minutes then you drop them back in the oil until done. I tried it without much luck. I still have limp fries. I’m not talking about steak fries which are thicker and usually cooked in an oven.

[More bar wisdom] My biggest fear about voting is getting trapped in the booth.




I was surprised that Hillary did so well in Florida yesterday.

[Corporations paying taxes] You assume you can expense everything, have no profit and nothing is depreciated. Go back to school.

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Vote today!
  Polls open 7am - 7pm. 

You have to realize that even if you recently had an aerobic system installed, it will have to replaced or "upgraded" to meet the latest standards if sewers are not installed. I know this may shock some of you, but some of our county departments seem to be influenced by the companies that install these systems. The buzzwords they will use are "best practices."

[Yes on 1] The folks who earn their living off our taxes are the ones opposing Amendment One because they think it will impact their jobs. You will hear them talk about services being cut and people dying because of fewer police and firemen. These are the standard scare tactics used when tax reduction is mentioned. Here is the question I have: During the long period when real estate prices were going out of sight, and the tax revenues increased proportionately, what the hell did they do with all that windfall money? And why can't they live with a reduction? The bottom line is that the government will take and spend as much as you let them have.

[Animal shelter budget cuts] All three contractors for the animal shelters in the Keys had to cut $17,000 from their 2008 budgets.  We need to amend the budget, so that each shelter takes a certain percentage cut across the board.  Since the Key West Shelter (FKSPCA) gets the most money ($365,000), their budget should be cut $21,206.50.  SUFA (operating two shelters, Big Pine Key and Marathon) gets the least money, their budget should be cut by $14,408.80.  Key Largo (HACC) getting the second largest amount of money should take a $15,396.50 budget cut.   Let's not reward the highest bidder; they need to shoulder a proportionate share of the budget cutting.





[Toot-tone] An invention whose time has come. Video

You are misinformed about the additional homestead exemption.  Those who are homesteaded will continue to receive the 3% Save Our Homes cap on their taxes.  Those non-homesteaded people will receive the 10% cap.

Today is the Florida primary. The National Democratic Party says it will not recognize Florida’s votes, because Florida held its own Democratic primary sooner than the National Democratic Party wanted Florida to hold it. Meaning, maybe only the Republican primary means anything today. Non-partisan, I don’t know if I can even vote today. Even if I can, I don’t know if there’s a candidate on the ballot I can vote for. I’ll find that out when I reach the voting booth.
 
If I can vote, I will not vote for John McCain. I cannot vote for someone who fought in Vietnam, was a prisoner of war, who still defends that war knowing it was wrong, knowing it had nothing whatsoever to do with defending America. I cannot vote for a veteran who learned nothing in Vietnam. Nothing! We toppled that country’s government, installed our own. It didn’t work. We did the same thing in Afghanistan and Iraq, and it isn’t working, and will not work. I cannot vote for someone who is blind, death and dumb, or is another George W. Bush, but with a military background.




How to tell if a Catholic is driving too fast.

[Relatively very few stocks traded on Wall Street pay dividends] Thank you Captain Obvious. The original "rant" was about the DJIA not all the stocks offered for sale.  The DJIA stocks do pay dividends.  For more information go here http://money.cnn.com/data/dow30/



If you want to gamble, go to a casino or buy a penny stock.  If you want to invest, do some research, buy quality and hold the stock for the long term.

I live near Paradise Petroleum and I have heard that low rumbling kind of noise too, for at least 2 years.  I have wondered what it is too.



[Animal shelters and the population they serve] The only real difference is in salaries. Key West salaries run around $275,000, nearly double that of anyone else. Their animal expenses are pretty much the same as the other shelters. So, how does population fit in?

[Federal Reserve] It is not Federal and has no Reserves. It is as federal as The Federal Tire Company. The US dollar used to be backed by the gold and silver in Fort Knox. Now it is backed by a bunch of greedy bankers who print it and lend it to the Government at rates that can never be paid back. They profit from every war this world has seen. The fleecing of America and anyone who thinks otherwise must be living under a rock. Our Founding Fathers knew the dangers of letting the federal reserve control America's money. Look what happened to Kennedy when he tried to stop the Federal Reserve!

To the person who posted doubting any of this, I’m sure you will be first in line to get your National Government ID Card so they can track your every movement, but that is sure to prevent the so called terrorist threats I’m sure you’re so scared of. This is the problem with America nowadays, too many sheeeple. Wake up people! Also isn’t it strange that Americans are 75% against the war in Iraq, but the 2 front runners are both pro war? There’s lots of money to be made in Iraq and Iran. For who? You guessed it, the Federal Reserve.




Two words on a Yankee Super Bowl: Who cares!

Redneck home remedies.
1. If you're choking on an ice cube simply pour a cup of boiling water down your throat. Presto! The blockage will instantly remove itself.
2. Avoid cutting yourself when slicing vegetables by getting someone else to hold while you chop.
3. Avoid arguments with the Mrs. About lifting the toilet seat by using the sink.
4. For high blood pressure sufferers: simply cut yourself and bleed for a few minutes, thus reducing the pressure in your veins. Remember to use a timer.
5. A mouse trap, placed on top of your alarm clock, will prevent you from rolling over and going back to sleep after you hit the snooze button.
6. If you have a bad cough, take a large dose of laxatives, then you'll be afraid to cough.
7. You only need two tools in life - WD-40 and Duct Tape. If it doesn't move and should, use the WD-40. If it shouldn't move and does, use the duct tape.
8. If you can't fix it with a hammer, you've got an electrical problem.
9. If you wife has a headache, roll over, there's always sis!
10. Remember: Every Redneck seems abnormal until you get to know them and prove it.







I went to the library to get a book on dyslexia. The librarian said there wasn't one. I said, “That’s okay, I couldn’t read it anyway.”

It is your policy to print the email address of anyone who attacks an individual personally on your pages.  I got to thinking that there are so many people that I would love to tell off, a bar manager; a restaurant owner, a local musician and a couple “everyday” people. I figure just publish my email address and let them guess who I am!  Submission Guide


Now I’m really confused. First the increase in the homestead exemption was so small that we shouldn’t even bother with it. It was an insult to us by the politicians. Now, it’s a giant tax cut for homeowners. Which is it?  I appreciate any tax relief I can get. I can’t tell if I’m blue from the cold or just from being bled to death by taxes.

Does anyone believe that Commissioner Spehar will own up and take the blame for her part of the County’s spending spree along with the other members of the "Gang of Three"?  She voted yes on Sinking of the Vandenberg, she voted yes on purchasing the Hickory House Restaurant (which the county still has not sold).  That amounts to $5.2 Million.  Employees of Monroe County, do you think you would be worried to death about keeping your job now, had Spehar voted no just on these two items?

In case anyone missed it, in Sunday's Citizen, Dixie Spehar is blaming all of the County's financial problems on the State's mandated cut in property taxes. It's never her fault.



Woman reunited with ring lost 67 years ago - Telegraph

I love when republicans like the Bush supporter yesterday whined about people seeing "evil behind every tree" yet they won’t mention that it was the republicans that "saw evil and WMDs in Iraq" when they didn’t exist. I guess to be a Republican you have to revise history to survive. I guess when they see evil it’s different.



[Key West Animal Shelter kills healthy animals]  Furthermore, if you look at their tax return (form 990/2006 latest I found), you'll see that they don't have any cremation fees, only “waste” fees.  If they euthanize by drugs, they cannot dispose of the bodies in trash, so what are they doing--freezing them? 

[Budget cuts]  According to Debbie Frederick, Acting County Administrator, each division in county government was requested to cut expenses by 19.5%.  So my question is, why doesn't the County Administrator, and the 6 county department heads, take a 19.5% cut in their salaries?  They sit back, fat and happy, and rich, and slash away at everyone else's jobs but not their own.  I say, get rid of the bums!



Doctors are calling for NHS treatment to be withheld from patients who are too old or who lead unhealthy lives. Smokers, heavy drinkers, the obese and the elderly should be barred from receiving some operations, according to doctors, with most saying the health service cannot afford to provide free care to everyone.

Not one of theses taxes existed 100 years ago, and our nation was the most prosperous in the world.  We had absolutely no national dept, had the largest middle class in the world, and Mom stayed home to raise the kids. 

Accounts Receivable Tax
Building Permit Tax
Cigarette Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Excise Taxes
Federal Income Tax
Federal Unemployment Tax
Fishing License Tax
Food License Tax
Fuel Permit Tax
Gasoline Tax
Gross Receipts Tax
Hunting License Tax
Inheritance Tax
Inventory Tax
IRS Interest Charges IRS Penalties(tax on top of tax)
Liquor Tax
Luxury Taxes
Marriage License Tax
Medicare Tax
Person Property Tax
Property Tax
Real Estate Tax
Road Usage Tax
Recreational Vehicle Tax
Service Charge Tax
Social Security Tax
Sales Tax
School Tax
State Income Tax
State Unemployment Tax
Telephone Federal Excise Tax
Telephone Federal Universal Service Fee Tax
Telephone Federal, State and Local Surcharge Taxes
Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax
Telephone Recurring and Non-recurring Charges Tax
Telephone State and Local Tax
Telephone Usage Charge Tax
Utility Taxes
Vehicle License Registration Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Watercraft Registration Tax
Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax




Pakistan - land of opportunity and
cheap hard
hats.

[Those of us who buy things, anything, pay taxes, not the rich] In reality this is not quite true. The rich who own any business, in fact anyone who owns any business should never pay any tax if they run that business correctly! Any capital in a business should be invested in that business and not left dormant. Buying supplies, maintenance, payroll, enlarging, etc are deductions. Any business must “zero” out at the end of the year or it is not run right. Only the employees do not have this advantage.





Do I have a dumb phone if the new cell phones are smart?

[Realtor tells you to lower the price of the house so it will sell but doesn't lower the commission]  Yes they do lower the commission.  It is 6% of the sale price.  If the price is lowered they get 6% of the lowered price.  If the house is over priced the seller or the realtor gets 0% because it won't sell.



W
hat do they call the residents or their mothers of this Austrian town?

[Wine and the economy]  This Big Pine booster has got to question the judgment and taste of anyone who thinks that Ft. Lauderdale, even with its “expansive wine market”, is “a city where taste for the finer things in life are quite obvious.”  WOW!  I must assume that this poster identifies fine wines and brie as being bedrock “finer things in life”.  I was born in Ft. Laud and spent the first 65 years of my life there.  Trust me, neither Ft Lauderdale nor its life style is worthy of emulation.



The very low-pitched humming sound you hear at night may be coming from the "poop plant", (sewer treatment unit)  over in Breezy Pines trailer park. I used to live there, and it makes a noise like that and turns on at intervals as you say.  It's directly across the road from Paradise Petroleum, and the sound carries at night.

All 3 democrat candidates will raise your taxes. Here’s the attribution.

John Edwards: 2/4/7 "Yes, we'll have to raise taxes," the former one-term senator from North Carolina and 2004 vice-presidential candidate said during an appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press" yesterday”. 

Hillary Clinton: "I want to restore the tax rates that we had in the '90s," said the New York Democrat and former first lady” 12/13/07, Myrtle Beach S.C.

Barak Obama: Democrat Barack Obama said Sunday, 11/11/07, (on Meet the Press) that if elected he will push to increase the amount of income that currently is taxed to provide monthly Social Security benefits.”

There are plenty more to list but, c’mon folks; everybody is absolutely certain that if a Dem candidate is elected your taxes will get higher than Ross, the Intern’s, giggle.  Not just the “rich bastards”, but you and me.  Our poster pal fails to see the obvious, he acknowledges that the tax rebate proposal is sound fiscal policy, yet he endorses higher taxes.  That's a head scratcher.  Our poster pal says “Don’t get worked up into a tizzy”, he suggests that whoever gets elected will not materially change our world.  Horse shit!  If a democrat President is elected, take off your pink glasses, lick the brie from your fingers, put down your crystal stem ware, and get ready for nitty-gritty change. 

First: confiscatory higher taxes throughout the income spectrum. You probably won't be able to afford Chateau LaFleur Petrus any longer.  Second: Socialized medicine.  Third:  Because of continued inaction on Social Security reform, SS will collapse.  Fourth:  Lack of tort reform and increased governmental intervention will lead to even higher taxes to pay for stratospheric true health care costs.  Fifth:  Lack of American resolve and action will further empower Muslim fundamentalism.  Pakistan, and probably, Afghanistan will revert to Taliban rule.  European governments will falter into Muslim caused chaos.  Sixth:  Lack of resolve and action to secure our borders will create increasing disharmony in the American workplace as American citizens lose jobs to illegals, and the attendant costs further raise taxes.  Seventh:  Ah, that’s enough for now, but you get the picture!  No, my friends, I don’t believe that the sky is falling, we will endure.  Nonetheless, all of the foregoing are probable consequences of a Democrat President operating in conjunction with a Democrat controlled Congress.  That sad prospect rates a tizzy.

[County Attorney Suzanne Hutton requested the BOCC ask Rep. Saunders to put in the legislation that a “Plan for Dissolution” be furnished. This request fell on deft ears]  Deft (adjective) 1. quick and skillful; 2. clever.  Truer words were never written. Although I'm sure that's not what the poster intended to say. Ron Saunders's ears really are deft, consummate politician that he is.

The Kennedy’s have endorsed Barack Obama. Ted Kennedy said he is convinced that Obama will get universal healthcare for all. That’s something Ted has been working for most of his career.




New Arkansas state quarter.

My wife told me she wanted a divorce because she'd lost the tingle. I don't know what a tingle is, but it's equivalent to one house.

Only three more days to support Florida Keys Wildlife Rescue in their work to help wildlife of the Keys.  We can't win the contest, but your contribution will nevertheless help us help them.  Go to https://www.networkforgood.org/pca/MyPcas.aspx to donate.  Our wildlife thanks you.

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[French vintages which cannot be found in the keys]  The same wine distributors that are found in Ft Lauderdale also service the Keys. You can pretty much get everything found up there from them.  The exception would be if the store up there bought vintages and stored them and they are currently sold out through the distributor. 



Northern lights
over Yellowknife Park and living in teepees at 37 below zero.

Is it true that people that get really big dogs do so because of some male, physical inadequacy?    Is it possible for a twenty year old to know everything? I am fifty something and I don't know everything. I must have missed a phase of my life.  I used to care but I have to admit, I cannot waste my time on morons anymore. Just stay the hell away from me and wander through the rest of your life and learn the hard way, just like the rest of us did.

Crane Point’s monthly Evening with the Stars program will be held Thursday, January 31th at 7:15 p.m. All attendees will meet at the main museum entrance and can either take a trolley ride to the observation point or walk with a guide. Evening with the Stars is facilitated by Dr. David Heeschen who holds a PhD in Astronomy from Harvard University.

Depending on the time of year observations may include double stars, galaxies, moon, planets and more. In case of overcast skies, Crane Point will place a notice on the Web site, www.cranepoint.net by 6 p.m. on the day of observation. Please call the office number below if you are concerned about the weather conditions for viewing.

Crane Point is located at MM 50, bayside across from the Kmart plaza. Please call (305) 743-3900 for more information. Price is $5 for nonmembers and free for members of Crane Point. Bulletin Board

[The term euthanasia] If the animal shelter was trying to hide the fact that they kill animals, why would they use a term that means the act of putting to death, painlessly, a person or animal suffering from an incurable disease or condition? If they were really trying to hide this wouldn't they use a word that doesn't mean death? What we can assume from your posting is that you do not know the meaning of the word and it confused you. The rest of the country that managed to pass a third grade level of English are quite aware what the shelter means.





[Anthrax scare] Who is this Chaney you are referring to?

If taxing the rich didn't work the rich wouldn't spend so much money paying lobbyists to buy politicians to get their taxes cut. The divide between the wealthy and everyone else has widen markedly since the sainted Ronald Reagan took office and now a handful of people own the vast majority of wealth in this almost-banana Republic. And it’s going to take more than just Bill Gates lamenting the selfishness of the rich to get things moving again.

[Amendment one. Why doesn’t everyone understand that our tax cap will increase from the now 3% to 10% in the future] Perhaps this poster should read it again. I'm doing that now as I type this. Article XII, section 4. "Limits the assessment increases for specified non-homestead real property to 10 percent each year". If you’re homesteaded, your cap is 3%, if you're not, your cap will be 10% where there was none before. That's the way I understand it. There is good and bad in this for everyone. Vote carefully and please be informed. This information is printed on your sample ballot.

Boy, is this cool! The screen saver shark (or any critter on the left you select) follows your mouse over any seascape (selected from the right) you like. http://www.sharkbreak.com/  

The worst part of the state of the union speech last night was having to watch that fat-assed Chicken Hawk Cheney sitting on his throne above the Congress while Bush droned on about nothing.  It's no wonder no republican candidate has sought their endorsement in the upcoming election.  Can you envision this?  “Mr. President, I do not seek, nor will I accept your endorsement for the office of president of the United States.”  These guys would be the kiss of death to any aspiring presidential candidate. 


[Where there's smoke there's fire] You are so right. With the new (fuse) running for Sheriff and Spehar (the match). Now that's a nuclear bomb.

After doing the math we've wondered for several years how any new business could make a go of it in the Keys.  The established businesses that had their property paid for before the speculation boom started could keep up because their overhead was low enough.  But how could anyone pay over a million dollars for a small business property  and then get any kind of return out of bar patrons and beachcombers?  A few we knew had "something going on the side", (use your imagination) that allowed them to stay afloat awhile, but the deck is stacked from the beginning.  "Do you know now how to leave the Keys with a small fortune? Arrive there with a big one." is really true.  Hopefully this recession and housing bust will end up making things a bit easier for new business people later on. Only time will tell.


Windows Vista
modifications and how-toos! I suggest keeping this link for reference even if you don't own Vista because--you will!  http://www.howtogeek.com/tag/windows-vista/

Marine Mammal Conservancy, a non-profit all volunteer organization that rescues stranded and injured dolphins and whales in the Florida Keys, is having a fund-raising yard sale February 9 at 7:00 am at MM102 (behind the Bellsouth tower). If anyone is interested in donating items, please contact me at 305-304-5530 or email me at islandmermaid1@bellsouth.net for pickup or drop off instructions.  Classified Ads > Yard Sales

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Tuesday January 29, 2008

 

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Monday January 28, 2008

When the anthrax scare hit Washington, Chaney wanted all Americans vaccinated, but after health officials convinced him how many how many people would die and how many debilitating infirmities inoculation would cause he reduced his demand to 500,000 military and healthcare workers. By the time the vaccine was ready the anthrax threat had passed. Note: Chaney refused to have him or his family vaccinated.

[Amendment 1] What happens if we all get homestead exemptions like I think this amendment proposes? What’s the point of the exemption if it’s not really an exemption and actually a giant tax reduction for all home owners? Can the State afford to give every Floridian this reduction of taxes? Who will make up the difference? Will it be the poorer among us? There are so many questions I have about this amendment, but I can’t find an unbiased answer.

The free Health Fair is worth the price and little more. It is run by young, unlicensed students and your diagnosis is hit or miss. We went two years ago and it took five hours to get processed. My wife was told that her heart was a problem so she had to pay for a whole battery of tests with a real heart specialist in KW which costs her a small fortune. The results were negative. The doctor said she was misdiagnosed at the Fair. I was told my blood pressure was too high so I paid another KW doctor to tell me that it was fine. All, in all, it was not worth the time and trouble unless you don’t have any means to get regular professional care. You get what you pay for. You do indirectly pay for socialized medicine and that's fine with me.

Just a thought on how things have changed on Big Pine Key. The Sharecropper has done well over many years; The Glass Tiki burnt down and has never been replaced. It seems there is not enough business. The Baltimore Oyster House has been closed from a long time and looks like it has gone to seed. It has not been replaced, not enough business. Judd’s has had many owners and remains closed. The owner knows there is not enough business to warrant the investment in such an Iffy deal.

Then there's the old Dive-shop/laundry/Gangplank; it has remained closed and had more owners and or renters than I can remember. I must say that Walgreens and Publix's and the new Subway and Quiznos along with Winn Dixie's new drugstore should finish off the Mom & Pop stores for good.

This is not a very good report. Big Business and Government are the ones that seem to do best. As I recall Fish and Wildlife just had Jack Watson. That was it! I would like to know if any one has a real number or percentage of folks that are employed by state, local and Federal Government.

Well, enough of my dribble. Enjoy your day, it’s the only one you have.

The Seventh Annual No Name Race, 5K Run/Walk from the Old Wooden Bridge Fishing Camp on Big Pine Key takes place Saturday morning, Feb. 23. This is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the nonprofit Monroe County Domestic Abuse Shelter, which serves clients from Key West to Key Largo. It is one of the most needed services in Monroe County, as domestic and emotional violence know no bounds -- gender, ethnic, economic or otherwise. Please support your local shelter of last resort.

To get a race brochure or registration form, go to www.domesticabuseshelter.org and click on Happenings.

According to Commissioner Dixie Spehar, Jerry Coleman is no longer going to be working for the County as a hired outside attorney for the Workforce Housing Task Force. Do we believe this?  Commissioner Dixie Spehar, where was your vote to can him back in February 07, when Commissioner Murphy tried to get rid of him and save taxpayers money?  Are you trying to now make amends for your re-election?  Voters will remember come election time on which side of the fence you were sitting.

Commissioner Spehar, talk to the employees who may lose their jobs, talk to the children who will lose a day at the library, talk to the people who depend on bus service to get to Doctor’s appointments, talk to the elderly who depend on Community services, they are voters too. Trying to blame the state for the cuts is not putting the blame where the blame belongs for our financial woes. The blame squarely belongs on former County Administrator, Tom Willi, and hearing him say countless times at BOCC meetings that he "can only do what 3 Commissioners allow me to do", spending money like water pouring out of a boot.   

Commissioner Spehar, you’re a day late and a dollar short.






How times have changed] Have you noticed that many new car commercials are focusing on what hi tech electronic devices their vehicles have instead of how good the vehicle is? Mp3 players, GPS, handless cell phones, rear view backup cameras, etc.

The level of paranoia is astounding around here.  This whole hacking issue is very comical to me because if this was an actual hacking, it was the most ineffective and innocent hacking I've ever seen.  And as for you Mrs. Downs, you can threaten lawsuits all you want. You do not scare me. I am a person who tells it like it is and does not fall for BS.

I'm sure some people are ignorant enough to fall for your lame excuses of how your family is so innocent, but I'm able to do the math.  And much of what you say does not calculate.  You see, I too know the law.  And I guarantee that I know it much better than you.


Perhaps you should read up on the First Amendment a little.  And as for slander, it's only slander if there's no truth in it.  You and I both know you are a liar. ~govwatch2007@yahoo.com





The Freaking Brothers. Look ma, no hands! Video

[Plan for dissolution of the Village of Islamorada, by Robert Page] At the Monroe BOCC meeting on January 25, 2008, the commissioners were spending the day, discussing the budget crisis, and how to cut back expenses to solve the shortfall in revenue.  Representative Ron Saunders put on the agenda, the issue of Unincorporation of the Village of Islamorada and City of Marathon. Rep. Saunders wanted to hear from the elected officials, that they could absorb the two municipalities, if the taxpayers voted to abolish the local governments.  All five elected officials said that was up to the voters to resolve that issue and if it happened, they would deal with the issue then.  After the vote to stay mum on the issue, county attorney Suzanne Hutton requested the BOCC ask Rep. Saunders to put in the legislation that a “Plan for Dissolution” be furnished.  This request fell on deft ears.  This was a most important issue and not something to be left for a last minute plan to be developed.  This plan for Dissolution is something the county should be responsible for and not the Legislature or the Village which is the target