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New Mexico in Focus Season 15 Episodes

57 Episodes 2021 - 2022

Episode 1

Cannabis Comes to NM & Historical Astronomy

Fri, Jul 2, 2021

The Line opinion panel discusses the arrival of recreational-use cannabis. The Growing Forward podcast team hears from Adam Levin of the Pew Charitable Trusts on the research on rolling out legal cannabis in other states. William Donahue of St. John's College talks about receiving the LeRoy Doggett Prize for his work in historical astronomy and his translations of works by Johannes Kepler.

Where to Watch

Episode 2

Covering the Border & Protecting Against Wildfires

Tue, Jul 13, 2021

An inside look at the faces and stories behind our crisis on the U.S./Mexico border with Albuquerque Journal photographer Roberto Rosales. The award-winning Our Land series returns this month, as we travel to the Carson National Forest to learn about a unique, community-based approach to managing the forest and protecting against wildfires.

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Episode 3

Branson Blasts Off & Education Struggles

Fri, Jul 16, 2021

The Line opinion panel looks at the long term impacts of Virgin Galactic's historic spaceflight at Spaceport America. The group also explores Rebecca Dow's entry into the Republican race for governor and the impact of tough-on-crime policy decisions for the state court system. Navajo journalist Sunnie Clahchischiligi discusses the unique challenges Native students faced during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Where to Watch

Episode 4

Date Night Discrimination & Gas Station Liability

Fri, Jul 23, 2021

The Line opinion panel offers reactions on the state Supreme Court's decision that gas stations have a duty to refuse to sell fuel to drunk drivers. The group also explores the ethics complaint against Attorney General Hector Balderas over his handling of a proposed PNM merger. Our Land Correspondent Laura Paskus sits down with two journalists covering PFAS contamination in Michigan and New Jersey.

Where to Watch

Episode 5

COVID & Masks, Boarding Schools and Soccer Pitch

Fri, Jul 30, 2021

Native leaders discuss the need for the painful look back at the history of boarding schools in the U.S., as well as the path forward toward healing. Plus, how the University of New Mexico Medical School is boosting long-slumping numbers of rural primary care doctors. The Line opinion panel talks about the return of masks - even for vaccinated people and a proposed new soccer stadium in Albuquerque.

Where to Watch

Episode 6

Delta Blues, Toxins & Firefighters

Fri, Aug 6, 2021

Environmental correspondent Laura Paskus speaks with a former U.S. Air Force firefighter who discusses his experience with toxic chemicals used in firefighting foam at Cannon Air Force Base. Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernandez talks about the effort by Democrats and Republicans in the Senate to forge a compromise bill that will spend some $1 trillion on infrastructure projects.

Where to Watch

Episode 7

Delta Pinches Hospitals, CYFD Shakeup & Monsoons

Fri, Aug 13, 2021

The Delta variant is putting new pressure on local hospitals. We'll get an update from administrators who are now calling this a "pandemic of the unvaccinated." The Line opinion panel will also discuss the ongoing debate about how schools and business should respond to the most recent surge. On this month's Our Land episode, we talk about drought in New Mexico, and this year's monsoon season.

Where to Watch

Episode 8

Mask Mandate Redux, Crime Trends, and NM Census

Fri, Aug 20, 2021

The recent spike in COVID-19 cases among unvaccinated people means a return of mask mandates, as well as new vaccine requirements. The Line opinion panel weighs the impact and political implications. The Line also discusses Albuquerque's troubling crime trend and newly released Census data. Former New Mexico TV meteorologist Jorge Torres about how local newsrooms can better cover climate issues.

Where to Watch

Episode 9

More Pandemic Pushback and Afghans Come to NM

Fri, Aug 27, 2021

The Line opinion panel offers thoughts on Democratic leaders' commitment to accept Afghans refugees. The group also discusses pedestrian safety in New Mexico, and the legal challenge to Gov. Lujan Grisham's new mask mandate. Plus, judging the impacts of the SunZia Transmission Project, 4 billion project is supposed to someday bring wind-generated power from New Mexico to California and Arizona.

Where to Watch

Episode 10

State Budget, Benefits Expire & Afghan Resettlement

Fri, Sep 3, 2021

Searching for perspective on the end of the war in Afghanistan and the resulting humanitarian crisis as tens of thousands of Afghans look to flee Taliban rule. The Line opinion panel takes a closer look at the implications of a predicted $1.4 billion surplus in the state's next budget year. The group also discusses the looming end to COVID unemployment benefits and a new state education strategy.

Where to Watch

Episode 11

Downwinders, Virgin Galactic Troubles & Dark Skies

Fri, Sep 10, 2021

Updating the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium's work to get the U.S. government to compensate families who were impacted by the Trinity nuclear test. This month's Our Land explores what it means to connect with the night sky and protect it for future generations. The Line opinion panel discusses the grounding of Virgin Galactic after the discovery of troubles with a recent historic launch.

Where to Watch

Episode 12

Firefighter Concerns, Cannabis Equity & Masks

Fri, Sep 17, 2021

Wildland firefighters discuss their work challenges including the lack of full-time benefits and surprisingly low wages. Growing Forward podcast co-hosts Megan Kamerick and Andy Lyman talk to members of the state's cannabis regulation advisory board about efforts to provide equitable business opportunities. The Line opinion panel discuss key developments for policing in Albuquerque and the state.

Where to Watch

Episode 13

Redistricting, Ag Outlook & Native Fashion

Fri, Sep 24, 2021

Native fashion model Quannah Chasinghorse (Han Gwich'in Sicangu/Oglala Lakota) discusses her recent Met Gala media blitz. The 19-year-old has been advocate and environmental activist as long as she's been a model. Now, with a larger stage, Chasinghorse sees a chance to amplify her message. Plus, Agriculture Secretary Jeff Witte discusses how farmers and ranchers are dealing with our ongoing drought.

Where to Watch

Episode 14

Balloon Safety, Mayor's Race & Genius Grantee

Fri, Oct 1, 2021

The founder of balloon tour company Rainbow Ryders discusses safety changes he'd like to see in the industry. Plus, a conversation with new "Genius Grant" winner, MacArthur Fellow Monica Muñoz Martinez. Dede Feldman discusses her new book about what politicians learn about NM during campaigns. The Line opinion panel talks ABQ's Mayoral race and the sudden lack of educational achievement data.

Where to Watch

Episode 15

The Albuquerque Mayoral Forum

Fri, Oct 8, 2021

This week on New Mexico in Focus, as voting begins in local elections across the state, NMiF teams with the New Mexico Black Voters Collaborative to present a mayoral forum in the state's largest city. Incumbent Mayor Tim Keller has three challengers, including Eddy Aragon and Manny Gonzales.

Where to Watch

Episode 16

Campaign Money Game, IATSE Strike & Our Land

Fri, Oct 15, 2021

The Line opinion panel breaks down the latest campaign finance numbers in the governor's race. With the IATSE strike deadline of Monday, Gene Grant speaks with a senior media reporter from Variety and local union members to find out what's at stake and what workers are demanding from producers and studios. Our Land returns to take a trip hiking trails with Together for Brothers.

Where to Watch

Episode 17

Stadium Proposal, Redistricting & Author William deBuys

Fri, Oct 22, 2021

This week the Citizen Redistricting Committee has wrapped up it's work, approving a series of map proposals for redrawing election districts for the next ten years. Early voting is already underway in ABQ on a proposed, publicly financed, multi-use stadium that would be home to the popular New Mexico United Soccer team. Author William deBuys discusses his latest work.

Where to Watch

Episode 18

Avangrid Merger, Film Set Tragedy & ABQ Stadium Opinions

Fri, Oct 29, 2021

There's a proposed merger between PNM Resources and Avangrid. People offer opinions on a proposed multi-use stadium slated for Downtown Albuquerque. The Line opinion panel offers thoughts on next Tuesday's municipal elections, the accidental shooting on a NM film set and the legislation that allows retired law enforcement officers to reenter the workforce, while collecting pensions.

Where to Watch

Episode 19

Election Results, Gun Ban & Student Action on Climate Change

Fri, Nov 5, 2021

This week on New Mexico in Focus, historic turnout across New Mexico led to some eye-opening results on election night. Students at the University of New Mexico calling for an investigation into the University's foundation investments in fossil fuels. An interview with Zuni Pueblo Artist Mallery Quetawki who helped create an artistic tribute to We:Wa seen on Google's homepage this week.

Where to Watch

Episode 20

Social Studies Curricula Changes, Water Management

Fri, Nov 19, 2021

The state Department of Education is looking to update social studies curricula statewide, which has sparked a lot of public input and outcry. This month on Our Land, a discussion about our rivers and how we manage them, from a feminine perspective. As COVID-19 cases continue to soar in NM, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has announced plans to make vaccine boosters available to all adults.

Where to Watch

Episode 21

Busting Thanksgiving Myths and Reservation Dogs Composer

Tue, Nov 23, 2021

This week on New Mexico in Focus, November is a month dedicated to the contributions of Native Americans. Stereotypes, myths and misunderstanding of Tribes are still very much part of public perception, however. Correspondent Antonia Gonzales talks with some members of the Native Community about how we can all celebrate Native people without promoting stereotypes or appropriating their culture.

Where to Watch

Episode 22

New Wrinkles for Special Session, PNM Merger

Fri, Dec 3, 2021

Lawmakers head back to the Roundhouse next week, for a Special Session to deal with redistricting. The Line opinion panel also weighs in on the changes at the Roundhouse and what lawmakers will do with redistricting. A merger between New Mexico's PNM Resources and Iberdola-owned Avangrid is in the works. It's a multi-billion-dollar deal that will affect nearly every household in New Mexico.

Where to Watch

Episode 23

Special Session Begins & PNM Merger Struck Down

Fri, Dec 10, 2021

State lawmakers are back inside the Roundhouse this week, parsing through redistricting recommendations from a new, independent commission. The Line Opinion Panel reacts to the breaking news the Public Regulation Commission struck down a proposed merger between Public Service Company of New Mexico and Avangrid, an east coast power utility. Plus, urban wildlife.

Where to Watch

Episode 24

Redistricting & Fentanyl's Impact on Crime

Fri, Dec 17, 2021

This week on New Mexico in Focus, The New Mexico Legislature is hard at work leading up to the holidays, making important decisions about Redistricting and the spending of more than a billion dollars in federal COVID relief funds. Join us on this episode to see more.

Where to Watch

Episode 25

Top Ten Stories of 2021 Part 1 & Food Insecurity Innovation

Fri, Dec 24, 2021

We bring back an annual tradition, the countdown of the Top Ten stories of the year. A special Line opinion panel of journalists from across the state offers thoughts and reflections on these defining moments. Also, host Gene Grant learns about some of the creative ways that people are working to end hunger in New Mexico and learn about how you can get involved in the efforts this holiday.

Where to Watch

Episode 26

Top Ten Stories of 2021 Part 2 & Environmental Musings

Fri, Dec 31, 2021

Host Gene Grant and the group begin with the fifth biggest story of the year, and work down to the top story of the year. No surprise, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic will make an appearance or two on this list. Environment Reporter Laura Paskus reached out to sources from the last several years to get thoughts and reflections on climate change and setting goals for 2022 and beyond.

Where to Watch

Episode 27

Omicron Spread, Lawmaker Transparency and Drought

Fri, Jan 7, 2022

Lawmakers return to the Roundhouse in just a matter of days for the 2022 Legislative Session. Our Line opinion panel looks at some of the proposals that legislators will likely consider and whether or not there will be bipartisan support to achieve meaningful change. Environment Reporter Laura Paskus sits down with bioclimatologist Park Williams.

Where to Watch

Episode 28

2022 Budget Proposals & Hospitals Warn of Longer Waits

Fri, Jan 14, 2022

This week on New Mexico in Focus, state leaders share their 2022 budget plans ahead of the start of the 30-day legislative session next week. Correspondent Gwyneth Doland checks in with Senate President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart for what she's expecting when the session starts Tuesday. Environment Reporter Laura Paskus shares a unique approach to climate change.

Where to Watch

Episode 29

State of the State: Analyzing the Governor's Address

Fri, Jan 21, 2022

This week on New Mexico in Focus, the Line Opinion Panel dig into Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's 2022 State of the State Address, analyzing the Governor's stated priorities, and what she may have left out. Join us on this episode to learn more.

Where to Watch

Episode 30

Voting Reform Proposals & the Governor's Push for Hydrogen

Mon, Jan 31, 2022

Lawmakers are considering changes to voting rights and tax laws. Line opinion panelists also debate Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's renewed push for Hydrogen power, and the recently released 'Hydrogen Hub Development Act.' Join us on this episode to learn more.

Where to Watch

Episode 31

Anti-Crime Initiatives, Hydrogen, & Education Equity

Fri, Feb 4, 2022

Laura Paskus speaks with an energy journalist about potential concerns in the push to make New Mexico a hub for hydrogen production. The Line Opinion Panel debates the new anti-crime legislation moving through the legislature. Panelists also discuss a trio of new bills aimed at helping make education more equitable for Native American students.

Where to Watch

Episode 32

Hydrogen Bill Stalls, Voting Changes & Staffing Crisis

Fri, Feb 11, 2022

A new plan to revive the hydrogen bill moves forward. The panel discusses recent staff shortages and changes made to the voting reform measures. Laura Paskus catches up with one of New Mexico's U.S. Representatives, Melanie Stansbury, about the action she's taken since joining congress. Laura talks with climate scientist Dave Gutzler about the climate changes New Mexico's already experiencing.

Where to Watch

Episode 33

Legislative Session & Indian Boarding School History

Fri, Feb 18, 2022

The 2022 Legislative Session wraps after a grueling 30-day session. De Haven Solimon Chaffins sits down with Laura Paskus to explain how her artwork explores the story of the Jackpile-Paguate Uranium Mine and its impacts. Antonia Gonzales talks with Dr. Theodore Jojola about this difficult Indigenous history and the current efforts to acknowledge that history and foster healing.

Where to Watch

Episode 34

Breaking Down the 2022 Legislative Session

Mon, Feb 21, 2022

NMiF Host Gene Grant talks with UNM Political Science Professor Timothy Krebs about the recently completed 30-day Legislative Session. Join us on this episode to learn more. Produced by Jeff Proctor, Antonio Sanchez, Lou DiVizio, and Laura Paskus.

Where to Watch

Episode 35

Mask Mandate Ends, Potential Blackouts & Regular Session

Fri, Feb 25, 2022

Megan Kamerick talks with the Archbishop of Santa Fe. Gene Grant wraps up the regular legislative session talking to political science professor Timothy Krebs and welcomes Dr. Kirsten Pai Buick into her new role at UNM. The Line Opinion Panel explores the Governor's decision to end NM's indoor mask mandate, a coal-fired power plant, and APD shifts increasing.

Where to Watch

Episode 36

Pastoral Letter Calls For Nuclear Disarmament

Fri, Feb 25, 2022

Correspondent Megan Kamerick speaks with the Archbishop of Santa Fe about his recent pastoral letter, calling for international nuclear disarmament. Archbishop John C. Wester explains his stance, while noting the presence of two federal nuclear weapons laboratories here in New Mexico.

Where to Watch

Episode 37

GOP Convention Fallout, Local Response to Ukraine

Fri, Mar 4, 2022

Host Gene Grant speaks with three members of a local nonprofit about their efforts in our state, and the tragedy happening in their home country. Gene speaks with an Ukrainian professor, currently in hiding outside of the capital, Kyiv. The Line Opinion Panel unpacks the reaction to the New Mexico Republican Convention, and the primary race to become the GOP nominee for Governor.

Where to Watch

Episode 38

Ukrainian Americans of New Mexico

Fri, Mar 4, 2022

A group of Ukrainian Americans here in New Mexico are trying to raise support for their home country. In an exclusive roundtable interview, three members of that group share the horrors their friends and loved ones are enduring in their home country. Plus, they lay out how we as Americans and New Mexicans, can help stand up to the authoritarian aggression of Russia.

Where to Watch

Episode 39

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez

Fri, Mar 4, 2022

Correspondent Antonia Gonzales spends a few minutes with Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez, who has decided to keep the reservation's mask mandate in place, even as states like New Mexico and Arizona drop theirs. The two discuss the latest on the Tribe's response to COVID-19 and even President Joe Biden's recent State of the Union speech.

Where to Watch

Episode 40

Infrastructure, Child Welfare Bill & Transparency in Gov

Fri, Mar 11, 2022

Next week is Sunshine Week, a celebration of open government and access to public information started more than 15 years ago by the News Leaders Association. Bernalillo County District Attorney Raul Torrez recently expressed concerns about the under-utilization of a criminal diversion program aimed at non-violent offenders. We await the fate of a bill that addresses child abuse and neglect cases.

Where to Watch

Episode 41

Budget Battles, Hydrogen & Weather Modification

Fri, Mar 18, 2022

Laura Paskus explains weather modification and how it could be used in NM. Ebony Isis Booth Introduces us to Frank Blazquez who takes us through his vision for his documentary series "Duke City Diaries." The Line Opinion Panel takes up the state's record-setting budget, debates items the Governor eliminated from the legislature's spending plan and her executive action on Hydrogen for Albuquerque.

Where to Watch

Episode 42

Special Session, Recreational Cannabis and NM State Engineer

Fri, Mar 25, 2022

The Line Opinion panel talks inflation and rising gas prices, preview of the first legal sales of recreational cannabis in New Mexico, and more accusations of sexual harassment are coming out against a sitting state senator. Environment Reporter Laura Paskus talks with the new State Engineer about water access and introduces a new project aiming to preserve the Rio Grande's natural habitat.

Where to Watch

Episode 43

Nuclear Waste Storage Proposal & Sustaining Journalism in NM

Fri, Apr 1, 2022

Environment reporter Laura Paskus talks with a NM Senator who's working to keep Holtec from bringing their waste here. Host Gene Grant talks with independent journalists about the challenges they face. A Professor of Theology shares his outlook on climate change through a lens of faith. An environmental education circus tries to teach us about Albuquerque's water and impact on the environment.

Where to Watch

Episode 44

Tax Rebate Checks, Cannabis Legalization & Spring Runoff

Fri, Apr 8, 2022

Look back on the first week of legal recreational cannabis sales in the state, from the logistical issues it presented to the potential economic positives it unveiled. And, we discuss the return of no-payment evictions in Bernalillo County. Laura Paskus checks to see how the repeal of the plastic ban bag could affect water quality in the city and a forecast for how much moisture we can see.

Where to Watch

Episode 45

ABQ Zoo's Elephant Enclosure Criticized

Fri, Apr 8, 2022

Animal Rights Group In Defense of Animals, IDA, recently ranked the Albuquerque Zoo as second worst in the U.S. for elephant habitats, in part because of a pair of recent deaths. Host Gene Grant talks with Brittany Michelson of IDA to learn more about what the criticisms involve and what changes the group would like to see.

Where to Watch

Episode 46

Wildfire Danger, Latinx Voting Analysis & Election Preview

Fri, Apr 15, 2022

This week on New Mexico in Focus, the Line Opinion Panel addresses the startling number of wildfires burning in our state. The Panel also digs into the Governor's race ahead of the GOP primary, analyzing fundraising totals, and recent political ads.

Where to Watch

Episode 47

The Longest Season

Fri, Apr 22, 2022

In this special segment, we explore why New Mexico's fire season arrives earlier and stays longer, what challenges wildland firefighters face, and how communities can protect themselves today and into the future. Join us to learn more on this topic.

Where to Watch

Episode 48

The Work Ahead

Fri, Apr 22, 2022

On Earth Day 2022, As New Mexicans face an early, intense fire season - as well as hot, dry conditions and water challenges. Environment correspondent Laura Paskus discusses the forces behind climate change. To learn more stream with us on the PBS app.

Where to Watch

Episode 49

Wildfires, Attorney General's Race, Public Lands Oil & Gas

Fri, Apr 29, 2022

Explore the action the Governor could take for wildfires with more federal resources. The panelists consider the latest round of campaign finance reports in the Democratic race for Attorney General. U.S. Department of the Interior report details the deficiencies in the federal oil and gas program as new leasing opens back up.

Where to Watch

Episode 50

Reflecting on the Legacy of the Rio Grande Sun

Fri, May 6, 2022

Gene Grant sits down with former owner, editor and publisher Robert Trapp to ask why he decided to move on from the multi-generational business, what the legacy of the paper may be, and what the future could hold under new ownership. Gene also talks with three former reporters at the Rio Grande Sun who recall some of their memories at the paper and explain how formative their experiences were.

Where to Watch

Episode 51

Extreme Winds, Wildfire Emergency & Climate Anxiety

Fri, May 13, 2022

Abortion rights and how overturning Roe V. Wade could impact our state. New childcare expansions available. Expanded benefits for wildland firefighters and prescribed burns. Virgin Galactic announces a delay in its plans to begin commercial space flights. Laura Paskus asks why this spring has seemed even windier than usual, and the impact that's having on fire season along with climate anxiety.

Where to Watch

Episode 52

Yazzie Martinez Draft Plan, Mapping Wildfires & West's Water

Fri, May 20, 2022

The Line Opinion Panel reviews the state's new draft plan to address the Yazzie Martinez lawsuit. The state could be in for more surplus revenue than expected. The Panel also discusses the record-setting wildfire burning near Las Vegas. Laura Paskus talks with an expert about how wildfire maps are plotted and talks about our changing environment with a professor from the University of Arizona.

Where to Watch

Episode 53

NM Wildfires & Missing and Murdered Investigations

Fri, May 27, 2022

The key races in the primary election and the recent barrage of attack ads. Two NM Pueblos reached an agreement to produce and sell recreational cannabis products. The U.S. Forest Service decides to pause all prescribed burns for at least 90 days. Laura Paskus speaks with Martin Heinrich for his opinion on those burns. Antonia Gonzales talks with the FBI and a Navajo criminal investigator.

Where to Watch

Episode 54

Preventing School Violence, PFAS & Interstate Highway

Fri, Jun 3, 2022

Ideas for action after another deadly school shooting in the United States. The economic implications of a new interstate that would cut through New Mexico. Both the Hermit's Peak and Calf Canyon fires began as prescribed burns conducted by the U.S. Forest Service. Laura Paskus speaks with James Kenney about the latest developments in the case of the dairy farmer's herd affected by PFAS.

Where to Watch

Episode 55

Primary Election and 'Bleak' Outlook for Water Supply

Fri, Jun 10, 2022

New Mexico voters had their say at the polls this week. Our Line opinion panel breaks down all the big winners and losers from Tuesday's Primary Election. They also assess some of the key races for the upcoming General Election now that the races are set. The panelists also discuss the lingering threat of flooding in parts of the state, in the wake of this summer's devastating wildfire season.

Where to Watch

Episode 56

President Biden Pledges Support for NM's Wildfires

Fri, Jun 17, 2022

The President pledged to cover all costs associated with the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. Commissioners in Otero County have been sued and ordered to certify primary election results. A bipartisan plan to address gun violence that relies on the expansion of red flag laws. Laura Paskus talks with wildfire reporters, how you can apply for aid, and a Mexican Wolf extinction protection program.

Where to Watch

Episode 57

Otero County Election, Police Shooting Lawsuit

Mon, Jun 27, 2022

This week on New Mexico in Focus, the Line Opinion Panel reacts to the recent developments in Otero County where commissioners have finally voted to certify its primary election results. And our panelists review a Chaves County lawsuit over a police shooting, as the Attorney General probes another officer-involved incident in the same county.

Where to Watch