Friday, April 13, 2012

Steven Skelley - Author


Author / photographer Thomas Routzong was diagnosed with cancer in 1996 and given only a 30% chance of survival. His wife lost her battle with cancer soon after. Thomas survived and vowed not to waste even a minute of the rest his life. After working on the Apollo 11 space program and serving his community for 30 years as an educator, he began traveling the world, writing, and photographing its beauty.

Author / photographer Steven Skelley battled his own life-threatening illness after being exposed to toxic mold but survived with a desire to encourage others through his writing, photography and music. Skelley has not allowed his physical disabilities to stop him from experiencing and sharing all that life has to offer.

Routzong and Skelley partnered together to author:

  • Positive Reflections: Inspiring Thoughts & Photographs From Around The World
  • the best of Hometown Heroes florida
  • Every Day Is Mothers Day

These books are available at SunnyHarborPublishing.org


Steven Skelley and his daughter Steffany Skelley Gilmer coauthored the novella The Gargoyle Scrolls.

It is available at Amazon.com

Watch The Gargoyle Scrolls commercial on YouTube.



Routzong and Skelley help people document the stories of their lives and families. Forget Me Not.


What people say about Skelley's books:

"They are great!" U.S. Senator Bill Nelson

"Robin has received Positive Reflections…and they have truly lifted her spirits. She wants you to know that you are in her thoughts and prayers." Ayana Smith - personal assistant of Robin Roberts / Good Morning America

"As a cancer survivor, I truly believe in living every day to the fullest and doing the things that make us happy. This book helps remind me to do that." Catherine Schweinsberg / Brevard County Library Services Director

"What a joy to find your simply splendid publication.It is wonderfully well done." Hazel Haley / Lakeland, FL

"I wish you great success with the book -- you deserve it!" Patrick D. Smith / Nobel and Pulitzer nominated author

"This book grabbed me from the very beginning, and I just couldn't put it down! It's a thought provoking, well written story...with the theme centered around the history of gargoyles, which I have always found intriguing! There is a lesson for all of us in this book, but you'll have to read it to find yours! Enjoy!" Ginger F. / Naples, FL

"The authors tell remarkable stories." Gary Roen / Midwest Book Review


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Steven Skelley is a published author of several nonfiction works and the novella The Gargoyle Scrolls. He has been a newspaper columnist, travel writer, news writer, ordained minister, music director, creative arts director, theater reviewer and tennis instructor.

Steven Skelley - Journalist / Photographer


Steven Skelley has been a columnist and photographer for almost a dozen newspapers, a staff features writer for a national news service, a theater critic for a major magazine, a civil rights writer and a travel writer for multiple publications.

His travel feature articles have been published in nearly a dozen travel publications with verified readerships of over 13,000,000. He has written USA travel spotlights, restaurant spotlights, dinner theaters spotlights, international travel spotlights and cruise spotlights for multiple publications.

His many GLBT civil rights articles that included interviews with national lawmakers have been published in a national publication with a readership of over 10,000,000.

In addition to column and features writing, Steven has covered major sporting events, interviewed international figures, and spotlighted local business and restaurant owners.

He has covered and photographed professional tennis events including the Delray Beach ITC Championships, Nasdaq Open, the Ericcson Open, Pro Tennis World Open, and Champions Cup. Steven was a USPTA Developmental Coach and a USNTA Certified Professional Tennis Instructor. He has hit tennis balls with world number one Jim Courier, Australian Open Champ Petr Korda, NCAA Champ Mikael Pernfors,and John McEnroe's former coach Carlos Goffi. He has interviewed Four-time Grand Slam singles champ and Hall Of Famer Jim Courier and French Open champ Michael Chang.

He has covered and photographed professional volleyball and professional footvolley tournaments.

Though legally physically disabled, Skelley has not allowed his challenging disability to make him an invalid.



Steven Skelley is a member of:

  • National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association
  • International Travel Writers Alliance
  • Travel Writers


What people say about Steven Skelley's writing & photography:

"This is great." Susan Bejeckian - Los Angeles Convention & Visitors Bureau

"You are fantastic." Laura J. Murphy - Publicist / Cirque du Soleil La Nouba

"Killer fabulous! I’m delighted and can’t wait to share with everyone!" Leigh Cort - Leigh Cort Publicity / Inns of Elegance

"Steve Skelley has done an outstanding job for us at Hometown News in Brevard County. After we launched our first three papers in Brevard, I was searching for a religion columnist, and he took the initiative to let me know he was available. As we expanded, to seven newspapers at this time, he has faithfully continued to produce columns based on current events. His style is very interesting to readers, and he requires almost no editing. It was a joy to have Steve as a contributor, and I would highly recommend him as a writer and as a person who takes responsibility and runs with it." Darrell Johnson Associate Managing Editor / Hometown News, Cocoa/Rockledge, Titusville/Port St. John and Merritt Island/Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral editions

"Mr. Skelley was a fine columnist for the Marco Island Sun Times newspaper. His articles were always on time and were well written." Matt Roseboom / Owner - Marco Island Sun Times Newspaper

"WOW! What an amazing article. Thanks so much." Monica – owner Cyber CafĂ© of Marco Island

"Thanks for doing such a great job on the article! We really appreciate it and have received some inquiries from it as a result. We are happy to be passing along ideas and you are responsible for that!" Shalom, Lois W

"Thank you for your original story on the Haitian Anniversary Celebration. It was excellent!" Bishop JL Knox

"I love to read stories about common every-day people and common every-day things. Well done!" L Bumgarner

"Your wonderful article published! On behalf of the staff and leaders of Skycrest United Methodist Church , we say a big Thank You! Much appreciated." Fred Ball, Pastor

"Great story. You are welcome to write any time." Rochelle Kaiser / Editor - Central Ridge newspaper

"Wonderful thoughts!" Frank – United Kingdom

"Thank you!" Michael Yuen – Hong Kong

"This is awesome!" T Yardley – Spokane , Washington

"Beautiful message. We'll print it and read it several times as we leave for Boston tomorrow." M Dilling

"This is very thought provoking. Thank you for sharing it." Rev C.S. Hutchinson

"Very nice. I copied it for future meditation." Dr Russell Barber, 3 time Emmy Winning Journalist

"Thank you for the wonderful article. You hit the nail on the head!" Rene' Oliver

"I enjoy reading your words in Naples Living. Keep it up." Bill Strenkert, Chef-Owner Rainbowkitchens

"Personally I think this one is the best yet. Keep up the good work!" J Behuniak Jr.

"Just read your article and loved it!" G Shelton, FCA Coordinator, Collier County , FL

"Awesome story! Well written and fun to read!" S Paschal / ICTA

"Received your book yesterday and enjoyed reading it last night. Congratulations on a job well done. Your book is truly a garden of beauty for all to enjoy." Al Dana / University Registrar Retired

"Thank you for a great story!" Pia Dahlquist - Director of Sales and Marketing / The Mai-Kai Restaurant and Polynesian Show

"Thank you so much!!!" Ann Paladie - Senior Publicist / Cirque du Soleil Viva ELVIS

"Awesome!!!!!! Thank you so much!" Shelley Bruner - Vice President of Communications / David Saxe Productions Las Vegas

"I read the article and I loved it." Brittany Smith - PR & Marketing Coordinator / Pink Jeep Tours

"Thanks so much." Carol Martinez - Vice President, Communications / THE LOS ANGELES CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

"Thanks very much for including us and writing about our cooking school." Ashley Mon - Owner / Hamanassett Bed and Breakfast

"This looks fantastic, guys!" John Dileo - Author / And You Thought You Knew Classic Movies!

"Thank you for such a great review!!" Steven Heron - Manager / Titusville Playhouse

"I am impressed ...your photography is incredible." A Southerland

"In these days when we need positive message so much more than what we hear in the news, Steven and Tom are meeting a need in all of us to be positive and to spread some positive thoughts of our own." Lou Belcher / Florida Book News

"Thanks so much for the great review! Let me know when you are coming to Philadelphia again." Stephen Wood / Knock restaurant

"Wonderful! Thank you so much for the very nice write-up on the resort. Truly appreciated!" Karen Lamonica - Public Relations Director / The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club

"Thank you so very much! We need more people like you two in our world." Rodney Holeman / The Inn On Charlotte

"Nice article on the South Carolina Upcountry and National Heritage Corridor!" Dawn Dawson House - Director, Public Relations / South Carolina Tourism

"Thanks so much for the press. It was great to have you." Katie and Val - Friends At The Cove Fine Dining

"You two are amazing" Kelsey Williams - Public Relations Coordinator / The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland

"Nice articles. Thanks so much, Steven & Tom!" Aimee Rupert - Public Relations Specialist / Ohio Tourism Division

"Wow! Thanks. Mark and Tom will be thrilled. So are we." Beth Ervin - Experience Columbus

"I truly appreciate you and how you handle your travel adventures – Your stories are so thorough and I’m blown away!" Leigh Cort - Leigh Cort Public Relations / Inns of Elegance

"Nice job. Love the slide show, too. Thanks a lot." Erik Elvejord - Director Public Relations / Holland America Line

Read some of Steven Skelley's articles:



Camp Mars



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Steven Skelley is a published author of several nonfiction works and the novella The Gargoyle Scrolls. He has been a newspaper columnist, travel writer, news writer, ordained minister, music director, creative arts director, theater reviewer and tennis instructor.





Steven Skelley - Singer / Songwriter


Steven Skelley began writing and performing live music at age 17. His I saw His Face album received national and international radio air play on many different radio formats.

He has performed on a variety of television shows.

His song Thank You God, For Making Moms has received worldwide radio and video play and is included in the purchase of the book Every Day Is Mothers Day.

The video of Steven Skelley's song Thank You God, For Making Moms has had more than 120,000 views on YouTube.

During his Contemporary Christian Music career, his songs Run to You, Peace and Psalm 147:11 all made the Top 20 Charts of the New Christian Music Network of the most requested NCMN songs worldwide. All three songs were in the Top Ten at the same time!

His song Closer Every Day won a radio station Battle of the Bands contest and earned radio air play across the country.

His independent music video Closer Every Day aired on TV in multiple states.

His songs have appeared on multi-artist projects such as Refuge Ministry's Songs of Refuge and Harvest Christian Center's I'm On My Way for which he wrote and sang the title song.

He has performed concerts for over 20 years including concerts with Grammy Award Winner Geoff Moore, Gramma Award Nonimees Out of Eden, Dove Award Nominee Freddie Colloca and he has shared the stage with the legendary country artists The Bellamy Brothers at the Black Gold Festival in Palm Beach County.

He plays energetic acoustic guitar and performs powerful and emotional lead vocals which have been compared to Phil Collins, Rich Mullins, Garth Brooks and Josh Groban.

In addition to inspirational music, Steven has performed in numerous sold-out theater productions as well as holiday and variety shows.

He has served as Music Director for sold-out theater productions.

He held the staff position of Creative Arts Director in a 100 year old organization.

He held the staff position of Contemporary Music Director in a 200 year old organization.

In 2009, Steven won the Statendam Idol singing competition with his rendition of You Raise Me Up.


You can get Steven Skelley's Thank You God For Making Moms CD single FOR FREE when you order his Every Day Is Mothers Day book. Order Now!










Thank You God For Making Moms is available as an MP3 download for only 99 cents at http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/stevenskelley


See and hear Steven Skelley perform:




Thank You God For Making Moms (acoustic version 1992)




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Steven Skelley is a published author of several nonfiction works and the novella The Gargoyle Scrolls. He has been a newspaper columnist, travel writer, news writer, ordained minister, music director, creative arts director, theater reviewer and tennis instructor.

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Dangers of Mold Exposure

THE DANGERS OF MOLD - In 2006, Steven Skelley was exposed to mold in his workplace and began a lifelong health crises involving OSHA, more than a dozen medical specialists and two hospitals including world renowned Shands Hospital at the University of Florida in Gainesville. It led to a cover-up by his employer. The following information is meant to help others through similar crises.

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In June 2006, I was an athletic, healthy, employed male until a tropical storm knocked out the a/c unit near my office at my church employer First United Methodist Church in Homosassa, FL.

I unlocked the church and came in that morning to find my office and hallway flooded. There was a strong moldy/mildew smell that was remarked about by myself and the maintenance employee who arrived soon after me.

I reported the moldy stench to my supervisor when he arrived later. My employer's inadequate response was to place a fan in my office and then sprinkle "carpet fresh" on the mildewed carpet.

The stench did not go away. It got worse.

Within a day, the mold stench made my sinuses burn, my voice hoarse, my throat congested and I began to cough violently.

Several people, including the office manager, commented on how my voice was now sounding gravelly and how the mildew stench seemed to be negatively affecting me.

The stench continued for several weeks until my employer eventually hired a mold specialist to remove the carpet and clean my office at a cost of $4000 but I continued to have ever-increasing health issues while in the building.

I searched the building and found multiple sites of water damage and mold growth on the walls and ceilings.

A leaky roof seemed to be the culprit for these other mold sites.

The church had volunteers repair the roof shingles but did nothing about the mold inside the facility.

I continued to get sicker and sicker, weaker and weaker.

I pointed out the mold sites to my employer - some of them were 4 to 5 feet across!

I took photos of the water damage and mold. I verified nearly half a dozen black mold sites still present.

As my breathing issues continued to worsen, I was seen and treated by my family physician, an allergist, and ear /nose/throat specialist, an emergency care facility and a pulmonary specialist.

My face began swelling from the increasingly stronger and stronger prednisone and antibiotic treatments.

I spent nearly $10,000 out of my own pocket in prescription co-pays.

I asked the my church employer to assist me with the medical costs since it all began with the water damage and mold exposure. Their committee held a meeting to discuss my request. They refused to pay for any of my medical care or $10,000+ prescription costs.

By March 2007, my pulmonologist - Dr Balakrishnan - had treated me with almost monthly, large oral doses of prednisone and antibiotics. When this wasn't affecting my breathing positively enough, he began injecting me with even stronger levels of prednisone.

Finally, Dr Balakrishnan told me that he had reached the limit of what he could do outside a hospital. He wanted me to leave his office and go to the local hospital immediately.

That day, I was admitted to Citrus Memorial Hospital where I would spend the next 6 days fighting to breathe, experiencing excessive swelling, battling 100 plus degree fevers and suffering intense all-day headaches.

Since Dr Balakrishnan and Citrus Memorial Hospital did not seem to be making any progress toward recovery and I felt that I was getting weaker, I took the advice of a church leader / committee member and checked myself out of Citrus Memorial and had my wife drive me to Shands Hospital at the University of Florida in Gainesville where I was immediately admitted.

A doctor told my wife that if I had not come in that day, I may not have lived.

I would spend the next 8 days in Intensive Care as a team of specialists battled to save my life.

I did live - thanks to the wonderfully skilled specialists at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida.  Special thanks are due to Pulmonary Specialist Dr Foster who led a team of nearly 2 dozen physicians overseeing my care.



( Letter from Dr Foster: Sick Building Syndrome/Dangerous to Skelley's health) "His symptoms are related to sick building syndrome from exposure to the air in the office building at First United Methodist Church. The diagnosis of sick building syndrome is made by recurrence of symptoms on exposure to same room or building. I was adamant with him that he should not enter that building or office area to prevent further lung damage."


After being admitted for 14 consecutive days of life-saving treatment in 2 hospitals, I was too weak to even walk across a room or get out of a chair by myself.

The mold exposure had led to several other issues including a lower immune system. I now had thrush, rashes and mononucleosis as well.

My liver was testing at a lethal ferritin level (14,000). A normal level is 300. One Shands specialist worried that this exceedingly high level could lead to Hemachromatosis and permanent liver damage. Doctors scheduled a liver biopsy.

I used an oxygen hose to breathe and even then could not draw a full breath.

My employer, the senior minister at First United Methodist Church of Homosassa, drove with my daughter to Gainesville to visit me at Shands Hospital. He would later testify that he didn't remember EVER seeing me sick - a ridiculous and totally dishonest claim to say the least. He drove 1.5 hours in a car with my own daughter to visit me, sat at my hospital beside with tears in his eyes and then claimed he never "saw" me sick! Quite a representative of God, eh?

I would spend months recovering my strength and battling breathing-crises relapses, light sensitivity, thrush, mononucleosis, hives and many other debilitating issues.

I would spend years with chronic breathing issues. They continue today.

I have been prescribed a home nebulizer machine to administer Albuterol treatments when I experience an attack and take a daily prescription for people with chronic breathing issues..

In April 2007, an A/C company named Air Flow informed the church in writing that they had found more mold in the building. This report was discussed and published by church leaders in the April 2007 Homosassa First United Methodist Church Council meeting.

When I contacted the church about the published mold report, the senior pastor called Air Flow "liars" who were trying to make money.

I asked - if they were liars - why did the church have a service contract with them? I expressed my fears by phone and in writing that more mold present at my workplace could harm me even further.

(Just one site of mold. There were many! The darkest spots are black mold. This site was approximately 5 feet across.)

In May 2007 the church reacted by hiring a “mold specialist” - suspiciously from just around the corner - to inspect the building for mold. They emailed me that the mold specialist said his "nose told him" there was no mold in the building.

Ridiculous!

At the advice of a friend who had contacted a relative who is a Dr. at the Center For Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta about my health crises, I had a mold test performed by a professional lab named IMS Laboratory.

The IMS Laboratory result was TNTC: mold level. 

TNTC = TOO NUMEROUS TO COUNT!



I presented the TNTC mold finding from IMS Labs to my employer.

The senior pastor of the church called IMS Laboratory "liars."

Just to recap, when presented with evidence of mold from two professional testing companies, Rev. Whittaker called them both "liars."

My employer refused to accept any responsibility for the mold in the facility.

Their tactic was to hide my exposure and lie whenever necessary.


































(OSHA Citation: MOLD PRESENT/UNCLEAN WORK ENVIRONMENT) "Employees are having breathing difficulties, sinus problems and coughing caused by poor indoor air quality, mold and mildew. A citation was issued for mold and water stains present..."

Even after they attempted to cover up the moldy conditions that nearly killed me, OSHA found evidence of mold in the building and issued them a citation for mold and an unclean work environment. "Employees are having breathing difficulties, sinus problems and coughing caused by poor indoor air quality, mold and mildew. A citation was issued for mold and water stains present..."

As I stated earlier, in addition to the OSHA citation, I also had numerous photos documenting the mold in the buildings as well as letters from a nationally recognized pulmonary specialist at one of the nation's most well respected hospitals.

(Shands Hospital Pulmonary Specialist Dr. Foster wrote a letter to my employer explaining how “sick building syndrome” had nearly killed me. She stated emphatically that returning to that facility could cause further lung damage. She did not have an issue with my working in another building on the same property and stated so. "His symptoms are related to sick building syndrome from exposure to the air in the office building at First United Methodist Church. The diagnosis of sick building syndrome is made by recurrence of symptoms on exposure to same room or building. I was adamant with him that he should not enter that building or office area to prevent further lung damage.")

The senior pastor of the church (my employer) phoned Dr. Foster to bully her into changing her findings.   Dr. Foster told me about their phone conversation during a treatment visit.

I returned to work in another building in a temporary office - staying away from the building which still had mold sites. I was still performing my job functions - the same ones for which I had earned an "excellent" performance review just weeks before my mold exposure.

The church Human Resources Committee chairperson walked up to my daughter and I one morning after services. He smiled as he informed me that the church had enlisted the help of the denomination's staff attorney in Lakeland to advise them on how to combat my illness claim.

He said, "It's nothing personal."

I disagree. It is very personal to have people lie and sacrifice your health in order to protect their budget. It is very personal when your life is considered less important than a multi-million dollar church's bank account balance.

I was soon called to a meeting of church committee members where the senior pastor denied ever seeing me sick or visiting me in the hospital (in spite of the fact he had traveled over an hour to Shands Hospital in the same car with my daughter).

He suspiciously had a cassette recorder sitting under his chair recording our meeting and his denial comments. I could see the tape recorder and actually saw him reach down to turn it on to the record setting.

A church committee chairperson made a statement (obviously for the hidden recorder) that there was never any evidence of mold in any of the buildings.

In response to their ridiculous and staged comments, I pointed out:
  • the OSHA investigation and citation
  • my photographs of mold sites all over the facility
  • the TNTC Mold Lab finding (too-numerous-to-count mold level)
  • the AirFlow report finding more mold that was discussed and entered into church council minutes
  • Dr Foster's life-saving treatment and letter documenting sick building syndrome
  • my 14 day hospitalization in 2 hospitals
  • the fact that they had spent over $4000 trying to remove / hide the mold after the initial flooding and exposure
I asked "If there was no mold, why did you spend $4000 removing it from my office? Why did OSHA cite you for mold present and an unsafe work environment?"
Since my recent employment performance review prior to my hospitalization was all excellent ratings, I offered to keep doing my excellent work from my temporary office in the main sanctuary building.

My employer responded by asking if I could meet at lunch time. I thought we were going to go to lunch together. 

When the senior pastor and Staff Parish Relations Committee chairperson arrived at my temporary office, they handed me a termination letter stating that Dr. Foster's letter validating my health crises due to mold in the church as their reason for my termination. 

They had planned their ambush well.

"We are in receipt of a letter from Dr Runi A. Foster...your employment with the Church is terminated effective immediately."

(Termination letter)


In spite of being an employee with a recent excellent performance review, my church employer fired me in the midst of the worst health crises of my life, lied about ever seeing me sick, lied about visiting me in Shands Hospital, lied about the OSHA citation, lied about the presence of mold in my office building, and took away the income and the health insurance that kept me under doctor's treatment during my nearly fatal health crises.

They risked my life to save themselves a few bucks and so they could go happily along their way doing "God's work!"

Months later, in the midst of my divorce, the senior minister from this church asked and received permission to speak at my divorce hearing! He stated under oath the lies that 1) there never was any mold in my workplace 2) there was never an OSHA citation 3) I was not fired, but left my employment willingly.

This minister of God committed perjury.

Essentially, the minister called Citrus Memorial Hospital, Shands Hospital at the University of Florida, Dr. Foster, the entire team of Shands Hospital at the University of Florida specialists, OSHA, IMS Laboratory, AIRFlow and myself liars.

In spite of all the medical and OSHA documentation, he offered the judge his word that there was no mold exposure and that I did not have a health crises due to it..

Unbelievably, a local judge wrote IN MY DIVORCE DECREE that she believed the minister - that my 14 day hospitalization recorded in two hospitals never happened, that there never was a mold exposure, that the OSHA citation that she had in her possession didn't exist, that I had not been terminated, and that the Dr. Foster letter verifying sick-building-syndrome that the she had in her possession didn't exist.

This is what the judge decreed, "IN THE CURCUIT COURT FIFTH JUDICIAL COURT OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR CITRUS COUNTY. The Husband made much of his having to work in a "sick building" which caused him serious health complications. Mark Whitaker, pastor of First United Methodist Church of Homossassa, where the Husband was employed, testified. After the building was flooded, remedial repairs costing thousands of dollars were immediately affected. Further, the Husband's testimony in previous hearing concerning OSHA having corroborated his complaints was contradicted by Whittaker's testimony...No OSHA fines or citations were ever issued against the church. The Court finds Pastor Whittaker's testimony...bring into question the Husband's veracity on this point."

Let me once again point out the OSHA Citation that you can view for yourself and that I have copied into this blog and that the judge held in her own hands that reads MOLD PRESENT/UNCLEAN WORK ENVIRONMENT "Employees are having breathing difficulties, sinus problems and coughing caused by poor indoor air quality, mold and mildew. A citation was issued for mold and water stains present..." 

The judge - in essence - said that Citrus Memorial Hospital, Shands Hospital at the University of Florida, Dr. Foster, the entire team of Shands Hospital at the University of Florida specialists, OSHA, IMS Laboratory, AIRFlow and myself had all documented something that had never happened!

Ask yourself why the judge unbelievably chose to believe the deceitful minister with no proof whatsoever over believing unquestionable facts, unquestionable documents, an entire team of respected medical professionals at one of the most respected medical institutions in the USA and government health professionals whose sole job is to identify health dangers!

Ask yourself why the judge allowed a local minister to speak at a divorce hearing that had nothing to do with him.

Ask yourself if this was simply a backdoor way to put into public record a financial "protection" for a local church at the expense of a man who nearly died because of what happened at that church and whose health crises was clearly documented by OSHA and dozens of specialists.

Why else would a former employer be allowed to speak at a divorce hearing he had nothing to do with and to speak about an issue clearly outside the scope of the divorce?

Why else would the undeniable documentation of so many professionals be tossed aside for the unsupported claims of a minister with a clear motive to protect his organization's finances?

Why would a judge decree that Citrus Memorial Hospital, Shands Hospital at the University of Florida, Dr. Foster, the entire team of Shands Hospital at the University of Florida specialists, OSHA, IMS Laboratory, AIRFlow and myself had never documented something when she had all the documentation IN HER HANDS - documentation that has been published in this very blog?

In conclusion:

Exposure to mold, mildew or other toxic agents can steal your health and lead to cover-ups at every level from those who may be otherwise held responsible and by those who protect them. 

Be wary.

If you are exposed to mold in your work environment, seek immediate treatment from a medical specialist. It is a life-threatening issue! Dr Foster and that team of specialists at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida saved my life.

Document EVERYTHING!

Do not trust your employer to care about your life…even if your employer is a church. 

Do not trust our judicial system or its representatives to behave honestly or in the best interests of the victim. 

Protect yourself medically and legally.

The mold may be the least insidious of your challenges.



Steven Skelley is a published author of several nonfiction works and the novella The Gargoyle Scrolls. He has been a newspaper columnist, travel writer, news writer, ordained minister, music director, creative arts director, theater reviewer and tennis instructor.

The Gargoyle Scrolls


The Gargoyle Scrolls
by Steven Skelley & Steffany Skelley

After the massacre of the gargoyles at Molotopon, their very existence passed from history to legend to folk tale and the peaceful race of gargoyles eventually became nothing more than monsters in fairy tales and statues on cathedrals. GrameeBull alone guards the sacred scrolls of Simipar that chronicle the deeds, both good and evil, of his now-forgotten race. But now someone or something is searching for the scrolls and the unlimited power that is hidden within them.

"The Gargoyle Scrolls is probably not what you might think at first glance. Though it has fantasy elements, it is set in today's society, not a fantasy world. Many societies throughout history have winged creatures in their legends, mythology or religions. What if we found out today that those tales were true and there were other intelligent creatures inhabiting our planet? How would it affect human society? Would someone be willing to kill to keep that information buried?" Steven said.

"After the massacre of the gargoyles at Molotopon, their very existence passed from history to legend to folk tale and the peaceful race of gargoyles eventually became nothing more than monsters in fairy tales and statues on cathedrals. GrameeBull alone guards the sacred scrolls of Simipar that chronicle the deeds, both good and evil, of his now-forgotten race. But now someone or something is searching for the scrolls and the unlimited power that is hidden within them," Steffany said explaining the books storyline.

Click here to view The Gargoyle Scrolls youtube commercial.

Click here to order The Gargoyle Scrolls on Amazon.com.


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Steven Skelley is a published author of several nonfiction works and the novella The Gargoyle Scrolls. He has been a newspaper columnist, travel writer, news writer, ordained minister, music director, creative arts director, theater reviewer and tennis instructor.

Every Day Is Mothers Day


Every Day Is Mothers Day is 100+ pages of thoughts, stories and photographs that celebrate the special relationship between moms and their children. Each book includes a special music CD of the touching single Thank You God For Making Moms. This is the perfect gift for any mother or child of any age.Author / Photographers Thomas Routzong & Steven Skelley asked readers to share their favorite family photos and then added thought-provoking or humorous captions to help us remember and celebrate that amazing mother-child connection.

With a music CD single of Steven Skelley's song Thank You God For Making Moms included, Every Day Is Mothers Day is the perfect gift book for any mother or child of any age.

Thomas Routzong
I was born in Cocoa, Florida in 1941 to Ethel Sue Duke Routzong. I was named after our family doctor, Dr. Thomas Kenaston, grew up in rural Cocoa on 30 acres in a farm atmosphere, and I can still almost taste the homemade butter and biscuits my mother made. My grandmother, Bess Cole Duke (Mama Duke) was like a second mother to me. I can still picture her standing there saying, "Anything worth doing is worth doing well."

Steven Skelley
I was born in Canton, Ohio in 1963 to Sherill May McWilliams Skelley. She taught me the amazing value of hugs and smiles and laughter. Mom’s mom, Virginia Margaret Wheatley McWilliams was her best friend as well as instigator & partner in their many silly and fun adventures. They modeled for me how great family can be. I hope my daughter and I carry on their legacy of love, friendship and shared adventure.

Click the video below to hear Steven's song Thank You God For Making Moms and see excerpts from the book Every Day Is Mothers Day.


Click here to watch youtube video of Thank You God For Making Moms

Click here to purchase Every Day Is Mothers Day
Every Day Is Mothers Day book and CD + FREE SHIPPING!
Price $ 12.00

Thank You God For Making Moms is available as an MP3 download for only 99 cents at http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/stevenskelley


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Steven Skelley is a published author of several nonfiction works and the novella The Gargoyle Scrolls. He has been a newspaper columnist, travel writer, news writer, ordained minister, music director, creative arts director, theater reviewer and tennis instructor.

Positive Reflections: Inspiring Thoughts & Photographs From Around The World is a 128 page gift book with a special twist that is meant to encourage a positive outlook that will help you live life to it’s fullest. Encourage someone who is facing a life challenge or just inspire someone to enjoy all that life has to offer.Whether you want to encourage someone who is facing a life challenge or just inspire someone to enjoy all life has to offer, Positive Reflections: Inspiring Thoughts & Photographs From Around The World is the PERFECT GIFT BOOK!

Co-authors Thomas Routzong and Steven Skelley have faced life's challenges and have survived to encourage others to enjoy the journey of life!

Positive Reflections: Inspiring Thoughts & Photographs From Around The World features beautiful photos from around the world taken by Steven and Thomas along with insightful tourist descriptions by Thomas. Each photo is paired with a thought-provoking quote from a famous historical figure and an inspiring, encouraging mo
tivational confession from Steven that you can use to positively focus your day.

Author / photographer Thomas Routzong was diagnosed with cancer in 1996 and given less than a 40% chance of survival. His wife lost her battle with cancer soon after. Thomas survived and vowed not to waste even a minute of the rest his life. After serving his community for 30 years as an educator, he began traveling the world and photographing its beauty.

Author / photographer Steven Skelley has been a columnist for nine newspapers and a news service. His mother and both sisters all passed away in their forties. At age 43, Steven battled his own life-threatening
illness but survived with a desire to encourage others though his writing, photography and music.

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People love to look at beautiful photos like these whether in a gallery like ours or in a book like this. These photos just draw you in and the quotes really make you think - a great way to forget your stress and relax." Heidi Thamert / Downtown Gallery of Titusville..


"As a cancer survivor, I truly believe in living every day to the fullest and doing the things that make us happy. This book helps remind me to do that." Catherine Schweinsberg / Brevard County Library Services Director

"Beautiful! Not everyone is able to travel around the world but, with this book, you can imagine yourself there and start your day with a positive mindset." Nancy Robinson / Talk Of The Town Travel Agency

"Thomas and Steven lift your spirits and inspire you to enjoy the beauty of the world in this delightful travel-free tour of the world." Dr. Randy D. Moody / Presbyterian Church

"Positive Reflections is like the bestseller THE SECRET but with pictures! You can get a new view of the world and a new view on life." Rev. Beth Head / Unity Church of Melbourne

"In the business world APPRECIATIVE INQUIRY is all about seeing things in a new way, overcoming the limits we impose on ourselves and living up to our potential. Positive Reflections is a valuable tool for today's successful business person." Douglas Brown / Co-author The Black Book Of Outsourcing / Brown Wilson Group

"Robin has received Positive Reflections'and they have truly lifted her spirits. She wants you to know that you are in her thoughts and prayers." Ayana Smith - personal assistant of Robin Roberts / Good Morning America.

"Thanks for the two books! They are great!" U.S. Senator Bill Nelson.

"Hey all.... I have this book & love it!!! The photos bring great relaxation to my my hectic life!!! A must have for everyone!!!!!"
Mary Ann Barnes Dunne

"I gave several as gifts, when friends seemed to be in need of inspiration. I think they make great gifts."
Kathryn Bird


(Click here to purchase Positive Reflections: Inspiring Thoughts & Photographs From Around The World) for just $15 (free shipping)

Click here to purchase Positive Reflections: Inspiring Thoughts & Photographs From Around The World from AMAZON.com



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Steven Skelley is a published author of several nonfiction works and the novella The Gargoyle Scrolls. He has been a newspaper columnist, travel writer, news writer, ordained minister, music director, creative arts director, theater reviewer and tennis instructor.

the best of HOMETOWN HEROES florida


the best of HOMETOWN HEROES florida is ten chapters of heartwarming & inspiring stories about people of all ages and backgrounds who are changing their communities, their state, and their world through their unique personalities and their desire to help others"WOW! became our keyword for this book. After we interviewed each of these extraordinary people, we would get in the car, look at each other and just say WOW!" Thomas Routzong & Steven Skelley

"The authors tell remarkable stories." Gary Roen / Midwest Book Review


THE HOMETOWN HEROES

Patrick D Smith - An Author Remembered
Patrick D Smith has been called Florida ’s greatest author. He has been nominated for multiple Pulitzer and Nobel prizes. People have asked that his books be read to them on their death bed. He once spent several years masquerading as a migrant worker in order to learn how they are often abused and mistreated. His fictional novels set in Florida’s history are world famous.

Ed Schick - The Hamlet Quoting, Motorcycle Riding Hope For The Hopeless – Ed Shick was raised in a broken home. He often found himself homeless and sleeping on the beach for weeks at a time. He tested as mentally challenged. Ed found he wasn’t mentally challenged. He earned a college degree and went on to open shelters to house and educate the homeless and hopeless.

Hazel Haley - From Too Ugly To Live To A Beautiful Soul
Hazel Haley thought she was born too ugly to live. She eventually found her place in the world as a high school teacher. She was so loved by her school and students that they wouldn’t let her retire….until she reached age 90! Hazel is a firecracker who has been sought out by Oprah and the Tonight Show.

Rafael Ortega - A Law Officer Condemned To Die, Reborn To Serve – Bronx born Rafael Ortega served the Pompano Beach area as a deputy for over 20 years until he contracted hepatitis A, B & C while arresting a criminal. With just days to live, Rafael promised God that he would serve the Latino community with what was left of his life. Rafael miraculously lived and the police officer became a peace offerer.

Dolly Hand - Home Is Where Your Heart Is – Dolly Hand is a wealthy socialite who should fit in perfectly with her Palm Beach friends. Instead, she uses her finances and influence to help the poorest of the poor as she chooses to live among them in one of the most disadvantaged cities in the state.

Kathy Catino - From Broken and Beaten To A Shining Beacon
Kathy Catino married the wrong man. She was beaten, isolated, and locked in a closet for days. She escaped. Kathy turned her nightmare into an opportunity to help other battered women and children. She opened and operated nationally acclaimed shelters in St Pete and Naples and is credited with saving the lives of tens of thousands of women and children.

Dr. Russell Barber - Teacher Of Tolerance
Barbara Walters. Tom Brokaw, The Dahli Lama. Billy Graham. Barry Manilow. Mother Teresa. These are the people who Russell Barber calls friends. Russell is a 3-time Emmy award winning journalist and college professor who has dedicated his life to creating dialogue between people of faith….all faiths.

Choctawhatchee High School - Coming Together To Change The Future
The word " Choctawhatchee " means "to come together." 2nd grade teacher Jenifer Bafundo and high school teacher Linda Evanchyk came together with an idea to change the lives of thousands of students. They paired successful high schoolers with disadvantaged second graders as pen pals and mentors. The interaction between children who would otherwise never have met has changed the lives of every

Zion D'jatar & Dr. Erroll Findlater - Breaking The Cycle Of Generational Poverty
Zion D’Jatar is a former high school principal named for the African word for lion. Dr. Errol Findlater is a successful surgeon. They have both chosen to move their families to a community where the majority of residents live in poverty. They have teamed up to teach kids to succeed in school and in life.

Jack Nelson - Access To Success

World Record Swimmer and Gold Medal Winning Olympic Coach. These are just two of Jack Nelson’s many amazing accomplishments. Jack’s mother only reached the third grade. His father reached the fourth grade. Jack was considered too short and stocky to be a swimmer by many of his competitors. They even made fun of him....until he blew them out of the water and set world records. Jack has taught thousands of children to swim and thousands more about drowning prevention while teaching them all that no goal is unreachable and that character is as important as winning.


Click here to purchase the best of HOMETOWN HEROES florida for just $10

Click here to purchase the Kindle version of the best of HOMETOWN HEROES florida



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Steven Skelley is a published author of several nonfiction works and the novella The Gargoyle Scrolls. He has been a newspaper columnist, travel writer, news writer, ordained minister, music director, creative arts director, theater reviewer and tennis instructor.

PAWPAW'S MESSAGES TO MY GRANDSONS 96 - COMMON SCENTS video and song

 PAWPAW'S MESSAGES TO MY GRANDSONS 96 - COMMON SCENTS video and song Pawpaw loves Connor, Bryson and Archer forever! It is January 2025....