Rod Torrez, Bandelier Public Information Officer to speak at Ruby K’s. Courtesy photo

By MANDY MARKSTEINER

Ruby K’s Bagel Café will host a weekly discussion series called Ruby K’s Community Hour 5:30-7 p.m. Thursdays (and occasionally Tuesday.)

Rod Torrez, public information officer at Bandelier National Monument will be the first speaker at the new event set for April 25.

During his talk, Torrez will discuss current issues at Bandelier, such as how climate change will affect the park, why the Alcove House has closed and details on efforts to protect the Monument’s resources.

“I’m looking forward to having a higher level conversation with locals,” Torrez said. “There are going to be changes at Bandelier, and I want to prepare the community.”

Tuesday, April 30, Steve Roller will discuss how to use marketing strategies to attract people to a business, and to Los Alamos. Roller is a professional marketing copywriter.

Thursday, May 2, Peggy Pendergast will host “Peggy P’s Plaque Painting Party.”

During this free event, kids may come in and make their own personalized plaque out of colorful dough. Everyone can shape and decorate their plaques, and take them home to bake.

Michelle Harkey, owner of Mullein Leaf Massage, will teach hands-on stress relief techniques June 6.

Community leaders, educators and anyone with a fascinating hobby or interest are invited to lead a Ruby’s Rush Hour discussion. Business owners are welcome to submit discussion ideas, but the discussions must be centered around a topic that would interest customers and not a direct sales pitch.

To schedule a Community Hour event at Ruby K’s, contact Mandy Marksteiner, the events coordinator, at 505-515-7001.