SURVIVING NEW MEXICO CENTERS FINALLY ABLE TO RE-OPEN

From a business-denying yellow tier to a business-enhancing turquoise level. That’s what businesses in most of New Mexico experienced between April 28 and May 5.

The “color change” came about, in part, by achieving a mandated vaccination rate to end one of the most severe lockdowns of any state during the COVID-19 pandemic. It came at the encouragement of local mayors, both Republican and Democrat.

Business levels at the centers that were able to reopen has been brisk, with some reporting record revenues in May, largely due to open-play bowlers who had not had access to the lanes in more than 14 months.

Unfortunately, some centers have closed permanently, while others are seeking buyers.

— Steve Mackie