Image courtesy of the artist

An essential part of the American experience, gospel music has its roots in the music slaves made to cope with and filter the trauma of captivity into hope for future and freedom. Innately uplifting and celebratory, gospel makes a clear and harmonious connection to all that is earthly by referencing the heavenly. If you get my drift—and even if you don't—soon you'll have the opportunity to test those ethnomusicological ramblings for yourself. That's because Grammy-nominated gospel singer and renowned baritone Pastor John P. Kee performs right here in Burque on Thursday, Sept. 19 at the New Hope Full Gospel Baptist Church. At 7pm the singer and choir leader, noted for a compelling and soulful use of both contemporary and traditional gospel stylings, takes the stage as part of the I Made It Out Tour with his New Life choir of gospel singers. Tickets for this relevant recital cost $20 for adults and $10 for youths 17 and younger; they may be purchased by calling 881-7780. (August March)

Shutterbugs gather up your best pieces and pick some to submit for hanging in the new Bernalillo County headquarters when the gov-peeps move to Alvarado Square, happening now until Monday, August 31. The selected photographs will be printed in a large scale and format. They will be used to create a welcoming environment for county customers, county employees and the general public. Some will be used on the windows of the new Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office suite. The photographs should represent the history and character of Bernalillo County and its people, places, landscapes and unique events in our county. There are some big bucks involved as chosen photographers will receive $1,500, with a limit of one photograph per artist. The chosen photos will become part of the public art program’s permanent collection. There is no fee or age limit required to submit. For more information, visit bernco.gov/community-services/current-call-for-entries.aspx. Ends August 31. (Carolyn Carlson)

Looking for a little chile? The 2020 Bosque Chile Festival, a celebration of food, art, and culture on the Rio Grande, is happening Saturday, August 15 and Sunday, August 16, with times waiting to be officially announced. But due to COVID-19 and the State of New Mexico public health order, the festival will be presented virtually! There will still be entertainment, art activities, a virtual artisan market, chile-chef demonstrations, educational workshops and more. This free, all-ages event is meant to give those stuck at home a chance to see what the state has to offer. If you are a high-quality chile-inspired and authentic New Mexican business with an e-commerce website and want to be a vendor, there is still time. Applications are being accepted until Wednesday, August 5. For more information email bosquechilefestival@bernco.gov.