Get your game on! Enchantment Games return to Bernalillo

BERNALILLO — The Albuquerque Sign Language Academy hosted its third annual Enchantment Games Sept. 20 at Rotary Park in Bernalillo.

“The idea here is to bring New Mexico together. So, we have different organizations helping us out,” said Rachael Mesillas, ASLA community engagement coordinator.

Proceeds from the Enchanted Games went toward the ASLA.

“It’s one of our big fundraiser community events,” ASLA Executive Director Rafe Martinez said.

According to Martinez, ASLA is a school built on the idea that deaf, hard of hearing and special needs kids can all go to school together.

“It’s a good day for neighbors to come together and be one community,” Martinez said.

The day began with a burrito fun run and walk, which was followed by puppy yoga.

The day then continued with various tournaments for class games, including cornhole, kickball, bocce ball, kickball and Spike Ball.

“Healthy compeition, you know, nothing crazy, but people get after each other. We had prizes,” Martinez said.

The eventful day even consisted of a pet costume contest and a pet pavilion. Some of the people working the event ended up adopting pets as well.

“Two of my staff members adopted dogs today,” Mesillas said.

Food trucks, coffee cart, local vendors, a beer garden and live music were also on site as well.

“We had a really good turnout ... and I know we can definitely grow it next year,” Mesillas said.

The Albuquerque Sign Language Academy is an ASL-English tuition-free public charter school and a certified ASL-English dual-language school.