Fire Season, US Attorney Pt. 2, Rising Food Prices

This week on New Mexico in Focus, we break down a report that ranks New Mexico as one of the 10 most expensive states to purchase groceries. Senior Producer Lou DiVizio speaks with Dr. James Peach, a retired economics professor with New Mexico State University, about why marketplace prices in New Mexico continue to rise. Then, Sonya Warwick of Roadrunner Food Bank tells describes the increased need her organization is seeing as food gets more expensive. 

We return this week to the second part our interview between Executive Producer Jeff Proctor and U.S. Attorney Alexander Uballez. During this discussion, Jeff asks how the federal investigation into alleged corruption at the Albuquerque Police Department could impact the ongoing federally mandated reform effort for APD. Plus, Uballez tells us if we should expect public closure in the high-profile case, regardless of its outcome. 

It’s springtime in New Mexico. That means warmer temperatures, winds — and the start of fire season. Our Land Senior Producer Laura Paskus talks with the heads of the New Mexico State Forestry Division about this year’s fire season, climate change and why fire is a vital part of a forest’s structure. 

Host: Lou DiVizio

Segments: 
‘We Have to Put Fire Back on the Land’ 
Correspondent: Laura Paskus 
Guests: Laura McCarthy, New Mexico State Forester  
Lindsey Quam, Deputy New Mexico State Forester   

U.S. Attorney on Importance of Public Closure in High-Profile Cases 
Correspondent: Jeff Proctor 
Guest: Alexander Uballez, U.S. Attorney, District of New Mexico 

Why New Mexico Grocery Prices Continue to Rise 
Correspondent: Lou DiVizio 
Guest: Dr. James Peach, retired economics professor, New Mexico State University 

NM Food Banks See More Demand as Food Prices Soar 
Correspondent: Lou DiVizio 
Guest: Sonya Warwick, director of communications, Roadrunner Food Bank 

How to Live Safely and Sustainably Near Forests 
Correspondent: Laura Paskus 
Guests: Laura McCarthy, New Mexico State Forester  
Lindsey Quam, Deputy New Mexico State Forester