Here's another post about a dive-bar-in-Austin. With a "most beautiful baby" twist.
Poodie's Hilltop Bar & Grill is located about 20 miles west of Austin, in a little The owner and namesake, Randall "Poodie" Locke, was Willie Nelson's longtime best friend and head roadie. AKA, the man-who-makes-it-all-happen for Willie's shows.
I went to Poodie's once, I think, with my best friend to see her drummer boyfriend's band performing. On this night, Willie's son, Lucas, was behind the bar. It looked like he was the bar back, fetching beer, as needed, to put in the coolers. Nothing fancy about the place. Just a down home, friendly atmosphere with a cold beer at the ready.
I always wondered where Poodie got the nick name and why it stuck. This morning, two local radio jocks (KVET) answered my question.
The story goes that when Poodie was a baby, he won "Most Beautiful Baby" contest in Waco, Texas. His big sister, then two years old, was apparently trying to tell others how "purty" her baby brother was. "Poodie baby." Aww. That brings a tear to my eye.
Poodie died last night. He was 56 years young. He had a long braid down his back, loved to play golf, and had "had a hug for everyone."Poodie put a sign across the front of his Roadhouse, "There are no bad days."
I bet Willie would disagree today.
Willie was out in San Diego to accept some award when he heard the news. He's flying back to attend his best friend's funeral. That brings a tear to my eye, too.
Rest in peace, Poodie. 
