Volunteers needed for archeological investigation

The public is invited to assist archeologist David Keller with archeological investigations of the Ruidosa Church (El Corazon Sagrado de la Iglesia de Jesus) to take place November 14-17. 

The project is being conducted as part of a Historic Structures Report funded by the Texas Preservation Trust Fund as a critical component of the larger restoration project by the Friends of the Ruidosa Church.

Volunteers are needed to assist in excavation, screening, artifact collection and documentation. Experience in archeological techniques is preferred but not required. 

Expect inclement weather, abundant sunshine, wind, and lots of dust. Bring proper attire, including hats, gloves, long-sleeve shirts, pants and work boots.

On-site camping and housing will be provided for those who wish to stay overnight, although space is limited. Water, electricity and an indoor kitchen will be available, but volunteers will need to bring their own food.

Register by emailing David Keller at dkellerconsulting@gmail.com.

David Keller
Redford

Dozens made the Ruidosa Church Community Day a success

On behalf of the Friends of the Ruidosa Church, I would like to acknowledge those that contributed to a very successful Community Day at the Ruidosa Church Saturday. Primo Y Beebe, who donated three hours of wonderful music at the event. Tim and Rob Crowley hosted our art talk at the Crowley Theater. Yvonamoor Palix for moderating our art discussion and documentary with artist Romain Froquet. Gamaliel Bustiollo at the Presidio Mexican Consulate who coordinated the beautiful Dia de los Muertos altar. Juanita Bishop, who designed and constructed the altar.

Liz Rohana, who coordinated the cross-border artist canvas transaction. Abby Marshall for her management assistance. Clara Bensen for providing Marfa lodging for artist Romain Froquet and family. Tom and Kathleen Griffith for providing lodging near Ruidosa. Jeff Fort and the Chinati Hot Springs, who also provided lodging. Joey Benton and Faith Gay at Cactus Liquors, who generously donated beverages to the Crowley Theater and Community Day event.

Buck Johnson and Camp Bosworth provided space at the Do Right Hall for a showing of the artist’s work. Alliance Francaise of Houston for covering some of the expenses for Romain and family to travel to West Texas. 

Board members Jordan Martinelli, Martha Stafford, Rob D’Amico, Terry Bishop, Joe Williams and Tom Griffith—and all the volunteers who helped things run smoothly.

Finally, artist Romain Froquet and family for donating their time and creative energy to the artistic creation that perfectly complemented the simple beauty of the Ruidosa Church. 

Mike Green
President, Friends of the Ruidosa Church

Preserve healthcare subsidies, stop pandering to donors

We have had the Affordable Care Act for 15 years. Fifteen years of not being denied coverage for preexisting conditions, no lifetime payment caps on coverage and 15 years of free cancer screenings. And in those 15 years, Republicans tried taking our healthcare coverage away more than 70 times, with no alternative plan ever offered.

Now, they are fighting to protect huge tax breaks for billionaires and multimillionaires, which will result in health insurance premiums increases of 30-70%.

It is time for President Trump, Speaker Mike Johnson, Ted Cruz, John Cornyn and other Republicans to protect our health care programs and stop pandering to their rich donors.

David Marwitz
Marfa