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Santos never should have been in Congress | Letters to the editor

Sat, 12/09/2023 - 04:00

I write in response to the news article posted on Dec. 1 by Associated Press reporter Kevin Freking, entitled “House expels New York Rep. George Santos. It’s just the sixth expulsion in the chamber’s history.”

Santos should not have been permitted to be a member of Congress. As the writer noted, Santos is accused of fraud, embezzlement and lying about nearly every aspect of his life. He didn’t do this only during his campaign. He was lying and manipulating well before that, and I feel like there is no way Congress did not have the ability to perform an extensive background check that would have flagged and exposed his past lies before being given such a big, powerful platform.

Not only would a background check save time and embarrassment, it would have left room for more important issues. But instead, so many are covering this topic due to its outrageous nature and shock value, which translates to entertainment. It is appalling that the U.S. House of Representatives and the Republican Party don’t have productive safeguards to combat the audacity of candidates who have participated in criminal activity. Light must be shed on the requirements to become a member of Congress, because it clearly is not strict enough. It is highly concerning that the same people making our laws are the ones who break them.

Jade Ogando, Boca Raton

Distressed and heartbroken

I live in West Palm Beach and I am a mother of four. In my household, we feel strongly about what’s happening in Gaza and the West Bank. After a brief pause in fighting that saw hostages released and desperately needed humanitarian aid flow into Gaza, war and violence have returned unabated in Israel and Palestine.

The lives of millions of civilians and the remaining hostages are again under threat. It need not be this way. There was positive momentum building toward a permanent cease fire, something everyone must agree is urgently needed. The negotiations, aid deliveries and release of hostages show the power of dialogue. More war is not the answer, and there is no military solution to the crisis.

I believe that violence is the language of the inarticulate. Why are our elected officials so silent?

Zoha Hopps, West Palm Beach

A war on education

Of course there is a war on education by the Republican Party in Florida.

It’s being waged on two fronts. The first is a tax break for the wealthy when they take the state’s $9,500 and put it towards their kid’s annual tuition of $20,000, while bleeding the public schools of money. These wealthy families were sending their kids to private schools regardless of what the state did. If you’re wealthy and they sent three kids to private school before vouchers, you now have a nearly $30,000 tax break a year.

Second, the Republican Party pursues indoctrination through every educational avenue it can reach. That’s their answer to consistently losing the national popular vote. The Republican position on losing the national vote is this: It’s not their message, it’s school and media liberal indoctrination. God forbid that the Republican Party would ever look in the mirror for an answer to its diminishing popularity. Trump has promised them he will restore their God-given right to minority Christian rule, even if it means tearing up the Constitution to do it.

Don Whisman, Stuart

No tunnel confidence

For an answer to Fort Lauderdale’s bridge-versus-tunnel debate, just look to the never-ending and relatively miniscule Henry E. Kinney Tunnel project for the answer.

With the ongoing construction, it seems that the tiny tunnel downtown will never get finished, so I don’t see how doing a much bigger and more complicated tunnel project could even be a sane choice.

I much prefer tunnels, but I have zero confidence in getting one done remotely on time or budget.

Kevin Schoeler, Fort Lauderdale

Winderman’s view: Heat can’t keep it clean and blew it in loss to Cavs

Fri, 12/08/2023 - 20:28

Observations and other notes of interest from Friday night’s 111-99 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers:

— You can survive absences of Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro, even Haywood Highsmith when you are at your sharpest.

— The Heat weren’t at their sharpest Friday night.

— Not with 16 turnovers through the first three periods.

— Yes, there will be nights when Jimmy Butler is off.

— When Duncan Robinson can’t make a shot.

— When the defense lapses.

— But when you keep it clean, you have a chance in those circumstances.

— The Heat didn’t keep it clean.

— They worked blew.

— And paid with their third loss in their last four home games.

— With Adebayo and Highsmith again out (and Herro still out), the Heat again opened with Orlando Robinson, Caleb Martin,Butler, Duncan Robinson and Kyle Lowry.

— The Heat had entered with 14 lineups in their first 21 games.

— No change this time.

— Maybe next time.

— Back available for the Heat was guard RJ Hampton, after being sidelined with knee pain, but he was inactive.

— Coach Erik Spoelstra said the plan eventually is G League game minutes.

— “He’s going to stay here for a little bit more, and then we’d like to get him going to Sioux Falls and play in some games and then we’ll take it from there,” Spoelstra said. “But his progress has been really good. He was able to do a practice last week with us and a lot of work here while we were gone.”

— Also inactive were Herro, Adebayo, Highsmith and Dru Smith (knee).

— Kevin Love was first off the Heat bench, after Orlando Robinson was called for a pair of early fouls.

— Josh Richardson and Jaime Jaquez Jr. then followed off the Heat bench.

— With the Heat with the following two days off, Spoelstra kept the rotation to a tight eight.

— That meant no Jamal Cain, Thomas Bryant or Nikola Jovic.

— Friday meant a return by former Heat guard Max Strus, who left in free agency for the Cavaliers.

— Strus was introduced last among Cleveland’s starters, to a warm ovation.

— Spoelstra was asked about the unusual paths Duncan Robinson and Strus took to the Heat as one-time teammates.

—  “You have to be inspired by each of their stories,” Spoelstra said. “That’s so uncommon. Both of them to take the paths that they did. So many young kids get discouraged. But if you have a goal and a vision and you are relentless with your fortitude, it shows you that crazy things can happen, even if you start out going to a prep school like Duncan did, and then go D3. Or like Max, D3. And then they both found their way to division-one programs and had to come through this league without being drafted.”

— But Spoelstra said it wasn’t a case of both being the same.

— “They’re different players,” Spoelstra said. “I think it’s easy to say they’re the same player. They’re not. They each bring different things and it was fun to see that dynamic.”

— Cavs coach J.B. Bickerstaff had praise pregame for the Heat approach.

— “I’m one of the biggest fans,” he said. “I just think that it allows you to have sustained success. It allows you to hold people to a standard, whether it’s summer league, whether it’s practice, whether it’s a game. There’s accountability and there’s a vision that you can constantly attack.”

— He added, “Last year, their ability to make it to the Finals speaks on it and stands on it. And they don’t waver from it — up, down, championship years, whatever it may be, they’re the same. And as a fan of sport and son of a coach and coaching now myself, that’s all you want, is you want to be able to go to war, knowing that you can coach or you can play with absolute freedom. Because it doesn’t matter what anybody else says, or the outside world says about you, as long as you are doing things that are right of your environmental culture, you can just go be the best version of yourself.”

Shorthanded Heat stumble to the finish in 111-99 loss to Cavaliers

Fri, 12/08/2023 - 20:26

MIAMI — Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro and Haywood Highsmith again were out. This time, it also was as if Jimmy Butler wasn’t there.

For the Miami Heat, even after an early 16-point lead Friday night at Kaseya Center, that was too much to overcome.

So no traction after Wednesday night’s road victory over the Toronto Raptors. Instead, a 111-99 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers that dropped the record to 12-10.

“We were bobbling, mis-dribbling, careless with the ball right out the gate,” coach Erik Spoelstra said of a night the Heat committed 18 turnovers. “And that just kind of sets the tone, gets you disjointed, gets everybody out of rhythm.”

While the Heat again had to deal with a reworked rotation, it wasn’t as if the Cavaliers were whole, with Cleveland lacking forward Evan Mobley due to knee soreness.

In a game that turned sloppy and choppy for the Heat after a solid start, Butler never found a rhythm, closing 5 of 15 from the field, with 16 points. Teammate Duncan Robinson was even worse, at 0 for 7 from the field, including 0 for 6 on 3-pointers, with six turnovers and four fouls.

Josh Richardson compensated early, with all 17 of his points coming in the first half. The Heat also got 17 points from Kyle Lowry, 14 points from Jaime Jaquez Jr.  and 14 points and a season-high 12 rebounds from Kevin Love, but it wasn’t enough to offset the 26 points Cleveland got from Donovan Mitchell and the 18 from Darius Garland.

“For us to get back, it just takes some concentration and some will to keep fighting to get better,” Lowry said. “It’s a good game for us to learn long term.”

Five Degrees of Heat from Friday night’s game:

1. Game flow: The Heat had a 15-0 first-quarter run and went into the second period up 25-17, after Cleveland’s lowest-scoring quarter of the season. Cleveland then put together a 15-0 run of their own in the second period, to take a 53-52 lead into halftime.

From there, Cleveland opened the third quarter on a 13-0 run, including 11 points by Mitchell, to eventually go up 16, before taking an 88-75 lead into the fourth.

The Cavaliers would go up 18 early in the fourth, before a Love 3-pointer drew the Heat within 98-88 with 6:37 to play. But that also is what the rally stalled.

“It was just too much for us to overcome there at the end,” Love said.

2. Rich start: Richardson opened 4 of 4 on 3-pointers, with his fourth forcing a Cavaliers timeout with 8:57 left in the second period and the Heat up 39-23.

Richardson’s previous high for 3-pointers in a game this season had been three.

Richardson was up to 17 points by halftime, at 5 of 6 on 3-pointers at that stage.

Later, Richardson, fined $2,000 earlier in the day for an uncalled flopping violation in Wednesday night’s victory over the Toronto Raptors, was called for a flopping technical foul in the third period.

“I do think all three of my flopping calls were terrible,” Richardson said of those cited against him this season. “I don’t know what it is. Maybe I need to start running people over.”

Richardson then cooled from there, closing 6 of 11 from the field, 5 of 7 on 3-pointers.

3. Inside story: The Heat deficits weren’t for a lack of hustle.

In the third period, Caleb Martin caught Garland in transition for an impressive chase-down block that led to a Butler dunk on the other end.

Then, later in the third, 6-foot-6 Jaquez blocked a dunk attempt by 6-11 Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen at the rim.

But there also were the negatives of the 18 turnovers and being outrebounded 51-37.

“These are painful lessons when you lose home games like this, even when you have double-digit leads,” Spoelstra said.

4. Early Love: With Orlando Robinson, who again started in place of Adebayo, forced to the bench with 7:11 to play in the first period with his second foul, Love entered and began launching a series of long outlet passes.

Love closed the first quarter with seven rebounds, three assists, two steals and a blocked shot. From there, he moved on to his season high in rebounds.

The Cavaliers gave Love a buyout last February after he fell out of their rotation.

5. Strus vs. Heat: Max Strus made his first appearance at Kaseya Center since leaving as a free agent in the offseason.

Strus opened defensively on Duncan Robinson, whom he has credited as a mentor. The Heat opened with Lowry on Strus.

Strus closed 4 of 17 from the field, including 2 of 11 on 3-pointers, for 11 points, also with seven rebounds.

Strus entered averaging career-highs this season in points (14.5), rebounds (5.5), assists (4.1), steals (1.00), blocks (0.62) and minutes (35.), having signed with Cleveland in the offseason.

Bobrovsky makes 26 saves as Panthers top Penguins 3-1

Fri, 12/08/2023 - 19:45

SUNRISE — Sergei Bobrovsky stopped 26 shots, Eetu Luostarinen got the go-ahead goal in the third period and the Florida Panthers beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 3-1 on Friday night.

Oliver Ekman-Larsson also scored a goal and Anton Lundell had two assists for the Panthers, who have won three of their last four games. Aleksander Barkov got an empty-netter to seal the win for Florida.

Former Panthers forward Reilly Smith scored for Pittsburgh, which has dropped a season-high four straight to fall to 11-12-4. Tristan Jarry stopped 31 shots for the Penguins.

Up 2-1 with 2:39 left and dominating the third period — shots were 12-2 Florida in that frame to that point — Lundell was called for hooking, giving Pittsburgh a golden opportunity. The Penguins hadn’t scored in any of their last 36 power plays spanning 14 games since Nov. 11, the worst drought in franchise history.

It started as a 5-on-4, became a 6-on-4 when Jarry went to the bench — and the Penguins came up empty, again. The Panthers killed it off, the 37th consecutive failed power play for Pittsburgh, and Barkov scored with 26.7 seconds left.

Florida got its first lead of the night with 13:50 left when the puck bounced into the slot off a faceoff and Luostarinen batted it past Jarry to make it 2-1.

Sidney Crosby had a chance to tie it for Pittsburgh less than a minute later, stealing a clearing pass deep in the Florida end and skating from Bobrovsky’s left toward the net. But Bobrovsky came off the line to narrow the angle and Crosby was denied, preserving the one-goal edge.

The teams paid tribute pregame to Patric Hornqvist, who won two Stanley Cups with the Penguins in his 15-year NHL career and ended that run with three seasons with the Panthers. He retired after last season and is now a part of the Panthers’ front-office staff as scouting and development consultant.

“He just worked so hard and he brought out the best in everybody,” said Crosby, the Penguins’ captain who took part in the pregame ceremony alongside Barkov and Hornqvist’s family. “He expected a lot of himself but he also just earned every single thing that he accomplished in his career.”

UP NEXT

Panthers: Visit Columbus on Sunday afternoon to start a season-high five-game road trip.

Penguins: Host Arizona on Tuesday night, Pittsburgh’s only home game in a two-week span.

Former Florida Panther Patric Hornqvist, center, looks on as Florida Panthers center Aleksander Barkov (16) and Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) shake hands after a ceremonial puck drop Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Sunrise. (Lynne Sladky/AP)

Jury orders Florida to pay $15 million to Volusia girl tortured by parents

Fri, 12/08/2023 - 17:55

The Florida Department of Children and Families must pay $15 million to a Volusia County girl for failing to protect her from horrific abuse at the hands of her mother and stepfather, a jury decided late Friday in a stunning rebuke of the state agency.

The department failed to investigate complaints that the mother was using drugs and endangering the girl, who was younger than 2 at the time and suffered “catastrophic” permanent injuries from severe abuse and neglect, according to a suit filed in Volusia County court.

Now 8, the child is “completely dependent on others for all aspects of her daily functioning,” according to a press release from the Kelley Kronenberg law firm, which represented her. She is identified by her initials, H.H., in the complaint.

The award is among the largest in state history for this kind of case, according to the firm. The jury’s verdict speaks to “the sheer magnitude and severity” of the girl’s injuries, attorney Stacie Schmerling said in the release.

“Our fight is to ensure that she will be able to live at home with her adoptive family and have the care, dignity, and resources that she deserves for the rest of her life,” Schmerling said in the press release. “Now that the jury has spoken, we are hopeful that DCF and Florida’s leaders will respect the jury’s decision and now fight with us to help H.H.”

A spokeswoman for DCF couldn’t be reached for comment Friday evening.

The department received a report through its abuse hotline about H.H. and her brother in May 2017, according to the complaint. The caller said they were concerned about drug activity in the home and poor living conditions. In addition, the stepfather, who lived in the home and was a caregiver to H.H., had a criminal history that included arrests for violent crimes, the complaint says.

DCF’s hotline received a second, similar complaint the following month that also alleged the parents were not supervising the children. However, state investigators failed to take any action to prevent the neglect and physical abuse of H.H., at the hands of her mother and stepfather, who were addicted to drugs.

DCF knew of the stepfather’s criminal history that included charges related to drugs, alcohol, battery on a police officer and knew that he was on probation only seven months earlier, according to the suit.

In September 2017, H.H.’s mother brought her to the emergency room, saying she had difficulty waking the child that morning, according to the complaint. The child spent 109 days in the hospital.

H.H. had suffered horrific injuries including traumatic brain injury due to repeated head trauma. She suffers today from severe cerebral palsy, quadriplegia, epilepsy, ineffective airway clearance, restrictive lung disease, and sleep apnea. She requires a feeding tube and is unable to walk or talk.

Law enforcement found drugs, paraphernalia, firearms, ammunition, burglary tools and a pillowcase stained with blood in the hotel where the family was living, according to the complaint. The mother’s cell phone contained several images and videos depicting her daughter’s torture and text messages she exchanged with the girl’s stepfather describing their abuse of the girl.

The girl’s mother was convicted in a separate, criminal proceeding of three counts of aggravated child abuse and one count of child neglect causing great bodily harm and was sentenced to 40 years in prison, according to the complaint. The stepfather was convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, aggravated child abuse and child abuse and neglect causing great bodily harm and sentenced to 25 years in prison.

anmartin@orlandosentinel.com

General Daily Insight for December 09, 2023

Fri, 12/08/2023 - 17:00
General Daily Insight for December 09, 2023

There’s no such thing as too much on a day like this! The Moon in Scorpio works out a grounding trine to Saturn, which will be handy when Luna goes on to conjoin beautiful Venus and oppose excitable Jupiter, giving us lots to look forward to. This energy really hits the roof when Venus reaches out to oppose Jupiter at 10:35 pm EST, making it nigh impossible to keep things low-key. It’s alright to have fun and enjoy life, but we should avoid overdoing it.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

Gold mines are opening up everywhere you look! Venus in your 8th House of Shared Resources is forming a potent opposition to Jupiter in your 2nd House of Earned Income, which is quite lucky in terms of financial gain — as long as you don’t overshoot the mark. You could craft a plan with great potential for even greater profits, but make sure you’re not counting your chickens before they hatch. Taking the time to inspect your ideas from all angles should pay off handsomely.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

Stand up and take a bow, Taurus, because you’re the star of the show! Your sign’s ruler Venus is reaching out from your partnership zone to invigorate lucky Jupiter in your vigorous sign, which could make you feel like you can do no wrong. In theory, this is true, but there is one caveat. Don’t push too far in your search for excitement and satisfaction. Remember that other people have their own programs while you’re so busy pursuing your goals.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Wondrous surprises can be found around every corner! Venus is dancing through your 6th House of Daily Routine, adding a pleasant touch to everything as it opposes bountiful Jupiter in your 12th House of the Subconscious. Jupiter is bestowing gifts where you can’t quite see their full expanse, but keep your eyes peeled. At any moment, an almost magical benefactor could appear to make your life just that much easier. It may surprise you, but don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

You’re more than a little spoiled for choice at the moment! Fun is calling your name while Venus tours your 5th House of Playfulness, and that energy gets turned all the way up as Venus electrifies boundless Jupiter in your 11th House of Friendships. This could provide you with endless invites or other opportunities to follow to your heart’s content. That being said, be careful about saying yes to more than you can handle. You don’t want to burn yourself out!

Leo

July 23 – August 22

You can chill out or you can go all out, but you can’t do both. Venus in your homey 4th house is making nesting the most appealing option on the table, but a fanatic opposition to fortuitous Jupiter in your professional 10th house could force you up off the couch when opportunity comes calling. A supervisor could decide you’ve earned your stripes and give you a nice reward in return — and that’s only the beginning. There’s more than one finish line available to you.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Cosmic delights are in store the second you leave your front door! Thanks to the fabulous opposition between charming Venus in your local community sector and grandiose Jupiter in your adventure sector, the further you go and the more you explore, the more fun you can discover along the way. Save low-key for another time and give yourself permission to go all out, because you never know what you’ll find if you don’t go looking for it. There’s treasure buried everywhere.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

There’s a pot of gold with your name all over it, Libra. Luxurious Venus is waltzing through your luxury-loving 2nd house. The Goddess of Beauty is also opposing auspicious Jupiter in your big-money 8th house, which could result in quite an impressive bounty for all your efforts. Someone may come forward to pay back a debt, or you could wind up getting a helpful loan that really changes the playing field for you. Any negotiations now should go in your favor.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Gratitude is absolutely vital right now. You’re feeling the love as amorous Venus empowers your sign, imbuing you with that special Venusian grace and allure. Other people will have a particularly hard time missing your talents when Venus opposes Jupiter in your partnership sector. This can benefit all kinds of relationships, from personal to professional, but you may also gain a lot logistically if you are hammering out any important matters. People could be more happy than usual to meet your needs.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

It’s possible to be your best self without going overboard. Everything feels a bit more pleasant while Venus drifts through your dreamy 12th house, but today, it’s opposing vast Jupiter in your efficient 6th house. With that in mind, you’re still capable of making quite a bit of progress when it comes to reality. Find a balance between taking it easy and rolling up your sleeves — it should be easier than you think. Don’t work hard and play hard, but do both gently.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

You don’t have to dim your shine to let others stand out! It’s important to remember this fact as Venus in your social 11th house opposes Jupiter in your expressive 5th house, which could leave you wanting to put yourself front and center while supporting others at the same time. This may require a bit of tightrope walking, but you should be able to pull off a rather impressive feat where everyone can applaud you and you applaud everyone in turn.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

You’ve got every reason to enjoy yourself on a day like this. Venus is shining in your reputation sector, giving you a particular polish. The energetic opposition between Venus and majestic Jupiter in your home sector could result in you finding comfort and support everywhere you go. A respected woman, perhaps a relative or friend of the family, could be especially helpful to you — she could open doors for you that you’d never dream of. Be sure to say thank you!

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

A curious mind can take you far. It’s a wonderful day to consider the possibilities as Venus in your expansive 9th house opposes Jupiter in your busy 3rd house, turning up exciting opportunities everywhere you look. Your usual neighborhood could feel almost like a wonderland. Even your most basic tasks might be your gateway to unique ideas or fresh social influences that totally open up your mind. Don’t cut yourself off from others, because that’s the surest way to miss out!

ASK IRA: Has Nikola Jovic reached a now-or-never (this season) moment with the Heat?

Fri, 12/08/2023 - 04:05

Q: We obviously disagree on Nikola Jovic. The international game is so different. I see a guy who, whether age 15 or 20 or 30, just does not “get it” –  when and where to set screens, how to rotate on defense. Some guys see the game, some guys like KZ Okpala for example, never will. – Jon.

A: Still a bit harsh, but everyone certainly is entitled to an opinion until Nikola Jovic ultimately is in the rotation or out. The question is how many more opportunities,  even as brief as Wednesday’s, there will be for Nikola once Bam Adebayo returns. For that matter, when Haywood Highsmith returns, that would further limit the chances, especially considering how Caleb Martin has come round from his preseason knee pain. Still, there have been enough international players who eventually have come around later in their NBA tenures that you don’t give up on a 20-year-old. Ultimately, an extended run in the G League might be the best means to take stock, particularly with a veteran-laden win-now roster such as the Heat’s. But, for now, Adebayo, Kevin Love, Martin, Highsmith and even now Orlando Robinson also are positioned above Nikola in the Heat’s power-rotation hierarchy.

Related Articles

Q: Orlando Robinson was on the team last year and they played Cody Zeller over him. We could have used Orlando in the NBA Finals. – Abel.

A: Perhaps this Orlando Robinson, the one we’ve seen over the past two weeks. But don’t sell short the gains made since the end of last season. The current Orlando Robinson is a significant upgrade on the Orlando Robinson on the roster at the end of last season. And remember, Orlando was on a two-way contract last season, and therefore ineligible for the postseason.

Q: What happened to Duncan Robinson? He appears to have learned how to play decent defense without fouling all the time and the refs are letting him play. And who knew that he had “game”? He is not just a 3-point shooter anymore. He has shown that he can drive and finish. Big improvement. – Irwin, Boynton Beach.

A: It’s all part of the growth and development process, with Erik Spoelstra reminding that development doesn’t have to stop after the first or second season in the league. Duncan Robinson is a testament to that. And, yes, he does seem to be getting more of a veteran whistle now that he is more of a veteran.

Democracy or totalitarianism? It’s your choice | Letters to the editor

Fri, 12/08/2023 - 04:00

This is hard for me to write. I have friends, people who I like very much, who would vote to put Donald Trump back in the White House.

They don’t understand that would open the floodgates, allowing the MAGA extreme right wing to destroy democracy and the rule of law. The election in 2024 will be the battle of our lifetime. The honor of the ultimate sacrifices made by the best of us, dying or wounded on beaches, in jungles, in the air and at sea is at stake. They all fell to preserve our democracy and rule of law.

The MAGA movement sails on a sea of lies that you would have to be unsighted not to see. You may dislike the imperfect Democrats, but you must love democracy and the rule of law much more. It’s as simple as that.

Mark Lippman, Boca Raton

‘Woke lies and nonsense’

Your latest editorial about Donald Trump (“America’s most dire threat is from within”) is pure woke lies and nonsense.

It is truly disturbing to me that people who have, I would hope, intelligence, can continue to write the same lies. For argument’s sake, here’s one: the economy. How is it better when I go into a supermarket and I am paying around 25% more than I did last year?  I could go on, but all I’m doing is aggravating myself. Your newspaper isn’t worth the paper that it is written on. God help us.

Ken Kurzweil, Westlake

The greatest threats

I read your recent diatribes on former President Donald J. Trump, one of which I shall endeavor to respond to later in more detail.

The greatest threats to our democracy are not the former president and his MAGA supporters. It is left-of-center Democrats, Republicans-in-name-only (RINOs) and members of the news media who fail to give their readers and listeners the truth, unfiltered by their personal persuasions.

Erik H. Schot, Ph.D., Lauderdale-By-The-Sea

Say it on Page One

We are in a battle of freedom and democracy vs. authoritarianism. Though many of your editorials point this out in a factual and persuasive manner, the sad fact is that a large percentage of your readers never get beyond the front page.

This is a moment of crisis and it is up to all of us, including the Sun Sentinel, to do everything in our power to bring a halt to this movement toward authoritarianism. I am suggesting that, when appropriate, you move these editorials or opinion columns to the front page.

The more the public is exposed to the opinions and facts presented by your editorial staff, the better are our chances of maintaining our democracy.

Martin Kleinbart, Aventura

A tunnel, not a bridge

The path toward a bridge over the New River in Fort Lauderdale must not be taken.

It’s cheaper, sure. But it’s just lousy. This “bridge over the river” is actually a bridge over more than a mile of neighborhoods and will damage residents and business owners alike.

In Boston, a similar project was built, known as the elevated Central Artery. When the first half was completed, the citizen outcry was so huge that authorities capitulated and a tunnel was built for the second half. Mayor Dean Trantalis and Commissioner Steven Glassman have this right. The tunnel costs more — and it’s worth every last cent.

Joel A. Feingold, Plantation

Need a gift you can easily pack? Give them a scarf to keep them cozy through the holidays

Thu, 12/07/2023 - 23:20
Which scarves are best?

Chances are when you think of scarves, you think of warm neck wraps to help you fight away the winter chill. And when you give scarves as gifts during the holiday season, this is likely the effect you want your gifted scarf to have. But not all regions feel the same frost during this time, and for those, there are also warm-weather scarves you can gift. But don’t forget to consider the material of the scarf you gift, as some are better than others for the various climates of the world.

Scarf types

There are four main types of scarves.

Shape

Scarves of any type usually fall into one of two shapes. Beach and head scarves are typically square while neck and winter scarves are typically rectangular. Some scarves can be triangular instead, but this is unusual as you can simply fold a square scarf to get the same effect.

Material

Scarves can be made of practically any material, though some are more common than others.

Cost

Non-designer Beach scarves typically cost $5-$30. Head scarves typically cost $5-$15. Neck scarves typically cost $5-$20. Winter scarves typically cost $10-$30. Designer scarves of any type can cost hundreds of dollars.

Best beach scarves

Boao Beach Scarves ]

This set of scarves uses chiffon and has tassels on the edges to give it a more dynamic look. It comes in four sets of colors: black with either gray, white or navy blue and rose red with royal blue.

Ekouaer Beach Scarf ]

This oversized scarf is perfect for use as a classic wrap or a skirt, but the extra material also makes it useable as a top or even a jumpsuit.

Iristide Beach Scarf ]

This scarf is made of cotton to keep you cool while you wear it. It’s also extra-large at 75 by 43 inches and can be used to fashion a hijab. It comes in 14 colors.

Best headscarves

Awaytr Head Scarves ]

This collection of scarves includes four, each with a different design, and there are 18 sets of four to choose from. They’re polyester and measure 35 by 35 inches.

Doobo Head Scarves ]

This set of three scarves are all different colors and there are five sets. They’re made of silk-feeling polyester satin and measure 27.5 by 27.5 inches. They need to be hand-washed.

Fonyve Head Scarf ]

This scarf comes in a staggering 45 designs so you’re all but guaranteed to find one you like. It’s made of polyester satin and measures 27.5 by 27.5 inches.

Best neck scarves

Jeelow Neck Scarf ]

This linen scarf is perfectly light and airy to keep you feeling cool on hot summer days. It measures 82.7 by 29.5 inches including its tassels and it comes in 30 designs.

Xrdss Neck Scarf ]

This fringed scarf is a good choice if you want a minimalistic look. It comes in 17 colors when sold individually but is also sold in sets of three, with each being a different color.

Your Smile Neck Scarf ]

This scarf comes in 38 fun designs rather than the usual single-color scarf. This way the scarf becomes a bigger fashion choice. It’s made of voile and measures 63 by 27.5 inches.

Best winter scarves

Aonal Winter Scarf ]

This scarf uses a knit design that works to both keep you warm on cold days and add a splash of style. It comes in nine colors.

Furtalk Winter Scarf ]

This cashmere-feeling scarf is made of ecologically friendly materials but doesn’t sacrifice softness and warmth. It comes in 17 colors and measures 78 by 28 inches.

Wander Agio Winter Scarf ]

This scarf is made of wool to be among the warmest and coziest you can get. It comes in 16 colors and measures 83 by 23 inches and includes some stretch.

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Jordan C. Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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Best tools to give as gifts

Thu, 12/07/2023 - 23:15
Which tools are best to give as gifts?

We all have that person in our life who’s afraid of, or maybe just ambivalent toward, home repairs.

You can usually tell who this is because they have a pile of unhung paintings in the corner, their drain needs a good snaking, and their doorknob is about to fall off. Instead of rolling your eyes or telling them off, remember this: There’s nothing a little elbow grease, the right tools, and a helpful YouTube tutorial can’t fix.

We’ve compiled a list of the most important items the not-so-handy person in your life needs to take care of their home, so you can nudge them in the right direction.

BLACK+DECKER Home Tool Kit and Accessory Kit ]

This BLACK+DECKER Tool Kit comes with a cordless drill, claw hammer, tape measure, utility knife, and dozens of other useful tools your loved one can use around the house. With this tool kit, you can rest assured that your loved ones will have everything they need to handle household repairs.

Omont Drain Clog Remover Tool ]

When it comes to taking care of our drains, we often forget about it until we notice the murky water pooling in the sink or tub. Most of the time, it’s nothing a dose of Drano can’t fix, but sometimes it’s easier to remove the clog than flush it down. In this instance, we recommend gifting this drain snaking bundle, which comes with six plastic drain snakes and a stainless steel clawed cleaner. It’s nasty work, but they can handle it.

GearLight LED Tactical Flashlight ]

Sometimes all it takes to make a repair is being able to see what is wrong. With an affordable and highly versatile flashlight, your loved one will quickly be able to shed some light on any problem.

Craftsman Tape Measure, 30 feet ]

How long does that curtain rod need to be? Is the hallway really wide enough to get that new dresser into the bedroom? How big should the throw rug be? A simple tape measure is a definite must-have for every soon-to-be homeowner or apartment dweller.

Gorilla Tape Duct Tape ]

Speaking of tape, you can never have enough. Gorilla tape holds things together with incredible strength, painter’s tape will drastically cut down on touch-ups, double-sided tape can fix that curling carpet, and some Teflon tape might be all your loved one needs to stop that annoying leak.

Gorilla Super Glue Gel ]

You may know that some sawdust, a little Gorilla glue, and a wood screw are all you need to make your chairs strong and sturdy once again. But for your not-so-handy loved one, super glue can also mend an endless array of items from broken tiles to fractured figurines.

WD-40 ]

Sometimes, the problem isn’t needing to fasten two items together; it’s getting them apart. Whether it’s a squeaky hinge, a non-opening lock, or a stuck window, often, all that’s needed to fix the situation is a little lubricant. A stalwart in this area is WD-40. Not only can this oil lubricate, but it can also clean and protect.

Pro tip: Remind the user to be careful and read all precautions when applying tape, glue, and lubricants because improper usage can make a problem worse instead of remedying the situation.

3M Home Dust Mask ]

The most important must-haves for any at-home repair job are the ones that keep you safe. Blistered hands, dust in your lungs, and splinters in your eye are all very real hazards. To combat them make sure your loved one owns (and uses) work gloves, a dust mask, and safety glasses.

Fancii Folding Pocket Utility Knife ]

One of the most useful tools for a not-so-handy person is a utility knife. Whether they’re trying to open a particularly tricky Amazon Prime box or they need to do some precision cutting for a craft project, Fancii’s Folding Pocket Utility Knife will be up to the task.

simplehuman Toilet Plunger ]

The first time you need a plunger will be the last time you’re ever without one. Plunging is one of the most common repairs an owner or a renter performs, so it pays to get the best. A plunger will let your loved one flush their problems away, literally.

Little Giant Ladder Systems Stepladder ]

You can’t fix what you can’t reach. Even if it’s just replacing a lightbulb in the hallway ceiling, your loved one is going to need a ladder. Little Giant Ladder Systems’ 6-foot Stepladder is a sturdy model by one of the top names in the ladder-making industry.

Pro tip: When climbing or descending a ladder, having at least three points of contact between your body and the ladder (two hands and a foot or one hand and two feet) will help prevent most accidents.

STANLEY FatMax Hammer ]

Even if everything in your loved one’s house is hung up with Command Strips. At some point, even if they never plan on driving a nail, they’re going to need to tap something back into place. To do that, you’ll need to have a hammer on hand. And you may want to send your loved one some nails, just in case.

Klein Tools 11-in-1 Screwdriver ]

Every screw head is a slightly different shape, size, or depth, which means you’re going to need more than one screwdriver. Instead of buying a set of 100 screwdrivers, however, the right multi-bit screwdriver will easily handle all the situations your loved one may face.

Amazon Basics 5-Piece CR-V Locking Pliers and Wire Cutters Set ]

Pliers may be the best tool for the not-so-handy person. They’re strong, adaptable to a wide variety of situations, and require no instructions before use. They function like a powerful thumb and forefinger and are equally effective at holding something in place or twisting it off. Start your loved one off with an assortment so they always have the right tool.

BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster ]

After every repair, there’s going to be some mess that needs to be cleaned up. That’s what makes a tool like BLACK+DECKER’s Cordless 16V Dustbuster such an essential item. This powerful, bagless cleaner will help your loved ones quickly tidy up a repair so they can admire their handiwork. They may even be inspired to use the dustbuster in other places around the house that need it.

First Aid Only Emergency First Aid Kit ]

If you’re sending your not-so-handy loved one a package of all the tools you think they need, why not throw in a first aid kit, just in case? This kit from First Aid Only has all the basics your loved one will need to deal with cuts, scrapes, burns, swelling, and pain.

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Allen Foster writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

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12 best gifts for your teen’s first car

Thu, 12/07/2023 - 23:12
What gifts are best with a teen’s first car?

It’s an exciting time when your teen starts driving. They’re growing up, taking on new responsibilities and there’s a ton you want them to be prepared for when they get their first car. There’s maintenance to consider and gas money, as well as making sure they are prepared for emergencies. If you don’t have a tire inflator at home, now might be the time to get one. It can be scary watching your teen drive around in their car for the first time. You want them to be safe, and you want them to have everything they need to be off on their own. So, what exactly does a teen need out on the road?

Tools for teen drivers

LE LED Small Tactical Flashlight ]

It’s always good to keep a flashlight in the car, and this little water-resistant flashlight will go a long way no matter where your teen goes. It’s long-lasting with a zoomable focus and can light the way up to 492 feet ahead. It requires three AAA batteries that come included.

Mallory 26-inch Snow Brush with Foam Grip ]

Depending on where you live or where your teen is going, a snow brush can be a must-have item. This one features sturdy brushes on one end and a 4-inch wide scraper blade for ice on the other side. The foam handle makes it easy to hold without fumbling.

JACO ElitePro Digital Tire Pressure Gauge ]

Whether your teen is driving a used car or a new one, a tire pressure gauge is always good to have along for the ride. This one provides a precise read on a screen that is easy to see, and batteries come included.

COOGEO Roadside Assistance Emergency Kit ]

This 22-piece tool kit comes with all the tools your teen could need out on the road. Buying each of these items individually can get pricey, so the set is a more affordable option. It includes jumper cables, gloves, tweezers and more all in one convenient carrying case.

Tech for teen drivers

Anker Car Charger ]

A car charger ensures that their phone won’t die while they’re out. This one is lightweight, durable and features two USB ports so that you can charge more than one device simultaneously.

Thopeb Self Defense Keychain Siren ]

Available in six colors, this little keychain features a pull pin that will set off a loud alarm and a flashing LED light in case of emergencies. It’s durable, lightweight and can be stored anywhere. The battery is included, but you might need to change it over time.

Vyncs 4G LTE GPS Tracker for Vehicles ]

This GPS tracker requires no monthly fee and can help you keep track of your teen while driving in real time. This might be more of a gift for you than your teen, but if it makes you more comfortable with them being out on the road, everyone wins.

Garmin Drive 51 USA LM GPS Navigator System with Lifetime Maps ]

If you’re worried about your teen getting distracted by their phone while they’re using it as a GPS, consider getting them an actual GPS. This one is portable, easy to use and useful if a phone dies, but the driver still needs directions.

Accessories for teen drivers

Rand McNally 2023 Large Scale Road Atlas ]

A spiral-bound map can’t lose power like a phone can, so it’s always helpful to have it in the glove box just in case. This 2023 road atlas is up-to-date with large maps of every U.S. state plus over 350 city and national park maps.

InnoGear Car USB Essential Oil Diffuser ]

This 2.75 by 5.11-inch essential oil diffuser fits in a car’s cup holder and is easy to operate. There’s a continuous mode and an intermittent mode, plus it comes with a USB charging cable. It comes in a black or white casing, and water is required for operation.

Thrive First Aid Kit ]

Hopefully, your recipient will never need this, but it never hurts to have a first aid kit on hand. This set comes with 291 basic first aid tools like bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, tweezers and more in a red fabric carrying bag.

Red Rain Universal Seat Covers ]

Available in 13 jewel-toned color schemes, these leather seat covers fit in just about any car and are stitched beautifully. They are comfortable, water-resistant and durable, plus they are nonslip. Each set comes with four backrest covers for the backseat and four headrest covers with two front seat covers and one bench cover.

Why practical gifts are the best for new drivers 

Extras like steering wheel covers and dashboard lights have become pretty popular with teens over the last few years, but those are probably things your new driver will want to pick out themselves. It’s a unique opportunity for them to personalize their own space. However, when it comes to practical items, chances are not all teens will know what they should be keeping in the car until they suddenly need it. That’s where these gifts can come in to save the day. Teens might not necessarily love them right from the start, but they’ll be glad to have easy access to them over time.

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Emily Verona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

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