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While visiting the great state of Arkansas, we had the opportunity to check out this event, which had been elusive for several years. The endurance of some of these hand manufactured boats was quite surprising, and amusing at times. Apparently, the theme of the year was Star Wars, and there were quite a variety of flotation constructions about the landscape of Sandy Beach. All of the contraptions endured the warm waters quite well, and really did not take on any water. It was quite surprising, considering the construction materials permitted. A few, while water tight, contained a few minor design flaws that caused disintegration under pressure. One almost fell apart at the starting line, and eventually did, prior to the finish line. It was quite a lot of fun though, and a full house on the beach in spite of threatening rain. We look forward to getting back to it again. view more photos from this event or add your own to the mix

life gets real for arena artists

by jusTodd June 04, 2024

image borrowed under Creative Commons from The Concept of “Resource” Traveling down the road this morning, tuned in to "Morning Edition" on the local National Public Radio station KCUR, a brief story unfolded about failing concert ticket sales across the nation. It seems that just in the last few days The Black Keys and Jennifer Lopez have cancelled tours citing other reasons, in spite of data indicating pre-sales for their concerts were not living up to expectations. It is an interesting little tale that identifies the cause at a high level. The cost of tickets to some of our favorite shows has become completely unrealistic. Fans are backing away from the extreme expense of enjoying their favorite artists. In 2023, an article in People magazine marked the average price of concert ticket at $252. Add to that parking, dinner, d...

gladfest friday 24

by jusTodd October 04, 2024

Various rides and thrills stretched out along N. Holmes this evening for the first night of GladFest 2024. Below the ferris wheel, surrounding parking lots and a couple of side streets hosted tents full of a random assortment of trinkets, crafts, and of course, politicians. One can never seem to get away from that latter crowd, though most regulated to a lot more removed from the usual bustle. Also available for the listening pleasure of everyone, amateur talent played their hearts out on the main stage. The event picks up again with a parade on Saturday morning and more carnival and crafts through the remainder of the day into the evening, and on into Sunday. It did not appear much different than previous years, though with a few less folks, and a bit pricier.

freedom fest on the lake 2024

by jusTodd July 06, 2024

The annual Freedom Fest on the Lake stood in stark contrast with all prior versions of the event, nearly to the point of being a non-event. Day time activities were limited to a couple of vendors showcasing products, a bouncy house by the Arkansas National Guard and four or five food vendors overcharging. Cardboard boat races, which had taken center stage for the last several years, failed to make an appearance due to lack of support. That probably should have been left for the end of the month anyway, rather than trying to combine it with the fourth of July. Participation had declined significantly since combining it with Freedom Fest. A hot day at the beach on Saturday ended with music from local area talent Sophie and the New Relics , playing their hearts out to a good crowd gathered on the asphalt, as well as the masses littering the beach and soaking in the lake. The whole affair culminated with the usual massive...

platte county fair demolition

by jusTodd July 26, 2024

Taking our seats on the side of the grandstand of the Platte County Fairgrounds late in the afternoon, we were anxious to kick things off. The flag would not drop for another two hours though, and the sun would persist in heating things as much it could. By the time the water truck entered the field, most in our vicinity looked on longingly as it hosed down the dirt, wishing it were them. Power Wheels started the demolition derby, racing around crashing into each other until the bitter end: that is, until their battery died. 50+ Bone Stock series followed immediately after, with an older group of young'uns smashing into one another with much greater enthusiasm. All in this class were beat by a girl, in minivan with a flat tire. The fiery red head behind the wheel was "Bella," based on the chanting. She survived all others in this heated contest of grease and steel. A few more rounds followed this one, though we wandered off on other adventures. ...

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