Freebird: “How I Tackle My Full Body Grooming Routine Using Freebird’s FlexSeries Classic

As a bald guy with plenty of hair everywhere, there are two things I look for in a razor: a smooth shave, and a smooth shaving experience. Keeping my grooming routine streamlined is forever a goal of mine, and after years of experimenting with various tools and razors, I’d always found myself wanting.

That’s when I came across Freebird’s FlexSeries Classic, an electric razor that caught my eye with its promise of a close, comfortable shave in just two minutes or less. I was highly intrigued, and I had high hopes—and I’m happy to say, the FlexSeries has exceeded them.

If you’re looking for a razor that can tend your whole garden, so to speak, here’s how Freebird’s FlexSeries Classic has become my go-to for head-to-toe shaving needs.

Get a fast, comfortable shave in 2 minutes or less

One thing I noticed right off the bat with the FlexSeries Classic was just how quickly I could get through a shave. With its 8,500 RPM motor and ergonomic, handheld design, the FlexSeries slides me a smooth shave in under two minutes.

The flexible blades on the FlexSeries work to cover more area in a single pass; if you ask me, they’ve made my head and body grooming routine much faster than any razor I’ve used before.

Now, I can fit in a quick shave on busy mornings or right before hitting the gym, and I’m left with skin that’s nearly as smooth as a blade shave—no fuss, no wasted time. Time saved, time shaved.

Smooth moves: no more ingrown hairs and irritation

Shaving irritation has been a struggle for me, especially on areas like the back of my neck or chest, where I tend to get bumps and ingrown hairs with traditional razors.

The FlexSeries Classic is built different. Designed to work comfortably on all skin types, including sensitive areas, it’s allowed me to eliminate those little annoyances. I can shave with confidence knowing the ScalpSafe blades are both sharp and gentle, giving me a safe and comfortable experience that’s redness-free.

And I don’t have to worry about scrapes and cuts either, which is something I never thought I’d say about my shave. No nicks, and just in the nick of time.

Perfect for any skin or hair type to get a smooth shave

As someone with varying hair types (coarse, smooth, curly) on different parts of my body, having a one-stop shop is a huge convenience boost for my routine. From thick hair to finer areas, the FlexSeries Classic tackles it all. I get a smooth, consistent shave no matter what.

It’s like having a Swiss Army Razor! Plus, with five attachments included in the kit, it’s easy to customize the experience for different areas of the body. The FlexSeries just… works for whatever I need it to shave. Major morning difference-maker.

Shave wet, dry, or in the shower due to its water-resistant design

One of the coolest features of the FlexSeries Classic is that it’s totally water-resistant. I can shave wet, dry, or even right in the shower—whatever’s most convenient.

The water resistance also makes it super easy to clean after each use, which is a huge plus for maintaining good hygiene and keeping the razor in good shape.

Take it from me: being able to do my entire routine in the shower has made a huge impact on my self-care speed. For anyone who likes to keep things efficient, this is a serious perk.

Save on your shave: Freebird FlexSeries Classic shaving kit

After using the FlexSeries Classic for a while now, I’m genuinely impressed by the quality, speed, and comfort it delivers. It’s made my shaving routine a lot easier, allowing me to keep a fresh, well-groomed look without spending tons of time.

If you’re looking for a razor that does the job efficiently and reliably, I’d highly recommend giving the FlexSeries Classic a try. It’s available at $39.95, and with features like replaceable ScalpSafe™ blades, a 30-day trial, and even a lifetime warranty, it’s a solid investment.

As Sean Connery would say, “Imagine the shavings!”

Resident/Nectar: “The Sleep Upgrade Everyone’s Talking About…”

It’s hard to have a good day without a good night’s sleep. I’ve struggled with my shut-eye for years: I would toss and turn all night, wake up with a sore back, and spend my mornings feeling groggy. No matter what mattress or setup I tried, nothing gave me the Zzz’s I needed—until I discovered Nectar. Since my first night on my Nectar Bundle, I’ve experienced a total sleep transformation. If you’ve been looking to upgrade your sleep experience, here’s why the Nectar Premier Adjustable Bundle is a nap-solute game-changer.

Slumber One: Nectar’s Unmatched Mattress

Let’s start with the Premier Adjustable Bundle’s main event: Nectar’s award-winning mattress. Whether you go with the Classic, Premier, or Copper Hybrid, each mattress is crafted with multiple layers of cooling gel memory foam. I can attest to its comfiness: I immediately felt the top-notch squishy-softness of the Nectar mattress. For me, it was an unreal difference—no more morning stiffness or soreness. It’s that perfect mix of support and give, with just the right amount of contouring. 

But what’s a top-tier mattress without the perfect bedding to go with it? Nectar’s Premier Adjustable Bundle also includes the Serenity Bedding Bundle, which features breathable, soft sheets, a cozy comforter, and pillows that never get too hot. As a combo, it’s a total knockout of a sleep setup. Plus, the high-quality materials keep me cool during the summer and warm in the winter, adding to the overall quiet luxury vibe of the Nectar setup. Definitely a keeper if you’re a sleeper.

Slumber Two: The Best Frame in the Game

Nectar doesn’t quit there; the adjustable bed frame is where the Bundle truly shines. With independent head and foot elevation, the perfect sleeping position is yours for the waking. Personally, I love the Zero-Gravity setting, which lifts my legs slightly above my heart—I think there’s some biology that explains it, but I definitely get a pressure release from it. It’s reduced my snoring, too (SO important if you share a bed). 

Another sweet feature of Nectar’s Bundle is the smart remote that controls the frame. With a simple click, I can adjust the bed’s position to watch TV, work from bed, or read without needing to prop myself up with pillows. There’s even a quiet, built-in massage feature—perfect for a little post-work T.L.C. And, for people who frequently work from home, these features turn my bedroom into the ultimate multi-functional space. From siesta to fiesta, the Nectar Bundle just feels right for every moment in bed.

Slumber Three: Save Space—and Money

If you’re wondering if the Nectar sleep setup will fit your space, all I’ll say is… this bed feels like it was designed with efficiency in mind. Other adjustable beds might require tons of clearance space for motors, but Nectar’s frame needs practically zero clearance. That means it fits perfectly in nearly any bedroom, without needing extra space underneath. Plus, the bed comes with adjustable legs (8", 3", and 2" extenders), so I can set the height exactly how I like it.

I still haven’t even gotten to the best part: you can get all of the Bundle without causing your wallet to rumble. Starting at just $1,248, Nectar’s Premium Adjustable Bundle includes the mattress, adjustable frame, and bedding set, and a 3-year warranty and free shipping (and free returns if it’s not for you). It’s super simple to purchase, set up, and try; no need for tools, helpers, or extra cost. Honestly, there isn’t much standing between you and the best nap of your life.

Slumber Four: Don’t Sleep on Nectar

The proof is in the pudding. I’m getting the best sleep of my life, and it’s all thanks to Nectar’s Premier Adjustable Bundle. And, it’s not just me: 80% of sleepers said it helped with snoring, 9/10 said it helped them sleep better, 80% said they experienced minimized tossing and turning (according to more than 50,000 reviews). It’s more than just a bed—it’s a total lifestyle upgrade. You snooze, you win.

AEM Manufacturing Express: “AGCO | Duluth, Georgia”

Stand next to one 9-ton Fendt 700 Vario tractor and you’ll understand that AGCO is doing big things. Across a worldwide portfolio of 25 brands, including Fendt, Massey Ferguson, Valtra, Challenger, and Cumberland, AGCO manufactures tractors, combines, hay tools, foragers, tillers, sprayers, engines, and generators—in other words, equipment that the world’s farmers can rely on for every agriculture application. “The world is our farm,” as the folks here say. AGCO does it all… and does it all over.

AGCO rolled out the red carpet—Massey Ferguson red, to be exact—for the AEM Manufacturing Express’ visit to Duluth, Georgia today. Over platefuls of burnt ends and sweet tea (supplied by local favorite Jack’s Feed Store), AGCO celebrated the equipment manufacturing communities across the U.S. that comprise its family of facilities, all from right here in northeast Georgia. 

For all that manufacturing might, AGCO is still a young company. Formed in 1990 through a splitting-off of Deutz-Allis’ North American arm, AGCO has quickly grown via a combination of strategic acquisition and bold expansion. This past year, AGCO closed the largest deal in its history, acquiring a controlling stake in Trimble, whose software and navigation technologies add a powerful new dimension to AGCO’s suite of offerings. CEO Eric Hansotia, who took the reins in 2021, is quick to point out their goal: To comprehensively service their customers throughout the crop cycle. “We’re farmer-focused,” Hansotia said. “That’s how AGCO has become the largest pure-play ag equipment manufacturer in the world.”

The future isn’t far off, though, and AGCO has big plans for the years to come. Part of that plan includes research into autonomous equipment, which reduces the costs and burdens for farmers who increasingly must do more with fewer operators and scarce farm labor. “We’re set to achieve driverless and autonomous solutions for the entire crop cycle by 2030,” Hansotia said. AGCO is investing in people, too, and right here in northeast Georgia: through their partnership with the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Science, AGCO works constantly to advance Georgia’s future leaders in agriculture and agriculture equipment.

The association with the University of Georgia—home to the Peach State’s best and brightest of the future—doesn’t end there. From the Manufacturing Express, Georgia Governor (and proud UGA alumnus) Brian Kemp explained how local equipment manufacturers like AGCO provide Georgia serious economic opportunities to Georgians, generation after generation. “I’m proud of our Georgia-based companies, Georgia-based manufacturers, and hard-working people,” Kemp explained. Kemp, who lives on a small farm outside Athens, has a 5710 Massey Ferguson tractor at home. Kemp likes that it’s painted black, white, and red, too—UGA colors. “Go Dawgs!” 

Last year, AGCO posted $3.5 billion in net sales—in North America alone. Across brands, industries, and continents, their equipment remains synonymous with quality and capability for all seasons and any application. The AGCO team is rightly proud of what they're doing here in Georgia and in their 22 facilities and communities around the U.S. At AGCO, success is a simple formula: put farmers first and build equipment to last.

AEM Manufacturing Express: “TWG-Dover | Jenks, Oklahoma”

A cool Oklahoma breeze welcomed the AEM Manufacturing Express to TWG-Dover on Friday. This Jenks, Oklahoma equipment manufacturer (and their team of 200) seemed to have manufactured the perfect summer morning. Here in Jenks, the folks at TWG are building the winches, wreckers, drills, and electronics that support our country and its citizens, both at home and abroad.

TWG-Dover’s commitment to bolstering America through equipment manufacturing is nearly a century in the making. The company began in 1929 as Tulsa Winch, Inc., founded by a truck salvage operator who based his original winch designs on the Ford Model-T’s rear-axle gear system. In 1996, following the partnership with Dover, TWG expanded its operation via strategic acquisitions and upgraded facilities, including the Jenks, Oklahoma facility that remains the company’s headquarters. Now, through a suite of seven brands across five industrial markets in the United States and Canada, TWG-Dover has become a continent-wide household name in pulling, lifting, rotating, and monitoring.

Jason VanderMeer, VP of Sales and Marketing at TWG-Dover, will tell you that TWG-Dover owes its success to their community of employees, dealers, and customers. “If there’s one thing to know about TWG-Dover, it’s that we care about our people and our country.” In particular, TWG-Dover has a long-standing relationship with the U.S. military. The company makes a point to employ military veterans who have, in turn, become 30-year veterans of TWG-Dover. Like many military households, work is a family affair: this equipment manufacturer employs brothers, fathers, and sons. Tradition drives TWG-Dover, and for every piece of equipment these men and women build, they’re also building on a legacy that only continues to grow.

If it sounds like the folks at TWG-Dover take their work personally, it’s because they do. Mark Siebert, Director of Marketing, describes what drives each employee to put the utmost care and attention into each piece of equipment. “This equipment saves lives,” Siebert said. And it has saved lives. In 2003, a U.S. Marine deployed overseas found himself under heavy enemy fire in a tank that was out of fuel, with nowhere to go. Dodging sniper fire, fellow Marines were able to pull the tank out of danger using a TWG-Dover winch. It’s that level of functional reliability that customers—including our troops—rely on, and it’s what TWG-Dover insists on for their equipment.

In reflecting on the last 90-plus years, TWG-Dover has much to be proud of. Here in northeast Oklahoma, engineers continue to innovate the equipment of the next century. TWG-Dover has mastered the production of hydraulic winches of all sizes and applications—so, like Bob Dylan, TWG-Dover winches are going electric. Siebert is enthusiastic about the future of their electric winch technology: “These are the strongest and most powerful winches out there.”

Generation after generation, TWG-Dover has never lost sight of the people that make it all possible. Family comes first, and that philosophy remains constant from the bottom to the top, from Jenks, Oklahoma to TWG-Dover’s worldwide distribution network. Through their dedication, know-how, and work ethic, the men and women of TWG-Dover are manufacturing safer, stronger equipment for a safer, stronger America.

AEM Manufacturing Express: “Ditch Witch | Perry, Oklahoma”

“Welcome to the Home of Underground Construction.” Those words, emblazoned in orange and black, welcome all travelers on Interstate 35 to the town of Perry, Oklahoma, the home of Ditch Witch. As the Manufacturing Express rolled in, Perry rolled out the orange carpet, welcoming us to the Ditch Witch campus: a sprawling, million-square-foot facility dedicated to the manufacture of top-of-the-line trenchers, skid steers, augurs, and other utility equipment that form the backbone of America. 

It wasn’t always like this. When Ed Malzahn took over the family blacksmithing shop in 1944, the process of electrifying rural Oklahoma was a tedious, pick-and-shovel business. As Ditch Witch General Manager (and Perry native) Kevin Smith tells it, Malzahn saw a neighbor hand-digging a trench and thought to himself: There must be a better way! After months in the shop, the Ditch Witch Power was born. In 1949, their first production trencher rolled off the assembly line; 75 years later, 75% of the world’s trenchers are Ditch Witch orange.

These machines don’t build themselves. 1,700 men and women work each and every day to manufacture this equipment. That’s over a third of the population of Perry, making Ditch Witch the area’s largest employer—by a country mile. And, as Ditch Witch has grown, so too has north-central Oklahoma. There are good jobs here—Oklahoma now sits in the top 10 of moved-to states—and it’s a result of the prosperity that companies like Ditch Witch offer to the people of Noble County and beyond.

America is made in Oklahoma. Touring the Ditch Witch campus, you can see workers shaping 90,000 lbs of steel into trenchers, directional drills, vacuum excavators, surface miners, skid steers and vibratory plows—the equipment that power people’s lives. 150 full-time welders work in three shifts to ensure production continues 24/7, manufacturing hundreds upon hundreds of orange machines with startling efficiency.

Today, the impact of Ditch Witch is everywhere. The machines, yes: in partnership with The Toro Company, Ditch Witch’s distribution network stretches across the country and the world. But Ditch Witch doesn’t just make machines; Ditch Witch makes the machines that make modern life possible. If you use the Internet, you rely on underground cables—which means you rely on Ditch Witch equipment. The electricity in your home? The water in your shower? Ditch Witch makes that happen, and they make it happen for millions of Americans each and every day.

Yes, the American Dream remains alive and well here in Cowboy Country—the orange-clad Oklahoma State Cowboys play Big 12 football just next door, in Stillwater—and Oklahomans are darn proud of the work they do on behalf of their community and their country. Take it from Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, who joined the AEM Manufacturing Express and the men and women of Ditch Witch to break ground on a brand-new 170,000 square-foot addition to the Ditch With Perry campus. “We want to make everything here in Oklahoma,” Governor Stitt said. “The American Dream is here.” Quite right: here in Perry, Ditch Witch is manufacturing prosperity, and they’re painting it orange.

Good Chop vs. ButcherBox: Which Meat Delivery Wins? (104k+ sessions)

If you’re focused on fitness like I am, you know daily protein intake is crucial to sustain muscle and get stronger in the gym. But, maintaining a high protein diet often means buying a lot of meat.

Even if bulking up isn’t your goal, eating protein is essential for overall health and wellness. For me, nothing has made embracing a high-protein lifestyle easier than a meat delivery subscription.

I’ve tried two companies that deliver quality meat and seafood: Good Chop and ButcherBox. Both have their merits, but in my book, one stands head and shoulders above the other. So, let me share what I’ve learned:

If you’re after a lower price point and higher value… Good Chop

Like most people, I’m not made of money. Luckily, Good Chop and ButcherBox make getting your meat easier than ever. 

Good Chop’s medium box includes up to 36 portions or 14 lbs of your choice for just $149. Compare that to ButcherBox’s custom classic box, which includes 9 to 14 pounds of your choice at $169, and it's evident which service provides better value for your money.

If you want to customize your meat selection at no extra cost… Good Chop

ButcherBox has a lower-cost option with up to 11 lbs for $146, but you only get to choose which type of meat you want, and they decide which cuts you get. They charge over $20 more for their customizable plans, which start at $169.

Good Chop, on the other hand, is fully customizable. You can pick exactly what you want from over 70 beef, pork, chicken, and seafood cuts.

Plus, they offer 100% grass-fed, grass-finished beef and grain-finished beef, whereas ButcherBox only offers 100% grass-fed, grass-finished beef. 

If You Prefer Someone Else to Pick Your Meat… ButcherBox

If you’re the kind of person who loves the ease of just setting things up and then forgetting about them, ButcherBox might just be your jam. You pick your favorite protein type, and they handle the rest, choosing a variety of cuts for you. This is pretty cool if you're into surprises and don’t really want to sweat the small stuff.

Personally, I prefer picking my own meats because it lets me plan my meals just the way I like them. But if you’re not into micromanaging your menu, ButcherBox’s hands-off approach could be a total win. 

If you value eating meat & seafood sourced in the USA… Good Chop

When it comes to sustainability and quality, both Good Chop and ButcherBox are solid options. However, Good Chop takes it a step further when it comes to supporting American economies.

Good Chop exclusively sources their products from farms and fisheries right here in the USA. ButcherBox, on the other hand, imports most of its beef from Australia.

All I’ll say is this: one bite of my Good Chop steak, and I can tell how much time and energy they’ve invested in their product. For sustainability and quality here at home, Good Chop is definitely the move.

My ultimate winner…Good Chop

All in all, Good Chop has totally changed the way I get my protein. With their 100% satisfaction money-back guarantee, I can’t see myself ever buying my meat and seafood any other way.

Plus, they're running a deal right now for new customers: get $120 off across your first four boxes with code MSA120B, with plans starting at just $99.

So, if you're looking for killer meat and seafood without having to put pants on, definitely give Good Chop a try. It’s never been easier for me to make ends meat. 

Beard Club: “5 Reasons Why Beard Club’s Ultimate Growth Kit & Trimmer is the Best Father’s Day Gift Out There”

If you’re anything like me, if you’ve got a beard you’re proud of, you have your Dad to thank! My Dad was the OG beard-grower: I learned everything I know about facial hair from him. So, when a friend told me about Beard Club’s Ultimate Growth Kit & Trimmer, I saw an opportunity for the student to become the master. If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate Father’s Day gift that will have Dad’s beard game better than ever, Beard Club’s Ultimate Growth Kit & Trimmer. This set of facial hair care tools is the real deal. Here are four reasons why it’s an absolute winner for every generation of guy in your family:

Precision Powerhouse: PT45 Beard & Hair Trimmer

Let’s start with the crown jewel: the PT45 Beard & Hair Trimmer. With extra sharp blades that glide through hair like a hot knife through butter, Dad can achieve clean, precise cuts every time. And the best part? It’s not just for the beard—it works wonders on hair too. It’s my daily driver, and it works like a charm. Plus, with a lithium-ion battery that lasts a whopping 3 hours per charge, I’ve got all the time I need to perfect my trim without interruptions. That was Dad’s biggest takeaway: the battery feels like it lasts forever. The PT45 is stable, sturdy, and sleek: the ideal tool for a guy to keep his beard looking sharp.

Revolutionary Growth Stimulation: Beard Derma Roller

Thing is: the Beard Club Kit has a secret weapon for luscious, full-bodied facial hair: the Beard Derma Roller. This nifty little tool is like a personal trainer for the beard follicles, stimulating new growth and activating dormant ones with its 540 titanium .3mm needles. And fear not, it’s not as painful as it sounds—I’ve tried it myself and can attest to its effectiveness. Plus, with a replaceable head to maintain peak performance over time, it’s the gift that keeps on giving. For those of us who don’t have as much hair as we used to (sorry Dad!), the Derma Roller is a gamechanger for taking your hair and beard back to the good ol’ days.

Grooming Gear Galore: Beard Growth Tools + Essentials

No beard grooming routine is complete without the essentials, and Beard Club has Dad covered on all fronts. With nutrient-packed Beard Growth Multi-Vitamins, nourishing Beard Growth Oil, and hydrating Beard Growth Vitamin Spray, this kit has everything Dad needs to keep his facial foliage in top form. And let’s not forget the Beard Shampoo, specifically formulated to cleanse and condition without stripping away any natural oils. That’s not all, either. Crafted from durable materials and designed for maximum efficiency, the boar bristle Beard Brush will detangle the messiest mane without causing unnecessary stress to Dad’s face. The bag, too—the tweed travel case with custom leather accents is smooth. Keep the grooming essentials organized and accessible wherever you (or Dad) go.

Quality and Convenience: Beard Gear That Holds Up

The best thing about Beard Club’s Ultimate Growth Kit & Trimmer is that the gifts keep on giving. It’s not cheap, it’s true: the entire kit costs $111. But I’ve never worried about getting my money’s worth: each item in the kit is sturdy, well-made, and backed by Beard Club’s one-year limited warranty—so Dad knows that his grooming arsenal is built to last, even if an accident happens. And with convenient features like the color-coded guides for the trimmer and the easy-to-use applicator on the Beard Growth Vitamin Spray, Dad’s new beard care battalion is simple to learn and rewarding to master.

Like Father, Like Son: Facial Hair Care for Every Guy

So there you have it, guys—the Ultimate Growth Kit & Trimmer from Beard Club isn’t just a gift; it’s a facial hair revolution for the bearded ol’ man in your life. With precision tools, growth-stimulating essentials, and top-notch quality, Dad’s beard is back to feeling like it did when he was my age (that’s what he told me, anyway). The results speak for themselves. This Father’s Day, give the gift of grooming greatness with Beard Club. Your Dad’s beard—and his confidence—will thank you.

Duke Cannon: “I Tried This Viral Men’s Grooming Brand, and Here Are My Thoughts”

I hate gimmicks. HATE ‘em. So, when a friend told me about a new brand he had tried after reading about it in Rolling Stone, I was skeptical… even more so when he revealed that it was a line of men’s grooming products. I figured it was another gimmick; I don’t need gold flakes in my soap! But, he explained, Duke Cannon isn’t adding bells and whistles; they’re actually taking men’s grooming back to the old days, with simple, high-quality ingredients that hold up to hard work. I figured I’d try it for myself, and after a few weeks, I’ve been totally convinced by the Duke Cannon set of man-maintenance tools. Here’s what pleasantly surprised me about Duke Cannon:

Not just product-tested… battle-tested

Duke Cannon is more than just a grooming brand for the hard-working guy; it’s a tool that’s been forged under the pressures of the world’s harshest environments. Drawing inspiration from the needs of active duty soldiers in the U.S. Army serving around the world, Duke Cannon bars of soap come in the same “brick” shape that American G.I.’s used in the Korean War—except, now they smell good, too. All their products are Made in the U.S.A., and Duke Cannon donates a portion of its proceeds to organizations that directly assist veterans. Feels good to have soap that smells good and does good.

The Swiss Army Knife of Grooming for Guys

All the time, I see grooming brands coming out with solutions for problems I don’t even have: I can keep myself clean, no magic beans required. On the other hand, Duke Cannon has exactly what a man needs, and only what a man needs. I keep my hair, beard, armpits, body, and hands smelling good, like a guy who takes care of himself should, and Duke Cannon’s got all the essentials. Nowadays, I know that I look (and smell) like I’m in peak condition, without any stress about B.O.—we’ve got more important things to focus on, anyway.

Badass scents (designed by and for Badasses)

A quick note about my wife: she smells amazing. But… I don’t want to smell like my wife. I want to smell like a man should smell—the way men used to smell. I’m talking Bourbon, Sawtooth, High Country… leather, smoke, pine trees, the open ocean… none of that flowery business. Duke Cannon has it covered: with their Find Your Scent Quiz, they make it absurdly easy for you to find the musk that suits you. I’m partial to the Naval Diplomacy scent; that said, I’m pondering the Busch Beer aroma for my next Big Ass Brick of Soap order. Whatever I choose, though, I know I’ll smell badass, all thanks to the badasses at Duke Cannon.

Grooming without the gimmicks: just affordable, high-quality products

I never thought I needed new soap, but after trying Duke Cannon, one thing is clear: this is the soap guys should have always been using. I was definitely skeptical at first, I won’t deny that…but the upside of switching to Duke Cannon is just too good to ignore. My morning shower with Duke Cannon keeps me ready for whatever the day throws at me! Cleanliness with staying power, strong scents with longevity, and a price that doesn’t dirty up my bank account. Oh, yeah: Big Ass Bricks of Soap start at $8.50, and as I use it, it’s impressive how much bang I’m getting for my buck. Plus, the fact that the money I put towards Duke Cannon goes to supporting veterans only makes it even more of a no-brainer. If affordable, strong, good-smelling grooming products are the choice for the men serving this country on the front lines, it’s definitely the choice for me.

Factor Meals: “Four Reasons Why I’m Ditching My Food Delivery App”

Four Reasons Why I'm Ditching My Food Delivery App

Let’s face it—some days, an hour in the kitchen just isn’t in the cards. As much as I try to home-chef it up, there are evenings when I just don’t have the time, or the ingredients, or the willpower. Every so often, I’ve been using food delivery apps to make an easy meal happen. But all the eating out adds up (even if I’m eating it at home). Plus, if we’re being honest, a lot of the places I can order from on the apps aren't exactly the healthiest. I’ve been trying to cut down on the delivery dinner, but the convenience was pretty tough to beat… until I tried HelloFresh. It’s a meal kit delivered to your door, and it’s my new go-to on those days where I just want something easy. Here’s how HelloFresh has transformed my breakfasts, lunches, and dinners:

Meals ready in minutes: no hour-long wait

A lot of the time, the biggest obstacle between me and a good meal is just that: time. HelloFresh made me realize just how much time I was spending on dinner, whether I cooked or not: it was either an hour in the kitchen putting something together, or an hour waiting for my food to come (if I got delivery). Either way, that’s sixty minutes I’m never getting back! But HelloFresh has given me back my time: easy prep, straightforward instructions, and efficient methods make it so their meals are ready in a fraction of the time. Never before have I been able to have the kind of feel-good dinners I love, but without all the hassle.

Healthy food without the calorie tracker

For me, it can be tough to eat healthy when I order delivery; it tastes good, but who knows what nutrients my takeout contains? Luckily, HelloFresh has it under control: Each of HelloFresh’s offerings (30+ to choose from each week) is designed by professional chefs and meticulously analyzed for nutritional content. This makes it a breeze to pick breakfasts, lunches, and dinners that align with your lifestyle. Whether you're aiming to stay in shape with Fit & Wholesome meals or feed the troops with Quick & Easy options, HelloFresh has you covered. Personally, I find the Pescatarian section perfect for those times when I want a complete meal without the icky feeling of takeout. With HelloFresh meals, achieving my nutrient goals is practically automatic, regardless of the day's demands.

Affordable, cost-conscious eats with all the ease of a cheat meal

Delicious, high-quality meals delivered directly to your doorstep should cost a lot; but with HelloFresh, they don't. Customizing your meal plan to meet your specific needs is incredibly straightforward: flexible pricing and easy plan adjustments make it simple to adjust your HelloFresh order according to household, meals-per-week, and serving size. Starting at just $8.99 per serving (plus shipping), HelloFresh meals are so much more cost-effective than the usual delivery options. I've been pleasantly surprised by the money I've saved using HelloFresh, and with the available deals (which I’ve been able to take advantage of), the cost can be even more budget-friendly. Currently, if you’re a new customer with an active subscription, you’ll receive one free Breakfast item in every box… forever. All in all, the price to incorporate HelloFresh into my weekly meal plan hasn’t been prohibitive; it’s actually saved me money.

Tailor your meals to your lifestyle, not your lifestyle to your meals

Now, having used HelloFresh for a little while, it’s become my new routine—and I can’t imagine going back to my old one. Before, I would have to make sacrifices in my daily agenda in order to find time to cook meals that fit my health goals; now, with the time I save by choosing quick-to-prepare HelloFresh meals, it’s so much easier to take care of my other responsibilities. After all, if there’s a way for me to save both time and money while maintaining the same level of satisfaction from my food, why wouldn’t I do it? With HelloFresh, it’s never been easier to incorporate healthy breakfast, lunches, and dinners (that taste great) into my life, and I’m so glad I did.

Lone Star Project: “Insurrection Texas”

INSURRECTION TEXAS

On January 6, 2021, MAGA extremists forced their way inside the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to subvert the results of the 2020 election. In 2023, In the Texas State Capitol, MAGA extremists have had no need to force their way in; in fact, they are already inside. Far-right authoritarians serving in the Legislature, with the full-throated support of Greg Abbott, are proposing a series of extreme and discriminatory election bills intended to subvert our democracy by rewriting state law to win elections they might otherwise lose. This is not about voter fraud—Texas Republicans are currently planning to withdraw from a national program proven to help battle election fraud. Facts and fair analysis reveal a silent insurrection designed to undermine the will of voters before, during, and after elections.

Attacks on Individual Voters and Ability to Cast a Ballot

Republicans are taking direct aim at the individual Texas voter. Some proposals severely restrict the ability to cast a ballot, while others make felony offenses out of incorrect or mistaken ballots—all in the name of ‘fighting fraud’. It all speaks to the broader Republican strategy in Texas: instead of attempting to expand their support among Texans, hold power by keeping statewide voter turnout artificially low through voter suppression schemes (targeting minority voters and elderly voters in particular).

Outlaw Vote-by-Mail for Texas Seniors (SB 1338): State Senator Bob Hall (SD2- Rockwall), ally of Lt. Governor Dan Patrick ally and MAGA Republican, has proposed a major new restriction that will make it illegal for Texans 65 years of age or older to vote by mail without claiming disability or absence from their home county. Millions of Texas seniors regularly vote by mail. It has been legal and encouraged for decades. This egregious, arbitrary, pointless restriction on voting will negatively impact senior citizens in every corner of our state.

Penalize Voting Violations the Same as Sexual Assault and Manslaughter (SB 2): Makes any instance of illegal voting a felony, with zero carveouts. Any unintentional issue, error, or mistake will then carry a potential penalty up to 20 years in prison – the same level as sexual assault, manslaughter, and other violent crimes. Widespread or intentional instances of voter fraud are the rarest of crimes, and Republican leaders know it. Their purpose behind SB2 is not to reduce voter fraud; it is to create a sense of danger and risk of incarceration around voting, all with the intent to keep turnout low.

Strip Texans from Voter Rolls (SB 260): MAGA Republican Senator Lois Kolkhorst (SD18 – Brenham) is moving to strip voters from the rolls who have not voted in the previous 25 months (the last two consecutive general elections). Even voters who are properly registered and otherwise in exact compliance with Texas law would be removed from active voter rolls and disqualified from casting a ballot.

Show-Me-Your-Papers Voter Registration (SB 1600): MAGA Republican Senator Brian Hughes—author of the abortion bounty hunter bill and architect of Jim Crow-style voting changes made in 2021—now intends to limit voter registration by requiring proof of citizenship before registering to vote. Voting by non-citizens in Texas (or anywhere else) is extremely rare. Again, the intention here is not to stop illegal voting; rather, it is to create roadblocks, making it harder and thus less likely that eligible voters will register.

Ending County-Wide Voting on Election Day (SB 990): The ability to cast a ballot at any polling place within a county has proven to be successful and highly popular—which has clearly alarmed Texas Republicans. So, in order to make his life easier, Republican Senator Bob Hall in the legislature has decided to make the average voter’s life harder. In another move to suppress votes and create more possibilities for unintentional mistakes that could be prosecuted as felonies, this bill would eliminate countywide polling places on election day.

Attacks on Democratic Process

Unlike recent elections in Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada, no Democrat has won a close race in Texas. However, just because Texas Republicans haven’t tried to overturn a statewide election doesn’t mean they aren’t gearing up to do just that. In recent years, Republicans are losing more and more major races in the big counties, and they know that the Democrats’ success in large urban and exurban counties may lead to statewide Democratic wins sooner rather than later. So, in MAGA fashion, Texas Republicans are laying the groundwork to usurp control and overturn the will of voters in large urban counties. 

Overturning Fair Elections (SB 1993): One of the most blatant anti-democratic election measures in the country, this bill would allow the Texas Secretary of State to investigate elections, cancel the results, and order a new election. It pairs with SB 823, which calls for the appointment of a specially appointed overseer to whom your local county election administrator would answer. This special-appointment system is just by design: the Texas Secretary of State is selected at the behest of the Governor, and therefore essentially works for him. Canceling elections and ordering a revote, and putting hand-picked cronies in those ‘elected’ positions, is nothing short of fascist authoritarianism.

Voting Police (SB 220): State Senator Paul Bettencourt (SD7 – Houston) was forced to leave county office a decade ago following his implication in a discriminatory voter registration controversy. Now Bettencourt is back, and he calls his new scam ‘Election Marshals.’ Don’t let the noble name fool you; this would be a type of ‘voter police’ which would nominally investigate accusations of voter fraud, but in reality would investigate…whoever right-wing partisan politicians wanted. It’s modeled after the authoritarian election police established in Florida by Ron DeSantis.

Eliminate College Campus Voter (HB 2390): Rep. Carrie Isaac (HD73 – Dripping Springs) is moving to outlaw polling places on college campuses. Simply: there is no evidence of significant fraud, or even voter irregularities, on college-based polling locations. This effort on the part of MAGA Republicans is clearly wholly intended to suppress young voters—young voters that are increasingly rejecting the MAGA Republican candidates who currently dominate Texas offices.

Conclusion

Here in Texas, we’ve reached the point that authoritarian, anti-democratic voting laws are not just expected from Republican leaders; they are demanded by the MAGA forces they answer to. It is critically important that these outrageous attacks on American democracy not be taken as mere run-of-the-mill partisan squabbling. While anti-democratic legislation would seem to be far from likely to pass in a democracy, it’s likelier than sane citizens might think—unless they remain vigilant. When asked about these bills, Chad Dunn, voting rights attorney and Texas election law expert, commented: “When these ideas are first floated, people are aghast…But he cautioned that the lawmakers who sponsor such bills tend to bring them back over and over again…Then, six, eight, 10 years later, these terrible ideas become law.”

Creative Writing (Short Story): “Cassiopeia”

Translated from the Spanish by the author

“Cassiopeia”

Summer only blurs one direction. The shrubs, wrought-iron benches, cobblestone retaining wall of one public-park walk-talk only gets vaguer upon remembering and re-remembering, compressed into a single evening, compressed into five seconds. Irene held Sebastian’s hand.

“This seems like a good spot,” he said.

Irene trained her ears on the music of the crickets. She rubbed a hand on a forearm, not unforcefully, but her voice didn’t waver. “Mmm… d’accord.” She looked back at Sebastian. “What was I saying?”

Somehow, he was yards away, enchanted by a forty-foot live oak. “Look at this!”

Irene looked at the boy, and then down, at her empty hand. She hadn’t felt him let go.

Sebastian went on musing from the base of the tree. “I can’t believe this. Look!” He was sort of talking to Irene, but mostly to himself. “When I was a kid, I used to spend my summers climbing these bad boys. Live oaks like this grew in the alley.”

To Irene, the cricket-song and the boy’s voice sounded good together. It wasn’t harmony, she thought, but something like it. Agreement, maybe. She examined the back of her hand, tracing the finger-muscles with her eyes. When she made a fist, they went away. When she spread it flat, they protruded. “Ah, I remember. My parents.”

Sebastian didn’t seem to hear her. “At what age do we climb our last tree?” His voice took on a flavor of tongue-in-cheek sing-song. “At what age do we quit dreaming?”

“Are you listening to me?” Irene hoped it was tongue-in-cheek, anyway. She tapped her foot once on the day-baked concrete.

Sebastian turned to face her. His head was obscured by the thin leaves’ shade, but Irene saw his low-tops clearly. They looked yellow in the late-evening light. His voice called out, louder than hers: “Are you listening to me? I’m speaking of the great tragedies in life.”

“Be serious,” Irene said. She tried to sound exasperated, but couldn’t, really.

Sebastian scanned their section of the park. It seemed too big for the two of them, but no one else was around. Not far away, he spotted a bench he liked, and walked over. “Here, then?” and sat without waiting for an answer. Irene was still yards away. The two of them plus the tree made a triangle, Sebastian thought, but he didn’t know what kind. Love, maybe. He blew a puff of air out of his nose, silently laughing to himself, eyes on the live oak.

Irene didn’t answer. She stood where she had been standing, looking at him expectantly.

Sebastian turned to meet her gaze. Leaning back into the bench, he tapped his fingers on the wrought-iron armrest. “O, the feeling of cold steel on skin: the aphrodisiac of the suburban age.”

Without a word, Irene walked over and sat, carefully. She leaned back and tilted her head up, inclining toward the sun’s few dregs left. Stars were beginning to poke through, she could tell, but without her contacts, she couldn’t tell much more.

“Looking for Cassiopeia?” Sebastian asked, nudging.

“I can’t stand you,” Irene replied, craning her upturned neck side to side, deliberately not looking at Sebastian. He sighed and brought his hands to rest on his thighs, making not-unforceful impact.

“Okay, okay. Let’s talk,” he said.

“Okay,” she said. “Let’s talk.”

Tenderly, Sebastian took her hand in his. Then, he took in her eyes. For a moment, he said nothing. Then, “So, what were we talking about?”

Irene sighed, but with smiling eyes, as if a last-second railroad switch had been thrown from LAUGH to DON’T LAUGH. “About my parents,” she said.

“About your parents…”

“And how to tell them.”

“And how to tell them.” Sebastian said, faux-lost. “And we’re telling them…”

“About us,” Irene said, with an air of saintly patience.

Sebastian mimed a Eureka! with his eyes and brought his hand to rest under his chin, Thinker-style. “Right… about us. And why are we telling them? They’re good people, Irene. Maybe better to spare them a saga of passion, adventure…”

Irene snorted impatiently. “Please.”

“Seriously, how come? What’s the harm in keeping us between us?”

“I’m tired of keeping us secret, Sebastian. Is that so hard to understand?”

Sebastian returned his right hand to her left, bringing his other up toward her face. Slowly, he caressed her cheek with his thumb, inviting her to look deep into his eyes. He cleared his throat, and, in a loving voice:

“Non… Non je parle français.”

Irene held his gaze. Her eyebrows tried to furrow, but couldn’t. She tried to avert her eyes protest, but couldn’t. She compromised by saying nothing.

Sebastian sighed. “I understand. Kiss me?”

That did the trick—total furrow. “Excuse me?” she said, indignant.

Sebastian held his hand up, commanding the foot of air between their faces. He extended a skinny index finger upward, then twirled it around to point at her lips. “Kiss?” He wheeled it around, pointing at his own. “Me?”

Irene stood up from the bench. “Think I’d rather kiss someone who I can talk to like an adult,” she said, exasperated.

Quickly, he stood up too. “Okay, okay… wait. We can talk,” Sebastian said, looking off at the live oak.

“Oh, can we?” she said, her voice revealing the beginnings of an anger.

“As you wish, your majesty.” He watched the anger melt away as he sat back down. After a silent moment between them, her standing, him sitting, she joined him on the bench.

“Très bien,” she said, in a French that sounded much better than his.

“So…” he said, softly. “How to tell your parents.”

“You’ve got it.”

“Well, what do you think? Are you gonna talk to your mom? Or Jeff? Them together, maybe?”

She lifted her thighs to stow her hands under; it seemed like an attempt to keep them warm in the summer dusk.

“I think Jeff would take it better,” Irene said, thinking out loud. “But if I tell him before I tell her, I swear she’ll hate me forever.”

Sebastian threw up his hands. “Well, why would she so kindly bestow upon you a new father if she didn’t want you to treat him like your father?”

“I don’t know.” She looked off at the horizon.

He looked off with her. “It’s tyranny you live under.”

“Like Napoleon.”

“D’accord.”

Irene wanted to smile but had other matters to attend to. “But how to tell them.” This was supposed to be a recentering sort of statement, but as soon as she pronounced it, it had the opposite effect. All she wanted was to think about anything else. She looked up toward the darkening sky. Sebastian, for his part, did the same. In truth, he liked to do what she did.

Irene sensed it. “Looking for Cassiopeia?”

“Yep.”

“I’ll help you.”

The two searched for her in the same sky.

Sebastian broke a short silence. “Who is Cassiopeia, anyway?

“She was an ancient queen of Ethiopia. The most beautiful woman in the world, they say.”

“Found her!”

With an excited twitch, Irene craned her neck to look where he was looking. “Where, where? I can’t find her!”

“Look a little harder. Here, I’m looking right at her.”

Slowly, Irene lowered her head. She turned to look at Sebastian. He had been looking at her, waiting for her to notice.

“And I think she found me too,” he said. For a few seconds, they sat there, silent, content with having found each other’s eyes.

“Sure,” Irene said.

“Sure, what?”

“I’ll kiss you.”

“Kiss? Me?”

“I thought you wanted to talk!”

“I’m tired of talking.”

“D’accord.”

The silence returned, this time infused with mutual anticipation. Both remained still.

“Well?” Irene said.

“I’m waiting,” Sebastian replied.

“This was your idea!”

“I’m tired of doing the kissing,” Sebastian said, waxing romantic. “I’ve always wanted to be the kissed.”

Without fuss, Irene inclined her head back up toward the sky. “Keep dreaming, then.”

Sebastian took her hand, placing his inside, and moved the back of his palm up toward her lips. “At what age do we quit dreaming?”

Irene didn’t seem to notice, or perhaps pretended not to. Sebastian raised his head up, mirroring hers. He lowered their joined hands, but didn’t let go. Later that night, he did, but he couldn’t remember when.

Creative Writing (Poetry): “Strange Conscription: Ekphrastic Portraiture in Sonnet Form”

Strange Conscription: 

Ekphrastic Portraiture in Sonnet Form

Honoree, 2021 Ora Mary Pelham Poetry Prize

lenny bruce 

with newports and dutch cleanser i will explicate

the life and times of lenny bruce,

comedian. he was, in all respects,

an honest man: the son of migrant jews,

he served a year in navy blue before

returning to new york (where he was born)

to try his hand at comedy, performing

his “unnatural act” on stage. in forty-seven,

brooklyn gigs paid plates of free

spaghetti, all he had to feed his daughter

(born with honey b, a stripper he

had dearly loved). in sixty-six, in hollywood,

he died. “my life—” he’d stood and slurred

one night, “my second-best four-letter word.”

les charbonneau

with every rotting hemlock trunk he stripped

of bark—and only grew the mass of ceaseless

trees—the trapper cursed his strange conscription

with those damned explorers. “jean-baptiste,

mon fils: viens, viens, aide ton papa!” the boy,

no more tree-cutting skill than that which his

eight months among the sagamores and voyageurs

afforded him, ignored the business

of the elder charbonneau and floated

tawny fingers upward toward his mother’s

face. she touched them to her lips. her throat

constricted as her husband felled another

tree. the younger charbonneau’s eyes followed.

she—the woman charbonneau—sighed, swallowed.

joseph merrick, ‘the elephant man’

his head, too large to lie and rest for even

wrinkles in a wretched night, reclined

upon a stack of feathered mats, naïve––

to think a normal sleep would soothe the mind

of such a beast. “the elephant,” they called

him; christian name long-banished to the drawer

beside his hospice bed. therein (recalled

the mangled soul, within whose mien there moored

a heart intact, a heart intact!) a scrawled

calligraphy there lay: an envelope

whose tender, looping script he—if at all—

would look upon alone. that maudlin hope

to which he clung sustained his fallow years;

no rest, no love, no trunk to suit his ears.

ring, looks old, of unknown provenance

a mother’s ring’s repose, among the grooves

and flows of human hand, contains a story

to itself—a timeline—as behooves

an object whose design demands a quarry.

another matrimony sold for scrap,

a wedding band of forty years whose staying

power inexplicably evaporated

at the wake? another way,

in father truman’s words, to make the sin

that she and you created pure before

the lord? a little piece of her, an instant

love, a true memento more important

than a memory? a future finger yet

untold, to have, to hold, to pay the debt?