I am now in El Paso—not exactly a dream vacation, huh? Actually, I am off to work for two weeks, evaluating seven high schools in this big city that separates Texas from New Mexico and Old Mexico. I have been here numerous times, and even evaluated public and private schools here in the past.
Years ago I enjoyed Juárez, but not any more. I don’t know anyone who goes there now because of the crime and subsequent dangers brought about by the drug lords. I remember when Juárez was on Central Standard Time and El Paso was on Mountain Time, (now they are the same) and people could ring in New Years’ twice in one night. Of course, after a few strong margaritas in Mexico, a person might not remember how many times they had brought in the new year until the next morning, and then wished they hadn’t brought it in at all (of course I don’t know any of these people personally).
But those days of crossing back and forth easily and without worry are gone for most Americans; even those in El Paso tell me they never go although many have relatives there. It is simply too scary. I think it is really sad, a part of southwestern culture gone—at least until Mexico cleans up its act.
Thankfully, El Paso has been spared most of the corruption and most of the danger has not spilled over into the city, although that fear exists because only the river really divides the two cities. It is an interesting place with the huge military population mixed with the predominately Hispanic culture.
There will be a little time to sample good food and shop the after-the-holiday sales on the weekends, but it will be an extremely busy time visiting the schools and writing the reports until I leave on January 28. In between, I’ll continue to blog, so, don’t go away.