New Mexico Sun

Profiles News

Jeff Apodaca is Rooted in History, but Focused on the Future of New Mexico
Profiles

Jeff Apodaca is rooted in New Mexico. The son of former Governor Jerry Apodaca, he was a high school football state champion and grew up immersed in the state’s political and cultural fabric.

A Better Way of Living Executive Director: ‘We pride ourselves on going the extra mile to assist people with disabilities'
Profiles

Jon Noel, executive director of A Better Way of Living (ABWL), a nonprofit organization in Albuquerque that assists individuals with developmental delays, emphasized the organization's commitment to providing more than basic support for people...

Latest News


Building a Community of Courage: Randy Mascorella’s Mission with Special Olympics New Mexico
Profiles

The Special Olympics is a global movement that empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities through the transformative power of sport.


‘Glad this bill didn't pass’: Parent activist Petersen silenced during SB552 ’Protection of School Library Materials Act’ debate
Profiles

In a twist of irony, Micayle Petersen—an advocate for children's protection and free speech—says she was silenced during a public hearing on Senate Bill 552, legislation that claimed to champion those very principles. SB552, titled the “Protection of School Library Materials Act,” purportedly aimed to safeguard free expression and shield school staff from retaliation.


A Champion for Freedom: Paul Gessing’s Mission to Transform New Mexico
Profiles

In the heart of Albuquerque, Paul Gessing is at the helm of a movement rooted in liberty, accountability, and hope for New Mexico's future.


Jean Bernstein on Building Flying Star and Navigating New Mexico’s Business Climate
Profiles

Jean Bernstein, co-founder of the beloved Flying Star Café chain in Albuquerque, speaks with pride about her journey from disillusioned teacher to successful restaurateur.


Fighting for the Forgotten: Commander Kyle Hartsock’s and Shelley Repp’s Mission to Protect Albuquerque’s Most Vulnerable
Profiles

Commander Kyle Hartsock, a 21-year veteran of New Mexico law enforcement, currently serves with the Criminal Investigations Division of the Albuquerque Police Department.


Don and Damara Andrade Manage Pushback in Stand for New Mexico’s Children
Profiles

Don and Damara Andrade are married, parents, and self-described Christian apologists, a branch of Christian theology that defends Christianity.


Technology, education and faith: Tim Draelos says these are key ingredients for a greater New Mexico
Profiles

A theme has developed in New Mexico. Outsiders talk about the state’s beauty and potential, and wonder why it is not an economic powerhouse to rival neighboring states. Tim Draelos, a New Mexico native and retired engineer, carries the same thoughts.


Securing New Mexico: Chris Sweetin’s Mission to Protect and Serve
Profiles

Christopher J. Sweetin is no stranger to service and leadership. He is a retired U.S. Air Force veteran with 20 years of experience, and is now the CEO and co-founder of the Triskelion Group of New Mexico, overseeing 3D Security Services, 3D Security Training Solutions, and 3D Security Investigative Services. The Small Business Administration named him New Mexico’s Small Business Person of the Year in 2024. He is also the founding member and president of the New Mexico Professional Security Association. His journey from military service to private security is driven by a commitment to public safety and a belief that meaningful change starts at the local level.


Fighting for Reform: Senator Crystal Brantley’s Push for Change in New Mexico
Profiles

Senator Crystal Brantley represents New Mexico’s District 35, the largest in the state, covering seven counties in the southwest corner. Elected in 2020 as the first Republican and first female to hold the office, Brantley credits her success to voters dissatisfied with the state’s approach to border security.


Rising from Adversity: Representative Elaine Cortez’s Mission for New Mexico
Profiles

Dr. Elaine Cortez represents New Mexico District 62 and is no stranger to hardship. She grew up in a tough neighborhood, and witnessed gang violence, substance abuse, and crime firsthand.


Senator Pat Boone, a Rancher’s Journey to Public Service
Profiles

Senator Pat Boone, a freshman legislator from southeastern New Mexico, has spent a lifetime in public service before stepping into his role at the state roundhouse.


How Gail Armstrong Navigates Leadership, Policy and her Fight for New Mexico
Profiles

Gail Armstrong has represented District 49 in the New Mexico Legislature for nearly a decade. Appointed in 2017 by Governor Susana Martinez, Armstrong’s journey into politics began when former Speaker of the House Don Tripp encouraged her to run for office. Initially hesitant, she eventually agreed, driven by her passion for solving problems.


New Mexico State Senator Bill Sharer on Politics, Energy, and Public Safety
Profiles

Senator Bill Sharer, representing District 1 in San Juan County, began his journey into politics as a child, when he watched his mother report on legislative affairs as a journalist for the Albuquerque Journal. That early exposure to governance and policy shaped his interest in public service, eventually leading him to the state legislature. Living in Farmington, he is well-informed about the challenges and opportunities in northern New Mexico, particularly in matters of energy policy and economic development.


Senator Jeff Steinborn’s Legislative Push and Vision for New Mexico
Profiles

Senator Jeff Steinborn is a lifelong resident of Las Cruces, and was born there. He has served in the state legislature for nearly two decades. He comes from a family dedicated to public service—his father served as mayor in the 1980s. After earning his degree from the University of Texas in Austin, Steinborn returned to New Mexico in 2001 and has since worked on issues ranging from conservation to healthcare and public safety.


Carla Sonntag’s Mission to Help Businesses and Citizens Build a Better New Mexico
Profiles

Carla Sonntag, president and CEO of the New Mexico Business Coalition, is no stranger to the challenges her home state faces. Born and raised in New Mexico, she loves the state’s culture, people, and landscape. However, her frustration with ineffective policies nearly drove her to leave 16 years ago. Instead, she says that after much prayer and reflection she decided to stay and fight for change. “There is no perfect place, so why not stay and make this better?” she asks.


A Visionary in the Land of Enchantment: Dr. Nathaniel Roybal's Journey in New Mexico Medicine
Profiles

Dr. C. Nathaniel Roybal, founder of Retina Consultants of New Mexico, embodies a blend of medical expertise and deep-rooted commitment to his community. Born and raised in Mora, a verdant valley in northern New Mexico, Dr. Roybal’s journey from a ranch kid to a leading retina specialist is as inspiring as it is grounded in the unique culture of his home state.


Sen. Brantley: 'all plans, no action' in CYFD budget request
Profiles

Senator Crystal Brantley said that the Children, Youth, and Families Department's (CYFD) request for a 6.1% budget increase lacks reform and collaboration.


Rep. Dow on medical malpractice bill passing by one vote: 'Elections matter'
Profiles

Rep. Rebecca Dow emphasized the importance of elections, noting that the medical malpractice bill passed the New Mexico House by a single vote.