WEST TEXAS WEEKLY

[Contact the Editor at andrewsuber@hotmail.com or call at 432 294 2549 to have your restaurant featured in Big Bend Dining.]

We are not elitist or snobbish here at West Texas Weekly. If anything, I would rather have a fresh meal out al fresco from a spic-and-span dining truck than be stuck in some dank, over-priced fern bar. The Big Bend is starting to assemble a fleet of excellent, inexpensive mobile dining experiences. I am proud to say that Cow Dog has joined that fleet.

My sampling order today went back to basics: a small Hangover, small Mexican, small German, Zapp’s Jalapeno potato chips and a Dr. Pepper for $12.50. This is a lot of food; a small dog, chips and a drink is a substantial lunch. I thought the Mexican (see above) was the best of the bunch: fresh home-made pico de gallo, sharp cheddar, bacon, mayo and ketchup on a plump Hebrew National. This is the hot dog style in Arizona and Sonora state, Mexico. The fresh jalapeno is offset by the coolness of the mayo.

The Hangover featured some pretty tasty homemade chili and fritos in addition to bacon and cheese. I was not bowled over by the German; a little too much kraut for my taste. These are minor quibbles; the key to this dining experience is a plump, high quality frank fried up on the grill for a bit of “bite” and a fresh, soft bun toasted with a hint of margarine.

Local artist Alan Vannoy runs this operation. You can find Cow Dog at the Big Bend Thrift store, 104 W Avenue A, Alpine, Texas on Wed-Sat. lunchtimes. He’s also at the Railroad Blues on Saturday nights.

[Each Thursday you can enjoy Big Bend events, dining, video, news and photos from the editorial staff, contributors and readers. To contribute, e-mail your photos, events, thoughts, opinions to the Editor at andrewsuber@hotmail.com, andrew suber [at] hotmail [dot] com.]

Big Bend Video

“Opal Moon” performed by Evelyn Roper. Kudos to Bob Kinford. He has posted all of the Crossroads Gathering video here at YouTube. I wish that more West Texas events would make my job easier by doing this exact same thing!

–See “Hunter Gatherers” in Terlingua this weekend. See below for showtimes.

–South Rim Hula Hooping. For those in the know, Hula Hooping is the preferred method for South Brewster County to raise money, have fun and commune with the dance gods.

Big Bend Photographs

La Junta thrift and fashion took a creative approach to recycling on Earth Day. These outfits are recycled from discarded objects (except, of course, for Lucia and Erin Aguayo’s). Johanna is a light and a credit to our community (she’s also a proud underwriter of West Texas Weekly). Thank you for your support and positivity!

–”Photograph of Ruperta Chavarria in a pretty dress made by Petra Nunez. She was 19 years old and getting ready to go to a dance in 1928. This photo was included in a research paper by Stella Nunez for an American History class at Marfa High School in 1967.”

Big Bend Events

Front Street Books Reception: A closing reception for photographer Ruth Janyn will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 Friday, April 30 at 121 E. Holland, Alpine, Texas. It will be the last chance to see Jaynyn’s color photographs of the Big Bend; refreshments will be served. For more info, call (432) 837-3360.

“Hunter Gatherers”: Last Minute Low Budget Productions presents “Hunter Gatherers” by Peter Sinn Nachtrieb at 8pm Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through May 1 at the Theater behind the Terlingua Store on Highway 170 in Terlingua, Texas.

Inauguration Ceremony for Ricardo Maestas: Inauguration ceremonies for Dr. Ricardo Maestas, 11th president of Sul Ross State University, will be held at 10 am Friday, April 30, in the Pete Gallego Center, Alpine, Texas.

‘Heat’ Exhibit Reception: The Big Bend Arts Council’s Gallery on the Square will have its “Borderland Heat” reception and show from 5-7 pm Saturday, May 1. The show will remain on display through July. In addition, works by the two newest members are on display. Dwight Gover will have his flintknapping available and Ann Eckly will display her painting in thread. The gallery is at 5th St. and Sul Ross Avenue in Alpine, Texas. For more information about Gallery on the Square, call Diane Baylor at (432) 364-2609.

Whoops and Hollers

I have proudly become a sponsor of Marfa Roller Derby. Practices are at Sunday at 2 pm at the slab at Vincainzo Park, Marfa, Texas.

My good friend Mercer Black is looking for other sponsors. I am coming in at the ‘Angel’ level; I think that my modest donation will provide skates and safety equipment to ‘the Romi’. Kudos to everyone involved. And, please, if you are a local business that wants to contribute to a worthy, grassroots sort of hip thing: BECOME A SPONSOR!

–Another local project that I am super-supportive of is Theater of the Big Bend. If you are person who likes to sing and dance and is at loose ends for something fun to do this summer. GO TO THE OPEN CASTING CALL. Parts are available to all ages of men and women. It is always a ton of fun and shows the rest of the world how much talent we have out here in the Big Bend. Open call auditions take place Saturday, May 1st at 2 pm and Monday May 3rd at 5 pm Room 105 FAB, SRSU, Alpine, Texas. For more info, check out their facebook page.

–I received the following letter from Lonn Taylor:

Dear Andrew,

I enjoyed your interview on KRTS yesterday and have taken to heart
your comment that not many Fort Davis people subscribed to West Texas
Weekly. I just subscribed, and I am looking forward to reading your
comments and occasionally responding to them.

For starters, I suggest you ask the Wineaux to drop by Nel’s Coffee
Shop in Fort Davis for breakfast or lunch any day of the week. The
owners, Jerry and Nelda Miles, are the hardest-working people in town.
They keep their cafe open 7 days a week from 6:30 in the morning until
3 in the afternoon, and they have provided Fort Davis with a place
where residents can not only get delicious meals but drink coffee and
solve the world’s problems. This is especially welcome since the
absentee owner of the Drug Store decided that running a restaurant was
too much work and not only closed it but boarded the building up.
Nel’s has become the town’s hottest spot.

Fort Davis may not have the buzz that Marfa does but I like it because
nothing has happened here since the army left, and that was in 1891. I
can drive to Marfa for excitement (and good dining), but for serenity
I’ll take Fort Davis any day.

Lonn Taylor
Fort Davis, Texas
Where the duck chews tobacco and the goose drinks wine

I want to thank Lonn for subscribing and taking the time to write this e-mail… I have a feeling that the Classical Wineaux may make a visit to Ft. Davis. Read Lonn’s thoughts in the Ft. Davis and Marfa newspapers or listen to his dulcet tones on KRTS, 93.5.

Also, I am hearing from lots of folks from Ft. Davis. Look for more future coverage from Steve Chaney.

–Speaking of Fort Davis, Karl Rove (or as Novak dubs him, the Prince of Darkness) will be visiting Fort Davis.

I applaud the Republican party for their ideals: smaller government, fiscal responsibility and strong foreign policy. However, under Karl Rove’s example, they have too often relied upon attacking homosexuals and abortion in order to get short-term gains.

For the vast majority of Democrats, these are relatively minor issues compared to creating jobs, ensuring health care for middle class Americans and balancing the budget. Gay civil rights and abortion availability are wedge issues even within the Democratic Party.

Karl Rove and his disciples are in part responsible for the divisiveness and rancor in the Washington today. He revealed the identity of Valerie Plame (an undercover government agent). Treason?

–Last week was 4/20. My jeers go to Julie Vega who coerced her Sul Ross students with extra credit to picket the Purple Zone (the Big Bend’s only source of adult toys, adult DVDs and tobacco accessories, or, as I like to call it, my one stop shopping choice). There were ten picketers on their side who picketed about an hour.

On the other side (supporting the harmless things that go on between consenting adults) were 50 protesters. You get my cheers for supporting freedom of speech, freedom of association and freedom of contract.

It’s easy to demonize and pick on a small business owner who is selling accessories to lifestyle choices you don’t agree with. The hard thing is to do something that really matters. Kilos and kilos of hard drugs move through our area due to organized crime– why doesn’t Ms. Vega go undercover in a Mexican drug cartel if she cares so strongly about this subject?

My support and enthusiasm goes out to the Purple Zone. If people really have a problem with pornography they should attack the national companies that provide pay-per-view pornography to each home in America instead of a local businessperson who pays local taxes and provides local services.

–In regard to 4/20 (a national day to partake of cannabis) I received the following message from a member of the Terlingua Liberation Front:
Today is 4/20. Reflect on the holy medicinal herb that has been demonized and slandered by the same crazy baldheads that sell you liquor, sugar, tobacco and synthetic pharmaceuticals… “A true Rasta man dinnae drink the rum. A true Rasta man dinnae gamble. Opie apa opie a ya. Jah jah sent me ‘ere to catch vampire.”

–Big thank-yous to all participants so far in the 2nd Annual Big Bend Photography Contest : Justin Vogt, Elena Goodrun, Paula Curry, Daryl Hoelzer, and Voni Glaves. Hurry up and get your entries in! We only have until May 2nd.

Big Bend Web Resources

–I want to give a big heartfelt thank you to Jay Valles. We have inspired one another in providing a voice to local folks. His website, La Voz, provides hard-hitting political news concerning our area. He examines political issues that some of the local newspapers are a little squeamish about investigating. I highly recommend this site to all my readers. Check out this archive of his original content.

–You can browse the Marfa Public Library’s photograph archive online. There is a wealth of amazing Big Bend photographs here. Even better, you can browse them in your pajamas and you don’t have to have an archivist shushing you.

–Are you interested in the best and funkiest site for Texas Roadhouse music? Try Texas Roadhouse Live. “Texas Roadhouse Live, a Texas-based live concert music television program showcases the finest regional and national talent as they pass through the Lone Star State. Shot entirely on location, Texas Roadhouse Live takes the viewer directly into the Roadhouses, cafes, bars and dives that have made the Texas music scene the notorious experience it is. So grab a beer and relax as we take you up close and personal with some of today’s finest bands and some of yesterdays legends.”

[Each Thursday you can enjoy Big Bend events, dining, video, news and photos from the editorial staff, contributors and readers.]

Big Bend Video

Texas Monthly takes a look at some of the amenities at the Terlingua Ghosttown, Terlingua, Texas.

–Nathan (tumbler and acrobat) on finding Terlingua.

Big Bend Photographs

Thank you to reader Daniel Chamberlain. See more of his local photography at Into the Green.

Big Bend Events

Tea Party Rally Today– 4-6 pm at the Railroad Park in Alpine, Texas, corner of Holland Avenue and 7th Street. Protest against overly high taxes.

–Celebration benefit for Doyle Tucker: Sat April 17th, 6:30 pm at the Alpine Country Club. Music by Bake Turner. Silent Auction. Pork loin dinner – donations welcome, no charge at the door. For more information or to make financial or silent item donation, contact Mike Nelson at 432.238.2661.

–Alpine Chamber Mixer: The Alpine Chamber of Commerce mixer will be from 6-8 pm Thursday April 15th at the Holland Hotel. Expect music from the Doodling Hogwallops, food and fun.

Big Bend Gem and Mineral Show this weekend: The annual Gem and Mineral Show takes place this weekend at Kokernot Lodge in Alpine from 9 am to 6 pm Sunday. Admission is free.

–Alpine Dark-Sky Star Party: Sierra la Rana and the Big Bend Astronomical Society (Alpine-Big Bend Texas) will host the Alpine Dark-Sky Star Party on April 17th, . The Dark-Star Party will be in recognition of Earth Day Week and participate in the Global Astronomy Month’s “Thirty Nights of StarPeace,” a worldwide-scale event that will join together astronomy groups in neighboring countries, one patch of Earth at a the time, on successive nights during the month of April 2010.
The Dark-Star Party is open to the public free of charge and the organizers will provide coffee and hot chocolate. There are 8 telescope pads available located at the Sierra la Rana Astronomy Village. Please feel free to bring a telescope and/or binoculars to share with event attendees.
Dave Oesper will moderate the star party starting off with viewings of Mercury and Venus from 8:30 – 8:45 p.m. and then a twilight presentation will immediately following the viewings begin at 8:45 p.m. and lasting until 9:15 p.m. approximately 30 minutes. The presentation will be an inspirational talk both on both what is viewable in the night sky and the joys of observational astronomy in general from Sierra la Rana and the Big Bend region in general.

Big Bend Dining Notes

Talgar’s– Talgar’s has been open for about a year and I am puzzled why it is often empty. The food here is fresh, well-prepared and plentiful. Today I had four jumbo flautas impeccably plated on a bed of red cabbage with copious amounts of fresh avocado, sour cream and cilantro. The flautas were hand-rolled and large; the chicken flavorful and moist without being greasy.
Before I’ve had the fish tacos and a chuleta, a mexican hamburger. I will admit my bias; I personally think that Talgar is a great person and great cook (particularly her Christmas tamales). However, this is one of the few places in Alpine that is really trying some different– a fresh, vibrant approach to cooking from Mexico and the rest of the Spanish-speaking world. If you haven’t tried it and you live locally– please, trust me and go in for an al fresco dinner on the beautiful patio.
The wine list is modest, but carefully selected to augment the latin flavors.
102 West Murphy Street Alpine, TX, Lunch ~ T-Sa 11:30-2:00, Dinner ~ Th-Sa 5:30-9:00 Ph# 432.837.5101 (it may be prudent to call ahead) Approximately $10-15 per plate.

Whoops and Hollers

Chinese Invasion Tour in Dallas from Julie Hwang on Vimeo.

These bands came through Alpine and Marfa. Do any locals have comments? Three Chinese bands touring America– exciting!

–Do you FourSquare? This is a new online game that uses the GPS feature of cellphones to introduce you to new places. I’m addicted! Check out foursquare here. Here’s my profile. I’m the mayor of four places! Harry’s Tinaja, La Trattoria, Bread and Breakfast and the Murphy Street Raspa Company. How about some free snacks for your hungry mayor?

Big Bend Video

This video comes from Apparent Motive, from Terlingua, Texas:

This video is revolutionary. It depicts a Terlingua Liberation Front free human being giving his response to the 2010 Census. This is a true patriot, hiding his face so he can’t be isolated and shot before more people follow his example and decide they are mad as hell and not gonna take it anymore!

–John Wells demonstrates a StepperSpinner. Be sure to attend the Green Scene in Terlingua on Saturday and see his oven demonstration.

–This isn’t a Big Bend video per se, but its making the rounds in local social media. Enjoy!

–RIP JACK ROSE. OPIUM MUSIC. THE SOUL OF THE WEST. YOU WILL BE MISSED JACK.

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Big Bend Events

Davis Mountains Theraputic Riding Center Beginning April 6th the DMTRC will be offering programs to people with disabilities using horse riding as a means of therapy. Research shows that theraputic riding improves the physical, cognitive, social and emotional functioning of people living with physical and developmental disabilities. For people living with disabilities ranging from cerebal palsy to autism, riding a horse has been shown to improve balance and joint mobility, increase muscle strength, overcome fear and anxiety, and enhance the person’s ability to set and achieve goals. For more information about how to get involved (whether as a volunteer or a patient) contact Margret O’Donnel at info [at] dmtrc [dot] org or call Fonda Ghirardi at (432) 426-2363.

2010 Texas Poet Laureate Karla Morton at SRSU On April 8 from 2:15 to 3:15 Karla Morton will be providing a poetry reading hosted by SRSU. It will take place in the Morelock Academic Building in room 302. Morton, described as “one of the most adventurous voices”, uses a mix of American poetry, prose and story-telling with a distinctly western flair. Morton is also the first Woman named Texas State Poet Laureate in more than 15 years.

Train Writers Retreat Features Japanese Haiku Hike April 9 – 11 will be the date of the 19th annual event hosted by the Texas Mountin Trail Writers of the Big Bend area and will feature a special Haiku walk in which Donna Greene, the president of the Texas Mountain Trail Writers, will be working with hikers/writers on the Haiku Writing art. Participants will be given handpainted booklets with a Far Eastern theme, also rustic lodging is available at the camp or in town at the motel/hotel of your choice. For more information, visit the website: www.texasMountainTrailWriters.org.

Terlingua Green Scene getting Ramped Up On April 10 in Terlingua Ghost Town, there will be live demonstrations begining at 11 AM on how to cook with a solar oven, build with paper-crete, knit with recycled materials, and much more. All day there will be art, music, food and drinks. This is a family-friendly event with activities for the whole family. Starlight Theatre will be hosting a story-telling event in the evening. For more information, visit
www.TerlinguaGreenScene.com.

Big Bend Photos

Thank you to reader Darlene LeFevre for submitting this beautiful picture of the River Road between Lajitas and Presidio, Texas.

–Thank you to reader Mr. Gringo for this snapshot of the immortal Jackie Pepper and Susannah– his beautiful back-up singer.

Come to Our Census Dept.

I received the following opinion from reader George Covington:

One tragic incident comes to mind and, of course, it happened in Terlingua. Now, to begin with, I’m not certain why the Census people would bother to even go to Terlingua, because as we all know and has been stated in this column before. The area is inhabited by ancient hippies, parole violators and Satan worshippers; none of whom are capable enough to fill out forms, even if they can write. The incident involved a census taker who had never met a javelina. As my regular readers know, a javelina is like a skinny pig with teeth, tusks and a really nasty attitude toward those who would interrupt its carefree lifestyle. The intrepid Census taker discovered quickly that this is one animal that you do not want to mess with and in a fit of panic, a call is made to Terlingua’s Medical Emergency Team. When the MEs showed up they shot the javelina, which was a pet. Those who are uninitiated in to the wily ways of the west might ask, “Why was such an action taken against an unarmed pet?” A better question might be, “why do medical emergency folks in Terlingua carry guns?”

Read more of George’s opinion at the Alpine Avalanche (and thanks to Mike and Cindy for giving me some encouragement and advice regarding a personal issue).

Whoops and Hollers Dept.

Mark your calendars. My nasal tones will be heard on April 19th on KRTS’s Talk at Ten (a great show I listen to constantly). I’ll be talking about local news, blogging and new media. Thanks to all the staff there– and congrats for meeting their $70,000 pledge drive goal.

–Daniel Chamberlain, Marfa Resident, has an excellent article on the Green Scene that appeared in Arthur Magazine. ” Plus, no matter how much of a bohemian air the place may have, it’s still Texas, and while the true-to-life cowboys and good ol’ boys have a streak of tolerance and hedonism that is unique to this wild region of the Lone Star state, their presence is enough to ensure that the thick-skinned hippies and outsiders that find their way here are decidedly outlaw in spirit, if not vocation.”

Daniel, can I get you to submit some of your excellent prose and photography to WTW?

–Billy Joe Shaver on trial for assault: “Willie Nelson and Robert Duvall showed their deep friendship for Billy Joe Shaver, who us accused of aggravated assault for shooting Billy Coker in the face March 31, 2007 in Lorena, by sitting through about three hours of deadly dull proceedings Thursday in Waco.”

–Dallas Observer comments on Brooklyn folkies Yeasayer; Yeasayer? Or Mehsayer? Marfa Ballroom is bringing them out and it promises to be a great show. I, for one, am really excited. Can I get a couple of press passes, Ballroom?

–Kudos to City of Presidio for mention in National Geographic: “The hoped-for remedy is a battery, a Texas-size battery, which could eventually end up playing an important role in wider use of green power generation such as solar and wind. The U.S. $25 million system, which is now charging and is set to be dedicated April 8, will be the largest use of this energy storage technology in the United States.” Click here for the full article.

–Hey, Texas. Let’s get together and do a little better. According to impartial third parties Texas has worst record of prison sex abuse. Texas has 5 of the 10 U.S. facilities with the highest sexual assault rates. This isn’t just sexual abuse at the hands of other prisoners… it’s also at the hands of guards.
A society is judged by how its most marginalized members are treated. By this standard, we are a society in peril.

Sometimes a Great Quot-ion Dept.

Whoso would be a man must also be a non-conformist. –Ralph Waldo Emerson, Essays: First Series

I think we ought always to entertain our opinions with some measure of doubt. I shouldn’t wish people dogmatically to believe any philosophy, not even mine. -Bertrand Russell

Nowhere else in history has there ever been a flag that stands for the right to burn itself. This is the fractal of our flag. It stands for the right to destroy itself. -Ken Kesey

Nuttier than a Fruitcake Dept.

Recent Last Patriot post “The Terlingua Ranch is F@#$ed” has ruffled some feathers on the Ranch. There’s a Yahoo group that people swap information on. I want to thank Ronald Mahan for defending me in the following post:

I do not know if that story from the West Texas Weekly is true or not – but it is my opinion that the publisher – Andrew Suber is definitely not a “fruitcake”!

He is a lifetime Brewster County resident who has been educated as a lawyer – and most probably knows just how much of this scandal he can report without being sued. His father – Craig Suber – was sued by an earlier POATRI board – for putting up gates to limit public access across his Terlingua Ranch property – and that case is in mediation! Andrew Suber has ample reasons to illuminate any improprieties that Directors Demetri and Jordan may have committed and gotten caught doing!

Some of the Terlingua Ranch property owners are naive enough to believe that POATRI does not hide most of the unpleasant facts of life from the property owners. I recently heard the rumor that the new ranch manager the POATRI board hired – had a criminal record. My checks with the Texas Rangers disclosed the new manager did have a criminal record and the man had been convicted of a felony – cattle rustling!

My proof from the Texas Rangers was given to Director Demetri – but she never released that information to the property owners! Last year’s POATRI board had the new Ranch Manager resign and nothing was disclosed about their serious error of judgement – in failing to protect the property owner interests.

Who would want to send their POATRI fees to a convicted felon? Our new POATRI board has pledged a lot’s more transparency and openesss!

Thank you Ronald! I think I might have a notarized certificate that says that I am not a fruitcake (but at that point I will be certified.)

SISSY NOBBY DEPT.

–One last tiny shout-out, “Aziz Ansari is F@#$ing Awesome. And his brother Aniz isn’t too bad either. Big up to all at the double T posse at tallarico.com. “

VAL BEARD WINS BREWSTER COUNTY JUDGE, KILLINGSWORTH AND PALLANEZ RE-ELECTED

“Brewster County voters agreed with County Judge Val Beard’s campaign slogan — “Keep Val Beard” — and returned her to office Tuesday. She will have no GOP opponent in November’s general election.”
Click here to read more at the Alpine Avalanche.

NIMBY NEWS ACCUSES AVALANCHE OF BIAS

The Avalanche’s completely confused editorial policy and demonstrably unprofessional unfairness toward Avinash Rangra and bias toward Judge Beard justifies the low esteem in which the American press is now held.

All over the Granite Newspapers website we read the words “community” as it relates to newspapers. Who among us is in Perry’s community?

Lastly, publisher/editor Mike Perry is directly accountable for this mess.

I know no one in journalism who works harder than Mike and Cindy Perry. But the proud traditions of the American press from the Colonial printers to the Washington Post and the New York Times in the Watergate mess demand that journalists be competent too.

Read the rest of McNamera’s coverage of the election at The Nimby News.

–For Presidio and Brewster County election results for state posts, click here.

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Big Bend Video

A wonderful event. I hope this video captures that.

–”Dustin Roller, Cody Higgins, Joseph Cupps being badasses. Sul Ross State University.” Thank you for the footage, Jayson.

–Marfa, My Dear: “An improvised absurdity starring Jaclyn Jonet, Black Moses and Lola “Prosciutto” Ruspoli. Directed by Tao Ruspoli, based on a story by Olivia Wilde www.lafco.tv www.marfafilmfestival.org”

–Judd at Tina Kim. Thanks to Marcelo.

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Big Bend Events

In celebration of Texas Independence and the battle of the Alamo, Dude of the Dead outdoor music festival in south Presidio County at the base of the Chinati Mountains, will take place Saturday March 6th, starting at 2pm. The festival is located 15 miles west of Presidio off HWY 170. Camping is free, BYOB encouraged. Seven bands are set to preform including local talent: Doodlin Hogwallops; Big Mountain Boogaloo, Cantina Fight and from Austin: Rayon Beach; The Flesh Lights; Shapes Have Fangs, Dead Space plus Randy Travesty.
The entry fee is $5 per person or $20 per car/truck/van load. Admission will be waived for the first 15 vehicles.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Charlie Angell, 432.229.3713.

–Dumitrescu Gallery reception
The Dumitrescu Gallery, located inside Elms Bookkeeping at 108 N. 5th Street in Alpine, will have its final exhibition this month, with a reception from 6-8 p.m. Friday, March 5. The gallery’s last day will be from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. April 3. Avram Dumitrescu is an illustrator and lecturer with the Center for Big Bend Studies at Sul Ross State University. His illustrations are featured in a new textbook, “Drawing Inspiration: Visual Artists at Work.”

–Sierra Club to hike Hancock Hill
Start your spring break with a hike up the Hancock Hill trail above Sul Ross State University on Saturday, March 6. Hikers will meet by 9 a.m. at the trailhead behind Mountainside dorm (entrance No. 4). The hike will take about 2 hours and is moderately strenuous. Participants should bring water, a hat and footwear appropriate for loose rocky surfaces. For more information, call Martha Latta at 432-837-1070.

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Enjoy only 2 cosmetics, enough sleep and Dr. Bronner’s ‘Magic Soap’ to clean body-mind-soul-spirit uniting One! All-One! Absolute cleanliness is Godliness! For facial packs, scalp & soothing body rub, add dash on bath towel in sink of hot water. Wring out. Lay over face & scalp. Massage with fingertips. Repeat 3 or 4 times ’til arms, legs and all are rubbed, always toward the heart. Rinse towel in plain hot water and massage again. Breathe deeply! Health is Wealth. For we’re ALL-ONE OR NONE! ALL-ONE! ALL-ONE! ALL-ONE!

Learn more about Dr. Bronner’s organic toiletries: http://www.drbronner.com/

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A Brief Editorial Note

Here at West Texas Weekly, you come first! My new layout and navigation reflects that:

• Popular Articles (now in the left sidebar of the homepage) features the popular articles that you comment on and that provoke discussion
• The Your Comments feature (now in the left sidebar of the homepage) provides an excerpt from your comment, a link to your homepage and your avatar. Your comments on Big Bend events are now displayed to the world.
• The User Hall of Fame (now in the left sidebar of the homepage) showcases those West Texas Weekly users who consistently provide their insight, opinions and information to the community.

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Big Bend Dining Notes: The Gulf Station Cafe

Flanked against the Alpine Amtrak Station stands one of the best little restaurants I’ve found in the Big Bend. The Gulf Station offers a limited lunch and dinner menu but packs a lot of joie de vivre from each item. Soups, sandwiches, burgers and salads are the main items but try the stuffed Portobello mushroom or roasted chicken.
It’s easy to go veggie here – we did it accidentally: Greek Salad, Garbanzo-Potato- Spinach soup and the killer choice of the night spinach pancakes made with Japanese panko, in a perfectly French beurre blanc sauce.
The place is cozy – something urban going on: tall ceilings, stained cement floors, polished aluminum tables, black chairs and Stella Artois on tap served in classic pint glasses – we could be on the left bank. The wine hangs from a chained raw iron rack with bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay from Argentina to Texas. At least the varieties are French.
Exposed three membrane brick colors one wall, a dead give-away for anything commercial built in Alpine in the 1930’s. The other wall glimmers with sheet metal and old photographs from the 1950’s – when the place was a true Gulf Station. Choo-choo-cha-boogie plays through speakers mounted near a large abstract on canvas. Chagall would not be impressed, but it is not bad.
The train horn blows, a signal for the pause that refreshes, a mistake for sure, not that the bathrooms weren’t beautiful – exquisite actually … his and hers, regular and ethyl, but when I return there is only a sliver of the home made Key Lime Pie, a sliver so small it reminds me of the inferior country to the east of France that makes the little wheels of soft cheese, packaged in tiny wedges. But the pie – par excellence! [M. Chenault]

[My dear friend Mercer Black does an excellent job of putting the Big Bend and Texas Mountains Travel Guide together. In my experience, it's one of the most effective ways for local small businesses to advertise to tourists and travelers. In addition to being cost effective and attractive, copies of the guide are circulated to people before they start planning their trip. This makes it especially effective for lodging advertising. It's one of the few print publications I'll advertise with.

Those interested should contact publisher Mercer Black of Marfa Publishing immediately via email to bigbendtravel@gmail.com or by phone to 512-739-4465.]

Last Chance to Participate in the 2010 Big Bend & Texas Mountains Travel Guide

The Big Bend & Texas Mountains Travel Guide has, for twenty-five years, been the primary free travel directory for the greater Big Bend region – Del Rio to El Paso, Midland/Odessa to the National Park. It covers 16 communities, 2 national parks and 14 state parks. (A full list of these communities and parks is below).

This is a high-quality, full-color magazine, chocked full of beautiful photography and informative content. The 2010 edition features, almost exclusively, the work of David Leggett, a talented photographer who has for years endeavored to capture the grandeur of West Texas skies and landscapes. (See more of his work at www.phlography.com.)

Also new in 2010, the guide will be PERFECT BOUND as opposed to the traditional saddle stitch. Perfect binding dramatically increases the shelf life of a magazine, making it more of a souvenir book than a brochure.

The 2010 guide’s 100,000 copies will be distributed at over 100 locations, including all area chambers and CVBs (Convention & Visitors Bureaus), all 12 TxDOT Travel Information Centers, the El Paso airport, Texas Sate Capital building, State Fair of Texas, San Antonio CVB and over 60 regional convenience stores, grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, hotels and retail establishments.
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Big Bend News

CBS7 news reports on whooping cough coming to West Texas. “Recently the Permian Basin region has received reports of several cases in adults and infants which is cause for concern because the bacteria can be deadly for children and is easily spread through coughing, sneezing and talking.” Perhaps you should delay that shopping trip to the Midland mall?

–Secret drone that the Houston Police Department are using to monitor citizens

–There is a poll here on the left sidebar to answer the question: which candidate for Brewster County Judge are you voting for? To see the results, vote in the poll. It promises to be an exciting race!

At this point, I do not feel well-informed enough about the candidates to make an objective endorsement. After interviewing both of them, we’ll see.

– La Entrada is dead. And I, for one, am very happy about it. We cannot squander our future and the legacy of generations not-yet-born just to make a quick buck… especially when the buck is not that lucrative or quick.

The long-term success of this area (the Big Bend) will be in upscale tourism. End of story. The valley in South Texas is a much more natural place for this commerce… the Port of Houston is in close proximity. The manufacturing basis of Mexico is already concentrated on the other side of the border.

This was a big boondoggle at public expense that would help Midland-Odessa and Fort Stockton more than it would help Alpine, Presidio or Marfa. I am glad it’s gone.

CBS7 reports on it: “The Texas Department of Transportation gave their official position this week, saying the study will not be completed, and no more money will be spent on it at this time.
La Entrada El Pacifico is a proposed trade corridor that would have helped transport west Texas products to Mexico’s west coast, stretching from the Midland-Odessa area down into Presidio. The corridor would have consisted of four-lane divided highways and railways.
According to the Alpine Avalanche, TxDOT says the study has been halted, because projections by a consultant show there is no need for the corridor for the next 20 years.”

The Alpine Avalanche reports on it here.

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ELECT AVI RANGRA TO BREWSTER COUNTY JUDGE
The preceding is a paid political advertisement from a local, private citizen

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Big Bend Events

George Covington sent in the following work of art, the Bride of Terlingua. It is done on scratchboard by Tim Roberts of Fort Davis, Texas and portrays a macabre resident of the Terlingua Graveyard in the Terlingua Ghosttown. Mr. Roberts will be illustrating the use of this medium at a public meeting of the Big Bend Arts Council.

–Alpine Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet
Tickets are now on sale for the annual chamber banquet & appreciation evening and can be purchased directly from Dona Ward & JR Smith at the chamber office. The evening is geared to be a great night, wonderful food, music by Bake Turner, door prizes and awards including Ambassador of the Year. Tickets will not be sold on the door, so please pre-purchase yours today. Tickets are $25.00 per person.

What: Dinner, Awards & Dancing- Where: Alpine Country Club- When: January 16th 2010- Time: 6.30p.
[A great event from a worthy charity. My congratulations to each of the nominees and my appreciation to the organizers.]

–DanceTahiti Contemporary Tahitian Ballet Company will be launching 2010 with a vibrant performance at the Historic Yucca Theatre (208 N. Colorado) in Midland, Texas on January 30. If you’re in the area around that time, we’d love to have you come and and give us your loudest yells!

Big Bend Photo of the Week

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The Purple Zone is the Big Bend’s only source for unique tobacco accessories such as hookahs, vaporizers and flavored tobaccos. Check out their NEW LOCATION, 100 N. Cockrum, just across the street from their old location. NEW YEARS SPECIAL- Buy one 19.95 Adult DVD and get a 2nd one FREE! Just give them coupon code #WTW352.

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Whoops and Hollers

Is it just me, or did country music used to be a lot better? Check out this awesome video: “Flyin’ High written by Jimmy Bryant. Performed by Speedy West & Jimmy Bryant from the “Hometown Jamboree”, KLAC-TV Los Angeles, circa 1953. Live from the American Legion Stadium in El Monte, CA.”

–I know there are some Big Lebowsky fans out there… well, hold on to your @#$%ing White Russians ‘cuz the Dude has been translated into the style of Shakespeare:
BLANCHE
Trifle not with the fury of two desperate men. Long has thy wife sealed a bond with Jaques Treehorn; as blood is to blood, surely thou owest to Jaques Treehorn in recompense.
WOO
Rise, and speak wisely, man—but hark;
I see thy rug, as woven i’the Orient,
A treasure from abroad. I like it not.
I’ll stain it thus; ever thus to deadbeats.
[He stains the rug]
THE KNAVE
Sir, prithee nay!
BLANCHE
Now thou seest what happens, Lebowski, when the agreements of honourable business stand compromised. If thou wouldst treat money as water, flowing as the gentle rain from heaven, why, then thou knowest water begets water; it will be a watery grave your rug, drowned in the weeping brook. Pray remember, Lebowski.

Check out the full script here. Let’s get a local theater troupe to perform this bad boy!

–A reader turned me on to Cute Things Falling Asleep.

–Belgian Electric Body Music going out to my main man, John Seebach:

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surf the local web! recommend this site to yr friends
this is yr thoughts, yr comments, yr voice
westtexasweekly.com
west texas weekly [dot] com

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Big Bend Dining Notes

–Had a very nice lunch at Tacos Del Norte. A guacamole salad made to order, a barbacoa torta and a mandarina soda to polish it off. The food was fairly fresh and flavorful. I was a little surprised the tab for me and my friend came to $27; I don’t know if the quality of the food justifies that. The selection of salsas was good and the produce seemed fresh. In all, I give it a B+ for flavor. This is a diner, so don’t expect ambiance or fancy flatware– expect an authentic Mexican meal with a reasonable value. The NYT reports: “This restaurant was opened by Rosario Martinez, who came from Mexico via Chicago, where she lived for 20 years before her husband found construction work in Marfa. Set up in the old Pik ‘n’ Pak market, with two giant Speedy Gonzales murals on the walls, it’s a three-generation operation, offering homemade tortillas and chorizo, tacos and burritos in a style definitely more Mexican than Tex-Mex.”
1500 W San Antonio St, Marfa, TX, 79843 432/729-4540

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Do You Want to Sell Your Terlingua Ranch Lot?

Do you have a Terlingua Ranch lot in foreclosure? Have those maintenance fees got you down? Do you need to sell your vacation home to pay your mortgage? We can help you. Terlingua Hills will give you a fair price for Terlingua real estate in cash. Learn more; contact Terlingua Hills at andrewsuber@gmail.com that’s andrewsuber [at] gmail [dot] com.

Terlingua Hills Development pays $$$$ for lots.

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Big Bend Historical Marker of the Week

Erected in 1936 near Marathon, in Brewster County, this marker delineates the Comanche Trail.
From Marathon, take US 385 S. about 42 mi, to Persimmon Gap entrance to Big Bend. Marker is in parking lot to entrance station.
Marker Text: You are now traveling the Comanche Trail blazed by Comanche Indians, en route from the western plains to Mexico, and traveled later by emigrants and soldiers. It extended south from the Horse Head Crossing of the Pecos by Comanche Springs (Fort Stockton) to the Rio Grande.
Thank you to the Texas Historical Commission.

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Big Bend Web Resources

This week I am taking a look at the Texas Department of Transportations information on road conditions. Frankly, the map function is much more useful than the text function. Here, the orange represents local construction. This is a good resource for planning a road trip on Texas Highways.

Big Bend Video of the Week

Paul Minor, from a recent concert at Padre’s Minor. Paul is leaving us for Austin. I’ve known Paul ever since he fronted Superego and booked bands for the Hole in Wall. He’s an amazing talent who has a lot to offer the music community out here. We’ll miss you, Paul!

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Your Letters and Comments

I received a lot of comments regarding Dr. Udo Glau’s thoughts on the Chinati Foundation. Some were hostile:
“If you don’t like the art here in Marfa, go back to Germany! We are very proud of Mr. Judd and his accomplishments! You are an embarassment to art and obviously are a fake and a phoney!”
“U r too old to get what is going on here in Marfa. Get a clue and stop criticizing if u dont know what u r talking about.”
Some were supportive:
“The people of Marfa should thank you for visiting and spending your money there.”
“I say this essay is a funny and clever work of art in itself, and it makes me want to see Judd’s oeuvre myself.”
“Critical comment is healthy. Grow up!”
Other comments hinted at more controversy:
“Smells like a put-on to me. Let me count the ways.[...]I think someone’s pulling our shenkels. So who’s the troll? And what’s the motive? Inquiring minds….”
Some were just confusing:
“Udo Glau > U. Echo > Umberto Eco > Umberto Umberto > Humbert Humbert > Vladimir Nabokov > Monty Cantsin > Monte Cazazza > Montgomery Clift > Adrina Drina > Udo Glauflugel > Udo Glau”

[Unknown people took and discarded political placards from the front of a local business. In the following letter, Clarence Russeau addresses that issue.]

Dear Editor,
Like so many people in the United States, I’m proud to say I’m an American. I served in the Armed Forces proudly so that people who will never know who I am can express themselves regardless of race, creed, religion, and nationality they would be fearful of bullies and intimidation but would have the ability to vote and express their thoughts the way they see fit.
I’m honored to live in Alpine, TX. A place were the people are tolerant of diversity whether it’s in thought or mannerisms. It’s a good thing to live in a place were I can worship and vote for whomever I choose and not be told who to vote for through fear, intimidation, or reprisal. I chose to live in Alpine and found it had all the ingredients to raise a family. A place were my child can have a healthy expression of who they are and grow up to be a asset in the community they decide to reside in.
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West Texas Weekly now features a free Big Bend restaurant directory. Advertisers and sponsors will receive preferential listing, but anyone can submit a basic listing for free.

In order to post a free directory listing, comment on this post with your listing.

• Anyone, a fan or a business owner, can submit as many listings as they like. Use a seperate comment for each listing.
• It should be in the following form: Mom’s Cafe– 412 Home Rd., Terlingua, TX (432) 555-2133‎ $
• Pay attention to punctuation.
• Be sure the information is accurate.
• It must be less than 140 characters.

West Texas Weekly is quickly becoming the go-to source for Big Bend restaurants, diners and cafes. It is the number one Google result for ‘west texas dining’ and does well for ‘marfa dining’, ‘alpine dining’ and ‘terlingua dining’. This directory will be the best and most up-to-date dining directory for the Big Bend.

If your restaurant is interested in becoming an advertiser, learn about the Big Bend advertising services West Texas Weekly provides.

If you’re in the Big Bend and looking for a great steak your first stop should be at the Longhorn Steakhouse. The servers will welcome you like an old friend as the atmosphere of the Old West works its way into your heart and the smell of sizzling steak works its way into your nostrils. If you don’t feel like steak, fill up on Texas favorites like:

• Dry-rubbed, Mesquite-smoked Cabrito
• Pork Spareribs (the only restaurant in the area that serves them daily)
• Authentic West Texas Barbecued Brisket, Chicken and Sausage
• The Best and Freshest Salad Bar in the Big Bend

Call (432) 837-3217 to make your reservations.

Your Choice steak will be grilled perfectly to order and accompanied with traditional sides like homemade mashed potatoes or steak fries. Stop in and have a ribeye, tenderloin or sirloin. If you’re looking for an authentic Western experience, stop by and see us, our backroom is perfect for hosting parties and events. Also, if you are a firefighter, schoolteacher or postal carrier come by and get our 10% civil service discount. That’s our way of showing our appreciation for your hard work.

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West Texas Weekly continues to help you make great choices in West Texas dining. Here’s the best Alpine, Texas pizza.
Here in Alpine, Pizza Night used to be once a week, but now you can get delicious hand-tossed pizza at La Trattoria every night along with their pasta and seafood dishes. They are celebrating ten years of excellent service with 10% discounts! Just tell them that West Texas Weekly sent you.

Check out their site here.
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Big Bend dining is a specialty at West Texas Weekly. I strongly recommend the Mural Cafe. Stop in for brunch on Sundays or for lunch during the work week. I had a turkey panini that was nutritious and very tasty (it had a fresh olive tapanade that took it from yummy to sublime). Also, they are serving healthy, tasty Bison Burgers during home games by the Big Bend Cowboys.

“We’ll get fresh with you”
 Fresh Baked – Fresh Chopped – Fresh Made

We’re a new choice in organic dining here in Alpine, Texas.

Call them at 432.837.3400. Stop by at 104 N. 5th St. in Downtown Alpine. Check out their website.

• We use organic & local ingredients when available

• We recycle & use recycled products
• We filter our drinking & beverage water

• We unplug our electric appliances (except refrigeration) at end of day

• We donate food to local food banks

• We compost

Breakfast & Lunch Wednesday-Saturday

Evenings available for private dining or rental

Special events scheduled throughout the year

Breakfast Trays – Box Lunches – Party Platters

Ask about our artisan breads & desserts

One of the nicest thing about traveling is having a nice lunch between your activities. After some hiking, your appetite is keen and that hamburger or order of tacos tastes better than you can imagine.

In no particular order, here are 7 great places to eat lunch:

• Alicia’s

To me, this place has the best burgers in Alpine. I might be biased, though, because I grew up on these ‘gut bombs’. The hand-formed patties are thoroughly salted and peppered, thrown on the grill and smothered in home-made chili macho (the only way to eat one). Hand-cut french fries finish off a meal that will have you craving a siesta. Stop by 708 E Av G, Alpine, TX 79830
or call at 432.837.2802

• Kathy’s Kosmic Kowgirl Kafe

When you’re in South County, stop by and see Kathy Wisdom. This fully-functioning diner and cafe complements the improvised jam sessions and outdoor movies around the fire pit. The burritos and barbecue are excellent, especially accompanied by the funky ambience. Look out for a profile on Kathy by Contributing Editor Phyllis Dunham; Kathy’s a ‘big giver’– she helped out Uh-Clem not too long ago with a Hula Hoop benefit. Stop by and see her on the road from Study Butte to Terlingua.

Barbacoa tacos

• Tacos Del Norte

Authentic Frontiera tacos. I like barbacoa with salt, lime juice and cilantro to cut the grease. Fresh, pliant tortillas and spicy condiments make this a great place to grab an inexpensive lunch in Marfa.

Click below for four more great Big Bend dining experiences!
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In conjunction with the Alpine Chamber of Commerce, the Mural Cafe will be offering a potluck night on the last Tuesday of each month. Stop by at six, June 30th, for the Alpine Ambassadors ribbon cutting and bring a salad, a casserole or another dish. Drinks will be provided.

The Mural Cafe has been open a short time, but they offer some great specials:

• During every Big Bend Cowboys Saturday home game they offer healthy, delicious bison burgers from 3 to 8 pm.
  
• They have a shrimp night every Thursday starting July 3rd. Eat fresh-cooked shrimp at affordable prices.

West Texas Weekly has just become the number one and number two for the Google search ‘west texas dining’. This is a great reason to advertise your West Texas restaurant here! Click here to advertise.

You don’t believe me? Check the Google search here.

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Great Alpine, Texas dining! Talgar McCarty has just opened a new restaurant in Alpine, Texas featuring authentic Mexican food with a unique flair. West Texas dining at its finest! Come in for dining at lunch; it is across from the Amtrak station in Alpine. Here’s a look at the place on opening day:

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A long-time friend of the family, Kathy Wisdom, has opened up a unique little eatery there close to the banks of Terlingua Creek (if my geography is wrong, please correct it )

Betty Doyle runs the Grub Shack down there at Terlingua Ranch. They cook up a mean burrito!

I run into an old friend over chili verde at Alicia’s Burrito Place in Alpine. It’s authentic West Texas dining at its finest! Alicia’s is a wonderful example of a down-home cooking here in Alpine. Alpine dining with great Tex-Mex culture thrown in the mix.

The Food Shark is an excellent place to grab lunch in Marfa. Adam Bork shows off his excellent fleet of vehicles here:

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