Reply by RussellAP

I’ve gone to cutting hardwood 5/4 pieces very flat and using them in three places to clamp the wood down flat while I’m gluing them up. There is going to be a little unevenness but nothing like what I had without it. Just a couple thick walnut pieces cut absolutely straight with shipping tape on them to keep them from sticking to the glue.
Try it.

-- Failure does not stop me, it makes me try harder..... because I'm crazy.