Some very good news out of Galveston, via the

message board (thanks, Ron).

, Galveston roots/singer-songwriter venue the Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe was ravaged by Hurricane Ike, and owner Wrecks Bell said at the time he thought the damage was so extensive the Old Quarter may well be out of commission for good.

Now, though, thanks to the efforts of friends such as those who participated in last Sunday's benefit at Dan Electro's Guitar Bar, Bell reports the club is on its way to recovering; that, although the venue still won't be ready for scheduled gigs by the Sisters Morales (December 5) or Hemmer Ridge Mountain Boys (December 13), donations of labor and equipment like a new PA system have given the Old Quarter a future.

"The fans rebuilt the OQAC," he writes. "I can't spell phoenix [although he does], but something is rising down here."

Send donations to Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe, 413 20th St., Galveston, TX 77550. - Chris Gray

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