Rio Rancho Iron Works latest recipient of ARPA funding

“Better Than Donuts,” said, Rio Rancho Iron Works owner (Sharon Luna) and her son Nathanial Anaya pictured (left to right) who received $20,000 Sandoval County Small Business Continuity Grant (ARPA) early this morning. For Sharon these grant funds will support employee salary expense to ensure orders are filled. The operations continues to accommodate existing appointments with walk-in orders and follow … Read More

El Zócalo complex boasts history, event space, revenue

Story by Gary Herron of the Rio Rancho Observer El Zócalo is a historical building Sandoval County now uses as an event space and visitors center. Gary Herron photo. BERNALILLO — How does that old phrase go? “What was old is new again,” or something like that? That wording can adequately describe what’s going on the with historic El Zócalo … Read More

Galloping Goat Pumpkin Patch celebrates its 15th anniversary

What has become a City of Rio Rancho staple in October is turning 15 years old this Friday 10.1.2021. The Galloping Goat Pumpkin Patch began in 2006 as a way to offer families a wholesome and fun atmosphere nearby, said GGPP Founder Max Wade. “After sitting out for a year, due to the pandemic, we fine-tuned a few things for … Read More

County clerk, students film ad to increase turnout in school elections

Story and photo by Matt Hollinshead with the Rio Rancho Observer BERNALILLO — Taking center stage showcasing Sandoval County schools ahead of the local elections, several local youth enjoyed being part of that greater cause. The youngsters went in front of a camera Sept. 17 at Bernalillo Elementary School for a public service announcement overseen by the Sandoval County Clerk’s … Read More

Family ranch offers diverse backdrop for filming

What was originally purchased as free roaming ranch land in the 1600s has become one of the most active filming sites in Sandoval County. The Baca Ranch, located on NM 313 in Algodones has been host to several movies and TV shows, which include Breaking Bad and Terminator Salvation. Currently, the Baca Ranch is being used to film the ABC … Read More

American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding

Sandoval County currently has $1 million of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, which can be used to address the negative economic impacts caused by the public health emergency. Grants will first be prioritized to those businesses that did not receive County CARES Act Funds due to unavailability of funds or for businesses with costs that exceeded the $20,000 limit … Read More

Job openings at Intel fit many skill levels

With their recent expansion announcement, Intel is looking for new talent to hire. Intel Corporation, with over 40 years in the state, announced in May their plan to invest $3.5 billion to equip the New Mexico site for the manufacturing of advanced semiconductor packaging technologies, including Foveros, Intel’s breakthrough 3D packaging technology. As part of their multiyear plan, they expect … Read More

A walk through a vineyard

(Placitas Winery owners talk about their business model) PLACITAS – A new winery with a tie to the ancient Anasazi is keeping up with several traditions all at once. The Placitas Winery, located just north of NM 165 on 26 Camino De Los Pueblitos, hosts an 11,000 square foot adobe structure that doubles as an event space and wine manufacturing … Read More

Corrales brewery offers a historical experience

CORRALES – Most breweries wouldn’t dare boast that they have a bad Wi-Fi connection or no televisions to watch sports on. However, there is one such brewery that does, located in the heart of Corrales. The amply named Casa Vieja (The old lady house in English) offers no such modern amenities, in fact that is what Co-Owner Maria Socha says … Read More

One of a kind academy offers classes that rock

CORRALES – Imagine a classroom environment where cranking up a guitar solo is not only encouraged but mandatory to pass the class. Believe it or not, this is the type of curriculum that is offered, among many other guitar related items, at the Strat Academy located in the village of Corrales. The Strat Academy is the brainchild of owner and … Read More