Podcasts about Lumberton

Notes and Links to Jeff Pearlman's Work     Jeff Pearlman is the New York Times bestselling author of ten books. His subjects include the '80s Los Angeles Lakers (Show­time), the 1986 New York Mets (The Bad Guys Won), the '90s Dallas Cowboys (Boys Will Be Boys), and NFL legends Walter Pay­ton (Sweetness) and Brett Favre (Gunslinger). HBO adapted Showtime into the dramatic series Winning Time, produced and directed by Adam McKay. A former Sports Illus­trated senior writer and ESPN.com colum­nist, Pearlman is the host of the Two Writers Slinging Yang podcast and blogs regularly at jeffpearlman.com. Buy Only God Can Judge Me: The Many Lives of Tupac Shakur   Jeff's Website   NPR Coverage of Only God Can Judge Me: The Many Lives of Tupac Shakur At about 3:15, Jeff talks about writing against hagiography and how he doesn't “bring bias” into his writing, whether about Tupac or sports At about 5:25, Pete compliments the structure of the book, as it examines each of the places that shaped Tupac's life At about 5:55, Rapid-fire questions! *Best Tupac collab? Best movie role? At about 8:45, A beautiful shout-out to friend Curtis Dorsey and Jeff's dad, Stan At about 10:20, Jeff shouts out some favorite lines from Tupac's songs At about 10:50, Pete and Jeff discuss Tupac's “layering songs” and wondrous laugh  At about 12:55, Jeff responds to Pete's question about Jeff's “in”/entry point for writing about someone who has been written about so much  At about 15:45, Jeff expands on writing his biography of Tupac as a type of "layering" and the importance of specificity   At about 17:00, Jeff talks about how interviewing 652 people for his Tupac book is actually something that “[he] is supposed to do” At about 19:55, Jeff reflects a bit on book promotion and book release  At about 21:25, Jeff shouts out Dusty Baker as “maybe the coolest human being who's ever walked the planet” At about 22:20, Pete asks Jeff about Set Shakur's quote that Tupac died “alone”; Jeff reflects on the “isolation” of fame  At about 24:00, Jeff talks about Suge Knight and his indifference and his intriguing story At about 25:45, Jeff talks about Tupac's connection or lack thereof to the Mob Piru gang  At about 26:45, Pete gives an incomplete and rambling answer to the best Tupac song At about 28:10, Davonn Hodge and his mother reuniting due to great work by Jeff Pearlman and Michelle Soulli is discussed, as Jeff gives the background on the reunification  At about 30:20, Jeff gives background on Afeni Shakur's hometown, Lumberton, NC, and he gives a shoutout to Howard Bryant's book on Ricky Henderson At about 31:30, Jeff recounts a story about going to Lumberton to use the microfiche, but wound up seeing Tupac's grave At about 32:10, Jeff gives background on Afeni Shakur's amazing life and highlights her accomplishments and travails  At about 33:30, Jeff and Pete discuss “Dear Mama” as aspirational and the sadness of Afeni's substance abuse and how Tupac dealt with this horrible disappointment and “trauma” At about 35:15, Jeff talks in awe of Afeni's defending herself in the “Panther 21” trial At about 36:20, Jeff discusses Tupac's name origins At about 37:45, Jeff responds to Pete's question about Tupac's dad Billy Garland and male role models At about 39:40, The two discuss horrible athletic performances in movies and Tupac's unfortunate basketball shooting motion At about 41:00, Jeff gives some background on Tupac's birth name At about 41:40, Jeff talks about the impression that New York made on Tupac, musically and personally At about 43:00, The two discuss Tupac's time in Baltimore and at the Baltimore School for the Arts, and Tupac as an actor and singer; Jeff calls Baltimore his “favorite Tupac era” At about 45:10, The two talk about Tupac's Baltimore time and struggles and how “shapeshifter” didn't quite fit him At about 47:10, Jeff traces the Shakurs' move to Marin City and connections to Geronimo Pratt and his family At about 48:15, Jeff shares a profound statement from Set Shakur about moving vs. “relocating” At about 48:50, Jeff talks about Marin City and recreating the Marin City of when Tupac lived there  At about 50:50, Jeff expands on similarities between Tupac's time in the creative worlds of performing arts high schools in Baltimore and Marin City/ and his mother's downward spiral At about 51:55, The two discuss the significance of Marin City's Festival on the Green 1992 and further reporting on the tragedy as a “turning point” At about 55:50, Jeff responds to Pete's observation about Tupac's first albums not being highly-received and focuses on the changes that led to his second album being disappointing for Tupac At about 57:20, Jeff traces an almost parallel life for Tupac as a revolutionary leader in Atlanta At about 58:45, Jeff talks about the awkward time with Tupac working to become a community leader  At about 1:00:20, Jeff responds to Pete's question about the reactions from people who were wowed by Tupac's raps in person At about 1:03:00, Jeff shares what he learned in his interviews about Tupac the actor At about 1:06:00, Jeff shares his thoughts on the alleged second sexual assault by Tupac At about 1:08:15, Pete and Jeff discuss the “fan[ning] of the hip hop media/media and Tupac's  At about 1:09:35, Pete compliments the skillful ways in which the last hours and days (the “banal”) were rendered in the way  At about 1:11:10, Pete asks Jeff about how much Death Row changed Tupac/brought out tendencies in him At about 1:12:55, Jeff shares information from the book on two or three parallel universes where Tupac almost avoided being in Las Vegas   At about 1:13:55, Jeff reflects on Tupac as a 54 year old      You can now subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, and leave me a five-star review. You can also ask for the podcast by name using Alexa, and find the pod on Stitcher, Spotify, and on Amazon Music. Follow Pete on IG, where he is @chillsatwillpodcast, or on Twitter, where he is @chillsatwillpo1. You can watch other episodes on YouTube-watch and subscribe to The Chills at Will Podcast Channel. Please subscribe to both the YouTube Channel and the podcast while you're checking out this episode.       Pete is very excited to have one or two podcast episodes per month featured on the website of Chicago Review of Books. The audio will be posted, along with a written interview culled from the audio. His conversation with Hannah Pittard, a recent guest, is up at Chicago Review.     Sign up now for The Chills at Will Podcast Patreon: it can be found at patreon.com/chillsatwillpodcastpeterriehl      Check out the page that describes the benefits of a Patreon membership, including cool swag and bonus episodes. Thanks in advance for supporting Pete's one-man show, DIY podcast and extensive reading, research, editing, and promoting to keep this independent podcast pumping out high-quality content!    This month's Patreon bonus episode features an exploration of flawed characters, protagonists who are too real in their actions, and horror and noir as being where so much good and realistic writing takes place.    Pete has added a $1 a month tier for “Well-Wishers” and Cheerleaders of the Show.     This is a passion project, a DIY operation, and Pete would love for your help in promoting what he's convinced is a unique and spirited look at an often-ignored art form.    The intro song for The Chills at Will Podcast is “Wind Down” (Instrumental Version), and the other song played on this episode was “Hoops” (Instrumental)” by Matt Weidauer, and both songs are used through ArchesAudio.com.     Please tune in for Episode 309 with Amber Sparks, the author of the short story collections And I Do Not Forgive You and The Unfinished World. Her writing has appeared in The Paris Review, Granta, Slate, and elsewhere. Her book Happy People Don't Live Here was published in October 2025.    The episode drops on November 18.    Please go to ceasefiretoday.org, and/or https://act.uscpr.org/a/letaidin to call your congresspeople and demand an end to the forced famine and destruction of Gaza and the Gazan people.

Elaine Heath is the abbess of Spring Forest, a new monastic community in Hillsborough, North Carolina. Spring Forest centers around communal prayer and meals, a vibrant farm, refugee support, and other ministries you can read about here. You can learn more about Elaine's work as an author and speaker on her website, or in articles like this one from the Center for Action and Contemplation.Many thanks to Elaine and her husband Randall for welcoming Ron and I and our audio producer, Colin, to the farm last June. Besides relishing the good company of our hosts, we enjoyed harvesting cabbage, feasting and praying with the Sunday evening group, walking through the woods, and petting some good-natured goats.Dr. Elaine HeathOn the farm.Someone had to help harvest the cabbage, so Ron and Colin and I pitched in.Elaine, husband Randall, and I in their lovely home.TRANSCRIPTElaine Heath If you are nurtured by traditional church—or let's say, conventional church—keep doing it, but also realize that for other people that's not nurturing. It feels dry and lifeless, and it's clear the Spirit is doing something new. So instead of insisting everybody stop doing the new thing, and everybody has to come and do the conventional thing, you can be conventional in your worship and bless and make space for others so that we have a plethora of experiments going on.Debra Rienstra Welcome to the Refugia Podcast. I'm your host, Professor Debra Rienstra. Refugia are habitats in nature where life endures in times of crisis. We're exploring the concept of refugia as a metaphor, discovering how people of faith can become people of refugia: nurturing life-giving spaces in the earth, in our human cultural systems, and in our spiritual communities, even in this time of severe disturbance. This season, we're paying special attention to churches and Christian communities who have figured out how to address the climate crisis together as an essential aspect of their discipleship.Today, I'm excited to introduce you to Dr. Elaine Heath. Elaine is founder and abbess of Spring Forest, a new monastic community centered on a 23-acre forest and farm property near Hillsboro, North Carolina. The farm supplies a CSA and supports food security for refugees and serves as the setting for outdoor programs for kids, cooking classes, potlucks, forest walks and more. But the Spring Forest community is a dispersed network of people who move in and out of the farm space in a variety of ways. They live on the farm for a time, they visit often to volunteer, or they simply join the community online for daily prayer. We got to visit the farm last spring, and I can tell you that Elaine's long experience with new monasticism, trauma-informed care, and contemplative practice make her an ideal curator of refugia space. The vibe on the farm is peaceful, orderly, and full of life. It's a place of holy experimentation in new ways to form Christian community and reconnect with the land. Let's get to it.Debra Rienstra Elaine, thank you for talking with me today. It's really great to be with you.Elaine Heath Yeah, I'm glad to be with you too.Debra Rienstra So you served in traditional parish ministry and in religious academia for many years, and then in 2018 you retired from that work to found Spring Forest. Why a farm and a new monastic community? What inspired and influenced this particular expression of faith?Elaine Heath I've always loved farms and forests. But actually, my dream to do this started about 25 years ago, and my husband and I bought a 23 acre property in North Central Ohio, right when I was right out of my PhD program and I got my first academic job at my alma mater, which is Ashland Theological Seminary. So I went there to direct the Doctor of Ministry program, and we bought this beautiful property. It had a little house that looked like the ranger station, and it had a stream and a big labyrinth cut in the field, and it had beautiful soil to grow, you know, for market gardening. And what we planned to do was gradually develop retreat ministries there. My husband was going to build some hermitages up in the woods, because I did a lot of spiritual direction with pastors who were burned out and traumatized, and we felt like that, you know, as I got older and phased out of academia, that would be something we could do together.So we were there for a couple years, and then I was recruited to go to Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University. And we were very sad to leave our property behind, but we were clear that we were being called to Texas. So we bought a home in the city in a sort of mixed income, racially diverse neighborhood in Garland, and it was a big house with a nice yard, and soon after starting to teach evangelism—which, I kind of created my own path for how to teach evangelism, because I don't believe in selling Jesus or any of those kinds of colonizing things. So I was teaching about living a contemplative life and practicing social and environmental justice and being good news in the world, and being good neighbors to all our neighbors, and thinking of our neighbors as us and not them. And I had them reading Shane Claiborne and the people writing with the emerging church movement at the time, and pretty soon, I had students in my class coming to my office every week. It was a different student, but the same tears and the same kind of narrative: “Dr. Heath, I think I'm going to have to leave the church to answer my call. Tell me what I should do.” And it was because they were being called to do innovative, new monastic ministry, missional, new monastic kinds of things. But our denomination in particular didn't quite get it, even though early Methodism was very much like that.So I realized fairly quickly that this was God calling me through these students to focus my research and writing and my teaching in the area of emergence. Emergence theory, what's happening in the world. How do these currents of emergence intersect with what's happening politically and environmentally, and what's happening, you know, in the economy and with the church. So pretty soon, I don't know, it wasn't very long, I felt God was calling me to gather students and start some experiments outside, out in the city. And so I had a prayer partner, and we were praying for a house to come available, so that we could start a new monastic house. And she came to me one day and she said, “I saw the house coming. It'll be here soon.” And I said, “Okay.” I had no money for a house. You know, kind of a lowly professor, didn't make that much. And within two weeks, one of our neighbors came to me, who didn't really know me well at all, and said, “Hey, my mom has a rental property. It's been in our family for a long time, and we wondered if you might have some students that would like to live there. We won't even charge rent, just pay their utilities and not have drug parties or whatnot.” And I said, “No, that's unlikely,” you know. So I said, you know, I could throw the phone down and ran down to get in her car and go over to this house with her. And we were driving over, and she says, “You know, it's not the best neighborhood.” I said, “Perfect!” But we got there, and it was a really great little three bedroom house in a predominantly Latina neighborhood, and that was our first new monastic house. So I asked three of the students who'd been crying in my office, “Would you be willing to break your leases wherever you live and come and live here for a year?” And I can assign a spiritual director to work with you, and I can write a curriculum for an independent study on the theory and practice of new monasticism. And we can develop a Rule of Life based on our United Methodist membership vows. And they all immediately said yes, and so that's how we got started with our first house.Elaine Heath And then right around the same time, I started a missional house church that was quickly relocated into the neighborhood where most of the refugees are resettled in Dallas, because one of my students brought six Congolese men to our little house church worship, and that that was the beginning of realizing we were called to work with refugees.Debra Rienstra Oh, I see.Elaine Heath So that all got started around 2008. And by 2009, there was a student who came to Perkins who had been a commercial real estate banker on Wall Street. And he came to Perkins as a student. He was an older man. And we were going on my very first pilgrimage to Iona, Northumbria, and Lindisfarne, and Michael Hahn was with us too. He and I team-taught this class, so it was my first one. But it turned out that Larry Duggins, the student, had come to seminary because he really wanted to be equipped to help young adults who were feeling disillusioned with the church but wanted to be out in the world doing good work. And he started describing what he was called to, and I'm like, “Well, that's what I'm doing with these students.” So we joined forces and created a nonprofit called Missional Wisdom Foundation, and within three years, we had a network of eight new monastic communities across the metroplex. They were all anchored at local churches. Some of them were parsonages that weren't being used. And we wove into the expectations and sort of the lifestyle of those houses, urban agriculture.Debra Rienstra Oh, I was waiting for the farm to come back into it. Yeah, because I'm seeing these threads of experimentation and monasticism and place. We're sitting here today on your current farm land. So it's really interesting to hear all these threads being developed early on in an urban context.Elaine Heath Yes, it was quite something. These houses were all in different social contexts. There was one house, the Bonhoeffer house, that was in East Dallas, in a neighborhood that was not only mixed income and racially diverse, but also used to be where the mayor lived. And now there are people who are unhoused living there, and there are also people with nice houses living there. So it was a very interesting neighborhood. So that house, we learned quickly that you needed to take a year to get to know the neighborhood before you try to figure out how you're going to support whatever justice work needs to happen in the neighborhood. But that house got really close with the unhoused community and did a lot of good ministry with the guys and a few women. Then there was one for undocumented workers, the Romero House, and just different social contexts. But all of them had a backyard garden or, you know, some type of growing food kind of thing. And I used to take students to this farm that was an urban farm in DeSoto, which is just south of Dallas, where it was quite small, but these were former missionaries, the type that have crusades and show the Jesus film and everything in sort of poor countries. And then they had an awakening that happened, and they realized they were being called to help people in orphanages learn how to grow their own food in a sustainable way and raise the living standard for the whole village. So they had this little farm, and I would take students there every semester to experience the conversion of thought that this couple had over what mission is, and to experience the beauty and joy of tilapia that provide food for the lettuce, that provide for the bees, you know. So this closed system. So that also affected my imagination about what I really wanted to do in the future.And so gradually, the years—we were there for 11 years, and we lived in community the whole time that we were there. By the time we came here for me to work at Duke, we had a very clear picture of what we wanted to do here. And so we looked for the property back when we had to sell that first farm, when we were so sad about selling it, I had an experience in prayer where I sensed God was saying to me, “Don't give up on this dream. It's sacred, and it will happen in the future on a better piece of property, at a better time in your life for this.” And so when it was time to move here, I said to Randall, “This is the time. Let's look for that property.” So that's how we landed here.Friendly, very contented dairy goats, hanging out in the afternoon.Debra Rienstra Yeah. When talking about your students, you mentioned yesterday that you like to “ruin them for fake church.” So what do you mean by fake church, and how exactly do you ruin them for it?Elaine Heath Well, you know, church is really the people and not the building. You all know that. It's the people and we're called to be a very different kind of people who are a healing community, that neighbor well, that give ourselves away, that regard our neighbors—human and non human—as part of us, whether they think they're part of us or not. We have this sort of posture in life. And when I think of how Jesus formed the church, Jesus had this little ragtag group of friends, and they traveled around and did stuff and talked about it, and they got mad at each other and had power struggles and drama and, you know, and then Jesus would process the drama with them. And he would do these outrageous things, you know, breaking sort of cultural taboo to demonstrate: this is what love really looks like. And so we don't get to do much of any of that, sitting in a pew on Sunday morning, facing forward while the people up in the front do things. And so many churches—maybe you've never experienced this, but I certainly have. The pastor's sort of the proxy disciple while people kind of watch and make judgments and decide whether or not they want to keep listening to those sermons.Debra Rienstra Oh yes.Elaine Heath So when you experience Christian life in a community where it's both natural, it's just the way you live in the world, and it's also liturgically rich, and the life is a contemplative life, and it's also a life of deep missional engagement with the world— that other version of church, it's like oatmeal with no flavoring in it. It makes you, I mean, it's about the life together. It's how we live in this world. It's not about sitting somewhere for an hour once a week and staring forward.Debra Rienstra Right. Yeah, so I would, you know, of course, I would describe what you're describing as refugia, being the people of refugia. You know? Not that I'm—we'll come back to traditional worship and traditional forms of faith and religion. But it seems like what you're doing is living into something you say on your website that we are in the midst of a new reformation in the church, and I certainly sense that too. I think the evidence is all around us, and the research bears out that we've reached this inflection point, and it's a painful inflection point that a lot of people think of as decline, because living through it feels confusing and bewildering and dark and full of loss. So what is your sense of when we are, in this point in history, in particular, for those of us who've been part of church communities, where are we finding ourselves? Why is it so confusing?Elaine Heath I really believe we're in a dark night of the soul as the church in the West and perhaps places in the East too. I know we've exported a capitalist version of church all over the world, sadly. But I believe we're in a dark night of the soul, you know, classically understood, where it's spirit-breathed. It's not that the devil is doing something to us. It's spirit-breathed to detach us from our sort of corporate ego that thinks we get to show up and boss the world around and act like we own the joint.Debra Rienstra We call that church of empire.Elaine Heath Yeah. And so I think that's what's happening. And when, you know, if you study the literature, if you work in spiritual direction, and you're looking at what happens with the dark night of the soul. That's a real dark night, not a clinical depression or something like that, but an actual dark night. You have to go through it. You can't bypass it. You can't work your way out of it. You can't talk your way out of it. And what happens is you find yourself increasingly hungry for simplicity, for a simple but clear experience of God, because it's like God's disappeared. There's a deep loneliness, even a sort of cold hell, to being in a dark night of the soul. And so there's a restlessness, there's a longing for actual experience of God. There's a feeling of futility. Things that used to work don't work anymore. So you know the threefold path? The purgation, illumination and union is one way that we've learned to think about what happens. The purgation part is— we're there.Debra Rienstra We're being purgated.Elaine Heath We're being purgated, yeah. And at the same time that we're having these flashes of intuitive knowing, this sort of illumination is coming. “Oh, let's pay attention to the saints and mystics who lived through things like this. What gave them life? What helped them to keep showing up and being faithful?” And we're having moments of union too, when we feel like, “Oh, discipleship means I make sure that the trees are cared for and not just people. Oh, all living things are interconnected. Quantum physics is teaching us a spiritual truth we should have known already.” So the three parts of that contemplative path are happening simultaneously. But I think what feels most forward to a lot of people is the purgation piece where you're like, “Oh, things are just dropping away. Numbers are dropping. Things that used to work don't work. What's going to happen now?” Sort of a sense of chaos, confusion. Tohu va bohu, yeah.Debra Rienstra Yeah, do you want me to explain what that is?Elaine Heath Yeah, chaos and confusion. From the beginning of time.Debra Rienstra It's the realm out of which creation is formed. So the idea that the spirit is drawing us into this dark night is actually really reassuring. We are where we're supposed to be. And even though it feels confusing and painful, there are these moments of wisdom—that's so reassuring. In fact, one of the things you write: the new reformation is all about the emergence. So this emergence is happening of a generous, hospitable, equitable form of Christianity that heals the wounds of the world. What is your vision about what the church needs to release and hold and create right now?Elaine Heath We need to release everything that even slightly has a hint of empire, that we have thought of as what it means to be the church, because that completely reverts what church is supposed to be about. So giving up empire, we need to take up the great kenotic hymn of Philippians two and actually live it.Debra Rienstra The self emptying hymn.Elaine Heath The self emptying. And it's not—I know that that can be problematic when we're thinking of women or, you know, groups that have been forced to empty themselves in an exploited way. But that's not really what that's all about. It's about showing up to God, paying attention, seeing what God's invitation is, then cooperating with that and just releasing the outcome. That's what that's about, and really finding out, what am I in this world for? What are we in this world for? And being about that and not about something else.Debra Rienstra Yeah, it's hard to release the ways that we have done things. Well, you have a congregation, you have a pastor, you have a sanctuary, you have programs, you want the kids to come, you need tithes, all of those systems. And actually, what you're doing here at Spring Forest—let's talk about that. What you're doing here at Spring Forest doesn't have any of that. Sunday services. There's no church building. You have barn buildings, you have farm buildings. No Sunday school, no adult ed, no choirs, organs, praise bands, any of that stuff, right? Do you think of Spring Forest as a new model for church? Perhaps one among many?Elaine Heath It's one among many. We're definitely shaped by traditional monasticism. We're shaped by early Methodism. We're influenced by the Catholic Worker Movement, and definitely Bonhoeffer's work and a number of others: the Clarence Jordan and Koinonia farms. And so we're influenced by all of those. We do have music sometimes at Forest Feast, if we have someone that can lead it, and, you know, do a good job. But the backbone of our worship life is morning and evening prayer. And that is so wonderful. You were here last night for Forest Feast, and we use the same structure we use for morning and evening prayer, and we have a group of about six people who are writing the liturgies for us, who have been writing for a year and a half now.Debra Rienstra Who are those people?Elaine Heath Well, there's Steve Taylor is our lay leader, and his wife, Cheryl, and then there's Donna Patterson, who's—none of them were here last night. They all had to go somewhere. But some of them are lay people. Some of them are clergy.Debra Rienstra And they don't live here?Elaine Heath No, they live— well, some of the people that write live far away, and they're in our digital community. But, yeah, Steve and Cheryl live in Lumberton, which is, you know, almost two hours away. But they're beautiful. I mean, if you go online and look at some of the last month, look at the prayers and see the—they're just truly beautiful, and they reflect our spirituality of our community.Debra Rienstra Yeah. So the community, it seems to me, you have had people living on the farm itself, but your community, like the Iona community, is both located here on this land, but also dispersed. And so you have that interaction, that conversation between this residential life. So let's try to describe for listeners: there's the farm. You live here with your husband. You have interns from Duke. You have a farm. What do you call Larry?Elaine Heath He's our farm coach.Debra Rienstra Coach, yes, I love that. They have the farm coach who has the farming knowledge that you all sort of follow. You have chefs. They don't live here either, but they come in. So you have a lot of people coming in and out on this farm. And you do regenerative farming. You have programs for kids, you have refugee support, and you can talk about that, trauma informed rest for spiritual leaders. And then a number of other things. The farm produces vegetables and those go to a CSA, and also a lot of it is donated. Why this particular assembly of activities? How does it all fit together? And what are the theological principles beneath each of these endeavors?Elaine Heath The overarching principle is that the Holy Spirit gives gifts to every believer and to every person, let's just be honest. And the job of the pastor, the pastor teacher, is to fan those gifts into flame, to help them have the support they need to use their gifts and that the ministries should be shaped by the gifts of the people, which means you can't use a cookie cutter. And we have numerically a small community, but incredibly high capacity of people. So we have these gifts that they have, and then the ministries are emerging out of those gifts. And it might seem like, why do you have refugee support? And you know, just name anything else we're doing. How does this fit together? The organizing principle—okay, so you have the foundation. These are gifts given by the Spirit. Our ministries are emerging from our gifts. And the organizing sort of a cohesive piece is our rule of life that ties everything together. And so our rule of life is prayer, work, table, neighbor and rest. And that rule of life came about after we lived here for a year, when we first started Spring Forest with—there was another pastor that co-founded it with me, Francis Kinyua, who's from Kenya, and he was my student in Dallas, and did all those other things with me. So we invited him to come. We had to work with three different bishops to kind of make it work. But it worked, you know. Anyway, we just waited for a year to see. We had lots of work to do with getting the farm ready to go and Francis and I went to Church World Service right away to say, “Hey, we have a lot of experience supporting refugees, and we would like to do that here as well.” So we got started with that, but we waited a year and then just articulated, what are the practices that we do that are keeping us grounded here and keeping us right side up. And it was those things, so we named it.Debra Rienstra Okay, you were just doing it, and then you named those things.Elaine Heath Instead of creating sort of an aspirational rule and tried to live into it, we named what was actually working, what was actually grounding us and felt life giving.Debra Rienstra Hi, it's me, Debra. If you are enjoying this podcast episode, go ahead and subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. If you have a minute, leave a review. Good reviews help more listeners discover this podcast. To keep up with all the Refugia news, I invite you to subscribe to the Refugia newsletter on Substack. This is my fortnightly newsletter for people of faith who care about the climate crisis and want to go deeper. Every two weeks, I feature climate news, deeper dives, refugia sightings and much more. Join our community at refugianewsletter.substack.com. For even more goodies, including transcripts and show notes for this podcast, check out my website at debrarienstra.com. D-E-B-R-A-R-I-E-N-S-T-R-A dot com. Thanks so much for listening. We're glad you're part of this community. And now back to the interview.Debra Rienstra You do partner a lot with, you know, “regular church folk.” It's that sort of in-and-out permeable membrane. How do you think about the relationship of what you're doing here, with Spring Forest, with the work of sort of standard congregations, is there like a mutuality? How do you think about that?Elaine Heath It's just like traditional monasticism. You've got a community that have this rule of life they follow. People who are not living in the community can become Oblates to the rule of life and have a special relationship. And usually those people go to church somewhere else. Part of our ethic here is we want to resist competition between churches, so we don't meet on Sundays to do things like programmatically. We usually just rest on Sundays and watch a movie and eat popcorn, you know.Debra Rienstra That's a spiritual practice.Elaine Heath But also, so there's that sort of historic piece, and people from churches come here for retreats. Lead teams come for retreats. People come—pastors, we have a lot of pastors who come here for a retreat. But also we are a mission community, so we're very active with supporting refugees. We're very active with the food programs that we have, and that gives people from a church—lots of churches don't have things like that going on. They don't have the resources for it, or they haven't figured it out. But that way, we can partner with churches and people can come here and they can actually get their hands in the soil, and they can teach somebody to read, and they can see little children learning where food comes from. They can help the chef with her kitchen things, you know. So it's a wonderful way to provide spiritual formation and missional formation to congregations that don't have those resources. And we can do these things together.Debra Rienstra Yeah. And that's that's premised on this being a place, an embodied place, a refugia space that people can come to. Yeah. I think that's a wonderful model. Do you yourself ever feel a sense of loss for “the old ways?” And I'm just thinking of this because at the beginning of your book, God Unbound, which is about Galatians, you write about how Paul challenges the Galatians to let go of their tight grip on the past, and you write about how you, reading that, felt yourself like a little bit of a traditionalist, you know, sort of defending, “But what about the past? What about the old ways?” Which you have loved too, right? So, how would you counsel people who have loved traditional church despite everything, and really do feel this sense of loss and wonder anxiously about what's next?Elaine Heath Yeah, I feel empathy. You know, something was going on in the Middle East at the time. I can't remember exactly the situation. There's always something going on, but it had to do with people's culture being wiped out and being told that what they believed didn't count and wasn't right and everything. And I was feeling such grief for them, and then all of a sudden, you know, I'm in Galatians, and think, “Well, that's how those people felt.” And even myself, there are things in my own daily practice that are—they're precious to me. My way of praying in the morning, the facing into the forest, you know, and things like that, that are rituals for me. And thinking, you know, if somebody told me “that doesn't matter,” how hard that would be. So I think in the spiritual journey, we come to the place, if we keep maturing, where we realize, in Merton's words, that so often we think it's the finger pointing to the moon, we think the finger is the moon. And it's that way about rituals and all sorts of things that we do, and we get to a place where we realize that intellectually and even spiritually, in an emotional way. But you can't force people to get to that point. This is something that happens as we grow and mature as life goes by. So what I have said to many people is, “If you are nurtured by traditional church, or, let's say, conventional church,”—because which traditional church are we talking about? One, right here, middle class, white, are we talking about Brazil? —”So if that nurtures you, keep doing it. But also realize that for other people, that's not nurturing. It feels dry and lifeless, and it's clear the Spirit is doing something new.” So instead of insisting everybody stop doing the new thing, and everybody has to come and do the conventional thing, you can be conventional in your worship and bless and make space for others so that we have a plethora of experiments going on. Because we're in a time of great emergence, as Phyllis Tickle wrote, and we need lots of experiments.Debra Rienstra Yeah. I appreciated what you wrote about trial and error. It's a time of trial and error, and it's okay to try things and have them not work. And that fits the refugia model too, really, really well. I mean, refugia don't always work. They just sometimes fail. Let's talk about a couple of key metaphors that I've noticed in your writings and in the website for Spring Forest too. One is that metaphor of the mycelial network, so the underground fungus that connects the creatures, the beings, the plants, the trees of the forest. I think is a wonderful metaphor too, for the way that faith and climate people, people who are worried about the climate crisis, and also people of faith—it's a great metaphor for how they're finding each other and connecting and building this sort of cultural and spiritual soil where the seeds of the future can grow. How is that metaphor meaningful for you here at Spring Forest?Elaine Heath Well, it means a lot in terms of the first of all, the diversity of expressions of ministry that are even here on the property, but also, especially in our dispersed community, through following the rule of life together, which—we are a practice-based community, rather than a dogma-based community. So as people are practicing those practices where they live and work and play, then they are forming community in a very specific, contextual way where they are. I think of Steve and Cheryl again, the friends I mentioned earlier. He's our lay leader. They live in a, I think a working class neighborhood in Lumberton, which is the land of the Lumbee here in North Carolina. And they have developed a wonderful, just neighborhood ministry there with—and they've been able, through potluck dinners and front yard barbecues and remembering people's birthdays and things like this, they've developed this friendship network in the neighborhood with people that are on complete opposite sides, politically, racially, and this is in the South, where you've got all sorts of issues. And they've taken the sort of ethic of Spring Forest here, but it's caused a mushroom to bloom there that looks really different from here. They don't have a farm, they don't have a forest, they've got this neighborhood. But the neighboring, the praying, the tabling, resting, all of those things are part of how they live there. And so it's fruiting there. And it's the same in other places in the world where we have people that live there.Debra Rienstra It's a good example, too, of how eating together is sacramental, both here and in these other networks that are connected to you. The Garden of Eden and the vision of the New Earth in Revelation are both important to you, that that whole long scriptural arc begin in a garden, end in a garden city, and then the Tree of Life is also your symbol, your logo. So how would you situate our work today as people of faith in that long arc of history, from the garden to the Garden City, and how does the Tree of Life fit into that for you?Elaine Heath There's a way in which the whole story is happening simultaneously. Does that make sense?Debra Rienstra Yeah.Elaine Heath It's all happening beyond time, sort of simultaneously. So sometimes we're living in the garden and we've been deceived, and now we have to figure out what to do, and sometimes we're rebuilding the wall, and sometimes we're on our way to Bethlehem, and sometimes we're in the garden of the new creation. And we can see it, and we're living that truth even while there's still the wall being built. There's a simultaneity to it all. But for me, I think especially of the theology of Julian of Norwich. That's why we have her icon here. There's this vision of love making all things new, that God, Christ, the risen Christ, says in Revelation 21:5, “Behold, I make all things new.” All things, not just a handful of people who get the right doctrine, not just—no, all things: horses and amoeba and all things are being made new in mysterious ways that we can't completely know.Debra Rienstra And that's Colossians one and Romans eight as well.Elaine Heath It's this thread that comes through scripture, and we get to participate in that, even while we don't see all the things completely made new, we get to be part of that. And to me, that's what it means to follow Christ. That's what it means to be a disciple. And to be the love of God enfleshed in this world is to keep participating in the making of all things new. This is why healing has such a central role in my theological vision and my practice, is it's making all things new.Debra Rienstra Healing land, healing people, healing communities.Elaine Heath Yeah, yeah. Healing theology. Theology has been so damaged by patriarchy and philosophy and all sorts of things, you know, and racism.Debra Rienstra Colonization. Yeah, so that embodiment is important even theologically, because we're not aiming for some abstract doctrinal perfection. We're not aiming to become disembodied creatures. We're aiming for this embodied redemption. And so working on the farm, healing, you know, getting muddy, walking through forests, harvesting veg, and you're able to invite people into that embodiment. Little kids doing yoga, I think that's wonderful. You know, just finding this kind of rest in their own little bodies. Eating—one of the most embodied and kinship-with-creation things we do, right? Taking it inside ourselves. And that, I think, is condensed in ritual. So I know that you have been playfully experimenting with rituals. I was able to be a part of the Forest Feast last night with my husband Ron and our friend Colin. And it was this beautifully curated event where we shared table together and then went through this prayer sequence that you described, and it was beautifully participative. I noticed you do a blessing of the animals too on the farm. So good thing these are blessed chickens and blessed dairy goats, blessed dogs and cats. What other sort of liturgical shenanigans have you tried to help people live into this embodied faith practice?Elaine Heath We do so many things. It's so much fun. It's never boring. It's never boring. We have a ritual in the fall, in late November, where we tuck the farm in and put it to bed for the winter, and we have the children come, we get some compost. You know, we've cleared out the beds, and they're gonna rest now. And so the children put some compost in. And we have a liturgy that we use. We light candles, and we thank Mother Earth for the food, we thank God for the opportunities. And so this is one of the things that we do ritualistically. We also have a spring ritual. It's very Hebrew-Bible like, right? With these seasons and the crops and the things with the liturgical seasons, we also have done a bunch of things. My favorite one so far was for epiphany, and this was two years ago. And so I had the interns from Duke Divinity School do the bulk of the planning. I just gave them a little bit of guidance about the four-fold order of worship and just some things like that. So we had a journey through the forest. It started here. We went on the forest trail. Of course, it was dark outside, and they had gone ahead and set up fairy lights at certain places where we're going to stop. And one of the interns' fiance was a musician, so he had his guitar, and he had one of those things where you can play the harmonica and play the guitar at the same time, but he was our troubadour, and all of us were the Magi. So there's this troop of Magi, and we would stop at each station along the way, and there were prompt questions that we would take five minutes, and people could respond to these questions. There would be a scripture reading, and we respond to the question, we go to the next station. And it was so amazing. People shared from their lives in a very deep way. It surprised me how quickly they went deep. Well, it was dark, and there were these twinkle lights, and there was the troubadour. Then we finally got up to the Christ child, and we went into the goat barn. And honestly, I get chills every time I even remember this. But the students had set up in the goat barn—and the goats were in the barn. Okay, they were behind a little chain link thing so they didn't step on the icons and everything. But they had set up an altar at the base of the feeding trough with a big icon of Mary with the Christ Child, candles, and some other things there. There were different icons and some fairy lights. And we went in there, and we all crowded in and began to sing. We sang “This Little Light of Mine,” we sang some Christmas carols, and finished the story. And then we came back to the house and had some snacks and talked about what kind of wisdom was given to us since we were Magi. We were going to be people seeking wisdom and seeking—it was the most beautiful thing. And we've done lots of things like that. We see the land here is a primary text to learn from and to listen to and to observe, not as a metaphor, but as, it's actually a conversation partner. So we do things like that.Debra Rienstra That playfulness is so exciting to me, this sense of using our tradition, using our scriptures, using the skills that we've honed as people of faith over generations, singing together, praying together, but experimenting with those things in new contexts and new ways, in new forms of embodiment that are just faithful and yet playful. And so, as you say, people go deep because they're sort of jarred out of their habitual ways, and that can be such a great formational moment and bonding moment too, and it's very memorable. We remember that in ways—you know, you had such joy on your face as you're describing that. What would you say as you look back over the last, well, let's see, it's been almost eight years? Seven, eight years here at this location. What would you say has given you the most anguish and what has given you the most joy?Elaine Heath Oh, anguish. Which story should I tell?Debra Rienstra Yeah, I don't want to make it sound like it's all been beautiful and romantic and perfect.Elaine Heath Whenever you have community, you have drama. Well, you know, at your typical church, you're gonna have drama sometimes. But what we've found a few times, and it's pretty predictable. This happens in traditional monasteries too, which is why they have novitiate periods that are sometimes quite lengthy and sort of staggered, like you put your toe in the water. People of very high capacity who are deeply grounded spiritually and have a real vision for the gospel, are attracted to community life like this. People who are really hurt, who've had a lot of brokenness, especially from religious institutions or abusive situations, trauma that that is unresolved, that has a lot of unhealed wounds, are also attracted to places like this, often with a sort of utopian hope, because of, you know, life's deficits.Debra Rienstra And they feel that this is a place of healing, and they're right about that.Elaine Heath They're right about it. And so what actually happens is sometimes with the person, the second category of person, will come and join in and just be so full of gladness, because, “Oh, these, these are real people, like they're really doing things in the world. This is what I've longed for.” But then, as relationships form, and we're doing life together, and we all bump up against each other at times, the unhealed wounds fester. And the way I see it is, God's bringing them to a place where, if they'll just do their inner work now, now that it's clear what's the next step—if they'll take the next step, whether it's get some therapy, stay on your meds, get some support for your addiction recovery, whatever the things are—if you'll take the next step, then this is a very supportive community that can help you. It's a village that can be around you and you will heal here in the context of this village. But sometimes people are not willing or not able, or it's not time in their own sense of what they can do, and so then they'll leave. Sometimes when people leave, this happens in traditional churches, for whatever reason, this is a common sort of psychological reaction, they'll create some sort of chaotic drama to be the excuse for leaving, rather than have to face the fact that it was time for me to take the next step, and I was too scared. Because that takes a lot of self awareness, you know, to come to realizations about things like that. So I know from talking to people, from, you know, friends that are in traditional monasteries and convents that this is a common thing that happens there. So it happens here sometimes, and it's never easy. It's always painful and always challenging, you know, but with God's help, we get through it. And so that's the anguish, when those kinds of things happen. We've had a time or two where, over the last 20 years, really, where a person would come in, usually a young adult who's very idealistic, and they're like, “This isn't a new monastic community. You're not forcing people to pray three times a day!” You know, whatever the thing is that they have in their head that is supposed to be, because we're pretty gracious, you know.Debra Rienstra You don't get up at three in the morning.Elaine Heath Yeah, that's not us. We can't do that because, especially if you've got families with children and, you know, you've got to get up and go to work in the morning. So sometimes there will be somebody that figures they know more than everybody else in the room, and they want to take over and run the joint. You know, that's not going to happen. So then that sometimes creates some anguish. What about the joy? The joy is—and there's so much to give me joy. I really, really love seeing people come alive, like I really love seeing people who have, especially people who have been harmed by religion, because of their identity or because of anything, and they find deep spiritual friendship. They find how to connect, in Buechner's words, their deep passion with the world's great need, and start a new thing. And it gives them so much joy. And it's actually helping people. It's helping the world. And just sort of fanning that flame, that gives me a lot of joy. I have so much joy being in touch with the land and the animals. I just really experience them directly mediating God to me. I feel the divine life in them, and I feel, I guess I get a lot of dopamine hits when I'm out there harvesting and when I'm, you know, brushing the goats and talking to the chickens and whatnot.Debra Rienstra They are blessed chickens!Elaine Heath They are blessed chickens.Debra Rienstra What advice would you give to church people who, even though they love their church and their community, recognize that something needs to change, but they don't know where to start? What advice would you give?Elaine Heath To start in their own home, if at all possible, start in their own neighborhood. Start having neighbors over for dinner. Do not tell them we're going to have a Bible study now, because that's—it's not to have a Bible study. It's to form friendships with our neighbors. Start neighboring well. Figure out who lives on my street. Who lives across the street? Invite them for dinner. Have neighborhood potlucks. We did this in Texas, right after we moved there, I think they're still going. We'd have 50 people in our house sometimes. But just invite the neighbors for dinner. Have a potluck. Get to know them. Remember their birthdays, go to their kids' graduation. When you find out their mother died, go to the funeral. It's so simple. It's just such basic neighboring. That's where to start. It's not a church program. It's not making you stop going to church somewhere, to go to church over here. What you're actually doing is living church in your own neighborhood. Start doing that.Debra Rienstra Elaine, it's been such a pleasure to be here on the farm with you and to talk with you, get to know you a little bit. Thank you for what you do, and thank you for spending some time with me today.Elaine Heath It's been a joy. Thank you for the interview.Debra Rienstra Thanks for joining us for show notes and full transcripts, please visit debrarienstra.com and click on the Refugia Podcast tab. This season of the Refugia Podcast is produced with generous funding from the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship. Colin Hoogerwerf is our awesome audio producer. Thanks to Ron Rienstra for content consultation as well as technical and travel support. Till next time, be well. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit refugianewsletter.substack.com

Tired of the old-school HVAC sales appointment just to get a number? In this episode, Derek Cole from Simmons One Hour Heating & Air shares how homeowners can now get a real, local price range online in just minutes — no pressure, no awkward visits, no guessing.You'll learn how the new Online Quick Quote works, why it's a game changer for Fayetteville-area homeowners, and how it brings honesty and clarity back to HVAC pricing.

If your ducts are full of dust and leaking air, you're paying more every month for less comfort — plain and simple.In this episode, Derek breaks down the two steps most homeowners don't know they need:1️⃣ Clean your ducts to get rid of years of dust, allergens, and debris.2️⃣ Then seal them with Aeroseal to lock that clean air in and stop energy loss.Most folks get this backwards — and it costs them.Listen now and learn how to get cleaner air, lower energy bills, and a more comfortable home.

Dhruv and Cris follow Laura Dern's Sandy (from "Blue Velvet") out of her cheerfully dreamy Lumberton suburbia into the -- at first, hellishly garish, then, coldly desolate wilderness -- of the American West, trying to make sense of how Sandy (now called Lula) tries to keep her passionate romance with Sailor (played by Nicolas Cage) alive as the reality around her threatens to burn down (another one of her) dreams. Listen to the full episode to hear Dhruv only being able to make sense of the part where the dream (and the film's combustible melodrama) is extinguished; Cris, on the other hand, argues that the film's most memorable bits are its most unabashedly fantastical and melodramatic.Major spoilers, of course, for "Wild At Heart."TIME CODESIntroduction : [00:00 - 02:41]"Twin Peaks" Announcement: [02:41 - 03:32]Wild At Cannes (Contexualizing the Film): [03:32 - 16:50]"Wild At Heart": [16:50 - 01:10:48]Outro: [01:10:48 - 01:18:30]TEXT REFERENCED REPEATEDLY"Room to Dream" (David Lynch & Kristine McKenna).Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people!Follow our Instagram page: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠You can follow us on Instagram at:CRIS: https://www.instagram.com/prdscris/.DHRUV: https://www.instagram.com/terminalcinema/.You can also follow us on Letterboxd at -CRIS: https://letterboxd.com/crislim/.DHRUV: https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/.

This week the boys are on thin ice – Moleman is back and thinking about evicting them. Can they win him over and convince him to stick around for a movie night featuring one of his favorite directors?Join the gang as they peel back the pastel-painted layers of suburban America's seedy underbelly in Blue Velvet. Do the chicken walk with Kyle MacLachlan, debate whether Curious George has a tail, and find out what Werner Herzog eats for breakfast.Stick around for plenty of gushing over David Lynch's twisted classic, because in Lumberton… it really is a strange world.Leave us a 30 second voicemail and if we like it we'll play it on the show: (949) 4-STABBY (949-478-2229)Next movie announced every Wednesday. New episodes every Monday. Follow us on the things:Website: https://www.stabbypod.comLinktree: https://www.linktr.ee/stabbystabbyInstagram:  @stabbypod  https://www.instagram.com/stabbypod/Letterboxd:   https://boxd.it/dp1ACMerch: https://www.big-other.com/shop/stabby-stabbySend us a text

This episode is dedicated to Angelina Resendiz. Your presence made an impact that will never be forgotten. This conversation is for you — and because of you.   The crew is joined by AZCM (Ret.) Courtney Barber. The episode opens with a debate about The Carter III and whether or not it's overrated. From there, the conversation turns to Tyler Perry's Straw, Teyana Taylor's performance, and whether streaming releases are in the same league as theatrical films. Spoiler alert — they also react to the twist ending and discuss how the film handles grief, breakdowns, and trauma. The crew reflects on time spent in New Orleans, the weight of anniversaries, and moments that still linger. They congratulate James Sandifer on being elected mayor of Lumberton. Then the conversation shifts to the Army's 250th birthday celebration and questions around military spending, followed by VADM Cheeseman's retirement, a first look at the new CPO eval, and a photo of a Master Chief that sparked questions about standards and image. They also touch on the renaming of military bases, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's recent appearance before Congress, and the challenge of applying today's mindset to past decisions. Tisha closes by sharing thoughts on working in a job that doesn't align with your values — and what it means to try to make a difference anyway. These and more topics are covered on this episode.       To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode, please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com   Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely' podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast       Keep up with our guest, Courtney, at the following: https://www.unapologeticallyfavored.net/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafezGfvmmk6Mr1InJrOdUCu8-cL5gaWJrkq1VWvvw1xaNuKS_AyIv6iPGR4WA_aem_t5d4HRHe3ZOpRYNvOTTalw   Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/unapologeticallyfavored/?ref=_xav_ig_profile_page_web_0515#   Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallycak?igsh=bW5nY3U5ODAzaDhn       Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Send us a textFeaturing Jessica Richie of Richie Workforce DevelopmentOur guest today is Jessica Richie, the dynamic founder of Richie Workforce Development. Born and raised in Lumberton, North Carolina, Jessica brings over a decade of experience in HR and banking—and she's using that expertise to help others find purpose and employment.What started as a response to the pandemic has grown into a powerful movement. Through her business Richie Workforce Development, Jessica is empowering people to unlock their transferable skills, rebuild their confidence, and land jobs.  In this conversation, you'll hear how she:Built her business through strategic certifications and local government opportunitiesDeveloped her signature “government plate” strategy to stay focusedHelped entrepreneurs navigate grants, grow their confidence, and shift their mindsetEmphasizes the power of career resiliency—staying adaptable and emotionally strong during uncertain timesJessica also shares actionable insights on networking, community building, and why one key connection or mindset shift can truly change everything.If you're ready to grow, scale, and serve with purpose—this episode is for you.✨ Connect with Jessica:Website: richieworkforceinspires.comEmail: richieworkforceinspires@gmail.comLinkedIn: Jessica Richie, MBALet's dive in.Support the showThank you for listening.... Feel free to contact us with your thoughts, questions, or more. We would love to hear from you. Please contact rinnie@webbsquared.org

The hemp event of the summer is taking place in Raleigh, North Carolina, July 15-17. It's the Global Industrial Hemp Fiber Summit, hosted by the Wilson College of Textiles, in conjunction with the National Industrial Hemp Council. This week on the Hemp Show, we'll talk to the lead organizer of the event, Guy Carpenter. Unlike other events focused on industrial hemp, this summit centers squarely on hemp fiber and the industries that are growing up around fiber: textiles, apparel, denim, upholstery, non-wovens, construction, hempcrete, insulation, acoustic panels, automotive, biocomposites, door panels, dashboards, paper, packaging, bioenergy, bioplastics and more. Just don't expect cannabinoids, CBD, Delta-8, hemp-derived intoxicants, or any discussion of the floral side of cannabis. According to Carpenter, this event is all about building the fiber industry. "If you have any interest whatsoever in starting a business in our industry and figuring out how to make it work and also figuring out what are the starting points, what are the roadblocks, what are the opportunities … this is the place to be,” he said. The three-day event will include panel discussions with industry experts, as well as field trips to NC State hemp fields, local manufacturing centers and the largest and newest hemp processing facility on the East Coast, recently opened by Biophil Natural Fibers in Lumberton, North Carolina. Carpenter said the summit will cover “everything from seed to decortication … whatever type of segment of the fiber you want to use, we're going to have people here who are experts at it." Carpenter has dedicated his life to natural fibers. He's worked in fashion and apparel, international textile manufacturing, and policy development. After the Army and the Peace Corps, his professional journey in the apparel industry took him all over the world, eventually studying hemp fiber production in China. His vast industry knowledge is a pivotal resource as his home state of North Carolina ramps up hemp for textiles. He brings an unmatched experience and credibility as the organizer of the summit. Carpenter said this event follows in the tradition of the Montana Hemp Summit, hosted by IND Hemp in previous years, which means the summit will be less of a celebration of hemp and more of a working session to move the industry forward, and the people who attend are the people building the industry. “They're not just out there promoting hemp for its magical powers or its halo of goodness… but figuring out ways to make money from it,” he said. “This is the place to be." Also this week, we read a few hemp excerpts from USDA's 1913 Yearbook. Register for the NIHC Global Industrial Hemp Fiber Summit here: https://www.globalindustrialfibersummit.com Read the USDA Yearbook of Agriculture, 1913 — Chapter on Hemp by Lyster Dewey: https://archive.org/details/yearbookofusdept1913unit/page/282/mode/2up News Nuggets Texas Legislature Moves to Ban THC Hemp Products https://www.texastribune.org/2025/05/21/texas-house-thc-hemp-senate-bill-3-ban/ Moldova Plants First Legal Hemp Fields https://hempgazette.com/news/moldova-hemp-fields-hg2123/ Germany Introduces Hemp Flower Tax Stamps https://hemptoday.net/german-hemp-flower-stamps/ Texas Poultry Farm Transforms to Hemp Cultivation https://www.publicnewsservice.org/story/texas-farmers-move-from-poultry-to-hemp/a83734-1 Thanks to our sponsors: IND HEMP https://www.indhemp.com Forever Green – Distributors of the KP4 Hemp Cutter https://www.hempcutter.com National Hemp Association https://nationalhempassociation.org

About our guest: Lieutenant Commander (Ret.) James Sandifer, a proud native of Lumberton, Mississippi, served 30 years in the United States Navy. Rising from E-1 to Lieutenant Commander, he built a decorated career in air traffic control and leadership across multiple global deployments and operational theaters. Sandifer is a combat-tested veteran who supported Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, with tours onboard CVNs like the USS George Washington and USS Harry S. Truman. His military journey is rooted in faith, mentorship, and resilience. Now back home and running for mayor of Lumberton, Sandifer's “Choose to Change” campaign is focused on unity, youth empowerment, infrastructure reform, and restoring pride in the community.   About This Episode: In this episode, Damo, Tisha, and Aaron sit down with retired Navy Lieutenant Commander James Sandifer—Lumberton, Mississippi native and current mayoral candidate—for a candid and inspiring conversation about leadership, legacy, and choosing to change your community from the inside out. James reflects on his upbringing in a small Southern town, the values he inherited working hayfields and watermelon farms, and how that foundation set the tone for a 30-year career in the U.S. Navy. He opens up about early career missteps, nearly getting derailed during his first tour in Puerto Rico, and the life-altering mentorship that set him on a new trajectory. From rising through the ranks to Chief and ultimately retiring as a Lieutenant Commander, James shares the hard lessons he learned about leadership, ego, humility, and faith. He talks about earning respect in the air traffic control community despite being told he wouldn't make it, and how mentorship from both Black and white leaders helped mold his character. The episode also explores Sandifer's return home to a town that's seen population decline, economic challenges, and systemic neglect. He breaks down his “Choose to Change” campaign platform, highlighting issues like school district failures, sewage infrastructure, poverty, and racial division. But more importantly, he speaks on unity, youth empowerment, and what it truly means to serve after service. We also get lighter moments: push-up competitions on the campaign trail, his Waffle House order, and why Cuevas Fish House will always outrank Ruth's Chris in his book. These and more topics are explored in this episode.   To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode, please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely' podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast       James' Book Recommendation: Chop Wood Carry Water (Joshua Medcalf) https://www.amazon.com/Chop-Wood-Carry-Water-audiobook/dp/B01MS3QS8K   Follow James Sandifer and his campaign for Mayor of Lumberton: @voteforsandifer (Linktree) https://linktr.ee/voteforsandifer?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c190aa3f-d12d-4be2-8009-1fef6f18fec1       Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

I can tell you the exact date and place: October 16, 1986, at the Fine Arts Theater in downtown Chicago. I got to come of age as a moviegoer in the corporate dominated, era of the late 70's and early 80's. I was a child of "Jaws", "Star Wars", Indy and "Back to the Future". With occasional exceptions like "Stranger than Paradise" and "Blade Runner", American film in the early and mid 80's felt corporate and soulless. And then I saw "Blue Velvet", and my moviegoing life was saved. Skip now to nearly four years later, to those glorious two months in the spring of 1990 when "Twin Peaks" changed everything that television was and could be. For these moments, and so many more, we use Episode 60 to pay a last tribute to Hollywood's favorite Eagle Scout, the irreplaceable David Lynch. What separates Lynch from almost every other filmmaker, was that whereas most great directors were filmmakers who evolved into artists, Lynch was an artist (a celebrated painter, composer) who happened to choose filmmaking as his major means of expression. And when the filmmaking money dried up after "Inland Empire"'s failure, he simply turned to other art forms to express what he wanted to say. Lynch was most certainly a surrealist, every bit as much as Dali, Magritte or De Chirico were, but he was, as one critic termed him, a “populist surrealist”. In his films, the line between dream and reality (or between reality and film in his later works) is blurred. This makes sense, since surrealism is founded on dreams and dreamlike juxtapositions. Lynch, like those great painters he so admired and emulated, was an artist of the unconscious and the uncanny. But for all the serious artistic ambition, everything he created was leavened with that art-school sense of humor, off-center and dry as a bone. For all of his unsettling imagery and the deep questions his work raised about the nature of identity, he seemed, at least from the outside, to have led the happiest of lives. Raised mainly in Missoula, Montana, Lynch often paid tribute to the simple quotidian beauties of life in small-town America (think Twin Peaks, Lumberton, the Iowa and Wisconsin towns we see in "The Straight Story") while also, as in the opening of "Blue Velvet", reminding us of the darkness that often lies just beneath those finely-manicured lawns. For all of his artistic sophistication, he never even came close to an artsy sense of condescending irony; it's perfect that he spent the last years of his life sending in daily weather reports to the LA public radio station for broadcast. No winks, no air quotes—just the desire to share a genuine excitement about the miracles of nature. And for an artist who was such a unique stylist that he was one of the last to become an adjective (we all know “Lynchian” filmmaking when we see it), he was at the same time constantly paying tribute to film history; consider the endless "Wizard of Oz" references in "Wild at Heart", or casting just about all of the hot new movie stars of 1961 in the original "Twin Peaks" series. How perfectly fitting it was, then, to watch him, in his final and uncredited big screen appearance, playing a cranky John Ford in Spielberg's "The Fablemans". For our tribute to Lynch (which is more than they did for him at this year's Oscars), we eschewed our usual formula and chose not to do a chronological reckoning of Lynch's work and its impact from "Eraserhead" to "Inland Empire". This episode, like the director's work itself, is more associative and non-linear. In the end, we conclude that David Lynch, that Man from Another Place, is someone whose absence makes the world that much poorer a spot to live in. To quote the repeated incantation from "Blue Velvet", now it's dark.

This week we dive into the restored audio of eyewitness accounts detailing the sightings of a mysterious triangular object in Lumberton, NC. The witnesses describe the object's shape, color, and movement, as well as their emotional reactions to the experience.Multiple accounts from different individuals highlight the shared nature of the sightings, with some witnesses pursuing the object and others noting its unusual electrical interference, close encounters, a potential crash, and more.Hope you enjoy :)Chapters00:00 Witnessing the Unexplained: A Stormy Night Encounter04:45 Details of the Object: Shape, Color, and Movement07:35 Comparative Sightings: Multiple Witness Accounts10:19 The Pursuit: Following the Mysterious Craft13:41 The Lights: Colors, Brightness, and Sound16:34 The Aftermath: Lights Out and Unexplained PhenomenaTAGS:Keywords#UFO #sightings #eyewitness #accounts #unexplained #phenomena #triangular #paranormal #witness #testimony #mysterious #craft #aerialphenomena #sightings #Lumberton

0:00 - Tariff Temperature Check 34:03 - Hunter Metcalf 's eyewitness account of his brother's stabbing death 58:20 - K12 01:09:39 - Evanston child's cry for help 01:32:04 - Lumberton, NJ, Mayor Gina LaPlaca DUIed at house 01:42:26 - Mike Klotz 01:49:48 - Founder, CIO Perry International Capital Partners, LLC., Jim Perry, preaches patience and optimism as we go through tariff turbulence. For market intelligence and actionable insights you won't find anywhere else perryinternationalcapitalpartners.com02:12:05 - OPEN MIC FRIDAYSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you're in the Lumberton area, go check out Stephen's winery, or in Elizabethtown NC check out Georgio's Italian, or Cape Fear Winery. Lots of great stuff around. God is good all the time.

Jay McElroy was born and raised on a small farm in Cuba, AL, where he spent his childhood roaming the fields and woods surrounding his home. He attended Bass Memorial Academy in Lumberton, MS, graduating in 1984, and then pursued higher education at Southern Adventist University, where he earned his degree and married Stefanie in 1987. After college, he worked for two years before enrolling at the University of Alabama with Stefanie, where he earned an MBA alongside her. Following graduation, he moved back to Cuba, AL, with Stefanie, joining the family trucking business, where he remains today. Jay and Stefanie have two married sons, four grandchildren, and a fifth grandchild due soon. Growing up in the rural South laid the foundation for his love of the outdoors, which evolved into a passion for ultra-distance endurance events. He has completed three Ironman races, seven 100-mile races, and two 200-mile events, in addition to dozens of shorter-distance competitions. His passion for endurance sports began with a desire to improve his health and redirect the path he was on. In this conversation, Marty and Jay explore physical fitness as a core male strength. Jay emphasizes mental toughness over physical limits, sharing tales of frostbite and hallucinations, yet finding God's awe in nature. Despite a spinal fusion at 40, intestinal surgery, and melanoma, he thrives by staying active. Rest—8-8.5 hours nightly—and Sabbath renewal are vital, rooted in scriptures like Ecclesiastes 9 (“do it with all your might”). With a supportive wife, Jay urges men to set goals, push limits, and embrace trail running's spiritual rewards. His message: take the first step—whether a 5K or beyond—to unlock God-given potential, blending physical endurance with faith and resilience. Send Your Ask Marty Anything Question HereBlueprint for Men is a ministry that empowers husbands, fathers, and leaders to live like Jesus. Sign up for our weekly newsletter here.

Welcome back to purgatory and come along with us as we continue our incredible down the David Lynch rabbit hole. This week we visit Lumberton, cross a field and find a severed ear, have a Papst Blue Ribbon down at The Slow Club and do the duck walk and join us as we walk what really below the surface of a small town in Blue Velvet from 1986. The film stars Isabella Rossellini, Dennis Hopper, Kyle Maclachlan, Laura Dern, Hope Lange, Dean Stockwell, George Dickerson, Priscilla Pointer, Frances Bay, Jack Harvey, Ken Stovitz, Brad Dourif and Jack Nance!!!! HENIEKEN!?!?!?! FUCK THAT SHIT!!!! IT'S PAPST BLUE RIBBON!!!! Thanks for checkin us out and coming along with as we visit David Lynch and his films. You can find our back catalog on Podbean.com and you can us everywhere else podcasts are found. Intro theme "David Lynch Theme" By Jeremy Mcfarlane Intro & Outro tracks by Angelo Badalamenti from the Blue Velvet soundtrack 1. Main Theme https://youtu.be/wxej6yUJv-E?si=4o4wSq0PsRrDoeSP 2. Night Streets/Sandy and Jeffrey https://youtu.be/GDGYT4scpLk?si=djAWui1vCXIdm74X  

In honor of the passing of David Lynch, we are taking a very analytical look at two of David Lynch's masterpieces; Blue Velvet & Mulholland Drive. Blue Velvet (1986) starring Kyle MacLachlan, Isabella Rosselini, Laura Dern, and Dennis Hopper presents the dual worlds within the town of Lumberton and how the discovery of a human ear by Jeffery played by Kyle MacLachlan leads him down a dark path into the town's seedy underworld. Mulholland Drive (2001) starring Justin Theroux, Naomi Watts, and Laura Harring presents the dreamlike world of Hollywood and how a young starlet's search to help her new friend discover the cause of her amnesia leads down the path of a surrealist nightmare. NEWSLETTER and UNCUT REELS!!!!! We are adding a weekly companion newsletter for the podcast that will feature EXCLUSIVE BONUS CONTENT, our raw discussions on movies, tv, and life that don't fit the podcast! We're calling it "UNCUT REELS!" SIGN UP HERE TO GET THE BONUS CONTENT!! https://mailchi.mp/41902cbf6549/exclusive-newsletter   Follow The Cinema Psychos Show on Socials ❤️‍

UFO in Lumberton, North CarolinaPlease support Charles Lear by picking up his books from Amazon or your local bookstore. Follow Our Other ShowsFollow UFO WitnessesFollow Crime Watch WeeklyFollow Paranormal FearsFollow Seven: Disturbing Chronicle StoriesJoin our Patreon for ad-free listening and more bonus content.Follow us on Instagram @mysteriousradioFollow us on TikTok mysteriousradioTikTok Follow us on Twitter @mysteriousradio Follow us on Pinterest pinterest.com/mysteriousradio Like us on Facebook Facebook.com/mysteriousradio]

Last week, Michael McLellan pleaded guilty to kidnapping, raping and murdering 13-year-old Hania Aguilar, who was taken from her Lumberton driveway in 2018. He was then taken back to prison to serve a life sentence--but he did not go easily. Deputies say he tried to escape twice. WRAL's Chelsea Donovan found out why law enforcement believes he'd been planning it for a while.

Lend us your (severed) ears! This week, we're jumping back into our Lynch series with a trip to Lumberton, USA, as our beloved Jamie Loftus joins us to chat about 1986's BLUE VELVET. We're going deep on the star persona of Kyle MacLachlan, David Sims' obsession with Dean Stockwell, and David Lynch's unironic obsession with Americana. How does a movie that deals with such deeply disturbing themes end up being so watchable? That's that Lynchian magic, baby! Be sure to listen to Sixteenth Minute (of Fame) Buy Jamie's Book: Raw Dog: The Naked Truth About Hot Dogs Listen to The Bechdel Cast Join our Patreon for franchise commentaries and bonus episodes. Follow us @blankcheckpod on Instagram, Threads, Facebook and X!  Buy some real nerdy merch. Connect with other Blankies on our Reddit or Discord For anything else, check out BlankCheckPod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lend us your (severed) ears! This week, we're jumping back into our Lynch series with a trip to Lumberton, USA, as our beloved Jamie Loftus joins us to chat about 1986's BLUE VELVET. We're going deep on the star persona of Kyle MacLaughlin, David Sims' obsession with Dean Stockwell, and David Lynch's unironic obsession with Americana. How does a movie that deals with such deeply disturbing themes end up being so watchable? That's that Lynchian magic, baby! Be sure to listen to Sixteenth Minute (of Fame) Buy Jamie's Book: Raw Dog: The Naked Truth About Hot Dogs Listen to The Bechdel Cast This episode is sponsored by: MUBI (mubi.com/blankcheck) Zocdoc (zocdoc.com/check)  Harry's (harrys.com/check) Join our Patreon at http://www.patreon.com/blankcheck  Follow us @blankcheckpod on Twitter and Instagram! 

Monologue: :Tim Worley charted out a six-year NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears. Worley was an original first round pick of the Steelers in 1989 and flashed talent during his rookie season. He rushed for 770 yards and five touchdowns. While Worley had a fairly prosperous pro career, he is a legend at Georgia. During his junior season with the Bulldogs, he ran for 1,216 yards and 17 touchdowns. Certain publications named him a first-team All-American and he was also UPI's SEC Offensive Player of the Year. Worley is also a member of the Florida-Georgia game Hall of Fame. He now is active in the motivational speaking field.   Tell us about your childhood::: growing up in Lumberton/ family life in your home/ what shenanigans did you and your siblings get into (Chops) You've said in the past at a young age you knew you had “the gift” can you explain for us and our listeners what you mean by that? (Mark) In high school Sr. year you won states in track & you were an All American in football, what was recruiting like for you in BOTH TRACK AND FOOTBALL   You end up at UGA, what other 2-3 schools were in your consideration? (Shene) At UGA you had an impressive freshman season, what do you remember as the biggest difference from high school to BIG TIME COLLEGE FOOTBALL (Sizzle) We're going to put you on the spot.  There are a lot good running backs that come out of Georgia.  Who would you consider the top 5? (Chops) Will Nick Chubb make a come back and to what degree do you think he be able to play? (Sizzle) You're sophomore season gets cut short because of an injury, this is the first time you're dealing with time away from football. How did that effect you? Mentally how did you respond?What were you doing to occupy your time away from the field? (Mark) You get drafted 1st round by my hometown Pittsburgh Steelers, please tell us the feeling of that? Did you have a preference of what team you wanted to draft you (Shene) You were the first rookie in Steelers history to get a million dollar signing bonus”what pressure “IF ANY” did that put on you? (Sizzle) After an extremely promising rookie season things started to decline for you in Pittsburgh that ultimately lead to a years suspension from the NFl. With is much as you feel comfortable can you tell us what happened what things transpired that got you suspended? (Chops) Tim, we're friends on Facebook and I see you're active on social media and I notice you are strong in your faith and love to spread the gospel.Tell us how your faith has helped shape the man you are today? (Mark) Michael “Chops” Mills @therealbigchops  Terry “T-sizzle” Young : Instagram and Twitter @1tyoungy Rashene “Real Deal” Hill: Facebook @RasheneHill and Instagram @miramaitamshene ===========================  CONNECT WITH US  ===========================  Check out our websites, social media and networks we are featured on:  https://www.podpage.com/originalsportspodcastwithmarkmaradei/  Like our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OSPwithMM Join the conversation on Twitter https://twitter.com/OSPwithMM Reach out to us on Snapchat at: OSPwithMM Follow us on Instagram pics https://www.instagram.com/originalsportspodcast                         Watch our Tik Tok at: OriginalSportsPodcast Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVZuudj681oIAbnscyHBa0g?view_as=subscriber  Find us on: Let's Talk Sports Network, https://sidelinesportsnet.com/  and Elite Sports and Entertainment Network. Catch our Roku Show on Tuesday Nights from 9-10 pm  ===========================  Feel free to let us know if you have any comments or questions By emailing us at: OriginalSportsPodcast@gmail.com Voice intro: Steve Medley Intro and outro music provided by Charlie Hodgson Join us every week to Experience the “O” on the Original Sports Podcast!!! @ClaudioReilsano @Topoffsports @SportsPodiumPodcast @TheMicDr @MarLovelace1 @100Sanford @coachmaradei @Letstalksports @TribuneSouth @BBALLBABE6 @NFLDraftEd @Key103Radio @1069THEEAGLE  @ShkBkMediaGrp @MunnseyTalks @JB_ThePROgram @ecwilson76 @LandersTalks @Mancinisports @GridironXtra @GridironGrubb @GridironZeroes @GridironGuru2 @OSPwithMM @thrillofsports @SmokeyHellNFL @jennacheryl@ShkBkMediaGrp @SteveB7SFG @CFBWeekly @ecwilson76 @LandersTalks @RadioJakeTaylor @tssjester @1youngterry @coachneub @MediaManning @ListenFrederick @ListenHubCity  @therealbigchops    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVZuudj681oIAbnscyHBa0g https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/original-sports-podcast-with-mark-maradei/id1504014103 https://open.spotify.com/show/3bMNxHBGw0V61LtpSuKh2u https://www.audible.com/pd/Steel-City-Nation-Podcast-Podcast/B08JJMND3F https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS85NDM0MjMucnNz https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-steel-city-nation-podcast-60538738/ https://www.twitch.tv/ospwithmarkmaradei   

Every girl needs a plush penis, And yes, I bought one dammit! Well, I made Mitch buy it but be that as it may, we now have a large plush penis we have nicknamed Girth Johnson. There we did it and there's no take backs, LOL. This week some updates on Sally prepping for this weekend's webinar where she does some meditative foreplay on Mitch. Details on our run off to Fantasy Gifts in Lumberton, NJ where Mitch finds another Whovian! Small world! Discussions of big wang evenings. Sally um, pops the cock. Sally's new WIcked Weasel gets a workout, while we both learn how to do strobe flash with an iPhone. Yep, it can be done! Pumpkin hunt 2024 coming soon! A discussion on broken hearts and animal rescue as well as revelations on what Sally does to try and relax to sleep while Mitch is sleeping. Oh did we mention penis and boob sippy cups? Ok, then you have to listen or watch. Slurp that sippy bb, Twinkle, twinkle, Sally & Mitch sjerotica.com “We put the WHAT? in WTF?”

I meet and befriend a homeless woman.by Sénor Longo. Listen to the ► Podcast at Connected.CHAPTER 1.To be continued, by Sénor Longo.It was the sign I saw first. “HOMELESS,” it said; just some marker on a torn sheet of cardboard about three feet high and less than two wide. “Anything will help. Please!” I looked around at the modern shopping center and the hundreds of mostly new cars and wondered not for the first time how something like this could happen. Then I wondered what would happen tonight when the temperature was supposed to go down to 23; nine degrees below freezing. By this time I had driven my Honda Accord past the unfortunate guy and was on the way to the highway.I'm no softy. I grew up just outside New York City and I've seen beggars aplenty; both in the city and on gambling junkets down in Atlantic City, where the boardwalk is infested with them. In the past I'd just driven or walked on, ignoring and not even making eye contact, but something about this bothered me. I'd taken early retirement; really early, and moved to “warmer climes,” as the saying goes. I lived now north of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina where everyone seemed to have plenty of money; money for golf, restaurants, shows and clubs in addition to the necessities of life; yet there were still some with no food and no shelter, and worse; no hope. Here, where there were so many with so much, there was still someone who could freeze to death in a matter of hours.Instead of the highway I turned into Home Depot to swing around in a circle that would bring me back to the desolate soul leaning there against the stop sign. Parking my car nearby in the huge lot I walked up to the beggar. “I'd give you some money, buddy, but what guarantee do I have that you won't spend it on cheap booze or snort it up your nose?”“You have my word, Mister.” I was taken aback by the voice. I had expected it to be gruff; matching the rough clothes and heavy boots, but it wasn't. Then, taking a really close look, I saw this beggars face was clean shaven; okay, not shaven, but hairless. Hidden under the knit cap and heavy sweatshirt and jeans was, I was sure, a woman.Reaching out, I lifted the beggar to his/her feet and pulled the cap from its head. Several cars had driven past when her auburn hair fell around her dirty face. “I don't believe it. You're a girl!”“Nobody's called me a girl in years. I'm a woman and what's not to believe?”“Mind telling me how old you are? And what the hell are you doing here?”“Why is it your business?”“You're sitting here begging for money and I have some, but I'm not turning any over to you until I get some answers.” I'd noticed that the sun was setting and in the few minutes I'd been here the temperature had dropped ten degrees. I was getting cold and I was dressed in heavier clothes than she was. “Why don't we continue this conversation in my car where it's a lot warmer?”“So you can rape me? I don't think so.”“You know, for a beggar you're awfully particular. I'm trying to help you and all I get is lip. I have half a mind to put you over my knee.”She appeared shocked at my words, but slowly followed my lead as I walked to my car. I held the door for her then walked around to the driver's seat. “So, why don't you tell me your story? How on earth did you wind up here?”“I think I'd rather hear your story before I share mine. How do I know I can trust you?”I was tempted to laugh, but I didn't. Actually, the more I thought the more I considered it a good idea. “Okay, that's fair enough, my name is Douglas Robert Preston, Doug. I'm 34 and I'm officially retired.”“At 34?”“Yeah. Ever hear of the computer learning programs, 'S A T for Idiots' or ‘A S V A B for Idiots' or ‘Spanish for Idiots'? I wrote that entire series; all twenty-three of them, and I made a real good living, especially since there were only three people in my company. I wrote code in my home office while my secretary and bookkeeper kept track of orders in my dining room. It was great; no commuting, no arguing with partners, and since I had no actual physical product, no production or mailing or returns costs. My customers downloaded every program and my overhead was almost nothing, less than a hundred and twenty thousand a year. Virtually all of that was for my employees' salaries and our insurance premiums.“I was clearing close to a million dollars a year after taxes and then I got a brilliant idea; ‘Investments for Idiots.' There are plenty of computer programs for every subject under the sun, but the investment field is like a deep dark jungle. I often think that the so-called experts make it that way so they can justify the billions they make at the public's expense. My instructional programs analyzed a person's errors and created new remedial lessons. The investment program works much the same way in that it asks questions just like the other programs, but it takes the data you put in on a stock, bond, or mutual fund and actually analyzes the information using daily info it picks up from the internet then it tells you what to do. It can even analyze stocks and bonds at random and make recommendations or do the whole buying and selling process automatically. To test it I used it every day for almost two years and it never made even a single mistake. I made millions; returning more than twenty percent in a market that was static at best, so much that the SEC came knocking at my door, thinking I had some inside information. Unfortunately, their “secure investigation” leaked like a sieve.“I can't tell you the name of the company, but when they learned about my program they figured their gravy train would be toast. Why pay some jerk five percent commission year after year when you could buy all of his expertise and more for a few hundred dollars? A few days later I answered my door and they were there with a bunch of lawyers wanting to buy me out. Their offer was too good to ignore. I sold the entire company and the rights to all of my programs. Even after taxes I still had more than I could spend in a lifetime. They agreed to hire my two employees for a minimum of five years at the same salary and benefits and I walked away with more than a hundred million, how much more will have to be my secret for the time being.”“What? You made a hundred million and you're driving an effing Honda?”“Why not? A car is just a way to get from point A to point B. A Honda does that as well as a Mercedes and it's a lot cheaper to maintain. This car has almost everything a Mercedes or BMW would have at less than half the price. What's not to like? Anyway, I moved south to get away from the snow and here I am. Now you know my story; what's yours?”She looked down and took a deep breath. “My name is Jessica Fuller, Jessie. I'm twenty-three and I've been on my own since I was seventeen. I ran away from home because my step-father was raping me several times a week.”“Couldn't you have gone to the police?”She laughed. “That rat bastard was the county sheriff. He had me watched like a hawk, told everyone it was for my protection because he claimed I was out of control. I was an honor roll student back in high school. How out of control could I have been? I had just graduated when he and my mother went on a cruise, leaving me home alone. One of the deputies was supposed to look in on me, but one night I bolted right after he left. I took my mother's car and drove it down to the train station thinking that might throw them off the track then I grabbed my backpack and hiked five miles out to the interstate where I hitched a ride.“I'm no fool. I knew I'd have to come across as payment for a lot of the rides either with a blow job or fucking. It was worth any price to get away from that asshole. My mother was no better. I tried to tell her what was happening and she called me a liar then she hit me and accused me of trying to steal her man. What the fuck? Why the hell would I want a fifty year-old man with a gut like Santa Claus?“I figured that if I just kept on traveling I'd be able to keep myself away from them. That's what I've been doing for the past five years; hitching rides and staying alive. I can't tell you how many men I've fucked in that time, but I'm away from him. Every now and then I call a friend and she gives me the low-down on everything since my last call. Seems the mighty sheriff has had his hand in the till and the state cops are all over him. With luck he might get himself arrested. My last big ride was with a long-haul trucker; a nice guy who didn't even try to get his way with me. He fed me and let me sleep in his cab for three days, but he reached the end of the line out in Lumberton, you know, up in North Carolina. I got a ride here from a Canadian couple day before yesterday. That's my story. Not much, is it?”“I don't know. Seems you're a survivor. I think a lot of people would have given up by now. Ever think of settling in one place and getting a job?”“My step-father would be all over me as soon as my employer listed my social security number and I got a paycheck. I'm free of him, but I'm fucked job-wise.”I sat silently for a few minutes before speaking. “You'd better buckle up. Driving in parking lots can be dangerous.”“Where are we going?”“Walmart, I can't take you to dinner looking like that. You'll need some new clothes and let me see your head for a second. Hmmm, you have head lice. Not too surprising considering how you've been living. We'll have to get something to treat it.”“Why are you doing this? You don't know me.”“Neither have any of the men who've picked you up since you've been on the road. Let's just say for now that I don't want to read that you've frozen to death when I pick up tomorrow's paper.” I started the car and drove maybe a quarter mile, parking only a few slots from Walmart's entrance. I sent her in to the women's clothing department with instructions to get at least three sets of everything; more for underwear, bras, and socks. “See about some sneakers and maybe some shoes. If there's nothing you like there's a shoe store right down the lot, maybe a hundred yards. I'm off to the pharmacy to get something for your hair. I think I'll get you some regular shampoo and conditioner, too.” I pushed a cart in her direction then took one of my own. She turned left and I turned right when we were in the huge store.I had to wait on line to speak with a pharmacist, but that was hardly a surprise. It was Walmart, after all. I explained briefly about the problem and she recommended a product on the shelves, telling me that a fine-toothed comb was included. After listening to her instructions closely I picked up a bottle of the shampoo then went looking for some other “necessities.” Shampoo and conditioner were first then a toothbrush and some mild soap for her face. I already had plenty of deodorant soap. I picked up some razors and shaving cream and some anti-perspirant. Then I walked into foreign territory; feminine hygiene products. I had no idea what she used so I got one of each figuring that we could just leave the others at the cashier. Thinking that I had everything I walked away, but turned back when I realized she would need a comb and brush, at least.I found her in the women's department with three pairs of Levi's, two pairs of Capri's, four tops, and a sweater. “I hope it's not too much.”“No, if anything it's not enough, but it'll be enough for now. How about some underwear and socks Then we can throw your old stuff into the trash. I don't see any jackets here. Take a look at what I have and we can pick up the rest of the clothes.” She looked at all the feminine products and laughed. “Well, I assume you have your period. You're too young for menopause and I had no idea what you used.”“Most of the time it was whatever rag I could find. Thanks.” She picked up a box of tampons and put them in her cart then I added everything not a feminine product and abandoned my cart. A few minutes later we had bras; 34B's, and panties and socks. Amazingly, we found a cashier line with only one person ahead of us. Once we had checked out we returned to the car and I drove down to the shoe store. One of the clerks gave Jessie a dirty look which I suppose might have been justified considering her appearance, but my withering glare turned him in the opposite direction fast.Jessie picked out a pair of New Balance sneakers and a pair of basic black; well, I'd call them ‘loafers,' but I was sure they were actually called something else. Back in my car, I drove to my house.“I live about twenty-five minutes away up in Sunset Beach, North Carolina. When we get there I'd like you to go to my guest bathroom. Drop your clothes outside the door. You can lock all three doors so you'll be assured of privacy. Use the medicated shampoo on your hair then if you wrap one of the big towels around your body I'll come in and use the fine-toothed comb to pull out any nits. Now, don't be insulted, but the pharmacist said you might have them in your pubic area, too. She suggested either the shampoo or shaving the area. That would wash any lice and nits down the drain. I think you should check your armpits, too. If we don't get everything the first time around we can continue tomorrow morning. You can have your choice of the extra bedrooms, okay?”“Like I'm going to argue. I assume you'd like to fuck me so why am I sleeping in a separate room?”“Let's get things straightened out before we even think about it. I'll make an appointment with my doctor tomorrow, too. I think you should be tested for STD's. Again, please don't be insulted. Did every one of your partners use a condom? I'll bet not, and you weren't exactly in a position to insist.”I had turned off US-17 North onto NC-179; Beach Road; that would lead straight to my house. I pulled through the gate about ten minutes later. Carrying the bags of clothes into the living room, I stopped before taking all the personal items into the guest bath. I locked the two doors that led to the two adjacent bedrooms and placed everything on the vanity. “Need anything else?”“Some clothes.”“Of course; I'll cut the tags off while you shower and wash your hair. I'll bring in a set of clothes for you when I comb out your hair.” I opened the linen closet and removed a wash cloth and a big thick bath towel. “I think this will cover you. I'll get a trash bag for your clothes. They'll have lice in them so they have to go. Just drop them outside the door. I'll have the bag ready. Make sure you remove any personal items you might have in the pockets. Okay, see you once you've cleaned up then we'll go out to dinner.” I closed the door and heard her lock it. I was back in less than a minute with a heavy-duty trash bag and I was just in time to take the items directly from her outstretched hand.I selected the rear bedroom for her thinking it would be quieter and made the queen bed there before cutting the tags from her clothes and placing them either on hangers in the closet or into drawers in the dresser. I selected a top, bra, panties, Capri's, and socks for her to wear. I was just about finished when I heard her open the door. “Doug?”“I'm right here. Here are some clothes for you. I hope everything matches okay. Why don't you sit on the stool while I comb your hair?” She did and I ran the comb through her hair exactly as the pharmacist had told me to, the teeth flush with her scalp. I must have pulled a hundred nits; lice egg cases; from her scalp before running them down the drain with steaming hot water. I could see the bite marks where the lice had feasted on her blood. What a shame that a decent human being had to live like this.All told I spent almost a half hour combing her hair, even going over the same areas two and three times until the comb was clean. Then I left Jessie to dress. I was somewhat surprised at how well she had cleaned up. I guessed her height at about 5 feet 9 inches and she was painfully thin, no doubt because she hadn't eaten regularly. She had small breasts, I thought for the same reason and narrow hips. Her face was an almost perfect oval with blue eyes and high cheekbones I hadn't noticed before. I left her alone and five minutes later she was ready.CHAPTER 2.I set the house alarm and led her out to my Honda. It really was a pretty decent car. I'd bought it new when I moved here last year. There's a big difference between buying a car in New York and buying one here. For one thing, the sales people actually make you believe they're glad to have you in their showroom. Many times in New York I'd stood around for half an hour while they completely ignored my presence. I only give people like that one chance. I'd never go into that dealership again, but I always made sure to write an explanatory letter to the general manager. The biggest difference was that I paid for this car with a personal check. In New York an official bank check was always required and, even then, I had to sit around the dealership while they called the bank to ensure that it was real.I opened the door for Jessie and backed out into the driveway. A minute later we were back on Beach Road headed toward the nearby village of Calabash. I parked in the lot at Boundary House. It was just after eight so the early rush of senior citizens was long gone. We were shown straight to a table by the hostess. Once we had our menus I asked Jessie, ”Would you like a drink? They might ask you for ID, but maybe not since I come here often.”“It's okay, I have my expired driver's license from Iowa. What would you have? The drink, I mean.”“I usually have a Margarita on the rocks. I enjoy it. You can barely taste the tequila through the lemon-and lime juice in it.”“I think I'll join you.” That was what we ordered when the waitress came to the table. I explained what I knew about the menu. “I've had the baked potato soup several times. I think it's really good. When was the last time you ate?”“Day before yesterday with the Canadian couple; a burger and some fries with a Coke for lunch.”“Then you're probably hungry enough that you can handle the soup. It's pretty filling. Also, the salads here are big and really good with cheese, bacon, and almonds in addition to the standard lettuce and tomatoes. For entrees I suggest the shrimp; grilled or fried; the chicken fingers, ribs, or prime rib. They're all usually pretty good. I had the filet once and it was okay, but just okay. I'm going to have the ribs.”Jessie did order the soup, suggesting we share, the salad with Italian, and the ribs with baked sweet potato. I had the salad with bleu cheese and the ribs with baked potato. I toasted with Jessie once the drinks had arrived. “Here's to better days.”She smiled and took a sip. “Good choice; I really like it.”Now I smiled. “Don't like it too much. They can really sneak up on you. They're stronger than you might think. That's why I never have more than two.” A minute later our soup arrived and I could tell by the expression on her face that it was another good choice. I could also tell that she was reluctant to share, but, after eating about half, she pushed the bowl across the table. I only ate a little bit and returned the bowl to her.I loved the salads here and the accompanying croissant was always fresh and delicious with its drizzle of honey butter. Jessie must have been really hungry because she finished everything and even agreed to share a dessert of New York cheesecake even though she told me she'd never had it before. “Your other suggestions worked out well. I'll trust you on this one.” The restaurant claims their cheesecake is flown i

The tragic death of Mica Miller, the estranged wife of former Pastor John-Paul Miller, has left many questions unanswered and sparked calls for a thorough investigation. Mica Miller, 30, was found dead on April 27 at Lumber River State Park in Lumberton, North Carolina. Her death was ruled a suicide by officials, but her family remains unconvinced and is urging authorities to reexamine the case. In an exclusive interview with NewsNation's Rich McHugh, John-Paul Miller discussed the months leading up to his wife's death and the intense public scrutiny that followed. He revealed his efforts to persuade Mica to take lithium for her mental health struggles and to stay with him. "Now that some of the emotion has died down in the world and with people that are led by their feelings, they deserve to hear some logic and some truth and make their own assessment," he stated.  On the day of her death, Mica Miller drove alone to a pawn shop, purchased a gun and ammunition, then made another stop at a gas station before heading to Lumber River State Park. There, she dialed 911 and informed the operator of her intention to die by suicide and where her body could be found. Police arrived within ten minutes and discovered her body. “I didn't think it was real,” John-Paul Miller said. “I thought her family had made it up and had somebody call me and say that. So that's one big thing. I didn't think it was real. When I found that it was real … You don't want to say I told you so because it's a horrible thing.”  Court documents reveal a tumultuous relationship between Mica and John-Paul Miller, marked by allegations of abuse. Mica accused her husband of stealing her car, installing a tracking device, hospitalizing her against her will, and grooming her since she was 10 years old. In an email obtained by NewsNation, John-Paul Miller apologized for posting a topless photo of Mica online. “I'm sorry for putting a picture of you on the internet,” he wrote. Nine days after receiving the email, Mica Miller sent an affidavit to her attorney, detailing the abuse she had suffered since their marriage. “Since the day we became husband and wife, I have been abused in every way I can think of. Emotionally, sexually, spiritually, financially, and physically,” she wrote. She also accused John-Paul Miller of "showing up in person around town" and putting tracking devices on her car. The former pastor acknowledged writing the apology email but claimed not everything in it was true. He asserted that Mica had demanded $10,000 and an apology letter in exchange for taking her medication and coming home. “It got to the point where she says, ‘You know what? I'll take my medicine and I'll come home if you'll give me $10,000 and if you'll write me an apology letter,'” he said. Mica Miller's family and friends described a different scenario, alleging that John-Paul Miller felt like "he owned her" and exhibited patterns of abuse and violence. Sierra Francis, Mica's sister, stated in an affidavit that Mica had expressed fear for her life, saying, "If I end up with a bullet in my head, it was JP." Despite these allegations, John-Paul Miller maintained that his wife was safe, healthy, and happy when with him. He recalled instances where Mica expressed suicidal thoughts and his efforts to ensure she received medical help.  Following Mica's death, John-Paul Miller announced her passing during a sermon, attributing her death to mental illness and asking his congregation not to discuss it within the church. Reports indicate that Mica had filed for divorce multiple times and had posted a video on Facebook weeks before her death, offering advice to those in abusive relationships.   When Mica Miller's death was ruled a suicide, John-Paul Miller did not question the investigators' findings, believing there was no other plausible explanation. “My Lord, let my wife be at peace. She's in heaven,” he said. “She's not worrying about all this stuff … she had suicidal tendencies over and over, year after year — off medication especially.” As the investigation continues, Mica Miller's family and friends hope for a thorough review to uncover the truth behind her tragic death. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK's Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com 

The tragic death of Mica Miller, the estranged wife of former Pastor John-Paul Miller, has left many questions unanswered and sparked calls for a thorough investigation. Mica Miller, 30, was found dead on April 27 at Lumber River State Park in Lumberton, North Carolina. Her death was ruled a suicide by officials, but her family remains unconvinced and is urging authorities to reexamine the case. In an exclusive interview with NewsNation's Rich McHugh, John-Paul Miller discussed the months leading up to his wife's death and the intense public scrutiny that followed. He revealed his efforts to persuade Mica to take lithium for her mental health struggles and to stay with him. "Now that some of the emotion has died down in the world and with people that are led by their feelings, they deserve to hear some logic and some truth and make their own assessment," he stated.  On the day of her death, Mica Miller drove alone to a pawn shop, purchased a gun and ammunition, then made another stop at a gas station before heading to Lumber River State Park. There, she dialed 911 and informed the operator of her intention to die by suicide and where her body could be found. Police arrived within ten minutes and discovered her body. “I didn't think it was real,” John-Paul Miller said. “I thought her family had made it up and had somebody call me and say that. So that's one big thing. I didn't think it was real. When I found that it was real … You don't want to say I told you so because it's a horrible thing.”  Court documents reveal a tumultuous relationship between Mica and John-Paul Miller, marked by allegations of abuse. Mica accused her husband of stealing her car, installing a tracking device, hospitalizing her against her will, and grooming her since she was 10 years old. In an email obtained by NewsNation, John-Paul Miller apologized for posting a topless photo of Mica online. “I'm sorry for putting a picture of you on the internet,” he wrote. Nine days after receiving the email, Mica Miller sent an affidavit to her attorney, detailing the abuse she had suffered since their marriage. “Since the day we became husband and wife, I have been abused in every way I can think of. Emotionally, sexually, spiritually, financially, and physically,” she wrote. She also accused John-Paul Miller of "showing up in person around town" and putting tracking devices on her car. The former pastor acknowledged writing the apology email but claimed not everything in it was true. He asserted that Mica had demanded $10,000 and an apology letter in exchange for taking her medication and coming home. “It got to the point where she says, ‘You know what? I'll take my medicine and I'll come home if you'll give me $10,000 and if you'll write me an apology letter,'” he said. Mica Miller's family and friends described a different scenario, alleging that John-Paul Miller felt like "he owned her" and exhibited patterns of abuse and violence. Sierra Francis, Mica's sister, stated in an affidavit that Mica had expressed fear for her life, saying, "If I end up with a bullet in my head, it was JP." Despite these allegations, John-Paul Miller maintained that his wife was safe, healthy, and happy when with him. He recalled instances where Mica expressed suicidal thoughts and his efforts to ensure she received medical help.  Following Mica's death, John-Paul Miller announced her passing during a sermon, attributing her death to mental illness and asking his congregation not to discuss it within the church. Reports indicate that Mica had filed for divorce multiple times and had posted a video on Facebook weeks before her death, offering advice to those in abusive relationships.   When Mica Miller's death was ruled a suicide, John-Paul Miller did not question the investigators' findings, believing there was no other plausible explanation. “My Lord, let my wife be at peace. She's in heaven,” he said. “She's not worrying about all this stuff … she had suicidal tendencies over and over, year after year — off medication especially.” As the investigation continues, Mica Miller's family and friends hope for a thorough review to uncover the truth behind her tragic death. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK's Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

The tragic death of Mica Miller, the estranged wife of former Pastor John-Paul Miller, has left many questions unanswered and sparked calls for a thorough investigation. Mica Miller, 30, was found dead on April 27 at Lumber River State Park in Lumberton, North Carolina. Her death was ruled a suicide by officials, but her family remains unconvinced and is urging authorities to reexamine the case. In an exclusive interview with NewsNation's Rich McHugh, John-Paul Miller discussed the months leading up to his wife's death and the intense public scrutiny that followed. He revealed his efforts to persuade Mica to take lithium for her mental health struggles and to stay with him. "Now that some of the emotion has died down in the world and with people that are led by their feelings, they deserve to hear some logic and some truth and make their own assessment," he stated.  On the day of her death, Mica Miller drove alone to a pawn shop, purchased a gun and ammunition, then made another stop at a gas station before heading to Lumber River State Park. There, she dialed 911 and informed the operator of her intention to die by suicide and where her body could be found. Police arrived within ten minutes and discovered her body. “I didn't think it was real,” John-Paul Miller said. “I thought her family had made it up and had somebody call me and say that. So that's one big thing. I didn't think it was real. When I found that it was real … You don't want to say I told you so because it's a horrible thing.”  Court documents reveal a tumultuous relationship between Mica and John-Paul Miller, marked by allegations of abuse. Mica accused her husband of stealing her car, installing a tracking device, hospitalizing her against her will, and grooming her since she was 10 years old. In an email obtained by NewsNation, John-Paul Miller apologized for posting a topless photo of Mica online. “I'm sorry for putting a picture of you on the internet,” he wrote. Nine days after receiving the email, Mica Miller sent an affidavit to her attorney, detailing the abuse she had suffered since their marriage. “Since the day we became husband and wife, I have been abused in every way I can think of. Emotionally, sexually, spiritually, financially, and physically,” she wrote. She also accused John-Paul Miller of "showing up in person around town" and putting tracking devices on her car. The former pastor acknowledged writing the apology email but claimed not everything in it was true. He asserted that Mica had demanded $10,000 and an apology letter in exchange for taking her medication and coming home. “It got to the point where she says, ‘You know what? I'll take my medicine and I'll come home if you'll give me $10,000 and if you'll write me an apology letter,'” he said. Mica Miller's family and friends described a different scenario, alleging that John-Paul Miller felt like "he owned her" and exhibited patterns of abuse and violence. Sierra Francis, Mica's sister, stated in an affidavit that Mica had expressed fear for her life, saying, "If I end up with a bullet in my head, it was JP." Despite these allegations, John-Paul Miller maintained that his wife was safe, healthy, and happy when with him. He recalled instances where Mica expressed suicidal thoughts and his efforts to ensure she received medical help.  Following Mica's death, John-Paul Miller announced her passing during a sermon, attributing her death to mental illness and asking his congregation not to discuss it within the church. Reports indicate that Mica had filed for divorce multiple times and had posted a video on Facebook weeks before her death, offering advice to those in abusive relationships.   When Mica Miller's death was ruled a suicide, John-Paul Miller did not question the investigators' findings, believing there was no other plausible explanation. “My Lord, let my wife be at peace. She's in heaven,” he said. “She's not worrying about all this stuff … she had suicidal tendencies over and over, year after year — off medication especially.” As the investigation continues, Mica Miller's family and friends hope for a thorough review to uncover the truth behind her tragic death. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK's Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Le comté de Bladen est l'un des plus anciens comtés de Caroline du Nord. Il se situe à environ 115 km au nord-ouest de Wilmington et juste au sud-est de Lumberton. La puissante rivière Cape Fear se fraye tranquillement un chemin à travers les comtés en direction de la côte. Le comté est essentiellement rural et seules quelques villes parsèment le paysage. L'agriculture est très présente dans le comté de Bladen en raison de la richesse de ses terres et de l'abondance de l'eau. Une grande partie du territoire est constituée de vastes forêts et de marécages, un environnement idéal pour les ours, les cerfs, les lynx roux et tout autre type d'animal.C'est dans ce comté, tard dans la soirée du 29 décembre 1953, que notre histoire a commence. Il semble qu'une femme de Clarkton, une petite ville située juste à l'est de Bladenboro, ait contacté les forces de l'ordre locales. Elle était toute excitée et enthousiaste à propos de ce qu'elle avait vu dans le jardin de son voisin. Elle a rapporté qu'au moment où le soleil se couchait, tous les chiens du voisinage aboyaient à tue-tête. Alors qu'elle allait enquêter sur l'origine du bruit, elle vit une grande créature ressemblant à un chat s'enfoncer dans l'obscurité. C'est la première fois que l'on aperçoit ce que l'on appellera "la bête de Bladenboro".Pour m'envoyer vos histoires danslenoirpdcst@gmail.comPour participer à cette émission horrifique, écrivez à Dans Le Noir sur les réseaux sociaux, j'accepte tout le monde !Mon Instagram HorrifiquePATREONLE seul podcast qui fait peur !Armez-vous de votre casque ou de vos écouteurs !Podcast Horreur, Podcast Surnaturel, Podcast Paranormal & Podcast Creepypasta mais surtout un podcast qui fait peur !Bonne semaine horrifique à tous !

The North Carolina Medical Examiner's Office has confirmed that Mica Miller, a Myrtle Beach woman, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, concluding there was no foul play involved. The 30-year-old's death has drawn national attention due to her ties to local pastor John-Paul Miller and allegations of domestic abuse. The medical examiner's report detailed that Mica Miller used a 9mm handgun, which she purchased from a Myrtle Beach pawn shop on April 27, 2024, to take her own life at Lumber River State Park in Lumberton, North Carolina. The report stated, “there was no concern for foul play” and no signs of a physical struggle at the scene where bullet casings were recovered. Mica Miller's body was discovered submerged in the river by a kayaker, approximately 100 feet from the location of the bullet casings. A black bag containing Miller's ID and money was found by another person on the riverbank and handed over to police. Mica Miller was married to John-Paul Miller, pastor of Solid Rock Church in Market Common, Myrtle Beach. At the time of her death, the couple was separated and entangled in legal disputes. The case has been scrutinized by family, friends, and the public, with Miller's death prompting the #justiceforMica movement aimed at raising awareness about domestic violence. The Robeson County Sheriff's Department ruled Miller's death a suicide. According to a Facebook post on May 7, 2024, the decision was based on surveillance footage, interviews, physical evidence, and the medical examiner's findings. The post also mentioned that the Robeson County E911 Communications Center received a 911 call from Miller on the day of her death. During the call, Miller asked the dispatcher if her phone could be located, stating she intended to kill herself and wanted her family to be able to find her body. The medical examiner's report indicated that family members had tried to contact Miller without success on the day of her death. Investigators found a gun case in the passenger seat of her vehicle, along with a box of ammunition in the center console. Receipts for the handgun and a convenience store purchase, both dated April 27, 2024, were also discovered in the vehicle. Mica Miller had publicly alluded to mental health struggles and abuse in her marriage on her Facebook page and in documents. Despite these allegations, John-Paul Miller has denied any abuse towards his wife. The ongoing legal battle between Miller's family and her estranged husband over her belongings adds another layer of complexity to the case. The circumstances surrounding Mica Miller's death have sparked a broader conversation about mental health and domestic violence, with many advocating for better support systems for individuals in similar situations. As the #justiceforMica movement gains traction, it underscores the need for continued awareness and action to prevent such tragedies in the future. Mica Miller's tragic end highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues and supporting those who may be silently suffering. Her story serves as a reminder of the far-reaching impacts of domestic disputes and the critical need for intervention and support for vulnerable individuals. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK's Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

The North Carolina Medical Examiner's Office has confirmed that Mica Miller, a Myrtle Beach woman, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, concluding there was no foul play involved. The 30-year-old's death has drawn national attention due to her ties to local pastor John-Paul Miller and allegations of domestic abuse. The medical examiner's report detailed that Mica Miller used a 9mm handgun, which she purchased from a Myrtle Beach pawn shop on April 27, 2024, to take her own life at Lumber River State Park in Lumberton, North Carolina. The report stated, “there was no concern for foul play” and no signs of a physical struggle at the scene where bullet casings were recovered. Mica Miller's body was discovered submerged in the river by a kayaker, approximately 100 feet from the location of the bullet casings. A black bag containing Miller's ID and money was found by another person on the riverbank and handed over to police. Mica Miller was married to John-Paul Miller, pastor of Solid Rock Church in Market Common, Myrtle Beach. At the time of her death, the couple was separated and entangled in legal disputes. The case has been scrutinized by family, friends, and the public, with Miller's death prompting the #justiceforMica movement aimed at raising awareness about domestic violence. The Robeson County Sheriff's Department ruled Miller's death a suicide. According to a Facebook post on May 7, 2024, the decision was based on surveillance footage, interviews, physical evidence, and the medical examiner's findings. The post also mentioned that the Robeson County E911 Communications Center received a 911 call from Miller on the day of her death. During the call, Miller asked the dispatcher if her phone could be located, stating she intended to kill herself and wanted her family to be able to find her body. The medical examiner's report indicated that family members had tried to contact Miller without success on the day of her death. Investigators found a gun case in the passenger seat of her vehicle, along with a box of ammunition in the center console. Receipts for the handgun and a convenience store purchase, both dated April 27, 2024, were also discovered in the vehicle. Mica Miller had publicly alluded to mental health struggles and abuse in her marriage on her Facebook page and in documents. Despite these allegations, John-Paul Miller has denied any abuse towards his wife. The ongoing legal battle between Miller's family and her estranged husband over her belongings adds another layer of complexity to the case. The circumstances surrounding Mica Miller's death have sparked a broader conversation about mental health and domestic violence, with many advocating for better support systems for individuals in similar situations. As the #justiceforMica movement gains traction, it underscores the need for continued awareness and action to prevent such tragedies in the future. Mica Miller's tragic end highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues and supporting those who may be silently suffering. Her story serves as a reminder of the far-reaching impacts of domestic disputes and the critical need for intervention and support for vulnerable individuals. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK's Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

The North Carolina Medical Examiner's Office has confirmed that Mica Miller, a Myrtle Beach woman, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, concluding there was no foul play involved. The 30-year-old's death has drawn national attention due to her ties to local pastor John-Paul Miller and allegations of domestic abuse. The medical examiner's report detailed that Mica Miller used a 9mm handgun, which she purchased from a Myrtle Beach pawn shop on April 27, 2024, to take her own life at Lumber River State Park in Lumberton, North Carolina. The report stated, “there was no concern for foul play” and no signs of a physical struggle at the scene where bullet casings were recovered. Mica Miller's body was discovered submerged in the river by a kayaker, approximately 100 feet from the location of the bullet casings. A black bag containing Miller's ID and money was found by another person on the riverbank and handed over to police. Mica Miller was married to John-Paul Miller, pastor of Solid Rock Church in Market Common, Myrtle Beach. At the time of her death, the couple was separated and entangled in legal disputes. The case has been scrutinized by family, friends, and the public, with Miller's death prompting the #justiceforMica movement aimed at raising awareness about domestic violence. The Robeson County Sheriff's Department ruled Miller's death a suicide. According to a Facebook post on May 7, 2024, the decision was based on surveillance footage, interviews, physical evidence, and the medical examiner's findings. The post also mentioned that the Robeson County E911 Communications Center received a 911 call from Miller on the day of her death. During the call, Miller asked the dispatcher if her phone could be located, stating she intended to kill herself and wanted her family to be able to find her body. The medical examiner's report indicated that family members had tried to contact Miller without success on the day of her death. Investigators found a gun case in the passenger seat of her vehicle, along with a box of ammunition in the center console. Receipts for the handgun and a convenience store purchase, both dated April 27, 2024, were also discovered in the vehicle. Mica Miller had publicly alluded to mental health struggles and abuse in her marriage on her Facebook page and in documents. Despite these allegations, John-Paul Miller has denied any abuse towards his wife. The ongoing legal battle between Miller's family and her estranged husband over her belongings adds another layer of complexity to the case. The circumstances surrounding Mica Miller's death have sparked a broader conversation about mental health and domestic violence, with many advocating for better support systems for individuals in similar situations. As the #justiceforMica movement gains traction, it underscores the need for continued awareness and action to prevent such tragedies in the future. Mica Miller's tragic end highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues and supporting those who may be silently suffering. Her story serves as a reminder of the far-reaching impacts of domestic disputes and the critical need for intervention and support for vulnerable individuals. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK's Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

      A report by the North Carolina Medical Examiner's Office for Mica Miller says that the Myrtle Beach woman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. The report said that “there was no concern for foul play.” The report also indicated that there was no sign of a physical struggle where bullet casings were recovered at the scene. The report said that the 30-year-old used a 9mm handgun that she purchased from a Myrtle Beach pawn shop to kill herself at Lumber River State Park in Lumberton, North Carolina, on April 27, 2024. Miller's body was found submerged in the river by trees about 100 feet from the bullet casings by a kayaker, who notified police, the report said. Police also were given a black bag with Miller's ID and money that was found by a person on the bank of the river. The death of Miller, who was married to John-Paul Miller, pastor of Solid Rock Church in Market Common in Myrtle Beach at the time, has received national attention and has been reviewed and analyzed by family, friends and online. During the investigation of Mica Miller's death, it was revealed that Miller and her estranged husband had been separated and were involved in the legal system. Miller suffered from mental health issues and alluded to abuse in her marriage, which she documented on her Facebook page and in documents. John-Paul Miller has denied that he has abused his wife. Her death has been the basis for #justiceforMica to bring awareness to domestic violence. Her family also is in a legal battle with John-Paul Miller over her belongings. The Robeson County Sheriff's Department ruled Mica Miller's death a suicide. According to a Facebook post Tuesday, May 7, 2024, the North Carolina law enforcement agency said the decision was based on surveillance footage, interviews, physical evidence and the examination of the North Carolina Medical Examiner's Office. The post said Robeson County E911 Communications Center received a 911 call from a female, who was later identified as Mica Miller, who asked the dispatcher if her phone could be located because she was going to kill herself and wanted her family to be able to find her body. The medical examiner's report said that family members had tried to call and text Miller on the day of her death without success. Investigators located a gun case in the passenger seat of the vehicle and a box of ammunition in the center console. Investigators also found a receipt for the handgun from a pawn shop and a receipt from a convenience store in the vehicle. Both receipts were dated for same day of Miller's death, April 27, 2024. Read more at: https://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/news/local/article289515452.html#storylink=cpy      

On this episode of Agency Nation Radio, Owen Thomas, senior account executive, Dial Insurance Agency, Pembroke, North Carolina, shares his experiences from past hurricane seasons and how his agency is applying what they learned this year. When Hurricane Florence made landfall in North Carolina in 2018, it stalled, dropping unprecedented amounts of rainfall on unprepared towns and cities. Among them was the city of Lumberton—which was still recovering from the impact of Hurricane Matthew two years prior. With water levels surpassing 6 feet, Thomas' natural reaction was to ride into the flooded area with the fire department on a small boat to check on his community. “I just wanted to make sure people knew that I was there for them," he says. “Thinking about how high the water was makes my skin crawl." Thomas is an insurance agent, real estate broker, mayor pro tempore and founder of a drone company. These are just a few of the ways he is serving his community. However, like many agents, he serves his clients best during their time of need. Guest: Owen Thomas, Dial Insurance https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ojthomas_dial-insurance-agency-family-activity-7143742273325834240-Rasn/

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (NewsNation) — A South Carolina woman who was found dead in a North Carolina state park of an apparent gunshot wound to her head had previously told police in March after a series of harassment incidents that she feared for her life. “The victim advised me she was afraid for her life,” Horry County Police Department Officer Nick D'Amocamtonio wrote in an incident report from March 11. The report continued, “While I was out with the victim, she received a No Caller ID call which ended up being the suspect, the suspect was advised that the victim does not want any further contact and if he proceeds then warrants may possibly be written up.” Mica Miller, 30, was found dead April 27 with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head at Lumber State Park in Lumberton, North Carolina, according to the police report.

Hey Spooksters! Today we will be discussing the ongoing case of Mica Miller. Mica Miller, 30, was found to have suffered a fatal gunshot to the head at Lumber River State Park in Lumberton, NC, according to local newspaper the Robesonian.  Miller's husband, John-Paul Miller, is the pastor at Solid Rock Church in Myrtle Beach, SC, who broke the news of her death during a recent service after asking his congregation not to discuss it inside the church. Friends of the pastor's late second wife were taken aback by Mica Miller's death and urged officials to look into it “deeply.” National Domestic Violence Hotline Hours: 24/7. Languages: English, Spanish, and 200+ through interpretation service Learn more 800-799-7233 SMS: Text BEGIN to 88788 Check out the following link for our socials, Patreon, & more https://linktr.ee/3spookedgirls Have a personal true crime story or paranormal encounter you'd like to share with us? Send us an email over to 3spookedgirls@gmail.com   Thank you to Sarah Hester Ross for our intro music! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A pet store, a crime spree, and mob boss, John Stanfa. In September of 1996, 90-year-old, Lola Davis was abducted from the Winn-Dixie parking lot in Lumberton, North Carolina. At the same time police found an abandoned car in that same grocery store parking lot with New Jersey plates. The abandoned car was registered to 19-year-old, Alicia Woodward.  The next day a ranch worker in Madison, Georgia found the body of Lola Davis. A crime spree that spanned multiple states left investigators stunned. Least of These on Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/leastofthesepodcast/ Least of These Discussion Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/288046119723080/?ref=pages_profile_groups_tab&paipv=1 Least of These on Instagram:  www.instagram.com/least_ofthese/ Support the show and get your episodes ad free at: https://www.patreon.com/leastofthesepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Official Website: https://www.lawabidingbiker.com Recently, I launched an in-depth tutorial video focusing on  the Harley Infotainment Control Unit "IFCU" Digital Dash system. This cutting-edge technology is now a standard feature on select 2024 models and will continue to be integrated into future touring models. Throughout the creation process of this tutorial, I dedicated extensive time both in the workshop and on the road, immersing myself in every aspect of the IFCU. Despite the absence of accompanying instructions or information, I meticulously explored its functionalities, uncovering both its advantages and limitations. For bikers eager to master the IFCU and harness its full potential, I've crafted a comprehensive tutorial video. You can access it conveniently at LawAbidingBiker.com/IFCU or LawAbidingBiker.com/HarleyDigitalDash.  SUPPORT US AND SHOP IN THE OFFICIAL LAW ABIDING BIKER STORE The clarity and size of the screen, coupled with features like the high contrast mode for sunny conditions, further enhance usability. In my opinion, it stands as the most responsive auto manufacturer digital dash system I've encountered thus far, though not without its minor flaws, which I'll address shortly. Before delving into those nuances, it's crucial to note the subscription fee required for embedded navigation: $349 for 3 years, inclusive of live weather, traffic, and map updates. While some may balk at this additional cost, it's essential to contextualize it against the previous Boom Box, where map updates incurred fees ranging from $150 to $200 each time, without the added benefits of live weather and traffic. Whether the subscription model proves more favorable remains a matter for debate. And for those considering whether to opt for embedded navigation, be aware that without it, you'll encounter a QR code prompting you to purchase it each time you access navigation on the IFCU. CHECK OUT OUR HUNDREDS OF FREE HELPFUL VIDEOS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL AND SUBSCRIBE! The most pressing question on many minds, one that I'm unable to fully address at this juncture, is how the IFCU will fare in the long run—say, 5 or even 10 years down the road. After all, my previous Harley Street Glide Special served me faithfully for a decade before I upgraded to my 2024 model. Concerns naturally arise regarding the long-term support Harley will provide for the Harley infotainment control unit. Will the system gradually slow down and experience lag over time? And if so, how will such issues be addressed by customer support? Additionally, the longevity of support from the third-party company responsible for developing the Skyline OS operating system is another pertinent consideration. Items mentioned in the podcast: Fat Baggers EZ Clutch Adjuster Kuryakyn Extended Brake Pedal Ultimately, only time will provide the answers we seek. However, as a commitment to all who invest in my Harley IFCU, Ride Planner, or Boom Box tutorial videos, I pledge to keep you updated on any significant changes or developments via new free video releases. Each time such updates occur, you'll receive an email notification, ensuring you remain well-informed. NEW FREE VIDEO RELEASED: Exclusive Pre-Season Interview With Harley Factory Racers James Rispoli & Kyle Wyman Sponsor-Ciro 3D CLICK HERE! Innovative products for Harley-Davidson & Goldwing Affordable chrome, lighting, and comfort products Ciro 3D has a passion for design and innovation Sponsor-Butt Buffer CLICK HERE Want to ride longer? Tired of a sore and achy ass? Then fix it with a high-quality Butt Buffer seat cushion? New Patrons: Ken La Grandeur of Grants Pass, Oregon Shane Rodgers of Lumberton, Texas Joe Marchesano of Huxley, Iowa If you appreciate the content we put out and want to make sure it keeps on coming your way then become a Patron too! There are benefits and there is no risk. Thanks to the following bikers for supporting us via a flat donation: Mark Plank of Oakland, Maryland Jim McJenkins of Northport, Alabama Scott Fuller of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Brandon Johnson of Sacramento, California John David Wheeler og Huntsville, Alabama Scot Jackson of Appleton, Wisconsin ________________________________________________________ FURTHER INFORMATION:   Official Website: http://www.LawAbidingBiker.com   Email & Voicemail: http://www.LawAbidingBiker.com/Contact   Podcast Hotline Phone: 509-731-3548 HELP SUPPORT US! JOIN THE BIKER REVOLUTION! #BikerRevolution #LawAbidingBiker

Some people think that city council seats and school board positions don't matter in the Second Amendment Fight. Mike explains why city and county elections absolutely matter. SDCGO's Jim Miller, a staunch Second Amendment advocate and Cajon Valley School Board member, sought Republican Party endorsement for re-election. Despite his track record, the GOP declined, revealing their lack of backbone. His sole opponent lacks political experience, except for supporting an anti-gun candidate. This betrayal of gun rights by the San Diego County Republican Party must end. SDCGO urges two actions: Refrain from donating and volunteering for the Republican Party in 2024. Help get more pro-self defense local candidates get elected by joining San Diego County Gun Owners: https://sdcgo.org/join CURTIN CALL: Do you use lethal force in a car jacking? Alisha & the crew discuss a tragic incident where a good samaritan was killed trying to help a carjack victim in Lumberton, North Carolina. Firearms Attorney Colin Rudolph discusses the new ‘Rules' from the ATF that simply makes gun ownership for law abiding citizens harder versus targeting criminals. -- Like, subscribe, and share to help restore the Second Amendment in California! Make sure Big Tech can't censor your access to our content and subscribe to our email list: https://gunownersradio.com/subscribe #2a #guns #gunowners #2ndAmendment #2ACA #ca42a #gunownersradio #gunrights #gunownersrights #rkba #shallnotbeinfringed #pewpew -- The right to self-defense is a basic human right. Gun ownership is an integral part of that right. If you want to keep your Second Amendment rights, defend them by joining San Diego County Gun Owners (SDCGO), Orange County Gun Owners (OCGO), or Inland Empire Gun Owners (IEGO). Support the cause by listening to Gun Owners Radio live on Sunday afternoon or on any podcast app at your leisure. Together we will win. https://www.sandiegocountygunowners.com https://orangecountygunowners.com http://inlandempiregunowners.com https://www.firearmspolicy.org https://www.gunownersca.com https://gunowners.org Show your support for Gun Owners Radio sponsors! Get expert legal advice on any firearm-related issues: https://dillonlawgp.com Smarter web development and digital marketing help: https://www.sagetree.com Learn to FLY at SDFTI! San Diego Flight Training International: https://sdfti.com

This week we conclude our series on the 1975 Lumberton UFO flap. Hope you enjoy :) Read/Download the Full Report: https://bcr.bio/lumberton-report-full --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-cat-report/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-cat-report/support

Arguably the best UFO case never heard of. The April 3-9, 1975 Lumberton N.C. UFO flap has everything you could want in a UFO event and more. With some 80+ witnesses (over 40 of them police), high speed chases, close encounters, and multiple close ups by the lead CUFOs investigator Lee Speigel, Lumberton is the lost gold standard in UFO history. Links: https://ghost.beer/links Read/Download the Full Report: https://bcr.bio/lumberton-report-full --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-cat-report/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-cat-report/support

Website where I found these witnesses: https://popwe.org/category/addiction-deliverance/Katie: So it's Sobriety Awareness Month, and I feel led to share a testimony. My drug of choice was methadone. I thought it was okay because it was prescribed. I got on it to get off opioids but ended up being on it for almost 6 years. So me, and my mother were in addiction together. A very toxic relationship. When the methadone got too expensive, she turned me to meth. I lost everything within two months…On December 31, 2020, me and my mom were going through withdrawals pretty bad so she begged me to find something. I ended up getting some and split it with her and the last words I remember her saying was, “if this doesn't help I'm going to sleep.” Two days later, I called 911 and they rushed her to the hospital and I had to make the hardest decision I ever made. I called and told my sister about my addiction and begged her to take my daughter so she would be happy and safe and I could get help. The hardest thing in my life was watching my baby girl get in that car with all her toys and clothes and drive away.Fast forward to January 4, 2021. I was put in St. Bernard's Behavioral Health and found out over the phone that my mom was on life support and wasn't gonna make it. I would have to sign to remove care. The dope had cut the oxygen off to her brain. I was taken to see her. She had wires in her head, her hand was cold and stiff, her feet were purple and molded. I couldn't stay 15 minutes with her. As soon as I got back to SBBH, they faxed me a paper to sign and on January 6, 2021 they removed care. She took one breath and died. Two days later I went to Restoration House Ministries and not only got sober but encountered God and I've never been the same. September 17th I'll be 17 months clean from the bondage I thought I could never escape. This is so hard for me to share but I pray it opens someone's eyes. I handed my mom her death sentence just for one more high. It ain't worth it. The guilt, shame, self hatred you feel ain't worth it. We do recover and it's through Jesus.“We do recover and it's through Jesus.”Christopher:  I was blessed to see you in Beaumont, Texas recently. I live in a town called Lumberton and my youngest daughter was my plus one that night. We got to be part of the blue couch and the meet and greet. The thing is, it never should have happened because I honestly shouldn't be alive today.For 37 years, I had a severe alcohol problem. I was drinking no less than 2 fifths of vodka a day. I sit here and cry because I can't remember most of the childhood days of my kids. I have 3 daughters and one son that are all grown today. I got to the point that I could drink what is called Everclear (95% alcohol) straight from the bottle. Only by God's grace I don't have any issues or side effects today.The day He turned me around, I had flown into New Orleans, Louisiana for work and landed around 11:00 AM. I bought a bottle of vodka in the airport and finished it before I had walked the 200 feet to the rental car location. At the rental car outlet they told me all they had left for me was a Dodge Challenger called a Hellcat, so I took it. Now here I am in a ridiculously fast car, drunk, and headed for a bad day. I was on the interstate and decided to see how fast this car was. I was driving in excess of 140 MPH and I lost control of the car. It went into a spin. After it came to a stop, I crawled out of the car without a scratch and a voice in my head said, “how much more proof do you need that I have plans for you?”After that I called my wife and poured everything out to her. I was an alcoholic when we got married, so my wife and kids had never seen me sober.
Now, today (4 years later) I have 3 beautiful daughters, 2 grandchildren and a son who is an amazing man and a decorated US Marine. I am an ordained minister and I love nothing more than talking to people about my life. If God could take a wasted case like me and do what He has done, there is nothing we can't overcome with Him.At your recent concert in Beaumont, Texas during the blue couch session I asked you to sing “Broken Things” and you did. You have no idea what that meant to me and my daughter that night. So much of your music centers around how God takes the broken and makes something amazing and you are such an inspiration to me.
Sure, I have tough days and it would be so easy to slip back into those old ways, but then I remember my God uses broken things!“God takes the broken and makes something amazing.”Adrienne:  In 2014, I began praying to God to remove these addictions from me. My life was a mess and all I cared about was my cigarettes and alcohol. God led me to the right resources, and I did manage to quit smoking and drinking (although not at the same time and I experienced some slips.)In 2018, with the help of God and a stop smoking community, I gave up cigarettes for good. Then on June 23rd, 2020, God helped me once again and both my husband and I stopped drinking. The freedom and joy I feel from having both of these substances out of my life is amazing and like nothing I've ever known. The “buzz” I get now from a life well lived is so much better than any buzz I received from cigarettes or alcohol.
I am so incredibly grateful to be free of those chains. If you are struggling with overcoming an addiction, my advice to you is don't give up on yourself and trust God. You may not break free immediately but with patience, perseverance and the love and help of our Savior, you can overcome even the toughest addiction.With God, ALL things are possible!Cindy:  I was molested as a young child. My way of coping was to self harm, which became an addiction for me. If I was stressed, anxious, sad, or mad I would hurt myself. The self harming behaviors escalated to cutting and burning myself. It was something I could control. I decided how often I cut, how deep the cut would be, and how many marks I would make. I believed that my control was stolen from me as a child and this was my way of taking control back. What I needed was to give that control over to God.In 2012, I finally gave God control and surrendered my addiction to Him. I had given my life to Christ as a child, but I finally realized He never intended for me to carry that load all by myself. He didn't need my scars, I needed His.I am so thankful that God placed people in my life who supported me through that difficult time period of healing, but mental illness is still somewhat of a taboo subject. We aren't supposed to show signs of weakness. I'm here today to share His-story for me. I am only here because of God's mercy and grace. I tried multiple times to end my life, but today I try to offer hope to those who are struggling with self harm, depression, and mental illness.
I want to share how great our God is. He can take a misfit like me and use my story to show He can take a mess and turn it into a message. My story isn't over, it's only the beginning.“He can take a mess and turn it into a message.” 

The Lost Colony is the #4 listener favorite of 443 episodes through 9 years of 1001 Heroes. "The Lost Colony PT II: FOUND!" Tells the incredible story of what happened to the people of Roanoke Island after they abandoned their fort. With interviews and some digging we can see that they were moved to a different location where they were protected from hostile tribes, and over time blended into to Lumbee Indian tribe, which still carries many of their surnames in the area of Lumberton, N.C. This story includes an in-person interview with Fred and Katherine Willard, who served as directors of the Lost colony Center for Science and Research, and who, through tireless research, have uncovered the truth of what happened to most of 115 brave souls whose dream of a new life in the New World got turned upside down when the rescue ships never came. Fred Willard passed not long after our interview in 2017.RIP. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On November 2, 1984, fifty-two-year-old Velma Barfield was executed by lethal injection at North Carolina's Central Prison, bringing an end to years of legal appeals and emotional debates over the death penalty and how, when, and to whom it gets applied. For six years, Barfield had sat on death row following her conviction for the poisoning murder of her boyfriend Stewart Taylor in 1976; however, during her trial she confessed to killing at least four other people.Velma Barfield's trial came at a time in the United States when Americans were just beginning to grapple with the concept of a serial killer, and the idea that a woman could commit such heinous acts seemed entirely inconceivable. Although woman had been sentenced to death for murder before in the US, none had confessed to methodically killing multiple people in such a callous way and for such a trivial reason. The debate only became more complicated following her death sentence, an already complicated subject among Americans that became exponentially so in 1984, when Barfield's case and personal story became a major talking point for politicians running for office around the state.Thank you to the Incredible Dave White of Bring Me the Axe Podcast for Research!ReferencesAssociated Press. 1984. "Hunt hopes Barfield's death will be deterrent." Asheville Citizen-Times, November 3: 1.—. 1978. "Woman charged in poisoning ." Charlotte Obvserver, March 15: 1.Barfield, Velma. 1985. Woman on Death Row. Nashville, TN: Oliver-Nelson .Bledsoe, Jerry. 1998. Death Sentence: The True Story of Velma Barfield's Life, Crimes, and Punishment. Dutton: Boston, MA.Carroll, Ginny. 1978. "Confessed poisoner awaits death." News and Observer, December 10: 1.Charlotte Observer. 1984. "New Evidence: Velma Barfield's Sickness." Charlotte Observer, October 31: 12.Journal Wire. 1984. "200 gather at funeral of Velma Barfield." Winston-Salem Journal, November 4: 35.Margie Velma Barfield v. James C. Woodward, Secretary of Corrections; Nathan A. Rice,warden; Rufus Edmisten, Attorney General, Appellees. 1984. 748 F.2d 844 (US Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, November 1).Maxwell, Connie. 1984. "State executes Velma Barfield." Chapel Hill Newspaper, November 2: 1.Monk, John, Sue Anne Pressley, and Gary Wright. 1984. "Velma Barfield executed by injection." Charlotte Observer, November 2: 1.Ness and Observer. 1978. "Jailed woman eyed in more deaths." News and Observer, March 15: 1.New York Times. 1984. "Relatives of murder victims urge no clemency for Carolina killer." New York Times, September 20: B15.News and Observer. 1980. "Lawyer says he coached Mrs. Barfield." News and Observer, November 18: 17.Pearsall, Chip. 1978. "Barfield jury calls for death." News and Observer, December 3: 1.Stein, George. 1978. "Arsenic trail: Lumberton asks where it will end." Charlotte News, May 27: 1.The Robesonian. 1969. "Parkton man succumbs to smoke inhalation." The Robesonian, April 22: 1.Tilley, Greta. 1980. "She doesn't want to die." News and Record, September 21: 1.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There is a nationwide epidemic of missing and murdered indigenous women in the United States and Canada. Mountain Murders examines the cases of three murdered indigenous women in Lumberton, NC. Christina Bennett, Rhonda Jones, and Megan Oxendine were all found deceased within a few blocks of one another in 2017. However, Lumberton's missing and murdered women extend farther back in time with little information available. There are significant issues within law enforcement agencies as well as violent crime in the community, creating an unsafe atmosphere for these women. While some speculate a serial killer has been preying on native women, others suggest it is indicative of a more significant issue in Robeson County, which has been listed as having the most violent crime in the state of North Carolina.Intro Music by Joe Buck YourselfHosts Heather and Dylan Packerwww.patreon.com/mountainmurderspodcast

Jackie and Greg visit the seemingly sleepy town of Lumberton for David Lynch's BLUE VELVET from 1986. Topics of discussion include the film's contrasting tone, the dream-world Norman Rockwell façade vs. the festering insects underneath, how it's maybe Lynch's most coherent vision, and where it fits in with the rest of his films.#69 on Sight & Sound's 2012 "The 100 Greatest Films of All Time" list.https://www.bfi.org.uk/sight-and-sound/polls/greatest-films-all-time-2012#85 on Sight & Sound's 2022 "The Greatest Films of All Time" list.  https://www.bfi.org.uk/sight-and-sound/greatest-films-all-timeCheck us out on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sceneandheardpodCheck us out at our official website: https://www.sceneandheardpod.comJoin our weekly film club: https://www.instagram.com/arroyofilmclubJP Instagram/Twitter: jacpostajGK Instagram: gkleinschmidtGraphic Design: Molly PintoMusic: Andrew CoxGet in touch at hello@sceneandheardpod.comSupport the showSupport the show on Patreon: patreon.com/SceneandHeardPodorSubscribe just to get access to our bonus episodes: buzzsprout.com/1905508/subscribe

Lumberton's NC very own, Ivan Lopez, 14 years old is getting ready to sign a professional sports contract today with the New England Revolution. Some might say he's the next sports star from North Carolina. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox ask Ivan how this process began and what his future holds. Also, North Carolina is delaying NIL for high school athletes and Jack Swarbrick is stepping down in 2024 as Athletic Director of Notre Dame. 

In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak gets an update from Congressman David Rouzer on the #WOTUS ruling and President Biden's recent veto. Congressman David Rouzer proudly represents North Carolina's 7th Congressional District, stretching from the beautiful coastline of Southeastern North Carolina west to the small-town, agricultural communities around Lumberton and Fayetteville.  Elected to the United States Congress in 2014, David is beginning his 5th term in the U.S. House of Representatives. David serves on the House Agriculture Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee where he currently serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.  He has served as a ranking member or chairman of a subcommittee on both since his first day in office, which has enabled him to better address the unique needs of his district and state.  He is a member of a number of caucuses in Congress including as a founding member of the Primary Care Caucus and the Supply Chain Caucus, as well as co-chairing the United Kingdom Caucus.Prior to Congress, David formed his own business doing consulting and sales work, predominately in the agricultural arena.  His public service includes two terms in the North Carolina Senate representing Johnston and Wayne counties (2009-2012) where he was consistently ranked as one of the most effective pro-business legislators.  David also served as assistant to the dean and director of commodity relations for the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences at NC State University in between two stints with U.S. Senator Jesse Helms, where he started out as a legislative assistant and later served as senior policy advisor.  He was also senior advisor for U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole.  In 2005, he took a senior level appointment at USDA Rural Development and helped manage a program level budget of more than $1.2 billion and a loan portfolio of more than $5 billion in investments in rural America.  David has garnered a number of awards during his career for his work in each of these capacities as well as a Member of Congress. David, a Southern Baptist, was raised in Durham and spent his summers working on the family farm just outside of Four Oaks, N.C.  The money he earned those summers enabled him to pay his tuition at N.C. State University where he graduated with three degrees in Agricultural Business Management, Agricultural Economics, and Chemistry.  He is also a graduate of The Fund for American Studies.  David resides in Wilmington, N.C. Learn more about the issue at https://rouzer.house.gov#farm #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comNeed help with your agriculture based company's marketing plan? Visit https://chrissywozniak.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray Why you should not miss FIRA USA 2023!Join the experts during 3 days of autonomous and robotics farming solutions in action!FIRA USA, the traveling AgTech event is back from September 19-21, 2023 at the Salinas Sports Complex, Home of the California Rodeo SalinasRegister at - https://fira-usa.com/ Sponsored by Tractors and Troubadours:Your weekly connection to agriculture industry newsmakers, hot-button industry issues, educational topics, rural lifestyle features and the best in true country music. Brought to you by Rural Strong Media.Listen now at https://ruralstrongmedia.com/tractors-and-troubadours/Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

Abby left her grandmother's house on Tuesday, September 5, 2017 and was seen getting into a brown older model Buick. Since that day, Abby has not been seen or had any contact with her family or friends. Where did Abby go? Is it possible her disappearance is related to a string of murders in the Lumberton, North Carolina area?  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064773786258 Join Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/inhumanpod Buy MERCH here! https://www.inhumanpodcast.com/merch If you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a rating and review! Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @inhuman_podcast and join our Facebook group (Inhuman Podcast). If you have questions or case suggestions, send us an email at inhumanmonsterpod@gmail.com! Check out our website to submit listener stories or case suggestions, and to see all sources for this episode! https://www.inhumanpodcast.com/

Raising kids is far from easy, and your hosts at the Milk Minute are no strangers to mom-stress. This week join Maureen and Heather to have some real down and dirty parenting talk. What started out as an update episode on nursing a toddler ends up as some real, raw parenting confessions and vulnerabilities. Some days are harder than others, so join your friends at the Milk Minute as they take it one day at a time.Work With Us!Book a Lactation Consult with Heather! Click HERE for the deets.Book a Lactation Consult with Maureen! Click HERE to get started.THANK YOU TO OUR  BELOVED PATRONSAshten M from Lumberton, TX & Susan from British Columbia, CanadaTHANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE'S SPONSORSHighland Birth - Book a Lactation Consult today! Booking a virtual consult with Maureen is now easier than ever. Click HERE to get started!Click HERE to order your Evivo! Use code MILKMINUTE for $10 off of your purchase!Click HERE to save 25% off and free shipping on all Liquid IV products with the code MILK_MINUTEClick HERE to get HappiTummi and enter code MILKMINUTE10 for 10% off your order!Listener question: Have any of you ever taken two pumps to work?Previous Episodes Mentioned in this Episode:Ep. 10: Breastfeeding Older BabiesEp. 103- Breast Storage CapacityPrefer to read the transcript? Click Here Support the showCheck out Milk Minute Podcast's website here!Become a VIP Click here to get exclusive access and more!Send us an e-mail! MilkMinutePodcast@gmail.comFacebook | Instagram | TikTok