May Update  
We're Still Here!   
From Our Executive Director, Mary Schmidt
Yes, I'm smiling behind that mask. And, I bought it from a local artist. 

I've heard through the grapevine (virtual and otherwise) that people are asking, "What's going on with OFFCenter?" Well, we're still here, and we're planning for a New OC that accounts for Digital Reality. 

We'd hoped to re-open our physical location in April and that wasn't possible. And, as I type this, we're still under New Mexico governor's directive to stay home. We're working remotely and planning for the summer, including, we hope, a very limited re-opening of our studio, with proper safety protocols, for scheduled workshops and community projects.

I personally  hate having to say, "I don't know" when asked about the future.  Those of you who know me well, know I'm all about problem-solving, making it happen, taking that hill! Of course, whatever our personalities, dealing with the new normal is a challenge, one I'm confident our community can meet. 

Examples: Our writing group, led by Mandy Gardner, continues meeting and creating online. Others continue working on Little Houses. I get emails volunteering to help with re-opening tasks and new programs. So, while I can't predict the future, I can say we've got a big advantage in our OC community -- creative, kind, compassionate people who actively support each other. 

On that note, we need virtual volunteers to help with technology, event planning, and development (Gracias to Laura Randolph of Mama's Minerals for agreeing to serve on the virtual development committee!) If you're interested,  drop me a line.

To help us stay connected, I'm sending out inspiration from our writing group about once a week.  In this E-letter, I share some good memories with all confidence that we'll make more. Remember, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. (I tweet regularly as well.)

If you can, an online donation is much appreciated. 
 
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Resources & Ideas 
Buy Local!  

The more dollars that stay in our community, the more resilient our local economy, so whenever you can, buy local.

Many local artists are on Etsy (where I bought my mask) and also selling via the weekly OT Circus online auction.

List of local restaurants with delivery and carry-out in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, courtesy of Los Foodies Magazine.   



With Farm to Car, you can pre-order and pre-pay
Stay Informed 
City of Albuquerque Updates 
Our great city has a long list of resources for you, and posts regular updates, online.  If you're on Twitter, you can also follow @MayorKeller and @cabq.   
"Oh! You're the Puppet People!"  
Great Memories & More to Come  
 We hear about the love of our puppets wherever we go.   
(And we're working on them coming back this summer.)  

Every Contribution Makes a Difference.
There's No Such Thing as a Donation That's Too Small.
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OFFCenter Community Arts Project is a 501(c)3 organization.
Your contributions are tax deductible as according to law.
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