The Wild Wild West Rodeo at the Southwest Horseman's Arena started off with a bang Wednesday night to a sold out crowd. Everyone was in high spirits cheering, laughing and yes even booing when they did not believe that the scores were high enough. The bulls came out in force for the bull riding event bucking, charging and giving the crowd a show. The men's team roping and women's barrel racing also got a charge out of the crowd. And to top off the night the commentary was filled with humor which kept a liveliness in the air. If you missed last nights show not to worry there are still three more nights to go. Doors open at 6pm every night and if you don't want to drive there are even bus rides to the arena that will pick you up at the 1st NM Bank Parking lot.

MEMORIAL DAY OBSERVANCE at FORT BAYARD

Robert Flitcraft's speech at Mondays Memorial Day observance at Fort Bayard National Cemetery was moving and inspiring to the large crowd that gathered. With two air force flybys, Sherry Terrazas singing the national anthem, Jack Cunninghad playing the bagpipes and the Knights of Columbus Color Guard wreath ceremony it made you proud to be in a country that people are willing to fight for your rights. There were 3400 American flags placed on late solders graves that tugged at your heart and your tears. As someone who had both grandfathers, their father, father-in-law, husband and numerous extended family whom all served in this country's arm forces maybe I am a bit bias, but this is truly a day that even if you do not agree with the politics of this country now you should remember and respect the solders of the past. Because if it were not for them you would not have the right to speak your beliefs today.

The Silver City Blues Festival has now come and gone. Day two was just as successful as the day one. The weather was again perfect, the music was soulful and the crowds were happy. It is so nice to see a community come out in force and all enjoy themselves.

The Mimbres Region Arts Council did it again!! With a setting of tranquil blue sky and prefect weather, in the low 80's, Gough Park in downtown Silver City was taken over by music and music lovers. Families came out with kids and strollers in tow. Friends met up and found a place in the grass to spread out their blankets. Other than the line for BBQ and turkey legs being an hour long (though I hear it was worth it) and a few of the motorcyclist reeving up to loud there didn't seem to be any complaints. The park was packed along with the beer garden and every one looked to be having a lively time. So, if you missed Saturday's, festivities there is always day 2 on Sunday to make it out and join in on the fun. Sorry, you have to leave the pooches at home for this one.

Melanie Zipin & Jeff LeBlanc played to a packed house Friday night, May 23 at the Buckhorn in Pinos Altos. There where so many people that between songs Melanie would ask the crowd to make new friends and share their tables so people would have a place to sit. Playing new and old songs the atmosphere was lively and every one seemed to enjoy themselves.

Blue Doom Gallery hosted an opening Friday, May 23 for Carlene Roters'. Her show entitled "Raven Shenanigans" is a series of oil paintings and monotypes depicting ravens that came to live on the Roters' property. The brightly colored oils and popping black monotypes are a treat to the eyes and are worth a drive downtown.

Leyba & Ingalls Arts had an opening featuring new works by Crystal Foreman Brown, Zoe Wolfe, Phillip Parotti & Diana Ingalls Leyba on Thursday, May 22. They have some great new works that are definitely worth a stop by. Carlos Aguilar has a wonderful print for the Silver City Blues Festival, proceed go to the Mimbres Region Arts Council. The prints are $100 and there where only 15 made, these will for sure sell out fast so get yours now.

The Finer Limitz Car Club out of Hurley had their 3rd annual car show on Saturday, May 17. With multiple categories to enter there where over 30 cars to see and a lot of people came out to see them. With cars, food vendors, trophies given out and music thur out the day, oh yeah - then a street dance that night this event was great and a must attend for next years 4th annual show.

Congratulations to Jade Zamora not only did she graduate for NMSU in graphic design on Saturday but she also had a fabulous graduations party at her parents Richard and Evangeline Zamora's home. With great food, music by Azul and a wonderful crowd, this party was a hit.

Seed Boat Gallery Hosts Cheese Club
 
Rob cuts the cheese at the Seed Boat. "The stinkier.....the better", Rob Connley. This month's installment featured French cheeses. I had no idea the French were know for their cheese.

The Silver City Farmers market returns to its rightful place.... DOWNTOWN. After several relocations last year, the Farmers' Market has returned to a location that will be the Future Downtown Plaza (behind Dominos pizza on Bullard). 
     Also opening up on Saturday was the Mercado del Sol,  a weekly event every Saturday that will feature arts and craft vendors.
     The art scene is growing.... Silver City's Downtown was recently designated a Arts & Culture District by the State of New Mexico. 
Every Saturday: Farmers Market and Mercado del Sol.