This we could have dispensed with

It was a shame to waste scarce conjunto time on a tribute to Johnny Cash, ring of fuego or not. We decided to vote in the Albertsons parking lot on the way to the conjunto festival. We didn't leave until the entire KMFA hour of Verdi choruses had concluded, not being able to tear ourselves away. There was an all-guy contingent in charge of the elections trailer, Democrats, one would guess, but for the lone Anglo guy, who was just returning from the convenience store with some brisket for the team. At the pulga these days, there's more space devoted to off-street parking and much less to vendor booths and tables. This must be the deal that the owner reached. Unofficial commerce continues, though, all the way down the street between Walgreens and Pleasant Valley. We found good parking within a block of the park and walked with our chairs and stuff. As always, everyone was in a wonderful humor. The mud had dried up; it didn't rain; everyone was jolly; the dance floor was crowded; the music is still in our heads. What a wonderful way to end/begin the week!