Business feature: Portales man has history crafting leather

On the square on Second Street stands Bar G Western Wear Boot and Tack Repair shop. It is owned by Buzz and Fern Goodson of Portales. He has been in the western wear business for 35 years.

Early inspiration: Buzz Goodson learned how to work with leather from arts and crafts teacher Emmitt Clayton in middle school and high school. Goodson’s dad was a carpenter and sometimes worked with leather.

“I’ve always been interested in this kind of work,” Goodson said. “I learned about this from Emmitt Clayton, he was in the leather trade.”

“He kinda inspired me I guess, him and my dad,” Goodson said.

Nature of the business: “Some days are busy and some days are not,” Goodson said. “Sometimes I stay late to work on stuff. After 35 years of it, I’m kinda slowing down.”

Roping is relaxing: In his spare time, Goodson team ropes.

“It is the only thing I can do to relax sometimes,” Goodson said. “That is what I do to unwind after a busy day.

“I used to rope calves. I’m getting too old to rope them any more. I don’t want to get off my horse, I don’t want to do nothing.”

He said he also enjoys spending time with his sons roping and on the family ranch.

Star watching: Goodson said a few top rodeo guys such as Jake Barnes, Brent Lewis and Fred Whitfield have stopped in his store.

What: Bar G Western Wear and Tack Repair

Location: 115 West Second St.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday

Information: 359-0794