Podcasts about Rockford

Chicago Rinkcast host Andy Campbell, co-host Sean Fitzgerald and prospect guru Jimmy O'Malley, Esq., recap the pre-season, discuss the Blackhawks recent transactions, the possible opening night line-up, and make bold predictions ahead of the 2026-27 season opener.Join via YouTube or Facebook to be eligible to win a free #Blackhawks t-shirt from @500LEVEL or use THERINK26 for a 30% discount

In the heart of Rockford, Illinois sits the Sinnissippi Lagoon. This is the site of the very first park created by the Rockford Park District. There is now also a music shell, golf course rose garden and conservatory. Everything is perched along the shores of the Rock River. Recorded: September 28, 2026

Send us Fan MailWhen your back or neck hurts, you aren't looking to temporarily mask the symptoms—you want a permanent, drug-free solution. While chiropractic care, physical therapy, and massage therapy are all incredible healing tools, utilizing them in the wrong order can cause you to take one step forward and two steps back.In the final episode of our series, Dr. Brant Hulsebus details the optimal recovery protocol for patients seeking lasting relief. As a Palmer College graduate and the team chiropractor for the Rockford IceHogs, Dr. Hulsebus breaks down how your nerves, joints, and muscles operate as an interconnected unit. Learn why trying to exercise or massage an area with a compressed nerve supply fails to build lasting stability, how targeted massage therapy makes spinal adjustments hold longer, and how a coordinated team approach helps you recover safely.In this episode, you'll discover:The structural division of labor: How joints, muscle tissues, and movement habits interact.The hose and the rock: Why clearing spinal subluxations must always precede muscle rehab.Synergy in action: How deep tissue massage prevents stubborn muscle scar tissue from pulling your spine back out of alignment.Rebuilding the gait: The vital role of physical therapy in balancing unilateral muscle weakness.Coordinated care: How primary-care chiropractors in Illinois write direct referrals to local physical therapists.Post-rehab performance: transitioning from clinical physical therapy to specialized athletic strength coaching.Have a question about how to coordinate your chiropractic, PT, or massage care? Leave a comment or message on our platforms, and you might be featured as our next question of the week!

Send us Fan MailWhen your back or neck hurts, you aren't looking to temporarily mask the symptoms—you want a permanent, drug-free solution. While chiropractic care, physical therapy, and massage therapy are all incredible healing tools, utilizing them in the wrong order can cause you to take one step forward and two steps back.In the final episode of our series, Dr. Brant Hulsebus details the optimal recovery protocol for patients seeking lasting relief. As a Palmer College graduate and the team chiropractor for the Rockford IceHogs, Dr. Hulsebus breaks down how your nerves, joints, and muscles operate as an interconnected unit. Learn why trying to exercise or massage an area with a compressed nerve supply fails to build lasting stability, how targeted massage therapy makes spinal adjustments hold longer, and how a coordinated team approach helps you recover safely.In this episode, you'll discover:The structural division of labor: How joints, muscle tissues, and movement habits interact.The hose and the rock: Why clearing spinal subluxations must always precede muscle rehab.Synergy in action: How deep tissue massage prevents stubborn muscle scar tissue from pulling your spine back out of alignment.Rebuilding the gait: The vital role of physical therapy in balancing unilateral muscle weakness.Coordinated care: How primary-care chiropractors in Illinois write direct referrals to local physical therapists.Post-rehab performance: transitioning from clinical physical therapy to specialized athletic strength coaching.Have a question about how to coordinate your chiropractic, PT, or massage care? Leave a comment or message on our platforms, and you might be featured as our next question of the week!

Thinking about moving north of Grand Rapids? Rockford, Sparta, and Cedar Springs are three of the most popular small towns near GR, and in this video we break down what makes each one different, from home prices to schools to commute times, so you can figure out which one is the right fit for you.⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERSIntroduction (0:00)
Rockford: Rogue River & Established Downtown (1:11)
Sparta: Apple Country & Affordability (2:08)
Cedar Springs: Red Flannel & New Growth (3:08)
Commute to Grand Rapids (3:57)
Which Town Is Right for You? (4:20)Rockford, Sparta, and Cedar Springs are all within 10 to 15 minutes of each other and roughly 20 minutes from Grand Rapids, but each has its own personality, price point, and lifestyle. In this video, Doren Colley with The May Group at RE/MAX of Grand Rapids walks through what each community is known for and who tends to be the best fit for each one.Rockford is the most established of the three, with the Rogue River running through town, access to the White Pine Trail, a walkable downtown, and a strong lineup of restaurants, breweries, and community events. The Rockford School District is also a major draw for families, known for strong academics and a big, welcoming sports culture. All of that comes at a premium, making Rockford a great fit for buyers who want an amenity-rich, established small-town experience.Sparta has a more rural, agricultural feel and leans fully into its identity as apple country, complete with orchards and the annual Apple Fest. Home prices in Sparta tend to be the most affordable of the three towns, making it a strong option for first-time buyers or anyone looking for more house or property without a long drive from Grand Rapids.Cedar Springs blends established neighborhoods with a wave of new development as the Grand Rapids area continues to grow north. It offers great access to the White Pine Trail and Cedar Springs Brewing Company, along with the town's signature Red Flannel Festival each fall. Price-wise, Cedar Springs typically lands between Sparta and Rockford, offering a solid mix of value and growth potential.When it comes to commute times, all three towns sit about 20 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, giving residents easy access to the city without giving up that small-town pace of life.If you're weighing Rockford vs Sparta vs Cedar Springs for your next move, this video breaks down exactly what you need to know before making a decision.Thinking about relocating to Grand Rapids or the lakeshore? Grab our free Relocation Guide: https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guideHave questions or want to talk more about a move to or around West Michigan? Contact The May Group at RE/MAX Grand Rapids Phone: (616) 330-2555 Email: info@marketgr.comFollow us for more Grand Rapids and West Michigan content: https://www.instagram.com/maygroupgr/#GrandRapidsRealEstate #WestMichiganRealEstate #MovingToMichigan

The Fed has raised rates for the first time in three years, and 30-year mortgages are now hovering around 7%.In this week's Market Trends episode, Matt Lombardi and Steve Kaempf break down what the hike means for buyers, why refinancing has dropped 65%, and how to protect yourself with smart rate shopping. Plus: multifamily construction falls 22.5% in August, pending home sales edge up 0.3%, cities like Indianapolis and Rockford are cutting red tape to build faster, and how AI and coordinated service teams are changing the way agents win clients.New episodes of Market Trends drop every week — subscribe so you don't miss the next one.#MortgageRates #FedRateHike #HousingMarket2026 #RealEstateNews #MarketTrends #7PercentMortgage #HomeBuilders #RealEstateInvesting #ChicagoRealEstate #RealtorLife #peoplenottitles Full episodes available at www.peoplenottitles.comPeople, Not Titles podcast is hosted by Steve Kaempf and is dedicated to lifting up professionals in the real estate and business community. Our inspiration is to highlight success principles of our colleagues.Our Success Series covers principles of success to help your thrive!Website: http://peoplenottitles.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@peoplenottitles/videosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/peoplenottitles/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-kaempf-b66a8013/ X: https://x.com/sjkaempfSpotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/1uu5kTvBhxsbgjskQS1SXK

Chicago Rinkcast host Andy Campbell, co-host Sean Fitzgerald and prospect guru Jimmy O'Malley, Esq., discuss in depth the Blackhawks' first two pre-season games and analysis on early player performances vs the Minnesota Wild, and Bowen Byram's big pre-season debut.Join via YouTube or Facebook to be eligible to win a free #Blackhawks t-shirt from @500LEVEL or use THERINK26 for a 30% discount

Here is what mattered in powersports this week, and what each story means for your store.Two kinds of stories this week. Brands under pressure: Triumph's first dirt bike gets recalled, MV Agusta admits it is hunting for cash, and KTM's newest bike is only as good as the allocation. And two dealers who just proved you can last. Kegel Harley-Davidson is the official oldest Harley dealer in the world at 114 years. Naults in New England is at 118 and started out selling Schwinn bicycles.The line between the two is simple. The ones that last have more than one leg to stand on. Polaris is building sleds for the military. CFMoto is buying into an NFL stadium. Turn 14 is bringing show-only parts pricing right before the fourth quarter. The lesson for a dealer is the same one every time. New units are not the only game.This week's rundown:Triumph recalls about 1,560 TF-450 motocross bikes in the US. The rocker arm can seize, the valves can break, and the fix is a whole new cylinder head. Twelve reports, one injury. This is the first real test of how Triumph backs its first dirt bike, and the owner is mad at Triumph but standing at your counter.MV Agusta says it is restructuring and looking for an outside investor. The statement pushes back on rumors but never says bikes are being built or shipped. What gets shaky first for an MV dealer: new units, parts, then warranty money.Why a cheap buy-in on a struggling brand is not cheap if the units never show upCFMoto is now the official side-by-side and ATV partner of the Minnesota Vikings. Close to 800 US dealers now. Why a stadium deal means your salesperson is not starting cold.Kegel Harley-Davidson in Rockford, Illinois, is the official oldest Harley dealer in the world. Same family since 1912. Retention is the whole game.Yamaha's 2027 WR450F. A new model year is a reason to call every owner in your file, and every trade is a clean used unit you sell twice.KTM's 2027 690 Rally. The ADV buyer spends on luggage, crash bars, and tires, and rides enough miles to keep your service bays full. The honest question is allocation.Husqvarna's 2027 TE300 Pro and FE350 Pro. Why the Pro badge gives your salesperson a step up and why the rider who stretches for it buys the good tires too.Naults Powersports has been open 118 years. It started as a Schwinn bicycle shop in 1908 and runs four stores today. Being old is the result, not the plan.Turn 14 is bringing buy-ready UTV parts and show-only pricing to the Sand Sports Super Show. Side-by-side unit margin is thin. The money is in wheels, roofs, light bars, and winches. Stock deep now.Polaris built a snowmobile for the military. You will never sell one, but it tells you the factory reads retail as soft and is spreading its bets. Smart dealers do the same.Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@dealershipfixitSponsor: https://ziidms.com/fixitConnect with Jacob: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-b-berry/Follow the Fixit Online: https://linktr.ee/dealershipfixitMotoHunt for Dealers: https://dealers.motohunt.com

Send us Fan MailIf you have been struggling with chronic pain but are hesitant to schedule an appointment because you aren't sure what to expect, you aren't alone. It is completely natural to have questions about the cost, the examination process, and whether you will get adjusted on your very first day.In this episode of Ask the Chiropractor, Dr. Brant Hulsebus breaks down the exact clinical journey of a new patient. As primary care providers in Illinois and Palmer College of Chiropractic graduates, our team maintains the highest clinical standards. Dr. Hulsebus details how we analyze your complete health history, perform specialized biomechanical leg-length tests, and use standing, weight-bearing X-rays to assess your joint health and safety. Learn how we use your body's response on day two to craft a highly customized, step-by-step corrective plan to help you heal.In this episode, you'll discover:The paper trail: Why chiropractors follow the exact same primary care medical regulations as your family physician.Bringing previous imaging: Why we want to review your past MRIs and X-rays to prevent unnecessary repeat scans.Demystifying the leg-length check: How checking your feet reveals hidden pelvic rotations and neck fixations.Standing X-ray analysis: Why weight-bearing views are essential for checking disc height, posture, and underlying safety.The day-one adjustment: Why we don't make you wait days for relief if your exam shows it is safe to proceed.The recovery blueprint: How we build a tailored care plan with targeted homework stretches to keep you stable long-term.Have a question about what happens during a spinal exam or what your first visit will look like? Leave a comment or message on our platforms, and you might be featured as our next question of the week!

Send us Fan MailIf you have been struggling with chronic pain but are hesitant to schedule an appointment because you aren't sure what to expect, you aren't alone. It is completely natural to have questions about the cost, the examination process, and whether you will get adjusted on your very first day.In this episode of Ask the Chiropractor, Dr. Brant Hulsebus breaks down the exact clinical journey of a new patient. As primary care providers in Illinois and Palmer College of Chiropractic graduates, our team maintains the highest clinical standards. Dr. Hulsebus details how we analyze your complete health history, perform specialized biomechanical leg-length tests, and use standing, weight-bearing X-rays to assess your joint health and safety. Learn how we use your body's response on day two to craft a highly customized, step-by-step corrective plan to help you heal.In this episode, you'll discover:The paper trail: Why chiropractors follow the exact same primary care medical regulations as your family physician.Bringing previous imaging: Why we want to review your past MRIs and X-rays to prevent unnecessary repeat scans.Demystifying the leg-length check: How checking your feet reveals hidden pelvic rotations and neck fixations.Standing X-ray analysis: Why weight-bearing views are essential for checking disc height, posture, and underlying safety.The day-one adjustment: Why we don't make you wait days for relief if your exam shows it is safe to proceed.The recovery blueprint: How we build a tailored care plan with targeted homework stretches to keep you stable long-term.Have a question about what happens during a spinal exam or what your first visit will look like? Leave a comment or message on our platforms, and you might be featured as our next question of the week!

Chicago Rinkcast host Andy Campbell, co-host Sean Fitzgerald and prospect guru Jimmy O'Malley, Esq., are back for the TENTH season to talk about the upcoming 2026-27 Blackhawks Season. Late off-season moves, Bedard's captaincy, the prospect showcase, the start of training camp, and much more will be covered.Join via YouTube or Facebook to be eligible to win a free #Blackhawks t-shirt from @500LEVEL or use THERINK26 for a 30% discount

Patti and Pottymouth are back in the studio at last. Pottymouth is batting clean up on her fantasy team – when did all these changes happen? Patti shows personal growth regarding Adley on that other team. Your hosts' bfs Sal and Kaz share a pretty cool rookie stat but is Kaz really a rookie? MIL and TBR are the first to clinch, and MIL does it in a way that makes us nostalgic for two weeks ago. The Hunters are the first team to get eliminated in the WPBL playoffs but there's still more to go, and this piece in the Athletic captures the vibe. The stage is set for next summer's Women's World Cup in Rockford, with every team a previous medal-winner. The Police Blotter brings you a scout whose words finally caught up with him, the likelihood of a less awkward Christmas at the Bohm house, and a very strategic Yasiel Puig. We crosstrain with math, because it is back to school time, for almost everyone, and Pottymouth is off to find a Tabasco jersey with Beer.We say, “Maybe take your bad decisions and go home,” “6pm Tabasco time,” and, “If I need to pull out the Free Kevin Brown shirt, I will.” Fight the man, go see some live baseball, send your game balls to Meredith, and find us on Bluesky @ncibpodcast, on Facebook @nocryinginbball, Instagram @nocryinginbball and on the Interweb at nocryinginbball.com. Please take a moment to subscribe to the show, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to NCiB. Become a supporter at Patreon to help us keep doing what we do. We have episode transcripts available!  They are available for free at our Patreon site. Say goodnight, Pottymouth. 

Send us Fan MailIf you are hesitating to see a chiropractor because the loud popping noises you see on viral social media videos scare you, you are letting internet showmanship get in the way of your spinal health. The truth is that those dramatic online clips are not reflective of clinical practice, and the sound itself has nothing to do with bones snapping or ligaments tearing.In this episode of Ask the Chiropractor, Dr. Brant Hulsebus breaks down the actual science of the chiropractic adjustment sound. As a Palmer College of Chiropractic graduate and the team chiropractor for the Rockford IceHogs, Dr. Hulsebus explains the biological process of joint cavitation. Learn how nitrogen gas naturally escapes from pressurized synovial fluid when a fixed joint is unlocked, why trying to "crack" your own spine leaves your primary subluxations more locked up than before, and why a completely silent adjustment can often be the most effective structural correction for your body.In this episode, you'll discover:The viral video myth: Why clinical chiropractic adjustments are quiet, precise, and controlled.Fluid dynamics: How synovial fluid keeps joints lubricated and why restricted joints pool gas under pressure.The soda pop effect: Why releasing localized joint pressure sounds exactly like opening a carbonated beverage.Hypermobility hazards: How twisting your own back over-stretches healthy joints while leaving the injured bone stuck.The arthritis paradox: Why joint fixation causes spinal decay, while restoring motion actively stops degeneration.Pain management: How specialized cervical and lumbar techniques shield swollen joints during acute flare-ups.Have a question about joint noises, self-adjusting, or spinal manipulation? Leave a comment or message on our platforms, and you might be featured as our next question of the week!

Send us Fan MailIf you are hesitating to see a chiropractor because the loud popping noises you see on viral social media videos scare you, you are letting internet showmanship get in the way of your spinal health. The truth is that those dramatic online clips are not reflective of clinical practice, and the sound itself has nothing to do with bones snapping or ligaments tearing.In this episode of Ask the Chiropractor, Dr. Brant Hulsebus breaks down the actual science of the chiropractic adjustment sound. As a Palmer College of Chiropractic graduate and the team chiropractor for the Rockford IceHogs, Dr. Hulsebus explains the biological process of joint cavitation. Learn how nitrogen gas naturally escapes from pressurized synovial fluid when a fixed joint is unlocked, why trying to "crack" your own spine leaves your primary subluxations more locked up than before, and why a completely silent adjustment can often be the most effective structural correction for your body.In this episode, you'll discover:The viral video myth: Why clinical chiropractic adjustments are quiet, precise, and controlled.Fluid dynamics: How synovial fluid keeps joints lubricated and why restricted joints pool gas under pressure.The soda pop effect: Why releasing localized joint pressure sounds exactly like opening a carbonated beverage.Hypermobility hazards: How twisting your own back over-stretches healthy joints while leaving the injured bone stuck.The arthritis paradox: Why joint fixation causes spinal decay, while restoring motion actively stops degeneration.Pain management: How specialized cervical and lumbar techniques shield swollen joints during acute flare-ups.Have a question about joint noises, self-adjusting, or spinal manipulation? Leave a comment or message on our platforms, and you might be featured as our next question of the week!

Send us Fan MailA skimo World Cup podium is rare. Coming back after an ACL and meniscus tear, then surviving a major shoulder injury right after, is even rarer. We sit down with Cam Smith to talk about what it really takes to rebuild your body and your confidence when momentum gets ripped away and the biggest goal is still out there: qualifying for the 2026 Winter Olympics (Milano Cortina) in ski mountaineering. Cam walks us from Rockford, Illinois to Western Colorado University's Mountain Sports program, then into the Crested Butte skimo scene that helped him snowball from “mid-pack and stoked” into Team USA and a history-making World Cup result. We get specific about what changed at that breakthrough moment, why belief matters in elite endurance sport, and how training at altitude forces you to chase power and pace, not just watts per kilo. Then we zoom into the Olympic reality for skimo. The format is sprint and co-ed relay, the athlete quota is tiny, and the qualification math is unforgiving. Cam explains how nations earn spots, how the U.S. plans to test relay pairings, and why the level is rising fast as countries pour resources into these short, explosive events. Along the way we hit the fun stuff too: training in France, the croissant count tradition, vegetarian fueling, Dynafit sponsorship loyalty, Pierra Menta as a “lifetime memory,” and a mindset reset that comes from working with a sports psychologist and staying grounded through work outside sport. If you care about ski mountaineering, trail running, strength training, ACL rehab, or Olympic qualification, this one delivers. Subscribe, share this with a mountain athlete friend, and leave a five-star review if it helps, what part of Cam's story are you taking into your own training?Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Born in Amityville, NY, Barbara Berney is a freelance graphic artist, editor, and jewelry designer, a member of The ELEMENT,  and an exhibiting board member of the Inscape Midtown Collective on 7th Street at 1st Avenue. Her activities in the arts community have included managing the Art on the Lawn show from 2000-2014, overseeing the Rockford Art Guild as president for four years, and participating in ArtScene and other art shows in the Rockford area.

Cheap Trick have been one of rock's most distinctive and enduring bands for more than five decades, creating timeless classics including I Want You To Want Me, Surrender, Dream Police and Ain't That a Shame. But behind the arena anthems lies a story filled with determination, disappointment, innovation and more than a few extraordinary twists of fate.In this fascinating episode, founding bassist Tom Petersson takes Sandy back to where it all began in Rockford, Illinois, explaining how the arrival of The Beatles and the British Invasion inspired a generation of teenagers to pick up instruments and dream of something bigger. What started as a hobby quickly evolved into a lifelong career, although success proved far more elusive than anyone expected.Tom reveals how Cheap Trick emerged from a succession of earlier bands including Fuse and Sick Man of Europe, sharing the excitement of landing an early record deal before watching it disappear almost as quickly. Rather than giving up, the band returned to the clubs, determined to create music on their own terms instead of chasing radio trends or record company expectations.One of the highlights of this conversation is the remarkable story behind Tom's invention of the revolutionary 12-string bass guitar. Frustrated by the limitations of a traditional bass, he worked with Hamer Guitars to create an entirely new instrument capable of producing the huge orchestral sound that would become a defining feature of Cheap Trick's recordings. Nearly fifty years later, it remains one of rock music's most recognisable and influential innovations.Tom also shares the surprising origins of the band's name, explains why they deliberately refused to become another Top 40 cover band, and recalls opening for legendary acts including Kiss and Queen while slowly building a fiercely loyal following. Along the way, he recounts memorable encounters with Frank Zappa, David Bowie and George Martin, offering a rare glimpse behind the scenes during one of rock's most creative eras.Perhaps the most astonishing revelation is how Cheap Trick's biggest breakthrough almost never happened. After three studio albums failed to find commercial success in America, a live recording made for Japanese television unexpectedly exploded in popularity. The resulting At Budokan album became an international phenomenon, while I Want You To Want Me—a song the band had actually stopped performing live —became the hit that finally launched them into rock superstardom.Tom speaks openly about the relentless touring schedule that saw Cheap Trick perform almost 300 shows a year while recording two albums annually, the burnout that led to his temporary departure from the band, and the chance reunion that brought him back just in time for another hugely successful chapter in the group's history.The conversation also explores Tom's passion for unusual guitars, the truth behind one of rock's enduring myths, the band's commitment to changing its set list every night, and the touching story behind Rocky's Speech, the musical project he created to help his autistic son develop language skills.Warm, funny and refreshingly honest, Tom Petersson reflects on a remarkable career built not by following trends, but by trusting instinct, embracing originality and never compromising the music Cheap Trick wanted to make. It's an inspiring conversation with one of rock's genuine innovators and a rare opportunity to hear the stories behind one of the world's most beloved bands—from someone who lived every moment.If you enjoy hearing the real stories behind the soundtrack of our lives, don't forget to follow A Breath of Fresh Air so you never miss another conversation with the legendary artists who created the music that continues to inspire generations.

This school year, our teacher correspondent is Kelcey Dodd. She's a kindergarten teacher at Spring Creek Elementary in Rockford. Kelcey's in her first-year as a teacher, so we're going to be checking in on her every month as she figures things out.

Who the hell gave them a CDL .... and why did it take a family paying the price before Washington started listening?This episode of Brake Check isn't an attack on professional truck drivers. It's an investigation into the systems, safeguards, bad actors and policymakers that are supposed to keep unqualified drivers from ever getting behind the wheel of a commercial truck.Professional truck driver and father Marcus Coleman joins Charles  after taking his family's story to Congress. His daughter Dalilah suffered catastrophic injuries in a crash, and Marcus is now fighting for Dalilah's Law and stronger accountability throughout the commercial driver licensing system.We dig into the questions Washington needs to answer:How does an unqualified driver get a CDL? Where can the licensing and verification process fail? Who is responsible when safeguards aren't followed? What would Dalilah's Law actually change? And why does government so often react AFTER somebody pays the price?Then Zach Meiborg, owner of Meiborg Transportation, joins the conversation.Meiborg isn't just talking about supporting Dalilah's family — they're opening their Rockford, Illinois headquarters September 26 for the Stand With Dalilah Charity Motorcycle Ride.But we also tackle another side of the same accountability problem: legitimate motor carriers spending real money to hire qualified drivers, maintain equipment, follow hours-of-service regulations and operate legally while bad actors can gain an unfair advantage by cutting corners.Running illegal isn't innovation. Cheating isn't competition. And a government-issued piece of paper shouldn't replace actual qualification.This episode is about CDL standards, trucking safety, driver qualification, hours-of-service compliance, FMCSA enforcement, bad carriers, Dalilah's Law and government accountability.Professional truckers deserve better than being lumped together with operators who never should've been on the road.Families deserve better than finding out where the system failed after the crash.And policymakers?CONGRESS, IT'S YOUR TURN.#Trucking #CDL #TruckDrivers #TruckingSafety #FMCSA #Congress #Transportation #TruckingIndustry #OwnerOperator #BrakeCheck Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We pack up our gear and head to Rockford to catch a concert from Nashville's Watson Twins.

OSF St. Luke Discusses Mobile Primary Care, Community Outreach, and Hog Days on Wake Up Tri-Counties Samantha Rux talks about OSF OnCall Primary Care on the Go, upcoming community events, and her favorite Hog Days food. Samantha Rux of OSF St. Luke Medical Center recently joined Ken Peele on Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss a new mobile healthcare initiative from OSF OnCall, community outreach, and the upcoming Hog Days celebration. Rux explained that OSF OnCall, the digital health arm of OSF HealthCare, has been working to transform healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Many residents in the area are already familiar with the OSF OnCall King Caravan, a mobile health clinic that serves Henry County and regularly appears at community events. Depending on the available mission partners, the caravan can offer a variety of services, including healthcare navigation and visits with an advanced practice provider. However, Rux said OSF OnCall has recently launched a new concept designed to provide greater consistency in primary care: OSF OnCall Primary Care on the Go. Bringing Primary Care Directly to Communities The new mobile clinic is designed to provide a primary care experience similar to what patients would receive at a traditional brick-and-mortar office—except the clinic can travel to underserved areas. The program is initially launching in the Rockford area, with several permanent stops planned on the city's west side. An advanced practice provider will be available at the mobile clinic, with services including Preventative care Chronic disease management Wellness visits Treatment for common illnesses Lab draws EKGs Other primary care services Rux explained that one of the major differences between Primary Care on the Go and the King Caravan is consistency. While services on the King Caravan can vary depending on the event and mission partners available, Primary Care on the Go is designed around a regular schedule and consistent primary care services. Patients will be able to establish care and schedule appointments, with billing and insurance handled similarly to a traditional primary care office. The mobile service is scheduled to launch August 17th. Those interested in using the service can find clinic locations, schedules, and appointment availability through OSF MyChart and the OSF OnCall website once the service launches. Potential Expansion Rux said the program currently has three permanent stops in the Rockford area, but OSF hopes to expand the service as the program grows. Another potential opportunity is bringing the mobile clinics directly to employers and major manufacturing facilities. Rux noted that people often struggle to find time for routine healthcare appointments between work and responsibilities at home. Having primary care available at or near a workplace could make it easier for employees to receive care without taking significant time away from work. No specific timeline has been announced for expansion into other communities, but Rux said she expects the program could grow quickly if it demonstrates strong results and helps patients who have struggled to access healthcare. OSF St. Luke Preparing for Hog Days The conversation also turned toward Hog Days, one of Kewanee's biggest community celebrations. OSF St. Luke Medical Center is a major sponsor of the Hog Days Stampede, and the OSF OnCall King Caravan will also be present during the festivities. Rux said OSF St. Luke enjoys being involved in Hog Days and getting out into the community to show its support. She also reminded listeners that flu shot season is approaching. Residents can receive flu vaccinations through retail pharmacies or ask about getting a flu shot when making an appointment with their primary care provider.

On this episode, The guys kick things off with a hilariously real rant on how the classic lie "the check is in the mail" has evolved into the modern-day anxiety of "your package is in transit." They also chat about navigating the wild world of the job hunt and celebrate a beautiful milestone: a brand-new granddaughter in the family!Then, things get beautifully unhinged. Mike takes us straight down a doomsday rabbit hole, breaking down why political chaos, a collapsing magnetic field, and billionaires fleeing to underground bunkers mean the apocalypse is basically next Tuesday. But global collapse won't stop Mike from being an elite dad—he proudly admits to going into debt just to keep his son stocked up on Mr. Bubbles foam soap spray. To wrap it up, they geek out over their ultimate TV watchlist, debating the Rockford files, Reacher, The Rookie, and why absolutely nothing beats the nostalgia (and overpriced popcorn) of a real movie theater.Pack your bunker, grab your foam soap, and press play!

What if the mess in your life isn't always a sign that something has gone wrong?Proverbs 14:4 says, “Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox come abundant harvests.”In other words: no oxen, no mess. But also no harvest.We want strong marriages, deep friendships, meaningful work, healthy families, and real community—but all of those things come with inconvenience, conflict, sacrifice, and mess.In this message, we look at what Solomon's simple picture of an ox and a stable can teach us about relationships, leadership, church, work, and following Jesus.Maybe a meaningful life isn't supposed to look perfectly clean. Maybe some of the mess is evidence that something real, alive, and worth caring for is happening.

Episode 184: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10_xPWnQkjE6bfiypOvjooMtnsVFaVbgJcEyAnaG0ugw/edit?usp=sharingToo many games, not enough real development, and kids burning out before they ever reach their ceiling. A 5'8" guard from Argentina shows what it actually looks like to build habits, resilience, and opportunity through the game.Episode SummaryYouth sports love to preach “grind,” but few stories expose what that really means like Matteo Fernandez Solari's. Growing up in Bahia Blanca, Argentina's basketball capital, he learned the game in a club system that prioritized development, one game a week, and a tight-knit community that pushed him to train with grown professionals before he could even drive.The move to the U.S. flipped his world: JV minutes in small‑town Kentucky, COVID shutdowns, 250% inflation back home, construction work, and biking through the California desert just to stay in school and keep hooping. Along the way, Matteo picked up three degrees, built businesses, and developed a coaching lens that sees basketball as a bridge not the destination. Parents, coaches, and players get a honest look at overplaying, burnout, and what sticking with the work actually produces on and off the court.You'll LearnWhy a basketball‑crazy city in a soccer country shaped Matteo's love for the game and his competitive edge.How playing up against older, paid semi‑pros forced him to value strength, conditioning, and durability early.What a true development environment looks like: multiple practices, one game a week, and zero “tournament every weekend” mentality.How strict nutrition, monitored sleep, and daily “movement vitamins” became non‑negotiables at 16.The mindset shift required to go from national titles in Argentina to JV minutes at a small NAIA program.How COVID, living alone in Kentucky, and financial strain from Argentina's inflation tested whether he really wanted this life.Why he sees basketball as a bridge to education, travel, relationships, and business instead of the end goal.How rest days, simple recovery work, and saying “no” to another tournament can protect both performance and passion.Episode Chapters00:00 Intro & welcome01:00 Growing up in Bahia Blanca05:00 Club system & city/state teams10:00 Training with pros & Pepe Sánchez15:00 Strength work, nutrition & habits20:00 U.S. vs international development25:00 Overplaying & youth burnout30:00 Parents, pressure & club culture35:00 Moving to the U.S. & JV reality40:00 COVID, money stress & staying in school45:00 JUCO grind, injuries & production50:00 Rockford full ride & three degrees55:00 Coaching kids & using sport as a bridgeMemorable Quotes“Basketball is the bridge, not the destination. It got me degrees, let me see the world, and introduced me to people I never would've met otherwise.”“Comparison is the thief of joy. Your job is to go to bed knowing you're 1% better than the person who woke up that morning.”Resources MentionedThe Redeem Team – documentary referenced when talking about Argentina's 2004 Olympic gold and Pepe Sánchez's role.Connect with the GuestMateo Fernandez SolariPlayer bio: https://rockfordregents.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/mateo-fernandez-solari/5666Instagram: @mateofernandezsolariBasketball training: @trainwftsAbout the PodcastOak Performance Radio, hosted by Adam Lane, digs into what it actually takes to perform at a high level. Training, preparation, and decision-making are explored through real athletes, coaches, and experiences—on the field, in the weight room, and in day-to-day life.Subscribe to Oak Performance Radio and pass this episode to a player or coach who still believes talent can outrun bad training, poor recovery, and sloppy habits.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oakperformancelabInstagram: @oakperformance

Dixon scored four defensive touchdowns to go with four scoring strikes by Jagger Kemp in a 68-16 victory over Rockford Lutheran on Friday in the Dukes' home opener at A.C. Bowers Field.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

A private eye takes a dead girl's case for a father who can't afford him, and comes home with a box of gardenias that have been cut for a month and still smell fresh.EPISODE PAGE (includes list of sources): https://weirddarkness.com/noir-gardeniasonadeadlaneTRANSCRIPT: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/55nmcphxTHE REAL CASE BEHIND THIS STORY: The story in this episode is a fictionalized dramatization. Invented for it are the detective, his office, the gravedigger, the specific conversations, and the telephone call, and every name of a person or a place has been changed. The case underneath it is real.On the night of Thursday, June 24th, 1948, seventeen-year-old Mary Jane Reed, a switchboard operator, went on a first date with Stanley Skridla, a twenty-eight-year-old Navy veteran and telephone lineman from Rockford. They drank in taverns in Oregon, Illinois, a town on the Rock River in Ogle County, and the last place anyone could name was the Stenhouse, out on Route 2 at the south edge of town. They left around eleven-thirty. Skridla was found the next morning in the ditch along County Farm Road, shot with a .32. Mary Jane was found five days later along Silica Road, now called Devil's Backbone Road, shot once through the head, her slacks off her and her mother's wedding ring still on her hand. Roughly fifty people were questioned within a week. Nobody was ever charged, and the case was off the front pages by autumn.The casings, the photographs and the investigation reports all disappeared in the decades that followed. On November 15th, 1999 – Mary Jane's birthday – an untraceable floral arrangement addressed to her arrived at the old Stenhouse, by then the Road House, on a day the bar was closed. The owner, Mike Arians, had just been elected mayor, and the case has occupied him ever since. Her brother Warren Reed had her exhumed on August 23rd, 2005. Inside the burial vault, beside the casket, investigators found a dress and slip wrapped in newspapers dated June 25th, 1948 – four days before anyone found her. In 2007, forensic anthropologist Linda Klepinger examined the remains released to the family and reported that the skull and one vertebra had come from a different person. The DNA test that would settle it has never been run. Skridla was exhumed in 2015 on Arians's theory that Mary Jane's skull had been hidden in his coffin; it held one man and nothing else, though two .32 slugs came out of the ground with him and neither matched the gun Arians submitted.Warren Reed died on December 23rd, 2023, at eighty-one, without ever learning whose skull was in his sister's grave. The homicides remain open and unsolved.The full account – the fifty interviews, the suitor in La Crosse, the missing wallet the record can't agree on, the six years of court fights, the $25,000 reward for a skull nobody ever produced, and the haunting at the roadhouse – is documented in detail here:Mary Jane Reed's Illinois Grave Held Someone Else's Skull.WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2026, Weird Darkness.Originally aired: August 28, 2026

We are over 1700 miles in to our approximately 2500 mile road trip. Today's show covers the crazy game in MIL, our two game visit to Springfield to see the WPBL in action, and two games in Kansas City. MIL gave us an historic shut out, a tornado warning, and a “throwing error” for the ages. On the way to Springfield we paid our respects to Rockford, the home of the Peaches, and future home of the IWBC. At the WPBL home base we saw Kelsie and Danae hit homers, Maybelle the mascot shaking her groove thing, and the very first manager ejection – Jemile Weeks of the Boston Hunters. Not sure what was slower, the umpires walk to the dugout to toss him, or his walk along the third base line out of the park. On to Kansas City for two games vs the Tigers where we learned the video board is stuck in 1992 (really? The kiss cam?), the scoreboard and fountains are glorious, the current ballpark is in the middle of nothing, and Pottymouth's boyfriends can really hit some homers. Even though we could not see the Players Weekend bats and cleats, we were in the same ballpark as Carter Jensen's cleats designed by kids staying at Children's Mercy in KC, a hospital for pediatric cancer care.The City Council just approved a public funding package for a new well-placed ballpark and we catch you up on the good, bad, and the ticked off voters. The reason for, and the highlight of our trip was a visit to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, where Bob Kendrick, the very kind and immensely engaging president, gave us a tour for the ages. We cannot recommend the museum enough. Lastly, there's a quick note of JJ's cycle, and FIFA punishments of the Argentinian World Cup team.We say, “You look glorious because you are wearing sparkles,” “the highway, two hotels, and a gas station,” and “Floofy? Froofy? It was just bad.” Fight the man, go see some live baseball, send your game balls to Meredith, and find us on Bluesky @ncibpodcast, on Facebook @nocryinginbball, Instagram @nocryinginbball and on the Interweb at nocryinginbball.com. Please take a moment to subscribe to the show, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to NCiB. Become a supporter at Patreon to help us keep doing what we do. We now have episode transcripts available!  They are available for free at our Patreon site. Say goodnight, Pottymouth. 

Welcome back to another heavy-hitting episode as Zach Meiborg of Meiborg Companies joins us to strip away the industry fluff and tackle the massive regulatory hurdles strangling our owner-operators and fleet operators! We dive straight into the rampant electronic logging device (ELD) fraud that is currently disrupting the trucking industry, detailing exactly how bad actors are gaming the system while the government turns a blind eye. Zach brings a straightforward perspective on why our archaic, 90-year-old Hours of Service (HOS) rules are the actual root cause of this mess and proposes a fiercely practical 14-on, 10-off schedule to instantly level the playing field and boost safe productivity. If you want to cut through the bureaucratic red tape and hear the unfiltered reality of the freight business and what it takes to survive and run a profitable business in today's cutthroat market, you can't afford to miss this conversation!   About Zach Meiborg Zach Meiborg is the Chief Executive Officer and Owner of Meiborg Companies, a Rockford, Illinois–based provider of asset-based trucking, warehousing, 3PL, oilfield, and fuel services. He started his career as a driver in 2004, and that ground-level experience continues to shape how he runs the business and approaches the industry's biggest operational challenges. A student of economics, public policy, and Kaizen-driven continuous improvement, Zach works closely with customers, vendors, policymakers, and regulators to advance the logistics sector. He lives in Roscoe, Illinois, with his three children: Luke, Becca, and Wes.   Connect with Zach Website: https://meiborg.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-meiborg-32a57232/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meiborgbrothersinc/  

Ronald Miller and Lori Johnson of Rockford, IL had a daughter, G.M., in 2010. In 2015, several days after an argument between Johnson and Miller in which Miller threatened to sue Johnson for full custody, Johnson reported Miller to DCFS. Shortly after, she obtained an order of protection which ended all contact between Miller and his daughter. Johnson claimed G.M. had told her that Miller touched her inappropriately and proceeded to bring her daughter to Carrie Lynn Children's Center to record a video accusing her father of sexual abuse. Before the trial, G.M. took back her accusation, telling her mother, her therapist, and the trial prosecutors that the abuse never happened. The trial proceeded anyway, and this information was not shared with the jury. The prosecutors presented the testimony of a pediatric nurse admitted as an “expert in the field of child abuse.” Trial counsel called no experts for the defense, and Miller testified in his own defense. He was convicted by the jury on all three counts and sentenced to twenty years. To learn more and get involved, visit:https://www.lengoodmanlawoffice.com/ Wrongful Conviction is a production of Lava for Good™ Podcasts in association with Signal Co. No1. ​​We have worked hard to ensure that all facts reported in this show are accurate. The views and opinions expressed by the individuals featured in this show are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Lava for Good.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Surya Namaskar -- Bad Company (20 September 1996 - Rockford, IL)

Dawn Williamson, CAA / RMSAA is the AD for the Rockford Illinois School District and today we're going "Camping" as she shares how they run their Summer Camp programs. THIS is Wednesday Wisdom on The Educational AD Podcast!

Is Rockford, Michigan, a good place to live? In this episode of Living in Grand Rapids, Josh May breaks down the schools, home prices, commute, and lifestyle in one of West Michigan's most beloved small towns, and who actually thrives here versus who probably won't.⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS Introduction (0:00) What Rockford, MI Is Known For (1:22) The Rockford Lifestyle: Rogue River & White Pine Trail (2:14) Rockford Public Schools (3:15) Is Rockford Expensive? Home Prices & Inventory (4:03) The Commute to Grand Rapids (5:16) Downtown Rockford & The River Scene (6:08) Tradeoffs: Nightlife, Diversity & Car Dependency (7:02) Who Thrives in Rockford (and Who Doesn't) (7:37) Final Thoughts (8:41)ABOUT ROCKFORD, MICHIGANRockford, Michigan is located about 15 miles north of downtown Grand Rapids, and it has managed to grow over the years while keeping its small-town, community-first feel. People know Rockford for its charming downtown, excellent schools, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community, with local restaurants that know regulars by name and neighborhoods where kids still ride bikes until the streetlights come on.THE OUTDOOR LIFESTYLEOne of the biggest reasons people fall in love with Rockford is the lifestyle. The Rogue River flows directly through downtown, and residents spend their summers kayaking, canoeing, fishing, paddle boarding, and relaxing along the riverwalk. Rockford also connects directly to the White Pine Trail, a paved trail stretching more than 90 miles, making it easy to bike, run, or walk right from downtown.SCHOOLS AND REAL ESTATEThe Rockford Public School District is consistently one of the highest rated in West Michigan, and it's a major reason home values here have stayed so strong. Compared to much of West Michigan, Rockford runs on the higher end for home prices, though it's still considered affordable next to major metro areas nationally. Inventory stays limited, and well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods often see multiple offers.COMMUTE AND DAILY LIFEMost residents commute to downtown Grand Rapids in about 20 to 30 minutes, with easy access to the Medical Mile, Corewell Health, and other major employers. Rockford is a car-dependent community outside of downtown, so anyone moving from a highly walkable city should expect an adjustment.DOWNTOWN AND TRADEOFFSDowntown Rockford is small but active, filled with local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, breweries, and community events, with the river as the backdrop for much of summer life. It's not trying to be downtown Grand Rapids, which is exactly why people love it. That said, it's quieter than other parts of the metro, with less nightlife and less diversity, which matters to some buyers and not to others.WHO ROCKFORD IS RIGHT FORRockford tends to be the perfect fit for families who prioritize schools, professionals who want a quieter lifestyle close to Grand Rapids, outdoor enthusiasts, and buyers looking for long-term stability in both lifestyle and home values.If you're considering a move to West Michigan, we'd love to help you find the right fit.

Club soccer is loaded with buzzwords, but on the field, it still comes down to kids, coaches, and parents either helping or getting in the way. Adam sits down with Rockford Raptors executive director Frank Mateus to talk honestly about development, recruiting, mindset, and what's really happening in youth soccer right now.Episode SummaryYouth soccer has turned into long drives, club fees, showcases, tryouts, and college hopes stacked on top of regular school and life. Frank lays out how Rockford Raptors grew from a doctor buying land for his kids to a full path from three‑year‑olds in rec jerseys to ECNL and USL teams playing under the lights at Sportscore Two.The back-and-forth stays practical: what scouts actually watch, why high school soccer can still matter, and how tech, video, and constant tracking affect how kids think about their game. A big chunk of the talk is parents—sidelines, car rides, and the way one comment can either steady a kid or rattle them for a whole season. It's straight, on-the-ground detail from people who are actually in the gyms, on the fields, and at the tournaments.Key TakeawaysRockford Raptors' path: 3‑year‑olds to ECNL to USLHow Doc Wedgebury's idea became Sportscore TwoWhy big tournaments land in Rockford, not the suburbsClub vs high school soccer and where recruiting really happensVideo, highlight clips, VAR, and how kids now watch the gameTesting and metrics vs reading the game with your eyesHow physical the modern girls' and boys' game has becomeConfidence, mistakes, and what players tell themselvesCoaching the coaches so the standard keeps moving upParents, car rides, and how families can quietly cost a kid chancesEpisode Chapters00:00 Intro, Oak Performance Radio & who Frank is02:11 Doc Wedgebury, early days, and Sportscore Two04:42 Rockford's space, tournaments, and local economy07:22 How club soccer and ECNL changed the landscape11:06 Tech, film, World Cup, and kids copying the pros19:10 Fitness tests, numbers, and the mental side of data23:07 Physicality, strength work, and the girls' and boys' game28:43 Mindset, mistakes, and staying in it after a goal34:04 Coaching coaches and reviewing your own decisions37:29 Parents, college coaches, and the car‑ride problem52:00 Rockford community, facilities, and always upgrading59:47 Where to start with Raptors and Raptors Youth Soccer LeagueResources MentionedRockford Raptors – Competitive club based in Rockford, IL (boys and girls, ECNL, USL2, USLW)Raptors Youth Soccer League (RYSL) – Entry‑level and rec program for young playersSportscore Two / Wedgbury Stadium – Rockford Park District soccer complex that grew from Doc Wedgebury's original fieldsUSL2 / USLW – Pre‑pro leagues Raptors compete inECNL – League Frank points to for top youth competition and recruitingFIFA World Cup (1994 and current) – Used as markers for growth of U.S. soccerEnglish Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga – Pro leagues kids watch and copyVAR / NFL replay – Examples around officiating and video reviewOura Ring / Whoop strap – Wearables mentioned for sleep and recovery dataAbout the GuestFrank Mateus is the Executive Director of the Rockford Raptors in Rockford, Illinois. He helps run everything from the Raptors Youth Soccer League for brand‑new players to ECNL and USL teams on both the boys' and girls' sides. Connect with the Guest:Website: rockfordraptors.orgInstagram: @Rockford RaptorsFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/frank.mateus.353https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057443178175About the PodcastWelcome to Oak Performance Radio, where we talk about what it really takes to perform at a high level. Real talks with athletes, coaches, and leaders about training, preparation, and decisions that show up on the field and in life.Listen & SubscribeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/oakperformancelabInstagram: @oakperformance

It's Friday, July 31st, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Syrians in America have to leave the country The expiration of Temporary Protected Status for Syrians in America this week has renewed attention on the fragile security environment facing civilians in Syria, particularly Christians who remain vulnerable 18 months after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's dictatorship in this 87% Muslim country, reports International Christian Concern. Temporary Protected Status is a humanitarian immigration designation that allows nationals of countries experiencing armed conflict to remain and work legally in the United States for a limited period. The designation does not provide a pathway to permanent residency but shields recipients from deportation while conditions in their home country are deemed unsafe for return. In December 2024, rebel forces, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, forced al-Assad from power.  Al-Sharaa's group had previously been associated with Muslim jihadist movements, including al-Qaeda. Before the Syrian civil war, Christians represented a significant minority of Syria's population concentrated in Damascus — where the Apostle Paul was converted on the street. While Christians have not experienced the same level of targeted mass violence as other groups, there has been harassment and attacks on Christian communities. President Trump floats temporarily pulling Blache nomination to be AG President Donald Trump said on July 30 that he was willing to temporarily withdraw his nomination of Todd Blanche to be Attorney General until next year, if two Republican senators continued to withhold their support, reports The Epoch Times. Blanche's nomination has been held up in the Senate Judiciary Committee after Republican Senators John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina said they would not back bringing it to the floor for a full vote. Those two votes are necessary for the nomination to advance. Earlier this year, both Cornyn and Tillis lost their bid for re-election after President Trump endorsed their opponents during the primaries. The president now intends to wait them out. In the meantime, Blanche will remain the acting head of the Department of Justice. You can express your objection to the senators for dragging their feet by calling Senator John Cornyn at 202-224-2934 and Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina at 202-224-6342. You can call 24 hours a day/7 days a week and leave a voicemail. Dr. Fauci invoked Fifth Amendment 90 times in GOP-led committee In a hearing of the Senate's Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee on July 29th, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, announced in his opening statement that he would invoke the Fifth Amendment and not answer any questions about his culpability in a cover-up about the source of the COVID-19 virus or what happened subsequently. Listen. FAUCI: “Members of the committee, I served at the NIH for over 54 years, 38 of those as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Over that period, I proved that I believe in and respect the value of legitimate congressional oversight. In fact, I testified before and/or briefed Senate and House committees well over 200 times over those 38 years. During and after the COVID pandemic, I have appeared multiple times for hearings in the Senate and the House, usually under oath, and sat for several days-long, transcribed, sworn interviews answering questions about the very issues that are now the subject of this hearing. “However, given Senator [Rand] Paul's obvious obsession with calling for my prosecution, his repeated slanderous comments about me, and recently his publicly releasing my unredacted personal diary aimed at embarrassing and intimidating me, the only conclusion I can reach is that the sole reason he is calling me before this committee is to get me to say something, anything, that could vindicate his repeated public pledges that I end up, in his words, ‘behind bars'. “Any reasonable person who has followed his unhinged obsession with me would readily come to the same conclusion. Therefore, although it pains me to do so because of the respect I have for the legislative branch of government and my decades-long record of cooperating with Congress, under the advice of my attorneys, I will invoke my right, under the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution, to refrain from answering your questions.” Over the course of his time in front of the Senate Committee, Dr. Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment a whopping 111 times, reports Fox News. Dr. Fauci stonewalled Senator Rand Paul numerous times Dr. Anthony Fauci repeatedly stonewalled Republican Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky, the Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. The senator started with asking about former President Joe Biden's bizarre “full and unconditional” pardon of Dr. Fauci. PAUL:  “As a member of the White House Coronavirus Task Force, or the White House COVID-19 Response Team, or as Chief Medical Advisor to the President, have you refused this pardon? Or do you have any reason to believe this full and unconditional pardon, this grant of immunity, would somehow require you to plead the Fifth Amendment?” FAUCI: “On the advice of counsel, I respectfully decline to answer, based upon my rights under the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution.” PAUL: “Based on the facts presented, I'm going to direct you to answer the questions. The committee has issued a valid subpoena. They have requested your presence here. The questions are very pertinent to your decision making as head of [the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases], as well as a chief advisor to the president, do you still refuse to answer the questions?” FAUCI: “On the advice of counsel, I respectfully decline to answer, based upon my rights under the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution.” PAUL:  “Were you ever made aware of gain-of-function research on monkeypox being conducted at the National Bio Defense Analysis and Countermeasures Center, and back at Fort Detrick, [the center of the U.S. biological weapons program from 1943 to 1969]?” FAUCI: “On the advice of counsel, I respectfully decline to answer, based upon my rights under the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution.” PAUL:  “Dr. Fauci, did the CIA ever transfer funds to [the National Institutes of Health] under interagency agreement?” FAUCI: “On the advice of counsel, I respectfully decline to answer, based upon my rights under the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution.” And Senator Rand Paul took this parting shot. PAUL: “The chairman has denied your assertion of privilege and directed you to answer, but you nonetheless refuse and stand on privilege despite the existence of the pardon. The committee will have to consider after this hearing what appropriate action should be taken against you for the failure to testify after being directed to do so. “It's against the law to obstruct an investigation of Congress. There will be repercussions to your refusal to testify today.” Watchdog group: Medical groups should condemn transgender surgeries on minors The medical watchdog group, Do No Harm, is calling on 10 major medical associations to explicitly condemn transgender genital surgeries on minors, reports The Daily Signal. On July 29th, Do No Harm sent open letters to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Medical Association among others. In the letter, the group wrote, “Do No Harm, and its 54,000 members, are calling on your society to publicly reject genital surgery on minors for the purpose of producing [so-called] ‘gender transitions.' While this process is uncommon, we believe that it should never occur.” In Matthew 19:4, Jesus asked, “Have you not read that [God], who created them from the beginning, made them male and female?” Marijuana should not be reclassified as a less dangerous drug Marijuana could be reclassified as a less dangerous substance under federal law. Kevin Sabet, CEO of Smart Approaches to Marijuana and the former drug policy advisor for the Clinton, George W. Bush and Obama presidential administrations as well as President Trump's former U.S. Attorney General William Barr, thinks that would be a terrible idea. He said that reclassifying marijuana as a drug with accepted medical use and a lower risk of abuse than drugs subject to greater controls would be reckless. Sabet added, “The evidence presented at the hearing confirmed what decades of data have shown: Raw marijuana has no scientifically established medical value and carries a high risk of abuse. Today's marijuana is more dangerous than ever before. [Reclassifying] marijuana would create the false impression that it is safe, would reduce penalties for peddling the drug illegally and would give those who purvey it legally a huge tax windfall. That would be a disaster.”  The Department of Justice held a hearing last month to consider it at President Donald Trump's request. Despite the fact that President Trump is a teetotaler who eschews alcohol and drugs, he told his administration last December to push forward on easing marijuana restrictions, after an aggressive lobbying push by advocates including a cannabis CEO, a Florida sheriff, and a Mar-a-Lago member, the Wall Street Journal previously reported. Jim Daly, President of Focus on the Family, previously wrote, “Use of cannabis increases a person's chance of developing a bipolar disorder or schizophrenia by an average of 47%. It's also shown to significantly increase hallucinations and paranoia. “In fact, it's been determined that regular use of medical marijuana leads to a higher chance of heart attack, stroke and coronary artery disease. … If the established goal is to make America healthy and great again, this objective will not be reached by increasing access to poisonous pot.” In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, the Apostle Paul asked, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, Who is in you, Whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” Montana listeners like our brevity and updates on the persecuted Here at The Worldview in 5 Minutes, Winston and Heather Royal in Helena, Montana, wrote, “Adam, we appreciate the newscast because it's short, to the point, and from a Christian perspective. We appreciate hearing about our Christian brothers and sisters around the world. And we often listen to it at breakfast time. Thank you for your work!” Texas listener values boldness and truthfulness of The Worldview And Byron Barlowe in Plano, Texas wrote, “Adam, your newscast is something I've evangelized about for four reasons. I find the integration of a Biblical worldview into reporting the news to be effective and refreshing. Brevity matters more than ever. I also relate to the brevity of your newscast since Probe Ministries, a group I write for, produces a 3-minute daily feature. The candor among you and the two other writers of The Worldview is bold, truthful, and necessary. For example, I appreciate your reference to homosexual faux marriage instead of so-called ‘gay marriage.' Spade-calling is truth-telling and, when done in a gracious spirit led by the Spirit of God, can have good effect. You have a golden radio voice that emanates masculinity without undue forcefulness. Both women and men need that in the era of so-called ‘toxic masculinity' and the feminized Church which follows a confused culture. I just like it, too.” Byron, thanks for your encouragement as we use the instruments of our laptops and voice to communicate. 23 Worldview listeners gave $13,150.04 And finally, by Thursday night at 9:00pm Central, 23 Worldview listeners stepped up to the plate and invested their treasure to fund the 6-member team behind The Worldview for another year. Our thanks to Jerry in Angie, Louisiana and Thomas in Spartanburg, South Carolina – both of whom gave $25 as well as David in Wilmington, Ohio and Lori in Rockford, Illinois – both of whom gave $50. We appreciate Tony and Jennie in Palmdale, California who gave $80.04, Samuel in Greensboro, North Carolina who gave $90, and Jeanne in Thomasville, North Carolina and Ron in Orange Park, Florida – both of whom gave $100. We're grateful to God for Jody in Westerlo, New York and Kevin and Shelly in Columbus, Nebraska – both of whom gave $200, Glenn and Linda in Palmdale, California who gave $240, Marlowe in Freetown, Prince Edward Isalnd, Canada who gave $250, Kelly in Rio Rancho, New Mexico who pledged $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300, and Vanessa in Templeton, California and Nicki in Carthage, Missouri – both of whom pledged $35/month for 12 months for a gift of $420. We were touched by the generosity of Serge in Simpsonville, South Carolina who gave $500, Charles and Pamela in Sierra Madre, California  who gave $500, Sean in Burlington, Wisconsin who gave $500, and Francesca in Rockaway Township, New Jersey who also gave $500. All four of them were matched by our friend in Naples, Florida who gave another $2,000. And we were blown away by Frederick in Gainesville, Florida who pledged $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600, Jeff in Sevierville, Tennessee who gave $1,000, and Steve and Carla in Katy, Texas who gave $5,000. Wow! Those 23 gifts add up to $13,150.04. That's the largest total amount in a single day throughout this July 2026 fundraiser. Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please. (drum roll sound effect) $94,270 (sound effect of people cheering) We need to raise $29,230 by midnight tonight, July 31st! That means in order to hit our final goal of $123,500 by midnight tonight, Friday, July 31st, God needs to prompt folks to give an astounding $29,230 in order for the 6-member Worldview newscast team to be fully funded for another year. So, as I've said over the last several days, if you have been waiting until the last minute, this … is … it!  We could really use your help.  The finish line is upon us. Perhaps in our national audience, there are three others, just like Steve and Carla in Katy, Texas, who feel led by God to give a one-time gift of $5,000. If that $15,000 comes in, we would need just 15 people to either give a one-time gift of $1,000 or make a monthly pledge of $83.33 for 12 months which adds up to $1,000. If all of that is way out of your budget, just give what you can. $10. $20. $30. Every dollar gets us closer. Now, if you can't give a dime, then pray. Pray that God would stir the hearts of those who can give! Just go to TheWorldview.com, click on Give, select the dollar amount, and make sure to click on the “recurring” button if that's your wish.  And remember this, if you want to continue your monthly pledge to The Worldview that you started prior to July 1, 2026, please let me know so we can count your generous ongoing gift toward our total. This newscast team champions the truth and uses the Bible as our plumbline.  We actually cite relevant Bible verses that really come alive as we look at the news of the day.  Plus, we report, and we're unique in this, on the persecuted church, the battles for life and a godly perspective on sexuality, often including action steps on how you can make a difference as a believer. Don't forget: The Worldview in 5 Minutes is also commercial free. We have no sponsors. Nor do we have a pay wall.  Anyone who wants to access this newscast can get it for free. So, all we have is you! What is God prompting you to do right now? Go to TheWorldview.com and click on Give. Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, July 31st, in the year of our Lord 2026. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

368 BaseballBiz On Deck Episode Show NotesMark Corbett hosts solo while Mat Germain enjoys vacation in Nova Scotia. Mat continues following MLB trade deadline developments and shares updates on BlueSky. Recommendation to subscribe to Brent Cardy's new Substack, The Cardy Show, featuring Blue Jays analysis and baseball history.  https://thecardyshow.substackDiscussion of Brent Cardy's recent article examining Max Scherzer's future and postseason outlook. Lou Schiff's Miami Marlins endure a 12-game losing streak before taking three games from the Phillies. Brief look at the struggling New York Mets and upcoming Marlins-Mets series. MLB trade deadline preview including speculation surrounding Tarik Skubal, Luis Arraez, and starting pitcher movement. Rays top draft pick Grady Emerson makes his first visit to Tropicana Field and a rapid development path and possibility of reaching the majors within two years. Curtis Mead is traded from Washington to Boston in exchange for pitching prospect Connelly Early. Explanation of cupping therapy after Rays players are seen with circular treatment marks during batting practice. Rays continue leading the American League Update on Tampa Rays stadium negotiations and the latest City Council developments. Discussion of council members opposing forwarding stadium documents to the state. Mayor Jane Castor and stadium negotiation process. Commentary on Councilman Bill Carlson's criticism of the negotiations and his mayoral campaign. Reflection on the economic and community impact of keeping the Rays in Tampa. Mark encourages Tampa baseball fans to contact elected officials and support efforts to keep the Rays in the city. Recognition of Ken Babby for his public outreach and willingness to answer questions about the Rays' future stadium plans. Additional reaction to new comments from Bill Carlson following meetings with Ken Babby. Review of the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Group Stage in Rockford, Illinois. Congratulations to Ryan Woodward and the International Women's Baseball Center for hosting a successful international tournament. Teams competing include the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, China, and South Korea. Highlights from Team USA players and coverage available through streaming broadcasts. Inaugural Women's Pro Baseball League beginning in Springfield, Illinois. Players to watch Kelsie Whitmore, Danae Benitez, and Valerie Perez. Special replay of a classic interview with All American Girls Professional Baseball League players Sue Zipay and Lois Youngen. AAGPBL, Rockford Peaches, South Bend Blue Sox & Fort Wayne Daisies. Over 100 games a seasonClosing encouragement for listeners to support baseball at every level from youth leagues to professional baseball. Subscribe to BaseballBiz On Deck for weekly coverage of MLB, the Tampa Bay Rays, women's baseball, top prospects and the business of baseball. 

From the vengeful Bell Witch to the lingering spirits of Gettysburg, America is packed with haunted spots that refuse to let go of their ghosts – whether it's eerie voices in old asylums, shadowy figures in historic mansions, or phantom footsteps in forgotten graveyards. If you're looking for a brush with the supernatural, these legendary (and lesser-known) locations won't disappoint.EPISODE BLOG PAGE (includes sources): https://weirddarkness.com/HauntedAmericaREAD or DOWNLOAD the full transcript of this episode: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/36de8fpnLISTEN ON PODCAST APPS: Look for this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, and other podcast apps. Get a list of free listening apps here: https://weirddarkness.com/wdapps*No AI Voices Are Used In The Narration Of This Podcast*SOURCES and RESOURCES:“America's Most Haunted Places” by Troy Taylor and April Slaughter for AmericanHauntingsInk.com:https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/582mh58k (used with permission)“America's Not-So-Famous Haunted Houses” by Troy Taylor for AmericanHauntingsInk.com:https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p979tsv (used with permission)(Over time links may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2026, Weird Darkness.Originally aired: January, 2022Weird Darkness tours fifteen haunted American locations, starting with the ones every ghost hunter already knows. The Bell Witch Cave in Adams, Tennessee, where a spirit claiming to be the witch of Kate Batts tormented the Bell family for years and, some say, retreated into a cave near the Red River. Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville, where tuberculosis patients died in numbers large enough to require a body chute running down the hill and out of sight. The Myrtles Plantation, whose most famous ghost stories turn out to be false, though the apparitions on the grounds keep getting reported anyway. The Lemp Mansion in St. Louis, where four members of one brewing family took their own lives across five decades. Gettysburg's Devil's Den, the Stanley Hotel that inspired Stephen King, the Winchester Mystery House with its staircases to nowhere, Bachelor's Grove Cemetery outside Chicago, Yorktown Memorial Hospital in Texas, and the Villisca Ax Murder House in Iowa, where eight people were killed in their beds in June of 1912 and no one was ever convicted.Then the show turns to the houses that never made the lists. Nemacolin Castle in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, built on the site of a French and Indian War garrison and later a stop on the Underground Railroad. Tinker Swiss Cottage in Rockford, Illinois, a twenty-seven-room Swiss-style home on a limestone bluff where children's laughter is heard by staff who came in as skeptics. The McCune Mansion in Salt Lake City, where a little girl walks in and out of a mirror. Taliesin in Spring Green, Wisconsin, where a fired servant locked seven people in Frank Lloyd Wright's home in August of 1914, set it on fire, and killed them with a hatchet as they tried to escape. And Prospect Place in Trinway, Ohio, built by an abolitionist who used a cupola signal light to tell escaping slaves that food and shelter waited inside — some of whom never left.

A listener shares his story about the lessons in tenderness, abundance and connection a forgotten cherry tree gave him. GUEST: Andrew Harmon originally from Rockford, MI but spent many of his young adult years living in Grand Rapids. He now lives in Boston, MA. Want to submit a question to On Hand? Do it here: Online Submission Form Call us: 734-764-7840 Email us: onhand@michiganpublic.org If you like what you hear on the pod, consider supporting our work: michiganpublic.org/podfundSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Better Merch... Better Marketing, the podcast where Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider explore how branded merchandise and smart marketing work together to help businesses stand out, build stronger relationships, and grow. This week, the conversation starts with Jade turning the tables and asking Kirby for career advice. From navigating opportunities to making intentional decisions, they discuss lessons that apply whether you're just getting started or looking to take the next step professionally. They also dive into the internet's favorite accidental spoiler, Tom Holland, and debate whether his reputation for revealing movie secrets is really accidental—or a clever marketing strategy. From there, Kirby and Jade tackle one of the biggest challenges in today's digital world: personal branding. They discuss why trying to manufacture an online persona rarely works, why authenticity matters more than perfection, and how being genuinely yourself is the best long-term strategy for building trust. The episode wraps up with the Product of the Week: the Rockford 28 oz Vacuum-Sealed Tumbler, a premium piece of drinkware designed to keep beverages hot or cold while putting your brand in customers' hands every day. Whether you're looking for better promotional products, stronger branding, or practical marketing ideas, this episode delivers insights you can start using right away.

Please enjoy this preview of our upcoming conversation with Christopher Martini, stepson of Stuart Margolin and the director of Everybody's Angel, a forthcoming feature length documentary that will celebrate the remarkable life and career of the actor known around the world as Angel Martin on The Rockford Files. Topics this segment include the many ways in which James Garner mentored Stuart before, during, and after Rockford. Our complete conversation with Chris will air next week on TV Confidential. There is a crowdsourcing campaign going on right now at Indiegogo to help cover some of the various costs related to production of the documentary. If you're a fan of Stuart Margolin and would like to help contribute to the Indiegogo campaign, go to TinyURL.com/EverybodysAngel for more information. Every contribution helps preserve Stuart's incredible legacy for future generations.

BaseballBiz On Deck: Women's Baseball World Cup, Rays Trade Deadline and MLB EconomicsMark Corbett and Mat Germain break down the latest action from the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Group Stage in Rockford, Illinois, including standout performances by Team USA, Canada, Japan and Australia. They also discuss the upcoming Women's Pro Baseball League and where fans can watch the tournament.The conversation shifts to the Tampa Bay Rays, highlighting Chandler Simpson's speed, Griffin Jax's strong outing, the Durham Bulls' hot streak and why Grady Emerson and Junior Caminero could become the franchise's future cornerstone duo.With the MLB Trade Deadline approaching, Mark and Mat analyze the AL East race, the biggest trade rumors, potential buyers and sellers, and whether stars like Tarik Skubal, Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto could be on the move.The episode concludes with a discussion of MLB's economic structure, revenue sharing, pitcher compensation, salary cap proposals and how the Rays' long-term future could be tied to a new Tampa stadium.In This Episode WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup updates from Rockford  Olivia Pichardo and Team USA highlights  Women's Pro Baseball League preview  Tampa Bay Rays prospects and organizational depth  AL East standings and MLB Trade Deadline predictions  MLB economics, salary cap debate and CBA reform  Rays stadium outlook and the franchise's future Subscribe to BaseballBiz On Deck for weekly coverage of MLB, the Tampa Bay Rays, women's baseball, top prospects and the business of baseball.Keywords: Tampa Bay Rays, MLB Trade Deadline, Women's Baseball World Cup, WBSC, Rockford, Junior Caminero, Chandler Simpson, Grady Emerson, AL East, MLB News, Baseball Podcast, Women's Pro Baseball League.

Poe Leos, una de las nuevas voces más emocionantes de la Música Mexicana Contemporánea, habla en La Clave Pop sobre La Víctima, su más reciente EP, que reúne los sencillos "Las Partes", "No Fui Yo", "WOW" y el tema que da nombre a la producción: una fusión de Música Mexicana Contemporánea con hip-hop, R&B y sonidos electrónicos.En esta conversación, la cantautora, productora e ingeniera mexicoestadounidense cuenta la historia detrás de "La Víctima" y su reflexión sobre la manipulación en el amor, revela cómo un momento en Polanco, Ciudad de México, inspiró el empoderamiento de "WOW", y habla de su biculturalidad entre Chihuahua y Rockford, Illinois. También comparte cómo su sonido conecta con el legado de artistas como Lucha Villa y Linda Ronstadt, su camino desde cantar en quinceañeras hasta coescribir Bloom de Durand Bernarr, ganador del GRAMMY® 2026, y una reflexión muy personal sobre su relación con su mamá.Además, contamos con que Poe Leos se presentará el 28 de julio en el Sony Music Latin Showcase en la LAMC, en DROM Nueva York, junto a Luck Ra, Elena Sofía, Mariangela, YEИDRY y Yk It's Junaa.Sigue a Marysabel Huston en sus redes sociales: Instagram y Threads: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@marysabelhuston⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@marysabelhuston⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Marysabel.Huston⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (antes Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hustonmarysabel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Marysabel Huston⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Créditos: Producción ejecutiva, edición y mezcla por Marysabel HustonMúsica: Una producción de Techy Fatule

That described the two longest active winning streaks and coincidentally our two favorite teams, one of which was going down shortly after recording. More wood was knocked upon. Patti's got two players of the week on her boyfriend roster, congrats to Drake and WIlyer. Several of our guys made their marks in some very lopsided games this weekend. Pottymouth learns that SDI is not what it was in our formative years but Caleb's got a good one. We've got some All Star moments, including mathing out Cuban participation. Women's World Cup Baseball group states are about to begin, coinciding with Baseball for All in Rockford. MLPBA and the league tell very different stories about the state of baseball as bargaining continues. SoFi stadium workers benefit from Men's World Cup timing to gain protections against ICE. As predicted last week, Falklands/Malvinas are a thing, and a thing about which journalists are getting sloppy, and about which the Facist-in Chief is making more phone calls for all the wrong reasons. And we're so happy for Jonah, the Very Good Dog, who did indeed get his dream day at loanDepot park.We say, “11 is purple,” “Where the women at?” and, ”Philly fans do not disappoint.” Fight the man, go see some live baseball, send your game balls to Meredith, and find us on Bluesky @ncibpodcast, on Facebook @nocryinginbball, Instagram @nocryinginbball and on the Interweb at nocryinginbball.com. Please take a moment to subscribe to the show, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to NCiB. Become a supporter at Patreon to help us keep doing what we do. We now have episode transcripts available!  They are available for free at our Patreon site. Say goodnight, Pottymouth. 

I’m on the road in a 16 foot Penske truck  I’m doing this show from a hotel room in Bolingbrook, Illinois. friend Of The Show Jeff  Zelepugas  joins me and my undisclosed beautiful travel companion Music by The Kinks ? Donate to the show – Rock and Roll Geek Friends And Family Membership Thanks to Ralph Miller for the $125 Penske truck donation Thanks to Dan Gerawan for the $100 Penske Donation Donate on Venmo Dan Gerawan – $100 Concerned Donation John Morgan – $50 Hang In There Bud Kirk Crawford – $50 Tim Schall – $50 Rockbottom Rob Giglio – $25 Gregg Brofer – $20 Blake Johnston – $20 Todd Cunningham – $10 Danny Borden – $5 Steven Cohen $5 Richard Fusey – $4.44 Richard Fusey – $6.66 Bruce McMillan – $3 (Venmo donation id is @Michael-Butler-11) PATREON DONORS Joe Pawlak – $16.66 Kirk Crawford – $12.77 Patrick Shanahan – $10 Brian Springer – $8 Jon Scott – $8 Michael Street – $7.50 Dave Slusher – $5.55 Robert Harvey – $5 Chiaki Hinohara – $5 MedakiMetal on Instagram Jamie Jefford – $5 Erik Klein – $5 Paul Smith – $5 Justin Lefkowitz – $5 Steve Trice – $5 James Shapiro – $5 Martin Clawley – $5 Nadi Itani – $5 Eric Stowell – $4 Mike Hellyer – 4 pounds Mark Mazzel – $3 Adrian Boschan – $2 Amelia Bowen – $2 RnR Pleeb – $1.42 3Legs4wheels – $1 Arne Stach – $1 Paypal Donors Richard Strom – $20 Dave Franco – $20 Steven Laperriere – $20 Bradley Lisko – $10 William Bealle – $10 Ralph Miller – $10 School Of Podcasting – $10 Jason Shepard – $10 Jeff and Cheri Thieleke – $10 Christopher Del Grande – $5 Jayce Lesniewski – $5 Benjamin Mueller – $5 Jon Tennis – $5 Rachel Rosenberg – $5 Vincent Crimi – $5 Gregg Long – $5 Peter Spark $5 Andrew Howe – $5 John Ofenloch – $5 Chad Kiffmeyer – $2 Dave Alexander – $2 Adam Croft – $2 Kai Matsuda – $2 Lasse Satvedthagen – $2 Brian Grattidge – $2 William Moffett – $2 Deborah Dreyfus – $2 Show Transcript  0 00:00:05 From somewhere in the middle of nowhere, this is the Rock and Roll Geek Show. This is the story of my rock and roll butler. Welcome to the Rock and Roll Geek Show. 00:00:21 My name is Michael Butler. Thanks a lot for joining me. I really appreciate it. 00:00:25 Today is Friday, July 17th, 2026. It’s 540 when I’m doing this. We’re going to do it shortly because we have people in the hotel room. 00:00:37 A friend of the show is here that I met. We’re in, what town are we in? Bowling? 00:00:44 Bowling? Bowling Brook. Bowling Brook. 00:00:46 Bowling Brook, Illinois. Introduce yourself. It’s Jeffrey. 00:00:50 Jeffrey Zalapugas. Zalapugas. I can’t pronounce his last name. 00:00:54 I don’t know why but Zalapugas. Zalapugas. Zalapugas. 00:01:03 It’s not my pizza name. My pizza name is Paige. So is that an Italian? 00:01:07 Zalapugas. Lithuanian. Lithuanian, ooh. 00:01:10 I don’t know what they say about Lithuanians. Yeah, for sure. If I order a pizza, it’s never that. 00:01:18 What do you mean? It’s never a Lithuanian pizza? No, it’s never Zalapugas. 00:01:21 Oh, it’s Zalapulagas. Zalapulagas. That’s what you’re going to hear going back. 00:01:24 I’ve heard it all. Talk into that microphone. You can’t butcher the last name. 00:01:32 Jeffrey Zalapugas. We’re going to meet up with Jeff Thielicke today. That’s who you were with last time when I was in Milwaukee. 00:01:40 And Chicago. And Manitoba. Oh, you were in Chicago as well. 00:01:43 Yeah. Thielicke got pretty wasted, huh? Milwaukee as well. 00:01:48 Yeah. Hats off to Jeff. He’s a fun guy. 00:01:51 Sure is. As you are as well. He’s a good dude. 00:01:54 I was telling undisclosed, beautiful travel companion Raquel how hilarious you got. You crack me up all the time. Last time you were there, I was cracking up. 00:02:07 Well, we had the gentle giant with us, though. Stirring up the pot. Yeah, your bodyguard. 00:02:13 Yeah, we went to a Mexican place. Did you know he came to? Oh, his wife is here, Winnie. 00:02:18 His beautiful wife, Winnie. Say hi, Winnie. Winnie, did you know he came all the way to see… 00:02:26 Yes, yes, he told me about it. Yes, he told me, yes. You okay with that? 00:02:30 Yes, I was. Where are you from, Winnie? I’m from Africa. 00:02:36 You’re from Africa? What part of Africa? East Africa. 00:02:38 East Africa. What country is in East Africa? Uganda. 00:02:41 What is it? Uganda. Uganda? 00:02:44 Wow. I went to Cape Town, and I went to… Oh, fuck. 00:02:51 Botswana? Botswana, oh, yeah. Is that near Uganda? 00:02:55 No, that’s south, south, south, yes. They had no… In Cape Town, because I wanted to have wild game, I wanted to eat wild game. 00:03:02 Wow. Cape Town, they had all kinds of wild game you could eat. Yes, they do. 00:03:06 Botswana and up there, there was no wild game. Yeah, Botswana is a bit a desert of a desert. There were game reserves, but there was no wild game to eat. 00:03:16 No, no, they don’t. What about Uganda? Oh, Uganda is beautiful. 00:03:19 You have… Is there wild… Can you eat wild game there? 00:03:22 Oh, yes. Springbok was delicious. Yes, you better come to Uganda. 00:03:27 I’ll… Can you have… You have a place I can stay there? 00:03:30 No, I’m kidding. Oh, yes, I do. We had… 00:03:32 I had ostrich carpaccio in Cape Town. Okay. That was the best thing I’ve ever eaten in my life. 00:03:40 Wow. It was so good. You come in Uganda, you’ll eat the luwombo. 00:03:45 Luwombo? Luwombo, yes. What is that? 00:03:49 It’s beef or chicken stewed in banana leaves. Oh, that’s great. Yes, real tender. 00:03:56 Oh, man, I’m hungry. We haven’t eaten today. Zellopagus. 00:04:00 We’ll feed you. Well, it’s nice to meet you, Winnie. Nice to meet you. 00:04:04 So you go back and forth to Africa? Yes, yes, I do. I do. 00:04:08 I had… We had a woman who was a friend… We started off as cleaning our house, but then she became a really good friend and part of the family. 00:04:15 She’s from Cape Town. She goes back. Her husband’s still there. 00:04:19 Her husband stays in Cape Town. She goes back and forth. Now I have my husband here, so I better go see my other family. 00:04:26 You get away from your husband for a while. Does Jeffrey go with you? Yes, for a break. 00:04:30 He hasn’t yet, but we hope to go. You’ve never been to Africa? Not yet. 00:04:34 It’s a hell of a flight. Yes. We got married in Fiji. 00:04:39 I don’t know where that is. Fiji. Is that near Australia? 00:04:43 Yeah, above Australia. Oh, right, yeah. You’ve got to lay flat. 00:04:46 You’ve got to get first class. It’s a shit flight if you don’t lay first class. When I sell the house, we’re going to lay flat in Japan. 00:04:56 Nice. Wow. Yeah, I would love to go to Japan. 00:04:59 Yeah, we’re going to do some drinking and eating in Japan. Come with us. We’re going to go. 00:05:02 It’s beautiful, yes. Tokyo, for sure. Yeah. 00:05:05 We’re going to go to Alcatraz. We’ll let you know where we’re going. Kyoto. 00:05:08 Oh, yeah. We’re going to go to Kyoto, Osaka, maybe even Okinawa. Because they have good beer in Okinawa. 00:05:14 Beautiful place. Yeah. You like sake, brother? 00:05:19 No, I don’t drink sake too much. But I do like a Japanese beer. I’ll take a Sapporo. 00:05:26 Oh, that’s too generic? Well, it depends on which. Now we’re going to geek out on beer. 00:05:30 Because I’ll tell you, if you have a Sapporo 22-ounce can, they’re brewed in Japan. But if you get a 12-ounce can or a bottle of Sapporo, it’s brewed in Canada. It’s by Molson. 00:05:43 Oh, wow. I didn’t know that. Microphone up to your mouth. 00:05:45 Fun fact from Michael Butler. And if you go to a Japanese restaurant, if they have Asahi on draft, that is brewed in Japan. But if you get an Asahi bottle, it’s another Americanized. 00:05:57 It’s like made in America somewhere. What about sake in that goofy barrel? I don’t know anything about sake. 00:06:02 You’re not a sake drinker? My good friend Shaki, Metal Moment, he knows all about it. But I don’t know anything about sake. 00:06:08 How’s he doing? We had dinner. Undisclosed Raquel came. 00:06:13 We had dinner with them on Sunday before we left. Went to a Korean all-you-can-eat place. It was good. 00:06:18 Cool. Glad you reconnected. Yeah. 00:06:21 That was the first time Shaki’s seen me since the shit went down. But yeah. Yeah. 00:06:28 He took it all in stride. Well, good to have friends. Yeah, because his wife was, well, I don’t know if she was friends with the other one. 00:06:37 So she met Raquel, and they were very impressed by how great of a person Raquel was. Well, definitely. This whole mission you’ve been on these last couple of weeks, having a partner in crime, is essential. 00:06:53 So I’m happy for the two of you, and thanks for doing this for Michael. So what brings you to Bowling? What are we at again? 00:06:59 We’re in Bowling Brook, Illinois. The claim to fame was the first indoor amusement park. It’s no longer here. 00:07:07 I saw the Ramones, actually, at that venue called Old Chicago. It’s on YouTube if you guys get bored. But there was a riot afterwards, chair throwing. 00:07:20 Yeah. Oh, nice. And I got one of Didi’s picks. 00:07:23 I should have brought that. Just a brag deal. Chair throwing where they’re like, people wanted to see the punk rock circus or something, and they started to fight with the punk rockers? 00:07:32 No, I don’t know what the uproar was. But there’s some footage of the Ramones walking around Old Chicago in Bowling Brook. Oh, okay. 00:07:41 Maybe I’ll throw that out on the Facebook. You didn’t create that, though, did you? No, I don’t. 00:07:46 No, I did not create it. But let’s not get into that. It’s a running gag. 00:07:51 My brother just became a rock and roll geek, and I asked him about it. He’s like, oh, did I? You’re going to meet him tonight, hopefully. 00:07:59 Oh, good. Did he bring his harmonicas? Well, we were talking about that before we jumped on this cast. 00:08:05 Well, if he gets asked, he needs to be prepared. Well, he doesn’t want to assume. Do I need to bring my harmonicas in case he wants to blow? 00:08:16 Yeah, if they’re handy. He does have them with him, right? He said he wasn’t going to bring them. 00:08:20 Let me look in the truck before we get out of here, and I’ll see. On the way here, go ahead. So Bowling Brook is just a suburb of Chicago. I told you about the claim to fame, the old Chicago, but it’s probably maybe an hour, hour and a half west of Chicago, 00:08:37 just a suburb. You’re pretty much in and out on I-80, but that’s really all Bowling Brook’s about. But we’re going to see a blues band that my brother used to sit in with years ago called the Griff Band, so Don Griffin. So he’s going to do one set, and then somebody’s going to do just 00:08:55 classic rock after that. So we’ve got blues and then classic rock? Blues and classic rock. 00:09:00 All right. Well, good. Where are you coming from? 00:09:04 I live in a town called Lakewood, Illinois, which is next to Crystal Lake. It’s halfway between Chicago and Rockford, as the crow flies. You know Rockford? 00:09:13 I asked beautiful Raquel if she knew what Rockford was famous for. Does she know? She does now. 00:09:23 She knows now. The band that has no past? Yes, exactly. 00:09:28 She thought it was where the famous oysters were from. You’re going to have to. If you guys had time, the Hard Rock Casino has a huge. 00:09:36 In Rockford or in Chicago? In Rockford has a huge. We already passed Rockford. 00:09:41 Yeah, I guess you did, but I mean, you’re not like. I mean, if you were a diehard Rick Nielsen fan. They got Rick Nielsen’s guitars, right? 00:09:49 They got, I’d say, probably 30 guitars, probably 10 outfits. You know, all kinds of, you know. Rick, you know, from Rockford, living in Rockford, has a huge display. 00:10:00 I could probably forward some pictures there. How far is Rockford from here? I don’t know. 00:10:06 Maybe, probably 45 minutes. We got to go back track 45 minutes? No, it’s north and probably a little bit. 00:10:12 It’s probably more due north and probably a little bit east. All right, maybe we’ll see. Or west, rather, sorry. 00:10:19 West, so we got to go back track. We’ll see if we can. I should have mentioned that, but you know that crazy knit jumpsuit that he’s got? 00:10:27 With the, what is it? Is it Glenplaid? With the checkerboards, you mean? 00:10:32 Checkerboards, but kind of like offset. Those pants that he wears? Uh-huh. 00:10:37 You remember when he had the arrow with the red sweater and the goofy hat? Yeah, that’s early, that’s in color. With those knit pants, there’s a pair of those on display. 00:10:46 And a bunch of his guitars. He can’t fit in those anymore. I spent more time taking pictures of that than actually seeing the gig that we were going there to see. 00:10:59 We’re going to Nashville to see them open for GZ Top. Nashville’s great. Joe Pollock invited me to see Cheap Trick and Hart. 00:11:10 That was last year, year before? With the lovely Gina. That was a good time. 00:11:16 Did you go? Yeah, I went. They invited me. 00:11:19 We hung out. Did Robin get up and sing? Love Hurts? 00:11:25 No, I don’t think they did Love Hurts. Did he get up and sing with Hart? I don’t even remember if the kid was there or not. 00:11:30 Robin Jr.? Yeah, Robin Jr. I don’t really recall. 00:11:33 I’ve been to so many gigs. Ann Wilson was in the wheelchair, but I think she’s gotten better since then. We, on the way here, we stopped at the world’s largest truck stop. 00:11:44 You ever been there? I’ve heard of it. I’ve never been. 00:11:46 I was a little disappointed. This is a big shopping mall? Thielicke told us, you need to stop at the world’s largest truck stop. 00:11:54 So we stopped, and it’s not that great. It’s not like you guys have been to the Buc-ee’s, I’m sure, right? That’s what I said. 00:12:01 I said, well, this Buc-ee’s looks as big as this. I like Buc-ee’s better than that place we were at today. Buc-ee’s has all branded stuff. 00:12:10 Yeah, there’s one. Wisconsin has one called Quick Trip. I’m not a Wisconsinian, but on the scale of Buc-ee’s, I don’t know where they fit. 00:12:23 But they’ll have stuff like hard-boiled eggs pickled, stuff like that, weird. Like 110 different kinds of beef sticks. I’m sure the Wisconsinians would know more about it. 00:12:39 But Quick Trip, if you see one, is a little bit of a trip. If we see a Quick Trip, we’ll stop at a Quick Trip. I’m hoping we see a Buc-ee’s, because I would like everybody to experience the Buc-ee’s. 00:12:49 It’s something you should check out once. Yeah, they’re mainly from the south, I think, right? But they’re starting to make a little bit of a jump up north here. 00:12:56 Yeah, I think so. All right, so thank you for meeting up with us, General Paulodoulos. I wouldn’t miss it for the world. 00:13:05 I’ll probably have a beer with you just to get off my sabbatical. There you go. My health sabbatical. 00:13:09 Why are you not drinking right now? I went through some health issues, man. I’m on a bunch of meds, and it doesn’t mix with booze that well. 00:13:16 Do you have a stroke? No, I had AFib about three years ago, and then it came back about nine months ago. And then I had a situation where the blood wasn’t pumping through the heart appropriately. 00:13:29 How did you find that out? Well, I knew it was gurgling, you know what I mean? Were you wearing a watch? 00:13:37 Because if you’re wearing a watch and you have AFib stuff, it’ll blow up. Yeah, so I bought the watch to monitor for it. That’s why I’m wearing one. 00:13:44 Yeah, I started getting it again. And then I had an ablation on May 11th, and I’ve been pretty good since then. What’s an ablation? 00:13:50 They go in there and zap some of the overacting areas of the heart that send electrical pulses to make your heart beat. What do they zap it with? Sound waves or radio waves or something. 00:14:02 And they deaden some of the overactive sites, and hopefully they get the right ones. And since then, they shocked it back in the rhythm and then did the ablation, and I’ve been okay since. So I’ve been staying off the beef, staying off the booze. 00:14:18 Staying off the beef? Yeah, they take you off the beef. Fuck that. 00:14:24 Fuck that shit. Well, they say your good years are between 63 and 73. What’s that? 00:14:31 What do they want you to eat? Chicken, fish, vegetables, fruit. That’s okay, too, but you’ve got to eat. 00:14:38 The beef is… Once in a while. Yeah. 00:14:41 So once in a while. You got money? Not really. 00:14:45 So you better… Sorry, Winnie. If he kicks it, you ain’t going to get much. 00:14:50 You better hope he lives. I mean… I got enough to retire today. 00:14:58 Okay, good. So Winnie’s not going to be homeless until she can die. No, no, no. 00:15:01 She’s… Good. Yeah, yeah. 00:15:03 I’m sure she has her own money. Yeah. You have your own money, right, Winnie? 00:15:07 Yes, I do. Good, good, good, good. She’s got a big compound back in Africa, so she probably, you know… 00:15:12 She mourned for a week and then be back in Africa, probably. But, anyway. Well, I appreciate you coming, Zellablogs. 00:15:18 No worries, man. Thanks for having me. So, friends, we’re trying to get back to New York by Sunday. 00:15:24 We’re taking I-80. I said this yesterday. We’re taking I-80. 00:15:29 So if you’re along I-80 and want to have a beer or something… I think we do get off I-80 at some point, don’t we? Oh, I don’t know. 00:15:36 Very soon, I think. We got two more days. So we’re going to be heading through Pennsylvania, then up to New York. 00:15:42 So if you’re on our route, friends, I’d love to meet up with you and have a beer or something. And, again, thank you to everybody who’s been contributing to this trip. It’s much appreciated. 00:15:55 And it’s been so far so good. Oh, you want a beer? Okay. 00:16:02 I’ll get you a beer. Hold on a second. Now I’m frazzled. 00:16:07 No, I wanted you to have a sip of that fine… Let’s take a sip. Oh, yeah. We’re all drinking, except for Zella Pelugas, 00:16:14 we’re all drinking Modelo in the can and a Yeti knockoff. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Thank you, everybody, for supporting the shot. 00:16:21 Take a sip of this fine Modelo. It’s new. There you go. 00:16:26 Ah! You know what they say. The eighth one of the day is always the best. 00:16:32 This is actually the first one of the day. It’s the first one of the day for me as well. Cheers. 00:16:35 Cheers, Michael August. Cheers. That’s not going to give you a heart attack. 00:16:39 What meds are you on? All kinds of shit, man. I’ll tell you offline. 00:16:43 Okay. Well, thank you for listening, friends. 00:16:46 Rockandrollgeek.com is where you can find the show. Find me on the Facebook, R&R Geek. 00:16:51 Rockandrollgeek Facebook group. Going strong as usual. Thanks to the sheriff. 00:16:57 And find me on the Twitter, R&R Geek. Find me on the Instagram, rockandrollgeek. Don’t ask. 00:17:02 Please keep the donations coming. Without your donations, this show would die a horrible, putrid, stenchful death. And if you get any value out of this, please contribute what you can. 00:17:10 And I thank you for everybody who’s been supporting so far. Zella Palougalos. We’re going to go watch some blues and have some beer. 00:17:17 This is not going to be your only beer for the night. I’ve got a feeling. All right, friends. So I’m going to close out with something that Chris Cappell, 00:17:23 the rockandroll copywriter, sent. We’re playing all songs that have road in the title. And this is from the Kinks 1977 sleepwalker album. 00:17:32 You know what song this is? I don’t. You don’t know the Kinks? 00:17:36 Only the hits. This one is called Life on the Road. Thank you for listening, friends. 00:17:40 I’ll talk to you tomorrow.The post On the road in a Penske truck day five -Bolingbrook, Illinois first appeared on The Rock and Roll Geek Show.

Kenzie details the horrific crimes committed by Simon Peter Nelson in Rockford. Chicago’s best morning radio show now has a podcast! Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and remember that the conversation always lives on the Q101 Facebook page. Brian & Kenzie are live every morning from 6a-10a on Q101. Subscribe to our channel HERE: https://www.youtube.com/@Q101 Like Q101 on Facebook HERE: https://www.facebook.com/q101chicago Follow Q101 on Twitter HERE: https://twitter.com/Q101Chicago Follow Q101 on Instagram HERE: https://www.instagram.com/q101chicago/?hl=en Follow Q101 on TikTok HERE: https://www.tiktok.com/@q101chicago?lang=enSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a Grave Talks CLASSIC EPISODE!When Hunter and Jenny Scott bought their dream home in Rockford, Alabama, they thought they were starting a new chapter — until the house started writing one of its own. Shadow figures emerged from dark corners, unseen forces lashed out, and a violent history began to reveal itself piece by chilling piece. This wasn't just another haunting — it was personal.As paranormal activity escalated, even Harper Lee, author of To Kill a Mockingbird, became intrigued by the home's murderous past. What had happened within its walls that drew both the living and the dead? And why did it seem intent on driving its new owners away?In this episode of The Grave Talks, we sit down with investigator Kim Johnson, who helped uncover the dark secrets buried beneath the Rockford home and guided the Scotts through one of Alabama's most disturbing true hauntings.#TheRockfordHaunting #HauntedAlabama #HarperLee #ParanormalPodcast #RealHauntings #GhostStories #TheGraveTalks #TrueHaunting #HauntedHouse #ShadowPeople #DemonicHaunting #HauntedHistoryLove real ghost stories? Want even more?Become a supporter and unlock exclusive extras, ad-free episodes, and advanced access:

This is a Grave Talks CLASSIC EPISODE! PART TWOWhen Hunter and Jenny Scott bought their dream home in Rockford, Alabama, they thought they were starting a new chapter — until the house started writing one of its own. Shadow figures emerged from dark corners, unseen forces lashed out, and a violent history began to reveal itself piece by chilling piece. This wasn't just another haunting — it was personal.As paranormal activity escalated, even Harper Lee, author of To Kill a Mockingbird, became intrigued by the home's murderous past. What had happened within its walls that drew both the living and the dead? And why did it seem intent on driving its new owners away?In this episode of The Grave Talks, we sit down with investigator Kim Johnson, who helped uncover the dark secrets buried beneath the Rockford home and guided the Scotts through one of Alabama's most disturbing true hauntings.#TheRockfordHaunting #HauntedAlabama #HarperLee #ParanormalPodcast #RealHauntings #GhostStories #TheGraveTalks #TrueHaunting #HauntedHouse #ShadowPeople #DemonicHaunting #HauntedHistoryLove real ghost stories? Want even more?Become a supporter and unlock exclusive extras, ad-free episodes, and advanced access:

Eleven federal agencies spent sixty days working Chicago and Rockford under one flag, and when it ended they had 305 fugitives in custody and 24 children — many of them kidnapped — back home.SOURCES, LINKS, AND PRINT VERSION: https://weirddarkness.com/OperationNewDawnLook for this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, and other podcast apps. Get a list of free listening apps here: https://pod.link/1078714736*No AI Voices Are Used In The Narration Of This Podcast*WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2026, Weird Darkness.

For a few terrifying hours in the summer of 1955, two Kentucky families emptied their guns into small, glowing creatures that swarmed their farmhouse and simply would not die — and to this day, no one agrees on whether they fought off aliens, owls, or something the mind conjured out of the dark.EPISODE BLOG PAGE (includes sources): https://weirddarkness.com/kellyhopkinsvilleREAD or DOWNLOAD the full transcript of this episode: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p86wb4mFEATURED STORIES IN THIS EPISODE: It's considered one of the most bizarre and convincing extraterrestrial events ever reported… we'll look at the alien encounter in 1955's Hopkinsville, Kentucky that was experienced by two terrified families. (The Hopkinsville Encounter) *** In the deep jungles of the Congo, natives tell of a giant creature that, once described, sounds exactly like a long-necked dinosaur. But how could this be? And is it pure legend? Perhaps not, as one noted biologist from the area saw it with his own eyes and reported it. We'll look at the supposed real sighting of Mokele-Mbembe, the living dinosaur of the Congo! (Dinosaur Observed In The Congo) *** Running a club during prohibition was extremely lucrative… and extremely dangerous, as one Theodore Lakoff would've learned… had he been awake when he was murdered. (The Mysterious Death of Theodore Lakoff) *** Benjamin Franklin was known not just as one of the father's of the United States of America, but also as an inventor, a womanizer, and a man with a bit of an ornery streak in him – as is evidenced by a series of letters he wrote to the New England Courant, where he pretended to be a woman. (Who Was Mrs. Silence Dogood?) *** The internet is a vital part of modern life. Without web access, all kinds of businesses and jobs would be unable to function. So, as you can imagine, there are plenty of people who would love to see the internet crumble. And many have tried. (Taking Down The World Wide Web) *** In 1983 sightings poured in from people on the California coast who claim they saw a sea monster. (The California Sea Monster)CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…00:00:00.000 = The Foreboding00:01:10.244 = Show Open00:03:40.994 = The Hopkinsville Encounter00:13:15.837 = Dinosaur Observed in the Congo ***00:27:07.561 = Taking Down The World Wide Web ***00:36:42.752 = The Mysterious Death of Theodor Lakoff00:43:15.319 = Who Was Mrs. Silence Dogood?00:49:11.286 = The California Sea Monster00:55:29.517 = Show Close*** = Begins immediately after inserted ad breakLISTEN ON PODCAST APPS: Look for this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, and other podcast apps. Get a list of free listening apps here: https://weirddarkness.com/wdapps*No AI Voices Are Used In The Narration Of This Podcast*SOURCES and RESOURCES:“The Hopkinsville Encounter” by Hannah Collins for Ranker.com's Graveyard Shift:https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/yp8pnfx7“Dinosaur Observed in the Congo” by Richard Greenwell for the ISC Newsletter: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/yc3r3mpp“The Mysterious Death of Theodore Lakoff” by Kathi Kresol for HauntedRockford.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/ku5x3cat“Who Was Mrs. Silence Dogood?” by Bipin Dimri for HistoricMysteries.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p868eac“Taking Down the World Wide Web” by Benjamin Thomas for ListVerse.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/c85j5cau“The California Sea Monster” by Malcom Smith for Malcom's Cryptids: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/yc2wts7h(Over time links may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2026, Weird Darkness.Originally aired: December, 2021Weird Darkness pulls together a farmhouse siege by little gray creatures in Kentucky, a biologist's claimed sighting of a living dinosaur in the Congo, decades of attempts to knock the internet offline, an unsolved Prohibition murder in Illinois, a teenage Benjamin Franklin's literary hoax, and a hundred-foot sea serpent sighted off the California coast.It opens on August 21, 1955, when Billy Ray Taylor stepped out to the well at Glennie Lankford's farmhouse in Kelly, outside Hopkinsville, Kentucky, and watched a bright object drop behind the trees. Two families spent the night barricaded indoors, firing a 12-gauge shotgun and a .22 rifle at short gray creatures with spindly legs and glowing eyes that peered through windows and swiped at Taylor from the roof, yet the buckshot rang off them like sheet metal before they floated away unharmed. Skeptics later blamed an aggressive great horned owl or a green glow of bioluminescent foxfire, while the U.S. Air Force's Project Blue Book dismissed the case as a hoax and filed it under C.P., for crackpot.From there the episode reaches the Likouala swamps of the People's Republic of the Congo, where in 1983 biologist Marcellin Agnagna became the first trained scientist to claim he had seen Mokele-Mbembe, the long-necked animal described as a surviving dinosaur for over two centuries. At remote Lake Télé on May 1, 1983, he watched a creature with a long neck, small head, and broad back rising some fifteen feet above the water, judged it a Mesozoic sauropod, and waded out to film it — only to find he had left the lens cap on, and his last roll of film later developed black.Next comes a survey of attempts to knock the internet offline since Tim Berners-Lee launched the World Wide Web. A man named Liu in Weifang, China tore apart four China Telecom junction boxes in 2016 to bury footage of himself joining a public "granny dance," while the Mirai botnet's 2016 assault on the firm Dyn took down Twitter, Netflix, and CNN, and Cornell student Robert Tappan Morris had loosed the first such attack by accident in 1988. It ends on Seth Aaron Pendley, a Texas man arrested in 2021 for plotting to blow up a Virginia data center with C-4 in hopes of crippling most of the web.The show then drops back to January 1931, when roadhouse owner Theodore Lakoff was shot once through the top of the head as he slept in his own Rockford, Illinois resort, a Prohibition den of liquor, gambling, and women he ran under the alias Tony Evanoff. His wallet lay emptied while far more cash sat untouched, and suspicion fell on twenty-year-old Viola Hunsficker, said to be extorting him, until ballistics cleared the pistol found in her apartment. Investigators then turned up five other women who each believed she was his only sweetheart, and the killing was never solved.Then it reaches back to 1722 Boston, where a witty widow named Silence Dogood published letters in the New England Courant skewering religious hypocrisy, Harvard, and fashion, charming readers so thoroughly that several men wrote in offering to marry her. She was the invention of sixteen-year-old Benjamin Franklin, an apprentice in his brother James's print shop who slipped the letters under the door at night for six months before revealing himself, then carried his taste for hoaxes to Philadelphia and a fabricated 1730 account of a Mount Holly witch trial.The episode closes off the California coast, where on October 31, 1983 a highway crew above Stinson Beach watched a dark, slender animal roughly a hundred feet long swim toward shore, trailed by about a hundred birds and two dozen sea lions. Crew member Matt Ratto described three humps rising straight from the water before a head lifted to look around, and days later, near Costa Mesa, a surfer named Young Hutchinson reported a long black eel-like animal with no dorsal fins surfacing ten feet from his board — though a Caltech spokesman offered that the witnesses might have seen a whale or a line of porpoises.

Ronnie sits down with Rockford Smith from Rockford Custom Paint, who recently built a 1976 "Spirit" 4x4 Truck pretty much out of a catalog. 

A three-year-old who could not sit up, walk, or speak arrived at a Rockford hospital with a brain bleed in July of 2023, and Loves Park detectives would spend nearly three years trying to learn how it happened.SOURCES, LINKS, AND PRINT VERSION: https://weirddarkness.com/lovespark2023Look for this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, and other podcast apps. Get a list of free listening apps here: https://pod.link/1078714736*No AI Voices Are Used In The Narration Of This Podcast*WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2026, Weird Darkness.#WeirdDarkness, #WeirdDarkNEWS