Marcy is sunshine in a slightly squishy Lab suit! At 9 years young, this golden-hearted girl is pure joy on four paws, with a tail wag that starts at her nose and ends somewhere in tomorrow. Marcy lives for her people — shadowing you like a happy little cloud, collecting pats and insisting every moment deserves appreciation. When the sun’s out, she’s first in the kiddie pool, channeling full mermaid energy. She knows her basics (especially when snacks are involved), enjoys leash strolls with a touch of joyful enthusiasm and is fully house and crate trained thanks to her inmate foster.

I write this to express my support for Monica Salazar as the next Rio Arriba County Sheriff. Monica will bring a “new vision” to the department. She has the training needed, which she will lead with, having developed an arsenal of special skills over her career. Monica has much field experience and has served in leadership positions in her career. She knows her first order of business will be to keep 100% of Rio Arriba residents safe.

The packed chambers in Tierra Amarilla said everything. People in Rio Arriba County are paying attention — and they care deeply about protecting what matters most: our water, our land, and our future.

In a 30 day budget session, it’s easy for lawmakers to focus narrowly on fiscal matters and defer broader policy priorities until next year’s 60-day session.