Page 1 The Sun Bay Paper December 6, 2023 December 6, 2023 Volume 9 Issue 6 From Island to Bay, News on the Level production@sunbaypaper.com www.sunbaypaper.com Right... All Along Digital Version Fort Myers Beach stands at a crossroads where the ebb and fl ow of tourism and economic revival meet the steady tide of traffi c, manifesting its burgeoning popularity and a challenge to its tranquil existence. Each year, as winter unfurls its wings, snowbirds and tourists fl ock to this island paradise, bringing life, energy, and an inevitable surge in traffi c. From Christmas to Easter, the island transforms. The roads, particularly Estero Boulevard and the Matanzas Pass Bridge – gateways to our beach haven – become arteries clogged with the steady stream of cars. Seasonal traffi c on San Carlos Blvd. backs up in the mornings after 9ish a.m. coming onto the beach, and in the afternoons on Estero Blvd after 4-5 p.m.(depending on weather) leaving the beach, often resulting in 30 to 45-minute waits to cross just a few miles. Florida Emerges as a Nationwide Beacon of Educational Freedom and Choice In a groundbreaking move, the Florida legislature stands out as a national model for educational freedom and choice, with a host of innovative school choice programs gaining prominence throughout the state. Florida has been at the forefront of educational reform, with several states following suit in expanding school choice programs. According to a recent EdChoice report, seven states introduced new choice programs, and 10 expanded existing ones. Florida is now among the ten states offering universal or near-universal school choice programs. Florida boasts four distinct school choice programs, including two Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), a tax credit scholarship program, and a unique Hope Scholarship Program designed to aid bullied students. The Family Empowerment Scholarship Program (FES), specifically the Unique Abilities ESA, initiated in 2014 and recodified in 2021, experienced further expansion this year. It provides state-funded ESAs for students with special needs, enabling them to access private school tuition, tutoring, online education, home education, therapy, and various educational services. Enrollment in this program surged by 30%, with over 85,000 students enrolled in the 2023-2024 school year. Introduced in 2019 under Governor Ron DeSantis, the FESEO ESA Program aims to reduce the waitlist of the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship Woody Allen famously said, “Eighty percent of success is showing up.” If he’s right, that’s bad news for some 30% of public-school students who, according to a recent study conducted by Stanford Professor Thomas Dee, were chronically absent in the school year that ended in 2022. Chronically absent means a student missed 10% or more school days during the school year. When schools were closed due to COVID, the pandemic had an adverse eff ect on student learning. Now that they are open, you would think American parents would be more motivated to make sure their children don’t miss a day of school than they were before COVID. To the contrary, after teachers unions and elected offi cials turned staying home into a virtue, parents are more likely to let their kids take a day off than they were in 2019. National math and reading scores have hit historic lows, Education Week reported in October. “Two decades of progress, nearly gone,” read the headline. Minority students were affected disproportionately. Crickets. If conservatives had launched an initiative that damaged public school performance to this extent, the media would be all over this story and would be demanding that elected offi cials who supported closures be held accountable. California was one of the last states to return to in-person learning -- yet Gov. Gavin Newsom won reelection in 2022 by some 2 million votes. Support from proclosure teachers unions didn’t hurt. That says something about the tribalism that infects the left -- no argument, it taints the right as well. Former President Donald Trump wanted to open schools sooner. He was right, but that’s water under the bridge. What lesson can we learn here? If you’re a Democrat in a blue state, you can enable policies that shortchange students in service to special interests and you will pay no political penalty. Children be damned. Debra J. Saunders Cont. pg 3 School’s Out ? Cont on pg 2 FMB’s Economic Upsurge Meets Seasonal Traffi c Challenges
December 6, 2023 The Sun Bay Paper Page 2 Cont. from pg. 1 The imminent opening of Margaritaville, a colossal 250+ room resort, marks a new chapter in the island’s narrative. This development is a symbol of growth and an economic lifeline set to rejuvenate the region post-storm. However, with its advent comes a heightened volume of both pedestrian and vehicular traffi c, underscoring the ongoing challenge of managing the infl ux of visitors while preserving the island’s charm. While this volume is welcomed at this time, pre Ian concerns still remain. FMB’s traffi c issue, is also compounded by an unexpected and previously overlooked element in urban planning – the infl ux of commercial vehicles essential for the island’s reconstruction and revitalization. These vehicles, integral to the rebuild post-hurricane, add a signifi cant layer to the existing traffi c scenario. This aspect, unaccounted for in earlier plans by the town, Margaritaville, or other studies, presents a unique challenge expected to persist for at least fi ve years. This reality puts FMB’s traffi c strategy to the test. The township has long focused on improving peak-season mobility, aiming to maintain the permeability of Estero Boulevard to foot traffi c and preserve the small-town essence of the beach. Yet, the current traffi c situation demands more. The town strives to reduce speeding and enhance evacuation capabilities, balancing these needs with a continuous system of sidewalks, bikeways, trolleys, water taxis, and appropriate parking solutions. Congestion has become a winter staple on Estero Boulevard, with traffi c backing up for miles. While visitors contribute signifi - cantly to this congestion, the recent increase in commercial vehicles has exacerbated the situation. Parking, which has always been a scarce resource, faces growing demand, particularly near Times Square, where commercial activity revives. Addressing traffi c congestion with conventional solutions like road widening or alternate routes is not feasible due to FMB’s unique geographic and environmental constraints. The town, therefore, focuses on reducing delays and improving safety for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. An essential aspect of FMB’s traffi c management is its focus on Estero Boulevard’s critical role as the sole evacuation route. This function requires careful consideration in all planning and development activities to ensure the island’s residents and visitors’ safety and well-being. What we don’t need is another million dollar traffi c study by some off island company which ultimately tells us what we already know, that there is one road in and one road out. Margaritaville has embraced an innovative approach to address traffi c concerns. Chris Flagg, the parent company TPI Hospitality’s Chief Investment Offi cer, notes the resort’s partnership with Dolphin Transit to shuttle visitors from the SWFL International Airport and their Naples property. This initiative aims to reduce congestion and parking strain. The resort’s design also includes a roundabout at the entrance, facilitating traffi c fl ow and easing the burden on Matanzas Pass Bridge. The town also recognizes the importance of enhancing public transportation, particularly trolley service, to address the increased demand as the hospitality sector reopens. However, a long-term funding and operational plan for higher service levels remains to be fully developed. Recent improvements by the Lee County DOT and the Florida DOT to San Carlos Blvd. and Estero Blvd., including reconfi guring the traffi c fl ow at the bridge, are steps toward managing congestion. The Town Council occasionally fl irts with the potential transfer of responsibility for the Matanzas Pass Sky Bridge to the Town of Fort Myers Beach from FDOT. This could be a signifi cant move, but only if integrated into a comprehensive congestion management strategy, including peak-period tolls, off -island parking lots, and improved mass transit. Bridge tolls, however, are a non-starter for many. Limiting commercial vehicles during peak traffi c will be challenging for the next fi ve years. However, this increased traffi c, both commercial and leisure, is crucial for the economic health of Lee County and FMB. The region has shown strong economic trends, with a signifi cant increase in tourist tax revenues and taxable sales and a decrease in unemployment rates, indicating favorable conditions for a robust recovery. The road ahead demands innovative solutions, collaborative eff orts, and a commitment to preserving the essence of this beloved beach town. As FMB navigates this journey, it continues to be a testament to resilience, islander spirit, and the unending allure of our sunkissed shores. Richard Luthmann Welcomed Traffi c Headed to FMB poolside at Margaritaville FMB
Page 3 December 6, 2023 The Sun Bay Paper Cont. from pg. 1 Last week, a Florida lawmaker introduced a new bill that proposes changes to the requirements imposed on district school boards concerning dual enrollment for students. Sponsored by State Senator Corey Simon, R-Quincy, Senate Bill 626 mandates district boards to establish dual enrollment agreements with local Florida College System institutions capable of offering both in-person and online courses. These courses cater to students aiming to earn college credits while concurrently enrolled in high school. According to the Education Commissioner of the States, 48 states have dual enrollment policies at the state level, with 28 states implementing multiple programs through state policy. Among these, 21 states operate two programs, five states have three programs, and two states boast four programs. In addition, 27 states, including Florida, are obligated to inform both parents and students about at least one dual enrollment program. Furthermore, 41 states have outlined specific student eligibility criteria through state policy. In Florida, there are presently 33 postsecondary institutions with dual enrollment programs distributed across the state, as per the Florida Department of Education. Statewide student eligibility requirements for Florida programs dictate that students can engage in dual enrollment courses from grades 6 through 12, provided they have demonstrated college-level communication and computer skills and maintain a 3.0 unweighted grade point average. Nationwide Beacon of Educational Freedom and Choice Cont. from pg. 1 Expires 1-15-2024 Dual Enrollment Program for High Schoolers seeking to earn college credits Program (TCSP). Enrollment in this program increased by 36%, reaching 127,986 participants in the 2023-2024 school year. Florida’s commitment to educational freedom is highlighted in the EdChoice report, which states, “Florida is now the nationwide model for educational freedom and choice.” The report emphasizes that Florida policymakers have taken significant steps in granting universal ESA access to all K–12 students. Florida’s TCSP offers a tax credit on corporate income and insurance premium taxes for donations made to scholarship organizations and nonprofits. The program, now universally available to all students enrolled in K-12 public schools, prioritizes students from families with household incomes of 185% or less of the federal poverty level, foster care students, and those placed in out-of-home care. The FTCS program has seen a 28% increase in participation, with an average scholarship size of $7,800. In response to bullying and abuse in public district schools, the Florida Legislature established the Hope Scholarship Program. Funded through voluntary donations of up to $105 per vehicle of sales tax from motor vehicle purchases, this program provides scholarships to K-12 students who are victims of violence. The scholarships, awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, range between $6,673 and $7,700, with additional reimbursement for transportation up to $750 for students transferring to an outof-district public school. With approximately 10% of students participating in private educational choice options, Florida boasts the highest share of K–12 students engaged in such programs nationwide. As the state repositions itself as a leader in providing robust educational choices, the focus shifts to implementation and encouraging increased participation in these innovative programs.
December 6, 2023 The Sun Bay Paper Page 4 Letter to The Editor Editorial Copyright © SBP Media LLC and Sun Bay Paper All rights reserved. This newspaper or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher. Quote of the Week “The Dalai Lama, when asked what surprised him most about humanity, answered “Man”... “Because he sacrifi ces his health in order to make money. Then he sacrifi ces money to recuperate his health. And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived.” Dear Editor, I agree the new pier should look forward, once everything is up and running on the Beach, the volume of people wanting to come is going to go up, (which does raise some concerns about future traffi c issues) being able to accomodate more people on the pier will be essential. Glad you are back in print, I agree with most of the dialog, but I do have to say, I wish the election would just get here and be done with, really getting tired of the politics. Alexia Chappy Exec. Ed. Note: Wouldn’t that be nice! Unfortunately our country is headed down a scarey path, and if more people don’t stop dreaming about a better tomorrow and actually start paying attention to what is happening...... The future for America is not bright and promising. We can still get our Republic back. but people just don’t think they can make a diff erence and they have to come around to believing that together ..... we can! Seasonal Serenity: Finding Peace and Joy in a Florida Christmas In our corner of the world, Southwest Florida, where the sun reigns supreme and the Gulf whispers tales of endless summer, I fi nd myself for the third “season.” They call us transplants, we who have traded the biting cold of the North for the embrace of sand and sun. And a transplant I am, where palm trees don Christmas lights, and sandmen stand where snowmen might have been. Christmas here is an anomaly, a season devoid of snow’s soft touch, where hot chocolate and snuggling under layers against the cold remain mere memories. Instead, we dress in our fi nest for Christmas Mass, our outfi ts unfettered by the burden of overcoats, our steps unthreatened by black ice’s treacherous glaze. Yet, for all the diff erences, the season’s spirit – that ineff able blend of nostalgia, joy, and solemn reverence – fi nds its way just the same. It’s in the sunlight that dances on the water, in the warmth that lingers in the evening air, a diff erent kind of Christmas, yet familiar in its core. Back in New York, where my roots lie entwined with that city’s relentless rhythm, the holiday season was marked by traditions as fi xed as the skyline. The shows on Broadway were a spectacle of light and sound, where The Nutcracker was not just a performance but a rite of passage. Here, in Fort Myers, the arts fl ourish still. The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall echoes Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, while the Broadway Palm off ers laughter with “Elf the Musical.” The tradition lives on, diff erent in setting yet familiar. In my mother’s and grandmother’s kitchens, where Sicilian heritage colored every dish and word, Christmas Eve was a symphony of the seven fi shes, a testament to the sea’s bountiful off erings. In this Floridian haven, the sea is generous, its bounty unmatched, bringing to the table a richness that rivals any feast on Mulberry Street or the North End. Christmas lights, a beacon of the festive spirit, once drew me through the streets of Brooklyn, from Bensonhurst to Dyker Heights, where each house was a canvas, each light a stroke of holiday cheer. Here, I discovered the Edison and Ford Estates Holiday Nights, a spectacle of lights and history intertwined, a new tradition in a new home. But beyond the festivities, the lights, and the gatherings, there’s a deeper rhythm to life here in Southwest Florida. It’s in the quiet, a freedom from clamor, and a state of public tranquility. It’s in the orderly streets of Fort Myers Beach, the tranquil avenues of Cape Coral, and the serene pathways of Bonita Springs. Here, I walk with my niece and nephew, their laughter mingling with the sea breeze, unshadowed by fear. The season’s true meaning in our community resonates in every corner, echoing the ancient proclamation of “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” This peace, a universal longing that transcends boundaries and unites us in a common quest for harmony, is palpable here. We owe a debt of gratitude to our guardians, like Sheriff Marceno and his crew, whose vigilance ensures that our celebrations, be it Christmas tree lightings or menorahs, remain untainted by the specters of hatred and discord. Here, the swastikas and cries of protestors fi nd no foothold, no audience to entertain their vitriol. Yet, amidst all these changes and new traditions and landscapes, some truths remain unaltered, unyielding to the whims of geography. Friends and family, those pillars of our existence, remain the core of this festive season. We gather, not just in proximity but in spirit, weaving together the tapestry of our lives with threads of love, understanding, and, sometimes, the patience to navigate the complexities of relationships. These bonds defi ne us, support us, and testify to our shared humanity, whether by blood or choice. My message is simple: take a few moments to make a few moments this season and enjoy peace and goodwill with those whom you love. Richard Luthmann If you haven’t seen them yet, there is still time to catch the Christmas lights at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates.
Page 5 The Sun Bay Paper December 6, 2023 In my opinion, some very bad things are going to happen ...before things get better. What do I mean when I say, “Before things get better”? Consider this... Joe Biden aka Joe Obiden, issued dozens of Executive Orders as soon as he became President. Those Executive Orders were NOT directed to help America! Many can be considered treasonous (my opinion) and anybody with a lick of sense would agree with me! For example...open our southern border up wide and allow any and all who want in, including drugs, human traffi cking, cartels... allow them in...without any vetting whatsoever! Encourage them to come in by the millions, which they did, and give them free stuff like money ($2200), cell phones, luxury hotels in Manhattan at $1500 per night in a Pakistan owned hotel (to the tune of 75 million dollars per year). Allow them to fl y free, unvetted, to any place they want. Continuing with our leader...he shut down all oil and natural gas exploration and drilling every place he could without regard to legal, authorized, paid for permits and paid for contracts. The discontinuance of which puts the US in default and currently involved in BILLIONS of Dollars in litigation with contractors and other countries like Canada and the Keystone! They shut down the Keystone and other pipelines that are transporting millions of barrels of oil and refi ned petroleum products. The Keystone started transporting product in about 2012 and has moved over 1.5 billion barrels on their 2700 miles of pipeline... already in use, in the USA! He also hired every controllable, dumb as a brick, ignorant, “yes man/woman/it”... he could fi nd... and placed them in high paying critical staff jobs, my opinion. For example, Jennifer Granholm, Secretary of Energy, after going from 19 million barrels of oil per day under Trump to 9 million under Obiden...when asked why gas is so expensive...going from $2.83 under Trump to $5.00 after Obiden...she had no idea! When asked about why no baby formula on the shelves, Secretary of Trans”, Buttigieg said, “Must be a supply problem”! When questioned on border security, Homeland Security Mayorkas says and acts as if he believes, “The border is secure”. I swear to God there is somebody that dumb who really believes an open border is a secure border... with no entry law enforcement at our border, or Naturalization or Immigration Laws!! After all...the baby diapers are getting changed!! Think of this ... Obiden/ Obama...created chaos at every level of life for Americans, by successfully disrupting every facet of life, from baby food, to gasoline prices, to consumables at the grocery stores, to restaurants and banks being put out of business, to law enforcement, to your Military. That’s right...your Military with gender confused “soldiers” being led by gender confused “leaders”, who may drop their rifl es and kiss the enemy instead of killing same, my opinion. Would you follow General Milley into battle? If you don’t realize that these two scoundrels have intentionally weakened every aspect of our security and right to “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness”...there is, in my opinion, something wrong with you and you need advice. So don’t pee into the wind, don’t play on the railroad tracks or play hopscotch on I-95, or pull the mask off the old Lone Ranger ...on second thought, maybe you should!!? Now we have seen them “test” our power plants, by shutting down power here and there (brown outs-BS)...we have recently seen them “test” our cell phones by shutting off our phones...just testing (more BS)! Obiden has signed legislation to do away with the US Dollar (which is backed by the FDIC)! He and Obama are doing everything in their power to go digital, backed by nothing...that’s Crypto US dollars. Congress has fi nally brought forth a Bill to stop the efforts of Obiden/Obama with a Bill with 50 Republican co-sponsors. On Sept 12 2023, “Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) reintroduced his fl agship legislation, the CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act, to halt the eff orts of unelected bureaucrats in Washington, D.C. from issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) that dismantles Americans’ right to fi nancial privacy. He is joined by 50 original cosponsors.” “Unlike decentralized cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin, a CBDC is a digital form of sovereign currency that is designed and issued by a government and transacts on a digital ledger that is controlled by that government. In short, a CBDC is government-controlled programmable money that, if not designed to emulate cash, could give the federal government the ability to surveil Americans’ transactions and choke out politically unpopular activity.” Whip Emmer said “The administration has made it clear: President Biden is willing to compromise the American people’s right to fi nancial privacy for a surveillance-style CBDC. That’s why I’m reintroducing my landmark legislation to put a check on unelected The Right Side “THE END JUSTIFIES THE MEANS”…A SLOGAN FAITHFULLY FOLLOWED… BY SCOUNDRELS-SOCIALISTS-COMMUNISTS-MUSLIMS! Cont. pg 6 The Sun Bay Paper PHONE: (239) 267-4000 MAIL (Correspondence & General Inquiries): 16970 San Carlos Blvd., Ste 160, Fort Myers, Fl 33908 MAIL (Billing & Payments): PO Box 471, Sanborn, NY 14132 E-MAIL: production@sunbaypaper.com WEBSITE & DIGITAL VERSION: www.sunbaypaper.com PRODUCER: J. GARY DILAURA EDITOR IN CHIEF: RICHARD LUTHMANN EXEC. EDITOR: BOBBY MIMMO The information contained in this publication is for educational, general information, and entertainment purposes only and is never intended to constitute medical, fi nancial or legal advice or to replace the personalized care of a primary care practitioner, fi nancial or legal expert.
December 6, 2023 The Sun Bay Paper Page 6 bureaucrats and ensure the United States’ digital currency policy upholds our values of privacy, individual sovereignty, and free-market competitiveness”. “If not designed to be open, permission less, and private – emulating cash – a government-issued CBDC is nothing more than a CCP-style surveillance tool that would be used to undermine the American way of life”. Why...because they are going to, “Fundamentally change America”, Obama’s words, into a Socialist Islamic Nation, my opinion!? Neither Obiden nor his co-conspirator will admit what they are planning...at least, not until they are convicted and Biden rolls on his “un-named co-conspirator”... Once they do away with the dollar that’s it...we are done with the Constitution, my opinion! BUT WHY? That’s because, THE END JUSTIFIES THE MEANS! We will lose all control of our life savings, what foods we can buy, how much solar and wind we can use...there won’t be any fossil fuel...remember...solar, wind, electric cars? How will we make electricity without fossil fuel... hmmm?! We will get back to you on that later, when we fi gure that out! Call/email your Senators and Congressmen and tell them, KEEP THE DOLLAR and FDIC or...fi nd another job... also KEEP our Constitutional Republic and Fossil Fuel! The Right Side... J Gary Dilaura, FBI RET therightsidejgarydilaura.com Cont. from pg 5 Florida is intensifying eff orts to reduce dependency on foreign entities, especially China, by bolstering its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. Over $28 million from the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund has been recently allocated to support semiconductor and chip manufacturing via fi ve workforce development projects. This initiative is part of Governor Ron DeSantis’ $50 million commitment, launched in September, aimed at fortifying Florida’s semiconductor industry, building upon grants awarded in the previous year to entities in Osceola County. Governor DeSantis has consistently prioritized strategic investments to expand manufacturing in Florida, fortify its supply chain, and generate high-wage jobs. Florida currently ranks fi fth in the U.S. for semiconductor manufacturing jobs and holds the third spot nationwide for semiconductor establishments. The allocated funding, according to DeSantis, is laying the foundation for a robust economic future by investing in growing industries that off er high-paying jobs for residents. Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly highlighted the overwhelming response from economic development and workforce education partners across the state during the application process. Five grants have been awarded to support workforce education initiatives in semiconductor manufacturing, advanced packaging, and research and development within the military, defense, and space industries. NeoCity in Osceola County is set to receive a $17.5 million grant to construct a multi-use semiconductor lab facility, stimulating high-tech business startups and semiconductor manufacturing. Valencia College in Osceola County will use its $4.17 million grant to expand the Robotics and Semiconductor Technician program. Santa Fe College, with campuses in Alachua and Bradford counties, secured $3 million to design an associate degree in engineering technology specializing in Advanced Manufacturing. Lake Technical College in Lake County received $1.86 million to enhance its semiconductor program and introduce a new advanced manufacturing program. Eastern Florida State College in Brevard County secured $1.55 million to establish the Center for Innovative Technology Education, focused on training students in robotics and simulation technician skills for designing, operating, testing, and repairing robotics systems. $28M in Grant Funding to Boosts Florida Semiconductor Manufacturing
Page 7 The Sun Bay Paper December 6, 2023 Cannabis Is Just Another Job When cannabis (what the people buying it call “weed”) became legal in Massachusetts, it was like the Summer of Love all over again, dude. Happy stoners twined fl owers in each other’s hair. Happy politicians twined wreaths of new tax income in each other’s remaining hair. Like the liquor business, the lottery business and the casino business, the cannabis business was a brilliant combination of three great government goals. No.1 : Get more money from what government coyly calls “revenue sources.” No. 2: Get as much of that money as possible from the poor. No. 3: Encourage addiction. I know, I know. Weed isn’t addictive. That’s why your cousin Dougie is stoned every hour of every day. He’s not addicted. He just feels like being high all the time. That is NOT addiction. The state of Massachusetts needs new “revenue sources” like a junky needs an unlocked car with a purse left unattended on the front seat. Heroin will probably be legal within fi ve years, especially if legislators need another raise. For a while there, if only out of nostalgia, there was some hope that the new “cannabis industry” might be, well, “cool.” You know. Weed would be sold in little mom-and-pop stores, like the old-time head shops, and the people running the place would be gray-haired hippies and pop would have a ponytail and his “old lady” would wear tie-dye and smell like patchouli and armpit funk. You’d go in the store and you wouldn’t have any money, and the guy behind the counter would say, “It’s cool, man. Pay me manana when you get some bread. Keep on truckin’.” No. Nothing state-sanctioned runs on that kind of groovy system. Once the state legalized it, weed became an “industry,” and those of us who have worked in an industry know what that means. There’s a security guard and cameras and an employee handbook and a yearly employee review, and if you get written up three times in a year, they can fi re you. Not cool, man. And to prove that the high times are gone, Massachusetts just experienced its fi rst work-related death in the cannabis industry. It’s also the fi rst national work-related death in the cannabis industry. That makes it a job. Nothing is really a “job” unless it can kill you, blind you, ruin your lungs, screw up your back, destroy your joints, drive you crazy with monotony, wear you out with rotating shifts, starve you to death with low wages or make you handle unsafe chemicals. The woman died in Massachusetts had asthma. If you have asthma and you work around cannabis, you can die. The weed companies don’t do much about that, because businesses don’t “self-regulate.” They regulate when the government makes them regulate, and then they weep about “crippling regulations.” The motto of American business has always been, “We can’t aff ord to keep our workers alive and healthy. It would kill the business.” The woman who died was 27-year-old Lorna McMurrey, and I hope she wasn’t just part-time because who wants to die for a part-time job? She had at least another 35 years of helping American industry not be crippled by regulations. She had asthma and the cannabis dust aggravated it, and she collapsed, and after three days on life support in grim little Holyoke, Massachusetts, she died. She’d had another asthma attack on the job before the one that killed her. The company was unimpressed. They used to have cotton mills in Holyoke, and the lint would clog the workers’ lungs and they’d die. That was in 2022, and her story came and went from the news pretty fast because there is no glitter on the story of a production worker dying on the job. Taylor Swift has glitter. People picking and packing orders do not. Her family fi led a lawsuit, so she’s back in the news, and will be again if the company gets whacked for a $2 million judgement. The lawsuit says the company didn’t do enough to ventilate the facility so the dust from the weed wouldn’t kill people with breathing problems. You have to ask for the job, and you show up even if the job makes it hard for you to breathe, and sometimes, the job kills you. Cotton or cannabis. It’s a job. Marc Dion National News 6th Annual Christmas Tree Festival The 6th Annual Christmas Tree Festival is happening this week, and will be held on December 8th & 9th at the The Fort Myers Beach Library, located at 2755 Estero Blvd on Fort Myers Beach. This two-day event is a fundraiser which supports participating nonprofi ts in the greater Fort Myers Beach area. “This year we are bringing back our beloved two-day event, after having a modifi ed event last year due to Hurricane Ian,” stated Megan Allers, Festival Co-Chair. “The Festival has raised over $30,000 for partnering nonprofi t organizations since our inaugural event in 2018.” The Festival includes two days of silent bidding on custom Christmas Trees and Holiday Wreaths. All trees and wreaths are donated and decorated by area non-profit organizations and local businesses. All funds raised for each tree will go back to their designated charity. Friday night kicks off with a VIP Early Preview and Cocktail Party from 4:30-5:30, featuring live music, cash bar and food trucks. Access to the VIP Event is only available to 50 pre-sold VIP ticket holders. VIP tickets are $50 each and available to purchase online. All auction items will be on display for preview and bidding though out the evening. On Saturday, the festivities begin at 1 pm and feature a holiday vendor market, bake sale, and the 6 th annual Chili Tasting and CookOff , which will begin at 4:30 p.m. This year’s winners, 1st, 2nd & 3 rd place winners will receive cash prizes! Guests can purchase tastes and votes for $5, limited to 300! “The competition will be fi erce,” added Megan. Winners will be announced at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, For the highest bidders of the trees and wreaths, The Top Chili Producers, along with the Grand Prize winner of the Holiday Raffl e. This event is hosted by The Woman’s Club is a 501C3 organization and all donations are tax deductible. For more information visit : https://www.fmb-wc.org Phone: (239) 765-1417
December 6, 2023 The Sun Bay Paper Page 8 Attention all boaters! Ready to steer clear of danger and navigate with confi dence? The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary’s Boat America Class on Responsible Boating is your ticket to mastering the essentials of boating safety. This vital class is set for Saturday, December 16th, and it’s more than just a course – it’s a lifeline for every boater. Following a revealing briefi ng by the Florida Fish and Wildlife on alarming boating accident statistics, the Coast Guard Auxiliary Fort Myers Beach is doubling down on its mission to educate boaters. In a world where the unpredictability of the sea meets the thrill of adventure, this class is a must-attend for those serious about safe sailing. It’s not just about avoiding tragedies; it’s about protecting you, your passengers, and everyone who shares the waterways. Off ering more than just textbook knowledge, this one-day class, held at Pine Ridge Community Center in Fort Myers, brings together boating enthusiasts in a dynamic, interactive environment. From 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, participants will engage in discussions, share local insights, and learn the ropes of responsible boating. Greg Masonick, the Flotilla Commander of Fort Myers Beach Flotilla 91D7, emphasizes the irreplaceable value of in-person learning, highlighting the community spirit and practical wisdom gained in these classes. Florida’s law mandates anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, operating a boat with a 10 horsepower engine or more must complete a boating safety course. This class not only meets this requirement but goes beyond, equipping boaters with the knowledge to make every voyage a safe one. The completion of this course earns you the coveted Florida boating safety ID card, a testament to your commitment to safe boating. Don’t miss this chance to join for just $45 per person, including all study materials. Enroll now at www.Aux91FMB.org/SafeBoating or call 239-690-6780 option 1. Be part of the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s noble eff ort, as they lead the charge in recreational boating safety and safeguard America’s seaward frontier. For more details on the boating safety classes and to register, reach out to Kevin McTaggart, Public Education Offi cer, at cgaux91education@gmail.com, call 239-690-6780 option 1, or visit www.Aux91FMB.org/Safeboating. Set sail with confi dence and be the captain of safety on your next aquatic adventure! Richard Luthmann Navigate With Confi dence Cheeky Medications Many drugs today are based on large molecules, which can’t be taken in tablet form because they would either break down in the digestive tract or remain too large to reach the bloodstream. For these drugs, the only delivery system that works is injection. Ouch! But Swiss researchers are testing a new system: suction cups. They work like this: A small suction cup with the drug embedded in it is pressed onto the inside lining of the cheek. The resulting vacuum stretches the lining and makes it more permeable to the drug. To boost effi cacy, researchers add an agent that turns cell membranes into fl uid, allowing the drug to penetrate more deeply into tissues. The cup remains in the mouth for a few minutes, which is enough time for the drug to dissolve in saliva and enter the bloodstream. Small tests on volunteers have been encouraging, but larger clinical trials are required. Body of Knowledge The hand has the most bones of any body part: 14 phalanges or fi nger bones, fi ve metacarpal bones that make up the middle hand and eight carpal bones in the wrist for a total of 27 bones. Best Medicine The nurse told the parents of a newly born child, “You have a cute baby.” The smiling father replied, “I bet you say that to all new parents.” “No,” answered the nurse, “just to those parents whose babies really are good-looking.” “So what do you say to the others?” asked the father. “I say their baby looks just like them.” Medical History This week in 1895, Alfred Nobel had his will drawn up in Paris, then deposited in a bank in Stockholm. In it, he provided for most of his fortune to be put in trust to establish the Nobel Prizes. As the inventor of new, more powerful explosives used in the weapons of war, Nobel wanted to leave a legacy rewarding persons who provided benefi ts to mankind. Prizes were to be established in the fi elds of physics, chemistry, physiology, literature and peace. Nobel died one year later of a cerebral hemorrhage at his villa in San Remo, Italy. His Nobel legacy was a surprise at the opening of his will. Med School Q: In human anatomy, what is Cupid’s bow? A: It describes the double curve of the upper lip, named after the Roman god of love. The peaks of the bow coincide with the philtral columns, creating the bow eff ect. Scott LaFee Wellnews
Tribby Arts Center 17281 On Par Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33908 (239) 415-5667 www.tribbyartscenter.com ® ©2023 Shell Point. All rights reserved. SLS-4848-23 Shell Point is located on the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers, just minutes from the islands of Sanibel and Captiva. To purchase tickets, contact the Tribby Arts Center Box Office at (239) 415-5667 Mon. – Thu. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. or visit www.tribbyartscenter.com/boxoffice NamedOne Of Open to the Public! DECEMBER EVENTS IN THEGALLERIES Through December 23 Flora & Fauna: Artworks Inspired by Nature Executed in bronze, ceramic, glass, paint, and mixed media, the artworks in Flora & Fauna express the beauty of nature. Guest artist Martha Grattan of South Carolina joins four of Shell Point’s talented resident artists to create a magical world of animals, insects, flowers, and foliage. In the Shell Point Gallery. FREE The Art of the Quilt: The Legacy and Overlook Galleries This visually vibrant exhibition presents 14 quilts and wall-hangings made by Shell Point resident Pat Meredith, along with her extensive collection of textile-related artifacts, including miniature sewing machines, a rare sewing machine, two spinning wheels, and more. In the Tribby Legacy and Overlook Galleries. FREE SERENDIPITY The Shop at Tribby Arts Center You’ll find a wonderful variety of gifts made by both Shell Point and guest artists, including paintings, photography, wooden items, fused glass, pottery, jewelry, shawls and scarves, unique cards, and more! Proceeds benefit the artists and help support the Tribby. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. ACADEMYOF LIFELONGLEARNING Thursday, December 14 • 4 p.m. The Tale of a Hard Nut: The Flop and Fame of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Although critics of the 1892 premiere of the Nutcracker deemed Tchaikovsky’s work as “lopsided” and “insipid,” the work is now a perennial favorite and arguably the composer’s most famous composition. What happened at the premiere? Did Tchaikovsky hold true to the original story as told by the French playwright Alexander Dumas? Come join Dr. Tom Cimarusti as we explore the magical world of living dolls, nutcrackers, and the evil Mouse King. Tickets $15 PRESENTATIONS & TOURS Introducing Vista Cay Within one of their most sought-after neighborhoods, Shell Point introduces 59 new waterfront independent living residences featuring stunning coastal views of the Caloosahatchee River and Sanibel Island. Come learn more about Vista Cay and its gracious amenities during an informative presentation. Reservations are required. Call (239) 466-1131 and press “1” for Sales to reserve your seat or visit MeetVistaCay.org! FREE December 12, January 9, 10, 16 & 17 • 9:30 a.m. Explore Shell Point Discover Shell Point’s signature Lifestyle with Lifecare, followed by a narrated bus tour that showcases the community’s resort-style retirement options, model residences, and amenities. Reservations are required. Call (239) 466-1131 and press “1” for Sales or visit ShellPoint.org/seminars to save your spot! FREE PERFORMANCES Saturday, December 9 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. The Nutcracker Florida Gulfshore Ballet’s talented students present the favorite holiday fairytale featuring the famous Tchaikovsky score, updated with new choreography by Artistic Directors Iliana Lopez and Franklin Gamero. Tickets $55 Monday, December 11 7 p.m. Southwest Florida Symphony Holiday Pops Emory University’s Lee County’s professional orchestra—led by Maestro Andrew Lipke—returns to Shell Point for its traditional holiday concert of timeless classics at The Village Church. Tickets $50 Tuesday, December 12 7 p.m. Michael W. Smith Performing at The Village Church, Michael W. Smith is a multi-platinum artist known for sold-out concerts around the world. Tickets $55 Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. TRIBBYARTS CENTER SLS-4848-23 Sun Bay Ad DEC OTP.indd 1 11/22/23 8:46 AM
December 6, 2023 The Sun Bay Paper Page 10 Christmas Things To Do! The holiday season is one of the most popular times for visitors to Southwest Florida! The perfect weather, beautiful beaches and sunsets bring locals and visitors out to enjoy the Christmas Season. As the busy season begins, many traditional events return along with a few new ones. Welcome the season with a visit to the 48th annual Historic Holiday Nights Celebration at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates; Christmas boat parades, a holiday stroll past 20 decorated windows in downtown Fort Myers; and lots of indoor and outdoor entertainment. Holiday events 48th annual Historic Holiday Nights Celebration at Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers Through Dec. 23 and Dec. 26-31 https://tinyurl.com/36ana8ky Florida Repertory Theatre, downtown Fort Myers “A Sherlock Carol” at the historic Arcade Theatre Through Dec. 17 (239) 332-4488 Bonita Christmas Boat Parade Dec. 9, 6 pm-ish: bonitaboatparade. com Dec. 9 − Movie in the Park, Estero Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero. 4 - 7 p.m., Christmas classic, “The Santa Clause,” rated PG. Please bring blankets, chairs and snacks to enjoy while watching this family favorite film. Activities include photos with Santa, carolers, crafts and food trucks. The film begins at 5:45 p.m. Admission is free. For more information contact the Estero Recreation Center at 239-533-1470. Southwest Florida Symphony Orchestra, Holiday Pops 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at Fort Myers High School; 4 p.m. Dec. 10 at the First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs; 7 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Village Church in Shell Point. swflso.org Breakfast and photos with Santa at the Shell Factory, North Fort Myers 9-11 a.m. Dec. 10: pancake breakfast with Santa at Tommy’s Eats & Spirits. Reservations: 239-995-2141 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 11, 17, 23: photos with Santa in the Christmas House. Bring your camera. shellfactory.com Dec. 15 − Cocoa with Claus, North Fort Myers Recreation Center, 2000 N. Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers. 6 - 8 p.m., Bring family, friends and a jolly spirit and celebrate the season with Mr. Claus and his jolly crew. Activities include cookie decorating, hot cocoa, photo with Mr. Claus, and reindeer games. Admission is free. For more information contact the North Fort Myers Recreation Center at 239533-7200 “The Nutcracker,” Gulfshore Ballet, Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, Fort Myers Presented by Gulfshore Symphony 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16 bbmannpah.com/events/detail/nutcracker-with-gulfshore-ballet Cape Coral Boat-A-Long and holiday fun 4-9 p.m. Dec. 16, at Four Freedoms Park, Cape Coral https://tinyurl.com/4upxmdyz Saturday, Dec. 16 − Winter Wonderland, Veterans Park, 55 Homestead Road South, Lehigh Acres. Celebrate the season enjoying holiday crafts, letters to Santa, photo booths, reindeer games and a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus for photos. Each child will receive a gift. Hot chocolate, cookie treats and a tree lighting will end the celebration. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Admission is $5 per child ages 1-13. Pre-register at www.leeparks.org/register. Give the gift of safety to the Boaters on your gift list. Great safety items include a GPS system, EPIRB or PEIRB, new personal fl otation devices(PFD) with SOS light, Flares, Emergency Flashing Light, a New VHF radio with digital capability, a manual hand pump for emergency dewatering, and a copy of Chapman’s “Piloting and Seamanship” manual. A new rod or reel or “Fish Finder” would surely be appreciated by the fi sherman in your family. I am sure a set of Water or Tubing fl oat toys would go over well with the youth in your boating circle. Monogrammed items named after your boat and a new USA Flag would also make great gifts. AMarine C/O detector alarm would be a great safety addition. Even when you are underway, C/O Carbon Monoxide can still aff ect you! Open windows or plastic enclosures to allow fresh air to fl ow through your cabin and helm area. This will prevent the “Station Wagon Eff ect,” where the C/O comes from the stern of your boat into your enclosed areas. Plans for the New Year should include taking your family and friends to a “Safe Boating Class.” EPIRBS and PEPIRBS This is a reminder to those with this equipment on their boat that it must be handled properly. These Beacons broadcast your position (Latitude and Longitude) in an emergency to enable searchers to fi nd you. These are not TOYS, and they have a testing mode. Misusing them can cause a costly false alarm search for you! It is a GREAT safety feature for your boat or person. The battery should be changed before the expiration date. Make sure you register your unit with SARSAT, and if any information changes, update your status with them. Frank M. Ferraiuolo BOATERS GIFT LIST! Lost and Found Dogs love me, So many times in my life I have run into a stray/lost dog. In the past, finding the original owner was work, you would have to take a picture of the dog and post ‘found dog’ flyers around town while looking for ‘lost dog’ fliers...... then with the internet, social media sites made finding the owner easier and faster..... Now with chip technologies, you take the dog to the vet, they scan the for a chip... if the dog has been chipped... the owners info is readily available to you! Lee County Domestic Animal Services is hosting a microchip clinic to ensure that every pet has a chance to be reunited with their family if they happen to get lost. From 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16, pet owners can get their pet scanned to ensure existing microchip data is up to date. For pet owners who need to get their animal chipped, LCDAS will be microchipping for just $10 during the event. This is a great opportunity to have your pet chipped. Dog or Cat! .... or ? What do you have as a pet (not sure what else they will chip, so call and find out if your pet can be chipped. Call 239-533-7387 to schedule an appointment .
Page 11 The Sun Bay Paper December 6, 2023 Sunset Photo Contest Photos taken in the highest resolution will look sharper, so they will have a better chance of winning. If you are using your phone, use the highest resolution available! We have received many GREAT pictures that we can not use due to low resolution! Winners will be awarded Bragging Rights, knowing they won amongst all the entries that week, if you didn’t win this week, we will keep your photo on fi le for future consideration or you are welcome to take another! With more entries, chances of winning improve. Simple contest rules: 1) Photo must be taken in Florida 2) Submitted photos can be landscape or protrait and should include: location where the photo was taken from. Please include your full name & phone # in your (Do not shrink photos) email. 3) You can only submit photos you yourself have taken and have full rights to, it must be previously unpublished & by submitting any photo, you are giving Sun Bay Paper full rights to publish in print and on the internet. send to: bobby@sunbaypaper.com This week’s photo was sent to us by : Mary C Roberts Fort Myers Beach
Comic Strip Page Daddy’s Home BY: Anthony Rubino Jr. and Gary Markstein B.C. BY: Mason Mastroianni, Mick Mastroianni and Johnny HartHart Andy Capp BY: Reg Smythe Shrimp & Grits BY:: Andy Marlette
Page 13 The Sun Bay Paper December 6, 2023 hello? I was out with my young daughter and ran into a friend I’d not seen in years. “This is Beth,” I said, introducing my kid. “And what’s Beth short for?” he asked. “Because she’s only three,” I answered. “I fi nally fi xed that annoying noise in my car.” I opened the door and pushed him out.” cartoon art by J. D Burdge Beach People Funny Guy Two chess players were in a hotel lobby, bragging to each other about their recent victories. The manager comes over and says, “Could you go to your rooms now, please?” “Why?!” “not everyone likes chess nuts boasting in an open foyer.” Solutions for Drinking Problems Symptom: Drinking fails to give satisfaction and taste; shirt front is wet. Fault: Mouth not open or glass being applied to wrong part of face. Solution: Buy another pint and practice in front of a mirror. Continue with as many pints as necessary until drinking technique is perfect. Symptom: Drinking fails to give satisfaction and taste; beer unusually pale and clear. Fault: Glass is empty. Solution: Find someone who will buy you another pint. Symptom: Feet cold and wet. Fault: Glass being held at incorrect angle. Solution: Turn glass so that open end is pointing at ceiling. Symptom: Feet warm and wet. Fault: Loss of self-control. Solution: Go and stand beside nearest dog - After a while complain to its owner about its lack of house training. Symptom: Bar blurred. Fault: You are looking through the bottom of your empty glass. Solution: Find someone who will buy you another pint. Symptom: Bar swaying. Fault: Air turbulence unusually high - maybe due to darts match in progress. Solution: Insert broom handle down back of jacket. Symptom: Bar moving. Fault: You are being carried out. Solution: Find out if you are being taken to another bar - if not complain loudly that you are being hi-jacked. Symptom: The opposite wall is covered in ceiling tiles and has a fl uorescent strip across it. Fault: You have fallen over backwards. Solution: If glass is still full, and no one is standing on your drinking arm, stay put. If not, get someone to lift you up and lash you to the bar. Symptom: Everything has gone dim and you have a mouth full of teeth and dog-ends. Fault: You have fallen over forwards. Solution: Same as for falling over backwards. Symptom: You have woken up to fi nd your bed cold, hard and wet. You cannot see your bedroom walls or ceiling. Fault: You have spent the night in the gutter. Solution: Check your watch to see if its opening time - if not treat yourself to a lie in. Symptom: Everything has gone dim. Fault: The pub is closing. Solution: Panic. Puppies for Sale?! Did you hear the story about a boy outside a Democratic fund-raiser selling puppies... when the people came out he would hold up a puppy and say “buy a Democratic puppy” Two weeks later, the Republicans were holding a fundraiser at the same location, and when they came out there was the same boy, this time he was saying ‘buy a Repblican Puppy” One of the members of the press who had seen him the weeks before selling Democratic puppies, went over to the boy and said ‘Now wait a minute, two weeks ago you were here selling Democratic puppies, how come they’re Republican puppies now” The boy replied, ‘because, now they’ve got their eyes open.’ Aspirations A manager brings a dog into a nightclub to work. The dog is a brilliant piano player. He plays all the standards. He’s sitting there, pounding out the tunes, when all of a sudden, a big dog comes in and drags him out. The nightclub owner asks, “What happened?” The manager says, “That’s his mother. She wants him to be a doctor.”
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