Milestone moments and exciting announcements fill episode 297 as we steadily approach the big 300 mark! Broadcasting from the foothills of Northern California with weed eaters working diligently in the background, I'm sharing some truly electrifying news for music lovers.

The legendary Robin Trower—one of my top five favorite rock guitarists of all time—has agreed to appear on the Pat's Peeps podcast! But that's not all. Potential appearances by country icon Marty Stewart and rock band Everclear (whose "AM Radio" I play at the start of every radio show) might also be in our future. These conversations represent dream opportunities for me as both a broadcaster and lifelong music fan.

Media appearances are stacking up as we prepare to promote our Pat's Peeps community events. I'll be on Fox 40's Studio Live with Gary Gelfand and Scott Moak on Thursday, followed by filling in for Sam Shane on The Shane Reaction on Friday. The biggest news? Our upcoming Pat's Peeps gathering at the State Fair, tentatively scheduled for July 22-24 at the Save Mart Wine Bar area. This marks a significant push for the business side of our podcast community.

The episode takes a fascinating turn as I share clips from Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd's recent "Fool Around and Find Out Operation" targeting human trafficking, with his colorful commentary on the 255 arrests made. I also reflect on rewatching the 1971 Clint Eastwood film "Play Misty For Me" about a radio DJ stalked by an obsessed listener—a movie that still sends chills down the spine of anyone working in radio.

As we close with Christopher Cross's "Sailing" (which reminds me of beautiful Portofino), I extend an invitation to join our Pat's Peeps Tour to Sicily this October. Whether you're a longtime listener or just discovering us, there's never been a better time to become part of our growing community. Visit patspeeps.com to learn more and support the local businesses that make our podcast possible!

From heartbreaking local tragedy to musical celebration and surprising marketing history, this episode traverses emotional territory that will leave you thinking long after the final notes fade.

We begin with breaking news about the devastating explosion at a fireworks factory near Sacramento that has claimed seven lives. The Oakdale fire, which burned 78 acres, began with a catastrophic explosion that shook the community and left families grieving. As emergency responders located the victims, we reflect on the fragility of life and the impact of sudden tragedy.

The mood shifts as we celebrate Ringo Starr's remarkable 85th birthday. While many celebrate the Beatles drummer for his contribution to the Fab Four, we dive deep into his criminally underrated solo career. Did you know Ringo scored seven consecutive top ten hits in the United States during the 1970s, including two number ones? We explore gems like "It Don't Come Easy," "Photograph," and "You're 16," showcasing how Ringo's unique blend of musical talent and lighthearted humor created a distinctive solo identity. His collaborations with former bandmates George Harrison, John Lennon, and Paul McCartney demonstrate the lasting creative bonds between these musical legends.

Perhaps most surprisingly, we uncover the dark and fascinating origin of Nike's iconic "Just Do It" slogan. The phrase that launched a billion-dollar marketing empire was inspired by condemned double-murderer Gary Gilmore's final words before his 1977 execution by firing squad. This unexpected connection between advertising history and capital punishment raises profound questions about how cultural touchstones emerge from unlikely – even disturbing – sources.

Join us for this journey through local heartbreak, musical celebration, and the strange intersections of pop culture history. As Ringo would say: "Peace and love!"

We celebrate America's Independence Day with a special episode blending patriotic music, political satire, and powerful historical reflections on the meaning of freedom and sacrifice.

• Opening musical performance celebrating American freedom and unity
• Satirical political sketches addressing contemporary cultural debates
• Examination of border security policies through comedic dialogue
• Musical segments highlighting American patriotism and national pride
• Reflection on the meaning of the Pledge of Allegiance and its significance
• Story of "The Ragged Old Flag" connecting American history through our national symbol
• Detailed account of the 56 signers of the Declaration and their personal sacrifices
• Exploration of how wealthy, comfortable men risked everything for liberty

Join us in celebrating not just the founding of our nation, but the ongoing responsibility we all share to preserve the freedom that required such tremendous sacrifice.