Las Cruces, NM – On this edition of PUENTES a la comunidad, bridges to the community, host Emily Guerra met with the Director of Holy Cross Retreat Center, Fr. Thomas A. Smith, to talk about their largest fundraiser – The Annual Franciscan Festival of Fine Arts – held each year on Labor Day weekend. Proceeds go to assist the ministries of Holy Cross Retreat Center, including outreach to assist asylum seekers and medical patients from out of town.
The Franciscan Festival of Fine Arts will be held on Saturday, August 31st at 9 a.m. and Sunday, September 1st at 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Retreat Center, 600 Holy Cross Road in Mesilla Park, NM 88047, two miles south of University Avenue and Highway 10 in Las Cruces. Over 85 artists will be featured with a wide variety of fine arts, including photography, paintings, sculpture, ceramics, woodworks, jewelry, and more. About two-thirds of the artists will be in air-conditioned rooms or visible while walking in the shade. The show also features red or green enchiladas, flautas, homemade pastries, including biscochos, and limited amount of Paella, along with other food vendors, and Monk’s Ale Beer and wine from Mesa Verde Winery. Silent Auction of items from the artists, and raffle tickets can be purchased. No Entry fee with plenty of parking, but donations are appreciated. More information available on their website – holycrossretreat.org; on Facebook - Thomas A. Smith; and 575-524-3688.