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Sydney Sweeney is at the centre of another culture-war storm after her latest ad triggers outrage from prominent female athletes, who argue it sets women's sport backwards — while others accuse critics of selective outrage. We look at the backlash and what it reveals about modern feminism, before turning to new comments from a Lindsay Clancy juror following the mistrial. I'm joined by Kenzie Burleigh, a longtime editor and publisher in Florida's Panhandle, yoga instructor and wellness educator. Kenzie has taught yoga for 15 years, working with adults and children through movement, breath, mindfulness and sound. Her work has also taken her beyond the studio into retreats, travel and service projects in Africa, while her background in publishing has given her a unique perspective on the stories people tell about themselves — and what they may actually be carrying underneath. Connect with Kenzie: Website: https://yogastudio30a.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenzieburleigh/  I'm also joined by Timothy Alberino, author, lecturer, explorer and filmmaker whose work explores biblical cosmology, ancient civilizations, the Book of Enoch, the Nephilim, UFO phenomena and the mysteries of the ancient world. After spending roughly a decade living in the Peruvian Amazon, Timothy went on to investigate ancient sites and unexplained phenomena around the world, later writing Birthright: The Coming Posthuman Apocalypse and the Usurpation of Adam's Dominion on Planet Earth and developing extensive work around Enoch and the Dead Sea Scrolls. Find more about Timothy Website: https://timothyalberino.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TimothyAlberino Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timothyalberino/ X: https://x.com/TimothyAlberinoBooks: https://timothyalberino.com/books/ (Timothy Alberino) To get a free audio copy of my book 'How to Become a Christian in 7 Days', you can download it at https://www.russellbrand.com/how-to-become-a-christian-audiobook/ Order my new book 'How to Become Christian in 7 Days' at https://bit.ly/russellbook2 Listen to Jake's new album - https://bit.ly/JakeSmithAlbum If you want to support the show and take care of yourself properly—without turning your bathroom into a laboratory—go to tryreborn.com. It's the Reborn store: supplements, skincare, daily essentials… simple, effective, and made for people who are trying to stay strong while the world does whatever this is. Tip creators, not the platform with Rumble Wallet. Get started with Rumble Wallet and use the code BRAND5 to claim $5 in US Stablecoin (USA₮)! Download now: http://wallet.rumble.com/brand  Void where prohibited. No purchase necessary. Offer available to US residents only. Offer not available in New York State. Must be 18+. Offer is available for a limited time and for the first 1000 wallets activated and funded. Restrictions apply. Details and full official rules available at http://rumble.com/promoofficialrules.  This is a paid advertisement for Rumble Wallet. Rumble is compensating me for this ad.  Check out the Reborn store www.tryreborn.com and grab what you need  

September 11, 2001, changed Bob Ellis's life, just as it changed mine. Bob was working at the Pentagon that morning and had walked out of the building only minutes before Flight 77 struck the area where his meeting had taken place. You will hear how he immediately became part of the response, helping organize emergency supplies and support for those working at the Pentagon. We also compare our experiences from two different locations that day, Bob at the Pentagon and me at the World Trade Center with my guide dog Roselle. Twenty-five years later, our conversation is about more than remembering 9/11. It is about leadership, teamwork, service, controlling fear, and deciding what we do with the life we have been given. I believe Bob's story offers lessons we can all use when the unexpected happens. Highlights: 05:29-Bob shares how his early life and military support career shaped his path. 23:53-He recalls realizing the first World Trade Center strike was not an accident. 32:59-Bob describes being just 300 yards away when the Pentagon was hit. 37:00-He explains how he helped organize emergency relief supplies within hours. 1:03:54-Michael reflects on survival, fear, and the responsibility to move forward. 1:06:55-Bob shares the lasting life lessons he took from September 11. About the Guest: Bob Ellis is the Vice President, American Logistics Association responsible for Exchange, MWR, Food Service Operations. The native of Fort Walton Beach, Florida began his career with AAFES in 1972. From 1972 through 1984, he held retail management positions as a Branch Manager, and Operations Manager Main Store. In 1985, Ellis began a string of assignments as an Exchange General Manager trainee at Fort Belvoir, VA, and Exchange General Manager, Fort Hamilton, NY and Carlisle Barrack PA, (Army War College). Assignments as Area Retail Manager and General Manager at the former Japan Area Exchange ran from 1989-1992. In 1992, Ellis was transferred to Travis AFB in California as Retail Manager, Main Store. In 1994, Ellis was selected for the General Manager's position at Travis and spent three years assisting in the design and new construction effort of the largest retail Main Store ever constructed by AAFES. From 1997 to 2002, Ellis held the position of Director of AAFES' Washington Office, serving as the principal representative of the Commander, AAFES to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Departments of the Army and the Air Force, Congressional offices and industry representatives. Notable among his accomplishments, Ellis was instrumental in spearheading AAFES support to the Pentagon after the attacks of September 11th. Within 48 hours of the event, AAFES established a mobile exchange in the shadow of the impact site to support rescue workers and investigators with critical need and personal comfort items. After Washington, Ellis moved to AAFES Headquarters' in Dallas to assume the Vice President Specialty and Consumables position. In this role, Ellis was responsible for the SD-C Category Team Managers/Buyers. In August 2003, Ellis took his a position as Vice President of Corporate Planning and Communications where he managed the development of AAFES long range and contingency planning programs, oversight of corporate public affairs and ensured compliance with Department of Defense policy guidance with the goal of preserving and protecting the exchange benefit for soldiers and airmen and their families around the globe. Bob joined the ALA on 31 July 2006 where he continues to serve a role in military resale supporting Exchange, MWR, and Food Service, operations still serving military resale over 51 years continuous service. Ways to connect with Bob**:** You can find more benefits how Branded Riches can help you build your Brand, Product, Business, and Yourself at https://www.BrandedRiches.com   Connect:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/neryk-davydov Branded Riches Audiobook by Neryk Davydov https://www.audible.com/pd/Branded-Riches-Audiobook/B0GCP9MMRB Branded Riches Book https://www.amazon.com/Branded-Riches-Increase-Income-Irresistible/dp/1987753836 $5 Free Gift for Creating A New Ovato Wallet    www.ovatoCoin.com  About the Host: Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog. Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards. https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset . Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Transcription Notes: Michael Hingson  00:00 Everyone, I am Michael Hingson, the host of Unstoppable Mindset. You've heard my voice for the last 471 episodes, but I'm calling you all out today and asking you to listen to this because we're going to make a special announcement now regarding the next four episodes, starting with 472. We're going to help commemorate the historic events of September 11, 2001. Yes, they're definitely historic, although not necessarily the most positive things that have ever happened. But as many of you may know, I was in the World Trade Center working on September 11, 2001, on the 78th floor of Tower One, and escaped with my guide dog. I've delivered a speech about that, which we put in the first episode of this podcast series back in August of 2021. But this Friday, episode 472 is going to have an updated speech that I delivered just a few years ago at the Marshfield, Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival. That festival is a yearly event celebrating different kinds of things that have happened in American history, and I was invited to come and speak, which I did. I'm going to put that speech up for you as episode 472. I think you'll find it enlightening. It'll teach you something about blindness and blind people. It'll tell you my story, and it'll give you some inspiration that I hope you will find helpful. Next Tuesday, september 8, Michelle Abraham is going to interview me. Michelle is with Amplify You, the company that does all of our back office stuff and helps me with the editing and other things regarding the podcast. Michelle owns her own podcast, and she is going to interview me about September 11th and other kinds of things relating to what I've learned and things that have happened over the past 25 years. She's also going to be putting this up on her podcast Amplify You, so you can find us in a lot of different places. On September 11th, I'm going to chat with Bob Ellis. Bob was in the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, and had literally just walked out the door of the Pentagon when the plane crashed into the Pentagon and did the things and the damage that it did, and of course generated all the things that occurred at the Pentagon. On the 15th of September, I'm going to come back and have a conversation with all of you about lessons that I've learned over the past 25 years, and just reminisce a little bit about all of that. While the podcast is occurring on September 11th, I will be actually in Kilgore, Texas, doing a speech about September 11th. So lots of things going on, I hope you listen to these episodes. I hope that you'll tell everyone that you can about them. I really enjoy all of the support that you've given us over the years, and we're going to continue to do things with Unstoppable Mindset. And of course, as always, if you'd like to come on or know anyone who would, please let us know. We're always looking for guests. Thanks very much. We'll see you on Friday with the first of these four episodes. What if the biggest thing holding you back isn't what's in front of you, but rather what you believe? Welcome to Unstoppable Mindset, where inclusion, diversity, and the unexpected meet. I'm your host, Michael Hingston, speaker, author, and advocate for inclusion and possibilities. This podcast explores how the beliefs we carry shape the way we live, lead, and connect with others. Each week, I talk with people who challenge assumptions, face adversity head-on, and show what's possible when we choose curiosity over fear. Together, we focus on mindset, resilience, and the small shifts that lead to meaningful change. Let's get started. Hi everyone, and welcome to another episode of Unstoppable Mindset. You are listening to us today, or at least I'm assuming you're listening just when this came out. But whenever you're listening, it is today, September 11th, 2026, which is needless to say, a special day. If you have kept up with my podcast from the beginning, you know that I worked in the World Trade Center on September 11th, and ever since then I've been a public speaker, traveling the world, talking about trust, teamwork, leadership, the human-animal bond, and a variety of things. But recently, I met Bob Ellis. Michael Hingson  04:40 Now, Bob, as it turns out, on September 11th worked at the Pentagon, and I have not ever really had the opportunity to talk with someone who was at the Pentagon, especially on September 11th. But we get to chat about that today, and Bob knows our rules, which are basically. He sent me a series of questions that he wants to cover, but we are doing this as a conversation, so we'll probably talk about a lot of the things that he specifically sent. But we can go any old way that Bob wants to go, so that's what we'll we'll make this really fun. And I'm really looking forward to having the opportunity to talk with Bob. So again, welcome to September 11th, and Bob, I want to welcome you to Unstoppable Mindset. We're really glad you're here, Bob Ellis  05:28 Michael. Thank you for inviting me. I know you you've inquired several times, and I've debated it, and and I was just holding it for the right time, and this is the right time-the 25th anniversary of the event. Michael Hingson  05:40 Yeah, it is, and and and as as we've said, if you find anybody who needs a a speaker to come in and speak, let me know. But but for now, we get to chat about you and and hear your story, which I think is the important thing. I think we'll probably talk about both of our stories in the course of the day, no doubt about it. But I really am glad that you are here and that you are able to to talk with us today and and and talk about things. So let's start the way I love to start with people. Let's start at the beginning. Tell me kind of about the early Bob growing up and so on. Let's start with that. Bob Ellis  06:17 Well, I I grew up in let's say grew up until I was four years old. I lived. I was born in Pensacola, Florida. Lived in the Panhandle. Mother and father got divorced, and we moved to Norfolk, Virginia. And it was just my my mother and I until I was 14 years old. And I found out about my dad and found some letters from him and insisted to go see him. And so, between 14 and 15, I made a couple of unauthorized attempts to to make my way to Florida. On the third attempt, I made it, and it was quite a surprise for my father. Ended up living with him and being my closest friend up until I had he had grandkids, we had kids, and so I lived and grew up in the Destin, Fort Worth, Fort Walton area. Went to work, and this is where the story begins. I went to work at Eglin Air Force Base as a as a janitor in a gas station for the Army Air Force Exchange Service, so that I could continue to play high school football and practice, was a great job. It was an opportunity to work with the military, be around the military, and I took great pride in that feeling that that that that while I I wanted to go into the air force and I wanted to fly jets, that opportunity just never presented itself because the Vietnam War was going on and they were banking pilots instead of taking pilots. Anyway, I I ended up staying with the Army Air Force Exchange Service for 34 years. I moved all over the world. I've seen the every AOR and every combat scenario since the Vietnam War. Not in the Vietnam War, but I was in the refugee program, helping with the resettlement back in 1972, 1973. Spent the rest of my career going wherever they sent me, and and and that was from Tokyo, Japan, to to Tuli, Greenland, to California, and ultimately to to Texas. Michael Hingson  08:30 I remember during the Vietnam War, someone called me one day. I was a student at UC Irvine, and there was a refugee camp fairly close to the university, and someone said, and someone said, "There's a blind young man at the sent at the refugee center, and we should go see him. And so we we bought a transistor radio for him and went out to visit with him and spent some time with him, and I never got to see him after that. But I hope I hope he did well. He he seemed like he was doing okay, but he was a little bit lost, needless to say, because it's a whole bunch of people. There are no a lot of people who knew much about blindness and blind people, but I would presume he did reasonably okay. I hope so, but that was the only time I specifically had an involvement with him or anyone at the refugee camps. Later, when I met my wife Karen, she lived, I think, a door down, and she and her parents lived a door down from a Vietnamese couple, and he was a tailor and actually made her wedding dress, which was kind of cool, and so we got to spend a fair amount of time with the Voo's, which was was good, but what's. Interesting for me now, with with now being well so many years later. In November, I will be going to do a speech in Hanoi, so I'm really looking forward to to going over there and and experiencing it. At least it'll be a little bit cooler then than it probably is now. So we'll see, but it'll be it'll be pretty enjoyable to go and again see a different a different part of the world, and I I think we'll be fine. At least that's that's that's the plan. Bob Ellis  10:34 That that that that tour that I had at Eglin Air Force Base with the refugees, will come back to to to 911 2001 and the experiences that I had at that refugee camp replicated in the Pentagon park and lot there in 911. So we'll get to that. I'll explain it further. Michael Hingson  10:56 Yeah, I'm sure it was a a great a great lesson. Where did you do college, or did you Bob Ellis  11:03 went to went to Duke University and the University and the University of Maryland? Michael Hingson  11:10 Okay. Well, at Bob Ellis  11:12 least much of it was correspondence as well, only because I was deployed for for so many years back to back, 17 moves in 34 years. Michael Hingson  11:22 Wow, Duke University. At least you didn't go to one of those other schools in North Carolina. Boy, talk about talk about rivalries and basketball. What a what a group down there. Bob Ellis  11:35 Oh, I know, I know. Michael Hingson  11:38 I once spoke in Kentucky, and the Wildcats were in the NCAA championship that year, and I was asked to speak at an event on the night of the championship. But I was told I had to end by 630. I could not go one second past 630 because the gym I was speaking in was going to clear out. Well, I ended in time so that at 630, what they said was absolutely true. That gym cleared out. Everybody went home to watch the game. Bob Ellis  12:09 That's that's sports. Michael Hingson  12:11 Not sports. It is, but it's okay. I I learned a lot down there and got to meet a number of people, and so it was it was a lot of fun to to do it, and then years later I was in North Carolina when NC State and UNC were playing to see who was going to go into the championship. So again, pretty interesting world, and and sports ruled everything then, so it's okay. It Bob Ellis  12:43 hasn't it hasn't changed at all because my my my daughter I got her graduate studies done at NC State, and it hasn't changed a bit. It's just I'll bet it's just crazy as it's when was 20 3040 years ago, Michael Hingson  12:58 and it shall ever be, won't it? Bob Ellis  13:01 Yeah, yeah. Her undergraduate degree was at University of Texas. This was my son's, and she went on to NC State, and and he went on to medical school in in Houston. Michael Hingson  13:16 Okay. Well, UC Irvine, when I was there, had the championship water polo team, but that's what we had. But they started basketball while I was there, although it wasn't anything huge. But a couple of years ago, they made it to the Sweet 16, and that was kind of fun for UC Irvine. One of these days, it'll go all the way. Bob Ellis  13:40 Yep. Michael Hingson  13:41 Well, anyway, so you you went to college, and and what did you major in? Bob Ellis  13:45 Political science. Michael Hingson  13:47 Okay, political science Bob Ellis  13:48 and business management. With a with my two aspirations, I wanted to. I really wanted to major in in aviation science, but that that wasn't offered. So that's political science and business science, business law. Michael Hingson  14:06 But you were working for the Army Air Force Exchange Service. What is that exactly? Bob Ellis  14:11 Yeah, it's a it's it's it's a non-appropriated funded Service provided all goods. I think of it as the the Walmart or the Target of of the civilian sector, except the Army Air Force Exchange Service has stored everything from stores, every business that you can think of therein, from stores to convenience stores to gas stations to beauty shops and barber shops to dining facilities, franchise Burger Kings, anything that a soldier and his family needs at the base or overseas or in the combat arena, where we were there with it, providing it. It's been a great career. Michael Hingson  14:59 Did you? Do you have any involvement with, especially here in the U.S. the the Randolph Sheppard programs, the blind vending stand operations at any of the facilities? Bob Ellis  15:09 Yep, sure did many many times. We're still working with it. There's there's some issues present right now under the Randolph Shepherd that they're looking at. I don't know what what's going to change, but yes, sir, we were very, very close to that. Michael Hingson  15:24 Yeah, I know there. The current government's looking at it; they want to scale a lot of it back, which would, I think, not be a good thing. I think there's a lot of reasons to keep it, but we'll see. We'll see. We'll see how it goes. But I, the closest I ever came to dealing with anything from AAES was I was invited to speak once at an organizational meeting of the National Property Managers Association in the military. Are you familiar with that? Bob Ellis  15:56 I am. Yes. Michael Hingson  15:57 And when I was asked to come, the Speakers Bureau didn't do a good research job because they told me, "Oh, it's the people who rent apartments and all that. When I got down to the to the event, I will say that the National Property Managers Association certainly serves a nice breakfast. But anyway, the conversation just didn't seem like what I what I was expecting. So I asked somebody, and they told me that the organization was the organization that had complete jurisdiction over anything physical that the government owned, and Bob Ellis  16:30 absolutely Michael Hingson  16:31 that that changed my grass. Sorry, Bob Ellis  16:34 right down to the grass, right down to the grass and the concrete. Michael Hingson  16:37 There you go. Well, it also changed my speech in 10 minutes, but it was fun. They invited me back the next year, so that was good. But it's it's fun when you're you're planning to do a particular speech, and suddenly it turns out it's got to change. It's good to have the flexibility to do that. But I'm I'm glad I had the opportunity to do it, and hopefully we'll have opportunities to do it again, but you have served a lot of different kinds of of services within AAES, and and I assume that's all worked out pretty well. Bob Ellis  17:14 That that worked out very well. Yep, I had I started at the bottom and and climbed as close to the top as I possibly could, but Michael Hingson  17:23 you eventually got the the highest medal that was available for civilians when you retired or after you retired. Bob Ellis  17:31 No, the highest award that I ever received was from my man over the Pentagon 911 support program, which was a nice medoris civilian award. Michael Hingson  17:46 Okay, where is your favorite place to live in the world? Or is that really easy to say? I mean, you've been all over the place and seen a lot of different kinds of places. Don't know how much you got to two of them, but anyway, Bob Ellis  18:00 it wasn't the two places that I that I went overseas, which was Japan and Greenland. Those were the longest tours of my life. Beautiful country in Japan, and and great facilities and support in tuning Greenland. But I would I would guess throughout the United States, I had a great assignment at the Army War College, and I had a great assignment at Travis Air Force Base here in Michael Hingson  18:26 California. Yeah, Bob Ellis  18:28 yeah. Michael Hingson  18:30 I've spoken. Bob Ellis  18:30 My son was born in Japan. He's dual citizen as a result on the Air Force Base, and my daughter was born in California. So it was a great time, mainly because the kids were younger and and and and we were in great climate areas. Michael Hingson  18:48 When people ask me what my favorite place in the United States is, I say everywhere. I I just enjoy meeting people wherever I go in the U.S. It's so many different cultures and customs and ways of doing things. It is so fun to to see all the different places and see how they are. People ask what I like, where I like outside the U.S. And so far, it's been New Zealand. I would say is probably the best, but Japan has to be up there too. I've really enjoyed being in Japan. I've been there a couple times, and I thoroughly enjoyed Bob Ellis  19:23 it. I, I had, I think the most the the greatest thing about the assignments was some of the people I I got to to meet in in my in my tours. One of them would be the Crown Prince of of Thailand, who who is now the king of Thailand, King Rama, got to meet him when he was a pilot, and supported him when when I was at Yokota Air Base, and multiple other celebrities. I I had the opportunity as a kid to attend the funeral. For Douglas MacArthur, and and his his memorial was right across the street in North Virginia from where my mother worked. And 20 years later, I had the opportunity to to meet mrs. Mcarthur, Jean MacArthur, at Gracie Mansion in New York, and I I I wrote protocol. I when it came time for her to to meet me and meet meet her, I got down on one knee and I held her hand and I said, "I want to tell you a little story, ma'am. And she said, "Well, certainly, absolutely. And I told her the story how when the general had died in in 1964, I was required by my my mother to go to the funeral, and the most fascinating person I'd ever seen in my life was herself, and she just got she just turned red. Well, long story short, I was at an army command at Fort Hamilton. The next day, the the group the the installation commander called me over to his office, very angry, but he wanted me to know that I was going to be the first civilian aide for the old lady, which was mrs. Mcarthur, and he had to take one of his lieutenants off. And I got to know the family and and the Mcarthurs as a result of that. So lots of opportunities, just absolutely amazing. 911, and we'll get to it. I got to meet President Bush momentarily, but I I got to meet him and have a short conversation. Michael Hingson  21:32 I got to meet him in 2005. We went to the Oval Office, and we were supposed to have a two minute photo op, but he kept wanting to interact. We ended up talking for about 15 minutes. He kept the Italian ambassador or prime minister waiting, but it was a was a great conversation. I very much enjoyed having the opportunity to meet with him. Bob Ellis  21:53 Yeah, he was remarkable. Michael Hingson  21:54 Yeah, in in so many ways. If Speaker 1  22:00 you enjoy Unstoppable Mindset and would like to help us continue bringing these conversations to you each week, we've created a way for you to support the show. Your contribution helps us cover production costs and continue sharing stories, insights, and ideas that inspire people to live with purpose and possibility. If supporting the podcast feels right for you, you'll find the link in the show notes. Thank you for being part of the Unstoppable Mindset Community. Michael Hingson  22:33 So that's that's pretty cool. So as you were going around to all these different places, what would you say you were learning. Bob Ellis  22:41 I was learning business. I was learning relationships. I was learning marketing. Pretty much anything that you wanted to do as a general manager or a vice president, the exchanges let you do it. You know, until you got too far gone, and they they reel you back in. But I love being able to run multiple businesses on the installation, and and be accountable for them, and run them at a profit, and and at the end of the day, do great things for military families. Michael Hingson  23:16 Wow! So you um, you you've you've had a lot of challenges and and had to learn a lot of different things. Needless to say, but I would would think that you've you've been able to to keep a lot of that and use it. And you know we've referred to September 11 th, and so let's let's get to around that time. The first thing I would ask, and people have asked me, but you're in a better position in theory than I. Did you have any inkling that something like September 11th was going to happen? Bob Ellis  23:53 Well, actually, September 11th was was happening. I left for work about 4:30 in the morning. I lived out in the suburbs in Centerville, Virginia, and it was one of those days that you just wished you didn't have to go to work. It was the as the sun was coming up, it had a little cold breeze to it. The skies were blue. It was just one of those days that you just wanted to sit out in the yard and and relax or go bicycling, whatever. But I did my duty and I drove in to the Washington D.C. area and reported to my office on time, which was right around 5o'clock. My staff showed up around six and some at seven, and my secretary came in, and I don't know exactly what time it was, but it was shortly after, right around 9o'clock in Eastern Time, when the first airplane had hit the the trade center. Michael Hingson  24:49 Yeah, Bob Ellis  24:49 846-940-6846, Yes, right, 846. Yeah, and and so I I went in to look at the. The the television monitor standing there it was just her and I at the time and and and I said that's not an accident and she says how do you know that I said look at the skies that was an airliner they were talking about it was a little small private aviation well I'm a pilot I've been a pilot for 40 years 41 years I knew exactly, you know, that that where it was, what it was doing, and that wasn't a it wasn't an accident. And and my inkling was is that I was in a in rented space in Arlington, Virginia, because we had been moved out because the wedge that got attacked was the one that was still under construction. My office had not been completed there, and and I had a meeting in that wedge at 9o'clock that morning. And my secretary said to me, "You know, Bob, the Pentagon is next. And I paused for a minute and I looked at her and I said, "How in the world could you even imagine that, you know that that that's a fortress? Who would be crazy enough to attack the Pentagon? And she says, I I just I don't want you to go over, you know, just just just do it by phone, which I I probably could have done. And I said, No, I'm I'm going to go over there. If they're going if they're going to attack the Pentagon, I'm going to go down with it, and that was kind of my philosophy. So, in the back of my mind, seeing that airplane hit the Trade Center and her telling me that certainly made me wonder if it wasn't a possibility. Michael Hingson  26:33 So, you didn't. You don't think that anyone, and I've never heard of any such, but that anyone had any advance notice? There wasn't chatter. There wasn't anything that made people suspect what might be getting ready to happen. Bob Ellis  26:47 No, I I I think that is the the worst our country has ever been off guard. It reminds me of you know the the attack on Hawaii and that you know in in Pearl Harbor. We were completely unprepared, and I thought we were completely unprepared on 911. And in fact, after the attack, I knew we were unprepared when I saw the two jets fly over with no armament on the wings. So no, I don't think anybody had any idea. Michael Hingson  27:18 Well, the other side of it, and I've talked about this in in some talks I've given. I talk a lot about trust and teamwork, and like it or not, one of the things that I observe is you had 19 terrorists who functioned well enough as a team that they didn't talk about it. They didn't let anything come out. So no matter how much armament or whatever we might have had, I'm not sure whether we could have predicted that on September 11th, what occurred was going to happen. Bob Ellis  27:49 You know, all the indicators were there. You know, those those 19 trained at private airports, and they and during their training, it was it was reported multiple times that all they were interested in was taking off, not landing. I mean, first clue, you know. Okay. Why would you just be interested? He's taking off an airplane, and and I always found that very curious, and I'd heard it several times. That should have set alarm bells off. Should have. It didn't. Apparently, it did. Michael Hingson  28:20 Good point, and you know the the thing is though that, as as you pointed out, who would have thought that anybody would attack the Pentagon, the fortress that it was? Who Bob Ellis  28:33 yeah, Michael Hingson  28:33 who would have thought? So again, you can only go by what you got, and so nobody, I think, would have ever imagined that. Well, of course, the first plane hit the World Trade Center, and at first, people didn't really know what happened because there were really not very many people who who saw it. In fact, we only have the few photos that were taken by the French photographers who were there for something else, but then a little after nine, the second plane hit, and that changed the dynamic and changed the perspective a lot. Although a bunch of people who started seeing it on TV thought it was just a movie, and it wasn't true, but the second plane hitting changed the attitudes. I think for most people, and that's when people knew something was going on. Bob Ellis  29:24 Yeah, I didn't know anything about the second trade center. I had left my office in Crystal City, and I had headed to the Pentagon. And the meeting, the meeting that I had was with the Army Personnel Chief and several other folks. And as it turned out, that is exactly the window that the airplane flew into. That was ground zero for the for the for the target for the airplane going in just above the first floor for the Pentagon. So I didn't know anything. I was I was trapped at that point. I was trapped. Couldn't go um. Wouldn't go um. Didn't want to go um. And I had lived in New York City for five years, and I was my biggest. I was always impressed by the New York City Fire Department. I mean, they're they're just walking heroes if you've ever seen them. I mean, they were like they were like giants when you got next to them, and that they would they were just superhumans. And I always wondered upon the top floors how in the world you would get a fire put out at the top of the World Trade Center, and and I did not know until two days later when I made it home. That was my first question to my family: How did they get the the fire out at the top of the World Trade Center? And I and and it was repeated to me centers, and I said, What are you talking about? Centers in my family, and they said, "Bob, the World Trade Centers are gone. I said, "I don't understand. How could they be gone? And that was that. That was you know two days later that I found out about that. It was quite a shock to me to learn what it actually while I was on on the Pentagon mission. Michael Hingson  30:58 Well, when the first plane hit. Well, in the second plane, the firefighters were going up the stairs carrying all their equipment, and I had had had known about that and asked people, "Well, why are you or would you be carrying equipment? Because I met I I didn't meet the FDNY people ahead of the World Trade Center attacks, but I did meet with other people to learn about emergency preparedness and so on because I felt as the leader of an office, it was my job to know because I wasn't going to be able to read signs, and I love information, so I was trying to learn all I could, and they told me that where would if you if you had equipment stored in the in the towers, then people would go to it. Firefighters would go to it and get the the equipment. What floor do you put it on? Because no matter what floor you put it on, what if the fire broke out one floor below? You know, you can't get to the equipment. So the only way they could get up the stairs to fight the fires was to carry all of the equipment with them, yep, yep. Not enough is said about those guys in history. No, and I met a number of them coming up the stairs as we were going down, and they wanted to escort me down, and I didn't want them to do that because I knew they were a team, and I I pushed back pretty hard and said, no, you guys go up and we'll go down unless we can help you fight the fires, and they said no. The reason they eventually let me go down without any assistance was I had a friend with me who could see, and I said, "Look, David can see. Don't worry about us. And David and they turned to David and they said, "You're with him. And David said, "Yeah, leave him alone. He's fine. So we went on down, and they went up. I don't know whether the people we interacted with made it down or perished up above. It was about 10 after 10 after nine or so when we got to the 30th floor where we met them. So it was another hour and almost 20 minutes before the tower collapsed, but I don't know where the firefighters were, or how many people from the groups that we interacted with perished, or if they all made it out. I don't know, but Bob Ellis  33:12 yep, I I memorized all those numbers. You know, 189 between the airplane and the Pentagon, 200 injured, but 189. 189 total were 64 on the airplane, 125 in the Pentagon, and I'll never forget those numbers. Yeah, I'll never forget the time. I looked at my watch at 9:17, and and I have to tell you that on 9/11, I always sit very quietly until I get past 917, not 937. I'm sorry, 937. Michael Hingson  33:48 So Bob Ellis  33:48 in the morning. Michael Hingson  33:49 So, how close were you to where the plane came into the Pentagon? Bob Ellis  33:56 About 300 yards. When when it was clear that the meeting wasn't going to happen because the air traffic control system had been shut down. They released us to go back to our our offices, and I was going out the front door. I left about 930. It was supposed to start at nine 930. The generals said we'll just reconvene, and and I agreed. And from his office on on the south portico, I was walking out the front door. Literally, I heard the engines spool up. I had been in the AOR in rail combat munitions, and and I've heard cruise missiles, and and I could hear this one spinning up, and I thought it was a cruise missile, and so when it hit when it hit the building, it was just it was just a horrendous sound. But my first impression was to run to it to see what happened, what what what caused that, and there was nothing there. It was just four or five cars burning and smoke billowing out of the building. And and the the rest turned into a you know a rescue and a a recovery. Michael Hingson  35:08 AOR is what Bob Ellis  35:10 the area of responsibility. Michael Hingson  35:13 Okay, area of responsibility. Okay, Bob Ellis  35:16 yeah, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, wherever we are, it's it's N A O R, and that's your A O R. That's state. That's where you are. So that that's where I encountered first first and only live person coming out of the building, and which was a which was a really big surprise. But I knew that there was something that I I had to do, and and one of the things was to, if he needed assistance, getting him assistance. And there were several people. He was he was he was burned third degree burns over his whole body. He lived. I said one prayer was for him. And as it turned out, he became a a great ambassador. Turned out to be a great friend, and is actually back in the Pentagon to this day, just steps away from his old office as a civilian, went went back on a presidential appointment. Michael Hingson  36:09 So, you mentioned the general a while ago. Was did he survive? Bob Ellis  36:15 No, he was the he was the highest ranking person that we lost in in the entire encounter, and it was the entire office was just instantly vaporized. So he did not survive. Michael Hingson  36:33 Well, so you heard the engines revving up, and you went after you heard the explosion and so on. You went over to see what was going on, and then what did you do? Because it certainly had to be a major surprise and a shock by any standard. Bob Ellis  36:49 Yeah, I went that side of the building, saw the hole in the building, kind of convinced myself it was a cruise missile, but I never heard such a loud engine noise. As it turned out, it was it was two big engines off of a 757 200, and so I immediately tried to figure out you know what can I do? What should I do? Should I even be here? And that's when I saw the colonel coming out of the building, and I was able to walk with him and four others over to the the road, the Washington Boulevard that goes around the Pentagon, and and I sat down on the telephone pole, a light pole that the airplane hit going in. Now I'm a pilot, and and I have to tell you to take an airplane going at Mach point eight seven, and hit a target, hit the building, and not hitting the ground was just absolutely amazing to me. So as they got the colonel into an SUV and and and got him out of the the scene, I sat there. Just it was almost like a movie I was watching. The triage was being set up. The Pentagon was burning. The emergency services units were starting to show up, and we had very intermittent phone capability. And I had I had a a friend, my my the commander that I worked for in Dallas at the time. This secretary's husband was a bodyguard for Secretary Rumsfeld, and and Secretary Rumsfeld was actually carrying litter patients, carrying people out of the debris area and out of the offices. He was actually helping people, and he he realized that something needed to be done. So he gave Jerry a note, a piece of paper. We called them snowflakes, but it was a tablet, and he had listed what needed to be done and what needed to be done now. And Jerry found me sitting over there and gave me that that piece of paper, and it had everything listed on it. He wanted a a tactical field operation in place. He wanted it now, not yesterday. He wanted something in the interim, and it was to provide emergency relief supplies. So I I sat down on that telephone pole and I called our our local dist not local our largest distribution center in the world was down in Newport News, and I got the director on the phone and I said, I have an official order from you coming from the Secretary of Defense, and and don't override, don't just just follow my instructions until we can get to the commander at AFIS headquarters, and so I gave him the list. I just gave him the full list of things that we needed to get rolling, and I called another gentleman that was just across the river, the American Logistics Association, which owned all of the brokers and manufacturers, and I gave him a list of stuff that we needed now, like Gatorade boots. the The surface was over 2000 degrees, and the emergency service boots were melting almost upon contact. So I had I had 1000s, hundreds of 1000s of dollars of equipment. And supplies coming in, and we set up the USO tent, put everything in the USO tent. We raided all the stores in the in the Washington D.C. area. I was able to contact the region manager, and I told him, you know, what we needed to take it off the shelf, put it in the back seat of the cars, don't account for it, and get it to me. And that's what we did the entire first night was setting up the USO trailer, and the next morning I had two tactical field tractor trailers coming up the ramp just as the sun was coming up, and they were loaded with supplies, and that's what stayed in place for the next two months. Over $2 million worth of merchandise, emergency recovery type merchandise, everything from linens to the towels to eye wash, and and and we had to actually have some special boots made out of leather for the dogs because the dogs' feet were so it was it was quite an operation. We ended up well running within within 24 hours of the attack, Michael Hingson  41:04 why is it that you are able to stay pretty focused through all of this? Bob Ellis  41:08 I you know I you know I I've often asked that question. I wanted to go home. Alls I could think of is my kids, my wife. What what are they doing? What are they thinking? They're watching this on the news, and I had I had drifted over to which my car was very close, and it was taped off. The parking lot was taped off. It was a crime scene. There was no going anywhere. There was no transportation. If I wanted to walk 40 miles, I guess I could have, but because I couldn't go anywhere, I had to do something there on the scene, so that's that's that's what I did, and and it wasn't until the next day when the phone started working again, our two star in Dallas was able to get through to me on on my BlackBerry, and he wanted to know what the situation was, and and and I told him, and and he said, what what are we going to do? And I explained to him what we had done already, and he says, "How did you do all of that? I said, "I picked up the phone and I told him I was working for Secretary Rumsfeld, and this is the order. And and he says, "How are we going to pay for all of this? I said, "Sir, this is our finest hour. We're not. We're going to donate. These are all donating goods, and and it really was an interesting. I I just I just don't know. I was compelled. He he he ordered me on that second day to go home, and and I said I had no way to go home. And he said go to the motor pool. I'm going to call the motor pool. He had been the commander of the Air Force One Squadron, so he had a lot of connections in Washington, and he he got me a car, and I went home long enough to change clothes and and and to come back out. So it was it was just out of adrenaline, I think. Somebody had to do something, and and everything that I've told you here today is not written anywhere in history. I own every bit of what happened in in in that story, other than some of the people that were working there. Michael Hingson  43:07 What phone did you use that first day? You said you're you're it was the second day or the next day that you're phoned. So how were you able to communicate? Bob Ellis  43:17 We had Blackberries, and and until the networks got completely overrun, we were able to use it. And and so by the second third day, we we had pretty consistent communication, because the the the commander called me back that same morning, and and he said, you know, he said, how come you haven't been home? And I explained to him, and he says, "Will you do me one favor? And I said, "I would. He said, "Will you go back into the building? Said, "Sir, the building's on fire. He says, "Well, well, you get in the front, and I'm looking at it. He was looking at it on television, and the military clothing store was in the very front, within 100 feet, probably of that door that I went out of. And he says, "Would you see if our people survive, and if the store itself survived? It was sitting near the the area. I went in the store. I went into the building, into the burning building, and was able to look in the door, and I could see that the the room was full of smoke, and the door was locked. So I told him I would assume that our people made it out, alive and okay. And they say that was a, and they did, and they absolutely did. And in fact, everybody that that that that had any kind of supervisory capability around the Beltway, they volunteered to come over and work for me and and operating that facility for 2024 hours a day, seven days a week. Wow! So and not and not to shorten the the question, I wasn't there, but because of what I was doing in the in the Pentagon, my old homestead was at Fort Hamilton. Fort Hamilton picked up the same thing and went over to the Trade Center area, and they gave them a place to put a mobile. Food truck, and they brought supplies in and pretty much supported the firefighters and the and the and the police there. So so we had quite an operation going for a long time. Michael Hingson  45:11 Yeah, and and needed to, but it was interesting and commendable that in both places people were able to focus, and were able to carry out missions. I know at the World Trade Center when the two towers collapsed. Of course, it was it was unexpected, but we know now, of course, why they collapsed. It wasn't that the planes hit; it's that they were they were full of what 36,000 pounds of jet fuel each, and that exploding jet fuel is what damaged the infrastructure of the buildings to cause them to be able to collapse. But as well as at the Pentagon, but very quickly people were able to start to move and deal with issues and put procedures in place that were able to, I'm sure, keep more people from perishing and keep kept more people being able to focus throughout the whole the whole sequence of events. It it certainly was very scary, but it is something that that people like you were able to do. I know for me, the reason I was able to focus was because I had learned what to do in an emergency at the World Trade Center. I spent time with people and I learned how the whole building was structured, so I knew when the building tipped, why it tipped, and and things like that. You Bob Ellis  46:40 felt it. You you felt it. Michael Hingson  46:43 Oh yeah. Oh my god. We moved probably at least 20 feet, and then it came back, and oh my Speaker 2  46:48 god, it Michael Hingson  46:48 got vertical again. It got vertical again, and then a few seconds later, it dropped about six feet because the expansion joints went back to their normal configuration. But Bob Ellis  46:59 we uh we we knew from 937 till about 5o'clock that evening there would be no more survivors. It was over, and and and the dogs were getting depressed because they were they were they were not cadaver dogs. They were recovery dogs, and they were used to fight. And we we actually had ceremonies for the dogs every day, where we sewed flags onto their collars, and they had special water and special food. So they played a big, big role in morale, mine especially. Michael Hingson  47:33 And at the same time, I know people had to do drills to keep the dogs focused because they weren't able to find people, as you said, so they had to do things to give them something to find to keep them happy, which was was so important. Bob Ellis  47:50 Yeah, that we had two two tractor trailers lined up. It was just just two 300 feet from where you went into the damaged area of the Pentagon, and those dogs and their handlers would get up underneath those trailers and sleep, and they would play with the dogs. We actually had some carpets brought out, tarps brought out, and that's kind of where that was kind of their headquarters during 911. We had to make it up as we went along, and and the other interesting part of this story is in 1972 at the at the refugee camp, I was sleeping in the back of a van because there was just no way to go home. It was too it was too far to drive home to turn around and come back at 8o'clock the next morning, and I heard somebody knocking at the door, and and and I and I opened up the door, and it was a military colonel in uniform, and there was a civilian standing there with him. And he says, "Are you part of this operation? And I said, "Yes, sir, I am. He said, "Who are you with? And I said, "The Army Air Force Exchange Service. And and he says, "You're not provided any other facilities. This, I said, that was my choice. And as it turned out, I was speaking to Secretary Rumsfeld during his first administration as Secretary of Defense, and it was interesting that when he found out that what I did in in that program, I won the Indo Indo China Award for service, and then of course you you move ahead to to 2001, and we we knew each other. I had briefed him several times, and we we knew each other in the Pentagon. And that day, he knew that I would know what to do for the support role, and that's why he sent the letter up. And as it turned out, when he retired and and left the Pentagon, he was on a book tour, and and the the general secretary and myself got an invite to come to the book tour with him and and have lunch with him. And he handed me a book and he said, "I want you to have this, but I don't want you to open it up until you, Bob. I don't want you to open it up till you get home. I don't want you to give it to your wife. And and it was like this. Sure, I'm not not a problem, and so I got I got home. You know, this is this is 10 years later, and handed the book to her, and I said, "Open it up. I'm not wasn't allowed, and there's a nice thank you page on the front from Secretary Rums for allowing him to use me on 9/11, and you just you just that's the best reward that I could have ever ever expected. A guy that I just idolized to do that. Michael Hingson  50:26 When you got home, so you weren't able to talk to your wife before you got home, or did you ever get communication so you could call her? Bob Ellis  50:33 No, I didn't. I when I finally got the phone back up and running and got in the car. I had lost the battery, so I said, "I'm gonna be home in in an hour. I'll just be there. But General Wax called up, and she answered the phone. She went. She went sometime during that day and pulled the kids out of the private school, brought them home. She could see my car. It was a yellow SUV, and she could see it in the South parking lot in the news choppers going around. She said that was my car where my spot was, and General Wax got her on the phone and she and and she answered the phone and he said this is C J Wax and she thought that was the call. She thought that was it, and she alls I could do was drop to my knees and and and C J said and it's it's okay. I've ordered him to come home. He's all right. He's running. He's running a a program for us for for recovery. And if he's not there, he should be there shortly. And then by the time I got there, I got to the front step. I'm asking the question about the World Trade Center, how they got the fire out, and I was ordered that I could not go in the house because I smelled like smoke. So, so two minutes before that, I was the most important person in the world, and and then all of a sudden, I was I was back to Bob, and I wasn't going to wear that that suit in the house to to smoke it. So anyway, that's that's how she found out. He he called her up. I asked him. I think I asked him if he would get in touch with her at our last conversation, and he did. Michael Hingson  52:06 Soon after both towers collapsed, like a minute or so later, I called and got through to my wife Karen. I had talked with her before we left our office, and then when we got downstairs, I couldn't get through to her because the circuits were busy, and it was obvious that everyone we learned later was saying goodbye to loved ones, and so the circuits were busy. So after both towers collapsed, I was able to get through to her, and as I tell people, there were tears on both sides of the phone at the when that conversation started, but she was the first one who told us how two aircraft had been crashed into the World Trade Center towers, one to the Pentagon, and at that time, the fourth one was apparently still missing over Pennsylvania, and of course, then it crashed at Shanksville. Bob Ellis  52:52 I love it. Michael Hingson  52:54 Yeah, but we, you know, we talked, so she knew I was okay. Then a friend of ours, Tom Painter, who had been a friend of Karen's at high school out in California, but Tom, over the years, had ended up moving to New Jersey. He came down to stay with her, not knowing until he arrived whether I was in the office that day or out with a customer or what was going on. And of course, then she told him, and so he drove her to the train station to pick me up. When, when I got back out to Westfield, we went home. And you talk about with with dogs. We got in the house, and I took Roselle's harness off because I was going to take her out, and she would have none of it. She ran off, grabbed her favorite tug bone and started playing tug of war with my retired guide dog Linny, and I talked to the veterinarians at Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael the next day, and they said, "Did anything threaten her? And I said, "No, not directly. And they said, "That's why she ran off because it was over. Nothing threatened her. Bob Ellis  53:58 Comfortable. Michael Hingson  53:59 She, they don't. Dogs don't do what if like we do, and so she was comfortable. She was happy. She wanted to play, and then then she did go out. But by the same token, the the whole point was that she was able to deal with with all of it and was able to to focus. Then we got her outside and and came back in, and she ate and and all that. But the the the thing is that she focused all day, and and she did a a wonderful job. And the reason that she focused and did so well was mainly because I worked at keeping her focus by telling her every chance I got. You're a good girl. What a good dog! Good dog. You're doing a great job. Keep going. I did that all the way down the stairs in the World Trade Center, and I was very deliberate about that because I knew she had to sense the fear and what was going on, and I wanted her to know that I was okay and I was going to be there for. Her, which is of course what teamwork and support is all about. You understand that very well. You you proved it in so many ways. I kept working with Roselle and kept her focused, and you know it all it all really went well. I still think one of the most relevant things for me in the World Trade Center. I went down the stairs with a guy named David Frank. David was from our corporate office in California, and David and I were going to be conducting sales seminars that day, teaching some resellers how to sell our products. And we got down to about the 50th floor, so David was there to talk about the the pricing and so on. I was going to do the majority of the presentation because I was going to be their technical contact, anyway, and we got to about the 50th floor, going down, and suddenly David said, "Mike, we're going to die. We're not going to make it out of here. And as I tell people, since I got a teaching credential, I had learned all about the secrets of how to yell at students. So I just said, "Stop it, David. If Roselle and I can go down these stairs, so can you. And he then immediately said that I brought him out of his spunk, and he told me that later as well. But what he told me was that he wanted to walk a floor below me on the stairs and shout up to me everything that he was seeing. He had to take his mind off of what was going on, and so he asked if I cared, and I said, "No, go ahead. That's what you need to do. That's fine. So I got like down to the 48th floor, and he yelled, "47th floor, Mike. All's clear here. Going on down. So we went down several floors that way. Eventually, I got to 45, and he was 44th floor. This is where the Port Authority cafeteria is not stopping. And the reason I mention it is because I think what David did is one of the unsung things that is so important from September 11th. He kept shouting up to me everything that he saw, but the reality is, anyone in the sound of his voice heard that there was someone who was okay going down the stairs, and he had to keep panic out of people's senses for so many individuals, because they just heard him, Mike, 43rd floor, all's good here. Going on down the stairs, all the way down the stairs. He had to have been able to keep so many people focused because he was able to keep his mind off of what was going on by shouting to me, and I think that that's so important, and so I'm. I always tell that story. I've been telling it for many years now because I want people to know what he did to keep so many people focused going down the stairs, and he had to have done that. Bob Ellis  57:31 Well, you know, I have. That's that's the first I've heard that, and and and and I read everything that I followed your story very closely, as well as the colonel who I was so close to, but there there are a couple of stories that are just never mentioned, not talked about, and one of them where we had to do every day. There was an update that the military gave the families an update as to what is happening, what was found, what was recovered, what to expect, and they would bring the kids in to listen to these brutal military briefings. I mean, just you know, these were these were soldiers, these were these were combat folks, and this is the way they briefed. And the therapy dogs were brought in, and there wasn't but about a dozen of them, and I will never forget not only the kids on the floor with the arms around those dogs, but some of the adults were as well. And I thought, what what a moment! That was the most touching moment of my entire life witnessing that. I mean, I could have done without it, but it was it was a very special moment. And then the the other thing that the world doesn't know about is on the second day, I got a I got a phone call from Secretary Rumsfeld's office that the VA was completely out of coffin flags. We had nothing in inventory to to cover the remains or the caskets for burial, and what could I do? And and right right from the Pentagon parking lot, I I called one of the buyers that bought American flags in Dallas, and then I asked her who do you get flags from, and she says it's American Flag Company. I'll give them credit for that, and and I said you need you need to get their entire inventory. We need to get it flown in, whatever expenses cover it, and get them here. The Pentagon doesn't have them, and New York doesn't have them. And those flags came in. They were they were there about that midnight that that that night. Now boxed up, thrown in the bag box, whatever tape they were bound, but everybody that came out later, you know, the recoveries as we got deeper into the debris, that had a had a flag that that came that came from us in the as well as at the Pentagon, and they put two very big special flags in there. I mean, like you see flying over a car dealer. And they hung that on the side of the Pentagon. And if you look at any of the any of the news willers of that time, it was on day two that flag was hanging that that came in with the rest of the other flags. So it was it was quite impressive. You never know what the next moment was going to bring you on you know from my side and and and can I meet the challenge? That was what I constantly worry about. How could I let any of this down? And I've got to do something. And and we were making it up as we went along. Michael Hingson  1:00:33 Yeah, that's all you could do. And so when I go back to Bob Ellis  1:00:37 to to this to this day, you know, we go back. They've got 184 markers. I don't know how many people attend it, but it's it's right in that zone, right outside the building, in that grassy area where they they they've made that memorial. And 184 people, to include I think two infants, are are memorialized there forever, which is very touching. It was a that was a hard place to go back to. Still was New York City when I went to it because I'd never I had never been 20 years 20 years yet 18 years before I ever went to to New York City to see the recovery there. I've never I've not been to the to the to the Pennsylvania field. I plan to go. I want to go. Just hadn't been convenient to get there, but but if I do that, I will have seen all all the sites. Michael Hingson  1:01:26 Yeah, I haven't been to Pennsylvania either. In 2017, I did make it to the World Trade Center Museum. In well, so we moved out of Westfield, and I moved back to California in late January, beginning of February of 2002, to work for Guide Dogs for the Blind and and speak from there. And traveled around and speak. Karen was there for a couple more months selling our home, and then she came out. But in May of 2002, Roselle was going to be honored by Hart's Mountain, the pet food and pet supply company. So, so we went back to New York, and while we were there, I met one of the police officers with with one of the service with one of the rescue dogs that that had been around the World Trade Center, and he arranged for us to get in a vehicle and drive down into the pit that was where the World Trade Center was, and they had built an artificial, well, a temporary road, and they were bringing things up, but we got to go down to what would have been the seventh sublevel, the bottom of the tower, and it was just a for me just imagining it standing in that dirt area in a hole seven stories deep and remembering what what it was like, and then in 2017 I went to the World Trade Center Museum and got to spend a little bit of time there, and of course everything had been rebuilt. The reflecting pool was there, and so on. But it was nothing like what I remembered from having been in the World Trade Center, and I walked around with someone who was able to be aware and describe what was where we were and what was above us, or what part of the building we were in as we walked through the complex. But of course, it was totally different. So it was it was such a strange feeling to experience all of that. But we did it, you know. And so now I've been to the museum, and actually there is a there's an animal exhibit in the basement, and Roselle's collar is is part of that exhibit. We donated that to oh Bob Ellis  1:03:50 really, oh really, oh God, I I was I was thinking that when I asked you that question earlier today, and I was thinking about that that has got to be remarkable, you know that that that's what touched me so much at the period. That the fact that the two of you were such a team, and I read everything that newspapers printed and watched. I guess there was some there was some CBS specials and so forth too, where you were interviewed, and it was it was just it was just absolutely amazing. Michael Hingson  1:04:21 Well, it is. you know, it is a an awe-inspiring sort of thing. And you know, people always say, you know, don't you feel guilty about surviving when so many people didn't? And and I said, no, I I didn't have any control over that. But what I do have control over is having been a survivor. What am I going to do about it? It's my responsibility to decide how I'm going to deal with moving forward after something like that. And of course, the opportunity opened to travel and speak, and so I've been doing it ever since. And I believe my job is. Is to educate people about what happened on September 11th, and let them know t

Diese Woche gratulieren wir der "Biene Maja" und sprechen über "Minimum Security", "Die Revoluzzer", "Serial Cleaner", "The Assassin", "Panhandle" und "City of Blood". Pssst...: Abonnieren und Weitersagen ist erlaubt! (wir sagen's auch nicht weiter...)Link zu Florians "Biene Maja"-Special: https://www.wunschliste.de/prosit/50-jahre-die-biene-maja-im-zdf-zwischen-kindheitserinnerung-und-3d-zukunftHier verkauft Mario Softeis: http://www.eiskombinat.deAbonnieren auf Spotify, Apple & Co sowie RSS-Feed: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dievorschauKontakt: dievorschau@wunschliste.deEin Service von http://www.wunschliste.de Und hier geht's direkt zum TOHUWAPODCAST: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tohuwapodcast

Nebraska-grown Sugar Beets, 4-H Weekend at The Nebraska State Fair, Grain Markets, Weather, Irrigated Water Availability in The Panhandle

Automatic have spent the last few years building one of the tightest, most confident live shows in the current wave of post-punk-adjacent rock, and their Saturday afternoon set on the Panhandle stage at Outside Lands was proof the trio's new record only sharpens that reputation further. Touring behind Is It Now?, Izzy Glaudini and Halle Saxon brought a set that balanced synth-driven cool with real physical urgency, and Golden Gate Park was fully locked in from the first note.

Brian sits down with Doug from Washington State, a lifelong resident of Pend Oreille County in the far northeastern corner of the state, for a conversation that starts with one winter night on a county road and opens out into thirty years of reports from the same block of mountains.Doug and his wife were driving home from her job after dark, deep in the middle of winter, when something crossed in front of them in two strides. Not walking. Running, hunched forward the way a man runs when he's moving as hard as he can. Doug puts it at eight feet tall and somewhere around six or seven hundred pounds, covered head to toe in dark gray hair, moving through three and a half to four feet of snow at a speed no person on snowshoes could match. He went home and got an ax and intended to go back out after it, and his wife talked him out of it, which he now concedes was the better reasoning of the two of them.What follows is the kind of interview I like best, because Doug isn't selling anything. He was aware of the subject before it happened to him, he'd seen the Patterson-Gimlin film, and he still describes himself as somebody who simply hadn't seen it for himself yet. He talks about his great uncle Lou, a World War One veteran who worked the woods as a surveyor and spent time in the Civilian Conservation Corps camps during the Depression, and who called the thing he and his wife ran into out huckleberry picking the Skookum Man, and who got shut down by his wife Alsa before he could tell the boys any more about it.He talks about the military survival trainer who came into his family's bar and mentioned the instruction given to men training above Cusick, Washington, near Tacoma Creek, which was not to engage bipedal creatures in the woods. He talks about why he thinks these things are seen crossing roads so often when they're otherwise almost impossible to find, why he lands on a single species rather than five or six subspecies, and why he thinks the strangeness that clings to this subject may say more about our own government than it does about the animal. He also brings the Vietnam rock ape accounts he heard from his brothers and their Marine friends, and his answer to skeptics, which is that being skeptical is perfectly fine and he isn't going to beg anybody for anything.Partway through, I stop the interview and take a long detour, because Doug mentioned sightings up around Sullivan Lake and Priest Lake and I'd spent the previous few weeks going through the actual case files out of that country. What's on the record there is more substantial than most people realize A woman kayaking on Sullivan Lake in August of two thousand two who floated within fifteen yards of what she first took for a very tall old man in gray, sitting on a stump with his legs crossed and his hands folded over his knee, and who learned that evening that her niece had seen the same thing from her own boat. Two fishermen four months earlier on the south end of that same lake, run out of their tent at night by crashes, a musty smell, and a gray shape seven to nine feet tall through the mesh window.Two bear hunters northwest of Ione in September of nineteen ninety-eight who found three sets of tracks traveling together at eighteen inches, fifteen to sixteen inches, and thirteen inches, and who made a cast so poor the man freely admitted he had no idea what he was doing. A motorist outside Ione in nineteen ninety-one who stopped his car for something in the headlights and then wrote, in his own report, that he never said he saw Bigfoot, only that he saw something strange on the road and doesn't know what it was.Then the interlude crosses the state line, because the line is a survey mark and nothing more. Priest Lake sits in Bonner County, Idaho, which carries more reports than any other county in that state, and between the two lakes is the Salmo-Priest Wilderness and the Selkirk Mountains, grizzly country, some of the least broken forest left in the lower forty-eight, running unbroken north into Canada. Three backpackers woken at midnight in August of two thousand twenty by three loud bounces they later matched at daylight by throwing a four-foot log. A woodcutter east of Nordman in October of nineteen eighty who watched something slide down a five-foot embankment on its feet, walk alongside his moving pickup within arm's reach, look both ways before crossing in front of him, and reach a hand toward his hood, and who sat on that story for twenty-eight years. A fisherman on the Upper Priest River in two thousand sixteen, armed, who says he was too scared to move. Six hikers on Lion Creek in two thousand seventeen who found a sixteen-inch print, a pressed bed of sawgrass eight feet by nine feet, and knocks that came in threes from moving locations.And a three-toed cast out of the Priest River country in nineteen ninety-seven that I lay out honestly as the red flag it is, along with a warning about the generated web articles now circulating around it that I could not source back to any real reporting.I close the segment on what I think actually matters in that batch, which isn't any single sighting.It's that the woman volunteered nobody had been drinking, the hunter admitted his cast was garbage, the motorist refused to let anybody put a word in his mouth, the woodcutter reported finding no tracks, the backpackers went out and tested the sound until they matched it, and the fisherman admitted he lost track of where the thing went. Two lakes, one mountain range, a state line that means nothing to anything living there, and thirty years of reports from bear hunters, woodcutters, kayakers, fishermen, and backpackers, most of whom kept quiet for years before they told anyone.Email BrianJoin Our FREE NewsletterGet Brian's Books Leave Us A VoicemailVisit Our WebsiteBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sasquatch-odyssey--4839697/support.Have you had a Bigfoot encounter, Sasquatch sighting, Dogman experience, or other cryptid or paranormal encounter? We'd love to hear your story. Email brian@paranormalworldproductions.com to be featured on a future episode of Sasquatch Odyssey.Sasquatch Odyssey is a leading Bigfoot and cryptid podcast exploring real encounters, field research, and scientific analysis of the Sasquatch phenomenon.Follow the show and turn on automatic downloads so you never miss an episode.

A Central Texas cattle producer says it's been one of the best summers ever.A group of House Republicans is urging EPA to reconsider its limit on chlorpyrifos use.Corn in parts of the Panhandle is feeling the heat.Drought and heat have made things challenging for Texas High Plains ranchers.The deadline to approve additional base acres is Aug. 31.A new report from USDA looks at land values and cash rents.There's still a lack of quality control, safety and efficacy data for the majority of equine supplements.

Throughout 2026, as part of Glasstire's 25th anniversary, the publication is organizing panel discussions in Dallas-Fort Worth, The Panhandle, West Texas, East Texas, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and The Valley. Each panel features artists, art critics, and arts professionals from the region discussing the area's art and art writing over the past two-and-a-half decades. Glasstire presented the third Talking Texas Art event at the El Paso Museum of Art on Thursday, June 18. Panelists included Buck Johnston, co-owner of Wrong Marfa and Do Right Hall in Marfa; Rebecca Muñoz, Director of the El Paso Mexican American Cultural Center; and Gaspar Enríquez, an El Paso-born artist and educator. The panel was moderated by Jessica Fuentes, Glasstire's Editor-in-Chief. If you enjoy Glasstire and would like to support our work, please consider donating. As a nonprofit, all of the money we receive goes back into our coverage of Texas art. You can make a one-time donation or become a sustaining, monthly donor here: https://glasstire.com/donate

Hour 4 of the Bob Rose Show, on controversy over low-flying military jets training across Panhandle beaches. Initial complaints about pilots, but Navy leaders and Sec. of War refused reprimands, and the public enjoyed the flyovers. Plus, all of Friday morning's biggest stories for 7-17-26

Being an AT in Florida offers many opportunities. Dr. Pradeep Vanguri joins Ben Stephenson and Jeremy Jackson to share what being an AT in Florida is like. Leadership in the Sunshine State: Dr. Pradeep Vanguri on the Future of Athletic Training in Florida Jeremy Jackson and Ben Stevenson welcome Dr. Pradeep Vanguri, President of the Athletic Trainers Association of Florida (ATAF), to the Sports Medicine broadcast podcast to discuss the professional landscape in Florida. Dr. Vanguri shares his personal journey and outlines the crucial initiatives shaping athletic training across the 67 counties of Florida. Dr. Vanguri’s interest in sports medicine began in high school in North Carolina, but his decision to become an athletic trainer was cemented in college at East Carolina University after realizing he preferred being on the sideline with teams over working in a clinic or hospital setting. He eventually moved to the state of Florida, where his focus on service led him to the ATAF. His leadership journey within the Athletic Trainers Association of Florida includes: Serving as the Education Committee Chair for approximately six years. Serving as Secretary for three years. Serving as Vice President and then President-Elect. Currently, he is in his third year of a three-year term as ATAF President, guiding the profession in Florida. The Athletic Trainer Landscape in Florida Dr. Vanguri emphasizes that the core strength of athletic training in Florida is its people—the dedicated clinicians and the close-knit professional community. The state offers numerous settings for athletic trainers, including industrial, college/university, secondary school, and professional teams like the Miami Dolphins, Panthers, and Inter Miami. The state also provides excellent opportunities for new and seasoned athletic trainers to continue their practice through collaboration, mentorship, and access to research from academic programs. A common issue is the lack of full-time coverage and a high rate of turnover for athletic trainers across the 67 counties. The ATAF’s goal is to recruit talent to Florida and work to ensure they stay by focusing on appropriate coverage, quality of life, and compensatory salary and benefits. Medical systems across major regions of Florida, including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and the Panhandle, are supporting these efforts. Dr. Vanguri detailed three major initiatives he is championing during his tenure as President in Florida: Loan Reimbursement Inclusion: Working to include athletic trainers in an existing state loan reimbursement program for rural assistance, which is centered within the Florida Department of Health, without asking for an increase in overall program funding. Third-Party Reimbursement: A critical effort to quantify the value of athletic trainers and establish them as licensed medical professionals who deserve a “seat at the table” in the broader medical community. The ATAF is focused on supporting entities with a strong medical system infrastructure in Florida that can handle the billing. CPR and AED Initiative: Working to help the general public understand the importance of layperson CPR and addressing the lack of interest in helping a victim due to the fear of legal retribution. Why Athletic Trainers Should Choose Florida Dr. Vanguri's sales pitch for the state of Florida centers on its people. He urges athletic trainers to move to Florida for the opportunity to connect with individuals making a difference, as well as for the mentorship, research opportunities, and clinical growth provided by the state's top-notch athletic trainers and supportive medical systems. While the sunshine and alligators are a perk, the central reason to come and stay in Florida is the robust professional community and the emphasis on work-life balance. The Athletic Trainers Association of Florida annual meeting is scheduled for July 10th to 12th in Orlando, Florida. To connect with Dr. Vanguri or the ATAF: Email: president@ataf.org Website and Social Media: ataf.org These people LOVE Athletic Trainers and help support the podcast: Frio Hydration – Superior Hydration products. Xothrm – Best heating pad available – Use “SMB” or email info@xothrm.com and mention the Sports Medicine Broadcast Donate and get some swag (like Patreon but for the school) HOIST – No matter your reason for dehydration DRINK HOIST MedBridge Education – Use “TheSMB” to save some money, be entered in a drawing for a second year free, and support the podcast. Marc Pro – Use “THESMB” to recover better. Athletic Dry Needling – Save up to $100 when registering through our link.

On today's episode of The Coffee Break, Megan Barhafer talks about the Panhandle food access coalition, and Brenda Leisy talks about the window decorating contest. The Coffee Break is the daily Christian talk and local events program on Hope Radio KCMI 97.1FM serving the Scottsbluff, NE area. Tune in for interviews with authors, musicians, pastors, and others in the Christian community and our local area! Visit our website: www.kcmifm.com Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/kcmifm

Recut 2020 Episode: Lee Folmar of Tallahassee's Insect Fear, Squid Row, Starry Crowns & MoreThis episode, originally recorded in June 2020, features Lee Folmar of Insect Fear, Squid Row, Starry Crowns, and several other projects, reflecting on his decades-long journey through the Florida Panhandle's punk and alternative music scene.Remastered and re-edited for improved clarity, this re-release revisits an important era of Florida Panhandle music history.Lee shares stories about growing up in Tallahassee, discovering music through his parents' records, finding inspiration in artists ranging from Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin to Talking Heads and Brian Eno, and eventually discovering punk rock. He discusses the early days of his musical journey, from Squid Row, to the formation of Insect Fear, the DIY approach to recording, and the challenges of creating music as young musicians with limited resources but a passion for making something unique.Lee also shares memories of working at Vinyl Fever, the importance of local record stores, touring bands that passed through the Panhandle, and the connections that linked Tallahassee's underground scene to the larger independent music community. He reflects on recordings, reunions, later projects, and what it means to see people continue discovering and appreciating music created decades ago.

Jeff Stanfield and Andy Shaver are joined by Toby Brohlin, owner of Cadillac Creek Outfitters in Amarillo.The guys recap last season in the Texas Panhandle, as Toby discusses an outstanding sandhill crane season, the challenges of losing ducks midseason, and how conditions are shaping up for the upcoming waterfowl season. He shares what he's seeing on the ground and what hunters can expect as another year approaches.Toby also explains his decision to expand his operation by offering dove hunting during September, giving hunters another opportunity to experience some of the best wingshooting the Panhandle has to offer before duck season begins.The conversation closes on a personal note as Toby reflects on a special hunt he shared with his mother, a memorable day in the blind that serves as a reminder that the greatest moments in the outdoors are often about the people beside you as much as the birds overhead.

If you want to understand the Texas Panhandle, spend some time talking with a rancher. Donnie Trammell comes from a long line of them. His grandfather was a rancher. His father was a rancher. Donnie has spent his life raising cattle, and now his sons and grandchildren are carrying that tradition forward. In this episode of Hey Amarillo, Donnie shares the story of a family rooted in the land and committed to feeding their community. We talk about the realities of modern ranching, the challenges facing agricultural producers today, and what popular culture gets right—and wrong—about life on the ranch. We also discuss how the Trammell family has expanded beyond cattle through local meat production and retail, helping connect Panhandle families directly to food raised close to home. Through ventures like Tir Bluen Farms and 6 Ranchers storefronts, they're creating new ways for consumers to support local agriculture while learning more about where their food comes from. This conversation is a tribute to a way of life that has shaped our region for generations—and to the people working to ensure it continues for generations to come.

A hard wheat year can still teach Oklahoma producers something useful about risk, timing, and variety decisions. In this episode of the Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast, Dave Deken, Brian Arnall Ph.D., and Josh Lofton Ph.D. talk with Amanda Silva Ph.D., Oklahoma State University Extension small grains specialist, about the 2026 Oklahoma wheat crop. They discuss drought stress, scattered rainfall, early crop development, planting date decisions, test weight, wheat streak mosaic virus, and what variety trials can still tell farmers in a difficult year. Key takeaways: Rain timing drove much of the difference between fields, even within the same county. Earlier crop development, warm winter conditions, and a cooler grain-fill period shaped yield and test weight outcomes. Planting date can be used as a risk-management tool, especially when paired with different maturity groups. Wheat variety trials are still valuable in stressful years, but researchers must carefully judge data quality, CV, blocks, and field variability. OSU research continues on late-planted wheat, seeding rates, nitrogen management, forage production, coleoptile length, and deeper planting to chase moisture. Detailed timestamped rundown 00:00–02:14 — Intro and setup Dave opens Episode 514 by framing the conversation around the Oklahoma wheat crop and why a hard year can still shape decisions for future crops. He also promotes the Summer Crop Demo Day near Chickasha and introduces Brian Arnall Ph.D., Josh Lofton Ph.D., and guest Amanda Silva Ph.D.02:17–06:19 — Field-tour context and statewide wheat observations The group talks about seeing wheat across Oklahoma through field tours, Oklahoma Wheat Commission work, and research stops from Apache and Greenfield to the Panhandle and northeast Oklahoma. Dave notes how seeing the crop in person gave a fuller picture than just looking at numbers.06:27–09:10 — A hard, variable wheat season Silva describes the season as one of the hardest since she started at OSU. She explains that southwest and western Oklahoma were especially rough, while some locations saw enough rain to produce pockets of better wheat. Rainfall patterns created major differences, even between fields in the same county.09:11–12:02 — Stand establishment, planting timing, and grain fill Josh compares the wheat variability to what he saw in canola. Silva and Arnall discuss how some locations benefited from earlier establishment, while others struggled with stands and canopy closure. Cooler weather during grain fill likely helped preserve some grain quality and test weight.12:04–15:17 — Why wheat matured early Arnall asks why wheat was running ahead of schedule across a broad region. Silva points to warm late-winter and early-spring temperatures that moved the crop through growth stages quickly. The group also compares how those conditions affected canola and freeze risk.15:17–17:40 — The critical period for yield Silva explains that the jointing-to-flowering period is especially important because key yield components are being set. Moisture or stress during that window can strongly shape final yield.17:45–20:35 — Diversifying planting dates Arnall raises the idea of spreading planting dates as another form of risk management. Silva agrees that stacking planting dates could help, especially when combined with different variety maturities. She clarifies that “early” for grain-only wheat may still mean mid-October, not September.20:36–23:53 — Dusting in wheat and chasing moisture Dave asks when dusting in becomes worth the risk. Silva explains that farmers and researchers both have acreage and time constraints, and sometimes planting dry is a practical choice. The group also discusses deeper planting, coleoptile length, and whether Oklahoma could learn from dryland systems in the Pacific Northwest and Australia.23:54–28:13 — How much water does wheat really need? Dave asks whether researchers can determine a minimum moisture requirement for wheat in a controlled setting. Arnall and Lofton explain why lab or pot-study answers do not always translate well to field decisions because soil, temperature, humidity, wind, rooting environment, and other factors change the outcome.29:09–32:19 — Silva's research program Silva outlines current OSU wheat work, including planting date, variety maturity, nitrogen management in late-planted wheat, seeding rates, forage response, grazing recovery, nitrogen uptake, protein, and nitrogen-use efficiency. She notes new forage-focused seeding-rate work at El Reno and possibly Chickasha.32:20–36:47 — Variety trials and disease pressure The group discusses OSU's wheat variety trial network, the number of varieties being evaluated, and the inclusion of irrigated wheat work in the Panhandle. Silva notes wheat streak mosaic virus pressure in irrigated plots and explains that water alone does not remove the impact of disease.36:48–45:45 — How researchers judge trial data Arnall asks Silva and Lofton to explain how they decide whether trial data is trustworthy. They discuss CV, blocks, reps, averages, plot-by-plot review, field notes, drone imagery, canopy gaps, and the challenge of publishing fair comparisons when field variability is high.45:46–49:10 — Lessons from a stressful wheat year Silva's big takeaway is the resilience of wheat and Oklahoma producers. The group points out that hard “scientist years” can reveal useful information about stress tolerance, variety response, and management, even when they are not the years producers hope for. RedDirtAgronomy.com

Stupid News 8am 6-22-2026 …Watch Out for Falling Signage …Why Panhandle for Money when Your AI Robot Can Do it for You? …Trouble on the Pickleball Court

Our guest is fellow Christian podcaster Tommy Morris, and his podcast is called, “The Deed & Truth Podcast.” We met Tommy at a conference in Milton, just outside of Pensacola on Florida's Panhandle. Tommy, as he'll share, grew up as a "preacher's kid," and talks about the surprising path of his life prior to becoming a podcaster...

In this Vacation Edition of the Greenside Up Podcast, Jordan and Jason catch up from the road—Jordan broadcasting from a family beach trip on Florida's Panhandle and Jason checking in from the mountains near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. They swap stories about night crabbing, offshore fishing, Dollywood, cave tours, and even a behind-the-scenes look at the Bush's Baked Beans factory. Woven through the vacation highlights is a candid conversation about what it really takes to step away from your business: how Skyfrog Landscape has evolved since the "Siesta Key chaos" days, the impact of hiring and culture on being able to unplug, losing a key office manager, and why owners never fully "clock out." They also touch on industry events like Trees Florida, the Arbor Next youth program, upcoming trade shows, and a surprising win using AI ("Switchy") to diagnose a boat motor issue. It's a relaxed, real-world look at balancing work, leadership, family time, and the never-ending responsibilities of business ownership. Connect with Jason and Jordan:

We finish up our extensive look at cancelled expressways in the state with a look at the panhandle.

J.C. Hallman discusses the devastating fallout of a fatal Panhandle accident, while reporter Andrea Eger takes the temperature of classrooms navigating a massive legislative overhaul of how Oklahoma children learn to read. Plus, Jennifer Palmer details a new federal crackdown on the soaring, hidden costs of youth sports, from steep registration fees to mandatory "stay-to-play" hotel rules. Catch these stories and more on the latest Long Story Short with Shaun Witt.

Today, Florida archaeologist Michael Thomin returns to In Focus with the story of a famous pirate named Charles Gibbs, who burned a ship and buried the treasure. 

Our look into the Hope Choice Mentoring Programs continue this week with Tarence and Kori. You'll hear all about our #reach4greatness program, offered in schools around Panhandle to over 20,000 students per month!They're impacting generations every single day; helping to equip and raise up future leaders. You'll learn the heart and details about the program and about these two who help make it all happen! Tune in to learn more!!

Throughout 2026, as part of Glasstire's 25th anniversary, the publication is organizing panel discussions in Dallas-Fort Worth, The Panhandle, West Texas, East Texas, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and The Valley. Each panel features artists, art critics, and arts professionals from the region discussing the area's art and art writing over the past two-and-a-half decades. Glasstire presented the second Talking Texas Art event at the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts (LHUCA) Firehouse Theatre on Thursday, April 23. Panelists included Judy Tedford Deaton, Chief Curator and Director of Exhibitions and Collections at the Grace Museum in Abilene; Jon Revett, Professor of Art and Department Head of Art, Theatre, and Dance at West Texas A&M University (WTAMU); Charles Adams, founder of the Charles Adams Studio Project (CASP) and former gallerist in New York and Lubbock; and Amy Von Lintel, author and Professor of Art History at WTAMU. The panel will be moderated by William Sarradet, Glasstire's Assistant Editor.  If you enjoy Glasstire and would like to support our work, please consider donating. As a nonprofit, all of the money we receive goes back into our coverage of Texas art and artists. You can make a one-time donation or become a sustaining, monthly donor here: glasstire.com/donate

Send us Fan MailOn today's episode, Luis Delgado is joined by John on Kayak Fishing Weekly to talk about his journey to master the Florida Panhandle. We dive into his specific strategies for navigating the Gulf's tidal shifts, finding hidden grass flats, and why the kayak is the ultimate tool for conquering these saltwater giants.

Throughout 2026, as part of Glasstire's 25th anniversary, the publication is organizing panel discussions in Dallas-Fort Worth, The Panhandle, West Texas, East Texas, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and The Valley. Each panel features artists, art critics, and arts professionals from the region discussing the area's art and art writing over the past two-and-a-half decades. Glasstire presented the first Talking Texas Art event at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth on Friday, March 13. Panelists included Anne Bothwell, Vice President, Arts at KERA; Jordan Roth, co-founder and Director of the gallery Ro2 Art in Dallas; Christopher Blay, artist, curator, writer, former Glasstire News Editor, and Director of Public Programs at the National Juneteenth Museum; and Benito Huerta, an artist, freelance curator, co-founder of the publication Art Lies, and Professor Emeritus at the University of Texas at Arlington. The panel was moderated by Jessica Fuentes, Glasstire's Editor-in-Chief. If you enjoy Glasstire and would like to support our work, please consider donating. As a nonprofit, all of the money we receive goes back into our coverage of Texas art and artists. You can make a one-time donation or become a sustaining, monthly donor here: https://glasstire.com/donate

In this engaging episode of Tomorrow Needs You, Richard Fleek sits down with veteran Darrell, who shares his unique journey from growing up in Detroit to serving in the Army and eventually transitioning into an IT career. This conversation is a testament to the power of embracing change and finding one's path in life.Main Content:1. **Early Life and Decision to Join the Army** Darrell grew up in the home county area of Detroit, Michigan, where he attended Dakota High School. Uncertain about his future and feeling that college wasn't the right fit for him, he made the bold decision to enlist in the Army. "I just wanted to get the hell out of there and figure out something different," he recalls. His journey began at Fort Benning, Georgia, where he completed basic training and was then assigned to Fort Stewart with the 3rd Battalion, 69th Armored Division.2. **Experiences in the Military** Darrell's military career was filled with diverse experiences, including deployments in Germany and various other locations. He reflects fondly on his time in service, mentioning, "It was fun. Did a tour out in Germany... and went on some deployments." After about 12 years in the military, he recognized the need to pivot his career, leading him to reclassify into IT and technology.3. **Transitioning to IT** Transitioning from infantry to IT was a pivotal moment for Darrell. He notes that the opportunities available within the Army made the switch relatively easy, as they were in need of personnel in various fields. He emphasizes, "It really helped me out," showcasing the importance of adaptability and the willingness to embrace new challenges.4. **The Importance of Relationships** Throughout his military journey, Darrell highlights the significance of the relationships he built. "I miss the clowns, but I don't miss the circus," he says, indicating that while the experiences can be chaotic, the camaraderie and friendships formed are invaluable. This sentiment resonates with many veterans who cherish the bonds created during service.5. **Life After the Army** Now residing in the Panhandle of Florida with his wife Tara and their two daughters, Darrell has successfully transitioned into civilian life while maintaining connections with his military roots. His story serves as an inspiration for those considering a similar path, demonstrating that with courage and adaptability, one can carve out a fulfilling life after service.Conclusion: Darrell's journey from Detroit to the Army, and then into a successful IT career, exemplifies the power of embracing change and pursuing one's passions. His experiences emphasize the importance of adaptability, the value of relationships, and the courage to seek new opportunities. Key takeaways include the significance of finding the right path for oneself, the benefits of changing careers, and the lasting friendships forged in the military.Tags: #MilitaryCareer #VeteranStories #TransitionToCivilianLife #ITCareer #EmbracingChange #ArmyVeteran #Camaraderie #LifeAfterService

Join us on #TexasValuesReport with special guest Pastor Kason Huddleston, Senior Pastor of Freedom Place Church, and guest host Jonathan Covey, Policy Director for Texas Values as he shares updates as the Texas State Board of Education meeting unfolds this week. About Kason Huddleston Pastor Kason Huddleston, Senior Pastor, Freedom Place Church in Rowlett, Texas & Candidate for Texas State Board of Education District 9 Kason Huddleston's story begins in an orphanage in a San Antonio, Texas. He was adopted into a strong Christian family in the Panhandle of Texas that instilled in him the values of faith, hard work, honesty, and American pride. Those lessons shaped his character from an early age and continue to guide every decision he makes.H His adoption into a God-fearing home taught Kason the power of redemption, grace, and the value of family. Today, he carries those same values into his own life through his ministry as a pastor and his career serving families in need. SHOW NOTES: Follow Pastor Kason Huddleston on X https://x.com/PastorKason Please see our link for recommendations for the Work Group B draft. Press Conference with State Leaders Advocating for a Revised Social Studies Curriculum that Encourages Patriotism and Civic Virtue at Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) https://youtu.be/WqxkTYuZRwE Hear Mary Elizabeth Castle's testimony at the State Board of Education https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DuUCawdD1/ Texans gather to protest proposed social studies changes ahead of long SBOE meeting, KXAN https://www.kxan.com/news/texas-politics/texans-gather-to-protest-proposed-social-studies-changes-ahead-of-long-sboe-meeting/amp/ Debate over proposed overhaul of Texas social studies coming to a head before vote https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/debate-over-proposed-overhaul-texas-031901157.html?guccounter=1 EVENTS Join us in Washington, D.C. for America Reads the Bible hosted by Christians Engaged April 18-25, 2026, an historic, week-long, continuous Bible-reading as leaders from every sphere speak the Scriptures aloud from beginning to end — reigniting America's spiritual foundation as we celebrate 250 years of freedom. https://www.americareadsthebible.com/ Texas Values is proud to be sponsors of TPUSA Faith's Make Heaven Crowded Tour on April 29 at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, TX with Erika Kirk and Pastor Jack Graham https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17X4BK5yMW/ Register today! https://www.makeheavencrowdedtour.com/ Texas Values is proud to be sponsors of National Day of Prayer hosted by Tarrant County Judge Tim O'Hare on May 7, 11:30am-1pm at the Hurst Conference Center in Hurst, TX with Brooke Rollins, https://www.tcnationaldayofprayer.com/ Join us for Texas Values & Texas Values Action Fort Worth Benefit Dinner Saturday, May 16 at City Club of Fort Worth. Register today! https://txvalues.org/events **keynote speaker and special guests to be announced soon Registration for Texas Faith Fest coming soon! Stay tuned for details. https://texasfaithfest.com/ Help us build our channel so we can maintain a culture of Faith, Family, & Freedom in Texas by interacting with us; like, comment, share, subscribe! For more about Texas Values see: Txvalues.org To support our work, go to donate.txvalues.org/GivetoTexasValues

Florida has long been known as a land of extremes. Swamps and pine barrens, remote prairie, coastline, farmland, and dense suburban development all exist side by side, creating a landscape where the natural and the unnatural often seem to overlap. Over the years, witnesses from across the state have described things that do not fit any accepted category. Some reports involve winged humanoids, others monstrous canines, bizarre upright predators, or strange entities glimpsed only for a moment, yet remembered for a lifetime. Tonight, we are going to examine nine such accounts, each one different in appearance and circumstance, but all carrying that same unmistakable mark of the unexplained.What makes these cases so compelling is that they do not point to one simple answer. Instead, they suggest a broader pattern of anomaly that runs through Florida itself. These are not stories from a single town or a brief wave of sightings. They come from the Panhandle, Central Florida, the Gulf Coast, South Florida, the Keys, and beyond. Some witnesses were children at the time. Others were hardened adults who believed only in logic and ordinary explanations. But each of them came away with the same conclusion. They saw, heard, or felt something they could not explain, and in many cases, something they have never forgotten.Florida has always occupied a peculiar place in the American paranormal map. It is famous for Skunk Ape lore, ghost stories, phantom cats, and unexplained lights, but beneath those more familiar legends lies another layer of testimony that is far harder to classify. These are reports that blur the lines between cryptid, supernatural manifestation, and something perhaps even stranger. A flying gargoyle near Zephyrhills. A giant feline thing that rises upright in broad daylight. A dark entity in the water that seems to move with intent. An owl-headed being stood calmly at the edge of the woods. Each report sounds different, yet together they form a body of evidence that deserves serious attention.So tonight, we are not looking at folklore in the abstract. We are looking at firsthand testimony from people who insist that, for a few moments, the world stopped behaving the way it should. These are not polished legends. They are fragments of lived experience, strange, personal, and deeply unsettling. As we move through each account, one after another, a bigger question emerges. Are these isolated anomalies, or glimpses of a hidden reality that has been surfacing in Florida for far longer than most people realize?

Florida has long been known as a land of extremes. Swamps and pine barrens, remote prairie, coastline, farmland, and dense suburban development all exist side by side, creating a landscape where the natural and the unnatural often seem to overlap. Over the years, witnesses from across the state have described things that do not fit any accepted category. Some reports involve winged humanoids, others monstrous canines, bizarre upright predators, or strange entities glimpsed only for a moment, yet remembered for a lifetime. Tonight, we are going to examine nine such accounts, each one different in appearance and circumstance, but all carrying that same unmistakable mark of the unexplained.What makes these cases so compelling is that they do not point to one simple answer. Instead, they suggest a broader pattern of anomaly that runs through Florida itself. These are not stories from a single town or a brief wave of sightings. They come from the Panhandle, Central Florida, the Gulf Coast, South Florida, the Keys, and beyond. Some witnesses were children at the time. Others were hardened adults who believed only in logic and ordinary explanations. But each of them came away with the same conclusion. They saw, heard, or felt something they could not explain, and in many cases, something they have never forgotten.Florida has always occupied a peculiar place in the American paranormal map. It is famous for Skunk Ape lore, ghost stories, phantom cats, and unexplained lights, but beneath those more familiar legends lies another layer of testimony that is far harder to classify. These are reports that blur the lines between cryptid, supernatural manifestation, and something perhaps even stranger. A flying gargoyle near Zephyrhills. A giant feline thing that rises upright in broad daylight. A dark entity in the water that seems to move with intent. An owl-headed being stood calmly at the edge of the woods. Each report sounds different, yet together they form a body of evidence that deserves serious attention.So tonight, we are not looking at folklore in the abstract. We are looking at firsthand testimony from people who insist that, for a few moments, the world stopped behaving the way it should. These are not polished legends. They are fragments of lived experience, strange, personal, and deeply unsettling. As we move through each account, one after another, a bigger question emerges. Are these isolated anomalies, or glimpses of a hidden reality that has been surfacing in Florida for far longer than most people realize?

From greenskeeper to superintendent, Tanner Jacobs has made a steady climb in his young career. He's in charge at Rocky Bayou Country Club in Niceville, Florida, and obsesses over every detail to provide his customers with the best golf experience. Keeping his turfgrass balanced and perfectly playable is a top priority.“I don't make a simple soil application without incorporating calcium and OsmoPro™ in my program,” he said. “I feel since we started using it, we've had a lot of success with health, with growth and just overall playability and how they look. For my program, it's perfect.”Rocky Bayou features 115 acres of championship play, incorporating rolling hills, sprawling oaks and stately pines, including 18 holes that they describe as “challenging play with wide fairways, perfectly managed greens, and five spring fed lakes.” 

In this hard-hitting episode of The Dave Carter Show, I sit down with Panama City native and successful businessman Keith Gross, who is running for Congress in Florida's 2nd Congressional District. Keith grew up in a single-parent home in the Panhandle, put himself through school through sheer grit, and built a multiple highly successful businesses […]

Soybeans are a lot more than a crop in the field, and this episode proves it. Dave Deken and Brian Arnall visit with Rick and Ginger Reimer of the Oklahoma Soybean Board about how soybean checkoff dollars are being invested in research, producer outreach, education, and consumer awareness across Oklahoma. From Red Dirt Soy and production research to classroom workshops and virtual reality tools, the Reimers share how the board is helping connect agriculture to both producers and the public. The conversation also digs into soybean rotations, the crop's spread into new parts of Oklahoma, why soybeans are so important to livestock agriculture, and how the board has even supported feral hog control because of the damage those animals cause to crops and pasture. It's a wide-ranging look at how soybean leadership, Extension partnerships, and strategic outreach are helping strengthen agriculture from the farm gate to the classroom Top 10 Takeaways This episode reframes soybeans as much more than a crop. The Oklahoma Soybean Board is investing not only in production research, but also in education, livestock-connected outreach, and public understanding of agriculture. Teacher training is one of the board's biggest multiplier strategies. Ginger says the board has worked with nearly 800 teachers and is reaching around 20,000 students annually through workshops and classroom-ready materials. The soybean checkoff is tightly accountable. Rick emphasizes audits, compliance reviews, and documentation because every dollar being spent belongs to soybean producers. Research is still the budget anchor. Rick estimates about 60% of retained board funds go toward research, with another 20% to 30% supporting education and outreach. Soybeans and livestock are directly linked. Rick says most domestically used soybeans go into animal agriculture, which explains why the board supports pork, poultry, and related educational programming. Soybean production geography in Oklahoma has shifted. Counties once dominant in eastern Oklahoma are no longer the only leaders; major soybean production now includes north-central Oklahoma, and the crop is pushing even farther west. Western Oklahoma soybeans bring new management questions. Brian points to irrigated production and iron deficiency issues in high-pH soils as examples of why region-specific research matters. Digital outreach is becoming a bigger part of the mission. The board is expanding through social media, recorded workshop content, YouTube, and online education platforms. Feral hog control is a serious agricultural issue. The board's support for control efforts shows how soybean leadership is responding to broader on-farm threats, not just soybean-only problems. Agricultural literacy is long-term risk management. Ginger makes the strongest public-facing point of the episode: informed teachers become informed communities, and informed communities shape the future of agriculture. Detailed Timestamped Rundown 00:02–01:06 Dave opens Episode 510 and frames soybeans as more than a field crop, tying them to livestock feed, producer research, ag education, and statewide outreach. He previews the conversation with Rick and Ginger Reimer of the Oklahoma Soybean Board and points listeners to Red Dirt Agronomy online for more resources.01:07–01:40 Dave introduces Brian Arnall, and the hosts set up the interview, noting it was recorded January 10, 2026, at the Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth during KNID Agrifest.01:41–03:24 Brian introduces Rick and Ginger Reimer. Rick explains his long tenure with the soybean organization and walks through the shift from the Oklahoma Soybean Commission to the Oklahoma Soybean Board after the national soybean checkoff was established, including the split of funds between the state and national boards.03:25–06:22 Ginger outlines her role in marketing, consumer information, and education. She explains how her classroom work evolved into teacher workshops that equip educators with supplies, books, curriculum, and hands-on materials. Rick adds that the board tracks reach by counting how many students those teachers serve each year. Ginger says they are nearing 800 teachers and about 20,000 students annually.06:22–08:41 The group discusses workshop themes including “Pork and Beans” and “Chicka Doodle Do.” Ginger describes using VR headsets to show students swine production and explains how different workshops are tailored for preschool through older students. Brian notes the board's outreach goes well beyond soybeans alone and reflects the full agricultural ecosystem.08:41–10:32 Rick stresses accountability for checkoff dollars, jokingly summarizing it as “document or die.” He explains the importance of receipts, audits, and compliance reviews because the board is spending producer money. He estimates roughly 60% of the state board's retained budget goes to research, 20% to 30% to education and outreach, and admin is kept near or under 10% when possible.10:32–13:38 Dave and Brian talk about Red Dirt Soy and the Oklahoma Soybean Board's support for digital outreach and research communication. They highlight how the board helped make room for creative, scalable outreach ideas, including online field-day style content that can reach producers across the state without requiring travel. Rick adds that soybean research also includes topics beyond yield, such as ensuring crop protection practices do not harm beneficial beetles.13:38–15:05 Rick explains why the board supports livestock-related education: livestock is soybeans' biggest customer. He says about half of U.S. soybeans are exported, while 97% of the soybeans staying domestic are used in animal agriculture. That is why Oklahoma Soybean Board programs often connect soybeans to pork, poultry, and other livestock sectors.15:05–17:23 The conversation shifts to crop rotation and geography. Rick says soybeans help clean up wheat fields and work well in rotations. He explains that the top soybean-producing counties in Oklahoma used to be in the east, but now counties such as Garfield, Grant, Kay, and Noble are among the leaders. Brian adds that soybeans have pushed farther west, even into the Panhandle, creating new fertility and iron-deficiency management challenges in high-pH soils.17:23–20:32 Rick and Brian explain why Oklahoma can be a strong soybean state: soil, weather, rainfall, and the crop's fit as a double-crop option behind wheat. Brian notes the historical appeal of double-crop beans as a relatively low-risk, high-reward system. The discussion also covers soybeans' sensitivity to timely late-season rains and the use of different maturity groups to spread production risk.20:32–25:11 Brian raises another lesser-known soybean board priority: feral hog control. Rick describes years of support for thermal scopes, traps, panels, and grain carts used in control efforts through Wildlife Services. The hosts explain how destructive hogs are to soybeans, hay meadows, pastures, and farm infrastructure, making this issue much bigger than row crops alone.25:11–29:04 Dave asks what is next for the board. Ginger says a bigger social media presence is a priority, along with posting recorded teacher workshops online so educators can revisit them later. She also describes forming a teacher advisory group, experimenting with Facebook Live training, and growing the board's YouTube content, including Rick reading Full of Beans: Henry Ford Grows a Car from a soybean field.29:04–31:28 Dave asks what producers want from the board. Rick says growers want strong production research and continued promotion of soybeans' value. Ginger adds a broader civic point: when they teach teachers, they are also reaching future voters, and agriculture needs a more informed public as farmland disappears under development.31:28–32:11 The episode wraps with appreciation from both sides and a reminder that agriculture works best when commodity groups and institutions collaborate. Dave closes the show and thanks listeners. RedDirtAgronomy.com

This week on Hey Amarillo, I talk with author Clara Sneed about a wild chapter of Amarillo history that sounds almost too dramatic to be true. Clara wrote a book about a bitter feud between two Amarillo families in the early 1900s. What began with relationships and eventually spiraled into affairs, accusations, violence, and murder. Along the way, the story touches on questions of justice, the role of women at the time, and how a rapidly growing Panhandle town handled conflict when emotions — and reputations — were on the line. What makes the story even more compelling is that Clara isn't just a historian of the feud. She's actually related to one of the families involved, which adds another layer to how she discovered and told the story. It's a fascinating look at a dramatic piece of Amarillo's past — full of scandal, mystery, and the kind of family conflict that shaped local history.

This is a Nebraska Update Special Report from the Nebraska Public Media Newsroom for March 14. Emergency crews are continuing to battle four large wildfires in Nebraska: the Morrill Fire in the Panhandle, the Cottonwood Fire in Lincoln and Dawson Counties, the Road 203 Fire near Halsey and the Anderson Bridge Fire west of Valentine. Several Nebraska officials briefed reporters Saturday morning at the Keith County fairgrounds and discussed the growth of the fires and uncertainty surrounding federal assistance.

This is a Nebraska Update Special Report from the Nebraska Public Media Newsroom for March 13. Emergency crews are continuing to battle four large wildfires in Nebraska: the Morrill Fire in the Panhandle, the Cottonwood Fire in Lincoln and Dawson Counties, the Road 203 Fire near Halsey and the Anderson Bridge Fire west of Valentine. One person has been killed since the wildfires broke out Thursday. Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen has issued a burn ban and a state of emergency for affected counties.

Friday the 13th Murders ////// 912  Part 1 of 1    www.TrueCrimeGarage.com   On Friday, July 13th, the quiet town of Panhandle, Texas, where life moved at a gentle pace, was about to be shattered by an event so violent it would be seared into the town's memory forever. This Friday the 13th, was a night that defied the very nature of this peaceful community. Evil didn't come to the town of Panhandle, it was born there and on this Friday the 13th that evil was on a seek and destroy mission. The chaos began in the dead of night. It was a night filled with murder, mayhem, confusion, and chaos. A night that will forever live in infamy as the night that the curse and the evil of lore became real.    Beer of the Week - Panhandle American Wheat by Texas Cannon Brewing Company Garage Grade - 3 and 3 quarter bottle caps out of 5    More True Crime Garage can be found on Patreon and Apple subscriptions with our show - Off The Record.  Catch dozens of episodes of Off The Record plus a couple of Bonus episodes and our first 50 when you sign up today.    True Crime Garage merchandise is available on our website's store page.     Follow the show on X and Insta @TrueCrimeGarage    Thanks for listening and thanks for telling a friend.  Be good, be kind, and don't litter!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome back to another episode of Monday Matters! This week, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke are taking some time to reflect on lessons they have learned through coaching school leaders. Listen in to hear the full conversation! This week’s episode was inspired by a post written by Will. You can read it below: Lessons learned in coaching leaders by William D. Parker Over the past several years of working with school leaders across the country, a few lessons have become increasingly clear. In 2017, when I transitioned from principal to executive director of my state principal association, I put more than 30,000 miles on my car in my first year in that role. My goal was to connect across the state with as many leaders one-on-one or in groups in order to secure stronger relationships, as well as get a better feel for the variety of schools represented. I have visited schools in almost every demographic imaginable — urban settings where hundred-year-old buildings house generations of learning, suburban schools supporting college towns, and rural schools where principals may also drive buses and coach teams. One school I visited in the Panhandle of Oklahoma was a district where half the schools served Oklahoma residents, and half of the district was across the border of West Texas. Since those days, I've also criss-crossed the U.S. and spoken in states from coast to coast, at schools, conferences, retreats, and workshops with an emphasis on training or equipping school leaders. I've walked the halls of a demonstration academy in Washington, D.C., observed a program for raising laying hens at a middle school near Oklahoma City, walked the shop floors of welding and robotics programs near Houston, Texas, and spent the day with principals in locations near beaches, mountains, skyscrapers, and cattle lots. In addition to walking in these various settings, I've probably spent even more time in one-on-one conversations with education leaders through virtual or phone calls. Many of these have been coaching or reflection sessions. Some of them have been one-time complimentary times, and many of them have been with leaders who meet with me regularly on a formal basis for coaching and feedback. Along the way, I have gathered a few lessons in coaching leaders that may be insightful as you think about your own development or the opportunities you may have to coach or mentor others. Lesson 1 Most people already have the answers for their next steps. They just need someone to listen and provide them clarity on what they already know they want. That may not seem like an interesting point, but it still surprises me (and the leaders whom I coach) that when we go deep on a challenge they're currently facing, they often already know what they want. The challenge is talking through the pros and cons, the risks and benefits, thoroughly enough to recognize the importance and value of what they want to do next. A lot of times, I'll use what I call the magic wand question with leaders and ask something like, “If you could wave a magic wand, what is the outcome you really want to see happen?” Simply saying this out loud can often provide the clarity and motivation needed to move forward. Lesson 2 Leaders hold roles that isolate them, and they deserve the confidence of someone they can trust. This may be obvious to you if you are a leader, but it may also be a good reminder that the more responsibility you take on in any school or organization, the less others can really understand the weight of concern you carry for those under your care. Many times, school leaders, in particular, manage people or systems where they are being pressured by people from every part of the organization. Board members, teachers, parents, students, and community members all see priorities that are important to them. You must weigh those concerns in light of information none of those other groups is really studying or considering. Yes, it's important to be transparent with the budgets, data, feedback, progress, or lack of progress you are aware of when making hard decisions. But leaders often see the wider lens of all these inputs where their staff or community only see the part most important to their group. When weighing tough decisions about personnel, student discipline, budgets, or curriculum, the leader often is the final decision maker. This position of isolation means they benefit from a third party whose perspective can be objective without being prescriptive. One benefit of working with a coach is avoiding the pitfalls of isolation. We think better with others. Sometimes those others can be the people on your teams or in your communities. At other times, you need to be alone with your thoughts long enough to have clarity, and a good coach will help you navigate your thoughts toward reaching that kind of clarity. Lesson 3 Leaders deserve to be challenged in their thinking and maintain their own growth professionally. Whenever I meet with leaders, I usually include some discussion around content on leadership or education practice. These discussions allow us to talk about writings, research, and practice from other practitioners who inform us of trends, takeaways, or insights into what is working best in improving outcomes. I not only use my own books for these discussions, but I also pull in books from leadership and education authors to guide conversations with school leaders and ask them how this looks in their practice (good or bad), and what they may want to do next to adjust, monitor, or change their own practice. As a result, I'm asking leaders to stretch themselves in their own learning. If we are going to lead learning communities, we must also remain learners. As we wrap up these three lessons, I want to add an additional self-reflection practice I like to do with leaders. If you have ever attended my trainings or listened to my podcast before, you've probably heard me share these. When I meet with leaders, I like to ask them to do a quick self-inventory based on the following statements, ranking their agreement with each statement from 1–5 (1 = little time, 5 = much time). I have been visible and present with every student, every teacher, every day this week. I have been reading, meditating, or reflecting on helpful books or lessons (and our time together also counts). I have made healthy choices in my sleep, nutrition, and exercise. I have been faithful to those I love with my time and attention. You may want to pause a moment and do some math for yourself. The goal is growth, not perfection. Coaching leaders has given me the opportunity to spend time with leaders in places I never imagined visiting before. It has also given me treasured moments of providing feedback, asking hard questions, and protecting confidences. We know in other industries like business and professional athletics that those at the top of their games receive coaching. If that is the case for men and women managing multibillion-dollar companies or competing at the highest levels, why would we not want to provide coaching for those responsible for the learning outcomes of hundreds, if not thousands, of students? Providing helpful feedback to a fellow leader — or inviting someone to sit across from you in coaching — can help you see answers that were already in front of you, protect you from isolation, and stretch your thinking. Just like we want students and teachers to have the best environments for learning, leaders deserve the best environments for their own learning as well. Coaching is one way to help leaders enjoy the very outcomes they are seeking to provide others. The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Lessons from Coaching Leaders appeared first on Principal Matters.

Atlanta can seem like it's a very long way from the oystering communities in Florida's Panhandle. There are, in fact, hundreds of miles between them. But there are ways even distant places are intimately connected, perhaps more intimately than you'd guess. And when one of those places is in trouble, those connections get revealed. This is the story of what's happening to the oysters in Apalachicola Bay, and why that has inspired interstate legal battles—even a Supreme Court lawsuit. It's also the story of what a place whose whole identity revolves around seafood does, when that seafood is threatened. The audio from oysterman A.L. Quick was gathered in 2006 as part of the Southern Foodways Alliance oral history project on Florida's Forgotten Coast. You can listen to that oral history and more than a dozen others with oystermen and other residents of Franklin County at southernfoodways.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wildfire response constitutes the primary national concern as we delve into the developments surrounding the ongoing fires in the Southern Plains, particularly in Oklahoma's Panhandle and its western counties. The Ranger Road Fire, which has expanded significantly into Kansas, exemplifies the critical nature of this situation, with emergency management reporting substantial acreage affected and a mere 15% containment. Additionally, the state of Texas has received federal assistance for the Eight Ball fire, underscoring the severity of the crisis and the necessity for coordinated firefighting efforts. Concurrently, winter weather impacts persist in the Upper Midwest, complicating travel and safety for residents in those regions. As we navigate these pressing issues, it is imperative to remain informed about local conditions and heed official advisories to ensure personal safety and community resilience.Takeaways:* The ongoing wildfire response remains a paramount national concern, particularly in Oklahoma and Texas.* In Oklahoma, the Ranger Road Fire has reached an alarming 283,283 acres with only 15% containment.* Winter weather advisories in the Upper Midwest forecast hazardous travel conditions due to accumulating snow.* California experiences cold conditions prompting freeze warnings, necessitating protective measures for vulnerable entities.Sources[NWS Sacramento | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=CAZ216&lat=39.732&local_place1=Chico+CA&lon=-121.842&product1=Flash+Flood+Watch&warncounty=CAC007&warnzone=CAZ016][Kansas Dept. of Agriculture | https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/Home/Components/News/News/629/17] [Oklahoma OEM | https://oklahoma.gov/oem/news/newsroom/wildfire-situation-update-2---feb-18-2026.html][NWS Duluth | https://www.weather.gov/dlh/][NWS Hazard Info | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=MNZ012&lat=47.796&local_place1=10+Miles+NW+Schroeder+MN&lon=-91.112&product1=Winter+Storm+Warning&warncounty=MNC075&warnzone=MNZ012][Oklahoma OEM | https://oklahoma.gov/oem/news/newsroom/wildfire-situation-update-2---feb-18-2026.html][TDEM | https://www.tdem.texas.gov/press-release/2-19-26] [TDEM Disaster Page | https://tdem.texas.gov/disasters/26-0001-february-wildfires][NWS WWA Text | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=mpx&wwa=winter+weather+advisory] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

In this week's Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya delivers a winter "real report" across the Panhandle with three key conversations: surf fishing, boat-show season, and a tough-but-producible inshore bay bite. On the surf side, Joe talks with Justin Reed of Justin Reed Fishing about February slowdowns and how to prep for spring—favorite rod lengths (9–10' vs 12'), why he likes 5000-size reels for torque, and must-have surf tackle like Sputnik sinkers, pompano rigs, and sand fleas. They also preview boat season with Jim Cox in an Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show rundown, covering what to expect at the show, why seeing boats in person matters, and the coastal-lifestyle vendors and seminars that make it a full family event. To wrap, Joe checks in with Justin Leake of Panama City Inshore on winter inshore fishing—focusing on protected bayous and deeper creeks for trout and redfish, using suspending jerkbaits to locate fish, and leaning on live shrimp when the bite gets picky as water temps start creeping toward spring.   Sponsors: Dixie Supply and Baker Metal Killerdock Coastal Connection EXP Realty AFTCO SlipSki Solutions Black Buffalo Hilton's Realtime Navigator

Tyler's Quote:There are no words that can tell the hidden spirit of the wilderness that can reveal its mystery, its melancholy and its charm. The nation behaves well if it treats the natural resources as assets which it must turn over to the next generation increased and not impaired in value.- Theodore RooseveltEpisode Description:In this episode of Trailblazing Texas Podcast, we head to the wide-open Texas Panhandle to explore Copper Breaks State Park with Tyler, a ranger with Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, whose passion for this rugged and often-overlooked park runs deep.Tyler shares his journey into state park service and what first drew him to Copper Breaks, from his initial impressions of the landscape to the moments that confirmed this park was something special. We talk about what makes Copper Breaks unique among Texas parks, how it has evolved over the years, and what a “typical” day looks like for a ranger in a place where wind, weather, and wide horizons are part of the job description.A major focus of this episode is Copper Breaks' identity as an International Dark Sky Park. Tyler walks us through what it takes to preserve truly dark skies, and what visitors can expect when they look up on a clear night. From Milky Way memories to night-sky programs and the challenges of dark-sky conservation, this conversation captures why Copper Breaks is one of the best places in Texas to experience the night as it was meant to be seen.We also dive into the park's deeper history, its connections to the Comanche, how that cultural heritage is interpreted today, and the careful balance between preservation and public recreation. Tyler shares insight into current conservation efforts, the impact of drought and weather on the ecosystem, and the role of volunteers and partnerships in protecting this landscape for future generations.On the trail side, we cover hiking routes, hidden gems, wildlife encounters, and what first-time visitors should know before setting foot in this remote park. Tyler offers practical safety advice, tips for dealing with the Panhandle's conditions, and ideas for building the perfect day or weekend at Copper Breaks.We wrap with a personal reflection on what this park means to Tyler, why it deserves more attention, and what he hopes every visitor carries with them after experiencing Copper Breaks for themselves.This episode is an invitation to slow down, look up, and discover a Texas state park where history, dark skies, and quiet beauty come together in a way that stays with you long after you leave.

Natalie's Dedication:To The Kratt Brothers: Thank you for teaching me to love all animals and enjoy their company from a young age.Episode Description:In Part 2 of our conversation about Caprock Canyons State Park, Natalie takes us deeper into the spirit of the park, what visitors feel when they first see the canyon walls, how she would define Caprock in just three words, and why this landscape leaves such a lasting impression.We spend time with the story of the Texas State Bison Herd, exploring how it came to Caprock, what makes it unique, and what daily herd management looks like behind the scenes. Natalie shares how staff balance visitor access with safety, the challenges the herd faces from drought and habitat pressures, and the powerful symbolism the bison hold for the park and for Texas itself, along with a few memorable moments that only come from working this closely with wildlife.The conversation then moves onto Caprock's trails and terrain, from the park's extensive trail system and the historic Caprock Canyons Trailway to favorite overlooks, hidden gems, and recommendations for both first-time visitors and experienced hikers. We also cover trail safety, weather awareness, dog-friendly options, camping opportunities, and what guests should know before heading out into this rugged Panhandle environment.We close by looking at conservation, how human impact affect Caprock, what the park is doing to protect its ecosystems, and the role visitors play in preserving this place for future generations. This episode is a grounded, thoughtful look at a park defined by resilience, stewardship, and wide-open space.Part 2 of 2 — available now on Trailblazing Texas Podcast!

In the rural reaches of Florida's Panhandle, where longleaf pines line quiet roads and neighbors know each other by the sound of their engines, a sexual battery case in the unincorporated community of Fountain exposed how far the state's legal system will go to punish crimes against children. This episode examines the case and the legal architecture behind it.VICTIM PROFILE: The victim was a minor between the ages of twelve and seventeen living in Bay County, Florida. Her identity is protected under state law. What the record shows is that her willingness to come forward and testify at trial formed the foundation of the prosecution's case. Without her testimony, the legal system would have had nothing to act upon. Her courage carried a weight that no verdict can fully acknowledge.THE CRIME: In 2020, allegations surfaced that Brandon Paul Janssen had committed sexual battery against the victim in Fountain, a small unincorporated community in Bay County. The Bay County Sheriff's Office launched an investigation in coordination with the Gulf Coast Children's Advocacy Center, which provided forensic interview support for the minor. During questioning, Janssen confessed to the acts. Prosecutors charged him with two counts of sexual battery on a minor under Florida Statute 794.011(4)(b), each carrying the potential for life imprisonment.THE INVESTIGATION: The Bay County Sheriff's Office led the case with the Gulf Coast Children's Advocacy Center handling victim support and forensic interviews. Janssen's confession became a focal point at trial, with his defense challenging its admissibility on grounds of voluntariness and Miranda compliance. Prosecutor Jeff Moore presented six witnesses before Bay County Circuit Court Judge Timothy Register. The defense also raised hearsay objections to certain testimony. After roughly one hour of deliberation, the jury returned guilty verdicts on both counts.CURRENT STATUS: On November 13, 2023, Janssen received two consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole. He was designated a sexual predator under Florida law, ensuring lifetime registration and supervision. He appealed to the First District Court of Appeal, which affirmed the convictions and sentences on August 27, 2025, under docket number 1D2023-3176. As of early 2026, Janssen remains incarcerated at Century Correctional Institution.Support Obscura: https://www.patreon.com/obscuracrimepodcast/Our Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com* Check out Chime: https://chime.com/OBSCURA* Check out Mood and use my code OBSCURA for a great deal: https://mood.com* Check out Quince: https://quince.com/OBSCURA* Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code OBSCURA20 for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/obscura-a-true-crime-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Natalie's Dedication:To my kids: Thank you for showing me that being a creepy crawly loving, strange, awkward, opinionated, and weird person makes a good mom, and it makes creature loving conscious kids.Episode Description: Caprock Canyons State Park (Part 1 of 2)I've said it quietly before… but in this episode, I finally say it out loud. Caprock Canyons State Park is my absolute favorite Texas State Park, and this conversation explains why.In Part 1 of this two-part series, I sit down with Interpretive Ranger Natalie, who knows Caprock from the inside out. We start with her journey into Texas Parks & Wildlife, what sparked their career, what led them to this rugged corner of the Panhandle, and how Caprock quickly becomes more than “just an assignment”.We talk about first impressions and the moments that stop people in their tracks, the scale of the canyons, the silence, the unexpected beauty, and why Caprock feels so different from anywhere else in Texas. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at what a typical day looks like for park staff.This is a personal one for me. If you've ever stood on the rim at Caprock, felt the wind cut through the canyon, or locked eyes with a bison on the trail, you'll understand.Part 2 drops next, where we go even deeper into trails, wildlife, visitor tips, and what makes Caprock a place people keep coming back to.

Welcome to this episode of the Monday Money Coaching Call. Look, it is absolutely freezing here in Austin, Texas. We are talking 18 degrees, which basically means the entire state shuts down because—let's be honest—nobody here knows how to drive on ice. So, while the roads are slick, we are chilling inside where the coffee is hot, and the deals are even hotter.If you missed our massive livestream this past Saturday, don't worry. We spent over two hours breaking down a tape of 3,067 non-performing first liens. But for today's coaching call, I wanted to peel back the onion a little further. We are doing a deep dive specifically into the remaining 200+ Texas assets. Why Texas? Because it's the fastest foreclosure state in the country, and when you combine speed with equity, you find the magic.In this episode, I'm walking you through my exact process of filtering a massive spreadsheet—hiding the columns that don't matter (looking at you, "QM Flags") and highlighting the ones that equal profit. We take a serious look at a specific asset in Tyler, Texas. This isn't just looking at numbers; we become digital detectives. We look at the borrower's emotional equity (solar panels and garden gnomes count!), the "Zillow Zombie" values, and even do a Google search that reveals the heartbreaking backstory of why the borrower likely defaulted.We also tackle the difference between chasing "Subject To" deals versus buying the Non-Performing Note. Spoiler alert: You aren't getting a massive discount on a note that is only 90 days late. We run the math on calculating yields, determining legal balances, and deciding when to aim for a re-performing note versus when to accept that a property is headed for foreclosure (like a massive upside-down property we found in Dripping Springs).In this episode, we cover:The Texas Deep Freeze: Why staying off the icy Austin roads is the best investment decision you can make today.The 3,000 Note Breakdown: A recap of the massive tape we analyzed on Saturday and where to find the remaining opportunities.Geographic Breakdown: Mapping out opportunities from the Panhandle to the Valley, including Dallas, Houston, and the Piney Woods.Spreadsheet Mastery: How to filter data efficiently—calculating estimated legal balances, equity percentages, and hiding useless columns.The Tyler, Texas Case Study: A full breakdown of a property with 82% equity, analyzing photos, tax records, and potential 17-19% cash-on-cash returns.The "Human" Element: How a simple Google search revealed a borrower's personal tragedy and how that informs our strategy.Bankruptcy & Foreclosure Plays: Analyzing a deal in Montgomery, TX involving a bankruptcy plan, and a luxury builder home in Dripping Springs that is $200k upside down.Sub2 vs. NPN: Why buying the note makes more sense than a Subject To deal when the borrower is 6+ months behind.Texas Foreclosure Trends: A look at Roddy's List and current numbers in Travis, Bexar, Dallas, and Harris counties.Look, it might be 20 degrees outside, but these yields are keeping us warm. Whether you are looking to get a borrower back on track with a modification or taking a property back in a fast foreclosure state, the opportunity is right there in the data. You just have to know how to filter for it.Make sure you grab the updated spreadsheet from the Basecamp repo (I'll add the formulas so you don't have to do the heavy lifting). If you are catching the replay, go back and watch the Saturday breakdown, and then join us live next time at NoteNightInAmerica.com.Watch the Original VIDEO HERE!Book a Call With Scott HERE!Sign up for the next FREE One-Day Note Class HERE!Sign up for the WCN Membership HERE!Sign up for the next Note Buying For Dummies Workshop HERE!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!Here's How »Join the Note Closers Show community today:WeCloseNotes.comThe Note Closers Show FacebookThe Note Closers Show TwitterScott Carson LinkedInThe No

The Rangeland Analysis Platfrom is providing data to identify trends over time related to the increase of winter annual invasive grasses.

Ru Paul's Drone Race. Gigantic man men. I LIKE YOUR JEWELS! States Shaped Like Things. Nerdtacular tickets are live! Won At Game Of Parking (eventually). People on Molly are in a good mood. Rapping Roberts. CoverRiddler Escapes Again! Just Out-living the MCU. Thumbing up the camera. Black taped nipples and a white fur hat. The Panhandle makes No Difference. Actual beavers. Dressing for the temperature I want. I was going to talk about procrastination but didn't get around to it, with Bobby and more on this episode of The Morning Stream. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ru Paul's Drone Race. Gigantic man men. I LIKE YOUR JEWELS! States Shaped Like Things. Nerdtacular tickets are live! Won At Game Of Parking (eventually). People on Molly are in a good mood. Rapping Roberts. CoverRiddler Escapes Again! Just Out-living the MCU. Thumbing up the camera. Black taped nipples and a white fur hat. The Panhandle makes No Difference. Actual beavers. Dressing for the temperature I want. I was going to talk about procrastination but didn't get around to it, with Bobby and more on this episode of The Morning Stream. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Point news analyst Jack Beatty on a proposed ballot initiative in Montana that could deny corporations the power to spend money on political campaigns.