The staff of the Western Heritage Museum and Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame are anxious to welcome visitors back to the Museum, however, we, along with New Mexico Junior College administration have decided the best course of action is to officially say we are closed at least until December no matter what the state of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are sad about this, but we will be using this time to make some exciting changes to the Museum, which we are looking forward sharing with you in the near future.
Until then, you will be missing two planned exhibits: Facing the Inferno: the Wildfire Photography of Kari Greer and Into the Great White Sands, Photographs by Craig Varjabedian. We are happy to announce that Into the Great White Sands will return next year, August 29-October 31, 2021. Even Pollinators: Keeping Company with Flowers will be returning since you missed that exhibit due to COVID-19. When we have a firm date for that we will let you know. We are in discussions to bring Facing the Inferno back as well. Currently on our YouTube page, you can find a virtual tour of Pollinators and Facing the Inferno.
Aside from cancelling the two exhibits, we have made some other tough decisions as well. Some of our favorite annual events occur during the fall and winter, which makes this announcement even harder. For safety reasons related to COVID-19, we have decided to cancel: Fall Classic Film Series, in person Staked Plains Roundup, Dia de los Muertos Family Fun Day, and Christmas Traditions from Around the World. We did not make these decisions lightly, but for the safety of both our visitors and our staff, we felt it necessary. However, we will be trying some new events like a virtual Staked Plains. Stay tuned for more information about that.
As much as we want to see you, safety is our main concern. For now, check out our website for online activities. Do not forget to purchase your raffle tickets, the proceeds of which go towards scholarships for the NMJC Rodeo Team. The drawing is August 8 at 7pm on Facebook live. You can also nominate someone for induction into the Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame. Nomination forms are available on our website. We may be closed, but we are working hard for you! Stay safe!
