David Beebe's online journal

Job Creator

2011-12-13T22:14:00.003-06:00

Although I am not one of the "one percent" I am and have definitely been a "job creator"- including creating jobs for myself.
The vast majority of "job creators" only are able to create jobs when there is demand for a product or a service. This has nothing to do with taxation or extra money in the bank. It has to do with DEMAND
Also, it's my observation that those in the top tier of wealthiness in the USA are not even people who manage anything but their own fortune; and they manage to spend a portion of it on very expensive luxury goods and vactaions, in addition to investing in real property (as an investment, usually).
Here are some names of some "job creators" in Marfa who have created jobs for people here very recently
Daniel and Jessie Browning
Rocky Barnette
Maiya Keck
Adam and Krista Bork
Ty Mitchell
Bird Parrott
Rob Crowley & David Branch
Don Culbertson

and there are many others...
I promise NONE of these folks have added any jobs due to "extra cash freed up by lower taxes". In fact, I bet NONE of these folks makes enough to pay the AMT!

These are the real job creators in America

david beebe, yoseff and people on the porch

2011-12-06T01:59:00.001-06:00

david beebe, yoseff and people on the porch, originally uploaded by marfadome.

In Terlingua playing music on the porch 12/3/11- community greatness!

Not blogging recent CC meetings

2011-08-10T01:56:00.002-06:00

Not much has been going on, other than business as usual (a good thing) and SWTMGC business. Check out ww.bigbendnow.com for comprehensive info on how we're dealing with the dissolution of this municipally owned Gas Corp.

Otherwise, I am more and more and more convinced that once the gas fracking business slows down (which could be years) our future energy source out here will be solar (as technology progresses) and I am 100% behind any efforts to bring it to our sun-rich area. Please email me at marfagringo (at) yahoo.com for any insights---- David

4/17/2011

2011-04-17T09:07:00.003-06:00

Apologies for missing the live feed of the last city council meeting (last Thurs). Not much was covered and the meat of the issues dealt with crowd managemnet tactics and overview of agencies and procedures that will be used during the big weekend here Easter weekend for the Railroad Revival Tour.
Fires were covered- the Mayor presented a slideshow of pictures and we essentially reviewed the data provided by the various press outlets.

I am preparing as much food as possible in advance of this coming weekend- working on veggie lasagna, pork loin "Pork-U-Pine" and red beans today while I cover the regular cooking duties as well. We are open today as tonight YACHT, a popular band with some Marfa ties, will play at the club.
Next sat, Sun and Mon I am cooking breakfast for the masses here as well- should be hectic and interesting- big job. I bought a whole bunch of materials and some equipment to do it all in El Paso a few days agp- hopefully we'll sell enough breakfasts to cover the costs of the gear to do it again! I think we will- we were almost set up for this to begin with....

I attended a law enforcement meeting regarding preparations and policies for the upcoming weekend- a synopsis of which is posted under the RRT section at www.marflist.org . There will be a heavy law enforcement presence (if that doesn't surprise you!) and we'll probably need it--- I don't expect problems, but this place is going to be a zoo.

We've got a whole bunch of new Padres merchandise to sell this coming weekend, which is great news! Screen printed vintage shirts, etc and some women's clothes as well. David Garcia will be manning the door nearly all weekend and will sell merch outside in front. Should be a great way to get this stuff out of Marfa and into Austin and the like... Ellie Kenworth and Helena Stergiou are coming into town to help tend bar and generally help in general, at least in Ellie's case. Cleaning and some other stuff- I really need the help.

All is well- onto kitchen duty--
David

Construction vs Demolition

2011-03-22T09:50:00.003-06:00

I'm in Houston right now waiting in my cardiologist's office for my yearly checkup. I'm not expecting any news, thankfully, but over the last few days that I've been out of town, my name and my business have been attacked in the blogosphere.
First off, let's understand that I consider the blogosphere to be a "C" rate source of local and regional news; that being said, it's often the only thing we have in Far West Texas. One relatively popular blog that moonlights as a sometimes news source is Andrew Suber's West Texas Weekly. recently it's been 90% opinion, which is fine and sometimes more entertaining, but even more recently it's been a rant against me and now, the greater Marfa community.
It takes a long time to build a bridge or construct a building. A good demo crew can knock down and remove the same in a day. For whatever reason, Suber is burning his Marfa ties as hard as he can. With no provocation whatsoever, he has attacked me, Padre's and it's employees, Marfa in general, and now Marfa's non-profit arts groups.

Check it out and if you like it, "Kachingle" him in his cup-
www.westtexasweekly.com

Marfa City Council 3/8/11

2011-03-08T18:02:00.003-06:00

All in attendance

Minutes approved unanimously from last meeting

No citizen comments

Jim Mustard's report- USO building Phase 1 construction complete. Tables and chairs from MAC building are being moved- a few of them.
MAC building renovation has begun- oine problem- see later in meeting

No Mayor's Report

OLD BUSINESS- Southwest Texas Municipal Gas Corp
Report from Rudy Garcia- appointed to dissolution and asset reallocation committee.
Rudy says not much has happened.
Rudy has inspected some materials for inventory in Marfa warehouse. Diana Asgiersson is in charge of records and inventory in Alpine. SWTMGC employees are refusing to assist- too busy with training. Diana would like to hire an individual to assist. Rudy says he will do Marfa's inventory. Going to make some progress regardless.
Dunlap says Gas corp owns property on the east end of El Paso St where they are storing some old equipment.
Mustard says that SWTMGC underwriter has provided details on insuring the assets and workers here for Marfa if we were to take it into the city's auspices. Approx $10,000 to underwrite per year.

NEW BUSINESS:
1) Proposal to sell inoperable Ditch Witch at Golf Course. Been broken for 8 years or so. Offered $500 for parts. Unanimously to sell.

2) Discussion to sell the broken Nutrition Center van. Also to apply for a grant for a new van. This is procedural- TXDOT granted us the van originally and require that we receive three appraised values and then approval from them to sell. In order to be likely to receive a new grant we need to go through this. Unanimously in favor, although we will incur costs.

3) Notice of General Election- City of Marfa- we are all required to sign order. We sign it.

4)Reauthorization of Ordinance 82-11 concerning return of materials to Marfa Public Library. Libririans wish for permission to use the enforcement ordinance- reauthorization may not be required, but may help clarify whether it's still supported by city government. Unanimous

5) Damage at MAC building.
Construction workers found termite damage between the bathrooms between the two pool bathrooms. Repair will require extra dollars and we'll need to treat the building for termites. Seeking approval for this work. Alss request for putting plywood beneath the sheetrock in the bathrooms to inhibit holes being punched in the walls. Unanimous.

6) Monthly revenue and Expenditure report and Accounts Payable Report
Short question from Josie regarding damage done to house beneath water tower. Mustrad states that our insurance company is dealing with it and that the homeower is not happy. Likely some sort of action between his insurance company and ours.
Also, the East Heights water station received damage and we have not heard whether ou insurance company will cover it.
Sewage project is slated to start fairly soon (downtown. In the city budget- $172,469- to be reimbursed by grant. Josie acts why bills went out so late this month- Mustard says because of freeze we reviewed more bills before we sent them out.
Approved unanimously

Meeting adjourned

City Council 2/24

2011-02-24T18:06:00.002-06:00

All in attendance
Minutes from last meeting approved unanimously

City Admin report- USO building - men's bathroom- holes punched in the wall, but otherwise a success.

Old Business:

SWTMGC-
SWTMGC passed a resolution to dissolve the corp. Appointed 4 member board to assess and appraise the company.
Rudy Garcia, Diana Asgiersson, Randy and another company employee.

City of Marfa's counsel (see last meeting's notes) will wait until Gas co's assets are assessed by the gas co.

2) Request by Project Grad to use a building for graduation night
Robert Lujan- parent rep
18 seniors-
USO building? MAC building?
May 27th
MAC building construction is a big question- MAC preferable.
Play it by ear---name down on both buildings. Use kitchenfor snacks, etc
Waive fee and require deposit for cleaning, vandalism
Josie makes the motion to allow either building; waive fee, require deposit.
Unanimous

New Business:
Proposed legislation relating to Presidio County Water District (including Marfa and Presidio in not participating in teh "midland exemption")

Original district approved in 1999. Midland exemption made Marfa and Presidio exempt from regulation by a water district.

With regard to participation- 2 issues:
1) Funding- here water district is funded by Presidio County and production fees that produce over 25,000 gallons per minute. Includes Marfa City water supply- roughly $5500 per year to pay for Marfa's use.
2) Representation- board is appointed by commissioner's court- 3 rural members and 2 urban. Cities of Presidio and Marfa have insisted on direct representation.
Third issue was two years ago when this was proposed, time was very short.

Mustard has been attending the meetings. Country Judge Paul Hunt wants to add Marfa and Presidio- Dunlap began some talks.
One way approach it is to take a water district ad valorem tax to the voters.
Ad Valorem taxation means the board would need to be elected, resolving representation issues.

Proposed legilation/interlocal agreement would be good for 2 years- trial period of removal of Midland exemption.
2.1- general agreement
2.2 Urban representatives would come from Marfa and Presidio and would show up to meetings.
2.3 Water district agrees to waive the producation fees for Marfa and Presidio. During this time period cities and county wouold pursue an ad valorem tax to fund the district.

Theresa supports and wrote the agreement
Mustard opposes:

Mustard mentions that city council unanimously opposed the legislation.
City was also concerned about maintaining current production.
Water district misrepresented the cities' positions in presenting case to legislature last time- did not let cities know they were still presenting it.
District is currently underfunded. Thinks they are looking to cities for cash.
Mustard was sent by the city last time to negotiate some sort of relationship/compromise. Water district was very closed to the idea of talking.
Mustard sees not entering into the interlocal agreement as a way to maintain the power to shape the issue in the future. Also, if taxpayers opt not to pass the ad valorem tax then we will be paying more than our fair share.
Also, even is cities pay the fee, without a property tax add-on there still won't be enough money to pay for the district to operate properly- only $15,000 extra and they have virtually nothing now.
Marfa Well #3 has a problem- defective, broken but still functioning. Existing regulations would preclude us from re-drilling the well. Over 1400 feet away would be our next option.
2nd problem- our wells are way to close together and produce too much for the spacing. Any exceptions to the rules would have to be applied district-wide.
Mustard thinks we're jumping the gun on giving away our exemption.
Paul Hunt speaks--
Great points- presents both sides of arguement.
Mustard claims to have been rebuffed by district in beginning discussions. Teresa disagrees

Fannin makes motion to accept interlocal. I second in order to discuss further.
Dunlap pushes for agreement.

Vote-
Beebe in favor, Fannin, Baeza and Simpson opposed. Brijalba left eary (ill)
Adjourn.

Radio show tonight- every Tuesday www.marfapublicradio.org

2011-02-22T22:26:00.004-06:00

YES
11Pm to 2 AM- nearly 3 years running for my radio show- a mixture of soul music mnew and old, R&B, blues and Texas music. Live streaming at marfapublicradio.org
Email in requests at nighttrain(at)marfapublicradio.org or call them in at 432-729-4578. I also monitor Facebook on Facebook ID Gringo at Padre's- take requests there too...

I was thinking just a few weeks ago about how we,a s a nation, were freaked out by and vilified Moammar Qaddafi about 10-15 years ago but how, up until a few days ago, we rarely heard about him anymore.
Well, he is more insane than I ever thought he was- wow. Vows to go down in flames and take as many of his countrymen down with him as possible.
These last 2 weeks have been some of the most important in recent history- who knows what will come of it all- WOW

Focsuing on work this year- again- just volunteered to be on the board of a tri-county recycling non-profit corporation forming out of Alpine... More unpaid work. I was chosen because Padre's recycles more aggregate than any other business in Marfa- cardboard, aluminum and glass bottles- takes a lot of time and some resources- we are committed.

Tomorrow- working on cleaning out my Airstream- the one I used to live in- goin g to try to have it fixed up and moved out to Barry Tubb's property as my vacation "home" by this Friday!

DB

Cooking on the grill outside

2011-02-21T14:45:00.002-06:00

At work today- all day and night- new 2011 Monday method---
Cooking riceyes and baked potatoes, plus I made more veggie lasagna- it takes forever- too much cheese grating and veggie cutting!

There's a way to make it faster, I know. I used the Mandoline slicer for veggies last time and it was a bit faster, but messier and not even that much more efficient.

Tonight we have an acoustic folk duo that plays music they say harkens back to the 20's and 30's- true retro-- They're called Hungrytown- www.hungrytown.net. 8PM show, Free
D

Valentine's Day dinner

2011-02-15T17:51:00.002-06:00

I spent this year's Valentine's Day cooking dinner for up to 60 people at Padre's. Actually, I also spent most of Sunday the 13th prepping and cooking for the meal- it was fun!

We actually served about 40 people, leaving me with about 25 ribeyes extra, about 16 of which I went ahead and cooked since I had the pecan in the smoker and the temp was still up around 400 at the end of the night. So what's cool about that is we have steak andwiches now until they're gone- I had one for dinner a bit earlier and it was delicious!

Here's what we served and the ridiculously excellent pricing we offered (I was glad to undercut the white tablecloth restaurants in town!)

Entree: your choice of either a grilled 16 oz bone-in ribeye steak or a healthy portion of three cheese vegetarian lasagna

Sides: Baked potato how you like it, loaded or not; small side romaine salad with choice of Bleu Cheese dressing or ranch; small side of rice smothered in mushroom/onion brown gravy

Wine: one glass of either ValVerde Chardonnay or Mouton Cadet Bordeaux

All this for $25 for a single or $40 per couple!
By the way, the vegetarian lasagna took me as long as anything to make, and it's excellent. there's still some left here on sale- it's really good. I cooked it Sunday in the "plate warmer" - my grnadmother's old 1954 Chambers copper-clad oven. the thermostat is wonky, so to use it it's best if it's monitored. Anyway, I didn't burn it. Yum!

Anyway, it was a great way to spend a Valentine's Day alone, and I wore an apron with a big red heart on it that says "Cultivate Love" and "David". Hilarious. I think it may have been given to me as a suggestion (just kidding- ha ha!)

Anyway, tonight is The Night Train Express radio show, my soul/R&B show on KRTS FM 93.5, Marfa Public Radio- live streaming at www.marfapublicradio.org
It's coming up on three years since I started this weekly Tuesday radio show (11PM to 2AM) and the station is about to bump power up from 50,000 watts to 100,000 watts. We'll be audible well past Crane and down into Sanderson, past Sierra Blanca and partly towards Ozona- also well into Mexico. Think "Heard It on the X" but NPR. Even funnier than me in a red heart apron.

Alpine tomorrow, possibly Ojinaga, MEX Thursday...
David

Marfa City Council Live blog 2/8

2011-02-08T17:59:00.003-06:00

City Council meeting 2/8- 6 PM
All members present minus Corrina Brijalba, who is undergoing cancer treatments.

City admin Jim Mustard and Mayor Dan Dunlap present

Pledge

Citizen Comments:None

Approve minutes of prior meetings: approved unannimous

Mayor's Report: Weather issues had a major impact. 10-15 water meters replaced. ERCOT has asked that people conserve energy tomorrow- high of 39.

City admin's report:
Broken pipe at USO building nehind wall. Already repaired. Building renovation of phase 1 complete next week. 1st tenant- Queens of Hearts Coronation Feb 19. Tables and chairs from MAC will be relocated to USO building during renovation of the MAC building. USDA have apparently approved. Master Builders of Midland should begin construction shortly. Construction plan dn timeline will be formulated.
Library has applied for a $12,000 grant to repair the roof of the Gervaisi building.

County has 3 city related items on their agenda tonight- Sheriff's inter-local agreement; parking spaces at library; possibly changing time of their meeting so as not to be at the same time as ours.

OLD BUSINESS:
SWTMGC- (gas company)
City of Alpine has voted to dissolve the corporation.
Mustard: Consider that the board of directors of SWTMG may dissolve corp- not us. We can request that this be done, along with itemization of assets, etc. Citizens have relayed to Mustard that we should keep the Gas Corp publically owned. Mustard has requested a proposal from a group to analyze infrastructure, risks, scope of operations. etc. Coler and Colantonio- engineering assessment for SWTMGC. $13,500 would be the cost.
SWTMGC never responded to Mustard's letter from July about the breach of inter-local agreement (on behalf of City of Marfa). Gas Board did vote and acknowledge they were in breach of agreement. Did provide an audit for the FY ending Sept 2009. No further audits. Mustard believes that Marfa should receive credit or compensation for all the major infrastructure improvements in Alpine this past year with the rebuilding of Holland Ave/HWY 90 in Alpine and the replacement of the gas infrastructure.
Fanninf believes tha Alpine's motion may seal the dissolution of the gas corp. Now we have to decide what to do with our assets. Safety issues, responsibilities, aging infrastructure, - do we take it on? If selling to WTG, we need to not be too quick to sell.
Mustard: 2 elements to running a Gas Corp- 1) physical plant staffing- may have that covered with current local staffers. 2) Dealing with TXRRC regulations- lots of work, will need professional help. Could be a steep learning curve. Will have to have outside help.
Teresa Todd: Lots of due diligence required when wrapping up non-profits. Must have an up to date, audit, for one. Pay off all debts, claimants, collect all A/R's, etc. a shell corporation would have to exist for minimum of 3 years.

Dunlap: SWTMGC has selected an auditor for 2010's books.

Beebe voices my opinion that taking this into the city's fold only achieves getting Alpine out of the deal- not lower prices, not different service. I wish the current corp agreement could be re-structured to function properly.

Rudy Garcia: Alpine is looking at taking their gas in-house as a profit line item. Also says Marfa needs to decide whether cheap gas is the motivator or not. Also clarifies that SWTMGC is a dead deal since Alpine's interests are not our own. Recommends to dissolve corporation no matter what.
Randy Guzman: Makes an offer that Marfa's employees are qualified and eady to work.
Beebe makes motion to ask the SWTMGC gas board to pursue dissolution of the company, provide a list of assets, an independent appraisal of inventory, list of liabilities, and an up to date audit. Beebe & Fannin for, Baeza and Simpson against. Dunlap breaks tie with a yea. Measure passes.
2nd item- Beebe makes motion to hire Coler and Colantonio for no more than $13,500 to conduct an enginnering assessment. Fannin seconds. Beebe Fannin and Simpson vote yea, Baeza opposed. Passes.

NEW BUSINESS:

Permit for 7/15 Coffield Park Pulmonary Fibrosis Fundraiser. Ban on alcohol waived. Unanimous approval

Bird Parrot light bars: don't work. He renovated one and has made it available to the city. "Trash them at Bird's wrecker service" Unanimous.

Renewal of deposit agreement with MNB. Simpson makes motion. Fannin seconds. Unanimous.

Review of minor curfew Ordinance 10-05. Requirerd by ordinance to look at it every 6 months. Sheriff in favor. Unanimous.

2009-2010 city audit. Auditors here to present. SWTMGC audit not available so it reflects on us. "Except for" clause in analysis of city's finances. Also, library must be added into city's budget and statements (already happening). Audit accepted unanimously.

Presidio County Law Enforcement Contract- contradct has been amended to include enforcement of no drinking in city parks, minors ordinance, use of the old Police Dept space, noise ordinance, ban on cell phone usage in school zones. Sheriff will pay electric bill for polcie dept space and pay a share of gas and water to city. City is obligated to form a joint committee to oversee the actions of the Sheriff Dept. Dollar amount has gone up slightly to reflect our budget, which added a few bucks this year. Went from $87,570.42 to $91,178.16. We also allow them to use our city law enforcement (brand new) truck. Baeza askes for a written document reflecting all tickets and citations issued in 2010. County allowed Dominguez to hire more officers- 2 deputies dedictaed to Marfa as of this FY. Approved unanimously

Nutrition Center Van- Van is dead- all kinds of problems. Rogers Ford determined the part to fix the Propane fuel system is no longer available and the system is flawed as it is. Big Bend Community Action may have a used "end of usable life" van for us for cheap. Without a van at all we can apply for a new TXDOT van grant. Mustard wants approval to sell old van and apply for agrant for a new van. Unanimously approved.

2008 Tax Note funds. Funds must be expended before May 1 2011.
$28,628.00 in tax note account. Of course, city departments have a long wish list. Provided a list of expeditures to date.
Pipe laser level for rebuilding sewers- $2900
1/2 ton or 3/4 ton truck for PW
New (used) RT36 ditch witch- we have no fuctioning trench channeler. used- $15,000 Silva would rather have the Ditch Witch than a new truck.
Leaking valves and valves that won't shut off- have plenty in the water system. Silva has a supply list. ($9000)
CT adapters for sewage- ($900)
Simpson makes motion- all but trucks- unanimous

Ordinance 11-01- Election for May 14, 2011 jointly held with MISD for mayor and two councilpersons (Simpson and Fannin up for re-election)
Early voting May 2-May 10 at city hall. Election Sat May 14th. Unanimous

JAN revenue/expenditure report. Accounts payable report.
Simpson makes motion to accept both. Unanimous.

Tabling request by Project Graduation to use a city building on graduation night (no rep available).

Following meeting Mustard distributed a job description for the TOURISM DIRECTOR for the new Marfa city Convention and Visitors bureau. Drop by City Hall for more information.

Meeting adjourned.

Monday kitchen duty...

2011-02-07T17:37:00.002-06:00

I am boycotting Chick-Fil-A too, but mainly because their food is crap. Their beingf anti-gay is pointless and foolish, but I know plenty of gay cowboys who drink Coors Light, and the Coors family is about as bad as it gets...

Today's specials: BBQ pork and brisket sandwich served with beans, pickles and onions. Really good- almost sold it all. Also, grilled Poblano burger- Padre burger with mayo, lettuce, onion, grated white cheddar cheese and grilled poblano. Mmm Mmm good. Salads too, today- a rare item at Padre's- got Food Shark's leftovers from them since they're out of town for a month.

Tigie Lancaster's order- 2 minuetes ago- "Patty Melt- medium rare, dammit! Cut into quarters" Can't make this place up...

Back on the horse, this time for real

2011-02-04T16:08:00.002-06:00

OK, I'm back onto this blog- hopefully I'll be able to live blog the city council meetings if I can pick up a signal around city hall (fingers crossed Pizza Foundation's signal reaches my seat at the table).
Anyway, after a fair amount of time to process an extremely disappointing and, moreover, altogether LAME breakup of the relationship I was in with my former girlfriend, it's time to put the pen back to paper and write about things that matter. One thought about long-term relationships gone bad- love makes people stupid- this time it was me. I would be angry about some things, but the bottom line is I know that the girl has created a place for herself where she just wouldn't know any better. So I resolve not to be angry, and to forgive. No forgetting, of course, otherwise I might repeat my mistakes! That hurts, but I will live. And live I will.

It's been below freezing here in Marfa for well over 60 hours until the last 2 hours. Padre's has been closed since Monday at midnight and it's now Friday at 4. I've been trying to unfreeze the pipes here today and it's finally about 35 outside. Water still freezes in the wind out of the direct sunlight, so it may be a lost cause. We'll open tomorrow even if I have to bring in gallon jugs of fresh water from Alpine and 5 gallon buckets for toilet flushing from the one working spigot outside. The cool thing is we have not only a Scrabble tournament at 2 PM here at Padre's, but also a rock band from Australia called bug Girl at night. Super Bowl on Sunday- I was to be tending bar, but gave it up so another employee since I thought I would be in Houston. The weather and the fact I have been slightly sick (after being really sick last week) kept me from traveling back home for my Dad's 70th b-day, which was yesterday.

Otherwise, this Tuesday we have Grupo Fantasma here at Padre's- hopefully will be well-attended, as those guys play to big houses elsewhere. This is Marfa in feb, though, so it's a crapshoot...
Tuesday night we have council and on the agenda is a council vote to potentially disband the inter-local agreeement between Alpine and Marfa, who jointly own the public utility that is Southwest Texas Municipal Gas Corp. Too many problems and issues to go into here in one writing with that company and the nature of its ownership and operations, but I would venture to guess that some actgion will be taken, as Alpine has already resolved to dissolve.

Lastly, business here has been slow enough this year that I am morphing back into club manager/cook/bartender from last year's stint as merely manager. I definitely won't be traveling as much this year and, thus far, I have found renewed energy to kick things up a notch here myself, as I realized, once again, that I am pretty much the only person capable of making things overall better at this business. That's always true of the owner, unless you have a really, really unique manager (like Keith Coit at Satellite Lounge- who taught me how to do the same). My old boss Butch Gregory always said never to build a business around one person's identity, but I look at the independent club business (and restaurant business as well) and all the great ones center around the person truly in charge. Continental Club= Steve Wertheimer; Antone's= Clifford and Susan Antone; Black Cat Lounge= Paul Sessums; Local Charm= Rory Miggins; Continental Club Houston= Pete Gordon; Stubb's= Charles Attal; Mucky Duck= Rusty and Theresa; Ninfa's on Navigation= the Laurenzo family; too many others to list...
That's this year's game plan- focus on what I have and how to make it better, more of what it is and less of what it isn't.
That and I'm focusing as well on The City of Marfa and Presidio County. Life can be better here for all; I'm going to do my best to try to make that happen.

Happy New Year, folks!
David

This weekend's shows!!!

2010-09-14T20:18:00.001-06:00

Concert Poster, originally uploaded by baldheretic.

Can't wait for Marfa Friday and Terlingua Saturday!!!

Love playing with The Conrads! - David

Regional Chamber of Commerce meeting in Lajitas

2010-08-30T15:41:00.003-06:00

This past weekend I attended the Regional Chamber of Commerce symposium/meeting at Lajitas Resort down on the border. I always love going there- great memories and beautiful everything. They have new management (again) and it looks like they may find a way to make that place appealing to the masses while remaining a very, very nice escape for people living in the big cities.
I met a lot of interesting people at the get-together. Most in attendance were from Alpine or S Brewster county, but people from Ft Davis and Van Horn were there as well as representatives of Big Bend National Park and the McDonald Observatory. Much info was exchanged and I felt like I learned a lot about how some of the local leaders I don't know so well think. One theme that was repeated throughout the day is that the regional economy is so small, relative to the rest of the world, that everyone is inter-linked and, therefore, we all really need to work together for the betterment of the region. I agree with that, and of course it's easier said than done...

Interesting topics otherwise included new information (to me) on development in Presidio, the expanded and successful Dark-Sky efforts by Alpine (headed up by residents of Sierra La Rana- already Dark Sky certified), energy efficiency projects, a new industrial plant in Alpine, and the word that Congressman Ciro Rodriguez would help support creation of a regional economic development corporation. All in all, I felt like the trip down there was well worth it, both for the information I got and the company I shared. I'm looking forward to working with some or all of these folks in the future on ideas and issues pertinent to our area out here.

After dinner I headed over to Terlingua, where i drank a few beers and spent the night at La Kiva, my favorite bar in the Trans-Pecos. I had a great time playing a guessing game for money about which 90's band's song would play next on the Satellite radio. Camped out in the campground behind the bar- a favorite place of mine among many favorites down along the river...

I returned Sunday to Marfa to catch the final day of the Marfa Jazz Festival. The Gospel showcase was at the Goode-Crowley Theater at 1 PM. An excellent show! No surprise there.
At 2:30 I met Cory Van Dyke and a couple of other friends to rehearse for my role as a drug dealer in the upcoming Marfa Film production "Far Marfa". Cory is the writer and director and it's going to be a really fun project. I'll be spending a lot of the end of September here filming.
Got back to Padre's at 4:30 and cooked food in the kitchen until 10:30. We hosted a "jazz Jam" with many of the Jazz Band musicians and some local stars including Paul minor and Miles Zuniga; the music was great- a really good Sunday event for us- mellow and cool. Closed the bar with Jon C and finally made it to bed around 2 AM- exhausted...

Back to work today before 10 AM...

Austin and Houston this weekend- David

What a busy three years; re-election coming up May 8

2010-04-05T23:30:00.002-06:00

Wow-
I have now live in Marfa for three years- full time with dedicated domicile other than the floor of the funeral home for 2 months shy of same. I am up for city council re-election this year, having nearly served out my 2 year term. I am running again and will need every possible vote, as I have been fairly aggressive about being fair and not bowing to the traditional powers that be around here. I believe I have been a really good councilman, not totally perfect, but as close as I could be, and that another 2 years will provide me with more expertise and the city with strong, honest leadership. I need everyone's vote, as I won by merely two votes two years ago and being re-elected in city government out here is tougher than in a large city.

Please feel free to contact me with questions, complaints or comments at 432-729-4422 or via email at marfagringo (at) yahoo.com
Election is Sat May 8th.
Thanks! - David

New Orleans in June

2010-03-09T21:05:00.002-06:00

My Kid brother is getting married in New Orleans in June. I am starting to get excited for this trip. His wedding will be cool- the ceremony is at Tipitina's with music by The El Orbits (not including me) and the rehearsal dinner is at Brennan's the night before. The 2 preceding nights will almost certainly feature some version of the Allen Oldies Band and Light rock Express at the Kingpin, my favorite NOLA haunt. I'm planning on getting there Tuesday, likely by plane, and blowing it out with my favorite people Tues and Wed. Thursday I'll try to get back down to earth so I can be presentable for the rest of the weekend. Leave out again Sunday, probably for the El Paso airport. This trip will mark the very first time I've ever booked a hotel room in New Orleans. I have been there many, many times over the years and have always played it by ear, which I will be doing Tuesday and Wednesday as it is.
Fun times to come- David

Running, etc

2010-03-05T20:58:00.002-06:00

I've been on a regular running program since the beginning of the year. I try to run at least 2 miles every morning on weekdays. If I miss because I wake up too late and have to be at work or go to the bank or to get groceries for lunch at the club I don't come down on myself.
Today I decided to push it and ran over 8 miles, according to the gmap-pedometer application that uses Google Maps to track mileage. That's easily the longest I have run in years and it went well. I am sore, but have two days off from running since today is Friday. It's really fun to run out here when it's not too cold in the morning.

Reasons I'm feeling a lot better than I did in Dec-
a little less stress
red wine instead of beer, for the most part
Chinese Medicinal tea from Dr Dang in Houston
better diet
I force myself to go back to sleep in the morning- sleeping in is something I normally only do when I'm hanging out in Houston and off work.
running regularly

We'll see how I am come summer. - David

Heart checks out OK, small update

2010-02-24T23:07:00.002-06:00

I spent the weekend of the 12-14 on the road. I first went to Houston for four different doctor visits. Heart scan, blood work, cardiologist, internist, Chinese herbalist.
Everything checked out OK at the end of the day. I have been back on the running program and have purposefully reduced my stress level somewhat and also have switched from daily beers to limited red wine intake.
A little more blood pressure medicine was prescribed- first increase in 8 years, and it was mild. I guess I'm getting older. I certainly can't afford to have my body get ragged out by hypertension. If I'm going to rag it out at all I'm going to earn it, Satellite Lounge style!
I also played a really fun show with the David Beebe 3 at The Houston Club for boxing night. What an amazing thing to see a full size ring and 500 people in the Texas Room on a Wednesday night. It was great. I loved seeing Irma again and the rest of the staff, for that matter.

I spent the 12th through the 14th in Los Angeles- my first trip there since 2004. It was a blast. I saw Beanie while I was there and enjoyed great weather, walking around, great food, Jumbo's Clown Room for first rate burlesque and more. By the time I returned to Houston I was beat. The club here had a killer fashion show while I was out. I mean awesome. It was called MODA and you can see a video clip on YouTube by searching MODA Marfa.

We are getting ready to open this place 6 days a week for lunch and dinner with continuous food and beverage service in the in-between hours. That starts now, but our first Monday is this upcoming one. We are adding killer lunch specials M_F that can be viewed on our website at www.padresmarfa.com
That same Mon (March 1st) marks the arrival of my newest employee, Lamar High School alumnae Nicki Ittner, formerly of Portland, SF, Austin and NYC. She is the coolest; I am looking forward to having her here in Marfa.
Otherwise I'm basically struggling to pay all the beginning of the year bills- we are pushing hard in 2010 on the advertising end of things. It's expensive, but I predict we'll have a very strong spring and summer. Being open as much or more than any other comparable business in town will definitely help. Consistency is not all that common out here in the Trans-Pecos. Keith Coit's Rule #1 was consistency in your hours and practices.

Lastkly, I filed for re-election to Marfa City Council this past week. Election is early May. - David

This week is the week for Louisiana food at Padre's

2010-01-23T13:23:00.002-06:00

We have a big event here at the club this Wednesday. In conjunction with Ballroom Marfa and the great artist Mel Chin, we are hosting a "Fundred" drawing party. The short story on the Fundred project is that throughout the nation people are coloring in fake $100 bills and doing their own drawings, creating their own art within the parameters of a fake bill. Once 300,000 "Fundred" dollar bills are created, artist Mel Chin, who dreamed up and is coordinating the project, will deliver them to Congress in an Armoured Car to lobby for $300 million worth of funding to complete the rebuilding of New Orleans infrastructure.
SO- we're hosting a Fundred drawing party here Wednesday complete with banners, party favors, New Orleans music, NOLA trivia with prizes, Abita beer specials, Shrimp po-boys, jambalaya, dirty rice, Boudain, red Beans and Rice, Gumbo, special Zapp's potato chip flavors that I special ordered from the factory, and a lot more. It's going to be a blast and all week we're working up these recipes in the kitchen for this event. Sunday it starts with dirty rice and jambalaya during our NFL football games and goes throughout the week. I am excited. Hopefully a few lifetime locals around here will try some great food they've never had before...

New Conrads myspace music page

2010-01-19T22:28:00.001-06:00

Oh yeah, I know I'm old...
Old enough to start a NEW myspace page!
The Conrads have a few songs and pics on our new music page on myspace- still the best free band site.
Here's the link- www.myspace.com/davidbeebeandtheconrads
Check it- David

Allen Hill, David Beebe and Jackie Pepper

2010-01-19T21:07:00.001-06:00

Allen Hill, David Beebe and Jackie Pepper, originally uploaded by baldheretic.

Jay Lee, my writer/radio host/photographer/ musician friend from Houston took this shot of myself, Allen Hill and Jackie Pepper at Padre's in Marfa during the Allen Oldies show last July. Allen has just slicked back his own hair with Peanut Butter when this picture was taken. Jackie got his "treated" by Allen about 5 minutes after this was taken.

portrait of Albert and Adam Bork (color)

2010-01-19T21:02:00.001-06:00

portrait of Albert and Adam Bork (color), originally uploaded by marfadome.

This portrait of Adam and his dad was unveiled at the Borks' house over Thanksgiving dinner. It's amazing in so many ways!
Adam insisted on the orange background as a condition of his participation. I love the facial expressions- if you know Adam and his Dad you know this is how they usually look when not laughing out loud.

Quaid movie night tonight

2010-01-18T12:50:00.002-06:00

It's a very rare occasion that I bartend, but the next few Mondays I will be here at Padre's. That's because we're showing some of the better and not so better Randy Quaid movies on the projection screen. Randy and his wife moved to town last year and have been making headlines, and I felt it was time to get to know our neighbor's acting career a little better. Actually, I have always been a big fan of his acting. For real.
Tonight we show Kingpin and Parents. Parents is my very favorite one. 1988- horror/dark comedy about cannibalism set in cold war 50's America. Brilliant.
Gotta run now, though- DB

Jackie Pepper successful, pipes frozen, moving at the end of Jan

2010-01-09T17:25:00.002-06:00

Jackie Pepper pretty much rocked the house here last night. Although I have grown tired of Neil Diamond after years of playing his songs in Banana Blender (back when people gagged upon mention of his name) Jackie's audience last night here at Padre's loved it. 2nd and final Neil Diamond tribute night is tonight. We've got some extra tequila in the back for the star.
Last night I got home after closing at about 1:45 and it was 7 degrees outside. The pipes at Madre's in the back wall have burst. The water is off and I am over it. Crappy house, great location, too expensive at $600/month- that's how crappy the house is. And now, no water. I am not interested in contacting the landlord. I am interested in getting out. Beanie is looking for a place for us; I may go back to the Airstream or get a tiny place for myself- don't know, but it needs to be cheap. All I use the house for is sleeping and showers. That's it. Seriously. I am at work every waking moment of my time in Marfa, so what's the point. Airstream is great, but no bathroom on premises. Did it for 2 years- not a biggie, but no optimal for ease of living. Cheap, cheap- cheap enough to save me enough cash to travel more- which is definitely happening more in 2010.
Anyway, no more room for houseguests once Madre's is gone unless Beanie works a miracle. AND- if I move back into the Airstream I'm going to essentially close off Padre's back of house even to employees and make it my official awake-time living space, which was sort of the idea initially as it was.
Anyone have leads on affordable casita, etc let me know. - David

Jackie Pepper shows this Friday and Saturday here in Marfa

2010-01-06T20:38:00.002-06:00

The legend is back...
It's been 2 years since the Jackie Pepper shows at the Goode-Crowley Theater and now Jackie finally returns to Marfa for a tribute to Neil Diamond this Friday and Saturday. Adam Bork and I are in the band, along with my kid brother on bass and Jim Henkel on guitar. Special guests include Susannah Lipsey on vocals, Ross Cashiola on acoustic guitar and Beanie on some piano.
Adam and I have been getting together for three hours plus the last few nights to hash through the material, which is mostly Neil Diamond. I am playing drums at the show, but have learned all the guitar chords and am showing the changes to the other Marfa musicians. This show will be very different for the Houston show, where Jackie showed up literally without a voice at all. He them proceeded to have more than a few drinks, but made it through the whole show and stunned the audience simply with his audacity to not quit singing or talking, even though nothing was coming out. Incredible.
Now, after a week in New Mexico at his shaman's house and visiting the spa, Jackie returns Friday in time for the shows. I am looking forward to it. 2 more rehearsals with the crew and then shows.
View Jackie Pepper on YouTube- his manager tries to keep him off but there's some good rare footage plus a nice interview from several years back. - David

Blast from the past

2009-12-20T13:10:00.003-06:00

Yesterday I went down to the Houston Continental Club to see my brother's band The Small Sounds play a show. Roller skated there and back, with an obligatory skate/beer stop on the way back to my folks' house at Rudyard's.
At the Continental Club I ran into Lee Gettys, my former boss at Mercado Caribe, where I tended bar, worked door, cleaned, and did general help stuff from early '91 until spring of '92 when I quit- the only job I ever stormed out of (and probably should have handled it better). There were no hard feelings, and I learned a TON from working for Lee. Lee is out of this world; somewhat crazy, but a gifted madman. I can't go into specifics about much, but he was the one who taught me, in no uncertain words and by drilling it into my brain over and over again that "sometimes you just have to say "F-- IT!" " Also, if you're painting a floor, you can never have too much paint on that floor. So much more. I remember physically working harder there than maybe at any other job I ever had at times. Once I worked 40 hours out of 48 during a Pecan St festival weekend. By the end, I finally had to go home because I could barely walk and I had blisters on my feet. It took me days to recover. So much more...

A few daily highlights of working at Mercado Caribe:

Me being the only person besides Lee who wasn't constantly smoking pot.
Always working with really great looking girls, most of whom had some sort of "affiliation" with Lee.
Paid in cash-always and sometimes arbitrary- sometimes short, sometimes big bonus.
Street vendors on a daily basis setting up their incense and jewelry kiosks in the club.
Rasta musicians drinking Heineken every night with attitude.
Papa Mali, Michael E. Johnson, Yellowman, Timbuk 3, House in Orbit, I-Tex, Irie Jane and a million other great bands (spies Like Us, Under Pressure, E.R. Shorts, Chris Thomas King in the house all the time.
Setting up and taking down a huge reggae-ready outdoor PA system Fridays and Saturdays.
SXSW with the Samples, Sublime, Killer Bees, Timbuk 3 and more- all on the same day under the evening sun.
Broken pedicabs.
Occasional dangerously insane situations involving firearms.
Jogging to and from work since my car's transmission was out.
Re-painting the place in Rasta colors every year.
Driving Lee's '67 Chevy pickup with minimal brakes to run errands for the bar.
Seeing Alan Haynes for the first time.
Becoming friends with Paul Sessums and the rest of the door people on 6th Street- club courtesy.
Learning about playing defense in a club setting and also about "teaching" your customers how you would expect them to act in your venue.

So much more... Thanks, Lee! - David

Thinking today about my St John's School career

2009-12-10T22:32:00.005-06:00

I grew up in Houston and went to an exclusive private school called St John's from 1st grade through 10th grade, at which point I transferred to Lamar High School, literally across the street but worlds away.
My SJ career was pretty poor on the grades side of things. I remember the day, near the middle of 2nd grade, that I was assigned too much work and couldn't finish it. This made me kind of mad, especially since some kids had no trouble at all with it. Others were more like me, and there were kids dropping out and getting held back every year. It was at that point that I realized that I really didn't have to do all that work. It was also then that I decided not to do it all unless it was reasonable, in my mind. Thus was the first chapter of the end of my SJ career.
Fast forward through years of crappy grades and good teachers, great classmates, fistfights, mediocre athleticism and a serious problem communicating with females (until about 7th grade when I became better friends with some of the new girls- our class size doubled in 7th- and also with some rebellious and brilliant types such as Whitney Vaughan)
Through all these years my old friends were, one by one, leaving SJ to go to other schools, mostly private, and they were replaced with the best and brightest Houston had to offer. No diversity, of course, but seriously smart people. Meanwhile, David Beebe went from being average to basically being one of the "dumber" kids. Not having a photographic memory and also having an imagination that runs wild while I read was a double whammy for me. By the time I was asked to and agreed to "consider leaving" I was ready to go for sure. I approached every day at school starting near the end of 7th grade as a new adventure and made sure to have as much fun as possible. Even my parents had to laugh when I was busted skipping study hall given detention for "lounging with the girls" on a back lawn. Not so funny for me was the "Saturday Work Hall" I received for streaking down River Oaks Blvd one day after school hours and not on school property. That was the point at which it was explained to me that I was a representative of the St John's family 24/7 and that I could and would be held responsible at school for things that could happen out of school. Needless to say, I had a whole lot of crazy but harmless stuff my friends and I were doing on a near daily basis that would have qualified for punishment under those terms. It was time to go.
Ironically, I am still on great terms with St John's and never really was on bad ones, even as I walked out the door for the last time as a student. And even more ironically, in the company of certain people in Houston, my actions in life (most of my public activities have been pretty positive) still do reflect indirectly on St John's. Wow.

Lastly, I just recently attended my St John's 20th class reunion and it was amazing. We always had a really strong and fun class. We still do and, not surprisingly, everyone is doing really well and looking good doing it. I would not trade Lamar for anything- best move I ever made- except maybe going to UT- but St John's does actually pretty much live up to its billing- especially if your kid is about 20% smarter than I am! - David

Musings about the real Marfa

2009-12-09T03:24:00.005-06:00

I have spent the last 2 days walking and knocking on doors in the more aged and also less wealthy sections of Marfa giving away Christmas CDs. The gist of it is that I knock on a door, and if the resident is not there and/or then I leave a CD on the porch with a short letter explaining that I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as councilman and that the Christmas CD is my gift to al Marfa residents. That being said, I doubt I will get to the more gentrified neighborhoods, as I am splitting for 2 weeks to H-Town and have a good but of work to get done just to facilitate that alone.

No matter- I have met some incredible people who are extremely kind- plus some folks who rarely leave their houses. Pretty wild- I identify with the south and southwest sides more so than the not and northeast sides of town, maybe only because I lived in my Airstream for a long time and now still live in a very borderline house on the south side. Different world- and I really like the people.
Marfa is pretty real, despite whatever you read in the New Yorker. - David

I can't believe

2009-12-07T13:06:00.001-06:00

I can't believe it's been two years since Rory Miggins passed away from cancer. I can't believe it.

Coming back to blog for a while

2009-11-29T15:13:00.003-06:00

I haven't blogged in ages. Too much to say, too busy to write. I'll sum up the last 9 months in the following paragraph.

We opened the club. It's busy and going well. Lots of cooking. Equal drinking. City council is relatively stable; the city is in the black slightly. Moved into a house and parked the Airstream. Will be moving back into Airstream in Feb after I overhaul it a bit. Tied up some loose ends in general but not all. Created a few more loose ends. Gained weight, lost weight. Hair is very long. Will continue to grow it until it's long enough to donate to the Locks of Love (10 inches all around). Got another 9 months plus to go- driving me crazy- reminding me of how lucky I really am. Determined to travel more and work less; 2010 will be the year. Found out I still, after all these years, like girls for real- another problem. Blood pressure is slightly up even with meds; addressing that with exercise and diet. Club is open 6 days a week. The only thing I do in Marfa is work minus an occasional dinner party or lunch. Decided I will run for re-election next May when my term is up- not gong to be easy, I think. Played some music with The Conrads for a three show set- we're going to do a lot more from now on- it was altogether great. My Brown Suburban (the Brown Chariot) is really pretty worn out- to the point that I think I need a new highway car- like a diesel Mercedes from the 80's in better shape than the one I have. No money for that right now.

That's it for the last 9 months. Right now I'm in Austin on a rainy day drinking coffee after a really fun wedding of my friends Jeremy Radcliffe and Linsay Brauchle. It was great to see all my old Houston buddies from that crew. We played some music and danced and shot the bull until late in the night. It was at a ranch in Round Top- very beautiful. The skies were overcast and there was a breeze- actually perfect weather for this time of year. I was a little chilly in the night but I believe the whiskey kept me from freezing. I didn't bring a jacket because I flew from El Paso to Austin and was determined to travel light. I'll be in Austin for the next day and a half before returning to El Paso and then Marfa. Getting out of Marfa every so often is very important- and logistically somewhat difficult, so to leave for only a 24 hour trip is really kind of foolish. I really have no real business in Austin, minus seeing a friend tomorrow, but am here just for a breather before heading back to work. The holidays are ahead. Way too soon for that.

I have a feeling that the decisions that I make and that are made for me in the next 6 months will determine the next three years. That's not a very comfortable feeling; it makes it all the more important that I really pay attention.

That's it for now- Happy Sunday!- David

Posting elsewhere but plan to do it here too

2009-08-02T21:01:00.003-06:00

Hi y'all. Obviously I haven't posted up here since before SXSW. Padre's opened for business the Tuesday following SXSW to a packed house and business has been strong and fun ever since. We have awesome loyal customers here in Marfa who look out for us as much or more as we try to look out for them! It's great- THANKS!

In the craziness of opening up this as a business and not a never-ending construction site I have recently been able to start some blogging again. Since my whole waking day (every day) revolves around the activities at 209 W El Paso St here in Marfa I have shifted over to posting up some on Facebook for Padre's (see link at right) and also to posting on the "Gringo's Padre's Blog" on the club's website at www.padresmarfa.com . Currently I m in a rivaling posting duel with my friend and part-time employee Beanie (also known as Benny Oslo). Check it out! I should be back on here once I establish a more consistent and full-time kitchen staff other than myself and John Davenport, my valued right-hand man.
Thanks for reading and, yes, I am doing well! - David

This year's SXSW schedule for David Beebe

2009-03-15T20:46:00.003-06:00

Although I officially retired from being a full time musician at the end of 2006 (and then had vocal cord surgery) I still get to play shows from time to time- usually with some pretty great musicians.
The SXSW music conference and festival every spring in Austin is definitely the time every year when I get to play the most often per 24 hour period. This year I'll be playing bass, percussion and harmonica with 4 different acts.
Thus far. I am scheduled to play 10 shows- 7 of them on Saturday. Saturday is always the wildest day- and by that time I am half running on fumes and half running on adrenaline.
Here's a rundown of the shows with times, places, acts and the instrument(s) I will play.

Thursday March 19th-
4:15-4:50PM for a KOOP Austin 91.7 Radio party at Lovejoy's with the Pine Valley Cosmonauts. I'll be on bass guitar and this band features Jon Langford, Sally Timms and Bill Anderson, among others. Classic country tunes mostly with some Langford originals thrown in. The band has a new record with Rosie Flores and she will be performing on the PVC shows this year. Great, great people and music in this group.

Friday March 20th-
12:45 PM until 1:20 PM- Andre Williams at Yard Dog gallery, S Congress Ave. I'll be on percussion, backup vocals and harmonica. The Black Godfather- need I say more. Free- no badge required.
11:00 PM- Pine Valley Cosmonauts w/ Rosie Flores at Momo's - an official showcase in support of the new record. I'll be on bass.

Saturday March 21st-
GET THERE AT 9:30 AM- for Mojo Nixon's Mayhem featuring Allen Hill and His Oldies Band and jalapeno pancakes. Continental Club, 1315 S Congress. Free and it fills up quick. Get there at 9:30!
10:30 AM- THE TWANG- Germany's most awesome country band. I'll be on percussion, backup vocals and harmonica- Continental Club, GET THERE AT 9:30 free
11:30-12:15- Allen Oldies Band at Jo's hot coffee, across from Continental on S Congress. The most popular Oldies Band in the world. I'll be playing harmonica and percussion, emceeing and singing backup.
1:15-2:30- Roy Head and Barbara Lynn at the Butler Bros' party, E 5th St. Not sure if this is public- ask Allen Hill. I'll be on percussion, harmonica and backup vocals.
3:30-4:15- Andre Williams, Mojo's Mayhem, Continental Club- still free and if you have been there since 9:30, you're probably drunk. I'll be on backups, percussion and harmonica. Free
4:30- Pine Valley Cosmonauts, Rosie Flores and Jon Langford- Yarg Dog gallery, S congress Ave- I'll be on bass. Free show!
11:00 PM- I'm sure to be in great shape by this hour. I'll be on percussion, harmonica and backup vocals in Andre Williams' official SXSW showcase show. Continental Club!

By the way, this year instead of completely quitting drinking for Lent (too much to do, opening a bar, etc) I have restricted the drinking only to when people offer and/or retrieve a drink for me. You would be surprised at how little I have had to drink since this went into effect. Anyhow, if I look thirsty in Austin, that'll be why.

Enough of that- see you music fans there- David

Padre's opening, SXSW and general update

2009-03-15T01:00:00.003-06:00

Last weekend I spent about 50 hours in Houston working on some stuff and attending Little Joe Washington's 70th birthday party. I got to play the show on drums as well, doing some singing and also backing up Little Joe for some of his time on stage. That was nice.
I dropped off the shuffleboard table we have been working on here for several months. Unfortunately, the straps holding it to the trailer gouged my new finish, so I have some work to do when I go back. I started the repair job when I loaded it into the back room of the Big Top, but it will require several rounds of TLC before it's really ready to rock. That table will eventually be the centerpiece of the soon-to-be Big Top back room and game room, which may take shape over the net 3-9 months.

My new dancehall/ restaurant/ live music venue/ game room/ sports on TV and general community meeting place Padre's will finally be open as of Tuesday March 24th. Our grand opening weekend will be Memorial Day Weekend all the way at the end of May, but we are going to be open from Wed-Sat for lunch and dinner and into the night until then. Hopefully after the grand opening we'll ramp up to at least having the building and bar open 6 nights per week.
Tuesday the 24th will feature a free show by German country rockers the TWANG, old friends of mine who come to the US every 4-5 years or so to do a few shows and camp out in Big Bend. That Tuesday show we'll have food, BYOB, games and music from 8PM to 10PM. No cover charge. Allen Hill will sub in on bass and I'll sub in on drums. The girls will run the club here along with John Davenport in the kitchen. To start we'll be serving Hebrew National hot dogs, burgers, a few types of general sandwiches, Zapp's potato chips and non-alcoholic beverages and set-ups. BYOB until we get our liquor license. That could be anytime within the next 4 weeks or even further out. The application is being processed in Austin and thus far, so good. It's kind of a mystery to me exactly how the TABC really functions deep within.
Anyhow, the next night (Wed 25) Allen Hill, myself and Jim Henkel will play another free show here at Padre's from 8-10 as the "David Beebe three" aka The El Orbits, circa 1999. By the way, we also have 2 shuffleboard tables, 2 pool tables, Ms Pac Man, Galaga, Burger Time and 4 vintage pinball machines in the back room. That, plus a CD jukebox for the big room and 2 different 45 rpm record jukeboxes in the back room.

I am psyched to be done with the big deal construction and now, instead, to be dealing with the operations side. Our kitchen is starting to look like it will be a really great one. We will also be recycling not only aluminum, but also cardboard and all colors of GLASS. Yeah, the only bar in the Trans-Pecos to do it ALL. That, plus our glassware and dishes are all re-usable. It'll be more work on everyone's part, but I am very, very happy about this- especially about the glass, which almost surely wasn't going to be able to happen until I had a great meeting today with Mark Battista out of Alpine/Sunny Glen, who re-processes glass into landscaping "tumbled" aggregate. I just bought 2000 pounds of green bottle aggregate from him for $50 to decorate my cactus garden and we worked out a deal where I'll bring the flatbed trailer with 32 gallon Brute containers of separated glass to him whenever I fill them all up, drop them off and leave the containers with him and then, next time, bring another set and take back the empties. All containers will be marked as belonging to Padre's. The total cost to me besides time and some effort will be the cost of doubling my garbage can inventory, but that will pay for itself in TWO months since I will be able to keep the small sized commercial dumpster and not have to move up to the next price range, which is about an extra $75 per month.

We are going to do things the right way here from the start. It's my dream- never been able to do it. Kind of like living next door to train tracks and also in a space as small as an Airstream.

SXSW is coming up this week and I'll be playing shows with Jon Langford, the Pine Valley Cosmonauts (w/ Rosie Flores), the Waco Brothers, The Allen Oldies Band, Andre Williams and TWANG. Busy, busy. I am trying to firm up the schedule and will post it here when I get my itinerary straight. I may sleep in the Suburban again this year- it was easier that way last year since I brought my bicycle to go from gig to gig and never moved the truck from Wed until Sunday. Traffic in Austin is already the worst in Texas and SXSW is quadruply bad. Anyway, I am excited. Too busy to really do this stuff this year, but half of it's PR for me and the new club/dancehall. It's extra important for me to be there and be me since we're beginning to book and will be open directly following the festival.

Lastly, and on that note, bands looking to play at Padre's can email me at marfagringo@yahoo.com. All bookings will be handled by email. Phone calls cost you brownie points. Materials may be sent via US Mail to Padre's PO Box 38 Marfa TX 79843. Give me at least 3 weeks to listen and/or look at that stuff before you email. If you have less than 75 minutes worth of music you should not go on tour at all. If your band is crappy, please stay in Austin. Finally, there are only 2000 people here on a good day and about 50% of them are over 65, so if you think you'll make any legit money coming out here just for this and not as a tour stop on a comprehensive West Coast and/or New Mexico/Colorado run, then please bring dad's gas card and your girlfriend's paycheck.
Sort of kidding on these, but not entirely. Looking forward to some great acts here playing great music! - David

Some of my favorite places to eat on Hwy 90 and I-10 between Marfa and Houston

2009-03-07T22:14:00.004-06:00

This is a short list

Frank's restaurant- Schulenburg- check it out- great sauerkraut and German sausage plus great homestyle. Also, they have the "Love Tester" machine in the lobby

Carmelita's- Mexican Food in Del Rio, a block east of Don Michelino's. Great breakfast and cheap

Sammy's/Haby's Alsatian Bakery- Castroville- similar in a way to Frank's. Old school and excellent.

Roundhouse restaurant- Sanderson - The old roundhouse building. I think that's the name of this place. Anyway, there are so few in Sanderson that you can figure it out- on the South side of the road. Delicious coffee and good food.

Popeye's Fried Chicken in the TA truck stop, east of San Antonio- I believe this would be exit 572- possiblt wrong on that. One exit east of the 410 loop on on I-10 east. I always get it to go since the atmosphere in this place is terrible. Chicken and dirty rice is still great. Ask for a couple of packets of Cajun Sparkle, the secret free bonus seasoning they have, and enjoy twice as much flavor.

Flying J trucks stops, San Antonio and Brookshire- kind of expensive for diner food, but good food and bottomless coffee, of course. Great is you need a long break from the road and are truly hungry. Read the paper and eat.

Tony's restaurant, Sealy- family style restaurant with good food and service. So close to Houston, though, that I normally skip it and eat something exotic, cheaper and faster in the big city.

That's about it, really, for that drive. I did not iinclude places within Houston, San Antonio or Alpine since that's more of home turf and a trip away from the road for me. I was thinking about this today while I was driving in to Houston from Del Rio. I'll be in Houston until Tuesday AM busy with some Continental Club stuff and then some Padre's stuff. - David

Marfa City Council 2/10/2009

2009-03-02T21:16:00.004-06:00

Here it goes- from my notes about the meeting and the preceding Public Hearing on Feb 10th.

At 5 Pm we met for a Public Hearing regarding the proposed change of zoning from residential to C-3 for the parcel of property on HWY 67 across from the Border Patrol and in front of Felipe Cordero's mobile home park. This has been a contentious issue and has been debated for the last few months by the Planning and Zoning Commission. The P&Z Commission forwarded us a recommendation to change the designation. The vote on same eventually followed this public hearing during the 6PM regularly scheduled council meeting.

We heard from a number of citizens, for and against the change, and most brought up good questions regarding the greater question of what we, as Marfans, want Marfa to look like in the future. Some questions regarding the details of the proposed 44 room hotel project were asked and, later, during the council meeting, representatives from the owner of the property (Sammy Bhakta) responded to questions fielded both in the public hearing and during the regular meeting. No big surprises on the answers.
Other issues discussed were potential infrastructure costs (covered by city or landowner?), whether the property could automatically revert to R-1 if the hotel project is not built, and the general history of Marfa's zoning ordinance. Overall, the meeting was civil and 3 members of the Planning and Zoning Commission were in attendance and each addressed some of the questions as to how the P&Z came to vote as they did. Conspicuously absent (in my opinion) were the formerly vocal representatives of the 2 existing hotels in the city limits. Anyway, I feel progress was made on communicating the citizens' concerns to both the council and the representatives of the hotel project.

Regular meeting notes:

All members in attendance

1) Citizen Comments:
Ken Whitley got up and expressed his concerns over the recent suspension of the police chief and how it had made front page news, how communication of his offense had not been made to the public, and , generally, how the city administration should be more forthcoming with the reason(s) for such actions, especially concerning a law enforcement officer.

2) Approve Minutes: No minutes to approve- last meeting's minutes not yet available.

3) Mayor's Report:
The mayor announced an Emergency Services District (Creation) Meeting to take place during the week. The city currently shoulders the EMS burden for much of the county and is unable to bill for it. The creation of an ESD would allow for a separate taxing district and potentially reduce the tax burden to Marfa citizens. The county's discontinuation of EMS assistance funds this year has pushed the 2 EMS providers (Cities of Marfa and Presidio) to look into this option.

The Texas Regional Advisory Council awarded their JRAC award of $13,500 to the Marfa EMS dept for outstanding service. Yay!

Lastly, the new accounting system and software for the city is awaiting data conversion from the old system. Otherwise it is done. This job is currently past due, but the service provider has assured that it will be completed soon.

4) City Administrator's Report:
The Texas Water Development Board had comments regarding our sewer plant renovation project and would like us to address these comments and re-submit the project out to bid. We have to re-apply for a TCEQ extension on our sewage permit since we won't be able to re-submit bids until March.

With regard to our new generator, the pad will be poured within the next 10 days. The generator is at the manufacturer awaiting delivery to us.

The air conditioning work for the front of the AmVets building will be finished this week.

Applications to run for city office for the May election are available through March 9th at city hall (Aside- no I am not yet up for re-election).

The census bureau is looking for volunteers and paid workers. Contact city hall for more info.

The city administrator's office was burglarized several times in the past few weeks. Nothing of value taken, but papers rifled through, candy bar left on desk, other items disturbed, Locks will be changed.

5) Councilmember Comments: None

Agenda Item 8: Listen to proposal from Southwestern Equipment Co for the city to lease operate and eventually purchase our own garbage collection system.
Lease for all equipment minus spare truck: $6595.00/month

This was a non-action item. We looked at the city's cost to take back our garbage pickup so that we would not be subject to yearly increases, profit margins and the whims of Duncan Disposal, our only other option besides the even pricier Texas Disposal Systems.
This is a complex issue- one I'll address in more detail later (and if you go back in the archives, one I have addressed before) but it looks to me like Marfa will have to at least attempt to regain direct control over our costs, given the rate hikes we've seen over the last 2 years and the incredible burden it places on our citizens. I was happy to see some numbers that look reasonable, for a change.

Item 9: Old Business:

1) Zoning for Hotel Project: We listened to a presentation from Sammy Bhakta's group. Some of the details provided include
a) Marfa Inn & Suites will provide the infrastructure required for the 4" water line they will need.
b) Currently there are 2800 vehicles per day passing by the property on HWY 67.
c) The Border Patrol says they will put 42 people per day at Marfa hotels for the government's agreed upon price.
d) Marfa Inn & Suites will be ADA compliant
e) Their financing is solid, they are committed to the planned project.
f) They vow to employ local workers, during the construction period and also for regular operations.
g) They have an approximately 90 day time frame from this current date to begin construction.
h) They are willing to have a deed restriction put on the property designating any commercial zoning to be limited to a hotel (this was at Mayor Dunlap's request).
i) The estimated cost is to be $2 million (I hope they know where they're building- try 3!)
j) Sammy Bhakta originated the concept for this hotel 5-6 years ago and is a regular visitor to the area. His brother will be living on-site as the manager. Dedictaed to being a long-term part of the community.

After further discussion about landscaping, signage, parking and commerce in general the motion to grant the zoning change was made and the vote was unanimously in favor.

Item X- New Business:

Sheriff Danny Dominguez sent in former Marfa Police Sgt James Davis (now current PC sheriff deputy) to make a presentation asking for the city to pitch in over $7000 to this year's dispatching service budget. When asked to provide details that had been expressly already asked in memos from our city administrator he had abso9lutely no information. I, personally, was angry that the sheriff would send in a representative that had not been properly informed about either side of the issue other than "we need some money" and had not bothered to even answer the questions sent to him by memo before sending in Mr Davis to receive a lecture from both myself and Scott May. The bottom line (and I feel a little bad, but not much) is that I have quickly grown tired of other governmental agencies coming in and asking us for money since we now have a balanced budget and are solvent. Be it the county or the school board, I would like to see a preponderance of evidence suggesting as to why it's in our best fiscal interest to contribute monies to their separate budgets. Please no guilt trips about "the children" or one division of government shouldering all the burden. I understand both those arguments, but please be aware that anyone coming to the council asking for a favor needs to be forewarned that we are weary of unbudgeted expenses- and we do not have ANY ROOM for error with regard to our own finances. That is why we have only 100 streetlights on right now- not as many as many would like.
Anyway, on this issue, I agree that the city, since it uses the county's dispatch system, should shoulder a portion of the cost. I would like to have a presentation, in person, from the man in charge who can actually answer some simple questions regarding the efficiency and professionalism of the dispatch system we are being asked to help pay for. Since that's what I wanted, I made the motion that Sheriff Dominguez should appear himself and make a presentation with some accompanying information regarding training, quality control and the like and then we could consider adding some pro-rated funding to our budget. Motion passed with Scott May opposed.

State of Texas MAC building lease request- 5 more years- no rental increase.
This is a touchy subject- we really want the State of Texas to continue leasing the space they occupy in the MAC building, as we have no real use for it otherwise. On the other hand, no rental increase is tough to swallow as it is cheap already. We opted to propose that the rent increase to $1,182.96 per month- a 25 cent per sq ft increase. Hopefully that will be accepted and we can enter into another 5 years. We do incur expenses- fairly substantial ones occasionally regarding maintenance. Unanimous.

Next- the potential repeal of Ordinance 07-07, giving the City Administrator the power to discipline employees. Councilman Garlick brought this one to the agenda, as he is very disappointed in the treatment of Chief J.D. Wilbourn by City Administrator Jim Mustard. Specifically he is requesting that City Council be given the responsibility of hearing disciplinary cases. After some confusion it was determined, when the motion was made by Couoncilman Garlick, that this would apply to discipline of all city employees and that it would go to the Mayor, not the city council.

I could go around and around on this one, but one of the main points made as we went back and forth on this one were that, in Councilman Garcia's opinion, giving the council the power to discipline would break Texas law. Additionally, the Police Chief had the opportunity to appeal his suspension, take it to the Mayor, and then take it to council, but he did not go through that process. Thirdly, councilman May and myself didn't want to "throw the baby out with the bathwater" and re-organize a system that works properly 99% of the time. Many of us, including me, agree that the situation could have been handled with at least more documentation and a little less harshly.
Councilman Garcia went on to quote the State Law that applied here. its main points are that:
1) The Mayor is the CEO of the municipality
2) the Mayor shall perform and exercise the powers authorized
3) The Mayor has power over the conduct of subordinates
4) the Mayor has the power to delegate his authority to the city administrator.

In 2004 an organizational chart of the city powers was adopted that supports our current form of government.

Once we had been around this a few times Councilman Garlick accused Mustard of lying to Councilman Baeza about being able/unable to reprimand recycling Center/code enforcement employee John Johnson. Mustard denies the nature of the wording.
ETC, ETC.

Once it's time for a motion, Rusty makes one stripping the administrator of the power and handing it back to the mayor. Vote is split 3/2- May, Garcia and Beebe against, Baeza and Garlick in favor. Motion defeated.

Before I move forward, I would like to state publicly (here on the internet) that I am neither on the Police Chief's "side" nor on the City Administrator's "side" in their dislike for one another. Frankly, after all the BS I have had to listen to from everyone who has thoughts on this mess, I can't say I actually give much of a damn anymore. Now, some might think that that would mean that any way I might vote on termination/demotion of either party might not matter to me. This is wrong. I am on nobody's team here but mine, which I believe to be the one of just the truth. No bias in either direction. so therefore to be swayed one way or the other is going to take irrefutable proof of wrongdoing by one or both parties. That means no hearsay, no "he said/ I said", none of any of that. I very well may be the only individual on council who has not made up his mind on where he stands if push comes to shove here. That, to me, makes my impartiality and potential vote in any motion regarding this matter all the more important. Bottom line- I will no longer discuss this situation with anyone- please forward any evidence you may have regarding any accusations to someone who can make a case on either side to eventually present to council- or not.

Now I'm worn out.
Last item- Monthly expenditures and revenue Report: Passed unanimously, no big surprises.

AND FINALLY-
Anyone who wishes to participate in a hands-on way in city government (and also school board) is cordially invited, by me, to register to run for on of two city council positions up for re-election and also the Mayor's spot. I will say now that I plan to support the incumbents, as currently there are no other potential candidates registered as running. The deadline for filing is March 9th. Applications available at City Hall.

That's it for now- David

Catching up

2009-03-02T17:09:00.002-06:00

Tonight I will try to post up the summaries of the last 2 council meetings that actually occurred. Last Thursday's meeting was canceled due to lack of a quorum. That will make the Feb 10th meeting last forever, so if you plan on going bring some coffee, a book and a pillow.

More importantly, I checked out the newly reopened Sandy's 7-11 gas station/convenience store this morning after hearing about their selection of Moon Pie flavors the other day.
JACKPOT!
Mot only do they have Strawberry, Orange, Chocolate, Banana, and LEMON (my favorite) Moon Pies, but also they have 20 ounce cold RC Co-colas and ZAPP'S potato chips! Unreal- especially the Zapp's which we will be serving here at Padre's instead of french fries with burgers (no fryers here, despite my Popeyes Fried Chicken pedigree). Check out Sandy's, just south of the stoplight (our only one) on HWY 67 towards Presidio. My new favorite in-town grocer (besides the Get Go) - David

Hosting my radio ahow tonight (Tues!)

2009-02-10T21:50:00.002-06:00

Well, I guess I owe two council write-ups, since I just got out of one and haven't posted the last. I am pretty exhausted these days- lots going on including the upcoming soft opening of Padre's (March 25).

Today we had a huge windstorm. I was driving Murgatroyd back from Alpine (to pick up wood and bolts and to recycle cardboard) and could barely get through the headwinds. Sustained winds of up to 55 mph and gusts in the mountains of up to 80! Rough. Anyway, the radio station's rooftop transmitter to the tower blew out and I have been given the option to not host my weekly Tuesday night soul and R&B show, the Night Train Express. We are still broadcasting via the live stream on the web and the station should be fixed up by tomorrow afternoon, barring more winds like today. The long and short of it is that I'm heading down there anyway to host the show. The phones will surely be totally dead, but it'd be cool if people tuned in on the internet. The site is www.marfapublicradio.org and I'll pretty much play anything. No internet access while I'm in the control room, so telephone is the way to get requests done. 432-729-4578. The show runs every Tuesday night from 11PM to 1 AM Central time and usually later. I'll probably pack it in tonight around 1 AM, which is rare, but I am swamped and the council meeting wore me out more than I would have been without it, of course.

Anyway, that's the goods on this particular Tuesday night out here in the middle of nowhere- David

A few Continental Club Houston Christmas Party photos

2009-01-23T21:04:00.004-06:00

I'm in Houston, working on restaurant/bar and sound system supplies and returning to Marfa late Monday. No walk with John Lomax scheduled this time, as his and my schedules were too full, but hopefully next time (could be April).
I was playing some bass guitar at the Big Top Lounge Wednesday night and remembered that the Continental Club's employee Christmas pasrty was there this past Dec and I have some pics. For any Marfans out there, I am pleased and proud to still hold shares of both of these clubs. I lived upstairs for 7 years in two different apartments and watched the neighborhood change for the better. he completion of the Light rail line (which I rode downtown today) was a major high point then and now for what has become a relatively safe and cool neighborhood. When I moved there in 2000 it did not even qualify as a "neighborhood" but only as a "hood"- a virtual Chernobyl of crackheads and abandoned buildings. What a great turnaround!

The master of ceremonies is non other than Pete Gray, manager, general partner and bigg boss man of the Houston Continental and Big Top. Sorry the pics are out of focus, but my camera is not working so well in the dark.

I scored an awesome AIRSTREAM BIRDHOUSE at the White Elephant gift exchange- the first year I actually got my dream prize (usually I don't try- this time I had to have it!) - DB

Marfa City Council meeting 1/13/09

2009-01-15T22:04:00.002-06:00

Here's a recap of the meeting held on Jan 13th.
We began the evening with a public hearing on the proposed noise ordinances for the city. Few people were present (unlike last time), and I fault the holidays, new year and the fact that the paper has not been published for a few weeks (they take 2 weeks off for Christmas) for the low turnout. The meeting was peaceful and most people seem to be happy with the proposed regulations. More about this later as it was an agenda item on the regular council meeting.

We opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance, as usual. Councilmembers in attendance were Manny Baeza, Rusty Garlick, David Beebe, and Scott May. Rudy Garcia was absent due to the extremely unfortunate illness of his son, who has been diagnosed with leukemia. Rudy will likely be missing a few more meetings as the treatment is going on in San Antonio. My prayers are with the Garcias.
City administrator James Mustard and Mayor Dan Dunlap were also present, as was city attorney Teresa Todd.
The first item was the citizen comment period. Although a few more citizens had trickled into the chambers by this time, there were no comments.

Next up we approved the minutes (with a few small changes) of the last council meeting from Dec 16th, which was mostly met in closed session (discussing inter-governmental business regarding leases, sale of property offers, etc. Unanimous.

The brightest spot of any recent meeting occurred next during the Mayor's report. Mayor Dunlap honored Alex Leos, the retired animal control officer for Marfa, who had served loyally for ten years. He was presented with a gift and was given a very nice speech by the Mayor commending him on his work. Applause came from the whole room.
Next, since the city administrator had not put anything on the agenda for his comments, he was unable to give us his regular update.
Same went for all councilmen, who are now required to place all items for even casual discussion on the agenda. None of us did, so we were silent.

An aside- Attorney General Greg Abbott's opinion of the interpretation of the Open Meetings and/or Public Information Acts was recently updated and now holds us to these new "silent" standards. I understand the rhetoric behind the ruling, but, to me, this new interpretation of the same rules actually results in a less transparent government and cloaks operations and governing officers' opinions from the general public. There is a lawsuit challenging this ruling, and Alpine city councilman/Sul Ross professor/movie theater owner Avinash Rangra is one of the ones involved in the lawsuit. I think his/their chances of winning a ruling so we can go back to a more (literally) responsive way of doing things at public meetings will fail, but I am rooting hard for him.

Next, we went on to "Old Business". This is business that has been brought up and wither postponed and/or tabled by the council. The first item under this header was the request from the "little Dribblers" to use, free of charge, the basketball court in the MAC building for practices from the present through Feb 28th. The Little Dribblers are 7 teams of very young local kids. The coach/organizer (I forgot to write down his name- shame on me) made a compelling presentation and promised to clean the building and lock it up properly following each practice. Practices would occur for several hours four days per week. After it was confirmed to the council that the building would be kept clean and that any equipment that became broken or damaged would be replaced at his cost, we approved the request unanimously. Hopefully those kids will have a great season. I am glad that the city, despite our somewhat precarious financial situation, can still sometimes provide a venue that is valuable to the community at large and to kids specifically.

Next up we discussed proposed city ordinances 09-01,09-02,09-03 and the repeal of 95-02. These are all noise ordinances. The potential repeal is the blanket ordinance from '95 that is essentially unenforceable and doesn't serve the realities of our city well. The new ordinances deal with "quiet hours", "non-quiet hours", and noise from vehicles (boom box cars, engine braking, idling diesels overnight, etc). I could go into intensive detail regarding these ordinances but won't until we finally pass the finished product(s), which looks pretty imminent. City attorney Teresa Todd had reviewed the language and the premises of the three separate ordinances that we on the committee worked on and had some suggestions, all of which had validity to varying extent. Once she had made her presentation about her suggestions and/or misgivings about the documents we discussed them and there will be several of her ideas that the committee, which will surely meet once more, will almost certainly adopt. The main addition will likely be a wording of a permit application for a variance to the noise rules which would go before council to vote on (rather than the administrator and/or police chief). Also, there will likely be a sliding upwards scale of fines for repeated violations of the ordinance. A reminder- all violations other than vehicle violations would require an official warning before a ticket could be issued. Council voted to postpone taking action on this item to give the committee and council more time to work on it. I abstained, but otherwise it was unanimous.

Lastly in old business we discussed the lease/purchase from the county of the land upon which our recycling center and animal shelter rest. Once we decided in closed session to make an offer to the county for the land research on surveys, etc was done deep into the catacombs of the files by the city administrator and it was discovered that we were deeded the land by the county years back, so there's no need to sign a lease or purchase land we already own. However, to out it into perspective, for years the city has provided free water (to the tune of over 2 million gallons per year- in the DESERT!) in lieu of rent. For land we already OWN. This should give you an idea of how murky inter-governmental policies out here have been for years. This is another example of why the adage I hear out here so often (It's all the same taxpayers' money, therefore the same money) is so untrue. If it were true we would all share the same bank account, budget and equipment. It is NOT the same. I made a motion to rescind making an offer to buy property we already own and it was seconded and approved unanimously to some laughter from the audience, which by this time had grown to be fairly large.

NEW BUSINESS:

We voted, with some but not a lot of discussion, to approve the Planning and Zoning Board's submission of their recommendation to approve the zoning change from R-1 to C-3 of the property upon which the future Marfa Motor Inn (also known as the non-La Quinta La Quinta) is slated to be built. The P&Z vote was 3-2 in favor of changing the designation. What the council's action means is that we accepted the P&Z commission's submission to us and now will have a council-based Public Hearing on the matter on Tues Feb 10th at 5PM. A vote of official approval or disapproval of same issue will be on the agenda of the council meeting to follow the public hearing on that same evening. Citizens present in the audience this night who have had some impact on this situation included (but were not limited to) representatives for the new development, county commissioner Felipe Cordero, Tom Schmidt (P&Z), Lucy Garcia (P&Z), Cory Van Dyke (P&Z) and several local citizens associated with the Thunderbird Hotel and/or Ballroom Marfa. Surely the Public Hearing on feb 10th will be well-attended.

Next we discussed and voted on ordinance 09-04. This ordinance allows the city to require developers, large and small, to conform with city regulations and enter into contracts/agreements with the city regarding water and sewer line requirements, restrictions and regulations in order to hook into the city's systems. This is a mere formality of basic sanitation and building issues. Essentially, this is an actual wording of what is practiced nationwide when dealing with a new building seeking water/sewer service. Unanimous.

Next up we discussed Mayor Dunlap's initiative to turn back on more streetlights along selected streets that are dark and have some significant traffic. Other lights included are lights requested to be turned on by the police department (mostly along the drainage ditch from Mimm's Draw that runs along the Abbott street right of way north of the RR tracks). All of these streetlights (unless I missed one) were included as lights to re-light on my "compromise" study from last August/September during our council budgeting committee meetings. After some discussion and consternation from some residents who did not want lights near their houses turned on versus some other citizens who want all the lights on that we can possibly afford, a vote was called with no serious animosity in the room (thank goodness). Unanimous with Manny abstaining.

Lastly, we went through the monthly accounts payable and budget/reality check sheets. The renovations to the MAC and AMVETS buildings were discussed at length, as was the expensive and inconclusive maintenance work to our ancient city (steam)roller, which will need to be in working order once the Southwest side wastewater renovation project gets underway and the streets are torn up to facilitate that project. There were a few other items, but the long and short of it is that the city is currently able to pay all its bills within a 30 day window. Now that is GREAT news. Let's keep it that way.

Rusty made the motion to adjourn- unanimous. - DB

Tuesday Dec 22nd- H-town

2009-01-08T22:48:00.006-06:00

I had a particularly good day on Tuesday December 22nd. I invited some friends to have lunch, drinks and play pool at The Houston Club, the businessman's downtown club that I am proudly still a member of.
John Eikenburg, Charlie Earthman, Eric Feighl, Allen Hill, Christy Kern and I got together and had a really nice time. We walked at length, had some gumbo and other great food, and then drank some Christmas cheer. Here's a shot of us in Allen's Landing (the bar).

Christy Kern, Charlie Earthman, and Allen Hill in Allen's Landing, The Houston Club, 811 rusk, 9th Floor

Allen Hill, Eric Feighl, Christy Kern, David Beebe, and Charlie Earthman in Allen's Landing, The Houston Club. (not pictured, John Eikenburg) Christmas 2008

Later that night I went to The Boondocks to see Little Joe Washington play. If you search Youtube for Little Joe Washington you can see 2 videos of him taken this holiday season. One I took from this particular night. The other is in black and white and was taken of Little Joe playing with me, Allen and Jim Henkel at the Big Top the following Saturday. His video has much better sound. Here's a couple pics of LJW doing his thing. By the way, his show at Boondocks is weekly and it's free. Catch this Houston blues legend live before you die. - DB

Bush/IAH to N Main - the longest walk yet- Part II

2009-01-08T20:38:00.014-06:00

Please see two posts below for Part 1 of this walk, which took place Sunday Dec 28th 2008.

After we ate the excellent tacos at the taco truck sundown was beginning to approach. The clouds had mostly cleared and I was no longer worried about rain, but the colder night air had me slightly spooked, as I was barely staying warm as it was, and we were maintaining a very brisk pace most all of the day. Through the parting of walls, stores and trees down a partially abandoned cul de sac for a sickly newer development we spot the most glorious view of Greenspoint I've ever seen! Ah, yes, the Emerald City of the Greater Houston area. This picture (although kind of dark- click on it for better view) is surely what the real estate barons of the late 70's and early 80's were envisioning for the area now more commonly known as "Gunspoint".

Oh, turn back a bit- before we hit the taco stand, I nearly forgot- and I thought I took pictures, but apparently not- we walked by an extremely messy strip shopping center that housed, not one, but two different chapters of AA. These were announced with big signs, and right between them was a bar. Actually the whole mess of the place looked shut down. There were old couches and TVs scattered about the sidewalks in front of the storefronts and cars in various state of disrepair in the lot. We passed the place and then were both drawn back to it- something was really wrong with this scene. A closer look revealed that the bar and several other shops were not only closed but in a total shambles; the cars in the lot were all inoperable, and the AA storefronts may not have been what they stated. I got really bad vibes after I walked around the ruins of the former bar and got the heck out of there. Meanwhile, John noticed a faceprint embedded in a shattered windshield of a Pontiac with a flat tire. Really, really rough.

Anyway, back to near sundown- at this point we are inside 610 and the road, at some point around here, changes names from Aldine Bender to Airline Dr. We're still well in the 5 digit addresses, but there are more taco trucks and cantinas, plus more traffic and human activity in general. I stop into a Fiesta Mart hoping to get a sweatshirt, but this one doesn't have any clothes. Next door there is a discount closeout clothing outlet and I get a very "bummy" looking large flannel/poly/cotton long sleeved overshirt that would look at home on any guy waiting around in front of Labor Ready. Now I'm warm and rejuvenated. Walking, walking, seeing more and more of same- auto shops, boutiques, taco trucks and Spanish everywhere. A new phenomenon of Houston cruising makes itself known to me- the blasting of speakers within the grilles of cars and trucks. Kind of like the old boom box trucks but less bass and more direct volume. As we get closer to the Airline "Los Garages" as they are sometimes called, there are more and more cars blasting rap, conjunto, rancheras and tejano out of external speakers. Wow- new to me and such a logical progression from bass boxes!

John picks up a shopping cart as his feet and the load of I-pod jam box and general reporting gear begins to wear on him. We've been out for over 8 hours by this time with only one short stop off our feet. My feet are aching as well. We have miles and miles to go to get to home territory. By the way, we have seen relatively few shopping carts on this trip and essentially zero homeless folks.

It's Sunday night and it's hard for me to believe that Airline drive out here (past Canino) is a hot spot for cruising, upper Westheimer style. We are nearly the lone pedestrians and there are piles of junk in vacant lots along the way, burned out cars here and there, etc, but mostly just fences and weeds along the sidewalks.

The street activity gets more and more hectic and we finally find ourselves just further out than the corner of Airline and Tidwell when we come across the fables "Garages". This is the most amazing flea market I have ever seen- Sunday night and there's live Tejano, thousands of booths, food everywhere, families, more music and good times for all. Everything in the world- new and used- is sold here and I will be going back as soon as possible.

This is a cultural jackpot. Plus, there was a nice Airstream Bambi next to a booth.

We could have stayed there all night, but things were getting ready to wind down there and we needed to keep moving if we ever planned on getting home. Mike Haaga had called and wanted to possibly meet up with us as we got nearer to his place (Airline at Crosstimbers area), so we were beginning to look for a hangout we could sit down at for a while.
The area between the "Garages" and I-45 reminds me slightly of the Golfcrest area in southeast Houston.

Like Golfcrest there are homes built in the 50's and 60's in various states of disrepair, a mishmash of businesses, but few recognizable name brands of much, and a few old school established restaurants that have toughed it out over the years. This BBQ joint is clearly one of those. I love the name "Hungry Farmer BBQ" The hickory burger at Lucky Burger back in the day was called "The Hungry Farmer" The jalapeno cheeseburger was called "The El Capitan". I still order them by that name and get a blank look from the cat who has worked there for the last 15 years! Anyway, that's my Hungry Farmer story.

Just past Little York we finally find our pit stop. John has heard of this place before and it has some heritage, plus a nice stage, great jukebox, pool tables, good service and smoking permitted if you are not too obvious about it (yes, we are now finally in Houston City Limits and John is a light smoker- I don't smoke). It's the Cedar Lounge, and since it's Sunday, this is one of only three nights a week that's not "Tejano Night". Despite the billing, the crowd is mixed and, as I said, it's a great place to stop off for a drink.

Mike Haaga in front of the Cedar Lounge sign

John calls Mike and he shows up a good 15 minutes later with the bad news ( we already knew) that we have quite a long way to go. It's nearing 9 PM and I am fading slightly as the lack of sleep, cold, walking and Christmas break in general is catching up with me. Not lost on me is my drive to Marfa with a stop at the State Comptroller's office in Austin the next day.
Mike, John and I have a nice chat about this and that and I am thrilled that the black guy sitting next to me who buys a drink for a pretty hispanic chick about my age across the way looks like he may have a made a good new friend in her. About 15 songs on the excellent jukebox later and it's time to go. Haaga gets in his car for the safe ride home and we set out again on foot.

About an hour later we stop at another bar, this time it's clearly a Spanish language only place. We walk in and have a shot of Cazadores tequila and a Budweiser each and relax. Ten PM- we are getting near 45, but it's clear this walk will last past midnight before we get into our turf.

Walking, walking, more and more amplified cars drive past and there's some street racing and at least one cop bust going down. John reminds me that as we get closer to 45 the prostituiton activity picks up. That and everything that goes alongside that is what we're heading into. By this time my legs are kind of numb, but my foot pains have leveled off. Not so for John, whose feet are in just as bad a shape at this time as they are usually when he wears the Crocs.

Another hour or so of walking and we are at Crosstimbers. John opts to go iiinto a gas station to get us a beer and I wait outside with his I-pod jam box and sit on the curb. One of the drunkest men I have seen in recent years stumbles across the esplanade and comes over to me. He is not speaking even remotely clearly, but in his hand are three crack rocks and he is obviously looking to sell. I turn him down politely and he becomes slightly upset. Once John comes out I let him know that we are dealing with a new frontier in our walks, plus a true idiot. At thie point the guy gets pretty upste when John turns down the crack. Luckily for everyone, a police car with its lights on drives fast and spooks the guy. We take the opportunity to ealk off and he is standing in the lot, talking loudly and incoherently. We are now officially in the hot-sheet motel zone.

Passing over a giant aqueduct, John and I are debating the indisputable merits of the Isley Brothers, their history and excellent covers of classic rock tunes. He dials some up on the jam box and the misty cold night is made whole.

Airline between Crosstimbers and North Main is a mix of appliance stores, light industrial, the ancient and small original farmer's market and a bunch of questionable convenience stores, motels and excellent Mexicna food joints. By this time of night things are relatively quiet in the streets and at the corners. We get hit up for money and use of John's cell phone(!) at the corner of 45 and Airline by a group of older homeless balck guys and a crackhead 17 year old white girl. Rough stuff- everyone is walking too fast, and so are we.

John's feet are killing him and we are both beat. I don't know the mileage at this point, but it's after midnight and we agree to get to the corner of North Main at Airline and catch the bus or a cab down Main to Warrrens and talk over the recap.

A call to Yellow Cab is met with 45 minutes of nothing and because of our fatigue we make the totally out of character amateur move of waitng for the cab across the street from teh bus stop and narrowly miss TWO buses. Idiots. I am out of practice.

Waiting for the cab across from Spanish Flower at another burned out Conoco. John Lomax sitting.

Finally a cab shows up and we feel the pleasant relief of the state of relief. The cab driver is talkative and nice and takes us to Warren's. The cab smells like puke. In Warren's I mention this to John and we both notice that we can still smell the puke. Next thing you know John is stripping off his favorite sweatshirt and tosses it. Puke from the cab on his sweatshirt! Sunday night in H-town. A drink later and it's about 2 AM and time to git. One more cab back to his place and the night is done. What a heck of a walk.

Admittedly, although I had far fewer drinks than I had on a couple of these walks I was as delirious as I have ever been by the end. John's feet were getting ready to start bleeding and he had been noticably slower over the last few miles. Night had fallen for real and Sundays, even in Houston, are mundane in the late hours. It was a walk cut short of downtown, but not short at all; I believe we covered more mileage and wlaked faster in general than ever before. Days later my calf muscels were still sore.

Conclusion- "Los Garages" are not to be missed under any circumstance; Bush?IAH is much further than I thought. - DB

Marfa noise ordinance public hearing Tues 1/13

2009-01-08T00:25:00.001-06:00

Here's a notice from me regarding our noise ordinance. Your chance to be heard on the issue will be on Tuesday 1/13 at 5 PM, city hall, for a public hearing on the new noise ordinance(s). Please attend. We are scheduled to vote on it at the regular council meeting following the hearing. Copies of the propsed ordinances are available at city hall (right now!) Thanks- David

Beyond Bush IAH to North Main- the longest walk

2009-01-07T21:21:00.023-06:00

It was great to be back in Houston for Christmas break. As much as I love living in Marfa, I had not been back to Houston since right after Hurricane Ike and the continuous stress of managing a major construction project here had me worn out. My policy on visiting my parents for holidays is now as follows: I do not return for Thanksgiving, but I give them at least a week at Christmas. This has been the case for the last 2 years and it works better for me than two short trips back, to say the least.
I'll give a short wrap-up of Christmas break before I get to the final day in Houston, which was a fourteen hour day of walking.
On the way back to Houston from Marfa I stopped off for a night in Austin and dropped off a local Marfan who needed a ride to Austin to pick up a truck he bought. This cam as a result of posting a rideshare notice on Marfalist.org. Anyway, it worked out well and I decided to go ahead and catch Jesse Dayton at the Broken Spoke since it was a Thursday night. That was a great show and packed to the walls. I got to play bass for a few songs since Billy D, Jesse's current bass player, was very ill and had to take a break from the stage. I ended up the night at, where else, the Continental Club and caught a great new act, whose name escapes me at the present. My night ended with some good sleep on a flat surface and a large hot cup of Jo's coffee in the morning on the way out of town.
I got to Houston around 11:30 and immediately got on Bus #82 to go to the Galleria, where I met friends and business partners for a long lunch at Del Frisco's. Great company and food- a great way to start Christmas break. The night ended up at the Singalong club with a bunch of Roller Derby girls. The next day I took care of some shopping a a few other errands, like taking the Padre's sound board to LD systems for repair and cleaning. Long and short, I had a great Christmas, got to play a show with the 1999 version of the El Orbits at the Big Top, did electrical work at the Continental Club, got great gifts and had a great time with my family, and overall got little sleep.
We did our walk on Sunday Dec 28th. The night before was a four hour show for me at the Big Top with Allen and Jim and I got little sleep since I stayed up late and drank a good bit of Pabst Blue Ribbon. I was to meet John Lomax at his house at 8:30 in the morning but slept through the alarm and made it there around 9:45 AM. Bleary eyed and tired, I opted to wear my new work boots since I knew this walk would break them in. For once John wasn't wearing his Crocs, but instead was wearing real shoes. I had, in my hasty exit from my parents' house, forgotten to get a heavy coat for rain and wind protection, and that was a concern for me starting as soon as we set out from his house to walk to the Med Center transit center to catch the rail to the airport shuttle bus downtown. John lives near Southside Place and West U very close to the Little Woodrow's on Holcombe, so we began the day with that walk all the way down Holcombe to the Med Center transit Center, reminiscing about the Gallant Knight, bad crime that used to be in the area, and the glory of the Tides Motor Inn, Shamrock Hotel and its amazing pool. Damage from Hurricane Ike is still visible up and down the road, and particularly on the larger towers. The Prudential building is still there, but I suspect that not even the economic downturn will keep the medical center machine from bulldozing that and putting up another pink or creme colored med tower. My favorite old building left that is not on the list for the wrecking ball is the under-appreciated Bank of America building on the corner of Holcombe and Main (it has another name but I can't remember it). It looks plain from far away, but both sides are curved and the lines are quite subtle and nice. There are some marble panels missing from the storm- I hope they are able to match new marble with the old when it gets fixed.

The weirdest and most desolate place in this mini-walk is the fountain/ walkway that replaced the Shamrock. This neo-classical promenade is called the Gus and Lyndall Wortham Park, not to be confused with the amazing Gus Wortham fountain on Allen Parkway. On this day, as on many days, the fountain is actively spouting water columns to nobody, as the fountain downtown on the light rail line is supposed to do (but is always messed up). This bizarre guilt trip tribute to the concept of public space mixes elements of a grand promenade with Vegas style accents contrasting with the feel of a confined and secluded corridor. Its out of the way entrance and low visibility from Holcombe is probably why I had never seen it before. This is a very good park to go to if you don't want anyone to find you. I couldn't help but picture Nixon and Kissinger walking side by side alongside the fountain and columns planning the next offensive maneuver in Vietnam.

We finally made it to the Metrorail station and got picked up by a train within a matter of minutes since they were on the return trip down the line from dropping off fans at Reliant for the Texans game. We rapidly made it down to the Downtown Transit Center, next to which is a nice, new temporary building in a parking lot. This is where individuals can catch a plush, fast, shiny new commuter bus for Intercontinental Airport which costs $15 and leaves every thirty minutes. The lobby has free hot coffee, clean restrooms, comfy chairs to wait in and a friendly staff. That being said, John and I were the only two folks on the bus on a Sunday following the Christmas holidays. Metro is going to have to do a much better job of promoting this service if it's going to catch on.

Our driver was courteous and got us there fast. To my surprise, we headed out 59 north instead of 45 or the Hardy Toll Road, and to the driver's surprise, we asked him to please let us out before we got into the airport gates. Somehow he took however we asked it to mean that we were trying to get out to the airport but didn't want to let and police see us (?!). Anyway, we pretty much went with that and he dropped us off in the cold and windy drizzle at Will Clayton Parkway and Lee Rd- on the far side of the airport from our eventual destination- Warren's Inn downtown. By this time is was around 11:30 Am or so, slightly dark, kind of cold and kind of wet. I was determined to keep moving to stay warm and I also was concerned that the weather could degenerate into something like our Long Point walk, which was colder than Marfa (hard to believe, but wet is colder than dry, no matter the temp).

The walk down Lee Rd southbound is basically a walk through pastures and airport barrier green space. Twice people stopped and offered us a ride to Aldine Bender, our next major destination. The first guy was, I think, looking to pick up or something. The second guy was an older gentleman who seemed to actually be looking to save us some time and legwork. We declined both, of course, and noted that this is the very first route we've walked where we've been offered any sort of ride.

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Lee Rd is long, and we finally ended up at the Beltway, still a few miles away to the East from Hardy Rd and JFK Blvd, the traditional entry point to Bush IAH for most Houstonians. Nearly 2 hours had passed and now we found ourselves walking the noisy, busy and culturally desolate feeder road of Beltway 8 trying to get to Aldine Bender, which eventually turns into Airport Blvd, our pathway back to the junction of Airline and North Main (Spanish Flower, to most folks) which was the symbolic ending of any sort of foreign turf for us. This part of Houston we had just been through to get to the Beltway (and, of course, most of unincorporated Harris County/ Humble,/ Aldine, etc) has virtually no sidewalks and still has a rural feel, in the types of businesses set up (metal buildings, razor wire fences, falling down barns full of junk) and the number of dogs (lots).

One convenience store we stopped at was replete with the requisite 8-liners and multiple cheap cigarette signs (all on special!). We spotted a couple of places on Lee Rd that looked as if weekends might include cock or dog fighting, and plenty of semi-closed or totally closed junkyards. No other pedestrians thus far other than a group of juvenile delinquent looking kids wandering around.

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The Boyz2Men Day Care- coed, by the way

John Lomax and some local scenery.

The 15000 block of Lee Rd, Beltway just ahead!

The Beltway is a major change, as I mentioned before, and not necessarily for the better, as the landscape is extremely boring and sprawling. Freeway exits are a mile apart or more and business parks, empty and full, dot the landscape. I predict some serious bankruptcies for some of these mega-office park developers out here, as many are empty and others are under construction.
At some point we are starting to make progress in getting to where we planned to start walking on this trip, and it's already been over 2 hours. The buildings and office landscapes start to look more and more "perfect" and at one point I mention that things are starting to look very "Halliburton". Sure enough, the very next complex, complete with ducks and geese in the deep fake blue/green colored pond out front, is a giant Halliburton campus.

Must have been some sub-conscious memory from the time The El Orbits drove this same service road to play Sundance Head's wedding at a corporate style party room (great gig, by the way!- pre American Idol and Roy song with us off and on all evening).

An excellent "waterway of Harris County" along the BW 8 service road. It was still drizzly at this time.

Hours of walking pass and we're finally approaching Aldine Bender, gateway back to civilization. Not too far south of Beltway 8 is the Aldine High School complex; school grounds, baseball complex, other sports venues, administration buildings, etc. Quite a clean and nice arrangement. Very close by is an ancient Dairy Queen building converted into a Mexican food joint. I love that.

Aldine Bender is the beginning of regular sidewalks; seldomly does the sidewalk start at a new office development and then abruptly end. Aldine Bender, though, does have a plethora of animals, much like Lee Rd. We see horses, ducks and chickens running wild together in a vacant lot next to a convenience store, dogs, cats and hawks in the air. I like this next picture, as Aldine Bender has as many used car parts places as North Shepherd, but most are smaller and may or may not be open.
The name of this one, "Aldine Bender" drew out my camera.
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Oh yeah, and what's the deal with this? We walk further and further, and not until we are well, well near Loop 610 do we get near "713" territory. All "281". I thought that was for outside the Beltway- like long distance almost. This area gets no respect.

Aldine Bender seems to last forever, a nearly un-ending procession of car lots, auto parts stores (John points out, correctly, that besides fast-food, the only national chains that set up shop in this part of town are the auto parts stores), small beauty parlors, junk shops, and yards of garbage guarded by barking dogs. Thankfully for me, the rain clouds have mostly dissipated into cirrus clouds and the brisk walking we are doing keeps me warm. We finally come across our first open neighborhood bar and I decide we should duck in. We do, and I take a hair of the dog that bit me the night before with a cold (and ancient) Lone Star.

The Northside Saloon- a friendly place if you're in the neighborhood

This bar is the typical Houston hinterlands neighborhood spot, where everyone clearly knows each other and the Cowboys game is on TV, since it's Sunday. There are 2 dogs running around, and since we are still outside Houston city limits (even after about 3 hours of walking) everyone is smoking. There's a big iron bell with a string hanging down from the striker over one side of the bar. A sign above says, "If you ring this bell you will buy the whole bar a round of drinks." For some reason this strikes me funny. Everyone warms up to the two weird strange guys that walked in from the cold, and we make some small conversation before I am ready to go. I can already tell that sitting, even for a few minutes, is going to make me freeze once we get back out in the windy, cold humid air. Sure enough, that's the case, but out of the corner of my eye as we walk past a muffler shop right before we cross over the Hardy Toll Road I see another great Houston "Muffler Man"! Awesome. We both pose for pics and then cross the great divide that is the tollway and several sets of railroad tracks.

This is a bar we didn't venture into. John wanted to go in, but some sense told me that this wasn't a good day for us to go here, although maybe next time.

The near side of Aldine Bender is more industrial, at least for a while, than the further end. Lots of warehouses and fewer auto parts shops. As we get closer to Loop 610 an aging residential component is added- older suburbia. Signs are more and more often in Spanish only and there are actually shopping centers. The "great walls" that are sound barricades to the neighborhoods from major thoroughfares crop up on either side of us. There are sidewalks, but since nobody actually walks alongside the "great walls" they are caked with mud and the remaining mess from Hurricane Ike. Two stray dogs begin to follow us, and I don't notice them until they have been a few paces behind us for at least a while.

Dogs love to walk in really busy streets.

When we stop walking, they stop and look at us. When we start again, they amble right along behind us. John states that is one or both of these dogs follows us the whole way that it will have a home at his house. Less than a minute later both dogs turn back.

The "great walls" finally part and we are looking at a closed down bowling alley and a shuttered Conoco with our first Taco truck of the day in the parking lot. Why? Doesn't matter, as we're both starving. It's about 4 PM and I have had nothing but a large coffee all day and John has only had a small breakfast at home before I got there. We order some tacos and it's the best Mexican food either of us has had in ages. Incredible food for less than $5- really great, and not just because we were hungry. Houston has got the best taco truck scene in the world.

An aside- this is the first time, I think ever, that I have seen a closed down gas station with the prices still posted on it where the prices of an open gas station within view are lower!

Click on any picture for a larger view- note gas prices. I would guess this Conoco closed sometime in late spring of 2008.
We cross Loop 610. This story will be continued in tomorrow's post- it's late, late!- DWB

Excellent new resource for Marfans and visitors

2008-12-16T15:26:00.004-06:00

Hello, folks-

The good local folks at BBgun productions have started a great resource for folks who live in, visit, or own property in or near Marfa. Since we are way too small for Craigslist and the nearest CL cities are El Paso and Odessa, we have not really had an accessible method of sharing info, posting classifieds, et al. Now we have www.marfalist.org - a pint sized version of CL with no fees and a Marfa-style honor system. It is fabulous- visit it!!!

www.marfalist.org

-DB

Picture of Murgatroyd- 2006

2008-12-11T18:50:00.002-06:00

Here's a nice rear view photo of Murgatroyd from Nov of 2006- beside the Continental Club in Houston. Murg is doing great out here in Marfa. I ran out of gas Tuesday night after my radio show, but that was my fault for ignoring the mileage.- DB

The Texans beat GB at Lambeau?!

2008-12-08T20:29:00.002-06:00

Incredible- the Houston Texans win by a field goal with a 40 yard field goal at Lambeau Field in Green Bay. THAT is shocking. - DB

The soda policy at Padre's

2008-11-07T21:38:00.002-06:00

Actually, we'll also have St Arnold's Root Beer and some strawberry soda as well, but you catch my drift. Also, Chick O Sticks will be the official candy. -DWB

Announcers at Battle Royale- Houston Roller Derby hosts WFTDA Westerns

2008-11-07T21:20:00.004-06:00

Here's some typically ridiculous photos of some of the more famous (infamous) roller derby announcers in the nation at Battle Royale. There are others that aren't fit for viewing- either in a "family" setting or in the supposed safety of your own confines, so I'll spare you.

First off, here's HRD announcer Mario "Mangler" Martinez with Moose Ondaluce from the Derby News Network

Next we have Jeffrey Calmer, Howie Felterbottom, Dumptruck and Chip Queso all sampling some delicious pickles from The Colonel's pickle jar.

Dumptruck, in keeping with his theme of "everything all the way and more" gets down with the pickle jar at the announcers' table. "They ain't got no Del Dixi Polish pickles in Colorado!"

Howie Felterbottom and Dumptruck taking a "break" in the Derby Brothers' tent. By Day 3 we were all there at least 50% of the time. Great job, brothers! And especially thanks to all the girls and refs that came together to make an incredible weekend of Roller Derby happen. Visit www.houstonrollerderby.com for literally thousands of pictures of this event take by real photographers.

West Texas Roller Girls are now a WFTDA certified team

2008-11-07T20:59:00.002-06:00

Tonight, after working in the yard most of the day planting cacti, hauling broken concrete and rocks and sorting scrap wood, I ventured to the computer to try to figure out how to use the Google Reader feature. One of the few things I subscribed to is the feed from the West Texas Rollergirls out of Lubbock. Anyway, I found out that not only did they beat Assassination City last month in a bout, but now they have received official WFTDA certification. Amazing, considering they had their very first bout about 6 months ago (according to their page). Lubbock is 5 and a half hours away- too far. However, if I need to make a big trip next year for supplies maybe I can arrange a motel room and an extra four hours for the round trip to go to the Lubbock Municipal Auditorium and see them play (That's right they're skating in a REAL venue and not a rink!)
Cool deal. - DB

A short one

2008-11-06T21:01:00.003-06:00

There's a little much to talk about right now and not nearly enough time to do so, but I feel like it's important to say a couple of short things about the Presidential election. First off, John McCain's consolation speech was the best I've ever heard and I really appreciate his candidacy. Secondly, I tuned into www.kcohradio.com before I went to bed on Tuesday night after wiring circuits during the NPR election reports on Marfa Public Radio and heard three old school former civil rights advocates speaking some amazingly intense words about what it all meant to them. That, plus some Sam Cooke and some Amazing Grace interspersed between comments. I only lasted about 20 minutes, it was so intense, but I gave thanks for that and them, plus the fact that AM KCOH 1430 is still on the air in Houston. - David

Marfa City Council 10/30 & public hearing

2008-10-30T20:17:00.004-06:00

I have some extra energy tonight, despite another marathon City Council meeting. Hopefully it'll be enough to post up the whole nine yards with regard to what went on tonight.

The first order of business was the Public Hearing on the proposed noise ordinance. A short preview- Marfa currently has a noise ordinance that is basically unenforceable unless we want to turn off the amplified church bells at the Catholic church. forgo having any music at the Marfa Lights Festival, and basically prohibit any outdoor noise. It was clear from the response at the hearing that nobody wants to restrict local culture and entertainment to that extent.
I was very pleased with the turnout at the hearing; the room was full and the comments never broke down into name calling and insults, minus a reference by a citizen regarding the (somewhat legendary but not applicable to Marfa) drinking habits of Irish Catholics. That comment was rebuked by others and was not pertinent to the topic at hand anyway, so I will ignore it here.
Some highlights of the public comment period included Fred Martinez' plea for cooperation and limiting the scope of a proposed ordinance to something that will work for Marfa. This was a recurring theme as many citizens agreed that what is good for Fredericksburg, Austin, Houston et al does not necessarily apply to our community, with our unique traditions and mix of cultures. Adobe Moon BBQ property owner (not operator) Jon Johnson passed out a revised proposal for a noise ordinance that would be based on a cut-off time (clock-based) and communication between neighbors. Lineaus Lorette, the major force behind the initial complaint(s) stated that he would be happy with enforcement of the current ordinance with an exemption for the church bells and perhaps some limited special events. Lucy Garcia stated that, through the years, Marfans had cooperated in turning off the music at 11PM on weeknights, midnight on Fridays, and 1 AM on Saturday nights. She went on to state that dances have always been held in Marfa and that this has never caused a problem in the past. Rosie Garcia stated that she believes the new noise ordinance would preclude her and other older Marfans from enjoying music outside while doing chores and that some of the "newer" Marfans would like to regulate the fun out of our lives. Maria Williams pointed out that Conchita's restaurant, across the street from Adobe Moon and cater-cornered to the church, has been a liquor store and that a bar called the Six-Two Inn had been next door and hosted loud music and drinking for years back in the past and had never been an issue. Mary "Tita" Nunez, an active member of St Mary's Catholic Church mentioned that a Rosary service had been disrupted recently by the band at Adobe Moon on a Saturday evening and that she was in favor of a compromise much like what most members who spoke had mentioned- a mixture between our old ordinance and the proposal that Jon Johnson presented to the group. Other comments along the same lines were made throughout the meeting, with communication and cooperation being the major themes. Jon Johnson made an apology to St Mary's about the rosary issue and stated that he would like to communicate better in the future so that something like that won't ever occur again. His apology was accepted by Mrs Nunez and an apparent peace looks like it will be forthcoming.
Other sections of the hearing got somewhat off topic when the subject of whether the Adobe Moon is a bona-fide family restaurant or merely a "honky-tonk". Differing opinions plus a protestation of the Adobe Moon having ever been issued a beer license were brought forward, with customers of the Adobe Moon defending the place (including Joni Marginot from the Marfa Chamber of Commerce) as a great place for groups like high school football teams and Boy Scout troops to meet for a large=group dinner of relatively fast and good food. Sales tax revenue plus the fact that they are actually open quite often were mentioned, countered with the allegation that beer and wine sales have become the focus of the business. I stated that, by Texas law, the place is classified as a restaurant first and a bar second as long as alcohol sales make up less than 50% of gross sales. Period. This was an attempt to steer the conversation back to noise and the noise ordinance. Lastly on speakers, the Rev Connors from the Baptist church spoke twice and had some excellent homespun wisdom of coming together and remaining positive. He scolded several in the audience, including the mayor, for using unnecessarily divisive language at times during the hearing. It was pleasant commentary from a man of conservative cloth who has certainly seen a lot and clearly cares for the future of Marfa as a true community. Kudos to him from me. Later in the city council meeting portion of the meeting, we agreed to postpone the matter and study a potential noise ordinance further. Councilman Manny Baeza proposed the idea of creating a seven person special panel of volunteers, 2 councilmen and the city administrator to draft an ordinance for Marfa. The motion was approved with the commission being made up of Manny, myself, city administrator James Mustard, David Hance, Burt Compton, Rosie Garcia, and Mike Calvert. We will meet sometime next week to discuss. I am open to suggestions in person or by telephone. I am listed in national information here in Marfa under my name. If you have an older phone book my number is under Memorial Funeral Home. No emails please.
I was very happy with both the turnout and the spirit of community at the public hearing. Thanks so much to all those who participated and shared their thoughts. It is great to see Marfans speak and listen to each other.

And now, break for random photograph-

Here's a picture of Adam Bork and Ross Cashiola at the El Cosmico Festival a few weeks back. I played the bass and took the picture from the stage. We were all violating the current unenforced and practically unenforceable noise ordinance currently on the books.

City council meeting- we started the meeting at 6:05 PM after a short break following the public hearing, which started at 5PM.

All members, including Scott May, who had missed the public hearing due to work, were present for this meeting.
After the Pledge of Allegiance the floor was open for the citizen comment period. No citizen comments. Following that we unanimously approved last meeting's minutes, with a few small changes to the text.

Next, Mayor Dan Dunlap gave his report, in which he stated that he attended the Rio Grande Council of Governments meeting and that Big Bend Community Action, based in Marfa and serving over 21,000 square miles of territory in 5 counties won the award for RGCOG Organization of the Year. He went into a summary of the wide scope of social services they provide, mostly to elderly and infirm residents of this part of Texas and gave a status report on their many projects. This is a great organization and one of my neighbors here on the block.

Next we had the City Administrator's Report.
City administrator Jim Mustard gave us his amended interpretation (based on documentation received from the AG) of the new opinion essentially restricting all councilmember comments to items specifically listed on the official agenda, minus statements of fact or clarification of specific policy in response to citizen comments or questions. All other comments of any sort are now supposed to be listed as a specific agenda item. It is my opinion that this is restrictive to productive and transparent government, as minutes are available on the public record and no item not on an agenda will be voted upon. That's my opinion, and I'm sure the opinion of other local officials from around the state. It is a widely accepted opinion of local governments that this interpretation of the Open Meetings Act will be challenged in court soon. In the meantime, we have to accept this opinion as the basis for (unwritten) law.
Next Jim discussed an agenda item for later- commercial trash rates. There will be a difference in treatment for smaller commercial customers and the city is clarifying the size and frequency of dumpster collections on the commercial basis. This item is further discussed later as an official agenda item. (I was not permitted to ask a question at this point under the new rules!)
Next, the sewer plant project. No change in status, as the TCEQ has still not issued us an acceptance or rejection of our application.
Next, a response as to Rudy Garcia's inquiry as to whether we have a program in place for maintenance of our city owned vehicles and heavy equipment. The police department already has a detailed process of keeping track of and scheduling routine maintenance and the Dept of Public Works will now have similar worksheets to fill out and keep track of in order to keep their equipment maintained. It is my opinion that this is a major step in the right direction, given the price of things like backhoes, 3/4 Ton trucks, bulldozers and road graders these days and that a little routine maintenance can really save us a lot of time, trouble and money over the long term.
Lastly, Mr. Mustard let us know that an organizational meeting regarding the new volunteer fire fighters pension plan will occur on Nov 10th. At that meeting a Pension board will begin to be organized and the administrators of the plan will relate to the city what type of board will be assembled and what duties and responsibilities it will have. The goal is to have the program organized, in place and active by January 1st. I am 100% in favor of this plan over the former benefit the fire dept volunteers received, which was free water (no water bill). Pension plans make for benefits that can be received post mortem by surviving spouses and offer disability payments as well, should that occur. Fortunately, the requirements for volunteer fire fighters in Texas these days are so stringent that we have a very safe and qualified volunteer force and injuries on the job, even minor ones, are close to none. Disclosure- I am a vested member of the American Federation of Musicians Pension Fund and it was well worth the work and time to earn in. I have no spouse to survive me if I pass, but if I live, I have a consistent minor source of income. If I become disabled and unable to work my benefits kick in early and last through my death.

Councilmember Comments:
Since no comments from council members were listed in advance on the agenda there were to be no comments from councilmembers. Rudy Garcia piped in with a reference to an agenda item (police force status report) that he had requested. I then piped in with an update on the MAC building planting with a reference that a general statement of fact, with no action or debate, should be permitted, although apparently illegal under the new AG opinion. I stated that the 1st phase of the plants is in and doing fine and that the drip irrigation system will be installed in the beds the weekend of Nov 17th when the TPWD has its meeting there. All this at no cost to the city. I was then informed that several of the new plants will have to be moved in order to facilitate the renovation of the swimming pool bathrooms and locker rooms. I offered to safeguard those plants in the meantime. Anyway, I guess I still can't help challenging laws I think restrict our freedom (to speak of all things!) so, although my mother will cringe, I did it again.

Next: we heard from Marfa Police Chief J.D Wilbourn. He gave us a comprehensive police dept report on activities the dept has conducted for the whole year, to this point. It was broken down into regular police business and/or calls, animal control calls/service and code enforcement calls. The information was very detailed and it is clear to me that J.D. has a good grip on his paperwork, reporting and exactly what is going on in his office and with his deputies. I won't go into much more detail, but he also showed councilmembers a breakdown of a state audit of the police/sheriff's dept books and response/arrest of all agencies in Presidio County and it's clear that our force has more focus, at the very least. 24 hour on call service, which we have never had before (and it's a good thing we do, since the Presidio County Sheriff's Office's phones have been disconnected) is now in place thanks to call forwarding to the officer on duty from the main police number. He also went into detail on some of the non-police (well, not required) work the police force takes on, including welfare check on elderly residents, watch programs for people's properties who are out of town for extended periods, community service programs, and much more. It was clear that J.D. was prepared for this presentation and I was glad there was a fairly large group of citizens there to see it.
The last part of the conversation between councilmembers and the police chief alluded to a supposed meeting that may not have actually occurred between the chief, the city administrator, the mayor and the municipal court judge regarding the types of tickets/citations that could be given out to maximize revenue to the city. I remember vividly when this was brought up during the budget process and I was very upset about law enforcement being used as a potential revenue source. Rudy Garcia is the councilman who brought this up tonight and myself, Rudy and Manny Baeza (possible Rusty too) remember this moment from the meeting a few months back and were eager for clarification, as I said before, this was disturbing to all of us (definitely to me, as I get pulled over by DPS at least twice a month for various reasons- "safety check", "obstructed" license plate, etc. We received clarification satisfactory to me from the chief, the city administrator and the mayor on the issue and I am glad that we did.

Now, finally we get to the point in the meeting where we address action items! These meetings are getting longer every month.

Ist item is "Old Business"
We had tabled the proposed noise ordinance until after the Public Hearing and now we addressed it again in official debate. See above public hearing statement to see the action we took. Long and short- we did not adopt it and have appointed a commission to draft an ordinance explicitly for Marfa to present to council at a later date for consideration. Theoretically we will create an ordinance that reflects the will of the citizens that was expressed during the Public Hearing

NEW BUSINESS:

Discussion with action as appropriate to address the city's obligations under certain forms of government.
After we raised the garbage rates to an astronomically ridiculous level based on the bill we get from our provider (Duncan Disposal- parent company Republic Disposal- poor corporate citizens in my estimation and I'm being kind) talk at the last meeting and around town was that there was a petition going around to force an election on changing our form of government back to the three man system we once had. That is the same system that resulted in our selling our city owned garbage collection to a private outsider for a song and also our forfeiture of a minimum of 10% of our ownership of the SWTMG gas corp for apparently no money- at least not money that went into city coffers.

Anyway, the city administrator, although he has no vote and no say in city policy, is able to put items on the agenda and he used this opportunity to explain the city's required service obligations and non-required service obligations. The point was made that a change in form of government would not be required to eliminate the MAC building, the Nutrition Center, the golf course, EMS service, the Police dept, the city administrator's position and other smaller items (we are required to have municipal court.) The current council could address and eliminate these items if need be (minus some basic police service on the far west end (west Heights) since they were annexed later). The mayor provided us with a breakdown of how much individual city services cost the citizens after expenses and revenues are factored in.
Here's the breakdown in this year's budget dollars. I read this out loud for the audience (loudly).
Administration: $90,085
Police/Animal control/code enforcement: 146,761
Fire Dept: 0
Municipal Court: 9,234
EMS service: 183,285
Library: 95,395
Golf Course: 28,208
MAC/swimming pool: 18,598
Seniors' Nutrition Center: 49,038
Recycling: 20,388
Public Works: 259,121

Total: 900,113
Minus property tax revenue: 184,499

Total shortfall that is made up through sales tax revenue, water, sewer, permitting and garbage fees: 715,614

I could go on and on on this matter, as we did at the meeting (for nearly an hour) but I will say that this shortfall would be MUCH larger if not for the various grants our city applies for and receives, mostly because we are a poor border community and are eligible for funds relating to Homeland Security and low income community grant funds from various agencies. Another note: the recycling deficit can be turned into NOTHING aka ZERO is businesses and the majority of homeowners were to make the effort to utilize the recycling center. Stay turned here for more info on our upcoming cardboard recycling effort, to be implemented once the county renews our lease at the composting/recycling area next to the golf course. This item appears further down tonight's agenda.

Lastly, certain citizens are intent on seeing the police dept cut down to one officer. More than 65% of the police dept's funding comes from Border Star grants through the Dept of Homeland Security; this is money from outside our area being funneled into our community in the form of wages, benefits, and money to spend maintaining our equipment. I personally feel that 24 hour police protection is an absolute necessity, more so than a golf course, library, MAC center, and/or Parks and Rec dept. I find it ironic that several of the same citizens who want greater code enforcement and to have every single streetlight turned back on NOW as an issue of public safety want us to go to 8 hour per day, 5 days a week police protection with one officer on the force. Think about that for a minute.

Finally, ITEM 2, under new business. Most of the audience hhad retired to the saner streets of Marfa and their homes by now, as we were getting tired with a mere 7 more items to consider tonight.

Item 2- discussion with action as appropriate concerning Ordinance 08-08 revising the rates for commercial trash pickup.
This is kind of a complicated issue, as the city records and billing process for commercial accounts were very hodgepodge, to say the least and have been found to be extremely inaccurate. Since we have only approved new trash rates based on the new Duncan Disposal rates (we have not yet approved their contract and are operating month to month until a new contract is ratified by both parties)we are going to reclassify the commercial customers based on actual usage, with dumpsters being marked for individual commercial users and send Duncan a new revised proposal using fewer pickups and fewer commercial customers. I would like to congratulate the citizens for being so aggressive and outspoken regarding the new rates last meeting and forcing the executive branch of city government to further investigate our own billing practices and how it relates or doesn't relate to what Duncan charges the city for each customer and/or pick up. There are many confusing details to go into, but I can give a personal example of a change in billing/service that will save some money to the customer and potentially reduce the Duncan bill to the city. It turns out that I found out from Saarin Keck, who did some extensive research on what Duncan charges the city and what the city charges the customers in relation to the aforementioned. She also did some investigation into whether certain individuals in the city (government and otherwise) were receiving favorable treatment that may or may not have influenced the negotiations with Duncan and the corresponding city rates. it turns out that I have been paying for a Medium sized commercial dumpster since I set up my water service last year when, in fact, I have a small (residential) dumpster that I "share" with my absentee neighbor next door. No biggie for me, since I generate very little garbage being that we re-use 90% of the old building materials and save most of the rest for future projects and also that I am not open and generally recycle nearly all the trash I generate. My dumpster has only been full once and that was when I cleared my neighbor's property of trash and brush once he received a citation for tall grass last month. Anyway. they are going to automatically reduce my rate to a "not in use" commercial rate, aka small commercial, once a week pickup, which should save me about $100 a month. This was the measure we voted on tonight- to basically reclassify some super small businesses as residential (like law offices, etc) in order to get a better rate from Duncan and also to reduce some pickups for other commercial customers in order to get ours and the businesses' costs down. Next month your bill, if you are commercial, may be lower. I would visit the city in person to confirm that your dumpster size and # of pickups per week has been clarified. Hopefully Duncan will accept our new pickup schedule and classifications and will lower their bid in accordance with what they claim their rates are for each type of customer and number of pickups. This will be a great test to see if Duncan is really a straightforward, honest company that negotiates in good faith. The city still stands to lost about $2000 per month with the new reduced rates, but I think it will be worth it to relieve the stress on local businesses during this challenging economic time. Passed unanimously.

Item 3 - I'm getting tired of typing.
Discussion w/ action as appropriate to turn on various streetlights along the state highways within the city limits. I immediately moved that we accept this proposal , which will cost the city $1726.00 for the fiscal year, including conversion of several lights to the new, more efficient and environmentally friendly standard. This is a total of 22 streetlights and includes all along Dean and Highland on the highway right of way and many on HWY 90 (San Antonio) excluding some I excluded from my streetlight study, based on privately owned lighting that adequately lights the roadway in certain areas. Re-lighting the public lighting in those specific areas would be redundant and a waste of valuable funds for the city. Passed unanimously with Rusty and Manny abstaining.
By the way, this is the 2nd batch of streetlights we have authorized to be re-lit. AEP is currently busy with another large electrical installation project, so the lighting is lagging behind. That being said, AEP has been a good corporate citizen and worked with us to help us reduce our exposure to rising rates with help installing better and more efficient technology at no additional charge. The lights will be on sooner than later and we are making progress. More to come as well.

Item 4- Discussion w/ action as appropriate to designate the Big Bend Sentinel as the official paper for the City of Marfa.
This is a yearly exercise for Public Notice purposes. Unanimous.
By the way, Mercer Black is the new webmaster for the BBS and the new website for the paper is under construction. I know that part-time residents and loyal tourists are looking forward to having the paper back online, but I would remind everyone that a by-mail subscription to the print issue is a mere $40 and money well-spent for anyone with a financial stake or otherwise in the future of Marfa. I gave my mother one for her birthday and my parents, who have not been to Marfa since well before I decided to move here, now follow the local Marfa news loyally.

Item 5- Discussion w/ action as appropriate concerning the lease w/ Presidio County for the recycling and composting area. No action taken. We merely reviewed and discussed our draft of a lease with the cash strapped and currently telephone-less county for our former landfill, where we operate a composting area. animal shelter and the recycling center. We must have a new valid lease in order to receive our previously approved grant monies to purchase our cardboard baler and extend three phase power to the metal building out there to operate same and other future industrial recycling equipment. By the way, when we get that baler operational I will be pushing all local businesses of any size to please recycle that cardboard from your delivery boxes and help conserve resources and also make our recycling program a break-even proposition for the city. We will be recycling glass, cans, cardboard, plastic and using washable dishwares only here at Padre's once we open next year. I have two trailers and special trash receptacles for pre-sorting our waste and I will be saving money for the city and my business by integrating aggressive recycling into our daily routine. I can and will be happy to advise other local business folks on how to do the same.

Item 6- Discussion w/ action as appropriate concerning review of bids and award contract for new software and hardware for new accounting system.
Boring techie talk. Councilmember Scott May is a good geek and had some good input on the 2 different bids, both from reputable local companies in Alpine. Councilmember Rudy Garcia had a negative service call experience with the low-bid company on his personal computer. I weighed in on some basics that I know from personal experience with my machines and also advice from some super Houston geeks like Jay Lee of the Houston Chronicle and KPFT FM 90.1's Wednesday night Geek Show.
We approved the slightly higher bid for a slightly more detailed and marginally more sophisticated system from Compucare in Alpine. The free non-warranty and software support as opposed to the $70/hour from the other bidder for same sold me, especially given that this is a three computer Windows XP Pro system and is not set-up right to begin with could be troublesome. Rudy's negative experience was, in my mind, also pertinent, and Scott's geek meter pointed him to recommend this package from Compucare over the nearly $800 cheaper alternative (with fewer specifics). Anyway, we are coming in several thousand dollars under budget for this new system and our old hardware (printers, etc) will work with it no problem, saving us quite a bit on that side, as well. Hopefully the new system will be in place and the old one mostly on the way out by Dec 1. Possibly Jan 1, knowing how December is for the labor force out here on the island. Unanimous passed for Compucare- $3824.97.

Item 7- Discussion w/ action as appropriate concerning review of bids and award contract for Water Plant backup Generator project:

We tabled this item given that our engineer (Keith) from our water quality experts Parkhill-Smith had not yet had a chance to review the single bid we received from the sealed bid opening. That bid was from local firm Rockpoint Construction Inc, also dba Calvert Electric. Cheryl and Mike Calvert were present in the audience and to me the bid looks good and reasonable, but the opinion of our knowledgeable advisor Keith from P-S will shed light on the details. We opted not to re-open bidding but to table action until more information is received. We have no mandated deadline for project implementation.

Item 8- Discussion w/ action as appropriate concerning Ordinance # 08-10 implementing FTC requirement for Identity Theft Program.

This is another example of the Feds requiring local entities to take on more paperwork and responsibilities without giving us additional funding of any sort. We must adopt by Nov 1st or be in clear violation of federal statutes. No question that we would adopt, but I wanted to know the approximate initial and ongoing costs associated with implementation. City admin. Mustard said estimated $1000 in training and misc costs at first and then minimal costs for ongoing. Unanimous except Scott May abstains (no reason given)

Item 9 - Adjourn!!! Finally.

Thanks for reading. If you wish to leave a comment, please leave at least your first name and preferably contact me directly. - David

Levi Stubbs, RIP

2008-10-17T17:56:00.002-06:00

Levi Stubbs, the incredible lead singer of the Four Tops, is dead at 72.
He was my favorite Motown singer. Roughed edged, singing urban sounding songs mostly in minor keys with great chord progressions. As the Temptations were to become the biggest guy group Motown had with their crossover appeal, the Four Tops were Berry Gordy's more earthy complement. In other words, although both acts enjoyed multiple pop and R&B hits, the Four Tops were more geared directly towards black audiences and the Tempts were pointed towards whites. Both were aimed at up and coming metropolitan folks of the 60's. Genius.
The coolest thing about the Four Tops over the Tempts, though, is that the Four Tops stayed together in their original line-up through their entire career until the death of one member several years back (I forget the name). The Tempts always had a rotating cast of stars coming through. Both acts are great and I have developed a greater appreciation for Berry Gordy's production quality over the years, mostly due to the incredible feel of songs like "Bernadette" from the Tops. No one could top Levi Stubbs in singing that song. Nobody anywhere- ever. Rest in peace, Levi Stubbs.

City Council recap 8/28/08

2008-10-16T20:20:00.001-06:00

This will be basic recap of this meeting since it occurred nearly 2 months ago and since then we've been knee deep in budget writing since. I will keep it short. It is based on my notes I took during the meeting and does not include the official minutes or any additional handout information within the following text.

1) Citizen comments

School board president Teloa Swinney commented on the successful implementation of the new one-way signs and additional related safety signage by the police dept around the school. Additionally, she requested that the city turn on and pay for the streetlights surrounding the school.

Lineaus Lorette commented at length on the music at the Adobe Moon BBQ restaurant.

Lucy Garcia voiced her concerns about the lack of streetlights.

Juan Licon commented about the streetlights, the dog park and the dumpsters.

2) Council approved minutes of prior meeting

3) Mayor's Report- Dan Dunlap appraised council of the shortage of EMS officers and that hopefully there will be a training class at some point to augment staff. Reminded us that even with our temporary exemption from having to carry 2 EMT's per call we are still running short.

4) City Administrator's Report- James Mustard let us know that we applied for and received the Lone Star Library Grant, ( a yearly grant) for $4236.00 and that on August 18th ORCA did their walk-through to begin the conclusion phase of the major library renovation grant. Completion survey included HVAC, bathrooms, electrical. Our grant administrator will close out the grant since we passed.
Mustard gave a short update on the ongoing USDA grant for renovation of the MAC bathrooms and other facilities at the MAC to make it ADA compliant. USDA wants the architect to revise and review the documents. Bidding for project potentially in October. Grant funds amount to $249,000.

5) Councilmember Comments-
Myself and Rudy Garcia had comments. No notes taken. No other comments.

6) New Business

A) Resolution 08-16 to submit for the ORCA grant for sewer system rebuild and improvement, southwest side of Marfa.
Mayor and city admin spent some time with ORCA folks and determined we should receive this grant if we apply. We may have to decide on a shortening of the replacement line. City crews to handle all installation of replacement lines, etc. Matching funds from city will be $11,473. That's cash funds. Time and equipment maint & dep. not reimbursable. * inch line to be connected to existing relatively new line @ Waco St. New line should run from Waco to Sligo St minimum distance.
Passed unanimously
B) Presidio County Appraisal District budget. Submitted for approval Passed unanimously.
C) Gas Board Director: Appoint Gas Board Director. We could have chosen a councilmember. No volunteers. Rudy already serves. I declined. We re-appointed citizen Esther Ann White. Unanimous
D) Gas Corp Inter-Local Agreement- After much, much confusion about how the original by-laws and revised by-laws were or weren't written, approved , etc, etc there is finally some clarification to the issue. The original documents were finally found in Reeves County where the SWTMGC once owned some infrastructure. Sure enough, Marfa and Alpine both own 100% of the infrastructure within their own territories and split the rest 60/40 on the Alpine side. That was a revision signed by former Marfa mayor Fritz Kahl in 1998. So, overall the infrastructure location breakdown is as follows: Marfa 28%, Alpine 62%, and Ft. Davis 10%. It's clear that Alpine owns a significantly larger share of our gas corp than we do. Fortunately, as a not for profit, the gas corp board operates in the interest of the company as a whole and not individual shareholders. Based on this current reality, we approved a 10 year contract unanimously.
E) EMS mileage rates: EMS chief Bert LaGarde asks for an increase in the mileage rates for transport from $7 to $15. This is the covered Medicare rate and as covered by private insurance as well. Medicaid covers indigents (apparently). Approving this offsets the rising fuel costs with no direct increase to the patient. Approved 4-1 Manny Baeza dissents.
F) Ordincance 08-06- Wind Energy Systems- This ordinance was brought to us by the city administrator at the behest of a wind energy turbine dealer and several Marfa residents who are considering investing in wind power for their homes. After a lengthy demonstration of systems, back and forth on details regarding height, etc we resolved to table the issue until more information is gathered and presented. No action taken.
G) Golf Course budgeting request from Jay Foster representing Marfa Golf Association. Coach Foster responded to mine and others request for detailed information on what items the golf course requests for the 2009 fiscal budget. This is an ongoing issues, as the golf pro's salary is partially covered by the city and partially covered by MGA. Municipal laws prohibit the Marfa Parks and Rec dept from paying salaries, so some MGA salary cost has been traditionally offset by a Parks and Rec equipment contribution. Basically it's a messy situation, for more reasons than stated here. Coach Foster presented a bid for a commercial riding mower for $5,500 and council and the coach went through the basics of the MGA's membership, basic books, etc. Information is quite detailed when it comes to players, dues, youth programs, etc. Impressive presentation, in my opinion. I will not bother to post all the numbers here, as they are available from the MGA.
Council approved budget item Unanimously.
H) Discussion with action as appropriate to adopt new Duncan proposed contract rates. I won't get into this here as my information from this meeting is incomplete. This was a budget proposal adoption and not an actual contract signing. Unanimous.
More on this later as it's the biggest single issue this city will face over the next 5-10 years.
No further budget discussion
Adjourn

That's it for me tonight, folks. I'll try to get the rest of the meetings up to the current (Oct 14) up before this time next week. - David

First, a short general update

2008-10-16T20:06:00.002-06:00

Construction is coming along handily now, and I am way overdue on taking some video. So, I will take some at some point over the next week and post that up. Last weekend was Chinati/El Cosmico weekend out here and I had the pleasure of playing bass with Adam Bork, seeing Alejandro Escovedo play, swimming in the Dutch tubs at Cosmico, hosting my friend Marc DeClerq (aka H.O.T. Rink Sweeper of HRD fame), playing sandlot baseball broadcast live over the radio, seeing Amy Cook play, enjoying beer and golf at the Marfa Golf Course, and hosting more than 3 dozen folks over the course of Sunday night here at the place for pool, shuffleboard, jukebox, food and drinks into the wee hours.
After all that, I am dead.
Especially after the Houston Roller Derby Western Regionals tournament 2 weekends ago in Houston. That was so wild I basically saw and talked to nobody outside of derby while I was in Houston (sorry!!!- and I feel bad) since I had a giant truck to load up with pool tables and restaurant equipment. Stopover in Austin for more gear and back to Marfa in time for the Parks and Rec meeting last Thursday.
Enough of that- I'll be in here in Marfa until Christmas break and I have plenty to do and only a little time to do it.
Cool other stuff- the Desert Surfer Mercedes is back as my main mode of transport when I have to drive. A real pleasure. My tree and native plant planting initiative is getting under way (with the help of Marfa Rotary) this Saturday at 9 AM. We'll be planting 4 trees in front of the MAC and some other native bushes and agaves.
My radio show is going well and next week is the Marfa Public Radio pledge drive. I'll be needing calls and support during my program from 11PM to 1 AM and later on Tuesday and also may be doing an additional shift of the "night Train Express" on Wednesday night- same late hours.
I'm playing bass with the Dry Creek Diggers Saturday and Sunday this weekend. Saturday is a benefit for the new private pre-K school being formed here in Marfa. Sunday will be at Harry's Tinaja in Alpine for their regular set. Their bass player is out of town this weekend.
Other than that, if you read the council stuff I post, you see how much work and stress that's been. Times are tough for everyone and most city costs are energy related, so we've had a tough job to do and few people are even remotely pleased.
That's it! - David

Right on time

2008-10-16T19:15:00.002-06:00

It's Thursday night, the 16th of October and I am listening to Cornyn vs Noriega debating over Marfa Public Radio. They are both competing for the junior Senatorial seat in the U.S. Senate here in Texas. Cornyn is the incumbent, Noriega is the underfunded challenger who may actually have half a chance.

I had planned on finally getting into some of my (late) city council updates (and will at least get something done tonight on that) when I received another anonymous reply to this blog regarding the garbage/landfill situation here in Marfa. Without getting into it right here in this post, I must PLEAD with readers who feel they need to make comments to please SIGN them. This particular person believes that we can easily renew our landfill permit here in Marfa and potentially solve our garbage collection problem. I believe this would have already been done, if at all possible, and inquired about it myself long before I became a councilman. If what this person says is true, this person, by remaining anonymous, is part of the problem. I would solve this problem if I had more information and that information was correct. So, I ask, once again, please leave your name or contact me directly if you have any constructive criticism.
Oh yes, actually, better yet- take it to the newspaper and let's get the word out if you have a real solution. Thank you. - David

My favorite band from 1985 through 1990

2008-08-28T21:53:00.004-06:00

The Fabulous Thunderbirds, in all their incarnations prior to Fran Christina leaving the band, were just about my favorite of all time from about '85 through '90 or later. NRBQ supplanted them for a short time and then Doug Sahm took off on a ten year-plus run. Johnny Guitar Watson currently rules the roost for super-favorite. There are actually a bunch of artists and groups I am "addicted" to now, but back around '86-89 it was T-Birds all the way. My friends (and band-mates) and I would sneak into places to see them. We would attend every show possible as underage kids. Our band, instead of covering U2, Peter Gabriel, the Rolling Stones and all, focused on the T-Birds. I bought my first Hohner Golden Melody harmonica at H&H Music on Caroline in downtown Houston around Christmas of '85. For the next fiver years I focused on becoming a Kim Wilson quality harmonica player by apeing his chops and those of Little Walter, James Cotton and Jimmy reed. I never succeeded at playing half as well as any of those cats, but by the sheer grace of God, I figured out that playing other instruments as a complement to harmonica was a good way to imrove my singing, harmonica playing and overall musicality, so I went back to piano sort of and picked up guitar, bass and drums towards the end of college (92-93). I barely play harmonica at all anymore but still get a huge kick out of vintage T-Birds music and videos. The best video they ever had is a video for "How Do You Spell Love" off 1982's "T-Bird Rhythm" which stars little kid Charlie Sexton as a school kid. There's some great ominous pans of my bass playing idol Keith Ferguson (RIP) smiling the "smile of death" in that one as well. I would love it if someone could find that one and post it up on YouTube. Give it to me and I'll do it.
Anyway, here's a 1980 European performance of "She's Tuff", a song I started covering as a junior in high school with me band. Nobody does it as well as Kim Wilson. This video has another guitar player filling in for Jimmie Vaughan, but Mike Buck and Keith Ferguson hold down the groove behind Kim. - David

Jackie in NYC

2008-08-26T15:40:00.002-06:00

Here's a video shot at the end of the night of Jackie Pepper's private VIP Manhattan show at Billymark's. By this time Jackie, after exhausting the packed house with a veritable cornucopia of talent and memorable entertainment moments, was near the end of the line (and the end of the tequila bottle). Sorry for the video cutting out before the song starts, but I had to play the bass. - David

It's ironic- and more pics

2008-08-25T23:53:00.009-06:00

That I just heard Joni Mitchell on Marfa Public Radio and hearing her always reminds me of a girlfriend I had back in the mid 90's who couldn't sing to save here life. Whereas Joni Mitchell, despite her begrudging attitude and countless coffin nails, can still sing. I still can't believe that the Counting Crows guy redid the Paved Paradise song. That's like about as rough as a Safeway soundtrack can be.

I noticed that me new Mozilla browser screws up my picture posts. I guess I'll have to plus in my lemon Apple laptop and post up with that. My IE Explorer got attacked by a Trojan. It's fixed now but all my homepages, etc are rest and I no longer trust it. Besides, open source is the more democratic way.

More pics-
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One of my very best buddies of all time Drew Willis and I at my first and last Yankees game at the real Yankee stadium this past July. I was in NYC for close to five full days for the Jackie Pepper show at Billymarks- a huge success, of course. DI stayed with Drew for a few days after my Chelsea Hotel reservations expired. It was great, as always. I am seriously blessed to be still playing shows in places like SF and NYC over a year and a half after my retirement as a full time musician. Still a card carrying Union member, of course.

Well, that's the only pic from NYC for now. For some reason my computer or blogger continues to duplicate the same pic after I upload others. Next time... - DWB/Colonel

Various recent photos

2008-08-25T23:32:00.010-06:00

Tex Offender (HRD) and Bruisie Q (former SSRD and current TXRD banked track)
Two killer roller derby skaters groovin' at the last HRD bout- HRD's Machete Betties vs the South Side Roller Derby's all stars. Great burying of the "hatchet" by our two rival Houston area leagues. Yes, some girls are still holding grudges, but what do you expect when you put 100 assertive, athletic girls in one room?!

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The Southside girls warming up- first time on our track and in our venue. They are planning to become a full time banked track league by Jan 1. Check 'em out on myspace or by searching southside roller derby. They are based out of Pearwood skating rink in Pearland.

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Audiomind and her husband Duck celebrate their 6th (I thin that's right) anniversary at the after party at The Boondocks. Duck helps with lineups for the Brawlers. Audiomind is a star derby jammer for the Burlesque Brawlers in HRD.

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Early Friday night set at the Continental by the Octanes. Adam Burchfield on lead vocals and excellent guitar work. Kevin "Snit" Fitzpatrick on drums (formerly of Hollisters back in the day and also leader of Snit's Dog and Pony Show. Snit is a killer shuffle drummer.

Marfa City Council Meeting Tuesday August 12th

2008-08-25T21:17:00.005-06:00

It's been a very hectic couple of weeks for me with travel, construction, volunteer work, and taking possession of my new "extra" Airstream, which will be ready to go in time for the Terlingua Chili Cookoff in November. So, I am a little late in posting this council meeting update. Since this meeting took place there have been 2 specila meetings (which I will not cover here) regarding the planning and adoption of our 2009 city budget. There is much hand wringing and bargaining back and forth, and the finished results will boil down to a Public Hearing at 5 PM Sept 18th followed by a meeting with the intent to amend, modify, refine and adopt a 2009 budget. The City of Marfa's fiscal year begins in October.
I would encourage any who can to attend this Thursday's (8/28) council meeting at 6PM to see where we are at on the current budget. Highlights (lowlights) include discussion, dissent and failure to agree on the contentious streetlight issue, and agreement yet bitter resignation at the fact that our garbage rates from the provider(s) [Duncan Disposal and West Texas Disposal are the only two options in the area]will go up a MINIMUM of 68% this year; all that will be passed on directly to the citizens unless streetlight concessions can damper the blow. Also adressed are several issues concerning using citation revenue to cover Municipal court and other city costs, golf course expenditures (still losing money) and no proactive action (in fact surrender) of efforts to create and fund a youth program. On the brighter side, our woefully underpaid city employees won't fall further behind the cost of living curve (at least if they're not buying gas) and we will actually likely increase slightly funding for employees in our dangerously understaffed EMS department. More later, but it sure would be nice to have a few more concerned citizens show up and tell the other council members what I hear on the streets (and here at the funeral home/dancehall) every day. Tomorrow I will be performing a short 50's rock and roll tribute at the Marfa Nutrition Center for lunchtime (11:30-1) and I'm sure that, once again, I'll get an earful. All in all, though it's good for me to get hassled and hear everyone's complaints. I can handle it and it's making me more and more resilient to criticism. One thing I can say for sure- I am doing my best and working hard every day on the tough issues that face our citizenry and city government. I will come out of this experience stronger and ready to rock, even if I wind up being a one-term councilman.

On with the re-cap of August 12.
Meeting called to order, 6 PM. All council members (Baeza, Garlick, Beebe, May and Garcia) in attendance. Mayor Dan Dunlap presided. City Administrator Mustard in attendance.

Citizen Comments- Citizen Bill White complained about tractor trailers and other large trucks cutting through from Highland to 17 via Oak St in front of the Post Office. Councilman Scott May commented that he had witnessed this as well. My thoughts are- the truckers haven't figured out that this doesn't actually save them any time. Anyway, signs, etc may eventually be posted. I wouldn't be surprised to see Scott May bring an action item before council at some point banning Jake Brakes (engine braking) and further regulating large trucks in the city. We are at the intersection of three relatively (for the area) major highways and this is not the first time concern about thru trucks has been brought up.
Next up, citizen Lineaus Lorette (sp?) brought up a complaint about the live music (most Saturday nights until about midnight) at Adobe Moon BBQ. A general complaint, he then went into detail about the offense it causes to the neighbors, especially the Catholic church. Anyway, I referred him to the TABC agent in Alpine, as the TABC controls most general law enforcement complaints regarding license holders. I also contradicted his claim about Adobe Moon being now a "honky-tonk" instead of being classified as a restaurant. I am certain they still do more than 50% of their business in food, and until they do more than 50% on beer and wine they will always be classified as a restaurant first before a bar. This situation will take some give and take on both sides, as I, myself, despite occasionally sitting in with the Moondogs band over there on drums, have questioned how long it would take until the ax would come down on their late night outdoor music scene. For those of you who do not live in Marfa, you would not BELIEVE how the sound travels out here on a clear night. You can hear people speak in a normal voice from blocks away- not make out exactly what they're saying, usually, but it sounds like they are 15 feet away. Citizens can hear (and either enjoy or not- I've heard more of the enjoy factor) the Moondogs from clear across town, especially on the higher ground near Marfa High School.
I was pleased that we had some citizen comments, by the way. Thanks for participating!
Next we approved the minutes from the last council meeting. Rudy Garcia wanted more attention brought into the streets and alleyways discussion he had brought up. We approved minutes unanimously.

Mayor's Report-

Mayor Dan Dunlap submits to the council the proposed budget for 2009 (Oct 2008-Sept 2009). We discuss scheduling of workshops and public hearing(s) related to same.

City Administrator's Report-

James Mustard announces that he and the Mayor will travel on Wed 8/13 to El Paso to the Rio Grande Council of Governments (COG) meeting in support of our recycling center grant application. UPDATE- the grant was approved and we will receive the money to buy a new cardboard baler and to extend three phase power out to the recycling center. Baler and power should be operational by Oct 1. Marfans- RECYCLE YOUR CARDBOARD! Besides aluminum cans it's the only recycling Marfa makes any measurable money from- plus it saves major dumpster and landfill space.

Mustard says we also filed for an extension of the sewer system replacement grant application (SW side of city) from TWDB (Texas Water Development Board). Surveys for the income-related aspect (low to moderate income neighborhood requirement) were accomplished with volunteer citizen labor (THANKS!!!)

More news- although the library renovation project is not yet finished, the portion using the ORCA grant is done. ORCA will make a visit and inspect with a walk-through before releasing final funding.

Councilmember Comments-

Councilman Manny Baeza inquired about eliminating our Municipal Court. City Admin Mustard informed him that AG Abbott had ruled that Muni Court is required in cities of our size and greater (at least)by the state Constitution.

Councilman Scott May wanted an update on the Gas Board's (SWTMGC) franchise agreement

No other councilman comments

NEW BUSINESS:

Discussion with action as appropriate to convert Gonzales St between Columbia & Lincoln as a one-way street running north during construction of the new Marfa I.S.D. gymnasiums.
Estimated cost for signage and traffic control devices= +/- $3000. We discussed, with school and police chief input and agreed unanimously to approve the change in traffic designation and split the cost 50/50 with the school district. Change expected to be permanent, but to be re-evaluated, if necessary, following conclusion of construction one year from now.

Next- a controversial and emotionally charged discussion with action as appropriate measure to waive and/or reduce building permit fees for the two new gym projects at Marfa I.S.D. Total cost= $2385.90.
We were given information by superintendent Teola Swinney (sp?) that the previous contractor had been relieved of his duties and that the City of Marfa had refunded the original permit fees at that time. Further information given was that neighboring communities of Alpine and Presidio had all granted exemptions to permit fees, etc to The local school districts for their projects. Additional info requested from me and other councilmembers- amount of bond for gym projects= 2.9 Million dollars. Funding for permits/city fees are built into current bid. After some discussion mostly focusing on the fact that Ms Swinney felt that she had a fiduciary duty to ask us for a refund of less than 1% of 1% of their budget for the gyms and my agreeing and asking more questions regarding funding in general and the fact that, despite her protestations that tax money is all one big ball and we should let them have it back, tax money IS NOT ALL THE SAME (we don't have a 2.9 million $ bond for city services, for starters, the council voted 4 to 1 to reject a refund. Councilman Baeza voted in favor of a refund. There was some sharp language on both sides of this issue, and I have fielded some in-person and telephone vehement criticism on my vote, I stand behind it for these reasons:
Despite many protestations, I do not see this as double taxation, No promises or even remote suggestions of a refund to taxpayers or early bond pay-down of this money was made by the rep for Marfa I.S.D. despite my baiting with suggestions/mention and borderline parody of refund checks of $1.40 or so top each school tax paying citizen.
Secondly, part of my job is to ensure that the city is run like a business and also that there are no "special favors" to any one or more groups- community based or not. The special favors mentality is part of why the city had incurred so much debt several years ago that we are now just barely paying off.
Thirdly, the simple fact that $2385.90 is a lot of money for the city at this point (we being broke) and that it is less that 1% of 1% of the gym budget AND had been funded in the design/build bid. I feel like since no assurances were made or even implied about paying down the bond note early or refunding to taxpayers otherwise by the school district that this money they would have "saved" would have been spent on design accents or the like.
My final comments before voting Nay on the measure was that I respected the school's position in the community and also the traditional cooperation between the I.S.D. and the city, but that everyone is subject to these fees, and given the low rates plus the city's granting a parking variance to the project in order to reduce the parking lot burden issue (a different council/BOA session) we will stick to our original fees.

Since that vote, as I mentioned, I have been chided for "not caring about the kids". "not doing what you promised by representing all of Marfa", "not understanding double taxation", and "not caring about the Mexicans, since all the kids are Mexican" I kid you not. I hope the citizens will understand that not only do I have nothing to gain by standing my ground and requiring all my votes to objective based on what's fair, coupled with what's best to keep city taxes and services as low as they can be. There is no other way I can vote with clear conscience since I feel that this city needs honest, unbiased leadership with high integrity more than anything else. I can say that I have been and will continue to operate at the highest level of integrity I am capable of and that, being fairly new to this town, I owe nobody anything - STILL. Surely this will keep getting me into trouble, but I am doing my best, and working hard to be the best councilman I can be.

Next- we discussed the BOA appointments. Carolyn Duncan has resigned for health reasons. We moved Ralph McKay to the position of full board member, from alternate. We appointed former city councilwoman Maria Williams as alternate (yay!) There is still one alternate position available. Please contact me via telephone or in person if you qualify as an honest, objective Marfa citizen willing to serve your community in a very important role. I served as an alternate for about 5 months on the BOA before being elected to council and wound up voting every time due to absences of full time members. The BOA meets once a month or less. My phone number is in the telephone book and also national information.

Item 4- we reviewed the Chamber of Commerce budget. No action taken

Item 5- We considered a resolution to create a donations funded bank account for Police Dept renovations, including the remodeling of a Evidence room (by state mandate) and also the creation of a "Safe Lobby", a generally accepted lobby format for law enforcement encouraged (if not required) by the state. Currently the Marfa Police Dept has received $2400 in donations. Renovations will total between $3000-$6000 when complete as estimated by chief J.D. Wilbourn.
Approved Unanimously

Item 6- We move to create a bank account for a City contingency fund. This was a stated goal of the previous council, We are very near full solvency at this point and are no later than 30 days out on all of our bills. That means we are incurring no finance or service charges. The hard work begins now, as we will have to work to keep all floodgates closed...
Unanimous adoption of resolution

Item 7- this meeting is getting long... Approve a Tobacco Compliance Grant Bank Account. thank goodness Marfa National Bank doesn't charge us any service charges for all these bank accounts. I guarantee that is the city was an individual the I.R.S. would be after us for having so many. Approved- approximate value of this tobacco compliance and preventive education grant is between $1500 and $2000. Police dept will administer program.

Item 8- Resolution to create a bank account for the construction fund of a new sewer facility. This is the $1.265 million dollar interest free loan from the TWDB. Parkhill Smith engineering is 60% complete and they would like to receive partial payment. Unanimous.

Item 9 - We analyze and vote on construction bids for renovations of the city-owned USO building. The idea on this one is that the Chamber of Commerce will reimburse us for all or part of these renovations once they make the Amvets/USO building their permanent home and the official city convention center. The building is a grand old dame that needs total and complete restoration, inside and out. Worst case scenario, which I have been assured will not occur, is that we have to absorb these costs ourselves (city gov). The way I see it, the Amvets Hall is a major community asset and must be restored, at least to basic usage standards. Without that it's worth nothing to the citizens or the city gov (as owners). So basically, it needs to be fixed and hopefully all will go as planned. Bids for 400 AMP single phase power (for the whole place but built out only to the front office/greeting.bathroom and kitchen areas) is around $15,000. An Additional $9,800 considered for installation of air conditioning system with three zones for same part of building (but not exhibition hall). Unanimous vote minus Scott May who protested the inclusion or 7M services for the A/C work based on their reportedly shoddy and untimely work on the library project.
Side note- I hired 7M for the flashing/tin job here at Padre's and they did a seriously crappy job. They had not finished (or so I thought) before this vote. Turns out they had. I do not recommend. I still do not understand why supposed craftsmen don't take enough pride in whatever they spent 8 hours plus of every weekday doing during their life to do it right, or at least make the effort to do their best. I guess some people just never learned that work can make you really happy.

Item 10- Schedule budget workshops (open to public). Some of these have already occurred, but we made an effort to be sure that all council members could be present for each meeting.
Here's the results- 8/19 5PM; 8/21- 5 or 6PM; more discussion Thursday 8/28 at council meeting (regular meeting scheduled). Public hearing- YOUR LAST CHANCE TO RAISE HELL- 9/18. Followed by council budget adoption hearing- 6PM 8/18.
Please speak to your various councilmembers regarding your concerns. Once again they are
Manny Baeza
Rusty Garlick
Me- David Beebe
Rudy Garcia
Scott May

Also, Mayor Dan Dunlap and City Administrator James Mustard. Other useful ears are Police Chief J.D. Wilbourn and all three of the ladies (Ramona, Lori and Laura) at the front desk. The more you take this stuff around too us, the higher your success level has potential to be. I do not possess everyone's phone number, nor would I publish them here, but Marfa City Hall can assist. Nationwide information has their number as well as local phone books.
Thanks for reading- David Beebe

Sammie Relford- totally awesome and no one there!

2008-08-25T20:47:00.004-06:00

"So, I have a quick update on Sammie Relford and The Real Sammie's club. Sammie and his band were so good that I went back the next night (Sat)- mostly to pick up a CD of Sammie's originals, but also to see the show again. I'll speak about Friday's show since I saw the complete show and was there by myself.
I got to The Real Sammie's around 9:30 or ten and there were probably about ten people ion there. I made a note on the way (I took the rail) to see how busy (the fake) Sammy's was (at 2016 Main) and it was pretty busy. Faye Robinson and her band play there most every weekend night.
The real Sammie's is a nice place with seating, a tall bandstand and plenty of room for dancing. The Friends band (Sammie's band) opened up the set with a rocking selection of great covers ranging from Motown to 80's soul-pop. Led by Mr. Slim on drums and lead vocals, the band also features Spider on 7 string (yes) bass, Brucie on guitar, and Maestro on keys. Both Maestro and Spider sing a lot of backup vocals. Sammie finally came out and there were less than 20 customers in the room. I was shocked. I can't remember seeing Sammie with fewer than a full house since about '91 over at the Gallant Knight back when they had a Shure Vocal Master P.A. hanging from the ceiling over the band in the middle of the room and $9 Old Milwaukee pitchers (very pricey in those days). I can hoenstly say that Sammie sounded absolutely great, complete with falsetto, deep bass and everything in between. He basically put on a show where he gave 110%. I could feel him going for it and I know how he felt, singing to a nearly empty room and trying to conquer it. He succeeded and everyone there had a great time with most folks dancing. He certainly turned the tables on me and I am grateful for it. It had been a while since I had seen him and last time he wasn't at his best (thinking back he might have been sick at the time goven how much energy he gave two weekends ago). Anyway, here's a few photos of Sammie with the Friends band. Catch them NOW at The real Sammie's- next door to the Brewery Tap in the Magnolia Brewery building on Franklin downtown in Houston. I couldn't believe there were even fewer folks there on Saturday so I'm thinking unless something changes The real Sammie's may not last. By the way, it just opened in mid-July. I think all of Sammie's fans must still think he's at Sammy's, although it's been well over a year since I've seen him listed there. Oh yeah, also, I ordered the Sammie Relford documentary online (just came out) and have just received it. I'll probably get to watch it in the next few weeks. I can't remember the last time I was this busy and overwhelmed with work of all kinds.
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Sammie Relford

2008-08-08T16:37:00.003-06:00

I am in Houston- got in on the Amtrak this morning at 6:30 AM. Breakfast at James Coney Island downtown was nice. Bus 82 took me to within three blocks of my parents' house. Although I still have my phone number I've had since '93 here in Houston, it's in my apartment, which is no longer mine and is occupied by Greg Henkel. That number will be disconnected next month. Since I have noc ell phone, I am not reachable (vacation!) Roller Derby is this Sunday at the Verizon, 4 PM doors, 5:00 game time. That's my primary reason for being here.
Sammie Relford's new club, "The Real Sammie's" is now finally open. It's located in the Magnolia Brewery building on Franklin at the Bayou (Power Tools, Urban Art Bar, Brewery Tap, etc). I am going to try to see Sammie tonight, as he plays every Friday and Saturday. Without going into much detail, the last time I saw this Houston soul icon was a few years back at "Sammy's, the club in the bottom of 2016 Main that was supposedly his, but actually wasn't. I must say, his voice was in very bad form that night and I felt sorry for him. Having experienced vocal pain on a daily basis for years I could feel his physical pain. Hopefully tonight will be different. Oh yeah, one caveat about that night at Sammy's was that Little joe Washington came in, wasted (kinda rare) and brought the house down. It was awesome.
Sammie Relford is the subject of a new documentary that I just ordered on DVD, with shipping, for about $18. If anyone out there has seen him perform over the years (about 20 years nearly every night at the former Gallant Knight that was on Holcombe) I recommend the documentary, just knowing what I know about his talent and personality. Google search him t get to the DVD order page. i am excited about seeing this Houston soul legend again, for better or worse. -DB

My policy on comments, etc

2008-08-06T20:59:00.003-06:00

Here's a quick post to let any readers know how I may receive your comments or questions. recently there were a few questions posted in the "comments" area following a council post asking about our EMS care here in Marfa and what I plan to do about the general lack of super fast, ultra premium emergency medical facilities (including ultra-modern ambulance service).
If you would like a reply to a question, please call me. I am in the telephone book. If you want results, set up a personal meeting with me and plan to attend some council meetings. Also, the Big Bend Sentinel is good about publishing well-written letters to the editor. A multi-faceted approach to drawing attention to complex issues is always a better method of getting something done and people more powerful than I am to listen.
Thanks!- David

Radio show playlist through 7/31

2008-08-05T18:10:00.003-06:00

As I've written about here before, I have a radio show on Marfa's 50,000 watt public radio station for Far West Texas. That would be on the web at www.marfapublicradio.org
Anyway, my format is as follows: 60% 70's to current R&B (southern style), 25% Texas music of all styles, and 15% of anything else I feel like playing. I write down most of what I plan to play before I do each show and play it in no particular pre-planned order, but instead by feel.
The show is every Tuesday night from 11PM to 1AM (with commentary) and until 2 AM (without comment but still spinning records and inside the studio). That's Central time and I take requests as well. I have been diligent about loading material from my personal collection into the station's master computer so the other DJ's can access it permanently.
Here is a list (in no particular order) of most of the songs and artists I have played since my show began May 20th. I missed one Tuesday and station manager Tom Michael was kind enough to stay up late and sub in for me using mostly tracks off my I.D. (ones I programmed in- about 580 so far).

Many of these artists are currently performing around the U.S.- especially the ones you may not have heard of. I recommend some further research for any artists that catch your attention.

Back In Stride- Frankie Beverly and Maze
It's Not Easy - ? and the Mysterians
Love Ain't Nothing But a Business- Junior Parker
The Madison Time (Part 1)- Ray Bryant
Just Because- Lloyd Price
Dancing in the Streets- Martha and the Vandellas
Mercy, Mercy, Mercy- Johnny Guitar Watson and Larry Williams
Barn Door- Johnny Guitar Watson
I'm Talking About You- Chuck Berry
What You See Is What You Get- The Dramatics
Sally Go 'Round the Roses- The Jaynetts
Love Bones- Johnnie Taylor
Chicken, Gravy and Biscuits- L'il Ed & the Blues Imperials
Home Cookin' - Ronnie Dawson
Jeannine- Horace Grigsby
Marked Deck- Fabulous Thunderbirds
Can You Handle It? - Johnny Guitar Watson
High Sheriff of Calhoun Parish- Tony Joe White
The Chokin' Kind- Buddy Ace
Put Me in Jail- Sunny Ozuna
General Dollar General- Flying Fish Sailors
Colossal Head- Los Lobos
Hello Mary Ann- Ronnie Millsap
It's All Over Now, Baby Blue- Dion
Mighty, Mighty, Spade and Whitey- Curtis Mayfield
Do It Again- The Kinks
Take Some, Leave Some- James Brown
Little Fox- The Krayolas
Cumbia Del Sol- The Blazers
One More Chance- Little Johnny Taylor
You Never Get Too Big... - Sir Douglas Quintet
Can I Change My Mind- Tyrone Davis
More Bounce to the Ounce- ZAPP
Grandma's Hands- Bill Withers
Turn Back the Hands of Time- Tyrone Davis
A Nice Song- Sir Douglas Quintet
Happy Feelings- Frankie Beverly and Maze
Quarter to Three- Gary U.S. Bonds
Jody Got Your Woman and Gone- Johnnie Taylor
It's Raining- Irma Thomas
Baby Workout- Jackie Wilson
Veronica- Ronnie Dawson
You're Not My Girl- The Krayolas
No One Else Will Do- The Tail Gators
Good Friend- Grady Gaines and Paul David Roberts
Born to Wander- Rare Earth
Up, Up and Away- The 5th Dimension
Wiggle- Willie Clayton
Stairway to Heaven- The O'Jays
Hoochie Momma- Marvin Sease
Sometimes- Gene Thomas
Tragic Magic- NRBQ
Did You Ever Have to Make Up Your Mind- John Sebastian w/ NRBQ
Night and Day- Frank Sinatra and Red Norvo
Fox River- Waco Brothers
Hug a Jug- Loco Gringos
Baby's in Love with the Radio- Johnny Guitar Watson
Heaven Sent- Oscar Perry
Pay at the Pump- Soul Hat
The Bigg Woman Song- Bigg Robb
On Broadway- Lou Rawls
96 Tears- ? and the Mysterians
Come and Dance With Me- Johnny Guitar Watson
Put It Where You Want It- The Crusaders
Working Together- Frankie Beverly and Maze
I Don't Wanna Make It Too Funky- Roy Head
60 Minutes of Your love- Sir Douglas Quintet
Who's Making Love- Johnnie Taylor
Fish Out of Water- Ronnie Dawson
Benny's Cadillac- The Iguanas
The look of Love- Isaac Hayes
Love Rollercoaster- Ohio Players
Oliver's Gone- Georgie Fame
Girls with Glasses- The Dishes
I Ain't Never Loved Nobody Like This Before- Paul David Roberts
I Know I'm Losing You- Rare Earth
Please Be Kind- Frank Sinatra
Dream in Blue- Los Lobos
What's Your Pleasure?- Billy Ray Charles
Please, Please, Please (espanol) - James Brown
Lester the Clown- Adam Bork
Bernadette- Four Tops
Doo Wah Ditty- ZAPP
How's Gary?- The Judy's
Bossa Nova #2- Little Joe Washington
Peanuts- The Sunglows
Ooh Poo Pah Doo- Jessie Hill
We're Rolling- The Impressions
Wham! Bam!- The Road Kings
Golly Gee- Sunny Ozuna
High Society- The Judy's
My Love- Dion
River's Invitation- Georgie Fame
One More Time- Roy Head
Do the Boomerang- Jr. Walker & the All Stars
My Big Cat- Flying Fish Sailors
Radiation Squirm- The Judy's
Telephone Bill- Johnny Guitar Watson
Just a Little Bit- Big Robert Smith
Sweetest Girl in California- Swamp Dogg
You Got It- NRBQ
Mama- B.J. Thomas
River's Invitation- James Cotton
Lover's Crime- Fabulous Thunderbirds
Ju Ju Hand- Sam the Sham & the Pharaohs
Not With Her Man- Little Sister
She Comes Round- Fastball
Don't Keep Me Hanging On- Jin Henkel
Land of 1000 Dances- Cannibal & the Headhunters
Feel the Spirit of My Guitar- Johnny Guitar Watson
Simply Beautiful- Willie Clayton
Stoned Soul Picnic- The 5th Dimension
Hole in the Wall- Mel Waiters
For the Love of Money- The O'Jays
Tainted Love- Gloria Jones
Never Can Say Goodbye- Isaac Hayes
Close the Door- Georgie Fame
Fraulein- Chuck Berry
Git to Gittin'- Big Walter the Thunderbird
We're a Winner- Curtis Mayfield
Let's Go Baby- Robert Parker
U.R. Walking on Shakie Ground- Billy Ray Charles
Glow in the Dark- David Garza
Take Care of your Homework- Johnnie Taylor
Touch- Con Funk Sun
Cheatin' Game- Willie Clayton
All Night Worker- Tail Gators
The Food Chain- Flying Fish Sailors
Old Folks- Tod Vullo
You Never Get Too Old to Boogie- Swamp Dogg
The Making of You- Curtis Mayfield
Aicha- Khaled
Straighten It Out- Latimore
That's Neat That's Nice- NRBQ
Underwater Fun- The Judy's
Party Like We Used To- Willie Clayton
Baby Face- Johnny Guitar Watson
Plenty Tuff and Union Made- Waco Brothers
Ibuprofen- Scratch Daly
Lone Ranger- Johnny Guitar Watson
Shining Star- Earth Wind and Fire
I Sure Love to Ball (and You Do Too)- Swamp Dogg
Don't You Know- NRBQ
Are You Ready for the Fallout- Fastball
We Gotta Get Out of this Place- The Animals
Ramble Tamble- Creedence Clearwater Revival
Since I Met You- Johnny Guitar Watson
Rich Woman- Fabulous Thunderbirds
Blues Pass Me By- Sir Douglas Quintet
Felicia No Capiche- Sunny Ozuna
I Just Want to Celebrate- Rare Earth
Fallin' For You- Hadden Sayers
I'm a Road Runner- Jr. Walker & the All Stars
New York- Little Joe Washington
By the Time I Get to Phoenix- Isaac Hayes
Way Back Home- The Crusaders
If There's a Hell Down Below We're All Going to Go- Curtis Mayfield
Luck Be a Lady- Frank Sinatra w/ Count Basie
Can't Get Over You- Frankie Beverly and Maze
Impression- The Suspects
Shimmy Shimmy Ko Ko Bop- Little Anthony & the Imperials
Oh Pretty Woman- Albert King
Sundown Is Coming/ Hold Back the Night- The Dramatics
A Natural Man- Lou Rawls
It's September- Johnnie Taylor
Funky Blues- Johnny Guitar Watson
Giving It Up for Your love- Z.Z. Hill
That's the Way of the World- Earth Wind and Fire
Niki Hoeky- The LeRoi Brothers
Night Train- Buddy Morrow
Good Lovin' It'll Make You Cry- Carl Marshall
Funky President- James Brown
A Woman Want a Man, She Don't Want No Punk- Carl Marshall
So Life Goes On- The Dreambreakers
Jackie Pepper Died- Adam Bork
Record Shoppin' - Bigg Robb
How Do You Spell Love- Fabulous Thunderbirds
The Other Man- Swamp Dogg
Neighbor, Neighbor- Jimmy Hughes
Sit Down On It- Marvin Sease
Roswell/ Hangar 18- Flying Fish Sailors
Dear Dad- Chuck Berry
Big Robert's Strokin' Too- Big Robert Smith
Mexican Radio- Wall of Voodoo
Good Times- Chic
The Look in Your Eyes- Frankie Beverly and Maze
Speed Racer Theme- Speed Racer
The Streetbeater- Quincy Jones
Jack Rabbit- Zydeco Joe
Bigg Man Love/Good Love- Bigg Robb
This Is For Grown Folks- Carl Marshall
Right Place, Wrong Time- Dr. John
My Radio Sure Sounds Good to Me- Graham Central Station
I'm a Midnight Mover- Bobby Womack
Spill the Wine- Eric Burdon and WAR
Be Still- Bobby Rush
You Bring Love- Johnny Guitar Watson
Fact of Life- Bobby Womack
I Believe to My Soul- Donny Hathaway
Satin Doll- Ella Fitzgerald
That Ain't My Wife- Swamp Dogg
The Rains Came- Big Sambo and the Housewreckers
Too Tight- Con Funk Shun
Sara Smile- Latimore
The Only Thing That's Real- Sister 7
Solomon Grundy- The Foundations
Hold On to What You've Got- Joe Tex
Hard Way- Sir Douglas Band
So Excited- B.B. King
Fire- Ohio Players
I Just Wanna Stop- Gino Vanelli
I'm Not in Love- 10cc
Sleepy Women- Herschel Berry
Free- Chicago
Some Else is Steppin' In- Z.Z. Hill
Texas Rose Cafe- Little Feat
Jeannine- Tod Vullo
You Made Me Love You- Ray Charles
Shining Star- The Manhattans
The Soulful Strut- Young Holt Unlimited
Having So Much Fun- Huey Piano Smith
Cheaper to Keep Her- Johnnie Taylor
Rockin' Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu- Huey Piano Smith
Turn on Your Love Light- Bobby Bland
Wrap It up- Archie Bell and the Drells
All Night Long- Kinny Abair
Lady Madonna- Junior Parker
Part Time Love- Little Johnny Taylor

I am certain that this list is incomplete and I am missing at least one or two weeks' worth of prep sheets, but you get the drift. I'll try to publish songlists from the radio show (called The Night Train Express) every few months as it builds up. Most of this stuff I load into the system is from CD's but probably about 40% is from my record collection- 45's and LP's. It takes substantially longer to transfer the vinyl, and I needed some content fast at first. I should be able to tip the balance over to the vinyl side fairly soon.
Thanks for listening if you are- Tuesday nights 11PM to 2 AM Central time. www.marfapublicradio.org

Marfa City Council meeting wrap-up 7/8/08

2008-07-18T10:55:00.004-06:00

Meeting came to order at 6 PM on Tuesday July 8th, city hall, Marfa. By the way, all of these meetings are open to the public. Photography and recording are allowed.
In attendance were councilmen Rudy Garcia, Scott May, Manny Baeza, and David Beebe. Absent was Rusty Garlick. Mayor Dan Dunlap presided. City Administrator James Mustard was in attendance.

Citizens' comment period- no citizen comments

Minutes of the meeting of 6/26 were approved.

Mayor's Report-
Mayor Dunlap informed council that our computer software support and designer Mike Gearing will be retiring in Decemeber and will no longer be available in that capacity. He had also done the systems for Alpine, Van Horn, and Presidio. Those cities are looking at options and a new software firm will be chosen. This is bad news from the financial side of things, since we'll need to reprogram our systems, but the newer technology should allow us to integrate all our city systems. The goal is to implement a new provider and begin the process by Oct 1.

City Administrator's Report-
Marfa EMS has received a $29,697 grant due to the efforts that our EMS director, Burt, put into completing training and paperwork (voluntary work on his part).
The Rio Grande Council of Governments recycling grant application has been submitted (by Marfa). This will provide funding for our "Cram-A-Lot" cardboard baler and also will get 3 phase power over to the recycling center to run the baler and other machinery.
The city is requesting additional options for pickup and/or dumpster number reduction from Duncan Disposal in preparation for the new contract. No response from our request for numbers from West Texas Disposal yet.
The USO building/ Amvets Hall- the building has developed some serious roof leaks and also some of the electrical problems are severe enough that the hallneeds to be renovated starting ASAP. The conditions are so bad that we may not be able to rent it out anymore. The Chamber of Commerce is proceeding with studies as to how to renovate it into a proper convention center.

Councilmember Comments-

Rudy Garcia mentioned the new Rotary Club weekly targeted city cleanup. Rotary Club now cleans up a 2-3 block area of their choosing after every Wednesday night meeting, weather permitting. Rudy also wanted to know if city alleyways were open to cleaning without contacting neighboring property owners (yes). Also, the metal recycling firm that conducted the steel pickup program last month will be leaving roll-offs at the old landfill (composting area) for use by citizens to dispose of appliances and steel refuse at no cost to the city or individuals.
By the way, speaking of Rotary, Marfa Rotary meets every Wed at 5:30 PM in the tipi behind Adobe Moon BBQ. All are welcome- and anyone is welcome to assist with the targeted neighborhood cleanup after the meetings.- David
Councilman May mentioned that the roll-offs for non-steel large trash at the composting area are full. Mayor Dunlap responded that Duncan Disposal had been contacted to remove and replace them with empties.
No comments from Baeza or Beebe

Next we had a presentation from Southwest Municipal Gas Corp on the new increase in gas rates. We had this presentation because the cities of Marfa and Alpine co-own the gas company. The gas company in a non-profit, so all extra monies collected have to go back into maintenance and/or improvement of the system. The system itself covers Alpine, Marfa and Ft Davis.
Basically, director Hal Craig gave us a detailed description of the company's overhead, gas costs, and efforts to increase the use of gas appliances in homes locally. The more gas SWMGC can sell, the better the price is that they can buy it for.
Here's a basic breakdown of the plan for the next several years with the new increase in wholesale rates to SWMGC taken into account.
1) the gas comany plans to hold expenses per year at 1.2 million dollars. this is even with a gasoline and diesel fuel increase in cost.
2) the Gas corp plans to add zero dollars to it's already empty contingency fund.
3) There will no longer be a tap fee to hook up a gas meter to your home or business.
4) the company will promote rebates to your gas bill for customers who replace and electric appliance and install a new gas water heater, heater, etc to new or remodel construction projects.
5) the gas corp will encourage people to switch from propane to natural gas. Propane is roughly 2-4 times more expensive per BTU.
6) the new contract for natural gas to SWMGC from WTG will be for $12 per MCF (old was $9.29)
7) New consumer rate will rise from $14.11 per MCF to $19.29 per MCF.

I was impressed with the presentation from Hal and even more impressed with the information and Q&A froom system foreman Melvin (last name not written down- sorry). I would absolutely encourage citizens to inquire about the reabtes for gas appliance installation, as they are substantial.

NEW BUSINESS:
1) Council unanimously approved a contract with Warren CAT to supply a new backhoe. Total out from city to Warren will be $57,290, including extended warranty and trade-in for our old unit. This funding is part of the tax note, which came in a net to us, $260,000. This means our somewhat slippery tax note man only took $10,000 for administration, which is on the low side. Looks like he's honest! Whew- a sigh of relief from me.

2) Water Well Grant- Passed unanimously to add some amendments based on discussion of topic from last meeting, 6/26

3) City Ordinance 08-05- Ordinance to Define Changeable Electronic Variable Message Sign (CEVMS), to prohibit same, et al.
This was my only piece of legislation I wanted to pass as a new city coouncilman. After seeing the worst-case scenario involving these new LED message signs in the form of Berdoll's Pecan Farm ouotside of Bastrop (what were they thinking- Jeez!) I felt it was important to regulate and prohibit these signs in Marfa, since we rely so much on tourism and our appeal as a secluded town "in the middle of nowhere" is an integral part of that. There are already several of these signs running 24/7 in Alpine (Sonic, True Value, Sul Ross University, The Prescription Depot(?). I could, in my nightmares, see both Town and Country Food Stores on either end of town running (2 BURRITOS, $1.19!!!) all night long for eternity. I made a short presentation to council about these signs and why I oppose them for our area. City Administrator James Mustard refined an existing ordinance from Castroville (I think) to fit our town. The ordinance does not create a sign ordinance, but is narrowly written to prohibit signs that flash, use motion or color changing technology to get attention. This would actually also include incandescant and neon signs in some of their forms. Existing signs are exempt. Also, there was discussion about the Open/Abierto LED sign in the window of Adobe Moon BBQ. As an existing sign, it is exempt, but I made the point that as a sign inside a plate glass window of the dining room, it can easily be argued that it is not actually a sign. It would not be considered one in Houston, that I know.
Ordinance passed unanimously.
Whew- I was actually really stressed out about doing this.

Next we appointed a councilmember to the Parks and Rec Board to fill the empty council position that had been held by former council member Lionel Salgado. Rudy Garcia nominated me. Passed unanimously!

Resolution 08-11- Create a Library Donation Bank Account-

This was a great news item- the Lannon Foundation has donated $75,000 to assist with the ongoing library renovation. for complex reasons, this money has to be used after the grant monies are exhausted. Carl Robinson made a presentation relating the library board's situation and library funding in general. In a nutshell, here is the scoop.
The total cost of complete renovations is around $454,000
The ORCA grant that expires and must be spent by the end of July covers $216,000
The Library Board has raised an additional $97,000
The Friends of the Library has raised $19,000
That leaves the library still $156,000 short on funding. Lannon is now contributing $75,000, nearly halving the deficit. The Board expects this donation may prompt others, as the finish line is near.
The Council approved the formation of a specialized bank account under the city name for this purpose unanimously.

Thanks goes to Carl Robinson for his work and a very informative presentation.

Next we discussed, as the request of Rudy Garcia, the city's policy on streets and alley ways. Without going into too much detail, the city does control and own all alley ways, even those people have built on, landscaped on, and/or tried to hide. None have been officially or unofficially abandoned. It is a crime to block access to these alley ways. Regular traffic laws apply, including parking laws. We actually have no parking ordinance, so there is gray area; however, blocking an alley is not considered a parking violation- it is a ingress/egress violation. I predict we'll have a parking ordinance come about before the end of the year. There was some heated discussion about points of detail, etc. There have also been accusations around town of police activity that has been targeted towards certain people and/or businesses. Surely there will be additional discussion at some point on these matters. No action taken by council following council and citizen comments and discussion.

Next we approved unanimously the payrolland expenditure reports for June.

Finally we adjourned. Thanks for reading!- David Beebe

Wrap up: Marfa City Council Meeting 6/26/08

2008-07-17T15:13:00.003-06:00

City Council met at 6 PM Thursday June 26th. Following the pledge the citizen comment period was opened. By the way, the council is prohibited to discuss or take action on anything discussed during the citizen comment period, but may opt to place an item brought up by a citizen on a future council agenda. Citizen Bill White spoke during the comment period. He had compaints about lack of enforcement of specific parking regulations such as parking facing the wrong way on the street, an illegally parked travel trailer (not mine!), and city officials, including police officers, breaking these same parking regulations. City Administrator Jim Mustard responded that Marfa has no city parking ordinance, so technically officers can't enforce parking restrictions that are not on state highways. by the way, all our major thoroughfares through Marfa are state highways.
More discussion was had, no resolutions or items placed on future agendas, although Mustard did say that council could opt to create a parking ordinance at some point.

Next, last meeting's minutes were approved unanimously. Oh yes, by the way, members absent from the meeting were Rudy Garcia and Rusty Garlick. In attendance were Scott May, David Beebe, Manny Baeza and Mayor Dan Dunlap.

Mayor's Report- None

City Administrator's Report- Jim Mustard announced that the pool at the MAC is open for business. We have 7 lifeguards. Also, the ORCA grant for the library is on schedule, as is construction. The project that includes the grant must be completed before August 1 or we lose the remaining unspent money. Next, the sewer plant grant update was given. We have unofficially passed the environmental study and the engineering firm we hired should be finished with the drawings and specs by April. They have provided us a timeline in writing. This is also a project that must be finished before the end of the grant funding deadline.
Next, Jim Mustard talked about the ORCA Water Well grant. This was to repair and/or replace Water Well #3, one of our larger wells that is making some major noise. Previous attempts at normal service have failed. No change this time with the giant crew pulling on it with drilling muds and heavy equipment. The well is still working, and may for quite some time, but is unrepairable. We have to spend the rest of this $295,000 grant by the end of Sept in order not to lose it. Plan B is to bid on a backup generator for the Water Plant and to spend the remainder on Water Well #4, which can pump 400 gallons perminute but is not hooked up to a chlorinator or the city system. Also, we will abandon Water Well #5, which is not hooked up to either the system or a chlorinator and can only pump 60 gallons per minute.
Mustard also mentioned that the steel recycling program was very successful (all agree). Also, the school district is applying for a parking variance from the zoning board for the new school gyms they will be building. More discussion about lack of parking rules in our city, etc.

Council member comments:
Scott May applauded the steel recycling program. He also brought up possible rules for "Jake brake" usage by rigs in the city. Citizens have complained and most cities, small and large, in Texas have "No Engine Brake" ordinances on the books. Ironically, as he spoke, an 18 wheeler outsid city hall at 90 & 67 used its Engine brake to stop at the light.
No other comments from Manny or myself.

New Business:
2009 TCDP Block Grant- the had been a public hearing prior to the council meetingdiscussing this grant and its potential application. Also discussed was how the TCDP was prioritizing grant monies by differing "point values" for projects. Projects more likely to get maximum monies and priority treatment are water and sewer projects, rather than parks, libraries or transportation issues. We voted unanimously to apply for the grant ($240,000-$250,000) and to use it for sewer line replacement for the SW quadrant of the city (W Waco, Dallas Sts, etc). Rocbert Silva, water dept head, consulted on this as the "most needed" repair to our system. Pipes are small, collapsed and generally 80-plus years old.

Duncan Disposal Contract fopr garbage collection- 2008-2009

I have not a lot to say about this except for that we discussed it at length and it is an exhausting subject. We are getting jacked, in my opinion, by a garbage service that is highly inefficient and priced as such. Our nearest landfill is in Presidio (we can't use Alipne's which is nearly full as it is). That is a 120 mile round-trip. Fuel costs are skyrocketing and we will have to shoulder those regardless. Duncan has been our garbage collection provider for a long time and doesn't want to have to have our contract go out for bid. It is my impression that they want us to sign a deal that's "good today, but not if we contact anyone else". They have stated that their price, if bidded out formally, will be much higher. As is, it's already a 60% plus ncrease over the last contract. We just raised rates (and they are HIGH) to cover costs last year. West Texas Disposal (who serves Alpine) seems to do a much better job of servicing their customers needs and wants, and also operates a bona fide recycling program. Their rates are higher than Duncan's per capita, and will be evene higher is they have to set up new service here. We are stuck, regardless. it is my opinion that city hall is ready to sign with Duncan now (for ease of contract, lower price and also because Duncan let us pay late interest free for the last year), but I just HATE this "here's our price- take it now, but if you bid it out, this price is off the table". Like a used car salesman. A bad way of doing business.
By the way, this is my opinion and may not reflect facts altogether accurately. This is an emotional issue for me as I see rates going higher for all of us, and I know that those who can least afford it will really be hurting.
The conclusion of our discussion was that we would solicit informal rates from West Texas Disposal to see how they compare and buy us some time.

Somebody PLEASE! form a group that can get us a local landfill and landfill permit! You will make a profit and we will use you!

Next, Big Bend Community Action requested permission to use the MAC building parking lot for a bus stop for their new commuter service to nneighboring cities and Midland/Odessa. After discussion, we opted to give permission for 10 parking spaces and a bus stop for their vans as long as they took care of trash with a trash can and pickup of same. Manny and I voted yes, Scott May abstained based on his 'Marfa Flyer" business, but stated his support.

Meeting adjourned.

A little late on posting

2008-07-08T14:24:00.002-06:00

Sorry I haven't yet posted the last city council meeting. I have one tonight and I will be sure to get them both up soon. By the way, the whole point of posting them is to have a public viewing place for my voting record. I would recommend reading the Big Bend Sentinel's account of the meetings for an unbiased look at council activities. I do my best to just report the meetings as I see them from a seat at the table, but I can tell you for sure that on issues such as garbage pickup contracts there's no way I can seperate my feelings from the writing. The Big Bend Sentinel is less than $40 a year delivered to your door, anywhere in the country. My mother gets it and it gets to her mailbox in Houston usually the Tuesday following the Thursday publication.

More later on council and also recording adventures. By the way, my radio show is still going strong- 11PM to 1 AM every Tuesday night/Wednesday morning. I will miss next week as I'll be in Houston but am broadcasting (and webcasting) tonight. Marfa Publci Radio FM 93.5 www.marfapublicradio.org - David

Pics and video from 6/25- Padre's Marfa

2008-06-28T01:31:00.004-06:00

And a little video from my youtube post- David

In other news, Steve Begnoche (former Houston El Orbits drummer now living in Denton) is on his way up here. Over the next 2 days we will record 4 songs with Cris from The Rockland Eagles. He has brought his mobile recording studio. I wrote a new song, Steve has one, Adam Bork has a Food Shark commercial he wrote, and I plan to record a Doug Sahm song that was released in Europe only back around '83 called "Everybody Gets Lonely Sometimes". My version will be faster and will be more like ska with heavy Farfisa. Practiced it earlier tonight on the Roland D-20- David

Misc info

2008-06-24T19:51:00.004-06:00

It's now June 24th, I believe. I left the Airstream this morning without remembering to out on my watch; this is on of the most bothersome things I occasionally do to myself. Anyway, here's a general update about a few of the many things that are going on around here.
First off, the building construction is moving forward and looking good. I will elaborate more later.
Next off, I have put myself in charge of coordinating a project over at the city owned Marfa Activity Center (home of the city pool, senior center, and basketball courts). There was a line in the new city budget for replacement of the gutter system at the MAC building and the price was pretty over the top. Thanks to a bright city employee who remembered back into ancient history, I made a few phone calls and struck up an appointment with the Texas A&M agricultural extension office to discuss having them donate (through grant funding) a rainwater collection cistern and piping system which could be integrated into our gutter replacement project and at least re-use the water. I was also hoping to receive possible grant money to get the gutters done, but will have to settle for a lower cost to the city in the form of fewer downspouts.
Thursdays council meeting is when I make my presentation to the council on approving going forward with the project. The cisterns themseleves have already been located and funded. Marfa Rotary has agreed to assist in some way with the planting of a plant or tree garden that can beautify the structure and use the water we collect.
I expect no opposition to the project, as it benefits the MAC center by diverting water away from the parking lot and alley (where it was occasionally flooding back into the building under the door frames) and the city will be out zero dollars except for the pre-budgeted gutter repair. That, by the way, will come in under budget.
From approval point on, it's my little bird. I am sure I'll spend a good bit of time and sweat getting the project done- especially the landscaping, which will either be funded or donated (or a combination of the two). The labor for landscaping installation will have to come through me in the form of people donating their time. Rotary has already pledged to help and I can pull a few more guns off the shelf when the time comes.
Speaking of landscaping, I made a rare trip deep into the desert this morning to sift through a large junkyard. I was looking for a good rusty fence gate. No luck there, but I found a few nice items. Shocking to me was that, in the only clearly fresh pile of rubble at this unauthorized dump, someone had pulled multiple blue agave plants out of the ground and disposed of them along with a pile of broken ceramic tile. I rescued all the plants (large and small- around ten) and I will be surprised if more than 2 or 3 survive. I have heard they don't transplant well, but they are all still alive and I just couldn't leave them there. A few hours was spent digging a large trench and planting them in the yard, in a large pot, and in a dirt pile- the ones with few roots left. Anyway, I did what I could and hopefully a few will survive and I'll have some happy, beautiful blue agaves.

The Austin crew is back out here plugging away at making El Cosmico a functioning reality. Kelly Ramsey, wife of Miles Zuniga, is heading up the project and is here full time with their boy. That means Miles is mostly here too. As it stands, my Airstream and I are still the only human/trailer combo that is active out there. The Rockland Eagles guys are coming this weekend with a mobile recording unit to record some jams. I have been asked to participate, so I will. 2 weeks from now there is an art project that will require Adam Bork, myself and some other musicians to record some advertising jingles. The work pays and should be fun. Lastly, former El Orbits drummer Steve Begnoche is coming out here for about a week starting this Friday to help me out with some costruction. I believe we'll build a fence if I can determine the materials to use.

My radio show on Marfa Public Radio starts at 11 and I get there to set up around ten, so it's time to begin wrap up here. That show, by the way, is every Tuesday from 11PM to 1 AM at night. That's Central Timje and it's streambale from your computer worldwide at www.marfapublicradio.org

OK, here's some pics of some stuff.

Here's a shot of our new roof trusses in place. I took this about ten days ago. Currently the solarboard and tin on one half of the roof is up and in place. The other half should be up before the end of this week. After that they'll finish out the new side walls on the exterior.

Here's a great pic of Corey Van Dyke and Chuck Stephensen with the Murgatroyd in the background. This, plus me and Johnny Calderon (not pictured), was the crew for the Marfa Adopt a Highway Clean Up. We busted tail and used all the bags TXDOT gave us. Then we drank beer and hung out all day around town. This was on a Sunday and it was HOT.

Here's a look at the newly braced game room east wall nearly ready for finish out. I did finish it and it looks good. I used the 100 year old shiplap that was on the ceiling of the old roof structure. The wood was hard to work with, but the project turned out great. It took me a whole weekend and I basically had to take Monday off since I was so burned up.

A couple of pictures here from Eric Hughes' and Liz Lock's wedding in Austin. This was Friday June 5th and it was a very nice affair. It was at the Barr Mansion, a place I have played a few times (Whic and Wendy Cummings' wedding and a Lone Star Rollergirls Awards party, to name a couple). The food was great and so was the company. Landis performed for the ceremony with Dave Wesselowski and a drummer whose name I always forget. First picture here is of me, Jessica Johnson, and Allen "King of the Oldies" Hill. Next pic os of Allen, Mikey Trafton and David Schoenbaum- three of the founding members of the Allen Hill Oldies Band. By the way, the Oldies Band has a new hit CD out in time for summer- Ride the Wild Surf!. It rocks, of course. Pick it up and support live music and the Oldies! Oh yeah, co pics of the girls here, but the bridesmaids at this party were fantastic!

Another pic of the roof system in place (taken last week)

A picture of "kissing babies" while running for Marfa City Council. A posed picture, but no joke here. I am kissing Olive, Gina and Gory's beautiful less than one year old baby. The Marfa baby class of 2007 is really impressive, by the way.

Bill Paulk's Mercedes lost its windshield when the hood flew up on me at 65 MPH and couldn't pass inspection before that because of a mystery and scary steering column wiring/bright headlight issue, but I finally met the Diesel Mercedes Benz GURU Frank Covington in Alpine last Wednesday. His back is totally out, so he no longer works on the cars, but a two hour visit and a trip into his Benz boneyard yielded me with all the answers I needed to fix this baby! Now the electrical/steering column issue is fixed and this Thursday the new windshield will be in. After inspection is passed then I'll head back and he'll walk me through fixing the broken driver's side window and the window lifter responsible for the random window shatter.

Lest it be suspected

2008-06-23T12:20:00.002-06:00

Lest it be suspected that I don't like Alejandro, personally or musically, that is not the case.
He is a gracious cat and every dealing I've had with him over the years has been pleasant. Also, as I said, his shows and songs are good and he always has a pro band that rocks! So, please don't take the stuff below as a slap to Al- it's not! - DB

Alejandro makes AusChron cover!

2008-06-23T12:00:00.003-06:00

I just read that the Austin Chronicle has Alejandro Escovedo on its cover this week. I am certain that Alejandro is the record holder for being on the cover of the Chronic the most times, and it's fitting, given that he is top of the tops in the the "sacred cows" of the Austin Music Mafia.
I like his music and his shows are pretty good, for the most part. Also, I must say that the Austin Music Mafia has been very kind to me (in person and in print) for many, many years, dating back to my UT days in the Schlitz Quarts. However, I never cease to be amazed at the exposure still given to the local artists (all extremely talented and with great stories of struggle and perseverance) from the early to mid 80's "New Sincerity" music movement. The stuff, past and present, is good, and I wonder if the obsessive press regarding this stuff is an effort to turn on the music writers and scenesters outside of Austin to the musiclal "promised land" legacy of Austin; especially since once you leave the 787-- zips and the radio signal capacity of KGSR the stuff is more or less off the radar. Excepptions are, of course, the oasis public radio stations such as Marfa Public Radio, KPFT, KSYM and the KUT San Angelo franchise. Best bet for Alejandro is to make Springsteen put his money where his mouth is and take him on a national tour as his opener (this actually happened in Houston). How great would it be if Houston bands like the Midols and the Dishes (and the Judy's- from HOUSTON/PEARLAND- NOT AUSTIN!) had been given a once every three year cover story on the Press or Public News? Would anyone have read? I don't actually know. Austin does have the sheep/herder deal going where the AMM actually does succeed in pushing the chosen ones, at least to the loyalists. This is a very good thing, yet also an artistically limiting scope for the whole scene. I'm not actually knocking it- it works! Something to think about.

I'm not sure of the point of this post other than to point out that Alejandro Escovedo is once again on the cover of the Chronicle. Oh yeah, and he has a new album out with Chuck Prophet, a guy who's music began entartaining me back in '99 when I worked with Keith Coit at the Big Time Cafe (RIP to both). - David

Marfa City Council meeting wrap-up 6/10/2008

2008-06-17T20:23:00.003-06:00

Here's the short version of the Marfa council meeting from 6/10
All members present minus Rudy Garcia

No citizen comments (meeting attendance by citizenry fairly light)

We approved the minutes from the last meeting

Mayor Dan Aunlap showed us an informative and fairly extensive slide show of the massive wildfires that had burned to the northwest and due noth of town. Mayro Dunlap and councilmember Rusty Garlick had assisted in figting the fire. Mayor Dunlap was able to travel by helicopter after the fires and take aftermath pictures of the various fire lines. General discussion was had about mowing a "fire strip" of several yards surrounding the city in certain places.

City Administrator's report- Jim Mustard deatialed progress on the pool It is nearly ready for action once lifeguards are hired and trained. Sul Ross will have a class and the pool should be open by June 24th. This is good news (I toured the pool the next day with mayor and it is in very nice condition right now).
Police chief J.D. Wilbourn has secured the use of "out of service" Border Patrol equipment for free including a good forklift. Progress is being made on a title transfer.
The City has signed a contract with a contractor to pull Water Well Pump #3 for service and inspection.

Resolution 08-09- Resolution to apply for a +/- $200,000 block grant. Exact name= 2009 Texas Community Development Prgram Block Grant. Passed unanimously. This grant money would be for a designated community project where minimum 51% of the benefit from the project would go towards servicing the low to middle income sector of the community (we have plenty here, despite what the New York Times would have you think)
This grant comes through ORCA and the Council of Governments. Last time we used this money towrds the current library rebuilding project. More info will be forthcoming as the process continues as we are required to officially choose a project, have at least one public hearing and will have to allocate matching funds from the city.

Next up City Attorney Teresa Todd fielded questions about Open Meetings and Conflicts of Interests. I asked a question regarding a section of the law that requires one to file paperwork detailing a conflict of interest BEFORE abstaining from a vote on an issue. I was told that is the letter of the law, but in practice the paperwork does not need to be filed in advance in order to abstain. Technically it reads as so, but that's not always possible as items and/or conflicts can come up without sufficient advance notice and it's always best to be safe than sorry on voting when there is a potential conflict.

Resolution 08-10 Solid Waste Grants
We passed a resolution to apply for a solid waste grant that will likely be used towards the pruchase of a cardboard blaer for the recycling center. The one we have has been out of service for over ten years and was donated by our trash collection company Duncan Disposal (who, knowing them, would never gove anything away that was actually functional). A new baler is around $15,000 and will allow us top recycle and sell the mass amounts of cardboard we collect. three phase power to the recycling center will coast nearly $20,000 to run. There are several other things we could do with the three phase capability out there as well (not directly related to solid waste dispoasal.) Same thing as above with this grant. Official project selection, public hearing(s), and potential additional budgetary costs will be addressed as the grant process moves forward.
This grant would come through the Rio Grande Council of Governements (COG).

Next up we unanimously approved the accounts payable and monthly expenditures report supplied by the city administrator. There was some discussion, as usualy, regarding individual line item expenses and a general discussion of payment dates. Bottom line= the city is still in debt, but we are no longer over 30 days behind on any bill minus one or two that have been pre-negotiated to be paid in installments (on time on those payments at this point as well.) The total debt fluctuates on a dlaiy basis, but we're looking in the ballpark of +/- $60,000. this is nearly a $100,000 improvement from around this time last year when I began to attend council meetings.

Next the council conevened into two rare "closed sessions" to come to decisions on action regarding the Inter-Local Agreement with the City of Alpine with ragard to our co-ownership of the non-profit Southwest Municipal Gas Company. There has been some dispute, complete with missing and mysteriously appearing paperwork, as to each city's precise ownership stake in the Gas Company. Our closed session discussed various factors and options and we came back into council chambers and voted to approve a motion for City Attorney Teresa Todd to make an Open Records request for certain paperwork.
The second closed session regarded potential legal action against the local grocery store (Pueblo Market/Welsh's) for repeated sewage back-ups. This issue is complex as therte has been miscommunication between the city and the market owner. Thrown into the vat are some angry neighbors. Council discussed options and came back into council chambers to vote to invite Pueblo Market owner Welsh to address the council and the citizenry at a future meeting of his choice.

Finally, we adjourned.

David Beebe, councilmember, City of Marfa

My new radio show- Tuesdays from 11PM to 1AM CST

2008-06-17T20:10:00.003-06:00

I have a new weekly radio show on Marfa Public Radio. The show is easily streamable via the internet by heading over to www.marfapublicradio.org
I have been at it for about a month now and am mostly playing old school R&B from the 70's-current (like KCOH AM 1430 in Houston). I would say that's about 60% of what the show is. The rest is fairly free-form but focuses on Texas music of all genres past and present. I play music from 11 PM to 1 AM Central Time and usually stay on until 2 AM playing more tunes but not commenting on aiir. The eventual idea is to expand the show to a full three hours with commentary, but I am not letting myself do that until I get this place over here built out and open. After that then we'll see if I'm up for a "real DJ" shift of three hours.
I am the only DJ on MPR that runs past 11 PM on any night. In fact, from about 8 to 10 PM on these same Tuesdays the station runs on "automated" format, that is, without a DJ. I opted for the late night since that's where I feel my music fits in best.
Hopefully someone out there (especially those in the Pacific Time Zone -9PM to 11PM) is listening!
The show is called "The Night Train Express", named after the rotgut wine sold down the street from the Continenatal Club in Houston at the "Winner's Corner" grocery store. When I go into the studio to make my basic playlist of what I'll be spinning that night I try to first channel my "Popeyes Fried Chicken" soundtrack back from when I worked there in the late 80's.
Lastly, I am answering the station's phone while I am running my show and will take basic requests. They may run the foloowing week since I may have to track the music down, but generally I'll either get to a request or sub out a different tune I feel may need to take its place (yeah you read that right!)(432) 729-4578

Marfa City Council meeting 5/29 recap

2008-06-01T22:31:00.002-06:00

Hi folks!

Here's the first in my series of short recaps of our city council meetings. I have been elected as one of five at-large councilmen. My term will last two years. We meet twice a month; on the second Tuesday and the last Thursday of each month.

Here's what happened this meeting and the councilman voting results:

Regular discussion and approval of previous meeting's minutes. No citizen comments during the citizen comment period. This meeting, incidentally, followed a somewhat contentious Parks and Rec Board public hearing where there were plenty of citizen commments.
City administrator's report discussed the (lack of) streetlights and potentially investing, long term, in a wind turbine. Also that the TWBD 1.2 million dollars for the new water treatment plant has still not been received. Job openings for lifeguard and pool director are still open. Asssistnt cook at the Nutrition center has been hired. Discussed the ORCA grant and some liability issues. Trinidad Pacheco is in training to be our new animal control officer.

Mayor's Report: diwscussed open meetings and freedom of information training. Swimming pool supplies are late and will be re-shipped. Commended the Marfa Girl's softball team on their great season.

Voting items:

I nominated councilman Scott May to replace the outgoing Lionel Salgado as Mayro Pro-Tem. Seconded by Rudy. Vote was unanimous.
We voted to appoint Thomas Schidt and Fairfax Dorn to the Zoning Board. All but Manny were in favor. Only objection there (mine and Manny's objection) was that nominees weren't at the meeting to answer potential conflict of interest questions.

Discussed at length the ad valorem tax note (interst and sinking funds. Approved unanimously although the draft officer did not come with his fee notes in hand and was evasive about audience questions. I would have voted against this one if this hadn't been merely the finalizing of this agreement which has been in the works for months. 4% rate, compounded yearly. $270,000 total loan over three years. Loan fees come off the top (so we're paying interest on those as well). Not how I would have liked to see it and the guy was kind of slick and maybe slimy. We'll see. My main concern that I voiced loudly was that all designated funds be spent on our fixed asset "to buy" list the previous council approved and amended back in March and April.

We approved changing the signature card at the bank to include me and Manny and to remove Lionel and Maria since they are no longer serving on council. (unanimous)

Approved the transfer of Parks and Rec money to the golf course for pump electric power funding. This had to do with the Golf Association's deal to pay the salary of Ernest in exchange for 6 months of power funding from the city. In the past the city has paid most or all of Ernest's salary. All voted in favor minus Scott May who dissented.
Tabled approving the Parks and Rec master plan pending further study and revision by Parks and Rec Board.
Adjourned.

OK, that's it for now. Time to go to bed. _ David

New videos of Padre's construction posted on youtube

2008-04-20T23:06:00.005-06:00

Sorry I haven't actually posted the URLs of the videos but I have had bad luck with those long links. There are a few new videos of the 209 W El Paso St property on youtube, however. Featured is the open-air main room (formerly the casket room and chapel of the Memorial Funeral Home) of our new dancehall here in Marfa.
The directory of my videos can be found by heading to youtube.com and looking up username elorbits.

In the meantime, here's a few still photos I have taken over the last few weeks-

The new concrete pad for the stage- rear doubles as 24 inch deep piers for the new metal frame structure to hold up the new roof.

View from the kitchen/bathroom/game room hallway area (looking NW into the main room)

New concrete in that same hallway bringing the grade of the adobe structure smoothly down to the grade of the game room/former hearse garage

Marfa Rotary Club Charity Bingo 4/6/2008

2008-04-20T22:20:00.006-06:00

I recently joined the Marfa Rotary Club. So far it has been fun and reminds me of the great times and good service work we accoplished in Key Club (sponsored by Kiwanis) at Lamar High School. My Key Club experience was a blast; Michael Sklar was the president and Ralph Coatsworth was the VP. Michael put me de facto in charge of the Buffalo Bayou cleanup project, as I have always been in love with the banks of the muddy ditch and still jog on the trails to this day when I can. Most of our Key Club activities that didn't involve us getting dirty cleaning the bayou were dinners and appearances helping Kiwanis members with their service. Our weekly meetings at Allbrittons cafeteria on Holcombe were an occasion for the loudest plaid sportcoast and ties we could find (coat and tie was alwasy required) and big cigars. Oftentimes there was a beer or two consumed somewhere, despite our being in high school. Overall, it was a great time and we actually did do some great work.
All that being said, when I found out Rotary was meeting across the street at Jon Johnson's BBQ hut "tipikiva" I decided to give it a shot.
Marfa Rotary is undergoing a transition from the old line to the younger. This is a good thing, as service groups and organizations such as the Masons, Elks and others are folding left and right due to the passing of the last active generations ofmembership. Marfa has already recently lost the Lions Club and the Amvets (although the amvets members are still together, they are no longer chartered). The Rotary Club is the last nationally affiliated community service organization here.
As I mentioned before, many of the newer members are younger than I and the enthusiasm is alive and well. Sunday the 6th we hosted a charity Bingo event at the former AMEVTS Hall here in Marfa, a grand old dame of a building that has seen better days, but is still a great asset. Our actual Bingo event was prefaced by a few weeks of making posters and collection donations from local businesses in Ft Davis, Marfa and Alpine. I personally collected some really good prizes (all donated) from Morrison's True Value in Alpine (where I spend a ton of money, by the way), Beall's, Trans-Pecos Guitars, Sonic, and a few more spots. Like always, the folks of West Texas are gracious and generous. We really had an incredible selection of prizes and the donors will all be honored at the presentation of the scholarships we'll be giving away at Marfa HS graduation.

Marfa Rotary President Jon Johnson setting up prizes in front of the stage

Our day began shortly after Noon as we met up at the Amvets Hall to set up tables, chairs, prepare hamburger fixings, ice down sodas, set up the Bingo machine and put out prizes. Our Bingo was to officially begin at two o'clock, but attendance was light at 2, so we waited about another 20 minutes and, sure enough, the room began to fill. We sold excellent hamburgers from the snack bar (cooked on an ancient and excellent griddle in the Amvets kitchen) and also had chips, sodas and veggie burgers for sale. I brought some beer to give away to folks who wanted it (volunteers and some locals I coerced into coming to play with the promise of free beer) since we couldn't sell it. All in all it was a fun time. I wound up eating three burgers over the course of the day because they were so darn good! I made a few new friends including a young Marfan named Paul who promised to "friend me" on myspace and even some out of town Bingo players. I got to play a few cards myself, since I purchased some, but then gave them up to a friend as I was needed to take burger orders and then to deliver food to tables so the players wouldn't have to get up during the games.

Jon Johnson at the Amvets Hall snack bar

Cory cooks burgers (awesome!) before Sylvia shows up to make the famous Mike's Burgers (incredible!) in the Marfa Amvets Hall kitchen

By six P.M we had packed up and cleaned the hall. All tables and chairs put up, kitchen scrubbed, cards put away, prizes districuted. Jon and I went back to Adobe Moon BBQ to count the proceeds and thankfully we netted $984.00 after expenses- only $16 shy of our goal and enough to fund two scholarships for MHS students!

Johnny Calderon calls Bingo numbers

Here's what I love about events like this- everyone who came had a good time, I believe. There were great prizes and the games we re really a hack of a value. The volunteers had fun. It was for a good cause. It was a family-oriented event and an event that included a diverse group of Marfans. All these reasons make this a win-win for our community, our organization, and the students who will benefit. And even better is that from the sponsors to the volunteers to the Bingo payers themseleves, everybidy played a part in the success. That is a great thing. And that is why I love this type of event.

Southpoint/Almeda Genoa/Broadway/Harrisburg. H-TOWN Part 2

2008-03-19T21:29:00.018-06:00

Click on any photo for a full page view.

OK, so we're now on Broadway heading north back towards I-45. Broadway itself heads more or less northeast towrds the inner (older) ship channel and the, once it crosses it, becomes Harrisburg, the "Main St" of east Houston and the former actual Main St of Harrsiburg , TX before Houston annexed it.

1515 Broadway. That's the address that rings in my head. Fair Deal Auto Sales with Don Hall and Litle April. Their ads are on KCOH and go along these lines
Little April: "Don Hall, they say you sell nothing but hoopdee."
Don Hall: "Well, Little April, there you go again, always talking about what 'they say'. I think it's just the big guys picking on the little guy. In over thirty five years in the auto business I ain't never heard of a car named 'hoopdee'.
L.A.: You're right, Don Hall, it's the big guys picking on the little guy. Here at Fair Deal Auto Sales, 1515 Broadway, if you speak the truth, good credit, no credit, ugly credit, bad credit, if you speak the truth we can get you riding today."
D.H.: That's right Little April, we got Lexus, Cadillacs, Buicks, Acuras and even SUV's."
etc etc. I am looking forward to actually talking with Don Hall and/or Little April once we get to Fair Deal Auto Sales about 30 blocks up.
Meanwhile, I'm looking up at a soon to be removed Harold Farb sign. The last of his holdings was recently sold and signals the end of the apartment king's empire. His apartments here on Broadway are still the best looking of the entire area's- French Victorian style, but without falling off shutters and with better built and ornate wrought iron railings and kempt landscaping.

I ask John Lomax what percentage of the residents he thinks have lived in this complex for over 20 years. And then, on top of that, how many basically never leave the hole. TV on, smoking cigarettes in the dark, collecting a check, living off social security, a settlement, alimony from an out of state divorce. I suspect lots. Surfing the web. Hello there, loners!
Are you background noise to the lives of those around you or are you the unknown center of the world. Well, you are in your world, at least, I am sure of that. How's the programming on Channel 55 these days? I haven't had a TV since '89- I bet that's a mind blower.

One of the quintessentially Houston giant self contained semi kept-up, semi run-down Vietnamese apartment complexes, complete with businesses on the ground floor is next. Both sides of the street. The non english speaking Vietnamese senior citizen uniformed security guard prohibits John and I from entering. I can't blame him. This is not our scene, but looks extremely interesting. Not to be.

Broadway is undergoing enouogh of an urban rennaissance to have both a Walgreens and a CVC Pharmacy. Lomax mentions that walgreens is like Coke and CVC is like Pepsi. Dead on. I make a mental note to switch my prescriptions to unicare mail order from CVC kmail order. I've got to stay away from that Pepsi/Coke/Wal-Mart/Kmart biz.
Walgreens had batteries for his IPod speaker system so we could start listening to some tunes outside of the handheld radio. In the past, two sopund systems in the back bag means a shopping cart push is in order later in the day. Tioday was no exception.
Brays Bayou. Crossing over. Lomax mentions that this is the first time we've actually seen this. I agree, but it's not true. Telephone walk we crossed it, but the terrain was so different it wasn't even noticable.

Memories of over 8 years ago flood back to me as we approach the Med Cure clinic. For the life of me I can't remember the cross street, but I recommend this place for a cheap physical, basic health care, etc for folks who are uninsured. I am certain this place is goverment subsidized. I went here Thanksgiving Day 2001 after my 90 year old grandmother told me I looked really sick and neede to go to the doctor ASAP. She was right. I felt really bad. I went here and a Pakistani(?) doctor looked me over, diagnosed a viral infection, gave me amtibiotics, gave me a physical, toom a chest X-Ray and told me I needed to see my regular doctor if I didn't feel makedly better fast. He was worried about my enlarged heart. Pretty doggone worried, actually. I was relieved that he found somthing and that he got me some meds. The cost for all this? $165 paid by check. Two weeks later I felt better and found a "regular' doctor (I have always paid my own health insurance). To make a long story short, the nest trip mlanded me in ICU with heart failure- this right after I battled a water heater element and nearly killed myslef from teh stress of fixing it. Anyway, this guy let me know that I had something out of whack going on and, since it was Thnksgiving Day, gave me immediate help. The rest was a 6 month saga of semi-retirement and a lifetime of taking high blood pressure meds since my natural blood pressure is off the charts. Thank goodness and God that I am well enough to walk 19 1/2 miles (what we covered this day) in the elements 8 years later and can honestly say I enjoy it. Cheers!

I-45 is nearing. It's time for lunch. It's just past high noon. The weather is a bit cold and still a little drizzly, but not too bad. Overcast and slightly windy. I am looking forward to Broadway on the north side of 45. Especially Fair Deal Auto Sales and the fact that I'm not even sure I've ever driven the street on that side. We crossed under (where TXDOT has installed a nice but unusuable palm lined park between the freeway deck and the feeder!). Taqueria Del Sol- a bright and friendly oasis of legit Tex Mex.

We were seeated in the far corner of the back room (back of the bus, gringo!) and got some looks from the regulars. I put some classic conjunto and some Richie Valens on the jukebox and we ordered. The food was good, salsa hot and tasty and giant iced tea glasses. Police officers, teenagers, families. It's Friday lunch. Granted, whenever we gop out on these walks our inadvertant freak factor is high. We never look right, no matter whether we're on Shepherd, downtown or Synott. Lunch was refreshing and I could picture Nick Gaitan and some of the other guys from the Los Skarnales crew eating a late night meal here and having fun. We're entering Nick's high school hood (he went to Milby, just up the road as did many other famous Houstonians.)

Somehow, as I am paying attention to the street numbers looking for Fair Deal Auto Sales, we have missed it by about 7 blocks! HOW?! Walked right past it, I guess. I'm still baffled. We talked about going back, but I figure it just wasn't meant to be. Arggh!
Taco truck parking lots, muffler shops (open SANDAY! for state inspecion), small auto dealers, A/C repair, taquerias, hispanic fashion boutiques. We are oput of the airport area Vietnamese section and are back in hispanic Houston, Houston's natural blue collar state of this era. I pretty much love it and feel at ease and even at home in these neighborhoods.
Former "Chuc Wagon"? Got to be.

The area becomes more industrial and far busier once we pass under Hwy 225/Loop 610. We stopped at a Texaco for an RC/ Gallo refuel. This convenience store has a bit of everything. Dirty, busy and lots of different stuff, including rap "mixtape" CDs at the counter. I resist, but only because I recognize zero names of the artists and they are not too cheap (probably a mistake). Milby High School is right here on our right and looks pretty good. I love the "Every Day" caption on the sign.

We're at the ship channel and down a small street off Broadway is Brady's Landing, the old school public restaurant in the vein of an old school businessman's luncheon club. Still beautiful, yet the honesty of Houston allows a sunken J sailboat to be directly in view from the bridge to industry and this iconic eatery.

The building opposite Brady's that overlooks a slough of parked tankers and tugs was formerly a law office but was obviously built as some sort of Union bunker. I could find no evidence of future plans for this site, but I couldn't help but think "great punk club layout".

Perhaps now that I'm a member of the Marfa Rotary I'll try to one day attned the Harrisburg Rotary meeting at Brady's Landing. A good excuse for a truly old school H-Town experience. Oh yeah, just down the road is a gianlt steel reclamation yard, sorting scrap surely on the way to China (those ships full of lead painted toys go back with our trash). This is a nearly deserted (people-wise) yet bustling area of industry- ships, trains, cranes and, of course, the "smell of money coming from Pasadena.

As we walked through an alley running parallel to Broadway towards the aqueduct that would bring us into Harrisburg proper we saw some super sketchy stuff going down. Four or five speed freaks (white of course) coming out of the back of a trashed out apartment quadraplex. I guess the rents here are still so low that this element, formerly in the what is now called Midtwon area/east Montrose has moved here. I'm not totally surprised, but it was sort of a shock to see this scene after not having seen anything like this all day. Sort of funny that way, I guess, but we went on without making eye contact and they gave us plenty of that.
And now we make the turn into old Houston- the Mexican side of Houston- Harrisburg Dr!

More taco trucks (the re-use of school buses into full kitchen taco trucks, not just roach coaches is pretty sweet, in my opinion) and numerous small, run down nightclubs line the street. A railroad track runs parallel to Harrisburg on the north side (we are heaing westbound now) and later there's another spur running parallel to the south as well- each less than two blocks away. Old Houston. This is a long stretch complete with some old houses converted into rigged mixed use facilities, small furniture stores, car lots, industrial supply houses and pretty much anything that's not a national chain.

As we walk, John spots the door with the large black grim reaper on it and I recognize the telltale look of a medicine shop. I decide I'll go in and definitely buy something, despite my ridiculously bad Spanish. John is coerced, and we are gretted warmly by the lady who is running the shop. I buy a packet of stomach soothing tea for $10 and John scores the big prize of the trip with a small glass globe charm with a floating Buddha in it for the same bucks. A good experience, in stark contrast to the times John has attempted to go to voodoo shops in New Orleans and been verbally abused. The little Buddha charm is truly neat- and confusing- what is Buddha doing here? Later it pays off as it wards away an arch nemesis of John's when he pulls it out to use its powers. Literally, within seconds the problem is out of the building. I tell him to be wise and use its powers extremely sparingly.

Downtown Harrisburg begins in earnest near the intersection of Harrisburg and Wayside, home to Thunderbolt Transmissions. Laredo National Bank is there, Sand Dollar Thrift, a former Weiner's re-named, and many other mainstream businesses.

Once inside the old downtown strip of retail it's more desolate, but art galleries and a few old jewelry stores, tailors and the like are there. I could definitely see this area becoming more arts-centric. In Fact, my cousin Whitney Riley is one of the artists in residence at the new Box 13 Artspace right on the center of it all.

That's the same place where John and I, now near experts in found shopping carts and their merits, found a museum quality relic of a cart that I had to get a picture of. Ancient, with falling off wheel rubber. Actually kind of a preserved specimen of shopping carts of days gone by.

Finally it's time for a break. It's been raining some and we decide to stop into the El Torito Bar to see if it's OK and get a drink. It's actually a great place, with three classy Mexican women working there. Not hookers, not sleazy, but proper and friendly. El Torito turns out to be the owner and his picture graces the wall above the bar. The place is clean, with a bandstand, a great jukebox packed with Conjunto Oldies and a friendly vibe. We sit down for a couple of drinks each (non alcoholic for me- it's Lent) and I pick about 10 songs off the jukebox. Since I only know the artists and not the songs of the conhunto and rachera classics, I pick tracks one and a couple of tracks 2 and 3 of the bands I know in the CD jukebox. The music is dynamite- the same songs I enjoyed while listening to AM 1230 (Radio Ranchita) when I was rebuilding the Airstream. The ladies are singing along, and although they know the Gringo doesn't speak Spanish, they compliment me in broken English on my track selection ("You Play Good Music- how fo you know this good music?") I basically shrug and keep grooving. Meanwhile, I notice a Buddha on the back bar rail. What the?
It's a bar I would go back to without reservation and with most anyone.
We continue on down the line and downtown is now within our sights. It's nearing dusk and we stop to check out a vintage restored gas station, a few more taco buses, and then the Maximus Coffee factory, for years the Maxwell House Coffee Company with the classic "Good To the Last Drop" neon sign.

The place looks great, actually, despite having to lose the sign since Maxwell House claimed trademark on the image.

Darkness is approaching, another shopping cart to hold our gear is left by the side of the road (like where it came from) and we stop in to the Harrisburg Country Club.
This is not a country club in the traditional sense, but a large beer hall with sports on TV, shuffleboard and a diverse after work clientele from all walks of life.

We're tired by now, having walked about 18 miles and both been up since 6 or so in the morning. John sits down and a hispanic looking white guy tries to make obnoxious conversation by referring to him by the shirt he's wearing, by the shoe color etc. John takes the moment to leave and go to the bathroom and I am taking a picture of the sign above the bar.

He now moves on to make small talk with me, and I immediately sense that he thinks John and I are gay. He's not acting like he's gay himself, but I have seen this before, so I continue to blow him off. Actually, his trying to pick up two guys had nothing to do with me blowing him off. After years and years of getting off stage and having my time and brainwaves be monopolized by strangers making small talk, and after years and years of walking out my front door and immediately being hit up for money, cigarettes or just being hassled, and after years and years of dealing with drunks in bars and on the streets of my neighborhood, I have very little patience for strangers taking to me in general. My gut reaction is to be cold at first, and then, if they push on, rude. This is not true in Marfa, but Marfa can be considered a controlled environment.
So this guy ssys to me, "I see you're taking a picture of that sign, it's wrong you know."
By the way, the sign states, "May Wives Girl Friends Never Meet"
I say, "Well, it's not necessarily wrong."
He says, "Yes it is, wives should be possessive instead of plural"

This startled me that he knew the word "possessive' as a grammatical term.
I said, without a beat, "No, it doesn't it can be plural, but might need an apostrophe."
He says, "No, I think it has to be possessive and not plural."
To which I say, "No, actually,I don't want MY wives' girlfriends to ever meet each other."
This is the first time I've ever even made a remote fake claim to be married, but by the he was so confused that he got my drift. I wasn't actually right on, unless I had multiple wives and they all had rival girlfriends. Could happen in Utah, I guess.
That guy was gone and John came back.
Now we finally got to downtown Houston and it was fully dark and raining. Our walk was over, but we decided to end it up at Lean's Loungs instead of Warren's. Leaon's has changed ownership and is no longer a dive. The shuffleboard is gone. There's a new sign with a computer designed logo. Gilded lettering on the front windows saying "Cocktails" and "Piano Bar". Inside it's young folks. Blues Traveler - an entire CD- is blaring. It's kind of a nightmare. John's nemesis is there. Long story short- I am laughing about the absurdity of it all when John busts out the charm to rid The bar and himself of his arch nemesis. She is gone within an instant and the wrold is clearer. Bedtime. It's about 10 PM. Ensemble Light Rail stop up to my old apartment, whihc is still mine for the time being. - David

Better late than never- Southpoint/Almeda Genoa/Broadway/Harrisburg/Downtown H-TOWN Part One

2008-03-19T19:35:00.011-06:00

Click on any photograph for a full page view.

OK, so it's been about a month since I went on this great all day walk with John Lomax. However, I haven't yet read his re-cap and, for several reasons, couldn't get my pics in hand, then connected to the computer for a while and then Roller Derby and SXSW came up. So, partially because I really want to write about this walk and partially because I really want to read John's blog article I'm going to head on and write this baby. Devin the Dude is on my jam box right now, conjuring up visions of H-Town. K-Rino's " Book Number 7" is next in the changer, so I should be more or less set in getting that Houston Hobby Airport hood vibe.
All in all, here's what we set out to do. Get onto the Fuqua/South Point Park and ride Metro early (last bus out is 7:35 AM) and take until it ends. Walk back to downtown using a more pedestrian friendly route than back up the Gulf Freeway feeder.

I woke up at about 6:30 in the morning after arriving into Houston from Marfa the evening before. This trip to Houston was the return trip from dragging a box truck full of pinball machines, office supplies, personal stuff and a jukebox to Marfa from Houston. A reliable box truck is not available for anything but local retals in Marfa so I got a PV from Houston. Anyway, I got on the light rail at the Ensemble/Houston Continental Club stop and went down to the TMC transit center, the pick up point for the bus out to "South Point" I got there about 7:15- early for a bus that was supposed to leave at 7:35. John Lomax was taking his own bus over to there and got there about 7:25- about 2 minutes before our commuter bus showed up. After paying the fare (no more day passes for Metro- boo!) we got on and the bus proceeded to leave outbound about 8 minutes early! That's the last bus out until the evening, a change from the old days when Metro would run the commuter buses once every hour to hour and a half or so during off-peak. Surely there's a compromise between the two extremes- like switch the commuter bus to a more local schedule during off-peak and serve a larger area?! Lord knows. I still love Metro, though.

We get out to the South Point Park and Ride and it's clear we are in blue collar/white collar suburban hell. It's not clear to me exactly what "South Point" is other than a collection of industrial warehouse complexes, small to medium size offices (see Greenspoint), closed down movie theaters, and chain restaurants. Clearly it's based around I-45, which is a block north of the South Point Park and Ride. As far as distance from central Houston, South Point is just past the Pasadena city limits and, to my knowldege, the areas directly further than where we were at are basically NASA Rd 1, Clear Lake, Friendswood, etc.

John and I trudged back towards the freeway we rode in on, trying to get our bearings and a game plan for returning to H-Town proper. after passing a few more chain restaurants (think-Woodlands) and some groundwater detention ponds (with wildlife all around the trash floating in them!) we opted to take Almeda Genoa Rd southwest towards Hobby Airport. John wanted to walk Broadway from Hobby back up towards 45 and I was game.

Almeda Genoa turned out to be a great road to walk, strictly for the rural farm road/ urban funk factor. The souht side of the Gulf Freeway and Almeda Genoa features an old scholl Arby's, Pancho's and a beat up General Joe's Chopstix. This seediness would prelude our exiting the commuter I-45 corridor and our entry into a very old area of town that is partially in transition.

As we progressed southwesterly down Almeda Genoa the businesses grew further apart and rural vacant lots, some with farm animals, others merely overgrown became occasionally bookended by skinny housing developments of surely the sub-prime mortgage type. The Ramirez realtor/homebuilder/development company controls much of this land. Finally it was time for John to grab a small wine and for me to get a cold RC Cola at this little convenience store that sells pretty much whatever the owner finds. I liked the book section.

After a ways we approach a country style ice house called the Juke Box Lounge. Yes, it's open, despite the fact that it's not even 10 AM. I order an O'Doul's from the cigarette-aged but very friendly female bartener. The doors are open on the place and both folks in there are smoking, despite Houston's smoking ban.Oh yeah, we're not actually in Houston, or are we? I can't remember, but I think we were in unincorporated Harris County. The Juke Box Lounge has been open for only about 25 years, but looks like it has been there forever. The brews are cold and the seating is comfortable. Great mostly country records are glued to the ceiling tiles. Billy Joe Royal, Kenny Rogers, George Jones, Andy Kim.
We stay for a while- the CD jukeblox is broken and the maintenace guy is trying to fix it. We leave and are kindly asked to come back any time.

Almost across the street is a part-time flea market at the corner of Almeda Genoa dn Radio Rd. It's closed, of course, before Noon on a Friday morning, but there's a bicycle repairman/shop open in one of the cubbbies. I paint a smile on the female figure on the sign, who has no mouth.

Almeda Genea more or less takes you to far-out Telephone Road. This is our plan- to get over to Telephone and then head around Hobby Airport and then backtrack a bit to get to Broadway. This is a along walk just to get to Broadway. We are walking entirely around the Hobby Airport complex and the we'll be at the entrance to Hobby.
Meanwhile, back on Almeda Genoa, I stop at a little bagel and donut shop next to Shuttle Burgers for some coffee and a donut. The Vietnamese lady at the donut shop is amused by my dollar coin. SHe is also very nice and I am ecstatic that they sell RC Cola in the can! I buy two and thank the lady for carrying RC. She says she has a couple of customers who buy it every time they come in. It's nice to know I'm not the last one flying the Royal Crown banner, especially out here in the boonies (which is what this is).

Next stop, the Windmill Bar. They open at 11 and we arrive at 11. It's hard to believe we've already spent three and a half hours on this trip; it certainly doesn't seem like it. The Windmill Bar is a comfortable, more clean and modern ice house than the Juke Box. Smoking is only permitted since the doors are opne. We are in the COH and the bartender explains that they are considered "open air" since the front is lined with industrial garage doors. The reading material at the bar is a strip club advertising newspaper, featuring the "best" of Houston's escort services and strip joints, plus some remarkable "columns" taken straight from press releases from the Ford Motor Company (Mustang article) and some sketchy supplement (Nutrition column). John talked at length to the bartender and she was extremely nice. The weather was turning a little sour by this point- kind of cold and drizzly, but after Long Point this was nothing, nothing at all.

Gypsy palm readers, modeling studios, more farmland, more small housing developments of stapled together particle board and stucco two story look-alike homes.

We are approaching the Telephone Road and A/G junction. There's an old barn looking building next door to a cemetary and we go in. It's lightly raining and the big building is under partial de-construction. Despite this, pews are stacked up in one room and there's a smattering of dirty and obslete office supplies in another. It's clear that this was , at one point, a funeral home and possibly also a church. Why it's in the shape it's currently in is akind of a mystery. No sign of crack usage, a few things that could be sold for $5 or maybe more. I guess we're too far out for urban drugworm raiding. We don't seem that far out to me.
The intersection of Telephone and Wayside is busy. Two convenience stores, but more rural looking than the Telephone Road we had already sen on our Telephone walk. We are out pretty far beyond Loop 610. Closer to the Beltway than 610, I am sure.

Telephone, as state HWY 35, has no city of Houston maintained sidewalks. Once again, we get to experience the treacherous walking that is to walk down outer Telephone Road. Sink holes, overgrown grass, no sidewalks, skinny easements. I guess TXDOT is supposed to take care of this. TXDOT can be counted on to promote only car travel and definitely not rail, bike or pedestrain traffic. We walk for quite some time and around the south west side of Hobby Airport. Street names like Braniff appear. Finally, once we get past the tall, seemingly never ending razor wire topped cyclone fences lining the airport and its operations we're back in the hood.

This is the hood right outside Hobby. Broadway, Telephone, Park Place. It felt good, and then got better as we stuck to Telephone and the residential area between Telephone and Broadway for a while. Great lawns, Brady Bunch style houses, Small suburban houses, working class folks, artists. One of the last truly honest and diverse pretty NICE areas in Houston that's surely still affordabel, thanks to the double stigma of "living near Hobby" and being on the edge of Sunnyside.

John Lomax and a fine cactus tree in a front yard.

Once we make the cross-neighborhood trek to Broadway we are set for the semi-direct walk back into Downtown Houston. Where we stand (at Pay at the Pump Fried Chicken) we are about three blocks north of the entrance to Hobby, just before the center of the road flyover ramp. The tress throughout this neighborhood are mature and beautiful. They are, for the most part, oaks. This is a big difference between the Harold Farb pioneered Hobby Airport area and the Frank Sharp designed Sharpstown. If Shapr had been as pro-active about tree planting his nighborhood would look more like this. The architecture and age is about the same.

Visitors, paneling, coffee

2008-02-10T21:39:00.000-06:00

I've been busy working in the band room installing the sub-wall over the adobe. The beadboard paneling will go on top of the sub-wall. The adobe walls, even those covered with plaster, are not even close to straight- vertically or horizontally. Building the sub-wall structure is an effort to straighten out the surface so that the paneiling will be straight. Basically, I build off the floor and ceiling, and use a plumb line to get the wall straight. It's an imperfect science, but as Al Smith (from Airline Motor Repair) says, "This ain't no zero tolerance job!"> Anyway, I have finished all but the adobe wall facing the stage, whihc I will do later since the shelving/electric lines, etc for it are still undetermined. I may dive into it before refinishing the floor (at the time I install the band room electric) just to get the whole place done on my watch and sealed off from the main room construction.
Interesting existing door frames- 30 inches. I guess I'll just take some of these old solid doors to the table saw and trim. This is back of house, so it won't be handicapped accessible- there's no room to modify it as it is.
Eric Feighl came to town Thursday. He was in Midland on business and drove a rental car down here to check it out and spend the night in the club building. I showed him the basics of Marfa and gave him the toru of the whole place. We then went over to Maiya's restaurant where he got a drink and I got a non-alcoholic beer. That was the first of many stops. This girl named Romi (don't know the last name) had an art showing at the coffee roasting plant (formerly Pierce Chevrolet). Her art's subject matter was based around domestic violence. She had worked in the domestic violence unit at Dallas' Parkland hospital. Anyway, her work was good and the venue, in my opinion, was excellent. Bev and Johnny showed up with a portable fire pit for the parking lot to complement the free food and beer.

Next we went over to Tillie Arts for another Marfa Big Read event. This was a real deal Mexican food pot luck dinner with a three piece Ranchera group playing. Great, great food and State Rep Pete Gallego showed up and spoke.

Honor students from Marfa High and Middle Schools also did some readings for the group. All in all, a majorly successful community event for a Thursday night.
Eric and I headed back to Maiya's for another drink for him and non-alcoholic beer for me (I forgot that none of the convenience stores in Marfa sells O'Doul's or any other NA- so the next day I went to Pueblo Mart and bought the 2 six packs they had.)
We ended up the night at the Thunderbird Lounge and despite vowing that we wouldn't close it down, we did.

Earlier I had a Rockstar pomegranate drink. It had been so long since I had one that it wired me up; however, by midnight I could barely keep my eyes opne. That is, until I actually got in bed. Worst sleep I've had in months. Tossin' and turnin' like Allen Hill singing the Bobby Freeman song of the same name.
By the time I got up (8:30 AM) the next day Eric was long gone. His plane left Midland at 9:30 so he was out of here by 6:30.

Since it's basically still just me plugging away at the place I decided to clean the game room/work area up a bit. One way to do that is to get everything off the floor. Anyway, I have mostly succeeded and now we have ceiling fans hanging everywhere, the electric supplies are all segregated by class and use, and I got some more of the plumbing fixtures out into the yard. Now there's enough room to use the table saw with a full sheet of plywood without a problem. I had been using the table saw only in the outdoor garage area.
My New Year's Resolution/Lenten promise not to curse is going pretty durn well. I have caught myself, of course, but I think I can maintain a better method of speaking following Lent for the long term. That would be optimal. Quitting drinking is easy, but it definitely ups my coffee intake by a factor of about two. Thank goodness we have the best coffee anywhere here in the form of Big Bend Coffee Roasters. Believe it or not, it's available in Houston at the new place on 8th and Studewood, Antidote. Czech it.
I have a Baord of Adjustments (City of Marfa) meeting tomorrow and then I'm going to try to blaze it towars Houston in the Mercedes. It'll have to have a new battery first and it will also have to NOT be raining, since I'm missing the driver's side window. This trip back to H-town is for a doctor's appointment, a walk with John Lomax, a meeting with the Banana Blender accountant, and to move out of the big room of my apartment. Those are the non-primary reasons. The big deal is to get a box truck and load all the pinballs, video and whatever else I can get from Continental. I'll bring it back out here, drop it off, and blaze back to H-Town. By then the theory is that the Mercedes will be fixed (window and brights for inspection -it's a steering column problem) and I can drive it back out here. Rumor has it that once I get the car in inspectable condition there's a cat in Alpine who is good with the old diesels and will work on the older Benz models. That would be nice.
Once I get back, Father Bill Miller will be hot on my heels getting out here. I really want/need him to NOT hang out with the social crowd while he's here. What I really need is for him to help me move some big items around, stay in the funeral home itself, and, most importantly, hang out with full-time local people doing regular things. It will really help all of us for each of us to have an understanding of what Marfa is really like on a day to day basis (when it's not party time.) Also, we need to go to Mexico and get some items for this place.
OK, outta hare- time for Airstream - David

Mardi Gras at The American Legion Hall and Railroad Blues, Alpine, TX

2008-02-06T21:13:00.000-06:00

Adam and I went (just us two) to play Super Bingo at the American Legion Hall in Alpine. I was told by Phil Westerman (the bar manager) that the earlybird Bingo starts at 6 PM, so we were sure not to be late. Well, it turns out that they don't even start selling the cards until about 6:25, so we were early.

We were not let down by the promise of free draft Miller Lite with thepurchase of the Bingo cards ($20). Since we were early, we took a game of shufffleboard on their old school full-size shuffleboard table (I think it's a National). I have never played a shuffleboard that difficult in my life. Phil told us that they recently had it refinished for the first time in many, many years and they took the top to the Sul Ross woodshop, which has a giant planer to have it planed. Anyway, it should be perfectly straight, but to me it's badly crowned. Keeping the weights from falling off the side of the table was nearly impossible! Anyway, the game quickly degenrated into nothing but laghter as we usually were both scoreless after many rounds. Finally, after playing for about 20 minutes we stopped (since Bingo was starting) with a score of 8-2. Hilarious!

Oh yes, and also beside the shuffleboard table was an extremely nice display of "Alpine" brand beers on a shelf. The whole place has an extensive beer can collection, including one I have never seen before- "Padre" beer. Great looking can- I'll have to steal that logo for something. I can't believe I didn't get a pic of that, but it's not going anywhere. Notice also in the picture (click to supersize) the "Operation Desert Storm" clock. This is the American Legion Hall, after all.

Bingo started and I would say there were probably about 70 people playing. Definitely pros- and we are not. The older lady sitting next to me finally got sick of seeing us not know exactly what we were dong and began to tutor us. Games we played incldued the "Crazy Kite", "Indian Star", "6 Pack (no free space)", "9 Pack", "Double Bingo", "Blackout" and the "Picture Frame". of course, neither Adam nor I won anything othe than the beers we drank. I would call that a bargain.
Everyone was nice. We were among the youngest crowd in attendance, and I would say the crowd is about 75% hispanic and about 70% women.

Once Bingo was over it was clear the hall was closed for business, so we got out of there, but not before using the bathroom, where, for the first time ever, I saw a "urinal target" in the old-school trough (of COURSE they have a trough at the AM Legion Hall!- Kudos to that!) Yes, "Hanoi Jane" is in the house. Pretty great.

Adam in front of the men's room door.

Adam and I decided to catch a game of pool or two at Railroad Blues before heading home to Marfa. it was Mardi Gras, so the place was pretty rocking.

We played a game alone and then were challenged to doubles by two guys from out of town. Several games later, with all of us playing pretty poorly but having fun, we decided it was time to go home. I got home about 11:40 and pretty much went straight to bed after checking email. And that was basically it! A happy Mardi Gras.

Mardi Gras- Alpine AM Legion Hall Super Bingo

2008-02-05T16:30:00.000-06:00

Tonight is Mardi Gras, my last day of drinking (in the U.S. at least) until Easter. This has been a yearly tradition for me since Satellite Lounge days over ten years ago and I only skipped it once. That was the year I was recovering from heart failure, so I wasn't really drinking anyway.
Adam Bork and I will be attending the monthly American Legion "Super Bingo" at the Legion Hall (Post 74) in downtown Alpine. The deal is this: for $20 you get to play the full card and drink as much Miller Lite draft as you want. $2500 in prizes are given away. They also have shuffleboard there.
They do Bingo every Thursday for lower buy-in and lower prize values, but Super Bingo Tuesday just happnes to fall tonight. Anyway, I am pumped. I met the bar manager here at the Padre's building when he strolled in while I was working the other day to try to sell me extermination services. His name is Phil Westerman. Anyway, we had a nice conversation and he filled me in on the Bingo deal when I asked about the Legion Hall. I'll take pictures tonight if they allow it.
Speaking of pictures, I have a few of the funeral home/club in it's near current state. I took the pics a few days ago and have since achieved a lot, especially reagarding getting the place better organized and cleaned up, but here they are.

Basically, most of these shots don't do a very good job of showing you how things fit into place. Perhaps at some point I'll do a complete walk-through and paste things together with a narrative to boot.
There are no additional pictures here of the main room since there has yet to be recent progress on that front. I am still waiting on the new roof structure. The longer I wait, the further out our opening date is (but the funkier the rest of the place is turning out to be, which is great!)
I watched the Super Bowl in Alpine at Railroad Blues Sunday. For those of you who don't know, Railroad Blues is our "competition" in having good touring acts. The bottom line is that the two places are going to be perfect complements to each other. Railroad Blues is pretty much a fun 281 club. I had a great time watching the Super Bowl there by myself. The game was great, for one, but RR Blues also provided a giant, exceelnt buffet. HUGE! I had no idea- I was just going to check it out.
Anyway- success. After that, on a whim I caught the new Daniel Day Lewis Marfa-filmed movie, "There Will Be Blood". An excellent movie, in my opinion. Fantastic acting and the "prophet" character (Eli) reminded me a bit of my (former) male stalker in Houston. Freak.
Anyway, I guess that's it for now; hopefully I'll have some nice shots from the American Legion Hall. - David

Thursday, Friday

2008-02-01T21:23:00.000-06:00

It reached 11 degrees for the low temp last night. When it's that cold I can actually pinpoint the few places the Airstream leaks. The floor doesn't leak air, which was my primary motivation behind two layers of plywood with opposing joints (bottm vert, top horiz). Despite having replaced the door gasket with a new one, the door leaks more than anything else. That being said, it's pretty tight and since I was beneath the covers and had my little 1300 watt electric heater on, I was never actually cold last night. I did notice that the heater never shut off. That is unusual, since I have it set to shut off around 55-60 degrees since I am not the one paying the light bill at El Cosmico.
Before I went to bed last night I watched the Mike Jones movie "American Dream". Yes, I moved Landis' DVD player and the TV he donated into the Airstream so I could wathc that movie and also another about the 60's folk band The Holy Modal Rounders that my brother Mark gave me for Christmas. Both movies were astounding for totally different reasons. When I remember the title of the Holy Modal Rounder documentary I'll discuss it more. AS for Mike Jones' American Dream, it's based on the story of his rising to fame in the H-Town game. There's very little bad language, essentially no drug use (despite the fact that Mike Jones is a part-time drug dealer ion the movie after quitting his job at Frenchy's). Anyway, the movie is so H-Town it's almost mind-boggling. The one white character is "Attorney Goldberg" who is a slick attorney with an office in Williams Tower. He gets Mike's kid brother out of jail and Mike out of his record deal with "Smoke Out" records. I presume that's the substitue for Swishahouse since Mike gets back in the "Ice Age" game (his own label). I can't really go into any more detail right now because it's so ludicrously H-Town in that kind of amateur rap movie way, but Gallery Furniture is in there as is Frenchy's and some pretty good footage of the city. I would like very much to see the Houston Press review this film. I will bug John Lomax about it- it should be in the music section, not film.
Back to what actually happened over the last two days. I took another trip to Alpine to finish the banking stuff at West Texas National Bank. I also grabbed paneling supplies for the game room at McCoy's. I cmae back here and got on the table saw to cut the sections of the ply-beadbpard that is going on the one new game room interior wall. Once I got all that cut and put up I began working on cleaning up and painting the celing fans. They are all whote, and I can't stand white ceiling fans since they are immediately filthy once they are tured on. So instead I have been painting the bodies and balde arms black and the blades themselves brown. This is done with oil based spray paint. The fans have to be drained of all their old oil, thoroughly cleaned with paint thinner and taped off. I had some initial bad luck with the brown paint for the blades bubbling up after one side of the blade was painted. This was occuring when a second coat of paint was hitting the areas of the blade that were exposed to both sprayings. Today I went to the hardware store and got some wire so now I have the blades hanging from the rafters and paint both sides all at once. There have been a few drips, but pretty minor. Nobody will ever see them anyway, as the big fans will all be in the rafters of the showroom once the roof is replaced. However, the fans look totally great- they look like Hunter fans from the 30's with the black satin finish and the plain brown blades. Very cool.
By the way, I have to keep all the balde sets together as they were originally weighed at the Hunter plant in Memphis and grouped together. This is why you will rarely see a Hunter original rocking back and forth. This also helps conserve the motor bearings and provides for ultra quiet operation. It's a shame that these fans are no longer being produced this way. I will say, however, that the current Hunter original is still, by far, the best ceiling fan on the market today. Retail these days is in the $250 each range. I have seen them recently on sale for about $175. These cost me each $20 for the large ones and $10 for the small ones.
Last night I attended the public hearing regarding water and sewage rate increases for the City of Marfa. Following that was the regular council meeting. Attrendance at both was higher than normal. Anyway, the end result was that both water and sewer rates were increased, but for the low water user rates will reamin basically unchanged. The old system was a sliding scale that gave breaks to higher water users per 1000 gallons. Same with the sewer rate. Now the low water user will pay essentially the same as he/she would have before, but higher water users will pay more per 1000 gallons as usage goes up. I still think the prices are very reasonable, especially given that the water tastes great and the city is totally broke. This will encourage conservation among the populace, which, in my opinion, is important out here since our water table has been documented as declining. All that taken into account, the city should make more money on water (instead of losing $) and water consumption should also decrease. Welcome to the 21st century. Other items covered at the council meeting included a unanimous adoption of the new zoning variance application fees that our Board of Adjustments recommeded after our meeting last month (at which I was a voting member) and discussion of how to proceed with regard to negotiating with the City of Alpine on the new inter-local agreement on ownership of the gas company (Alpine and Marfa co-own Southwest Municipal Gas Co and the old agreement is about to run out). This will be a big deal- big $ and lots of control issues will be on the table. Lastly, there was a rare comment by a citizen during the usually silent "open citizen comments" period at the head of the regular council meeting by a gentleman who roundly criticized the Police Dept for not enforcing rules such as towing abandoned vehicles, illegal downtown U-turns, inspection stickers, parking facing against traffic, etc. This cat definitely has an axe to grind, and it sounds like he is particularly not fond of any of Adam Bork's cars and/or the Food Shark. This is the first time I've actually heard a complaint about the current police chief, who I think does a great job considering he's understaffed and underbudgeted. Anyway, Mayor Dunlap listened for a while and then made some jokes. Anyway, the topic was not addressed and this gentleman actually had some good insights and things to say later in the meeting when water and sewer rates were addressed and the new rates adopted.
Tonight, which is Friday night, I completed work at 6 and headed down to the Marfa Public Library for a proclamation by the Mayor and some food and music commemorating the beginning of Marfa's official "Big Read" month, where everyone is given a free copy of Rudolfo Anaya's "Bless Me, Ultima" and instructed to read it. Over the course of the month there will be numerous community discusions, activities, speakers, presentations and get togethers all addressing this book. It's and NEA project and books are available in both English and Spanish. I got my copy tonight. At the library itself was a nice spread of food (always great party food in Marfa!) and a conjunto/traditional Tex-Mex acoustic group led by local saxophonist and part-time journalist Johnny Calderon. It was very enjoyable. Of course I loooked like walking hell in my dirty overalls and Houston Roller Derby shirt (plus my unwashed for nearly a week hair stivking up everywhere!). The cool thing is nobody really cares. It was an event of good spirits all around. There was a fancy art opening tonight as well, but I have been skipping out on that type of stuff unless someone specifically asks me to go. First off, I am not too clean these days with all this work, and secondly I like to get up before nine and get cracking on the coffee and work. Tomorrow is urethane day for the new game room wall. I stained it today and now it's dry. I would deal with that tonight, but despite the fact it's not even cold compared to last night (36 degrees right now) the polyurethane does not like it under 60 degrees.
Tomorrow night there is a very cool looking presentation going on at the Goode Crowley theater across the street. Houston-born Mel Chin will show a film and sign novellas comparing and contrasting the U.S.'s 9/11 experience in 2001 and Chile's 9/11 experience in 1973 when Augustus Pinochet took over in a violent military coup and ruled through and with terror for the next 17 years. So once again my work day will end by 6 unless I pick back up later, which is possible since it should be maybe in the upper 30's for a low tomorrow night. - David

Not too much to report today

2008-01-28T21:33:00.000-06:00

I had a list a mile long of paperwork, phone calls and business errands to run today. The goal was to complete the whole mess so I could be back in overalls tomorrow. Well, as is typical there's still a few things to do leftover from today's projects. Most of it is due to phone tag and having some information that I need to retrieve before I can wrap things up. Anyway, the good thing is that I should be able to finish it all up by tomorrow evening. Then I'll take some more pictures of this place. Right now I'm going to (uncharacteristically) read and go to bed. It's 9:45. Hopefully by 11 or 11:30 I'll be asleep in the Airstream.- David

Back in Marfa

2008-01-27T20:09:00.000-06:00

Well, it's late January, and after a hectic Christmas plus another week back to Houston (last week) to wrap up some 2007 business, work on some Padre's business, and retrieve some more Houston items I am back here and in work mode.

It's been a long time since I posted up, and even longer since I took and posted pictures. I'll try to update the pictures of the whole grounds over the next few days.

Recent news here at the funeral home/dancehall includes that I successfully installed the new power pole and had it hooked up by AEP. So now we have 200 Amps of clean, grounded power and power wired in completely in the office, bathrooms, workshop and most of the game room. Next is band green room and private bath and the kitchen. After that I have to wait until the main showroom roof project has been finished. News on that is none. It hasn't yet started, still, but is scheduled for about 2 weeks from now. Other news is that I have moved the office stuff into the office, along with my record collection and the full-sized bed for guests and sometimes me. The office is very comfortable- definitely the best I've ever had as far as layout and space. The cedar walls are great- I enjoy it in there. Soon I will be moving another large desk and a smaller one into there so as to have the full computer system, printers, scanners et al set up in a non-confusing manner. The bed will leave. Hopefully I'll find another super cheap Airstream by then to use as a guest house and the bed can migrate to there.

The workshop is now workable, so in the next few days I'm going to eliminate all non-workshop related items from the room and move all the tools into there. Both workbenches are set up and the washer and dryer are in place. Once the plumber runs the washer lines the room will be completely finished. As for the game room, it's still basically a catch-all for materials and appliances. I'll be moving the kitchen items into the kitchen area as soon as I can and will start work on refinishing the long shuffleboard table. As for the backyard, that is also a staging area for work and now has a nice copper and pewter fountain that will live there. It's still on the trailer from Houston, but here's a pic nonetheless. The price was right- free- and actually the thing is pretty cool.

Our TABC notification poster is in the window facing Abbott street now. We'll see if anyone calls. The minimum posting time is 60 days, but I'm certain we won't be open before June, so it will be up longer. It basically stays up until you are ready to serve and have jumped through all the TABC hoops. So far that process has been straightforward, but we are in the early stages.

On this last trip back to Houston I was able to stop in Austin and raid the State Surplus Sale for office file cabinets (giant and heavy), telephones (sturdy SW Bell ringing bell touch tone style), and enough Hunter ceiling fans for the whole place with a few spare for parts, blades and replacement. Small fans were $10 apiece and the full size were $20 apiece. They're all white with white blades, so they'll be painted. White fans look dirty instantly and I think they're kind of ugly to begin with. These are all made in Memphis and are the cast-iron oil filled well style. Retail on these is now over $260 each for wither the big or the small and theya re now made in Taiwan with fewer copper wrappings (to achieve "Energy Star" ratings) and therefore less powerful and durable than these little monsters. Here are two pics of the fans laying out in yard on their sides. That's to drain the old, dirty oil before I paint all the housings black. Blades will be painted brown with black blade arms. That's at least for the big fans for the main room and the little fans for the game room over the shuffleboards. I'll post pics when they are completed. It's so nice here at night during the summer that I think we'll rarely be running the A/C since we'll have all these fans.

In David Beebe wirth regard to community news, I gave my second one hour drum lesson to 7 1/2 year old Felix Benton today, som of Joey Benton and Maiya Keck. Those folks own and operate Maiya's restaurant and the new Get Go healthy grocery store here, among other things. I receive an $80/month tradeout at the Get Go for giving a lesson every two weeks. The kid is good, especially for his age. We are working on basic beats and I made him a disc today with notes of 9 tracks that feature great and usable drum beats. Nothing complex (like no Beatles' "Ticket to Ride") but good, basic stuff. Like the following: Archie Bell & the Drells' "Tighten Up" - basic FUNK beat; Chuck Berry's "Johnny B. Goode"- basic rock and roll swing beat; Z.Z. Top's "Gimme All Your Lovin"- straight as an arrow ROCK beat (played by a computer, thanks to Billy Gibbons, but great anyway- truly great).
There was more, including The El Orbits' version of "Night and Day" (straight beat with high hat accents). Anyway, we're focusing as much on listening as on playing. Once he graduates from me in a few years he'll surely take from a drum teacher who is low on listening and high on form.
My firstCity of Marfa Board of Adjustments meeting as a voting member was two weeks ago. We approved a special use permit for a gentleman building a house on his property. Basically, we gave him permission to live in a trailer home until his house is finished with a maximum of 18 months time. It was interesting.
It looks like for the first time in my life I'll be registering as a party member on any side in order to vote in the local primary. This place is so small it could actually truly make a difference.
I have a few gigs coming up out here as the bassist for a guy named Jon Langford who is coming through. Much to my delight, his music is great. It's like Irish rock with a slight bit of Joe Strummer in it. This guy is one of the longest=standing artists on Bloodshot Records, a great label. I am looking forward to the shows. I'm on bass. This comes as a result of the Barbara Lynn gig and also Jackie Pepper.
I guess that's about all for now. tomorrow is a very busy day- mostly administrative, banking, TABC, etc so it could be eventful. Later- David