Crystal Ybarra and Sabra Romero discuss why volunteers play special role for kids at Santa Fe Public Schools

Teachers are often the ones who leave a lasting impact on a child both in and out of the classroom.   But they’re not alone. Community volunteers also play a special role in a child’s learning, especially early on. They are there helping with activities, being a role model for excellence and demon…

One last dance: Zozobra fire dancer Helene Luna shares on her time in the spotlight before passing the torch

The Burning of Zozobra, which has taken place annually for over 100 years, is a special event that Santa Feans hold dear to their hearts.   That’s especially true for those who are actually involved in the event like Helene Luna, the Fire Spirit tasked with lighting the 50-foot effigy on fire whil…

Anna I. Sochocky delves into the offerings of New Mexico Book Association and its upcoming gala

For roughly 30 years, the New Mexico Book Association has been a useful resource for authors and their books throughout the state.   The nonprofit’s work consists of supporting its members in various ways, such as through the editing and marketing process to offering workshops that aim to educate …

Max Gomez discusses the touring life, making music and upcoming shows in New Mexico

Following the successful release of a new album last year called Memory Mountain, Max Gomez has been busy these days on the road performing across the country.   The Taos-raised musician is coming home this month; however, for The Desert Companion Tour with Howe Gelb and band Slant Can. The tour w…

John Berkenfield reflects on 40 years volunteering at Santa Fe Indian Market and why the event is life-changing for artists

Santa Fe’s John Berkenfield has been a volunteer with the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA) Santa Fe Indian Market for nearly 40 years.   He says it was just yesterday that he joined the association, wanting to be more involved with the local arts community as a fellow art lover. Hi…

Bill Church of 'The New Mexican’ discusses the paper’s expansion to Southern New Mexico and reaching readers

The newspaper industry isn’t what it used to be.   Over the last decade, publications across the country and here in New Mexico have declined, facing inevitable closures because of financial woes and corporate and private interests mandating restructures.   According to the Medill School’s 2025 S…

Taos chef Nité Marquez shares his journey with cooking, social media stardom and writing cookbooks

If you are on social media, particularly Facebook and TikTok, you may have come across Nité Marquez’s cooking videos. The Taos-based chef uses those platforms to share his passion for cooking, which has drawn thousands of views and followers along the way.   On his pages, you’ll find tutorials on …

Francisco Gella and Elena Garcia discuss Zeitgeist Dance Theatre’s contemporary performances in Santa Fe

Add contemporary dance to the list of experiences you can find in Santa Fe.    Local company Zeitgeist Dance Theatre is taking the artform to the next level by creating shows that center on emotional human connection in the present moment. The company’s artistic director says the goal is to help a…

Traditional Spanish Market: One of Santa Fe’s biggest events returns this July showcasing juried artwork

Traditional Spanish Market, one of Santa Fe’s biggest cultural events, returns to the Plaza July 25-26, showcasing another year of juried artwork from artists across the region.  The market has been around since 1926. Artists accepted into the event are given the unique opportunity to spotlight th…

NMOGA’s Missi Currier discusses energy production in New Mexico and its role on the economy

New Mexico’s oil and gas industry is a touchy subject if you ask anyone. Supporters say it’s the lifeline to the state’s economy and without it, New Mexico wouldn’t have the luxuries or cashflow that it does. But on the flip side, opponents argue the industry is allowing contaminants to pollute the…