No Doom or Gloom
Espanola’s drug narrative from a former methadone clinic counselor
Residents have seen, heard, or read about it for decades: Española’s drug problem and daily news around the country in NY Times, LA Times, and most recently, a popular video circulating on You Tube.
All this discussion about Espanola’s drug problem, but where is a real understanding and perspective? Living in Española for 18 years and working as a mental health counselor at a few methadone clinics for the past 10 years has taught me where you grew up, live, and circumstances do not have to define what you are and what you become in this world. I’ve worked with individuals and organizations who are dedicated to changing this drug narrative that haunts towns like Española.
Also, the good news is that according to the New Mexico Department of Health, overdose death rates have declined by 8% since 2021. As a mental health therapist working with hundreds of patients for nearly a decade, I personally know that there are hundreds of patients, making efforts every day to change this narrative of their lives for better futures for their families
Though many people may shun my optimism, I refuse to paint a narrative of doom and gloom for this town of courageous individuals and their families. I believe and encourage a new generation of youth is emerging who are imagining different futures, and they deserve our hope, support and love.
Maurice Fleming
Española
Community Center Needed
Our communities along State Road 96, spanning approximately 40 miles in Rio Arriba County, urgently need a dedicated community center. Residents of District III, including Youngsville, Coyote, and Gallina, are currently without a central hub for essential services, cultural activities, and emergency shelter. This vast area, encompassing communities like Rio Puerco, Arroyo de Agua, and La Mesa De Poleo.
Despite Rio Arriba County having numerous community centers, some described by residents as “newly built” and “outstanding,” in other areas like Hernandez and Chimayó, our region remains underserved. We formally proposed converting the now-closed Coyote Elementary School into a community center, However, County Manager Jeremy Maestas, informed us the property was transferred to the Juan Bautista Valdez Land Grant. We firmly believe Rio Arriba County bears the responsibility to provide a community center for its taxpayers, not pass responsibility on to a Land Grant. We question is: why our significant geographic area isn’t afforded the same consideration as others, asking what factors prevent development here?
We’ve repeatedly tried to engage and but lacking response from County Commissioners and New Mexico State Legislators/Representatives regarding this critical need. We’ve luckily obtained informative responses from County Manager Jeremy Maestas but not actionable responses. We continue to struggle to secure a commitment for the county to take direct action and support this vital initiative for our underserved communities. Our communities deserve a vital gathering space now.
Concerned Residents of
Rio Arriba County District III,
Melvin and Renee Morfin
Brett and Melba McNeil
Many others
Coyote