Featured Presentation
Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story spoke about juvenile justice. He said the primary purpose of the juvenile justice system is rehabilitation. “That’s what it should be. But rehabilitation means restoring someone, in this case, a child, to a condition that’s healthy or functional after wrongdoing. And the question is, are we doing that? Are we rehabilitating kids who are committing these offenses? And I would argue that we’re not.”
Chief Story spoke about prevention being the focus, saying the ultimate goal is to keep a kid from ever entering the juvenile justice system. That’s the best case scenario. Then, there’s intervention which involves mentorship programs and getting kids involved in constructive or productive activities. It’s even positive police youth programs or interactions. Intervention includes things like cognitive behavioral therapy for kids that have adverse childhood experiences to try to intervene before they’re engaged in delinquent or criminal behavior.
And the next thing is diversion. He stated, “I also agree that diversion is somewhere we need to focus, because if we can’t prevent the kid from getting into the juvenile justice system, let’s get them back on the right track after they commit their first delinquent act or after they make their first mistake. Again, we should all agree that that’s optimal, to get them to correct their behavior so they don’t stay in the juvenile justice system. Now, LCPD supports that.”
Chief Story gave us some very troubling statistics, and summarized, “The reality is we do have a serious problem with juvenile violence and serious crime in Las Cruces and New Mexico, and really it’s a nationwide problem.”
You can contact Chief Story by visiting this website; LCPD is also on Facebook here.
Microgrid Oversight Act
Steve Fischmann requested that we contact the governor about the Microgrid Oversight Act (SB 39), which is sponsored by Senator Jeff Steinborn as a response to Project Jupiter and last year’s HB 93. SB 39 would give the Public Regulation Commission authority to regulate microgrids, require them to meet the same renewable portfolio standards as utilities—including reaching zero carbon by 2045—and prohibit rate increases tied to utilities buying power from microgrids. Prior legislation (HB 93) falsely claimed to regulate microgrids, but exempted them in practice, and misled legislators into regrettable votes. SB39 is framed as an “antidote” to those mistakes, but because this is a 30-day budget-focused session, it can only be considered if the governor places it on the agenda. The immediate recommendation is for citizens to contact the governor and urge her to send that message, after which we will need to mobilize legislators to back the bill.
For more information contact Steve at Stephen.Fischmann@gmail.com.
A bit more about the Microgrid Oversight Act
Glenn Landers seconded and expanded on what Steve Fischmann said; he explained that the current 30-day legislative session is limited to budget matters unless the governor formally requests consideration of a specific bill. Senator Steinborn’s Microgrid Oversight Act is presented as a necessary fix for mistakes made in the previous legislative session, but it cannot advance without the governor’s approval. Glenn emphasized that the most urgent action is for the public to contact the governor at 505-476-2200 and urge her to send a message placing the bill on the legislative agenda. He encouraged participation even from those not on the legislative response team!
For more information contact Glenn at glenn.landers@gmail.com.
Legislative solutions to the shortage of physicians in New Mexico
Janet Nordmann, speaking on behalf of Patients Primero, highlighted a recent Legislative Finance Committee survey of over 1,200 New Mexico physicians, which revealed that 95% of current practitioners experience daily impacts from provider shortages. Alarmingly, 65% of surveyed physicians are considering leaving the state to practice elsewhere, with 83% of those citing punitive damages in medical malpractice cases as a primary reason. Patients Primero lists some solutions for these issues on their website: https://patientsprimero.com/solutions/. You can also follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PatientsPrimero.
For more information contact Janet at janetnordmann@yahoo.com.
Isabel Jerabek, running for Third Judicial District Judge, Division IV
Isabel Jerabek spoke about how she brings 20 years of local legal experience focused primarily on family law. For the past 16 years, she has also served the court as a hearing officer, most recently as a full-time domestic relations hearing officer after serving as a staff attorney supervisor. She emphasized that this judgeship is a family court position and highlighted her long-standing, hands-on experience in the same area of law. A lifelong resident of Las Cruces, she described her deep personal and professional ties to the community and her decision to return home after law school to practice locally. She stressed the lack of stability and continuity on the family court bench due to frequent judicial turnover and asked for community support and signatures to help her provide long-term consistency for families in Doña Ana County. To sign her petition online, go to https://www.electronicpetitions.elections.sos.nm.gov/isabel-jerabek.
For more information contact Isabel at isabeljerabek4judge@gmail.com.
Parkinson’s support group
Lynn Austin invited community members to attend Parkinson’s Support Group free monthly meetings. The group meets every third Tuesday from 9 a.m. to noon at the Holiday Inn Express on Telshor, offering guest speakers, refreshments, and a welcoming environment. Attendance typically ranges from 40 to 60 people, providing opportunities for connection and support. He highlighted additional group activities, including pickleball and a boxing program for Parkinson’s patients, noting the variety of ways members stay active. Lynn encouraged anyone interested to come out, socialize, and be part of a supportive community. Finally, he pointed out an article on the group in this week’s Bulletin! You can read it here.
For more information contact Lynn at laustin@interserv.com.
Thank you for supporting KTAL-LP radio!
Ed Long, a former board member and current volunteer at KTAL Radio, thanked us for our support and contributions to the station. He noted that KTAL recently completed what he believes was the most successful fund drive in its history, held in December. Ed encouraged us to tune in at 101.5 FM or visit lccommunityradio.org to listen online. He specifically gave a shout out to the program Speak Up, Las Cruces, which airs Wednesday mornings from 8 to 10 a.m.
For more information contact Ed at edlonguu@gmail.com.
Chrystian J. Gonzalez, running for Magistrate Court Judge, Division V
Chrystian announced his candidacy for Magistrate Court Judge, Division V, which serves all of Doña Ana County, and highlighted his background as a bilingual veteran with experience in both criminal and civil cases. He noted his hands-on work in magistrate court, including preparing and trying cases, and emphasized his openness to answering questions from the community. He shared that he has far exceeded the required number of petition signatures, which has given him valuable opportunities to engage with residents across the county. He stressed that listening to community feedback about courtroom experiences—both with and without attorneys—has shaped his priorities. Emphasizing service, he described his strong commitment to volunteering and pro bono work as central to his values. He expressed his desire to continue serving neighbors through the magistrate court, which he described as the court most residents are likely to encounter.
For more information contact Chrystian at ChrystainForJudge@gmail.com or visit chrystianforjudge.com.
Interested in history? Read on.
Jon Hunner, incoming president of the Doña Ana County Historical Society, outlined a year-long project to commemorate the historical context of 1776 in New Mexico. Planned activities include a lecture series on New Mexico in 1776, pop-up exhibits, and a grant-funded effort to support educational programming in local schools. He highlighted NewMexicoSpirit.org as a valuable resource for educators, offering lesson plans tailored to students in Las Cruces. Additional plans include walking tours, lectures, and field trips to historically significant routes such as the Camino Real. He invited community members to share ideas and participate in shaping the project’s activities.
For more information contact Jon at jonhunner@gmail.com.
Rep. Rubio’s legislative priorities
Connie Chapman, legislative aide to Representative Angelica Rubio, provided an update from Santa Fe on two key pieces of legislation and asked for public support. She reported that House Bill 9, the Immigrant Safety Act, passed the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee despite strong opposition and is now headed to House Judiciary. She also highlighted House Joint Resolution 5, which seeks to place a constitutional amendment on the 2028 ballot to allow legislators to be paid, noting it has its strongest chance yet to pass and be signed. Connie emphasized that Representative Rubio has championed both measures for many years and that neither effort is new. She encouraged us to monitor the legislative process and offer our support as the bills move forward.
For more information contact Connie at connie.chapman@nmlegis.gov.
A solidarity vigil for Minneapolis
Cynta Torres invited everyone to a solidarity vigil Saturday, January 24 at 1 p.m. at Klein Park (155 N Mesquite) to honor and show support in response to recent controversial (horrific) actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The vigil, sponsored by Interfaith Las Cruces, aims to stand in solidarity with the community affected by the recent fatal ICE shootings in Minneapolis and to remember lives lost in ICE detention, including those who died in custody or during immigration enforcement operations. In early January, a 37-year-old woman named Renée Good was shot and killed by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. The state investigation has faced challenges, with Minnesota officials losing access to evidence and the FBI leading the inquiry, raising concerns about transparency and local oversight.
For more information contact Cynta at cynta1111@gmail.com.
What is being done about the healthcare provider shortage in New Mexico?
Shirley Armstrong, speaking on behalf of Patients Primero, emphasized that New Mexico’s growing health care provider shortage threatens the quality and timeliness of care that originally drew many residents, including retirees, to communities like Las Cruces. She highlighted three major factors now under consideration by the governor and legislature: medical malpractice laws, interstate medical compacts, and the GRT tax. Shirley urged attendees to contact their legislators to support reforms. She informed us that Patients Primero provides tools, sample messages, and bill-tracking resources to make advocacy easier.
For more information contact Shirley at shirmike7@gmail.com.
Closing a loophole
Jon Delgado urged strong support for HB39, the Microgrid Oversight Act, arguing it is critical to closing a major loophole that allows microgrid companies to avoid green energy requirements and operate with minimal oversight. Jon explained that this exemption enables companies to profit massively while delaying clean energy compliance for decades and operating with fewer restrictions than traditional utilities. He emphasized that HB39 would correct these problems and called on us to contact the governor and our representatives, stressing that the public should not be taken advantage of.
For more information contact Jon at jonathandpolitics@gmail.com.
Say it louder, Jorge!
Jorge Aguirre spoke emotionally about the human cost of current immigration and border enforcement policies, citing a photo of a detained five-year-old as deeply distressing. Drawing on his family’s experience with political asylum, he expressed pain and conflict over loved ones supporting policies he sees as harmful. Jorge criticized national Democratic leaders for focusing on reform or “professionalizing” enforcement rather than abolishing what he described as violent and terrorizing systems. He concluded by urging honest, difficult conversations and calling for the abolition of ICE rather than improving their training.
For more information contact Jorge at jorgeluis.aguirrebaez@gmail.com.
Medical malpractice reform
Rocky Bacchus shared a firsthand account to illustrate how New Mexico’s medical malpractice environment is affecting patient access to care. He explained that Texas providers require New Mexico patients to sign waivers agreeing to Texas malpractice rules before receiving treatment, highlighting how serious the issue has become. Rocky clarified that malpractice reform does not deny patients compensation for medical care, but limits excessive punitive damages, as Texas does with a cap. He warned that high malpractice insurance costs are driving doctors to consider leaving Las Cruces, threatening local health care access. He urged attendees to contact the governor and support malpractice reform to help retain providers and protect patients.
For more information contact Rocky at rockybacchus@gmail.com.
Doña Ana County Democratic pre-primary convention
Diane Bolak invited registered Democrats to participate in the upcoming pre-primary convention, where delegates will be elected to represent the county at the state convention and help determine which candidates qualify for the ballot. She explained that candidates must receive at least 20% of the state delegate vote to advance. Diane also promoted a meet-and-greet event the evening before the convention, where several gubernatorial candidates will be available for informal conversations and questions. She emphasized that this is an opportunity for voters to share their concerns directly with candidates.
Democratic Party of Doña Ana Pre-Primary Convention, pre-registration at the Democratic Party of Doña Ana County Facebook page or website.
Feb 13, 5 to 7 pm, NM Farm & Ranch
Feb 14, 9 am to 1 pm, Las Cruces High School.
For more information contact Diane at diane@dianebolak.com.
James Frietze, running for Doña Ana County Sheriff
James Frietze introduced himself as a candidate for Doña Ana County Sheriff and highlighted his deep local roots and extensive law enforcement career. He outlined 25 years with the New Mexico State Police, including leadership roles as a supervisor and commander in multiple districts, as well as experience on tactical and crisis negotiation teams and as an academy instructor. James emphasized his long record of community involvement through youth programs, education, and public service. He noted his current role on the governor-appointed Department of Public Safety Advisory Board and his work as a private investigator handling internal affairs, risk management, and policy support for agencies statewide.
For more information contact James at james4sheriff@gmail.com.
Check out Calm Impact!
Frank Lopez introduced Calm Impact, a new nonprofit focused on leadership development and capacity building for nonprofit organizations, with a special emphasis on progressive and social justice leaders. He highlighted the Reflective Leadership program, which is entering its fourth cohort and addresses high levels of stress and burnout common among nonprofit executives and staff. Lopez stressed that current national and local challenges are intensifying burnout for those working in community-focused organizations. He also noted that Calm Impact offers workshops, including an upcoming session called The Art of Zen and the Zen of Art, which combines creative art-making with stress reduction practices. He invited interested attendees to learn more, register online, or speak with him after the meeting.
The Art of Zen and the Zen of Art
February 7, 8:30 to 12:30
Register at calmimpact.org/workshops
For more information contact Frank at lopezfrankr@gmail.com.
Who will you be voting for?
William Morlan urged voters to closely consider recent local corruption and transparency issues as they approach the upcoming primaries and elections. He cited Project Jupiter as an example, alleging conflicts of interest, improper campaign contributions, and a vote that he believes should not have counted. William criticized county commissioners for a lack of transparency, including holding private discussions during a public meeting and moving forward despite constituent requests for more information. He concluded by encouraging voters to remember these actions when making their choices at the ballot box.
No contact information is available for William.
What?! The Lea County data center proposal
Lynn Moorer warned that after the cancellation of the Holtec spent nuclear fuel project, Lea County is now facing another potentially dangerous proposal: a massive data center and power complex planned by New Era Energy and Digital. She explained that the project would require enormous natural gas and nuclear power generation, potentially making it the largest nuclear facility in the country, despite state law effectively prohibiting nuclear power due to radioactive waste restrictions. Lynn noted that she alerted the company to these legal barriers but said it appears to be moving forward anyway, likely leading to litigation. Moorer urged the community to closely monitor the situation due to its serious environmental and public health implications.
For more information contact Lynn at lmoorer3045@gmail.com.
Young Democrats have been busy
Allison Claire Neal-Wallace, president of the Young Democrats of Doña Ana County, provided an update on the organization’s recent activities and growth locally and statewide. She highlighted sending 16 members to the Young Democrats of America winter meeting for leadership development and coalition building. Allison Claire also described Young Democrats’ volunteer support at the Democratic Party of New Mexico legislative dinner and ongoing efforts to expand College Democrats through tabling at campuses. She shared plans to send 8 NMSU College Democrats to Santa Fe to engage with legislators and noted that fundraising is underway and requested community support to cover remaining costs.
For more information contact Allison Claire at ydemsdac@gmail.com.
Vanessa Ordonez, running for Doña Ana County Sheriff
Vanessa Ordonez spoke about her deep local roots, military service, and law enforcement background. She emphasized her experience as a Navy veteran, former sheriff’s deputy, and current police chief of Anthony, and is proud of Anthony’s strong record of public safety. Vanessa stressed her education, which focused on criminal justice and work in child protective services; this knowledge shapes her approach to public service. She is focused on restoring and strengthening trust between law enforcement and the community. She underscored the importance of people feeling safe to report crime, especially amid national tensions affecting marginalized communities.
For more information contact Vanessa at vanessaforsheriff@gmail.com.
Julia Brown, running for Doña Ana County Commissioner, District 3
Julia Brown explained her extensive background in law, public administration, and military service. She highlighted her experience as a former prosecutor, Army JAG officer, city manager, county manager, and current state official. Julia highlighted her combination of education and leadership experience, and believes she is well qualified for the position she seeks. Passionate about her commitment to collaboration with fellow commissioners, county staff, and community stakeholders, Julia’s goal is to build on existing county initiatives and help Doña Ana County make continued growth and development.
For more information contact Julia at jtboakland@yahoo.com.
Helping District 52 constituents
Adam Sommers is Representative Gallegos’ legislative aide and he spoke about the representative’s priorities. Adam explained that due to a lower-than-expected revenue forecast, the focus is on one-time investments that directly impact New Mexicans’ lives. Rep. Gallegos is also focused on medical malpractice. Adam emphasized that he’s available to help constituents in District 52 navigate government services. He encourages residents to reach out for assistance during the session and beyond.
For more information, contact Adam Sommers at AdamSommers@NMLegis.gov.
Community drop-in hours
Carlos Salmon serves as Representative Sarah Silva’s legislative aide; while Rep. Silva is in Santa Fe, Carlos is planning community drop-in hours. He emphasized and explained that these sessions are meant to give residents direct access to share concerns or issues for legislators’ attention. He also emphasized accessibility and informal engagement with the community. On Mondays, he’ll be at the Butterfield Community Center, on Wednesdays, he’ll be in Chaparral at the Betty McKnight Community Center, and on Fridays, he’ll be at Las Cruces City Hall. All of the days, he will be available from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information, contact Carlos at HD53.DLA@nmLegis.gov.
Tilli Villalobos, running for New Mexico House, District 37
Tilli introduced herself and outlined some of her life experiences that led her to run for office. Her personal story of becoming a teen mother and overcoming poverty through public assistance and education influenced her life. She credits programs like Medicaid, food assistance, housing security, and affordable education for enabling her success. Tilly described her career as a federal prosecutor specializing in child exploitation, trafficking, and civil rights cases. She now runs a law firm representing individuals who cannot afford legal counsel. She wants to ensure all New Mexicans have access to the same opportunities that helped change her life. Learn more at her website: villalobosfornm.com. [The current HD37 representative, Rep. Joanne Ferrary, announced she will retire at the end of the term.]
For more information, contact Tilli at tillivillalobos@gmail.com.
Take action to encourage people to vote
Terri McBrayer delivered a strong call to action focused on voter participation. She is very concerned with what she is seeing politically and urged everyone to vote early, vote by mail, or help others get to the polls. Committed to civic engagement, Terri urges everyone to participate at this critical moment that demands action. Terri also encouraged voters to thoughtfully evaluate candidates’ experience, education, and work ethic before casting ballots.
For more information, contact Terri McBrayer at tmc@337eaol.com.
Support for Steinborn’s Microgrid bill
Jim Hoerst raised three key advocacy points centered on environmental responsibility, civil liberties, and local political engagement. First, he expressed support for HB39 (Microgrid Oversight Bill) and argued that data centers should not proceed if they harm the planet. Second, Jim described a recent protest defending the public’s right to peaceful assembly near federal buildings; security tried to prevent the group from gathering to protest but the group chanted “Who’s land? Public land!” and security/local police backed down. Finally, he emphasized the challenges local candidates face in gathering petition signatures for statewide races. He hopes local candidate, Amanda Lopez-Askin will have support in her race for Secretary of State.
For more information, contact Jim at seattletags@gmail.com.
Valentine’s Day is coming
Maria Flores promoted an upcoming community event, “For the Love of KTAL,” encouraging donations, participation, and community connection. You can make an on air dedication to a loved one. On another note, Maria then shifted to concerns about youth crime, drawing from her experience as a former teacher. Maria argued that poverty, lack of respect, and lack of care for children contribute to long-term harm and disengagement. She emphasized the importance of early support, community schooling, and nurturing.
For more information, contact Maria at maflores54@gmail.com.
Critical decisions at June 2nd primaries
Dave Mooney has laid out the importance of the upcoming June 2nd primaries, and a key opportunity to hold elected officials accountable, particularly regarding Project Jupiter. Dave highlighted concerns about specific races and hopes to see a primary race in the County Commissioner, District 1 seat, the assessor’s office, and state house, District 36 seat. He criticized actions that favored outside corporate interests over public transparency.
For more information, contact Dave at WINBACKDA@gmail.com.
Will county leaders serve community voices?
Zach Egar strongly criticized the county’s handling of Project Jupiter, arguing it ignored public opposition and lacked transparency. He described how community members gathered over 2,000 signatures demanding a public vote, only for that effort to be undermined internally. Zach framed Project Jupiter as part of a national push for AI infrastructure tied to powerful corporate and federal interests. He raised concerns about water use, energy demands, and democratic erosion at the local level. His central question challenged whether county leaders are serving community voices or facilitating corporate agendas.
For more information, contact Zach at zegar7568@gmail.com.
PVA Meets Again:
Thursday, February 26, 2026, 7pm
Munson Center