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New Mexico in Focus (A Production of NMPBS)

New Mexico in Focus (A Production of NMPBS)

By New Mexico PBS

NEW MEXICO IN FOCUS is New Mexico PBS' prime-time news magazine show covering the events, issues, and people that are shaping life in New Mexico and the Southwest.

NEW MEXICO IN FOCUS takes a multi-layered look at social, political, economic, health, education and arts issues and explores them in-depth, with a critical eye to give them context beyond the "news of the moment."

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Albuquerque’s Indian Boarding School History, Radon Daughter Art Exhibit Reflects New Mexico’s Uranium Legacy & New UNM Africana Studies Director | 2.21.22

New Mexico in Focus (A Production of NMPBS)Feb 21, 2022

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50:08
NM Water in the U.S. Supreme Court, Oil & Gas Working Conditions & 4 Years of COVID

NM Water in the U.S. Supreme Court, Oil & Gas Working Conditions & 4 Years of COVID

Lou DiVizio opens the show with some headlines from around the state including news that after two years, a $10M state-supported abortion clinic in Las Cruces is stuck in its planning phase.



This week, U.S. Supreme Court justices heard arguments from attorneys representing New Mexico, Texas and Colorado, as the three states presented a plan that would resolve a decade-old water rights case. Source New Mexico reporter Danielle Prokop joins us from Washington, D.C. to ask how the high court's decision will impact how we share water from the lower Rio Grande for years to come. 



A new study from the University of New Mexico reports dangerous working conditions in the oil and gas industry. Correspondent Elizabeth Miller speaks with Dr. Gabriel Sanchez, a study author and executive director at UNM's Center for Social Policy, to ask how the sector's workers might find new jobs in a clean-energy future. 



Finally, this week on the show we look back at how the COVID-19 pandemic has shaped the last four years. Executive Producer Jeff Proctor sits down with Santa Fe-based public defender Jennifer Burrill and Michael Bird, former president of the American Public Health Association, to take stock of our state and country's handling of the pandemic — and where we are now. Then, Jeff asks Jennifer about her bout with Long COVID and the physical toll it has taken. 



Supreme Court Hears Rio Grande Water Rights Case 

Correspondent: 

Lou DiVizio 
Guest: 

Danielle Prokop, reporter, Source New Mexico 



UNM Study Finds Dangerous Working Conditions in Oil and Gas Industry 

Correspondent: 

Elizabeth Miller 

Guest: 

Dr. Gabriel Sanchez, professor and executive director, UNM Center for Social Policy 



Long COVID in NM and the Pandemic’s Lasting Effects 

Correspondent: 

Jeff Proctor 
Guests: 

Jennifer Burrill, attorney, New Mexico Law Offices of the Public Defender 

Michael Bird, former president, American Public Health Association 



How COVID Has Shaped the Last Four Years in NM Correspondent: 

Jeff Proctor Guests: 

Jennifer Burrill, attorney, New Mexico Law Offices of the Public Defender 

Michael Bird, former president, American Public Health Association 



For More Information:


Viral Respiratory Infection Dashboard – New Mexico Department of Health



U.S. Supreme Court questions both positions in Rio Grande water case – Source New Mexico 



Southeastern New Mexico Oil & Gas Workforce Study – UNM Center for Social Policy 



New Mexico ranks high for long COVID-19 symptoms – KRQE  


Mar 25, 202401:01:58
U.S. Attorney on APD DWI Corruption Case
Mar 19, 202428:55
NM Wildfire Survivors Waiting for Compensation
Mar 11, 202432:55
Attorney Tips FBI on APD DWI Corruption Case

Attorney Tips FBI on APD DWI Corruption Case

Lou DiVizio opens the show with several developing headlines from around the state including an update on the city of Albuquerque's handling of homeless encampments since a court injunction last year mandating the city not remove encampments on public property.



Then, Journalist Elise Kaplan of City Desk Albuquerque asks legal malpractice attorney and former state representative Daymon Ely about the information he passed along to federal agents from potential victims of an alleged scheme to get drunk driving cases tossed out of court. Also, Ely comments on how the case has harmed public trust in the legal system. 



Correspondent: Elise Kaplan 



Guest: Daymon Ely, attorney, former state representative 

For More Information:

Legislators Boost Their Retirement Pay - Albuquerque Journal



New Mexico AG joins lawsuit over possible Kroger, Albertson’s merger - KRQE



Cimarron High School bans backpacks and jackets - KOAT



Santa Fe County proposes plastic bag ban - Santa Fe New Mexican



Prominent attorney says he took DWI corruption allegations to FBI - City Desk Albuquerque

Mar 05, 202419:06
'Rust' Trial Begins, New Consent Bill & ABQ Councilor Rogers

'Rust' Trial Begins, New Consent Bill & ABQ Councilor Rogers

Host Lou DiVizio leads off with headlines from around the state, including a U.S. appeals court decision striking down a moratorium on coal leasing from federal lands.



Executive Producer Jeff Proctor speaks to attorney Ahmad Assed and journalist Julia Goldberg about the ongoing trial of armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed and the pending trial of actor/producer Alec Baldwin, each charged with involuntary manslaughter in the deadly shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film "Rust" in 2021. In their two-part discussion, the pair break down the charges, the politics and the potential industry impacts. 



A bill to bring affirmative consent policies to public universities and colleges across the state is headed to the governor's desk after passing the Legislature last week. The 'Yes Means Yes' legislation would require higher education institutions to include materials and resources in student orientation packages. Senior Producer Lou DiVizio speaks with Democratic state Rep. Liz Thomson and advocate Alexandria Taylor about the bill and how consent education can help prevent sexual assault. 



After winning a run-off election last fall, Albuquerque City Councilor Nichole Rogers began her tenure representing District 6 — the city's Southeast Heights — in January. This week, Senior Producer Lou DiVizio asks Rogers about her priorities for the district and what it means to her to be the first Black woman to serve on the council. 



Hannah Gutierrez-Reed Trial, Pending Baldwin Trial & a Media Circus


Correspondent: Jeff Proctor 


Guests: 


Julia Goldberg, Senior Correspondent, Santa Fe Reporter 


Ahmad Assed, Attorney 



Bill Brings 'Yes Means Yes’ Policies to NM Higher Ed 


Correspondent: Lou DiVizio 


Guests:  


Rep. Liz Thomson (D), Albuquerque 


Alexandria Taylor, Executive Director, New Mexico Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs 



New ABQ City Councilor Nichole Rogers on District 6 Priorities 


Correspondent: Lou DiVizio


Guest: Nichole Rogers, Albuquerque City Council, District 6, Southeast Heights 



For More Information:


Prosecution, defense paint different pictures in `Rust' arguments – Santa Fe New Mexican 


Baldwin's lawyers push for earlier June trial date in 'Rust' case – Santa Fe New Mexican 


Affirmative consent bill passes New Mexico Legislature after five attempts – Source New Mexico 


Nichole Rogers wins runoff election, becomes first Black woman to serve on ABQ City Council - KUNM 




Feb 27, 202457:50
Wrapping Up the 2024 Legislative Session

Wrapping Up the 2024 Legislative Session

Lou DiVizio opens the show with headlines from around the state, including the potential the Governor could call for a special legislative session to address public safety concerns.



Correspondent Gwyneth Doland hosts a three-part discussion with two journalists recapping New Mexico's 2024 legislative session. Gwyneth asks Shaun Griswold, editor of Source New Mexico, and Trip Jennings, executive director of New Mexico In Depth, about the approved state budget, which public education and public health bills passed, and the environmental and public health bills that didn't pass in Santa Fe. 



Immigration reform advocates were shocked earlier this month when the state Senate rejected an asylum seekers' detention bill. Sophia Genovese, an attorney with the New Mexico Immigrant Law Center, tells Executive Producer Jeff Proctor when she knew the bill's life would be cut short. 



We head back to the Roundhouse one last time this session with Gwyneth, as she catches up with several lawmakers and policy advocates to talk about a wide range of influential issues, including a failed oil and gas regulation bill, increased funding for state roads and money set aside for health care. 



Segments:



2024 Legislative Recap


Correspondent: Gwyneth Doland 



Guests: 


Trip Jennings, executive director, New Mexico In Depth 


Shaun Griswold, editor, Source NM 



Asylum Seekers Detention Bill Dies in Senate 


Correspondent: Jeff Proctor 


Guest: 


Sophia Genovese, attorney, New Mexico Immigrant Law Center 



2024 Legislature Recap: Health Care Bills & Funds for Roads 


Correspondent: Gwyneth Doland 


Guests: 


Tannis Fox, attorney, Western Environmental Law Center 


Rep. Jared Hembree (R), Roswell 


Rep. Cathrynn Brown (R), Carlsbad 


Rep. Jenifer Jones (R), Deming 


Rep. Kathleen Cates (D), Rio Rancho 



For More Information:



NM House sends state budget to gov for signature – KUNM  



Nearly $750 million transportation project bill to fix NM’s roads clears Senate floor –KRQE  



Affirmative consent bill passes New Mexico Legislature after five attempts – Source NM 



Tribal education trust fund is dead, legislative sponsor says – Source NM 



N.M. Senate narrowly rejects ban on immigrant detention, supporters warn abuses will carry on – Source NM 



Capitol Recap: Lawmakers zoom through final efforts on last day of session – Albuquerque Journal 

 

 


 


 

Feb 19, 202401:00:42
Homestretch of the 2024 Legislative Session
Feb 12, 202443:59
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham Gives Exclusive 2024 Session Update

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham Gives Exclusive 2024 Session Update

NMiF Senior Producer Lou DiVizio starts the week with a rundown of some of the top headlines in the state including state lawmakers advancing a bill to criminalize "fake electors" in future elections.



Then, Correspondent Gwyneth Doland speaks with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham about the ongoing legislative session and asks how her favored bills are faring in the Roundhouse.



We turn our attention to a high-profile pretrial detention bill that died before reaching a full Senate or House vote. Lujan Grisham tells us that some version of the bill might find life again during this year's session.



Additionally, we break down support and opposition for the bill with District Attorney Sam Bregman state Sen. Peter Wirth.   



Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on 2024 Legislative Session 


Correspondent: Gwyneth Doland 


Guest: Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D), New Mexico 



Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Pretrial Detention Bill 


Correspondent: Gwyneth Doland 

Guest: Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D), New Mexico 



DA Sam Bregman on Supporting Pretrial Detention Bill 


Correspondent: Lou DiVizio 


Guest: Sam Bregman (D), District Attorney, Bernalillo County 



Sen. Peter Wirth Disagrees with Pretrial Detention Bill 


Correspondent: Gwyneth Doland  


Guest: Sen. Peter Wirth (D), Majority Floor Leader 


For More Information:


Pretrial detention bill favored by governor tabled in Senate committee – New Mexico Political Report 




Feb 05, 202432:01
DA Bregman on APD Corruption Probe & Inside the Roundhouse

DA Bregman on APD Corruption Probe & Inside the Roundhouse

This week on the podcast Lou DiVizio details some headlines from around the state, including a new report detailing continued failures at the state's Children Youth and Families Department.



Then, Lou sits down with Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman to discuss the federal investigation into possible corruption within the Albuquerque Police Department's DWI unit. Bregman responds to concerns from residents in a state that's been troubled by drunk drivers for decades.



Finally, we rejoin correspondent Gwyneth Doland at the Roundhouse. Legislation is slowly starting to move through the Capitol, as Democratic leaders get a handle on what from the governor's agenda could be viable in their chambers. This week, Gwyneth speaks with House Speaker Javier Martinez and Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth for an update on the bills in front of them. 



Host: Lou DiVizio




DA Sam Bregman on APD Federal Investigation 
Correspondent: 
Lou DiVizio 
Guest: 

Sam Bregman, District Attorney, Bernalillo County 




State Democratic Leaders on Child Safety Bills, Balancing State Budget 

Correspondent: 

Gwyneth Doland 

Guests:  

Rep. Javier Martinez (D), House Speaker 

Sen. Peter Wirth (D), Senate Majority Speaker 



For More Information:


Four members of APD DWI unit added to DA’s list of untrustworthy officers - City Desk ABQ



Albuquerque police lieutenant, officers being investigated by FBI identified - Albuquerque Journal



Jan 29, 202423:28
Federal Corruption Investigation & Start of the 2024 Legislative Session

Federal Corruption Investigation & Start of the 2024 Legislative Session

Lou DiVizio opens the pod this week with headlines from around the state, including reporting on a federal investigation that appears to allege corruption by Albuquerque Police officers and a prominent defense attorney in DWI cases.



Then, correspondent Gwyneth Doland sits down with two journalists for three discussions as the group previews this year's 30-day session.



Gwyneth also takes us inside the Roundhouse to ask state Republican minority party leadership, Sen. Gregory Baca and Rep. T. Ryan Lane, how they plan to move forward after hearing the governor's agenda for the state this year. 



Host: Lou DiVizio



Correspondent: Gwyneth Doland



Guests:

Trip Jennings, Executive Director, New Mexico In Depth

Jessica Onsurez, News Director, Gannett


Gregory Baca, (R) NM Senate Minority Leader

T. Ryan Lane, (R) NM House Minority Leader



For More Information:

Gov. Lujan Grisham lays out big agenda for short session in State of the State speech – Santa Fe New Mexican 


Republicans say Gov. Lujan Grisham's rosy State of the State speech ignores grimmer realities – Santa Fe New Mexican 

New Mexico Battles to Clamp Down on Big Oil – Capitol & Main 


N.M. governor, Senate GOP unveil public safety agendas – Source NM 



Jan 22, 202455:39
NM State Headlines & 2024 Lookahead

NM State Headlines & 2024 Lookahead

Senior Producer Lou DiVizio welcomes you to a new year at NMiF and looks ahead to the work you can expect on the pod in the coming weeks and months.



Then, Lou updates you on some state headlines, including the New Mexico Supreme Court hearing oral arguments in a challenge to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's public health order on guns.



We'll be back next week with a longer episode featuring the longform interviews you've come to expect from NMiF.



Host: Lou DiVizio



For More Information:


State Loses Millions in Federal Dollars Meant to Fund Outdoor Recreation Projects - New Mexico In Depth



Jan 08, 202406:45
Spike in Migrant Deaths on the Southern Border
Dec 18, 202323:05
How NM's Redrawn Congressional Map Could Affect Future Elections

How NM's Redrawn Congressional Map Could Affect Future Elections

This week on the podcast, Lou DiVizio updates some state headlines including a grand jury indictment of a Las Cruces Police Officer in the shooting of an unarmed black man accused of stealing a single can of beer from a gas station.


Last month, the New Mexico Supreme Court handed Republicans a defeat when the justices ruled that the state's redrawn congressional map was constitutional.  The case began in early 2022, when the GOP filed a lawsuit alleging state Democrats drew new lines for District 2 in a way that weakened the voting power of residents, mostly in southern New Mexico. Last October, District Court Judge Fred Van Soelen found that Democrats intentionally tried to dilute Republican votes in District 2, but that those efforts did not "rise to the level of an egregious gerrymander." The Supreme Court agreed.   

   

Host: Lou DiVizio


Correspondent: Nash Jones

 
Guests: 

Dede Feldman, Democratic Former New Mexico State Senator 

Justine Fox-Young, Republican Former New Mexico State Representative 

Ed Chavez, Chair, Citizen Redistricting Committee 

 

For More Information: NM Republican Party loses Supreme Court appeal over state congressional map – KUNM  

Dec 11, 202327:27
PED Proposes Lengthening School Year & NM United CEO Talks New Stadium

PED Proposes Lengthening School Year & NM United CEO Talks New Stadium

Lou DiVizio opens the show with some state headlines including news that a New Mexico State Police Sergeant is also implicated in an alleged multi-state machine gun scheme.


The state Public Education Department wants to expand  school calendars, increasing the number of instructional days required for students statewide. This proposal comes months after the Legislature passed House Bill 130, which increased education funding, in large part to accommodate an increase in required instruction hours — bumping those up to 1,140. Those hours included professional development time for teachers. This new rule would change the measuring stick to days — increasing the mandate from 176 to 180 and requiring every one of those 1,140 hours be spent in the classroom with students. 

  

Earlier this month, music teacher Kevin Darrow joined a number of Santa Fe public school teachers who spoke out against PED's change. In a solo interview with Senior Producer Lou DiVizio, Darrow says adding more time in the classroom is not the right answer to solve our state's education problems. 

 

Then, Albuquerque Teachers Federation President Ellen Bernstein and state Rep. Joy Garratt, an Albuquerque Democrat and former teacher, continue the conversation in our studio. They’re concerned about the department’s proposed change. Lou asks the two what the disconnect is between the Public Education Department and a growing number of upset teachers, parents, elected officials and administrators. 


Finally this week, New Mexico United CEO and President Peter Trevisani stops by our studio for a one-on-one interview. In partnership with alternative newsweekly 'The Paper.,' editor Andy Lyman asks Trevisani about the Albuquerque City Council's 7-2 vote this month approving a lease for a new soccer stadium for the team — which comes after voters denied the initial idea in 2021. 

Segments: 
 

 

Santa Fe Music Teacher Questions PED Calendar Change Proposal 

Correspondent: 

Lou DiVizio 
Guest: 

Kevin Darrow, music teacher, Wood Gormley Elementary School 

 


State Rep., Teachers Union President on PED Calendar Change Proposal 

Correspondent: 

Lou DiVizio 

Guests: 

Rep. Joy Garratt, (D) District 29, Bernalillo County 

Ellen Bernstein, President, Albuquerque Teachers Federation 


NM United's Peter Trevisani on New Stadium Correspondent: 

Andy Lyman, editor, The Paper. Guest: 

Peter Trevisani, CEO and President, New Mexico United 

For More Information:

Public Education Department Proposed Rule Changes


Teachers, lawmakers object to PED's proposed calendar rule change – Santa Fe New Mexican 


Governor signs bill extending school learning hours – Santa Fe New Mexican 


Albuquerque City Council approves New Mexico United stadium proposal at Balloon Fiesta Park – KOAT  

Dec 04, 202355:60
U.S. Interior Sec. Deb Haaland & MMIWR Task Force Quietly Disbanded

U.S. Interior Sec. Deb Haaland & MMIWR Task Force Quietly Disbanded

Lou DiVizio opens the show with headlines from around the state, including an update on the suspect accused of firing a shot Albuquerque's Coronado Center over the holiday weekend. This summer, Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo) announced an order ending oil and gas leases on federal lands in a 10-mile radius around Chaco Culture National Historic Park. Correspondent Antonia Gonzales (Navajo) speaks with Haaland about her work and asks her to respond to activists who say the federal government isn't doing enough to protect the Greater Chaco landscape. 

Then we discuss Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's decision to quietly shut down the state's Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives Task Force. In October, reporter Bella Davis (Yurok) broke that story at New Mexico In Depth. This week, she sits down in our studio with Darlene Gomez, a member of the disbanded task force, and Vangie Randall-Shorty (Diné), a mother whose son was murdered. Three years after his death, she's still waiting for answers from investigators. 


Correspondent Antonia Gonzales (Navajo) continues the conversation in an interview with Jana Pfieffer (Diné), another former member of the task force, and Shereena Baker (Southern Ute & Karuk), an artist and advocate, and asks the two how they plan to continue that work on their own. 

 

U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland 
Correspondent: 
Antonia Gonzales (Navajo) 
Guest: 

Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo), United States Secretary of the Interior 

 

State Quietly Disbands MMIWR Task Force 

Correspondent: 
Bella Davis (Yurok) 
Guests: 

Vangie Randall-Shorty (Diné), mother of Zachariah Juwaun Shorty 

Darlene Gomez, attorney, former member of the New Mexico MMIWR Task Force 

 

Engaging Youth to Address MMIWR Crisis 

Correspondent: 
Antonia Gonzales (Navajo) 
Guests: 
Shereena Baker (Southern Ute & Karuk), UNM graduate assistant 

Jana Pfieffer (Diné), former member of the New Mexico MMIWR Task Force 


For More Information:

Protest derails planned celebration of 20-year ban on oil drilling near Chaco national park – Associated Press  New Mexico pulls plug on missing and murdered Indigenous people task force – New Mexico In Depth  Advocates call on the state to create a new MMIWR task force after shuttering the original – New Mexico In Depth  Lawmakers gave the attorney general $1 million in 2022 to help find missing Indigenous people. The money hasn’t been spent - New Mexico in Depth


Nov 27, 202354:17
Cross-Country Machine Gun Scheme, Exploring Sheriff’s Office Oversight & Albuquerque Air Quality

Cross-Country Machine Gun Scheme, Exploring Sheriff’s Office Oversight & Albuquerque Air Quality

Executive Producer Jeff Proctor speaks with Matthew Reisen from the Albuquerque Journal about a recent indictment alleging a multi-state machine gun scheme. It names but doesn’t charge former Bernalillo County Sheriff Manny Gonzales and former Laguna Pueblo Police Chief Rudy Mora. Reisen explains the indictment, including what both Gonzales and Mora are accused of doing to further the scheme.   

 

Then, Jeff speaks with Dianne Layden, a member of the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office Advisory Review Board, to understand why there aren’t any checks and balances in place to watch over sheriffs like Gonzales. Layden explains the role of the advisory board, why it was created and how the new sheriff has taken a more active role with the board.  

 

Our Land’s Laura Paskus sat down with the New Mexico Environmental Law Center’s Eric Jantz to understand how two bills passed by the Albuquerque City Council will affect efforts by a South Valley community to protect itself from pollution. The two also talked about how industry and many lawmakers claim environmental regulations harm economic development—but how the history of environmental protections in the U.S. doesn’t support that claim.  

 

Host: 

Lou DiVizio 

 

Segments: 
 

NM Lawmen Mentioned in Machine Gun Scheme Indictment 
Correspondent: 
Jeff Proctor 
Guest: 

Matthew Reisen, staff writer, Albuquerque Journal 

 

Exploring Oversight: NM Lawmen Mentioned in Machine Gun Scheme Indictment 

Correspondent: 
Jeff Proctor 
Guest: 

Dianne Layden, Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office Advisory & Review Board 

 

Albuquerque City Council Targets Air Quality Rulemaking 

Correspondent: 
Laura Paskus 
Guest: 

Eric Jantz, legal director, New Mexico Environmental Law Center 


For More Information: 

Former BCSO sheriff, undersheriff named in cross-country machine gun scheme – Albuquerque Journal 

BCSO sheriff unveils restricted gun inventory after predecessor named in alleged machine gun scheme – Albuquerque Journal 


ABQ City Council approves controversial and sweeping changes to air quality control board – KUNM  


Nov 20, 202344:18
Policing the Police & New Mexico's Water Solutions

Policing the Police & New Mexico's Water Solutions

Lou DiVizio opens the podcast with headlines from around the state including background on a proposed 'mansion tax' Santa Fe voters will consider Tuesday.


The, Executive Producer Jeff Proctor interviews Albuquerque City Council President Pat Davis about delays in council’s handling of citizen oversight for APD. That’s as Mayor Tim Keller is pushing to transfer authority over the system away from the council. The mayor cites staffing woes, a lack of training for police oversight board members and other problems to justify his proposal. Councilor Davis responds and explains why he thinks citizen oversight should be independent from the city’s executive branch.  

 

Over the past decade, former New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission director Norman Gaume has urged lawmakers to fund state water agencies and protect the water resources. Now, as president of New Mexico Water Advocates, he talks with Our Land’s Laura Paskus about the 2023 Water Security Planning Act, some of the serious problems around the state and the need for community-driven solutions. 


Host: Lou DiVizio 

 

Segments: 
 

Policing the Police 
Correspondent: 
Jeff Proctor 
Guest: 

Pat Davis, president, Albuquerque City Council 

 

New Mexico’s Water Solutions are Possible—but not Easy 

Correspondent: 
Laura Paskus 
Guest: 

Norman Gaume, NM Water Advocates 


For More Information:

New Mexico Water Advocates 

New Mexico Water Policy and Infrastructure Task Force Report (2022) 

NM’s water challenges are ‘significant’ – Our Land  

New Mexico Water Planning Program 

"Bulletin 164 — Climate Change in New Mexico Over the Next 50 Years: Impacts on Water Resources” - New Mexico Tech's 2022 Report 



Nov 06, 202335:56
Police Shootings in NM: Investigations, Prosecutions & Solutions

Police Shootings in NM: Investigations, Prosecutions & Solutions

Lou DiVizio opens up the podcast with some headlines from around the state, including news from a federal indictment accusing former Bernalillo County Sheriff Manny Gonzales and former Laguna Pueblo Police Chief Rudy Mora's of helping to facilitate an illegal gun distribution scheme. 

Then, Executive Producer Jeff Proctor hosts an in-depth, two-part conversation about police shootings in New Mexico. According to an analysis by Searchlight New Mexico, police shot 357 people statewide over the last 10 years — more than in any other U.S. state per capita during that period. Executive Producer Jeff Proctor asks a special roundtable why cops shoot so many people in New Mexico and whether failures at other levels of government too often leave life-and-death decision in the hands of the police. In the second part of their discussion, Jeff asks the group why legislators are advocating for the creation of a centralized, independent office to investigate and review police shootings cases. Plus, the roundtable considers what’s at stake for the potential criminal trial of Las Cruces police officer Brad Lunsford, the second cop in the state’s modern history to be charged in an on-duty fatal shooting.

Host: Lou DiVizio 

 

Panel Host: Jeff Proctor 


Guests: 

Sharon Walton, Retired Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court Judge  

Leon Howard, Deputy Director, American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico 

Joshua Bowling, Investigative Reporter, Searchlight New Mexico 

For More Information:

Hundreds of police killings. Two prosecutions. No jail time. – Searchlight New Mexico 

Charges filed against a New Mexico police officer for a fatal shooting — for the first time in nearly 10 years – Searchlight New Mexico 


Listening to the Gila - Our Land

Oct 30, 202349:21
PED Secretary Talks Yazzie-Martinez Response, Chronic Absenteeism & School Counselors Assess the Student Experience

PED Secretary Talks Yazzie-Martinez Response, Chronic Absenteeism & School Counselors Assess the Student Experience

Senior Producer Lou DiVizio opens the show with some headlines from around the state, including news that Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has quietly shuttered the state's Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives Task Force, as reported by Bella Davis at New Mexico In Depth.


Then, we turn our attention to three education issues we’ve been following closely in recent weeks and months, beginning with the state’s response to the court ruling in the seminal Yazzie-Martinez case. Senior Producer Lou DiVizio speaks with Public Education Secretary Dr. Arsenio Romero about the state’s position on Attorney General Raúl Torrez’s desire to take over litigation in the case and what progress his department has made to create a more equitable learning environment for all students in our state.  

 

Chronic absenteeism has long been present in New Mexico’s rollcall of school problems. The rate ticked down in the most recently completed school year, but it’s more than doubled since 2019. KUNM’s Megan Kamerick hosts a special roundtable to talk about what the state is doing to get more students to show up to school and whether it’s effective.  

 

COVID, remote learning, returning to school and concerns about safety are all major challenges that have snowballed for students in recent years. Executive Producer Jeff Proctor speaks with two school counselors about the unique hurdles students are confronting and how they’ve impacted their mental health and coursework.  

Host: Lou DiVizio 

 

Segments: 
 

PED Cabinet Secretary on the State’s Response to Yazzie-Martinez Ruling 
Correspondent: Lou DiVizio 
Guest: Dr. Arsenio Romero, cabinet secretary, NM Public Education Department 

 

Addressing Chronic Absenteeism in NM Schools 

Correspondent: Megan Kamerick 
Guests: 

Leslie Kelly, behavioral health coordinator, NM Public Education Department 

Teri Wimborne, director of collective impact, United Way of Central New Mexico 

Estevan Gallegos, juvenile probation officer supervisor, CYFD 

 

School Counselors Assess the Student Experience in 2023 

Correspondent: Jeff Proctor 
Guests: 

Bryan Gabaldon, school counselor, Highland High School 

Devon Shelton, school counselor, Alameda Elementary School 


For More Information: New Mexico AG says he’s going after school discipline and Yazzie-Martinez to protect children – New Mexico In Depth 

Millions of kids are missing weeks of school as attendance tanks across the US – The Associated Press  Let's talk about the youth mental health crisis – KUNM  

Oct 24, 202357:11
Albuquerque Sued for Allegedly Violating the Constitutional Rights of the Unhoused & Special Immigrant Juvenile Status in NM

Albuquerque Sued for Allegedly Violating the Constitutional Rights of the Unhoused & Special Immigrant Juvenile Status in NM

Senior Producer Lou DiVizio opens the show with some headlines from around the state including a judge's recent decision on Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's adjusted executive order restricting firearms in Bernalillo County.


Then, Lou speaks with two attorneys who are suing the City of Albuquerque on behalf of several unhouse clients. The lawsuit accuses the city of violating the Fourth and Eighth Amendments and due process protections for unhoused people by shuffling them from place to place and destroying their property. A state District Court judge issued an injunction in the case last month, barring the city from removing people from public property or taking their belongings. The City of Albuquerque has filed a request for a stay on the injunction with the state Supreme Court — as of Thursday's recording, the court has not decided if it will take up the case.   


This spring, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed House Bill 15 into law. It expands the age range for young immigrants eligible to access green cards, work permits and other benefits — if they can prove in court they had been abandoned, abused or neglected. Executive Producer Jeff Proctor speaks with two immigrant advocates about their work to get this bill passed through the Roundhouse. 

Host: Lou DiVizio Segments:

Attorneys Say Albuquerque Violated Unhoused Clients’ Constitutional Rights 

Correspondent: Lou DiVizio 

Guests: 

Adam Flores, civil rights lawyer 

Martha Mulvany, civil rights lawyer 

Special Immigrant Juvenile Status in NM 

Correspondent: Jeff Proctor 

Guests: 

Jessica Martinez, attorney, New Mexico Immigrant Law Center 

Jazmín Irazoqui-Ruiz, policy director, Bold Futures NM 



For More Information:

Homeless man sues City of Albuquerque over Coronado Park removal – KRQE 

Injunction filed against city of Albuquerque for removal of homeless personal property – KRQE   New Mexico law allows migrant children under 21 to obtain residency – KFOX  

Oct 16, 202339:14
Indigenous Community Members React to Española Shooting & Public Employee Shortage in NM

Indigenous Community Members React to Española Shooting & Public Employee Shortage in NM

Lou DiVizio opens the show with some of the headlines from around the state, including a ruling from Judge Fred Van Soelen in a redistricting lawsuit filed by the Republican Party of New Mexico and seven individuals.

A 23-year-old man wearing a "Make America Great Again" hat is accused of shooting Native American activist Jacob Johns during a prayer event last week in Española, where local officials were planning to reinstall a statue of Spanish conquistador and war criminal Juan de Oñate. Ryan David Martinez is charged with first-degree attempted murder, as well as a fourth-degree felony count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. New Mexico in Focus correspondent Antonia Gonzales speaks with two indigenous community leaders about the shooting and the violent history surrounding colonial monuments like the Oñate statue. 

Then, we introduce KUNM reporter and first-time New Mexico in Focus correspondent Nash Jones. They host a special roundtable to discuss why government agencies continue to struggle with hiring and retaining employees in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the first of two conversations, Jones asks the panelists to identify the scope of the employment problem and detail what it's like to work at hollowed-out agencies throughout New Mexico.

In their second discussion, Nash asks the roundtable how residents are impacted by the short-staffed public sector and how government agencies can best compete against the private market. 

 

Host: Lou DiVizio


Indigenous Community Leaders React to Española Shooting at Planned Oñate Statue Site 

Correspondent: 

Antonia Gonzales 

Guests:  

Janene Yazzie (Diné), Southwest Regional Director, NDN Collective 

Nathana Bird (Ohkay Owingeh and Kewa Pueblo), community member 


Public Employees Shortage in New Mexico  
Correspondent: 
Nash Jones 
Guests: 

Dylan Lange, acting director, New Mexico State Personnel Office 

Casey Padilla, president, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 18: New Mexico and Colorado 

Sarita Nair, secretary, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions 

Searching for Solutions to Staffing Problems in NM State Agencies 

Correspondent: 
Nash Jones 
Guests: 

Dylan Lange, acting director, New Mexico State Personnel Office 

Casey Padilla, president, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 18: New Mexico and Colorado 

Patricia Tafoya-Harris, acting director of Human Resources for the City of Albuquerque 

For More Information: 1 injured, 1 arrested in shooting at protest regarding Oñate statue in Rio Arriba County – KOAT  

Key Quarterly Performance Measures Report: Quarter 3, Fiscal Year 2023 – New Mexico State Personnel Office 

State and Local Workforce 2023 Survey Findings – MissionSearch Research Institute 

 

City of Albuquerque joins with union to plead for workers – KUNM  

 


Oct 10, 202346:26
NM Attorney General: Yazzie-Martinez Case & Gallup-McKinley County Schools Investigation

NM Attorney General: Yazzie-Martinez Case & Gallup-McKinley County Schools Investigation

Lou DiVizio opens the show with some headlines from around New Mexico, including an update on the arrest of a 23-year-old man in the shooting of a Native American man during a peaceful demonstration in Española.


This week on New Mexico in Focus, Attorney General Raúl Torrez explains two recent decisions involving education in our state. In partnership with New Mexico In Depth, Executive Director Trip Jennings asks Torrez about his intention to take over litigation in the Yazzie-Martinez case. Then, Jennings discusses a recent announcement from the attorney general that his office will investigate reported disproportionately harsh discipline at Gallup-McKinley County Schools. New Mexico In Depth’s Bryant Furlow broke the story last year, prompting Torrez to take a closer look.  

 

Executive Producer Jeff Proctor moderates a special panel that reacts to both of those topics and digs deeper into some of the lingering questions around each. Jeff asks if the attorney general has the broad authority he’s asserting to take over the Yazzie-Martinez case and if there could be a political incentive for him to get involved. Then, Jeff and the panel explore New Mexico In Depth’s reporting on the disciplinary issues at Gallup-McKinley and how Torrez’s investigation could play out.  

Host: Lou DiVizio


Correspondent: Trip Jennings, executive director, New Mexico In Depth

Guest: Raúl Torrez, (D) Attorney General, New Mexico 

Panel Host: Jeff Proctor

Guests: 

Trip Jennings, executive director, New Mexico In Depth 

Regis Pecos, co-founder, Santa Fe Indian School Leadership Institute 

Danielle Gonzales, senior fellow, One Generation Fund, APS board member 


For More Information:

NM Attorney General seeks control over state response to Yazzie-Martinez – New Mexico In Depth 

Does Not Equal: New Mexico faces a steep climb to make education more equitable – Santa Fe Reporter 

 

Attorney General to Investigate School Discipline at Gallup McKinley Schools – New Mexico In Depth 

 


Oct 02, 202357:30
The Future of Fire in New Mexico

The Future of Fire in New Mexico

Lou DiVizio gives a rundown of some headlines from around the state to start the week, including an update on the arrest of three suspects in the shooting outside Isotopes park that killed an 11-year-old boy and paralyzed a 23-year-old woman.


Then, Our Land Senior Producer Laura Paskus hosts a roundtable conversation with U.S. Forest Service Southwestern Regional Forester Michiko Martin, Santa Fe National Forest Supervisor Shaun Sanchez, and Santa Fe National Forest Fuels Program Manager Dennis Carril. They talk about the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon and Cerro Pelado fires, prescribed burn protocols, and the future of fire and forest management in a warming world.  Host: Lou DiVizio


Panel Host: Laura Paskus

Guests: 

Michiko Martin, U.S. Forest Service Southwestern Regional Forester  
Shaun Sanchez, Santa Fe National Forest Supervisor  
Dennis Carril, Santa Fe National Forest Fuels Program Manager 

 

For More Information:

U.S. Forest Service’s National Prescribed Fire Resource Mobilization Strategy 

U.S. Forest Service investigation of the Cerro Pelado Fire 

 


Sep 25, 202344:18
Fallout from the Governor’s Public Health Order on Guns

Fallout from the Governor’s Public Health Order on Guns

Lou DiVizio opens the show this week with some headlines from around the state, including information on a new lawsuit filed in the death of a Farmington man who was shot and killed by police responding to the wrong address.


Then, Jeff Proctor and a special panel addresses Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s executive order attempting to ban guns in public in Bernalillo County for 30 days. Last Wednesday, U.S. District Judge David Urias struck down part of the order, issuing a temporary restraining order, specifically blocking the ban on carrying firearms.


Host: Lou DiVizio


Panel Host: Jeff Proctor


Guests:

Tom Grover, attorney, former Albuquerque Police sergeant  

Marisa Demarco, national editor, States Newsroom 

Frank Davis, attorney 

For More Information: New Mexico governor amends order suspending right to carry firearms to focus on parks, playgrounds - Associated Press Federal judge blocks governor's controversial gun ban – The Associated Press 

Free Flow New Mexico - Seeking to End Period Poverty

Sep 19, 202339:28
Remembering Gov. Bill Richardson & Santa Fe Mansion Tax

Remembering Gov. Bill Richardson & Santa Fe Mansion Tax

NMiF Senior Producer Lou DiVizio opens the show with headlines from around the state, including an update on the search for whoever shot and killed an 11-year-old in a road rage incident outside Isotopes Park. Plus, more information on the Governor's State of Emergency over gun violence.


Then, we remember Gov. Bill Richardson, who died in his sleep in September 1 at the age of 75. NMiF correspondent Russell Contreras hosts a special panel discussion about Richardson’s impact here in New Mexico, and more broadly on the national and international stages.  


Finally, Lou speaks with Mike Loftin, CEO of Homewise Inc., who breaks down a proposal on the ballot for Santa Fe voters this fall that would tax homes over $1M, sending the revenue generated to the city's Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Lou also asks Loftin how the proposal could help balance the city’s housing market.  

Host: Lou DiVizio


Panel Host: Russell Contreras


Guests:

Diane Denish, former Lt. Governor, Richardson Administration 

Martha Burk, author, host of the podcast ‘Equal Time with Martha Burk’   

Steve Terrell, retired reporter, Santa Fe New Mexican 

Mike Loftin, CEO, Homewise Inc.  


For More Information: Former New Mexico governor remembered as 'a great public servant' – Santa Fe New Mexican  Bill Richardson, Champion of Americans Held Overseas, Dies at 75 - The New York TimesBill Richardson, a Former Governor and UN Ambassador who Worked to Free Detained Americans, Dies - Associated Press


Will high-end excise tax solve Santa Fe's housing woes? – Santa Fe New Mexican 

 


Sep 11, 202345:41
U.S. Attorney Alexander Uballez
Sep 05, 202329:01
New Mexico’s Nuclear Underground: An Our Land Special

New Mexico’s Nuclear Underground: An Our Land Special

This year, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved a 40-year license for a private company, Holtec International, to build a facility between Hobbs and Carlsbad that would store nuclear waste from power plants the company is decommissioning in states from New Jersey to California. New Mexico already stores transuranic waste from nuclear weapons production in the salt caverns at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant or WIPP.  This project would be different, and would eventually hold up to 10,000 canisters, with each canister holding 8,680 metric tons of spent nuclear fuel from commercial power plants. The New Mexico State Legislature passed Senate Bill 53 this year, which would prohibit state agencies from issuing permits, contracts or leases for the facility—unless the state approves the facility or the federal government moves forward with a permanent storage spot for the nation's commercial nuclear waste.  

 

On this special episode of Our Land, we hear from John Heaton, a former New Mexico state representative who works with Holtec; Sen. Jeff Steinborn, the sponsor of Senate Bill 53; and Dr. Myrriah Gómez, a professor at the University of New Mexico and the author of "Nuclear Nuevo México: Colonialism and the Effects of the Nuclear Industrial Complex on Nuevomexicanos.” 


Host: Lou DiVizio


Correspondent: Laura Paskus 

Guests: 

John Heaton, chair, Eddy-Lea Energy Alliance 

Dr. Myrriah Gómez, author of "Nuclear Nuevo México." 

Jeff Steinborn, (D) NM District 36 – Doña Ana County 


For More Information:

Nuclear waste storage permit slated for September public meeting – Source NM 

Nuclear Regulatory Commission Approves Nuclear Waste License in NM – Our Land 

Concern Over Nuclear Disposal Plan – Our Land  

 


Aug 28, 202358:60
Restorative Justice & The Future of New Mexico in Focus

Restorative Justice & The Future of New Mexico in Focus

NMiF Senior Producer opens the show with some headlines from around the state to start your week, including a new report showing the pilot in a deadly 2021 hot air balloon crash had drugs in his system.


Then, Executive Producer Jeff Proctor talks with Trip Jennings, executive director of New Mexico In Depth, and Emma Green, program coordinator with the state’s Public Education Department, about a pilot program aimed at reducing student expulsions. Jeff asks how the plan takes a new approach to school discipline and is rooted in a philosophy called "restorative justice." 

  Finally, Jeff and senior producer Lou DiVizio talk about the future of New Mexico in Focus as the show moves forward following the departure of host Gene Grant. 

Host: Lou DiVizio


Executive Producer: Jeff Proctor


Guests:

Trip Jennings, executive director, New Mexico In Depth 

Emma Green, program coordinator, New Mexico Public Education Department 

For More Information:

Growing number of NM schools pursue restorative justice to keep kids in schools – New Mexico In Depth 

Native students are expelled in New Mexico far more than any other group. This school district is ground zero for the disparity. — New Mexico in Depth 

Prevention, Response and Resiliency Program — NMPED 

 



Aug 21, 202329:42
Uranium Mining in NM & 'Oppenheimer' Reaction, Plus Gene Grant Says Goodbye to NMPBS

Uranium Mining in NM & 'Oppenheimer' Reaction, Plus Gene Grant Says Goodbye to NMPBS

This week's podcast is a bit of a sad one as we say goodbye to longtime host of New Mexico in Focus, Gene Grant.


Lou DiVizio opens the show talking about Gene's impact on the station and the community over his 18 years on the program. Gene’s thoughtful and balanced approach to issues of the day made NMiF go-to watching for a generation of viewers. About 27 minutes into the show, Gene speaks with KUNM Radio's Nash Jones about the impact he's made.


But before that, Lou runs through headlines from around the state, including information on a new federal lawsuit blaming the state's Children Youth and Families Department for a 7-year-old girl's death.


Then, New Mexico in Focus Correspondent Antonia Gonzales speaks with a Navajo anti-nuclear activist about the deadly, toxic legacy of nuclear testing in our state, and the pain and damage she feels was left out of the new film, 'Oppenheimer.'


Host: Lou DiVizio


Correspondent: Antonia Gonzales

Guest: Leona Morgan, anti-nuclear activist


Correspondent: Nash Jones, KUNM Radio

Guest: Gene Grant, former host of New Mexico in Focus


For More Information:

CYFD Blamed in Child's 2020 Death - The Albuquerque Journal

https://www.nuclearenergytv.com/Events/EESI-2019/VideoId/325/UseHtml5/True

Aug 14, 202334:38
Is a Settlement on the Rio Grande Coming Soon?

Is a Settlement on the Rio Grande Coming Soon?

After the relatively wet years of the 1980s and ‘90s, New Mexico’s reservoirs started dropping in the 2000s. In cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, two water districts — one in New Mexico and another in Texas — agreed in 2008 on new ways to share water stored in Elephant Butte Reservoir. But New Mexico’s then-attorney general, Gary King, sued the federal government, saying too much of New Mexico’s water was going to Texas. Texas disagreed and then sued New Mexico and Colorado, alleging that by allowing  farmers to pump groundwater connected to the river, New Mexico wasn’t sending its fair share downstream. That landed all three states in the U.S. Supreme Court, where the federal government also weighed in on the issue.  Now, the three states say they’ve come up with a plan to move forward, and although the federal government hasn’t agreed to the plan, federal Judge Michael Melloy, the case’s special master, has recommended the Supreme Court approve a settlement. To help us understand what’s going on, we invited water attorney Adrian Oglesby onto the show. He’s the director of the Utton Transboundary Resources Center at the University of New Mexico’s School of Law.   

Correspondent: Laura Paskus 


Guest: Adrian Oglesby, director, Utton Transboundary Resources Center, UNM School of Law  For More Information:

Judge OKs states’ plan to end Rio Grande dispute – Source NM 

Texas v. New Mexico and Colorado – SCOTUSblog  

Texas v. New Mexico and Colorado – New Mexico Attorney General website 

Aug 11, 202311:32
UNM Hospital Begins Medical Services at Bernalillo County’s Metropolitan Detention Center
Aug 09, 202317:56
U.S. Forest Service Claims Responsibility for Cerro Pelado Fire

U.S. Forest Service Claims Responsibility for Cerro Pelado Fire

NMiF Senior Producer Lou DiVizio kicks off the week with some headlines from around the state, including news that some Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire victims could receive compensation as early as next week.

NMiF Host Gene Grant sits down with Source New Mexico reporter Patrick Lohmann to talk about prescribed burns and the announcement from the U.S. Forest Service that the Cerro Pelado Fire was caused by Forest Service action.

Then, Gene and The Line Opinion Panel discuss that report from the U.S. Forest Service. The group debates what this could mean for the future of prescribed burns in New Mexico and across the country, despite a new set of protocols released by the Forest Service after the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire.


Host: Lou DiVizio


Correspondent: Gene Grant:


Guest: Patrick Lohmann, reporter, Source New Mexico


The Line Opinion Panel:

Paula Garcia, executive director, New Mexico Acequia Association 

John Fleck, professor, water researcher at UNM's Utton Center 

Elizabeth Miller, independent journalist 


For More Information:

Forest Service improperly withholding fire records, attorney says – Albuquerque Journal 

Navigating the Cerro Pelado Fire Rumor Mill – Our Land 

Cerro Pelado Fire, plus: Rio Grande goes from rip-roaring to muddy & dry – Our Land  

Forest Service report finds Cerro Pelado Fire sparked by agency prescribed burn – Santa Fe New Mexican 

Forest Service makes changes to prescribed burning after Hermits Peak Calf Canyon Fire – KRQE  

 


Aug 07, 202333:59
Inside Perspective: Actors & Writers Strike
Aug 04, 202329:33
Oppenheimer’s Legacy in New Mexico

Oppenheimer’s Legacy in New Mexico

NMiF Senior Producer Lou DiVizio opens the show with some headlines from the early part of the week, including progress for a group of New Mexicans fighting to receive compensation for the devastating impacts of nuclear testing beginning during the Manhattan Project.

After the release of the film Oppenheimer, Gene Grant asks The Line Opinion Panel about the legacies of nuclear testing in New Mexico and whether the film should have included an examination of the devastating impacts of the scientists’ work here.

Tina Cordova is the founder of the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium and has been working for years to earn recognition and compensation from the federal government for the deadly pollution that followed the Trinity test. New Mexico in Focus correspondent Russell Contreras interviews Cordova this week about being overlooked yet again in the new film, Oppenheimer

 

Host: Lou DiVizio


Line Host: Gene Grant


The Line Opinion Panel: 

Dede Feldman, Democratic former NM state senator 

Sophie Martin, attorney 

Shaun Griswold, editor, Source New Mexico 


Correspondent: Russell Contreras 


Guest: Tina Cordova, founder, Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium 


For More Information:

'Oppenheimer' leaves out New Mexicans exposed to radiation from the Manhattan Project, despite local efforts to contact filmmakers – Business Insider 

‘People have been dying ever since’: Anger mixes with hope for NM Downwinders – Source NM 

Downwinder advocacy group to air advertisement ahead of some area 'Oppenheimer' showings – Santa Fe New Mexican 


 



Aug 01, 202329:16
Former UNM Athletic Director Found Not Guilty, $485M Foster Care Abuse Jury Award & Redistricting Lawsuits

Former UNM Athletic Director Found Not Guilty, $485M Foster Care Abuse Jury Award & Redistricting Lawsuits

NMiF Senior Producer Lou DiVizio opens the show with headlines from around the state, including perspective from a New Mexico community downwind from the nuclear testing site in the southern New Mexico desert, after the release of the Hollywood blockbuster 'Oppenheimer.' Then, Lou catches up with Daniel Libit, an investigative and enterprise reporter for Sportico, who’s been following the criminal case against former UNM athletic director Paul Krebs. This interview was recorded Wednesday (7.19.23). A jury Friday found Paul Krebs not guilty on two felony counts of embezzlement. Lou asks why this case rose to the level of criminal charges when so many other collegiate scandals don’t. And the two discuss how this trial could impact the secretive nature within many universities.  


Gene Grant discusses the recent $485 million jury award on behalf of an 8-year-old girl. The lawsuit, first filed in 2019, alleges a non-profit company called Familyworks, licensed by the state Children, Youth and Families Department, placed the girl in the care of Clarence Garcia, who allegedly raped her repeatedly. The lawsuit also alleges Familyworks knew about prior accusations of sexual assault against Garcia. Gene asks the panel how something like this was allowed to happen — and if the state should carry any responsibility.  


A recent ruling from the New Mexico Supreme Court could set the stage for changes to political redistricting in the state. The justices weighed in on a lawsuit brought by the state Republican Party and others challenging the new congressional districts drawn by the Democrat-controlled state Legislature. But the decision could impact another case too — a lawsuit brought by the Navajo Nation, alleging San Juan County Commissioners packed Native American voters into a single district.  New Mexico in Focus Correspondent Gwyneth Doland caught up with two people familiar with these cases to ask what impact the outcomes could have on future elections.  

Host: Lou DiVizio


Segment 1:

Former UNM Athletic Director on Trial 
Correspondent: Lou DiVizio 
Guest: 

Daniel Libit, investigative & enterprise reporter, Sportico 


Segment 2: $485M Foster Care Abuse Jury Award 

Correspondent: Gene Grant 


Guests: 

Ed Williams, Searchlight New Mexico 

Carol Suzuki, professor of law, University of New Mexico 

Merritt Allen, Vox Optima Public Relations

Segment 3:

Redistricting Lawsuits Move Forward After NM Supreme Court Decision 

Correspondent: Gwyneth Doland 
Guests: 

Hannah Burling, project leader for Fair Districts NM, Co-Pres. of the League of Women Voters 

Leonard Gorman, executive director, Navajo Nation Human Rights Commission 

For More Information: Former University of New Mexico athletic director found not guilty of embezzlement charges - Associated Press BOOSTER GOLF TRIP PUTS EX-COLLEGE AD ON TRIAL IN RARE PROSECUTION – Sportico  

Foster child sexual assault results in $485 million jury award – Albuquerque Journal 

Experts say girl awarded $485M in sex abuse suit likely to face long court fight – Santa Fe New Mexican 

Trapped: Foster children are caught in a cycle of abuse – Searchlight New Mexico 

Homeless Shelters Aren’t Equipped to Deal With New Mexico’s Most Troubled Foster Kids. Police See It for Themselves. – Searchlight New Mexico 

These Foster Kids Need Mental Health Care. New Mexico Is Putting Them in Homeless Shelters. – Searchlight New Mexico 

New Mexico Struggles to Follow Through on Promises to Reform Child Welfare System – Searchlight New Mexico 

Ten-year-old foster child allegedly sexually assaulted by foster teen at CYFD office building in Albuquerque – Searchlight New Mexico 

New Mexico Supreme Court says lower court can decide gerrymandering issue – KRQE

Lawsuit alleges San Juan County's new district map violates Voting Rights Act – Farmington Daily Times 

Jul 24, 202346:51
Black Journalists in New Mexico & News Consumers Assess Local News Media

Black Journalists in New Mexico & News Consumers Assess Local News Media

NMiF Senior Producer Lou DiVizio opens the show with some headlines from around the state including the deadly shooting of an Alamagordo Police Officer.

Gene Grant catches up with two prominent Black journalists in New Mexico to learn more about their contributions to the state’s news environment. Adolphe Pierre-Louis explains his role as a photojournalist and talks about the responsibilities news organizations have to cover stories in New Mexico’s Black communities. Ron Wallace gives some background on Perspective Magazine, a publication covering Black issues since 1984, and lays out why he thinks it’s been vital in telling positive stories impacting Black people in Albuquerque and the entire state.   Then, Gene sits down with three non-journalists to get their perspective on the news media in our state. Gene asks the group about what the industry is doing right and where it’s falling short, plus all three panelists share insight on the changing ways people consume news in 2023.  


Host: Lou DiVizio


Panel Host: Gene Grant


Guests:

Ron Wallace, publisher, Perspective Magazine 

Adolphe Pierre-Louis, photojournalist 


Catherine McGill, founder & director, New Mexico Black Leadership Council 

Almarina Sosa, UNM student 

Maureen Sanders, attorney 


Jul 17, 202338:37
Newsroom Leaders Explain Staffing & Coverage Decisions in 2023

Newsroom Leaders Explain Staffing & Coverage Decisions in 2023

Gene Grant hosts two panel discussions featuring newsroom leaders in New Mexico.  

First, a group of local journalists chats with Gene about the successes, shortcomings and challenges facing small-town news publications. One of the biggest factors in that equation is ownership, something this panel is uniquely qualified to discuss. Each of our three panelists represents a distinct business model prevalent today: locally-owned papers, corporate-ownership and nonprofit news.   


Then, Gene chats with three other newsroom leaders who have a hand in shaping coverage around the state. The group also discusses ownership’s influence on staffing and coverage. Regardless, resources in the industry are much more limited than they were even just a decade ago. Gene asks if news organizations can still properly serve their audiences with so much less.   

Jul 14, 202329:40
Pat Davis: Politician and Newspaper Magnate

Pat Davis: Politician and Newspaper Magnate

In an interview you'll only find through NMPBS and New Mexico in Focus, Executive Producer Jeff Proctor talks with Albuquerque City Council President Pat Davis, who also now owns four newspapers in the state.

As the leader behind The Paper., the Edgewood Independent, the Sandoval Signpost and the Corrales Comment, Jeff asks Mr. Davis about media consolidation and the role of journalism more broadly in New Mexico. 

Jul 12, 202323:28
One-on-One with the Albuquerque Journal’s New Executive Editor

One-on-One with the Albuquerque Journal’s New Executive Editor

NMiF Senior Producer Lou DiVizio opens this week's episode by laying out a full slate of podcast offerings over the next couple of weeks as we continue our series analyzing our state's journalism ecosystem.  

After that, Lou delivers a trio of state headlines including ⁠a decision from the New Mexico Supreme Court⁠ that impacts a pending redistricting lawsuit.  


Then, it's Executive Producer Jeff Proctor's exclusive interview with the new executive editor at the Albuquerque Journal, Patrick Ethridge. Jeff asks about his career in journalism to this point and how that will shape his philosophy at the top of what has long been considered New Mexico’s “paper of record.”   


Host: Lou DiVizio 


Correspondent: Jeff Proctor 


Guest: Patrick Ethridge, vice president, executive editor, The Albuquerque Journal 

Jul 10, 202332:55
Journalist Ed Williams on Reporting Systemic Failures at CYFD
Jun 29, 202320:42
SCOTUS Upholds Indian Child Welfare Act, Fmr. Pueblo Gov. Reacts to Chaco Park Withdrawal & Juneteenth in NM

SCOTUS Upholds Indian Child Welfare Act, Fmr. Pueblo Gov. Reacts to Chaco Park Withdrawal & Juneteenth in NM

NMiF Senior Producer Lou DiVizio opens this week's episode with updates on some key headlines in New Mexico, including the Attorney General's decision to drop some of the charges against former UNM Athletic Director Paul Krebs. Plus, the U.S. Supreme Court rules against the Navajo Nation in a key water rights case.


Gene Grant and The Line Opinion Panel react to the 7-2 U.S. Supreme Court decision preserving a system that gives preference to Native Americans in adoption and foster care proceedings related to Native children.

 

NMIF Correspondent Antonia Gonzales is getting new reaction to the U.S. Interior Department's order to end oil and gas leases on federal lands in Chaco Culture National Historic Park and the 10-mile surrounding area. This week she speaks with a former Acoma Pueblo governor and current chair of the Chaco Heritage Tribal Association about the cultural significance of the park, and what the decision signals for the relationship between tribes and the federal government.  


Finally, Gene and The Line Opinion Panel return to talk about the history of Juneteenth, how it became a holiday and its significance in New Mexico.  


Host: Lou DiVizio


Line Host: Gene Grant

The Line Opinion Panel: 

Dede Feldman, Democratic former New Mexico state Senator 

Trip Jennings, executive director, New Mexico In Depth 

Michael Bird, former president of the American Public Health Association 


Correspondent: Antonia Gonzales


Guest: Brian Vallo, former Governor of Acoma Pueblo, chair Chaco Heritage Tribal Association    


For More Information:

Supreme Court preserves law that aims to keep Native American children with tribal families – The Associated Press 

SCOTUS ruling on ICWA a victory for welfare of Native American children – Source NM 

Brackeen v. Haaland – Supreme Court decision 

Biden orders 20-year ban on oil, gas drilling to protect tribal sites outside New Mexico’s Chaco – The Associated Press 


Juneteenth: The History of a Holiday – The New York Times 

More than half of states will recognize Juneteenth as an official public holiday in 2023 – Pew Research 

Juneteenth Celebration of Black Memory and Black Freedom – Our Body Politic 

Albuquerque's Juneteenth celebration showcases gospel music, praise – Albuquerque Journal 

A beginner’s guide to celebrating Juneteenth – PBS News Hour 

'Buffalo Soldiers: Fighting on Two Fronts': Plan Your Juneteenth Watch Party – WORLD 

 




 


Jun 26, 202340:06
Santa Fe Pride Celebrates 30 Years
Jun 21, 202311:39
Chaco Park Withdrawal, APS Enrollment Proposal & Walgreens Settlement

Chaco Park Withdrawal, APS Enrollment Proposal & Walgreens Settlement

NMiF Senior Producer introduces this week's episode with headlines from around the state including new developments in the deadly 'Rust' shooting case. Plus, republican state Senator Mark Moores of Albuquerque announces he won't run for re-election, and the state's Tax and Revenue Department says it will start distributing tax rebate payments as soon as June 21.


Then, Gene Grant and The Line Opinion Panel take over the show. Gene and our panelistsdiscuss the recent developments in the U.S. Interior Department’s decision to withdraw oil and gas leases from Chaco Park and the surrounding 10-mile area. Plus, the panel reacts to the protest that disrupted Interior Sec. Deb Haaland’s planned visit to the area.

Gene and The Line also talk through a planned policy change at Albuquerque Public Schools that would prevent prospective students with past expulsions or other disciplinary issues from enrolling in the district’s schools. Our panelists debate some of the concerns surrounding the policy, including the possibility that it could push more kids through the cracks and into the criminal justice system.

Finally, the panel takes a look at the state’s $500 million settlement with Walgreens over the pharmacy chain’s role in the opioid epidemic.  


Host: Lou DiVizio


Line Host: Gene Grant


The Line Opinion Panel: 

Martha Burk, political psychologist, author 

Shaun Griswold, editor, Source New Mexico 

Merritt Allen, Vox Optima Public Relations 

For More Information:

Protest at Chaco Canyon deters event to celebrate new federal oil and gas leasing ban – Source NM 

Protest derails planned celebration of 20-year ban on oil drilling near Chaco national park – The Associated Press  

House panel investigates ties between Interior secretary, environmentalists – The Associated Press 


Albuquerque Public Schools poised to deny enrollment based on past expulsions, behaviors – Albuquerque Journal 

Native students are expelled in New Mexico far more than any other group. This school district is ground zero for the disparity. – New Mexico In Depth 

APS funding has increased while enrollment continues to fall, evaluation finds – Albuquerque Journal 

With Plunging Enrollment, a ‘Seismic Hit’ to Public Schools – The New York Times 

The forces underlying the public school enrollment drop - Kappan 

 

New Mexico settles opioid lawsuit with Walgreens for $500 million – Santa Fe New Mexican 

Opioid settlement windfall starts trickling into local government coffers – Santa Fe New Mexican 

Drug Overdose in New Mexico – New Mexico Department of Health 

Relief Routes: With fentanyl deaths on the rise and opioid misuse rampant, does New Mexico have a solid plan to spend settlement cash? – Santa Fe Reporter 


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Jun 20, 202337:37
Author Michelle Otero talks with Laura Paskus about writing, the environment & her new book 'Vessels: A Memoir of Borders'
Jun 16, 202319:35
Introducing NMPBS Executive Producer Jeff Proctor
Jun 16, 202309:32
Solomon Peña Charges Go Federal, Red River Mass Shooting & The Governor's Organized Crime Commission

Solomon Peña Charges Go Federal, Red River Mass Shooting & The Governor's Organized Crime Commission

NMiF Senior Producer introduces the show and lays out some headlines from around the state — including the protest that pushed U.S. Interior Sec. Deb Haaland's planned visit to Chaco Park all the way to Albuquerque. Plus, Walgreens has announced a $500 settlement in an opioid lawsuit from the state. And an Legislative Finance Committee report projects even more revenue from oil and gas production than previously expected.


Gene Grant updates The Line Opinion Panel on the federal charges announced for failed Republican candidate Solomon Peña. Gene asks the group for context on the ongoing trend towards federalizing state crimes.

Gene also sits down with Red River Mayor Linda Calhoun to talk about last month’s shooting at the town’s Memorial Day Motorcycle Rally and what the future holds for the holiday event. 

The Line Opinion Panel reconvenes when Gene asks how the shooting at Red River’s Memorial Day Motorcycle Rally will impact the future of motorcycle events throughout the state.

Plus, the panelists weigh in on the newly resurrected Governor’s Organized Crime Prevention Commission and ponder why the state is bringing back a 50-year-old program. 


Host: Lou DiVizio


Line Host: Gene Grant


The Line Opinion Panel: 

Joel Meyers, attorney, former federal prosecutor 

Eric Griego, Democratic former NM state Senator 

Dan McKay, staff writer, Albuquerque Journal   


Guest: Linda Calhoun, (R) Mayor of Red River 


For More Information:

Federal authorities charge Solomon Peña with election interference – Albuquerque Journal 

Republican Ex-Candidate Faces Federal Charges Over Shootings – New York Times 

Stung in Albuquerque: ATF descends on New Mexico’s largest city with questionable results – New Mexico In Depth 


8 bikers shot, 3 dead during motorcycle rally in Red River – Albuquerque Journal 

State police chief: Fight over a picture led to Red River shootings – Santa Fe New Mexican 

Red River marshal, Taos County Sheriff's Office clash over Red River shooting response – Santa Fe New Mexican 

FBI biker gang expert warns of more violence in wake of Red River shooting – Albuquerque Journal 

Turf at center of biker gang conflict in N.M. – Albuquerque Journal 

Lujan Grisham brings back commission to target organized crime in New Mexico – Albuquerque Journal 

Governor announces renewal of commission to help state tackle organized crime – Santa Fe New Mexican 

 

Jun 12, 202344:60
The Line | Reaction to the Mayor Keller Interview

The Line | Reaction to the Mayor Keller Interview

NMiF Senior Producer Lou DiVizio introduces the podcast this week with headlines from around the state, including the federal government's decision to protect Chaco Canyon and a 10-mile buffer zone from mineral extraction.

Gene Grant and The Line Opinion Panel react to the mayor’s comments from our exclusive interview and to some of the larger themes from the state of the city address.

First, the group responds to Mayor Keller’s promises regarding the Gateway Center and his vision for growing the number of affordable housing units around the city.

The panel also discusses the work done so far by the Albuquerque Community Safety Department and the mayor’s plan to triangulate federal gun-free zones and enforce federal penalties across the city’s downtown area.  

Gene the panel assess the feasibility and affordability of the economic development projects the mayor is planning. They also react to the mayor’s response to the Gladiators turf situation and question whether he intentionally misused city dollars.

Finally, the panelists look ahead to a City Council vote that could restructure power at the top of city government and they also grade the mayor's work through his six years in office.

Host: Lou DiVizio


Line Host: Gene Grant


The Line Opinion Panel: 

Serge Martinez, professor, UNM School of Law 

Lan Sena, former Albuquerque city councilor 

Tom Grover, attorney, former Albuquerque police sergeant 


For More Information:

Keller highlights gun violence, homelessness in State of the City address – Albuquerque Journal 

State creates council to address lack of affordable housing amid surge in homeless population – Albuquerque Journal 

City: Asbestos regulations not followed at Gateway Center – Albuquerque Journal 

Duplexes and casitas in single-family neighborhoods? Here’s where Mayor Keller’s zoning proposals stand – Albuquerque Journal 

Keller highlights gun violence, homelessness in State of the City address – Albuquerque Journal 

Albuquerque police near full compliance in reform effort – Albuquerque Journal  

2022 was another record-setting year for homicides in Albuquerque – KRQE 


How Albuquerque officials misused tax dollars in turf scheme – KRQE  

City of Albuquerque Announces Fiber Internet to Every Home and Business – City of Albuquerque 

Could Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta Park be the new home for New Mexico United’s soccer stadium? – Albuquerque Journal 

City councilors want a city manager — the mayor disagrees – KOAT 

 



Jun 05, 202351:03
Albuquerque City Councilor Dan Lewis
May 31, 202322:31
Full Interview: Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller

Full Interview: Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller

NMiF senior producer Lou DiVizio sits down with Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller for an exclusive, in-depth interview covering a variety of issues in the city, including homelessness, affordable housing and public safety. The mayor also responds to a question about his re-election plans as he rolls out several projects that will take years to complete.


Later this week on the podcast, Gene Grant speaks with Albuquerque City Councilor Dan Lewis for his reaction to Mayor Keller's State of the City address, and for the councilor's take on those same key issues.


Also this week, The Line Opinion Panel reacts to the mayor's address and interview, providing analysis on some of Mayor Keller's key talking points.


Watch New Mexico in Focus, Friday nights at 7 p.m. on NMPBS.


Host: Lou DiVizio


Guest: Tim Keller, (D) Mayor of Albuquerque


For More Information: 

Keller highlights gun violence, homelessness in State of the City address – Albuquerque Journal 

State creates council to address lack of affordable housing amid surge in homeless population – Albuquerque Journal 

City: Asbestos regulations not followed at Gateway Center – Albuquerque Journal 

Duplexes and casitas in single-family neighborhoods? Here’s where Mayor Keller’s zoning proposals stand – Albuquerque Journal 


Keller highlights gun violence, homelessness in State of the City address – Albuquerque Journal 

Albuquerque police near full compliance in reform effort – Albuquerque Journal  

2022 was another record-setting year for homicides in Albuquerque – KRQE  


How Albuquerque Officials Misused Tax Dollars in Turf Scheme - KRQE

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May 30, 202346:23
CYFD Advisory Council, PNM-Avangrid Merger Update & Turmoil at NMSU

CYFD Advisory Council, PNM-Avangrid Merger Update & Turmoil at NMSU

NMiF Senior Producer Lou DiVizio opens the show with headlines from around the state, including an update on the criticism surrounding New Mexico State University. According to reporting from the Las Cruces Sun-News, Athletic Director Mario Moccia is getting some support from area business owners and athletic boosters after Moccia signed a 5-year contract extension amid allegations of sexual harassment, assault and intimidation on the school's men's basketball team.

Gene Grant and The Line Opinion Panel take up three stories developing around the state. First, Gene asks the panelists if a new advisory council at the state’s Children Youth and Families Department has any chance to help solve the longstanding issues within the agency.

Then, Gene updates the back-and-forth over the proposed PNM-Avangrid merger as the state Supreme Court weighs whether to end the case or send it back to the Public Regulation Commission.

Plus, the panel addresses the latest on allegations of sexual harassment and assault in the ongoing scandal surrounding the New Mexico State University men’s basketball program.  Host: Lou DiVizio

Line Host: Gene Grant 

 

The Line Opinion Panel: 

Justine Fox-Young, Republican former NM state Representative 

Steve Terrell, retired reporter, Santa Fe New Mexican 

Dede Feldman, Democratic former NM state Senator 

For More Information:

Morning Word - Santa Fe Reporter Biden Plan Would Open Leases to Conservation, Not Just Drilling and Grazing - Associated Press

Enhancing Delivery of Services Steering Committee – New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department 

Foundation for Open Government statement on CYFD’s action to close special council meetings – New Mexico Foundation for Open Government  

Attorneys and Advocates Issue Statements in Response to Kevin S. Settlement Co-Neutrals’ Report on Status of Implementation – Pegasus Law 

CYFD policy advisory council begins work, even as questions persist about beleaguered agency’s core structure – Albuquerque Journal 


PRC commissioner recuses himself from merger issue – Santa Fe New Mexican 

New Mexico court denies challenge to PRC reforms – Albuquerque Journal 

Public Regulation Commission stumbles into the new year – Source NM 

PNM-Avangrid merger rejected by PRC – Albuquerque Journal 

State Supreme Court holds PNM, Avangrid second chance at merger in the balance – Santa Fe New Mexican 

PRC, utility lawyers had one-sided talks ahead of filing – Santa Fe New Mexican 

PRC modifies position on public hearings for PNM-Avangrid merger – Albuquerque Journal  

Allegations of misconduct surround proposed Avangrid-PNM merger – KRQE  


At New Mexico St, a meltdown that runs beyond basketball – The Associated Press 

Ex-NMSU basketball players say teammates targeted coaches – ESPN  

New Mexico State AD Mario Moccia receives 5-year extension – The Associated Press 

Governor will push for anti-hazing bill – Santa Fe New Mexican 


May 15, 202343:28