Apr 132005
 

We’re still wading through the insurance morass with the house. Just so we didn’t get too complacent, the transmission on the minivan that we’ve barely had for a year decided to die.

Yes, that’s right, the transmission on a three-year-old car with 38k miles went out. We were seeing signs of the problem last month and got it in under the three year warranty time limit, but, like an idiot, I forgot that it’s mileage or years, whichever comes first. We hit the mileage sometime earlier this year. Luckily, Honda is standing by their crappy transmission and covering the cost of replacing it.

They were waffling on paying for the rental car while it’s being fixed, but they got as far as trying to install the new transmission Monday only to find that they had been sent the wrong one. The service advisor claimed that it’s the first time that’s ever happened in the 5 years he’s been there. Did I mention how good our luck has been the last couple of months? Anyway, now that they’re delaying the fix, I think they’re going to pony up for the rental as well. I know that the 2000 and 2001 Odysseys have extended warranties for their transmissions. It’s not officially the case with the 2002 Odysseys, but it appears that they aren’t any better than their predecessors.

 Posted by on April 13, 2005 at 7:19 pm
Apr 132005
 

Music and a good cause go together like chips and salsa. Or something. This weekend there’s plenty of opportunity to pacify your inner philanthropist and hear some fine musicianship in the deal. The first option is decidedly more kid-friendly than the second.

Zilker Elementary Outdoor Learning Center Concert
Friday, April 15
6:00pm
Zilker Elementary School’s Outdoor Learning Center (1900 Bluebonnet Lane)

Zilker Elementary hosts its annual Outdoor Learning Center Concert. This year’s lineup includes Marcia Ball, Eliza Gilkyson, Darden Smith, Lee Ann Atherton, Christian Fernandez, and more. All proceeds benefit Zilker Elementary’s Arts in Education fund. Food and t-shirts will be sold in addition to the admission. Lawn chairs and blankets are suggested. Arrive early for best seating. Adult admission is $10. Kids are free. Call 414-2327 for more information.

Clint Shay’s Guts Benefit
Friday, April 15th at Beerland with Sons of Hercules and others. Clint’s band, Faster Disasters, may play a few songs if he’s up to it.

Thursday, April 21st at Room 710 with Daylight Titans, Ugly Beats, Pink Swords, Bad Rackets and Faster Disasters

Local guitarist Clint Shay went into the hospital a couple of weeks ago with a ruptured appendix. He’s home and on the mend, but like too many people these days, Clint is a victim of a healthcare system that is tied to employment. He didn’t have health insurance at the time and is facing some hefty health care bills.

There are two benefits over the next week to help Clint out. The cover charge that would normally go to the bands will all go toward the medical bills. I couldn’t get a firm number from both clubs on the cover, but it’ll probably be $4-5. There’ll most likely be a raffle and other fund-raising activities throughout the shows.

 Posted by on April 13, 2005 at 10:16 am