The West Side Coalition of Neighborhoods is leading an effort to change many’s perception of Albuquerque as a gang haven. This week, “New Mexico in Focus” co-host David Alire Garcia sits down with several people who are working hard on anti-gang efforts in the community and with the New Mexico Legislature. This episode of “New Mexico in Focus” will air on KNME-TV, channel 5, on Friday, Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. and repeats on Sunday, Nov. 16 at 6:30 a.m.
“New Mexico in Focus” looks at social, political, economic, health, education and arts issues and gives them context beyond the "news of the moment." The one-hour show brings viewers important topics, opinions and insight, in an integrated and cohesive package.
Joining Alire Garcia to discuss these ant-gang efforts are Dan Serrano, president, West Side Coalition of Neighborhood Associations, Lemuel Martinez, 13th Judicial District Attorney, and Albuquerque City Councilor Ken Sanchez.
Then co-host Gene Grant and the panel will take on educational issues, look at universal voter registration and ask if New Mexico would be better off without Bill Richardson. Grant will be joined by regular panelists Margaret Montoya, Professor with the University of New Mexico School of Law and School of Medicine, and Political Consultant Whitney Cheshire. The guest panelists this week include Marco Gonzales, an attorney with the Modrell Sperling law firm, and Sophie Martin, blogger at Duke City Fix.
“New Mexico in Focus” will also present a tribute in honor of Veterans Day with UNM veterans Darrin Kowitz, the founder & President, Student Veterans of UNM,
Andy Lilienthal, Iraq War Veteran and UNM student Hiltrud Ridenour, First Vice President of the Rio Grande Valley Chapter of Blue Star Mothers.
Producers of ‘New Mexico In Focus’ are Kevin McDonald and Kathy Wimmer. Closed captioning has been made possible by a gift from Mrs. Elspeth G. Bobbs.