Lupe Valdez

Kristi Noem has been removed from her position. Reports say her taxpayer-funded ads cost millions, and a related contract went to her husband’s company while she was involved with someone in her agency.

I wondered how long it would take for that kind of thing to catch up with her... Not very long.

Today is Election Day in Texas. Polls across Dallas-Fort Worth are open from 7am to 7pm for the primary election. So take some time today to go vote and make your voice count. Don’t forget your photo ID when you head to your polling place.

Let's keep the momentum going. This Tuesday, March 3rd is Election Day, and the last opportunity to vote!

Have you heard some of the TX GOP ads? Seems like they’re catering to one person, who doesn't even vote in Texas.

They’re talking mostly about national issues instead of talking about what they’ll do to help Texans.

Democrats- good for business and people.

Had the pleasure of voting for a whole bunch of people I know in the Democratic primary. What an honor!

Early voting is still ongoing through Friday, Feb. 27th ahead of the March 3rd primary.

Find your polling location here:
www.votetexas.gov/voting/where...

Early voting in Dallas-Fort Worth starts tomorrow, Tues, Feb. 17th.
You can cast your ballot in person through Friday, Feb. 27th ahead of the March 3rd primary. Find your polling location and plan your vote:
www.votetexas.gov/voting/where...

It’s never enough

This is still my driveway on Sunday afternoon. Something’s wrong with the power source to my driveway gate. Can't get to it to fix it. Yes, I tried, but wasn’t very graceful.

Aggression on either side of a confrontation usually ends up with people getting hurt. That may be another reason all Texas peace officers are required to take de-escalation classes. Local officers answer to city councils, city councils answer to the community.

Finally got to use my fireplace this year. Yes, my decorations are still up. Maybe this weekend, maybe next. 🤷

Every peace officer has to take a de-escalation course. Every police academy has to teach it. There are many times when pointing a gun at someone isn’t acceptable. Such as in Minnesota. There was a time when the Federal officers were better trained than the State officers. Perhaps we’ve lost that.

Happy New Year. Please remember that fireworks are a celebration, but stopping on the freeway or turning around to drive the wrong way creates serious safety risks for everyone.

Christmas was plentiful. I’m grateful for fullness and friends.

Went to see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra last night. It was Wonderful!

In the 50's and 60's for family gatherings and holidays, the children and grandchildren of Plinio and Theresa Valdez were quite large. Now my brother and I gather with the children of our deceased brothers and sister, which I’m getting to know.

The Dallas Police Department Chief, Daniel C. Comeaux, spoke to the Chrizo y Menudo group on Saturday. He did a good job!

Had a great time at the Garcia-West Christmas Party!

Aww gee mom, we know it’s the holidays, but do we have to wear this?

Once again, I am so blessed. During this time I am honored to serve. The Sunday before Thanksgiving, I served meals in DeSoto where I work, and then on Thanksgiving in Dallas where I live.

Dallas and DeSoto officers joined the family of a fallen officer for a tribute. Dallas PD installed blue street toppers in the area to honor his service. One of the toppers is visible on the telephone pole in the photo.

Spent yesterday evening with friends/former employees from the Dallas Sheriff’s Department. It was a great time!

Had to bring in the plants for the winter the other day. This is about half of them. Going to have to get a green house soon!

Tomorrow’s Election Day. These local races decide who speaks for our communities. Polls are open 7am to 7pm. Just be in line by seven.

On my afternoon walk at Twelve Hills Nature Center.

Early Voting Is Open, and runs from October 21st through November 1st. Most items on the ballot are statewide constitutional amendments, and some areas will also have local amendments.

To review your sample ballot and find your polling location, visit VoteTexas.gov

Here’s a photo from the Lulac fundraiser the other night.

Enjoyed good music at the Lulac fundraiser.

Enjoying a moment of peacefulness.

We’re not trying to pretend we’re flying. We’re in Cabo San Lucas on ATVS by the beach! ☀️🏖️

AGING WELL has its disadvantage, when people your age start passing away. A couple of years ago, my brother started gathering the children of our deceased siblings. But unfortunately, we lost one last month, Henrietta Valdez.

I now realize that aging well also includes learning to lose well.