Golf is not only in its peak season, it's a leading economic predictor--at least in the recession wracked Four Corners. Top prize money for this weekend's 52nd annual Jerry Sandel San Juan Open has been shaved from last year's $15,000 to this year's $10,560. There's no sign that the great bear market that has struck the oil and natural gas fields in the Farmington area is about to end. And it's been going on for nearly a decade. . .

Reader David Hadwiger gives everyone a good laugh as he falls back on Harry Potter to deliver a little essay that won him a pair of tickets to tonight's Vintage ABQ Grand Tasting. It's the city's premier wine and food event which runs through the weekend:

At the end of each school year at Hogwarts, students take one set of Ordinary Wizarding Level exams in June. Passing grades are Outstanding, Exceeds Expectations and Acceptable. Failing grades are Poor, Dreadful and Troll. By contrast, New Mexico high school students complete PAARC exams, End of Course exams and course finals, from March to May. Which system sounds more sensible? I’d grade Hogwarts as Outstanding and the New Mexico system as Troll.

Good one, David. Have an extra dessert tonight. And thank your daughter--Lauren Soherr--for helping you write that. . .

Speaking of dessert, take a look at this sumptuous carrot cake (with a ball of homemade ice cream) courtesy of the famous Compound on Santa Fe's artistic Canyon Road.

We had not been at the fabled dining spot in years, but had the chance to stop in for lunch recently and were not disappointed. Yep, fresh and delectable jumbo crab and lobster salad (with a welcome tangerine vinaigrette dressing) can be found right here in the high desert. And that's apricot--not carrot--decorating the cake. A nice change of pace, just like the restaurant. . .

And while we're at it, let's throw in a plug for Lambert's in Taos, another venerable eatery hitting on all cylinders. For dessert they offered scrumptious and soothing Honey Budino, an Italian pudding made with organic local honey. It's topped with whipped cream and fresh blueberries. Then there's the cookie that accompanies it, made with a dash of local lavender. Go ahead, treat yourself. You've earned it.

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(c)NM POLITICS WITH JOE MONAHAN 2016