July 2006
Table of Contents
Features
Capture The FlagAs weird as the 2006 governor’s race undeniably is, the goals of all four major candidates are remarkably mundane: Rick Perry wants nothing less than to be the longest-serving chief executive in the state’s history; Carole Keeton Strayhorn means to move her “One Tough Grandma” act into the big house across from the Capitol; Chris Bell craves respect, for himself and his depleted party; and Kinky Friedman intends to lead his band of unlikely voters in a rousing chorus of “Adiós, mofo!” My Life As an IllegalYou’ve heard enough from the politicians and the activists, the demagogues and the bleeding hearts. Here’s my story. I only wish I could put my name on it. By Immigrant X Plus:Across the BorderSenior editor John Spong talks about finding Immigrant X, listening to him talk about coming to America, and learning about how he lives his life here illegally. Body of WorkFor twenty years, the Southwestern Writers Collection, on the campus of Texas State University, in San Marcos, has gathered up manuscripts, personal papers, photos, and other mementos from various icons and at least one outlaw. Want to have a look-see? |
School Of PopTo Addison they come, tweens and teens with talent in abundance, so Linda Septien can teach them how to be the next big thing. Jessica Simpson is her most famous success story, but there are many others. And more in the making. Peas Be With YouThis farm-to-table feast will make you thankful for the Texas growers who still work the land and for at least one hip chef who gives new life to the fruits and vegetables of their labor. Guilty PleasureKenny, we hardly knew ye. Okay, maybe we knew you too well. The jury, at least, seems to have pegged you just right. You too, Skilling. |
Columns
Michael EnnisT.R. Fehrenbach Is HistoryHe’s still the gold standard by which all chroniclers of our shared experience are judged, but it’s time to look to the new generation. How do his wannabe heirs stack up? |
Jan ReidSeems Like Old TimesMy Wichita Falls High School reunion inevitably got me thinking about the passage of time but also about memories that endure. And, of course, football. |
Reporter
The Filter
Pat’s PickGlass Wall |
Miscellany
Roar of the CrowdDeLayed Reactions |
Editor’s LetterIndependent’s Day |
Web Exclusives
Clifford AntoneZZ Top guitarist Billy Gibbons, environmental activist Robin Rather, and others remember the legendary Austin nightclub owner who died May 23, 2006. The Race Is OnSenior executive editor Paul Burka on writing about this year’s extraordinary five-way race for governor. The Big TexanAt the Berryhill Baja Grill Tamale-Eating Contest, eaters stand in front of the plates of tamales, shoveling the food into their mouths. Farmers’ MarketsA list of large and small farmers’ markets in or near major Texas cities. |
Texas TidbitsTo get primed for the motion picture release of Dallas, here are a few nuggets of information about one of television’s most popular series. Happy TrailsOn a recent Wednesday morning, I took a drive to Lockhart to sample what I had heard was some of the best barbecue the state has to offer. Texas History 101In 1907, nine hundred immigrants passed through Galveston. |
