FRENCH MAIDS IN A ROW, THE POKER CHIPS FLYING, THE CANDIDATE DEALING HANDS OF 21

By Juan Montoya

The poker chips were flying, wine and drink glasses clinking and the French maid-dressed hostesses were sashaying around the tables waiting on guests last night at the Days Inn.

By any measure, this campaign event – dubbed Tad's Fabulous Casino Night – was singularly unique. Tad is running against Dr. Reynaldo Garcia for Place 6 on the Texas Southmost College District election this May. Now, we've seen everything from the traditional pachanga with the local conjunto, the chicken plates and the keg in the corner for the imbibers, the Loteria Mexicana with equally fabulous prizes which has been a hit with Yolanda Begum's followers, the ritzy restaurant greet-and-meets, but the French-maid Casablanca motif was slightly different.

Don't get us wrong. This wasn't a Evelon Dale Hollywood theme production with Oscar presentations for the candidate, etc. In fact, the caterer for the event was none other than Republican candidate for District 38 State Representative Alex Torres, who's running against E-3 (Eddie Lucio III).

Still, the thrill was to go through the 13 chips, of different denominations, while the rest of the players sought to lighten you or your stash.

Through it all, Tad (a la Rick [Humphrey Bogart]) slithered through the game tables checking on the games.

"I'm shocked, shocked, that there's is gambling going on in this establishment," he told a visitor.

"Here's your winnings, sir," said James, sidling up to him and handing him a handful of chips which Tad surreptitiously pocketed in his tux inside pocket.