Page 1 The Sun Bay Paper June 28, 2024 Cont on pg 10 June 28, 2024 Volume 9 Issue 19 From Island to Bay, News on the Level production@sunbaypaper.com www.sunbaypaper.com Right... All Along Digital Version Fort Myers Beach Pier to Get a Major Upgrade – Wider, Longer, Sturdier The Fort Myers Beach Pier is set to be a shining symbol of resilience and renewal for the community. Lee County Commissioners have approved funding to rebuild the Pier, which was destroyed by Hurricane Ian nearly two years ago. The new pier will be longer, wider, and sturdier than the original, marking a significant investment in the community’s recovery and tourism infrastructure. The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted last Tuesday to rebuild the pier to 1,000 feet long and 12 feet wide. This new structure will be nearly twice as long as the original 585-foot pier and 50% wider than its predecessor. The selected plan, option 3, costs $17.1 million. As the 4th of July approaches, we are reminded of the vibrant tapestry of history that is woven into the very fabric of our nation. It’s a day that marks the birth of the United States of America and the enduring spirit of freedom that has illuminated its path ever since. On this day, we recall the brave hearts who dared to dream of independence and the tireless hands that sculpted a new nation from the ideals of liberty and justice. Family and friends gather on this day, sharing stories, laughter, and the joy of freedom, while the aroma of barbecues fills the air, a testament to the simple pleasures that liberty affords. The 4th of July is not just a date on the calendar; it is a symbol of courage, unity, and the pursuit of happiness. It’s a day that echoes the voices of our forefathers, who dared to dream of a land governed by the people, for the people. Let us take inspiration from this day to rekindle the flames of patriotism in our hearts. Let us remember that each of us carries the torch of freedom, passed down through generations, and it is our duty to hold it high. As we look up at the grandeur of the fireworks, let us make a pledge to contribute to the legacy of our nation, ensuring that the light of freedom never dims. On this 4th of July, let us celebrate not only the birth of a nation but also the enduring spirit of the American people. May the stories of our past inspire our steps into the future and may the bonds of unity fortify our resolve to meet the challenges ahead. Here’s to the land of the free and the home of the brave, may it always flourish and may its flag forever wave. Happy Independence Day! Lee County Allocates $17.1 Million for Reconstruction Post-Hurricane Ian Independence Day
June 28, 2024 The Sun Bay Paper Page 2 DeSantis Makes Coral Reef Preservation a Top Priority in Florida Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis has made a significant commitment to the preservation of the state’s coral reefs, recognizing their vital role in environmental health, tourism, and the economy. Coral reefs are often referred to asth e “rainforests of the sea” due to their immense biodiversity and ecological importance. Governor DeSantis’s initiative aims to protect and restore these fragile ecosystems, ensuring their sustainability for future generations. The Importance of Coral Reefs Florida’s coral reefs, part of the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States, span over 360 miles. These reefs provide habitat for an incredible array of marine life, support fishing industries, and protect coastlines from storm surges and erosion. They are also a significant draw for tourism, contributing billions of dollars to the state’s economy. Current Challenges Facing Coral Reefs Florida’s coral reefs have been under threat from various factors, including climate change, ocean acidification, pollution, overfishing, and disease. Rising sea temperatures have led to coral bleaching events, where corals expel the algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn white and often die. Additionally, pollution from coastal development, agricultural runoff , and plastic waste further degrades reef health. Governor DeSantis’s Commitment In response to these challenges, Governor DeSantis has outlined a comprehensive strategy to prioritize the preservation and restoration of Florida’s coral reefs. His plan includes several key initiatives: Funding and Resources: Governor DeSantis has committed to increasing funding for coral reef conservation and restoration projects. This includes allocating state resources and securing federal grants to support scientific research, reef restoration, and conservation programs. In 2023, approximately $57 million was invested in coral reef restoration and coastal protection. DeSantis noted that this year’s budget has allocated the same amount, bringing the total to $114 million since 2019. “To put that in perspective, what we’ve done in the current year’s budget, what we did in the budget that I signed last week that will take effect July 1…exceeded the total investment requested by the Biden administration for coral reef restoration across the entire United States,” DeSantis added. Strengthening Regulations: The governor is advocating for stricter regulations on pollutants that harm coral reefs, such as agricultural runoff and coastal development practices. This involves working with local governments and stakeholders to implement and enforce these regulations effectively. Public Awareness and Education: Raising public awareness about the importance of coral reefs and the threats they face is a crucial aspect of the governor’s plan. Educational campaigns aim to inform residents and visitors about the need to protect these ecosystems and how they can contribute to conservation efforts. Partnerships and Collaboration: Governor DeSantis emphasizes the importance of partnerships with academic institutions, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. Collaborative efforts are essential for advancing research, sharing knowledge, and imple menting effective conservation strategies. Innovative Restoration Techniques: Investing in cutting-edge restoration techniques, such as coral farming and transplantation, is a priority. These methods involve growing corals in nurseries and then transplanting them onto degraded reefs to promote recovery and growth. Monitoring and Research: Enhanced monitoring and research are vital for understanding the health of coral reefs and the effectiveness of conservation efforts. The governor’s plan includes expanding monitoring programs and supporting research initiatives to gather data and inform policy decisions. The Path Forward Governor DeSantis’s commitment to coral reef preservation marks a significant step toward safeguarding Florida’s natural heritage. By prioritizing funding: “... we are adding from the budget that I signed, we’ll be able to distribute an additional $5 million dedicated to artificial reefs,” DeSantis said. “This is all in an effort to support the establishment of a new framework for installing, overseeing, and preserving artificial reef habitats in the Florida Keys.” With programs fostering public awareness, and promoting innovative restoration techniques, the governor aims to ensure the longterm health and resilience of the state’s coral reefs. The success of these efforts will depend on the continued collaboration of government agencies, scientists, conservationists, and the public. As Floridians and visitors alike become more engaged in protecting coral reefs, the state can look forward to healthier marine ecosystems, a thriving economy, and a more sustainable future. Take away Governor Ron DeSantis’s initiative to make coral reef preservation a top priority reflects a deep understanding of the ecological, economic, and cultural importance of these vital ecosystems. By taking a proactive and comprehensive approach, Florida is setting an example for other coastal regions to follow. Protecting and restoring coral reefs not only benefits the environment but also supports the livelihoods and well-being of the communities that depend on them. Sun Bay Paper Staff
Page 3 June 28, 2024 The Sun Bay Paper Florida Democrative Party Chair Nikki Fried Biden’s Campaign Chair Admits Florida is No Longer a Battleground State “For decades, Florida was the largest, most important battleground state in presidential elections. Today, even the Biden campaign acknowledges that those days are over.” - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Presidential Candidate Donald Trump has Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to thank for what appears to be an early electoral victory. DeSantis, who has focused on cleaning up Florida elections and implementing popular policies, has seen Republican voter registration surpass that of Democrats. The 2022 red wave in Florida further solidified the state’s position as a Republican stronghold. Governor Ron DeSantis said what the Biden campaign was afraid to admit: Florida is a Red State. Florida’s shift from a battleground state to a Republican stronghold is a testament to the efforts of local leaders and voters’ changing preferences. While Democrats continue to work towards regaining ground, the immediate future of Florida’s political landscape seems firmly in Republican hands. President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign chair, Jen O’Malley Dillon, conceded that Florida is not in play this November. During a recent interview with John Heilemann, she laid out the campaign’s “six in six” strategy, focusing on the battleground states of Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Nevada, Arizona, and Georgia. When asked about North Carolina, she hinted that it might also be considered a battleground state. Dillon’s comments have thrown Florida politics into a tailspin. Many Democrats view them as contradicting an April memo from Biden campaign manager Julie Chávez Rodríguez declaring Florida “winnable.” Florida-based communications consultant Kevin Cate expressed his frustration on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Not a lot of staffers, consultants, or organizers are in a position to say it, but this was such an unnecessary, demoralizing gut punch.” He urged fellow Democrats to contin ue their efforts, saying, “One day, we will flip it.” Despite O’Malley Dillon’s comments, Dan Kanninen, Biden-Harris battleground states director, maintained in a statement that Florida was ‘in play for President Biden and Democrats up and down the ballot’ and that the campaign ‘continues to scale up our presence and investments into the state.’ Abhi Rahman, a deputy communications director for the Democratic National Committee, said the state party was ‘undergoing a resurgence.’At the same time, Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried urged people not to ‘count Florida out’ and said the party was building for the long term, marshaling a sense of hope and resilience in the face of these devastating electoral changes. Politico reported that Florida Democrats haven’t seen a surge in voter registration despite the Biden campaign’s claims to expand its footprint. A recent Fox News poll shows Trump leading Biden by four points, but Ryan Tyson, a pollster for Governor Ron DeSantis with a track record of accuracy in the state, recently had Trump ahead by ten points. Neither side spends much money in Florida, a key indicator that it’s not competitive. Long-time Democratic analysts and consultants in Florida have grown weary of what they view as overly optimistic statements from Democratic leaders like Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison. “Democrats are gaslighting Democrats about Florida,” said Fernand Amandi, a South Florida communications and political consultant known for his cable news appearances. Amandi’s statement reflects a broader sentiment among Florida Democrats who feel disheartened by the national party’s mixed messages, highlighting the emotional impact of these changes. Governor Ron DeSantis has worked to ensure that Florida’s elections are secure and transparent. He has pushed for policies that resonate with Floridians, contributing to the Republican Party’s growth in the state. The 2022 elections saw significant Republican victories, further cementing Florida’s red status. While some Democrats hold onto hope that Florida can be turned blue in future elections, the current outlook suggests otherwise. The lack of significant investment and voter registration surges indicate that both parties recognize Florida’s current political reality. Even though Biden’s campaign tries to maintain a presence in Florida, the state’s political landscape has shifted. Republicans have gained a stronghold, and Florida’s 30 electoral votes are expected to support Donald Trump in the upcoming election. The acknowledgment by Biden’s campaign that Florida is no longer a battleground state is a pivotal moment in American politics. It underscores the evolving dynamics in key states and the strategic decisions campaigns must navigate. As the 2024 presidential election looms, the focus will shift to the true battleground states, where the race is tight and every vote carries significant weight. Richard Luthmann
June 28, 2024 The Sun Bay Paper Page 4 How to Detox From Microplastics and Other Toxins in Our Bodies 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 “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” John F. Kennedy 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-MAILS: production@sunbaypaper.com thesbpmedia@gmail.com WEBSITE & DIGITAL VERSION: www.sunbaypaper.com OWNER/PUBLISHER: J. GARY DILAURA CONTRIBUTORS: RICHARD LUTHMANN, BOBBY MIMMO The information contained in this publication is for educational, general information, and entertainment purposes only and is never intended to constitute medical, financial or legal advice or to replace the personalized care of a primary care practitioner, financial or legal expert In today’s world, exposure to toxins, including microplastics, has become an unfortunate reality. These substances can accumulate in our bodies, potentially leading to various health issues. While complete avoidance is nearly impossible, there are ways to help our bodies detoxify from these harmful agents. Here’s a guide on how to reduce and manage the presence of microplastics and other toxins in your system. Understanding Microplastics and Toxins Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than five millimeters in size, resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic debris or manufactured as microbeads in personal care products. These particles can be ingested through food, water, and air. Other common toxins include heavy metals (like lead and mercury), pesticides, and industrial chemicals that can infiltrate our bodies through various environmental exposures. Steps to Detoxify Your Body Hydration and Detoxification Drink Plenty of Water: Staying well-hydrated is crucial for flushing out toxins. Water aids in kidney function and helps in the removal of waste products from the bloodstream. Add Lemon: Adding lemon to your water can enhance detoxification. Lemon provides vitamin C and antioxidants, promoting liver function and aiding in the breakdown of toxins. Healthy Diet Consume Organic Foods: Organic foods are grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, reducing your exposure to these toxins. Opt for organic fruits, vegetables, and meat whenever possible. Increase Fiber Intake: Fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, help in binding and eliminating toxins through the digestive tract. Include Detoxifying Foods: Incorporate foods known for their detoxifying properties, such as garlic, cilantro, chlorella, and spirulina. These can help bind heavy metals and facilitate their excretion. Reduce Plastic Use Avoid Plastic Containers: Use glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free containers for storing food and beverages. Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers as heat can cause chemicals to leach into your food. Filter Your Water: Invest in a high-quality water filter that can remove microplastics and other contaminants. This is especially important if you rely on tap water. Support Your Liver Herbal Supplements: Milk thistle, dandelion root, and turmeric are known for supporting liver health. These can help enhance the liver’s ability to process and eliminate toxins. Healthy Fats: Incorporate healthy fats like those found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. These fats support cell membranes and liver function, aiding in detoxification. Sweating It Out Exercise Regularly: Physical activity increases circulation and promotes sweating, which can help release toxins through the skin. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Use Saunas: Saunas, particularly infrared saunas, can promote sweating and enhance the detoxification process. Ensure to stay hydrated and start with shorter sessions if you are new to sauna use. Mind Your Gut Health Probiotics and Prebiotics: A healthy gut microbiome plays a crucial role in detoxification. Consuming probiotics (found in yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods) and prebiotics (found in garlic, onions, and bananas) supports gut health and helps in the efficient elimination of toxins. Limit Exposure to Toxins Choose Natural Cleaning Products: Many household cleaners contain harmful chemicals. Opt for natural and eco-friendly cleaning products to reduce your exposure to these toxins. Avoid Synthetic Fragrances: Products with synthetic fragrances, such as air fresheners and perfumes, can contain harmful chemicals. Use essential oils or fragrance-free products instead. Adequate Sleep Quality Sleep: Ensure you get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. During sleep, your body undergoes repair and detoxification processes, crucial for maintaining health and eliminating toxins. Take away While we may not be able to completely avoid exposure to microplastics and other toxins, we can take proactive steps to support our body’s natural detoxification processes. By making mindful choices in our diet, lifestyle, and environment, we can help reduce the toxic burden on our bodies and promote overall well-being. Remember, detoxification is a gradual process, and consistency is key to seeing long-term benefits. Sun Bay Paper Staff
Page 5 The Sun Bay Paper June 28, 2024 PRESIDENT TRUMP…YOU ASKED …I’LLANSWER…GO SOFT ON BIDEN, show respect, AND HARD ON THE REAL… TRAITOR…THE AYATOLLAH BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA!!! I wrote this column BEFORE your “debate”. I didn’t want my column to be called plagiarism so here it is … In my opinion and with all due respect, Mr. President, tell Biden you believe he is a victim and that you will not disrespect the Office of the President nor him. But you will go after the real cause, Hussein Obama! Hussein travelled the World apologizing to the Islamic World for America’s acts against Islam. He did all he could to cripple America’s mighty energy resources. Hussein illegally stopped the legal resource production of fossil fuel by ignoring and breaking contracts, leases, permits and treaties. The Keystone Pipeline is a deal with Canada that started in 2010 and is 3 phases…1 & 2 are completed…2700 miles! They are suing us for billions! Treaty and contracts, The Green River-the largest oil reserve in the World and US owned, the Bakken-privately owned and 2nd largest oil/natural gas reserve in the world, offshore drilling with Canada, closed all, coal fired and several other fossil fuel fired power plants. Hussein took the US power Grid from 125% to 80% by successfully killing 45% of our entire Electric Grid reducing it to 80% of needs! He closed the NORAD, Colorado Mountain, communication, First Strike, first response, largest self-defense facility in the World… closed the whole damn thing. Did that strengthen or weaken the US? After elected, President Trump said HE DID WHAT? President Trump, you reopened that NORAD facility! Hussein closed it to weaken the US and change our Republic! Treason again and again and again. There is NO statute of limitations on Capital Crimes! That’s Treason! Hussein then, in my opinion, furthered his scheme to kill America by taking advantage of a weakened, obviously ill and declining human being, by supporting Biden and promising him the Presidency and his, Hussein’s, devoted “help”. So welcome to Hussein’s fourthterm, another Felony. What Obama did by removing himself one step from the Presidency and then directing either Biden or having his, Obama’s, staff relay information to initiate policies and executive orders that damage and/or are dangerous AND are all felonies, some Treason, others very close! Treason…punishable by death. Those who made the move to direct Biden, pass “orders” that are illegal to Biden, will roll over when they see what the punishment is for THEIR crimes! So, Mr. President bring out the freaking truth about how Biden is the unknowing victim and tell him what Hussein is doing. Explain how Hussein most clearly and many times, said he will “Fundamentally change America”! He said that there is NOTHING more beautiful than the “Islamic call to Prayer”. Hussein most clearly explained his position regarding his feelings toward America…he hates America and intentionally, with malice aforethought, spent his entire adult life trying to change America into an Islamic, Socialist Nation, furthering his cause by adopting two of his Columbia’s professors, Cloward and Piven, ideas on, “How To”. They wrote the book and he followed…to bankrupt America, by bringing our population to its knees…by taking away our unalienable Rights to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness! Do whatever he could to waste money, crash our social welfare networks …overload it by opening our borders…sounding familiar? Destroy our power grid, military, law enforcement…power production on all levels. No loyal American, let alone a President, would ever do the Treasonous Acts he performed. But he needs a “scapegoat”, and he picked YOU JOE! Explain how there is no Statute of Limitation with a Capital Crime and most of what you did IS Treason and “your” staff...will throw you under the bus in an instant... my opinion! J. Gary DiLaura, FBI RET therightsidejgarydilaura.com The Right Side HUSSEIN OBAMA’S NEW TOY…AMERICA…AN ISLAMIC NATION!
June 28, 2024 The Sun Bay Paper Page 6 Homeowners and Renters Struggling with High Housing Costs Amid rising inflation and a shortage of affordable housing, most Americans today cannot afford median rent prices, with over 60% falling short, according to a new report by the real estate company Redfin. This analysis comes alongside other reports indicating that both homeowners and renters are grappling with high housing costs due to inflationary pressures, an overheated housing market, and limited supply of affordable housing. “Just 39% of renters make enough to afford the median-priced apartment,” the report states. Renters need an additional $11,000 annually to afford a typical apartment in major U.S. cities. “The typical U.S. renter household earns an estimated $54,712 per year. That’s 17.3% less – or $11,408 in dollar terms – than the $66,120 a renter must earn to afford monthly rent for the median-priced U.S. apartment ($1,653),” according to the analysis. Redfin analyzed rental data in 33 of the 50 most populous U.S. core-based statistical areas (CBSAs) where it has access to data. This data includes median asking rents of newly listed units in apartment buildings with five or more units over a three-month period ending in May. Apartments are considered affordable if a renter spends no more than 30% of their income on rent. The least affordable U.S. metro areas for renters are New York City, Miami, Boston, Los Angeles, and Riverside, California, according to the data. In New York City and Miami, the typical renter earns roughly 40% less than they need to afford a typical apartment, the report states. “New York is perennially one of the most expensive rental markets, but affordability challenges have been intensifying; rents rose 9.2% from a year earlier in May – one of the biggest increases in the nation,” Redfin says. Despite rising rental prices in these metro areas, renters can still earn enough to afford a typical apartment in Austin, Dallas, Houston, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C., the report notes. “The amount renters must earn to afford the median-priced apartment is t the highest level since October 2022,” Redfin notes. Home buyers are also struggling in today’s economy. An analysis by Zillow found that home buyers in 2024 need 80% more income to purchase a home than they did in 2020, according to The Center Square. In May, home prices hit a record high, “with low inventory continuing to spur bidding wars among home buyers in some markets,” The Wall Street Journal reported. Sales of previously owned homes dropped, showing a third consecutive month of decline. Because homeowners refinanced their mortgages when interest rates were much lower, they are not selling now with interest rates more than double what they were a few years ago after the Federal Reserve increased the base rate to its highest level in decades. This is described as the “lock-in” effect, a new report by Harvard explains, “whereby current homeowners with below-market interest rates are disincentivized to move … dramatically reducing the number of homes available for sale.” Due to high inflation, high interest rates, low inventory, the lock-in effect, and other factors, “homeownership is increasingly out of reach,” Harvard’s “State of the Nation’s Housing 2024” report says. It also notes that rents remain up by 26% nationwide since early 2020, with rents having increased faster than incomes for decades. Half of all renter households, 22.4 million, were cost-burdened in 2022, the highest number on record, it says. Cost-burdened is defined as renters or homeowners spending more than 30% of their income on housing and utilities. “Both homeowners and renters are struggling with high housing costs,” the report states. “On the for-sale side, millions of potential homebuyers have been priced out of the market by elevated home prices and interest rates. Homeowner cost burdens are also on the rise, driven by growing taxes and insurance costs. For renters, the number with cost burdens has hit an all-time high as rents have escalated.” Sun Bay Paper Staff
Page 7 The Sun Bay Paper June 28, 2024 It’s the same old nonsense, talking points, on the left, when it comes to the climate, weather and changes …and we have to stop it! Could you stop a freight train without derailing it? Well climate or the weather are akin to a freight train except for one small difference… no matter what we do… we cannot stop it or redirect it or increase or decrease it. In short, there is absolutely NOTHING we can do about the weather except prepare for whatever it brings…good, bad or ugly…not a damn thing. If some misbegotten soul told you otherwise…I care not what their expertise is…ask them to first define weather…no answer? Then help them by explaining weather is made up from hundreds or even thousands of things that happen and don’t happen. Then give them some more help…like what “things” … inanimate things control everything to do with the weather? It’s not religious, it’s not predictable, it’s not your wife or your kids. It’s the SUN! The SUN controls our orbit 100% and that orbit pretty much determines how hot or cold the earth will be, by which part of the earth is the closest and the furthest! No surprise there if you had 5th grade science? That’s simple, however many other factors determine so many other things, events, that are caused by things still unknown… watch “Skinwalker Ranch”. That PhD Travis is about as sharp as it gets in the real world and he cannot figure out what causes events like electricity IN THE GROUND where there should not be electricity or what can stop a laser beam in the sky when radar shows there is NOTHING there!??! With weather there are so many things we see every day, like the tides, the oceans, and lakes endure, and what happens when that combination of winds from certain directions collide with wind from other certain directions, and evolve into the perfect storm! If we could change the direction…just the direction of one or the two, before they collide, there would not be any storm…but we cannot, no matter what any tree hugging, left wing, red commie, pinko tells you. We can’t do squat except run for cover! No matter how much fossil fuels the likes of Obiden, Gov Kathy Hochul and others tell you… “Fossil fuels” … are to blame! NO, they are not! If it were not for fossil fuels, the FIRST source of energy in the planet Earth’s billions of years of existence, there would be no history! America is so rich with fossil fuels that only a complete and total ass would try to take them away from us. Do you not remember the Bill of Rights and Constitution that guarantee “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness…”? To take that away, to use for their own benefit…or aiding an enemy or someone with other ulterior motives like part of a plot to change the richest country the world has ever known, is Treason. All they want to do is bankrupt America, following Hussein Obama’s lead. Look at what he has done to Obiden…he has convinced him to commit acts of treason by opening the damn borders …and taking away fossil fuels to aid Iran and Russia. Think about it, you dummy…we were energy independent when Trump left office. That’s an undeniable FACT and those two scoundrels, Obiden and Obama, had NOTHING to do with that success…gasoline for $1.87 when Trump left office…duh! With just a few Obiden/Obama executive orders to stop all that gas production, those two treasonous, SOB’s forced us to buy the same product from enemies who will kill us as soon as they get the balls and nuclear weapons with the money we sent them for their oil and gas …namely Iran, Hamas, and Russia with China. Are we nuts? What the hell is wrong with some of you… c’mon man. They are going to kill us and America the minute they are ready…and who will be at fault …Trump? Me…? No dummy… YOU, smarten up! And you are worried about the f’ng weather…? J. Gary DiLaura THE ENVIRONMENT …AND MORE, MY OPINION
June 28, 2024 The Sun Bay Paper Page 8 FLORIDA BALLOT 2024: Voters To Decide on Recreational Marijuana, Abortion ‘On Demand,’ and More Cont. on pg 9 Florida voters will face six significant constitutional amendments in November, each with the potential to bring about significant changes. Two of these, legalizing recreational marijuana and guaranteeing abortion access, stand out as particularly consequential. These amendments and four others will require a 60% approval to pass, underscoring the urgency of the voters’ decision. Amendments 3 and 4 are “hot-button” issues that will drive voters to the polls, potentially affecting all races up and down the ballot in this Presidential year. Amendment 3 - Recreational Marijuana Amendment 3 would legalize recreational marijuana, allowing adults 21 and older to possess up to three ounces and five grams of cannabis concentrate. Smart & Safe Florida, the group leading the campaign, has raised nearly $55 million, primarily from Trulieve, the state’s largest medical marijuana operator. Governor DeSantis and other top conservatives oppose the measure. DeSantis warned it could lead to “prolific pot smells” and claims it would limit state regulation. Smart & Safe Florida counters that the Florida Constitution and Supreme Court precedent permit recreational marijuana regulations. Steve Schweich, who has served as campaign director for six successful cannabis reform ballot initiative campaigns since 2016, acknowledged in a statement from the cannabis policy reform advocacy group that achieving the super-majority of votes needed for success will not be easy. “The challenge in Florida is reaching the 60% mark,” said Schweich. “We need a well-funded campaign, but just as importantly, we need a strong grassroots operation that can mobilize support and turn out pro-legalization voters.” More than one million voters signed petitions to place Amendment 3 on the ballot for the 2024 general election. If passed, the constitutional amendment would allow the state’s current providers of medical marijuana, which was legalized in Florida in 2016, to begin selling cannabis to all adults aged 21 and up. Adults would be allowed to purchase up to three ounces of marijuana at a time, including no more than five grams of cannabis concentrates. The bill does not include provisions to expunge past cannabis convictions or the home cultivation of marijuana, which activists feared would lead the Supreme Court to block the measure based on state laws that limit ballot initiatives to a single subject. The proposed constitutional amendment also allows state lawmakers to authorize additional adult-use cannabis business licens es, although the legislature is not required to do so. The initiative retains Florida’s current vertically integrated business structure, which requires operators to control the production and marketing of marijuana from seed to sale. If Florida voters approve Amendment 3 in the November general election, it will take effect six months after election day, adding the state to the list of states that have legalized recreational marijuana. Amendment 4 - Abortion ‘On Demand’ Amendment 4 would guarantee abortion access in Florida until fetal viability, generally around 24 weeks, and allow abortions necessary to protect a patient’s health. This follows the Florida Supreme Court’s approval of a six-week abortion ban, effective May 1. Pro-Abortion group Floridians Protecting Freedom is leading the campaign for the amendment. This left-wing-funded coalition has raised nearly $20 million from abortion providers and progressive interests, raising $8 million in the first two weeks of June. A political committee opposing it raised over $107,000 during the same period. Voters will decide on the future of abortion in the state in the November general election, alongside other states like Colorado, Maryland, and South Dakota. Florida Republicans, anti-abortion, and faith-based groups, including the Knights of Columbus, strongly oppose the measure. “Not only would the vague language of Amendment 4 repeal parental consent laws and place the entire decision-making process in the hands of a judge, this Abortion ‘On Demand’ law is incompatible with religious liberty, conventional morality, and traditional values,” said Lou Ortiz, S.K., an Honorable Fourth Degree Knight from West Palm Beach. Ortiz and other Florida voters are preparing to decide on the future of abortion two years after Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization overturned Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022. This landmark ruling led to the issue’s return to the state level. Abortion is now banned at all stages of pregnancy, with limited exceptions, in 14 Republican-controlled states. In three other states, it is forbidden after about the first six weeks. In May, Florida replaced its 15-week abortion ban with a six-week ban. Amendment 4 states, “No law shall prohibit, penalize, delay, or restrict abortion before viability or when necessary to protect the patient’s health, as determined by the patient’s healthcare provider.” Nearly two-thirds of known abortions last year were provided with pills rather than procedures. About 6,000 people a month in states with abortion bans receive pills prescribed via telehealth and mailed by providers in states protecting them from prosecution. Most Democratic-led states have taken action to enhance abortion rights. Colorado, Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, and Washington have laws safeguarding these medical providers. The U.S. Supreme Court recently rejected an effort to overturn the FDA’s approval of mifepristone, a key drug for medication abortions. Legal battles continue, with the federal government’s lawsuit against Idaho’s abortion ban, which includes emergencies, being a notable case. The Other Amendments Four other Amendments are on the ballot. Amendment 1 - Partisan School Board Members This amendment would make district school board elections partisan, starting in 2026. In 1998, Florida voters approved a measure mandating nonpartisan school board races. However, recent debates over COVID-19 measures and accessible books have heightened political tensions in these elections. Governor Ron DeSantis has actively influenced school board races, aiming to flip seats in upcoming elections. Proponents
Page 9 The Sun Bay Paper June 28, 2024 FLORIDA BALLOT 2024: Voters To Decide Monkeypox: The Next Global Disruption As the US presidential elections approach, unsettling warnings from the global elite have billions worried about another round of forced experimental vaccinations and totalitarian lockdowns. Aft er the COVID-19 pandemic, citizens worldwide have been repeatedly warned about the “next pandemic.”Well, they prepared us, and now it’s here. This mutated variant, named clade 1b, of monkeypox has doctors and scientists alarmed due to its “extremely”different behavior compared to previous monkeypox variants. It is now being transmitted between humans without sexual contact, resulting in blisters all over the body, not just in the genital area. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued warnings about a new strain of monkeypox spreading in Africa that could potentially reach Europe and cause global havoc. This variant, undoubtedly the most dangerous strain of monkeypox yet, is spreading throughout central Africa, mainly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. With a fatality rate of 7 percent, it is also “allegedly” causing miscarriages. Mainstream media has rebranded the virus as “mpox” and eagerly awaits its spread worldwide. So far, 7,850 mpox cases have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, along with 384 deaths, according to the World Health Organization. However, it remains unclear how many of these cases are attributed to clade 1b, reports The Telegraph. This past Tuesday, South Africa recorded its third death from “mpox” in an outbreak that began in May. Leading researcher on the new strain, Leandra Maskina, stated, “This is just the tip of the iceberg. The cases are increasing every day, and it’s only a matter of time before it spreads to other countries.” Executives from Moderna announced on Wednesday that they have initiated a research program to develop an mRNA monkeypox vaccine. Expert research scientist Dr. Judy Mikovits has warned that monkeypox viruses have been found in vaccines since the 1990s, but we will cover that story in a follow-up article. As we brace for another potential global health crisis, the world watches with bated breath. Will we face lockdowns again and mandated vaccines that have proven harmful? We need swift action and effective solutions. Be prepared and organized. The potential for widespread impact is enormous, and the lessons learned from COVID-19 will be crucial in our response to this emerging threat. Sun Bay Paper Staff Cont. from pg 8 argue this amendment will increase transparency, while opponents fear further politicization. Amendment 2 - Right to Hunt and Fish Amendment 2 would establish a constitutional right to hunt and fish in Florida, joining around two dozen states with similar protections. Lawmakers overwhelmingly supported the amendment, highlighting the importance of these activities in Florida’s traditions and economy. Conservationists, however, express concerns. In an Orlando Sentinel op-ed, Clay Henderson wrote, “Often the preferred means to conserve fish and wildlife is to limit hunting and fishing to protect their numbers.” Amendment 5 - Homestead Annual Inflation Adjustment This amendment would adjust the homestead property tax exemption for inflation, potentially saving property owners money but costing local governments millions in reduced revenue. Lawmakers in favor highlight the savings for homeowners, while opponents worry about the financial impact on local governments. A legislative analysis estimates a reduction of non-school local government property taxes by nearly $23 million in the 2025-26 fiscal year, reaching almost $112 million within a few years. Amendment 6 - Public Campaign Financing Amendment 6 proposes repealing public campaign financing, which currently supports candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, chief financial officer, and agriculture commissioner. Public funding was enshrined in the state Constitution after a 1998 amendment. Supporters see this repeal as a way to save taxpayer money, while opponents argue it disadvantages underfunded candidates against well-financed opponents. A similar repeal attempt in 2010 failed, gaining less than 53% of the vote. Election Day Details Election Day is November 5, 2024. The deadline to register to vote in Florida is October 7. Eligible voters can register at RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov or through a county Supervisor of Elections office. As Florida voters prepare for the November elections, the outcome of these amendments could significantly impact state policies and the lives of its residents. The debates surrounding these issues highlight the diverse opinions and high stakes involved. Richard Luthmann
June 28, 2024 The Sun Bay Paper Page 10 Lee County Chairman and Commissioner Mike Greenwell Cont from pg 1 Fort Myers Beach Pier Vice Chairman Kevin Ruane championed the forward-looking plan, noting that the new pier, even at 1,000 feet, would still be shorter than the 1,400-foot pier in St. Petersburg. “St. Pete is 1,400 feet long. So, just FYI, I look at the attraction. This is still 400 feet shorter than St. Pete’s current pier,” Ruane said. Commissioner Cecil Pendergrass expressed concerns about the project’s timeline but ultimately supported the decision. “I hate the timeline,” he said. “But it’s worth the wait.” Commissioner Brian Hammond echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for transparency with the public. “The timeframe does not sit well with me,” Hammond said. I think we should place updated signage at the pier site to let people know something is coming.” About $11.6 million of the $17.1 million cost will come from over $40 million in Lee County Tourist Development Tax reserves, supplemented by FEMA reimbursement. The total estimated construction cost for rebuilding the pier to its original dimensions would have been about $5.6 million, fully covered by federal reimbursement. However, the commissioners saw the value in a more substantial investment. The design and permitting process for the new pier is expected to take up to 36 months, and construction is projected to take an additional year to 18 months. This timeline includes examining the Gulf floor where the extended pier will be built. Commissioners discussed the three proposed options’ cost, project length, and community value. They considered phasing the construction to expedite the project but ultimately decided on a single, comprehensive rebuild. The decision to rebuild the pier in its original location was met with enthusiasm from community leaders. Fort Myers Beach Council Member Scott Safford praised the effort. “I think it is fantastic news. The Pier committee led by Allen Shanosky should be commended for their hard work and collection of data. Karen Woodson should be commended as well for her tenacity in getting the project funded with the county. Our county commission listened to us, and this ends up being a big win for everyone,” Safford said. FMB Council Member Karen Woodson, another key advocate for the project, expressed her excitement. “I am beyond excited and thankful for the Lee County Commissioners’ vote to support a longer and wider FMB pier! This is another step forward in the rebuild progress of our beautiful island and the first step for Times Square,” Woodson said. Allen Shanosky, who led the pier committee and advocated for many benefits, including environmental sand reclamation in Matanzas Pass, also voiced his approval. “It’s great to know that our county leaders have the vision and foresight to invest in the county’s largest tourist attraction. They truly have our community’s back with regard to this important part of our island. Although there is a long way to go, rest assured, the FMB pier committee will maintain our engagement with the county to ensure our residents’ concerns are brought to the forefront of this very special project.” Jacki Liszak, President of the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the project’s significance. “This is an important milestone in the recovery. It gives the entire community a spiritual boost.” Local business owners and residents also celebrated the news. Joe Orlandini, a local real estate developer and expert, stated, “I’m extremely happy and looking forward to the starting date. The county knew the value of the pier and did the best possible outcome for the community and the long-term financial stability of Southwest Florida. I’m looking forward to seeing a packed Times Square and a pier full of people with pockets full of money to spend.” Peter Ennis, a restaurateur and operator of Snug Har bor Restaurant and Wahoo Willie’s, said, “I think it’s great it got approved. I’m sure Lee County, Fort Myers Beach, and all visitors can’t wait to see it completed. It was one of the biggest tourist destinations in Southwest Florida. I just wish they could move the process along quickly. FMB needs reasons for people to visit and stay.” Ennis and others may very well get their wish from Lee County Chairman Mike Greenwell, who said efforts will be made to expedite the process, potentially starting work earlier. “I know bigger isn’t always better, but I think in this circumstance, it is,” said Greenwell. “I think it will be well worth it because the pier will be here for a long time.” While the project might take an additional eight months to a year, Greenwell believes the result would be a Pier designed to last and withstand future hurricanes. The rebuilt Fort Myers Beach Pier will be a prominent feature of the area, attracting tourists and benefiting local businesses. Adjacent sites like Lynn Hall Park and Crescent Beach Family Park will also complement the new Pier, enhancing the overall appeal of Fort Myers Beach and the Times Square area. Richard Luthmann
Page 11 The Sun Bay Paper June 28, 2024 ACROSS 1 Fair 6 Grouch 10 Marsh bird 14 Alfa ___ 15 Indy 500 16 Cinchona: prefix 17 French actor Delon 18 Long, long ago 20 Swiss psychologist 22 Aspect 23 Form or verse lead-in 24 Twelve months 25 Spicy Creole dish 30 Fishing vessel 34 First female president of the Philippines 35 Roguish 37 Former Portuguese colony 38 Hook 39 White lily 41 ___ and Michele s High School Reunion 42 Honour for a Brit. 43 Sketch 44 Port on the Illinois river 46 Mexican silver center 48 Fayetteville fan 50 Three per side 52 Beatle spouse 53 ___ down: catch 55 Sideboard 60 Jason, of Seinfield 62 More frigid 63 Confident 64 Extinct, flightless bird 65 Music of nine 66 Chief 67 Observes 68 Tumbler DOWN 1 Bric-a-___ 2 The Kink s hit single 3 Tentmaker of note 4 Diamond 5 Libertine 6 Skulls 7 Tolled 8 Pretend 9 Hosiery shade 10 Wriggle 11 Yes, yes, yes, in Ypres 12 ___ of passage 13 One or how lead-in 19 Put down 21 Open 24 Norse chieftain 25 Ruffled cravat 26 Jordan port 27 Marine snail 28 Apron part 29 Black Sea port 31 Greek marketplace 32 Amusing 33 Inuit craft 36 Ness quarry 40 Affectations 41 Actor Lowe 43 The March King 45 Wearing away 47 Cajoled 49 Power and Hamilton portrayals 51 Ministers to 53 Board game 54 Queen of Heaven 55 Give over 56 Earth sci. 57 Columbus caravel 58 Sleepy letters 59 Fine and modern follower 60 Residue 61 John or Jane this issue’s puzzle is called ‘Puzzle Me’ Last weeks solution on page 13
June 28, 2024 The Sun Bay Paper Page 12 President Trump, You Love Branding. I Have a New Brand for Biden and Democrats: ‘The Liars Club’ Praise God. Thank you, God, for exposing Democrats as the pathetic liars, frauds, con men and scam artists that they are. Democrats are “The Liars Club.” To understand what Democrats are really about today, here are three quotes from the George Orwell classic book “1984.” Today’s Democratic Party has copied the script of Orwell’s book word for word: “The Party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command.” “War is peace, freedom is slavery, and ignorance is strength.” “The Party seeks power entirely for its own sake. We are not interested in the good of others; we are interested solely in power, pure power.” For tyrants, dictators and control freaks (i.e., communists), it’s always about lying. It’s always about telling the lie so many times that it becomes the truth. It’s about convincing people to believe the lies, rhetoric and propaganda, not what they can plainly see with their eyes. Democrats can’t help themselves. They can’t stop lying. And then when caught in their lies, they refuse to admit they lied, they refuse to apologize, and they try to cover it up with more lies. That’s a clear sign of mental illness. Just a few examples in the past few days: Former Obama official James Clapper was asked if he would like to retract his signature from the infamous letter signed by 51 former intelligence officials warning Hunter Biden’s laptop was “Russian disinformation.” Of course, we all now know the laptop is real. Hunter Biden was just convicted of three felonies based on information found on that laptop. It was always real. Yet when Clapper was asked if he would, in hindsight, like to retract his signature from the fraudulent letter, he gave a one-word answer, “No.” Democrats (i.e., communist traitors) can’t help themselves. They are programmed to lie and lie some more, then repeat and rinse. They would rather deny the facts, or lie again, to cover up the lie. Then there’s Joe Biden’s obvious mental deterioration. Biden literally froze three times in recent days on the world stage -- with cameras running. The American people saw all three incidents. They watched them happen with their own eyes. Yet Biden’s White House spokesman still denied what we all saw. She tried to blame all three incidents on so-called fake edited video. Now you know the difference between liberals and liars: SPELLING. But we should all praise God for exposing all these pathetic liberal lies -- and for making them so obvious. The liberal lies about Biden’s deteriorating mental condition are so obvious, that all the other liberal lies are now exposed, too. If you lie about one thing, you’ll lie about everything. Democrats are so dumb and arrogant they don’t even realize they have branded themselves as liars over Biden’s mental health. Now you know you can never trust anything they say, ever again. Democrats lie like Pinocchio. They lie each time they open their mouths. They’ve been lying about the state of the economy; jobs; inflation; GDP; the national debt; the intentional destruction of America through open borders; the Jan. 6 entrapment; the torture of the Jan. 6 prisoners; the fraud of climate change; the failure of green energy; the true extent of exploding crime in America; the tragedy of COVID vaccine mandates; the rigged and stolen 2020 election; their treatment of our great ally Israel; our cowardly retreat from Afghanistan; the drastic failure of DEI; the lawfare and weaponization of government against the American people; the rigged trials, judges and juries against President Donald Trump; the transgender brainwashing of our children -- it’s all lies, it’s all fraud, it’s all propaganda, and it’s all gaslighting. Democrat lies are destroying America. And remember, Dr. Anthony Fauci just admitted he lied about the origins of COVID, the funding of COVID, the masks and social distancing. He just made it all up. Then he destroyed emails to hide his lies. So now I’ve got the perfect branding for President Trump. He loves brands. He loves branding Democrats. So, Mr. President, here’s your new brand... Brand Democrats as “The Liars Club.” Why is this the perfect brand? Because moderates, independent voters and women don’t like it when we are too harsh. They don’t like it when we call Democrats what they really are: evil, radical, extreme, Marxist, communist, socialist, fascist, globalist, racist, tyrants, dictators and, of course, TRAITORS to America. Democrats are a combination of those brands. The glove fits. But if the jury doesn’t like it, and you lose the case, the glove was a mistake (even if it fit). As my wise grandfather used to say, “The customer is always right.” Conservatives need to convince people who don’t vote for us, to vote for us. These potential “customers” think (whether wrong or not) that words like “communist, Marxist and traitor” are too harsh. But everyone understands the word “liar.” Everyone has met a liar. Everyone has been lied to. Everyone hates liars. Most everyone has been lied to by a cheating boyfriend or spouse. Most everyone has been ripped off by a lying salesman. That’s why everyone can accept the term “liar.” Democrats are “The Liars Club.” It’s simple, it’s catchy, and it’s easy to understand and remember. It’s even easier to believe and accept as fact. It reminds everyone (of a certain age) of the famous movie “The Breakfast Club.” It’s not too harsh or rude. It’s simply true. It will stick. All they do is lie and lie and lie. Democrats are “The Liars Club.” Not just Biden. All of them. It’s so simple, in the end this presidential race boils down to ... President Trump vs. “The Liars Club” and a pack of dirty lies! Wayne Allyn Root The Oyster Ed pearls from the muck
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