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Russell "Texas" Bentley: Dead or Alive? (Strange Bedfellows, Ep. 33)
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Russell "Texas" Bentley: Dead or Alive? (Strange Bedfellows, Ep. 33)

My friend and fellow Austinite Russell "Texas" Bentley has been missing since April 8. Despite rumors and speculation about his mysterious disappearance, Russell's fate is still a mystery. On the day he went missing, Russell and his wife Lyudmila had been in line at a local government building in #Donetsk to deal with some administrative documents, when he went to go help civilians injured in a nearby attack by Ukrainian forces. But when his wife went looking for him she only found his car, with his baseball cap, glasses, and his phone, which was shattered. On April 16th his wife wrote on Russell's Telegram account that she had received "reliable and confirmed ironclad information" that her husband was kidnapped "and continues to be illegally detained by the tankers of the 5th Brigade of the Russian Federation Armed Forces." She pleaded with Russell's friends and supporters to appeal urgently to the governments of the Donetsk People's Republic and #Russia, the FSB, the Prosecutor General's Office, and the Ministries of Defense and Internal Affairs, to help her locate her husband, adding "perhaps, there is not much time." His wife posted again on Thursday, April 18th: "Today is the 10th day since Russell disappeared. To this day, I do not know his whereabouts,” she said. On Friday, reports began to emerge that seemingly confirmed our worst fears. Sputnik, who employed Russell as a war correspondent, released a statement written by Margarita Simonyan, the head of Russia Today TV, stating that Russell (call sign "Texas") was dead. Russell's former combat unit, the Vostok battalion, and a local official in #Donetsk also confirmed his death yesterday, adding that their information came from Russell's wife. The U.S. State Department has not confirmed this information, however. In a statement Friday, a spokesperson said: “We are aware of reports of a U.S. citizen missing in the Donetsk region in #Ukraine. Our ability to verify reports of incidents regarding U.S. citizens in Ukraine is extremely limited." The mystery deepened when Russell's wife and some of his friends spoke out today, saying that they could not -- and would not -- confirm that he was in fact deceased. Our Maverick News correspondent in #Crimea, Kevin Michelizzi, is a personal friend of the Bentleys and told us this morning he was furious about the premature reports of Russell's demise, adding that most of what we've been told is #FakeNews. This afternoon Russell's wife Lyudmila posted on Russell's official Telegram channel that "I have not seen him alive, nor his body, nor his remains. That's a fact. And yes, there is some insider information that is very not good." She thanked "the Wagner group guys for finding out what happened, how that happened, who they were, how many of them there were and their motive..." "I still hope for real operational professionalism and decency from all involved agencies," she said. Since leaving his #Austin, #Texas home ten years ago to volunteer for the Russian armed forces against what he called "the #Nazis in Ukraine," Russell was willing to lay down his life for a cause he believed in: the struggle against #fascism. Even though Russell had aged out of the armed forces a few years ago, he was still not afraid to put himself in dangerous situations; often running directly towards active combat zones to cover battles as a journalist, or to provide first aid to civilians injured by the constant shelling in Donetsk -- as he did in the moments before his mysterious disappearance on April 8. In an interview exactly one month before he vanished, Russell told journalist Patrick Henningsen on TNT Radio that Donetsk was swiftly becoming a hotzone of combat activity once again as NATO soldiers were infiltrating the area -- which may provide some clues as to his violent kidnapping and perhaps, his murder. At this point, it is probably safe to say we won't be seeing our friend "the #Donbass Cowboy" again. Who killed Russell Bentley? Was it the Ukrainians, who had his name on their infamous kill list? Was it the #DPR, who reportedly suspected him of being a #NATO spy? Was it Pro-Ukrainian Russian "Werewolves" who had a personal score to settle? Or perhaps a shadowy NATO special forces unit who black-bagged him? We may never know. All we do know for sure is that Russell "Texas" Bentley's life -- and his ultimate sacrifice -- was not in vain. Those of us who knew and loved him will miss his war stories, his guitar picking, his wry wit, and his encyclopedic knowledge of history. Although Russell and I were on opposite sides of the political spectrum (I'm a #libertarian; he was a #communist), we shared much in common: a deep love for our native Texas, our musical tastes, our #cannabis activism, and our mutual hatred of fascism. Tonight, Episode 33 of "Strange Bedfellows" is a tribute to my friend Russell. As today is 4/20, the annual #marijuana holiday, I couldn't think of a more appropriate time to bring you some selected highlights from my last interview with Russell on July 14, 2023. Here, he tells his fascinating life story, in his own words. If you never had the pleasure of getting to know Russell "Texas" Bentley, maybe tonight's show will make you wish you had. And if you did know "Tejas," this incredible conversation will serve as a remembrance of the beautiful human being we have apparently lost to the horrors of war. If you enjoyed this interview, please help support the show with a donation at: http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com Many thanks to the Maverick News Channel for hosting this program. http://MaverickNews.ca
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America's Nazi Secret (Hidden History Revealed, Ep. 3)
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America's Nazi Secret (Hidden History Revealed, Ep. 3)

In Episodes 1 and 2 of the "Hidden #History Revealed" podcast, I unraveled the story of how U.S. military intelligence (and later, the CIA) recruited, armed, funded, trained, and protected former German and Ukrainian #Nazis during the #ColdWar. These truths were kept secret from the American people for more than half a century. Although a few stories had leaked out over the years, historians were unable to conclusively confirm how extensive the Nazi connection was until Congress passed the Nazi War Crimes Disclosure Act in 1998, which allowed declassification and release of the files. In Episode 3, I'll tell you about the efforts of one man -- a Department of Justice whistleblower -- whose 20 year crusade to expose the facts helped make that law possible and brought the truth to light at last. His name is John Loftus. As a former prosecutor with the U.S. Justice Department's Nazi-hunting unit, he had unprecedented access to top-secret #CIA and #NATO archive in the 1970s and 80s. Now a retired attorney, Loftushas written several books about his discoveries in those underground vaults where the government buries its secrets. His classic works include "The Belarus Secret," "The Witness Tree," "The Secret War Against The #Jews" and "America's Nazi Secret." Prepare yourself for a new episode full of shocking revelations! Premiers tonight at 9 Eastern.
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Remembering Bill Hicks: 30 Years Later (Part 2)
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Remembering Bill Hicks: 30 Years Later (Part 2)

Feb. 26 marked 30 years since Bill Hicks passed away. Bill was a friend of mine back in the 80s/90s, and I hosted a live X Space Monday night in his honor. Thought it might be fun to sit around the virtual campfire, tell some jokes, share some memories, and celebrate Bill’s life. We played some clips of his best comedy bits, talked about all the amazing things Hicks accomplished in his short 32 years, and wonder what else he might have created had he lived 30 more. Of course we couldn't refrain from some speculation about what Bill Hicks would think of our world today. His observations three decades ago are still remarkably relevant, and nearly all of the problems our country faced then still haven't been solved. (In fact, they've gotten worse!) In Part 2, we hear Bill talking about the #JFK assassination, government conspiracies and cover-ups, lying politicians, gays in the military, and many more problems that we, as a society, still grapple with 30 years later. The anti-intellectualism Bill talked about in 1989’s “Sane Man” comedy special was just a joke then….or was it? 35 years later, we aren’t laughing anymore. Did Bill have a crystal ball or what? Did he have a time machine; or was he an alien who was visiting our planet only for 32 years, before the spaceship picked him up and took him home? We talked about all that and more. If you missed this three-hour comedy special live, catch Part 2 tonight at 8 PM Eastern. Join us for a night of love, laughter, and truth! UPDATE: YouTube CENSORED and removed Part 1! Watch it UNCENSORED on Rumble here: https://rumble.com/v4fyk3x-remembering-bill-hicks-30-years-later-a-night-of-love-laughter-and-truth.html
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Remembering Bill Hicks, 30 Years Later (Part 1)
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Remembering Bill Hicks, 30 Years Later (Part 1)

Feb. 26 marked 30 years since Bill Hicks passed away. Bill was a friend of mine back in the 80s/90s, and I hosted a live X Space Monday night in his honor. Thought it might be fun to sit around the virtual campfire, tell some jokes, share some memories, and celebrate Bill’s life. We played some clips of his best comedy bits, talked about all the amazing things Hicks accomplished in his short 32 years, and wonder what else he might have created had he lived 30 more. Of course we couldn't refrain from some speculation about what Bill Hicks would think of our world today. His observations three decades ago are still remarkably relevant, and nearly all of the problems our country faced then still haven't been solved. (In fact, they've gotten worse!) In Part 1, we hear Bill talk about the War on Drugs, alcoholism, smoking, wars for oil abroad, censorship, the Waco siege of 1993, the hassles of flying, the high cost of living, and the dumbing down of our society. The anti-intellectualism Bill talked about in 1989’s “Sane Man” comedy special was just a joke then….or was it? 35 years later, we aren’t laughing anymore. Did Bill have a crystal ball or what? Did he have a time machine; or was he an alien who was visiting our planet only for 32 years, before the spaceship picked him up and took him home? We talked about all that and more. If you missed this three-hour comedy special live, catch the premiere of Part 1 tonight at 8 PM Eastern. Part 2 premieres Wednesday, Feb. 28 at 8 PM Eastern. Join us for a night of love, laughter, and truth!
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The Russia-Ukraine War Started 75 Years Ago (Hidden History, Ep. 2)
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The Russia-Ukraine War Started 75 Years Ago (Hidden History, Ep. 2)

As we mark the two-year anniversary of the #Russia-#Ukraine war, now seems like a perfect time to explore its origins. On Episode 2 of "Hidden History Revealed," we will discover the recently uncovered truth through a declassified document trail which shows -- beyond any doubt -- that the current U.S.-backed proxy war in Ukraine didn't just start in February 2002; or even in 2014. The war was started more than 75 years ago by the CIA, using Ukrainian nationalist "freedom fighters" to destabilize the #USSR, with the ultimate goal of effecting regime change in Soviet Russia. Here's a handy thread to read as you follow along with the podcast, with images of key documents and links to more in the U.S. National Archives. https://twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer/status/1613064660437139457?s=20 More on the CIA's PROJECT AERODYNAMIC can be found here: https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/AERODYNAMIC%20%20%20VOL.%209%20%20(DEVELOPMENT%20AND%20PLANS)_0001.pdf And here: https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/AERODYNAMIC%20%20%20VOL.%2035%20%20%28OPERATIONS%29_0039.pdf Don't miss Episode 2 of "Hidden History Revealed:" learn about the #ColdWar #CIA network of Ukrainian nationalist spies and their Nazi war criminal allies all over the world, from #Canada to #Germany, #Egypt, #Syria, #Iraq, and #Palestine. Premieres Sunday, Feb. 25 at 9 P.M. Eastern. (Viewer discretion is advised.)
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Hidden History: Why A Ukrainian Nazi War Criminal Was Hired By the CIA (Ep. 1)
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Hidden History: Why A Ukrainian Nazi War Criminal Was Hired By the CIA (Ep. 1)

As the two-year anniversary of the war between #Russia and #Ukraine approaches this month, I've created a new "Hidden History" podcast series about the Central Intelligence Agency's collaboration with #NazisInUkraine. Last week Russian president Vladimir #Putin told Tucker Carlson that the CIA was behind the 2014 Maidan coup, secretly colluding with radical neo-Nazi elements in the country to overthrow the elected government. Putin declined to go into the details, because it's a very long story. He could have said more --much more -- about this collaboration which was kept secret from the American public for more than half a century. Documents declassified under the Nazi War Crimes Disclosure Act of 1998 finally revealed the truth: that the CIA began recruiting Ukrainian nationalists as anti-Soviet sabotage forces at the beginning of the Cold War in the late 1940s, with the ultimate goal of regime change in the Soviet Union. On Episode 1, I'll tell you the incredible story of how CIA Director Allen Dulles personally brought Mykola Lebed -- a high-ranking Ukrainian Nazi war criminal and convicted murderer -- to the United States, and gave him a job at the CIA. Despite efforts by a few intrepid journalists to expose Lebed, and Department of Justice Nazi-hunters to prosecute him, the U.S. government protected Lebed until his death in 1998. Who was Mykola Lebed? Depends on who you ask. By various accounts, he was an assassin, a freedom fighter, a terrorist, a hero, a villain, a prisoner, a refugee, a Nazi collaborator, a genocidal maniac, and a ruthless war criminal. To the Central Intelligence Agency, which bankrolled his activities for close to half a century, he was known as “Uncle Louie.” In 1934 Lebed was sentenced to death for the murder of Polish official Bronisław Pieracki. The sentence was commuted in 1936 to lifetime imprisonment, and Lebed managed to escape prison during the the German invasion of Poland in 1939. In 1940, The OUN (Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists) split into two factions: the OUN-B for loyalists ofStepan Bandera, and the OUN-M for followers of Andrei Melnik. Lebed was a leader of the #Bandera group. The #Nazis sent Bandera to Sachsenhausen concentration camp in 1942 after he declared Ukraine an independent state. Lebed then became the de facto leader of the Bandera faction, which largely controlled the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), through the end of the war. Over the following few years, the UPA was responsible for tens of thousands of murders. After the end of World War II, Western intelligence agencies sought to acquire OUN members as informants and infiltrators. The OUN was avowedly anti-#Communist, and it already had a network of trained guerilla fighters at the ready for an anticipated Soviet offensive. The United Kingdom’s MI6, their analogue to the CIA, opted to work with the Bandera, who later died under mysterious circumstances, allegedly murdered by the #KGB. The #CIA chose to work with #Lebed, then the Foreign Minister of the Ukrainian Supreme Liberation Council (UHVR). Lebed still had considerable influence among Ukrainian nationalists. In the 1950s the Agency put Lebed to work in a propaganda operation called PROJECT AERODYNAMIC, setting him up with offices in New York City where he created Ukrainian language, anti-Soviet radio programs, pamphlets, and books to be distributed in the #USSR. Later, the CIA shielded Lebed from allegations and deportation because he was too valuable of an asset and any publicity could compromise the entire project. Don't miss the premiere of "Hidden History: Nazis in Ukraine" Episode 1 Feb. 13th at 9 PM Eastern.
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The Siege of Leningrad and Burt Lancaster's "Unknown War"
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The Siege of Leningrad and Burt Lancaster's "Unknown War"

The Russian city of St. Petersburg on Saturday marked the 80th anniversary of the end of a devastating World War II siege by Nazi forces with a series of memorial events attended by Russian President Vladimir #Putin and close allies. #Leningrad80 The #Kremlin leader laid flowers at a monument to fallen Soviet defenders of the city, then called #Leningrad, on the banks of the Neva River, and then at Piskarevskoye Cemetery, where hundreds of thousands of siege victims are buried. On Saturday afternoon, Putin was joined by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Gatchina, a town outside #StPetersburg that once housed camps for Soviet prisoners of war, for the unveiling of a statue commemorating civilians killed during the Nazi onslaught. The Red Army broke the nearly two-and-a-half year blockade on Jan. 19, 1943, after more than 900 days of fierce fighting. Estimates of the death toll vary, but historians agree that more than 1 million Leningrad residents perished from hunger, or air and artillery bombardments, during the siege. It is estimated that over 600,000 Leningrad residents died of hunger -- far more than died from bombs or artillery fire. Putin was born and raised in Leningrad, and his #WWII veteran father suffered wounds while fighting for the city. Putin's elder brother died of starvation at the age of two. He is buried in a mass grave, where the president lays a ceremonial wreath every year. On this 80th anniversary of the liberation of Leningrad from the #Nazis, we will take you on a deep dive into the history of that historic battle and show you some incredible footage from the Soviet and German archives that Westerners rarely ever see. In 1978, actor Burt Lancaster co-produced a 20-part documentary series about World War Two on the Eastern front called "The Unknown War." The series was produced with the help of the Soviet Union, who opened their private archives of footage captured by Red Army photographers during the war for this production. Nearly four million feet of raw film footage was stored alongside German films captured by the Allies after the war for 35 years but never exhibited to the public -- until "The Unknown War" showed it to the world for the first time. In this special report, we will show you excerpts from this mammoth 20-part series specific to the Battle for Leningrad, and tell you the amazing backstory of Burt Lancaster's personal mission to make this historic film documenting WWII like you've never seen it before. Tune in tonight at 9 PM Eastern for the premiere. WARNING: Viewer discretion is advised. * If you enjoyed this video, please share it, subscribe, and consider supporting my work with a one-time donation or monthly patronage at: http://Patreon.com/LoriSpencer or http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com Now that you know the fascinating backstory of "The Unknown War," watch the full 20-part documentary series for free here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhs30iGhgICncex8qB-_Fmej-0HSwy4fH&si=WIb3pxD7c03CIeS2
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How JFK Fixed The Economy
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How JFK Fixed The Economy

On this date in 1961 the newly sworn-in John F. #Kennedy began his first day as president. As evidenced by the first Executive Order he signed that day, expanding food assistance to the poor (what is known today as food stamps, or SNAP benefits), relieving poverty was at the top of his agenda for the New Frontier. #JFK also inherited a troubled #economy. The country was in a #recession -- it's third in 10 years -- at the time Kennedy took the oath of office on January 20, 1961. On Episode 22 of the "Kennedy Americans" podcast we will take a look at President Kennedy's economic solutions that catapulted the United States into a period of unprecedented #prosperity -- while at the same time creating a more secure safety net for the disadvantaged, creating #Medicare and #Medicaid, issuing tax cuts, building infrastructure projects, and keeping #inflation down. We'll also explore how Kennedy brought big business to heel in his clash with the steel companies, a fierce battle the president waged to ensure that American corporate interests also served the public interest. Here's how JFK fixed our domestic economy without going to war overseas. Kennedy showed us it can be done. We hope his nephew, 2024 presidential candidate #RFKJr follows his uncle's lead and pursues similar economic policies starting on day one of the next Kennedy administration on January 21, 2025. DISCLOSURE: I am a volunteer recruiter for the #Kennedy24 campaign. Join the #RFKArmy at http://Kennedy24.com/LoriSpencer
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RFK Stalker Charged
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RFK Stalker Charged

The Los Angeles District Attorney filed criminal charges against #RFK stalker Jonathan Macht on Dec. 28, 2023 alleging that he disobeyed a Restraining Order. Two additional criminal charges were filed against Macht for Trespassing, and Harassment Through Repeated Phone Calls. Macht's arraignment and plea hearing is set for January 29. Last November, #Kennedy filed a petition for a restraining order after Macht allegedly showed up at his Brentwood home and tried to make contact while Kennedy and his family were home. The politician’s security team caught Macht after he climbed over a fence in the backside of Kennedy’s house. The police arrived at the home and served Macht with an emergency protective order. He was taken to jail and released hours later. Macht returned to the Kennedy home and scaled the fence a second time that same day, resulting in a second arrest by Los Angeles Police. Macht had been stalking #RFKJr for months, sending him more than 400 emails containing violent threats against him. A judge granted Kennedy's request for a Permanent Restraining Order against Jonathan Macht in November. This week, Kennedy asked the court to add his wife, actress Cheryl Hines, to the list of people protected by the Order. The court denied the request because Kennedy “has not filed either an amended petition or stipulation, as requested by the Court’s” order. However, the judge set a hearing for January 31 where Kennedy can present additional documents to convince the judge. The restraining order against Macht remains in full effect. I've been covering the case of Jonathan Macht, as well as the other criminal case against Adrian Paul Aispuro (the heavily-armed man who showed up at an RFK event last September) in the Los Angeles County Courts. I'll bring you the latest updates on Episode 21 of the "Kennedy Americans" podcast Friday, January 12 at 9 P.M. Eastern.
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BREAKING: Epstein Documents Released
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BREAKING: Epstein Documents Released

Over 2000 pages of unsealed documents from a lawsuit connected to accused sex-trafficker Jeffrey #Epstein were publicly released on Wednesday. This is the first set of documents to be unsealed under a December 18 court order, with more expected in the coming weeks. The documents in total, including material yet to be unsealed, are expected to include hundreds of names, including some of Epstein’s accusers, prominent businesspeople, politicians and potentially more. The document dump arrived late Wednesday evening, January 3rd, while Maverick News was live on the air. I dived right in and already found some eyebrow-raising revelations. Here’s what I’ve discovered in the court documents so far about former Presidents Bill #Clinton and Donald #Trump, 2024 Independent presidential candidate #RFKJr, Epstein’s former attorney Alan #Dershowitz, Prince Andrew, as well Michael Jackson and Steven Hawking (both deceased). Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide while awaiting trial five years ago. His convicted accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell was arrested in 2021 and remains in prison. Maxwell released a statement Wednesday maintaining her innocence. Watch my report! Support my independent journalism with a one-time donation or monthly patronage at http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com
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Putin & Netanyahu: Is the Bromance Over?
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Putin & Netanyahu: Is the Bromance Over?

Russian Federation president Vladimir #Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin #Netanyahu are old friends and until quite recently, have always been steadfast allies. #Israel and #Russia face a similar series of common threats which they cite as reasons for their current wars. So, why isn’t Russia coming to Israel’s aid? Is their long, strong alliance in danger? Watch my report! * Support the show with a one-time donation or monthly membership at http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com
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KEBC-FM Radio Newscast, Oklahoma City (1987)
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KEBC-FM Radio Newscast, Oklahoma City (1987)

A rare recording from early in my journalism career when I worked as State Capitol Reporter and Afternoon News Anchor at KEBC, 94.7 FM in Oklahoma City. The exact date of this tape is unknown, sometime in the summer of 1987. Stories include: Gov. Henry Bellmon wants Supercollider project for #Oklahoma, briefcase bomb diffused at Comanche County Courthouse, Jesse Jackson & Gary Hart may run for president in 1988, President Ronald #Reagan not ready to invoke War Powers Act over hostilities in Persian Gulf, "peace pilot" protester Mathias Rust flies small plane into Moscow's Red Square, plus sports and weather. Support my independent journalism at: http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com Follow me on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer Subscribe on Rumble for UNCENSORED videos YouTube won't let me show you! http://Rumble.com/LoriSpencer My blog: http://LoriSpencer.WordPress.com Join as a monthly member at: http://Patreon.com/LoriSpencer http://BuyMeACoffee.com/LoriSpencer Buy me a Gift from my Wishlist! http://GiftApp.com/RealLoriSpencer
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KEBC Radio Newscast 1986 -- Marijuana: Is It Harmful?
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KEBC Radio Newscast 1986 -- Marijuana: Is It Harmful?

A rare recording from early in my journalism career when I worked as State Capitol Reporter and Afternoon News Anchor at KEBC, 94.7 FM in Oklahoma City. The exact date of this tape is unknown, sometime in the autumn of 1986. Stories: In the "Just Say No" #Reagan era, 18 million Americans say "yes" to #weed. Gov. Henry Bellmon fights with furloughed workers over windfall. Marines put down coup attempt against Aquino in Manila, Phillippines Director John Huston dead at 81. Support my independent journalism at: http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com Follow me on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer Subscribe on Rumble for UNCENSORED videos YouTube won't let me show you! http://Rumble.com/LoriSpencer My blog: http://LoriSpencer.WordPress.com Join as a monthly member at: http://Patreon.com/LoriSpencer http://BuyMeACoffee.com/LoriSpencer Buy me a Gift from my Wishlist! http://GiftApp.com/RealLoriSpencer
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KEBC Radio News: State Capitol Reporting (November 1986)
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KEBC Radio News: State Capitol Reporting (November 1986)

A rare recording from early in my journalism career when I worked as State Capitol Reporter and News Anchor at KEBC, 94.7 FM in Oklahoma City. Original airdate unknown, sometime in November 1986. A story about Gov. Henry Bellmon's upcoming legislative budget plan. Anchored by KEBC News Director Bo Nance. Support my independent journalism at: http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com Follow me on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer Subscribe on Rumble for UNCENSORED videos YouTube won't let me show you! http://Rumble.com/LoriSpencer My blog: http://LoriSpencer.WordPress.com Join as a monthly member at: http://Patreon.com/LoriSpencer http://BuyMeACoffee.com/LoriSpencer Buy me a Gift from my Wishlist! http://GiftApp.com/RealLoriSpencer
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KEBC-FM Radio News: U.S. Marine Moscow Embassy Guard Convicted of Espionage (August 1987)
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KEBC-FM Radio News: U.S. Marine Moscow Embassy Guard Convicted of Espionage (August 1987)

A rare recording from early in my journalism career when I worked as State Capitol Reporter and News Anchor at KEBC, 94.7 FM in Oklahoma City. Morning Newscast from August 1987. Stories include: the verdict is guilty on all counts of espionage against U.S. Marine Clayton Loantree, a guard at the American embassy in Moscow. Northwest Airlines Flight 255 crash investigation, U.S./Iran relations thawing; Gary Hart denies he's running for president again in 1988, Oliver North is NOT a hero, says Oklahoma Congressman. Plus sports and weather. my independent journalism at: http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com Follow me on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer Subscribe on Rumble for UNCENSORED videos YouTube won't let me show you! http://Rumble.com/LoriSpencer My blog: http://LoriSpencer.WordPress.com Join as a monthly member at: http://Patreon.com/LoriSpencer http://BuyMeACoffee.com/LoriSpencer Buy me a Gift from my Wishlist! http://GiftApp.com/RealLoriSpencer
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KLBJ-AM Radio Newscast, Austin, TX (June 14 1996)
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KLBJ-AM Radio Newscast, Austin, TX (June 14 1996)

#ThrowbackThursdays: Historic newscast from KLBJ-AM & FM in Austin, Texas, where I worked in various capacities as a news reporter, anchor, and radio personality for several years in the 1990s. This is the 10 PM newscast for June 14, 1996. Stories include: Capital Metro General Manager Michael Bolton resigns, TXDOT construction update on Highway 183/I-35 flyover, suspicious package found at a North Austin post office (Ben Gonzalez reporting), 10th Annual Adopt-a-Beach cleanup on Texas coast, weather report. Support my independent journalism at: http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com Follow me on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer Subscribe on Rumble for UNCENSORED videos YouTube won't let me show you! http://Rumble.com/LoriSpencer My blog: http://LoriSpencer.WordPress.com Join as a monthly member at: http://Patreon.com/LoriSpencer http://BuyMeACoffee.com/LoriSpencer Buy me a Gift from my Wishlist! http://GiftApp.com/RealLoriSpencer
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KKLR/KTNT-FM Morning Show, 1988 (Classic Rock)
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KKLR/KTNT-FM Morning Show, 1988 (Classic Rock)

Aircheck of a morning show I co-hosted on 97.7 KKLR/KTNT-FM in Oklahoma City, OK from 1988. (Classic Rock) Music, news, sports, weather & comedy (yes, we wrote our own bad jokes!) Support my independent journalism at: http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com Follow me on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer Subscribe on Rumble for UNCENSORED videos YouTube won't let me show you! http://Rumble.com/LoriSpencer My blog: http://LoriSpencer.WordPress.com Join as a monthly member at: http://Patreon.com/LoriSpencer http://BuyMeACoffee.com/LoriSpencer Buy me a Gift from my Wishlist! http://GiftApp.com/RealLoriSpencer
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The Fairness Doctrine: Should We Bring it Back?
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The Fairness Doctrine: Should We Bring it Back?

2024 presidential candidate Robert F. #Kennedy, Jr. says that if elected, he would restore the Fairness Doctrine and update it for the internet media age. In this highlight from "Strange Bedfellows" Episode 14, Rick and I discussed the Fairness Doctrine -- an American law in effect from 1928-1986 requiring the media to present both sides of every story. We argue that since the Fairness Doctrine was abolished by President #Reagan, journalism has fallen into the predictable trap of partisan propaganda rather than actual news. In theory, we agree with #RFKJr that the Fairness Doctrine needs a return, but how would it work in the 21st Century when most people get their news from independent media online? The internet news media isn't regulated by the FCC, so how could the government possibly enforce it without veering into #censorship? We discuss all that and more here. If you enjoyed this clip, check out Episode 14 (The Death of Broadcast News) in the "Strange Bedfellows" (Full Episodes) playlist on my YouTube channel.) Support my independent journalism at: http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com Follow me on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer Subscribe on Rumble for UNCENSORED videos YouTube won't let me show you! http://Rumble.com/LoriSpencer My blog: http://LoriSpencer.WordPress.com Join as a monthly member at: http://Patreon.com/LoriSpencer http://BuyMeACoffee.com/LoriSpencer Buy me a Gift from my Wishlist! http://GiftApp.com/RealLoriSpencer
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David Brinkley: The Gold Standard of News
1:10:37

David Brinkley: The Gold Standard of News

On Episode 14 of "Strange Bedfellows" we paid tribute to broadcast news legend David Brinkley on the 20th anniversary of his death. To my mind, Brinkley was always the gold standard of journalism -- no one has matched or surpassed him since. (And probably, no one ever will.) In this segment I'll show you some of Brinkley's masterful historic coverage of events like: Fidel Castro's Cuban Revolution of January 1959, the 1960 Democratic National Convention, the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, the assassination of #JFK, and more. We will also discuss David Brinkley's remarkable life and 60 year career in journalism. It's an inspiring story, not just for journalists (or those who aspire to this once-noble profession), but for everyone who appreciates fair, honest, responsible journalism -- the way it used to be -- the way only David Brinkley could do it. If you enjoy this highlight, watch Episode 14 in the "Strange Bedfellows" (Full Episodes) playlist on my YouTube channel. Episode 14, "The Death of Broadcast News" originally aired September 23, 2023 on the Maverick News Network. Support my independent journalism at: http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com Follow me on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer Subscribe on Rumble for UNCENSORED videos YouTube won't let me show you! http://Rumble.com/LoriSpencer My blog: http://LoriSpencer.WordPress.com Join as a monthly member at: http://Patreon.com/LoriSpencer http://BuyMeACoffee.com/LoriSpencer Buy me a Gift from my Wishlist! http://GiftApp.com/RealLoriSpencer
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Journalism Is A Public Service
38:40

Journalism Is A Public Service

In this highlight from Episode 14 of "Strange Bedfellows" Rick Walker and I compare notes on our 35 year careers in broadcast news, and discuss why we wanted to become journalists in the first place. We share some personal stories of our first forays into journalism, play samples of our early work, and talk about our heroes and mentors who inspired us. Despite the corporate consolidation of radio and television stations and the partisan nature of all media today, we still believe that news should never be about profits or celebrity status. Journalism is a public service. At Maverick News that's what we aim to bring our viewers: news that is accurate, responsible, and meaningful. We hope you will reward our efforts with a donation. Our independent journalism is entirely crowdfunded. We work for YOU, the public. (If you enjoyed this highlight, watch Episode 14 ("The Death of Broadcast News") in the "Strange Bedfellows" (Full Episodes) playlist on my YouTube channel. Support my independent journalism at: http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com Follow me on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer Subscribe on Rumble for UNCENSORED videos YouTube won't let me show you! http://Rumble.com/LoriSpencer My blog: http://LoriSpencer.WordPress.com Join as a monthly member at: http://Patreon.com/LoriSpencer http://BuyMeACoffee.com/LoriSpencer Buy me a Gift from my Wishlist! http://GiftApp.com/RealLoriSpencer
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21
KLBJ-AM/FM Radio News (Austin, TX): SXSW 1996, Austin Music Awards Coverage
1:24

KLBJ-AM/FM Radio News (Austin, TX): SXSW 1996, Austin Music Awards Coverage

Historic newscast from KLBJ-AM & FM in Austin, Texas, where I worked in various capacities as a news reporter, anchor, and radio personality for several years in the 1990s. The LBJ Broadcasting Company was owned and operated by the family of President Lyndon Baines Johnson (Former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, and Luci Baines Johnson.) During the 1990s the family of stations included KLBJ-AM, KLBJ-FM, KAJZ-FM, and KGSR-FM. This is the evening newscast for March 20, 1996. (Note: I worked under the on-air name of Alison Fox.) Stories include: Austin Music Awards Ian Moore & Toni Price sweep awards, Tommy Shannon and LavelleWhite indicted into the Austin Music Hall of Fame, SXSW Music & Film Festival continues this weekend.
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KLBJ-AM (Austin, TX) Election 1996 Primary Coverage
2:09

KLBJ-AM (Austin, TX) Election 1996 Primary Coverage

Historic newscast from KLBJ-AM & FM in Austin, Texas, where I worked in various capacities as a news reporter, anchor, and radio personality for several years in the 1990s. The LBJ Broadcasting Company was owned and operated by the family of President Lyndon Baines Johnson (Former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, and Luci Baines Johnson.) During the 1990s the family of stations included KLBJ-AM, KLBJ-FM, KAJZ-FM, and KGSR-FM. This is our evening newscast on the eve of the Super Tuesday Primaries of March, 1996. (Note: I worked under the on-air name of Alison Fox.) Stories include: Super Tuesday Primary Election Coverage, help for Austin HIV/AIDS patients, new entertainment show "Imprint" coming to Austin; Garbage wins SXSW Film Festival "Best Picture" Award, plus weather.
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KLBJ-AM/FM (Austin, TX) News Reporting Montage, 1996-2000
6:20

KLBJ-AM/FM (Austin, TX) News Reporting Montage, 1996-2000

Historic newscast from KLBJ-AM & FM in Austin, Texas, where I worked in various capacities as a news reporter, anchor, and radio personality for several years in the 1990s. The LBJ Broadcasting Company was owned and operated by the family of President Lyndon Baines Johnson (Former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, and Luci Baines Johnson.) During the 1990s the family of stations included KLBJ-AM, KLBJ-FM, KAJZ-FM, and KGSR-FM. This is a collection of various news reports I filed for KLBJ between 1996-2000. (Note: I worked under the on-air name of Alison Fox.) Stories include: Amtrak Dropping the Texas Eagle route through Texas; consumers sue 6 major record companies for overpricing compact disks; TWA Flight 800 victims from Central Texas identified; blues piano legend "The Grey Ghost" Roosevelt Williams dead at 92; Louisiana plane crash kills Lt. Col. Henry Chu from San Antonio and his 5 year-old daughter; new book about 70 years of personality radio; Ripley's Believe It Or Not Weirdest Laugh Contest; Baby Acapulco Barton Springs Restaurant Suffers Major Fire Damage; Austin Drivers Complain About the 183/MoPac Access Ramp Being Unsafe; Remembering Texas Music Legends Buddy Holly, Richie Valens & The Big Bopper who died in a plane crash on February 3, 1959 ("the Day the Music Died").
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KLBJ-AM/FM Newscast (Austin, TX), May 1996
4:05

KLBJ-AM/FM Newscast (Austin, TX), May 1996

Historic newscast from KLBJ-AM & FM in Austin, Texas, where I worked in various capacities as a news reporter, anchor, and radio personality for several years in the 1990s. The LBJ Broadcasting Company was owned and operated by the family of President Lyndon Baines Johnson (Former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, and Luci Baines Johnson.) During the 1990s the family of stations included KLBJ-AM, KLBJ-FM, KAJZ-FM, and KGSR-FM. This is the Noon newscast for May 1, 1996. (Note: I worked under the on-air name of Alison Fox.) Stories include: major street closures for downtown construction, explosion at natural gas plant near Amarillo, President George Bush tollway in Dallas groundbreaking begins; new law outlaws cigarette vending machines; downtown library re-opens after renovation as the John Henry Faulk Library; 42 men arrested for lewd sexual acts at Hippie Hollow, Texas' only nude beach; 183/I-35 flyover construction traffic hassles continue; KKK rally planned for New Braunfels.
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KLBJ-AM/FM (Austin, TX): Super Tuesday Election Coverage, March 11, 1996
2:08

KLBJ-AM/FM (Austin, TX): Super Tuesday Election Coverage, March 11, 1996

Historic newscast from KLBJ-AM & FM in Austin, Texas, where I worked in various capacities as a news reporter, anchor, and radio personality for several years in the 1990s. The LBJ Broadcasting Company was owned and operated by the family of President Lyndon Baines Johnson (Former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, and Luci Baines Johnson.) During the 1990s the family of stations included KLBJ-AM, KLBJ-FM, KAJZ-FM, and KGSR-FM. This is the evening newscast for March 11, 1996. (Note: I worked under the on-air name of Alison Fox.) Stories include: Texas Super Tuesday Primary election coverage, Bob Dole, Pat Buchannan, Alan Keyes and more do last minute campaign sweep through Texas, U.S. Senate race & local races. Austin soldiers headed to join the Bosnian peacekeeping mission.
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KLBJ-AM (Austin, TX): Breaking News Coverage of Olympic Park Bombing in Atlanta, July 27, 1996
8:43

KLBJ-AM (Austin, TX): Breaking News Coverage of Olympic Park Bombing in Atlanta, July 27, 1996

Historic newscast from KLBJ-AM & FM in Austin, Texas, where I worked in various capacities as a news reporter, anchor, and radio personality for several years in the 1990s. The LBJ Broadcasting Company was owned and operated by the family of President Lyndon Baines Johnson (Former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, and Luci Baines Johnson.) During the 1990s the family of stations included KLBJ-AM, KLBJ-FM, KAJZ-FM, and KGSR-FM. This is our live breaking news coverage of the Olympic Park Bombing in Atlanta, GA on July 27, 1996. Correspondents include Todd Jeffries and Kirk Bohls of the Austin American-Statesman live from Atlanta. (Note: I worked under the on-air name of Alison Fox.)
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KLBJ-AM/FM Radio Newscast (Austin, TX) May 1, 1996
4:07

KLBJ-AM/FM Radio Newscast (Austin, TX) May 1, 1996

Historic newscast from KLBJ-AM & FM in Austin, Texas, where I worked in various capacities as a news reporter, anchor, and radio personality for several years in the 1990s. The LBJ Broadcasting Company was owned and operated by the family of President Lyndon Baines Johnson (Former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, and Luci Baines Johnson.) During the 1990s the family of stations included KLBJ-AM, KLBJ-FM, KAJZ-FM, and KGSR-FM. This is the 11 AM newscast for May 1, 1996. (Note: I worked under the on-air name of Alison Fox.) Stories include: 42 men arrested for public indecency at Hippie Hollow, the only nude beach in Texas. Austin Public Library downtown branch re-opens after renovations as the John Henry Faulk Library. Austin School Board elections, Austin crime rate rises only 1%, violent crime lowest of the major Texas cities, Child Abuse Awareness Month, KKK rally planned in New Braunfels, JFK & Jacqueline Kennedy artifacts draw big bucks at auction. Plus sports & weather.
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SPECIAL REPORT: Antony Blinken's Nordstream Prophecy
1:44:39

SPECIAL REPORT: Antony Blinken's Nordstream Prophecy

40 years before the #NordStream pipeline explosions, the United States CIA blew up #Russia's Trans-Siberian pipeline, which carried natural gas from the #Soviet Union to Western Europe. The tremendous blast was the largest non-nuclear explosion ever seen on Earth from space. Then, everyone simply forgot about it. Everyone except a young graduate student at Harvard named Antony #Blinken. In 1987, Blinken's college thesis was published as his first book. "Ally Versus Ally: America, Europe, and the Siberian Pipeline Crisis." (Read the full book free at the Internet Archive here.) This small book, published only in a limited edition 35 years ago -- was probably only read by policy wonks and international lawyers back then. They certainly took notice of this bright young man who is now our current Secretary of State. I've read Blinken's rare book, long out of print (I'm sure Secretary Blinken would prefer it stay that way) and have a bombshell report to share with you about how history does indeed repeat. I have been reporting on the obvious similarities of the 1982 Trans-Siberian pipeline sabotage to the 2022 sabotage of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines since last October -- shortly after the pipelines exploded. Tonight, I will take you back in time for an in-depth look at how President Ronald Reagan blew up the Trans-Siberian Pipeline in 1982, with a mighty assist from the Canadian government. As it turns out, Secretary Blinken was quite the prophet 35 years ago! His book is the blueprint for how the U.S. and #NATO allies conspired to blow up the Nord Stream pipeline in 2022. Did the #Trudeau government of #Canada play a role in the Nord Stream pipeline sabotage this time, just as they did in 1982? We will examine some rather damning circumstantial evidence pointing to #Ottawa possibly sabotaging the Nord Stream pipeline's turbines about a month before the explosion. We will hear from Justin Trudeau, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, President Joe Biden, the State Department's Ned Price, Russia's United Nations Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy, and legendary journalist Seymour Hersh on how the whole sabotage caper most likely unfolded, and talk about the dangerous geostragetic game the U.S. is playing by attacking the essential infrastructure of a NATO ally (Germany). You do not want to miss this special 2-hour report. It will blow your mind! Please like, share, and subscribe - and if you'd like to help support my independent journalism, you can do so here. Follow me on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer Subscribe on Rumble for UNCENSORED videos Youtube won't let me show you! http://Rumble.com/LoriSpencer
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Was "Old School" Journalism Better?
10:35

Was "Old School" Journalism Better?

I've been working as a journalist since 1986. My Maverick News co-host Rick Walker brings 35 years of experience to the table, 25 of those years at CTV in #Canada. We both started our careers in the 1980s, long before the internet changed how the news is covered (for the better, we might argue). On this edition of Maverick News, Rick and I explore the question: was old school" journalism -- objective and unbiased, the way our generation was trained to do our jobs -- better than "new school" opinion/activist journalism? Is partisan bias killing our profession? We also talk about how election coverage has changed over the past 40 years, compare notes, and share some funny stories of our early years as reporters back in the Reagan era! (Yes, we are THAT old!) We also discuss the importance of the Julian #Assange case to the First Amendment, and journalists all over the world. Join us for our LIVE Twitter Space -- a birthday vigil for Julian Assange as his extradition appears imminent -- July 3 at 8 PM Eastern. This panel will be moderated by the Maverick News team, and we have an amazing panel of guest speakers, journalists, and friends of Assange lined up for this global online event. Speakers scheduled include: Scott Ritter, Jose Vega, Anastasia Battle, Independent U.S. Senate Candidate from New York Diane Sare, RT Reporter Caleb Maupin, journalist Kevin Gosztola (who has covered the Assange trial for more than four years now), TNT Radio host Misty Winston, Angela McArdle, National Chair of the #Libertarian Party, podcast hosts Jay Scott of the Jay Scott Ascension, Craig Yo Pasta of The Convo Couch, Welsh of the Welsh Republic podcast, "Declaring Independence" co-host Kynan Thistlethwaite, and perhaps a few special surprise guests as well. Listen at the link below if you're on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer/status/1674597505588248579?s=20 If you're not a Twitter user, or just prefer to listen on another platform, we will be simulcasting this Twitter Space live across all of our Maverick News channels on YouTube, Rumble, Twitch, Facebook, Odesee, and BitChute. Support my independent journalism at: http://LoriSpencer.Wordpress.com/donate Follow me on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/RealLoriSpencer Subscribe on Rumble for UNCENSORED videos Youtube won't let me show you! http://Rumble.com/LoriSpencer
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Blinken's Nord Stream Pipeline Prophecy From 35 Years Ago!
1:30:04

Blinken's Nord Stream Pipeline Prophecy From 35 Years Ago!

40 years before the #NordStream pipeline explosions, the United States CIA blew up #Russia's Trans-Siberian pipeline, which carried natural gas from the #Soviet Union to Western Europe. The tremendous blast was the largest non-nuclear explosion ever seen on Earth from space. Then, everyone simply forgot about it. Everyone except a young graduate student at Harvard named Antony #Blinken. In 1987, Blinken's college thesis was published as his first book. "Ally Versus Ally: America, Europe, and the Siberian Pipeline Crisis." This small book, published only in a limited edition 35 years ago -- was probably only read by policy wonks and international diplomats back then. They certainly took notice of this bright young man who is now our current Secretary of State. I just finished reading Blinken's rare book, long out of print (I'm sure Secretary Blinken would prefer it stay that way) and have a bombshell report to share with you on Maverick News tonight. I have been reporting on the obvious similarities of the 1982 Trans-Siberian pipeline sabotage to the 2022 sabotage of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines since last October -- shortly after the pipelines exploded. All my research culminates in this special 2-hour report on Maverick News. Tonight, I will take you back in time for an in-depth look at how President Ronald Reagan blew up the Trans-Siberian Pipeline in 1982, with a mighty assist from the Canadian government. As it turns out, Secretary Blinken was quite the prophet 35 years ago! His book is the blueprint for how the U.S. and #NATO allies conspired to blow up the Nord Stream pipeline in 2022. Did the #Trudeau government of #Canada play a role in the Nord Stream pipeline sabotage this time, just as they did in 1982? We will examine some rather damning circumstantial evidence pointing to #Ottawa possibly sabotaging the Nord Stream pipeline's turbines about a month before the explosion. We will hear from Justin #Trudeau, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, President Joe #Biden, the State Department's Ned Price, Russia's United Nations Ambassador Dmitry #Polyanskiy, and legendary journalist Seymour #Hersh on how the whole sabotage caper most likely unfolded, and talk about the dangerous geostragetic game the U.S. is playing by attacking the essential infrastructure of a #NATO ally (Germany). You do not want to miss this special 2-hour report. It will blow your mind! Please like, share, and subscribe - and if you'd like to help support my independent journalism, you can do so here. Patreon.com/LoriSpencer BuyMeACoffee.com/LoriSpencer GiftApp.com/RealLoriSpencer

Russell "Texas" Bentley: Dead or Alive? (Strange Bedfellows, Ep. 33)

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Podcasts Fascinating People Russia Ukraine Donbass DPR Donetsk Russell Texas bentley Lori Spencer Strange Bedfellows podcast

My friend and fellow Austinite Russell "Texas" Bentley has been missing since April 8. Despite rumors and speculation about his mysterious disappearance, Russell's fate is still a mystery.

On the day he went missing, Russell and his wife Lyudmila had been in line at a local government building in #Donetsk to deal with some administrative documents, when he went to go help civilians injured in a nearby attack by Ukrainian forces. But when his wife went looking for him she only found his car, with his baseball cap, glasses, and his phone, which was shattered.

On April 16th his wife wrote on Russell's Telegram account that she had received "reliable and confirmed ironclad information" that her husband was kidnapped "and continues to be illegally detained by the tankers of the 5th Brigade of the Russian Federation Armed Forces."

She pleaded with Russell's friends and supporters to appeal urgently to the governments of the Donetsk People's Republic and #Russia, the FSB, the Prosecutor General's Office, and the Ministries of Defense and Internal Affairs, to help her locate her husband, adding "perhaps, there is not much time."

His wife posted again on Thursday, April 18th: "Today is the 10th day since Russell disappeared. To this day, I do not know his whereabouts,” she said.

On Friday, reports began to emerge that seemingly confirmed our worst fears.

Sputnik, who employed Russell as a war correspondent, released a statement written by Margarita Simonyan, the head of Russia Today TV, stating that Russell (call sign "Texas") was dead.

Russell's former combat unit, the Vostok battalion, and a local official in #Donetsk also confirmed his death yesterday, adding that their information came from Russell's wife.

The U.S. State Department has not confirmed this information, however. In a statement Friday, a spokesperson said:

“We are aware of reports of a U.S. citizen missing in the Donetsk region in #Ukraine. Our ability to verify reports of incidents regarding U.S. citizens in Ukraine is extremely limited."

The mystery deepened when Russell's wife and some of his friends spoke out today, saying that they could not -- and would not -- confirm that he was in fact deceased.

Our Maverick News correspondent in #Crimea, Kevin Michelizzi, is a personal friend of the Bentleys and told us this morning he was furious about the premature reports of Russell's demise, adding that most of what we've been told is #FakeNews.

This afternoon Russell's wife Lyudmila posted on Russell's official Telegram channel that "I have not seen him alive, nor his body, nor his remains. That's a fact. And yes, there is some insider information that is very not good." She thanked "the Wagner group guys for finding out what happened, how that happened, who they were, how many of them there were and their motive..."

"I still hope for real operational professionalism and decency from all involved agencies," she said.

Since leaving his #Austin, #Texas home ten years ago to volunteer for the Russian armed forces against what he called "the #Nazis in Ukraine," Russell was willing to lay down his life for a cause he believed in: the struggle against #fascism.

Even though Russell had aged out of the armed forces a few years ago, he was still not afraid to put himself in dangerous situations; often running directly towards active combat zones to cover battles as a journalist, or to provide first aid to civilians injured by the constant shelling in Donetsk -- as he did in the moments before his mysterious disappearance on April 8.

In an interview exactly one month before he vanished, Russell told journalist Patrick Henningsen on TNT Radio that Donetsk was swiftly becoming a hotzone of combat activity once again as NATO soldiers were infiltrating the area -- which may provide some clues as to his violent kidnapping and perhaps, his murder.

At this point, it is probably safe to say we won't be seeing our friend "the #Donbass Cowboy" again. Who killed Russell Bentley? Was it the Ukrainians, who had his name on their infamous kill list? Was it the #DPR, who reportedly suspected him of being a #NATO spy? Was it Pro-Ukrainian Russian "Werewolves" who had a personal score to settle? Or perhaps a shadowy NATO special forces unit who black-bagged him?

We may never know. All we do know for sure is that Russell "Texas" Bentley's life -- and his ultimate sacrifice -- was not in vain. Those of us who knew and loved him will miss his war stories, his guitar picking, his wry wit, and his encyclopedic knowledge of history.

Although Russell and I were on opposite sides of the political spectrum (I'm a #libertarian; he was a #communist), we shared much in common: a deep love for our native Texas, our musical tastes, our #cannabis activism, and our mutual hatred of fascism.

Tonight, Episode 33 of "Strange Bedfellows" is a tribute to my friend Russell. As today is 4/20, the annual #marijuana holiday, I couldn't think of a more appropriate time to bring you some selected highlights from my last interview with Russell on July 14, 2023. Here, he tells his fascinating life story, in his own words.

If you never had the pleasure of getting to know Russell "Texas" Bentley, maybe tonight's show will make you wish you had. And if you did know "Tejas," this incredible conversation will serve as a remembrance of the beautiful human being we have apparently lost to the horrors of war.

If you enjoyed this interview, please help support the show with a donation at:
http://StrangeBedfellowsPodcast.com

Many thanks to the Maverick News Channel for hosting this program.
http://MaverickNews.ca

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