I received word Monday from Michael Taylor, director for the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program, that Shiraz “Sam” Kassam, 67, the recent former owner of El Vado Motel in Albuquerque, died of a stroke last week.
Taylor forwarded the news from an e-mail by Ed Boles of the City of Albuquerque. It contained this interesting excerpt about Sam:
When I last spoke to Shiraz Kassam, he was still the owner of El Vado, and I called to ask if he would consent in the landmark designation. He respectfully declined, explaining that he didn’t want to jeopardize his agreement to sell El Vado. He added, however, that he hoped it would be preserved. With a little luck and continued support from interested publics here and beyond Albuquerque, that may yet happen.
Add the late Mr. Kassam to the chorus of people wanting to preserve El Vado.
Also, Boles’ comments confirm that outside input from Route 66ers had an impact and will likely continue to do so regarding El Vado.
Boles also says the Albuquerque City Council will likely take up the landmarks application in January. I’ll have more details on this after New Year’s.