The World Spins Fine On Her Own

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The World Spins Fine On Her Own

Retired from radio after spending 36 years behind studio microphones, Larry Whitler and Robin MacBla

Retired morning radio hosts now producing occasional podcasts.

05/17/2024

https://youtu.be/JXiZdS5R5Mc?si=v1FKHLbUnjyiAieC

In this video we ride our bicycles for the first time in over a year. We ride the entire trail a...

04/05/2024

Welcome back to another riveting episode of "Florida: Real and Imagined" with your favorite radio duo, Robin and The Giant! Today, we're diving deep into the rich history of one of Florida's most iconic landmarks – the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables. But hold onto your swim caps, because we're also unraveling the fascinating tales of Florida's limestone legacy and the remnants of strip mining that dot the landscape.

Join us as we take a refreshing plunge into the crystalline waters of the Venetian Pool, tracing its origins back to the early 1900s when it emerged from a limestone quarry. Discover the captivating story of how this former quarry evolved into a breathtaking oasis, complete with picturesque caves and lush landscaping, earning its rightful place on the National Register of Historic Places.

As we explore the depths of the Venetian Pool, we'll also uncover the parallel narrative of Florida's mining history. From the bustling boomtown of Dunnellon to the limestone quarries of Ocala, we'll paint a vivid picture of the laborious efforts that shaped the Sunshine State's landscape. Learn how the extraction of phosphate and limestone left behind intriguing limerock pits, serving as enduring monuments to Florida's industrial past.

But that's not all – did you know that the Venetian Pool boasts a unique filtration system, relying on natural processes to replenish its waters? We'll delve into the eco-friendly practices that keep this aquatic wonderland pristine and inviting for visitors from near and far.

So, grab your snorkel gear and join us on a journey through time and terrain, as we uncover the hidden treasures of the Venetian Pool and Florida's storied past. Tune in to "Florida: Real and Imagined" for a refreshing blend of history, exploration, and a splash of sunshine!

04/04/2024

Join Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane on another exciting journey through the diverse landscapes and attractions of Florida in our latest episode of "Florida: Real and Imagined." In this installment titled "Florida Day Trips," we delve into a plethora of activities and destinations perfect for both visitors and residents alike, eager to discover the gems of the Sunshine State.

From the tranquil beauty of Florida State Parks to the thrill of casinos and the excitement of Spring Training locations, we guide you through a wide array of options to explore Florida's natural wonders and cultural treasures. Dive into the pristine beaches, delve into the depths of museums, and embark on exhilarating hikes along scenic trails.

But that's not all—tune in as we uncover the allure of guided tours, whether it's traversing the waterways on airboats, sampling fine wines on winery tours, or immersing oneself in the rich history on church tours. We also share insights into exclusive VIP experiences, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses at iconic attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural enrichment, or thrilling entertainment, this episode is your ultimate guide to crafting unforgettable day trips across the diverse landscapes of Florida. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and join us as we embark on an exploration of the real and imagined wonders of the Sunshine State.

03/21/2024

Join radio personalities Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane on another exciting journey through the Sunshine State in this episode of "Florida: Real and Imagined." Titled "Bicycling In Florida," Larry and Robin take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as they recount their numerous bicycle adventures along Florida's extensive network of trails, which were once old railroad lines transformed through the Rails To Trails program.

From the tranquil 50-mile stretch of the Withlacoochee Trail to the scenic 30-mile path of the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail, our hosts vividly reminisce about the breathtaking landscapes and memorable experiences encountered along these historic routes. They also delve into the intriguing tales surrounding the Railroad Museum and bike trail in Brooksville, where legends of a ghost from the cowboy era still linger.

But the adventure doesn't stop there! Larry and Robin also explore the unexpected bicycle riding opportunities offered amidst the enchantment of Walt Disney World resort, adding a touch of magic to their cycling escapades.

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or simply intrigued by Florida's rich history and picturesque landscapes, this fun and informative episode of "Florida: Real and Imagined" is sure to inspire your next outdoor adventure. So hop on your bike and join Larry and Robin as they pedal through the real and imagined wonders of the Sunshine State.

03/19/2024

🌊🚣‍♂️ Dive into the lazy, sun-drenched waters of Florida's enchanting rivers with Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane on today's episode of "Florida: Real and Imagined"! 🎙️

Join us as we float down memory lane, reminiscing about the golden days of tubing on the Rainbow River in Dunnellon and the Ichetucknee River in Ichetucknee River State Park. 🌈 From the sparkling waters to the gentle currents, we'll share tales from our adventures back in the 1970s and 1980s, painting a picture of timeless fun under the Florida sun.

But hold onto your inflatable tubes because things have changed since our tube-tastic days! 🌞 We'll laugh our way through the evolution of tubing culture, from the gear we used (or didn't use!) to the unwritten rules of river etiquette. Whether it's the rise of waterproof gadgets or the shift in river vibes, we'll explore how tubing has transformed over the years.

As seasoned river rats, we'll also play the part of wise advisors, offering sage advice to the next generation of tubers. 🎓 From tips on packing the perfect picnic to the importance of respecting nature's playground, we'll help navigate the waters for curious newcomers, sharing our insights on what makes tubing in Central Florida an unforgettable experience.

So grab your sunscreen and your sense of adventure as we embark on a journey down memory river, proving that no matter your age, the joy of tubing in Florida's rivers is a timeless delight! 🌟 Don't miss out on this episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and the promise of endless aquatic escapades! 🌊🌴

03/18/2024

In this captivating episode of "Florida: Real And Imagined," join radio personalities Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane as they delve into the enchanting world of hidden treasures along Florida's coastline. From the swashbuckling days of pirates to the mysteries of sunken ships, the Sunshine State holds countless secrets waiting to be unearthed.

Larry and Robin take listeners on a journey through the rich history of Florida's coastal regions, where tales of buried gold and lost treasures abound. With stories dating back to the 1700s, listeners will discover the allure of legendary pirate loot and the intriguing accounts of shipwrecks that still captivate imaginations today.

But it's not all myths and legends – the hosts also shed light on the legal aspects of treasure hunting in Florida. From regulations governing salvage operations to the rights of beachcombers, they provide valuable insights into the laws surrounding the search for sunken riches.

What sets this episode apart is the insider knowledge shared by Larry and Robin, who reveal specific locations along Florida's coast where treasure hunters and beachcombers have struck gold – quite literally. From hidden coves to remote beaches, they disclose addresses where lucky explorers have unearthed gold coins and other precious artifacts, particularly after powerful storms.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a treasure hunter, or simply intrigued by the mysteries of the sea, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the real and imagined treasures that lie beneath Florida's azure waters and sandy shores. Tune in to "Florida: Real And Imagined" for an unforgettable exploration of the state's coastal wonders.

03/16/2024

Step back in time with hosts Robin MacBlane and Larry Whitler as they take you on a nostalgic journey through the enchanting world of 1970s Walt Disney World in today's episode titled "Walt Disney World in the 1970s." Join us as we reminisce about the magic, the wonder, and the excitement that characterized this golden era of the most magical place on earth.

In this episode, Robin and Larry fondly recall their favorite aspects of Disney World in the 1970s, from the captivating attractions to the charming resorts, and everything in between. Delve into the memories of yesteryear as they discuss the affordability of tickets, the iconic rides, the delectable cuisine, and the unforgettable experiences that made visiting Disney World in the 1970s a cherished delight.

Whether you're a Disney enthusiast or simply longing for a trip down memory lane, join us for a delightful discussion filled with laughter, nostalgia, and cherished memories of Walt Disney World in its most magical decade. Tune in to "Florida: Real and Imagined" for a journey back in time that's sure to reignite your love for the enchanting world of Disney.

03/15/2024

Join Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane on another adventure through the wilds of Florida in this special episode of "Florida: Real And Imagined." Today, we're delving into the fascinating world of alligators: the apex predators that have captivated imaginations and sparked legends throughout Florida's rich history.

In this episode, we explore the true stories behind Florida's iconic alligators, from their ancient origins to their modern-day habitats. We dive into thrilling alligator encounters, separating fact from fiction as we uncover the myths and folklore that have shrouded these formidable reptiles for generations.

Tune in as we share intriguing trivia and little-known facts about alligators, shedding light on their behavior, habitat, and significance in Florida's ecosystem. From the legendary Two Toed Tom festival in Esto, Florida, to the renowned Gatorland theme park, we uncover the unique cultural and recreational aspects surrounding these magnificent creatures.

Larry and Robin also share their own memorable run-ins with alligators, offering firsthand accounts that bring the excitement and danger of encountering these prehistoric predators to life.

So, grab your sunscreen and join us as we embark on a thrilling journey into the heart of Florida's swamps and marshes, exploring the captivating world of alligators: real and imagined. Whether you're a seasoned Floridian or a curious visitor, this episode promises to leave you with a newfound appreciation for one of the Sunshine State's most iconic inhabitants.

03/14/2024

Welcome to "Florida: Real and Imagined," the captivating audio podcast hosted by Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane, where we delve deep into the fascinating world of the Sunshine State. Today, we're exploring an extraordinary event that blends excitement with a noble cause: gambling for restoration efforts in the Florida Everglades and the Florida Wildlife Corridor program.

Step into the vibrant landscape of Florida, where the allure of the Everglades and the remarkable biodiversity of the Wildlife Corridor come to life. Picture yourself amidst the lush greenery, with the melodies of native birds filling the air and the gentle flow of waterways guiding your journey.

Now, imagine adding a dash of thrill to this natural wonderland. Picture a lively casino atmosphere, brimming with anticipation and excitement. But here's the twist: every wager placed isn't just for entertainment—it's for a purpose. Every chip tossed into the game contributes to the preservation and restoration of these invaluable ecosystems.

As the roulette wheel spins and the cards are dealt, players from all walks of life come together with a shared mission: to support the conservation efforts that safeguard Florida's precious natural heritage. Each win isn't just a stroke of luck; it's a triumph for the Everglades, the Wildlife Corridor, and the countless species that call them home.

Join us as we embark on a journey through the realms of possibility and conservation. Discover how the thrill of gambling intertwines with the spirit of environmental stewardship, creating a unique synergy that benefits both players and the planet. This is more than just a game—it's a chance to make a difference in the real and imagined landscapes of Florida.

03/14/2024

The Florida Wildlife Corridor refers to a contiguous network of natural lands and waterways that traverse the length of Florida, connecting various habitats and ecosystems from the Everglades in the south to the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia. The corridor encompasses a wide range of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, rivers, prairies, and coastal areas, which provide critical habitat for a diverse array of wildlife species.

The primary goal of the Florida Wildlife Corridor initiative is to promote the conservation and restoration of this natural corridor to maintain habitat connectivity for wildlife, facilitate movement and migration of species, and ensure the long-term survival of native flora and fauna. By protecting and restoring key habitats within the corridor, conservationists aim to safeguard biodiversity, enhance ecosystem resilience, and maintain ecosystem services essential for human well-being.

The Florida Wildlife Corridor initiative involves collaboration among various stakeholders, including conservation organizations, government agencies, scientists, landowners, and the public. Efforts to conserve and restore the corridor include land acquisition, habitat restoration, conservation easements, wildlife crossings, and public education and outreach initiatives.

The corridor concept emphasizes the importance of maintaining connected landscapes to allow wildlife to move freely across different habitats, especially in the face of increasing urbanization, habitat fragmentation, and climate change. By conserving and restoring the Florida Wildlife Corridor, conservationists seek to protect not only individual species but also entire ecosystems and the ecological processes that sustain them.

02/29/2024

Wildfire in Texas Panhandle
Location: Northeast of Amarillo
Size: 850,000 acres burnt
Spread: Crossed into Oklahoma
Fatalities: 1 reported in Hutchinson County
Containment: Only 3% contained as of Wednesday night
Additional Info:
Several smaller wildfires in northern Panhandle
Smokehouse Creek Fire area exceeds Rhode Island's size
Damage to structures reported
Tribute to Richard Lewis
Larry David's statement on Lewis' passing
Lewis' impact on "Curb Your Enthusiasm"
Jamie Lee Curtis' tribute on Instagram
HBO's statement on Lewis' death
Controversial Wedding Invitation
Couple asks guests to pay for meals: $40 for adults, $20 for children under 12
Blooming of Co**se Flower in San Francisco
Amorphophallus titanum blooms at California Academy of Sciences
Rarity of bloom: once every 7 to 10 years
Description of the flower's pungent smell
Plant's endangered status
Rescue of Missing Autistic Girl
Hillsborough County Sheriff's aviation unit locates missing 5-year-old in swamp near Tampa
Thermal imaging aids in locating her
Successful reunion with the girl thanks to quick action of deputies
Guinness World Record for Largest Tongue Circumference
Jenny DuVander breaks record with 5.21-inch tongue circumference
Inspired by Guinness World Records entry, DuVander measures her tongue
Her son's role in her decision to apply for the title
Insurance Claim Denied Over Christmas Tree Photo
Kamila Grabska loses $820,000 claim after photo shows her launching a Christmas tree
Claim filed after 2017 car accident
Allegations of false injury claims
Miracle Recovery Story from Grand Rapids
Jennifer Flewellen's coma and recovery journey
Mother Peggy Means' unwavering support during Flewellen's coma
Flewellen's remarkable recovery after five years
Means' commitment to her daughter's rehabilitation and scientific discovery

02/28/2024

Podcast Show Prep for Wednesday, February 28, 2024

NATIONAL PUBLIC SLEEPING DAY
If you're tired on February 28th, it might be because National Public Sleeping Day encourages a mid-day nap right where you are. It is a day for anyone and everyone to take a nap on a blanket at the beach, at the park, in the movie theater, on a bus, train, or subway or any other public place that may work for you. However, it may not be a good idea to take that nap at your desk during work!

Types of Naps
There are different types of naps. The Power Nap is approximately 10 to 20 minutes long and can give a boost of energy to get us through the rest of the day. It also doesn't leave us drowsy like some longer naps might and will also allow us to fall asleep at a decent time at night.

Musical talent runs in David Foster and Katharine McPhee's family and it seems like the two artists have an entertainer on their hands.

The music producer and the singer's 3-year-old son, Rennie, has already captivated their followers with his impressive drumming skills. But most recently, the toddler made his onstage debut during his parents' show.

On Feb. 27, McPhee called herself a "proud mom" when she shared a video of Rennie drumming alongside Foster during his show at Kennedy Center in Washington, DC on Sunday, Feb. 25.

"Had a VERY special guest join us on stage for the first time 🥁

As McPhee is proudly clapping off to the side of the stage, little Rennie, wearing noise-canceling headphones, is rocking out with his mini drum set.

Foster is playing the piano and when the song is over, gets up and claps for his son.

The “American Idol” alum and Foster have been on their “An Intimate Evening with David Foster & Katharine McPhee” tour.

The couple has been married since 2019. Rennie is McPhee's only child. Foster is also father to five daughters: Sara, Erin, Amy, Jordan and Allison Foster.

Carmen Electra is a household name — and now it's officially her legal moniker.

A Los Angeles Superior Court judge this week granted the actor's request to legally change her name from her birth name, Tara Leigh Patrick, to her stage name.

Electra has used her famous stage name since she stepped into the spotlight in her breakthrough role as Lani McKenzie in "Baywatch."

On Jan. 9, the TV personality filed a petition to legally change her name to Carmen Electra, according to documents obtained by TODAY.com.

Adele is postponing her upcoming shows for health reasons.

On Feb. 27, the singer announced on her Instagram that she is sick and per doctor’s orders has “no choice” but to reschedule dates for her “Weekends With Adele” Las Vegas residency. Adele explained how she hasn’t been able to fully recover since the last time she was ill and now it’s “taken a toll” on her voice.

“Sadly I have to take a beat and pause my Vegas residency. I was sick at the end of the last leg and all the way through my break. I hadn’t quite gotten the chance to get back to full health before shows resumed and now I’m sick again, and unfortunately it’s all taken a toll on my voice,” she wrote.

Adele continued saying that per doctor’s orders she has “no choice but to rest thoroughly.” This means that the remaining five weekends of her residency are being postponed to a later date.

Oreo already introduced three new flavors at the start of the new year, but the brand wasn’t done dropping cookies.

On Feb. 27, the sandwich cookie company introduced two more additions to its cavalcade of crunchy confections: Dirt Cake and Tiramisu Thins.

Dirt Cake, a nostalgic favorite, is being added to the portfolio for a limited time, while Tiramisu Thins are getting a permanent spot in the lineup. Both will hit grocery store shelves on March 4.

Here are all the details:

Oreo Dirt Cake
Oreo Dirt Cake chocolate sandwich cookies are the company’s take on the nostalgic mud-pie dessert that reminds people of childhood. On the outside, it features the classic chocolate cookie with gummy worm-inspired sprinkles on top; and on the inside, it’s got a layer of brownie-flavored creme atop a layer of chocolate creme with Oreo wafer crumb.

Oreo Thins Tiramisu
In this permanent addition to the Oreo brand portfolio, its classic thin cookie is stuffed with a layer of tiramisu-flavored creme filling.

In December, the cookie company introduced Oreo Black & White Cookies, a limited-edition flavor inspired by an iconic New York City bakery staple, as well as two permanent additions: Peanut Butter Cakesters and Gluten-Free Golden. They hit shelves on Jan. 3.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

A 114-year-old woman in Houston, Elizabeth Francis, has become the oldest living person in the United States, LongeviQuest said Friday.

Francis became the oldest person in the U.S., following the death of 116-year-old Edie Ceccarelli of California, who passed away on Feb. 22, according to LongeviQuest. She is the fifth oldest living person in the world, as per Gerontology Research Group.

Born in Louisiana, raised in Texas
Francis was born on Jul. 25, 1909 in Louisiana, according to her profile on LongeviQuest. Following her mother's death, she and her five siblings were sent to different homes and Francis ended up in Houston, where she was raised by her aunt and lived since.

She gave birth to her only daughter, Dorothy Williams, in 1928, whom she raised as a single mother, operating a coffee shop at ABC 13 News in Houston to support herself and her daughter. She ran the place for almost 20 years, retiring in 1975. In 1999, she moved in with her daughter.

In July 2023, on her 114th birthday, Francis "had three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren," according to LongeviQuest.

Francis' secret to living a long life
Francis credits her longevity to her faith in God, speaking her mind and eating whatever she wants. The supercentenarian only began requiring a wheelchair for mobility when she was almost 108.

“If the Good Lord gave it to you, use it! Speak your mind, don’t hold your tongue," Francis told LongeviQuest when asked the secret behind her long life.

On her birthday party in July 2022, Francis told News Centre Maine that she credits her long life to eating whatever she wanted. She also said that she doesn't smoke or drink, except for the occasional glass of wine.

Francis is not the only one in her family to live a long life. Her older Bertha Johnson lived to the age of 106 before passing away in 2011, according to LongeviQuest, making them "one of the oldest sibling pairs".

Drew Barrymore is in a Catch-22 over her 1995 Pl***oy cover and her 11-year-old daughter Olive's outfit choices, the actor and talk show host shared on Tuesday.

"My daughter wants to wear a crop top. I’ll say no and she’ll go, ‘You were on the cover of Pl***oy," Barrymore told Christina Aguilera, who she was interviewing in Las Vegas for "The Drew Barrymore Show."

The five-time Grammy award-winning Aguilera, who has a residency at the Venetian in Las Vegas, recently had one of those moments with her daughter, too.

"I knew it was coming the day I wore chaps," she told Barrymore. "My daughter wants to wear a crop top, too. And I am just like, 'Can we just pull it down?'"

Aguilera added that instead of focusing on her 9-year-old daughter Summer Rain's choice of clothing, she tries to communicate that there are "certain people out there (with) good intentions and bad intentions."

As for their risqué pasts, the actor and singer don't have any regrets over their choices, they said, and they don't want their daughters to, either.

"I loved every minute of it," Barrymore said of her Pl***oy shoot in 1995, when she was 20 years old.

"We were expressing ourselves and how we felt was best for us," Aguilera said. "We didn’t do it for someone else."

The two hope to empower their daughters to be comfortable in their skin as they grow older.

1. Julius Caesar introduced the first calendar leap year in 46 B.C.

The Earth takes exactly 365 days, five hours, 48 minutes and 45 seconds to circle the sun. The occasional Feb. 29 ensures we don’t lose six hours every year.

2. Leap year babies are called “leapers” or “leaplings.”

You’d get a special name, too, if you had to wait four years to celebrate your birthday.

3. Feb. 29 has traditionally been a day on which women were allowed to propose to men.

Sounds hopelessly outdated for the 21st century, but this is the way it has worked in many cultures for centuries!

4. Leap Day is a day when daring skinny dippers leap off of Naked Falls in Stevenson, Washington, and when travelers visit a new continent for the first time.

5. Feb. 29 is not really a legal day.

Many companies don’t recognize Leap Day as a “valid day.” They make leapers choose

Feb. 28 or March 1 as their birthday instead.

6. Lots of people work for free on Feb. 29.

Most employees who are paid fixed monthly incomes will work for free on Feb. 29 because their wages are likely not calculated to include the extra day.

7. There are two “Leap Year Capitals of the World.”

If you want to celebrate this special day in a big way, head to Texas — or New Mexico. Anthony, Texas and Anthony, New Mexico both claim the title “Leap Year Capital,” while holding lavish, multi-day celebrations each leap year.

Places To Visit In March

1. Destin, Florida

Destin, FL 32541, USA
Location: Destin, FL
Why Visit In March: Visiting Destin, Florida in March is just about perfect for Mac and Cheese lovers - the annual NoMi Mac & Cheese Fest warms up tummies in Griffing Park in early March.

Destin is a pretty happening place in March, with several festivals and events going on. Besides the ultimate Mac and Cheese Festival.

6th Annual Mac and Cheese Festival
Join us at the 6th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast on Sunday, March 10th, 2024

By Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast
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Date and time
Sunday, March 10 · 12 - 3pm CDT
Location
Destin Commons

4100 Legendary Drive Destin, FL 32541

Thought macaroni and cheese was just for kids? Think again! Join us at the 6th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival presented by Cox & Publix Charities on Sunday, March 10th, 2024 at the Destin Commons! This family-friendly event will feature gourmet, chef-inspired twists on the South’s favorite comfort food. Local restaurants will compete for the best mac in town. Be there to sample everything for yourself and cast your vote!

All proceeds from this event will go to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast, which works in our community to promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging, and influence through its programs focused on academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles.

Sponsorships for this event are available. To learn how your business can be involved, please contact [email protected].

Tickets:

$50 for VIC (Very Important Cheese tickets)

$30 for adults

$20 for kids (5-16 years old)

V.I.C. (Very Important Cheese) tickets include (1) beverage ticket and a t-shirt.

Address

Ocala, FL

Website

https://theworldspinsfineonherown.libsyn.com/

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