Outside of the Grid Podcast

22/09/2024

Tommy R Thompson Jr., Breckin Barfield, and I went drone flying around the Macedonian Cemetery.

09/09/2024

Aerojet Rocketdyne Interview Event

Date: Friday, September 13th, 2024

Location: 1041 West Washington St, Camden, AR 71701
Details: Premier Employer - Career Level Jobs - Starting at $16.50+ per hour (depending on experience), $1000 sign-on/retention bonus, regular wage increases, excellent benefits package.

Note: Walk-ins are welcome, but you will be entering the interview process, which includes an application, and assessment if you don’t have a WAGE or CRC, and previous employment verification.

Action: Call 870-837-2811 to plan your next steps. If you aren’t on the current interview schedule, don’t worry! Call or stop in, and ESA will pre-qualify you for the next scheduled event!

08/09/2024

The Buddy Bass Boat Launch

06/09/2024

Join Us for the Buddy Bass Tournament - Call 870-364-6591 - The Shiners Are Stacking - Schooling Up In Those Water Runs - Big Day Fishing Tomorrow

We're thrilled to announce that the Buddy Bass Tournament is happening tomorrow, Saturday, September 7th, and we need your participation to make it a success! As of this morning, we have 48 boats registered, and we're aiming to reach at least 50. With the rain today, the bass are sure to be extra hungry tomorrow, making for an exciting day of fishing.

Event Details:

- Date: Saturday, September 7th, Leave Harbor at 4:30AM, Hook In Water at 6AM

- Location: Crossett Harbor/Port

- Weigh-In and Award Ceremony: Starts around 2:00 - 2:30 PM

This year marks the 39th anniversary of the tournament, and we're honored to have Ken Taylor, one of the founders, joining us. Whether you're an angler or a spectator, there's something for everyone. If you're considering participating, now is the time to register. Get your buddy, sign up, and be part of this historic event!

For those not fishing, come down to enjoy the festivities. There will be a food truck, plenty of volunteers, and lots of smiling faces. The weigh-in and award ceremony will be a highlight, so we encourage everyone to come and support the anglers.

How to Register:

If you're leaning towards participating, lean in and register now! You can find the registration link here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-39th-annual-2024-buddy-bass-tournament-tickets-93946259691 - Let's get those boats in the water and make this a memorable event.

Thank you for your support, and we look forward to seeing you there!

05/09/2024

43 Teams Are Currently Registered - We Need 7 More Teams

The Buddy Bass Tournament is coming up on Saturday, September 7th. It's a great time to get ready for some fishing. Best of luck with the event, and we hope you have a fantastic time on the water!

If you haven't registered yet, now is the perfect time to do so. The weather is looking good, and the temperature is going to be just absolutely perfect for fishing. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity!

We really need 50 teams to make this a winning even for everyone! So, if you and your team mate is on the fence, jump on over! There is good fishing at that river right now!

We know you're ready! Boat is loaded! Please go ahead and register today!

On top of everything, we have Mr. Kenneth "Ken" Taylor that will be at the Weigh-In & Awards Ceremony! Mr. Ken is 87 Years Old, and is making his way back to Crossett from Florida, and his retirement there!

Mr. Ken set the wheels in motion to have a 2024 Crossett Area Chamber of Commerce Buddy Bass Tournament way back in 1986!

We're Inviting Everyone Down For The Weigh-In & Awards Ceremony. If you want to spend a couple of hours, visiting and lending a hand to the Tournament, show up whenever you want, but from 2PM to 4PM will be exciting afternoon time to visit as a spectator! It should be cool outside, too!

So, bring a lawn chair, and come visit. There will be opportunities to purchase food & drink as well.

Get off the fence, and get signed up today, Bass Anglers!

Here is a link to purchase tickets, or you can visit the Crossett Area Chamber of Commerce, found at 101 W 1st Ave Crossett, AR 71635

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-39th-annual-2024-buddy-bass-tournament-tickets-939462596917

43 Teams Are Currently Registered - We Need 7 More Teams

The Buddy Bass Tournament is coming up on Saturday, September 7th. It's a great time to get ready for some fishing. Best of luck with the event, and we hope you have a fantastic time on the water! 🐟

If you haven't registered yet, now is the perfect time to do so. The weather is looking good, and the temperature is going to be just absolutely perfect for fishing. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity!

We really need 50 teams to make this a winning even for everyone! So, if you and your team mate is on the fence, jump on over! There is good fishing at that river right now!

We know you're ready! Boat is loaded! Please go ahead and register today!

On top of everything, we have Mr. Kenneth "Ken" Taylor that will be at the Weigh-In & Awards Ceremony! Mr. Ken is 87 Years Old, and is making his way back to Crossett from Florida, and his retirement there!

Mr. Ken set the wheels in motion to have a 2024 Crossett Area Chamber of Commerce Buddy Bass Tournament way back in 1986!

We're Inviting Everyone Down For The Weigh-In & Awards Ceremony. If you want to spend a couple of hours, visiting and lending a hand to the Tournament, show up whenever you want, but from 2PM to 4PM will be exciting afternoon time to visit as a spectator! It should be cool outside, too!

So, bring a lawn chair, and come visit. There will be opportunities to purchase food & drink as well.

Get off the fence, and get signed up today, Bass Anglers!

Here is a link to purchase tickets, or you can visit the Crossett Area Chamber of Commerce, found at 101 W 1st Ave Crossett, AR 71635

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-39th-annual-2024-buddy-bass-tournament-tickets-939462596917

01/09/2024

Albert Edward “Wack” Wackerman: A Forester’s Journey to Sustainability

Albert Edward “Wack” Wackerman was a dedicated forester whose contributions to the Crossett Lumber Company and the development of sustainable forestry practices have left a lasting impact. Born in 1897 in Cleveland, Wackerman earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota in 1921, followed by a master’s degree from the Yale School of Forestry in 1922.

Early Career and Joining the Crossett Lumber Company

Wackerman’s career started in 1923 when he was hired as a junior forester and assistant silviculturist with the Lake States Forest Experiment Station. His early work focused on pine management, particularly in Michigan, and how to improve the drainage of lands for forestry purposes.

In 1927, Wackerman became the second forester hired by the Crossett Lumber Company. During his tenure with the company, Wackerman helped implement the recommendations of Professor Herman H. Chapman. He worked on inventories of the company’s remaining virgin and second-growth timber, established a fire protection system, and developed management plans. With Wackerman’s assistance, the company also explored new wood products opportunities, including hardwood lumber and flooring, and began to manage its second-growth pine.

Challenges During the Great Depression

The timber industry struggled mightily during the Great Depression. The Crossett Lumber Company, unlike many of its peers, did not fold, but it did cut wages and scaled back operations. After two 50 percent pay cuts in 1932, Wackerman left the company for a position with the Southern Forest Experiment Station and was stationed in New Orleans by early 1933. Hired under a federal program authorized by the McSweeney-McNary Act of 1928, he helped study the profitability of forestry for industrial landowners.

Continued Contributions to Forestry

Wackerman’s experience in southern Arkansas and his ongoing efforts with the Crossett Lumber Company led him to work closely with Russell R. Reynolds, another forest economist with the Southern Forest Experiment Station. Their collaboration on timber management strategies was successful enough to prompt the company to offer the Forest Service some of their cutover lands for what would eventually become the Crossett Experimental Forest.

In 1934, Wackerman left the Southern Forest Experiment Station for a forester position with the Southern Pine Association in New Orleans. During this period, he continued to help companies such as the Union Saw Mill Company of Huttig, Arkansas, develop forest management plans. Always looking for new opportunities, in 1937 Wackerman became the first forester of the Seaboard Air Line Railway, which operated railroads along the southeastern coast of the United States. In this capacity, Wackerman was charged with encouraging forestry along the rail lines from Virginia to Florida.

Academic Career and Legacy

In 1939, Wackerman was appointed by Clarence F. Korstian as one of the original faculty members of the Graduate School of Forestry at Duke University. He held the position of professor of forest utilization there until his retirement in 1967. Wackerman’s contributions to forestry education and research have left a lasting legacy. His work in implementing sustainable forestry practices at the Crossett Lumber Company and his later academic career have paved the way for future generations of foresters.

Note: This article is based on the research and work of Don C. Bragg, a research forester with the U.S. Forest Service’s Southern Research Station. Bragg’s dedication to documenting and preserving the history of the Crossett Experimental Forest has provided us with invaluable insights and references.

01/09/2024

Join Tommy R Thompson Jr. and I for a captivating 22-minute discussion as we delve into the life and legacy of Nikola Tesla, his death before the realization of the full development of his life's work, and the innovative concepts he left behind. We also explore SpaceX's groundbreaking advancements, including Tommy's unique idea for Starship landings and the potential for Mars colonization. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation on the future of space travel and technology.

Join us for a captivating 22-minute discussion as we delve into the life and legacy of Nikola Tesla, his death before the realization of the development of h...

23/08/2024

Here's a list of signs that might indicate it's time to consider getting a new horse:

1. Health Issues: If your current horse is facing chronic health problems that are difficult to manage and affecting their quality of life, it might be time to look for a healthier horse.

2. Behavioral Changes: Significant and persistent negative changes in behavior, which could be due to pain, stress, or other issues, may suggest the need for a change.

3. Skill Level Mismatch: If your skills have surpassed your horse's capabilities, or vice versa, finding a horse that matches your current level might be beneficial.

4. Financial Constraints: The cost of maintaining a horse with special needs or one that requires frequent veterinary care can be high. A horse with fewer needs might be more sustainable.

5. Safety Concerns: If your horse has become unsafe to handle or ride, it's crucial to prioritize your safety and consider finding a more suitable horse.

6. Age: An aging horse may not be able to perform at the same level as before, and retirement might be the kindest option.

7. Goals and Ambitions: Your equestrian goals may have evolved, and you might need a horse with specific traits or training to achieve them.

8. Lack of Progress: If you feel that you and your horse have hit a plateau in training or competition, a new horse might provide a fresh start.

9. Time Commitment: If your current horse requires more time than you can provide, due to training needs or health care, finding a horse with less demanding needs might be necessary.

Remember, deciding to get a new horse is a significant decision and should be made with careful consideration of your current horse's welfare, your needs, and the potential new horse's well-being.

23/08/2024

33.207236492209496, -91.87267476103648

12/08/2024

Here are three images of Donald and I throughout the years. The first one, in gray suits, was at Shannon Shaver and Deborah Shaver's wedding in 1990. We were about 18. The next image was from around 2010, at Shannon & Deb's house, at our 20th High School Reunion. The last image is of Donald and I sitting in my shop office on Thanksgiving, 2023. 11-22-2024. That was also the last night that I drank alcohol. From July, 2023 until 11-22-2023, I had gone a long ways with alcohol. But, I realized right then... that it was time to pull out. That is what we were talking about. Philosophy, our place in the world, where were at, and what we wanted to do. I will missing spending time with this man, though. We have had so many laughs and cries and great discussions throughout the years. My opinion is that Donald was more sick than he or any of us realized in the last several months of his life.

Regardless, though, this man was a really good friend of mine. We understood each other immensely, and impacted each other profoundly. Even when we were upset with each other, we would tell each other that we loved the other, and come back for more conversation in a day or two.

In his last audio messages to me... he was telling me about how the past (the last) three weeks of his life had be extremely profound, and eventful, including a pretty dramatic bout with Covid. A lot of traveling. He was sick and exhausted.

But he told me fore he took his last trip North that he would be at my house Sunday, to relax and spend time together. Catch up. He told he had lots to tell me.

I felt a weird emotion rush over me on Thursday morning. And it all revolved around Donald. I could figure out what it was, but I knew it was bad... It made me a nervous wreck.

And then Saturday afternoon, I got a call from a very frantic and upset woman telling me that my old buddy had passed on.

I am going through a wide arrange of emotions right now. Sometimes I am mad at my old buddy. But that doesn't last long. I feel sorry for him. He could not see a way out of the trap.

My message to myself and to all that read this... leave that alcohol alone. It is nothing but poison.

I will miss you, Donald Henslee! You've kept the past 50 years interesting, sir! In some ways I feel like the "laugh track" of life is somehow gone. But, we have lots of great memories of you...

And recordings! I have hours and hours of recordings of my old friend. We called ourselves podcasting. But, honestly, we were just two old friends spending a little time together before we eased off into the unknown.

Be Blessed, Sir.

09/08/2024

If you can believe it or not, the Outside of the Grid Podcast, but on YouTube, hit 1000 followers today. That is a hard task to do, my Facebook Friends. You will not find anything special, for sure. Just more or less the Behind The Scenes of my life! Which, of course, if a little unorthodox. Or, as I like to call it, you know, Outside of the Grid.

29/07/2024

The Evolution of Decline: A Comparative Study of Owen Barfield, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Mike Judge's "Idiocracy"

Introduction

The concept of decline, as a societal or individual regression, has been a recurring theme in literature and film. This essay explores the unique perspectives of Owen Barfield, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Mike Judge's "Idiocracy" on this theme.

Owen Barfield's Concept of Decline

Owen Barfield, a philosopher, author, and member of the Inklings, proposed a unique perspective on decline. For Barfield, decline was not about a decrease in numbers or a loss of power, but rather a decline in the depth and richness of our conscious experience and understanding. He believed that humans began as conscious but not free, and we evolved to become free but not conscious. This loss of consciousness or awareness is what Barfield referred to as decline.

J.R.R. Tolkien and the Integration of Decline

J.R.R. Tolkien, a close friend of Barfield and a fellow Inkling, integrated Barfield's concept of decline into his works. The theme of decline and fall in Middle-earth, a central theme in Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," reflects Barfield's ideas of a loss of consciousness or awareness. Tolkien's depiction of the fading of the Elves, the decay of the Shire, and the general sense of melancholy and loss in his works are indicative of Barfield's influence.

The Inklings and Their Walks

The Inklings, including Barfield and Tolkien, were known for their long walks together, which they jokingly referred to as "The Cretaceous Perambulators." These walks provided occasions for deep philosophical discussions, which often influenced their respective works.

Mike Judge's "Idiocracy" and Decline

Mike Judge's film "Idiocracy" presents a satirical view of decline. The film depicts a future society that has significantly declined due to anti-intellectualism and a lack of critical thinking. In this dystopian future, the most average man, Joe Bauers, wakes up after 500 years to find himself the smartest person alive in a society that has lost its way. While there's no direct evidence to suggest that Judge was familiar with Barfield's work, the parallels between Barfield's concept of decline and the themes explored in "Idiocracy" are striking.

Conclusion

While Barfield, Tolkien, and Judge each present unique perspectives on decline, they all highlight the potential consequences of losing our consciousness, awareness, or intellectual curiosity. Their works serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining our intellectual and moral integrity in the face of societal pressures and changes.

As a final amusing thought, let's consider a hypothetical scenario. Owen Barfield lived during the time when "Beavis and Butt-Head" was popular. Imagine if Barfield, the philosopher and member of the Inklings, had a secret correspondence with Mike Judge, the creator of "Beavis and Butt-Head". Perhaps they exchanged letters or emails, discussing the concept of decline in society, as depicted in "Idiocracy" and "Beavis and Butt-Head". Maybe Barfield, intrigued by the crude humor and social commentary of "Beavis and Butt-Head", found some common ground with Judge's satirical take on societal decline. While there's no evidence to suggest such a correspondence, it's a fun idea to muse upon and adds a humorous twist to our discussion.

28/07/2024

Shadows of Segregation: The Jim Crow Era and Its Legacy

Introduction

In the wake of the Civil War, the United States embarked on a period of Reconstruction, aiming to rebuild the nation and integrate millions of freed slaves into society. The Emancipation Proclamation had promised a new dawn of freedom, but the shadows of segregation were soon to cast a long and oppressive pall over the South.

The Roots of Jim Crow

James, a freedman in Mississippi, 1875:

James tilled the soil with hands that had once been bound by chains. The Black Codes loomed over him, dictating his every move. He was free, yet not free; the laws ensured he remained subservient, trapped in a cycle of poverty and disenfranchisement.

The Rise of Jim Crow

Mary, a young teacher in Louisiana, 1896:

Mary's heart sank as she entered the colored section of the public library. The shelves were sparse, the books worn. The Supreme Court had ruled that separate could be equal, but the barren room stood as a silent testament to the lie of Plessy v. Ferguson.

Life Under Jim Crow

The Robinson family, during the Great Migration, 1930s:

The Robinsons joined the exodus, leaving behind the cotton fields for the promise of the North. The Jim Crow laws had dictated where they could live, work, and learn. In Chicago, they sought a new beginning, away from the oppressive grip of legalized racism.

The Civil Rights Movement

Clara, a civil rights activist in Alabama, 1963:

Clara's hands were steady as she sat at the lunch counter, her heart pounding with the weight of the moment. The sit-in was met with hostility, but she and her fellow activists would not be moved. Their courage would help tear down the walls of segregation.

Legacy and Reflection

Mr. Johnson, reflecting on the past, present day:

Mr. Johnson gazed at the old photographs, his memory tracing the lines of a history marked by struggle and resilience. The Jim Crow era was over, but its echoes could still be felt. Progress had been made, yet the journey towards true equality continued.

Conclusion

The Jim Crow era is a somber chapter in our nation's history, a time when the color line divided not just spaces but destinies. As we reflect on this period, we must commit to understanding the full breadth of its impact and ensure that such injustices are never repeated. Our collective memory and acknowledgment of the past are vital in shaping a future where freedom and equality are not just ideals but realities for all.

16/06/2024

Perfect!

Monkey (⟃ ͜ʖ ⟄)

04/05/2024

We were walking through Felsenthal this morning, and happened upon this crazy guy. And his dogs.

27/04/2024

Become Situationally Aware: Stay Alert, Stay Alive

Situational awareness is the cornerstone of safety in the workplace. It’s about being aware of your surroundings and understanding the potential hazards in your environment. By maintaining a high level of awareness, workers can identify risks early and take proactive measures to avoid accidents. This vigilance is the first step in preventing workplace fatalities and injuries.

Avoid Complacency: The Silent Danger

Complacency can be as dangerous as any visible threat in the workplace. It creeps in when tasks become routine, and workers feel overly comfortable, leading to a drop in alertness. This false sense of security can result in missed warning signs and delayed reactions to emerging dangers. To combat complacency, workers must continuously reassess their environment and approach each task as if it’s their first time performing it.

Speak Up for Safety: Your Voice Can Save Lives

The power of communication cannot be overstated when it comes to safety. Speaking up for safety means not only reporting hazards but also encouraging a culture where every team member feels responsible for the collective well-being. It’s about creating an environment where the cost of a life is never underestimated, and everyone feels empowered to voice concerns without fear of reprisal.

By embracing these principles, workers can create a safer environment that not only protects themselves but also their colleagues. It’s a collective effort that requires continuous commitment and the courage to act before tragedy strikes. Remember, safety is not just a protocol—it’s a lifeline. The cards and materials produced to promote these ideas serve as daily reminders that every measure taken is a step towards preserving life and well-being in the workplace. Stay aware, avoid complacency, and always speak up for safety. Your life and the lives of those around you may depend on it.

09/04/2024

Donkey gets it, but Pig cannot discover that he is one with it all.

08/04/2024

Wild Days in Crossett Today...

06/04/2024

Happy Birthday, Clyde Randy Hood!

02/04/2024

Once in the heart of the Arkansas woodlands, where the pines stood tall and the air hummed with the songs of cicadas, there was a fire tower that touched the clouds. It was here that Bronkey, a spirited donkey with a coat as patchy as the shadows beneath the trees, began his first day as a fire tower watchman.

Bronkey wasn't like the other donkeys. He wore a red bandana with pride, and walked with a purpose that said he was meant for more than just carrying loads. When the position for a watchman opened up, Bronkey saw his chance to shine.

On his first day, Bronkey trotted up to the fire tower, his hooves steady on the creaky wooden steps. He reached the top just as the sun cast its first golden rays over the land. From his lofty perch, Bronkey could see for miles; his eyes were sharp, and his ears twitched at every rustle.

As the morning progressed, everything was calm until Bronkey spotted a faint plume of smoke rising from a thicket near the crossroads between Crossett and Fountain Hill. Without a moment's hesitation, Bronkey brayed the alarm, his voice echoing through the forest like a clarion call.

The rangers, alerted by Bronkey's timely warning, sprang into action. They doused the flames before they could spread, saving the forest from what could have been a devastating blaze.

Bronkey was hailed as a hero. The rangers patted his back, and the townsfolk brought him treats of apples and carrots. The fire chief, impressed by Bronkey's keen eye, declared that the fire tower would always have a place for Bronkey.

From that day on, Bronkey the Donkey wasn't just a watchman; he was a guardian, a protector of the pines. And as he stood in his tower, bandana fluttering in the breeze, he knew he had found his calling.

30/03/2024

Look here! The birdhouse has tenets!

28/03/2024

I saw an ant bed in the baseball field, and wondered what it would be like to go down into the colony, and see what it would be like to meet the Queen. So, yeah, I went and meant the Queen of the Colony...

26/03/2024

Bronkey got hooked up with that Oakley outfit over there on the River, and got a sub contract to haul some grain to Annhauser Busch Brewery in St Louis! And he is a Hands-On Sub-Contractor.

24/03/2024

Bronkey and Pig said they were walking to the Horsehead Sandbar this afternoon!

23/03/2024

Happy Saturday!