Impaired Driving - 30% Of Traffic Fatalities

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Driving impaired remains one of the most dangerous and entirely preventable threats on Florida’s roadways. Each year, lives are lost and families are permanently impacted due to drivers operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. One in three fatal traffic crashes in the state involves an impaired driver and accounts for more than 30% of all traffic fatalities. These incidents are preventable and result from decisions that can be avoided. That is why this March, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), and its division, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), urge all motorists to make responsible choices before getting into the driver’s seat.

Throughout March, FLHSMV and FHP will emphasize the dangers and consequences of impaired driving. While law enforcement continues to monitor Florida’s roadways, preventing impaired driving requires the commitment of every driver.

“Every day, our troopers encounter situations that could have been prevented with one responsible decision to not get behind the wheel while impaired. Whether the impairment is caused by alcohol, drugs, or fatigue, the result can be life‑changing in an instant,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze. “We urge every driver to recognize the responsibility they carry each time they start their vehicle. Every safe choice behind the wheel protects a family, a community, and a future that cannot be replaced.”

Alcohol‑Impaired Driving

Alcohol remains the leading factor in impaired‑driving crashes, injuries, and fatalities in Florida. Over the last five years, alcohol alone accounted for:84.4% of impaired‑driving crashes
35.7% of impaired‑driving fatalities
80.7% of impaired‑driving injuries

DUI and open‑container violations also historically increase during the month of March.

Penalties for DUI can include substantial fines, license revocation, and potential incarceration. A DUI conviction remains on a driving record for 75 years. Florida law prohibits possession of alcohol by individuals under 21, providing alcohol to anyone under 21, and possession of open alcoholic beverage containers in vehicles.

Impairment begins with the first drink, and judgment is the first ability affected.

Drug‑Impaired Driving

Drug impairment presents significant risks and varies widely depending on the substance. Unlike alcohol, there is no established impairment limit for drugs. Marijuana is the most prevalent drug found in impaired‑driving crashes, particularly among drivers ages 10–24. Individuals ages 25–29 represent the highest number of drug‑related crashes and positive drug test results.

Between 2018 and 2023, Florida recorded:4,000+ drug‑confirmed crashes
Nearly 2,300 drug‑confirmed fatalities

Marijuana also acts as an impairment multiplier when combined with alcohol, prescription medications, or other drugs. Driving under the influence of drugs carries the same penalties as alcohol impairment.

Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving poses significant safety risks and can result in serious or fatal crashes. Fatigue slows reaction time, impairs judgment, and may cause microsleep episodes that leave drivers unable to respond to changing roadway conditions. Drowsiness can occur on its own, but it is also frequently a secondary form of impairment caused by alcohol, drugs, or certain medications—further compounding the danger. High‑risk groups include young drivers, shift workers, commercial drivers, and individuals with untreated sleep disorders. Motorists are encouraged to rest before driving, take breaks every 100 miles or two hours, and utilize Florida’s rest areas and service plazas.

FHP Enforcement and Drug Recognition Expertise

FHP Troopers and law enforcement officers statewide are trained to identify impaired drivers. Florida has 303 certified Drug Recognition Experts (DREs), including 61 within FHP and nine instructors. DREs complete extensive academic and field training in physiology, vital signs, standardized field sobriety testing, and drug categories, followed by a rigorous certification process. Their expertise is critical to keeping impaired drivers off the road and ensuring that dangerous behavior is identified quickly and accurately. By recognizing impairment in all its forms, these highly trained officers help prevent crashes, protect lives, and keep Florida’s roadways safe for everyone.

Recognizing Impairment

Impairment affects a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely long before obvious signs appear. The five primary indicators of impairment include:

Slowed reaction time
Limited short‑term memory functions
Decreased hand‑eye coordination
Weakened concentration
Difficulty perceiving time and distance

These effects can result from alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medications, over‑the‑counter substances, or fatigue. Impaired driving is a choice with consequences that extend far beyond a single moment, and every driver has the power to prevent a tragedy before it occurs. FLHSMV and FHP remind all motorists that You Only Have One Life, and protecting it begins with making safe, responsible decisions every time you drive. To learn more about the Never Drive Impaired campaign, access safety materials, and review additional resources, visit FLHSMV.gov/impaired.

The Iran War Financial Costs? - Not Easy To Know But Climbing Quickly

Costs of recent Iran–Israel/U.S. clashes

Even focusing only on the most recent, open military phase gives a sense of how quickly costs escalate:

A concentrated Iranian missile salvo in October 2024 against Israel, involving about 180 medium‑range missiles, was estimated to cost Tehran around 2.3 billion dollars in hardware and related expenses, about 22 percent of its annual defense budget at the time.​

On the U.S. side, estimates for “Operation Epic Fury” against Iran suggest about 630 million dollars just for pre‑strike mobilization (moving carriers, aircraft, and assets) and around 779 million dollars for the first 24 hours of strikes, putting the opening phase above 1.4 billion dollars. Longer‑run cost projections for a sustained war go up toward 200 billion dollars for the U.S. economy.

Why totals are uncertain

Much of Iran’s proxy spending is off‑budget or routed through covert channels and front companies, so outside estimates inevitably use intelligence leaks, partial budgets, and battlefield proxies (e.g., missile counts).

Indirect costs—lost oil revenue, higher shipping insurance, sanctions‑related GDP loss, currency collapse—often dwarf the visible military line items but are harder to attribute cleanly to specific operations or years.

United States Spending:

The best current estimates put the total cost to the U.S. of the ongoing Iran war of 10 to 100 billions of dollars, depending on how long it lasts and how wide it spreads.

Direct military cost estimates

The Penn Wharton Budget Model’s Kent Smetters estimates direct U.S. budgetary costs for Operation “Epic Fury” at about 65 billion dollars, with a range of 40–95 billion dollars, covering operations plus replacing munitions and equipment.

Independent tallies suggest the first 24 hours of strikes alone cost about 779 million dollars, including bomber sorties, fighter operations, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and carrier group operations.

Pre‑strike deployments and buildup (moving carriers and aircraft into position) are estimated at around 630 million dollars on top of that.

Total economic impact on the U.S. economy

Smetters also projects broader economic losses to the U.S. of roughly 115 billion dollars, with a wide uncertainty band from 50 to 210 billion dollars, reflecting disrupted trade, higher energy prices, and tighter financial conditions.

Combining direct military costs and macroeconomic effects, his upper‑end scenario for the war’s total cost to the U.S. economy is around 210 billion dollars, assuming a conflict that lasts on the order of a couple of months and significantly disturbs markets.

Current ballpark

Putting these together, early independent and academic estimates suggest:

Direct Pentagon cost: roughly 40–95 billion dollars, with about 65 billion treated as a central estimate if the war is not prolonged.

Total U.S. economic hit (budget + economy): plausible range from about 90 billion up to 200+ billion dollars, with roughly 180–210 billion as an upper‑bound scenario if energy and financial shocks are severe.

All of these figures are projections based on current intensity and assumed duration; if the war drags on beyond a couple of months or expands (for example, wider attacks in the Gulf or larger ground deployments), the costs rise sharply.

Infrastructure damage so far is very large on both sides, but it’s being tracked qualitatively (what was hit and how important it is) rather than with precise dollar figures yet.

Infrastructure hit inside Iran

U.S.–Israeli strikes in Operation Epic Fury have hit more than 1,250 targets in the first two days, including naval bases, air defenses, drone facilities, missile sites, and command centers across the country.

Satellite imagery shows major damage at Konarak naval base and Iran’s main naval headquarters in Bandar Abbas, with ships burning and port infrastructure destroyed or heavily damaged.

A key drone facility at Choqa Balk in western Iran and air‑defense radar at Zahedan air base in the east were struck, indicating broad degradation of Iran’s air and drone network.

Battle‑damage assessments highlight hits on missile infrastructure across multiple provinces, including a missile base near Najafabad in Esfahan and bases around Bandar Abbas and Yazd, with bunker‑buster bombs collapsing hardened storage sites.

Earlier and current campaigns have also focused on Iran’s nuclear‑related industrial base; strikes in 2025 and follow‑on attacks in 2026 severely damaged enrichment facilities at Fordow and Natanz and metallurgy facilities at Isfahan, leaving only remnants of the pre‑2025 nuclear infrastructure.​
Energy and export infrastructure

Kharg Island, Iran’s main crude export terminal that handled roughly 90% of crude exports (capacity up to about 1.8 million barrels per day), has been targeted by U.S. Navy Tomahawk missiles; the exact level of destruction is still being assessed, but sources describe “near‑total and indefinite loss” of the terminal in the near term.​

Naval and fuel infrastructure at Bandar Abbas, including hardened underground bunkers for marine diesel, aviation fuel, and other strategic reserves, has been struck, disrupting both military logistics and civilian transport and industry in southern Iran.

Analysts note that damage to Kharg and Bandar Abbas collapses Iran’s main oil‑export income stream “almost entirely” in the short run, forcing deep budget cuts and limiting funds for proxies and domestic subsidies; repairing or work‑around exports via smaller ports could take months to years and still yield only a fraction of previous volumes.​
Environmental and civilian systems

Rapid environment‑damage reviews note sunk or damaged naval vessels and bombed port facilities around Bandar Abbas and Konarak, generating pollution risks from fuel and oil leaks, and raising hazards for nearby coastal communities.​

Strikes have also hit Basij and internal security facilities in Tehran and other provinces, damaging buildings in urban areas and causing fires and smoke plumes over the capital, although detailed data on power, water, and civilian transport infrastructure loss is still emerging.
Infrastructure targeted by Iran in other states

Iran has retaliated by striking energy and port infrastructure in Gulf states, aiming to raise global economic costs and pressure the U.S. and its allies.

Reports point to attacks on:

Jebel Ali / Jabal Ali area (UAE): military and civilian port and power facilities in the Dubai–Abu Dhabi corridor, including Jebel Ali Port and a major power complex, which is a critical regional maritime and energy hub.

Abu Dhabi and Dubai port infrastructure and Manama (Bahrain): drone and missile strikes causing damage to port facilities and shipping, heightening pollution and navigational risk.​

Oil and gas installations in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, including reported attacks on energy sites in Qatar and an attempted drone strike on Ras Tanura (often reported as Ras Tan) refinery in Saudi Arabia, a crucial export facility; Saudi defenses reportedly intercepted some of these drones.

Environmental monitors warn that damaged port and offshore oil infrastructure in the Gulf, including at least one UAE‑owned platform reportedly targeted, could generate serious marine pollution and disrupt shipping lanes.

Any dollar figures yet?

As of early March 2026, public sources do not offer reliable, detailed cost estimates specifically for physical infrastructure damage (ports, refineries, bases, terminals) inside Iran or in the Gulf states.

Economic analysts and the IMF instead talk in terms of macro‑level impacts: the total economic hit will depend heavily on the duration of the war and the extent of destruction to energy and industrial infrastructure, and on how long oil and shipping prices remain elevated.

In short, the infrastructure damage list is already long—naval bases, missile and drone facilities, nuclear‑related industrial sites, and major oil and port nodes in Iran, plus key energy and port assets in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain—yet the financial valuation of those losses is still in early, rough‑order assessment rather than hard numbers.

Hendry County Sheriff Arrests - Probation Violations, Drugs

ARREST BLOTTER

02/23/2026 – 03/01/2026

Felony/DUI Arrest

John Richard Douglas, 59, Moore Haven was arrested on February 23, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff M. Ramos on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Karlos Eduardo Perez, 32, Marathon was arrested on February 23, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff N. Velazquez Olvera on charges of Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana under 20 grams and Introduction of Contraband into a Detention Facility

Riley Tobias Hill, 18, Clewiston was arrested on February 24, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff M. Frazier on charges of Felony Warrant – Violation of Conditional Release

Jose Perez, 62, Clewiston was arrested on February 24, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Gosa on charges of two counts of Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Joshua Dallas Ortiz, 18, Lehigh Acres was arrested on February 25, 2026, by Det. D. Calvo-Driggs on charges of Travel to Meet after Use of Computer to Lure Child, Lewd and Lascivious Behavior – Suspect over 18 years of age / Victim 12 – 16 years of age and Possession of Control/View Child Sex Conduct

Dawn Michelle Kennelly, 55, Clewiston was arrested on Deputy Sheriff M. Frazier on charges on a Felony Warrant

Aaron Scott, 19, West Palm Beach was arrested on February 25, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on charges of Felony Failure to Appear

Brandon Scott Leitzel, 54, LaBelle was arrested on February 25, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff S. Farraj on charges of DUI

Orion Austn Hareboutta, 23, Clewiston was arrested on February 25, 2026, by K9 Deputy J. Newburn on charges of Operating a Motor Vehicle without Valid Driver’s License and Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription

15-year-old male, LaBelle was arrested on February 26, 2025, by Deputy Sheriff D. Garza on charges of Burglary Unoccupied Dwelling, Criminal Mischief and Fleeing & Eluding Police

14-year-old male, LaBelle was arrested on February 26, 2025, by Deputy Sheriff D. Garza on charges of Burglary Unoccupied Dwelling, Criminal Mischief and Fleeing & Eluding Police

11-year-old male, LaBelle was arrested on February 26, 2025, by Deputy Sheriff D. Garza on charges of Burglary Unoccupied Dwelling, Criminal Mischief and Fleeing & Eluding Police

Tahj Daniel Hiorsford, 31, LaBelle was arrested on February 27, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff A. McCarty on charges of Possession of Marijuana over 20 grams

Felix Roberto Diaz Valois, 28, Clewiston was arrested on February 28, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff N. Velazquez Olvera on charges of Possession of Fentanyl, Possession of Marijuana under 20 grams, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Use of Drug Paraphernalia

Obituaries - James Orval Mace, Larry Dwane Goodman

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of James Orval Mace, who left us peacefully on February 26, 2026, in LaBelle, Florida. Born to the late James Harold and the late Nellie Hazel Hinkley Mace on November 13, 1940, in Columbus, Indiana, James lived a life characterized by kindness and loyalty, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

James dedicated many years of his life to a successful career as an automotive mechanic, where his skill and dedication earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and clients alike. His passion for his work was evident, and he approached each challenge with a steadfast commitment and a meticulous touch that exemplified his character. 

He was a beloved father to his daughters, Sarah Jimenez (late husband Jimmy Epperson), Sheila Mace (Ash Cobb), and Patricia Henderson, and to his son, James H. Mace. His love extended to his grandchildren, Russell and Dustin Epperson, Vinny Jimenez, Hannah and James P. Mace, Jeannine and Nikie Hansen, and 14 great-grandchildren, along with 1 great great-granddaughter, who all carry forward his legacy of warmth and affection. 

James was not just a devoted family man; he possessed a generous spirit, always ready to extend a helping hand to those in need. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Harry Chapin Food Bank, honoring James’s commitment to caring for others. 

As we remember James, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life marked by devotion to family, hard work, and an unwavering kindness that touched the hearts of many. He will be deeply missed by all whose lives he influenced and cherished. His family invites you to honor his memory and share in the celebration of his life.


Larry "Poppy" Dwane Goodman, born on September 15, 1943, in Avon Park, Florida, graced the world with a spirit as heartwarming as the southern sun. He departed this life on February 12, 2026, in Clewiston, Florida, leaving behind a legacy woven through the lives of his beloved family and community. 

A man of steadfast dedication and loyalty, Larry spent his entire career with one company, Qwick Check, which later became the renowned Winn-Dixie. Starting as a bag boy, he rose through the ranks, showcasing not just his work ethic but also his deep love for the produce he managed. Larry’s journey culminated in his role as a Produce Buyer, a position he thrived in until his retirement in 2002. 

His time in the industry was marked not only by his professional accomplishments but also by the friendships he cultivated along the way. Larry was a beacon of kindness, known for his unwavering compassion and patient nature. Those who knew him could always count on his honesty and generosity, qualities that made him a cherished father, grandfather, and friend. 

His children, Larry Goodman Jr., Darrell Goodman, and Holly Adams, along with his grandchildren: Amber Goodman, Katelin Goodman, Chase Goodman, Caylee McConnell, Austin Adams, Alysia Adams and Taiyla Mozoul, as well as his 16 great-grandchildren, were the heartstrings of his life. Spending time with them was truly where his treasure lay. 

 Outside of work, Larry found joy in the great outdoors. He had a passion for hunting and fishing, spending countless hours in nature, exploring the beautiful landscapes of Dinner Island and the Spirit of the Wild wildlife management areas. These moments in the wild brought him peace and fulfillment, allowing him to connect not only with nature but also with his family during outings filled with laughter and adventure. 

An individual with a great sense of humor, Larry brought light to every room he entered. His infectious laughter and gentle demeanor reminded everyone around him of the beauty in kindness and the importance of family ties. He was a steadfast friend, always willing to lend a helping hand or share his wisdom. 

Larry “Poppy” Dwane Goodman’s life serves as an inspiration to us all—a reminder to cherish our loved ones, embrace nature, and face life with honesty and kindness. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit, lessons, and unwavering love continue to shine brightly in our hearts.

Review - Plant Based Polyphenol Booster Health Supplements

Plant based prebiotics are becoming a popular health supplement and we have tried one from the company Pendulum Therapeutics in San Francisco.

Two capsules are recommended to be taken daily containing pomegranate extract, grape seed extract, and green tea extract. Prices start at $25 monthly for an introductory offer and/or subscription to the supplement. Here is what one capsule may do, followed by results of taking two capsules daily.

A 375mg daily dose of pomegranate extract, particularly when rich in punicalagins, is primarily used to support cardiovascular health, reduce blood pressure, and manage prostate health by slowing PSA doubling times. It acts as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, aiding in improved circulation, cholesterol reduction, and potential cartilage protection.

Pomegranate extract helps lower blood pressure and improve endothelial function, which can reverse plaque buildup in arteries (atherosclerosis). Studies indicate that 280-375 mg of punicalagins can halt or slow the progression of prostate cancer by increasing the doubling time of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). It reduces oxidative stress, fights inflammation, and can improve exercise endurance. It may improve liver health (reducing fibrosis), aid in metabolic health, and improve erectile dysfunction by enhancing nitric oxide production.

PubMed Central indicates Pomegranate extract can interact with blood pressure medications and cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins). Always consult a healthcare professional before starting supplements, especially if you have existing conditions or are taking medications.

The company's packaging indicates however to take two capsule daily which would double the amount to 750mg. It is said that such a dose:

Helps reduce LDL cholesterol oxidation, lowers blood pressure (especially systolic), and improves blood flow. High antioxidant content helps combat chronic inflammation and protects cells from oxidative stress. Boosts blood flow and may enhance recovery, reducing fatigue. May help regulate blood sugar, improve endometrial function in PCOS patients, and support joint health.  Daily supplementation has been linked to improved skin barrier function and reduced appearance of wrinkles.

Note: While 750mg is a common dosage for studies, it is always recommended to consult a doctor before starting a new supplement, particularly for conditions like high blood pressure or to monitor for interactions with other medications

275mg of grape seed extract (GSE) provides a high dose of potent antioxidants (proanthocyanidins) used primarily to support cardiovascular health, reduce blood pressure, and improve blood flow. It may also reduce leg swelling, aid in collagen production for skin health, and provide anti-inflammatory effects.

Studies suggest GSE can help lower blood pressure, improve lipid profiles (LDL/triglycerides), and act as a blood thinner, potentially reducing heart disease risk. It is used to reduce chronic venous insufficiency, which causes edema (swelling) and poor blood flow back to the heart. High levels of proanthocyanidins (OPCs) neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress and reducing damage to blood vessels. Some research suggests it may aid in wound healing, cognitive health, and, in some studies, weight loss.

While studies vary, 275mg is a substantial dosage within common ranges (often 100-300mg) used to achieve therapeutic effects. Generally safe, but may cause headache, dizziness, or nausea. Because it acts as a blood thinner, it may interact with medication like warfarin, aspirin, or other blood pressure meds.
 

The package however says take two capsules daily which would bring the grape seed extract to 550mg. While 550mg is a potent dose, research on GSE often ranges from 100mg to 2,000mg per day. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a high-dose supplement like 550mg of grape seed extract.

225mg of green tea extract typically provides a concentrated dose of antioxidants (specifically EGCG) and moderate caffeine, designed to boost metabolism, enhance fat oxidation, increase energy/focus, and support heart/immune health. It works by protecting cells from oxidative stress and promoting fat metabolism. Promotes fat metabolism, aiding in weight loss and fat reduction, particularly when combined with exercise. Contains polyphenols (like EGCG) that fight free radicals, protect cells, and support immune health. Provides a mild energy boost due to caffeine content. May help lower risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

While generally safe, high doses can cause caffeine sensitivity issues like insomnia, anxiety, or nausea. In rare cases, very high concentrations have been linked to liver damage. It is important to check that the extract is standardized for polyphenol/EGCG content.

 

The package suggests two capsules daily for 450mg of green tea extract which provides a potent dose of antioxidants (polyphenols/EGCG) that support weight management by boosting metabolism, enhance cardiovascular health, improve brain function, and offer energy without the intense jitters of coffee. It is considered a moderate daily dose, helping to protect cells from damage.

Acts as a thermogenic agent, enhancing metabolism and increasing fat oxidation. Contains high levels of polyphenols and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which neutralize free radicals. Supports heart health by improving blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Contains L-theanine and caffeine, which can improve focus, mood, and brain function. May improve glucose metabolism.

450mg is generally considered a moderate, effective dose. While beneficial, high doses of green tea extract can lead to potential risks, including stomach upset or, in rare cases, liver issues. It is often recommended to take it with food to minimize the risk of nausea.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or a recommendation.

Pendulumlife.com for more information. 

Photo courtesy Pendulum Therapeutics LLC