Sun Times Issue 04 27 23

A State Of Never Ending Crisis

The Government Is Fomenting Mass Hysteria

Ask Yourselves: Why Are We Being Bombarded With Crises, Distractions, Fake News And Reality Tv Politics?

We have become guinea pigs in a ruthlessly calculated, carefully orchestrated, chillingly coldblooded experiment in how to control a population and advance a political agenda without much opposition from the citizenry.

This is mind-control in its most sinister form.

With alarming regularity, the nation is being subjected to a spate of violence that terrorizes the public, destabilizes the country and gives the government greater justifications to crack down, lock down and institute even more authoritarian policies for the so-called sake of national security without many objections from the citizenry.

This is all part of the Deep State’s master plan.

Ask yourselves: why are we being bombarded with crises, distractions, fake news and reality TV politics? We’re being conditioned like lab mice to subsist on a steady diet of bread-andcircus politics and an endless spate of crises.

Caught up in this “crisis of the now,” the average person has a hard time keeping up with and

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A“Must See” Month

Get Your Seat At The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center

Electric Vehicle Uncertainty

A surprising study revealed trading in your old car for a brand new electric vehicle may actually be doing more harm than good

The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is gaining momentum worldwide as governments seek to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. While this shift towards EVs is a positive development, there is also uncertainty and concern about the cost implications for consumers. There are also concerns about the reliability and lifespan of EV batteries, and the cost of replacing them when they eventually fail.

In this race to reduce Car Emissions there is one big thing we may be missing, longevity. For many families, cars are huge, long-term investments second only to homes. Now the government is looking to make the expense even higher. In what would be the nation’s most ambitious climate regulation, the Biden Administration is planning some of the most stringent Auto Pollution Limits in the world, designed to ensure that allelectric cars make up as much as 67 percent of new passenger vehicles sold in the country by 2032. This would force many families to purchase vehicles that they might not be able to afford.

The Award-Winning Series Continues

The

Art And Culture

Center/Hollywood

Unveils Its Third Documentary Film Short

The Art and Culture Center/ Hollywood will Present a Premiere Theatrical Screening of its new Documentary Film Short Open Dialogues: Queer Allies on Monday, May 1st, 2023 at the Hollywood Central Performing Arts Center, 1770 Monroe Street, Hollywood 33020.

The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with a Red-Carpet Reception with the film’s cast members, followed by a Screening of the film at 7:00 p.m. Admission is free and donations are accepted. Parking is available on site.

Queer Allies offers the stories and lived experiences of people who identify as LGBTQ+ (Queer) and those who love and support them. Due to heightened sensitivities on this subject, young people 14 years of age and younger must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to view this film.

This premiere of the third film in the Center’s Open Dialogues Film Series is being presented as part of 10 Days of Connection, celebrated each year from May 1-10 to challenge divisiveness

through community events.

Directed by Award-Winning Filmmaker Freddy Rodriguez, Open Dialogues: Queer Allies features deeply moving inter-

Aventura Arts, Page 4A

Electric Vehicle, Page 7A

views and performances that focus on the critical role of allies in empowering young people in their coming-out experience.

Photographed in black-and-

white, the 25-minute film includes a performance by Dance Now! Miami Dancers David

By John & Nisha Whitehead

Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is committed to providing a safe, comfortable and

Aventura Arts

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on Tuesday, May 16th, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. Five years after winning the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival for Shoplifters, Academy Award®

Nominee Hirokazu Koreeda returns with Broker, starring Cannes Best Actor Winner Song Kang Ho (Parasite). The film follows two brokers who circumvent the bureaucracy of legal adoption to sell orphaned infants to affluent couples who can’t have children of their own. After an infant’s mother surprises the duo by returning to ensure her child finds a good home, the three embark on a journey to find the right couple, building an unlikely family of their own. Not rated, the film is presented in Korean with English subtitles. The Aventura International Film Series, Presented by the City of Aventura, is hosted by Shelly Isaacs who introduces the film and leads a post-screening discussion. Screenings are general admission with the lobby doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the auditorium at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $12.

Hochberg Lower School

Presents Disney’s Aladdin JR. featuring its students on Wednesday, May 17th, 2023 and Thursday, May 18th, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. Aladdin and his three friends, Babkak, Omar and Kassim are down on their luck until Aladdin discovers a magic lamp and the Genie who has the power to grant three wishes. Wanting to earn the respect of Princess Jasmine, Aladdin embarks on an adventure that will test his will and his moral character. Tickets are $25 and all attendees are required to have a ticket including student and lap tickets.

Brian Evans brings his big band to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center on Saturday, May 20th, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. in a concert produced by The Maui

Celebrity Series. Labeled by Grammy Magazine as “one of the most relevant crooners in the style of Sinatra of this generation,”

Evans performed 377 shows at The Desert Inn in Las Vegas, once home to Sinatra and recorded the first live album from the venue. His version of Sinatra’s “New York, New York,” has millions of views on YouTube and more than two billion views on TikTok. In his concert at Aventura, he will be backed by Grammy® Award-Winning Musical Director Gary Anderson, who is known for his work with Sinatra. Evans’ music is produced by Narada Michael Walden, Legendary Producer of Whitney Houston, George Michael and Elton John. A successful songwriter and novelist, Evans has a 150song catalog that continues to be licensed for shows ranging from the Netflix Series “BoJack Horseman” to “So You Think You Can Dance.”

Tickets are $45-$125 with those purchasing tickets in rows A or B invited to a post-show meet and greet. Miami International Piano Festival crowns its

2022-2023

Season with a concert featuring Russian Virtuoso Dmitry Ablogin on Sunday, May 21st, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. Ablogin has performed in Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Denmark, Poland, Russia, France and in the U.S. with the Miami International Piano Festival. In October 2021

he won the 10th International German Piano Award and made his debut at the Alte Oper Frankfurt. He will perform a program of Sergei Rachmaninoff, Sergei Taneyev and Nikolai Medtner. Lecturer in Residence Professor Frank E. Cooper offers a preconcert introduction. Not suggested for children under 12 years of age. Tickets are $45-$55.

LCA Performing Arts

Company Presents The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee performed by the LCAP Company on Friday, May 26th, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, May 27th, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has charmed audiences across the country with its effortless wit and

humor. Featuring a fastpaced, wildly funny and touching book by Rachel Sheinkin and a truly fresh and vibrant score by William Finn, this bee is one unforgettable experience. An eclectic group

of six mid-pubescents vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. While

candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing, poutinducing, life un-affirming “ding’ of the bell that signals a spelling mistake. Six spellers enter, one speller leaves but at least the losers get a juice box. Tickets are $35-$65 with $5 Lap Tickets for children ages two years and younger.

Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventura center.org - By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307.

The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at: @aventuracenter Or: #aventuracenter.

of the City of Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School Self parking is free and available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front

Making Waves At The Historic Miami Marine Stadium

The SoFlo Boat Show is excited to announce its Grand Debut at The Historic Miami Marine Stadium from Friday, May 19th, 2023 - Sunday, May 21st, 2023. This Inaugural Event will bring together a boating style of living and marine enthusiasts from around Florida and abroad for an unforgettable weekend of nautical excitement, shopping, networking and entertainment.

The SoFlo Boat Show is the ultimate destination for the boating way of life, offering an unparalleled showcase of the finest marine vessels, equipment and accessories. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of boats, from cruisers to high-performance fishing boats, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Miami Skyline. In addition to showcasing a variety of vessels, both on land and in water, one of the features of the show will be the sea trial dock for those looking to test the many featured boats on the water. Boat manufacturers already confirmed to participate include Yellowfin Yachts, Boston Whaler, Invincible Boats, Sea Vee Boats, Pursuit Boats, Albemarle Boats, Tiara Yachts, Seahunter Boats, Pathfinder Boats, Blackfin Boats, Hurricane Boats, Cobia Boats, Sea Hunt Boats, to name a few. The show will also feature all boating parts and accessories, across engines, electronics, fishing equipment, diving gear and more. Organizers are taking an innovative approach to boost sales by offering 100 gallons of Shoreline Marine Fuel to anyone who buys a boat during the show and an opportunity to win an Icon EV Golf Cart to anyone who buys a SoFlo Boat Show Ticket.

“We are thrilled to launch the SoFlo Boat Show, the premiere boating lifestyle event in Miami that celebrates our shared passion for the nautical way of life,” said Tony Albelo, CEO of EngageLive!. “Miami Marine Stadium is the perfect venue to host this spectacular showcase and we cannot wait to welcome boating fans to join us for this experience,” Albelo added.

In addition to the impressive display of marine crafts and accessories, the SoFlo Boat Show will feature engaging seminars and workshops led by industry experts, as well as live music, gourmet food and a wide array of activities for the whole family. Attendees will also have the chance to network with industry professionals and fellow boat lovers, making this a must-attend event for anyone passionate about boating. The

Film Short

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Harris and Anthony Velazquez and a reading by Terry Dyer from his book, Letters To A Gay Black Boy.

The six community members interviewed on camera represent a diverse range of Allyship Perspectives. Deanna Muniz is the mother of a transgender son and works with the Broward Nonprofits TransSOCIAL Project and the McKenzie Project. Terry Dyer is Executive Director of The World AIDS Museum. Tatiana Williams is Co-Founder of Transinclusive Group. Paulino Mejia is an Artist and Landscaper of Mayan background who identifies as Two Spirit. Carolina Gutierrez is a Digital Organizer for Engage Miami and her ally Lisa La Monica Braun, is the School Ally For Equality (SAFE) Liaison at Dr. Michael

organizers are committed to making this an experience that caters to both boating aficionados and newcomers. Featured experiences of the show will include:

In-Water Displays

With boats in every shape, size and style and as a precursor to the summer season, exhibitors will be looking to close out deals with last-minute specials to move inventory before the Summer.

The Sea Trial Dock

There will be a selection of boats available to run throughout the entire weekend for those wanting to test-drive on the water.

El Mar Pavilion This will feature boats, watercraft, electronics, accessories, fishing products, apparel and anything and everything nautical. All this, under the comfort of airconditioning.

Nautical Art & Décor

Boaters enjoy being surrounded by nautical-themed art and décor; it’s a reminder of where we live, work and play. The show will have a selection of nautically themed art exhibitors from around the country.

Commemorative Poster

Carey Chen has been commissioned to create the very first Limited-Edition

Collectible Poster. Chen is a genuine master of his craft, gaining worldwide attention for his unparalleled portraits of life at sea. The incredible blend of colors and exquisite detail are the trademark of each Carey Chen masterpiece, which has catapulted him to the forefront of the Marine Art Industry.

Fishing Fun Zone

Not only can you see and buy the latest and greatest in fishing, but the interactive Fishing Fun Zone will host seminars, workshops and engaging experiences for anglers of all ages.

The Center Consoles Only VIP Experience

When patrons of the CCO VIP Experience arrive at the show, they’ll be shuttled by private Icon EV Golf Carts right to the front gates of the show. Inside the show, they’ll have access to the exclusive CCO Experience Lounge with an open bar and private seating - all in airconditioned comfort!

M. Krop Senior High.

Queer Allies is the third Open Dialogues Film produced by the Center, following the 2020 Short Stories From the LGBTQ Community and 2022’s Black Voices | Black Stories.

“The Center is thrilled to build upon the success of our Open Dialogues film project with Queer Allies,” said Joy Satterlee, the Center’s Executive Director. “This film is emotional and inspiring as it illustrates the power of human empathy to change lives.”

Support Open Dialogues is funded by a grant from the Community Foundation of Broward as part of its Art of Community initiative, which utilizes the arts to raise awareness and affect positive change on social issues in Broward County, Florida.

Support for Open Dialogues: Queer

The Ship’s Wheel And Galley

What would a waterfront boat show be without an iconic bar and food selection?

The team behind the Ship’s Wheel is a 360-degree bar that will keep those drinks coming. Meanwhile, The Galley will feature food from South Florida’s top restaurants and vendors including a full raw bar.

Soundings Live Music Stage

The Marine Stadium has a long history of showcasing some of the biggest names in music. The Soundings Stage will feature live music every day and when the sun goes down, the nightly Headliner Concert begins making it the perfect ending to a blissful boating day.

SoFlo’s Focus On The Environment And Boating Safety

As Miami natives and big advocates of preserving the environment and boating safety, the show organizers are committed to supporting both causes by implementing these initial efforts:

Environment

The Show has committed to operating sustainably during the operation of the event and as such, has engaged marine environment experts to ensure responsible show production. In addition to targeting on-land and in-water efforts, SoFlo will have a strict no Styrofoam policy, as well as restrict the use of plastics.

Boating Safety

Every year, the industry and our local community experiences avoidable accidents, injuries and loss of life. As lifelong boaters, the SoFlo Founders and Organizers have committed to making a positive influence on boating safety, including partnering with and supporting local boating safety foundations in the community that are pushing for education and awareness of boating responsibly. In subsequent years, the show’s commitment to boating safety will expand, including the development and introduction of new and inventive boating safety programs.

WHERE:

Miami Marine Stadium, 3501 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, Florida 33149

WHEN:

Friday, May 19th, 2023: 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, May 20th, 2023: 10:00 a.m. -8:00 p.m.

Sunday, May 21st, 2023: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

TICKETS:

For options and to purchase tickets; starting at $29, please visit: www. SoFloBoatShow.com

PARKING/SHUTTLES:

Parking is available on-site at Virginia

Key with a complimentary shuttle service. VIP Parking is also available. Parking passes start at $10 and are available online.

The SoFlo Boat Show is a lifestyle boat show event that brings together luxury and performance boat enthusiasts for a weekend of nautical excitement, entertainment and networking. Set at The Historic Miami Marine Stadium, the event features an impressive showcase of the finest marine vessels, equipment and accessories, along with engaging seminars, live music, gourmet food and family-friendly activities, for more information, visit: www.sofloboatshow.com

Allyship was provided by the following Funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Helen and Frank Stoykov Charitable Endowment Fund, Frederick W. Jaqua Fund, Deinhardt Charitable Fund, Ruth H. Brown Fund For The Arts and The Anna Bloeser Fund.

The Art And Culture Center/Hollywood is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supported in part by its members, admissions, private entities, the City of Hollywood; the Broward County Cultural Division, the Cultural Council, and the Broward County Board of County Commissioners; the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the National Endowment for the Arts; the David and Francie Horvitz Family Foundation; the Josephine S. Leiser Foundation, and the Helen Ingham Foundation. We welcome donations from

Are Americans Safe from ‘the Law’?

By Jane M. Orient, M.D.

The triumphant anti-Trump crowd loves to say, “No one is above the law.”

Most Americans have, however, felt safe from the dreaded knock on the door from the Gestapo or the KGB, from the “show me the man, and I’ll find you the crime” principle of Lavrentiy Beria, Stalin’s secret police chief.

Law-abiding Americans assume that since they have not assaulted or robbed anyone or deliberately disobeyed a regulation they will never come in contact with the criminal justice system. After all, a mens rea—criminal intent—is required, they are presumed innocent until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, and they have a right to a prompt trial before an unbiased judge and jury.

But those are constitutional rights, and our “archaic” Constitution is being rewritten. Ordinary Americans, especially doctors who prescribe pain relief, have experienced the reality of politicized prosecutions for many years. But the Russian proverb has applied: “You’ll know it’s true when it happens to you.”

Now that a former President has been criminally charged, the sordid process is at the top of the news.

President Trump has been subjected to intensive investigation since he was elected and even before. At last, Alvin Bragg, a New York district attorney who campaigned on a promise to “get Trump,” has indicted him on felony charges car-

rying a maximum prison sentence of 136 years. The “34 counts” consist of three misdemeanors, for which the statute of limitations has already expired. Each is then cut and pasted 11 times to match the monthly reimbursement checks to attorney Michael Cohen for payments he made to women based on alleged events two decades earlier, David Stockman explains.

These three repetitive “books and records” violations include Cohen’s invoice for reimbursement, its entry into the Trump Organization’s general ledger, and the latter’s receipt of a check from Trump to cover the payments.

These minutiae are transformed into felonies by the allegation of an intent to hide another crime, which the indictment does not specify. We’re supposed to find it out by the time of the trial. It probably has to do with an alleged dalliance with a “porn star,” who signed a non-disclosure agreement, which she violated.

Neither the alleged behavior nor the payment is a crime but might be turned into one if the expenditure is thought to have aided Trump’s political campaign. Progressives deplore the stigmatization of “sex work,” and approve of some materials in public school libraries that are described as “pornographic” by “bigoted” parents. So, progressives shouldn’t mind (and evidently don’t) if their candidate is connected to such things, but Trump’s base might turn against him for it.

Although Bragg’s case is extremely

weak, attorney Alan Dershowitz predicts that Trump will be convicted unless there is a change of venue, because of the intense hostility to Trump in the jury pool. A New York City judge would not dismiss this case “because that New York City judge’s life would be over,” Dershowitz states, although he thinks that a conviction would be overturned on appeal.

Trump was not subjected to a 5:00 a.m. arrest in his pajamas in front of cameras by a heavily armed SWAT team. Nor did the media show him doing a perp walk in handcuffs. Nor will he be held in solitary confinement in a filthy jail for two years awaiting trial. Such honors are reserved for his supporters. What a great way to drive principled people out of politics and keep them from supporting a candidate who will strongly oppose the uniparty and the deep state!

Trump’s poll numbers got a big boost after the indictment. It might assure his nomination at the Republican Convention.

So why have Democrats, the media, and establishment Republicans not cried foul over this charade? Stockman writes that the deep state fears that Trump may have learned enough to actually threaten their rule should he pull a Grover Cleveland. “So there is literally nothing they will not do to keep him out of the White House.”

Perhaps the Left wants Trump to win the primary, keeping out a younger person without the baggage, especially from the

Directed by Award-Winning Filmmaker Freddy Rodriguez

all members of the community who wish to support our work.

To RSVP for the event call: (954) 921-3274. Or for more information, visit: www.artandculturecenter.org

COVID debacle. Other indictments may come down, lawfare and other attacks will continue, and electoral fraud has not been fixed, so Trump could well lose. Bragg’s actions might stem from pure hatred, without strategic considerations. In any event, the theatrics are drowning out concerns such as deteriorating foreign policy and the destruction of the dollar.

Whether you love Trump or hate him, the weaponization and politicization of the criminal justice system and the shredding of the Constitution affects you too.

Editor’s Note: Jane M. Orient, M.D. obtained her undergraduate degrees in chemistry and mathematics from the University of Arizona in Tucson, and her M.D. from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1974. She is the editor of AAPS News, the Doctors for Disaster Preparedness Newsletter, and Civil Defense Perspectives, and is the managing editor of the Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons. Dr. Orient’s Commentary are her views and she is open for discussion, she can be contacted at: https://www.drjaneorient.com

Set at the historic Miami Marine Stadium, the event features an impressive showcase of the finest marine vessels, along with live music, and family-friendly activities

So what’s the solution to this problem?

The best way is to keep your current car on the road longer and make it safer to continue to serve their needs for years to come. No matter what or where you drive, you can keep your current vehicle looking and performing its best - and even update it to make it safer - with these tips you can keep your current vehicle safe and reliable for years to come.

Safety

The best way to improve comfort and safety is with a new set of Tires. So if it’s time to trade your Tires in, take the time to learn what options are available for your vehicle. For those in fair weather states like Florida, summer performance tires offer the best possible Fuel Efficiency all year round. Families living in milder states and traveling in occasional snow may consider all-season tires that trade efficiency for safety on a variety of surfaces. Finally, if you’re a snow bird and only here part-time, when it comes to driving in a winter wonderland there is no substitute for Specialized Rubber and Tread Patterns - purchase a dedicated set of Snow Tires to ensure you’re safe all winter long. No matter your situation, a new set of tires can maximize safety and extend the life of your car.

Better For The Environment?

A study from 2021 revealed that if car owners keep their vehicles on the road 10 percent longer before sending them to the scrapyard, the overall Carbon Footprint of cars would decrease by 30.7 million tons. That’s the equivalent of a one-percent decrease in CO2 Emissions. Researchers say the reason for this is that manufacturing new vehicles actually produces more

A Message From The Mayor

Participation & Government Transparency

By Larisa Svechin, Mayor - www.sibfl.net

Past articles have chided residents for not being involved enough. So, what keeps people from participating? A question dogging many municipalities. It is important that good public participation practices are in place so that residents can help the City be more accountable and responsive. If previous attempts proved unsuccessful, we need to do better.

“Every opinion which embodies somewhat of the portion of truth which the common opinion omits, ought to be considered precious, with whatever amount of error and confusion that truth may be blended,” said John Stuart Mill.

Recently the City was challenged to review current policies so that we can engage citizens in a more significant way. Studies show that community involvement increases when the public is given basic and easily accessible methods of bringing

Greenhouse Gasses than continuing to drive existing cars — even if they use Gasoline, to see the study, visit: https:// www.kyushu-u.ac.jp/en/researches/view/ 218

New Look, New Ride

One way to breathe new life into your ride is to take it to the next level aesthetically. With people keeping their vehicles longer and enthusiastic communities growing around nearly every make and model of vehicle, it’s easy to find parts to make your vision a reality. One of the most eye-catching additions is a new set of wheels and there are thousands of brands, styles and sizes to choose from for every car. The addition of front, side wind deflectors can help keep you cool and give any ride that athletic look and protect your paint. Upgrading Stock Headlight and Taillight Units - many fitted with high-visibility LEDs - has never been easier. By changing your vehicle’s lighting to LEDs it can give you the same technology as an EV in your gas powered vehicle.

Upgrade Your Tech

Safety and creature comforts alike can add to your enjoyment of your vehicle, even if you’ve been driving it for several years. Many cars can be updated with the latest and greatest features available in new rides, including High-Tech Infotainment equipped with Digital Assistants, Front and Rear Cameras, Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Warning and even Collision Avoidance Systems. As families look to extend their cars’ lifespans, these technology upgrades can make driving comfortable and safer.

Performance & Comfort

While looks and tech can bring new experiences to your car, no change has quite the same impact as improving its performance. Options abound for those

looking to improve the power and handling of their ride, such as replacing the exhaust system, lowering springs, a full suspension replacement or just a new set of seat covers to give your vehicle a renewed comfort and appearance.

Find Purpose-Built Parts Whether you’re an amateur DIY-er looking to maintain and make small upgrades to your vehicle or an expert looking to make bigger modifications, finding parts and accessories that fit your vehicle is crucial. From hard-to-find Performance Modifications to made-to-fit cosmetic accessories, eBay Motors offers parts and accessories for nearly any vehicle, skillset and project. The App offers an entire catalog of inventory with 122 million live parts listings at any given time, giving auto enthusiasts the ability to purchase from an expansive inventory from the convenience of a Smartphone. What’s more, features like: Buy It Now, My Garage and Fitment Finder enable users to easily search parts and accessories, verify the

items fit their vehicle and make immediate purchases for what they need.

Infrastructure

The government’s push for EVs will require significant investment in infrastructure, and this cost will likely be passed on to consumers in the form of higher taxes and increased vehicle prices, so keeping and maintaining your current vehicle may be the best option for now.

Despite these uncertainties, the benefits of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation make the push towards EVs an essential step in the fight against climate change.

The keep your current car running well into the future you can find helpful resources at: www.ebaymotors.com or ask a family friend the name of a trustworthy local mechanic. Either of these choices can save you thousands in the long run and save the Environment at the same time.

enough? We have public forums, surveys and direct comments as available mechanisms for engaging residents in the master transit and master park’s studies. Have you participated?

As your mayor, it is my job to ensure the taxpayer’s money is spent wisely and carefully. Your participation efforts are

that input has not been taken seriously. I urge you to sign up for Email Blasts, read notices, talk to neighbors, attend one of our Town Halls or simply call me.

As the City begins planning the Budget for the next Fiscal Year, I am asking for your input—this input and subsequent participation will help improve the public’s

perception of governmental performance and the value the public receives from ernment is transparency. It is a core value of governmental Budgeting. Developing a Transparent Budget process advances the government’s credibility and trust in the community. Citizen involvement in the Budget process will increase public trust and the community’s perception of access.

Contact Mayor Larisa Svechin at: mayor@sibfl.net Or: (305) 792-1753.

Studies show that community involvement increases when the public is given basic and easily accessible methods of bringing attention to policy issues

Florida Toll Relief

A New Program Saved Commuters Over $41 Million In March Alone

The Toll Relief Program introduced by Governor DeSantis and enacted by the Florida Legislature launched on January 1st, 2023. Now in its third month, Florida commuters continue to see significant savings as a result of the program. In the month of March, account credits of $41.5 Million were posted to 1 million customer accounts.

You already know SunPass customers save money on tolls when compared to TOLL-BY-PLATE, but with the Toll Relief Program, customers can save even more on tolls!

No registration is required. SunPass customers just need to meet the eligibility requirements found at: https://www.sun pass.com/en/about/tollrelief.shtml

The year-long program automatically gives customers with at least 35 monthly

toll transactions a 50 percent credit to their account. Since the program’s inception in January, more than $112 Million in Toll Relief credits have been issued benefiting 1.2 million Floridians.

“With a savings of $112 Million received so far, Florida families are seeing real assistance from the Toll Relief program every month,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “The Department is thrilled to continue our support of this program and we thank Governor DeSantis for providing our customers with additional opportunities to meet today’s economic challenges.”

“As the state’s toll agency, Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise is proud to offer our loyal customers the opportunity to enjoy increased toll savings,” said Florida’s

Turnpike Enterprise Executive Director and CEO, Nicola Liquori. “In just the first three months, the Toll Relief Program has been extremely successful in helping to ease the financial burden on Florida’s families.”

The Toll Relief program builds on the successful SunPass Savings Program that concluded in December 2022 and resulted in 384,000 drivers saving over $18 Million. The legislation, originally proposed by Governor DeSantis in September 2022, was successfully passed during a Legislative Special Session in November. Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 6A on December 15th, establishing the Toll Relief program through the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

Rain Rain And More Rain: Part II

By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper

Obviously, Mother Nature has always had her way. There is little that can be done to stop hurricanes, tornadoes, forest fires and drought. The world is dealing with Climate Change which compounds the effects. I have been following reports for over 20 years. As a Trustee of the US Conference of Mayors we were given a climate briefing from NASA years ago. I, along with the Mayors across the country, did not allow partisan disputes to keep us from acting.

The Mayors united to start addressing climate issues well before our national counterparts. I began studying and working to implement this policy. There are ways we can all address the impacts through Engineering and Building Infrastructure. These range from simple steps to extensive Infrastructure programs. I also lobbied Congress and the county for funding.

As we witnessed last week, water does not discriminate. It finds the lowest point and then spreads from there. Infrastructure to address flooding ranges from natural environments to huge engineering projects. Each has pluses and minuses.

In a news interview last week, I shared that it is incumbent as elected officials to educate the public on what we can do and the financial implications of these large-scale projects. Without knowledge there cannot be realistic expectations of our constituents. Our stakeholders also need to understand the cost burden.

Drainage systems are composed of various types of treatments. During the storm, our Public Works Director, Jeff Odoms shared a section of the national standards handbook. This manual is one of the tools engineers use while designing systems. There is no one size fits all application or 100 percent results.

Exfiltration trenches are what many think of as a French Drain, but French Drains have pipes. They are areas in

(R)

(L)

A recent addition to the fight against flooding is the pump built at SW

which gravel is placed under the soil that tem. Many are on private property. They are designed to provide the capacity for the required treatment average volume of Stormwater within 72 hours.

example of this is along Northeast 10th and Northeast 2nd Streets. Some of those homes are one foot above Sea Level.

The Northeast Quadrant Drainage Area is like a large pool. During rain events the system of gravity pipes fill and it triggers the pumps. The pumps then inject the water underground. The current system has the capacity to pump large amounts of water. Just like in ships, the pumps can manage a certain amount of water per minute but if the breach is too large, the pumps cannot keep up and the ship fills.

well as many others. These systems will cost millions of dollars. The way to pay for them is through bonds that require Fee Increases to our taxpayers. We also look to our State and National Leaders to help with Grants and Earmarks. We can also put on our Referendum, a Government Obligation Bond where the costs are placed on Annual Tax Bills.

Swales are another type of application. The front of homes are to be designed with a dip. The dip creates an area to pool water. Also, citywide swale Stormwater management is designed for storage volume recovery within the permitted time, less than 72 hours. Failure to percolate the required treatment volumes indicates reduction of the infiltration rate and a need to restore system permeability.

Sea Level Rise is negatively impacting these two types of systems. They also are impacted by the levels of rainfall. In general, if water sits for more than 72 hours there is a real problem. We target for 24 hours and then look for solutions.

With Sea Level Rise and our tidal system, the next level and what we will be seeing more of are Underground Storage Retention systems like the ones in the Northeast and Southwest Quadrants. Sea Level Rise has virtually eliminated the ability to apply other methods. The perfect

Hollywood

This is where the government comes in. We need to expand the system. When the Northeast Quadrant Drainage Area was built, there was simply not enough funding to cover the whole Quadrant from Federal Highway to 14th Avenue. We needed to focus on the hot spot first. There needs to be an expansion or creation of a separate system. We also need to look at Atlantic Shores Boulevard to Moffett Street.

Moffett Street borders Hollywood. They approached us about a partnership. Their drainage storm pumps sit right at Moffett Street. I am not sure of how old their Infrastructure is but a while back they added a standing pump adjacent to the existing system. I also doubt the system has injection wells as these were just recently being required by the county due to Pollution and Sea Level Rise.

There is plenty of work to be done by our Commission. We continue to work together to address these concerns as

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speaker will discuss the upcoming Atlantic Hurricane Season, including the forecast, City operations and important safety information. The guest speaker will be Erik Salna, Associate Director for Education and Outreach at the International Hurricane Research Center at Florida International University.

Currently we have estimated well over two hundred million plus in Water, Sewer and Stormwater needs. Our current projects are replacing fifteen sanitary sewer pumps and underground pipes in the Northeast and Southeast Quadrants. We have increased our rates to ensure we can bond for these improvements. We have also been fortunate to have received State Funding and Federal Dollars’ to help offset the costs. Going back to the internet conversation, one complaint was about Taxes. So, there is a disconnect on why we increase Fees and Taxes. They are used for these Projects and many other Operational Needs. I would like to explain that we are Taxpayers too. We must do our jobs and if it means raising Fees and Taxes, we do it by providing and ensuring the oversight of every dollar.

As always, I am available for your questions, concerns and ideas to help make our City a better place. Please feel free to reach out to me at my office at: (954) 457-1318. On my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or email at: jcooper@cohb.org.

average of 1.2 million drivers with savings of nearly $480 over the course of the year. The Toll Relief Program is administered by Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise and includes SunPass as well as other Florida-based tolling agency partners throughout the state. Customers are encouraged to ensure their transponder is properly mounted in the vehicle and their account is in good standing to participate in the program. A map of included toll facilities in the Toll Relief Program can be found at: https://floridasturnpike.com/tollrelief/ SunPass is the prepaid electronic toll collection program operated by Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise, the toll agency for the state. To learn more about SunPass, please visit: www.SunPass.com - Or call: 1 (888) TOLL-FLA 1 (888) 865-5352. The second meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Hollywood Beach Culture and Community Center, 1301 South Ocean Drive, Hollywood, Florida 33019. All are encouraged to attend. Additional public meetings

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In other words, in a typical rain event the water should be gone within 72 hours. In exfiltration systems, Stormwater is drawn down by natural soil infiltration and dissipation into the ground water table as opposed to underdrain systems which rely on artificial methods such as drainage pipes.

remembering all of the “events,” manufactured or otherwise, which occur like clockwork in order to keep us distracted, deluded, amused and insulated from reality.

All the while, the government continues to amass more power and authority over the citizenry.

When we’re being bombarded with wall-to-wall news coverage and news cycles that change every few days, it’s difficult to stay focused on one thing— namely, holding the government accountable to abiding by the rule of law—and the powers-that-be understand this.

Yet as John Lennon reminds us, “nothing is real,” especially not in the world of politics.

In other words, it’s all fake, i.e., manufactured, i.e., manipulated to distort reality.

Much like the fabricated universe in Peter Weir’s 1998 Film The Truman Show, in which a man’s life is the basis for an elaborately staged television show aimed at selling products and procuring ratings, the political scene in the United States has devolved over the years into a carefully calibrated exercise in how to manipulate, polarize, propagandize and control a population.

This is the magic of the reality TV programming that passes for politics today.

As long as we are distracted, entertained, occasionally outraged, always polarized but largely uninvolved and content to remain in the viewer’s seat, we’ll never manage to present a unified front against tyranny (or government corruption and ineptitude) in any form.

The more that is beamed at us, the more inclined we are to settle back in our comfy recliners and become passive viewers rather than active participants as unsettling, frightening events unfold.

Reality and fiction merge as everything around us becomes entertainment fodder.

We don’t even have to change the channel when the subject matter becomes too monotonous. That’s taken care of for us by the programmers (the corporate media).

“Living is easy with eyes closed,” says Lennon and that’s exactly what reality TV that masquerades as American politics programs the citizenry to do: navigate the world with their eyes shut.

As long as we’re viewers, we’ll never be doers.

Studies suggest that the more reality TV people watch—and I would posit that

it’s all reality TV, entertainment news included—the more difficult it becomes to distinguish between what is real and what is carefully crafted farce.

“We the people” are watching a lot of TV. On average, Americans spend five hours a day watching television. By the time we reach age 65, we’re watching more than 50 hours of television a week and that number increases as we get older and reality TV programming consistently captures the largest percentage of TV watchers every season by an almost 21 ratio.

This doesn’t bode well for a citizenry able to sift through masterfully-produced propaganda in order to think critically about the issues of the day, whether it’s fake news peddled by government agencies or foreign entities.

This holds true whether reality programming is about the antics of celebrities in the White House, in the boardroom or in the bedroom.

The ramifications for the future of civic engagement, political discourse and selfgovernment are incredibly depressing and demoralizing.

Ultimately, the reality shows, the entertainment news, the surveillance society, the militarized police and the political spectacles have one common objective: to keep us divided, distracted, imprisoned and incapable of taking an active role in

the business of self-government.

Look behind the political spectacles, the reality TV theatrics, the sleight-of-hand distractions and diversions and the stomach-churning, nail-biting drama and you will find there is a method to the madness.

How do you change the way people think? You start by changing the words they use.

In totalitarian regimes—a.k.a. police states—where conformity and compliance are enforced at the end of a loaded gun, the government dictates what words can and cannot be used.

In countries where the police state hides behind a benevolent mask and disguises itself as tolerance, the citizens censor themselves, policing their words and thoughts to conform to the dictates of the mass mind.

Even when the motives behind this rigidly calibrated reorientation of societal language appear well-intentioned—discouraging Racism, condemning violence, denouncing discrimination and hatred— inevitably, the end result is the same: intolerance, indoctrination, infantilism, the chilling of Free Speech and the demonizing of viewpoints that run counter to the cultural elite.

Labeling something as “fake news” is a masterful way of dismissing truth that may run counter to the ruling power’s own narrative.

As George Orwell recognized, “In times of universal deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act.”

A populace that cannot think for themselves is a populace with its backs to the walls: mute in the face of elected officials who refuse to represent us, helpless in the face of police brutality, powerless in the face of militarized tactics and technology that treat us like enemy combatants on a battlefield and naked in the face of government surveillance that sees and hears all.

As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, it’s time to change the channel, tune out the reality TV show and push back against the real menace of the police state. If not, if we continue to sit back and lose ourselves in political programming, we will remain a captive audience to a farce that grows more absurd by the minute.

Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an Attorney and Author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of Constitutional Law, Human Rights and Popular Culture. John Whitehead’s Commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org. Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org

As John Lennon reminds us, “nothing is real,” especially not in the world of politics.

Titan Restoration Inc. Is A Company That Cares

By Erika Cartwright

The only thing in life that is certain, is that anything can happen at any time. Such tragedies as; fire, hurricanes, and floods are real and do happen, bringing with them water damage and the potential for harmful mold and bacterial growth. Water damage can occur for several reasons, some you may not notice right away, such as sewer issues, a leaking roof, and clogged or leaking pipes, just to name a few.

During these times you need licensed professionals with a plan of action that can ease the stress and take the headache of dealing with the insurance company off your hands. Allowing you to focus on what is important to you in your time of need.

Titan Restoration Inc., formerly known as 1st Priority, is a trusted, licensed Cleaning, Water Damage Restoration, and Mold Remediation Company proudly serving all of southern Florida. The main office is in Broward County. Technicians are throughout; Collier, Lee, Martin, MiamiDade, Monroe, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie Counties, allowing them to arrive at the site within 45 minutes in times of emergency. With emergency calling 24/7, you are never more than a phone call away from friendly, efficient, caring, knowledgeable professionals.

Whether the water damage in your home or business was caused by a leaking pipe, roof, or major flood, Titan Restoration Inc. is here to help. To schedule non-emergency services or to request a free estimate please visit: www. Titanrestorationfl.com their user-friendly

To assess the situation Titan Restoration Inc. offers state-of-the-art leak detection, using infra-red cameras. This allows for non-invasive, non-messy leak detection. No need to tear up dry wall or floors just to find the source of the leak.

remodels, as well as a wide variety of other services. Throughout this process, Titan Restoration Inc. will be working with your insurance company every step of the way. You should never attempt to remove mold without a licensed professional, it is unsafe, and hazardous to your health.

experts at Titan Restoration Inc. to have you breathing easier, in a mold-free environment.

Once the mold has been identified, the mold remediation process begins. Titan Restoration Inc. will dry out the affected area using fans and dehumidifiers. Followed by thoroughly cleansing and

get your life back. With services such as emergency packing and storing of salvageable belongings, following fire or flood, and standing water removal also available, they handle it all for you from AZ. The cost is most often fully covered by your homeowner’s insurance, leaving you with no worries about chasing down reimbursements from the insurance company.

Face it, you have enough worries, this doesn’t need to be one of them. Titan

Once the leaks have been found, you will be referred to a trusted, licensed plumber. After the repairs’, State-of-the-art specialized equipment is used to detect moisture levels in the air, dehumidifiers are placed in the affected area, and a Florida-

Mold thrives in dark, damp environments such as under the kitchen or bathroom sinks, in unventilated basements, and closed in laundry rooms. It can even be found behind drywall. Because of the heat and humidity which Florida is known for, it

sanitizing the affected areas using antimicrobial agents effective for moldeliminating and prevention. HEPA air purifiers are used to capture any airborne mold spores, leaving you with clean air. Green cleaners are used for mildew removal. Since mold spores are airborne and invisible to the naked eye it is necessary to deep clean the air ducts, carpets, furnishings, and upholstery. Homeowners’ insurance covers the cost in most cases following water damage. These services are offered year-round, and it is recommended to have these done once a year to remove allergens, bacteria, dirt, and grime buildup that occurs naturally over time. These services are recommended more frequently if you have pets, suffer from allergies, or are a smoker, to ensure peace of mind and healthier living.

After the repairs are completed and your home or business is restored to its pre-loss condition, a Florida statelicensed Mold Inspector will be sent out to do a final inspection, to ensure all mold concerns were effectively eliminated. Titan Restoration Inc. takes pride in providing the best service experience to its customers from start to finish. Their goal is to have your property back to its pre-loss condition while taking the stress off you.

they are dealing with. Some molds are more toxic than others such as black mold, knowing the type, allows for proper precautions to be taken to ensure effective treatment and removal of the mold. Depending on the severity of the damages, drywall and flooring may need to be replaced to effectively rid your home or business of mold. Titan Restoration Inc. is a full remodeling and restoration company, specializing in kitchen and bath

This causes more damage to your home and health over time. People and pets all respond differently to mold and mildew. For some, it may be watery eyes, itchy throat, cough, or skin irritation. Confusion, disorientation, and even hallucinations can also be signs of mold exposure. For others, exposure to mold can cause very serious, even life-threatening health problems. When it comes to your health and the safety of your loved ones, trust the

Titan Restoration Inc. is a customer-friendly company that also specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodeling from drywall and baseboards to cabinetry and flooring. It is not necessary to have damage to your home, to call on Titan Restoration Inc. for all your remodeling needs.

For a free estimate call 954-280-6950, now offering 10% off a $350 service for out-of-pocket customers.

Titan Restoration Inc. is a trusted, licensed Cleaning, Water Damage Restoration, and Mold Remediation Company proudly serving all of South Florida

Titan Restoration Inc. is a customer-friendly company that also specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodeling.

Speak Your Truth Don’t Let The Government Criminalize Free Speech

By John & Nisha Whitehead

What the police state wants is a silent, compliant, oblivious citizenry.

What the First Amendment affirms is an engaged citizenry that speaks truth to power using whatever peaceful means are available to us.

Speaking one’s truth doesn’t have to be the same for each person and that truth doesn’t have to be palatable or pleasant or even factual.

We can be loud.

We can be obnoxious.

We can be politically incorrect.

We can be conspiratorial or mean or offensive. We can be all these things because the First Amendment takes a broad, classically liberal approach to the Free Speech Rights of the citizenry: in a nutshell, the government may not encroach or limit the citizenry’s right to Freedom Of Religion, Speech, Press, Assembly and Protest. This is why the First Amendment is so critical.

It gives the citizenry the right to Speak Freely, Protest Peacefully, expose government wrongdoing and criticize the government without fear of retaliation, arrest or incarceration.

Nowhere in the First Amendment does it permit the government to limit speech in order to avoid causing offense, hurting someone’s feelings, safeguarding government secrets, protecting government officials, discouraging bullying, penalizing hateful ideas and actions, eliminating terrorism, combating prejudice and intolerance and the like.

When expressive activity crosses the line into violence, Free Speech protections end.

However, barring actual violence or true threats of violence, there is a vast difference between speech that is socially unpopular and speech that is illegal and it’s an important distinction that depends on our commitment to safeguarding a robust First Amendment.

Increasingly, however, the courts and

the government are doing away with that critical distinction, adopting the mindset that speech is only permissible if it does not offend, irritate, annoy, threaten someone’s peace of mind or challenge the government’s stranglehold on power.

Take the Case of Counterman v. Colorado which is before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Under the pretext of clamping down on online stalking, Colorado wants the power to be able to treat expressive activities on social media as threats without having to prove that the messages are both reasonably understood as threatening an illegal act and intended by the speaker as a threat.

While protecting people from stalking is certainly a valid concern and may be warranted in this particular case, the law does not require speech to be a “true threat” in order to be criminally punished. The Supreme Court has defined a “true threat” as “statements where the speaker means to communicate a serious expression of an intent to commit an act of unlawful violence to a particular individual or group of individuals.”

Indeed, Colorado’s stalking law is so broad that a person can be charged with stalking for repeatedly contacting, surveilling or communicating with an individual in such a way that a reasonable person would feel serious emotional distress.

In the absence of any substantive guidelines on what constitutes a true threat on social media, such laws could empower the government to misinterpret any speaker’s intent and meaning in order to criminalize legitimate political speech that is critical of government officials and representatives.

Case in point: In Oklahoma, a street preacher who expressed his moral outrage over public drag queen performances that occur in front of children and churches that endorse same-sex marriage was given a five-year restraining order and threatened with arrest after citing Bible

verses on social media about God’s judgment of sin.

The Rutherford Institute has taken on the case, warning that the ramifications of it going unchallenged could render anyone who quotes the Bible a criminal if it makes a listener feel unsafe or threatened or judged.

This is what it means to criminalize Free Speech: it turns those who exercise their Free Speech Rights into criminals.

Over the past decade, Corporate America has taken the lead in policing expressive activity online, with social media giants such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube using their formidable dominance in the field to censor, penalize and regulate speech and behavior online by suspending and/or banning users whose content violated the companies’ so-called community standards for obscenity, violence, hate speech, discrimination, conspiracy theories, etc.

The fallout is as one would expect.

The internet has become a forum for the government—and its corporate partners—to monitor, control and punish the populace for speech that may be controversial but is far from criminal.

Everything is now fair game for censorship if it can be construed as hateful, hurtful, bigoted or offensive provided that it runs counter to the established viewpoint.

In this way, the most controversial issues of our day—race, religion, sex, sexuality, politics, science, health, government corruption, police brutality, etc.— have become battlegrounds for those who claim to believe in Freedom of Religion, Speech, Assembly, Press, Redress, Privacy, Bodily Integrity, etc. but only when it favors the views and positions they support.

In more and more cases, the government is declaring war on what should be protected political speech whenever it challenges the government’s power, reveals the government’s corruption,

exposes the government’s lies and encourages the citizenry to push back against the government’s many injustices.

Indeed, there is a long and growing list of the kinds of speech that the government considers dangerous enough to red flag and subject to censorship, surveillance, investigation and prosecution: hate speech, conspiratorial speech, treasonous speech, threatening speech, inflammatory speech, radical speech, anti-government speech, extremist speech, etc.

In recent years, the government has used the phrase “domestic terrorist” interchangeably with “anti-government,” “extremist” and “terrorist” to describe anyone who might fall somewhere on a very broad spectrum of viewpoints that could be considered “dangerous.”

As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, the ramifications are so farreaching as to render almost every American an extremist in word, deed, thought or by association.

You see, the government doesn’t care if you or someone you know has a legitimate grievance. It doesn’t care if your criticisms are well-founded. And it certainly doesn’t care if you have a First Amendment Right to speak truth to power.

It just wants you to shut up.

Yet no matter what one’s political persuasion might be, the right to disagree with and speak out against the government is the quintessential freedom. When exercised regularly and defended vigorously, these First Amendment Rights serve as a bulwark against tyranny.

Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an Attorney and Author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of Constitutional Law, Human Rights and Popular Culture. John Whitehead’s Commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org. Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org

“Nowhere in the First Amendment does it permit the government to limit speech”

Your jawbones needs support of tooth roots to remain healthy, stimulated and strong. Without it, you can have changes in bone height and widthmaking original dentures fit poorly.

Continuing to wear poor fitting dentures worsens the fit and results in permeant jawbone deterioration.

Implant-Retained Overdentures can slow this bone loss, eliminate the need for adhesives and keep your teeth