Podcasts about Rawlings

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge continue to preview the 2026 SEC season with our preview episode on Kentucky.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:58 Kentucky Wildcats Preseason Ranking02:45 Kentucky's Offensive Strategy03:44 Pitching Staff Analysis10:04 Team Defense and Key Players13:15 Catcher Position and Depth16:18 Expectations for the Season17:05 ConclusionHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge continue to preview the 2026 SEC season with our preview episode on defending national champion LSU.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:14 LSU Tigers: A Dynasty in the Making?01:37 Key Players and Lineup Changes03:29 Newcomers and Transfer Impact05:06 Position Battles and Key Returnees11:38 Pitching Rotation and Bullpen Strength15:07 Freshman Contributions and Development17:52 Conclusion and Upcoming PreviewsHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge continue to preview the 2026 SEC season with our preview episode on Mississippi State.00:00 Introduction and Overview00:06 Mississippi State Bulldogs: Season Excitement01:24 Coaching Changes and Impact02:08 Team Roster and Key Players06:22 Pitching Staff Analysis13:15 Lineup and Batting Strength17:47 Outfield and Positional Flexibility19:55 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge continue to preview the 2026 SEC season with our preview episode on Missouri.00:00 Introduction and Series Overview00:15 Recap of Previous Episodes00:31 Missouri Tigers: Last Season's Performance01:53 Defensive Strengths and Key Players05:48 Pitching Staff and New Recruits08:40 Coaching Impact and Future Prospects14:58 Administrative Support and Program Challenges20:57 Conclusion and Upcoming EpisodesHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge continue to preview the 2026 SEC season with our preview episode on Oklahoma.00:00 Introduction and Series Overview00:29 Oklahoma Sooners: Team and Schedule Analysis03:26 Stadium Upgrades and Their Impact05:39 Pitching Staff Breakdown10:53 Offensive Lineup and Key Players16:38 Challenges and Final Thoughts18:39 Conclusion and Upcoming EpisodesHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge continue to preview the 2026 SEC season with our preview episode on Ole Miss.00:00 Introduction and Previous Episodes Recap00:46 Ole Miss Rebels: Last Season's Recap03:10 Expectations for the Upcoming Season05:17 Key Players to Watch09:02 Pitching Staff Analysis13:58 Defensive and Overall Team Outlook17:25 Conclusion and Upcoming EpisodesHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge continue to preview the 2026 SEC season with our preview episode on South Carolina.00:00 Introduction and Series Overview00:44 Recap of South Carolina's Tough Season01:23 Challenges and Questions for the Upcoming Season02:54 Key Players and Roster Changes07:26 Pitching Staff Analysis10:56 Offensive Strategy and Lineup Concerns17:15 Expectations and Potential Outcomes21:41 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge continue to preview the 2026 SEC season with our preview episode on Tennessee.00:00 Introduction and Previous Episodes Recap00:44 Coaching Changes and Staff Overhaul02:50 Player Departures and Roster Rebuild04:20 Pitching Staff Analysis10:50 Offensive Lineup and Key Players16:51 Season Outlook and Key Matches18:43 Conclusion and Call to ActionHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge continue to preview the 2026 SEC season with our preview episode on Texas.00:00 Introduction and Previous Episodes Recap00:20 Texas Longhorns Season Overview01:18 Jim Schlossnagle's Tenure and Team Talent02:34 Pitching Staff Analysis04:04 Key Players and Transfers08:32 Lineup Strengths and Weaknesses14:26 Upcoming Season Expectations16:49 Conclusion and Future EpisodesHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge continue to preview the 2026 SEC season with our preview episode on Texas A&M.00:00 Introduction and Previous Episode Recap00:20 Reflecting on Texas A&M's 2025 Season01:27 Key Players and Injuries02:45 Highs and Lows of Last Season04:13 Looking Ahead: Team's Potential and Challenges08:56 Pitching Staff Analysis13:02 Defensive Concerns and Versatility16:07 Final Thoughts and Season Outlook18:54 Conclusion and Upcoming PreviewsHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge begin to preview the 2026 SEC baseball season with our preview episode on Vanderbilt.00:00 Welcome to Highway to Hoover01:27 Vanderbilt's 2025 Season Recap06:51 Analyzing Vanderbilt's 2026 Lineup12:02 Vanderbilt's Pitching Strengths17:11 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy is joined by new Tennessee head coach Josh Elander to discuss his first few weeks on the job, recent staff changes and additions, and much more.00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:44 Tennessee Head Coach Josh Elander's Early Days04:33 Staff Changes and New Additions10:22 Fall Training and Team Dynamics12:49 Facility Upgrades and Fan Experience14:19 On-Field Performance and Position Battles19:40 Pitching Staff and Competition24:38 ConclusionHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy, Mark Etheridge and Aaron Fitt draft all-star teams of incoming SEC transfers. Aaron is looking to repeat as champion, while Joe and Mark look to reverse their fortunes from a year ago.00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:36 Recap of Last Year's SEC Transfer Draft03:05 Draft Order and Ground Rules04:10 First-Round Picks06:25 Second-Round Picks07:42 Third-Round Picks09:05 Fourth-Round Picks11:19 Fifth-Round Picks14:26 Sixth-Round Picks17:49 Seventh-Round Picks20:40 Eighth-Round Picks24:27 Ninth-Round Picks26:34 Drafting Outfielders and Pitchers28:02 First-Base Picks and LSU Flavor29:50 South Carolina and Auburn Pitching Prospects32:16 Relievers and Final Picks44:45 Discussing Overlooked Players50:33 Closing Remarks and Future PlansHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Eric Reinsfelder is Rawlings' Vice President of Brand Sports. He joins Amy and Chris as a giant replica Gold Glove is installed on the roof of the Rawlings headquarters at Westport Plaza this morning. The glove is 30 feet tall. "We did a lot of engineering on this glove," says Reinsfelder, including dealing with 'bird mitigation' and FAA requirements.

Chris and Amy chat with former KMOX-intern, Chris Kerber about his memories of working for the station, plus why the Blues are struggling; Rawlings Exec Eric Reinsfelder talks about a new 'landmark' at Westport Plaza, a giant Gold Glove; Did you see this?

16-year-old Judy Rawlings was reported missing from her family's home on October 5th, 2001. Two weeks later, her body was found in the woods. Police have identified a suspect, but the murder remains unsolved over twenty years later. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the murder of Judy Rawlings. What is tougher on the family of a murder victim: to have no idea who the perpetrator is, or to have an idea, but the police are unable to charge that person? There is a person very much on the police radar in this case, and many signs are pointing to his involvement. But as we know, that is not enough.You can help support the show at patreon.com/truecrimeallthetimeVisit the show's website at truecrimeallthetime.com for contact, merchandise, and donation informationAn Emash Digital productionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

H3-Mon11/17/25-TheTaraShow- "Brooke Rawlings, US AG Sec announced she kicked off 700k off the SNAP rolls. " , " Trump just bailed out Argentina, a fake news claim" , " Zoran Mamdani wants to deploy social workers responding to 9-1-1 calls" , " Kash Patel said we are on the verge of the January 6th Pipe Bomber"

H3-Seg1-Mon11/17/25-TheTaraShow- "Brooke Rawlings, US AG Sec announced she kicked off 700k off the SNAP rolls."

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge discuss Joe's trip to see South Carolina, Auburn and Florida and Mark's look at LSU.00:00 Welcome to Highway to Hoover00:12 Fall Travels Recap02:57 South Carolina Baseball Insights14:26 Auburn Baseball Analysis24:47 Griffin Graves' Standout Performance26:50 Florida's Talent and Challenges28:20 Cade Kurland's Maturity at Bat35:14 LSU's Windy Game and Key Players46:23 Upcoming SEC Transfer DraftHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge discuss Mark's recent trip to see Florida and Georgia, and they preview their trips to see South Carolina, Auburn and LSU this weekend.00:00 Welcome and Introduction03:20 In-Depth Look at Florida Gators04:16 Spotlight on Tom Slater06:24 Florida Gators: Key Players and Performances16:48 Transition to Georgia Bulldogs17:15 Georgia Bulldogs: Roster and Key Players18:31 Key Returnees and New Faces for the Bulldogs19:26 First-Base Competition for Georgia20:01 Impact Player: Kenny Ishikawa from Seattle21:04 Freshmen and Transfers to Watch23:42 Offensive Strategy and Early-Season Expectations26:57 Upcoming Games and Key Matchups31:54 LSU: The Team to Beat34:00 Wrapping Up and Future EpisodesHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mergers and Acquisitions: Insights from BrokerVMA's Norma RawlingsIn this enlightening discourse, we engage with Norma Rawlings, the esteemed founder of BrokerVMA, who shares the nuanced complexities of valuations and mergers within the real estate sector. Norma's extensive experience, spanning nearly 25 years, imbues her insights with a depth of knowledge that is both compelling and informative. We delve into the intricacies of how real estate brokerages can strategize their exit plans to maximize value, highlighting the importance of aligning with potential buyers who share similar values and business philosophies. The conversation further explores the distinctions between the Canadian and American real estate landscapes, particularly in the context of operational practices and ancillary revenue generation. As we traverse these pivotal topics, it becomes evident that understanding one's unique market niche and building a legacy are paramount for success in this dynamic industry.In this insightful episode, Bill Risser welcomes Norma Rawlings, whose expertise in real estate valuations and mergers and acquisitions presents a rare perspective on the industry. Norma's journey from a family law attorney to a successful entrepreneur in real estate finance is a testament to her adaptability and keen business acumen. Throughout the conversation, she discusses the foundational principles of valuing real estate brokerages, stressing the significance of understanding the market value and the financial metrics that underpin successful transactions. The dialogue also touches upon the importance of fostering relationships that are mutually beneficial, thereby creating environments where both buyers and sellers can realize their aspirations. Norma shares compelling anecdotes from her experiences, illustrating the common pitfalls that brokers encounter when navigating the sale of their businesses, and the vital need for realistic expectations regarding valuations. The episode also explores the cultural nuances and regulatory frameworks that distinguish the Canadian real estate market from its American counterpart, offering listeners a comprehensive view of the industry's operational landscape.Takeaways: Bill Risser introduces the podcast as a platform for discussing real estate stories and insights, emphasizing its longevity and extensive episodes created over the years. Norma Rawlings shares her journey from family law to real estate, highlighting her educational background and the evolution of her career towards mergers and acquisitions. Broker VMA, co-founded by Norma, focuses on assisting real estate companies with valuations and mergers, aiming to help them exit successfully while maintaining their legacy. The conversation covers the differences between real estate practices in Canada and the U.S., particularly regarding revenue generation and regulatory environments. Norma's experiences reveal that a significant question from brokerage owners is about the worth of their business, emphasizing the importance of proper valuation processes. The podcast concludes with insights on the essential qualities for new real estate agents, stressing the value of expertise and local knowledge in developing a successful career. Links referenced in this episode:brokervma.com

Today's poem is about something very very spooky–a tough crust. Happy reading. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge discuss Josh Elander's hiring at Tennessee, Mark's in-person looks at Alabama and Mississippi State, and more.00:00 Welcome to Highway to Hoover00:35 Fall Weather and SEC Updates02:26 Tennessee's New Head Coach: Josh Elander13:43 Oklahoma's Fall Doubleheader Dominance16:30 Auburn's Banana Ball Experience18:58 Kentucky's Fall Doubleheader Against Morehead State21:59 Alabama and Mississippi State Fall Insights24:36 Analyzing Zane Adams' Performance27:04 Freshman Standouts: Myles Upchurch and Others32:45 Mississippi State's Roster Depth42:14 Upcoming Games and Key Players to Watch49:06 Conclusion and Sponsor AcknowledgmentHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Riley Rawlings on Van Sessions!   Support the program: https://t.ly/KsrVL   Van Sessions is Recorded at The Monarch in Ogden, Utah.   ARTIST | Riley Rawlings   FULL SET LIST Track 1 - The Middle Track 2 - For You Track 3 - Crazy On Me Track 4 - Doesn't Feel Right Track 5 - Patience Track 6 - Okay   ARTIST LINKS   INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/rileyrawlings/ SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1hfdkC91GVmtMJyN3Ksoxh?si=kxhsr1QAQuK8maiVpCq96A   PRESENTING SPONSORS   The Monarch Building: https://themonarchogden.com/ Lucky Slice Pizza: https://www.theluckyslice.com/   GRANTING SPONSOR   Ogden City Arts: https://ogdencity.com/707/Arts   CREDITS   Producer: The Banyan Collective Host: R. Brandon Long, brandon@thebanyancollective.com Bookings: Todd Oberndorfer, todd@thebanyancollective.com Audio Mix: Scott Rogers, The Proper Way https://theproperwayband.com/studio DOP: Dixon Stoddard, https://www.instagram.com/studios_d21/ Photography: Avery Atkinson: https://www.instagram.com/avery_atkinson_/   FOLLOW // SUBSCRIBE   Van Sessions Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vansessions/ Van Sessions Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevansessions Van Sessions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vansessionspod   Tip Jar:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia   The drive behind Van Sessions is to create a music discovery community for Northern Utah musicians to share their work, refine their craft, and network with other artists.   Van Sessions helps support local musicians, photographers, and videographers through our project. Show your support for local artists by subscribing to Van Sessions on YouTube @vansessionspod or search "Van Sessions Podcast" on your favorite podcast platform.   Join us live at the Monarch in Ogden every First Friday to be a part of the free concert and video podcast recording.   Bookings: todd@thebanyancollective.com

Riley Rawlings on Van Sessions!   Support the program: https://t.ly/KsrVL   Van Sessions is Recorded at The Monarch in Ogden, Utah.   ARTIST | Riley Rawlings   FULL SET LIST Track 1 - The Middle Track 2 - For You Track 3 - Crazy On Me Track 4 - Doesn't Feel Right Track 5 - Patience Track 6 - Okay   ARTIST LINKS   INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/rileyrawlings/ SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1hfdkC91GVmtMJyN3Ksoxh?si=kxhsr1QAQuK8maiVpCq96A   PRESENTING SPONSORS   The Monarch Building: https://themonarchogden.com/ Lucky Slice Pizza: https://www.theluckyslice.com/   GRANTING SPONSOR   Ogden City Arts: https://ogdencity.com/707/Arts   CREDITS   Producer: The Banyan Collective Host: R. Brandon Long, brandon@thebanyancollective.com Bookings: Todd Oberndorfer, todd@thebanyancollective.com Audio Mix: Scott Rogers, The Proper Way https://theproperwayband.com/studio DOP: Dixon Stoddard, https://www.instagram.com/studios_d21/ Photography: Avery Atkinson: https://www.instagram.com/avery_atkinson_/   FOLLOW // SUBSCRIBE   Van Sessions Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vansessions/ Van Sessions Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevansessions Van Sessions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vansessionspod   Tip Jar:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia   The drive behind Van Sessions is to create a music discovery community for Northern Utah musicians to share their work, refine their craft, and network with other artists.   Van Sessions helps support local musicians, photographers, and videographers through our project. Show your support for local artists by subscribing to Van Sessions on YouTube @vansessionspod or search "Van Sessions Podcast" on your favorite podcast platform.   Join us live at the Monarch in Ogden every First Friday to be a part of the free concert and video podcast recording.   Bookings: todd@thebanyancollective.com   #vansessions #musicdiscovery #localmusic #podcast #music #ogden #firstfriday #rileyrawlings

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge discuss Tony Vitello leaving Tennessee to manage the San Francisco Giants and the fallout of that decision in Knoxville. They also touch on the news that Florida head coach Kevin O'Sullivan is taking an indefinite leave of absence.00:00 Introduction and Hosts00:11 Tony Vitello's Move to the Giants03:26 Impact on College Baseball10:10 Tennessee's Future Without Vitello22:33 Potential Candidates for Tennessee34:08 Kevin O'Sullivan's Leave of Absence37:11 Conclusion and ThanksHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The death of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings at age 76 marks the end of a defining era in Ghana's political history. Known as the “Iron Lady,” she championed women's rights and empowerment for decades. Her passing, nearly five years after her husband Jerry John Rawlings, leaves a deep void and symbolizes the close of a significant chapter in Ghana's national story

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge catch up on fall storylines. They discuss Joe's in-person looks at Arkansas and Missouri before moving on to all of the exhibition game results of the last few weeks.00:00 Introduction and Host Updates01:37 Fall Ball Overview and Notebooks04:10 Arkansas Fall Ball Insights14:43 Missouri Fall Ball Analysis22:34 Exhibition Game Roundup27:04 Excitement for Texas Baseball27:26 Aiden Robbins: The Next Big Hitter?28:28 Ole Miss Fall Performance30:54 Kentucky's Impressive Comeback32:16 Kentucky's Depth and Potential40:18 Texas A&M's Fall Games44:30 Vanderbilt's Fall Exhibition51:47 Upcoming Fall Baseball ScheduleHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

(00:00-14:00) NLCS with the night off. ALCS resumes tonight. Can anyone stop the Dodgers? Some paranormal activity in Milwaukee for the Dodgers. The Pfister Hotel has some Dodgers spooked. Ghosts and demons.(14:08-29:33) Jeremy Rutherford joins us on-site at Rawlings for your two-part questions. JR's all dolled up today. What's been the difference in the last two from the season opener? Bolduc's hot start for Montreal. What makes an arena ass? The new white sweaters. Jimmy Snipes games played.(29:43-43:39) Tim has the 2025 Gold Glove Finalists in his hand right now. It's only fitting for Jackson Burkett to read them. Let's start with the Junior Circuit. Masyn Winn and Victor Scott are finalists.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How federal changes could impact Kentucky schools, how the government shutdown is impacting Kentucky, why a state lawmaker wants to abolish an inmate reentry program, and lessons a high school counselor learned about paying for college when it was time to send her own child off to school.

The Dawgs head on the road to Michigan this weekend and we can't find Cam Cleeland! We take a look at the matchup between the Dawgs and Wolverines. Is Demond Williams quietly in the Heisman race? :30- ANGIE MENTINK joins the show to give us her thoughts on this Mariners postseason so far and what it will take for them to finish things off. :45- The Gold Glove finalists were announced this morning and Julio made the list for centerfielders, but there was a VERY noticeable omission in the Catcher category… See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode Josh is joined by Joel to chat about Norths quiet trade window. Where do we go from here? How should we treat Simpkin as fans? And Finbar is a Crow!Follow the socials to get your thoughts read out on the podcast!Instagram: @furthernorthpodFacebook: Further North PodcastEmail: furthernorthpod@gmail.comTikTok: @furthernorthpodLeave a 5 star review on Apple or Spotify, you the real MVP!

(00:00-21:39) Brandon Walker had been high on Mizzou all season but now the relationship has turned. Audio of Walker going off on Mizzou fans after the loss to Alabama. Written apologies are demanded. Softly fired. The Gaylord Hotel. Oh no, we may have lost the sexy confidence.(21:48-33:36) Happy birthday to Jackson's mom! Doug's got foot rub jokes. Maybe Matthew Wilder will joins us tomorrow as a surprise guest. Audio of Jimmy Snipes talking about on his confidence and picking up two wins on the road trip. Column in The Athletic from JR talking about the effect Holloway and Broberg have had on the Blues and their price tag going up. Blues trying to get them re-signed quickly. Are we in a golden era for the St. Louis Blues, Doug?(33:46-41:49) That was then but we've flipped the page. Good news for Cardinal fans. According to Fan Graphs, the Cardinals have the highest ranked farm system. St. Louis: Home of the Catcher. Jackson's all-catcher team. Come grow with us. Tensions are high for tomorrow's remote. JR will join us live at Rawlings tomorrow.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy is joined by Nathan Wooldridge of Peak Events, the event company behind the early-season tournaments in Frisco, Round Rock, Jacksonville and Las Vegas. They discuss the history of the company, what goes on behind the scenes in putting these events on, how they chose the host cities for the events and much more.00:00 Introduction and Programming Note00:47 Welcome and Guest Introduction01:34 History of Peak Events03:49 Challenges and Successes of Organizing Tournaments05:24 Philanthropic Partnerships08:05 Behind the Scenes of Tournament Organization16:43 Networking and Building Relationships22:47 Future Events and Market Strategies29:39 Conclusion and FarewellHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy is joined by Patrick Ebert to discuss SEC players who played in the Northwoods League.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:07 Overview of the Northwoods League03:20 Comparing Northwoods League to Cape Cod League04:47 Breakout Players in the Northwoods League06:58 Ethan Surowiec: A Rising Star12:23 Henry Allen: A Promising Talent16:18 JP Robertson: A Pitching Prospect20:33 Troy's Aaron Piasecki A Standout Performer24:23 Impressive Stats and Recruitment Insights25:20 Erik Parker: Georgia-to-South Carolina Transfer26:59 Carson Hansen: From UW Milwaukee to Kentucky29:24 John Pearson: LSU's Promising Talent32:05 Junior College Coaches' Impact on Division One35:05 Rising Stars: Jake Reigert, Tate Strickland, and Sam Erickson41:05 Concluding Thoughts and FarewellHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

At ALEC's 52nd Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, Kentucky Sen. Steve Rawlings didn't just arrive as a first-time Policy Champion, he arrived as a fighter. An attorney by training and a lawmaker by conviction, Rawlings has been pushing back against unchecked bureaucratic power and laying the groundwork for reforms that protect liberty and strengthen state sovereignty. Special Guest: Steve Rawlings.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge discuss the recently released SEC conference schedule.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:12 Excitement Over SEC Schedule Drop00:50 Sponsorship Shoutout01:15 Deep Dive into SEC Schedules03:12 Philosophical Debate on Tough vs. Soft Schedules06:00 Analyzing Home vs. Away Games13:37 Spotlight on Mississippi State and Georgia17:36 Discussion on Easier Schedules23:33 Game Time: Series Selection33:39 Tough Road Series for Arkansas33:53 Auburn's Rising Program35:16 Tennessee at Georgia: SEC Weekend Opener36:47 Debating Key Series: Georgia at Arkansas38:50 Texas at Auburn: Early-Season Excitement40:15 LSU at Georgia: Late-Season Showdown41:38 Auburn at Alabama: The Iron Diamond43:28 South Carolina at LSU: Paul Mainieri's Return45:46 Florida at Georgia: Rivalry and Redemption47:26 LSU at Mississippi State: Atmosphere and Anticipation50:49 Tennessee at Vanderbilt: A Heated Rivalry52:09 Mississippi State at Ole Miss: The Ultimate Rivalry55:16 Texas at Tennessee: Top Five Matchup57:41 Texas at Texas A&M: The Slosh Bowl01:05:25 Concluding Thoughts and Upcoming EpisodesHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge react to their recent interviews with LSU's Jay Johnson and Mississippi State's Brian O'Connor before previewing fall ball across the SEC.00:00 Welcome and Episode Overview01:23 Sponsorship Shoutout02:44 Jay Johnson Interview Insights12:51 Brian O'Connor Interview Insights20:56 2025 Season Recap and 2026 Projections28:35 Kentucky's Pitching Potential32:33 Tennessee's Transfer Class33:06 Texas' Strong Roster34:01 Fall Plans and Team Visits34:49 Arkansas' Competitive Fall36:54 Missouri's Pitching and Offense39:31 South Carolina and Florida Previews41:23 Auburn's Newcomers42:01 October Weekend Plans44:58 Mississippi State and Florida State in Pensacola46:36 Georgia and LSU Previews48:50 Conclusion and Listener AppreciationHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy and Mark Etheridge are joined by new Mississippi State head coach Brian O'Connor to discuss his decision to take the job this summer, his thoughts on the roster he and his coaching staff has ready for 2026 and much more.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:43 Interview with Coach Brian O'Connor Begins02:11 Coach O'Connor on Mississippi State Opportunity03:36 Adjusting to Mississippi State and SEC06:30 Building and Managing the Team15:19 Fall Season and Player Development21:25 Freshmen and Transfers Impact26:23 Fall Exhibitions and Future Plans28:48 Conclusion and Upcoming EpisodesHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy discusses SEC prospects in the Cape Cod League for Brewster, Hyannis and Harwich before being joined by Florida sophomore Brendan Lawson.00:00 Welcome to Highway to Hoover00:06 Special Episode Overview01:47 Housekeeping and Announcements07:03 Brewster Whitecaps Standouts13:33 Hyannis Harbor Hawks Highlights18:21 Harwich Mariners Prospects22:37 Impressive Performance by Matthew Heiberger23:28 Rundown of Brewster, Hyannis, and Harwich Players23:49 Interview with Florida Sophomore Infielder Brendan Lawson24:26 Brendan Lawson's Canadian Baseball Journey27:41 Influence of Canadian Baseball Players30:59 Musical Tastes and Guitar Playing32:59 Freshman Season at Florida and Cape Cod League Experience35:17 Community Work and NIL Opportunities43:09 Looking Ahead to the Upcoming Season44:00 Conclusion and ThanksHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this special episode of Highway to Hoover, Mark Etheridge is joined by LSU head coach Jay Johnson to discuss the Tigers' run to the 2025 national championship, the 2026 team and much more.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:29 Jay Johnson's Journey to LSU02:13 Reflecting on Last Season's Offense04:46 Pitching Development and Key Players10:06 Challenges and Changes in College Baseball17:34 Upcoming Season and Player Insights28:49 Scheduling and Future Plans30:07 Final Thoughts and FarewellHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Early in August, Record Store Day held their annual "Summer Camp" meeting in New Orleans, once again returning to the lovely Hotel Monteleone, in the heart of the French Quarter, for a few days of meeting, schmoozing, and, frankly, Big Easy cuisine. During the week, host Paul Myers recorded a couple of live interviews with musicians talking about their approach to the music business in 2025.  Today, we are sharing one of them. Guitarist, singer, songwriter, producer David Rawlings, whose most recent album with Gillian Welch, Woodland, was one of the best records of 2024, sat down with Paul in the Hotel Monteleone ballroom to discuss his duo's truly independent, and self-reliant, approach to the business of music making and distribution. Welch and Rawlings are co-owners of Nashville's Woodland Studio, their own Acony Records label, and now, they are partners in their own prestige pressing facility, Paramount Pressing & Plating, in Denver, Colorado. It's a fun talk! The Record Store Day Podcast is a weekly music chat show written, produced, engineered and hosted by Paul Myers, who also composed the theme music and selected interstitial music.  Executive Producers (for Record Store Day) Michael Kurtz and Carrie Colliton. For the most up-to-date news about all things RSD, visit RecordStoreDay.com   Please consider subscribing to our podcast wherever you get podcasts, and tell your friends, we're here every week and we love making new friends!

On this episode of Highway to Hoover, Joe Healy is joined by David Seifert, Director of College Scouting for D1Baseball and PrepBaseball.com, to discuss SEC prospects in the Cape Cod League for Bourne, Wareham, Cotuit and Falmouth. That group includes Arkansas slugger Kuhio Aloy, Auburn incoming transfer infielder Ryne Farber and CCBL MVP and incoming Arkansas transfer Maika Niu, among others.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:37 Sponsorship Message01:11 Cape Cod Baseball League Experience03:36 Bourne Braves Championship and Key Players06:43 Vanderbilt Prospects Spotlight13:18 Wareham Gatemen Highlights15:30 Tennessee's Levi Clark: A Special Talent15:55 Hayden Yost: Florida's Outfield Gem17:05 Ryne Farber: Auburn's Solid Acquisition18:39 Camden Johnson: Oklahoma's New Third Baseman20:31 Maika Niu: Arkansas' Rising Star23:51 Deven Sheerin: LSU's Bullpen Hopeful25:47 Bear Harrison: Texas A&M's Powerhouse Catcher27:18 Justin Osterhouse: Alabama's Versatile Infielder29:34 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsHighway To Hoover is brought to you by Academy Sports + Outdoors—your go-to destination for everything you need this baseball season. Whether you're gearing up for game day or sharpening your skills in the offseason, Academy has the bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel to help you bring it home for less. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of top brands like Easton, Rawlings, and Wilson, Academy makes it easy to step up to the plate with confidence. Shop in-store or online at Academy.com and get ready to play ball!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last time we spoke about the atomic bombing of Nagasaki. In the summer of 1945, Japan faced its most devastating siege, characterized by an aerial campaign called "Starvation" that crippled its industrial capabilities. As resources dwindled and chaos reigned, the Allies intensified their firebombing efforts, targeting major cities. By July, Japan was on the brink of collapse, culminating in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, where over 140,000 lives were altered or lost in a blinding flash. As the nation reeled from the destruction, the Japanese leadership was torn between surrender and continuing the fight. They faced not just the threat of American bombs, but also a Soviet invasion looming on the horizon. Days after Hiroshima, the atomic bomb "Fat Man" was dropped on Nagasaki on August 9, resulting in catastrophic casualties and extensive industrial losses. This attack further devastated an already weakened Japan, leaving the Emperor and his government grappling with the dire consequences. This episode is the Invasion of Manchuria Welcome to the Pacific War Podcast Week by Week, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about world war two? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on world war two and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel you can find a few videos all the way from the Opium Wars of the 1800's until the end of the Pacific War in 1945.    August 9 stands as a catastrophic day in Japanese history. On this day, the nation faced the devastating impact of a second atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki, along with the relentless Soviet invasion of Manchuria. Admiral Ivan Yumashev's Pacific Fleet moved to disrupt Japan's maritime communications in the Sea of Japan and provide support for offensive operations. At the same time, Soviet air forces targeted cities across Northeast Asia, striking both Manchuria and North Korea, as well as Japanese convoys in the Sea of Japan. General Twinning led a diversionary B-29 raid on Amagasaki, followed by a significant attack involving 108 aircraft on the rail yards at Marifu. In addition, Admiral Halsey's 3rd Fleet launched more strikes against airfields in northern Honshu and Hokkaido, where U.S. intelligence suspected a large Japanese air fleet and commando force was preparing for a desperate mission to Okinawa. Japanese paratroopers were gearing up for a new mission, codenamed Ken-go, but this time their target wasn't Okinawa. Similar to the earlier May 24 Raid on Yontan Airfield, Lieutenant General Sugawara Michio's Giretsu Kuteitai, also known as the “Heroic Paratroopers,” set their sights on the B-29 complex in the Mariana Islands for nighttime suicide raids. This operation marked the second planned assault on bases within the Mariana Islands, specifically aimed at destroying B-29 bombers. The plan involved deploying 60 transport aircraft to deliver 900 commandos during the nights of August 19 to 23. Around 300 personnel from Lieutenant Commander Daiji Yamaoka's 1st Kure Special Naval Landing Force initiated preparations at the end of June. Originally established for submarine-delivered raids on U.S.-held islands, these forces were now adapted to be flown in 30 Mitsubishi G4M 'Betty' twin-engine bombers, which had the necessary range for an unrefueled, one-way trip to the Marianas. The raid was initially scheduled for July 24. However, ten days earlier, U.S. carrier-based warplanes had attacked Misawa naval air base on Honshu Island, damaging or destroying many of the operation's bombers. Consequently, the raid was postponed to August 19, with the addition of 30 transport planes and 300 paratroopers from the army's 1st Raiding Regiment. Ultimately, however, on August 15, Japan surrendered, and Operation Ken-go was cancelled. Meanwhile, Admiral Shafroth's Bombardment Group unleashed heavy damage on the Kamaishi steel mill. The day after, to assist the Soviets, Halsey ordered additional airstrikes on northern Japanese airfields, causing extensive destruction. However, these were not isolated incidents; they were part of a sustained air-sea siege that had been intensifying for several months. The Allied blockade of Japan had severely impacted food imports, and industrial activity had nearly ground to a halt due to the ongoing blockade and bombings. By this point, six of Japan's ten largest cities had been completely destroyed, and over sixty smaller cities had been reduced to ashes from relentless incendiary raids. This scenario was a powerful manifestation of War Plan Orange in action. More critically, with the reality of Hiroshima's destruction echoing loudly, the Japanese government now grappled with the impending threat of complete annihilation, a grim reality they had never faced before in this war. Though they had recognized their defeat with the loss of Saipan and the initial Yawata raid, the stubborn resolve of the Japanese leadership had pushed them to prolong the conflict for an agonizing 14 months, clinging to the hope of a different outcome. Many now believed that peace was the only path to survival for the Japanese nation. As the crisis intensified, Prime Minister Suzuki and his cabinet engaged in heated discussions. He sought to persuade War Minister General Anami Korechika and Chief of the Army General Staff General Umezu Yoshijiro to accept the Potsdam Declaration on August 9. However, Suzuki and the militants could only agree that if there were any surrender, then it should ensure that the "national polity" or imperial family would continue in any postwar settlement. Anami and Umezu pushed for further, more favourable conditions. First, Japan would demobilize and disarm any IJA or IJN forces overseas. Second, Japanese courts would prosecute any war criminals. Third, after surrender the Allies would not occupy Japan. Chief of the Navy General Staff, Admiral Toyoda Soemu, agreed with Anami and Umezu. To break this deadlock, it became necessary to involve the Emperor directly. Around 2:00 AM on August 10, the cabinet convened with Emperor Hirohito, who ultimately agreed to accept the Potsdam Declaration and ordered an end to all military efforts, initiating the surrender process. Faced with no viable alternatives, all present reached a unanimous agreement. That morning, the Japanese government, through Swedish and Swiss intermediaries, sent an offer to accept the Potsdam Declaration, stipulating one condition: there would be no change to Japan's government structure, with Hirohito retaining his title as Emperor and sovereign ruler. Months afte the war Hirohito said this about his decision to surrender “The main motive behind my decision at that time was that if we . . . did not act, the Japanese race would perish and I would be unable to protect my loyal subjects [sekishi—literally, “children”]. Second, Kido agreed with me on the matter of defending the kokutai. If the enemy landed near Ise Bay, both Ise and Atsuta Shrines would immediately come under their control. There would be no time to transfer the sacred treasures [regalia] of the imperial family and no hope of protecting them. Under these circumstances, protection of the kokutai would be difficult. For these reasons, I thought at the time that I must make peace even at the sacrifice of myself.” Simultaneously, a new military campaign was underway, and several units of General Yamada's Kwantung Army were unexpectedly caught off-guard in Manchuria. In response, he implemented emergency measures and ordered commands to proceed with their plans for delaying operations. Upon learning of the Soviet declaration of war and the subsequent invasion led by Marshal Vasilevsky's Far East Command, Tokyo decided to place General Kozuki's 17th Area Army under the Kwantung Army. Furthermore, they instructed General Okamura Yasuji's China Expeditionary Army to transfer one army headquarters, along with six divisions and six brigades, to support this effort. As directed by Tokyo, the primary objective of the Kwantung Army was to defend Japanese territory in Korea. However, by the end of the first day of conflict, several border observation units had been completely destroyed while attempting to defend their positions. In the east, Lieutenant General Shimizu Noritsune's 5th Army, supported by the reinforced 128th Division, was confronting the main assault by Marshal Meretskov's 1st Far Eastern Front. To the south, Lieutenant General Murakami Keisaku's 3rd Army was engaged in defending against multiple penetrations along the border. In the northern sector, the 134th Division at Chiamussu was withdrawing towards Fangcheng, as planned, while flames engulfed Japanese houses in the city. General Uemura's 4th Army was preparing to face what they expected to be the main assault from General Purkayev's 2nd Far Eastern Front. Meanwhile, the 119th Division had already departed Hailar for Wunoerh, leaving only the 80th Independent Mixed Brigade behind. To the west, Lieutenant General Hongo Yoshio's 44th Army was confronting the formidable armored spearhead of Marshal Malinovsky's Transbaikal Front. Southwest of their position, the 108th Division was redeploying to the Chinhsien area. On August 10, the offensive led by Vasilevsky continued, as Colonel General Ivan Managarov's 53rd Army began crossing the border behind the now distant 6th Guards Tank Army. Recognizing that the 44th Army was not prepared to engage the overwhelming enemy armor in guerrilla warfare across the expansive terrain of western Manchuria, General Ushiroku made the independent decision to order Hongo to retreat to the Dairen-Hsinking line. This was where Lieutenant General Iida Shojiro's 30th Army was already establishing defensive positions. This decision contradicted Yamada's main strategy, which called for delaying the enemy advance at the borders.  Faced with what they deemed an illegal order, the Kwantung Army Headquarters convened an urgent staff conference. During this meeting, several opinions emerged: a sudden shift from established plans would likely create confusion; any attempt to counterattack after a withdrawal would likely fail if the enemy advanced quickly; and abandoning forward airfields prematurely would enable the enemy to advance unimpeded. To most participants, General Ushiroku's decision seemed to deliver a potentially fatal blow to the overall operational direction of the Kwantung Army Headquarters. However, since the 44th Army had already begun its withdrawal as ordered by General Ushiroku, Kwantung Army Headquarters was left with a fait accompli. Thus, they felt compelled to uphold the decision of the Third Area Army Commander, which was subsequently approved by General Yamada. Meanwhile, General Pliyev's cavalry-mechanized units advanced rapidly toward Kalgan and Dolonnor, reaching the foothills of the Grand Khingan Mountains. General Danilov's 17th Army also continued to encounter weak resistance, covering an additional 40 kilometers. General Lyudnikov's 39th Army bypassed the encircled 107th Division in the Halung-Arshaan and Wuchakou Fortified Regions. Here, the 5th Guards Rifle Corps moved toward Solun and Tepossi, while the 113th Rifle Corps advanced southeast toward Wangyemiao. The 94th Rifle Corps had to divert southward to support the 124th Rifle Division. In the east, General Luchinsky's 36th Army launched ongoing attacks against Hailar, with the 2nd Rifle Corps bypassing it to the east. Meanwhile, General Kravchenko's 6th Guards Tank Army reorganized its right-wing column and began crossing the Grand Khingan Mountains during the night, with both columns entering the central Manchurian plain by August 11. To the east, Meretskov continued his offensive. The 17th, 65th, and 72nd Rifle Corps of General Krylov's 5th Army advanced swiftly west and south, ultimately securing Machiacho, Laotsaiying, Suiyang, and Suifenho. This maneuver widened the zone of penetration to 75 kilometers and forced the 126th and 135th Divisions to withdraw their main forces to Yehho. In support, General Beloborodov's 1st Red Banner Army to the north broke through into open terrain, pushing rapidly westward to occupy parts of the cities of Pamientung and Lishuchen, along with their vital bridges across the Muleng River. Further south, General Chistyakov's 25th Army captured Tungning and successfully reduced its fortified region. Units in that area also secured Tumentzu, Hunchun, and Wuchiatzu. Lastly, General Zakhvatayev's 35th Army continued its operations far to the north. The 264th Rifle Division and the 109th Fortified Region seized Hutou and initiated a movement west along the railroad toward Hulin, while the 363rd and 66th Rifle Divisions pressed on with their advance northwestward. In northern Manchuria, General Purkayev continued his main assault, with General Mamonov's 15th Army reconnoitering key enemy strongholds south of the Amur River. After successfully crossing the river, the 34th Rifle Division and the 203rd Tank Brigade occupied Lopei and advanced through Fenghsiang to bypass the Hsingshanchen Fortified Region, leaving a force behind to reduce it. Meanwhile, the 361st Rifle Division captured Tungchiang, and the 388th Rifle Division secured Chienchingkou, preparing for an advance toward Fuchin. In support of these operations, General Pashkov's 5th Rifle Corps cleared Japanese forces from the Jaoho Fortified Region, while General Teryokhin's 2nd Red Banner Army was preparing to launch its offensive the following morning. On August 11, forward units landed at Heiho, Aihun, and Holomoching under the cover of artillery fire, quickly establishing a beachhead as additional forces crossed the Amur. However, due to a lack of crossing equipment, it took five days to transport all units across the river. Consequently, Teryokhin had to commit his forces piecemeal against the 123rd Division and the 135th Independent Mixed Brigade. This was not the only new offensive operation initiated by Purkayev on this day. A new target had emerged: South Sakhalin, known as Karafuto to the Japanese. As per Vasilevsky's plans, Major-General Leonty Cheremisov's 16th Army was deployed on North Sakhalin and along the mainland coast of the Tatar Strait, stretching from Sovetskaya Gavan to Nikolaevsk-on-Amur. If the invasion of Manchuria continued to progress favorably, this force was set to attack the Japanese-controlled portion of the island alongside the Northern Pacific Flotilla, commanded by Vice-Admiral Vladimir Andreyev, which was prepared to conduct amphibious operations against Esutoru and Maoka on the island's west coast. Opposing the Soviet forces, General Higuchi of the 5th Area Army positioned Lieutenant General Mineki Toichiro's 88th Division in the southern part of South Sakhalin, with only the 125th Regiment stationed to the north. Sakhalin shared many characteristics with several of the Manchukuoan border areas, presenting challenging terrain for mechanized warfare. The only viable invasion route south from the border at the 50th Parallel followed the Poronay River, located more or less in the center of the island. This river flows southward, flanked to the east and west by forested mountain ranges, as well as countless swamps and bogs. Both sides recognized the strategic importance of this potential invasion route and constructed extensive fortification networks. The Japanese fortifications were collectively known as the Koton, or Haramitog, fortified region. These defenses were built in three interlinked layers, with their western flanks anchored in the mountain range and eastern flanks in the wooded, swampy river valley. The permanent defenses spanned approximately 12 kilometers in frontage and extended up to 30 kilometers in depth, containing over 350 bunkers, pillboxes, artillery positions, and similar fortifications. These were protected by an elaborate network of infantry trenches, anti-tank ditches, minefields, and barbed wire. The heavy forest and brush made it challenging to locate these defenses. While enough vegetation had been cleared to allow for effective defensive fire, sufficient cover remained to obscure them from an attacking force. Consequently, the 16th Army would confront these formidable defenses without the advantage of surprise. At daybreak on August 9, reports emerged that the Soviet Army had unexpectedly invaded Manchuria from multiple directions. By 8:00 AM, telegraph lines were cut near Handa, a village located at the center of the Russo-Japanese border in Sakhalin. An excellent military road connected Handa to Kamishikuks, a region known as the Central Military Road area. At the same time, reports indicated that enemy forces were attacking the observation posts in this area. On August 10,  observation posts were forced to withdraw as the Soviet Army gradually advanced toward our main position in the Happo Mountains, situated about 10 kilometers south of the border. That evening, it was reported that the 125th Infantry had engaged in a skirmish, during which the Isunisawa Platoon, fighting near the Handa River bridge for over five hours, was wiped out. On that same day, the commander of the Fifth Area Army declared that not only had the Army engaged Soviet forces, but civilians in the area, including office workers and laborers, had also joined the battle in a desperate attempt to halt the advancing Soviet Army. By August 13, the National Volunteer Combat Teams were summoned. The recruitment of these volunteer combat teams from the general populace was unique to the Sakhalin campaign, aimed at creating the appearance of military readiness to deter the Soviet advance. Additionally, the 125th Regiment executed demolitions while retreating to establish stronger defensive positions on the western flank of Happo Mountain, northwest of Furuton. Given the unexpectedly favorable developments in Manchuria, the invasion of South Sakhalin was authorized on August 10. General Yumashev further directed Vice-Admiral Andreyev's naval forces to commence attacks on both South Sakhalin and the Kuriles. Major General Georgii Dziuba's air forces joined the effort, conducting reconnaissance flights over key Japanese ports that revealed Toro and Esutoru were almost entirely unprotected. In the early hours of August 11, the 56th Rifle Corps crossed the border and began its main advance along the central military road but encountered resistance at Handa, where around 100 defenders held them up for an entire day. Back in northern Manchuria, the 5th Rifle Corps embarked on a challenging march southwest toward Paoching, while Mamonov launched a bombing raid followed by an attack on Fuchin, which ultimately fell after a coordinated tank-infantry assault. Concurrently, the 4th Army headquarters and the bulk of the 149th Division received orders to retreat from Tsitsihar to Harbin. To the south, the 112th Fortified Region and the 6th Field Fortified Region crossed the Muleng River south of Mishan during the night. In the following days, they collaborated with units from the 35th Army to secure the Mishan Fortified Region. More importantly, the 26th and 59th Rifle Corps successfully secured Pamientung and Lishuchen, initiating a pursuit of withdrawing Japanese forces to the west and southwest. On August 11, the 5th Army advance continued, with reinforced forward detachments of the 65th and 72nd Rifle Corps reaching the Muleng River and preparing for an advance on Mutanchiang. At this juncture, Meretskov reassessed the situation and determined that his best opportunity for successful exploitation in the front zone lay within the 25th Army area. Consequently, he attached the 17th and 88th Rifle Corps to this command and placed the 10th Mechanized Corps in army reserve. This allowed the 17th and 39th Rifle Corps to commence a coordinated advance toward Wangching, Tumen, Tunhua, and Kirin. Looking west, Pliyev's units continued to encounter minimal resistance. The 17th Army was finally nearing the western foothills of the Grand Khingan Mountains. The lead brigade of the 5th Guards Tank Corps reached Lupei, while the 7th Guards Mechanized Corps completed its crossing of the Grand Khingan Mountains. The 39th Army maintained its holding operations against the Halung-Arshaan and Wuchakou Fortified Regions, coupled with main advances toward Solun and Wangyemiao. The 2nd Rifle Corps and the 205th Tank Brigade advanced along the railroad to Yakoshih. The 94th Rifle Division, supported by air and artillery, launched an assault and captured the southwestern portion of Hailar city before being reinforced by the entire 86th Rifle Corps. Meanwhile, the Soviet operational group on the right flank of the 36th Army broke through Japanese resistance at Manchouli, moving eastward along the rail line to join the Soviet forces besieging Hailar. As the Soviet armored units in the west made an unexpectedly swift advance, they were anticipated to reach Hsinking by August 15. On this same day, Yamada decided to relocate his headquarters to Tunghua. Additionally, during the night, a small naval force successfully conducted an assault landing at Yuki in North Korea, securing the port unopposed on August 12. Simultaneously, the 393rd Rifle Division pushed south into North Korea, quickly reaching Yuki before continuing toward Rashin. There, another small naval force landed on August 12, facing minimal resistance except for artillery fire. Meanwhile, the 25th Army advanced up to 40 kilometers in its main march southwest, prompting the commitment of the 10th Mechanized Corps to exploit further toward Wangching and beyond. The 5th Army had to eliminate a strong enemy position east of Taimakou before it could resume its advance to Mutanchiang. The 1st Red Banner Army pressed forward relentlessly, with the 26th Rifle Corps successfully bypassing Tzuhsingtun to advance on Hsientung, cutting the Linkou-Mutanchiang railroad line. The 363rd Rifle Division occupied Mishan while the 264th Rifle Division secured Hulin. The 171st Tank Brigade began a challenging advance southwest toward Chiamussu as the 15th Army reduced the Fuchin fortified region. Forward detachments of the 2nd Red Banner Army engaged Japanese advanced positions south of Holomoching and north of Aihun. After reducing Handa, the 56th Rifle Corps commenced an advance toward Furuton, although it faced delays from small enemy forces. Furthermore, in western Manchuria, Pliyev's Soviet-Mongolian formations and the 17th Army continued their advance through Inner Mongolia largely unopposed for the next two days. Throughout 12 and 13 August on the Trans-Baikal Front's right flank, the Soviet-Mongolian formations of General Pliyev swept across the Inner Mongolian deserts towards Dolonnor and Kalgan at a rate of ninety to one hundred kilometers a day, rudely shunting aside local cavalry forces. Pliyev's principal concern was providing his forces in the vast desert wastes sufficient food, fuel, fodder, and water. The 6th Guards Tank Army had to temporarily halt its advance as the 7th Guards Mechanized Corps reached Tuchuan. This pause was necessary due to severe fuel shortages, requiring an increase in fuel supplies before the offensive could resume. This situation allowed Ushiroku to withdraw the 63rd and 117th Divisions before they could be engaged. However, the 107th Division was less fortunate, as it was attacked by the 5th Guards Rifle Corps on the road to Solun. On the northern flank, the 36th Army continued its siege of the Hailar fortifications while the 2nd Rifle Corps seized Yakoshih and advanced up to Wunoerh. That day, Japan also received the initial Allied response to its surrender offer, penned by Secretary of State James Byrnes and approved by the British, Chinese, and Soviet governments. A critic of the Japanese imperial system, Byrnes insisted on an unconditional surrender but remained ambiguous regarding the future of the imperial family's position. The response included a statement that Japan's future form of government should be “established by the freely expressed will of the Japanese people.” Thus, even though the Soviet and Chinese governments aimed for the abolition of the imperial system, the Japanese could choose to retain their emperor, and likely would. Meanwhile, Secretary Stimson urged President Truman to accept the peace offer immediately, believing that, without an organized surrender supported by the emperor, U.S. forces would face “a score of bloody Iwo Jimas and Okinawas” across China and Southeast Asia. He cautioned that without the immediate capitulation of the Imperial Japanese Army and Navy, rogue military commanders might continue to resist. Retaining Hirohito would also aid Allied efforts to achieve a swift and orderly reconstruction while maintaining a compliant populace. The Japanese cabinet deliberated over the Allied response, with Anami and Suzuki, among other key military figures, arguing for its rejection unless an explicit guarantee for the imperial system was provided. Ultimately, however, Foreign Minister Togo and Marquess Kido Koichi succeeded in persuading Suzuki to support the acceptance of Byrnes' reply. Meanwhile, President Truman issued instructions prohibiting any further atomic weapons from being dropped on Japan without his approval, and he later ordered a complete halt to all bombings. Despite this, Halsey's 3rd Fleet remained in the area, preparing to launch additional strikes. Admiral Rawlings' Task Force 37 unfortunately had to retire at this point, though a token force was integrated into Admiral McCain's Task Force 38 to ensure British support until the end.  The Olympic timetable had called for Third Fleet to retire to Eniwetok and Manus in mid-August, but late on the night of August 10 Missouri intercepted a cryptic radio transmission: “Through the Swiss government, Japan has stated that she is willing to accept Allied surrender ultimatum at Potsdam, provided they can keep their Emperor.” Halsey had long predicted an early Japanese collapse, and had accordingly kept his logistic pipeline full. The following morning, August 11, flagships Missouri and King George V refueled simultaneously alongside oiler USS Sabine. Halsey recalled, “I went across to the ‘Cagey Five' as we called her, on an aerial trolley, just to drink a toast with Vice Admiral Rawlings.” Although Japan teetered near collapse, TF-37 lacked its own fast oilers and would have to retire immediately. With Nimitz's permission Halsey offered to sustain a token British force with Third Fleet so that the Royal Navy would be in “at the death.” Rawlings enthusiastically accepted. After replenishment, King George V, Indefatigable, Gambia, Newfoundland, and ten destroyers were re-designated TG-38.5 and absorbed into McCain's TF-38. The rest of TF-37, under Vian, reluctantly retired for Manus. In a truly desultory attack the following day, August 12, a single Japanese plane penetrated Buckner Bay, Okinawa undetected and torpedoed TF-95's just-arrived battleship Pennsylvania. Twenty Americans were killed, while Oldendorf and nine others were wounded. Back off Honshu, Halsey canceled August 12 strikes due to a typhoon. Late that night Third Fleet intercepted a confusing and ambiguous radio bulletin announcing that Japan had, with qualifications, accepted Allied terms. After a heated staff conference Halsey decided that, without firmer information, the following day's strikes were still on. Nevertheless, the prolonged negotiations were causing the Third Fleet considerable logistical problems; Halsey recalled, “Our galleys were reduced to serving dehydrated carrot salad. If the war was over, we could provision on the spot; if it was not, we would have to retire, reprovision, and return.” That night, a group of officers led by Major Hatanaka Kenji and Colonel Arao Okikatsu approached Anami, seeking his backing for a coup d'état to prevent Japan's surrender. Anami refused, leaving Hatanaka's conspirators to attempt the coup on their own. At the recommendation of American psychological operations experts, B-29 bombers spent August 13 dropping leaflets over Japan detailing the Japanese offer of surrender and the Allied response. In stark contrast, that same day, McCain's newly Anglo-American TF-38 launched 1,167 sorties against Tokyo, expending 372 tons of bombs and 2,175 rockets. Only seven planes and one pilot were lost, none to combat. Airborne opposition was virtually nil, as Lieutenant-General Kanetoshi Kondo, commander of Tokyo's defending 10th Hiko Shidan, “failed to urge his men to press the attack to the utmost, because it seemed absurd to incur additional losses with the war obviously lost and its termination due in a matter of days.”  Simultaneously, Suzuki's cabinet debated their reply to the Allied response late into the night but remained deadlocked. Back in Manchuria, on August 13, the 6th Guards Tank Army resumed its offensive by pushing reconnaissance units toward Tungliao and Taonan. The 39th Army continued its assault on Japanese units at Halung-Arshaan, while the 5th Guards Rifle Corps attacked and captured Solun. To the north, as the battle for Hailar raged on, the 2nd Rifle Corps engaged the determined 119th Division for control of the Grand Khingan passes west of Pokotu, achieving little progress over the next two days. Looking east, the 2nd Red Banner Army gathered sufficient forces to resume its offensive, successfully penetrating the defenses of the 123rd Division at Shenwutan and Chiko. They destroyed small Japanese outposts at Huma and Santaoka, further pushing the 135th Independent Mixed Brigade toward the main fortified region at Aihun. Additionally, the 15th Army reduced the fortified positions at Fuchin, while the 171st Tank Brigade continued its advance toward Chiamussu. To the south, the 66th Rifle Division finally occupied Tungan, cutting the highway and railroad to Hutou. Meanwhile, the 59th Rifle Corps reached and secured Linkou before turning south toward Mutanchiang. Advance elements of the 26th Rifle Corps attacked and occupied the railroad station at Hualin, though they could not secure crossing sites over the Mutan River due to the fierce resistance of a single battalion. During the night, heavy Japanese counterattacks forced Soviet forces back to a hill northeast of Hualin. More importantly, while the 45th Rifle Corps continued to reduce remaining Japanese strongpoints in the Volynsk, Suifenho, and Lumintai centers of resistance, the bulk of the 5th Army advanced 30 kilometers along the road and rail line, successfully approaching the outer fortifications of Mutanchiang by nightfall. Even farther south, the 25th Army pushed southwestward, with its three formations sharing a single road along the military rail line through the mountainous, heavily wooded area from Laoheishan to Heitosai. In South Sakhalin, the 56th Rifle Corps launched a siege attack against Furuton. However, the fierce resistance of the 125th Regiment successfully repelled Soviet assaults for the next three days. On the same day, in preparation for an amphibious invasion of Toro, two naval patrol craft reconnoitered Esutoru. Additionally, Meretskov approved the Seishin Operation in North Korea, leading to another small naval force landing successfully at Chongjin that afternoon. Soon after, they faced a strong Japanese counterattack, which drove the landing force out of the port and inflicted heavy losses on the Russians. The following morning, a naval infantry battalion was landed to retake Chongjin, but Japanese reinforcements from the Nanam Divisional District Unit arrived to contest the port. As the Russians were pushed back again, Yumashev decided to embark the 13th Naval Infantry Brigade for a third assault scheduled for August 15. To the north, the 393rd Rifle Division advanced south along the coast, reaching Kwangjuryong by August 14. Concurrently, after breaking through the 128th Division's main defenses at Lotzukou, the 25th Army reached Heitosai and prepared to launch its main attack against Murakami's 3rd Army. The 5th Army struck the right flank of Shimizu's 5th Army at Ssutaoling and in the hills southeast of Mutanchiang, while the 1st Red Banner Army attacked the northern and eastern flanks of the city and the railroad station at Yehho on the eastern bank of the Mutan River. The 35th Army began a rapid advance toward Poli and Linkou, encountering negligible opposition. Meanwhile, the 5th Rifle Corps reached Paoching, drove off its garrison, and continued marching toward Poli. In addition, the 15th Army finally reduced the Hsingshanchen Fortified Region, opening a more direct advance route toward Chiamussu. Meanwhile, the 2nd Red Banner Army succeeded in breaking through the outer Japanese defenses to besiege the Sunwu Fortified Region and surround the Aihun Fortified Region. To the west, the 36th Army continued to encounter strong resistance at Hailar and Wunoerh. The 5th Guards Rifle Corps initiated a southeastward pursuit along the railroad toward Wangyemiao, eventually catching elements of the 107th Division at Tepossi, while also engaging Japanese units retreating from the Wuchakou area. The forward detachment of the 7th Guards Mechanized Corps occupied Taonan after a march hindered by wet weather and Japanese kamikaze attacks. The 17th Army captured Taopanshin, and Pliyev's left column overcame a small Manchurian cavalry force, entering Dolonnor at the east end of the pass across the southern Grand Khingan Mountains. Back in the Pacific, the Allies grew restless as they awaited a Japanese response, ultimately interpreting the silence as a non-acceptance of the imposed peace terms. Consequently, Truman ordered a resumption of attacks against Japan at maximum intensity. More than 400 B-29 bombers launched daylight attacks, while over 300 conducted night raids, culminating in what would become the largest and longest bombing raid of the Pacific War. Furthermore, Truman began planning to drop a third atomic bomb on Tokyo. However, before he could proceed, Emperor Hirohito met with the most senior Army and Navy officers in the early hours of August 14, convincing them to cooperate in ending the war. The cabinet immediately convened and unanimously ratified the Emperor's wishes for an unconditional surrender. They also decided to destroy vast amounts of material related to war crimes and the war responsibilities of the nation's highest leaders. Shortly after concluding the conference, a group of senior army officers, including Anami, gathered in a nearby room and signed an agreement to execute the Emperor's order of surrender. This decision would significantly impede any attempts to incite a coup in Tokyo. During this meeting, General Kawabe Torashirō, Vice Chief of the Army General Staff, proposed that the senior officers present should each sign an agreement to carry out the Emperor's order of surrender, "The Army will act in accordance with the Imperial Decision to the last." An agreement was ultimately signed by each of the most important officers present, including Minister of War Anami, Chief of the Army General Staff Umezu, commander of the 1st General Army Field Marshal Sugiyama Hajime, commander of the 2nd General Army Field Marshal Hata Shunroku and Inspector-General of Military Training Doihara Kenji. When Umezu voiced concern about air units causing trouble, Vice Minister of War Wakamatsu Tadaichi took the agreement next door to the Air General Army headquarters, where its commander Kawabe Masakazu, the brother of Torashirō also signed. The document would serve to seriously impede any attempt to incite a coup in Tokyo. Simultaneously, the Foreign Ministry transmitted orders to its embassies in Switzerland and Sweden to accept the Allied terms of surrender, which were received in Washington at 02:49 on August 14. Anticipating difficulties with senior commanders on distant war fronts, three princes of the Imperial Family, who held military commissions, were dispatched to deliver the news personally. By 19:00, the text of the Imperial Rescript on surrender was finalized, transcribed by the official court calligrapher, and presented to the cabinet for their signatures. Around 23:00, the Emperor, with assistance from an NHK recording crew, made a gramophone record of himself reading the rescript. At long last, Japan had admitted defeat.  However at around 21:30 on 14 August, the conspirators led by Hatanaka set their plan into motion. The Second Regiment of the First Imperial Guards had entered the palace grounds, doubling the strength of the battalion already stationed there, presumably to provide extra protection against Hatanaka's rebellion. But Hatanaka, along with Lt. Col. Shiizaki Jirō, convinced the commander of the 2nd Regiment of the First Imperial Guards, Colonel Haga Toyojirō, of their cause, by telling him (falsely) that Generals Anami and Umezu, and the commanders of the Eastern District Army and Imperial Guards Divisions were all in on the plan. Hatanaka also went to the office of Tanaka Shizuichi, commander of the Eastern region of the army, to try to persuade him to join the coup. Tanaka refused, and ordered Hatanaka to go home. Hatanaka ignored the order. Originally, Hatanaka hoped that simply occupying the palace and showing the beginnings of a rebellion would inspire the rest of the Army to rise up against the move to surrender. This notion guided him through much of the last days and hours and gave him the blind optimism to move ahead with the plan, despite having little support from his superiors. Having set all the pieces into position, Hatanaka and his co-conspirators decided that the Guard would take over the palace at 02:00. The hours until then were spent in continued attempts to convince their superiors in the Army to join the coup. Hatanaka, Shiizaki, Ida, and Captain Shigetarō Uehara (of the Air Force Academy) went to the office of Lt. Gen. Takeshi Mori to ask him to join the coup. Mori was in a meeting with his brother-in-law Michinori Shiraishi. The cooperation of Mori, who was the commander of the 1st Imperial Guards Division, was vital. When Mori refused to side with Hatanaka, Hatanaka killed him, fearing Mori would order the Guards to stop the rebellion. Uehara killed Shiraishi. These were the only two murders of the night. Hatanaka then used General Mori's official stamp to authorize Imperial Guards Division Strategic Order No. 584, a false set of orders created by his co-conspirators, which would greatly increase the strength of the forces occupying the Imperial Palace and Imperial Household Ministry, and "protecting" the Emperor. The rebels, led by Hatanaka, spent the next several hours fruitlessly searching for the recordings of the surrender speech, failing to locate them amid a blackout caused by American bombings. Around the same time, another group of Hatanaka's rebels, led by Captain Takeo Sasaki, targeted Prime Minister Suzuki's office with the intent to kill him. When they found it empty, they opened fire with machine guns, devastating the office, and then set the building ablaze before departing for Suzuki's home. Fortunately, Hisatsune Sakomizu, the chief secretary to Suzuki's Cabinet, had warned Suzuki, enabling him to escape just minutes before the assassins arrived. After setting fire to Suzuki's residence, the rebels then proceeded to the estate of Kiichirō Hiranuma, aiming to assassinate him as well. Hiranuma managed to escape through a side gate, but the rebels torched his house too. In the aftermath, Suzuki spent the remainder of August under police protection, sleeping in a different bed each night to avoid detection. Around 03:00, Hatanaka was informed that the Eastern District Army was on its way to the palace to confront him and urged him to surrender. As Hatanaka saw his plan collapse around him, he pleaded with Tatsuhiko Takashima, the Chief of Staff of the Eastern District Army, for airtime on NHK radio to explain his intentions to the Japanese people. His request was denied. Meanwhile, Colonel Haga, commander of the 2nd Regiment of the First Imperial Guards, learned that the Army did not support Hatanaka's rebellion and ordered him to vacate the palace grounds. Just before 05:00, while his rebels continued their search, Major Hatanaka went to the NHK studios, desperately trying to secure airtime to convey his actions. However, slightly over an hour later, after receiving a phone call from the Eastern District Army, Hatanaka finally conceded defeat. He gathered his officers and left the NHK studio, feeling the weight of his failed coup. At dawn, General Tanaka learned that the palace had been invaded, so he went there to confront the rebellious officers. He berated them for acting against the spirit of the Japanese army and ultimately convinced them to return to their barracks. By 08:00 on August 15, the rebellion was entirely dismantled. Although they had held the palace grounds for much of the night, they ultimately failed to find the recordings. After his failed coup, Hatanaka took his own life before witnessing Japan's surrender. While TF-38 refueled on August 14, Halsey signaled McCain, stating, “I intend to strike the same general target area on the fifteenth.” McCain informed TF-38, “Our orders to strike indicate the enemy may have dropped an unacceptable joker into the surrender terms. This war could last many months longer. We cannot afford to relax. Now is the time to pour it on.” In fact, the Western Allies had sunk their last Japanese ships of the war that day, when submarines USS Torsk (SS-423) and USS Spikefish (SS-404) torpedoed I-373 and two small escort ships in the East China Sea, resulting in the death of 112 Japanese sailors. The following morning, August 15, the Third Fleet launched its first strike of 103 aircraft at 04:15 hours. At 06:14, just as the first strike was returning and the second strike was five minutes from the target, Halsey was ordered by Nimitz, “Air attack will be suspended. Acknowledge.” Shortly afterward, an officer burst in, waving a transcript—President Truman's official peace announcement. Halsey erupted with exuberance, “pounding the shoulders of everyone within reach.” He recalled, “My first thought at the great news was, ‘Victory!' My second was, ‘God be thanked, I'll never have to order another man out to die.'” However, within minutes, four retiring Hancock Hellcats were attacked by seven Japanese fighters, resulting in the Hellcats shooting down four without loss. Over Tokorazawa airfield, northwest of Tokyo, 20 IJAAF Ki-84 “Franks” ambushed six VF-88 Hellcats from Yorktown. The Hellcats managed to shoot down nine Franks but lost four of their own, along with their pilots. Rawlings' dawn strikes were intercepted by about 12 Zeros. Escorting Seafires shot down eight Zeros but lost one, while an Avenger downed a ninth Zero. Tragically, seven TF-38 flyers never returned. During the morning, Halsey launched his last strike of the war, but was soon ordered by Admiral Nimitz to suspend all air attacks. At 12:00, the Emperor's recorded speech to the nation, reading the Imperial Rescript on the Termination of the War, was finally broadcast. The war was over… or was it really? I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. As Prime Minister Suzuki and his cabinet debated surrender, the Emperor Hirohito finally accepted the Potsdam Declaration, conditionally ensuring the imperial family's continuity. However, conspirators attempted a coup to prevent the surrender, ultimately failing. By August 15, Japan officially surrendered, marking the end of the Pacific War.

What if the behavior approach everyone swears by is actually making some kids worse?Check-In/Check-Out (CICO) is one of the most common Tier 2 interventions in school counseling, but most trainings leave out the detail that decides whether it works or fails. In this episode, I share the research, the hidden limitation no one's talking about, and the story of a student who proved that “research-based” doesn't always mean “right for every kid.”This episode is highly researched:Fairbanks, S., Sugai, G., Guardino, D., & Lathrop, M. (2007). Response to intervention: Examining classroom behavior support in second grade. Exceptional Children, 73(3), 288–310.Filter, K. J., McKenna, M. K., Benedict, E. A., Horner, R. H., Todd, A. W., & Watson, J. (2007). Check in/check out: A post-hoc evaluation of an efficient, secondary-level targeted intervention for reducing problem behaviors in schools. Education and Treatment of Children, 30(1), 69–84.Hawken, L. S., Bundock, K., Barrett, C. A., Eber, L., Breen, K., & Phillips, D. (2015). Large-scale implementation of check-in check-out: A descriptive study. Canadian Journal of School Psychology, 30(4), 304–319. Hawken, L. S., MacLeod, K. S., & Rawlings, L. (2007). Effects of the Behavior Education Program (BEP) on office discipline referrals of elementary school students. Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 9(2), 94–101. Klingbeil, D. A., Dart, E. H., & Schramm, S. A. (2019). A systematic review of function‐based modifications to check‐in/check‐out. Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 21(1), 3–18. Maggin, D. M., Zurheide, J., Pickett, K. C., & Baillie, S. (2015). A systematic evidence review of the check‐in/check‐out program for reducing student challenging behaviors. Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 17(4), 197–208. Sottilare, A. L., & Blair, K.-S. C. (2023). Implementation of check-in/check-out to improve classroom behavior of at-risk elementary school students. Behavioral Sciences, 13(3), 257. Note: "Jake" and "Carrie" are fictional versions of students based on compilations of real stories. *********************************⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️**********************************Tired of feeling overworked, underestimated, and buried under responsibilities no one trained you for?The School for School Counselors Podcast is for real-world counselors who want clarity, confidence, and tools that actually work in real schools... not packaged curriculums or toxic positivity.You'll get honest conversations, practical strategies, and a real-world alternative to the one-size-fits-all approach you've probably been told to follow.If the ASCA-aligned model doesn't fit your campus, it's not your fault.This podcast is where you'll finally hear why, and what to do instead.You don't need more PD. You need someone who actually gets it.

On this edition of Parallax Views, Alex Jordan and Courtney Rawlings — hosts of the Quincy Institute's foreign policy podcast Always at War — join the show for a hard-hitting conversation on some of the most urgent global issues. We discuss the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where starvation is setting in and U.S. politicians have failed to halt the suffering or reconsider military aid to Israel. From there, we examine the rise of a multipolar world order, the dangers of unmanaged Great Power competition, and how smaller nations risk being trampled by larger powers. We also break down the role of the U.S. national security state and the foreign policy “Blob” in eroding democratic governance, the connection between endless wars abroad and diminished freedoms at home, and how unaccountable institutions shape policy without public consent. The conversation concludes with a look at the Ukraine–Russia war, its global ramifications, and what it reveals about shifting geopolitical realities.

Best known as the author of The Yearling and Cross Creek, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings enjoyed a long side-hustle as an occasional poet. Happy reading. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney's and Alex's Always at War podcast ... Have restrainers given up on Trump? ... The legacies of Hamilton Jordan ... Courtney: Money drives war ... Palantir cashes in ... Alex: Blame American exceptionalism first ... Trump's biggest Jan 6 transgression ... Is the Republic at stake? ... Heading to Overtime ...

Ellen Adair and Eric Gilde discuss the baseball portions of "Twilight." They introduce the film (1:49), with an overview of the story, the cast, and filmmakers, and review the 20-80 baseball scouting grades for rating the film (6:01). Amount of Baseball (10:35) opens with a true conundrum: what is the amount of baseball in the baseball portion of "Twilight"? Do we consider the "first Mariners game" and spring training? Baseball Accuracy (15:30) considers the viability of a four-vampire baseball team and a three-vampire baseball team, with the varying degree of problems that arise. Discussion of vampires' familiarity with John Fogarty's "Centerfield," seventh-wheel vampires, and the Mike Fiers of vampires (?). Ellen has issues with the lack of analytical positioning, and Eric queries the notion of thunder from an aluminum bat. Is Alice tipping her pitches? A brief history of baseball gloves (w/r/t Charlie Waitt, Albert Goodwill Spalding, Bill Doak, Rawlings). Some baserunning headscratchers with Carlisle. There is no spring training in Jacksonville (h/t Meg Rowley), but there ARE spring training/regular season timeline issues in this film. Storytelling (40:11) digs in on the substance of the vampire feud, Ellen's annoyance with the notion of the Cullens as "vegetarians," and Eric's annoyance with the sparkliness. Are they good at baseball? Would putting Bella's hair down really help mask her human scent? Some discussion of the directorial style and costume choices. Score (55:39) addresses the use of Radiohead, the Black Ghosts, Muse, and the squealing guitars. Acting (1:00:03) discusses the performances of Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Peter Facinelli, Elizabeth Reaser, and Edi Gathegi, with shout-outs to Anna Kendrick and Gil Birmingham. Delightfulness of Catcher (1:04:57) weighs the Moment of Utmost Delight, Elizabeth Reaser's line deliveries, and the matriarch as catcher, while Delightfulness of Announcer (1:07:28) doesn't offer so much. Lack of Misogyny (1:08:01) considers the strength of female players, the film's upgrade over the book, with only a brief foray into the misogyny of the whole premise. No spoilers on the following segments: Yes or No (1:14:20), Six Degrees of Baseball (1:19:52), Favorite Moment (1:22:01) Least Favorite Moment (1:23:50), Scene We Would Have Liked to See (1:26:37), Dreamiest Player (1:28:12), Favorite Performance (1:29:41), Review Thank You (1:30:41) and Next Time (1:32:39). Join Our Discord & Support The Show: PL+ | PL Pro - Get 15% off Yearly with code PODCASTProud member of the Pitcher List Fantasy Baseball Podcast Network