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AP's Lisa Dwyer reports on 911 calls made in the death of an ICE detainee.

In this powerful and wide-ranging episode of Gangland Wire, host Gary Jenkins sits down with Ken Behr, author of One Step Over the Line: Confessions of a Marijuana Mercenary. Behr tells his astonishing life story—from teenage marijuana dealer in South Florida, to high-level drug runner and smuggler, to DEA cooperating source working major international cases. Along the way, he offers rare, first-hand insight into how large-scale drug operations actually worked during the height of the War on Drugs—and why that war, in his view, has largely failed. From Smuggler to Source Behr describes growing up during the explosion of the drug trade in South Florida during the 1970s and 1980s, where smuggling marijuana and cocaine became almost commonplace. He explains how he moved from street-level dealing into large-scale logistics—off-loading planes, running covert runways in the Everglades, moving thousands of pounds of marijuana, and participating in international smuggling operations involving Canada, Jamaica, Colombia, and the Bahamas. After multiple arrests—including a serious RICO case that threatened him with decades in prison—Behr made the life-altering decision to cooperate with the DEA. What followed was a tense and dangerous double life as an undercover operative, helping law enforcement dismantle major trafficking networks while living under constant pressure and fear of exposure. Inside the Mechanics of the Drug Trade This episode goes deep into the nuts and bolts of organized drug trafficking, including: How clandestine runways were built and dismantled in minutes How aircraft were guided into unlit landing zones How smuggling crews were paid and organized Why most drug operations ultimately collapse from inside The role of asset seizures in federal drug enforcement Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer @ganglandwire Click here to “buy me a cup of coffee” Subscribe to the website for weekly notifications about updates and other Mob information. To go to the store or make a donation or rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click here To rent ‘Brothers against Brothers’ or ‘Gangland Wire,’ the documentaries click here.  To purchase one of my books, click here. Transcript [00:00:00] well, hey, all your wire taps. It’s good to be back here in studio of Gangland Wire. I have a special guest today. He has a book called, uh, title is One Step Over the Line and, and he went several steps over the line, I think in his life. Ken Bearer, welcome Ken. Thanks for having me. Thanks for having me. Now, Ken, Ken is a, was a marijuana smuggler at one time and, and ended up working with the DEA, so he went from one side over to my side and, and I always like to talk to you guys that that helped us in law enforcement and I, there’s a lot of guys that don’t like that out there, but I like you guys you were a huge help to us in law enforcement and ended up doing the right thing after you made a lot of money. So tell us about the money. We were just starting to talk about the money. Tell us about the money, all those millions and millions of dollars that you drug smuggler makes. What happens? Well, I, you know, like I said, um, Jimmy Buffett’s song a pirate looks at 40, basically, he says, I made enough money to to buy Miami and pissed it away all so fast, never meant to last. And, and that’s what happens. I do know a few people that have [00:01:00] put away money. One of my friends that we did a lot of money together, a lot of drug dealing and a lot of moving some product, and he’s put the money away. Got in bed with some other guy that was, you know, legal, bought a bunch of warehouses, and now he lives a great life, living off the money he put away. Yeah. If the rents and stuff, he, he got into real estate. Other guys have got into real estate and they got out and they ended up doing okay. ’cause now they’re drawing all those rents. That’s a good way to money. Exactly what he did. Uh, my favorite, I was telling you a favorite story of mine was the guy that was a small time dealer used to hang out at the beach. And, uh, we en he ended up saving $80,000, which was a lot of money back then. Yeah. And then put it all, went to school to be a culinary chef and then got a job at the Marriott as a culinary chef and a chef. So he, you know, he really took the money, made a little bit of money, didn’t make a lot Yeah. But made enough to go to school and do something with his life. That’s so, um, that’s a great one. That’s a good one [00:02:00] there. That’s real. Yeah. But he wasn’t a big time guy. Yeah. You know what, what happens is you might make a big lick. You know, I, I never made million dollar moves. I have lots of friends that did. I always said I didn’t want to be a smuggler. ’cause I was making a steady living, being a drug runner. If you brought in 40, 50,000 pounds of weed, you would come to me and then I would move it across the country and sell it in different, along with other guys like me. Having said that, so I say I’m a guy that never wanted to do a smuggling trip. I’ve done 12 of them. Yeah. Even though, you know, and you know, if you’ve been in the DEA side twelve’s a lot for somebody usually. Yeah. That’s a lot. They don’t make, there’s no longevity. Two or three trips. No. You know, I did it for 20 years. Yeah. And then finally I got busted one time in Massachusetts in 1988. We had 40,000 pounds stuck up in Canada. So a friend of mine comes to me, another friend had the 40,000 pounds up there. He couldn’t sell it. He goes, Hey, you wanna help me smuggle [00:03:00] this back into America? Which, you know, is going the wrong direction. The farther north it goes, the more money it’s worth. I would’ve taken it to Greenland for Christ’s sakes. Yeah. But, we smuggled it back in. What we did this time was obviously they, they brought a freighter or a big ship to bring the 40,000 pounds into Canada. Mm-hmm. He added, stuffed in a fish a fish packing plant in a freezer somewhere up there. And so we used the sea plane and we flew from a lake in Canada to a lake in Maine where the plane would pull up, I’d unload. Then stash it. And we really did like to get 1400 pounds. We had to go through like six or seven trips. ’cause the plane would only hold 200 and something pounds. Yeah. And a sea plane can’t land at night. It has to land during the day. Yeah. You can’t land a plane in the middle of a lake in the night, I guess yourself. Yeah. I see. Uh, and so we got, I got busted moving that load to another market and that cost, uh, [00:04:00] cost me about $80,000 in two years of fighting in court to get out of that. Yeah. Uh, but I did beat the case for illegal search and seizure. So one for the good guys. It wasn’t for the good guys. Well the constitution, he pulled me over looking for fireworks and, ’cause it was 4th of July and, yeah. The name of that chapter in the book is why I never work on a holiday. So you don’t wanna spend your holiday in jail ’cause there’s no, you can’t on your birthday. So another, the second time I got busted was in 92. So just a couple years later after, basically I was in the system for two years with the loss, you know, fighting it and that, that was for Rico. I was looking at 25 years. But, uh, but like a normal smuggling trip. I’ll tell you one, we did, I brought, I actually did my first smuggling trip. I was on the run in Jamaica from a, a case that I got named in and I was like 19 living down in Jamaica to cool out. And then my buddies came down. So we ended up bringing out 600 pounds. So that was my first tr I was about 19 or [00:05:00] 20 years old when I did my first trip. I brought out 600 pounds outta Jamaica. A friend of mine had a little Navajo and we flew it out with that, but. I’ll give you an example of a smuggling trip. So a friend of mine came to me and he wanted to load 300 kilos of Coke in Columbia and bring it into America. And he wanted to know if I knew anybody that could load him 300 kilos. So I did. I introduced him to a friend of mine that Ronnie Vest. He’s the only person you’ll appreciate this. Remember how he kept wanting to extradite all the, the guys from Columbia when we got busted, indict him? Yes. And of course, Escobar’s living in his own jail with his own exit. Yeah. You know, and yeah. So the Columbian government says, well, we want somebody, why don’t you extradite somebody to America, to Columbia? So Ronnie Vest had gotten caught bringing a load of weed outta Columbia. You know, they sent ’em back to America. So that colo, the Americans go, I’ll tell you what you want. Somebody. And Ronnie Vests got the first good friend of mine, first American to be [00:06:00] extradited to Columbia to serve time. So he did a couple years in the Columbian prison. And so he’s the one that had the cocaine connection now. ’cause he spent time in Columbia. Yeah. And you know, so we brought in 300 kilos of Coke. He actually, I didn’t load it. He got another load from somebody else. But, so in the middle of the night, you set up on a road to nowhere in the Everglades, there’s so many Floridas flat, you’ve got all these desolate areas. We go out there with four or five guys. We take, I have some of ’em here somewhere. Callum glow sticks. You know the, the, the glow sticks you break, uh, yeah. And some flashing lights throw ’em out there. Yeah. And we set up a, yeah, the pilot came in and we all laid in the woods waiting for the plane to come in. And as soon as the pilot clicks. The mic four times. It’s, we all click our mics four times and then we run out. He said to his copilot, he says, look, I mean, we lit up this road from the sky. He goes, it looks like MIA [00:07:00] behind the international airport. But it happens like that within a couple, like a minute, we’ll light that whole thing up. Me and one other guy run down the runway. It’s a lot, it’s a long run, believe me. We put out the lights, we gotta put out the center lights and then the marker lights, because you gotta have the center of the runway where the plane’s gonna land and the edge is where it can’t, right? Yeah. He pulls up, bring up a couple cars, I’m driving one of them, load the kilos in. And then we have to refuel the plane because you don’t, you know, you want to have enough fuel to get back to an FBO to your landing airport or real airport. Yeah. Not the one we made in the Everglades. Yeah. And then the trick is the car’s gotta get out of there. Yeah, before the plane takes off. ’cause when that plane takes off, you know you got a twin engine plane landing is quiet, taking off at full throttle’s gonna wake up the whole neighborhood. So once we got out of there, then they went ahead and got the plane off. And then the remaining guys, they gotta clean up the mess. We want to use this again. So we [00:08:00] wanna clean up all the wires, the radios. Mm-hmm. Pick up the fuel tanks, pick up the runway lights, and their job is to clean that off and all that’s gonna take place before the police even get down the main road. Right? Mm-hmm. That’s gonna all take place in less than 10 minutes. Wow. I mean, the offload takes, the offload takes, you can offload about a thousand pounds, which I’ve done in three minutes. Wow. But, and then refueling the plane, getting everything else cleaned up. Takes longer. Yeah. Interesting. So how many guys would, would be on that operation and how do you pay that? How do you decide who gets paid what? How much? Okay. So get it up front or, I always curious about the details, how that stuff, I don’t think I got paid enough. And I’ll be honest, it was a hell of a chance. I got 20 grand looking at 15 years if you get caught. Yeah. But I did it for the excitement. 20 grand wasn’t that much. I had my own gig making more money than that Uhhuh, you know, but I was also racing cars. I was, there’s a [00:09:00] picture of one of my race cars. Oh cool. So that costs about six, 7,000 a weekend. Yeah. And remember I’m talking about 1980s dollars. Yeah. That’s 20,000 a weekend. A weekend, yes. Yeah. And that 20,000 for a night’s work in today’s world would be 60. Yeah. Three. And I’m talking about 1985 versus, that was 40 years ago. Yeah. Um. But it’s a lot of fun and, uh, and, but it, you kind of say to yourself, what was that one step over the line? That’s why I wrote the book. I remember as a kid thinking in my twenties, man, I’ve taken one step over the line. So the full name of the book is One Step Over the Line Con Confessions of a Marijuana Mercenary. That’s me actually working for the DEA. That picture was at the time when I was working for the DEA, so the second time I got busted in 1992 was actually for the smallest amount of weed that I ever got, ever really had. It was like 80, a hundred pounds. But unfortunately it was for Rico. I didn’t know at the [00:10:00] time, but when they arrested me, I thought, oh, they only caught me with a hundred pounds. But I got charged with Rico. So I was looking at 25 years. What, how, what? Did they have some other, it must have had some other offenses that they could tie to and maybe guns and stuff or something that get that gun. No, we never used guns ever. Just other, other smuggling operations. Yeah, yeah. Me, me and my high school friend, he had moved to Ohio in 77 or 78, so he had called me one time, he was working at the Ford plant and he goes, Hey, I think I could sell some weed up here. All right. I said, come on down, I’ll give you a couple pounds. So he drives down from Ohio on his weekend off, all the way from Ohio. I gave him two pounds. He drove home, calls me back. He goes, I sold it. So I go, all right. He goes, I’m gonna get some more. So at that time, I was working for one of the largest marijuana smugglers in US History. His name was Donny Steinberg. I was just a kid, you know, like my job, part of my [00:11:00] job was to, they would gimme a Learjet. About a million or two and I jump on a Learjet and fly to the Cayman Islands. I was like 19 years old. Same time, you know, kid. Yeah, just a kid. 19 or 20 and yeah. 18, I think. And so I ended up doing that a few times. That was a lot of fun. And that’s nice to be a kid in the Learjet and they give me a million or two and they gimme a thousand dollars for the day’s work. I thought I was rich, I was, but people gotta understand that’s in that 78 money, not that’s, yeah. That was more like $10,000 for day, I guess. Yeah. You know? Yeah. It was a lot of money for an 18, 19-year-old kid. Yeah. Donnie gives me a bail. So Terry comes back from Ohio, we shoved the bale into his car. Barely would fit ’cause he had no big trunk on this Firebird. He had, he had a Firebird trans Am with the thunder black with a thunder, thunder chicken on the hood. It was on the hood. Oh cool. That was, that was a catch meow back then. Yeah. Yeah. It got it with that [00:12:00] Ford plant money. And uh, by the way, that was after that 50 pounds got up. ’cause every bail’s about 50 pounds. That’s the last he quit forward the next day. I bet. And me and him had built a 12 year, we were moving. Probably 50 tons up there over the 12 year period. You know, probably, I don’t know, anywhere from 50 to a hundred thousand pounds we would have, he must have been setting up other dealers. So among his friends, he must have been running around. He had the distribution, I was setting up the distribution network and you had the supply. I see. Yeah. I was the Florida connection. It’s every time you get busted, the cops always wanna grab that Florida connection. Oh yeah. Oh yeah. You gotta go down there. I there, lemme tell you, you know, I got into this. We were living in, I was born on a farm in New Jersey, like in know Norman Rockwell, 1950s, cow pies and hay bales. And then we moved to New Orleans in 1969 and then where my dad had business and right after, not sure after that, he died when I was 13. As I say in the book, I [00:13:00] probably wouldn’t have been writing the book if my father was alive. Yeah. ’cause I probably wouldn’t have went down that road, you know? But so my mother decides in 1973 to move us to, uh, south Florida, to get away from the drugs in the CD underside of New Orleans. Yeah. I guess she didn’t read the papers. No. So I moved from New Orleans to the star, the war on where the war on drugs would start. I always say if she’d have moved me to Palo Alto, I’d be Bill Gates, but No. Yeah, yeah, yeah. I was so, uh, and everybody I knew was running drugs, smuggling drugs, trying to be a drug deal. I mean, I was, I had my own operation. I was upper middle level, but there were guys like me everywhere. Mm-hmm. There were guys like me everywhere, moving a thou, I mean, moving a thousand, 2000 pounds at the time was a big thing, you know? That’s, yeah. So, so about what year was that? I started in 19. 70. Okay. Three. I was [00:14:00] 16. Started selling drugs outta my mom’s house, me and my brother. We had a very good business going. And by the time I was got busted, it was 19 92. So, so you watched, especially in South Florida, you watched like where that plane could go down and go back up that at eventually the feds will come up with radar and they have blimps and they have big Bertha stuff down there to then catch those kinds of things. Yeah. Right, right. Big Bertha was the blimp. Uhhuh, uh, they put up, yeah. In the beginning you could just fly right in. We did one trip one time. This is this, my, my buddy picked up, I don’t know, 40 or 50 kilos in The Bahamas. So you fly into Fort Lauderdale and you call in like you’re gonna do a normal landing. Mm-hmm. And the BLI there. This is all 1980s, five. You know, they already know. They’re doing this, but you just call in, like you’re coming to land in Fort Lauderdale, and what you do is right before you land, you hit the tower up and you tell ’em you wanna do a [00:15:00] go around, meaning you’re not comfortable with the landing. Mm-hmm. Well, they’ll always leave you a go around because they don’t want you to crash. Yeah. And right west of the airport was a golf course, and right next to the golf course, oh, about a mile down the road was my townhouse. So we’re in the townhouse. My buddies all put on, two of the guys, put on black, get big knives, gear, and I drive to one road on the golf course and my other friend grows Dr. We drop the guys off in the golf course as the plane’s gonna do the touchdown at the airport. He says, I gotta go around. As he’s pulling up now, he’s 200 feet below the radar, just opens up the side of the plane. Mm-hmm. The kickers, we call ’em, they’re called kickers. He kicks the baskets, the ba and the guys on, on the golf court. They’re hugging trees. Yeah. You don’t wanna be under that thing. Right. You got a 200, you got maybe a 40 pound package coming in at 120 miles an hour from 200 feet up. It’ll break the bra. It’ll yeah. The [00:16:00] branches will kill you. Yeah. So they pull up, they get out, I pull back up in the pickup truck, he runs out, jumps in the back of the truck, yells, hit it. We drive the mile through the back roads to my townhouse. Get the coke in the house. My buddy rips it open with a knife. It’s and pulls out some blow. And he looks at me, he goes, Hey, let’s get outta here. And I go, where are we going? Cops come and he goes, ah, I got two tickets. No, four tickets to the Eddie Murphy concert. So we left the blow in this trunk of his car. Oh. Oh, oh man. I know. We went to Eddie Murphy about a million dollars worth of product in the trunk. Oh. And, uh, saw a great show and came back and off they went. That’s what I’m trying to point out is that’s how fast it goes down, man. It’s to do. Yeah. Right in, in 30 minutes. We got it out. Now the thing about drug deals is we always call ’em dds delayed dope deals because the smuggling [00:17:00] trip could take six months to plan. Yeah. You know, they never go, there’s no organized crime in organized crime. Yeah. No organization did it. Yeah. And then, then of course, in 1992 when I got busted and was looking at Rico, a friend of mine came up to me. He was a yacht broker. He had gotten in trouble selling a boat, and he said, Hey, I’d you like to work for the DEA. I’d done three months in jail. I knew I was looking at time, I knew I had nothing. My lawyers told me, Kenny, you either figure something out or you’re going to jail for a mm-hmm. And I just had a newborn baby. I just got married three weeks earlier and we had a newborn baby. I said, what are you crazy? I mean, I’m waiting for my wife to hear me. You know, he’s calling me on the phone. He goes, meet me for lunch. I go meet him for lunch. And he explains to me that he’s gonna, he’s got a guy in the, uh, central district in Jacksonville, and he’s a DEA agent, and I should go talk to him. And so the DEA made a deal with the Ohio police that anything that I [00:18:00] confiscated, anything that I did, any assets I got, they would get a share in as long as they released me. Yeah. To them. And, you know, it’s all about the, I hate to say this, I’m not saying that you don’t want to take drugs off the street, but if you’re the police department and you’re an agent, it’s about asset seizures. Yeah. Yeah. That’s how you fund the dr. The war on drugs. Yeah. The war begets war. You know, I mean, oh, I know, been Florida was, I understand here’s a deal. You’re like suing shit against the tide, right? Fighting that drug thing. Okay? It just keeps coming in. It keeps getting cheaper. It keeps getting more and more. You make a little lick now and then make a little lick now and then, but then you start seeing these fancy cars and all this money out there that you can get to. If you make the right score, you, you, you hit the right people, you can get a bunch of money, maybe two or three really cool cars for your unit. So then you’ll start focusing on, go after the money. I know it’s not right, but you’re already losing your shoveling shit against the tide anyhow, so just go after the goal. [00:19:00] One time I set up this hash deal for the DEA from Amsterdam. The guy brought the hash in, and I had my agent, you know, I, I didn’t set up the deal. The guy came to me and said, we have 200 kilos of hash. Can you help us sell it? He didn’t know that I was working for the DEA, he was from Europe. And I said, sure. The, the thing was, I, so in the boat ready to close the deal, now my guy is from Central. I’m in I’m in Fort Lauderdale, which is Southern District. So he goes, Hey, can you get that man to bring that sailboat up to Jacksonville? I go, buddy, he just sailed across the Atlantic. He ain’t going to Jacksonville. So the central district has to come down, or is a northern district? I can’t remember if it’s northern or central. Has to come down to the Southern district. So, you know, they gotta make phone calls. Everybody’s gotta be in Yep. Bump heads. So I’m on the boat and he calls me, he goes, Hey, we gotta act now. Yeah. And I’m looking at the mark, I go, why? He [00:20:00] goes, customs is on the dock. We don’t want them involved. So you got the two? Yeah. So I bring him up, I go, where’s the hash? He goes, it’s in the car. So we go up to the car and he opens the trunk, and I, I pull back one of the duffle bags I see. I can tell immediately it’s product. So I go like this, and all hell breaks loose, right? Yeah. I could see the two customs agents and they’re all dressed like hillbillies. They, you know. So I said to my, my handler, the next day I called them up to debrief. You know, I have to debrief after every year, everything. I goes, so what happened when customs I go, what’d they want to do? He goes, yep. They wanted to chop the boat in threes. So they’re gonna sell the boat and the 2D EA offices are gonna trade it. Yeah. Are gonna shop the money. Yeah. I remember when I registered with the DEA in, in, in the Southern district, I had to tell ’em who I was. They go, why are you working for him? Why aren’t you working for us? I’m like, buddy, I’m not in charge here. This is, you know? Yeah. I heard that many [00:21:00] times through different cases we did, where the, the local cop would say to me, why don’t you come work for us? Oh yeah. Try to steal your informant. Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. So how about that? So, can you get a piece of the action if they had a big case seizure? Yeah. Did they have some deal where you’d get a piece of that action there? Yep. That’s a pretty good deal. Yeah. So I would get, I, I’d get, like, if we brought down, he would always tell everybody that he needed money to buy electronics and then he would come to me and go, here’s 2000. And to the other cis, he had three guys. I saw a friend of mine, the guy that got me into the deal. Them a million dollar house or a couple million dollar house. And I saw the DEA hand him a suitcase with a million dollars cash in it. Wow. I mean, I’m sorry, with a hundred thousand cash. A hundred thousand. Okay. I was gonna say, I was thinking a million. Well, a hundred thousand. Yeah, a hundred thousand. I’ve heard that. I just didn’t have any experience with it myself. But I heard that. I saw, saw Open it up, saw money. I saw the money. It was one of those aluminum halla, Halliburton reef cases and Yeah, yeah. A [00:22:00] hundred thousand cash. But, uh, but you know, um, it’s funny, somebody once asked me out of, as a kid I wanted to be a cowboy, a race car driver, and a secret agent. Me too. Yes. Yeah. I didn’t want, I wanted to be a, I grew up on a farm, so I kind of rode a horse. I had that watched Rowdy, you got saved background as me, man. Yeah. You know, we watched, we watched, we grew up on westerns. We watched Gun Smoke, rowdy. Oh yeah. You know, uh, bananas, uh, you know, so, um. So anyway, uh, I got to raise cars with my drug money, and I guess I’m not sure if I was more of a secret agent working as a drug dealer or as the DEA, but it’s a lot of I, you know, I make jokes about it now, but it’s a lot of stress working undercover. Oh, yeah. Oh, I can’t even imagine that. I never worked undercover. I, that was not my thing. I like surveillance and putting pieces together and running sources, but man, that actual working undercover that’s gotta be nerve wracking. It’s, you know, and, and my handler was good at it, but [00:23:00] he would step out and let, here’s, I’ll tell you this. One day he calls me up and he goes, Hey, I’m down here in Fort Lauderdale. You need to come down here right now. And I’m having dinner at my house about 15 minutes away. Now he lives in Jacksonville. I go, what’s he doing in Fort Lauderdale? So I drive down to the hotel and he’s got a legal pad and a pen. He goes, my, uh, my, my seniors want to, uh, want you to proffer. You need to tell me everything you ever did. And they want me to do a proffer. And I go, I looked at him. I go, John, I can’t do that. He start, we start writing. I start telling him stuff. I stop. I go, I grew up in this town. Everybody I know I did a drug deal with from high school, I go, I would be giving you every single kid, every family, man, I grew up here. My, I’m gonna be in jail, and my wife and my one and a half year old daughter are gonna be the only people left in this town, and they’re not gonna have any support. And I just can’t do this to all my friends. Yeah. So he says, all right, puts the pen down. I knew [00:24:00] he hated paperwork, so I had a good shot. He wasn’t gonna, he goes, yeah, you hungry? I go, yeah. He goes, let’s go get a steak. And right across the street was a place called Chuck Steakhouse, which great little steak restaurant. All right. So we go over there, he goes, and he is a big guy. He goes, sit right here. I go, all right. So I sit down. I, I’m getting a free steak. I’m gonna sit about through the steak dinner, it goes. Look over my shoulder. So I do this. He goes, see the guy at the bar in the black leather jacket. I go, yeah. He goes, when I get up and walk outta here, when I clear the door, I want you to go up to him and find a talk drug deal. See what you can get out of him. I go, you want me to walk up to a complete stranger and say, he goes, I’m gonna walk out the door. When I get out the door. You’re gonna go up and say, cap Captain Bobby. That was his, he was a ca a boat captain and his nickname, his handle was Captain Bobby. And he was theoretically the next Vietnam vet that now is a smuggler, you know?[00:25:00] Yeah. And so he walks out the door and I walked out and sat with the guy at the bar and we started, I said, hi, captain Bobby sent me, I’m his right hand man, you know, to talk about. And we talked and I looked around the bar trying to see if anybody was with him. And I’m figuring, now I’m looking at the guy going, why is he so open with me? And I’m thinking, you know what? He’s wearing a leather jacket. He’s in Florida. I bet you he’s got a wire on and he’s working for customs and I’m working for the DEA, so nothing ever came of it. But you know, that was, you know, you’re sitting there eating dinner and all of a sudden, you know, look over my shoulder. Yeah. And, you know, and I’m trying to balance all that with having a newborn that’s about a year old and my wife and Yeah. Looking at 25 years. So a little bit of pressure. But, you know, hey and I understand these federal agencies, everybody’s got, everybody is, uh, uh, aggressive. Everybody is ambitious. And you just are this guy in the middle and right. And they’ll throw you to the [00:26:00] wolves in a second. Second, what have you done for a second? Right? It’s what have you done for me lately? He’s calling me up and said, Hey, I don’t got any product from you in a minute. I go, well, I’m working on it. He goes, well, you know, they’ll kick you outta the program. Yeah. But one of the things he did he was one of, he was the GS 13. So he had some, you know, he had level, you know, level 15 or whatever, you know, he was, yeah. Almost at the head of near retirement too. And he said, look, he had me, he had another guy that was a superstar, another guy. And we would work as a team and he would feed us all the leads. In other words, if David had a case, I’d be on that case. So when I went to go to go to trial or go to my final, he had 14 or 15 different things that he had penciled me in to be involved with. The biggest deal we did at the end of my two years with the DEA was we brought down the Canadian mob. They got him for 10,000 kilos of cocaine, import 10,000 kilos. It was the Hell’s Angels, the Rock something, motorcycle [00:27:00] gang, the Italian Mafia and the, and the Irish mob. Mm-hmm. And the guy, I mean, this is some badass guys. I was just a player, but. The state of Ohio, they got to fly up there and you know, I mean, no words, the dog and pony show was always on to give everybody, you know. Yes. A bite at the apple. Oh yeah. But I’ll tell you this, it’s been 33 years and the two people that I’m close to is my arresting officer in Ohio and my DEA handler in Jacksonville. The arresting officer, when he retired, he called to gimme his new cell phone. And every year or so I call him up around Christmas and say, Dennis, thank you for the opportunity to turn my life around, because I’ve got four great kids. I’ve started businesses, you know, he knows what I’ve done with my life. And the DEA handler, that’s, he’s a friend of mine. I mean, you know, we talk all the time and check on each other. And, you know, I mean, he’s, [00:28:00] they’re my friends. A lot of, not too many of the guys are left from those days that will talk to me. Yeah, probably not. And most of them are dead or in jail anyhow. For, well, a lot of ’em are, maybe not even because of you, I mean, because that’s their life. No, but a lot of them, a number of ’em turned their lives around, went into legal businesses and have done well. Yeah. So, you know, there really have, so not all of ’em, but a good share of ’em have turned, because we weren’t middle class kids. We were, my one friend was, dad was the lieutenant of the police department. The other one was the post guy. We weren’t inner city kids. Yeah. We weren’t meeting we, the drug war landed on us and we just, we were recruited into it. As young as I talk about in my book. But I mean, let’s talk about what’s going on now. Now. Yeah. And listen, I’m gonna put some statistics out there. Last year, 250,000 people were charged with cannabis. 92% for simple possession. There’s [00:29:00] people still in jail for marijuana doing life sentences. I’ve had friends do 27 years only for marijuana. No nonviolent crimes, first time offender. 22 years, 10 years. And the government is, I’ve been involved with things where the government was smuggling the drugs. I mean, go with the Iran Contra scandal that happened. We were trading guns for cocaine with the Nicaraguans in the Sandon Easterns. Yeah. Those same pilots. Gene Hassen Fus flew for Air America and Vietnam moving drugs and gun and, and guns out of Cambodia. Same guy. Air America. Yeah. The American government gave their soldiers opium in Civil War to keep ’em marching. You know, I mean, we did a deal with Lucky Luciano, where we let ’em out of prison for doing heroin exchange for Intel from, from Europe on during World War II and his, and the mob watching the docks for the, uh, cargo ships. So the government’s been intertwined in the war on drugs on two [00:30:00] sides of it. Yeah. You know, and not that it makes it right. Look, I’ve lost several friends to fentanyl that thought they were doing coke and did fentanyl or didn’t even know there was any. They just accidentally did fentanyl and it’s a horrible drug. But those boats coming out of Venezuela don’t have fentanyl on ’em. No. Get cocaine maybe. If that, and they might be, they’re probably going to Europe. Europe and they’re going to Europe. Yeah, they’re going, yeah. They’re doubt they’re going to Europe. Yeah. Yeah. And so let’s put it this way. I got busted for running a 12 year ongoing criminal enterprise. We moved probably 50 tons of marijuana. You know what? Cut me down? One guy got busted with one pound and he turned in one other guy that went all the way up to us. So if you blew up those boats, you know, you’re, you need the leads. You, you can’t kill your clients. Yeah. You know, how are you gonna get, not gonna get any leads outta that. Well, that’s, uh, well, I’m just saying [00:31:00] you right. The, if they followed the boat to the mothership Yeah. They’d have the whole crew and all the cargo. Yeah. You know, it’s, those boats maybe have 200 kilos on ’em. A piece. Yeah. The mothership has six tons. Yeah. That’s it. It’s all about the, uh, the, um, uh, optics. Optics, yeah. That’s the word. It’s all about the optics and, and the politic, you know, in, in some way it may deter some people, but I don’t, I I, I’ve never seen anything, any consequence. In that drug business, there’s too much money. There is no consequence that is really ever gonna deter people from smuggling drugs. Let me put it this way, except for a few people like yourself, there’s a few like yourself that get to a certain age and the consequence of going to prison for a long time may, you know, may bring you around or the, all the risk you’re taking just, you know, you can’t take it anymore, but you gotta do something. But no, well, I got busted twice. Consequence just don’t matter. There is no consequence that’s gonna do anything. Here’s why. And you’re right. [00:32:00] One is how do you get in a race car and not think you’re gonna die? Because you always think it’s gonna happen to somebody else. Exactly. And the drug business is the same. It’s, I’m not, it’s not gonna happen to me tonight. And those guys in Venezuela, they have no electricity. They have no water. Yeah. They got nothing. They have a chance to go out and make a couple thousand dollars and change their family’s lives. Yeah. Or they’re being, they’re got family members in the gar, in the gangs that are forcing them to do it. Yeah. It’s the war on drugs has kind of been a political war and an optics war from the seventies. I mean, it’s nobody, listen, I always say, I say in my book, nobody loved it more than the cops, the lawyers and the politicians. No shit. In Fort Lauderdale, they had nothing, and all of a sudden the drug wars brought night scopes and cigarette boats and fancy cars and new offices. Yes. And new courthouses, and new jails and Yep. I don’t have an answer. Yeah. The problem is, [00:33:00] you know what I’m gonna say, America, Mexico doesn’t have a drug problem. Columbia doesn’t have a drug problem. No. America has a drug problem. Those are just way stations to get the product in. In the cover of my book, it says, you don’t sell drugs, you supply them like ammunition in a war. It’s a, people, we, how do we fix this? How do we get the American people? Oh, by the way, here’s a perfect example. Marijuana is legal in a majority of states. You don’t see anybody smuggling marijuana in, I actually heard two stories of people that are smuggling marijuana out of the country. I’ve heard that. I’ve heard that. Yeah. They’re growing so much marijuana in America that it’s worth shipping to other places, either legally or illegally. Yeah. And, and, and you know, the biggest problem is like, what they’ll do is they’ll set up dispensaries, with the green marijuana leaf on it, like it’s some health [00:34:00] dispensary. But they, they just won’t it’ll be off the books. It just won’t have the licensing and all that. And, you know, you run that for a while and then maybe you get caught, maybe you don’t. And so it’s, you know, it’s, well, the other thing is with that dispensary license. It’s highly regulated, but you can get a lot of stuff in the gray. So there’s three markets now. There’s the white market, which is the legal Yeah. Business that, you know, you can buy stocks in the companies and whatnot. Yeah. There’s the black market, which is the guy on the street that Kenny Bear used to be. And then there’s the gray market where people are taking black market product and funneling it through the white markets without intact, you know, the taxes and the licensing and the, the, uh, testing for, you know, you have to test marijuana for pesticides. Metals, yeah. And, and the oils and the derivatives. You know, there’s oil and there’s all these derivatives. They have to be tested. Well, you could slide it through the gray market into the white market. So I know it’s a addiction, you know, whether it’s gambling or sex or Right. Or [00:35:00] there’s always gonna be people who are gonna take advantage and make money off of addiction. The mafia, you know, they refined it during the prohibition. All these people that drink, you know, and a lot, admittedly, a lot of ’em are social drinkers, but awful lot of ’em work. They had to have it. And so, you know, then gambling addiction. And that’s, uh, well here’s what I say. If it wasn’t for Prohibition Vegas, the mob never would’ve had the power and the money to build Vegas. No, they wouldn’t have anything. So when you outlaw something that people want, you’re creating a, a business. If, if somebody, somebody said the other day, if you made all the drugs legal in America, would that put out, put the drug cartels in Mexico and Columbia and out of business? Yeah, maybe. How about this statistic? About 20 to 30,000 people a year die from cocaine overdose. Most have a medical condition. Unknown unbe, besides, they’re not ODing on cocaine. Yeah. Alright. 300,000 people a year die from obesity. Yeah. And [00:36:00] another, almost four, I think 700, I don’t know, I might be about to say a half a million die from alcohol and tobacco. Mm-hmm. I could be low on that figure. So you’re, you probably are low. Yeah. I could be way more than that. But on my point is we’re regulating alcohol, tobacco, and certainly don’t care how much food you eat, and why don’t we have a medical system that takes care of these people. I don’t know that the answer if I did, but I’m just saying it, making this stuff more valuable and making bigger crime syndicates doesn’t make sense. Yeah. See a addiction is such a psychological, spiritual. Physical maldy that people can’t really separate the three and they don’t, people that, that aren’t involved and then getting some kind of recovery, they can’t understand why somebody would go back and do it again after they maybe were clean for a while. You know, that’s a big common problem with putting money into the treatment center [00:37:00] business. Yep. Because people do go to treatment two and three times and, and maybe they never get, some people never, they’ll chase it to death. No, and I can’t explain it. And you know, I, I’ll tell you what, I have my own little podcast. It’s called One Step Over the Line. Mm-hmm. And I released a show last night about a friend of mine, his name is Ron Black. You can watch it or any of your listeners can watch it, and Ron was, went down to the depths of addiction, but he did it a long time ago when they really spent a lot of time and energy to get, you know, they really put him through his system. 18 months, Ron got out clean and he came from a good family. He was raised right. He didn’t, you know, he had some trauma in his life. He had some severe trauma as a child, but he built one of the largest addiction. He has a company that he’s, he ran drug counseling services. He’s been in the space 20 or 30 years, giving back. He has a company that trains counselors to be addiction specialists. He has classes for addiction counseling. He become certified [00:38:00] members. He’s run drug rehabs. He donates to the, you know, you gotta wa if you get a chance to go to my podcast, one step over the line and, and watch this episode we did last night. Probably not the most exciting, you know, like my stories. Yeah. But Ronnie really did go through the entire addiction process from losing everything. Yeah. And pulling himself out. But he was also had a lot of family. You know, he had the right steps. A lot of these kids I was in jail with. Black and brown, inter or inner city youth, whatever, you know, their national, you know, race or nationality, they don’t have a chance. Yeah. They’re in jail with their fathers, their cousins, their brothers. Mm-hmm. The law, the war on drugs, and the laws on drugs specifically affect them. And are they, I remember thinking, is this kid safer in this jail with a cement roof over his head? A, a hot three hot meals and a bed than being back on the [00:39:00] streets? Yeah. He was, I mean. Need to, I used to do a program working with, uh, relatives of addicts. And so this mother was really worried about her son gonna go to jail next time he went to court. And he, she had told me enough about him by then. I said, you know, ma’am, I just wanna tell you something he’s safer doing about a year or so in jail than he is doing a year or so on the streets. Yeah. And she said, she just looked at me and she said, you know, you’re right. You’re right. So she quit worried about and trying to get money and trying to help him out because she was just, she was killing him, getting him out and putting him back on the streets. This kid was gonna die one way or the other, either shot or overdosed or whatever. But I’ll tell you another story. My best friend growing up in New Orleans was Frankie Monteleone. They owned the Monte Hotel. They own the family was worth, the ho half a billion dollars at the time, maybe. And Frankie was a, a diabetic. And he was a, a junk. He was a a because of the diabetic needles. [00:40:00] He kind of became a cocaine junkie, you know, shooting up coke. You know, I guess the needle that kept him alive was, you know, I, you know, again the addict mentality. Right, right. You can’t explain it. So he got, so he got busted trying to sell a couple grams. They made it into a bigger case by mentioning more product conspiracy. His father said, got a, the, the father made a deal to give him a year and a half in club Fed. Yeah. He could, you know, get a tan, practice his tennis, learn chess come out and be the heir to one of the richest families in the world, all right. He got a year and a half. Frankie did 10 years in prison. ’cause every time he got out, he got violated. Oh yeah. I remember going to his federal probation officer to get my bicycle. He was riding when he got violated. Mm-hmm. And I said, I said, sir, he was in a big building in Fort Lauderdale or you know, courthouse office building above the courthouse. I go, there’s so many cops, lawyers, [00:41:00] judges, that are doing blow on a Saturday night that are smoking pot, that are drinking more than they should all around us. You’ve got a kid that comes from one of the wealthiest families in America that’s never gonna hurt another citizen. He’s just, he’s an addict, not a criminal. He needs a doctor, not a jail. And you know what the guy said to me? He goes but those people aren’t on probation. I, I know. He did. 10 years in and out of prison. Finally got out, finally got off of paper, didn’t stop doing drugs. Ended up dying in a dentist chair of an overdose. Yeah. So you, you never fixed them, you just imprisoned somebody that would’ve never heard another American. Yeah, but we spent, it cost us a lot of money. You know, I, I, I dunno what the answer is. The war on drugs is, we spent over, we spent 80, let’s say since 1973. The, the DEA got started in 73, let’s say. Since that time we’ve, what’s that? 70 something years? Yeah. We’ve done [00:42:00] no, uh, 50, 60. Yeah. 50 something. Yeah. Been 50. We spent a trillion dollars. We spent a trillion dollars. The longest and most expensive war in American history is against its own people. Yeah. Trying to save ’em. I know it’s cra it’s crazy. Yeah, I know. And it, over the years, it just took on this life of its own. Yeah. And believe me, there was a, there’s a whole lot of young guys like you only, didn’t go down the drug path, but you like that action and you like getting those cool cars and doing that cool stuff and, and there’s TV shows about it as part of the culture. And so you’re like, you got this part of this big action thing that’s going on that I, you know, it ain’t right. I, I bigger than all of us. I don’t know. I know. All I like to say I had long hair and some New Orleans old man said to me when I was a kid, he goes, you know why you got that long hair boy? And this is 1969. Yeah, 70. I go, why is that [00:43:00] sir? He goes, ’cause the girls like it. The girls didn’t like it. You wouldn’t have it. I thought about it. I’m trying to be a hippie. I was all this, you know, rebel. I thought about it. I go, boy, he’s probably right. Comes down to sex. Especially a young boy. Well, I mean, I’m 15 years old. I may not even how you look. Yeah. I’m not, listen, at 15, I probably was only getting a second base on a whim, you know? Yeah. But, but they paid attention to you. Yeah. Back in those days you, you know, second base was a lot. Yeah. Really. I remember. Sure. Not as, not as advanced as they are today. I don’t think so. But anyway, that’s my story. Um, all right, Ken b this has been fun. It’s been great. I I really had a lot of fun talking to you. And the book is 1, 1, 1 took over the line. No one, no, no. That’s a Friday slip. One step over that. But that was what I came up with the name. I, I believe you, I heard that song. Yeah. I go, I know, I’m, I’ve just taken one step over the line. So that’s where the book actually one step over the line confessions of a marijuana mercenary. [00:44:00] And I’ll tell you, if your listeners go to my website, one step over the line.com, go to the tile that says MP three or the tile that says digital on that website. Put in the code one, the number one step, and then the number 100. So one step 100, they can get a free, they can download a free copy. Yeah, I got you. Okay. Okay. I appreciate it. That’d be good. Yeah, they’ll enjoy it. Yeah. And on the website there’s pictures of the boats, the planes. Yeah. The runways the weed the, all the pictures are there, family pictures, whatever. Well, you had a, uh, a magical, quite a life, the kinda life that they, people make movies about and everybody watches them and says, oh, wow, that’s really cool. But they didn’t have to do it. They didn’t have to pay that price. No. Most of the people think, the funny thing is a lot of people think I’m, I’m, I’m lying or I’m exaggerating. Yeah. I’m 68 years old. Yeah. There’s no reason for me to lie. And you know, the DEA is, I’m telling that. I’m just telling it the way it [00:45:00] happened. I have no reason to tell Phish stories at this point in my life. No, I believe it. No, no, no. It’s all true. All I’ve been, I’ve been around to a little bit. I, I could just talk to you and know that you’re telling the truth here I am. So, it’s, it’s a great story and Ken, I really appreciate you coming on the show. Thank you for having me. It’s been a very much a, it is been a real pleasure. It’s, it’s nice to talk to someone that knows both sides of the coin. Okay. Take care. Uh, thanks again. Thank you, sir. Thank you very much. Appreciate it.

(00:00-22:06) Joined by Greg Amsinger of the MLB Network. Heading to St. Louis on Wednesday. Talking Chaim Bloom and the need to focus on starting pitching. Nolan Arenado getting moved. Alex Bregman to the Cubs. Wanting to believe in the idea that Bloom and Marmol have something special here. Lindenwood athletics. Heading towards a work stoppage? Rob Manfred and the players. The Cardinals TV situation.(22:14-48:25) Lix isn't on but Shrewsbury Seminary Student is on hold with questions about drops. Whoa, new cat, take it easy. Nobody cares about your parlay. Save us, Mr. Lix. Uh oh, Lix lost his spot reading. Talking PGA vs. LIV. No one pivots like Tim. Jackson explains majority rules to Lix. American Fraudster. Audio of Nevin Shapiro and he sounds intense. The Hoosiers vs. Nicaraguans. We're hot pink, mister. Cuban sandwiches. A soppings elitist.(48:35-1:03:44) Tupac night at Camden Yards. Celebrating the ten year anniversary of the Rams leaving St. Louis. Stan Kroenke in litigation with the city of Inglewood. Hunting for PAWGs. Velvet monkeys running around St. Louis. Vervet, not velvet, Doug.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Tuesday, January 13th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson Venezuelan authorities release 800 pastors and others from prison Over 800 pastors and other so-called political prisoners were released from Venezuelan jails over the weekend.  Psalm 68:1-3 declares, “Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered. Let those also who hate Him flee before Him. As smoke is driven away, so drive them away. As wax melts before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God. But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God. Yes, let them rejoice exceedingly.” 3 pastors released from Nicaraguan prisons And, also, at least three pastors have been released from Nicaraguan prisons. That includes Pastor Rudy Palacios Vargas, the founder of La Roca de Nicaragua Church Association, his sister, two brothers-in-law, a member of the church worship team and a family friend. They were part of a block of 20 political prisoners released over the weekend, reports Christian Solidarity Worldwide. Noteworthy however was this: Another pastor, serving 23 years on false charges, was not among those released. Efrén Antonio Vílchez López was arrested when he condemned the government's treatment of protesters in 2018. 540 protestors killed by Iranian authorities The body count is ratcheting up in the anti-government protests continuing across Iran. As of Monday, at least 540 people have died, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency.  The protests have hit 585 locations across the country in 186 cities located in 31 provinces. These casualties rival the Black Friday revolution of 1978 in Iran where at least 500 died in the turmoil. Iranian government blocks satellite signals into country Today marks the fourth day of government shutdown of the internet across Iran — including a military grade level block of Elon Musk's Starlink system. The SpaceX organization has received authorization to double the number of Starlink satellites in orbit to 15,000. Already, Starlink commands 66% of active satellites orbiting Earth. Bible sales up in United Kingdom This in from the United Kingdom. Premier Christian News announced that Bible sales have doubled since 2019, with a 28% surge in just the last year.  Sam Richardson, CEO of the Christian publisher SPCK Group, explained that “[The Bible sales] are evidence of a significant cultural shift regarding matters of faith and religion in this country.” Isaiah 40:8 says, “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” Trump wants Greenland President Donald Trump is serious about including Greenland under American holdings. He announced that “We are going to do something on Greenland, whether they like it or not. I would like to make a deal.  … If we don't do it the easy way, we're going to do it the hard way." The Danish prime minister, Mette Frederickson, responded over the weekend. He said this would mean the collapse of NATO.  Trump vs. Fed Chair Jerome Powell The battle between the Trump administration and the Federal Reserve Board has heated up.   The Trump Justice Department has issued grand jury summons and threatened Chairman Jerome Powell with a criminal indictment relating to the scope of the Fed's ongoing renovation project.   Mr. Powell published a video over the weekend on the matter: In his words, “This [legal proceeding] is about whether the Fed will be able to continue to set interest rates based on evidence and economic conditions—or whether instead monetary policy will be directed by political pressure or intimidation.” POWELL: “This new threat is not about my testimony last June or about the renovation of the Federal Reserve buildings. It is not about Congress's oversight role. The Fed through testimony and other public disclosures made every effort to keep Congress informed about the renovation project. Those are pretexts. The threat of criminal charges is a consequence of the Federal Reserve setting interest rates based on our best assessment of what will serve the public.” Supreme Court examines transgender issue The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing arguments today on whether states should be able to ban men, pretending to be women, from participating in female sports. The Idaho and West Virginia laws under scrutiny are concerned with regulating public school sports — not private school sports. The transgender lobby wants to apply Title IX to the matter.  Almost double Gen Zers converted to Christ vs. Millennials And finally, some good news on the Gen Z generation from Pew Research,  but only moderately so.   Pew Research has some recent numbers, comparing Gen Z with the Millennial group 10 years ago. Three percent of Millennials converted to Christianity and 5% of Gen Z'ers say the same thing. Plus, 31% of Millennials raised in the Christian faith left the faith. And 26% of Gen Z'ers raised in the Christian faith have left the faith. In addition, 42% of Millennials remain Christian while 41% of Gen Z'ers remain Christians. All that to say -- the bloodletting in the generational faith retrograde continues, but there has been a slight correction for the youngest adult population. Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday, January 13th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

#ELOsoFumarTakes – #351stTake It's that time of year again… my Top Ten Cigars of 2025 are about to be revealed.       WELCOME BACK! HAPPY NEW YEAR! The night is here! The time is right! It's time for the #ELOsoFumarTakes Top 10 Cigars of 2025! Once again, the legendary George Brightman joins us for the Top 10 Countdown for the ages! I've sent George my top ten cigars for him to sample and taste test blind. He gives an honest breakdown alongside my own assessments. Enjoy! Criteria: It's vitola based. I had to have smoked the cigar for the first time in the last year and a half.* It must not suck. No limited edition cigars (i.e. TAA, shop exclusive) are eligible. A previous number 1 cigar winner (blend-specific, i.e. 2017 Winner Espinosa Habano) cannot be on this year's Top 10 or repeat as winner.* A company cannot have more than 1 cigar on the Top 10, however, may be considered for honorable mention.* THE BIG ONE: frequency of smoke. Basically, I had to have the means AND opportunity AND did, in fact, smoke the cigar frequently.   Just to review, here is last year's list: Top 10 Cigars of 2024: Tatuaje Havana VI Verocu Blue No. 1 Toro Grande BLK WKS Killer Bee Robusto Room101 Johnny Tobacconaut Robusto (2023 Edition) Joya de Nicaragua Cinco de Cinco Robusto Gordo Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust Umbagog Bronzeback Plascencia Cosecha 149 Azacualpa Powstanie Connecticut Belicoso La Aroma de Cuba Connecticut Corona Micallef Blue Robusto Ferio Tego Summa Torpedo       Top 10 Cigars of 2025 (this year): 1) Kristoff Veinte Twentieth Anniversary Toro (Timestamp: 02:49:37) The Veinte Cigar follows the recipe template of incorporating tobacco from many regions. Blend-wise, the Veinte Anniversary consists of a Brazilian Arapiraca wrapper over an Indonesian binder and a combination of Nicaraguan and Pennsylvania fillers. Wrapper: Brazilian Arapiraca Binder: Indonesian Filler: Nicaraguan, Pennsylvania Country of Origin: Dominican Republic Factory: Tabacalera Von Eicken S.R.L. Size: 6.25 x 54 2) Powstanie Connecticut Justice (Timestamp: 02:35:57) The Powstanie Connecticut features an Ecuadorian Connecticut shade wrapper over a Pennsylvania Broadleaf binder and aged Nicaraguan fillers. Production for Powstanie Connecticut comes from the Fábrica de Tabacos Nica Sueño S.A. factory in Estelí, Nicaragua. Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut Binder: Pennsylvania Broadleaf Filler: Nicaraguan Country of Origin: Nicaragua Factory: Fabrica de Tabacos Nica Sueño Size: 5.5 x 46 3) Perdomo 30th Anniversary Connecticut Epicure (Timestamp: 02:27:51) Produced at Tabacalera Perdomo in Estelí, Nicaragua, the Perdomo 30th Anniversary Connecticut features 100% Nicaraguan tobaccos grown on the Perdomo family farms in Condega, Estelí, and Jalapa. The cigar is highlighted by a 15-year-old Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper aged in bourbon barrels. Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut Binder: Cuban-seed Nicaraguan Filler: Cuban-seed Nicaraguan Country of Origin: Nicaragua Factory: Tabacalera Perdomo Size: 6 x 54 4) United Gold Star Robusto (Timestamp: 01:54:14) The Gold Star features a Habano 2000 Intermedio wrapper from the Quevedo region of Ecuador. The blend also features a Sumatra binder and is composed of Connecticut Broadleaf and Dominican filler. The blend is slightly tweaked from the original limited edition. Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano 2000 Intermedio (Quevedo) Binder: Sumatra Filler: Dominican (Ligeros, Criollo '98, Corojo '98), Connecticut Broadleaf Country of Origin: Dominican Republic Factory: Tabacalera William Ventura Size: 5 x 52 5) Gran Habano Corojo No. 7 Toro (Timestamp: 01:49:49) The Gran Habano No. 7 is a Nicaraguan puro – namely, it uses 100% of the tobaccos grown in Nicaragua. In addition to the special hybrid wrapper used, the remainder of the blend uses Corojo tobaccos grown in Nicaragua. Wrapper: Hybrid (Nicaraguan) Binder: Corojo, Nicaragua Filler: Corojo, Nicaragua Country of Origin: Honduras Factory: G.R. Tabacaleras Unidas S.A. Size: 6 x 54 6) Trinidad Espiritu No. 3 Toro by Altadis USA (Timestamp: 01:40:05) Keeping to the release's theme, the Espiritu Series No. 3 features a Mexican wrapper from the San Andrés region. The Trinidad Espiritu No. 3 uses all Nicaraguan tobaccos for the remainder of the blend. Production comes from AJ Fernandez's factory in Estelí, Nicaragua. Wrapper: San Andrés (Mexico) Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Nicaragua Country of Origin: Nicaragua Factory: Tabacalera AJ Fernandez Cigars de Nicaragua S.A. Size: 5 x 50 7) BLK WKS Studio Rorschach Sumatra (Timestamp: 01:31:42) This short robusto (4.5 x 48) delivers a robust, flavor-rich smoking experience. Featuring a Sumatra wrapper with Nicaraguan binder and filler, it opens with bold charred wood notes, followed by black pepper, and finishes with an underlying sweetness. A medium-plus cigar that consistently delivers. Wrapper: Sumatran Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium-plus Tasting Notes: Charred wood, black pepper, subtle sweetness Size: 4.5 x 48 8) Aladino Fuma Noche Super Toro by JRE Tobacco Co. (Timestamp: 01:09:00) JRE Tobacco keeps the blend close to the vest, but the cigar features a Maduro wrapper with Honduran binder and filler. Production comes from the Fabrica de Puros Aladino at Las Lomas Jamastran in Honduras. Wrapper: Maduro Binder: Honduran Filler: Honduran Country of Origin: Honduras Factory: Fabrica de Puros Aladino Size: 6.25 x 54 9) Cohiba Riviera Perfecto (Timestamp: 00:56:39) The Cohiba Riviera features a San Andrés Tuxtla wrapper over a Honduran Connecticut binder, with filler tobaccos from Honduras and Nicaragua. Production takes place at the STG Estelí factory in Nicaragua. Wrapper: San Andrés Tuxtla Binder: Honduran Connecticut Filler: Honduran (Jamastran, La Entrada), Nicaraguan (Condega, Estelí) Country of Origin: Nicaragua Factory: STG Estelí Size: 6 x 60 10) Bentley White Edition Robusto (Timestamp: 00:41:24) Vitola: Robusto Length: 5" Ring Gauge: 50 Country of Origin: Nicaragua Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Nicaragua Factory: Joya de Nicaragua Blender: Undisclosed Price: $14.00 Release Date: September 2024    

On the 156th episode of What Is a Good Life?, I'm joined by Alejandra Guzmán González. Alejandra is a Nicaraguan educator, lifelong learner, and mother of two. She describes herself as an artist with a dancer's feet, the soul of a theatre actress, and the writer's force within (publishing under the pen name aimé). Her work is rooted in curiosity, reflection, and human connection, and she continues to devote her professional life to education and learning-centred projects.In this episode, Alejandra shares her journey of discovering how to trust her own voice. She reflects on personal experiences, family, and the process of making her own decisions with confidence while staying connected to the people she loves.This conversation is for anyone looking to build greater trust in themselves and their own decisions.For Alejandra's Newsletter: https://aimewrites.substack.com/For more of my work:Contact me at mark@whatisagood.life if you'd like to explore your own good life through:- 1-on-1 coaching and online group courses: https://www.whatisagood.life/p/individual-coaching- The podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: www.whatisagood.life00:00 - Living the Question03:18 - Seeking External Answers07:02 - Teaching and Questioning10:05 - Parenting and Frustration13:46 - Building Inner Trust17:53 - Cocooning and Withdrawal22:45 - Listening Beyond Answers30:31 - The Right to Listen38:10 - A Defining Moment48:03 - Health as Teacher56:46 - What Is a Good Life For Alejandra?

It's Tuesday, December 30th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson Trump bombed Nigerian ISIS camps It was a first in United States history. President Donald Trump authorized US military action against ISIS-linked camps in northwestern Nigeria for the purposes of defending Christians who have been the brunt of a genocide that's taken place over the last decade. At least two camps, run by the Muslim terrorists, were hit by 18 precision missiles last Thursday on Christmas Day, reports The Guardian. Nicaragua banned Bibles Nicaragua has banned Bibles at the border.  Tourists may not carry Bibles in any form into the country, according to new regulations. Christian Solidarity Worldwide reports that the list of forbidden items now includes Bibles, newspapers, magazines, books of any kind, drones and cameras. The Nicaraguan government has also shut down 1,300 religious organizations since April 2018. Repression has picked up since the 2021 election when Daniel Ortega was elected for a fourth consecutive term in office.  Leading opposition candidates were jailed before the sham election.   Nicaragua has the fourth worst economy in South America, just above Cuba, Venezuela, and Haiti. Scottish pro-life grandmother arrested outside abortion mill A 75-year-old grandmother is the first to be arrested in Scotland for coming within 656 feet of an abortion mill. This comes after an anti-protesting law was passed last year.   The Times reported that Rose Docherty was holding a sign that simply stated: “Coercion is a crime. Here to talk, only if you want.” In John 3:20, Jesus said, “For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.” Puerto Rico recognizes pre-born baby as a person Puerto Rico will now recognize the human fetus as a natural person from conception. That's the substance of a new law which is intended to provide the unborn child with dignity, rights of inheritance, and legal recognition. Sadly, the country still allows abortion for reasons connected to the alleged “life and health of the mother.” Iran's skyrocketing inflation and war with U.S., Israel, & Europe External and internal pressures are increasing on nations worldwide. Iran has edged up into 53 percent year-on-year inflation. That's the fifth worst in the world.  The economy is exasperated by water and energy shortages. And the nation is dealing with rising numbers of protests and strikes. In a published interview late last week, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran was in a "full-scale" war with the U.S., Israel and Europe. Russia's unrelenting attacks on Ukraine And Russia continues its war on Ukraine. Russia Today reported an additional 32 settlements in the Donbas area came under Russia control in December. United States sold $11 billion of arms to Taiwan Following the U.S. sale of $11 billion of arms to Taiwan, the Chinese armed forces have initiated an aggressive military exercise in the South China Sea.  It's the largest scale blockade and attack simulation ever conducted to date. The communist nation is conducting live-fire exercises extremely close to the shores of Taiwan.  The official People's Liberation Army news site announced that the drills include “task forces of bombers, amphibious assault ships, and anti-ship missiles.” But keep in mind Isaiah 40:15. The prophet wrote, “The nations are as a drop in a bucket and are counted as the small dust on the scales; [The Lord]  lifts up the isles as a very little thing. And Lebanon is not sufficient to burn nor its beasts sufficient for a burnt offering. All nations before Him are as nothing, and they are counted by Him less than nothing and worthless.” U.S. blocks Venezuela's oil exports Things are heating up in Venezuelan waters — as the U.S. military continues its blockade of the nation's oil exports.  Tankertruckers.com reports  about $1 billion of oil, or about 8-10 tankers, have been held up in the Caribbean by the current blockade.   The Venezuelan government relies on oil exports for about two-thirds of its financing. Venezuela is pushing 250 percent inflation, year-over-year. That qualifies as the absolutely worst conditions in the world. Private Texas schools applying for $10,000 government grants Now, in stateside news, private schools in Texas are signing up for state funding. At least 600 private schools have applied for grants under a new law, for the 2026-27 school year, according to Center Square.  The pilot program is offering $10,000 grants to 100,000 students in the Lone Star state. U.S. dollar less desirable Will the dollar retain supremacy in the world market? The U.S. dollar is less and less desirable by national banks around the world.  The percent of the world's foreign exchange reserve, held in U.S. assets, has dropped off from 72 percent to 57 percent since 1999.  Oklahoma college teacher fired for penalizing Biblical worldview The teacher at the University of Oklahoma who had given a Christian student a zero score on her paper for advocating a biblical view of gender has been fired.  The university issued a statement charging the teacher assistant, by the name of William Curth, with arbitrary grading. The student, Samantha Fulnecky, had appealed to the Bible in her essay, noting that, “God created men in the image of His courage and strength, and He created women in the image of His beauty. He intentionally created women differently than men.” Dad rescued daughter from kidnapper on Christmas And finally, a Texas dad rescued his daughter from a kidnapper on Christmas Day, reported WDBJ7.com.   The 15-year-old was walking her dog, when she was abducted at knife point. Her father traced her location by the phone — and found his daughter in the suspect's truck, rescued her, and called the authorities. Praise God she was not physically harmed.  What a courageous father! Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday, December 30th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

It's Wednesday, December 17th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Nicaragua prohibits tourists from bringing Bibles Christian Solidarity Worldwide reports that Nicaragua now prohibits tourists from bringing Bibles into the country. This is part of a broader deterioration of religious freedom in the Central American nation. Religious leaders often face arbitrary detention, and officials generally prohibit public religious events. The authoritarian government has also shut down over 1,300 religious groups since 2018. Anna Lee Stangl with Christian Solidarity Worldwide said, “The Nicaraguan government's efforts to restrict the entry of Bibles, other books, newspapers and magazines into the country are highly concerning given the current context of repression. We call on the government of Nicaragua to lift this ban immediately.” The country is ranked 30th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian.  Chile elects conservative, pro-life president Chile elected José Antonio Kast, a conservative former lawmaker, as their president on Sunday, reports NBC News. He won 58 percent of the vote, defeating communist rival Jeanette Jara. Kast is a practicing Catholic, the father of nine children, and a pro-life activist.  He said in his victory speech, “But nothing would be possible if we didn't have God. And that's something we can't fail to acknowledge.” He added a prayer for “wisdom, temperance, and strength” in the challenges ahead. Kast campaigned on dealing with growing crime and illegal migration into the South American country, primarily from Venezuela.  Proverbs 29:2 says, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” America seized a Venezuelan oil tanker related to terrorism The United States seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela last week. It's the first time the U.S. has seized Venezuelan oil since imposing sanctions on the South American country in 2019. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi wrote on X, “For multiple years, the oil tanker has been sanctioned by the United States due to its involvement in an illicit oil shipping network supporting foreign terrorist organizations.” U.S. oil production hits historic level The U.S. oil and natural gas industry set production records last month, reports The Center Square. Crude oil output reached about 5.9 million barrels per day, the highest ever recorded in U.S. history. Texas led the production of crude oil and natural gas. So far this year, the Lone Star state's production increased by 5.8 percent despite operating 20 percent fewer rigs. Two Texas cities outlawed abortion Two Texas cities outlawed abortion last week. The City of Springlake, Texas became the 90th city in the nation to pass a Sanctuary City for the Unborn Ordinance last Thursday. And the city council of Tira, Texas became the 91st city to pass such an ordinance on Sunday. Both ordinances passed unanimously.  Tira Mayor Allen Joslin and his wife, Councilwoman Tami Joslin, shared, “We believe this to be the most important item that has come across our forum to vote on, which truly empowers the residents of the Tira community in the battle to protect the unborn.” 60 percent of Americans identify as Christian Pew Research released a new survey on religion in America. The study found that the religious composition of U.S. adults has remained steady over the past five years. During that time, over 60 percent of Americans consistently said they identify as Christians. Previously, affiliation with Christianity was declining, but it appears to be plateauing now.  The study did not find a widespread resurgence of religiosity among young people. Indiana quarterback gives glory to God And finally, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy on Saturday. He's the first Indiana Hoosier to take home college football's top individual award. Mendoza led the Hoosiers through an undefeated season. They won their first Big Ten Championship since 1967 and become the number one ranked team for the first time.  Listen to comments from Mendoza after winning the Heisman Trophy. MENDOZA: “I'm at a loss of words. Wow! I mean. Thank you. Thank you to everybody. First, I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to chase a dream that once felt the world away. Standing here tonight, holding this, holding this bad boy, representing Indiana University, still doesn't feel real.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, December 17th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Coming to you from the JRE Tobacco Aladino Studios, Nick lights up a Villiger 1888 Nicaragua Churchill and discusses the latest as it pertains to Nicaraguan cigars and potential tariffs. While it appears the cigar industry may have dodged a bullet for now, Nick discusses why the manufacturers need to take notice of this and take action to prevent issues in the future. Then in the Villiger Cigars Entertainment Report, Nick discusses what he's been watching lately and his issues with streaming services. Learn about the history of cigar bands in the Fly High with Blackbird Cigars segment. Get your calls in for Ask the Pulpit at (863)874-0000. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS... For all your online cigar purchasing needs, head over to 2GuysCigars.com! In business for 40 years, they are THE trusted name in the cigar industry! Family owned and operated, they provide a great selection, fair prices, and outstanding customer service. That's 2GuysCigars.com! Follow JRE Tobacco/Aladino at @AladinoCigars on Instagram or check out their website, JRETobacco.com for a store near you that carries their cigars Follow Villiger Cigars at @VilligerCigar on Instagram or check out their website, VilligerCigars.com for a store near you that carries their cigars, or visit their new online shop at https://villigercigars.store/home Follow Blackbird Cigars at @blackbirdcigar on Instagram or check out their website, BlackbirdCigar.com for a store near you that carries their cigars

Today's episode is a five-alarm fire of headlines the establishment would rather you ignore. Sam Anthony, from YourNews.com shares his thoughts on today's headline. The Pentagon is scrambling to overhaul America's defenses as China accelerates its blistering military buildup. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has tripled Nicaraguan deportations in 2025—more than the previous two years combined—triggering outrage from the usual political corners. And speaking of political corners, Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar is back in the spotlight, this time attempting to recast the alleged perpetrators of a $1 BILLION fraud scheme as victims. We break down what's really going on. Over in Hollywood, Paramount is in negotiations of purchasing Warner Bros. Discovery—an entertainment earthquake that could reshape what Americans watch and who controls it. Finally, we head to Idaho, where the owner of a pro-ICE saloon is standing tall despite violent threats—saying loud and clear: “We're not backing down.” Strap in—this episode hits everything from geopolitics to border security to media power grabs. Join Me On Telegram https://t.me/theambermayshow Podcast Like A PRO https://podcast-like-a-pro.trainercentralsite.com Promocode Amber Discord https://discord.gg/kUsDba4zRj The Amber May Show Theme Song https://suno.com/song/87e27080-4ddb-47f7-8722-b00b251e6c84 Get AMAZING Amber May Merchandise https://www.ambermayshow.com/amazing-products Follow Me on Pickax https://pickax.com/?referralCode=gb4e11n&refSource=copy GLP-1 LifeRX https://liferxmd.everflowclient.io/affiliate/signup/?p=2DGZN931 Get all your My Pillow Products at a DISCOUNT www.mypillow.com/amber Use Promo Code AMBER and save up to 66% off Promo code-AMBER 800-957-2123 Get Ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine and SAVE Dr Stella Immanuel https://shop.drstellamd.com/?linkId=lp_080983&sourceId=amber-may&tenantId=rehoboth-medical-cli Use Promo Code AmberMay and save Become An Affiliate with Dr Stella https://rehoboth-medical-cli.trackdesk.com/sign-up?referralAccountId=1f8c94aa-933e-4aa8-ac5b-5a8d9a0d4508 Save Money When Using A Patient Advocate In The Medical System https://www.graithcare.com/?ref=Amber Take Control of Your Health & Healing! Get the full celebration of solutions that happened at Healing For The A.G.E.S. Over 20 hours of ground-breaking, life-changing, information you've never heard before, and can't get anywhere else! https://healingfortheages.com/ use promocode Amber Patriot Mobile- Free Activation When you become a Patriot Mobile member, your dollars are helping to fund our God-given right to freedom. A portion of every dollar we earn is given back to the causes that support organizations that fight for First Amendment Religious Freedom, Freedom of Speech, Second Amendment Right to Bear Arms, Sanctity of Life, and the needs of our Veterans and First Responders. https://www.patriotmobile.com/amber/ Use Promocode AMBER The Flynn Movie https://www.flynnmovie.com/ref/azladyz/ War On Truth Movie You've been told that J6 was a violent insurrection against the United States by a group of angry, fringe, MAGA supporters… What if it wasn't? What if there really was a War on Truth? https://hisglory.tv/?ref=448 Promocode MAY Patrick Byrne, the founder/CEO of Overstock.com, rose to the height of financial success and was once heralded as a Wall Street prophet. However, in 2019, Byrne seemingly slipped into madness — stepping down from his multi-billion dollar company, claiming to be a covert government asset trapped in a deadly game of political espionage https://enemywithindocuseries.com/ref/amber Promocode AMBER Is it possible with Turbo Cancers on the rise and Big Pharma's reputation at zero, that Americans are finally ready to hear the truth about Cancer? Are you ready? In the 70's a Doctor working for a National Cancer Institute discovered that Apricot seeds, which contain B-17, actually slowed the growth of tumors. https://rncstore.com/ambermay Ensure the health of the indoor air quality in your home investing in good air purifiers to eliminate pollutants and allergens. Find adjunctive therapies to cancer and better health with red light and methylene blue found in the link below! https://airwaterhealing.com/#May Promocode May Supermassive Black Coffee Use Promocode AMBER https://www.supermassiveblackcoffee.com/ The Commander's Artist Save 10% Promo Code Amber https://thecommandersartist.com/shop/ My Gold Guy mygoldguy.com/amber Hero's Soap Save 10% with Promo Code AmberMay We Are on These Platforms Rumble https://rumble.com/c/TheAmberMayShow Faith N Freedom Network https://faithnfreedom.tv/ Odysee https://odysee.com/@azladyz:c Locals https://theambermayshow.locals.com https://yournews.com/author/amber-may/ Bitchute https://www.bitchute.com/search/?query=azladyz&kind=video Podbean: http://theambermayshow.podbean.com Catch Amber May On UG Media Fridays 10PM (UK Time) 3pm MST/5pm EST https://theug.media/wp-content/ugplayer/xlplayer.html

Two brothers who were closely connected to Pablo joined S2S Books for a conversation about his life, ministry and books. As you will hear, Pablo lived his life to the fullest and many were brought to the faith through his life, however, even with his passing, it can be said as the Hebrew writer said of Abel, “he being dead still speaks.” May God be gloried through this conversation.Pablo Yoder has dedicated his life to the furtherance of the kingdom of God. For the past twenty-seven years, he has worked among the Nicaraguan people to bring a message of Jesus' love.He has been the author of numerous books, a testament to his wide expertise and passions. His books range from his love of nature such as “The Work of Thy Fingers,” biographical sketches such as “Unconditional Surrender,” to devotionals such as “Footsteps of Christ.”On August 15, 2022, he was diagnosed with stage-four kidney cancer, and passed away on October 14, 2022. His latest work, “Soul Food,” was published in 2025.This interview is with Pablo's brother, Mark Yoder, and Duane Nisly, Pablo's brother-in-law and co-laborer in the Gospel in the churches in Nicaragua and Costa Rico.https://strengthtostrength.org/soul-food/

Please enjoy today's Tea Talk with Renée Camila and Sam Roberts, co-founders of Now and Then Herb School and co-producers of the Planting Medicine podcast and radio show on 94.1 KPFA! The Now and Then Herb School focuses on guiding modern herbalism to old magic within a social justice framework.

Coming to you from the JRE Tobacco Aladino Studios, Nick smokes a Montecristo Nicaragua Series and discusses some rumblings he's heard pertaining to Nicaraguan cigars coming in the very near future. If you're a fan of Nicaraguan cigars, you're going to want to pay attention to this episode and heed the warnings... Also, Nick addresses the topic of Seasonal Depression and ways to combat it. With winter having hit many places earlier than normal, it can cause some strain on your mental health. There are ways to avoid getting too far into the blues and to keep your sanity during the cold, winter days. Find out what fun activity Nick did recently in the Villiger Cigars Entertainment Report. And hear another uplifting story in the Fly High with Blackbird Cigars segment. Finally, learn what cigars Nick has smoked and enjoyed this week! Get your calls in for Ask the Pulpit at (863)874-0000. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS... For all your online cigar purchasing needs, head over to 2GuysCigars.com! In business for 40 years, they are THE trusted name in the cigar industry! Family owned and operated, they provide a great selection, fair prices, and outstanding customer service. That's 2GuysCigars.com! Follow JRE Tobacco/Aladino at @AladinoCigars on Instagram or check out their website, JRETobacco.com for a store near you that carries their cigars Follow Villiger Cigars at @VilligerCigar on Instagram or check out their website, VilligerCigars.com for a store near you that carries their cigars, or visit their new online shop at https://villigercigars.store/home Follow Blackbird Cigars at @blackbirdcigar on Instagram or check out their website, BlackbirdCigar.com for a store near you that carries their cigars

Chepe Cuadra is an artist and a chef in St. Albans. For almost a decade, he's been selling Nicaraguan and Spanish food at farmers markets across Vermont.

Despite twenty-first-century fears of nuclear conflagrations with North Korea, Russia, and Iran, the Cuban Missile Crisis is the closest the United States has come to nuclear war. That history has largely been a bilateral narrative of the US-USSR struggle for postwar domination, with Cuba as the central staging ground--a standard account that obscures the shock waves that reverberated throughout Latin America. The Fate of the Americas: The Cuban Missile Crisis and the Hemispheric Cold War (UNC Press, 2025), as the first hemispheric examination of the Cuban Missile Crisis, shows how leaders and ordinary citizens throughout the region experienced it, revealing that, had the missiles been activated, millions of people across Latin America would have been at grave risk. Traversing the region from the Southern Cone to Central America, Renata Keller describes the deadly riots that shook Bolivia when news of the Cuban Missile Crisis broke, the naval quarantine that members of Argentina's armed forces formed around Cuba, the pro-Castro demonstrations organized by Nicaraguan students, and much more. Drawing on a vast array of archival sources from around the hemisphere and world, The Fate of the Americas demonstrates that even at the brink of destruction, Latin Americans played active roles in global politics and inter-American relations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Despite twenty-first-century fears of nuclear conflagrations with North Korea, Russia, and Iran, the Cuban Missile Crisis is the closest the United States has come to nuclear war. That history has largely been a bilateral narrative of the US-USSR struggle for postwar domination, with Cuba as the central staging ground--a standard account that obscures the shock waves that reverberated throughout Latin America. The Fate of the Americas: The Cuban Missile Crisis and the Hemispheric Cold War (UNC Press, 2025), as the first hemispheric examination of the Cuban Missile Crisis, shows how leaders and ordinary citizens throughout the region experienced it, revealing that, had the missiles been activated, millions of people across Latin America would have been at grave risk. Traversing the region from the Southern Cone to Central America, Renata Keller describes the deadly riots that shook Bolivia when news of the Cuban Missile Crisis broke, the naval quarantine that members of Argentina's armed forces formed around Cuba, the pro-Castro demonstrations organized by Nicaraguan students, and much more. Drawing on a vast array of archival sources from around the hemisphere and world, The Fate of the Americas demonstrates that even at the brink of destruction, Latin Americans played active roles in global politics and inter-American relations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Despite twenty-first-century fears of nuclear conflagrations with North Korea, Russia, and Iran, the Cuban Missile Crisis is the closest the United States has come to nuclear war. That history has largely been a bilateral narrative of the US-USSR struggle for postwar domination, with Cuba as the central staging ground--a standard account that obscures the shock waves that reverberated throughout Latin America. The Fate of the Americas: The Cuban Missile Crisis and the Hemispheric Cold War (UNC Press, 2025), as the first hemispheric examination of the Cuban Missile Crisis, shows how leaders and ordinary citizens throughout the region experienced it, revealing that, had the missiles been activated, millions of people across Latin America would have been at grave risk. Traversing the region from the Southern Cone to Central America, Renata Keller describes the deadly riots that shook Bolivia when news of the Cuban Missile Crisis broke, the naval quarantine that members of Argentina's armed forces formed around Cuba, the pro-Castro demonstrations organized by Nicaraguan students, and much more. Drawing on a vast array of archival sources from around the hemisphere and world, The Fate of the Americas demonstrates that even at the brink of destruction, Latin Americans played active roles in global politics and inter-American relations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/latin-american-studies

Despite twenty-first-century fears of nuclear conflagrations with North Korea, Russia, and Iran, the Cuban Missile Crisis is the closest the United States has come to nuclear war. That history has largely been a bilateral narrative of the US-USSR struggle for postwar domination, with Cuba as the central staging ground--a standard account that obscures the shock waves that reverberated throughout Latin America. The Fate of the Americas: The Cuban Missile Crisis and the Hemispheric Cold War (UNC Press, 2025), as the first hemispheric examination of the Cuban Missile Crisis, shows how leaders and ordinary citizens throughout the region experienced it, revealing that, had the missiles been activated, millions of people across Latin America would have been at grave risk. Traversing the region from the Southern Cone to Central America, Renata Keller describes the deadly riots that shook Bolivia when news of the Cuban Missile Crisis broke, the naval quarantine that members of Argentina's armed forces formed around Cuba, the pro-Castro demonstrations organized by Nicaraguan students, and much more. Drawing on a vast array of archival sources from around the hemisphere and world, The Fate of the Americas demonstrates that even at the brink of destruction, Latin Americans played active roles in global politics and inter-American relations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/caribbean-studies

Despite twenty-first-century fears of nuclear conflagrations with North Korea, Russia, and Iran, the Cuban Missile Crisis is the closest the United States has come to nuclear war. That history has largely been a bilateral narrative of the US-USSR struggle for postwar domination, with Cuba as the central staging ground--a standard account that obscures the shock waves that reverberated throughout Latin America. The Fate of the Americas: The Cuban Missile Crisis and the Hemispheric Cold War (UNC Press, 2025), as the first hemispheric examination of the Cuban Missile Crisis, shows how leaders and ordinary citizens throughout the region experienced it, revealing that, had the missiles been activated, millions of people across Latin America would have been at grave risk. Traversing the region from the Southern Cone to Central America, Renata Keller describes the deadly riots that shook Bolivia when news of the Cuban Missile Crisis broke, the naval quarantine that members of Argentina's armed forces formed around Cuba, the pro-Castro demonstrations organized by Nicaraguan students, and much more. Drawing on a vast array of archival sources from around the hemisphere and world, The Fate of the Americas demonstrates that even at the brink of destruction, Latin Americans played active roles in global politics and inter-American relations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

DOWNLOAD "THE POWER OF TOO MUCH," our FREE modern-day grimoire that helps you reclaim your intensity, your magic, and your voice: https://babephilosophy.com

Despite twenty-first-century fears of nuclear conflagrations with North Korea, Russia, and Iran, the Cuban Missile Crisis is the closest the United States has come to nuclear war. That history has largely been a bilateral narrative of the US-USSR struggle for postwar domination, with Cuba as the central staging ground--a standard account that obscures the shock waves that reverberated throughout Latin America. The Fate of the Americas: The Cuban Missile Crisis and the Hemispheric Cold War (UNC Press, 2025), as the first hemispheric examination of the Cuban Missile Crisis, shows how leaders and ordinary citizens throughout the region experienced it, revealing that, had the missiles been activated, millions of people across Latin America would have been at grave risk. Traversing the region from the Southern Cone to Central America, Renata Keller describes the deadly riots that shook Bolivia when news of the Cuban Missile Crisis broke, the naval quarantine that members of Argentina's armed forces formed around Cuba, the pro-Castro demonstrations organized by Nicaraguan students, and much more. Drawing on a vast array of archival sources from around the hemisphere and world, The Fate of the Americas demonstrates that even at the brink of destruction, Latin Americans played active roles in global politics and inter-American relations.

Despite twenty-first-century fears of nuclear conflagrations with North Korea, Russia, and Iran, the Cuban Missile Crisis is the closest the United States has come to nuclear war. That history has largely been a bilateral narrative of the US-USSR struggle for postwar domination, with Cuba as the central staging ground--a standard account that obscures the shock waves that reverberated throughout Latin America. The Fate of the Americas: The Cuban Missile Crisis and the Hemispheric Cold War (UNC Press, 2025), as the first hemispheric examination of the Cuban Missile Crisis, shows how leaders and ordinary citizens throughout the region experienced it, revealing that, had the missiles been activated, millions of people across Latin America would have been at grave risk. Traversing the region from the Southern Cone to Central America, Renata Keller describes the deadly riots that shook Bolivia when news of the Cuban Missile Crisis broke, the naval quarantine that members of Argentina's armed forces formed around Cuba, the pro-Castro demonstrations organized by Nicaraguan students, and much more. Drawing on a vast array of archival sources from around the hemisphere and world, The Fate of the Americas demonstrates that even at the brink of destruction, Latin Americans played active roles in global politics and inter-American relations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/book-of-the-day

Cuba and Nicaragua have ranked among the world's most repressive governments toward religious freedom for years. In 2025, exiles and civil society organizations reported continuing severe restrictions on religious communities, including the banning of religious processions, surveillance and harassment of clergy, and legal constriction of religious groups. In some regards, the level of repression is escalating, considering indicators such as the re-imprisonment in June of a freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) victim previously released in January and the deaths of two religious freedom defenders in Nicaraguan custody in August. USCIRF has designated both nations as Countries of Particular Concern since its 2023 Annual Report. On this episode of the USCIRF Spotlight Podcast, Commissioner Maureen Ferguson speaks with Anna Lee Stangl, joint Director of Advocacy and Latin America team leader at Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW), about the violations facing religious communities in Cuba and Nicaragua. Read USCIRF's 2025 Annual Report Chapters on Cuba and Nicaragua. With Contributions from:Veronica McCarthy, Public Affairs Specialist, USCIRF

LOUNGE LIZARDS PRESENTED BY FABRICA5 - Brilliant Honduran Cigars - Visit Fabrica005.com and use code LIZARDPOD at checkout for 10% off THE ENTIRE STORE! Free worldwide shipping from Miami on all orders over $125. See website for more information and terms.SMALL BATCH CIGAR - SAVE 15% - Exclusive Cigar Retail Partner of the Lizards - Visit SmallBatchCigar.com and use code LIZARD15 for 15% off your order. Free shipping and 5% rewards back always. Standard exclusions apply. Simple. Fast. Small Batch Cigar.Recorded at Ten86 Cigars in Hawthorne, New Jersey, the Lizards pair Cabaiguan by Tatuaje in Imperiales with G4 Tequila Reposado. The guys toast champagne for the podcast's fourth anniversary, they answer listener emails on humidity and cold weather smoking setups and Gizmo tells a story about intruders in his garage.PLUS: Can Nicaraguan Tobacco Taste Cuban?, Nicaraguan Tariff Threat, More Tobacco Bans in California & Massachusetts & Listener Feedback on: Timepieces, Stoic & Prison Labor DiscussionsJoin the Lounge Lizards for a weekly discussion on all things cigars (both Cuban and non-Cuban), whiskey, food, travel, life and work. This is your formal invitation to join us in a relaxing discussion amongst friends and become a card-carrying Lounge Lizard yourself. This is not your typical cigar podcast. We're a group of friends who love sharing cigars, whiskey and a good laugh.website/merch/rating archive: loungelizardspod.comemail: hello@loungelizardspod.com to join the conversation and be featured on an upcoming episode!instagram: @loungelizardspodGizmo HQ: LizardGizmo.com

Brought to you by Drew Estate: On this episode of the Spare Notes Series, Matt and Coop are joined by Nicole who is joining full time. The group gets into the World Series, the threat of potential high Nicaraguan tariffs that could have dire consequences in our industry and a debate over whether cigar documentaries are good - spoiler they are. Tune in now for the break down! Don't forget to visit www.smokintabacco.com to contact us and for more news, reviews and updates from the cigar industry and while you're at it, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE! Cutters and Lighters provided by S.T. Dupont - Shake Up the Legacy! Perdomo Cigars: Quality, Tradition and Excellence! Retailer Corner: Blue Smoke of Dallas, Texas! Gurkha Cigars: More than a cigar. A symbol of respect, gratitude, and legacy

Dirty Work and Steve Young talk with 49ers kicker Eddy Piñeiro about his path from Miami to the NFL as a first-generation American breaking barriers for Nicaraguan athletes. With humility and heart, he shares how his parents’ sacrifices and his own resilience have shaped his success and fueled his flawless start with the Niners. Tune in each week on KNBR as we spotlight incredible individuals and organizations making a difference in the Bay Area with the Forever Young Foundation Hero of the Week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

#188 - What happens when a comedian with a camera trades stage lights for sunrise on a dirt road and points his vehicle toward Panama? I sat down with author and traveler Matt Savino to unpack a seven-month run along the Pan American Highway that never reached South America yet somehow delivered everything he was chasing: humor in the chaos, humanity at the barricades, and a clear-eyed love for places most maps flatten.Matt takes us from Baja's empty beaches and Dr. Seuss–worthy boojum forests to the food capitals of Puebla and Oaxaca, where mole lessons and tlayudas become their own itinerary. He opens the door on a Nicaraguan uprising, describing the day he edged through student roadblocks by listening first and moving only when trust appeared. Then the road shifts again: Costa Rica's bold choice to scrap its army and invest in parks and schools, and a volunteer's-eye view inside the Panama Canal's towering locks, where global trade rises and falls like a stage cue.We also dig into Land Without a Continent, Matt's sharp, funny travel memoir that blends road stories with deep dives into Mesoamerican history and modern politics. With a researcher's rigor and a comic's timing, he shows how travel rewires assumptions: Central America's identity, the real cost of a “normal life,” and why empathy is the best gear you can pack. If you've ever wondered whether to overland, backpack, or simply follow your curiosity, this story maps the trade-offs and the rewards.Subscribe, share with a friend who loves smart travel stories, and leave a review to help more explorers find the show. Then tell us: what part of this route would you tackle first, and why?To learn more about give him a follow on Instagram @ushuaia_or_bust and to get a copy of his book "Land Without a Continent" visit www.mattsavino.com. Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out. Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.

We are excited to welcome Glenn Butner, who is an Associate Professor of Theology at the Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary in Massachusetts. He is also the author of “Jesus the Refugee: Ancient Injustice and Modern Solidarity.” He speaks at length about his book, which is a fascinating thought experiment about whether the Holy Family would be considered refugees under modern constructs, and whether a country would grant protection to them in their flight from Herod. Glenn also shares a moving story of encounter in Costa Rica with Nicaraguan migrants when he struggled to figure out how to help.Brian and Joe share stories from their ministry. Brian tells the story of Nikolai and Elena, two Russian asylum seekers who fled the country in fear of being drafted for the war in Ukraine. They participate in the Mass despite the language differences, and reveal the face of Jesus in their bear hugs and Uno gameplay. Joe shares the story of a recent day at Casa del Migrante when he challenged himself to introduce everyone in the shelter by their name and country of origin. Turns out, he might not have known as many of them as he thought! Hilarity ensued.

Kentucky Barracuda: Parker H. French by Joe Goodbody https://www.amazon.com/Kentucky-Barracuda-Parker-H-French/dp/1960224239 Parkerhfrench.com Parker Hardin French was certainly an adventurer and entrepreneur who engaged in elaborate, bold, and ambitious exploits but he was also a magnificent con-man-a barracuda. Those who followed his exploits were variously exasperated, captivated by his audacity and nervy cheek, or humored by his latest escapade. He was judged an incorrigible scoundrel, labeled a chronic megalomaniac, or peddled as a misunderstood victim of his enemies. Many believed him a hero- many just thought him insane. Some of his efforts may have begun as legitimate endeavors, but they inevitably resulted in double-crossed partners, betrayed allies. and swindled creditors. French was reported killed five times-twice killed in gunfights; executed in Mexico by both hanging and firing squad; and once killed in Nicaragua. For a short while there was a lapse of interesting press reports, so many just presumed that he was already dead, the victim of retribution or excessive alcohol. He ultimately died of natural causes-in his bed. In the era of steam, sail and horse, the rapidity of French's movement and breadth of his adventures is almost mind-numbing. As a runaway kid he fought in the British Navy in the first Opium War. When he was just 22 years old, he was a commission merchant and, a year later, built the first ocean going ship on the upper Mississippi. Before he was 30, he was the leader of an infamous gold rush expedition; implicated in an irregular invasion of Cuba; jailed bandit and then a paramilitary hero in Mexico; lawyer, district attorney, legislator, journalist, and political enforcer in California; member of an American cabal which governed Nicaragua; and, appointed but rejected Nicaraguan ambassador to the United States. He did not slowdown in his 30s: he was a real estate developer; lawyer; journalist; part of a conspiracy to invade Mexico; suspected seditionist agitator and Confederate agent; jailed as a political prisoner; and, lawyer and purveyor for Union troops. His final days were spent in obscurity but the period was still peppered with the occasional swindle that garnered both regional and national attention. First and foremost, he was always a barracuda.About the author Author of the historical biography: KENTUCKY BARRACUDA: PARKER HARDIN FRENCH (1826-1878) Subtitle: The Notorious Scoundrel & Delightful Rogue of Antebellum and Civil War America. Parker French swindled my Great Grandfather. Born and raised in Escondido California; a fourth generation Californian. The nuns at St Mary's Elementary (especially Sister Mary Arimathea) would be astonished that I ever learned to write a complete sentence or form a paragraph. A graduate of Escondido High School with a bachelor's degree from University of Nebraska at Omaha and a masters from Florida Institute of Technology. Married for over 50 years to the love of my life; two sons and four grandkids. After a wonderful career of 28 years service, I retired from the United States Army as a Colonel. Retired again as a corporate leader.

This week Quinn Antonio Briceño is our guest for a new podcast where we talk all about his studio practice. Quinn's paintings include mixed media works that combine acrylic paint and image transfers and images that speak to his American and Nicaraguan background. Quinn was selected as a 2022 Studio Break Student Competition podcast winner by our Studio Break host David Linneweh.

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference in downtown Tampa. The episode features an engaging conversation with Heider Hasham and Maria Orozco, the founders of Shojo's Dojo, Florida's first sake-based craft brewery located in Miami. The discussion explores their unique entrepreneurial journey, transitioning from traditional careers in civil engineering and medicine to launching a niche brewery. Heider and Maria share insights into the challenges and surprises of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience, strategic financial planning, and adaptability. Listeners will also learn about their innovative brewing process, which blends their Lebanese and Nicaraguan heritage with traditional Japanese sake-making techniques. As Miami's rapid development pushes them to consider relocation, they invite fans to follow their ongoing journey through social media. This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference hosted at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: https://www.instagram.com/shojosdojo

In 1971, 13 men sat down in a Paris office to launch what would become one of the world's best known humanitarian organisations: Médecins Sans Frontières, or Doctors without Borders.The men were among hundreds of volunteers responding to an appeal by the French medical journal, Tonus, after a major cyclone devastated East Pakistan.The campaign sparked the idea for the charity. The 13 founders – two journalists and 11 doctors – drew up a charter aiming to provide medical care regardless of race, religion or politics. MSF's first missions included helping victims of a Nicaraguan earthquake and a hurricane in Honduras. And in 1999, the charity won the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of their work. Dr Xavier Emmanuelli, one of the founders, talks to Jane Wilkinson about setting up MSF, and his early humanitarian work.Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more. Recent episodes explore everything from the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina's Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall' speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler's List; and Jacques Derrida, France's ‘rock star' philosopher. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world's oldest languages.(Photo: Doctors from Médecins Sans Frontières in Chad, 1981. Credit: Dominique Faget/AFP via Getty Images)

Dr. Jason Old is a surfer, historian, and storyteller who's spent decades chasing waves and uncovering the deeper stories behind them. With a PhD in Latin American history, he's lived and surfed in Nicaragua, Peru, and Bali, researching how surf culture shapes local communities and economies. Jason also hosts The Surfing Historian podcast, where he dives into the history and culture of surfing around the world. In our conversation, we explore the rise of Nicaraguan surf, its connection to Sandinista history, and his new project, Waverii—linking surf travelers with locals to make surf trips more meaningful. Enjoy! @surfinghistorian Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Producer/host Maria Vasquez Boyd welcomes artists Francisco and Fredy Gabuardy, Consuelo Cruz Vice President of Marketing and Community Engagement Belger Arts, artists Tyler Suter and Hannah Schelb. FRANCISCO and FREDY GABUARDY- Kansas City-based media artists Francisco Gabuardy and Fredy Gabuardy are identical twins, but their styles are not hard to differentiate. Francisco explores a collection of personally meaningful symbols like spikes and pie graphs, while Fredy is a builder and often includes sculptural elements in his work. Cadejo, their first collaborative exhibition, was four years in the making. It showcases 10 pieces, eight highlighting the push and pull of their unique styles and shared Nicaraguan origins, and two representing their own studio practices. Cadejo refers to a mythical, dog-shaped spirit they grew up hearing stories about. In Central American folklore, it represents "good" and "evil," light and dark. It can protect and attack, lead away from harm or toward danger. They were inspired by the dual nature of cadejo, reflected in their complementary or perhaps, at times, seemingly contradictory styles and approaches. The works, in turn, reflect their relationship as twins, mirroring each other at various points in life and art. For the Gabuardys, the key aspect of cadejo is its mysterious ability to lead. But whether to safety or peril, the artists must keep moving forward. The brothers created the works using a series of self-imposed "rules," game play, and improvisational techniques. Each collaborative effort involved new negotiations and strategies with every action and counteraction. How much space does one occupy? Who gets to enter the conversation, and when? The results are both uncanny collisions and gentlemanly covenants in mixed media, expressing twin communication that goes beyond words. The works are exercises in trust and intention. In this series of collaborations, the artists demonstrate a tenacious investment of energy and time, and an expansive curiosity around process, material, and formalism. The works are packed with personally meaningful symbols, exuding cryptic beauty in their unexpected compositions. The artists invite viewers to approach the works with an open mind, reminding us that these abstractions hold infinite interpretations. They see the pieces as stanzas, sentences, or small thoughts that can serve as starting points for the viewer's own narrative. Artists talk can be viewed here, Unraveling ‘Cadejo: A Twins' Journey - YouTube www.fredygabuardy.com www.franciscogabuardy.com Kansas City Public Library Central Library 14 W. 10th St. KCMO Guldner Gallery now through September 20 CONSUELO CRUZ, Vice President of Marketing and Community Engagement Belger Arts Belger Arts Residency Programs, Hannah Schelb, Ceramics Artist in Residence, Tyler Suter, Glass Artist in Residence Belger Crane Yard Studios continues to host national and international artists through its Residency program. A residency provides ceramic artists with the opportunity to expand their body of work or create a special project that may be outside the scope of their routine studio practice. The residency program gives driven, self-directed artists opportunities for rigorous professional development and enhanced self-sufficiency practices. Within the studio community, resident artists engage in constructive dialogue and immerse themselves in their work. Residents foster the development of the studio's creative environment and create outreach opportunities within the local community. Outreach opportunities include teaching classes or workshops, giving public presentations, and critiques. Through community involvement, residents create educational opportunities for the appreciation and critical understanding of ceramics, thus employing and evolving Belger Crane Yard Studios as an innovative, artistic resource. Hannah Schelb, Ceramics Artist in Residence: Hannah Schelb started working in ceramics in 2009 while attending Augusta State University. After receiving her Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2012, she started a studio practice and eventually moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she worked in glaze production and taught community classes. In 2016 and 2017, Schelb attended summer residencies at Chautauqua School of Visual Arts in Chautauqua, New York, while teaching after-school programs in Cincinnati, Ohio, during the school year. She was accepted into the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2019 and graduated with a Master of Arts and Fine Arts in May 2021. She was the director of ceramics for the summers of 2020 and 2021 at a summer camp in Harrison, Maine. Schelb became a lecturer for the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2022-2024 and started showing work at several prominent galleries. Schelb recently completed her 2024-25 residency term at the Belger Crane Yard Studios and is returning for her second term. The Glass Residency is open to emerging glass artists looking to further their artistic and professional careers and gain experience teaching and working with the public. This residency is ideal for artists looking to develop a body of work, who thrive in a shared, communal space, and are preparing for the next step in their professional pursuits. Resident artists advance their art practice in a spacious state-of-the-art facility equipped for glassblowing, kiln forming, sandblasting, and coldworking. Work alongside nationally recognized artists throughout the year and help develop and inspire beginner glassblowers. Resident artists teach a class of their own design, plan and lead public glassblowing demonstrations, and engage with the public during hands-on glassblowing experiences. Tyler Suter, Glass Artist in Residence: Tyler Suter is a St. Louis-based studio artist who, since an early age, has had a profound love for the natural world. Working primarily with glass, his current body of work explores the repetition of form and pattern that can be found throughout nature, from micro to macroscopic. Developing this body of work involves exploring various glassworking techniques and incorporating ceramic components. Tyler received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art with a concentration in ceramics from Bowling Green State University. He has had work featured in numerous group exhibitions, including Bravo! BGSU: A Celebration of the Arts (2018). He has also conducted public demonstrations and private classes, sharing his passion for glass with the community. Tyler recently began an artist residency at the Belger Glass Annex in the inaugural year of the residency program. Since 2000, the Belger Arts Center has encouraged viewers to explore, question, and deepen their understanding of art and of the world around them. Drawing upon the extensive Belger Collection as well as a rich variety of local, national, and international artists, the Belger Arts Center has staged over 100 large-scale exhibitions that represent some of the best in contemporary art. Belger Crane Yard Studios is a ceramics studio, education center, and gallery space located in downtown Kansas City's Crossroads district. Learn new techniques or master old ones with wheel throwing, handbuilding, and special topic classes, for beginners to professional potters. Our world-renowned Artist-in-Residence program has made Belger a center for contemporary ceramic art, fostering artists to explore their craft. The adjoining Belger Crane Yard Gallery hosts exhibitions featuring world-class glass, ceramics, and multimedia artists. The Belger Glass Annex is the third Belger Arts location and opened to the public in October 2021. It is the first public glass blowing studio in Kansas City of its scale and scope. The facility boasts state-of-the-art glass blowing equipment and tools, a furnace that holds 300 pounds of molten glass, and three workstations. The Belger Glass Annex is a Midwest hub for glass art, education, and appreciation, strengthening Kansas City's reputation as an arts destination. www.belgerarts.org Belger Arts Center 2100 Walnut Street Kansas City, MO 64108 816 - 474 – 7316 gallery@belgerarts.org Belger Crane Yard 2011 Tracy Avenue Kansas City, MO 64108 Events • October 3, First Friday: Opening of Put a Lid on It exhibition (lidded vessel invitational) and Fall-Focused Glass Demo with Glass Pumpkin Sales • Eight resident artists have arrived: (https://belgerarts.org/air) Four new ceramics residents + two returning ceramics residents + two residents for our NEW Glass Residency(https://belgerarts.org/glass-residency-programs)! • November 7, First Friday: Opening of Holidays at Belger Crane Yard Gallery • November 21 and 22 Holiday Sale at Belger Crane Yard Studios • We also kicked off Saturday Socials in our ceramics studio—like Date Night but without the pressure of having to bring a date. We still have Date Night on Fridays: https://belgerarts.org/ceramics-date-night-saturday-socials

Editors Jimmy Lovaas and Awais Ahmad discuss the deadly earthquake in eastern Afghanistan, plus more on Nepal and China holding a military drill, a confidence vote in France, some immigration protections expiring for Hondurans and Nicaraguans in the US, and the UN General Assembly session opening in New York City.Subscribe to the show: Apple Podcasts, Spotify and many more. These stories and others are also available in our free weekly Forecast newsletter.This episode includes work from Factal editors Awais Ahmad, Vivian Wang, Jess Fino, Alex Moore and Irene Villora. Produced and edited by Jimmy Lovaas. Music courtesy of Andrew Gospe. Have feedback, suggestions or events we've missed? Drop us a note: hello@factal.comWhat's Factal? Created by the founders of Breaking News, Factal alerts companies to global incidents that pose an immediate risk to their people or business operations. We provide trusted verification, precise incident mapping and a collaboration platform for corporate security, travel safety and emergency management teams. If you're a company interested in a trial, please email sales@factal.com. To learn more, visit Factal.com, browse the Factal blog or email us at hello@factal.com.Read the full episode description and transcript on Factal's blog.Copyright © 2025 Factal. All rights reserved.

Friday, August 22nd, 2025Today, the California Assembly has passed the redistricting resolutions and will have a special election this November for voters to approve the new maps; an appeals court has thrown out the $450M civil fraud fine against Trump; the Supreme Court says the NIH grants case must be filed in the Court of Federal Claims; a federal judge  just has ruled that Alina Habba's appointment as US Attorney in New Jersey is unlawful; an Eric Adams campaign advisor has been fired after slipping a potato chip bag full of cash to a reporter; an appeals court has cleared the way for the administration to end Temporary Protected Status for Hondurans Nepalis and Nicaraguans; anti LGBTQ bigot and child beating advocate James Dobson is dead; the Trump administration has banned gender affirming care coverage for federal workers while mandating conversion therapy coverage; the Trump administration has said it is reviewing all 55M here on visas for any violations; a Texas judge has denied Elon Musk's bid to dismiss the $1M election lottery lawsuit against him; and Allison and Dana deliver your Good News.Guest: John FugelsangTell Me Everything - John Fugelsang, The John Fugelsang PodcastJohn Fugelsang - Substack@johnfugelsang.bsky.social - Bluesky, @JohnFugelsang -TwitterSeparation of Church and Hate by John Fugelsang - Pre-order You Can Nominate Dana Goldberg for this year's Out100!2025 Out100 Readers'     ChoiceNPHC & FBF stand united w/ CDC, NIH, & other HHS agencies in formal dissent of HHS Sec Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. & his political rhetoric that led to the Aug 8 attack on CDC & his response. Help ensure safety of public servants. Hold RFK Jr accountable by signing the letter: savehhs.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/firedbutfighting.bsky.social/post/3lwtfq56klc2gStoriesFormer Trump lawyer Alina Habba's appointment as U.S. attorney for New Jersey was 'unlawful,' judge rules | NBC NewsNewsom signs bills for redrawing voting maps as parties fight for control | The Washington PostNY appeals court voids the nearly $500 million civil fraud penalty against Trump | CNN PoliticsAppeals court panel clears way for Trump admin to end TPS for Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans | POLITICOMusk must face lawsuit brought by voters he convinced to sign petition in $1 million-a-day election giveaway, judge says | The IndependentTrump Admin Bans Coverage For Trans Govt Employees, Mandates Conversion Therapy Coverage | Erin In The MorningTrump administration is reviewing all 55 million foreigners with US visas for any violations | AP NewsTrump bought more than $100 million in bonds since January, filings show | NBC NewsEric Adams adviser who gave reporter potato chip bag stuffed with cash is suspended from campaign | NBC News Good Trouble The DoD has authorized DoD employees to apply to be “detailed” out to support ICE and CBP at the southern border. There's now an announcement on USAJOBS.gov, BUT the announcement includes an email address: fema-volunteerforce@fema.dhs.gov(Proton Mail: Get a free email account with privacy and encryption)From The Good NewsNew texts allegedly show Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted leading FirstEnergy's push for House Bill 6Fruitful Fundraising Co.Heather Cox RichardsonReminder - you can see the pod pics if you become a Patron. The good news pics are at the bottom of the show notes of each Patreon episode! That's just one of the perks of subscribing! patreon.com/muellershewrote Our Donation LinksNational Security Counselors - DonateMSW Media, Blue Wave California Victory Fund | ActBlueWhistleblowerAid.org/beansFederal workers - feel free to email AG at fedoath@pm.me and let me know what you're going to do, or just vent. I'm always here to listen. Find Upcoming Actions 50501 Movement, No Kings.org, Indivisible.orgDr. Allison Gill - Substack, BlueSky , TikTok, IG, TwitterDana Goldberg - BlueSky, Twitter, IG, facebook, danagoldberg.comCheck out more from MSW Media - Shows - MSW Media, Cleanup On Aisle 45 pod, The Breakdown | SubstackShare your Good News or Good TroubleMSW Good News and Good TroubleHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?The Daily Beans | SupercastThe Daily Beans & Mueller, She Wrote | PatreonThe Daily Beans | Apple Podcasts

This Day in Legal History: ABA FormedOn August 21, 1878, 75 lawyers convened in Saratoga Springs, New York, and formally established the American Bar Association (ABA). Their shared aim was to advance the “science of jurisprudence,” promote uniform legislation, strengthen justice administration, uphold the profession's honor, and encourage collegial interaction among lawyers. Their organizing document—the original constitution—still shapes the ABA's mission today.Over time, the ABA became the premier professional association for attorneys in the U.S., influencing national legal education, ethics, and law reform. It introduced the first national ethics code in 1908 (the Canons of Professional Ethics), which eventually evolved into today's Model Rules of Professional Conduct.While the ABA once counted about 400,000 dues-paying members, by the low‑point of 2019, it had lost approximately 56,000 members—a symptom of shifting professional norms and changing perceptions of organizational value. Membership has continued to decline, with figures dropping as low as 227,000 by 2024. In response, the ABA has implemented membership reforms and reduced dues tiers to attract and re-engage lawyers, especially those early in their careers.The American Bar Association's recent actions reflect a mixed record in the face of escalating political pressure—particularly from the Trump administration and its allies. On one hand, the ABA has forcefully resisted efforts to erode legal independence: in 2025, it filed a federal lawsuit accusing the administration of intimidating law firms engaged in politically sensitive representation, and it criticized the DOJ's move to exclude the ABA from vetting judicial nominees as a blow to transparency and professionalism. It also defended its longstanding role in law school accreditation amid efforts to strip that authority.On the other hand, the ABA's decision in August 2025 to eliminate five Board of Governors seats historically reserved for women, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and racial minorities marks a notable concession under pressure. The newly adopted policy opens these seats to anyone with a demonstrated commitment to diversity, regardless of their own demographic identity. While proponents framed the shift as a legal safeguard against lawsuits, critics viewed it as a capitulation—especially given the broader political context, including targeted attacks on ABA diversity programs and threats to its accreditation authority. The organization has also paused enforcement of its law school diversity standards until at least 2026.The Justice Department under the Trump administration has dramatically escalated its investigation into gender-affirming care, targeting the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia with a sweeping subpoena demanding detailed records—including names and Social Security numbers—of patients who received such treatments. This move is part of a broader campaign to prosecute medical providers offering care to transgender youth, following a directive from Attorney General Pam Bondi to aggressively pursue these cases.The hospital pushed back against the subpoena, calling it an invasive overreach into a vulnerable population's privacy. In response, DOJ took the unusual step of asking the court to unseal the litigation, a departure from standard practice in sensitive investigations where proceedings are typically kept sealed to protect investigatory integrity. The judge sided with the DOJ, opening the docket earlier this month.The subpoena was signed by Brett Shumate, the newly confirmed head of DOJ's civil division, bypassing career officials who had refused to sign similar subpoenas due to ethical and legal concerns. Internal dissent had already emerged, with former officials warning that collecting such data lacked a strong legal basis, especially since off-label prescriptions like puberty blockers are not illegal under federal law.Critics say the investigation appears more performative than prosecutorial, designed to chill gender-affirming care through public pressure rather than build viable legal cases. The Trump administration has also directed other agencies, including HHS and the FTC, to scrutinize these practices, while states like Pennsylvania have filed lawsuits challenging the administration's actions. The outcome of the Philadelphia case, now in front of a federal judge, could shape how far the administration can go in turning gender-related health care into a legal battleground.Justice Department Expands Gender Care Probe as Hospital FightsA recent ruling in the Epic Games v. Apple case has sparked growing concern among corporate legal teams that the boundaries of attorney-client privilege—especially for in-house counsel—are being narrowed in ways that could harm innovation and compliance. The district court found Apple had improperly claimed privilege over documents that mixed legal advice with business guidance, drawing a sharp rebuke that “adding a lawyer's name to a document does not create a privilege.”That finding is now being appealed, with organizations like TechNet and the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) warning that upholding the decision could upend how legal departments operate—particularly in fast-moving sectors like AI and cybersecurity, where legal and business decisions are tightly intertwined. In-house counsel argue they need the flexibility to weigh legal risks within the real-world context of product development, market pressures, and regulatory uncertainty.At issue is the standard used to define privilege. The Ninth Circuit has previously backed the “primary purpose” test, which protects dual-purpose communications if a significant purpose was legal. But the district court's approach appeared more rigid, raising fears that companies will be discouraged from seeking or documenting legal guidance unless they rely on expensive outside counsel.Legal leaders say this shift would disproportionately impact smaller firms and startups already stretched thin. They also point to a broader ambiguity across federal circuits regarding dual-purpose communications, and argue that only a Supreme Court ruling can definitively resolve the inconsistencies.Oral arguments in the appeal are set for October 21.Apple Ruling Raises Business Fear of Legal Privileges ErodingA federal appeals court has allowed the Trump administration to move forward with ending deportation protections and work permits for over 60,000 immigrants from Honduras, Nicaragua, and Nepal. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals issued an unsigned order permitting the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for these groups while legal challenges continue. No legal reasoning was provided in the brief order.The decision lifts an earlier block by a federal district judge, who had ruled that the move was likely driven by racial animus, violating constitutional protections. The new ruling immediately ends protections for Nepali nationals, with protections for Honduran and Nicaraguan immigrants set to expire by September 8.The Department of Homeland Security praised the ruling as a step toward restoring the immigration system's integrity, arguing TPS has been misused as a backdoor form of asylum. Immigrant advocates, meanwhile, condemned the lack of explanation from the court and warned of serious humanitarian consequences for those now facing deportation to unstable regions.The case remains ongoing, but for now, thousands of individuals who have lived and worked legally in the U.S. for years are left in legal limbo.Trump can end deportation protections for 60,000 immigrants, appeals court says | ReutersElon Musk must face a lawsuit alleging he and his political action committee, America PAC, ran an illegal election-year lottery disguised as a $1 million-a-day giveaway. A federal judge in Texas ruled that plaintiff Jacqueline McAferty plausibly claimed Musk misled voters—particularly in battleground states—into signing a petition supporting the U.S. Constitution by offering what appeared to be a random chance at a $1 million prize.McAferty alleges that, in exchange for signing, voters were required to provide personal data—names, addresses, phone numbers, and emails—which she claims was exploited for political targeting. Musk argued that the program was not a lottery because recipients were chosen to “earn” the funds and serve as America PAC spokespeople. But the judge pointed to conflicting language used in promotional materials suggesting the money could be “won,” making it reasonable for voters to think it was a sweepstakes-style contest.Judge Robert Pitman, an Obama appointee, also rejected Musk's argument that voters suffered no harm, noting that expert testimony could establish the market value of political data collected during the promotion.The lawsuit, filed on Election Day 2024, underscores growing concerns over the use of high-dollar giveaways in political campaigning and how voter data is gathered and deployed in swing states. Musk and his PAC have not yet commented on the ruling.Elon Musk must face lawsuit claiming he ran illegal $1 million election lottery | ReutersAnd in a piece I wrote for Forbes earlier this week: the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act revives full expensing for U.S.-based research and development, a policy designed to encourage domestic innovation and hiring. At first glance, it seems like a major win for the tech sector and high-skilled job creation. But the labor market response reveals a deeper issue: you can't stimulate demand for talent without also addressing supply. With immigration pathways constrained and no meaningful expansion of domestic training infrastructure, the policy has triggered a spike in labor costs rather than a boom in innovation.In the absence of new talent pipelines, startups and tech firms are now paying steep premiums to hire U.S.-based engineers, effectively converting the R&D tax break into a subsidy for a tight labor market. Meanwhile, immigration policy remains restrictive, and education-focused workforce solutions aren't being scaled fast enough to meet the moment. The result is a bottleneck: jobs going unfilled, innovation slowing, and companies forced to reconsider hiring or delay projects altogether.The piece argues that while R&D expensing is smart fiscal policy, it only works as part of a broader strategy that includes visa reform, immigration support for high-skilled workers, and real investments in talent development. Without those pieces in place, we're left with a politically appealing tax tweak that, in practice, fails to deliver the innovation surge it promises.Turns Out Research Tax Breaks Alone Can't Conjure Developers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Brad Zerbo takes a deep dive into the CIA's covert involvement with the Contras, exposing the tangled network of drug trafficking, money laundering, and political manipulation that defined the operation. He details how U.S. intelligence agencies funneled support to the Nicaraguan rebels despite congressional restrictions, and how the fallout from these actions rippled through American politics, media, and law enforcement. The episode examines key figures, hidden agendas, and the lasting implications of these clandestine activities, shedding light on one of the most controversial chapters in modern U.S. history. With thorough research and clear-eyed commentary, Brad pieces together the evidence to reveal the true scope of the CIA-Contra connection.

Brought to you by Drew Estate: On this episode of the Spare Notes Series, Matt, Nicole Pat and Coop revisit some feedback from the last episode surrounding the table cloth events. We also talk about the increase in Nicaraguan tariffs and debate on whether you should tip staff in a cigar shop or lounge. Tune in now for the break down! Don't forget to visit www.smokintabacco.com to contact us and for more news, reviews and updates from the cigar industry and while you're at it, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE! Cutters and Lighters provided by S.T. Dupont - Shake Up the Legacy! Perdomo Cigars: Quality, Tradition and Excellence!

For this 299th episode of Necronomicast, I am excited to welcome to the program Aaron Sagers! Aaron Sagers is a Storyteller. An award-winning media personality and travel expert, he is a TV & on-camera host, producer, journalist, and author on a mission to make cross-cultural connections across the globe through myths, legends, and folklore. Sagers is best known for his expertise as a Paranormal Journalist, Paranormal Pop Culture historian, and “nerd culture” expert. He currently appears as host of Netflix's 28 Days Haunted, on Travel Channel's Paranormal Caught on Camera (in its ninth season); is creator/host of the Talking Strange video and podcast show with the Den of Geek network; writer of the DC Comics DC Horror Presents story “Superstitious Lot,” debuting a new character called “Dr. Spooky.”  He is producer/host of Ripley's Believe It or Not! Ripley's Road Trip show; creator/host of the ad-supported independently produced paranormal/true crime podcast NightMerica. He is a National Geographic presenter and former professor at New York University, and presented across the globe on topics of pop culture, folklore, and the paranormal. Whether exploring Knights Templar in France, drag racing in the United Arab Emirates, exploring elf caves in Iceland, spending days in Romani villages in Transylvania, tagging Great Whites in Cape Cod, swimming in Loch Ness, searching for a cursed witch in a Nicaraguan volcano, camping at Mt. Fuji, wrangling crocs in Australia, meeting with the Vatican's Pontifical Academy of Sciences in Rome, traveling solo in Morocco, or pursuing the best cocktails in, well, everywhere, Aaron is a relentlessly curious adventurer who has explored six continents, and dozens of countries. He was invested as one of only three worldwide Knights of Count Dracula by the Transylvanian Society of Dracula, is a Scottish Laird, was turned into an action figure, ran some marathons, has his face on a bottle of rum...and is now a guest of NECRONOMICAST!!   Aaron Sagers official website!

LOUNGE LIZARDS PRESENTED BY FABRICA5 - Visit Fabrica005.com and use code LIZARDPOD at checkout for 10% off THE ENTIRE STORE! Free worldwide shipping from Miami on all orders over $125. See website for more information and terms.Recorded at Ten86 Cigars in Hawthorne, New Jersey and at the 2025 Premium Cigar Association Convention and International Trade Show In New Orleans, Louisiana the lizards welcome Rafael Nodal, President/Blender of Aging Room Cigars and VP of Product Capability for Tabacalera USA. In studio, the guys pair the Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua Concerto in Maestro with twelve year aged The Dalmore Sherry Cask Select Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Rafael and the guys discuss Aging Room blending, his love of music, cigars, cooking and - like Senator - great champagne and caviar. The guys also answer a listener email on their daily smoking routines.PLUS: Senator Attacked on YouTube, New Releases from Stoic and Aladino, Nicaraguan Speed Limits, Gizmo Got Pulled Over While Smoking & Tommy Bahama CigarsJoin the Lounge Lizards for a weekly discussion on all things cigars (both Cuban and non-Cuban), whiskey, food, travel, life and work. This is your formal invitation to join us in a relaxing discussion amongst friends and become a card-carrying Lounge Lizard yourself. This is not your typical cigar podcast. We're a group of friends who love sharing cigars, whiskey and a good laugh.website/merch/rating archive: loungelizardspod.comemail: hello@loungelizardspod.com to join the conversation and be featured on an upcoming episode!instagram: @loungelizardspodGizmo HQ: LizardGizmo.com

Tommy and Ben take a break from impersonating Marco Rubio to cover Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington to kiss Trump's ass, the ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas in Qatar, the IDF's latest plan to ethnically cleanse Gaza, and shifting opinions on Israel within the Democratic Party. They also discuss Trump's confusing about-face on sending weapons to Ukraine, the continued incoherence of Trump's tariff policy and his needless antagonism of the BRICS countries. Finally, they talk about the finger-wagging at Tucker Carlson for his interview with Iran's president, the border crisis in Afghanistan, the Dalai Lama's succession plan and how China could interfere, the dispute between Thailand and Cambodia that's caused a political meltdown in Bangkok, and the administration's cruel termination of Temporary Protected Status for Hondurans and Nicaraguans. Then, Ben speaks with Representative Jason Crow about how the “Big Beautiful Bill” will tank America's global standing, intelligence in the age of Trump and Tulsi Gabbard, and where the Democratic Party needs to go on foreign policy.

Dr. Shockley Pure Home Essentials: https://corehealthadvantage.com/awk  ———— TriTails BEEF: Ribeye Special: http://trybeef.com/andweknow ——— Protect your investments with And We Know http://andweknow.com/gold Or call 720-605-3900, Tell them “LT” sent you. ————————————————————— *Our AWK Website: https://www.andweknow.com/ *Our 24/7 NEWS SITE: https://thepatriotlight.com/ ————————— This is misinformation for [them]. https://x.com/RealAF_Patriot/status/1942284923278381240 LA Mayor Karen Bass is PERSONALLY on scene attempting to OBSTRUCT immigration enforcement in the city https://x.com/andweknow/status/1942297939252023732 Large-scale joint federal immigration operation underway in Los Angeles. https://x.com/andweknow/status/1942296654872469671 The Trump administration is making over 75,000 HONDURAN and NICARAGUAN migrants deportable by REVOKING temporary protected status. https://x.com/andweknow/status/1942282502103548349 Karoline Leavitt on 12 letters being sent out to countries on tariffs. https://x.com/andweknow/status/1942282300261122399 JUST IN:   United States imposes 25% tariff on Japan and South Korea.  https://x.com/BRICSinfo/status/1942259417891602928 ————————— *DONATIONS SITE: https://bit.ly/2Lgdrh5 *Mail your gift to: And We Know 30650 Rancho California Rd STE D406-123 (or D406-126) Temecula, CA 92591 ➜ AWK Shirts and gifts: https://shop.andweknow.com/ ➜ Audio Bible https://www.biblegateway.com/audio/mclean/kjv/1John.3.16 Connect with us in the following ways:

Francisco Aragón, Director of Letras Latinas, the literary initiative at the University of Notre Dame's Institute for Latino Studies, talks about his most recent book, After Rubén, and the queering of iconic Nicaraguan poet, Ruben Darío. Hear Francisco's exquisite voice bring his own and Darío's words alive as we talk about the Neorealism movement, Federico Lorca, and giving new breadth and depth to Darío's work. You can find After Rubén at Red Hen Press. Read more about Francisco Aragón here.

The death toll has risen to at least 94 in the historic Texas flooding. As rescue and recovery efforts continue, the region is bracing for more rain. Amid criticism from Democrats, the White House says the National Weather Service issued timely warnings—and President Donald Trump is expected to visit the hardest-hit areas later this week.Trump is ramping up pressure on trading partners, notifying more than a dozen countries of new tariff rates today. The White House tells NTD the president will take any action necessary to prevent other nations from taking advantage of the United States.The Department of Homeland Security says it will terminate deportation protections for tens of thousands of Hondurans and Nicaraguans. Effective Sept. 6, the move will end Temporary Protected Status for an estimated 76,000 people.

Our economists Michael Gapen and Sam Coffin discuss how a drop in immigration is tightening labor markets, and what that means for the U.S. economic outlook and Fed policy. Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript -----Michael Gapen: Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Michael Gapen, Morgan Stanley's Chief U.S. Economist.Sam Coffin: And I'm Sam Coffin, Senior Economist on our U.S. Economics research team.Michael Gapen: Today we're going to have a discussion about the potential economic consequences of the administration's shift in immigration policies. In particular, we'll focus much of our attention on the influence that immigration reform is having on the U.S. labor market. And what it means for our outlook on Federal Reserve policy.It's Friday, June 13th at 9am in New York.So, Sam, news headlines have been dominated by developments in the President's immigration policies; what is being called by, at least some commentators, as a toughening in his stance.But I'd like to set the stage first with any new information that you think we've received on border encounters and interior removals. The administration has released new data on that recently that covered at least some of the activity earlier this year. What did it tell you? And did it differ markedly from your expectations?Sam Coffin: What we saw at first was border encounters falling sharply to 30,000 a month from 200,000 or 300,000 a month last year. It was perhaps a surprise that they fell that sharply. And on the flip side, interior removals turned out to be much more difficult than the administration had suggested. They'd been targeting maybe 500,000 per year in removals, 1500 a day. And we're hitting a third or a half of that pace.Michael Gapen: So maybe the recent escalation in ICE raids could be in response to this, right? The fact that interior removals have not been as large as some in the administration would desire.Sam Coffin: That's correct. And we think those efforts will continue. The House Budget Reconciliation Bill, for example, has about $155 billion more in the budget for ICE, a large increase over its current budget. This will likely mean greater efforts at interior removals. About half of it goes to stricter border enforcement. The other half goes to new agents and more operations. We'll see what the final bill looks like, but it would be about a five-fold increase in funding.Michael Gapen: Okay. So much fewer encounters, meaning fewer migrants entering the U.S., and stepped-up enforcement on interior removals. So, I guess, shifting gears on the back of that data. Two important visa programs have also been in the news. One is the so-called CHNV Parole Program that's allowed Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans to enter the U.S. on parole. The Supreme Court recently ruled that the administration could proceed with removing their immigration status.We also have immigrants on TPS, or Temporary Protected Status, which is subject to periodic removal; if the administration determines that the circumstances that warranted their immigration into the U.S. are no longer present. So, these would be immigrants coming to the U.S. in response to war, conflict, environmental disasters, hurricanes, so forth.So, Sam, how do you think about the ramping up of immigration controls in these areas? Is the end of these temporary programs important? How many immigrants are on them? And what would the cancellation of these mean in terms of your outlook for immigration?Sam Coffin: Yeah, for CHNV Paroles, there are about 500,000 people paroled into the U.S. The Supreme Court ruled that the administration can cancel those paroles. We expect now that those 500,000 are probably removed from the country over the next six months or so. And the temporary protected status; similarly, there are about 800,000 people on temporary protected status. About 600,000 of them have their temporary status revoked at this point or at least revoked sometime soon. And it looks like we'll get a couple hundred thousand in deportations out from that program this year and the rest next year.The result is net immigration probably falling to 300,000 people this year. We'd expected about a million, when we came into this year, but the faster pace of deportation takes that down. So, 300,000 this year and 300,000 next year, between the reduction in border encounters and the increase in deportations.Michael Gapen: So that's a big shift from what we thought coming into the year. What does that mean for population growth and growth in the labor force? And how would this compare – just put it in context from where we were coming out of the pandemic when immigration inflows were quite large.Sam Coffin: Yeah. Population growth before the pandemic was running 0.5 to 0.75 percent per year. With the large increase in immigration, it accelerated 1-1.25 percent during the years of the fastest immigration. At this point, it falls by about a point to 0.3-0.4 percent population growth over the next couple of years.Michael Gapen: So almost flat growth in the labor force, right? So, translate that into what economists would call a break-even employment rate. How much employment do you need to push the unemployment rate down or push the unemployment rate up?Sam Coffin: Yeah, so last year – I mean, we have the experience of last year. And last year about 200,000 a month in payroll growth was consistent with a flat unemployment rate. So far this year, that's full on to 160,000-170,000 a month, consistent with a flat unemployment rate. With further reduction in labor force growth, it would probably decline to about 70,000 a month. So much slower payrolls to hold the unemployment rate flat.Michael Gapen: So, as you know, we've taken the view, Sam, that immigration controls and restrictions will mean a few important things for the economy, right? One is fewer consuming households and softening demand, but the foreign-born worker has a much higher participation rate than domestic workers; about 4 to 5 percentage points higher.So, a lot less labor force growth, as you mentioned. How have these developments changed your view on exactly how hard it's going to be to push the unemployment rate higher?Sam Coffin: So, so far this year, payrolls have averaged about 140,000 a month, and the unemployment rate's been going sideways at 4.2 percent. It's been going sideways since – for about nine months now, in fact. We do expect that payroll growth slows over the course of this year, along with the slowing in domestic demand. We have payroll growth falling around 50,000 a month by late in the year; but the unemployment rate going sideways, 4.3 percent this year because of that decline in breakeven payrolls.For next year, we also have weak payroll growth. We also expect weak payroll growth of about 50,000 a month. But the unemployment rate rising somewhat more to 4.8 percent by the end of the year.Michael Gapen: So, immigration controls really mean the unemployment rate will rise, but less than you might expect and later than you might expect, right? So that's I guess what we would classify as the cyclical effect of immigration.But we also think immigration controls and a much slower growth in the labor force means downward pressure on potential. Where are we right now in terms of potential growth and where's that vis-a-vis where we were? And if these immigration controls go into place, where do we think potential growth is going?Sam Coffin: Well, GDP potential is measured as the sum of productivity growth and growth in trend hours worked. The slower immigration means slower labor force growth and less capacity for hours. We estimated potential growth between 2.5 and 3 percent growth in 2022 to 2024. But we have it falling to 2.0 percent presently – or back to where it was before COVID. If we're right on immigration going forward and we see those faster deportations and the continued stoppage at the border, it could mean potential growth of only 1.5 percent next year.Michael Gapen: That's a big change, of course, from where the economy was just, you know, 12 to 18 months ago. And I'd like to circle back to one point that you made in bringing up the recent employment numbers. In the May job report that was released last week, we also saw a decline in labor force participation. It went down two-tenths on the month.Now, on one hand that may have prevented a rise in the unemployment rate. It was 4.2 but could have been maybe 4.5 percent or so – had the participation rate held constant. So maybe the labor market weakened, and we just don't know it yet. But you have an idea that you've put forward in some of our reports that there might be another explanation behind the drop in the participation rate. What is that?Sam Coffin: It could be that the threat of increased deportations has created a chilling effect on the participation rate of undocumented workers.Michael Gapen: So, explain to listeners what we mean by a chilling effect in participation, right? We're not talking about restricting inflows or actual deportations. What are we referring to?Sam Coffin: Perhaps undocumented workers step out of the workforce temporarily to avoid detection, similar to how people stayed out of the workforce during the pandemic because of fear of infection or need to take care of children or parents. If this is the case, some of the foreign-born population may be stepping out of the labor force for a longer period of time.Michael Gapen: Right. Which would mean the unemployment rate at 4.2 percent is real and does not mask weakness in the labor market. So, whether it's less in migration, more interior removals, or a chilling effect on participation, then the labor market still stays tight.Sam Coffin: And this is why we think the Fed moves later but ultimately cuts more. It's a combination of tariffs and immigration.Michael Gapen: That's right. So, our baseline is that tariffs push inflation higher first, and so the Fed sees that. But if we're right on immigration and your forecast is that the unemployment rate finishes the year at 4.3, then the Fed just stays on hold. And it's not until the unemployment rate starts rising in 2026 that the Fed turns to cuts, right. So, we have cuts starting in March of next year. And the Fed cutting all the way down to 250 to 275.Well, I think altogether, Sam, this is what we know now. It's certainly a fluid situation. Headlines are changing rapidly, so our thoughts may evolve over time as the policy backdrop evolves. But Sam, thank you for speaking with me.Sam Coffin: Thank you very much.Michael Gapen: And thanks for listening. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a review wherever you listen and share Thoughts on the Market with a friend or colleague today.

We welcome Paul Rice, founder of Fair Trade USA. He shares his journey from working with Nicaraguan farmers to establishing a fair trade certification system in the U.S. The conversation explores the impact of fair trade on communities, challenges of maintaining standards amid corporate interests, and the importance of conscious consumerism. Rice discusses the evolution of fair trade, sustainability, and conscious capitalism, inspiring listeners to consider the power of their purchasing decisions in creating positive global change.Topics Discussed:Paul's Journey to Fair TradeInspiration for Fair TradeFirst Fair Trade Co-opPaul's Nicaraguan ExperienceFair Trade USA's MissionCertification StandardsMarket Premiums & PricingImpact on Farmers & CommunitiesStory of a Colombian Coffee FarmerConscious CapitalismShift in Perspective on CapitalismSustainability vs. ProfitabilityTraits of a Conscious LeaderGreenwashing & Fair Trade AdvertisingResignation from Labeling OrganizationChallenges of Maintaining StandardsExpansion to Larger FarmsEvery Purchase MattersChanging Consumer BehaviorEthical Sourcing as an OutletGrowth of Fair Trade ProductsVision for the Future of Fair Trade USAHolistic View of SustainabilityOrganic & Environmental StandardsSocial Sustainability & Living WagesFuture of Fair Trade StandardsConnect with Paul on InstagramConnect with Fair Trade on InstagramConnect with Sebastian on InstagramSebastianNaum.com

In the last few weeks, the Supreme Court has dealt more than half a million migrants a serious blow to their ability to live here in the U.S. legally. In separate orders, the court allowed the Trump administration to lift deportation protections for Venezuelans, Cubans, Nicaraguans and Haitians living here under two programs — humanitarian parole and Temporary Protected Status. While the court's orders are only temporary, it's little comfort to the hundreds of thousands of people who are now newly vulnerable to deportation. Dara Lind, a senior fellow at the American Immigration Council, explains what happens next.And in headlines: Federal authorities charged a man suspected of an antisemitic attack in Colorado with a federal hate crime, the Supreme Court declined to hear two gun rights cases, and representatives for Ukraine and Russia met in Istanbul for peace talks.Show Notes:Subscribe to the What A Day Newsletter – https://tinyurl.com/3kk4nyz8What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcastFollow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Bart Jansen discusses President Donald Trump's sendoff for Elon Musk. Plus, Bart tells us about an obscure provision in the House bill that threatens enforcement of court rulings on Trump.President Trump will double tariffs on foreign steel to 50%.The Supreme Court lets Trump revoke a safe-haven program for Cubans, Haitians, Venezuelans and Nicaraguans.The CDC still recommends childhood COVID vaccines, despite an RFK announcement earlier in the week.Former President Joe Biden is 'optimistic' about his treatment plan for Stage 4 prostate cancer.USA TODAY National Correspondent Marco della Cava has the latest from Diddy's trial and whether President Trump would or could pardon him.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.