For real, though
Attempts to manage the message about an end to the Entrada pageant in Santa Fe fell flat as word got out last week about a compromise that had been reached between Fiesta organizers, city officials and Native governments. But Tuesday night, the Caballeros de Vargas, Santa Fe Fiesta Council and others issued statements that finally and completely affirm that event is out and a new one is underway. One TV news reporter last week suggested, "with the Entrada pageant now gone, some wonder if schools, streets, plazas and other places using the name could also be at future risk." The word, which simply means entry or entrance, seems pretty safe.
Another ending
The word "finally," however, also applies to this week's SFR cover story: an essay from staff writer Aaron Cantú that reflects on his 18-month ordeal with federal felony conspiracy charges. Prosecutors last month dropped the charges that stemmed from Inauguration Day protests in January 2017, and this is the first time Cantú has been able to publicly lay out his point of view. In doing so, he unfolds the way conspiracy law has been used against our nation's own people through history.
So many papers
People who ran into trouble getting their documents in order for a new Real ID in New Mexico have a chance to sound off today as the Taxation and Revenue Department holds a public hearing on its ideas about making it easier. A lawsuit filed this year by individuals in Santa Fe and Albuquerque and community groups argued that the Motor Vehicle Division requires documents not contemplated in the state law.
Reproductive freedom
As the fall election creeps closer, advocates for abortion access and those who want to curtail reproductive choices in New Mexico are working to garner voter turnout and prepare local supporters. Writing for New Mexico In Depth, Margaret Wright unpacks how groups are using endorsements and other mobilization strategies. She also looks at how a change at the US Supreme Court would bear out here.
Showing up
Steve Pearce made a campaign stop in Albuquerque on Monday that included a speech on his economic plan ($). While in itself, it wasn't very exciting, what's different is that the Republican congressman who is running for governor called former Democratic gubernatorial contender Jeff Apodaca to the stage. After losing to Michelle Lujan Grisham in the primary, Apodaca's now heading up an advocacy group and says he's trying to challenge both candidates. Pearce also spent some time in San Felipe Pueblo ($) with US Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson at a public appearance.
Better Medicaid
New Mexico could be an early participant in a Medicaid buy-in program that aims to make insurance more accessible for people who are undocumented or have low incomes. KUNM reports on an effort that could pop up at the 2019 Legislative session.
On the stage
Tonight on the Santa Fe Bandstand, catch Nacha Mendez with support from Santa Fe Opera apprentices at 6 pm. Mendez says she's interested in expanding a listener's definition of "Latin" music. The local diva is likely to draw a crowd. It's free and it's outside, and the bandstand series won't last forever; it wraps on Aug. 10.
Not as hot
Hail fell on Albuquerque on Tuesday for the second night in a row, causing damage, but conditions remained mild in Santa Fe with a scattered rain. The forecast for the north calls for heavier rains the next two nights, mostly before midnight each night. Daytime highs should be in the mid-80s.
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