County holds spring craft fair

BERNALILLO — Sandoval County held its spring craft fair May 2 at the administration building off of Idalia Road.

County Manager Wayne Johnson said the building was exceptionally busy because of the event, which has occurred annually for the past seven years.

"More than 200 people attended, including residents, visitors and county employees, to discover what great gift items and necessities were available from more than 30 vendors," he said.

He added that the success of the fair can be measured in many ways.

"First, we welcome the public to come into our building and visit because this beautiful building belongs to the taxpayers of Sandoval County, and the fair is a great way to build community," Johnson said.

The fair also generates income for the Sandoval County Employee Appreciation Committee, which sponsors the event, according to Johnson.

"That income allows the committee to host the county’s holiday employee luncheon as well as other smaller events throughout the year. This is a volunteer effort; no tax dollars are used, and employees on the committee volunteer their time," he said.

The third reason for success, he said, was the start of National Small Business Week May 4, the day after the fair.

"Our fair vendors are local small businesses and we are happy to support them," he added.

County staff and officials were seen roaming the isles of craft vendors, including County Clerk Anne Brady-Romero and Mark Hatzenbuhler, director of public works.

Johnson thanked the community and vendors for showing up.