Northern Briefs 4/16/26

Items for Northern Briefs may be submitted by sending them to jgarcia@riograndesun.com Submissions must be received no later than noon Monday for publication that week.

The Española Public Library will host an open chess class from 11 a.m. to noon and from 4-5 p.m. Thursday (4/16). Story time and a kid energy activity will be from 11 a.m. to noon on April 21. A spring paint class will be offered from 4-5:30 p.m. April 23. Participants will be guided step-by-step to create a spring-themed painting — no experience needed. Seating is limited, so sign up in advance at the library. The event is recommended for teens and adults. “The Mystery of Chaco Canyon” will be shown at 4 p.m. April 24 for movie afternoon.

Bingo Fundraiser

The American Legion Post 17, Española, is having a Bingo Fundraiser on Friday (4/17) at the Knights of Columbus Hall at El Valle De Arroyo Seco, US Highway 84. Doors open at 6 p.m. and games begin at 7 p.m. Concessions available for purchase. All proceeds benefit local veterans. For more information please contact Lorena Wigginton at 209-470-0708.

Memorial Cruise

A memorial cruise honoring former sheriff Billy Merrifield will on Sunday (4/19). Those who want to participate should meet at 11 a.m. at Century Bank, roll out will be at noon from North Riverside Drive to East Fairview Lane and to North Paseo de Oñate. Food and refreshments can be purchased afterward at the Cities of Gold Casino Hotel ballroom, where Heartless and a DJ will provide entertainment.

Chile Cook-Off

The Española Chile Bowl Cook-Off Returns April 25 and local businesses, nonprofits and organizations are invited to enter for $50. Individuals may enter for $25 at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/chile-cookoff. The event will also feature a silent auction table and Suzan Roybal, founder of the Chile Bowl Cook-Off, will be a celebrity judge. Taster tickets can be purchased for $8 on Zeffy or $10 at the door. Set-up is from 9-10:30 a.m., public tasting begins at 11 a.m., awards are given at 2:30 p.m. and the event ends at 3 p.m. For more information contact Chamber Executive Director Tilly Nichols at 505-614-4615.

Exhibit

The Bond House Museum is showcasing the Northern New Mexico Artist Invitational Exhibit featuring artists Roger Montoya, Steve Chavez, Michelle Ferran, Nicholas Herrera and James Espinoza. The exhibit is on display through May 31. Admission is free. The Bond House is located at 706 Bond St. Exhibit hours are noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. For more information call 747-8535 or send an email to sg.history65@gmail.com

Gamblers Anonymous

Meetings are held from noon to 1 p.m. at the Santa Clara Behavioral Health Training Building, 360 Fog Road. Snacks will be served. Call in by dialing 267-807-9601 and enter access code 408387. For more information call Claudine at 505-670-2254.

Senior benefits

Seniors can get help in applying for SNAP, Medicare, Medicare Part D, LIHEAP, the Medicare Savings Program and Medicaid by contacting Mariah Sandoval with the Rio Arriba County Health and Human Services Department at 505-753-2143, ext. 5109. She can check eligibility and help seniors apply for the programs.