TOP OF MIND

Top of Mind is a weekly question about an issue affecting New Mexicans.

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION If the state Legislature adopts a state aroma, what should it be?

“Nothing beats the smell of fresh tortillas or bread in the morning, when Mom wanted to treat the family. Add butter, food of the gods.” — Daniel Valdez, Albuquerque

“The aroma of piñon pine in the fireplace, because that’s the fragrance of New Mexico history.” — Margaret Larson, Albuquerque

“There is no smell better than petrichor (the smell of rain) on a warm summer day.” — Mark Rosebrough, Albuquerque

“The scent of roasting chile. No question.” — Lydia Ashanin, Albuquerque

“Of course, the state aroma should be that enchanting scent drifting in the late summer breeze of meaty green chiles being lovingly slow roasted to charred perfection over a grill in the lazy afternoon sun.”

— John Song, San Lorenzo

“This is what the Legislature should waste its time on? They have 30 days to decide important things like keeping the growing exodus of doctors from the state. No, we do not need to be the first state to have a state smell — this stinks.”

— Mary Hyatt, Rio Rancho

“With the serious issues facing New Mexico — poor education outcomes, rampant violence, out-of-control immigration and homelessness — is it really the best use of time to address such a ridiculous question? SMH”

— Anne Apicella, Rio Rancho

“State aroma should be chili, but the way the state Legislature is working, the smell is cow patty.” — Randall Sever, Albuquerque

“The state aroma? It should be the stench that comes from the Roundhouse whenever the Legislature is in session.”

— David Woodward, Albuquerque

“Really? A state aroma? Absolutely ridiculous. There more important concerns to take care of as pointed out in your editorial in (Sunday Journal, Feb. 5). Crime, dumbed down education and ignored economic needs. Come on Legislature, get it together.”

— Richard Field, Bernalillo

“If the state Legislature adapts a state aroma it should be the many smells coming from cannabis — it’s grown here and ‘imported,’ plus it’s smoked and/or rubbed on the body. It’s beneficial for the state coffers, it’s also a ‘pain reliever,’ and can get one in the spirit world.”

— Harry Hart, Albuquerque

“My vote for state aroma is “Eau de Legislature,” consisting of a gentle whiff of feed lot with a hint of musty attic.”

— Paul Boucher, Albuquerque

“Pick one or more for the state’s aroma: criminality, corruption, malfeasance.” — Keith Kofford, Albuquerque