Give Some Green— In last week’s article about the grand opening of 516 Arts, I forgot to mention that the Downtown nonprofit arts organization seeks support from individuals as well as local businesses. So do you want to maintain Albuquerque’s momentum as it speeds to catch up with Santa Fe as a Mecca of culture in the Southwest? Then open your wallet, and show them some green.Becoming a member will bring you all kinds of nifty benefits. You’ll get invitations to special receptions and gallery lectures. You’ll get exhibit catalogs. You’ll even get discounts at select local businesses and galleries. Best of all, you’ll get the satisfaction of knowing you’ve contributed to a highly worthy cause.Membership is $25 for students and seniors, $50 for ordinary people and $75 for families. You are, of course, invited to contribute more substantial amounts if your heart and bank account are amenable. You can also contribute by sponsoring specific events at the gallery. For details, call 242-1445 or go to 516arts.org.
Culture Shock
Bright Ideas— It’s never a bad idea to head up to Santa Fe to make a run of our fine state-operated museums—the Museum of Fine Arts, the Palace of the Governors, the Museum of International Folk Art, and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture—unless you plan to go on New Year’s Day … when they’ll all be closed. (Hey, state employees like to party, too.) Other than that, though, these places are ideal destinations to take your out-of-town friends and relatives. To check the regular hours for the various museums throughout the holiday season, go to museumofnewmexico.org.
Culture Shock
Baz in Burque— Renowned performance poet J.W. Baz comes to Albuquerque this Wednesday, Jan. 3, as the headliner at the Poetry and Beer show at the District Bar and Grill (115 Fourth Street NW). Baz is touring the nation in support of his new CD, Poet Laureate of Apt. 2E . He’ll also compete in the Individual World Poetry Slam in Vancouver, Canada, next year. The show at the District starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free.
