Is Perry’s Cost-of-Living Really Extravagant?

I’m asking, because to the normal guy or gal, yeah, $10,000 a month for Gov. Rick Perry’s rental mansion seems like a lot. But I don’t have to entertain lobbyists, heads of state, other governors and Chuck Norris, either.

But seriously – what do other states spend to keep their governors housed and fed? What did we spend pre-burned-up-mansion days?

None of these stories have any frame of reference, other than the Governor’s Mansion is rent-free. That still doesn’t tell us how much is spent on utilities and such, and it doesn’t compare these expenses to those of other governors.

And the Burnt Orange Report has somewhat of a summarization of the reaction. Food & Wine has been on Perry’s case for his subscription to their magazine.

And State Rep. Jim Dunnam says he’ll introduce a bill that would cap a Texas governor’s spending on “rent, utilities and upkeep to 200% of the average rent for a reasonably-sized apartment in downtown Austin, excluding security costs.” Those costs would be determined by the State Preservation Board.

Would You Like a Peek at Tryouts for Dallas’ Lingerie Football Team?

Of course you would. You’re welcome.

Let’s Play a Game: Predicting the Austin City Limits Festival Lineup

Yes, it’s in Austin, and I know this is D Magazine. But shush, just a minute, and remember that even last year, Dallas’ Sarah Jaffe was one of many who graced a stage at the Austin City Limits Festival in Zilker Park, and that Zac and I both (although we never saw each other) helped destroy the grass at said park, and also walked through human poop.

This year’s lineup (the festival takes place October 8-10) will be announced tomorrow. But before it is, let’s all make guesses as to who will appear. DC9 At Night (via Twitter) has already made some pretty accurate predictions, and I will spot you Blues Traveler and Pat Green.

Go!