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Saturday May 31, 2008

I take my responsibility to vote very seriously.  We elect people to office to govern. We give them the power to dramatically change our lives for better or sometimes, for worse.  I have done considerable research on the candidates running for office this year including the office of Monroe County Sheriff. I want to cast my vote to the person I feel is most qualified.  Obviously, Ms. Downs and Mr. Horan aren’t even remotely qualified for the position.  That leaves Capt. Bob Peryam, Ken Davis and Phil Mandina.  I find that both Capt. Peryam and Ken Davis have many years of experience and very solid resumes.  Both have many years of well documented law enforcement backgrounds. 

While researching Mr. Mandina however, I find many troublesome issues.  First he claims to be a Monroe County and Keys resident for 30 years. ("Ocean Reef, Islamorada, Summerland, Sugarloaf, Key West") Oddly, he is not listed in the Monroe County property records showing any residential home ownership in the Keys.  His stated Keys address is a house that, according to record, is owned by another individual. Has he rented for 30 years? On his campaign contributions filing he lists his address as being in Miami Lakes. Further, he claims to have many awards.  Such things as the “J. Edgar Hoover Award” and a “Knights of Justice” award.  With a little research I find that those so-called “awards” can be purchased from an organization that calls itself the Police Hall of Fame, a roadside attraction that operates a museum, a gun shop/shooting range and gift shop in Titusville, Florida.  Most troubling is the fact that those “awards” are available by submitting an on-line application for a fee of $25 each.

Among his other vague claims he states that he has had “Accounting and Private Business experience with 100 Million dollar police budget.”  I would like to know exactly where that would be.  A budget that size would have to be a major metropolitan city police department at least the size of Miami.  There are a number of other questionable items as well. It seems to me that Mr. Mandina has fluffed, bloated and exaggerated his resume and qualifications for his own self-aggrandizement and promotion. 

I encourage everyone to research and consider very carefully each candidate running for office during this election cycle.  The 2008 elections may be the most important in decades for Monroe County.  We can’t afford any more incompetence, irresponsibility and foolishness from our elected officials.  Please get out and vote, but do the homework and vote smart!

How long does menopause last? A writer described the symptoms that my wife of twenty-five years is exhibiting. She stopped having her period one or two years ago and for the last year or so she has been acting so strange that I’ve stopped talking to her. It’s like talking to wood. She misinterprets everything. The thing that the writer mentioned that got my attention the most is when he said things went missing! That’s what drives me nuts. Things just vanish. Nothing valuable, just a pan or a shoe or some other incidental.

When does it end and when can I have my wife back?

[Attack Iraq] I just found this televised speech by the former President in the record today, check out what the Dude-in-Charge said in this televised prime time message to the entire nation and world: 

“Earlier today, I ordered America's armed forces to strike military and security targets in Iraq.  They are joined by British forces.  Their mission is to attack Iraq's nuclear, chemical and biological weapons programs and its military capacity to threaten its neighbors.” 

How about that, can you believe it?  What you just read is a direct quote from a televised speech that President William Jefferson Clinton, the darling of our liberal pals, gave on December 16, 1998. I guess he was cherry picking and propagandizing too.  Please be advised that entire speech is easy to find on the web.

[Movie Review] I'm really depressed after catching the new movie Sex and The City because I don't have a Mister Big or any prospects, nor do I have four fun girlfriends or man friends.  Plus the movie was predictable, lengthy, Mister Big was fat and needed a Biore Strip on his big nose and Samantha's blonde movie star boy-toy looks terribly old, has a wort on his face and you can tell by the sound of his voice that he chain smokes.  Save your money and have Cosmopolitans instead.

[Chopped liver] I’m mad that my vote doesn’t count. Who elected the jerks that changed the primary dates anyway? Floridians don’t care if we have early primaries. That was big businesses’ decision in order to fill big businesses pockets. Moves like that are done for profit not to make a better electoral process for the people.

Yesterday a poster made some startling claims about Obama, the poster suggested that Obama was a seasoned world hand who has had extensive exposure to the world and the problems of the world.  The poster suggested that McCain is an old fart mired in old ways.  Let’s take a quick look at “Citizen of the World” Obama: Obama was born in the USA on 8/4/61.  At the age of 6 he moved to Indonesia with his Mom and step father, he attended grade schools there, he split time between a Muslim school and a Christian school.  He lived there till the ripe old age of 10 when he returned to live with his maternal grand parents.  There is no record to be found if Obama learned of the local Indonesian economy by employment or simple observation.  Perhaps he held bake sales.  I can find no record of any further international travel until he was elected to a U.S. Senate seat only 4 years ago. Perhaps his fund of knowledge of world problems comes from reading The Weekly Reader. His record as an Illinois State Legislator began in 1994 and appears to be devoid of any foreign initiatives.  His brief tenure as Senator appears to be his first exposure to the intricacies of foreign affairs. Obama is an empty suit!

Don't forget the 15th Annual Big Pine & Lower Keys Dolphin Tournament June 6, 7 & 8, 2008. there’s more than $36,000 at stake! Bulletin Board

[Bush's Press Secretary tell-all] It’s amazing how a man once considered honest and telling the truth, according to Americas right-wingers, can all of a sudden become a horrible, lying, dishonest person because he tells us what he saw and what his take on things that happened in the Bush administration concerning the Iraq war. Sometimes if you lie for a reason or you mislead people the right thing to do is leave your job and finally tell the truth and clear your soul. Someday we will hear the story from Colon Powell’s perspective and then we will be able to put together the entire story. I applaud Powell’s staying out of the limelight during this time. Most Americans know that the war for lies was a charade at best, so sit back, watch the rightwing nuts insult the man they once loved and watch their insults and usual wild assumptions about "wetspots" in men’s pants (insert closet toe-tapping-republican-male jokes here) and remember in November that the last 8 years of a Republican presidency has done enough damage to America that it will take 20 years to clean up. Pick up the flag out of the republican mud, clean it up and help restore America to its former leadership and dignity role in the world’s eye. Iraqis no more want a democracy in their country then Rush Limbaugh needs another pill doctor. Forced democracies are not freedom of choice. If you didn’t get the hint when an entire battalion of Iraqi soldiers (about 3 months ago) turned all of their equipment including weapons and trucks over to the enemy and joined them in a celebration, you never will.

I think McCain should pick his vice president well. Chances are pretty good McCain won’t make it through his term considering his advanced age and health record.

If the President catches the clap, do we call him the Burning Bush?

[Menopause] My ex-girlfriend was good for about one week a month. The week before, the week during and the week after her cycle was pure hell. Thank God she chose to live with someone else.  The 7 Dwarves of menopause are the exact reason I have chosen the single life. Besides, the Caribbean and South America have a virtual "fountain of youth" and beauty awaiting!

Big Kudos to yesterday’s Zoom slide show. I have always thought that the microcosms of cell structure resembled that of the cosmos and universe. The late Carl Sagan said it best: "We are all made of star-stuff.'"

[Obama is the man for the times] That is so true. These are different times, everything has changed. We’ve got to have a president that understands foreigners and Muslims. I know Americans get crazy whenever you mention Muslims, but they are an unstoppable force to be reckoned with. We should realize by now that bullets and bombs don’t work on them. Bombs can’t kill an ideology. We need a leader who understands them and can deal with them on their level and steer this nation in the direction where we can understand each other and live in peace.

Comcast is installing fiber optical cables in the Keys. This is fine and requires no electric as it uses light waves. However, to energize you paranoids, that type of system can both give you a digital picture, sound, communication and also work as a peeping tom by way of a mini cam the size of a pin head. The spy poles are not enough, right?  Sleep tight!

Overall Hillary would be our best President, she’s the most qualified, but if all Obama does is get us out of Iraq as quickly as possible that will be good enough for now.

I challenge the Florida Keys people to all fly our American flags! If my Peace Rallies make you mad, then please show our support starts at home with a flag. How many flags will we see? If you want to do something, this is a good start. End the War. Bring them home alive.

"Chopped Liver" would like to know how this Florida Democratic primary fiasco ever came to be.  "Loyal Opposition" feel free to chime in.

Seeing the Storm-Safe shelter is advertising here, I wonder if they ship to the midwest and will it work in a hail storm?

Remember, if it floats, flies or s**ts, it's bound to break and you'll need to get a new one.

 

[Not afraid of nuclear power plants] Yes, like Chernobyl, 3-Mile Island and several others never mentioned. Remember the China Syndrome? it will happen and we all will be cooked?

If you have a dream then God has a plan.
He’s moved mountains before,
He’ll move mountains again.
Give yourself to the Lord in wholeness and grace
You too can move mountains
If you have the faith.
 
I have a dream
we live in harmony
one human family where courtesy prevails
Where freedom is welcome
a badge is a symbol of justice
our treasures are our children
and U.S. 1 means us are one.
 
I have a dream
we’re all treated equally
honesty and truth manifest in integrity
Where the halls of the judges
doors are always open
the public servants are real
And accountable to everyone.

I would be perfectly happy if I never saw or heard another cop or police car as long as I live. The more cops, prisons and paraphernalia you see the more a nation has degenerated. The criminal element in the U.S. is not located in your neighborhood, (although cops and politicians desperately want you to believe it is). The most heinous psychopaths are none other than those elites who inhabit the hallowed halls of Congress, the Supreme Court, the Pentagon and the White House.

I was going to work yesterday and I was waiting for a traffic light. Some jack-leg cop hit his "woop woop" siren a few licks right by my ear just because he was tired of waiting for the light and wanted everyone to stop for "The Man". He was out of uniform and didn't turn on his lights after he bullied his way through the intersection. That's a small thing, but it demonstrates a thug attitude. We're sick to death of these pretenders acting the fool and preying on the public. The CIA brings the drugs into this country and hands them out to be sold. The drug dealers they do bust are those who are not on their payroll. This is documented, proven beyond doubt. Look at the CIA plane that crashed recently while hauling five tons of cocaine into the U.S. They are doing a land office business keeping the corporate-owned prisons full of people who use drugs supplied by our own government. The whole dog and pony show is rotten as hell and we need to say "Washington, you're fired!"

[Hearts and Minds] Every time I watch our guys in Iraq kick in some poor guy's front door I have to suspect it's another nail in our coffin over there.

This has got to be the most creative way to beg for money that I've seen other than the one that says "oh heck with it, I need a beer".

[Obama is the man for the times] What the hell do I care what the rest of the world thinks about the USA?  The world problems that you think we have are caused by the spineless government officials trying to please the rest of the world.  Screw the rest of the world.  If we turn our back on them, they'll come running to us the next time they need anything.  We will not need them--ever.

It's nice that you've drunk the Kool-Aid in the Bush-3-McCain’s-too-old-we-need-change stuff. The only change we need is to get rid of all politics-as-usual.  We need to get the government out of our lives, not deeper into our lives. If you buy the change that Obama is selling - we've got real troubles coming.

Thanks to whoever put on the web site for Crazy Fish.  I had a lot of fun looking at all the videos and even signed the guest book.  Keep it up Betty!

Next year, fer mah Birfday, Roscoe's gonna get me a porch.

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Saturday May 31, 2008

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Friday May 30, 2008

Regarding the poor man asking about menopause--be afraid, be very afraid. I lived through many hormonal changes with my spouse. The monthly visitor was always an adventure but it paled to the dancing hormones of pregnancy. Absolutely all bets were off with the menopause, this was no longer the woman I knew and loved. Our marriage of almost 30 years went right down the proverbial poop-chute.  I am not kidding. Go into the hurricane shelter, bring enough food, water and entertainment for a year and just stay there. Appoint a power of attorney to someone (not her because she will begin to lose all reason and logic, beyond the loss of reason and logic that a woman has in normal times.) Arm yourself just in case the perimeter is breached by incoming insanity. If you have pets, it is a good idea to get them out of there as well. Have you ever seen the movie Night of the Living Dead?  It is something like that. Never joke about hot flashes as their sense of humor is no longer a viable thing. The preview of the onset of things to come is their ability to laugh and cry simultaneously. Things will start to come up missing. If you think that you are right about something, just forget it. To argue with a menopausal woman is like trying to get a gator to agree to you brushing its teeth.  The second stage has them sending bolts of lightening ouy of their eyes along with smoke followed by fire from every body orifice. Sex is no longer an option, seek a monastery or some other haven for celibacy. When all the other symptoms pass, the lack of sex drive may never go away. When you get the 'need' for sex, look at pictures of Nancy Pelosi or Barbara Bush (that works for me). So basically, forget everything good that you have been accustomed to in marriage, amplify the bad things exponentially to the power of googleplex, erect warning signs on your property for the benefit of others that she might harm or injure and stay in that shelter for one year at least.

Obama is the man for the times. It’s too bad Americans are so narrow-minded and afraid. He knows what foreigners think and he knows what Muslims think. We have world problems in this new world economy. Obama understands this. He’s the only candidate with a complete world view and experience living in foreign lands.  We need that particular qualification at this time. McCain is too old to change his thinking. He still believes we’re fighting the cold war.

Mosquito spray. I can't wait to try this. I was at a deck party awhile back, and the bugs were having a ball biting everyone.   A man at the party sprayed the lawn and deck floor with Listerine, and the little demons disappeared.   The next year I filled a 4-ounce spray bottle and used it around my seat whenever I saw mosquitoes.   And voila! That worked as well. It worked at a picnic where we sprayed the area around the food table, the children's swing area, and the standing water nearby.   During the summer, I don't leave home without it.

Friendship with oneself is all-important because without it one cannot be friends with anyone else in the world.  ~Eleanor Roosevelt

[ATM theft] This is pretty simple and ingenious way to steal. Slide Show

[Howard Livingston and the MM24 Band] Well we are officially on our summer tour. We headed out of the Keys yesterday afternoon not to return until Fall. We were rewarded by a magnificent view from the high perch of our panoramic wonderland. The waters were again aglow with those post card colors that make the Florida Keys such a special place. When we load the bus and support vehicles and head out on tour, it’s always with mixed emotions: the excitement of seeing old friends, making new ones along the way, offset with the temporary goodbye to our friends in the Keys and my favorite place in the world, my back porch. I never forget to realize how fortunate we are to be doing what we do. I have heard it said that if you can count your good friends on the fingers of one hand you are a lucky person. Well, I would have to be a centipede to accomplish that.

We should call this our friends and family tour. First of all I am traveling with my best friends, wives, girlfriends and my dogs. That’s right, we have three dogs on the bus as our circus heads down the road. It is so fun to experience the world through their eyes as they all three stand at the front looking out the windshield at the country going past them. Every passing truck or road sign something to be studied. 

Nuclear energy is safe and efficient, but there’s that nasty byproduct that the energy-at-any-cost crowd don’t mention. What do we do with the waste? The Yucca mountain repository can’t be certified because it was built on a fault line in Arizona. No one has any other ideas. We could put it in deep injection wells with the other stuff we don't know what to do with.

It's a bummer being off the rock, but BPK.com still rocks when viewed from afar.  I noted today that the Bush Bashers have a  damp spot on their shorts concerning the naughty book written by Scott McClellan.  I noticed too a spray of spittle on the monitor from them.  I wish I could figure out a way make them prove that they've actually read the book before they claim that it proves W was doing any prevaricating.  I've got to wonder just how much character and honesty can live in the heart of the author.  If W was a liar, Scotty boy was his faithful and adoring mouthpiece. McClellan routinely vouched for and supported the W administration’s position.  It looks to me like Scott is an admitted whore, either then or now.   I haven't read the book yet, but I probably won't enrich Scotty by buying one (library here I come).  I hope that McClellan can look in the mirror when he shaves.  His mom must be proud of his character.

Injade is playing Friday night at the Looe Key Tiki Bar, so put on your dancin' shoes and come on out and party with the band!

[What can a man do while his wife is going through menopause] An around the world cruise always works. You go east and she goes west, and you can wave to each other at the half way point!

[Bacon Grease Twins] I can't even think that anyone could have such low self-esteem to look like that. The gross Bacon Grease lady is a beauty queen compared to those ugly sweat hogs. I want to know where they found the cast iron camera to take the picture? 

Congressional staff salaries and more. www.legistorm.com 

[Police vehicles] I can't believe all that is being said on this subject. I believe it is not a perk as much as it is a condition of employment to make up for the lower pay and cost to live down here. There is a lot of turn over in law enforcement because of the cost to live in the Keys. Many could leave tomorrow and make a lot more money somewhere else in the state. If you don't like it, I believe they have openings on their web site, feel free to apply, go through the certification course (if you make it that far in the interview process) then go to work on weekends, nights, (no day shift for a few years) and put up with all of the stuff that goes with the job ( drunks, domestic disturbances, etc). And you too can have a car to bring home. I personally believe they deserve it.

Starting Deputies in Monroe County make $36,000, with no raises in the foreseeable future.  Senior deputies are barely breaking $40,000.  To say those deputies aren't "paying their way" because they have take-home cars is downright stupid.  Another stupid comment by the same poster was that cops aren't responsible for their cars.  That is total B.S.  Cops are responsible for maintenance, oil changes, cleanliness, and are routinely inspected to make sure they are keeping up.   Bravo to the person shedding light on how much more expensive it would be to not have cops taking cars home.  Although I doubt you got through these thick skulls.

[Voted in Good Faith]  First of all the election was declared invalid before you voted, not afterward.  I voted also just for the heck of it, but I knew going in to the voting booth that the primary would not count according to Democrat National Committee rules.  That is the way it should remain regardless of what Hillary and right wing political hacks wish for.  You might remember that Obama followed the rules and did not campaign in Michigan or Florida before the primary.  He wasn't even on the ballot in Michigan. 

[Dog GPS] Zoombak Advanced GPS Dog Locators Now Available

State Government; please don't leave me alone down here.

This is some serious zooming. Slide Show

The bacon grease lady moved upstate with her keyboard banging boyfriend. Another double loss for the keys.

A very important new book by the most respected prosecutor in the U.S. "The Prosecution of George W. Bush for Murder" by Vincent Bugliosi, who was the prosecutor of Charles Manson family.  Let's get these lying thugs behind bars where they belong.

People have been calling me jealous because I mentioned that Police and other county employees are allowed free gas and car usage at the taxpayers expense. Sorry to disappoint you but I own a small business that allows me to use my car as a tax write-off. However, at a time when the County has such deep financial problems, which are leading to more and more layoffs, hard decisions have to be made. No County employee should get free gas and vehicles until the Commission gets it financial houses in order. I do find it interesting that the same people that were screaming for a tax increase to pay for sewers because they wanted everyone to pay their fair share, now don’t want County employees to be responsible for their own way to work. To the windbags telling me how these Police are saving my whiny arse, all I can say is that I’ve never needed a policeman to save me from anything and, hopefully God willing, I never will. I kind of figure that since I'm retired military I also served them just as well. While they were going to the Academy I was in foreign lands serving also.

Citizens have a responsibility to look at their local government to make sure they are acting in a fiscally responsible manner and if they are pinching every penny they can. Free cars and fuel at this time is not fiscally responsible. I will vote accordingly. No jealousy and no animosity. I’m  just watching what the people spending our money are doing.

[What is fart gas made of-a burning question] The composition of fart gas is highly variable.  Most of the air we swallow, especially the oxygen component, is absorbed by the body before the gas gets into the intestines. By the time the air reaches the large intestine, most of what is left is nitrogen. Chemical reactions between stomach acid and intestinal fluids may produce carbon dioxide, which is also a component of air and a product of bacterial action. Bacteria also produce hydrogen and methane.

[Dams to give the whole world power] Dams only work for power generation when geographical conditions, such as elevation are favorable. This is why you don't see too many in Florida and a lot of other states. And even if they could supply the world's power, which is impossible, the environmentalists would stop them cold. Remember the snail darter episode?

[I Voted in Good Faith] Unfortunately you are chopped liver. The Democratic Party is a private organization. The state party leaders of the Democratic Party in Florida chose to break the rules of that private organization knowing full-well the consequences of that action. Don't blame the government; they don't have a dog in this fight. Blame the Florida Democrat Party leaders or blame yourself for not holding the party leaders in check by being active in the party before hand. I am sure that when you and others went to vote in the Democratic primary you were aware of the controversy and the possible outcome.

But fear not, if the Clinton's are one thing it is consummate politicians and a move is afoot by the National Democratic Party to seat delegates from Florida and Michigan.

I am not afraid of nuclear power plants. I think they are a clean practical energy source. Clean coal power plants are OK too. I am not talking about dirty coal plants like the Chinese have.

Don't be so sure that having a fire engine or a police car parked next to your house would give you any added security, (except what you may have in your own mind).  In the town I'm originally from up north the 24-hour manned fire station was located right next to the local high school. The school caught fire early one morning and burned to a total loss before the firemen could get awake and get their equipment going next door, 100 feet away! We also had a cop's house broken into while a police car was parked in the driveway. Considering that the town I'm from, the officials aren't the sharpest pencils in the box. It could still happen somewhere else.

What it boils down to is taxpayers are footing the bill for employees to have unlimited use of official emergency vehicles. The vehicles are officially marked and are equipped with flashing lights and sirens. We've seen off-duty cops speeding, running red lights and ignoring traffic laws while driving these emergency vehicles for their own use and not on an emergency call. You don't see many ambulance drivers take the ambulance home and drive it to the  kids' ball game waiting for an emergency call. The problem here is this class of elites have talked themselves into believing they deserve all their special privileges, because they "take care” of the rest of us. Hogwash! I'm old enough to recall when the United States still had some sanity in leadership, and we did just fine without roadblocks, helicopters hovering--costing a thousand dollars an hour,  and 911 on the telephone. To a lot of us all this nonsense is pure profiteering on people's fear. Scare everybody into thinking we've got to have police cars on every corner because your neighbors might be Al Qaida. The real terrorists are out-of-control government thugs. The sooner we realize this, the sooner we can get back to some sort of decent life in this nation.

The Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce recently sponsored our annual essay contest asking eighth grade students at Sugarloaf Middle School to write on the theme “If You Could Grant One Wish For Another Person, What Would That Be And Why?”   Approximately 31 essays were evaluated by the Board of Director’s Essay Committee which were highly imaginative and showed a great deal of insight by the students with many thought provoking and heart-warming ideas for wishes for other people.

US Savings Bonds donated by First State Bank will be awarded at graduation on June 10^th at 7 p.m. to the following students:
First Place: $150.00 bond Amber Kogelis
Second Place: $100.00 bond C.J. Boykin
Third Place: $50.00 bond Sharrie Pearl-Mihalinec
Fourth Place: $50.00 bond Katie Roman

We would like to thank Principal Theresa Axford, Assistant Principal Marla Russel, Eighth Grade Language Teacher Tracy McDonald, and all of the eighth grade students who participated in the 2008 LKCC Essay Contest.  We would also like to thank Jason O’Brien of First State Bank who provided the US Savings Bonds.  The Chamber wishes to extend our congratulations to these students and to all graduating eighth graders at Sugarloaf Middle School.

Mamajoe's Cycles and Stuff in Marathon (next door to the recently defunct Overseas bar and liquor) is going out of business on July 1st. They are retiring and the store is for sale.  "Spike" the dog and his mate not included. Thanks for the many years of motorcycle accessories and repairs.

A guy couldn’t figure out why his water bill was so high. When he figured it out he filmed it. Video

[Victory Garden] You can plant any type of vegetable in the pots that you get when you buy plants. It's easy and rewarding. Carrots, radish, peas, beans, etc. Potting soil., seeds and water (maybe a wire veil to keep out the critters) Poof! Your very own home grown vegetables fresh from your deck.

Birthday boy Bill is really cute.  He has pretty blue eyes and is single.

[Fogbow] What is that white arch over the water? What is being seen is a fogbow, a reflection of sunlight by water drops similar to a rainbow but without the colors. The fog itself is not confined to an arch -- the fog is mostly transparent but relatively uniform. The fogbow shape is created by those drops with the best angle to divert sunlight to the observer. The fogbow's relative lack of colors are caused by the relatively smaller water drops. The drops active above are so small that the quantum mechanical wavelength of light becomes important and smears out colors that would be created by larger rainbow water drops acting like small prisms reflecting sunlight. The above striking image of a fogbow was taken last week with the Sun behind the photographer. The rocks in the foreground are part of Ocean Beach in California, USA.

[Police Vehicles] Look, it's really this simple. If there is a patrol car parked in your neighborhood, then you like it. If there is not one in your neighborhood, you are going complain about it.

Here is a great optical illusion photo taken of a Lufthansa 747 and a United 757 that were on simultaneous approaches to runways 28L and 28R at San Francisco. The separation requirement for flying parallel and simultaneous approaches is about 750 feet. These two aircraft are at a safe distance for the approaches they are each flying. Due to the 747 being three times larger than the 757, and being slightly behind, it gives this incredible optical illusion.

[Oil] If you enjoy watching the new trend of oil prices per barrel dropping yet the cost at the pump increasing you will love John McCain. He will be George Bush part 3.No thanks.

Oops again!

For the classification fellow. It is indeed heartening to see a fellow with your scholarly inclinations, if I may add one small thing though? As to preparing for your future, I personally believe you would be farther ahead if you played the lottery.

If you ever wanted a clear picture of what Democrats have planned for this country just watch Maxine Waters of California threaten to nationalize the oil companies (even though she can't remember the word). I'll bet she stole that idea from Hugo Chavez. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9d53lspwDeI&feature=related 

$200 million for the sewers. Great, that leaves another $200 million or so to be scraped up somewhere else.  Too bad the great conspiracy mentality, most people feel about government, has buried any thought of a 1% sales tax increase that would help pay for a lot of it. The people’s fear is "No way, they’ll steal it.”

Really Oops!

I've been away for two weeks.  I see several people have been charged 7% by a local Realtor and didn't get what they were promised.  What Realtor was it?  If you were one of the victims please write it on Sal's Site.  He will print the person's name and company name.  He holds nothing back.  Just like NBC or CBS, Sal tells all.

Redneck Calamari with macaroni and cheese and a side of canned green beans.

Got a great hair cut the other day. The cute little blonde gave me a neck massage, two shoulder massages and two thigh rub-downs all while cutting my hair. It was worth the $25, but it took me fifteen minutes to get out of the chair!

This photo provided by NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Arizona shows NASA's Phoenix Mars Lander suspended from its parachute as it lands on Mars on Sunday May 25, 2008 as seen by a telescopic camera in orbit. We can take a picture of a space craft landing on another planet, but we can't find  Osama bin Laden!

[Change default font in Word] Use Help. It can answer any question except liberal thinking.

[Nuclear energy] Since most of us live in the 21st century, the age of unprecedented scientific advances, the time is opportune to invest in alternative energy sources. Chief among those technologies is the harnessing and use of the vast power of the atom. So the time is perfect for the licensing and building of more atomic power generation plants. Before you let loose some ridiculous doomsday, I live within 30 miles of one, and after 30 years of operation I still do not glow in the dark, and my kids are all normal, well…as normal as all other kids.

If you happen to be heading for Mozambique…

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Friday May 30, 2008

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Thursday May 29, 2008

[Keys Wastewater Bonding Gets Governor’s Approval]  Governor Charlie Crist signed into law Senate Bill 1552 which authorizes $200 million in state funding to help complete wastewater management projects in the Florida Keys. The funding plan co-sponsored by State Representative Ron Saunders (D) Key West and Representative Stan Mayfield (R) Vero Beach and Senator Burt Saunders (R) Naples authorizes the issuance of state bonds not to exceed $50 million per fiscal year for no more than four fiscal years to provide state funding for Florida Keys wastewater projects. “I am thrilled to get authorization for $200 million in state funding for completion of wastewater projects in such a difficult budget year,” Representative Saunders stated. “This is a major step in helping to protect the unique natural resources of the Florida Keys.”

Yesterdays posting by a Hate America Firster is memorable in that the poster states his conviction that this great nation has been “ruined”.  The poster assigns blame to “you blind conservatives”.  The poster claims that this nation is “harboring” a terrorist.  He/she refuses to acknowledge that the target of his ire, Posada, (who is in fact a terrorist, but not “our terrorist”) has been repeatedly targeted by our Justice Department trying to deport him with so much zeal that at least one Judge has described Justices’ efforts as “fraud, deceit, and trickery”.  The poster would have you believe that trying to kick this creep out of the USA by fraud, deceit, and trickery is harboring him.  The Hate America Firster urges us to ignore fact, ignore Court transcripts, ignore history, and to believe him/her, because he/she has the amazing ability to “read between the lines”.  He/she says if we don’t “read between the lines” that we are “surely going to hell”.  The posters piss poor paraphrasing of Stephen Decatur 1816 famous patriotic toast,  “…my country right or wrong”, is not “stupid garbage” as the poster asserts.  In this context, it simply means that you love and respect your country just as you love and respect a family member who errs. You try to correct the error.  Our Country can and does err, sometimes grievously.  Our country did not err on this issue. “Stupidy” and lack of patriotism is definitive of the Hate America Firster.  Claiming that truth can only be found by “reading between the lines” is at best foolish and arrogant.  The Hate America Firster poster simply has a deep and abiding disdain for our Constitution, our nation and our way of life.  It must be difficult to live with that malignancy in one’s heart and soul. 

Why is that when people start whining and crying about professions with take-home cars, they always pick on cops?  Police is the one profession that benefits us when their cars are parked in our neighborhoods.  Why no complaining about Code Enforcement, Mosquito Control, the fire department, government leased cars, federal jobs, etc?  We all have to pay bills to Keys Energy and FKAA.  Why no complaints about those cars parked in driveways.  I believe that people have a much deeper agenda when they make such stupid complaints as police cars being taken home.

It looks like Kim Wigington's supporters don't believe she can win on her merits so they're taking to blogs to post "rumors" they make up against the Democrats running for the Commission. Take it for what it is. A blatant ruse to get Democrats and Independents to vote for Kim in the Primary by switching parties. Remember one thing that is irrefutable, the County has been run solely by Republicans for the past 8 years. Is the County better off than it was 8 years ago? Do you really want to keep one party rule, and continue "The Gang of Five"?

Maybe I'm selfish, but I really like having police vehicles parked in my neighborhood. Giving them the perk of driving a vehicle home just may be the difference of making a living or having to find a new line of work.

I remember several years ago a big argument about people making money and “flipping” properties. People were making money and the keys were humming. A particular person living in Port Pine Heights was bragging that his property was worth $750,000. (I’ve never seen anything in Port Pine Heights worth that.) The main idea was that he hoped that values would drop and the flippers would get burned. I wonder what his $750,000 house is worth now. He got his wish and what has he gained?

Don’t fall for the class envy ploy. If you’re happy with your situation, enjoy it and don’t worry about anyone else or what they’re getting. If they’re getting ahead – good for them, they help everyone indirectly. If the cops get to take their cars home, then they are at least keeping the peace while enroute. If you’re jealous about their free ride home, then be a cop. Grow up and be a little more keysey.

Happy Birthday to the two handsome guys who party at the Tiki Bar: Thursday is Mac's Birthday.  He works for Debonair and is often seen with his "beautiful bride" at the Ramrod Hot spot.  Friday is Bill's Birthday and it is a milestone, but you wouldn't know it from looking at him, since he looks twenty years younger than his actual age.  He wears starched white shirts and is the cleanest-cut, preppy guy, retired attorney at the Tiki.  A lot of us girls have crushes on him and he buys us drinks.  Happy Birthday you guys! 

I'm trying to contact Michelle Dravis for an event, and her contact info is incorrect in the Business Directory. Could anyone help me contact her? Please e-mail me at Melanierose632@hotmail.com

President Bush’s former press secretary Scott McClellan’s new book confirms all the dirt Americans have suspected about the Bush administration. Now, I expect the White House will launch a campaign to discredit their former spokesman. That's going to be pretty hard to do!

[Take cars home] It sure seems there’s a lot of discussion regarding the practice of allowing law enforcement and other city of Key West/Monroe County employees take public cars home.  County officials are given budgets from which to operate.  I expect elected and hired government employees to run an efficient and economical operation.  I'm not going to nickel and dime them on how they spend their budgets.  However, if I was their boss and I needed to make cuts someplace, I'd look to the departments with the biggest budgets.  I'll be more upset when a department is operating in excess of the budget.  Attention county commissioners:  you can't spend what you don't have.  I don't know if county or city of Key West police are operating within their budget.  Not only are fuel costs increasing (which is a variable expense) but maintenance and replacement are fixed costs that can be reduced by re-thinking business.  It's a privilege to be in law enforcement.  With that privilege comes the privilege of driving a car to and from the office.  Maybe this can be done smarter by allowing county/city officials the opportunity to ride the bus for free or provide a fixed, monthly transportation allowance.  Personally, I just want the sheriff and/or the chief of police to run a good law enforcement agency within assigned budgets.   If they can do this with the practice of allowing employees take home public cars, then I have no issue. 

When I open a Word document email attachment it appears in some exotic font that I have installed. How do I change the default font back to something I can easily read?

The reason most people don't succeed, is because the "follow through" will kill them. 

http://mybeautifulamerica.com/arizona.htm

May I ask why you are reluctant to mention McCoy and DiGennaro’s Sunshine Law infraction?  Our State Attorney, Mark Kohl, who is up for re-election this year, has done nothing with these two Commissioners before (concerning Sunshine Law violations). Do you think as long as he is in office, that there will be anything done to these government officials.  Remember that at the polls when you go to cast your vote. Think of Dennis Ward as our new State Attorney. Get to know him. You might like how he sees getting things done in Monroe County.

Q: What can a man do while his wife is going through menopause? A: Keep busy. If you're handy with tools, you can finish the basement. When you are done you will have a place to live.

[Puerto Rico becoming a state] First off  the only Caribbean island that has showed it's loyalty to the United States, has always been Puerto Rico. Puerto Ricans go as far back as the civil war, when it comes to shedding blood for this country. Puerto Ricans are usually the first at the front lines in all U.S. wars. Ask any war veteran, and he'll confirm that a Puerto Rican has fought side by side with him, and probably, saved each others life in one instance or another.

This is why the United States granted Puerto Rico the status of U.S. Commonwealth and made them American citizens. That's right to all you misinformed people out there. If you are born in Puerto Rico you are an American citizen. That's why it's Puerto Rico, USA. Every 4 years the U.S. Congress allows them the decision to vote as to continue being a commonwealth or the 51st state. 

My great, great grandfather fought as a union soldier in the civil war. My great grandfather fought along Teddy Roosevelt in the Spanish American war with the rough riders. Both my grandfathers were WWI veterans. My father was a medic in Europe in the D-Day invasion along with 2 of his brothers, and lost 2 other brothers to Japanese forces in the Pacific. In the Korean war 2 of my uncles were killed in action. My brother and 5 of my cousins fought in Vietnam, and they all came back safe and sound. I volunteered for the 1st Gulf War, but was denied for being over the age limit; and finally, my eldest son is an Operation Enduring Freedom vet serving 3 terms in the Persian Gulf.

I know I'm not the only one with such a great, proud heritage. There are plenty more Puerto Rican descendants with this type of history. So when it comes to the tiny Caribbean island of Puerto Rico, they've paid their dues. No other Latino nation or island has had this long record of fighting for this great country. In respect to all my fallen and surviving U.S. comrades and family I always proudly raise Old Glory for all American holidays.

When it comes to the valiant Puerto Ricans, what has been your significant contribution to the good ole USA, my friend? Drink beer, talk crap, whine and moan about everything?    

Have you ever had crabs this bad? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=snm2y-whCUY&eurl=http://videos.komando.com/2008/05/28/christmas-island-invasion/

I voted in good faith in the Florida election that was later declared void because of some technicality.  What am I, chopped liver?  I'm a taxpaying

US citizen and I want my vote to count as much as anyone else's in all elections!

When a police officer has a take home car they take much better care of that vehicle.  These cars are run for only a single shift then go with that police officer and are taken home.  The officer is responsible for the vehicle and any damage that may occur to it.   The car itself generally lasts between three and five years as opposed to 12-16 months when it is in general patrol use by all officers.  When a car is used by all officers the issue is that it gets run sometimes 24-7 and will run up the miles in a little over a year.  Most insurance companies will not insure a police vehicle after 100k miles.  This is because of the stress that these cars can be put under.  These cars need to be pursuit rated and able to perform at a high level.  When an officer gets a car from the “pool” they generally don’t wash it, clean it and care for it.  It gets driven into the ground with the attitude of “it’s not my car”, these cars are constantly run and in need of service.

So if you want to save gas, take the cars away from the officers and put them in “pool” and let them take them out at the beginning of the shift and back in at the end.  But be prepared to buy several  Crown Victorias, Chargers, or  Impalas every year as replacements instead of every 3-5 years. 

When you figure the price of a police vehicle that is “pursuit rated” (it needs to be just in case they have to chase someone, if it is not and they chase and get hurt guess who will pay) don’t forget the cost of outfitting them.  That means stripping the old car and salvaging whatever is good, then putting it back in the new one.  Sometimes it can be done sometimes not.  The cost of a new car fully outfitted (decals, lights, computer, in-car-camera, cage for criminals, etc) is in the 40k range.   

The idea of a police officer taking home a car is the give the community some sense of security.  When the criminal element sees the police car they almost always walk the other way.  Driving to the store and other places is usually covered in a general order or standard operating procedure of the police department.  It is either allowed or not.   Just as when a business gives them a free cup of coffee.  Some business’ have it as a built in security measure, if there is a cop there then a criminal will think twice.  It is up to the business to decide the amount they want the officer to pay.  It is a small perk and only a perk if the coffee is even any good.

When you work for General Motors you get a discount on your car, why is that? Airline workers fly for free--why?

There’s a flight simulator in Google Earth. While using Google Earth, simply hold down Ctrl+Alt+A (or Command+Alt+A on a Mac). You get your choice of two airplanes.  Google Pack If you don't have Google Earth, this will take you to it, but I suggest you uncheck all the other boxes before downloading.

Only a government that is afraid of its citizens tries to control them.

Shuttle Countdown Clock  STS-124/Discovery. Launch Date: May 31. Launch Time: 5:02 p.m. EDT. Watch the launch live!  See crew interviews and mission description in the time leading up to launch. NASA - NASA TV

Cell phone companies are charging $1.00 to $1.75 or more for 411 Information calls. Since no one carries a telephone directory in their Vehicle, they get away with it. When you need to use the 411 Information option, simply dial 1(800) FREE 411, or 1 (800) 373-3411; you will incur no charge. This works on your home telephone as well.

[Corona is more than beer] The Mexicans recycle it at least three times before shipping it to the U.S.

Why don't the local bars and restaurants serve Landshark beer?  It's mighty fine brew; tastes like no other.  Guess I have to go down to Margaritaville more often.  I always meet nice tourists at the bar.

[Secure the border]  Tuesdays posting concerning our illegal immigration problem was one of the very best pieces that I have ever read on this site.  The poster’s suggestions are rational, logical, and simply make great sense.  This poster has managed to outline a common sense approach that really could have great impact.  I’d be very much interested in learning where on the political spectrum the poster would place him/herself and how the readers would identify the poster’s political bent.  Is the poster liberal, is the poster conservative or is the poster somewhere in the middle?  A great posting, thanks and please keep thinking!

5 million Legos. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFGVzt7c5bY&eurl=http://videos.komando.com/2008/05/27/

We had another free V.I.P. oil change yesterday at Niles and waited only 15 minutes while enjoying a free cool beverage of our choice. I hope they treat us V.I.P. when we trade in our used car for a bigger evacuation / tow vehicle.  They have always treated us well when buying cars from Niles.  One time, the owner heard me ordering up yummy Bobalus pizzas and he bought us pizzas when they delivered the car to our door.  

They may have to make 2 trips for the bacon grease twins.

[Police vehicles] Let's get serious here. How stupid do you think we are? We see you cops using that taxpayer-bought, taxpayer-maintained and taxpayer-fueled cruiser to carry your kids to ball games, pick up items from Home Depot and go grocery shopping on your days off or during your off-duty time when you are out of uniform. Ever try getting a cop to show up at your house if you need one? If you have your car stolen or your house broken into you usually have to come in and file the report yourself.  The poster confessed that cops taking the cruisers home for private use is a "perk" negotiated by their union. That's some refreshing candor, but it doesn't make it right. The fact that cops aren't accountable for how they use that expensive public-owned vehicle makes it impossible to prove how much it "saves money" to have cops riding around on their days off in somebody else's car with somebody else paying for their gas. It's time to shed light on this "privileged class" of people in our country who consider themselves above the law and better than  working people who pay their way. It goes all the way up to the White House, and it stinks!

[Marine patrol] A picture is worth a thousand words.

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Thursday May 29, 2008

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Wednesday May 28, 2008

Yesterday’s defensive post of Posada was correct in its details, but missed the larger point that we are harboring a terrorist because we agree with his mission. (Is that watered down enough for the poster to accept?) Just because “he is considered a hero to many Cuban patriots” doesn’t mean he’s not a terrorist. Osama Bin Laden is a hero to many Iraqi patriots, but he’s still a terrorist. 

Just because the average citizen is not privy to the inner machinations and secrecy of the CIA doesn’t mean this story is pure crap. If someone is so entrenched in their so-called patriotism that they can’t read between the lines we are surely going to hell. Calling an opposing view un-American is more of that stupid “My country right or wrong” garbage. It’s you blind conservatives that have ruined this once great nation. You probably think McSame is the greatest thing since Bush II.

[Take home cars expensive] I agree that those who want cops to leave their cars at the station are jealous.  There is no other rational reason for the negative comments.  At least, not from anyone who actually understands the way things work.  I can't speak for the Upper Keys and I can't speak for Key West.  But I do know how the Lower Keys regulate their patrol cars.  Most deputies are assigned to the zone in which they live.  Therefore, it would actually use more gas to take the car back to the station on Cudjoe Key instead of just parking in their driveways.  If any Lower Keys deputies live out of county, they are forbidden from taking the cars home.  Also, there are numerous deputies, detectives, SWAT members, dive members, crime scene officers, etc who are constantly on call.  They are required to respond, often urgently, to active calls.  This can only be accomplished by having the cars at home.  These officers can not be made to respond in their own vehicles.  That is a rule enforced by wage and hour, contracts, and unions.  This is only scratching the surface.  This is not a large city that has 100 officers on duty at any given time.  On some nights, there are only three deputies covering Stock Island to the 7-Mile bridge.  On-call deputies are a necessity.  It is saving money to have deputies on-call with patrol cars at home, rather than hiring more deputies.  

[Bacon Grease Lady] I'm trying to locate the cartoon with the fat lady's picture and the warning: Quit using bacon grease to cook with or you'll look like this!

[Appeasement Redux] Yesterday’s posting that questioned Rumsfeld’s meeting with Hussein and comparing Ahmadinejad to Limbaugh and Hannity is an absolutely sterling display of limp liberal logic.  Damn, it’s absolutely astounding how just plain dumb is some of the crap these people post.  It just makes them look ridiculous. 

Rummy, in the mid 80’s was a civilian envoy sent to meet with Hussein, the Head of State of the nation of Iraq which was then our ally.  The mission was to improve relations with Iraq and to confer with Hussein about our mutual enemy Iran.  Saddam's regime was then using much of Iraq's burgeoning oil revenue to improve the daily lives of its people.  Iraq even won UN humanitarian awards for its literacy programs.  Was it a good idea at the time, you betcha’ Red Rider!  Our deep thinking poster apparently does not realize the Ahmadinejad is the President of Iran.  The President of Iran is the highest elected official in the Islamic Republic of Iran, second only to the Supreme Leader of Iran.  He is responsible for "functions of the executive," such as signing treaties, agreements, etc. with other countries and international organizations; the national planning and budget and state employment affairs; appointing ministers, governors, and ambassadors subject to the approval of the parliament.

Limbaugh and Hannity are naught but talk show hosts, but I’m sure they know who and what Ahmadinejad is.  Unfortunately our foolish posting friend does not.  I’m reasonably sure that Ahmadinejad, other world leaders, and his followers are convinced that he is a man of power and respect.  I’m equally sure that if Obama were to meet with him that conviction would be enhanced as would his stature in his nation and around the world.  Obama has said that he would meet with Ahmadinejad; he has said nothing about meeting with the Mullahs.  We must conclude that Obama is convinced, correctly or incorrectly, that Ahmadinejad is the Big Mickey in that sand pile.  Obama is dangerously wrong in contemplating an unconditional Presidential meet with the President of Iran.  Damn, even Biden, Harold Ford, Gary Hart and scads of other Democrats think that an unconditional meet would be foolhardy. 

[World in protest] French fishermen have blocked ports in protest over the high price of gas. Truck drivers have blocked a major highway in England, Washington DC truckers protested at the monument and truckers in Spain are demonstrating also.

They dropped Diane Feinstein's enormous illegal agricultural workers Amnesty;
They dropped their dishonest scheme to "recapture" unused business visas that had, in reality, already been used;
Finally, at the end of last week, the "open-borders Senators" dropped a huge increase in unskilled worker visas.

We have defeated one Amnesty attempt after another for 8 years in a row—the total is getting close to 60 Illegal Alien Amnesties defeated in this decade. We must never let one of these Amnesties slip through. We were able to defeat this latest attempted Amnesties and immigration hikes because of our members efforts in the past several months. But as you've probably learned by now, our opponents will keep trying, and trying. So we must be ready.   www.numbersusa.com

Believe in yourself.

[Can anyone think of any sinister handles for liberals] Two come to mind:  Hillary and Obama

I am amazed that our government is worried about Iran and nukes. They should be focused on the US building lots of nuclear plants to produce electricity--the only real way out of the energy crisis. These plants should have been built long ago but the environmentalists don't want them (they don't want anything) and our government has hamstringed their construction. There are only a few plants on the drawing board now, and it takes a long time to build one. And in response to the future rantings from our local tree huggers’ alternative energy is never going to take the place of base-loaded power unless you want everyone to live in a tent with no A/C.

[Take Home Cars] Someone in here stated that if the cops don’t take their cars home it won’t cost a penny less. How ridiculous. That’s all I have to say about that. As for the jealous part. Well, that’s even sillier. Sometimes it’s best to leave people living in a fantasy world where oil, gas and tire life are all paid for by the magical car fairies and the car fairies all work for the Police and Sheriffs Departments and no one in the county is getting laid off because there’s not enough money to pay them. The magical fairies will pay for them too, I’m sure.

[What classification would you place yourself] Someone who can read, do research, read the facts as printed, question those pretending to be truthful, understanding what may really be going on and preparing my self for a questionable future.  Is that ok?

Obama has started wearing the USA flag pin again. I thought he was against wearing his patriotism on his sleeve. This guy really is a flip flopper

Taking cruisers home while the county foots the bill? It’s a small price to pay for security. We need their visibility and their ability to react quickly. It is also only a small price or perk for the officers who should be paid for protecting your whiny ass. And about the gas: get rid of your Hummer or SUV status symbols. You drive these gas guzzlers, complain about global warming and are so worried about paradise being shattered; buy a bike or a scooter. They are easier to park (which you also complain about) and you won’t have to take up two spaces any longer.  For the poster who is looking for a sinister term for a liberal to counter “Neo-con”; keep it simple: tree-hugging hypocrite.

[Guns or Gas] A Missouri car dealer said on Thursday sales have soared at his auto and truck business since launching a promotion this week that promises buyers a free handgun or a $250 gas card with every purchase.

Max Motors, a small Butler, Missouri dealership that has as its logo a grimacing cowboy wielding a pistol, has sold more than 30 cars and trucks in the last three days, far more than its normal volume. And owner Mark Muller credits his decision to start offering buyers their choice of a $250 gas card or a $250 credit at a gun shop. "This thing has taken off. Sales have quadrupled," said Muller. Every buyer so far "except one guy from Canada and one old guy" has elected to take the gun, Muller said. Muller recommends his customers select a Kel-Tec .380 pistol. "It's a nice little handgun that fits in your pocket," he said.

[World Government classification] I don't know about the original poster but I'm in the just-holding-on-by-my-fingertips classification.

I have sent posts to this forum the past few days, but I guess they were not in  the interest of the editor to post them. They were not vulgar or racial, they were opinionated. What the hell is the forum for anyway? 

The border patrol should be given a lot more ammo, to be used liberally!

[Texas Border Volunteers] If you’re not allowed to shoot them what's the point?

A top Russian general says Moscow will take adequate measures to counter U.S. missile defense plans. Lt. Gen. Yevgeny Buzhinsky told a Tuesday briefing that Russia was thinking about ''asymmetrical'' steps if the United States deploys missile defense elements in Europe. He did not give specifics. At the same time, Buzhinsky said that the military doesn't plan to beef up the Soviet-era missile defense system that protects Moscow. Russia has rejected the U.S. assurances that the plans were designed to counter a missile threat from Iran. It says the U.S. missile defense facilities will undermine its security.

Send this web link to 10 people or you will have bad luck. http://bigpinekey.com/

Does anyone else notice that some of the small Keys just off Route 1 seem to be moving around?

$4,000 buckaroo's to have your back stretched? Did you demand your money back?

[Visions] Wow! If any of what you posted is true then Sandy Downs is as delusional as you are Sloan, maybe even more so. I find it interesting that her precognition did not seem to help her son, did it? It follows then that she is to be held ultimately responsible for his accident by failing to use her super powers to save him. I guess she can always get a job with some late night televangelist once she gets trounced in the election.  ~arthur_phrain@hotmail.com

[Hillary promised the Puerto Ricans she’d do is work for their statehood]  Why stop there?  There's a few thousand more potential voters south of the border; why not make them the same offer?  Save them a trip.

After reading Sloan's latest posting about Sandy I suddenly realized who they remind me of--the Wonder Twins!

A high school friend just retired from 35 years of teaching middle school in the Oakland Public School System. She said that when she started, the kids would stand when she entered the classroom and say, "Good morning, Miss XXXX." By the time she left, no one stood, and she was frequently summoned by, "Yo, bitch."

[Power outage] I am mad as hell and will have to take it some more. Here we are a few days shy of Hurricane season and both Sat and Sunday of this past weekend we were without power due to a pitiful little thunderstorm.  The storm was very welcomed but there is no excuse for the sorry infrastructure of “Shitty Electric”.  Have they not learned anything in the last 4 years with 2 years to become complacent? Granted, an act of God in the form of lightening cannot be predicted, but come on!  The technology is there to prevent a three hour outage from a strike or at least the ability to isolate the problem area quickly.  This is not new technology.

I live in Eden Pines and the dispatcher told my neighbor that the power was out (Sunday) from Eden Pines to Doctor’s Arm and we are “tied together”.  That is so not true.  Houses within site of mine had power. I know it could have been worse and I could have been better prepared with the generator at the ready.  We can no longer afford the gas to run the generator.  They have us by the short curlies.  Folks, get used to it.  For me this is another reason to evacuate.  Perhaps that is the point.

[Drift Fishing] With the price of fuel, I'll be doing a lot more.

If the country goes into a deep recession or even a depression, will the local officials cut taxes so we can survive or raise taxes to put us out into the streets?  There are only four things they can do to us: cut out electric, our water, our food via stopping the suppliers, and making the cops evict us.

Taking a police car home is a big benefit. It should be reported as income on every officer’s yearly income tax. Do you think our finest are reporting their windfall? If they don’t they should lose their cars and their jobs for breaking the law.

Rumor is that: District 3; Bill Estes has made a deal with the Stock Island Developers too, (the developers that want to build the 300 room Hotel in Safe Harbor), heard that Estes said he will be accommodating and flexible with them.  

I also read in the Coconut Telegraph that Heather Carruthers was bought and paid for by this same group? Looks like two members, Spehar and McCoy of “The Gang of Three” know they will lose this election?  I wonder if these Commissioners are trying to get their own new “Gang of Two" together, along with DiGennaro, which makes "The New Gang of Three"?  Folks wake up; get yourself educated before you vote in this Aug. 26 primary. (Ed: Note that this writer sent in both rumors.)

This new Mercedes prototype has no steering wheel! You drive it with a video-game style joystick. And it has no pedal controls either.  Can you drive with a joystick? Your kids and grandkids probably can.  The influence of video games in our lives has really arrived, wouldn't you say?

[marine patrol] I found the best way to get them to leave you alone is when you see them headed in your direction try to flag them down. Every time you do it they’ll look in the other direction and flying right on by.

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Wednesday May 28, 2008

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Tuesday May 28, 2008

The first time I could find that America left its allies in the lurch was during the First Barbary War in 1805. Thomas Jefferson was sick of the Barbary pirates capturing Americans and than ransoming them back to America. He figured it would be cheaper if he got rid of the pirates who were working for the usurper leader of Tunis.  Jefferson sent the Navy to Tripoli and William Eaton to Egypt to get the rightful heir, Hamet, who was in exile, hire a mercenary army (contractors?) and lead an insurgency to return Hamet to the throne. All was going well until Eaton needed more money. Jefferson seemed to change his mind and thought it would be cheaper to continue paying ransom than to support an insurgency. Eaton left in secret in the night abandoning his “army”. The battle of Tripoli was the first time the US fought on foreign soil.

It seems we’ve continued this practice of abandoning military causes when we change our mind.

Here is something Sandy Downs sent. It is very, very difficult for human beings to relate to a visionary, which Sandy truly is. She was born one. She has been one all her life.

Since I was a small girl, 3 yrs old, I have had vivid dreams, foretelling the future. I knew that my sister was going to die when I was 3 yrs. old. My sister was in the hospital, and when the phone rang, I waited for my mothers tears; I knew she had died before the call even came. She had died.
 
Before my niece at 3 months even got sick, I called my sister to find out if her daughter had symptoms of what I knew would befall her. I told my sister that her daughter had to have stomach surgery. They didn’t think they had insurance for it, but it would turn out alright. She started vomiting that night, and had to have emergency surgery. They thought their insurance was cancelled due to job changes, but it turned out they had it. I predicted it all. When the same niece fell ill with a heart condition at age 5, I told my sister she was fine and there was no need for surgery. They checked the young girl and said “Miraculously, the hole in her heart had closed.”
 
I was baptized at age 11, in a cold stream in Indiana in March, but I was already on a quest, long before that. At age 10, I knew my uncle would die. I didn’t know how, but I saw death on him 3 months before he passed. I was appointed to talk to him about God, but I did not. He intimidated me. I was always ashamed of that decision after he died of a gunshot wound to his stomach. He died entering his own home through a window during a rain storm. His room mate thought he was an intruder--my uncle had merely forgotten his keys. I knew he would die. He knew too. He told his sister a week prior to his death. I had done nothing, told no one. I was young, who would believe me? Who would believe me now?  Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

Does the continuing sinister mutterings of those Hate America First posters who harbor an abiding disdain for all things American grow wearisome to you?  Yesterday one such poster claimed that the U.S. was “harboring”  “Miami Cuban terrorists”.  The poster stated that these individuals received lenient treatment because they are “our terrorists”.  The poster made the claim that at least one is an American “CIA Cuban terrorist” who bombed a Venezuelan airliner.  This poster actually granted terrorism moral equivalence to spreading leaflets. The poster is correct when he says that Luis Clemente Faustino Posada Carriles aka “Bambi” is/was a terrorist.  He probably is/was a CIA asset.  Was he “our terrorist” or an informant?  He probably did commit terrorist acts against the Castro regime.  In fact he has been convicted by a Panamanian Court for plotting to kill Castro with a bomb.  He is considered a hero to many Cuban patriots. 

The poster would have you believe that we treated “Bambi” like a superstar.  Yet the record shows that the CIA fired him, and that he was an ongoing target of the Justice Department, saved from deportation only by the Federal Judiciary.  Is there any proof whatsoever that Posada committed any act of terrorism at the behest of the U.S. Government?  No, none what so ever.  The moral of this boring story is, whenever you see some hate filled breathless posting against the U.S. it’s always worth the time to check it out, these stories are almost always pure crap.

Secure the border.  Give the U.S. Border Patrol and local law enforcement the needed tools to bring law and order to the border.  Supply them with the money, equipment and manpower that they need to save American ranchers from the marauding immigrants and narco-mercenaries that are destroying their property and profiting from human and drug trade. At the same time we can then put a stop to the rapes and other assaults on Mexican women who are crossing in the desert.  To facilitate this, we may need to: A) Build the four layer fence in high traffic areas to work as a force multiplier for the rank and file Border Patrol agents.  B) Deploy either National Guard or Federal troops to confront narco-mercenaries head-on where needed, until the Border Patrol is completely up to speed. C) Enforce existing employment laws.

 2) Tax: Tax wire transfers that go back to Mexico. $23 billion was sent to Mexico from the United States last year.  That's a lot of money leaving the country and the economy ($62 billion if you include all of Latin America and the Caribbean).  A remittance tax could easily be collected wherever wire transfers of money are purchased.

3) Oil for social services:  Start billing Mexico for the social services incurred by undocumented Mexican immigrants, including education, incarceration and medical care.  For every day a Mexican national is in a U.S. hospital, school or prison, bill the Mexican government one barrel of oil.  The business of America has always been business. We are providing services, why aren't we billing for them?  Since we need the oil and Mexico has it, we can come to a simple and practical business solution. Mexico may be cash poor, but they are one of the five richest countries in natural resources on the planet. Mexico is one of our top three importers of oil and natural gas. We may not all immediately agree on what to do with the 12-20 million people that are already here, but we will all need to put fuel in our cars and heat our homes while we have an informed debate and figure out a compassionate answer.

4) Post the Bond:  Once the first three parts of the STOP program are in effect,  we establish a guest worker program where instead of giving their money to a human smuggler,  immigrant workers post a bond at a legal port of entry at the border.  Foreign nationals seeking employment will check in at the front door. They will be issued a tamperproof id card. Any employer who employs  a foreign national without such card pays an automatic $10,000 fine per employee.

Now we know who is coming into our country. We know why they are here, and we know that they are healthy and not a burden on the U.S. medical system.

While they are in the U.S. working, a percentage of the foreign national's pay goes back to the bond/escrow account. By the time their work visa is over, they now have a large chunk of cash sitting in that account. The foreign national collects that money and goes home. If they are even a day late in going home, that sizable chunk of cash is forfeited to law enforcement. Money is what drives the vast majority of people to illegally cross the border. Money is what will encourage visa compliance.

This Friday May 30th, and also June 6th and 13th, singer songwriter Adrienne will play in the 12-4 slot at the Hogsbreath Saloon, 400 Front St. Key West. Adrienne, lead singer of the band Injade, performs both originals and classic rock songs similar to the styles of Stevie Nicks, Joni Mitchell, Ricki Lee Jones, and KT Tunstall.

Joining Adrienne on stage is horn player extraordinaire, Ken Fradley.

Texas Border Volunteers demo. YouTube - TBV Invitation

[Female troops can offer the ultimate sacrifice] Now that's a stupid statement! There are a lot of fine female soldiers serving and if they are having sex I'm sure their enjoying it as much as any male. More power to them. All of them are over there doing a job so we can all whine about having to put fuel in our Hummers and SUVs.

[Brothers to the Rescue were warned several times to keep out of Cuban Air space] It is against International Law to use military aircraft to shoot down known civilian aircraft.  The Brothers aircraft were identified by squawk codes the day they were shot down.  Jose Basulto's aircraft did stray into Cuban airspace that day for about 1.5 miles. He was distracted by the MiG that crossed his path and the flash of fire from the fuel of the first of the two aircraft that was shot down over International Waters. He was in communication with the Havana Air Traffic Controllers just seconds before the first shoot down.

This post was a response to NORAD never being unresponsive. The day Brothers to the Rescue was shot down, NORAD admittedly failed to respond, because of a failure in communications according to Cheyenne Mountain.

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Tuesday May 28, 2008

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Monday May 26, 2008

Do you know that the US lists Cuba as a terrorist country? It should be the other way around. How many terrorist have we sent to Cuba? I think the answer is--a lot. They’re not specifically American terrorist, but Miami Cuban terrorists. I remember three instances of reading in the local papers of Miami terrorists being caught in Keys’ waters or on US1 trailering boats with arms and explosives down the Keys in order to launch in Key West and attack Cuba. They were all spanked and sent home because they were “our terrorists” and we wouldn’t want to offend the Miami Cubans, now, would we?

Happy Memorial Day.  Is this what our sons and daughters are dying for?

The $420,000,000 Mars Lander landed successfully. A very remarkable feat considering it made a soft landing. Now it will start digging and analyzing the soil to see if there are any clues of life. Maybe they’ll find a couple of little green men.

Yesterday’s YouTube video of Chris Mathews humiliating a right wing motor-mouth was proof-positive that the liberal side of the political spectrum has no monopoly on foolish and uniformed motor-mouths.  The core of the topic concerned the wisdom, or lack thereof, of Obama’s stated intent to personally, with no pre-conditions, meet with leaders such as Ahmadinejad.  Critics of Obama say that such meetings would be dangerous and would be appeasement.  I agree with the critics.  The right wing motor-mouth got stuck on “What had Neville Chamberlain done wrong?” 

Since Carter’s presidency, Ahmadinejad has been an implacable foe of the US and Israel.  It is highly likely that he was a leader in the Iranian taking of our Embassy and holding its staff as hostages.  At the very core of his being is a commitment to annihilating Israel.  He lusts to spread his beliefs and Sharia law throughout the world.  Killing non Muslims is a sacrament to him.  It is impossible to negotiate with any individual whose starting demand is your annihilation. Unconditional meeting with the likes of Ahmadinejad would in itself be an appeasement because is would grant him stature, gravitas.  Appeasement is the sacrifice of principles in surrender to demands of an aggressor in order to avoid conflict.  Ahmadinejad is a murderous aggressor who promises to spread war throughout the Middle East.  Such meetings would not only be a surrender of principles, but would also surely lead to the loss of lives and liberty.  Obama is wrong.

Bounty hunters are subject to varying standards of training, licensing and legal restrictions on a state-by-state basis. In all states, the minimum age for employment in the field is 18. Most states do not require any formal training or licensing, but some states have strict and specific regulations. Each state's Division of Insurance can provide specific information regarding the regulations applicable in that state.

Rain, oh glorious rain! It’s about time. (I washed my car last week hoping that would help, but it didn’t.) Last’ night’s rain was so welcomed.

Why I love my American dentist. Slide Show

[Female troops can offer the ultimate sacrifice] The U.S. Army in Afghanistan has removed the prohibition on sex between male and female soldiers. Since the 1990s, the army has been big on clean living (or whatever you want to call it) in combat zones. No booze, no sex and not cavorting (you know what that means) with the locals. But with about fifteen percent of the troops in combat zones being female, and most of them young and single, things happened. Some couples got caught. Commanders got tired of having to punish (usually with an Article 15, which is just short of a court martial) troops for "unauthorized fornication." So now it is, if not authorized, not likely to get you punished. Y'all have a nice time now.

Today is Memorial Day. Don’t you think it would have been a world-class act for George W. Bush, Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld, along with their wives and children, to have led the charge into Baghdad?

Here are some questions I posed last Wednesday, by email, to sheriff candidate Ken Davis. I sent the email to ken@kendavisforyoursheriff.com. No reply, so far.
 
Do you know of and will you stop the practice of providing sheriff cars to MCSO employees who are not deputies, detectives and higher officers in the MCSO chain of command? Do you know of and will you stop the practice of “loaning” patrol cars to people who do not even work for MCSO? Will you keep the seldom used and expensive Sheriff’s Air Force? Will you cut back to 1 the number of assistants a MCSO department head can have? Will you take a reduction in pay from $119,000 annual salary, plus benefits, to $90,000, which Sandra Downs has said she will do if she is elected Sheriff? Will you cut $6,000,000 off the existing $44,000,000 Sheriff’s budget, while increasing deputies’ salaries $10,000 a year, which Sandy says she will do? Will you reduce the number of staff and increase the number of deputies, which Sandy says she will do?
 
Will you do anything about the Ocean Reef Club Sheriff Substation? Do you believe MCSO should provide a substation to a private city inside county boundaries, into which the public cannot go without being specifically invited? Do you think the 6-10 deputies sitting behind that locked gate, doing very little, ought to be out cruising our public roads and neighborhoods instead? Do you think Ocean Reef ought to have to provide its own police force for so long as nobody can go in there but Ocean Reef members and their guests? Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

[Brothers to the Rescue]  They had been known to be in Cuban airspace many times in previous flights before dropping leaflets, broadcasting their message, etc.  My understanding is that they were in Cuban airspace prior to the shoot down.  Maybe these guys pushed the limits just a little too far, often enough to seal their fates. 

Why is it a given that drilling for oil ruins the environment? They’ve done real good in the Gulf. By the way, what is the definition of a neo-con?

Hillary, in desperation, just promised the Puerto Ricans that if elected one of the first things she’d do is work for their statehood.

Seeing my 9mm on my coffee table makes me feel safe.  Knowing I can respond to a life threatening situation myself faster than any law enforcement makes me feel safe.  When the bas stuff happens you look outside for the police car and wait for them to come. I'd rather save the tax money.

With all that rain last night the tree frogs were singing up a storm. I sure enjoy their singing. You really know its summertime in Big Pine Key. Now, unfortunately, the mosquitoes and noseeums will reappear after their winter dormancy and make island life difficult.

[Report from France] Upon arrival at the Gare de Lyon train station, I noted 3 men teams of French "Fusilliers Marins" and army personnel patrolling the station.  When I asked one of them directions to the Metro entrance, he grumbled something while pointing in the wrong direction.  Two Maghrabi Arabs behind me quickly retorted how unimpressed they were with the "show of force" and their "toy submachine guns."  At that juncture, I quickly became aware of the seething hatred and tension that permeated the French urban scene.  I chose to hop on the bus shuttle to the CDG airport instead taking the metro. 

Both sides know they are on a collision course while both pretend that such is not the case.  The only question is how long that state of controlled tension can go on without a major eruption.

[Vote for Sandy] This county needs to be rid of corruption. The scandals never end. Peryam is a joke--and a perverted one at that. I know way more about some of these deputies than I ought to, including the one deputy that has my slow-witted younger sister in a bind. I guess when he is not perusing slow chicks he is burning houses down.

The county needs to save money by not having deputies taking their patrol cars home. Can someone with common sense and a sense of right and wrong please run this sheriff's office?
Please? ~sweetsexyhollywoodqt1975@yahoo.com

A soldier was killed today, Memorial Day, bringing the total killed to 4,081

The Federal government is not the government of the United States of America. It is the tool of the land barons who still own, control and profit from the grants they still have from 1500's. They live in Europe, mainly in England and the Nordic countries.

We have no wealth. Our banks are owned by the ruling families in Europe and the Vatican. We have no value in our money since they dropped the Gold Standard. All we have is dead Presidents on toilet paper.

We have no supplies of oil because all our oil has been sold to other countries and is distributed by the World Bank as they see fit.  The Iraq and Iran oil is shared the same way. The war is a folly of a chess game by the Euro families.

We have wars to control over population and mainly to keep the hordes of breeding-dysfunctional occupied.

We vote as a people understanding it does good, but it means nothing. The stages are set and rehearsed by the "rulers" and no matter what "We the People", think, say, do or wish, it does not make the slightest difference because the rulers rule!

Why do those polygamists woman have such bad hair, not to mention their dress?

The cure for anything is salt water. Sweat tears of the sea.

Cops must have problems understanding that they are people too. That they can be watched like they watch us. That they can be prosecuted for a DUI or anything they sting us for. One day they will learn.

[Unedited] thanks stev e for sowing your true class, herre is your sign   (oooops) sorry no oHIO

Are all presidential primaries this long? I don’t remember any others going on for years. Libertarian Bob Barr has entered the race and will certainly take some votes from McCain, but not that many. I fear that there is too much hate and mistrust of white Americans to vote for Obama. They would vote for a woman if it wasn’t Hillary. So I’m afraid they’’ vote for McCain by default.

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Monday May 26, 2008

Sunday May 25, 2008

[NORAD was ordered to stand down] Ask the families of the 4 pilots from Brothers to the Rescue who were shot down over International waters in 1996.  A phone call from a US Customs radar operator in California was ignored by Tyndall A.F.B.  The Customs radar operator asked a high ranking duty officer if he saw the Cuban MiGs on radar.  Tyndall's duty officer responded in the affirmative and hung up.  The Customs radar operator went back to his screen and watched two Cuban MiGs systematically shoot down the two Cessnas. This is documented by radar print-outs made by the Customs officer as the event unfolded--evidence that was presented in Federal Court.

Additionally that same day, two aircraft based at Homestead A.F.B. were pulled from alert status (told to stand down) at the same time two more Cuban MiGs chased the remaining Brothers to the Rescue plane across the 24th parallel into U.S. airspace over the Florida Keys! Cuban Air Traffic Controllers aborted the mission at that point. (Documented in the ICAO report on the shoot-down) 

Officials from Cheyenne Mountain called it a "mix-up in communications". This event transpired as multiple radar stations across the U.S. were told to focus on the Straits of Florida and the Brothers to the Rescue flight that day.  Knowledge of the event prior to the occurrence has been traced to the highest levels of the Clinton Administration and to former Presidential candidate Bill Richardson who attended meetings with Castro in the weeks leading up to the shoot-down.

The truth is the American public will never know the truth about many things that have occurred in history.

BETRAYAL Clinton, Castro and the Shootdown of Brothers to the Rescue. In bookstores soon!

[Storms on Jupiter] A great picture that was part of an interesting piece in the Drudge Report the other day, it talked about the size of some of the storms on Jupiter.  It seems that Jupiter is getting warmer.  Not long ago we read reports that Mars is getting warmer. Sun of a gun!  First our Earth, then Mars, then Jupiter and Pluto, all warming up.  I guess that the SUV drivers on Jupiter and Mars and Pluto are going to have to cut back on their driving.  Why hasn't Al Gore and his eco-warrior minions gone Martian, or Jovian, or maybe Plutonian?

I'll tell you how to really save gas here in the keys.
1.  Eliminate the helicopters that fly around tracking key deer
2.  Eliminate all the water police except the coast guard.
3.  Tell the coast guard auxiliary people to find another hobby.
4.  Let all the Cubans land here but then bus them to Miami (another few thousand would not hurt anything up there) thereby eliminating all the fuel the CG uses to track them down.

Seriously, the fuel economy for helicopters and marine engines is 20 times worst then auto engines and most of the work they do on the water is useless.  If they have to be out there why not help the boaters out by providing free tows and emergency gas instead of hanging out at Picnic Island waiting for you to drink a few beers and then stopping you when you try to leave.

[More bar wisdom] Divorced is Latin for horney.

I too applaud the efforts of the County and Mr. Horton in their case against Gator Air. I hope they were able to reach this company by phone or email, I haven't been successful in the 2 weeks since they abandoned me at night in a closed Marathon Airport. There remains a charge on my credit card for a flight that never was. There is also a charge for the missed connecting flight in Fort Lauderdale that night, and one for the car rental to Miami the following day, and one for the last minute flight from MIA to PHL, not to mention a days wages lost. Kudos to the good folks at Big Pine B&B for standing up to them.

Gator Air must have used my money to partially reconstruct their new web site.  Gator still offers services to Marathon and Key West except now they sound more like a travel agency using other air carriers. I guess this is how they intend on landing at these airports--incognito. I'm sorry but that's no way to run an airline or any business and no way to treat the traveling patrons to and from the Keys. The only business this gator should be doing is in the Blue Hole. Flygatorair.com2

With decreased economy comes increased crime.  Let the cops take the patrol cars home for goodness sake.  I, for one, want a patrol car parked in my neighborhood.  I agree that the administrative employees in the plain white cars shouldn't have them, and certainly shouldn't be carting their kids to school every day in them.  But the gun-toting cops absolutely should have them.  By the way, that raise was for KWPD, not the Sheriff's Office.  Our county cops aren't looking at raises anytime in the near future.

[Respondent superior law] This is the same illogical law in principal that some countries have that sets the blame and responsibility to the passenger in a taxi cab. When the driver causes an accident or harms someone, the passenger who hired him is liable because under this law, the taxi and its driver would not have been there to cause the problem if the passenger didn't instruct the driver to be in that location at that time. Sound stupid? It is, because if the driver did not have the passenger but did the harm at the location and time, he is responsible. The driver and any other human in any situation should be responsible for their own actions.  Like my gun shot the guy, I didn't!   It's all pass the buck BS!

[Where's my Stimulus Check] You can go to www.irs.gov and find out when your tax refund or your stimulus check is due to arrive.  Stimulus checks are sent out according to the last two digits in you social security number.  If you filed late, it will give you an estimated time for expecting your stimulus check.  I hope we all get ours soon. 

[BigPineKey.com is giving away a new Mustang] Funny it looks like Arby's is giving away a free mustang too.

2Bangkok.com - Stephff's cyclone in Burma cartoons

[Pick a day and not buy gas] Great idea, I won't buy the 2 gallons I need to use today, I'll buy 4 gallons tomorrow to replace yesterday's supply and the 2 gallons I'll need today. Do you really think that the oil companies would even notice this strategy? 

U.S. home prices are likely to bottom out by early in 2009, former Federal Reserve Chair Alan Greenspan told listeners at a Deutsche Bank economic conference in Singapore last week. Greenspan also said he expects the credit crisis to end next year provided that the world economies maintain growth in the face of "a significant further decline" in U.S. home prices.

What's next? Once home prices and credit markets stabilize, Greenspan foresees a period of inflation.

[Where's my stimulus payment]
https://sa1.www4.irs.gov/irfof/IRServlet?app=IRACTC&selectLanguage=en

[Tom Greenwood the new Habitat for Humanity Restore Manage] I was in on Saturday and I have never seen the place looking better. It was clean and organized with reasonable prices and quality stuff.  Tom was not only helpful but friendly and chatty. I can't imagine his being rude as he certainly is a people person having worked with tourists at the Audubon House for many years. Maybe the complainer woke up on the wrong side of the bed herself.

[Boat load of tea to dump] As long as it belonged to the government, but if I owned it I would sell it!

I agree with the person's opinion about the manager of Habitat for humanity. I had never gone into their store and was looking forward to seeing what they had. I didn't know their rules and asked the manager a couple of times if they would take a lesser amount for something I was interested in buying. He made me feel very unwelcome and gave me a rude lesson on pricing at their store. It pissed me off so bad that they have lost any business they might have had from me in the future. I'll be damned if I will buy anything from someone that treats me like he treated me on that that Saturday morning shopping trip. I won't be back!

[Here’s the real, real truth about 9/11] The Pope did it!  The Pope acting in concert with his famed Swiss Guard dispatched a flight of Swiss Viggen fighters equipped with phase bN thermo glazed radar deflecting technology which paralyzed our ultra secret Herringbone Rocket Command.  This net was specifically designed to thwart any airborne attack against East Coast targets.  Herringbone Rocket Command, (HRC) works directly under Cheney.  The Pope was furious about the extra marital affair extant between Hillary Rodham Clinton and DC Dick Cheney.  Furthermore, the Pope was piously pissed about DC Dick Cheney’s unwavering refusal to condemn his avowed lesbian daughter.  Thus, the Pope struck out at HRC to embarrass DC Dick Cheney.  The dude who posted yesterday about Norad and “stand down” is my room mate, he has some severe problems, nothing at all like I have.  He says that he actually believes the voices he hears, I think that most of the voices that I hear are full of…well, you know. 

It’s time to go to treatment again.  My Doc keeps pestering me to go on the web and read http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/military_law/1227842.html?page=3  She says that I’d be crazy not to.  Shoot, you can’t trust these damned Docs.  Please come visit me and my roomie. It’s awful lonesome and kind of scary here.

[Blood-alcohol breath test] It is self-incrimination and the Constitution protects you against that, but our local juntas over-look that. If you don't incriminate yourself, they either lock you up or fine you. Either way you are punished for not committing any crime. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-incrimination

[Forced to spend on gas] No. Not really. We are going willingly, like sheep to our slaughter.

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Sunday May 25, 2008

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Saturday May 24, 2008

[Dean of Oil Analysis] If he’s right and we eventually pay $12 a gallon for imported fuel, drilling for our own oil will be priced exactly the same. It’s called capitalism. Don’t ruin our environment for the wishful thinking that it will lower the price of gas. It’s all smoke and mirrors. Do you trust big oil? I might add big Republican oil.

Taking police cars home is a win/win situation. Because of this practice there are many more law enforcement vehicles on the road for longer periods of time and they each have a cop in them who is driving them on his own time—costing the County nothing. Plus seeing a cop car parked in the neighborhood makes me feel safer.

[Fuel reaches another record high] Yes, and wait until the water wars and electric wars start, like the food wars are beginning to now. You think it is bad now—ha!

[Gator Air] Kudos to Coconut Telegraph.  Never underestimate the power of the public voice. Good job by Director of Aviation Peter Horton, and the Monroe County Attorney's office.

[Take home cruisers and spiraling gas prices] I have a neighbor who is a civilian employee of the Sheriff's Dept, some sort of supervisor I guess, because she has a take home car. I can understand a marked take home cruiser as a crime deterrent, but a civilian doesn't have that ability. If there is a way to save money for gas in the Sheriff's Dept., it is in being more selective in who has a take home vehicle. If I have to pay to go to work, so should everyone else.

The automotive future is here. Video

eBay on your cell phone. ahTXT - Real-Time eBay Auction Montioring Activity On Your Mobile Cell Phone via Text SMS Messages

Five kinds of lucky Video

[Good honest mechanic] I use Freeman automotive in Marathon. They’re the best around I have found.

We knew some smart-ass nit picker would correct us about SAC, so we stand corrected. But it doesn't change the fact that NORAD was ordered to stand down.

As for who is too stupid to be allowed on the internet, notice how these closet fascists love to pick and choose who they decide is stupid and who isn't. The fact is the Air Force was given executive order from the Bush White House to stand down and allow 9/11 to proceed and that was very damn stupid indeed--criminally stupid!

[Web cam] If you’re bored enough to view it your probably 30 seconds from suicide.

[Organized religion] Oh, my God, the devil made them do it!

Oddly enough, someone said why don't we pick a day and not buy gas to protest the high prices. And I could not agree more. I would love to see that. But, if you go to lunch with four people, you cannot get them to agree on what to eat, let alone every motorist electively not buying gas on a specific day.  If someone could figure out how to do that and get everyone from every different walk of life to go along, count me in. Idealism is a wonderful thing.

Food is the next thing, and dining out will stop almost immediately, then the large wholesalers will raise prices, the food markets will stupidly double their retail, and garden soil will sky rocket because the only way we will survive is with a home garden or Soylent Green!

Am I dumb or dumber? I never could view anything on the web cam. Is the joke on me?
Question: How is the girl at Lost Cargo going to tell the Miami wackos from the local yokels?   Life is so hard.

Here's the Wikipedia link for John Yoo. He left the Justice department in 2003, but his title was Assistant Deputy Attorney General. Search him out, and read his opinions.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Yoo

BigPineKey.com is giving away a new Mustang. Arby's Mustang: Register

Major League Baseball: Events: 2008 All-Star Game: Online Ballot: Registration

To the person looking for a good mechanic. Try  A1 Auto on Ramrod Key. 872-0840. Great service.

Kudos to the Police departments around the country not allowing Police and Sheriffs to take their cars home any more. I wonder what it’s like having fiscally responsible Commissioners. What a novel idea not letting someone put thousands and thousands of miles and free gas on a citizen paid for vehicle. What a waste. Remember that when you vote along with remembering who wants to add yet another penny to your fuel cost. No increased taxes! Wish I had a boat load of tea to dump.

Drinking in a Tiki bar the other day and answering questions from other patrons whose intellective wattages were quite dim, I finally received a response from a sloshed tooth, "Ya know Pal, you is arrogant!"   I answered, "No, I’s Polish!"    He bought a round! 

I don't know about baking, but if Bagel Island wants to hire a taste taster, I will submit my application. Yay, bagels!

[McCain too old?] At 72 George Bush Sr. went sky diving, at 73 Ronald Reagan was elected to his 2nd term and at 75 Nelson Mandela became President of south Africa, Grandma Moses at 76 gave up embroidery because of her arthritis, she took up painting and Winston Churchill became prime minister of England for the 2nd time at 77 years of age. How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you were?

Where's my "Stimulus" check?

Since Demand sets the price for gas. pretty soon we'll have to stabilize that demand by going to rationing. Lots of people can and will pay anything for a gallon of gas just as long as they can get some.  This will end up spreading worldwide.   There's nothing else to stop rising prices in a free market.

Millions of dogs and cats are euthanized each year.  Help them all, even the feral ones.  They deserve to live. Check out this link for a cute video:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMzW3LIkNLA.

Burglary attempt, complete with lookout. Video

Antarctica Slide Show

Anyone who refuses to submit to a blood-alcohol breath test this weekend will be required to have his or her blood drawn, http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/metro/stories/MYSA052208.2B.breathtest.EN.1810a337.html

Ted Kennedy is going to attempt to beat cancer by taking his tumor for a ride over the Chappaquiddick Bridge.

This is not a Van Gough. It’s storms on Jupiter.

Dave and Donny at Monroe Tire, in my opinion are the best mechanics in the Keys. They have taken care of my car and the screw ups other mechanics did to my car.  They have never taken advantage of the fact that I'm a woman and could over charge. My car is ready when they say it will be and they are always kind and courteous.  I wouldn't think of taking my car to anyone else.  My car is difficult to work on, and I'm sure they hate to see me coming with it, but they've never let on!  I think they're the best.

Before this rumor that NORAD was ordered to stand down gets accepted, let’s set it straight. NORAD never, ever stands down and leaves the borders open. If they were ordered "Not to intercept" it is one thing, but to stand down. Never happens. That’s this former missilier’s opinion.

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Saturday May 24, 2008

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Friday May 23, 2008

Inflation? That was 4 or 5 years ago I think.  The price of real estate is dropping more now that at any time in history.  Just remember that inflation is like inflating a balloon with helium--it will go up!  I think you may be confused on this issue. The only thing that is going up is the price of petroleum and anything that is delivered in a truck, which; correct me if I am wrong, is everything else. My hours and income, as happens every year about this time, is going down. The other things that are going up are my hairline, my waistline and my blood pressure. I am undecided as to whether I should eat this week or fuel my truck.  Does anyone else remember when the coffee prices went off the scale? Was there a shortage? I am personally very happy for the cretin who posted here recently extolling the virtues of his petroleum stock and hoping that the price continues to rise. I can only pray that that was tongue-in-cheek humor because if it wasn't, the ‘home” has been missing you for some time. Please stay away from sharp objects for your own sake.

The up side to all this is that George Bush has given up golf as it is not appropriate for mothers of recently killed soldiers to see him enjoying himself. George it does not matter, I am pretty sure the whole planet knows that you are an idiot already. Why are we in Iraq again? Nu-kle-er not nuk-u-lur for God's sake--be afraid, be very afraid.  Perhaps we should determine who manipulated the oil prices and elect them in November.  Wait a minute; I think we may have already done that the last time.

[Why should the U.S. or Venezuela dictate policy in curbing piracy] They only have the authority to issue Letters of Marque. They haven’t issued any in over a hundred years. http://piratedocuments.com/

A great big thank you from Tom Bartley for supporting me in buying lacrosse sticks for the kids in Latvia. I am presently teaching English at a small village school in Mazsalaca, Latvia. I sent 120 Lacrosse sticks and over $1000 in music books. Here, they do not have a guitar teacher or cello or contra bass teacher. They have a real good music school though. It looks like things will really rev up June 2nd to 7th when I run morning and afternoon English /Inter-Lacrosse camps I expect to entertain and teach at least 120 children I do hope to encourage local graduates interested in becoming teachers to take on the lacrosse organization.  Hope to see you all soon.  Good work, Howard and the Mile Marker 24 Band, Tommy singing to the Kids In Latvia.  Remember, changes in attitudes--changes in latitudes  You've got to love the Keys.

"Not all religious people are good, not all good people are religious" which is a short-hand explanation of why I don't believe in religion and despair of people who want their religious beliefs to support their claims to being moral. Religion is a private matter which is protected from government interference and government imposition by law. Morality is a public matter that affects us all but cannot be imposed by law.

[Mongols whose religion was blind worship of their emperor] You can’t have a religion without a supernatural entity. The emperor wasn’t a supernatural entity. The writer doesn’t seem to know the difference between organized religion and political ambition. He seems to have skewered history to defend his religion.

[Today's Gossip] Are the rumors true about Heather Carruthers?  The rumor is that she has been bought and paid for by the developers on Stock Island who want to build the 300 room hotel on the working waterfront?

[Organized religion] The poster who cited the various atheist and "religious" state groups such as the Nazi's, Chinese communists and Mongols kept pointing out that these were religions.  Was this to meant to be ironic, or were they really stating these Atheist and/or political groups as truly being organized religions? With the exception of the Mongols, with whom I am not entirely familiar, none of these groups truly formed churches or organized religions around their leaders.  In fact most of these groups specifically distanced themselves from organized religion (the Bolsheviks, and Chinese Communists in specific), though the Nazi did have some occult leanings having to do with mystical Aryan myths, and Norse/Teutonic symbology. 

The use of one’s own power over others to order or compel ones followers to violence against others is evil, and it's just that religion in the past had more numbers and more clout than other political systems.  Today the church rules far less than any state. Today we see political leaders hijacking patriotism (which is merely political faith) both at home and abroad, and using their own religions to prop up their divine right to kill others.  So it is politics and power-mongering that are the cause for almost all violence by humans against their fellow man. 

Religion was just one of its more effective vehicles before modern day political systems evolved.  Even the religious wars of the middle east and modern day terrorists have more to do with power over others, or lack thereof, than religion.  Religion is only the scape-goat, as it is very easy to point to the mystery of the Divine as justification for any act.  Today, when few Westerners would support such a system, and through the foresight of our founding fathers religion has been separated enough from state that other false justifications must be given for war. 

[Strategic Air Command's standing orders/Case closed. Guilty!] Hey moron, SAC was eliminated in 1992 during reorganization after the collapse of the Soviet Union. They were in charge of long range bombers and ICBMs, not local fighter coverage. You are too stupid to be allowed on the internet. Unplug your computer and go back and get your GED you stupid douchnozzle.

[Gas] Okay, so you’re tired of paying $4-$5 for a gallon of gas.  Toofreaking bad, tough!  It’s not going to be that cheap for long.  So says Charles T. Maxwell, Senior Energy Analysis at Weeden and Co. Maxwell is described as the “Dean of Oil Analysis”.  Maxwell says that world wide diminution of oil reserves will push pump prices to $12 - $15 per gallon between 2010 and 2015, he’s quoted as saying these prices are “inevitable”.  Do you suppose that there is any hope whatsoever that someday we might be able to tap our own resources, or will be we be forever held at gunpoint by the eco warriors and their political machine? How much longer will the fate of the spotted furry trout or the flat breasted shrill tree warbler be more important to politicos than the security of our nation?

How do I view the web cam? Where is it filming? Sorry to be so dumb! Menu

I will be surprised if Sal Gutierrez gets any votes at all. He is a hate monger. He has cleaned up his website. He took off the homemade picture of Obama promising all people a job and all the black people are running away, as if to imply black people don’t want a job. That is just outright racism. He calls Heather Carruthers “dildo breath’ because she has a  female partner. Who cares? She has helped us all with our insurance issues and I hear she is a lovely person. He makes horrible cartoons labeling Bill Becker a murderer. Has anyone done more community service than Becker--on the air for 60 hours straight after the hurricane. He  is attacking George Nugent daily. It is interesting that he took his hate site down after he decided to run for election. He is a racist, elitist, hypocrite. I can’t wait to see him get 4% of the vote. ~cdgbpk@bellsouth.net

Searching Google Images for J Hook this comes up and makes me look forward to the J Hook regulations!

I have a neighbor who told me he was also charged 7% to list his house by a realtor and told about the 3.5%/3.5% split getting it shown more.  After he read the postings here about the 7% company he pulled out his paperwork.  The real estate company who listed his house took 4% and gave the other 3% to the selling agent.  Another consumer screwed by a dishonest real estate company.  I wasn't surprised to learn which real estate company it was that deceived him. Anyone who is charged 7% by this company better get it in writing how they will disburse the commission.

Mega kudos to the poster who yesterday revealed the shocking news about John Yoo (John Yoo who?) and the supposed child nut-crushing proclivities of the Bush administration.  I checked out the sourcing of his posting and found proof that the poster is a rabid Obama supporter.  Because of his sick and slavish love and dedication to Obama, he failed to tell us that Obama has a lot to hide.  That source reveals that Obama is in fact an undercover Zulu shaman who, with his mentor and fellow plotters, Ali Bin Rev Wright, Osama Bin LaDeDaLaden, and his mistress Maddy Alawright, at midnight, on Thursdays, hold weekly strategy meetings wherein they drink the blood of virgins procured from the Church of Latter Day Saints.  These meeting currently are focused on a plan to “out” Rush Limbaugh as a gay octoroon who has a secret addiction to chamomile tea.  This would devastate El Rushbo’s credibility with his slavish, drooling, mind-numbed voting Americans who cling to their guns, their flag, and their religions. 

The incredible truth to this whole fantasy is that John Yoo (who?) is not a Deputy Attorney General; in fact, he is a law professor at Berkley.  Can anyone think of a more left wing campus?  The moon must have just been full to flush out this caliber of posting.  I’ve got to go and do more research into the fact that Cheney knew that his daughters female lover would be on the 82^nd floor of the World Trade Center on 9/11/01 at 9:00 AM, but he didn't know which tower,  thus proving that Cheney, in fact, ordered the destruction of the WTC towers.  Case closed, time for my meds and therapy.  Please come visit, it’s lonely here.

I agree with Obama letting all the Cubans return to Cuba.  Can we refuse to let them return?  Rid us of Cubans if we won't let other immigrants stay.  Why is a Cuban better than a Haitian, Mexican or Russian?

As fuel reaches yet another record high it is indeed time to reconsider the Police Dept’s take-a-car-home practice. These are hard financial times in the Keys and instead of doing what is right our commissioners are trying to add yet another penny to our fuel costs. How much could be saved every time a police cruiser is left at the place of work and not wasting fuel driving 25-30 miles each way every day back and forth to key West? The Police were just given well deserved raises and there is nothing wrong with getting your own way back and forth to work. It’s time for the commissioners to cut every where they can and this is a very wise place to start. No more free cars in these tough economic times. Its a huge waste of money.

When the missionaries arrived, the Africans had the land and the missionaries had the bible. They taught us how to pray with our eyes closed. When we opened them, they had the land and we had the bible." ~Jomo Kenyatta

Bagel Island Coffee and Deli is seeking a part time baker. Duties include baking, making dough for bagels and making coffee. Hours 4am-7am Tuesday Thursday and Sunday some experience will be a great help. This position will be working on your own no customer interaction.

Just a little while ago, I called the Supervisor of Elections Office in Key West, about requesting an investigation for possible violation of the Florida Election Laws by Bob Peryam, Phil Mandina, Brooks White and Keynoter Editor Larry Kahn, who admitted on the phone to Sandra Downs yesterday that he knew Brooks represented many political candidates. I was told no one was at the Elections Office who could help me. I left my phone number and asked that Harry Sawyer, whose office it is, call me back. I was told he might not be able to return the call, but someone would call me.
 
If I had Brooks White working for my county commission campaign, and he wrote a letter to the editor such as this one to the Keynoter, putting me into a favorable light and slamming some of my opponents, without disclosing that is was a paid political ad approved by me, it would be a violation of the Florida Election Laws. By me. By Brooks. And by anyone else who knowingly participated.
 
In past articles about candidates, the Keynoter has indicated when Brooks White is involved in candidates’ campaigns. A seasoned journalist, Larry Kahn knows the election laws require candidates and their hired help to disclose in their political advertising that it is paid political advertising, approved by the candidate.
 
I ask that Bob Peryam, Phil Mandina and Brooks White be investigated, and if it turns out that Brooks White represents either Bob Peryam or Phil Mandina, that prosecution begin against the appropriate candidate and Brooks White, and against Larry Kahn and the Keynoter (as accomplices). Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

Create your own travel map of places you’ve been. Where I've Been - Beta II

[Ticky-Tacky Kennedy] Well, no matter what, his car has killed more people than my gun has.

This Saturday May 24^th from 9 am until noon, the Big Pine and Lower Keys Rotary Club will be having our Annual Boot Drive at the light in Big Pine and a bake sale at the entrance of Winn Dixie to support the 4^th of July Fireworks celebration.  All donations go directly to purchase the fireworks for the event.  If you are interested in donating but can’t make it to the light, please feel free to mail a check made payable to Big Pine Rotary Club and mail it to PO Box 431957, Big Pine Key, FL 33043.

Mrs. Goode (Sugarloaf Lodge) was a very nice, classy lady.

Anyone who still thinks the New World Order conspiracy is a fairy tale, take a look at this video. Notice particularly the interview with David Rockefeller, and the uncanny resemblance between him and the wealthy troll "Mr Burns" on the Simpsons cartoon. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxPYa5mVlYU

What we are forced to spend on gas we will not be able to spend on anything else.  A grim picture of the future.

The other day, The Miami Herald ran a story concerning a 73-year-old motorist who was stopped by police. This in itself is not remarkable. The streets of Miami-Dade County are teeming with motorists who should be stopped by police. But this man was not driving on the streets. He was driving on a runway at Miami International Airport. Really. According to the story, the man ''burst through the southeast gate'' in his Chevrolet Cobalt and ``drove down runway 9.'' You will be relieved to learn that the police don't think he was a terrorist. Apparently he was just a driver who, like so many older drivers down here, got confused. Chances are that, even if the police hadn't stopped him, once he saw a 757 taxiing toward him, it would have dawned on him that he wasn't on Le Jeune Road. Although not necessarily.

You have to wonder about the security at Miami International. I, personally, have had my shampoo and my toothpaste confiscated at MIA because they were in containers larger than three ounces. If I can't get near an airplane with personal hygiene products, how did this guy get through with a cat?

[NASCAR] Speaking of which, does anyone know of a good, honest mechanic down here. Please don't tell me about the place on Cudjoe (I won't mention any names) but that guy is a crook.  Nobody should go there.  He overcharges on everything including labor and parts. We don't need places like that down here. ~Dondon1023@aol.com

[Mrs Goode’s passing]  Oh, my, I am sorry to hear this too.  I didn't know she passed.  She looked so healthy the last time I saw her.  Can someone tell me what she died from. My heart goes out to her family.

Inflation is probably because more debt is on credit cards than ever before while people try to live beyond their means.

These are the good old days my friends!

[Ford is cutting production] I guess it's a damn good thing we are not in a recession.

Politicians are the same everywhere. “The front fell off” Video

Deepest sympathy to all the Big Piners who lost someone this past month.

You are what you eat.

[More bleach in the gene pool] In April, two of the nine Baltimore-area middle school kids implicated in a potentially fatal beating of a young couple on a transit bus last year said they would soon file lawsuits asking for $10 million each from their school (for suspending them) and the transit company (for barring them from future rides, which it did out of concern for the safety of its passengers).

[Tacky Ted Kennedy] Pardon me if I don't shed a tear for Uncle Teddy, I save those for Mary Jo. Karma's a bitch.

The gas prices are outrageously high!  Why don't we just pick one day of the week where we just don't buy gas in protest?

[The hijacked planes that were used on 9/11 were reported, but an order was given for SAC to stand down]  Considering there hasn't been a SAC for many years that would have been difficult.  The Air Force consolidated SAC with other air commands in 1992.  There is a SAC museum near Offutt AFB outside Omaha to honor those who served and the planes that flew. Offutt AFB - Strategic Air Command Headquarters

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Friday May 23, 2008

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Thursday May 22, 2008

I have been around for 10 Presidents and we are in the worst, most sudden inflation I have ever seen.  It started in the time of the real estate flippers a few years ago.

[Catering to the Miami Cubans]  I'm voting for Obama because he is one politician who hasn't accepted the Miami Cuban party line, and I believe he may finally open up Cuba to Americans.   Most politicians adhere to this policy for no other reason than to solicit the Florida vote.  If Bush wanted to do anything worthwhile in his term he would end the embargo on his last day in office.

The hydrofoils were decommissioned because they were a mechanical nightmare.  Every single time they were underway, they returned with some sort of mechanical casualty.  They just got too expensive to maintain.

Bonaire is one of the most beautiful reefs in the world and the Dutch island is one of the most unique in the world. You don’t even need a boat to see coral as the reefs come right up to the beach. In the south they still mine salt from the ocean in vast flats. These flats are home to large flamingo populations. In the north is George Washington National Park which is a must see. Rent a car and drive thru it. You can stop and swim anywhere and rest in the shade under the vast limestone shelves that are everywhere. It’s loaded with iguana and parrots and the fences are made of cactus planted side by side. I was there ten years ago and, to this day, it is the most expensive place I’ve ever been. Dive certification there is simple and night diving anywhere is fantastic.

I read in the new Keynoter a letter to the editor from Books White, whom I know personally. In his letter, Brooks praises Bob Peryam and Phil Mandina for taking the high road in the sheriff’s race, and pounds Ken Davis and Sandy Downs for going after the issues, as I see it.
 
Brooks is a professional campaign consultant/promoter. His phone number just happened to be in my cell phone directory, so I pressed “Send.” Brooks answered. After hellos, I said I had just read his letter to the editor and perhaps he did not know it had been published? He said he had seen it. I asked if he was representing a sheriff candidate? He said he wrote the letter as a private citizen. I asked several more times if he was representing a sheriff candidate, and each time he said he would not answer the question. I said he has an affirmative duty to the public, when he writes a letter to the editor such as this one in the Keynoter, to disclose if he is representing a candidate.
 
I got nowhere, it was like talking to a brick wall.
 
I told Brooks that we have great trouble in the Keys, and I had thought he was someone who would help with it, but I was seeing that he is part of the problem. When I said I might be asked to write about his and my conversation, he said for me not to put words into his mouth. I said he had put words into his own mouth. Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

[Navy Hydrofoil Fleet] The ships were retired because they were not judged cost effective for their mission in a Navy with primarily offensive missions rather than coastal patrol. USS Aries PHM-5 Hydrofoil Memorial, Inc. obtained Aries for rehabilitation as a memorial located on the Grand River in Brunswick, Missouri. All other PHMs in the class were sold for scrap.

[Ticky-Tacky] Your May 21st Coconut Telegraph edited photo supposedly showing Senator Ted Kennedy being air lifted was most certainly in bad taste.  Mention of Kennedy's condition and being air lifted would have been ample information, if it really needed mentioning at all.  There has been wide news coverage, and I'm sure most everybody is aware of his condition. I feel you mentioned it only to use the photo, which is most certainly not funny on a day the Senator was more or less given a death sentence.

I am so glad to see the Live Webcam is back.  Thanks Ed. You are the best.

[There is nothing on TV worth watching] But there are lots of people watching. Guess where their IQ falls, above average or below average?

Every day is a record setting day for fuel prices. Today it's $138 a barrel, a new record.

Government sponsored Dial-a-Prayer.

Thanks for the live webcam!  I’m really happy to see it back, and the flag is a nice touch.

For 50 years the Strategic Air Command's standing orders were to scramble and intercept any suspicious aircraft which came anywhere near major U.S. cities; especially D.C. and NYC. The hijacked planes that were used on 9/11 were reported, but an order was given for SAC to stand down. According to a former Air Force official that order had to be an Executive order given by the President or, because Bush was in Florida, the Vice President. An order was given by the White House for our Air Force to stand down and therefore allow the attacks of 9/11. Case closed. Guilty! 

McCain is just a carbon copy of Bush 2. Rumor has it he's considering Cheney as his Vice President and Rumsfeld as Secretary of Defense. He might as well. Whoever of the 3 stooges they install in the White House will be a stooge for the same people.

I’m voting for Obama because he will talk to our enemies and he will allow the Miami Cubans to visit their families whenever they want instead of just once a year. The world sees America as arrogant and not talking to our enemies is arrogant. We are arrogant. Just read some of the posts here.

[Killing in the name of religion] You got that right!

That interactive toilet was a bit much. Do we Americans have to belittle ourselves to the whims of nits like that inventor. Oh, we're importing them already? Where can I buy stock in the company?

Bush is so deep in the pockets of the Miami Cubans that he still lists Cuba as a terrorist nation. The Miamians have terrorized that Island far more than Cubans have terrorized us or anyone else. When the Miamians get caught they usually are slapped on the wrist and their weapons and explosives confiscated.

NASCAR is a lot more fun to watch now that the cars are safer.  I can enjoy a good wreck, but prefer not to see serious injuries.

[Free the Cuban people from American repression] Cubans are perfectly free to conduct business with the entire world with the exception of the U.S. How is Cuba repressed? Simply because we choose not to engage in commerce with them? They hate our guts anyway, why would they want to trade with us, after all? They hate capitalism, and everything America has stood for. Screw 'em.

[Jeremiah Wright Dec 1961 Boot Camp]  Wouldn't you know it?  Nothing is sacred!

[Conspiracy] This is an uninterrupted 51-second video of Obama speaking. He's telling us exactly what he will do to the military. Watch it before this too is removed off their web site.  He plans to unilaterally disarm our nation. The question is, for what, and more specifically, for whom?http://www.macsmind.com/wordpress/2008/02/27/obama-plans-to-disarm-america

[Dog Cloning in California] Oh goodie, I can have 100 copies of my dead pooch. Now let's see, what other organisms I can over populate this planet with? We cannot feed the piles of two legged protoplasm we have now, what if people decide to go nuts with this cloning crap? God help us sterilize the inept thinkers on this world !

U.S. Deputy Attorney General John Yoo has publicly argued that "The President has the right to order the torture of children of suspects, including crushing the child's testicles." Anybody still doubt there are criminally insane perverts in high office in this government?

We would agree that more people have been killed or injured by organized religion than any other force on earth. That would include the godless Mongol hordes whose religion was blind worship of their emperor who swept across Asia, murdering untold thousands. It would also include atheistic Bolsheviks, whose leaders like Lenin and Stalin, setting themselves up as gods, ordered the mass murder of tens of millions. Don't forget Chancellor Hitler, who was worshiped as a god by the German people with thousands chanting "Seig Heil!". That "religion" caused the deaths of 6 million Jews, 6 million Christians, and over 20 million Russians killed in the war. How about Chairman Mao of China? He declared God dead, so his subjects worshiped him, and that "organized religion" mass murdered so many millions they are still figuring out the number. We need not mention the organized religion of Islam. There is no way to calculate the millions who have suffered and died under that terror.

Yes, anytime despots organize a religion, whether it be crazed popes during the Crusades or psychopathic presidents and neocons whipping up jingo frenzy to further their lust for power, mass murder and tyranny are the result. However, individuals with honest, clear minds who hold beliefs such as "Love your neighbor as yourself", "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" and "Forgive our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us", whether Christian, Jew or whatever are the light of the world. Every good and true humanitarian act on earth can usually be traced to someone such as Mother Teresa or Gandhi whose life is guided by those principles. Organized religion can be a curse to the world, but sovereign human beings led by moral beliefs are the salvation of it. 

Mema, Tamara and Family, Tom and Family, Ronald and Family and John and Family, as you all know Pepa held a very special place in my heart.  Nothing I can say or do will ease your pain but please know I love you guys and wish I could take your sorrow away.  Now he can be at peace, with his cigar!  I wish I could be there with you. Love always.

The hydrofoils had one big foil on the stern that swung down over the transom and a single foil in the bow and it ran somewhat like a tricycle except it would go ninety miles per hour in ten foot seas and remain absolutely level. The 3” bow cannon was operated much like a video game from down below at the fire station. A chart was projected on a table and the gunner would point and click on the chart and the cannon would fire (something liker that).

[Improved terrorism (repeat)] This guy looks like he went to the Hunter S. Thompson School of Journalism. Video

Hate Poster at Cottman and Frankford Aves, Phila. Pa.

[New way to pee] That looked like it would only work well for morons and monkeys.

I’m so sorry to hear about Mrs Goode’s passing. My heart goes out to her family and all at the Sugarloaf Lodge.

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Thursday May 22, 2008

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Wednesday May 21, 2008

Senator McCain yesterday appeared before a bunch of powerful Miami Cubans. In effect, he said he’d continue the same policy as Bush II. He took time to criticize Obama’s intention to talk to our enemies to try to resolve our differences. I don’t know if any one noticed or not, but it’s been more than half a century since the Cuban embargo and it hasn’t worked yet. When does McCain think it will start working? Free the Cuban people from American repression!

[Somali pirates] It’s against international law to arm a private ship. They would need a letter or marquee and only Venezuela and the US can issue them. Pirates mostly come at night in small boats. Modern tankers have very small crews as most everything onboard is automated.
http://piratedocuments.com/Pages/category_list.htm#Letters_of_Marque

Politicians create problems according to yesterday's post. Perhaps, but they create them in response to the demands from an uneducated lazy electorate. They need your votes to get back into office and you, my fellow voters don't bother to learn about the issues. You sit on the sidelines and reinforce your prejudices and your ignorance and get so confused you believe what you think. Then you demand someone "do something about it."

Go ahead, blame the politicians, but if any one of them treat you like a thinking adult you won't vote for them.

[Organized religion has caused more human misery throughout history than anything, except yellow fever.] Amen to that Brother!

Desperate Republicans on this site are now blaming Democrats for high oil prices.  A nickel here and a nickel there tied to Anwar and the strategic oil reserve is all insignificant hot air just like the blowhard claiming oil stocks will buy him a new house.  Most likely he wishes he had more than a few shares in his portfolio. Where were you boys and girls during Bush's eight years, mostly with a Republican congress?  Was your head in the sand along side Bush's?  It looks like the Saudi king doesn't like Bush's man kissing any longer.

A great new way to pee. For men only.  http://www.reuters.com/news/video?videoId=82703&videoChannel=6

Free Breast Implants, Free Boob Job, Free Plastic Surgery Financing. MyFreeImplants.com

Why is Heather Carruthers' name even being mentioned, her race does not start until she runs in November?  The race right now is Sylvia Murphy vs Gary Bauman, Kim Wigington vs Dixie Spehar,  and Carlos Rajos vs Sonny McCoy.  Put your attention and learning skills to work on these candidates now.  Let us rid Monroe County of at least 2 members of "The Gang of Three" on Aug. 26, 2008.  That is the race that is important right now--the primary!

[Killing in the name of religion]  When I pointed out to my right-wing-bible-thumping friend that Christians have killed more people throughout history in the name of religion than any other brand, he got mad and told me that the crusades were just an anomaly.  Yes, he's also a Republican.

[Texas Border Volunteers] We got one particular group of 14 illegals on Thursday morning that included Guatemalans, and (we think) Pakistani’s.  It’s hard to describe, but the blue-black skin tone with Caucasian-like features were worrisome.  They did not come from Matamoros as they claimed.  Likely they did live there for some period and attempted to absorb the culture, language, and customs so as to better blend in once they got to the U.S. side. 

Has anybody visited Bonaire and what are your thoughts?  Should we get dive certified here or there?  My friend showed me a YouTube of Bari Reef diving at night.  Amazing colors.  It is a common occurrence to dive at night?   

You don't shoot to kill; you shoot to stay alive.

[Hydrofoils] I used to see them often while fishing in the deep. They would blow by me and disappear from my radar screen in less than 10 min, (set on 12 mile range) so I know they were going way over 60 mph. Once about 50 miles west of Tortugas, one checked me out. It was blowing about 25 kts and the seas were 10 -12 ft. He told me to maintain my speed (8 kts.) and heading and proceeded to literally run circles around me while they asked me all the usual Coast Guard questions. Then he came to a dead stop. I told my crew to prepare to be boarded but in the next radio transmission they said "have a nice day" and blasted over the horizon. Those little ships were awesome to watch. I would have loved to ride on one (as long as it wasn't in the brig).

Mr. Obama has given us substantial reason to question his feelings for, and his depth of commitment to our nation--reason to question his patriotism.  Last Saturday at a campaign rally in Roseberg, Oregon he said "We can't drive our SUVs and eat as much as we want and keep our homes on 72 degrees at all times…and then just expect that other countries are going to say OK,"  The implications of this declaration  are obvious; 1^st, Mr Obama suggests that there is something inherently odious about our lifestyle.  2^nd, he suggests that we should seek approbation from other nations for our internal policies and life style.  3^rd, it’s obvious that Mr. Obama would welcome a severe decline in the lifestyle of the average American. 

Mr. Obama is an elitist, has already voiced his disdain for "beer drinking, gun toting and church going" Americans.  Mr. Obama’s circle of loved ones, friends, associates, and mentors are an interesting lot.  His pals, the mom and pop Ayers, are proud, braggadocios home grown terrorist, no joke, real honest to God terrorists.  His mentor/pastor, Rev. Wright, harbors great animus towards this nation.  Wright is well known for his now famous sermons, his devotion to Black Liberation Theology, and the quote “not God Bless America, no, no, Goddamn America”.  I urge you to do just a smidgeon of research into Black Liberation Theology and Rev. Cone. It is chilling.  Obama’s wife is quoted as saying “until now (Obama’s candidacy), I’ve never been proud of America”.  At “jump street” of Obama’s career is South Chicago politics and Tony Rezko.  Rezko is currently in trial in Chi town and the testimony at that trial shines bright light on the corrupt Machiavellian workings of Obama’s home base.  Ayers, Rezko, Wright, etc. are the underpinnings of Obama’s remarkable ascendancy.  He should go no further.

[Mile Marker 24 Band] My friend Kurt was just down from Chicago for a few days and I felt obligated to take the boat out every day and cook him like a lobster. However, he kept up with the sunscreen and for the first time got back on the airplane not shedding his skin. No matter how many times I go out on the ocean or the backcountry it is an adventure. Sunday was an especially great day. We loaded up the boat with some good friends and an ample supply of food and drink. The boat drink of the day being Pain Killers. I know I keep talking about these things but they are great. You have to try them. Why am I talking about rum this early in the morning?

Before leaving on our summer tour next week we have one more public performance in the Keys. It happens to be at Boondocks on Ramrod Key this Saturday night May 24th at 7:00 PM. Come out and help us party, Keys style!

I just received a $188 speeding ticket on 301 in Lawtey, Fla. I knew it was a speed trap but just wasn't paying attention to the speedometer. I asked the cop to give me a break and he laughed at me.

Cheer Laundry Detergent really gets work clothes clean and fresh.  My date smokes (cough, cough, cough) and all I could smell was the Cheer from his shirt.  We were using generic brands to save money, but Cheer smells so good, it is worth the extra cost.

[Restaurant Review] This weekend we finally ate at Barracuda Grill in Marathon.  Now, I wonder why we waited so long. All our friends had mentioned how good their food was but that was an understatement.  Their chowder was by far the best I’ve had in years.  My husband had the tuna, which is what he usually orders wherever we go out, and said he had never had a better meal.  I had the ribeye which the menu calls “petite” but was delicious and plenty.  The service was great and although the place was packed we did not have to wait long for our food.  I didn’t have the wine but the rest of the table was raving about that too.  Overall, it was an excellent experience.

“I can get it to you by tomorrow.” Don’t believe it. Slide Show

The Associated Press: Computer helps jailers understand dogs

Spending $1200 to $2500 for a large LCD TV was a great idea until I watched TV over the week end. There is nothing on worth watching. I would rather have a projection TV shooting a eight foot wide DVD movie on my wall than watch hours of stupid commercials.

[Pegasus class hydrofoil] While building yachts at the deactivated Charleston Navy base, I used to explore the totally striped hydrofoils. All six were sitting in a dry dock waiting for the scrap yard. This was in the late 90s.

American Strategic Ins. Corp has put out an upgrade to there home owner's policy, Sinkhole Coverage. Check you renewal policies they have added it to all their policies figuring we wouldn't notice the change. Your local insurance agent will have it deleted for you.

Six quick, short little dufus videos.
One
Two
Three
Four
Five
Six

Drilling in Anwar may not change oil prices now, but one thing for sure is we’ll have more of our own oil. There is 160 years of natural gas as well as oil in the Gulf in our waters. There has never been a spill there even with hurricanes. All of that gas might come in handy some cold winter’s night.

There was a geek contest who could hack a Diebold Voting Machine. It took just 10 seconds. It’s quite easy to steal an election.

Nitwitted
A**holes
Speeding
Carelessly
Around a
Ring

[Red State Update] Redneck to redneck on the election. Video

I think this is the guy from the cranberry bog commercials. He must’ve got sick of all those cranberries and moved to the northwest. YouTube - Bear Fight

[More Sardonic Humor] This poster is glad the price of oil is skyrocketing. My oil stock is booming. In fact I hope the Iraqi war goes on for another 10 years and that we are in Iraq another 100 like John McCain said. I’m digging the profits. Republicans are always the ones in office when businesses do well. I’m voting straight republican because its good for business. We need to get into Iran next--baby needs some new shoes.

Tequila Video

[Hillary has more popular votes than Barack] It would have all been over by now if those fools in the Florida Dem party had simply stayed in line. Look at all the mess they made just because of their arrogance and egos.  If she loses, every one of the Fl Dem party leaders who voted to change the primary date is personally responsible for handing the next 4 years to republicans. Sadly, Obama does not have the temerity to be president. He's just not presidential--yet. 

This is the best unbiased political site on the web. Election 2008 Latest Polls  http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2008/latestpolls/index.html

The hydrofoils were decommissioned because they were horrendously expensive to operate and maintain. Even the US government couldn’t afford to run them. I think they were scheduled to be sold to the Grenadan Navy.

One of the old Navy Hydrofoils is on Stock Island, docked near the sunken dry dock.  It was bought by a private party and converted to a luxury yacht.  It is for sale. I think the price is around $2.5 million.  The owner is a wealthy gentleman from the Midwest.  He docked it there as a favor to a relative so he could live on it while in the Navy in Key West.  It is quite the vessel, it has 12 suites, I think, and one large open central parlor.  It is no longer a hydro foil.  It does still sail and has been retrofitted with the latest technology.

Ted Kennedy has a malignant brain tumor. I hear he was airlifted to Mass. General Hospital.

[Be a Candidate] "A candidate is defined in 97.021(3), Florida Statues ... County Commission candidates for districts 1-5 must reside in the district for which they are qualifying at the time of being elected to office."
http://www.keys-elections.org/become.aspx

It could be the Hydrofoils are gone because they found that any kid with a .22 could wreck one with a single, good shot to a stabilizer shaft. The U.S.S.R.'s war with Afghanistan proved that any of these fancy expensive high tech weapons can be quickly destroyed by anyone with ordinary firearms and a little common sense.  Why do you think “our government" is so determined to get guns away from American citizens?

I think my wife uses this.

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Wednesday May 21, 2008

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Tuesday May 20, 2008

It seems that someone in government is taking notice of the Gator Air situation. Citing “extreme” safety and efficiency concerns, Monroe County has suspended Gator Air's privileges to land at Florida Keys Marathon Airport, effective immediately. It looks like they picked a bad day to give up smoking. Full story from the Keynoter: http://www.keynoter.com/articles/2008/05/17/news/news02.txt

Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them. Have you ever wondered why, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, we have deficits? Have you ever wondered why, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, we have inflation and high taxes?

Spitzer call girl video.

Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Put every man his sword by his side, and go in and out from gate to gate throughout the camp, and slay every man his brother, and every man his companion, and every man his neighbor.

This encouragement to wholesale slaughter comes in the Book of Exodus, Chapter 30 wherein the author notes that some 3,000 people were killed, all at once, for choosing to worship a God other than the one preferred by Moses. Was it not Jesus who said:

 I say unto you: when your eye causes you to sin pluck it out- better to enter the Kingdom of Heaven one eyed, than that your eye should lead you to lose your eternal soul.

Shame on you for attack and your attempt to stir up hate. I'm an atheist by the way, I think all religions are nonsense, as evidenced by the above. No religion is sacred except in the eyes of its adherents. Organized religion has caused more human misery throughout history than anything, except yellow fever.

[Speed trap] That little highway sounds like US 301 and the town sounds like it could be Wald, Lawtey, or Starke all already famous Florida speed traps.

[Police] In my home state the state and town police as well as sheriff deputies must account for every mile they put on the public-owned and operated cruisers. They are parked at the headquarters at the end of each shift and picked up by the next. The mileage put on the cars and the gallons of gas used are posted in the local newspapers each week so the public is aware of how their tax money is spent. Sounds like some fantasy from an old movie, but it's really like that in W.VA. Cops need to understand they work for us, the citizens, and are accountable to the public for their actions. When we the people allow them the privilege of placing our badge of trust on their breast, we are awarding them high honor.

Officers, your countrymen expect the best from you and when you truly "protect and serve" you are worthy of our pride and respect. Never forget your duty is to your country's Constitution and her people. You are not hired thugs working for despot rulers as cops are in other nations. You are far above that filthy breed. We place our faith and trust in you as our cherished sons and daughters, and most of us, seeing you in trouble, would do anything necessary to help you. Lately we are seeing evidence that perhaps the wrong people are being chosen as peace officers. Those of you with a sound mind and a conscience need to fight the descent of this nation into tyranny alongside with the rest of us. Will you, honest, true hearted, passionate law officers, rise above the tide of ugly violence for its own sake, and walk the high road as the chosen few who stand for us all? Your countrymen pray you do.   

Is it true that Hillary has more popular votes than Barack?

[When I ran for Mayor of Key West last year] Did you really expect these money grubbing escapees from civilization to want green plants instead of green cash?  Be serious, the people who live in the Keys are all run-a-ways from reality and as close to low-rent-carnival-show-types as you can get.  They don't want to work for a living; they just want to take for a living. The old conchs were just as bad. The Greenies and Churchies come down here to a bunch of islands that were the harbor for villains and slavers and weirdo artsy types who are still here and in control. Green Keys are a joke as are people who think the Keys is "paradise for our child". "Get real get drunk, get laid" is the lifestyle the Keys were and always will be.

God speed to the extremists in their quest for 70 virgins and a goat; or is that 70 virgin goats? And for you Osama, our Armed forces will grant you the same swiftness in your quest the same way we did to your little friend.

I sold my place in Pa. before moving here. The R/S agents I interviewed for the job all automatically said, "You have to sell it for the average price the neighborhood can yield."  I rejected all of these rubber stamped morons because my "neighborhood" was in the $300,000 to 10 million bracket. The neighborhood was very old mansions or newly built very large estates. Trying to convince these programmed sales persons that there was no common denominator for such type homes was impossible. I sold it for three times their estimate of value. I also sent each of the twelve R/S agents a copy of the closing document to rub their noses in it.

One way to figure what the true value is, is to advertise it high, then drop as required and another way is have a friend that is a high end builder estimate the cost to build your home new.  Don't forget, land never devalues unless they build affordable homes next to yours--then run for the hills! 

I thought the Grassy Key Aqua Farm was just a tourist attraction?  They offer diving, camping, boating, all kinds of stuff.  What's the real deal?

[Dear Sloan] Let me just say that I wish there were more folks here like yourself, unafraid and passionate about the issues you discuss. I am a registered nurse who chose to leave Florida practice because of demands placed upon me that I will not go into here. Your post on your [MRSA] treatment and subsequent cure ( the mind body connection ) reinforces my belief that this paradise here in the Keys will be destroyed if no changes are made. I was raised Christian, but I do not believe in organized religion. I believe in spirituality, I believe we are children of a higher power. I also live by the golden rule, as Jesus taught. I believe in revering mother earth, and all the gifts she has given us. I am a believer in natural healing and I will spread the word about your treatment to all that will listen. Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

[Somali pirates] Just how many clues do the owners of these ships need before they put .50 caliber machine guns and train their crew in the use of them?

Another quote from Ike on being informed that one of his top officers was killed by friendly fire: “In this war everything is expendable, even generals.”

Superintendent Randy Acevedo announces Gerald Adams School Principal Frannie Herrin has been selected as a "You Make a Difference" award recipient from the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council. The FDDC award selection committee chose Herrin for her exemplary practice of including students with developmental disabilities in general education settings.

Two ceremonies are planned in honor of the award. The first is a luncheon June 20 in Orlando where Herrin is to receive a $500 mini grant to enhance inclusive practices. The second is to be at a local school board meeting in the fall.

In her six years as principal, strategies Herrin implemented include changing the master schedule and how students are placed in classes; providing training to teachers and paraprofessionals; and providing resources from the school budget to support inclusion practices such as an inclusion teacher at every grade level. Herrin said, “I have always felt honored to be a part of this fabulous school and this award is not mine alone—it comes from a collaborative effort. The most important facet of my role, is to ensure a culture of acceptance and respect for all.” “Ms. Herrin is a hero for exceptional students. She makes sure all students succeed and are prepared for middle school,” Acevedo said. For more information visit http://www.keysschools.com

NASCAR is like watching a bunch of left-handed dogs chasing their tails, and getting a charge out of it.

One of our friends published some quotes on Saturday that he is claiming came from Abraham Lincoln:  "You cannot help the poor man by destroying the rich, etc."  One problem.  Abraham Lincoln never said any of it.  The quotes are from a statement by a preacher, Reverend William J. H. Boetcker, in about 1915.  Ann Landers used them in a newspaper column and Ronald Reagan then used them in a speech and attributed them to Lincoln.  As usual, Reagan was wrong.

For those of you who like to quote Lincoln, how about this one from Honest Abe: "I will say then that I am not, nor ever have been in favor of bringing about in any way the social and political equality of the white and black races--that I am not nor have I ever been in favor of making voters or jurors of negroes, nor of qualifying them to hold office, nor to intermarry with white people; and I will say in addition to this that there is a physical difference between the white and black races which I believe will forever forbid the two races from living together on terms of social and political equality. And inasmuch as they cannot so live, while they do remain together there must be the position of superior and inferior, and I as much as any other man am in favor of having the superior position assigned to the white race." 

Abraham Lincoln, September 18, 1858 at Charleston, Illinois, during Fourth Debate with Stephen A. Douglas.

I'd like to applaud the Democrats for their recent demonstration of how to avoid divisiveness. Just the other day the Senate led by Harry Reid voted to stop adding 60K barrelss of crude to our Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The thinking was that this would add to the supply.  Nancy Pelosi tells us that this would bring down the price of gas by between 5 and 24 cent per gallon.  On the other hand Senator Schumer told us that drilling in Anwar would only add about 1 million barrels per day to the supply and thus would only bring down gas prices by about 1 cent per gallon.  All of the Democrat voices seem to agree that adding to the supply will bring down the price of gas at the pump, and the over all astronomical cost of energy.  The only remaining question is why do they continue to resist permitting us to regain what he have lost, independence from foreign oil?

A former Bethlehem, PA woman will serve up to 23 months in prison for having her 7-year-old son dress as a Cub Scout to collect money for a nonexistent cause. Sally Ann Gombocz, 51, told a Northampton County judge she wanted to apologize to anyone she hurt. She previously pleaded guilty to theft by deception and corruption of a minor. Gombocz had her son dress as a scout in 2003 and tell people he was raising money for a camping trip. A prosecutor says the family collected $69. Gombocz was sentenced Friday to six to 23 months in the county jail. She also was fined $2,000, ordered to perform community service, take parenting classes, have psychological counseling and submit to random urine screens. She also must pay restitution.

I’ve got to laugh. We have a neighbor in his 60s or 70s who has a beef with everyone else in the neighborhood.  He walks his dogs at 3 am, carrying a baseball bat to inflict minor damage on anything in reach: mailboxes, gates, address markers, etc.  No, his name isn't Sloan.

I love that gas prices are going up. The democrats have stopped this country from drilling for our own oil but want us to beg the Arabs for there oil. That is funny. Every night I watch  the news and seen people wail about gas, meanwhile the democrats keep talking about wind and solar. Until you can put that in your gas tank people like me with stock in the oil companies will keep laughing on our way to the bank.

Pro-drilling is not anti-environment, but anti-high gas prices. Please gas keep going higher because I am looking to buy a bigger house and need the stock windfall. I will definitely be voting democrat this year. My family and the Arctic caribou thank you.

The Hydrofoils were berthed at the Coast Guard docks next to Key West Bite. They were water jet driven.   The engine came from a DC10 jet airliner which turned a water jet pump that was actually the fuel pump for the Atlas ICBM. The control room was the cockpit from a Boeing 747 with a few modifications. They were armed with multiple Harpoon ship to ship missiles.  I was told they could hit 100 mph.  I wonder whatever happened to them?

Monroe Youth Challenge Program garnered attention from local leaders such as County Commissioner George Neugent, school board members Debra Walker, Andy Griffiths and John Dick at their third annual Awards Celebration. A highlight of the evening is that Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen Ros-Lehtinen came. She posed for pictures with students and reviewed half a dozen service learning projects before she congratulated Superintendent Randy Acevedo for supporting MYCP and doing a fantastic job with the youth of Monroe County.

[Shark Surfing] Don't try this at home! This guy is a true adrenalin junkie. http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x59mbo_shark-surfer_fun

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Tuesday May 20, 2008

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Monday May 19, 2008

When I ran for Mayor of Key West last year, I floated an idea that went over like a dead balloon, which sort of surprised me, given all the talk these days about green living. The idea was pretty simple, but will take some work to bring off. Although I proposed it for Key West, which was hollering about falling tourist dollars and lodging vacancies, it applies to the whole of the Keys.
 
The idea is that we turn our beloved Keys into a “greening” community, in all possible ways. We make this garden project our flagship enterprise, and advertise it all over the United States and the world, which is easy and cheap enough in this day of websites, blogs and so forth. We encourage our citizens to build community gardens at home an in our parks and open spaces. We invite America and the world to come see what we are doing. We offer conventions in greening, using what’s going on here as onsite working models. We offer greening courses at our lovely Florida Keys Community College campus on Stock Island, near a rejuvenating Mt. Trashmore--planted in tropical fruit trees and shrubs, and indigenous vegetation. We build the dormitories the college so desperately needs for affordable student housing “green”, so it can compete with other colleges.
 
Like I said, the idea went over like lead balloon during the Key West mayoral last year. Voters were more interested in sinking an old navy warship, than in stopping what was killing the reef. Voters were more interested in turning tiny, artificial-sand Higgs Beach into a “world-class” beach, than in acquiring Wisteria Island and turning it into a clothes-optional fee-paid nature and camping park, which would have strong appeal to foreign and even American tourists. Voters were more interested in building a senior citizen retirement resort on land the City would give to a developer, than in putting city-owned affordable rental housing there. Voters were more interested in cleaning up the T-shirt shops on Duval Street, than in putting a cop on the ground at Higgs Beach, to keep the rough element of the homeless people in line. Voters were more interested in running the homeless people out of town, than in dressing them up like pirates and using them as litter cops. Voters were more interested in stopping their neighbors from renting out rooms to people who worked in Key West and needed a place to live that they could afford, than in the City not doing business with cruise ships that dumped their sewerage into the ocean. Voters were more interested in having a mayor who was in bed with County Mayor Mario DiGennaro and developers, than a mayor who felt all developers, even Conch developers, should be deported to Siberia. Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

I have come to enjoy NASCAR.  I can't claim to be a "car person" or understand the "strategy", but everybody looks like they're having a good time at those races.  Most of the drivers are personable, good-natured guys and the crews' teamwork is amazing.  To top it off: they pray before each race!  And sing the national anthem!  They are openly patriotic and Christian!  It's a nearly entirely positive experience.

[Lack of respect that the Big Pine Peace Rally picketers had on Armed Forces Day]  We we're there Saturday morning, as usual, from 10-11a.m. The group you saw was on the corner together with us because we are all about the same message: “Support the troops. Bring them home alive.” One of the ladies has lost her son to this war. She said she may actually join our group. We embraced her and another woman whose son is there now and told them they could call us, any time, for anything. They know where to find us, standing strong together, every Sat. from 10-11am. After all, we're all on the same side, right? Love it or leave it. End the War. Peace.

[Don’t don’t-doo doo] The grassy Key cobia fish farmers can’t connect to the ocean right now because of the excessive nutrients the fish doo doo adds to the seacoast and, therefore, the ocean. Fish farms produce a heck of a lot of high nitrogen doo doo. I know that aquaculturists are trying to solve the problem of fish poop and the government is thinking about licensing aquaculture off our coasts. This re-thinking of licensing aquaculture is partially due to the high cost of fuel needed for fishing boats which, in turn, is causing sea food prices to rise and also in order to compete with the rest of the world who farm the sea already—sending cheap sea food to the US.

I know of the Topix site that has been mentioned here lately.  That site has been around for a long time and has over 100,000 posts every day from around the world.  It isn't blondbabe's site, as indicated yesterday by Downs.  I visited the thread started by blondbabe.  It is in the Key West forum and is titled "Who has your vote so far for Monroe County Sheriff?"  That's it.  From there, it is open for anyone to post on.  A lot of people have been chiming in with their comments.  I don't think it was created just to bash Downs.  In fact, blondbabe just threw the question out there and wasn't even the first to post a comment.  Other than a comment about Downs running for revenge, she didn't really say anything bad about Downs.  One very interesting comment from blondbabe was a question to Downs asking how she expected to handle four years of criticism as a Sheriff if she can't handle the election criticism.  The hard core bashing comes from other people.  As for posting anonymously, I'm not sure I would want her campaign to know my last name either. 

What's interesting is that the biggest hate monger on the Topix thread is a Downs supporter by the name of "Jane Dirt," who posts anonymously, but is supported by Downs.  As for deleted posts, there's a link on each post to report abusive or offensive comments.  If any of Downs' posts were deleted, it would have been by the web site management in Palo Alto, CA.  I'm only reporting what I found.  Please feel free to see for yourself and draw your own conclusion.  Here is the link.  http://www.topix.com/city/key-west-fl

[Koran 2:216] "Warfare is ordained for you, though it is hateful onto you, but it may happen that you hate a thing which is good for you, and it may happen that you love a thing which is bad for you. Allah knoweth, you knew not."

The above verse was stated by Mohammed after his first terrorist attack. He and his followers massacred four innocent and unarmed merchants at Hakhla in 623 A.D. The massacre came in January the sacred month of Rejeb. Arabs regard this month as a sacred month when warfare and violence is forbidden. Since this barbaric criminal act was led and sanctioned by the "Great" prophet Mohammed, we can correctly conclude that Islam's sacred activities include looting and cold-blooded murder of innocent individuals. The very beginning of Islam is stained by the blood of innocents. So much for the religion of peace!

I find it interesting that realtors in the Keys preach that the only way to sell one's house is to list it on the MLS and pay higher commissions.  Generally, if that same realtor lists his/her house on the MLS, they're still paying only 3% (if that) to the selling agent because their company forgives most of the fees, and obviously, they earn no commission.  Then, there are those realtors who sell their houses by owner.  You can easily note who they are because they use phrases similar to “Owner is a licensed real estate agent.”  These same people tell the public that the only way to sell a house is to list it.  Duh!  In any market, slow or not, it matters not how much commission is paid; what matters is the home price compared to everything else on the market.  Realtors will often list homes at high prices just to get the listing, knowing that it won't sell.  From there, it's downhill.  They can't really be faulted because it's the owners who are out of touch with realty, and the agent knows that someone else will take the deal if he/she doesn't.  However, in the end, the home sells for it's “real' worth” - it just takes a longer period of time - which is why everyone can sell their homes, if reasonably priced, themselves with the services of a real estate lawyer and a little work on their part.  (Real estate agent formally licensed in Virginia)

[Pegasus class hydrofoil] Does anyone remember this? The Pegasus class hydrofoil fleet spent its life in these waters and were always an awesome demonstration of America’s honor and strength.  I had many good friends who were served in this fleet.  And so I would like to say thank you on Armed Services Day. The hydrofoils took part in the invasion of Grenada to rid the island of Cuban military.

All six vessels were constructed by Boeing, in Seattle at the Renton plant at the south end of Lake Washington. They were stationed at NAS Key West.

[Government in Action] In April, Army medic Monica Brown was awarded the Silver Star for bravery for selflessly subjecting herself to enemy fire in order to treat fallen comrades in battle in Afghanistan. However, two days after her heroics, she had been ordered home, against her will, because generals were nervous that a female appeared to be in combat, which violates Army rules.

By contrast, in April the Army, citing personnel shortages, ordered honorably discharged soldier James Raymond back to duty, even though he is on medical disability for a knee injury and loss of hearing suffered in Afghanistan. (Soldiers on "Readiness Reserve" are still eligible for duty if necessary.)

[Number one in boating accidents] That makes sense as Florida has more boats than anywhere else. If they said New Mexico had more accidents, that would be something to note!

[Lack of respect Peace Rally had on Armed Forces Day] The protesters where there along with another Armed Forces Day group. Some of you people get upset whenever anyone protest and you  imagine things that are not intended.

[I am Sandra Downs] You know this chick is hot! Yeaha!

Welcome to married life.

[If Preston had been my son] Sloan, Preston is not your son and you are way off base.

The practice of always remaining veiled, even in front of your husband, is not an Islamic practice but a very old tradition practiced by a minority of people in Gulf countries. Saudi wants divorce after husband lifts her veil

If you think drilling for oil in Anwar will lower gas prices I have a great lot of ocean front property to sell you in Arizona.

Somali pirates hijack Jordanian ship carrying aid. http://www6.comcast.net/articles/news-world-africa/20080517/Somalia.Ship.Hijacked/

I was reading the posting yesterday about someone charged 7% to sell their house.  What Realtor Company was it that screwed you?  I'm interviewing agents right now to sell my house on Ramrod.  I have seen three of them and have two more to go before I make my decision.  Being in business over 25 years I can understand the 3.5%/3.5% split over a 3%/3% stilt home.  Times are slow and money talks.  However I won't do business with someone who promised to make an even split like that and lies--keeping more for themselves.  My advice to the person who was lied to is have an attorney contact the Realtor who lied to you and demand the extra 1% back to you.  Chances are you will never get it back, but it will call attention to it and prevent others from getting swindled.  Post their name on here with the story.  If you can send your contract and settlement statement as proof of the fact our editor would probably print it. 

Wow! Sandy Downs for Sheriff! Not only does she have guts but she's a babe, (hmmmm...I wonder where she's ticklish?).

Hillary spoof. Video

See, there it is! The corporate prison industry has been lobbying State governments hard to pass more draconian laws that ensure a growing, (profitable) U.S. prison population. The United States has 5% of the world's people but 35% of the total humans incarcerated on earth. This latest FL scofflaw allowing cops to confiscate cars and lock citizens up for 10 years if they go 30 mph over the speed limit is going to be successful. A small Florida town has already made changes to take advantage of this. The speed limit on the highway leading towards the little town says 60 mph. However a small partially obstructed sign 100 yards further on at the edge of town says "30mph". Bingo! Do not pass go, do not collect $200, GO DIRECTLY TO JAIL! And lose your car in the process. We'd love to see the look on you people's faces who keep harping about "The rule of law" when you are caught in such a scam. The cops will be laughing big when you cry "I didn't see the sign!" 

Don’t you wish someone would phone you with a minor emergency so you could leave a meeting? Well, here’s your savior. PhoneMyPhone.com :: find your cell phone, escape boring meetings, or end sucky dates early :P!

Up until reading Sunday's gossip column I had no idea who I was going to vote for as Sheriff.  All the candidates have good and bad traits.  I think the postings here labeled "Scandal" have been disgusting.  One thing I decided today is I will not vote for Sandra Downs.  Ms Downs, if you are reading this, your posting Sunday reminded me of something a 12 year old school girl having a tantrum would write.  How in the world would I ever want you to run The Monroe County Sheriff Office?  Rick Roth is a great man, a great sheriff and an asset to our county.  Learn from him.  I will agree that the people talking about you are idiots, but grow up and get off their level.  I am not writing this in support of any candidate because I have no idea who I will vote for, but I assure you it will not be Sandra Downs.  I did like her and did think she would make a good, reasonable and fair sheriff, but not any more.  Grow up.  You are supposed to be an adult. ~thekeysguy@gmail.com

I hate Mondays!

After trying to add another one cent tax on each gallon of fuel and failing, Commissioner Neugent wants to try again. He stated on the radio that it’s "only" another $150 a year if your driving habits are like his. Well, Mr. Neugent, there are businesses around here that spend 10s of thousands of dollars a year on fuel and cannot operate with the rising costs of fuel.

You folks just wasted way too much money and failed the people horribly. No need to bend them over after the “no new taxes” vote. Vote these unproductive spendthrifts out of office. Quit buying restaurants and raiding the funds of others. If you cannot find the ways to overcome your crazy spending habits resign. Show some grace.

Preston was God’s lamb, who was sacrificed for the good of all Keys people. I am merely giving him voice.] I always thought you were just a harmless fool, Sloan, but a statement like this lets us all know how truly demented you are. In another age you would have been a Torquemada or Pope Innocent III. You are one sick SOB. You are a religious megalomaniac and need to be watched carefully before your voices tell you to do or condone something “unpleasant”.
 
I really believe Sloan has crossed the line here. The man is not in touch with reality. Not that that is, in itself, a bad thing, but it is in his case.  ~arthur_phrain@hotmail.com

I think the New World Order is a pure marketing ploy.  If all big businesses and distribution systems are world wide and world owned, then anyone would be nuts to bomb or jeopardize their own interests. The 3rd and 4th world countries, who cannot supply materials or goods, will simply be absorbed into the surrounding countries that can. The key to NWO is population control and reduction. Individualism will have a price tag for sure. Organized religions and drug cultures will be put under the same controls, turning the dreamers into customers. The military, as always, will be the police and rule without conscience. The politicians will be servants of the marketing barons and everything will be rationed through your credit card. If you don't follow the rules--you don’t eat! 

When a woman wears leather, a man’s heart beats quicker, his throat gets dry, he goes weak in the knees, and he begins to think irrationally. Have you ever wondered why? It’s because she smells like a new truck!

The KWPD is getting a 4.2% raise tomorrow. Plus we pay for the gas for take home cars. Take home cars has got to stop.

The latest Bush "Big Idea".

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Monday May 19, 2008

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Sunday May 18, 2008

A belated Armed Forces Day (Saturday). Support our troops. They’ve always been there for US.

[Big Pine is quiet, clean and it's wonderful] I have to agree, but Marathon is much better to drive to then Key West. Key West is just one big tourist trap.

I had a dream last night that I was in Alaska just after a tremendous snow storm and I couldn’t drive around the snow drifts to get to my cabin. I woke up and realized that I didn’t have any covers on. No wonder I was cold.

It is a really sad day when someone’s ex has to post from Miami to defend themselves against a bunch of rumors on a web-site. How many other people does this person running for sheriff have to smear before she is happy?  For a while there, I felt bad for her. Now I just feel like she should not even be given a voice on anything or anyone since she thinks we are all out to get her and her family. She has caused so much pain for other people and their families with her accusations that it just boggles the mind to think she considers herself a respectable choice for public office.  Honey, run on your own merit, not someone else’s supposed wrong-doings.  If you and angel boy continue with the smear project, you will find yourselves without anyone who cares whether it was reality or just a wet dream. ~k4d@bellsouth.net

So here it is Armed Forces Day. A great day to reflect on what our Armed Forces have done to protect the freedom we enjoy and say "Thanks!" I expected to see our usual Saturday morning protesters out in force Saturday, of all days, and maybe see them in a little more of the red, white and blue and offer a little more support for our troops. But what did I see--an empty corner!  If you really do support the troops and your protests are all about the war and politics, why are you not out there today of all days? Where are you?

Thank you to all who serve, have served and will serve in the future. It is because of you we enjoy our freedom. Freedom is not free!

[Gator Air] Call the Better Business Bureau or better yet Al's Sunshine report. http://cbs4.com/bios/Al.Sunshine.cbs4.9.376161.html

[DC madam’s suicide] At least Heidi Fleiss is still alive and hasn't been bumped off by being hung in a shed by government thugs. Poor Madam Palfrey knew too much and was willing to fight these neocon cockroaches, but she made the mistake of visiting her Mom by herself. 

John McCain without his makeup.

Don't forget this is Pirate country!

A few days ago some an angry person was sounding off about effete limousine liberals. Can some kind person advise where the back of the line is? I want to be one too, please. Can I? Please? (Exit stage left skipping and clapping).

According to Bush’s logic (ha, ha logic) Obama is wrong when he says he’ll talk to Cuba; does that same logic mean that Nixon was wrong to talk to China? Look at the results of that meeting.

Israel seems to be the main target of Osama Bin Laden.  With their expertise in covert operations, why haven't the Israelis snuffed him yet?  Is he useful in some obtuse way?  Politics?

[Number one in boating accidents] I guess we have as many drunks on the water as we do on the highway. There are a lot of tiki bars right on the water or damn close to it in Florida.

Divisive? I'm terrible sorry if I've hurt anyone’s feelings by my brash statements about the Democrat party.  After all, Democrats are human too.  I suppose that many Democrats would like to have lower energy prices.  Our Democrat friends are doing everything that they can to shrink our supply of oil so as to drive the oil prices down. Perhaps we should thank them for their wisdom and courage that has stopped us from drilling our own oil and building our refineries.  I've heard that the recent shortages of diamonds now has them selling for $15.97 per carat, I'm going to follow the Democrat change law of economics and wait for fewer diamonds to be around, the price per carat will surely drop.  Retch!

[Scandal Part I Continued] I am Sandra Downs.  I'm not ashamed of that fact and have never posted anything anonymously, nor written anonymously, nor called anonymously.

The citizens deserve to know the truth, and truth I will give them.  And my name will be behind every letter I write. And I will stand face to face with every person I accuse of anything. I am not a coward.  ~Sandra Downs

Obama smart? It matters not a fig how intelligent Hillary, John or Barack may happen to be. What matters is that they've learned how to say "Yes, Master" to the CFR, Trilateral Commission and Bilderbergers; elitist New World Order groups that all 3 candidates either belong to or are influenced by. No matter who gets "elected", (sic), Dick Cheney, (former president of the Council on Foreign Relations) and Henry Kissinger, (Bilderberg member, as well as CFR & TC) will be the ones making the decisions. Why do you think Cheney has no interest in running for office? Because he's the shadow president already.

[Scandal Part II Continued] To Sloan, I gave you a fair shot and obviously you can't handle being wrong when it comes to Sandra.  You, like Sandra, are more concerned with covering your own behinds than the truth.  I now understand why you are so unpopular in the Florida Keys.  I have been a target of Sandra's for a very large part of my life and have become quite accustomed to her garbage, HOWEVER, you have taken unsubstantiated and untrue shots at family members of mine which I have little tolerance for. 

Do not contact me again. Govern yourself accordingly ~Bob Hartman  (ex-husband)

Crack Spackle Video

[Scandal Part III Continued] Your father must really have had clout, to get you an honorable discharge after you tossed all of your aircraft carrier’s records overboard. You also got rid of the court records in your and Sandy’s divorce proceeding, but Sandy had made and kept court-stamped copies, which the judge used to reconstruct the file before ordering it sealed, to protect it. After Sandy entered the sheriff‘s race, you got involved in that sealed file being taken out of the clerk’s office and its contents sprinkled onto the local Topix website, as you hammered Sandy and your and her deceased son, Preston.
 
If Preston had been my son, I would have done everything I could to get to the bottom of what he had been falsely accused of doing, just like his mother did. Just like his sister, Christina, is doing all she can to get to the bottom of what caused Preston to die. Which you did not want Christina to do, because you wanted to be the Representative of Preston’s estate, so you could sue his mother and stepfather for his death, thus continue your war with Sandy through the son you had always denied was your own.
 
That is what Preston is to you, Bob: a chance to strike back at Sandy, again, for leaving you. And you will do it again. You have never laid down your sword, and you never will. You wield it everywhere you are, and God help the people who know you. God help them. You did not get what you wanted from me, and, instead, got a service record you cannot so easily hack, steal and destroy. Now it’s all over the Web, for people to read, if they wish, and make their own conclusions about you, Sandy and Preston.
 
The night before last, Sandy had a dream I will not describe here, other than to say it was a clear message that she stands in great favor in the kingdom of God. That she is God’s true soldier in this incredibly difficult war now underway in the Keys, a war mostly being waged in the spirit, although there are many human manifestations of it. Sandy can be compared to the commanding officer of a modern aircraft carrier. Like any warship’s commander, she answers to a chain of command, which in turn answers to a Commander-in-Chief. No, I am not the Commander-in-Chief, nor am I in the chain of command. I am merely a utility infielder, a handyman, whose diverse and many experiences enable him to be used by his commanding officers in various ways and different situations.
 
Preston was God’s lamb, who was sacrificed for the good of all Keys people. I am merely giving him voice. But the words are his, Bob. You have disavowed him. By your own hand, he is not your son, even though in this life he carried your blood. By your disavowal, you are entitled to no money collected for his death. It all should go to his brothers and sister, and to his half-brother, Sandy’s first child. All of it should go to them. I don’t expect to see that happened, but it is what should happen. Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

I think that people want peace so much that one of these days government had better get out of their way and let them have it. ~Dwight D. Eisenhower

[Majority of Keys reef are dead] “We've got to pay attention to the situation and work toward a recovery,” scientist say. “But all hope is not lost. There is still habitat out there. The system has changed over the last 30 years or so but the coral has been replaced by algae and soft corals. There is still life and fish.”  

Such bulls**t.  There are so many new coral heads I spot to prevent from smashing my prop is endless.  The reef appears to be spreading out and these corals are hard as hell.

I have been using Sinclair for quite a while now.  They are on a short list of oil companies that claim to use no OPEC oil.  They also advertise this at the pumps.    Somebody better do something soon. You know big oil is just laughing while we all bleed,  and I sure don't want to see things get ugly.

A good intellectual debate is very healthy, but when one side becomes so desperate to win that they do so at the expense of children's self-esteem and mental health, with untrue and unfounded accusations about a parent, in a public forum, which the children may be exposed to, it is time to take the high road and step aside.  The truth has and will continue to prevail.

In early dawn later this week, the waning Moon marches past the Sagittarius Teapot and Jupiter.

[More bar wisdom.] Marriage is like having cable with one channel.

This is dumber than some of the political postings.

I think maybe the president should have gone to the Saudis and discussed an increase in oil production before he went to visit the Israelis. They are not even close to being friends. I think Bush is the perfect example of the man who couldn’t shot straight. The Saudis laughed at him, but I’m sure after the wonderful hand-holding and man-kissing in the Rose Garden they still are best friends. He’s embarrassing.

My dream maker told me to leave Sandy Downs’ stuff and get back to my stuff. I dreamt early this morning of getting a newspaper, so after waking, I went to the nearest newsstand and purchased a Key West Citizen. Three articles caught my eye. The Citizen editorial about the shell game our city and county commissioners and developers call “affordable housing,” the shell game Attorney David Paul Horan is trying to call a “hurricane shelter” on Stock Island, and the revitalization of a fish farm in an old salt water quarry on Grassy Key, which strikes me as a sincere effort to do something constructive, although I have a couple of concerns.
 
The fish farmers are raising snapper and cobia. I have heard a couple of times from what seemed like knowledgeable sources that cobia are magnets for mercury, and I hope the farmers are having their cobia tested for mercury. The farmers say they will have organic vegetable and herb gardens, to go with a restaurant that serves the cobia and snapper they raise. They will use fish scraps to fertilize their gardens. I did a lot of organic gardening in the past, and have done some in the Keys. I have worked with raw fish scraps as fertilizer, and fish emulsion. It contains a lot of nitrogen and a little goes a long way. Raw fish scraps attract all sorts of critters, unless buried maybe a foot deep. Maybe the farmers will investigate raising lobsters and stone crabs, which love fish scraps. And maybe they can dig a small canal from their lake to open water, so fresh seawater can come into the lake with the tides. They have been having problems with not enough oxygen in the lake, and with more oxygen they could raise more fish. Wire mesh could be put over at each end of the canal to keep seaweed out of and the farm fish inside the lake. Minnows and small crustaceans that come in through the mesh from the outside would be more natural food for the farm fish.
 
The “hurricane shelter” on Stock Island is a joke. The developer is only interested in building something on the waterfront, so the developer can make a lot of money. The developer doesn’t give a twit about the Keys, Keys people or their welfare, except how they will make the developer money. The lawyer is no different from the developer. My concern is for the owner of the property, who wants to sell to the developer. The property owner should not be locked into keeping his property, if he wants to move on. I don’t have a solution for that yet, but I have told people, and say it again, that when a situation like this comes before our county and city governments, they need to be willing to look at making a hardship exemption for a property owner who has been in the Keys a long time and wants to move onto something else. This is the correct approach, as opposed to a major change in what is called “the comprehensive plan.,” which change opens to the door to a flood of development shell games.

They are primary contests we are vaguely aware of. Guam, etc currently are not states. (Re: The Obama man) There are indeed 50 states in our country, 51 if you include your current “state” of confusion on this. The clue bus is coming, time for you to get  on board, no one ever said 57 states.

Yesterday's post with picture of Phantom of the Opera brought this picture of Waxman to mind.

After reading everything here I come to only one conclusion – I want to be a bubba!

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Sunday May 18, 2008

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Saturday May 17, 2008

[Cheney didn't run for president] With no approval rating and so many people frightened of him, Lon Chaney would stand a better chance than Dick Chaney of ever becoming president.

[Gator Air] Has anyone actually had a flight with them? Do they even own or operate a plane? I've yet to receive my refund after repeated attempts.. I think something needs to be done.

Homeowners be careful when you sell your house with local Realtors.  I just sold one of my properties in Cudjoe Key.  My Realtor told me she wanted 7% instead of 6%.  When I questioned her she told me it would give us an advantage in a slow market if we were offering 3.5% instead of 3% to a buyer's Realtor and all commissions are split 50/50 with the buyer's Realtor.  That made sense to me so I agreed.  I was reviewing the closing papers with my lawyer and we noticed that the company who listed the house kept 4% and only gave the buyer's Realtor 3%.  Isn't that the exact same amount they would have given if the commission was 6%? 

I questioned my Realtor and she denied the conversation about 3.5%/3.5% to each Realtor ever existed.  I might have been the sucker there for not getting her promise in writing but I have 2 other investment houses and my own house.  I buy and sell a lot too.  I'll be looking for a new Realtor on the next one.  I don't like to work with dishonest people.  I won't name the person or company but beware of fast talking Realtors who want 7% to sell your house.

To the person who wanted to know how to Cut using hot keys:  Ctrl + X.

Last week, I swore to stop reading this site due to some very stupid and angering posts.  My brother alerted me to a post made by Sandra Downs yesterday and I just had to read it.  As I expected, it fit right in with the other nut-jobs who caused me to stop reading.  But since it was a stab at me, I will respond.

My name is Ashley and I live on Cudjoe Key.  On January 23, I created the poll on Topix about the Sheriff's race.  My screen name is blondbabe, like my e-mail address.  On January 23, the only two people I knew that were definitely running were Downs and Peryam.  Since then, things have obviously changed. Once you create a post on that site, you can not go back and edit it.  I was going to create a new poll, but someone else already did, and it correctly listed all the candidates. 

In reference to the Peryam campaign being responsible, I am a Ken Davis supporter. ~blondbabe_babyblue@yahoo.com

Computers in the future may weigh no more than 1.5 tons. ~Popular Mechanics, forecasting the relentless march of science, 1949 

I think there is a world market for maybe five computers. ~Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, 1943 

I have traveled the length and breadth of this country and talked with the best people, and I can assure you that data processing is a fad that won't last out the year. ~The editor in charge of business books for Prentice Hall, 1957 

But what .. is it good for? commenting on the microchip. ~Engineer at the Advanced Computing Systems Division of IBM, 1968 

[Scandal Part III—Sloan] Points well taken and understood.  Additionally, I fully empathize with you not wanting to be in the middle of this, just as I don't want to be on either side of it, and I don't think the courts do either.  Accordingly, I will not waste your or my time responding and defending the many ludicrous, untrue, one sided, and/or twisted statements Sandra has made,  with which she continues to poison my children and are documented as otherwise including the fact that I received an honorable discharge from the Navy and have the documents to prove same.  She will pay for this in her next life if she hasn't already. 

My sword is laid to the ground until the need arises for self defense. ~Bob Hartman (Sandra Downs’ ex)

Mat Davies said it all in his cartoon “I’m not voting for Obama because I’m just not ready to see a black president and because his pastor is a racist.”

[Gravel in the baggies] Oh, boy, you got my attention. This has been a bane of mine for quite some time. First it was the newspapers tossed in those blue plastic baggies, staying for weeks on end (or until I picked them up) in all the vacant yards. I finally got those stopped after a couple of phone calls. Fairly simple, I just had to ask to be removed from the delivery person’s list. The gravel should be simple, also. Not! I tried the telephone route, first. They didn’t care that it was negative advertisement. Then I tried MCSO and Code Enforcement. Apparently, it is only littering if it is on the right of way. And Code Enforcement says anyone can “dump” on my property unless I have a prominent sign stating “No Dumping”, “No Solicitation” or something to that effect. Someone, please correct me if I am wrong. I didn’t care to post a sign; so thought I’d tried the “not a legitimate business” route; as I couldn’t find a listing on either the Dept of State or Monroe County website for the business listed on the flyer contained in the bag with the gravel. It was not a corporation or a fictitious name; and obviously not an individual. Hum, I didn’t think that a business could operate without a legal name. Then, for some reason, I got bored. Probably the same as anyone that has read this far. Good luck, and let me know how you make out.

You have to love it. About a week ago I had given up on BPK.com, boring, and then it exploded. We have 2 fruit cakes (maybe 3 when he gets his website back up) running for office who want to share all their personal angst with us. I worry how the poor young man, just reaching majority, is viewing his parent’s rants? Our resident god-talker is stirring the pot, “Double, double, toil and trouble, fire burn and caldron bubble.” How he stepped into someone else’s domestic crap and publishes it astounds me. Sounds more like the devil to me. I also sense that someone may be giving legal advice without being admitted to the FL bar. I will definitely vote for these whackos. Imagine if they actually got elected?

And then someone wanted to know, is there are any normal folks down here. Why?

BPK.com, just when I was giving up, you came back big time. Thank you.

[Service?] I became confused when I heard these terms which reference the word 'service'.  Internal Revenue Service. U.S. Postal Service, Telephone Service,  TV Service,  Civil Service City & County Public Service and Customer Service. This is not what I thought 'service' meant.  But today, I overheard two farmers talking, and one of them said he had hired a bull to 'service' a few cows. BAM! It all came into perspective.  I now understand what all those 'service' agencies are doing to us.

[Retired cop] I applaud you! Your responses are those of an officer and a gentleman! I am a Vietnam era veteran and, as you stated, I do not talk about my military experience.

Naval Air Station Key West to Change Command June 13. Capt. Steven W. Holmes will relieve Capt. J.R. Brown as commanding officer of Naval Air Station Key West in a ceremony June 13 at 10 a.m. in Hangar A-936 on Boca Chica Field. Brown has been at Key West for two years and has orders to become the Program Manager of the Navy and Marine Corps Small Tactical Unmanned Air Systems Program Office, PMA-263, in Patuxent River, Md. Holmes is reporting from Naval Air Station Jacksonville where he is currently the executive officer.

The other day a poster made a worthy comment about bringing our troops home. What is the price difference? When we're told how many billions we're spending, is it the total cost of the military or the difference between war time and peace time? The poster is correct. We still have planes, tanks, battle ships and soldiers even when we're not fighting. It all costs billions.

Revealed: Afghan plane hijacker is now working as a cleaner at Heathrow | the Daily Mail

The Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission (FWC) statistics for 2007 show that, once again, Monroe County is number one in boating accidents.  Despite all the efforts made by the local Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotillas to raise awareness about boating safety, boaters continue to take unnecessary risks like neglecting to wear life jackets, drinking while on the water and either not learning or ignoring boating regulations. 

There is an upward trend toward more PWCs (Personal Water Crafts):  jet skis, sailboats, kayaks, small motorboats, possibly due to the increase in fuel costs.  In 2007,  PWCs constituted 8% of registered vessels, but were involved in 24% of the reported accidents.   Surprisingly, the majority of the accidents involved adults between 25 and 50 years of age.

After reading that three part scandal yesterday, all I can say is Whoh?  Part 1 was a train wreck.  Part 2, I felt sorry for.  And Part 3 was a secondary explosion from the Part 1 train wreck.  I feel sorry for anyone who is anywhere near that mess.

It’s worth viewing.    http://usawakeup.org:80/

I'm glad I don't live up in Marathon.  It feels like Miami South.  I’m also happy not to be living down in Key West with all the noise and pollution.  Big Pine is quiet, clean and it's wonderful to be living in nature amongst the trees and deer.  We got it pretty good here and I'm a happy camper.   

Why ice fishing sucks. Video

I sure enjoyed that he-said, she-said with Sandy, Ex-husband and Sloan.

I am waiting for the Key's realtor cabal to send in their canned responses to the people selling "Buy Owner."   Just wait, it is coming.

I’d forgotten that FKAA was doing their yearly cleaning of the pipes and made coffee with their water. My filtration system couldn’t even get rid of the taste. I had to throw it out and make fresh coffee with bottled water.

Think of what a world we could build if the power unleashed in war were applied to constructive tasks! One-tenth of the energy that the various belligerents spent in the war, a fraction of the money they exploded in hand grenades and poison gas, would suffice to raise the standard of living in every country and avert the economic catastrophe of worldwide unemployment. We must be prepared to make the same heroic sacrifices for the cause of peace. There is no task that is more important or closer to my heart. ~Albert Einstein

I am amazed at how many wives and girlfriends believe their men's lines about going to Costa Rica to fish. Odds are they are "fishing" at the Blue Marlin Bar in the Del Rey Hotel.

I figured someone would call the American Generals that went before congress liars. They said the problems in Iraq are political and not because of the troops. They feel the military they were handed was indeed the best in the world’s history. I can believe the man on the website playing numbers games or I can believe the generals from the fields of Iraq. That’s a tough one, but this democrat believes the generals. I also applaud the troops and I will let you be the one that tells them they are not the best in American history.

Just for the record, Neil Bush was never convicted, never even charged, however, he did lose in a civil action and did pay.  The Clinton brother and brother-in-laws are a different breed altogether.  Roger Clinton was convicted, but was then pardoned by his Clinton,  RC and Hillary's brother Hugh Rodham were involved in offering Clinton pardons to several purchasers, several of their customers paid up and were, in fact, pardoned.  Billy Carter was never convicted or charged; mainly he was just a world class bozo.  On the other hand, he did have some big time dealings with the Libyan Government, and did take large loans from them.  Isn't it curious that the Libyan Government would loan big bucks to a small time Georgia clown whose brother just happened to be the President of the US?  But what the hell does any of that have to do with anything that's facing us now. 

We've got real problems that are so much more important that this gotcha’ crap, we're stuck with importing more than 2/3 of our oil from foreigners.  OPEC (the Saudi's) refuses to increase production, to push up supply and lower prices, and still the eco-warriors and their political machine, the Democrats, thwart any attempt to drill US oil or to build US refineries.  Some times you've just got to wonder why Clinton gave China sophisticated satellite technology, and so much more.

[Scandal Trilogy] The exchanges posted here give us far greater insight to these people than they could possibly imagine. Sloan has always been recognized as something of a loon, but he seems mostly harmless as long as he stays in his astral plane and doesn't try to cross over into the real world. The candidate for sheriff, on the other hand, is sounding really scary. This woman has some serious issues and wants a position where she could do some real damage. What is it with some of these women when they reach a certain age (think Cindy Sheehan)? If I were really mean I would say that she has a syndrome, but that label is already taken. ~arthur_phrain@hotmail.com

Phone books are as obsolete as that big old catalogue Sears used to send everyone. I can find any phone number online faster than any book.

[Rock weighted zip lock bags w/ phone books]  First of all, do not put landscapers in that list.  We are usually the ones who pick them up.  We have an obligation to our customers to clean their yards.  On gravel we blow the debris to an area where we can rake it up, so ultimately that garbage (the zip lock bag) is picked up by us.  The worst ones are the gravel companies that put their little samples in there and throw it in your yard, so that we can either pick it up or hit it with our lawnmowers in high grass when it cannot be seen, which can be very dangerous to you or anyone in the path of this flying debris.  By the way, this is called littering--not advertising. I have already called one of the companies and explained to them that they will be reported for littering if it happens again. Keep in mind that some of my customers are not here for 8 or 9 months and if I let all that garbage stay there I will lose them as a customer and any neighbors will surely not want to employ me if they see an untidy yard.

[Anything Goes with USFWS] The picture shows the new expressway going to a single home about 1/4 of a mile off Key Deer blvd in which a USFW employee lives. Maybe all you fine folks that live on the back roads of Big Pine should have the same consideration. After all it is your tax money.

[Scandal Part III] Sloan, if Mr. Hartman is right and you have caused this kind of hurt, I hope you can fix it. Taking sides when one only hears one side is bad, very bad. You may be too old to learn anything from this, but Mr. Hartman sounds very real to me. Check your dreams and then check your heart and most of all check your facts. Time will tell.

Today Heidi Fleiss, who lost her fortune after being busted and jailed in 1997, lives in a trailer she shares with 20 parrots she took in when a pet shop closed down. Heidi Fleiss all washed up| Showbiz | News of the World

Some very negative things are happening here in our beloved United States of America. Our vitally important middle class is shrinking. This has been going on for the past 25 years. We are slowly but surely heading for a two class system--rich and poor--like India. One of the great strengths of this nation has been an active, vibrant middle class. This is slowly changing. Also we have been undergoing the "Europeanization" of America. Much higher gas prices are, to some extent, a manifestation of a likening to the European countries which most of our immigrant ancestors came from. During 1967 and 1968 I lived in West Germany (prior to unification). Way back then gasoline in the Frankfurt area was close to $2 USD per gallon. Compared to much of the industrialized world we have had relatively inexpensive gasoline for a long time. This is obviously changing. Another manifestation of the "Europeanization" of America is the steady increase in multi-family dwellings as opposed to single family homes. While generally considered less desirable from a living stand point, multi-family dwellings are more efficient in many ways and more cost effective. Unfortunately these slowly creeping changes are part of irreversible globalization whether we are led by John McCain or Barack Hussein Obama.

When Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces, General Dwight Eisenhower found the victims of the death camps he ordered all possible photographs to be taken and for the German people from surrounding villages to be ushered through the camps and even made to bury the dead. He did this because he said in words to this effect: Get it all on record now - get the films - get the witnesses -because somewhere down the road of history some bastard will get up and say that this never happened.              

Now, more than ever, with Iran, among others, claiming the Holocaust to be a myth, it is imperative to make sure the world never forgets.

[Stars and Stripes] One of these places is our own Big Pine Key post office and the new head mail lady is retired military.

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Saturday May 17, 2008

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Friday May 16, 2008

[Where are the normal people who are engaged in life] Over here! We have kids, work, go to college, coach sports, volunteer in the community, have friends who do the same, do not drink all day or everyday (even though sometimes the kids make us want to), do not partake in wacky weed or other substances and we and our kids have tans. And our kids have manners, get good grades and are home before dark.

Yes, there are "normal" people here in the Keys. You just have to let everyone live and let live and continue on your own path that makes you happy.

We are at a pivotal time in our history. No one expects oil prices to ever go down again. The United States is going to change big time so be prepared.

How to get rid of a one night stand. Video

[Scandal Part II] Dear Mr. Bashinsky, I have read your posting today on "Good Morning Key West" and I take serious offense to portions of your article.  You say you are or were an attorney.  If you were a true advocate of law and a genuine objective journalist you would investigate the facts before publishing malicious slander and defamation about somebody who you have never met or talked to.  Obviously, you did not review the files in either my divorce case or the probate case.  Judging by what you have written, you have published as fact statements from only one documented seriously mentally ill individual.

Sincerely yours, Robert (Bob) Hartman,305-279-7089

In googling “deaths by taser”, I could find no instance that a taser was the identified as the actual cause of death.  There is no doubt that death has resulted in many instances wherein the taser was applied.  In these instances the effect of drugs on the subject were usually identified as the true cause of death with the taser being identified as a possible aggravator.  It’s worth noting that other disabling tactics involving physical force such as choke holds or the use of truncheons present grave risks to the subject and to the law enforcement officer.

I am the retired cop and I want to address two posts from yesterday.  First, the military guy who thinks police work is kindergarten stuff.   Prior to becoming a cop, I served 8 years in the Marine Corps.  Don't you dare question my experience in the military.  I experienced things in the Corps that I am not willing to discuss here.  In fact, your comments almost paint you to be a poser because most soldiers who actually were in combat don't brag about it on the internet.  I love my country and I love my town.  That's why I dedicated my entire adult life to serving them.  And I can assure you, my experience as a cop was far more challenging than my military service. 

And to the person who seems to think cops aren't human:  Did I ever make mistakes?  Of course I have.  Knocking on the wrong door or responding to the wrong location is usually a result of bad information being passed to the officer from dispatch.  Cops can only work with what information is given to them.

[Gator Air] I predict they will be gone within a couple of months. In the Keys, the Coconut Telegraph is faster than a broadband connection.  Gator Air can’t treat Keys people like they do. We have standards here; low standards, but still standards, none the less.

[Scandal Part III] I spent maybe three hours at Sandy’s home yesterday afternoon looking at documents of various kinds. Only a small portion of the total she has saved just on your and her affairs. I probably spent another two hours with her on the telephone. I will try to address your first and longer email point by point.
 
You say Sandy is “one documented seriously mentally ill individual.” The court you two went before during the divorce ordered psychological examinations of both of you, the results of which are part of the sealed file and are unknown to me. There doesn’t seem to be any order at all, concerning custody. Merely a transcript of a hearing before a special master. When the order granting a divorce came down, your and Sandy’s four children were living with her, and sometimes were with you. I was involved in a few pretty rough divorce and child custody cases when I practiced law, and I know that judges do not leave children in the care of a “documented seriously mentally ill individual.”
Sandy has copies of investigative reports prepared by the Florida Department of Children and Families. These reports have printed on them: “CONFIDENTIAL. Unauthorized Release is a Law Violation.” Sandy said she got these reports by going to DCF and asking for them. She had to sign something saying she would not let the reports out. It’s as if the reports are sealed, like your and her divorce file was sealed by the Court, at Sandy’s request, after parts of the file went missing while it was checked out in your custody. Sandy said the file was reconstructed by the Judge from Sandy’s court-stamped copies of the missing court documents.
 
One of the DCF investigative reports is mostly about you, Preston, and your wife, Nancy. You and Nancy are adults. Preston is dead. So there no longer is any need to protect the part of this report about you three. I deleted the parts naming anyone else. There are grammatical and syntax errors in the report, which I did not correct when I typed it... Today'sFloridaKeysDrivel

[Selling a house] I advertised one on this web site and put out my own for sale sign. I didn't have to share the money with anyone, well, except the government. It had been in the hands of a local realtor for a year and was shown a total of three times. Sell it yourself.

Obama is apparently smarter than you are because he is aware of the Democratic primary states which include: 57 contests. DC, Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, US Virgin Islands, Democrats abroad (International), Northern Mariana Islands (Republican primary). Guess what?  I am smarter then you are, but that ain't saying much.

[The Fuel and Economy Crisis] I am so tired of trying to find enough work to be able to pay my rent and just survive. And I'm really, really tired of GWB. He's a buffoon, to say the least.  But what really gets me is that in this time of skyrocketing costs of fuel and food, we are being led by a man whose family business is—oil!  Can anyone here spell conflict of interest? Does anyone really believe that the Bush family is not in bed with Middle Eastern oil? Puh-leease!  I am so ready for the revolution. You know, by "We,The People". Bring it on.

[Bush was handed the strongest military in American history and in fact the best trained in the world]  We all know that a lot of crap is tossed on this site, but this load ranks right up there with the stinkiest! Defense spending 1992=$358.6 Billion, that’s the first year of his His Bubbaness’s admin.  Defense spending 2001=$307.8 Billion, that’s the last year of His Bubbaness’s defense budgets.  That $50.8 Billion dollars cut from the military on Clinton’s watch!  In 1992 military persons on active duty numbered 1,807,177, by 2000 it had dwindled to 1,384,338, that’s nearly 500,000--one half million military folks removed from service to their country.  I suppose that in the Democrat rubric less equals more.

[Buy Owner]  I'm not sure what they're about, but I put my Ramrod house up on For Sale By Owner and got nothing.  Ads in the Barometer and Keynoter yielded the best results with a few from the Citizen in which I listed it Fri-Sun.  The best results were from a professional-looking sign complete with a two-page flyer, pictures and written info.  You'd be surprised how many people just ride around picking up flyers which seem to find their way into the hands of buyers.  I agreed to co-op with real estate agents, but only one brought a potential buyer.  Priced well, my house sold in three months--a clean, cash deal.  Be sure, however, to get a real estate lawyer to work with you.  They're worth the money when it comes to contracts.  (I was a licensed real estate agent in Virginia, but everything is different in Florida, especially the Keys!)  As well, if you decide to pay some commission, you can get your home listed on the MLS for around $300 through mainland agencies.  It matters not who lists it, just who sees it. (Search "Florida list on MLS")

Ctrl + C copies, and Ctrl + V pastes. What key strokes cut?

[Picture withheld] [The democrats actually want petro prices to rise] What the hell are you smoking? If I see one more picture of Bush walking lovingly hand in hand thru the Rose Garden again I’m going to hurl. (Don’t do it Ed.)

[Credit card debt] Sooner or later the people of America are going to drown in it. I am glad I paid all of mine off and cut them up.

[Selling a house] I haven’t sold a house, but I did rent one. I advertised in the Citizen and Keynoter and on the classifieds on BPK.com. I got more response from the BPK.com ad and it rented through the online ad and it was free.

[Who is most likely to badmouth cops] Those that feel free to break the law and blame others when they get caught. That’s not rocket science, is it?

[Retired police officer] Once again we hear from the SAS(?) guy. Many of us have had AK47's fired at us. Fear is relevant to the situation. Now I'd fear a slingshot firing marshmallows (those little suckers hurt). Years ago I feared little, time does change things.  

Am I the only one annoyed by businesses who advertise by throwing a rock-weighted Zip-lock bag into your yard?  Do these people think we are too stupid to open the phone book if we need a landscaper or a boat lift?  What's worse, my two snowbird neighbors, whose houses are closed and shuttered and have barricades in front of their driveways, also have the baggies laying in their yards.  Is this form of advertisement even legal?

I will not read any post that has nothing to say except the republicans did this the democrats did that. I am sick of it! We are on the brink of a national disaster both financially and militarily and all you people think about is your stupid political parties. Grow up and smell reality--it stinks!

I saw a boat in Eden Pines named BPK Dot Calm. I wonder if it was the Editor's.

[Presidential Siblings] I only recall Billy Carter’s antics, but I doubt if any of them did anything as serious as collapsing the largest S&L in Colorado.  It may have cost the taxpayer even more than Keating's Lincoln S&L shenanigans.  Check it out Bush fans.  It was your tax money.

Canine free style. YouTube - BRITAINS GOT TALENT 2008 DOG ACT

[Why Cheney didn't run for president] Because there's no money left and half the silverware is missing already!

The Vatican says it’s okay to believe in aliens as long as you believe they’re created by God. http://www6.comcast.net/articles/news-science/20080514/SCIENCE-POPE-EXTRATERRESTRIALS-DC/

[The democrats actually want petro prices to rise] Some folks are so divisive that they intentionally spread falsehoods. I’ll wager they are the same folks who preface every statement with “Liberal” or some such moniker intending to divide us further. Just tell your story and leave out the insults and lies.

[Stars and Stripes] It sure is nice seeing our flag blowing in the wind and in shops, stores, and even bars. The only thing I have to comment on is how it is displayed--not being lighted after dark, hanging from the wall wrong side out. If you care enough to hang the flag, please learn the proper way. Thanks for your support. 

[Anal retentive]  In regards to Two For Twenty's first pizza add ever which supposedly happened two thousand years ago is a flat out lie. The Leaning Tower of Pizza was erected in 1173 which was only 835 years ago. Also the use of the number four being IV is highly exaggerated. The Romans at that period of time used IIII as the symbol for four. Not until around mid 1300 A.D was the number used as IV. the reason for this? IV was used to represent the god of Jupiter whose name was IVPITER. I only hope they are smarter in the kitchen than they are in their own minds.

[Credit card] I pay mine off every month and Advanta sends me a commission check every couple of months from my purchases. Credit cards are good for emergencies and to get rebates—not to live on. The interest will kill you.

Asking the question, "Are you better off today than you were under President Clinton?" doesn't seem to have the same effect as when Ronald Reagan asked it of Jimmy Carter in 1980.  When Reagan asked the question:
1.  Carter was an incumbent running for reelection.
2.  Carter had four years of a Democratically-controlled House and Senate with which to work.
3.  The result was double digit inflation, double digit unemployment, 20% interest rates, and American hostages in Iranian prisons.

I don't know about you, but that prospect that situation repeating itself doesn't blow any wind up my skirt.

What happened to the bear in the chair? I last saw it on Monday on Watson just after you turned right off Key Deer Blvd. I did see the chair with no bear Monday evening with a note on it. Is he ok?

[Cops] I moved here to get out of a corrupt town and their cops. They are the same here. I will say this, the State Troopers are another breed. They are polite and know what they are doing. If you respect them, they will respect you.

The bush administration continues to supply teachers