The Smoking Truth

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.
 
 
 
 

Episode 54 - ”Chase for the Best Sugar Daddy

In this episode of "The Smoking Truth," Dana and Eric reunite after a two-week break, catching up on their lives and sharing their excitement for being back on air. The show kicks off with a lively discussion about the legendary Snoop Dogg and his undeniable coolness.
Eric takes the spotlight to rave about the recently released Powstanie Box Press War Bear Cigar, sharing his thoughts on its exceptional flavor and craftsmanship.
The team then dives into the highlights of Dana's recent event, "Wig Out For Cancer," and reminds listeners that the event's calendar, featuring Volusiagunsandhoses.com, is still available for purchase on their website.
Eric gives a shout-out to the inspiring ladies featured in the previous week's episode, "The Ormond Fuel Farm," and offers his reflections on the subject after a week of contemplation.
Dana introduces a new segment titled "Sick and Tired," where she passionately vents about the things that bother her.
Eric tackles the topic of AG re-zoning tricks employed by developers, shedding light on the challenges faced by communities.
Dana uncovers Deltona's lack of compliance in fire safety, shedding light on a crucial issue that demands attention.
The duo goes over Dana's 2024 city council wish list, discussing her vision for the future of the city.
In an engaging segment, Dana shares insights about Stacy Cantou and her crusade for homeless veterans, applauding her efforts to make a difference.
The episode concludes with Dana explaining a legal matter where the City of Deltona settled with a resident, offering valuable insights into local issues.
Tune in to Episode 54 of "The Smoking Truth" for an entertaining and informative discussion on a wide range of topics, all infused with Dana and Eric's unique style and perspective.

Episode 53: Fuel Farm in Ormond Beach - A Conversation with Lindsey Pate and Rebecca Mangali, PA-C

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 52: ”Reviving Deltona: A Citizen’s Guide”

In this special episode of The Smoking Truth, Eric is off on a globetrotting adventure, but the show must go on! Dana takes the helm and sits down with a passionate local advocate, Brandy White, for an in-depth conversation about how citizens can play a pivotal role in rejuvenating the city of Deltona.
 
Deltona has faced its share of challenges, and Brandy White has been at the forefront of community efforts to bring about positive change. 
During this episode, she shares her insights, strategies, and experiences on how individuals can contribute to getting Deltona back on track.
 
Topics covered in this episode include:
Community Engagement: Brandy discusses the importance of citizen engagement and how even small actions can make a big difference in building a stronger community.
Neighborhood Revitalization: Learn about the projects and initiatives Brandy has been involved in to improve neighborhoods within Deltona and how you can get involved in similar efforts.
Supporting Local Businesses: Discover the vital role that supporting local businesses plays in the city's economic recovery and how you can be a conscientious consumer.
Education and Youth Development: Brandy shares her thoughts on empowering the youth of Deltona through education and mentorship programs.
Environmental Initiatives: Find out about local environmental issues and the steps Deltona residents are taking to protect the natural beauty of their city.
Collaboration and Networking: Brandy emphasizes the power of community collaboration and provides tips on how to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations.
 
Join Dana and Brandy for an inspiring and informative conversation that will leave you motivated to take action and be a part of Deltona's journey toward a brighter future. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, this episode offers valuable insights on how you can contribute to the revitalization of Deltona and make a positive impact on your community.

Episode 51 - Punctuality, Cuss Words, and Elvis: A Recap

In this episode of The Smoking Truth Podcast, join Eric and Dana as they delve into a variety of captivating topics. Eric kicks things off by highlighting the importance of punctuality in today's fast-paced world. 
 
They then address a pressing issue – the excessive use of cuss words on their show – and discuss their efforts to do better.
 
Listeners can look forward to a sneak peek of what's in store for future episodes, including a preview of the Fuel Farm from last week's show and exciting news about upcoming special informative guests.
 
Dana shares insights from a recent League of Cities meeting in South Daytona, shedding light on the significance of staying informed about local events. 
 
The duo engages in a spirited debate about government involvement in birth control issues, exploring where the line should be drawn.
 
Of course, SB102, their favorite recurring topic, makes an appearance as they offer fresh perspectives. 
 
Dana also reveals a personal quirk – the way hearing Elvis songs makes her weak in the knees.
 
Finally, they review last week's show events, discussing what may or may not have gone awry and diving into the nuances of First Amendment rights, discerning what's acceptable and what's not.
 
Tune in for an episode brimming with engaging conversations, lively debates, and candid exchanges. The Smoking Truth Podcast keeps it real as they explore the facts, challenge norms, and seek the truth.
 

Episode 50: Navigating the Political Landscape, Civic Engagement, and More

Description:
Join us for a milestone 50th episode of "The Smoking Truth Podcast," where Dana and Eric dive into a wide range of thought-provoking topics and engaging discussions.
 
The show kicks off with a shameless plug for Cigar Hustler in Deltona, Florida, setting the tone for a candid and unfiltered conversation.
 
In this episode:
We shine a spotlight on "Boots" from American Property Solutions and his remarkable compassion for the community.
Dana makes sure Eric knows she cares by gifting him a tangible symbol of her affection - a plastic "F***."
Exciting news as Dana announces Doctor Primose and Georgia as the MCs for her upcoming "Wigout for Cancer" event on September 29, 2023.
 
The episode takes a thought-provoking turn as Eric passionately rants about the prevalence of politicians over the age of 70 and the challenges they face while addressing the public.
 
Dana and Eric explore the idea of implementing an annual driving test for individuals over the age of 65, raising important questions about safety and aging drivers.
 
Dana shares a personal and revealing account of her recent expletive-filled outburst at a city council meeting, shedding light on the emotional toll it has taken.
 
The hosts delve deeper into the deteriorating state of public decorum at City Council meetings, advocating for a more constructive approach to voicing grievances - scheduling appointments or engaging in meaningful discussions rather than resorting to brief podium rants.
 
The episode challenges perceptions as it highlights that city council members are people too, discussing the disconnect between the time spent in their roles and the compensation they receive.
 
Our heroes then turn their attention to the proposed Ormond Beach fuel farm issues, addressing environmental concerns, zoning challenges, and county-related considerations.
 
Finally, they close the show by delving into an incident involving Senator Wright, leaving listeners with much food for thought.
 
Tune in to Episode 50 of "The Smoking Truth Podcast" for an insightful, unfiltered, and thought-provoking journey through a diverse range of topics, all delivered with candor and humor by your hosts, Dana and Eric.

Episode 49: Halifax Health Unveiled

In the 49th episode of "The Smoking Truth," Eric kicks off the show with insights into their guest selection process, shedding light on how and why they choose the remarkable individuals who grace their platform.
 
Following Eric's introduction, Dana takes center stage to promote a significant event close to her heart: "Wig out for Cancer" scheduled for September 29th at the Deltona Center. It's an event that promises not only entertainment but also support for a meaningful cause.
 
Eric then extends a warm shout-out to Mr. Vasquez, the mayor of Deltona, and the resilient people of Florida's Big Bend region, who recently weathered the challenges posed by Hurricane Idalia.
 
This week, the spotlight is on Halifax Health, represented by Victor Ramos, affectionately known as "Mr. 305," and Ben Eby, the Vice President and Administrator of Halifax Hospital Port Orange & Medical Center of Deltona. Ben provides a fascinating insight into the new services offered by Halifax Health, particularly their enhanced Intensive Care capabilities, which enable them to care for the most critical patients at any given time.
 
The group delves into the intricacies of how the healthcare system determines hospital assignments for ambulance services, shedding light on the critical decisions made in moments of crisis.
 
Victor passionately shares how he actively engages with the community to introduce the new hospital's services to the residents, emphasizing the importance of community outreach.
 
Transitioning into a vital topic, the discussion shifts to mental health services offered by Halifax Health. Dana passionately underscores the significance of addressing mental health and substance abuse issues in Volusia County, highlighting the challenges of securing funding for these essential services.
 
As the conversation deepens, the group humorously explores the misconception that mental health isn't as attention-grabbing as other health topics, despite its immense importance. The challenges of securing government funding for such services come to the forefront, interspersed with lighthearted banter.
 
In an unexpected turn, the mood lightens further as they playfully attempt to persuade Eric to sign up for a colonoscopy at Halifax Health, discussing the possibility of live-streaming the procedure for their audience.
 
The episode wraps up with the group sharing their personal experiences and insights gained from their visit to the new Halifax Health Hospital, offering a glimpse into the world of healthcare in their community.

Episode 48 Volusia Issues

The Smoking Truth episode 48 
Special Substitute Host Greg Gimber from Volusia Issues, Joe Hannoush and William Sell DeBary City Commissioner.
 
These Gentlemen take the show in a different direction going thru some important local issues.

Episode 47: ”Where Does Volusia County Want To Go”

Episode Description: "Where Does Volusia County Want To Go"
 
In this episode of The Smoking Truth Podcast, hosts Dana and Eric dive deep into the heart of Volusia County's future with a special guest, Randy Dye, who is vying for the position of Volusia County Council Chair. The trio engages in a lively discussion on various topics, from cancer fundraising initiatives to the challenges facing commercial development and the county's overall vision.
 
To kick things off, Dana and Eric enthusiastically promote an upcoming cancer awareness event, "Wig out for Cancer," scheduled for the end of September. They also announce the release of the "Gun and Hoses" calendar, a creative fundraising effort to support cancer research.
 
The spotlight then shifts to Mr. Dye, who passionately shares the motivations behind his decision to run for the Volusia County Council Chair. He outlines his vision for the county and emphasizes the need for strategic leadership to address the pressing issues it faces.
 
The hosts take a critical look at the State Government, identifying gaps and inconsistencies in its approach. Dana, in particular, voices her opinions on these shortcomings, shedding light on the challenges that stem from such limitations.
 
Switching gears, Dana raises an essential question: What are the barriers and challenges that hinder new commercial development in Volusia County? The group engages in a thoughtful exploration of this topic, considering factors like regulations, infrastructure, and economic incentives.
 
Eric steers the conversation toward workforce development, highlighting the importance of hands-on training and skills-based education to attract commercial investment. The trio discusses ways to align the needs of businesses with training programs to create a robust and relevant workforce.
 
A central theme of the episode emerges as the hosts and guest ponder the future of Volusia County. With passion and concern, they explore the concept of a county lacking a clear vision for its trajectory. Together, they brainstorm ideas and potential paths to establish a strong direction for Volusia County's growth and prosperity.
 
As the episode draws to a close, Mr. Dye shares his bold aspiration for Volusia County to become a vital supplier to Brevard County's space industry. His vision resonates with the hosts, encapsulating the forward-looking spirit that the county needs to thrive in the modern era.
 
Listeners are in for a thought-provoking and inspiring episode that tackles vital issues facing Volusia County while showcasing the determination and optimism needed to shape its future.

The Smoking Truth Episode 46 - Unveiling County Dynamics with Special Guest Pat Northey

Title: The Smoking Truth Episode 46 - Unveiling County Dynamics with Special Guest Pat Northey
 
Description:
In this riveting episode of The Smoking Truth, join Special Guest Pat Northey, and Host Eric, and Dana as they delve deep into the intricacies of county politics and governance. Special guest Pat Northey, renowned for her insights and experience, takes center stage to shed light on recent county board meeting developments.
 
Pat Northey opens the discussion by recounting a perplexing incident at the last county board meeting, where a topic was pulled for discussion seemingly without valid justification. As the conversation unfolds, Pat shares staggering figures that highlight the success of her programs, all while maneuvering around limited input from the county board.
 
Amidst this backdrop, Eric raises poignant questions about the utilization of state funds - both the potential correct and incorrect applications. The group engages in a thought-provoking dialogue, examining how public money is allocated and managed, especially within the context of Pat's programs.
 
A crucial concern raised by Eric revolves around the management of lands acquired by the county. He questions whether the county possesses adequate resources and staff to effectively maintain these lands and cater to their unique requirements. The trio dissects the delicate balance between resource allocation and land conservation.
 
Dana, with her characteristic candor, expresses her profound 
admiration for the individual members of the county board. However, she delivers a candid critique of the board's collective performance, identifying discrepancies in their decision-making process. The conversation takes a turn as Dana navigates through the complexities of group dynamics versus individual contributions.
 
Shifting gears, the episode touches on an exciting development: the Brevard Zoo's plans for an aquarium. Drawing inspiration from esteemed aquariums in Tampa and Atlanta, the zoo aims to deliver an exceptional aquatic experience to the community. The hosts and Pat delve into the potential benefits and challenges such a venture might entail.
 
Concluding the episode on a poignant note, Dana shares her year-long endeavor involving domestic violence. She unveils a program that seeks to empower judges to delve deeper into domestic violence cases, specifically examining recurring instances where women report abuse by the same individuals. This initiative sparks a powerful discussion about supporting survivors and fostering systemic change.
 
Join Pat Northey, Eric, and Dana as they peel back the layers of county politics, finance, conservation, and social justice in an episode that promises insights, revelations, and a drive for positive change. Tune in to The Smoking Truth Episode 46 for a thought-provoking journey through the heart of local governance.