Monday, February 6, 2012

Winter in Texas - part one



My first posting since arriving in early January.

Just a reminder that clicking on the pictures brings up a larger version and, for background, here's a link to my 2010 postings:


2011 is at:


One can hardly move in the Valley for oranges and grapefruit.


The big annual celebration is the Texas Citrus Fiesta.


There's 'King Citrus' (aged worthy) and 'Queen Citrianna' (high school stunner) and parade in which floats are festooned with oranges and grapefruit.


Here's the 'Princess of Orange Blossom' among whose achievements, I'm pleased to report, is an award for high school journalism. The page, working on his wave, has still to decide on career.


There are lots of pretty girls …


... but, given the setting, this laundromat's patriotic entry (sans citrus) is enthusiastically cheered.


It's election season (when isn't it?). No, I don't mean the national election, but local ballots. I was moved by the comments of one aspirant councilman:

"I ask not what my city can do for me, but what I can do for my city."

Such selfless sentiments strike me as worthy of mention.

Our paper's filled with allegations of skulduggery and, in one case, a candidate's facing money laundering charges. He was allegedly found with a million dollars - cash - in his car.

What also interests me are the races for judicial office. Is there another advanced country in which judges are elected? Doubtless the lady is qualified, but, if her picture's any guide, facing her in court would almost be a pleasure.


(On July 12, 2014, McAllen police arrested Judge Nora on suspicion of drunk driving. She didn't look so glamorous in her mugshots.)

Not the best advertisement for safe driving, this car promotes a hopeful sheriff.


One candidate’s headwear appeals to regional sensibilities. If elected, will he wear it in court?


This friendly chap (I encountered him during a previous election) campaigns with a shopping cart. Unfortunately, he doesn’t speak English, rather limiting his ability to tell me about Mr. or Ms. Espinoza.


Backers of another candidate for the bench gave me this bottle sleeve. I'm sure he only meant it for pop, but I use it for beer. Cheers!