Locals struggle with adapting to a changing economy By Siet Wright A small crowd formed outside the only pawn shop in Santa Fe– waiting to sell, waiting to buy, waiting for their turn to tell their story. The people conversed amongst each other, talking about the only bits of their lives valuable enough to sell….

Before the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, my days started at 6 a.m. Like many people I would wake up my kid, make our meals and prepare for the day ahead . I’m an MSU Denver senior, a student employee and a single mom. On Wednesday March 11 everything changed. Auraria leadership assured us the campus…

Juanita, the mayordomo of the people’s ditch, San Luis, Colorado. 2019. Photo by Siet Wright

Taos Pueblo, New Mexico. Photo by Siet Wright

“Sorry, We’re OPEN” sign in a jewelry store window Taos Pueblo, NM by Siet Wright

One late summer afternoon, our family sprawled on the back lawn. We harvested the corn that day and as we sat there– each of us with an ear in our hands– I smiled. You caught the smile and said, ‘you look so happy.’ “I’m remembering a happy moment shared with someone I dislike. It’s ironic….

Overview of the Permian Basin           Introduction A recent announcement by the United States Department of Interior about the Permian Basin oil and gas reserves in Texas and New Mexico could have serious environmental implications in the discussion of climate change action. According to the US Geological Survey, the Permian basin has billions of untapped…

Matthew Makley, professor of History “Water can flow or it can crash. Be water, my friend.” –Bruce Lee Secret poet, water buffalo, and perennial jock Matt Makley, PhD. claims he wasn’t a very good student in school but is now a popular professor of history. These days he spends his time while off campus with…