Mid-Week Intermission Staff Edition: Orlando Martinez

POSTED ON JUNE 30, 2020 BY LONG

Introducing Orlando Martinez, our Building Engineer and overall jolly presence of the Long Center. Once upon a time, as an Electrical Superintendent for JMEG Electric, Orlando was a major part of the Long Center construction phase and we just couldn’t give him up. Now as Building Engineer, he works with the team to keep our air conditioning, lighting, plumbing and overall mechanics working together.

Orlando is loved by all, especially when it comes to a mechanical question or when he brings breakfast tacos to the office.

But mostly the tacos.

Orlando’s fave truck, his ’66 Chevy

ORLANDO’S PERFECT SALSA RECIPE

Orlando’s tacos are even better when topped off with his famous homemade salsa. Beware – this is not for the faint of heart!

  • 5 to 10 green Serrano peppers
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 yellow onion
  • 2 tablespoons of Nature’s Seasoning
  • 1-quart H-E-B Whole Peeled tomatoes

Put the ingredients into a blender and try not to liquefy too much — Orlando says it’s better chunky!

PICKING UP LUNCH WITH THE TEAM

Being back at work maintaining the building means lunching at a safe distance with the team again. Picking up the Bill Miller’s breakfasts are always a staple, but nothing quite beats the walk from the Long Center to Whataburger or Sandy’s (those burger specials!). And Cherry Creek Seafoods when they feel like a treat.

KEEPING THE LONG CENTER IN WORKING ORDER

The Long Center is a big building and, even when it’s not filled with people, there’s plenty of maintence to be done. Currently, Orlando and team are:

  • Installing ceiling fans on the West Pincer Terrace (that’s our upstairs outdoor area) so you can stay cool outside when we’re all back together,
  • Taking the Service Yard back from Mother Nature,
  • And making sure Dell Hall looks spick-and-span for the future with a fresh coat of paint.

Orlando and wife Gracie on Pablo & Luna, with son Orlando Lee

SPENDING TIME WITH FAMILY & PETS

With three grown kids and a wife of 40 years (41 this July 15th!), Orlando spends his free time hanging with his family and pets. His horses, Pablo & Luna, now live with his two grandsons, but their dog Misty is still queen of the yard.

Your support today celebrates the work that Orlando does to keep this Austin icon making memories. Even while our doors are closed, the Long Center is paving the way for the future. Members make it happen!

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