Deb Haaland on data centers, child welfare and supporting rural New Mexico

In front of a live audience at Sky Cinemas in Santa Fe, Democrat Deb Haaland shares her plan for New Mexico as she seeks to win the governor’s seat in the November election. Haaland, the former U.S. interior secretary and congresswoman, speaks with Santa Fe New Mexican Opinion page editor and “Con…

Gregg Hull on phasing out income tax, reversing New Mexico's population decline

In front of a live audience at Sky Cinemas in Santa Fe, Republican Gregg Hull shares his plan for New Mexico as he seeks to win the governor’s seat in the November election.  Hull, the former mayor of Rio Rancho, speaks with Santa Fe New Mexican Opinion page editor and “Conversations Different” ho…

New Mexico General Services secretary shares why she has revamped landscaping efforts at state buildings

Have you ever wondered who’s in charge of maintaining government buildings throughout New Mexico? That would be the General Services Department, currently led by Cabinet Secretary Anna Silva.  Silva, a native New Mexican and longtime state official, oversees a department with various responsibilit…

Rev. Andrew Black on why faith is helping preserve the Arctic and New Mexico from environmental catastrophe

As our planet continues to experience environmental changes that have brought extreme temperatures and unpredictable conditions, faith leaders are stepping up to offer diplomacy when outside groups seek to extract precious resources.   Rev. Andrew Black, associate pastor of First Presbyterian Chur…

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…