On Tuesday, Aug. 29, more than 40 women met in a conference room near the Green Chile Café at Artesia General Hospital to hear from speakers and network together in the hopes of becoming proactive in the community and making Artesia a better place to live per their slogan: “Empowering women through connection, education, and service.”
The first speaker, Mayor Jon Henry, provided an update from the City on upcoming projects and answered questions from those gathered. He expressed gratitude to those who have been part of the recent community meetings regarding the new Rec Center and those who have participated in the comprehensive study, which is still underway
Henry stated “feedback is an important tool” that local governments need to ensure the city is headed in the direction the citizens want and will meet their needs.
Cmdr. Jeff Letcher followed the Mayor and shared some vital back to school safety tips. Letcher has served in the Artesia Police Department for 17 years, 10 of which have been spent involved with the schools. He covered car safety, urging the public to “reduce our speed and pay attention” for young pedestrians and bicyclists on their way to school.
The Commander touched on the topics of fentanyl, vaping and internet safety and the importance of actively and purposefully engaging with our children and being a part of their lives. One interesting health concern regarded the dangers of backpacks too heavy for a child’s frame, which accounts for more than 14,000 injuries each year, according to a handout provided by the Commander.
The group was also addressed by a New Mexico State University grad who provided insight into the workings of human traffickers. She detailed specific techniques traffickers employ and signs to watch for in persons suspected of being trafficked.
Finally, the Artesia Arts and Cultural District, represented by Morgan Fox of Artesia MainStreet, invited the luncheon attendees to join the AACD as volunteers, specifically for the upcoming Red Dirt Black Gold event which will occur in downtown Artesia on Sept. 30. Those interested in more information are encouraged to attend an informational meeting at the 510 Building on at 5 p.m. Sept. 21.
“When you volunteer, you’re going to have fun,” said Fox, as she talked about RDBG and other upcoming events. To stay in the know concerning downtown events, residents can follow Artesia MainStreet on Facebook or Instagram or by visiting the website artesiamainstreet.com.
Women interested in becoming involved with Women for a Better Artesia can find information on their website womenforartesianm.org.