Category Archives: Ron Paul

Tom Bateman has revealed the claustrophobia he suffered while filming Ron Howards film Thirteen Lives telling the story of the real-life rescue of 12 Thai boys and their coach from deep inside the Tham Luang caves.

Bateman told the BBC how he had to use meditation to cope with the conditions, and even got stuck underwater himself at one point during filming.

The British actor plays Chris Jewell, a British computer software consultant and expert cave diver who joined the rescue mission in northern Thailand in June 2018, after the boys went into the caves after football practice and got trapped by flood water. Their plight was monitored tirelessly around the world until, after 18 days, they were brought out by an international team, supported by thousands of volunteers at the site.

Of the filming process on set in Queensland, Australia, directed by double Oscar winner Ron Howard, Bateman told the BBC: Every single day was a challenge for me. I didnt quite realise how it made you feel I suffer greatly from claustrophobia and I did meditate a lot.

On one occasion, Bateman got stuck underwater for about seven minutes while guiding a stunt double through a narrow passage, when he got wedged between rocks.

I can remember feeling really hot and thinking, Im underwater, but Im sweating. I could just see my heart rate going up and up and up [on a pulse monitor].

But the beautiful gift of it was overcoming that its all in your head. It was a really safe environment, so getting over that hurdle of I can do this is a small victory each time you do it.

Besides Bateman, Viggo Mortensen, Colin Farrell, Joel Edgerton and Paul Gleeson star as the divers who guided the boys through the narrow passages, and the actors had to replicate the conditions endured by the real-life divers.

The cast definitely all felt fear at various times, Ron Howard told the BBC.

Thirteen Lives is released in cinemas on Friday July 29 and launches on Amazon Prime Video on Friday August 5.

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Thirteen Lives Actor Tom Bateman Reveals Claustrophobia Filming Ron Howards Drama Of Thai Caves Rescue - Deadline

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To state the obvious, we are living through difficult times. Not only does COVID-19 remain a major threat to our health, but now our pocketbooks increasingly are under attack.

Recently, F&G a provider of retail annuity and life insurance products surveyed nearly 1,300 Americans age 50 and older and asked them to identify what keeps them up at night when they think about retirement. Those surveyed all own financial products valued at $10,000 or more.

Respondents named three issues related to their financial health that have them on edge. Following are the trio of things making older Americans nervous.

Respondents age 50 and older who cite this worry: 80%

Recent surveys consistently have shown that inflation is the biggest worry on the minds of all Americans, even displacing fears about COVID-19.

Inflation is big trouble regardless of your age. But it may be even scarier for those in retirement, who see their purchasing power ebb month by month while also knowing they dont have a steady paycheck coming in to help.

If rising prices have you on edge, read about the 5 Ways Retirees Can Lower Their Inflation Risk.

Respondents age 50 and older who cite this worry: 71%

With inflation raging like a wildfire, the Federal Reserve has been trying to throw a little cold water on the economy by raising the federal funds rate.

The goal is to cool the economy without freezing it. But policymakers have a history of getting this sort of thing wrong. Some experts fear the Fed might go too far, sending the economy into recession. Survey respondents appear to share that anxiety.

If you too are worried about a recession, prepare yourself with the tips in 5 Things You Must Do Before the Next Recession.

Respondents age 50 and older who cite this worry: 66%

Long before inflation and a recession were major worries, older Americans fretted about rising health care costs. They still do, with two-thirds citing this concern.

Some may expect Medicare coverage to ride to the rescue and tame their health care costs. But thats probably asking too much. For all its virtues, the nations retirement health program is far from comprehensive, as we note in Medicare Will Not Cover These 6 Medical Costs.

Older Americans have had to endure plenty of rough patches during their lives. They know that the right response to hard times is not to complain but to take action.

The survey respondents said they are planning to take several actions to stay afloat during the current turmoil.

For example, 62% plan to change how they budget due to inflation. And among pre-retirees, 55% now plan to work part-time in retirement to cover day-to-day expenses.

Youll learn about more proactive steps you can take in Heres How to Budget in Retirement So You Dont Run Out of Money.

Disclosure: The information you read here is always objective. However, we sometimes receive compensation when you click links within our stories.

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80% of Older Americans Are Worried About This - Money Talks News

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When home sweet home starts to turn sour, its time to pull up stakes and look for more promising places.

During the second quarter of this year, a large number of residents in some of the nations biggest cities threw in the towel and decided to leave, Redfin reports.

Its likely that high housing costs were a factor for a large number of these departing citizens. According to Redfin:

The housing market has slowed following a pandemic-driven buying frenzy, with home sales falling and supply starting to rise due to rising mortgage rates, high home prices, inflation and a faltering economy. But the people who can still afford to buy continue to relocate at unprecedented levels, largely because surging housing costs are putting expensive metros further out of reach.

Following are the big cities that Redfin users are abandoning in droves and where they are headed.

Metros net outflow of residents in the:

Housing costs are through the roof in the Golden Gate City, as they have been for many years. So, its no wonder that people are leaving, even if San Francisco is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the U.S.

Redfin says that among those leaving the Bay Area, Sacramento is the top destination.

Metros net outflow of residents in the:

An exodus from the City of Angels that began last year has accelerated in 2022. Departing residents gravitate toward San Diego most commonly.

In fact, California as a state has lost some of its luster. Population growth has stalled since 2017, leading to the loss of a U.S. congressional seat the first time that has happened in the states 170-year history.

Metros net outflow of residents in the:

New Yorkers fleeing NYC are not staying in the Empire State. Overwhelmingly, they are headed to Philadelphia, Redfin says.

But there may be a glimmer of hope for the Big Apple: Unlike in San Francisco and Los Angeles, the exodus from New York City appears to have slowed significantly.

Here are the other top-10 cities for net outflow of residents during the second quarter, and the destinations they most commonly moved to:

Disclosure: The information you read here is always objective. However, we sometimes receive compensation when you click links within our stories.

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People Are Abandoning These 10 Big Cities: Here's Where They're Moving - Money Talks News

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Have you ever wondered what the normal Social Security amount might be?

How much you made in your 35 highest-earning years, the age at which you retire and your spouses work history are major factors in calculating your retirement benefit, as we explain in 7 Social Security Rules Everyone Should Know by Now.

Your benefit amount, of course, is a very personalized number. But the Social Security Administration publishes data on average benefits for different groups. Following is a look at Social Security benefits as of June 2022.

Average monthly benefit: $1,669

The broadest category, representing 73% of all beneficiaries, is of course people retired from work. There are about 48 million of them currently.

Average monthly benefit: $835

These folks are receiving spousal benefits, which provide up to half of a husband or wifes monthly benefit amount regardless of how much theyve worked themselves. About 2 million people currently fall into this category.

Spouses can take whichever benefit is higher between their own or the spousal benefit amount but not both starting as early as age 62. Even divorced individuals, if they meet certain criteria, can receive this benefit.

Average monthly benefit: $1,562

Its also possible to receive benefits from a spouse who has died. This is known as a survivor benefit, and there are currently more than 3.5 million beneficiaries who fall into the nondisabled widow or widower category.

Unlike the spousal benefit, survivor benefits can be as much as 100% of a late spouses benefit. Again, divorced spouses may be eligible. These benefits can generally start as early as age 60.

Younger disabled surviving spouses and widowed mothers and fathers may also be eligible for monthly benefits. These individuals receive average monthly amounts of $819 and $1,129, respectively.

Average monthly benefit: $1,362

Currently, about 7.8 million workers receive disability benefits. To be eligible, one must have earned a certain number of Social Security credits based on their age. Up to four credits are awarded each year to workers who have sufficient earnings. People must also be deemed unable to continue employment because of a long-lasting or permanent medical condition.

Spouses and children of disabled workers may also be eligible for benefits.

Disclosure: The information you read here is always objective. However, we sometimes receive compensation when you click links within our stories.

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Here's the Average Social Security Benefit - Money Talks News

Good Sunday morning, and welcome back to Brunch, a pop-up newsletter about the 2022 campaign cycle in Florida. Brunch will be delivered each Sunday before the General Election.

As many of you know, I have embarked on a journey to better health. A lot of what I am doing is making reasonable changes to what I eat and drink.

My favorite cocktail is the Bloody Mary, followed closely by the Dirty Martini. Ive pretty much given up the Dirty Martini, but I still enjoy a Bloody Mary. Except Im just not into vodka the way I once was. But I still love a spicy Bloody Mary at Brunch or when Im out on a boat. What to do?

Well, try a Sake Bloody Mary. Sub in a couple of ounces of premium Sake for the vodka. Maybe substitute good soy sauce for the Worcestershire. And definitely use a couple of pops of Sriracha to spice it up. Heres a simple recipe if you are interested.

As you enjoy that Sake Bloody Mary, be sure to check out Joe Hendersons choices for Winner and Loser of the Week in Florida politics.

Another must-read, which is sure to make your blood boil, is from The Daily Beast about How the Feds tracked down the Trump fanatic accused of bombarding Parkland dad with depraved threats.

Also, a reminder, Monday is the last day to register to vote or change party affiliations before the Aug. 23 Primaries. I actually have to switch parties from Republican to Democrat so I can vote in the Gubernatorial Primary.

GOP Leaders meet for Sunshine Summit

Florida GOP leaders gathered at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino this weekend for the Republican Party of Floridas Sunshine Summit.

Florida Senate President-designate Kathleen Passidomo and House Speaker-designate Paul Renner greeted attendees at the start of the events with a talk on the future of Florida politics.

The 2023 Session will need to address attainable housing for workers, Passidomo said. Renner talked about the effort to expand school choice. Both leaders mentioned the Hometown Heroes program a $100 million program set up this year to help with down payments and other housing costs for teachers, health care workers and police officers.

Looking forward: The talk, moderated by Dave Rubin, touched on the future of the state itself, as well as some priorities of their legislative leaders like school choice and parental control in education. The pair want to move Florida toward greater freedom and opportunity, Renner tweeted.

Red wave Ron

Its the thrill of the fight: Prefacing his appearance by blaring Eye of the Tiger, Floridas Republican Governor delivered the conventions opening remarks. In his speech, Gov. Ron DeSantis predicted a red wave in the upcoming midterms and emphasized the importance of the increasingly politicized school board races.

Map, map: DeSantis also boasted about his congressional map, saying it will likely increase the number of Republicans in Floridas Congressional Delegation.

No cameras, please: In case it wasnt obvious by the sparse media presence at the convention, DeSantis took time in his opening to slam legacy media, which he said wont be part of the GOP Primary or debates.

Didnt you hear him? NO CAMERAS

While the event has traditionally been open to the media, this years convention was invite-only and invites were few.

Let me check the list: POLITICOs Matt Dixon obtained a list of the events credentialed news agencies. Who could be there? Mostly conservative media, with approved agencies including Daily Wire, Floridas Voice, and Breitbart.

Mainstream: A select few mainstream publications, such as the South Florida Sun-Sentinel and The News Service of Florida were granted access, but most Florida newspapers and media werent credentialed.

You cant sit with us. DeSantis representative Christina Pushaw boasted about the exclusionary event, tweeting It has come to my attention that some liberal media activists are mad because they arent allowed into #SunshineSummit this weekend My message to them is to try crying about it.

Turning point

With Turning Point USA hosting its Student Action Summit in Tampa this weekend, it looks like the kids had something to say about the critical Florida elections.

Holy Toledo: State Rep. Jackie Toledo earned the endorsement of Turning Point Action, TPUSAs campaign arm. That could be a significant lift in Floridas 15th Congressional District, where shes one of five Republicans seeking an open seat.

Joining the company: She joins the ranks of other TP faves like Anna Paulina Luna in Floridas 13th, Anthony Sabatini in the 7th and Rod Dorilas in Floridas 22nd. The group also supports incumbent Reps. Matt Gaetz, Kath Cammack and Byron Donalds.

Ron-mania: Less surprising, but the group also took the occasion of rallying in Florida to back DeSantis as he seeks a second term.

Neo-Nazis gathered outside the event to protest and distribute flyers, one of which said, every single aspect of abortion is Jewish. This elected a quick response from gubernatorial candidate Nikki Fried the first Jewish woman elected to the Florida Cabinet. She tweeted: Let my (sic) be clear: when Im Governor, you will not be welcome here. You will not terrorize us. And we will never back down from condemning hate and White supremacy.

Out of left field

Fried is demanding an apology from her Democratic Primary opponent, U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist, for bigoted comments he made about immigrants during their Thursday gubernatorial debate.

Farmers only? Crist said during the debate that he supports comprehensive immigration reform. Pressed on what hed do if elected Governor again, he said, Florida would be a place where people could continue to come and work in agriculture.

Disclpate Ahora! Frieds political director, Cramer Verde, quickly seized on Crists gaffe and said he should apologize, pointing out that many immigrants are teachers, nurses, doctors and lawyers who are as much a part of Florida as citizens born here. Verde, a former Chair of immigration for the League of United Latin American Citizens, added: We know the way to victory in November is with the support of our Hispanic communities, (and culturally) disconnected comments like this do not help.

Red shift: Florida is home to some 775,000 undocumented immigrants, the majority of them from South America, but support for Democrats among Latino voters appears to be softening. A recent Axios-Ipsos Latino Poll found DeSantis favorability among Latinos improved by 7 percentage points between December 2021 and 2022, from 39% to 46%.

Fenced in: Whether Crists comments and Frieds response to them affects the Aug. 23 Primary Election remains to be seen. Polling and campaign finance reporting shows Crist maintaining a solid lead over the Agriculture Commissioner in voter support and funding.

Crist adding support

On top of that, Crist picked up a new round of endorsements following the debate, with Sen. Jason Pizzo, Rep. Kevin Chambliss and Brevard School Board member Jennifer Jenkins all throwing their support behind Crist.

Pizzos praise: Charlie is the unifier Florida needs right now to right the wrongs of Gov. DeSantis and put our state back on track, Pizzo said. Florida families are suffering from a lack of affordable housing, a failed insurance market, and disregard for the neighborhoods ripped apart from gun violence. Ive been on the front lines during the pandemic, and thousands of my constituents were stranded waiting for unemployment and housing assistance its time we had a governor who actually cares, and thats why Im proud to endorse Charlie to be Floridas next Governor.

Genuinely cares: I could not be more thrilled to endorse Charlie Crist to be Floridas next Governor, Chambliss said. Florida is facing an affordability crisis with skyrocketing costs of living as well as a gun violence epidemic, but Gov. DeSantis continues to do next to nothing. Its unacceptable. Charlie genuinely cares for Floridians and will always work to alleviate their burdens, not ignore them.

Classroom advocate: There is no greater unifier than our childrens future, Jenkins added. Charlie Crist understands the value of Floridas public education system, and he believes our schools perform when parents, educators, and students work together. By preserving instructional autonomy, providing competitive compensation, and significantly increasing funding for special programs, Charlie Crist will ensure all of our children have a classroom with a qualified teacher, equipped with resources, at the forefront.

Humbled and grateful: I am humbled and grateful to earn the support of these incredible public servants who are working every day to build a Florida we are all proud to call home, Crist said. Florida deserves a governor who will work for the people, not for themselves. A Governor who will always have your back and will fight for you every single day. Lets go win this thing and flip Florida blue.

Fried going on TV

Fried is hitting the airwaves with less than a month until the Election.

The buy: It measures at $624,220 and includes broadcast networks in most Florida media markets, although Orlando and Miami account for about two-thirds of the overall spend.

First ad: Its her first flight of the campaign cycle, and it was booked about a week after her chief opponent in the Democratic nominating contest, U.S. Rep. Crist, became the first Governor candidate to put ads on broadcast.

To watch Frieds post-debate clip: click on the image below:

Wait for it: The ad wont land for a while. According to AdImpact, the media reservation was made for the week of Aug. 15, so Crist will hold on to air dominance for a bit longer.

Frieds ad campaign will be a crucial part of her close. She has consistently trailed Crist in fundraising and most polls and the gap hasnt narrowed since the Primary season entered full swing.

Lawson stumps in Tally

U.S. Rep. Al Lawson headlined an event for Democrats in North Florida.

Blue breakfast: Lawson was one of the dozens of North Florida candidates to drum up support during Saturdays Flip Florida Blue breakfast at Bradleys Pond in Tallahassee. The Democratic Club of North Florida event also featured many candidates for local and statewide offices.

Roasting Ron: Several speakers took aim at DeSantis, including Lawson. Ive served two years with Ron DeSantis, Lawson told the crowd. And all he did for two years was sit in a corner and play with his cellphone. Surrogates for Democratic gubernatorial candidates Crist and Fried referred to the Governor as (Donald) Trump with a brain and Trumpy Jr.

Replacing Ramon: Two Democrats running for outgoing Rep. Ramon Alexanders House District 8 addressed the small crowd. HD 8 hopeful Gallop Franklin said, Its time for us to have a war on poverty. Another candidate, former legislative aide Marie Rattigan pleaded, The time is now for us to no longer be complacent.

Down on Doak: Several local candidates criticized the $27 million economic development grant to upgrade Florida State Universitys Doak Campbell Stadium. Tallahassee mayoral candidate and current Leon County Commissioner Kristin Dozier was applauded when she brought up her opposition to the deal as Mayor John Dailey looked on. That was not what we intended to use the money for, she said. They could have paid for it themselves.

AFPI to host top Florida Republicans

Several Florida GOP officials will speak at the America First Policy Institutes two-day America First Agenda Summit, which kicks off this Monday in Washington D.C. Theyre set to talk gas prices, inflation, parental rights, fighting crime and securing the border.

Monday lineup: Sen. Rick Scott, U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds and former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi will be among the Day One speakers, starting at 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday roster: U.S. Rep. Kat Cammack will speak on Day Two, which starts at 8 a.m.

Trump returns : The former President, who is set to deliver the events closing address, will be making his first visit back to Washington, D.C. since leaving office.

with support: AFPI CEO Brooke Rollins lauded Trump, saying, It wasnt that long ago that America was flourishing. Paychecks were growing. Poverty was shrinking. The price of gas was down. The stock market was up. And there were no new wars. What a difference 16 months makes.

Import-ant visit

During a swing through Tampa, Sen. Marco Rubio spoke with WFLA about important issues to the port, with a bit of China-bashing on the way.

Supply-side: He discussed the importance of imports and suggested the Tampa Port could connect to allies in Latin America. Instead of having all the factories in China, wed probably be better off if they were in Honduras or Haiti or Guatemala so that people there would have jobs and not have to illegally emigrate to the United States.

Made in America: Ideally, hed like more goods made in the U.S. and may be shipped out. He said Congress could spur lower manufacturing costs to encourage that.

Drawing up plays: The avid Dolphins fan compared government to a sports league. Senators dont play on the field but can change rules and regulations to encourage a certain type of play, like when the NFL wanted more passing and made it so defense cant rough up quarterbacks so much.

Waste of time?: A recent comment slamming an upcoming vote on marriage equality also came up. Rubio will vote no, but said hes upset that Congress needs to focus on this instead of inflation. Not a single state seeks to ban it Its a non-issue.

Jones goes to Israel

South Florida Democratic Sen. Shevrin Jones has departed from Miami to visit Israel for a trip where he hopes to connect to his faith and learn from different religious leaders.

Its all in the journey: Jones sees this trip as an opportunity to learn and understand a land that holds deep spiritual value to many, including himself. The journey is a chance to connect not just with his faith, but the land of Israel and the people who form its diverse society, he said.

Agenda: Jones plans to walk the streets of the old city, where the histories of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam intersect to form a Holy Land for billions of people, he said. On the trip, Jones will meet with people of all three faiths, various races and differing political views.

Faith: Jones father is a pastor, and the state Senator credits his parents for teaching him values through his Christian education. Such values, he said, continue to inform his views of the world and his public service.

Following Biden: Jones makes the trip shortly after President Joe Biden visited Jerusalem and reaffirmed U.S.-Israel relations.

With butter?

Its spiny lobster season in Florida. There are the basics: July 27 and 28 are the sport season days this year, with the regular season running from Aug. 6 through March 2023. However, it also leads to thoughts as to why some creatures get the names they do.

Rock stars: Of course, another name for spiny lobster is rock lobster, which featured in the B-52s signature odd song. Why its not regulated as the rock lobster, who can say? It certainly looks like it has a lot of spines on it.

Bag em: Folks like to go spiny lobster fishing in the Keys, but the limits are tighter. The bag limit is six in Monroe County and Biscayne National Park, but 12 elsewhere around the state.

Size matters: The lobsters harvested must have a carapace at least 3 inches long as measured in the water.

The hunt is on

If you think Tallahassee has too many taco, pizza or burger places, heres a new venue that offers a more intriguing menu.

Plenty of options: The Huntsman, which opened July 11 in the former home of Cypress Restaurant, features several choices of game, including antelope, black buck elk, wild boar and a few types of deer. But there are several other dining options, including duck, steaks, chops, fish and vegan dishes.

How many courses? The 82-seat restaurant highlights a nightly five-course tasting menu, with a choice of either meat/game picks or all vegan available with a beverage pairing.

Restaurant vets: We wanted to do something a little different, said Danny Renninger, owner of The Huntsman with Ben Williamson and executive chef Skylar Stafford, who all worked together at the fine dining restaurants Sage and Il Lusso.

The details: The restaurant has a 12-seat private room and theres work on outdoor space. The Huntsman is found at 320 E. Tennessee St.; 850-765-1887. The dining room is only for reservation. The bar area accepts walk-ins, with full service.

Brunching out

Its not just the brews. Coffee and breakfast are now daily staples at Ologys new Northside branch

Backstory: Its the third location for Nick Waller, Brian Clark and Paul Woodward, owners of Ology Brewing Co.

Setting: Owners transformed the long-vacated storefront of Beef O Bradys and Subway into a gleaming, 4,800-square-foot venue with a 50 x 30 deck and private party/meeting space.

The menu: Breakfast choices are limited for now, but Ology serves killer burritos. We devoured the Dirty Southwest Burrito, made with bacon, Grady Ranch breakfast sausage, Paradise Found Farm eggs, sauteed peppers and onions, with cheddar cheese and a kicky hatch chile sauce and a dipping sauce of chipotle lime crema. The vegetarian version is equally excellent, with local farm eggs, eggplant, onions, sweet peppers, squash and zucchini. Other options: loaded Tater Tots, avocado toast and house-baked muffins. Expect a mighty good cup of joe from Jason Card, who runs the coffee operation at Northside and Ologys original Midtown spot. The Northside branch features a full menu (breakfast, dinner and late-night choices) from experienced chef Randy Blass.

Details: Ology Brewing (Northside) is found at 2910 Kerry Forest Pkwy., Northampton Shopping Center; 850-296-2809. Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday to Thursday, 7 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Breakfast 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., with coffee service 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Other locations are at 118 E. Sixth Ave. and 2708 Power Mill Ct.

Can smell the pigskin

The last NFL season for Floridas three teams was a mix of good (Tampa Bay), erratic (Miami), and comically awful (Jacksonville). What does the upcoming season hold? With training camps opening around the league, theres anticipation, expectation, and hope that springs eternal. After all, the Cincinnati Bengals made the Super Bowl last year after going 4-12 the year before.

Whats new? The crystal ball says the Buccaneers will be good again, the Dolphins expect to compete for a playoff spot, and the Jags might be on the road to competence. Well get back to you on that last one. The common thread for Floridas teams is that each has a new head coach.

Going Bowling: Todd Bowles steps up from his defensive coordinator role with the Bucs to the head job after Bruce Arians retired. Bowles spent four seasons as head coach of the New York Jets before joining the Bucs in 2019.

Mike in Miami: Mike McDaniel takes over in Miami after the chaotic firing of Brian Flores after last years 9-8 season. McDaniels task is to turn Tua Tagovailova into a top-level NFL quarterback, a job that should be easier considering the Dolphins sent five draft picks to Kansas City for elite receiver Tyreek Hill.

Jacksonvilles year? And Jacksonville turned to former Eagles coach Doug Pederson to rebuild from the chaos of the Urban Meyer era (or, if you prefer, error). Pedersons job is to restore a sense of sanity to Jacksonville and help second-year quarterback Trevor Lawrence reach his potential. It wont be a quick fix in Jacksonville, but Pederson comes with street cred. He coached the Eagles to the 2017 Super Bowl win over New England, which was some quarterback named Tom Brady.

Hes back: Yes, after flirting with retirement after last season, Brady is back for one more round (at least), which means the Bucs are thinking Super Bowl or bust. Are you ready for some football?

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Here's Brunch, a pop-up, weekend email during the 2022 General Election 7.24.22 - Florida Politics

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Mildred Coyne, Jeff Cross, Judith Marty, Troy Stefano, Sharon Taylor-Ellis, Kristin Whitaker, and Burton Tra Williams III to the Commission for Independent Education.

Mildred Coyne, PhD

Coyne, of Cocoa, is a Senior Vice President of Broward College. She is the Founder and Co-Chair of the Florida College Systems Council of Workforce Education, a board member of CareerSource Broward, and a member of the National Association of Community Colleges. Coyne earned her bachelors degree in communication from Point Park University and her masters degree in higher education administration and doctorate in higher education leadership from Capella University.

Jeff Cross

Cross, of Orlando, is the Senior Vice President of Online for Herzing University. He has been involved in higher education for nearly 25 years. Cross earned his bachelors degree in business from California State University and his masters degree in business administration from Webster University.

Judith Marty

Marty, of Miami, is the President of Doral College. She is the former Board Chair of Pinecrest Charter Schools and was previously designated as a Breakthrough Principal by the National Association of Schools Administrators. Marty earned her bachelors degree in elementary education from Kean University and her masters degree in education from the University of Miami.

Troy Stefano, PhD

Stefano, of Wellington, is an Associate Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary. He is a member of the American Society of Bioethics and Humanities. Stefano earned his bachelors degree in history from St. Thomas University, his masters degree in history of Christianity and doctorate in history of Christianity and systemic theology from the University of Notre Dame, and completed Stanford Universitys professional certification program in artificial intelligence.

Sharon Taylor-Ellis

Taylor-Ellis, of St. Cloud, is the Vice President of Advanced Training at Universal Technical Institute and the Campus President of the Orlando campus. She is a member of the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Taylor-Ellis earned her bachelors degree in history and Asian studies from Wake Forest University.

Kristin Whitaker

Whitaker, of Tallahassee, is the Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at Mercury, LLC. She previously served as Vice Chancellor of Public Policy and Advocacy for the State University System of Florida and is a board member of the Florida Education Foundation. Whitaker earned her bachelors degree in international affairs and her masters degree in elementary education from Florida State University.

Burton Tra Williams III

Williams, of Lakewood Ranch, is the President and Owner of FleetForce Truck Driving School. He is a member of the International Franchise Association and the Florida Trucking Association. Williams earned his bachelors degree in pre-medicine from the University of Georgia and is a graduate of Georgetown Universitys Franchise Management Program.

These appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Seven to the Commission for Independent Education - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis

Starting in the 1960s, a maverick band of young cartoonists like Robert Crumb, Art Spiegelman, Trina Robbins, and Gilbert Shelton starting churning out comic books the likes of which had never seen before. These "undergound" works definitely weren't aimed at kids and they didn't follow the exploits of costumed do-gooders or anodyne high schoolers like Riverdale High's Archie, Betty, and Veronica.

Drawing inspiration from Mad magazine and horror comics that had been subjected to congressional scrutiny in the 1950s, the new "comix" were filled with sex, drugs, and violence; ruthlessly satirized mass culture; and drew the ire of crusaders against obscenity and cultural decline. Yet within a decade, underground comix had become recognized as a vital artistic force in America whose influence is still massive and growing in art, music, movies, design, and more.

Brian Doherty's Dirty Pictures: How an Underground Network of Nerds, Feminists, Misfits, Geniuses, Bikers, Potheads, Printers, Intellectuals, and Art School Rebels Revolutionized Art and Invented Comix, is the definitive history of this vital yet underappreciated aspect of American popular culture. The artists Doherty writes aboutmany of whom whom went on to win Pulitzer Prizes, MacArthur "genius" grants, and both mass and critical acclaimshook up popular culture and the high art world while fighting for radical, creative expression in an age of censorship. The lessons from their struggles are particularly prescient for a contemporary world beseiged by cancel culture and all manner of attempts to shut down speech deemed offensive, triggering, or morally suspect.

Doherty is a Reason senior editor and the author of books such as the This Is Burning Man: The Rise of a New American Underground, Radicals for Capitalism: A Freewheeling History of the Modern American Libertarian Movement, and about comix, their enduring relevance, and the surprising connections between alternative art and political movements such as libertarianism.

This interview was taped live on Monday, June 20, 2022, as part of the Reason Speakeasy series, held monthly in New York City. Go herefor podcast and video versions of past events.

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The Dirty Pictures That Revolutionized Art - Reason

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As you wind through Ikeas blue-and-yellow labyrinth or shop online, its nearly impossible to resist buying something cute and affordable.

The retailer has an abundance of reasonably priced, sleek and trendy items for everyone, from people furnishing first homes to families hunting for baby cribs.

But some of Ikeas products may not be such a good bargain when you factor in a history of safety concerns and poor customer reviews.

If youre like many people, youll find lots to love about plenty of Ikea products. Still, the next time you shop at Ikea, you may want to roll faster than a Swedish meatball past these items.

As a property development expert, Ive had many electricians complain to me when I used to buy Ikea ceiling lamps about how annoying they were to install and how quickly they would stop working, says Marina Vaamonde, owner of HouseCashin, an online marketplace for off-market houses.

Theyre flimsy and of very poor quality, Vaamonde tells Money Talks News. While the cost savings might attract your everyday DIY buyer, they stop working so easily that you might as well spend the extra money to get a high-quality lamp so that you dont have to worry about it anymore.

Such ceiling lamps, especially ones with glass shades, might also pose a safety hazard. In fact, Ikea recalled its Calypso ceiling lamps in 2018 and its Hyby and Lock ceiling lights in 2016, all for the safety hazard posed by each fixtures glass shade detaching and falling.

According to customer reviews on Ikeas website, its not just the price ($40 to $140 USD) of the Billy bookcase line thats cheap. While positive reviews of the Billy bookcase abound, negative reviews focus mainly on the products flimsiness.

Customers on Ikeas website complain that the bookcase, made of particle board, fell apart while they tried to assemble or disassemble the case. Other reviewers complained of shelves bowing or the bookcase breaking after using it for a short time.

Joe Ferguson, an architectural joiner at Skirtings R Us in Worcester, England, who also prepares interior living spaces for clients moving into new homes, has experienced this issue himself.

We noticed that the Billy bookcase is one of the things to avoid as they are flimsy and made out of particle board, Ferguson tells Money Talks News. One time, the client thought that the bookcase [we wanted to buy] was too expensive for her and proceeded to buy stuff from Ikea instead. It was then that she realized that the bookcase cant handle heavy objects and sags because it is made from particle board.

So at the least, you might want to avoid Billy bookcases if you intend to put much weight on them.

In 2020, Ikea agreed to pay a $46 million settlement to the parents of a toddler who died after one of its Malm dressers tipped over on him. That wasnt the first time Ikeas Malm dressers and chests were in the news for safety hazards, either. In 2016 and 2017, Ikea announced a voluntary recall of various Malm dressers and chests as well as the Kullen three-drawer chest and other chests and dressers, all due to tipping hazards.

In 2019, Ikea announced that it would launch a new Glesvar line of dressers and chests with safety features to prevent tip-overs in select global markets. However, as of this writing, no Glesvar dressers or chests are listed on Ikeas U.S. website.

You may be tempted by the affordable price of Malm chests and dressers ($250 and under). But at least if you have small children, consider spending a bit more on furniture designed to prevent tipping.

In 2018, Ikea issued a recall on the Glivarp glass-top dining table due to a laceration hazard and complaints about the glass leaf detaching and falling. But consumers also reported to the CPSC that this products glass top shattered when no one was even using it: The lower two glass panels on my Ikea Glivarp table shattered out of the blue, wrote one consumer in 2021, about a version of the table that was not subject to the recall.

And its not just tables that receive explosion complaints. Consumers have also reported to the CPSC glass desk tops shattering when not in use. Some have even posted YouTube videos displaying the aftermath, as ABC affiliate WCPO-TV in Cincinnati reported in 2017.

In 2019, Ikea told ABC affiliate KTRK-TV in Houston, which was investigating an incident with a Glivarp table at the time:

We use tempered glass in our furniture, which breaks into chunks rather than shards and helps prevent injury if the glass breaks. It is in the nature of tempered glass to shatter when exposed to knocks, strikes or scratches.

The Glivarp table is no longer for sale on Ikeas U.S. site, but make sure you at least scour online reviews for possible safety hazards before you buy glass-top furniture. You can also search the CPSCs public database of unsafe product reports as SaferProducts.gov.

Lets face it. You cant really expect a set of queen sheets that sell for under $20 to bring sweet dreams. But even some of Ikeas pricier bed sheets receive some scathing reviews on the companys site for being scratchy, wrinkly and, strangely enough, noisy.

They crinkle so loud when one turns over in bed! wrote one reviewer of Ikeas Somntuta sheets.

They are loud and feel and sound like paper, wrote another.

I only got about an hour into sleeping before the gritty, hard texture was too much to bear and I had to rip them off the bed, another reviewer wrote. These SMNTUTA sheets have the texture and comfort of sleeping on burlap they are the worst sheets Ive ever bought.

Disclosure: The information you read here is always objective. However, we sometimes receive compensation when you click links within our stories.

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Last Call A prime-time read of whats going down in Florida politics.

First Shot

The Republican Party of Florida has fleshed out the schedule for the upcoming Sunshine Summit and Victory Dinner.

In a news release, RPOF said the event will include speaker slots for many of the top elected Republicans in the state, including Gov. Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis, Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuez, U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, U.S. Rep. Kat Cammack, Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, Attorney General Ashley Moody, Senate President-designate Kathleen Passidomo and House Speaker-designate Paul Renner.

The agenda also includes a slew of conservative media personalities, such as Mark Levin, Karol Markowicz, Dave Rubin, Lisa Boothe, Clay Travis, Mollie Hemingway, Eliana Johnson and Stephen Moore, among others.

RPOF previously announced that the event will feature debates for Republican Primary candidates running in Floridas 4th, 7th, 13th and 15th Congressional Districts.

The 2022 Sunshine Summit will be held July 22-23 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Prospective attendees may register online, with ticket packages starting at the $100-per-person level.

___

Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Frieds gubernatorial campaign is highlighting critical moments and figures in womens rights in a new statewide ad.

The video features clips of marchers, suffragists, womens rights icons such as Alice Paul and Carrie Chapman Catt, as well as notable women politicians such as U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the recently deceased Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

The images run up to the present day, with scenes from protests spurred by the U.S. Supreme Courts decision overturning Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey.

The ads backing track is I Wont Back Down by Tom Petty and Fried reiterated the theme of the late 1980s hit in a news release announcing the ad.

This is the most important message weve ever released, Fried said. I am standing on the shoulders of all these trailblazing women and so is every other woman and ally fighting for womens rights. We wont back down. We wont back down. We wont back down.

Her campaign also noted that the ex-wife of the late Gainesville-born musician, Jane Benyo Petty, has endorsed Fried in the Democratic Primary for Governor.

Benyo Pettys endorsement, offered up on Twitter two weeks ago, was succinct: We need a good woman Governor who cares.

To watch the ad, click on the image below:

Evening Reads

White House focuses on Gov. Ron DeSantis but struggles with Florida via Matt Dixon of POLITICO Florida

Vice President DeSantis? Donald Trump isnt ruling it out via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics

Ketanji Brown Jackson sworn in as first Black woman, 116th justice on U.S. Supreme Court via Alex Roarty of the Miami Herald

Black Florida law students see Supreme Court Justice Jackson as an inspiration via Lauren Peace of the Tampa Bay Times

Judge to block Floridas 15-week abortion ban, says it violates state Constitutions privacy language via Michael Moline of the Florida Phoenix

Doctor ousted from Florida childrens health board over vaccine views via Christine Jordan Sexton of Florida Politics

Gov. DeSantis to recommend Ray Rodrigues to lead State University System via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics

The Supreme Court hands Joe Biden the smallest possible victory in its Remain in Mexico case via Ian Millhiser of Vox

Biden, chiding court, endorses ending filibuster to codify abortion rights via Michael D. Shear and Jim Tankersley of The New York Times

Candidate with a felony cant volunteer in Broward schools. But hes running for office to help run them. via Scott Travis of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Think U.S. gas prices are high? Heres how far $40 goes around the world. via Alexa Juliana Ard, Ruby Mellen, Steven Rich and Jlia Ledur of The Washington Post

All eyes on airlines as July Fourth holiday weekend nears via David Koenig of The Associated Press

For Orlando Museum of Art, a future full of questions via Matthew J. Palm of the Orlando Sentinel

Quote of the Day

Today is an important victory for freedom across the Sunshine State and Floridas constitutional right to privacy. The reproductive freedoms of Floridas women stood strong in the face of Gov. DeSantiss ongoing attempts to strip away their right to make decisions over their bodies.

U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist, on the court ruling blocking Floridas 15-week abortion ban.

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Home renovations can be a real chore not to mention expensive. If its a change that will improve a home you plan to stay in for a long time, go ahead and take on the challenge.

But sometimes, homeowners can be fooled into thinking an update will greatly improve their homes resale value. And thats not always the case.

Remodeling magazines 2022 Cost vs. Value Report looks at how well 22 remodeling projects retain their value at resale in 150 U.S. markets. In some cases, youll barely recoup half the renovation cost when it comes time to sell.

The following are the home renovations with the absolute worst payoff, starting with the project in the No. 5 spot.

National average cost: $175,473

Average cost recouped: 53.4%

The study doesnt just look at remodels, but at additions as well, meaning adding a completely new section to a house. The addition of a midrange master suite can cost more than $175,000 and recoups just over half that when the time comes to sell. But before you sell, youd be enjoying a pretty luxe new bedroom. The Remodeling magazine estimate assumes youve added a walk-in closet, dressing area and bathroom with double-bowl vanity, freestanding soaker tub and a separate ceramic tile shower.

National average cost: $158,015

Average cost recouped: 52.5%

If you love to cook or entertain in your kitchen, you may want to splurge on an upscale remodel but note that it will cost more than $158,000. While you might not be doing it for resale value, youll certainly enjoy the perks, which include high-end appliances, custom cabinets, stone countertops and new lighting.

National average cost: $63,986

Average cost recouped: 51.8%

One more bathroom may not recoup its costs entirely, but youll obviously find it helpful, especially if you have a large family or plenty of visitors. A midrange bathroom addition includes adding a 6-by-8-foot space much smaller than an upscale version, but more practical and less pricey.

National average cost: $114,773

Average cost recouped: 51.5%

If you can spend more than $100,000 adding a bathroom, youre certainly living well, and maybe you wont mind that youll only recoup about 50% of what you put into it. But you may never want to leave this new 100-square-foot bathroom, which includes a shower, soaker tub, two medicine cabinets, stone countertop with two sinks, heated floors and more.

National average cost: $356,945

Average cost recouped: 46.3%

Drum roll, please the home renovation with the absolute worst payoff, according to the report, is an upscale master suite addition. But to be fair, this is a monster project, including a large sleeping area, master bath, custom bookcases, high-end gas fireplace, walk-in closet, hospitality counter with bar sink, fridge and microwave, soundproofing and in-floor heating. Were betting those who have more than $350,000 to spend on a master suite like this arent going to need to recoup a lot when they go to sell.

Disclosure: The information you read here is always objective. However, we sometimes receive compensation when you click links within our stories.

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5 Home Renovations With the Worst Payoff - Money Talks News