The resignation of State Fair Chairwoman Carol Cloer has got the insiders working overtime on just why she decided to bail from the prestigious position after serving less than a year. Cloer, appointed by Governor Bill, bowed out last week saying it was time for her to pursue "personal" goals. Well, sources deep on the inside say that's not the only reason.
One insider points to the Commission's soon-to-be-made decision over who gets the contract to run the lucrative concession stands at the State Fair. "Garduno's has had the deal for three years. They got it under Governor Johnson. Before then, Fresquez Concessions had the deal. Now they want it back. And they are backed up by some pretty powerful political voices. Carol apparently was not partial to switching back to Fresquez so she decided to hit the exits, rather than fight."
Sounds credible. The Fair deals traditionally have switched with new administrations. Why would this one behave any differently?
The Fair Commission meets in January to decide whether to give Garduno's a two year extension. Sources say Fresquez Concessions, operated by Lenny Fresquez, who also promotes most of the boxing matches in the state and operates eight Mac's Steak in the Rough restaurants, has a favor or two to call in, and he's calling in this one. Our sources call Fresquez a "well-connected guy with friends in the upper reaches of the Democratic Party and the administration."
Big Bill will name a replacement for Cloer soon and all will be known when the Fresquez-Garduno face-off comes to a head next year. If you're a betting guy or gal, I'd say the odds on Fresquez winning this match are pretty strong.
I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS--MANNY'S HOME
It was the umpteenth annual Christmas party hosted by Senate Majority Leader and South Valley powerhouse Manny Aragon at his home Saturday. The surprise this year, say those in attendance, was who was greeting the guests. Why, it was none other than jolly ol' Governor Bill. Manny's Xmas matanza under a tent (for you uninitiated gringos that's where you roast a pig in the ground) cost $150 a pop and a toy. The toys collected go to the kids of inmates doing time in the state prison system. Thanks, Manny Claus.
MANNY AND BILL: BRING OUT THE MISTLETOE
It's been amazing to watch Governor Bill and Manny play cozy-cozy the last year. Aragon has been so publicly demonized by the GOP some politicos treat him like a flu virus. But Big Bill wears Teflon on this one and can cuddle up to Manny all he wants without provoking wrath. But Bill may want to be careful just how many candy canes he shares with the wily Aragon. He's been known to put coal in the stockings without much notice. But for now the two political PH.D's are wheeling and dealing. And political junkies on both sides of the aisle admit it's fun seeing the political game being played seriously again.
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(c)NM POLITICS WITH JOE MONAHAN 2003
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