The Smoking Truth

Episode 62 Don’t Worry, I’ll Be Gentle

 
In Episode 62 of 'The Smoking Truth,' join Eric as he delves into the heated scuffle between the Volusia County School system and the Volusia County Council. Special guests Troy Kent, Volusia County Council Member, and Mike Scudiero join the discussion. Eric navigates the complexities, shifting gears to dissect Volusia County Schools' test scores.
Troy inquires about discussions on compressions and teacher pay, prompting a candid exploration. Dana takes the spotlight, examining the county council's role in public education. The conversation evolves, switching gears to building and development, with a spotlight on Voca Funding for Domestic Violence. Tune in for an insightful exploration of local dynamics and critical issues facing Volusia County. 

Episode 61 Chicken or Fish?

In this episode of The Smoking Truth, the hosts dive into a range of compelling topics with their guests, Councilman Danny Robins and Greg Gimbert.
Kicking off with a recap of last week's meltdown by Eric, Greg shares his perspective on the triggering event. Dana adds a humorous touch by explaining the differences between a "Teste-bestie" and a "Breastie-breastie," sparking laughter among the guests and listeners.
Soon after, Dana steers the conversation into a hot topic: the potential opening of Tiger Bay. Councilman Danny Robins draws attention to the identity crisis in Volusia County, igniting a discussion about the area's evolving dynamics and challenges.
Shifting gears, Dana emphasizes the need for spaces where children can play freely, highlighting an essential aspect often overlooked in community development.
As the episode progresses, the spotlight turns toward the School Board's request for additional funding to enhance security in specific schools. Eric and the guests dissect this request, delving into the nuances and implications of allocating resources for increased officer presence in educational institutions.
Throughout the episode, the hosts and guests offer diverse perspectives, engaging insights, and thought-provoking discussions on pressing local issues, leaving listeners with a better understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by their community.

Episode 60 Healthcare and Eric’s Meltdown Over a Threesome

  In Episode 60 of "The Smoking Truth," we delve deep into the tangled web of healthcare with special guest Mike Chimento, an insurance professional shedding light on Florida's escalating health insurance costs.
 
We kick off with an in-depth exploration of the Affordable Care Act, dissecting its impacts and implications. Dana fearlessly tackles the colossal issue of Big Pharma's influence on the system, sparking a fiery discussion on the profitability of healthcare.
 
As the conversation flows, Eric takes an unexpected turn, vehemently resisting a discussion on colonoscopies, sending the team on a hilarious yet informative tangent. 
 
Amidst laughter, we explore strategies for achieving fairer, more accessible healthcare for all, utilizing the infamous "donut hole" to one's advantage.
 
However, the title takes a surprising turn as Eric's meltdown over a threesome (or lack thereof) becomes a highlight of the episode, weaving humor into the gravity of healthcare debates.
 
Shifting gears, we confront the overcrowding crisis in schools, dissecting a story from Wesh News about school rezoning. Dana passionately argues for data-driven solutions, highlighting the repercussions of rubber-stamping developments without considering teacher shortages, particularly prevalent in Volusia county.
 
The episode culminates in a political uproar led by Eric, sparked by a political figure's battery charges in Florida. His impassioned rant intertwines politics and sexual behavior, igniting a spirited exchange among the hosts.
 
For further insights or inquiries, reach out to Mike at Mike@TheChimentoGroup.com, ensuring the discussion on healthcare continues far beyond the episode's end.

Replay of Episode 21 Where Shane Story and Dr. Christina Raimundo delve deep into the pressing issues surrounding Volusia County Schools

Tune in to a riveting replay of "The Smoking Truth" Episode 21, where Shane Story and Dr. Christina Raimundo delve deep into the pressing issues surrounding Volusia County Schools. Unveiling a treasure trove of solutions, they explore innovative strategies and practical measures aimed at revolutionizing the educational landscape. From addressing systemic challenges to fostering a culture of inclusivity, this episode is a roadmap towards enhancing the quality of education for every student. Dive into this enlightening conversation that promises insights, inspiration, and tangible pathways toward a brighter future for Volusia County Schools.

Repeat Episode 53 Fuel Farm in Ormond Beach A Conversation with Lindsey Pate and Rebecca Mangali

Our Host are taking the next two weeks off for the Holiday Break. Please enjoy one of our more popular shows as we wait for their return!
 
In this episode of "The Smoking Truth," join us for an enlightening discussion about the intriguing Fuel Farm project in Ormond Beach, brought to life by Belvedere Terminal. Our special guests, Lindsey Pate and Rebecca Mangali, PA-C, share their insights and expertise on this remarkable venture, shedding light on its significance, impact, and potential for the community. Tune in as we explore the intricacies of this innovative project and how it's shaping the future of Ormond Beach. From environmental considerations to its role in local development, we delve deep into the details. To learn more about the Fuel Farm project and its potential benefits, visit ProtectOrmondBeach.com, where you can find additional information and resources related to this exciting initiative. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation that brings you the truth behind the Fuel Farm in Ormond Beach and the efforts to create a sustainable and thriving community.

Episode 59: ”It’s a Different Kind of Animal...”

In this episode of The Smoking Truth, Eric dives into the latest political happenings before introducing a special guest, Jason Leslie, the aspiring Mayor of Ormond Beach. The show kicks off with a quick recap of Eric’s recent political ventures, setting the stage for a riveting conversation.
 
Jason Leslie takes center stage as he shares his background and profound love for the Ormond Beach area. The hosts are eager to explore Jason's journey into the world of politics, prompting the question: What was his "Ah ha" moment that fueled his desire to run for public office?
 
The discussion takes an informative turn as the hosts delve into the intricacies of state taxes, shedding light on who bears the financial burden. The topic then shifts to a critical issue: how to effectively control growth in Florida. Jason provides insights and perspectives on navigating this complex challenge.
 
With a dynamic exchange, the hosts and Jason explore his aspirations for the City of Ormond Beach. The episode's title, "It's a Different Kind of Animal...," reflects the unique challenges and opportunities the city faces.
 
Fueling the conversation, the hosts inquire about Jason's stance on the Fuel terminal for Ormond Beach, delving into the potential impact on the community and environment. Dana then poses a crucial question: What are the first three things Jason plans to tackle upon being elected mayor?
 
To round off the episode, the hosts and Jason discuss campaign contributions, shining a light on the individuals and entities that have supported Jason's mayoral journey. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation that captures the essence of Jason Leslie's vision for Ormond Beach.

Episode 57 of ”The Smoking Truth” titled ”Daytona Beach Uh-Oh,”

Dana and Eric dive into a lively discussion filled with intriguing topics. The episode kicks off with an exciting announcement of "The Mad Pair Podcast," Eric's son's new show. 
 
But before delving into the main topics, the hosts have some fun as Dana showcases her stunning new blonde locks and rebrands herself as "Platinum McCool."
 
The show begins in earnest with Dana taking charge of the "House Keeping" duties, enthusiastically listing all the different platforms where listeners can find their show. Teasing upcoming guests on future episodes adds an element of suspense to the mix.
 
Dana candidly addresses her unique situation, sharing the fact that her cancer doctor allows her one cigar a month, emphasizing that it's all about quality, not quantity.
 
Eric then takes the stage to discuss rumors surrounding questionable financial practices among City Council members in Daytona. 
 
Dana shares her reasons for missing this week's city council meeting, setting the stage for an intriguing conversation.
 
The hosts shift gears and delve into the world of developers, shedding light on the controversial practice of switching lanes and deals after obtaining approvals. The City of Daytona is evidently not without its share of complexities.
 
Eric leads the discussion into the legal landscape of Florida, where an abundance of lawsuits is raising eyebrows. The state seems to be becoming increasingly "legal happy."
 
Dana follows up with a thought-provoking segment on special assessments, stressing the importance of public action against them, as they impact the community in various ways.
 
The episode takes a turn towards social issues when Dana raises the topic of the 6-week abortion ban, inviting a reflective and perhaps controversial conversation.
 
Tune in to Episode 58 of "The Smoking Truth" for a rollercoaster of topics, from local government scandals to legal complexities and social issues, all under the engaging and lively guidance of your hosts, Dana and Eric.

The Smoking Truth Episode 57 - ”We Need a Scalpel, Not a Hammer”

In Episode 57 of The Smoking Truth, the hosts kick things off by delving into their shared love for music, particularly Elvis songs. The episode is not only about cigars and conversations but a unique blend of various topics. Here's a breakdown of the discussion points covered in this episode:
Show Introduction for New Listeners: The hosts take a moment to introduce the show for any new listeners, providing a brief overview of what The Smoking Truth is all about.
Sponsors: They make it clear that they are now accepting sponsors for the show.
"Who's Your Lover" Segment: The hosts engage in their regular segment, "Who's Your Lover," where they talk about the cigars they are enjoying this week. This discussion leads into a more profound exploration of the concept of "quality of life" versus "quantity of life."
Cleaner Language: The hosts acknowledge that they've been reducing their use of explicit language in recent episodes and express their commitment to maintaining cleaner language throughout the show.
Guest Name Bowl: Dana proposes starting a bowl for guest names, hinting at the possibility of inviting guests onto the show in the future.
Local Health Options: They briefly touch on the available health options in their local area, potentially discussing services or resources that may be of interest to their audience.
Local Rumor Rant: Eric goes on a passionate rant about a local rumor related to SB102, a matter that seems to have captured his attention. The hosts end up devoting a significant portion of the episode to discussing issues surrounding SB102.
Sheriff's Letter: Dana discusses a letter written by Sheriff Chitwood addressed to the judge presiding over a recent case involving a Daytona officer killed in the line of duty.
Parent's Letter: Dana also talks about a letter she received from a concerned parent detailing instances of kids vandalizing a local park and bullying another child while waiting for the school bus.
This episode of The Smoking Truth offers a rich mix of personal insights, community concerns, and engaging conversations, demonstrating the hosts' commitment to delivering meaningful content to their audience.

Episode 56 Doesn’t Have to Be One or the Other...

Episode 56 of "The Smoking Truth" brings you a diverse mix of topics and discussions. Eric kicks off the show by gushing about the delightful fall weather in sunny Florida. Meanwhile, Dana takes the opportunity to showcase her brand new motorcycle boots, adding a dash of style to the episode.
In the spirit of civic engagement, Eric invites guests to join the conversation regarding the upcoming elections in Volusia County, emphasizing the importance of local participation in democracy.
The focus then shifts to the Volusia County Bike-toberfest, a thrilling event starting today. Our hosts underscore the significance of biker safety with the mantra, "Look Twice, Save a Life." However, the conversation takes an unexpected turn as Eric shares tales of his culinary mishaps, leading to a discussion of their shared love for certain foods.
"The Smoking Truth" delves into the intriguing world of political moles, examining their roles and the challenges they present in sourcing valuable information.
Dana adds an element of intrigue by revealing a leaked conversation she had with a commissioner at their house, leaving listeners eager for more details.
Shifting gears, Dana highlights the upcoming Domestic Violence Community Awareness Night, shedding light on the critical issue of domestic violence and the need for awareness.
The episode continues with a deeper exploration of the rules governing judges and the staggering number of injunctions they issue.
In a heartfelt conclusion, Eric expresses gratitude for the dedication of veterans, first responders, and all those in service roles as Veterans Day approaches.
Episode Title: "Doesn't Have to Be One or the Other..." promises an engaging mix of topics, offering listeners a little something for everyone, from politics to personal stories and important community events.

Episode 55: ”Impact of Senate Bill 102 on DeBary and Central Florida”

In this enlightening episode of "Smoking Truth," we dive deep into the ramifications of Senate Bill 102 and its effects on the charming town of DeBary and the broader Central Florida region. Our special guest, the City Manager of DeBary, Carmen Rosalinda, joins us to shed light on the crucial details.
 
Carmen begins by sharing his impressive qualifications as City Manager, setting the stage for an informative discussion. He then delves into the heart of the matter – Senate Bill 102 – and how it's poised to reshape the landscape of DeBary. The bill, which has significant implications for developers, is dissected in detail.
 
For those unfamiliar with the term, Carmen provides a comprehensive explanation of PUDs (Planned Unit Developments) in the context of SB 102, illuminating their significance.
 
But that's not all! Our host, Dana, adds her perspective to the conversation, bringing in her unique take on SB 102 and its implications for the community. The multifaceted nature of the bill keeps the discussion engaging and informative.
 
Eric, another member of our dynamic panel, draws attention to the rapid growth Florida is experiencing, emphasizing that local governments, including DeBary, may have to consider tax increases to support the ever-growing demand for infrastructure. He raises the vital question of accountability in the implementation of this bill and ensuring that tax exemptions are administered correctly.
 
Join us in this thought-provoking episode as we unravel the intricacies of Senate Bill 102 and explore how it will shape the future of DeBary and Central Florida. This discussion promises to be a valuable resource for anyone concerned about the evolving landscape of their community and the state at large.