Rove slips in and out of Harlingen

HARLINGEN — The first to arrive was a woman delivering a flower arrangement about 2 p.m. Friday.

About a half hour later, a truck pulled up and four or five caterers emerged to deliver tables and trays of covered food through the garage door.

Then around 3 p.m., two cars showed up driven by men in dark suits.They were seen coming and going through the garage.

But there was no sign of Karl Rove, presidential adviser to President Bush.

Rove was expected at a political campaign reception for U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, who is seeking re-election in 2008.

On Thursday, Cornyn said Rove would be attending the event hosted at the Treasure Hills home of James G. Springfield, president and CEO of Valley Baptist Health System.

Guests began arriving shortly before 5:30 p.m. They were in suits and dresses.

Valet attendants parked the cars along the street outside the home as the attendees arrived in front of the house.

It became apparent that the party was over around 7:45 p.m.

That’s when a dark blue Chevrolet Tahoe, which had been seen around the home earlier, backed into the garage and left a few minutes later.

Guests began trickling out.

Cameron County Judge Carlos Cascos was at the event and said when he arrived at the Springfield home Rove was already at the reception.

“He gave a really nice speech,” Cascos said.