Nature’s Vacuum Cleaner | Ranger Bill (05-16-56)

Summary

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Podcast Summary:

Old Time Radio Westerns
Episode: Nature’s Vacuum Cleaner | Ranger Bill (05-16-56)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Date: July 11, 2026

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Main Theme & Purpose

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns presents the classic “Ranger Bill” story, “Nature’s Vacuum Cleaner,” in digitally enhanced audio. The narrative follows Ranger Bill, his companions, and the townsfolk of Knotty Pine as they face the terrifying and destructive force of a tornado—a disaster the town believed could never happen to them. Through suspenseful action, moments of skepticism, and humbling danger, the community grapples with the unpredictable power of nature and learns profound lessons about heeding warnings and preparing for emergencies.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. Introduction: The Threat of the Unthinkable

• The episode opens with the narrator describing the awesome and often underestimated power of nature, specifically tornadoes, characterized as “nature’s vacuum cleaner.”
  • "When the Lord decides to show men what real power is, he doesn't mince words...Even with our atomic and hydrogen bombs." (Narrator, 01:43)
• The setting establishes conditions ripe for a tornado, with conflicting weather fronts and apprehension at the local weather bureau.

2. Weather Bureau's Warnings & Local Doubt

• Mike and Mel at the Weather Bureau track an approaching funnel cloud and issue a severe storm warning for Canyon City and Knotty Pine.
  • "We've been following a funnel over the mountains toward Canyon City...I'll be praying that it breaks out before it climbs over the mountains." (Mike, 05:04)
• Despite official warnings, skepticism abounds among locals and even authorities in Knotty Pine.
  • "We'll never get one of them mad whirlwinds down here in the valley. Not on your life." (Sam, 06:45)
  • "We never have, we never will." (Bill Jefferson, 06:51)

3. Debate & Ridicule: Setting Up an Observer System

• Bill and his ranger team urge preparedness, advocating for a tornado observer system amidst ridicule and disbelief from townsfolk and radio announcer Bart Sneed.
  • "Why is it the rangers insist that everybody almost break their necks running for protection from the twisters that never come?" (Bart Sneed, 10:35)
  • Gray Wolf and others discuss the difficulty of convincing a complacent, dismissive populace to take tornado threats seriously.

4. The Disaster Hits: Tornado Strikes Knotty Pine

• Unexpectedly, a tornado forms and touches down, inflicting major damage on the high school but sparing lives due to the timing (Saturday, no school).
  • "This is it. History’s been made...the citizens are no longer sleepy. They're wide awake and shake with fear." (Narrator, 15:48)
  • "Boy, look at the north end of that school." (Bill Jefferson, 16:36)
  • "Thank the Lord it's Saturday and there's no school." (Gray Wolf, 16:40)
• The disaster prompts a temporary shift in the town's attitude; plans are made to establish the observer system.

5. Community Apathy Returns

• At a town meeting to organize the tornado observer system, initial enthusiasm wanes, with townsfolk suggesting it's a “once in a hundred years” event.
  • "I don't think we should even discuss this plan...let's go home." (Bart Sneed, 19:00)
  • "It's a shame that folks have to learn the hard way." (Sam, 17:37)
• Gray Wolf observes that laziness and lack of concern are primary hurdles.

6. Second Tornado & Collective Action

• Weather Bureau readings signal another, potentially deadlier, tornado heading straight for Knotty Pine. The observer system is put into action.
  • Rapid, coordinated alerts are issued; citizens are instructed to take shelter.
  • "We’ve got 18 minutes to spread the alarm. Let’s make it 15 to be safe." (Gray Wolf, 27:50)
  • "The funnel’s going right down the middle of the valley and cleaning out everything in a path about a block wide." (Bart Sneed, 28:13)
• Destructive impact is minimized thanks to the preparedness and quick actions of the Ranger team and volunteers.

7. Resolution & Hard Lessons Learned

• As the tornado dissipates, the town is shaken but mostly spared further catastrophe.
• Bart Sneed, the on-air cynic, humbly issues a public apology and volunteers for the observer system.
  • “If ever a man was wrong, I was, Bill Jefferson. I want to be the first volunteer for the Tornado observer system any hour of the day or night.” (Bart Sneed, 30:14)
• The episode ends with acknowledgment that people often only learn through direct experience—sometimes at great cost.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Nature’s Power: "Just think of the tremendous power the Lord's got packed into one of those big clouds." (Bill Jefferson, 07:51)
• On Skepticism: “We never have, we never will.” (Bill Jefferson, 06:51)
• On Responsibility: "Let's not be guilty of failing to spread the alarm if that ever happens." (Gray Wolf, 08:18)
• On Community Apathy: "I've seen a lot of knuckleheads in my day, but never so many crowded into one town. And Bart Sneed is the biggest." (Sam, 19:14)
• On Changing Minds: "He did soften up on his last newscast and this is the reason why." (Sam, 23:41)
• On Humility & Learning: “If ever a man was wrong, I was Bill Jefferson. I want to be the first volunteer for the Tornado observer system any hour of the day or night.” (Bart Sneed, 30:14)
• On Preparedness: "Bible say he that control tongue is better than he who conquers cities." (Stumpy, 11:37)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

| Timestamp | Segment Description | |-----------|--------------------------------------------------------------------| | 01:43 | Narrator introduces Ranger Bill and sets theme of nature's power | | 04:32 | Weather Bureau begins tracking tornado; issues warnings | | 06:14 | Locals and Rangers discuss likelihood of a tornado | | 10:35 | Bart Sneed mocks tornado warnings on air | | 15:48 | Tornado forms and strikes Knotty Pine | | 16:36 | Rangers and townsfolk assess initial damage | | 17:17 | Meeting to form tornado observer system; interest wanes | | 24:18 | Weather Bureau sees another tornado forming | | 25:58 | Observer system responds; alarms and evacuation | | 28:13 | Bart Sneed, now an observer, reports the tornado's destruction | | 30:14 | Bart Sneed humbly apologizes and volunteers post-disaster |

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Episode Tone & Language

• The tone is earnest, suspenseful, and at times folksy—reflecting the values and language of classic Western radio drama.
• Dialogue swings between banter, skepticism, urgency, and humility.
• Many moments are didactic, offering moral lessons around respect for nature and civic responsibility.

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Summary / Takeaway

“Nature’s Vacuum Cleaner” is a powerful dramatization about heedlessness in the face of danger and the hard-won wisdom that arises from disaster. It highlights how communities can resist and then ultimately embrace preparedness, spurred by truly witnessing the destructive power of tornadoes. The episode poignantly demonstrates that wisdom is sometimes only found through adversity, and underscores the value of vigilance and humility before nature’s unpredictable force.

Transcript

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[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly. From your enjoyment, you can find more western shows at our website by going to otrwesterns.com now let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

Ranger Bill, warrior of the woodland. Ranger Bill, warrior of the woodland. Struggling against extreme odds. Traveling dangerous trails. Fighting the many enemies of nature. This is the job of the guardian of the forest. Ranger Bill. Pouring rain, freezing cold. Blistering heat. Snow, floods. Bears, rattlesnakes. Mountain lions. Yes. All this in exchange for the satisfaction and pride of a job well done. You know, boys and girls, when the Lord decides to show men what real power is, he doesn't mince words. And when the Lord allows nature to cut loose, there aren't many structures that are left standing. Perhaps he wants to show us who's the boss of the universe after all. Even with our atomic and hydrogen bombs. Well, it's about time to get into our story. This is the experience Bill and his rangers had with nature's most powerful and potent weapon. It's the story. Nature's vacuum cleaner. Gigantic thunderheads are passing over the knotty pine country. And the monsters lash out with angry streaks of lightning. The air is muggy as the warm front battles against a cold front, trying to push it out of the way. A terrific turbulence takes place in the atmosphere, conditions are perfect for a tornado to let loose and give the earth a vicious past. The weather Bureau puts out a severe storm warning. The men at the Weather bureau watch the sky with apprehension. All the ingredients are at hand to bake a cake. A tornado cake. This is it. A rope like funnel drops from the ink black clouds and meets the ground. The tornado funnel uproots great trees and powders giant rocks. It gouges the earth like an enormous chisel and tears out the forest in its path like a child pulling seedlings from the garden. This is the phenomenal power of nature. The rope like funnel charges each man's heart with fear. Fear for family, fear for home and fear for self. This is nature's vacuum cleaner.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

How are you doing, Mel?

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

I've still got the tornado on the radar screen, Mike.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

Has it changed course?

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Nope. It's plowing right across Big Mesa. And I hope it keeps on going and up into the mountains. Man alive, I hope it doesn't change course.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

You'd better do more than hope. You'd better pray.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Calling Canyon City.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

Yeah, we better warn them. You'll lose it as soon as the mountains get in the way. We've been fortunate to be able to follow it this far.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Oh, I've lost it. The funnel's heading over the mountains toward Canyon City.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

Hello, Sid? Yeah, Listen, we've been following a funnel over the mountains toward Canyon City. That's you, mister. I'm sorry, but that's all I can tell you. Yeah, I'd say you've got about an hour if it doesn't pull back up again. Okay, Sid. We'll be praying that it breaks out before it climbs over the mountains. Bye.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Last year the same thing. Cougar Canyon and Little Mesa looked like 75 atomic bombs had gone off right over them.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

Yeah, Someday a twister is going to come right down the Shady River Valley and clean out the whole place, including Knotty Pine.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Don't talk so loud. Maybe thunderheads have ears.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

I know what you mean. I wish some of the knuckleheads in this area that do have ears would listen to our plea for an observer system.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Yes, so do I. But they've got tin ears, most of them. I hope that vacuum cleaner doesn't double back on us.

[Bill Jefferson]

Boy, look at those thunderheads coming in.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Yes siree, they're whoppers all right. They're bulging out the seams with water.

[Stumpy]

If they drop load, we need boat.

[Gray Wolf]

They're dropping it now. Can tell where the cloud formations.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Hey, I hear tell that there Was a tornado on the big mesa again? Who's pulling your legs, Dumpy? Nobody. Cause it won't stretch no more.

[Gray Wolf]

The old timer's right, fellas. Mel and Mike picked the twister up on radar and followed it right to the mountains.

[Stumpy]

That long way from Knotty Pine and. And flat country.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Yep. We'll never get one of them mad whirlwinds down here in the valley. Not on your life.

[Bill Jefferson]

We never have, we never will.

[Gray Wolf]

I hate to say this, pal, but those could be famous last words.

[Bill Jefferson]

Oh, Bill, come on. You know there's never been a tornado hit this town or even near it. Why, Big Mesa's 50 miles off. It's in high flat country.

[Stumpy]

Henry Wright, even my father, Black Wolf say mad wind never hit down there.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

We've got all the fixings for a winged dinger, but for some strange reason, they don't like this spot, I'm happy to say.

[Bill Jefferson]

Hey, phone's ringing. I'll get it.

[Gray Wolf]

Never mind, pal. I'll get it. Probably for me, anyhow.

[Bill Jefferson]

Hey, you know, I think Bill's getting jumpy again, just like he did last year.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

Ah.

[Stumpy]

Remember how he and weatherman Tristar Tornado Observer System? Nobody interested because tornado never strike here.

[Bart Sneed]

Yep.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

I'm a mind fraid that Bill's barking up the wrong tree. And so are the weather boys, for that matter.

[Bill Jefferson]

Right. Say, look at the lightning from those thunderheads. Boy, I sure like to watch a storm come in. Just think of the tremendous power the Lord's got packed into one of those big clouds.

[Stumpy]

Man alive, I'd make us look like helpless ants.

[Bill Jefferson]

Was the call anything important, Bill?

[Gray Wolf]

Yeah, that was Mike. They set up a severe storm warning. Let's get moving, fellas.

[Bill Jefferson]

You mean you want us to get laughed at like last year?

[Gray Wolf]

Remember one thing. Someday, perhaps a tornado will strike Knotty Pine. If it does, this town will be nothing more than a junk pile after it's over. Let's not be guilty of failing to spread the alarm if that ever happens.

[Bill Jefferson]

Okay. I'll cover the hospital in that part of town.

[Stumpy]

I get sheriff and his men busy and cover downtown main buildings.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

I'll cover the radio station in that part of town. I suppose Bart's Needle shoot off his big mouth again like it did last year.

[Gray Wolf]

We don't care what that announcer says or does. Get going now. I'll alert the fire towers. Larry, there's a severe storm warning out. Keep your eyes open for a funnel.

[Bart Sneed]

Okay, Bill. I think it's a waste of time, but orders are orders. Not again this year. Bill.

[Gray Wolf]

Yes, and it'll be every year from now on, so you might as well get used to it. Keep me informed, Tom, if you see anything.

[Bart Sneed]

I will. Sure know that.

[Narrator]

I won't be seeing any funnels, but I'll keep a sharp lookout just the same.

[Bill Jefferson]

Doc Sims, there's a severe storm warning out.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

What are we gonna get tornado nerves like we did last year?

[Bill Jefferson]

I guess so, Doc. But I'd rather be ready than wish I had been.

[Gray Wolf]

You're right.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

I'll have the patients move to protected areas right away.

[Stumpy]

Ed, you better have people in bank go to basement plenty quick.

[Narrator]

Oh, no. Not again this year, Gray wolf.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Why, this.

[Narrator]

This is like fire drill in school now.

[Stumpy]

Fire drill. Save plenty lives in case of fire.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Bart, there's a severe storm warning out and it's your duty to spread the alarm the best you can.

[Bart Sneed]

Okay, but I'm gonna laugh at you fellas just like I did last year. Just listen to me on the air if you don't believe me. Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, and a quiet and pleasant one it is now that the weather boys and the rangers have called off another false tornado alarm. It appears that we're going to be plagued again this year by a repeat performance of last year's false tornado alarms. Why is it the rangers insist that everybody almost break their necks running for protection from the twisters that never come? Is it that our guardians of the forest can't stand peace and quiet? They like folks worked up and almost hysterical with fear. All this monkey business is a ridiculous waste of time. Especially in the light of historical facts. Knotty Pine has never been hit by a tornado. What you do the next time a false alarm is sounded is your business.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

That big mouth makes me tired. Boy, he sure runs his windmill with hot air, all right. Every time a brain cell tries to work, his mout falls open. A lot of silly noises come out.

[Stumpy]

Stumpy.

[Bill Jefferson]

Yeah, Bart sure has the knack for getting under your skin like a sliver.

[Gray Wolf]

Well, don't let him needle you, pal. We've done our work before in the face of ridicule.

[Stumpy]

Bible say he that control tongue is better than he who conquers cities.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Yep, it's better to appear to be a fool and keep your mouth shut and open it and remove all doubt.

[Bill Jefferson]

Sure, but some folks will take his gassing to heart. Maybe they'll live to regret it.

[Gray Wolf]

You fellas were giving me the ribbing of my life a while ago about this tornado business.

[Bill Jefferson]

Sure we were, but that was only between us.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

As far as I'm Concerned? If the weather boys put out the warning, then I'm in favor of heating it. If the warning is a false alarm, then I'm grateful and thank the Lord.

[Gray Wolf]

That's right, old timer. Bart has nothing to lose if a tornado strikes. Doesn't have a family here and no property. Of course, he should be thinking about the safety of other people, but he's not concerned. I'd forget about it if I were you, fellas. It sure is nice out this morning. The humid feelings out of the air.

[Bill Jefferson]

Yeah, it sure is a nice day.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Hey, Bill.

[Stumpy]

Oh, it windbag.

[Gray Wolf]

Hello, Bar.

[Bart Sneed]

Hello, Bill.

[Stumpy]

Fellas.

[Bart Sneed]

Say, there's a black cloud up there. Aren't you gonna sound another false alarm? Oh, excuse me. That's smoke from a factory chimney.

[Gray Wolf]

Bart, you need glasses. When a fellow can't tell the difference between a thunderhead and chimney smoke, he should see an eye doctor.

[Bart Sneed]

Oh, yeah. Well, I'll see you later, son. Time.

[Gray Wolf]

Bill, you were terrific on the draw.

[Bill Jefferson]

Bart got just what he deserved.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Yep, Paul. Say did. That's one time the snake turned and bit its master.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

Well, I'm afraid we'll have more tornado fixings in here about tomorrow noon.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Yes, you're right. Warm and humid and two fronts clashing. Large Thunderheads up to 30 and 40,000ft. Which will give us good updrafts and downdrafts. And that's all the makings of some more twisters.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

You know, Mel, perhaps we're foolish to bother alerting the people in the Naughty Pine area. After all, they've never had a tornado. I wonder if they've really come over the mountains and down the valley.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

But who are we to make those decisions? We don't control the weather and atmospheric conditions. We only forecast it to the best of our ability. And it's our job to set up the warnings as we see them.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

But you know as well as I do that we've watched dark, black thunderheads pass over the Shady River Valley time and time again when conditions were prime for funnels. Nothing's ever happened.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Well, we won't have to worry about it until tomorrow morning if the forecast holds up.

[Narrator]

It's early Saturday morning, and the ranchers and farmers are just beginning to stir and think about doing a day's work. Mel and Mike don't plan to set up severe storm warnings until noon. But this time they're going to get fooled. Right beyond the Shady Mountains, a giant of all giant thunderheads slowly moves toward the Shady River Valley and Knotty Pine. The sleepy valley and town. Aren't Aware that there's a great danger approaching. The morning's warm and humid, and everyone's thinking of the beauty of spring, when suddenly part of the black giant drops down to the ground and a funnel is formed with winds revolving inside from 600 miles per hour. This is it. History's been made. And not even a tornado did form in the valley and strike. The citizens are no longer sleepy. They're wide awake and shake with fear. Phone calls come in by the dozens and emergency vehicles are on their way to the stricken area. Bill and his rangers race across town.

[Bart Sneed]

Boy, it really happened.

[Bill Jefferson]

Where'd the funnel strike?

[Gray Wolf]

Seems to be the high school in that area. Folks are too excited to give accurate reports, but we'll know in a few minutes.

[Bill Jefferson]

Boy, I got duck bumps running all over me. Gee, to think it really happened. After so many years of that happening.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

It's a pretty sobering thought, sonny. This whole town could be flattened, cherie, like a pancake.

[Stumpy]

Oh, and many people killed.

[Gray Wolf]

Here we are.

[Bill Jefferson]

Boy, look at the north end of that school.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

What a mess.

[Bart Sneed]

Yeah.

[Gray Wolf]

Thank the lord it's Saturday and there's no school.

[Stumpy]

It looked like only damage done to school and then funnel lifted.

[Gray Wolf]

Yes, can be very thankful that the funnel only touched the ground for an instant, then drew back up again.

[Narrator]

Hello, fellas.

[Gray Wolf]

Hello, chief. Howdy, chief.

[Stumpy]

Hi.

[Gray Wolf]

How's it look inside the building?

[Narrator]

Same as outside, Bill. It's a mess. The whole north corner has been sheared off and pulverized.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Yep, the steel girders are twisted like pretzels.

[Narrator]

Bill, the townspeople are very much interested in starting a tornado observer start.

[Gray Wolf]

Fine, chief. When do they want to start?

[Narrator]

Well, I suggested we have a meeting tonight at the city hall. Set it up. Good people of this town agreed to come.

[Gray Wolf]

Oh, that's excellent. We'll be at the meeting tonight, and I'll ask Mel and Mike to be there, too.

[Bart Sneed]

Okay, I'll pass the word.

[Narrator]

We'll see you this evening.

[Gray Wolf]

Okay.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

You know, it's a downright shame that folks have to learn the hard way. Yes, siree. I can't tell them a thing. They've always got to learn for themselves. Themselves?

[Gray Wolf]

Yes, Dumpy. This would have been a bitter lesson if this had happened during the school week and at a later on. May I have your attention, please? Thank you. Thank you very much. Chief, where's the crowd?

[Narrator]

Well, it's sort of cooled off since this morning, Bill. Guess they figure lightning won't strike twice in the same place.

[Bart Sneed]

How much work is there going to be involved in this tornado observer? System? Yeah. I don't think we should even discuss this plan. If more people aren't interested to share the burden of it, I suggest we adjourn this meeting until we can get more people to attend. I agree. Looks like it's going to take more time than it's worth.

[Gray Wolf]

Just a minute. The twister that struck this morning was a surprise attack. Even the weather bureau boys didn't catch it on their instruments. Now, if they had and could have sounded an alarm, an observer system would have saved many lives. If the funnel had remained on the ground rather than skip like it did. Well, perhaps you're right.

[Bart Sneed]

But I don't think we've got anything to worry about anymore.

[Bill Jefferson]

I'm not interested any longer.

[Bart Sneed]

Me neither. Let's go home. This is the first time a twister's hit this town in over a century. Come white man and Indians. Time be another hundred years before we get another. Let's go.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

What do you think this is? I've seen a lot of knuckleheads in my day, but never so many crowded into one town. And Bart's need is the biggest. I told you his talking would influence

[Stumpy]

these people and their logic. Not good. Lightning does strike same place twice. And sometimes more than once.

[Bart Sneed]

Twice?

[Gray Wolf]

Well, I've seen and heard everything. Now, we've tried tornado every time there was the possibility of one. Finally, the killer wind came. Even then, these people still won't listen to sound advice. And for one reason. Perhaps two reasons.

[Bill Jefferson]

You mean you think there's a reason for their actions?

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

Yes.

[Gray Wolf]

First reason is that they're too lazy. The other is that some of them don't care.

[Bill Jefferson]

Say, Bart Sneed's gonna be on the air in half an hour. I'd sure like to hear what he has to say.

[Bart Sneed]

Good evening, good citizens of Knotty Pine. Well, it looks like the weather boys and the rangers almost won their point this morning when the tornado funnel chewed away half the north end of the high school. But I still say there's nothing to get excited about. Why, this is the first time in over a century that this has happened. And the chances of it occurring again are pretty slim.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

This man talks like a gambler.

[Gray Wolf]

He's special.

[Bart Sneed]

I say let the Rangers and weather boys do it. That's what they're paid to do. In just a moment, I'll have a roundup of world and local news for you.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

You know, fellas, I think he's softening up.

[Gray Wolf]

I'm inclined to agree with you, Mike.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Yes, he seems to be lacking the usual caustic. Sting he's capable of delivering.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Well, I don't know, gentlemen. It sounded to me like his supply of wind is just about as good as ever.

[Bill Jefferson]

Yeah, but he didn't sound like the old ripper up the back. That he can be. I'd say Mike is right. But why's Bart changing his mind?

[Stumpy]

All he have to do is look at high school building and think of lives lost. If that happened during school day. Not take edge off sharp tongue.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

I don't know. I've listened to his two edged tongue for a long time. He's not the kind of man to back off. Even if he knows he's whipped. He doesn't have enough sense to come in out of the rain.

[Gray Wolf]

Don't give up yet. We're still not through fighting for the observer system.

[Bill Jefferson]

Hey, it's the troopers.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

We didn't do it.

[Gray Wolf]

Hello, Sam. How's the captain of the state police these days?

[Stumpy]

Okay, fellows, how are you?

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Well, we're pretty busy dodging tornadoes and trying to get ornery people to think straight.

[Stumpy]

Are you joking or is this serious?

[Gray Wolf]

It's serious. Stumpy just about sized up the whole problem. Now pull up a chair and relax.

[Stumpy]

Hey, thanks. Now where do I come in now or. Or do I?

[Bill Jefferson]

Oh, we'd like to have you help us dodge twisters. Of course, you might get twisted up yourself, but then you'll be doing us a favor.

[Gray Wolf]

Sam, I'd like you and your men to cooperate with us in the tornado observer system.

[Stumpy]

Well, I'd be glad to. You still having problems with the citizenry of this area to cooperate?

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Problems ain't the word for it. That windbag Bart Sneed keeps leading him down the wrong trail. Might be the death trail unless we do something about it.

[Stumpy]

Well, that's strange. Why do you think he's acting this way?

[Gray Wolf]

Because he hasn't anything to lose.

[Stumpy]

I'm afraid you're wrong there.

[Gray Wolf]

I don't quite follow you, Sam. Bart hasn't any property or family here.

[Stumpy]

He hasn't any family here yet. But he's got property.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

Huh?

[Gray Wolf]

Since when?

[Bart Sneed]

Right. Didn't you know?

[Stumpy]

He bought the old Coswell place.

[Gray Wolf]

When?

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

No.

[Gray Wolf]

Hey, that's right in the middle of Shady Valley at the edge of town.

[Stumpy]

That's right.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

When did he buy the Carswell?

[Bill Jefferson]

Please.

[Stumpy]

The deal was closed two days ago. He's bringing his family from Junction City next week. It took him three years to make up mine. Not long time to find place to buy.

[Gray Wolf]

So Bart's got a big stake in this tornado business. He's right in the direct line of fire if a funnel comes roaring down the valley.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

I guess you fellers were right. He did soften up on his last newscast and this is the reason why.

[Gray Wolf]

Yeah. Well, let's get back to setting up our own observer system.

[Stumpy]

Bill, whenever the alarm is sounded by Mike and Mel I'll have my boys go to a network of high points and watch the thunderheads. They spot one, they'll keep us informed by radio.

[Gray Wolf]

Okay, that sounds fine, Sam. Perhaps we can do a good enough job to keep a tragedy from taking place.

[Narrator]

I don't think Bill, his rangers and the state police are going to have to wait very long to find out if their system's going to work or fail. The barometer's dropping at the weather bureau and Mike and Mel anxiously watch their instruments and check their readings and forecasts. Let's drop in on them as they try to outwit the weather and predict its actions right to the nth degree.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

How's the coffee holding out, Mel?

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Fine. Want some?

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

Yeah, please.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Here, hold your cup so I don't drip this stuff all over the maps and charts.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

Right.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Say when.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

No.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

You know I don't like the nose dive the barometer's taking. Don't like it at all.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

That's going right through the bottom. At this rate, I'd say we're gonna have plenty of action about 9 in the morning.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Let's recheck our work and then sound the alarm. I sure feel better now that the Rangers and the state troopers have set up an observer system. I'm afraid that this might be tea hour. If the storm comes down the valley,

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

that's right where it's heading or I'll eat my shirt buttons and starched collar include.

[Narrator]

The warning is out. Not severe storms this time, but a tornado alarm's been given. Mike and Mel haven't the slightest doubt a funnel will drop. And it looks like it might be the Shady River Valley that's getting the pasty. The hub of the observer system is Ranger headquarters. Right now, Bill is the busiest man in the world.

[Bill Jefferson]

Tower 5 reports a tremendous thunderhead black on the inside of a closet heading right over the valley.

[Gray Wolf]

Tell them to keep us informed. Stumpy, Gray Wolf, check the schools and hospitals on the double. Tell them to evacuate immediately if they haven't already done so.

[Stumpy]

Right away.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Yes, yes.

[Gray Wolf]

It's all right, Mike. Goodbye, Gray Wolf. Stumpy. What you want, Bill? That was Mike. He says that thunderhead's loaded to kill.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Hurry. We're on our way.

[Narrator]

Tower 5 says there's a big sag

[Bill Jefferson]

in the bottom of the thunderhead.

[Gray Wolf]

Keep talking to him, pal. Bill to all towers. Come in.

[Bart Sneed]

Tower one in.

[Narrator]

Over.

[Gray Wolf]

Keep a close watch, Tom. There may be more than one funnel for him. Tower five's watching the valley. Watch other sectors. Over and out.

[Bart Sneed]

Tower two in. Over.

[Gray Wolf]

Larry, watch for a funnel on the big mesa. If it forms, be sure to keep an eye on its course. Over and out.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Tower three in and over.

[Gray Wolf]

Fritz, watch Cougar Canyon and Razorback Ridge country. Let me know the minute you see anything.

[Bart Sneed]

Tower 4 in and standing by.

[Gray Wolf]

Amos, don't close even one eye for a second. We could be in real trouble at any minute.

[Bart Sneed]

Bill. Tower five, there's a tornado heading right down the valley.

[Gray Wolf]

How much time do we have?

[Bart Sneed]

Not more than 20 minutes.

[Gray Wolf]

Henry, sound the disaster alarm. Jim, keep your eye on that thing. I'll keep in touch as often as I can.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Henry, stand by the radio after you've sounded the alarm. All right, men, we've got 18 minutes

[Gray Wolf]

to spread the alarm. Let's make it 15 to be safe. You know your areas. Have everybody open windows and doors. Then tell them to get into basements or depressions in the ground. Now get going, and fast. Has the twister changed its course, pal?

[Bill Jefferson]

Not yet. Jim says it's really chewing up the valley.

[Bart Sneed]

Bill, are you there?

[Bill Jefferson]

Yes, go ahead.

[Bart Sneed]

This is terrible to watch. The funnel's going right down the middle of the valley and cleaning out everything in a path about a block wide.

[Gray Wolf]

Keep watching it. We'll stand by another 10 minutes, then we're going underground.

[Bill Jefferson]

Jim says about five minutes more. Bill.

[Narrator]

State police.

[Gray Wolf]

Hold on, Sam. Henry, cut off the set and close down the power. Hello, Sam, we're going underground right now. Get help on the way. I'll try to contact you as soon as it passes. Goodbye. Let's get out of here.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Right.

[Gray Wolf]

We'll hide in the hole they've dug for the new house across the street. We'll hide there and pray it.

[Narrator]

Death and destruction roar at 600 miles an hour into Knotty Pine. The lumberyard disappears into the giant vacuum cleaner. Wait a minute. The funnel is lifting. It's drawing back into the cloud. For good, I hope. No.

[Mike (Weather Bureau)]

No.

[Narrator]

Now it's down again. But not until it hit the river. Now the twister's running along the riverbank and heading out of town. Seven warehouses and a number of small buildings have been obliterated. But praise the Lord. The terrible killers going out into open country.

[Bart Sneed]

Ladies and gentlemen, tonight I wish to pay tribute to the Rangers and the weather boys. And I want to thank Almighty God for sparing us from terrible tragedies. If ever a man was wrong, I was Bill Jefferson. I want to be the first volunteer for the Tornado observer system any hour of the day or night.

[Mel (Weather Bureau)]

Yes, Bart.

[Narrator]

Thank the Lord the twister didn't blaze a deadly trail right across Knotty Pine. You know, it's the old story with men like Bart and others, they have to learn the hard way, and sometimes that can be disastrous. We'll see you next week for more

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

adventure with Ranger Bill.

[Bart Sneed]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Become one

[Andrew Rines]

of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve and Tom, who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail 707-986-8739 this episode is copyrighted under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Sam (State Police Captain)]

Sam.