Lifestyle

Southeast New Mexico College and the Southeast New Mexico Homeschool Hub are bringing Shannonogons Circus Camp to the Cavern City Renaissance Festival. Fourteen young performers will showcase clowning, movement, balance and circus skills at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at the Bandshell Stage. Visitors can also meet SENMC theater students in the Eddy Players Thespian Lounge.

During election season, discerning truth requires more than listening to candidates’ promises; their actions, character, consistency, and follow-through matter. Reflecting on Matthew 21:23-32, this devotional contrasts words with genuine belief, reminding readers that faith is demonstrated through action. Jesus’ parable also reveals God’s surprising grace and welcomes even those society considers sinners into the Kingdom.

After winning the New Mexico Bass Nation Kayak series youth championship at Conchas Lake in July, Artesia senior Jonathan Chavez returns to compete in the NMBNK Classic Championship. The season-ending tournament begins Saturday at Ute Lake and concludes Sunday at Conchas Lake, where Chavez will face his brother Matt and uncle Anthony Barrera in a family rivalry.

Thick-cut pork chops are stuffed with Hatch green chiles, peppery cheese, herbs, and crisp breadcrumbs, then seared and roasted until juicy and golden. Served with sweet sautéed fennel, tangy red cabbage, and pan juices, this colorful Southwest-inspired dinner delivers restaurant-style comfort food with Bruce Lesman’s signature touch of showmanship.

New Mexico anglers can expect near-perfect conditions as summer shifts into fall.

Artesia residents gathered downtown Sept. 12 for the monthly Oil Patch Market at Heritage Plaza, where local vendors sold homemade planters, baked goods, snacks, caps and other unique items. Food trucks, music and family fundraising activities added to the event. The next market is scheduled for Nov. 7 during Balloons, Bands and Brews.

This Caramel Apple Torte layers tender cinnamon-sautéed apples over a buttery, sour-cream cake, then finishes with a rich brown sugar caramel glaze. Perfect for fall entertaining or cozy desserts, it’s delicious warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Add a pinch of New Mexico red chile powder for subtle Southwestern warmth.

Seeing with new eyes begins with empathy: understanding what others think, feel, and experience to build stronger connections and achieve shared goals. Southeast New Mexico College President Kevin Beardmore reflects on teaching, human behavior, and the transformative power of educators who introduce students to fresh perspectives, encouraging readers to remain open to discovery and new possibilities.

Dolly Parton’s Family Banana Pudding is a nostalgic Southern-inspired dessert featuring homemade vanilla pudding, ripe but firm bananas and classic vanilla wafers.

New Mexico anglers reported mixed fishing conditions this week. Largemouth bass were biting well at Carlsbad Municipal Lake, while trout action ranged from slow to good at Bonito Lake, the Pecos River and Red River. Abiquiu Lake produced excellent walleye, crappie and bluegill fishing, and Albuquerque Area Drains offered fair to good catfish opportunities.

Create an impressive Southwest charcuterie board with smoked cheeses, cured meats, artisan breads, Hatch green chiles, pickles, olives, fruit, nuts, and flavorful dips. Bruce Lesman shares simple assembly tips for balancing textures, colors, and bold flavors, plus wine, beer, and cocktail pairings. Perfect for summer gatherings, cocktail parties, wine nights, and relaxed entertaining.

Grill the corn for smoky flavor. Hatch chiles add authentic Southwest flavor. Leftovers are excellent the next day.