Tell me about your Las Cruces

I think I’ve said this before on this opinion page: I have a strong interest in history.

For me, it’s not so much about digging through archives, old documents or family records. It’s about people. I love learning about events — both from world history and personal history — and how they shape lives.

That’s why I’m drawn to the storytelling side of journalism. Sitting down with someone and learning who they are through the stories of their life — those moments that reveal why people make the choices they do. It’s how I come to understand them.

As I’ve been tossing around ideas for new content in the Bulletin, history has been on my mind quite a bit, especially this month as we celebrate women’s history. Women have faced an uphill climb in a society long dominated by men, which makes stories like those of Fern Sawyer or Bobbie Green all the more compelling. They refused to let those barriers define them.

Through perseverance, they succeeded — and in doing so, opened doors for others to follow.

That’s a powerful message, and it’s one we can find in just about any life story.

With that in mind, and as we continue laying the groundwork for new content sections in the Bulletin — Money Matters, Inside the Kitchen, Destination Las Cruces, Living Well, Classroom Connections — it became clear that we also needed a space dedicated to the history of this part of New Mexico.

Echoes of the Past will be a regular feature in the Bulletin moving forward. It will highlight stories we’ve covered in the past, along with insights from some of the outstanding historians here in Las Cruces.

We’ll revisit the lives of the people who helped build this community, while also recognizing those who are making history right now. In recent weeks, we’ve shared the stories of Mary Helen Garcia, Denise Chavez and Pat Sisbarro — individuals whose lives continue to inspire.

Now I’d like to turn the focus to you.

Who are the people, past or present, who have shaped your life?

This is another opportunity for you to help shape the stories we tell in the Bulletin. I want to hear about the individuals who have influenced this community. What businesses, traditions or moments come to mind when you think about the “good old days”?

What do you remember about Las Cruces that those of us newer to the area might not know?

One of the things I’ve enjoyed most is learning about my new home through the eyes of others. I’ve had the chance to meet people who know this place deeply and to learn from them what makes Las Cruces special.

Now I’m asking you to help expand that perspective.

Do you know someone with a great story? Is there a person, place or moment in local history that has always intrigued you? What’s something you experienced in high school that no longer exists today?

When those things come to mind, send me a note at kurt@lascrucesbulletin.com. We’ll take a look and find a way to share your piece of Las Cruces history with the rest of the community.

I’m excited to hear your stories. Tell me about your Las Cruces.