Steve Pearce, the GOP contender for U.S. Representative in New Mexico’s District 2, volleys an answer to a question posed by Dave Walker, a financial adviser for Edward Jones, during an Artesia Chamber of Commerce Lunch and Learn meeting Thursday at the Pecos Inn as to the correctness of newly-imposed federal regulations on the financial sector. Pearce was the featured speaker at the event, espousing a message of less government, the importance of citizens voicing dissent/becoming politically active and the virtues of Facebook. He said Facebook, an online social networking application, can be used by anyone to garner support for their cause and possibly inspire political action. “We need to show how (over) regulation is driving up the cost of living in America,” said Pearce. He called upon citizens to take action using applications such as Facebook as a stage to propagate their ideas to the general public in an effort to apply pressure to politicians. “I believe the American people have a basic sense of rightness and fairness,” said Pearce. Lunch and Learn events are held the first Thursday of every month around noon at the Pecos Inn. Information with direct relevence to the community is presented during each event. For more information contact Debbie Bell at 746-2744.

Former U.S. Representative Steve Pearce (pictured) is hitting the campaign trail with full force as he vies for re-election in New Mexico’s District 2. The Republican from Hobbs is hoping to regain the seat currently held by Democrat Harry Teague. A fundraiser and reception was held at Hotel Artesia Thursday, where Pearce spoke to attendees about issues such as immigration and health care. The reception to support Pearce was organized by a host committee which included Peyton and Linda Yates, Robert and Deb Chase, Johnny and Terry Gray, Lowell and Norberta Irby, Steve and  Kathy Ripley, Mack and Marilyn Chase, Rep. Bill and LaNette Gray, George and Barbara Gandy, Gary and Sara Sims, Alan and Peggy Deans, Bill and Wanda Sweatt, Chuck Moran, Mike and Flo Williams, Doug and Terry Chandler, Eddie and Debbie Guy, Tim and Theresa Baize, Mike and Judy Deans, Kirk and Sherleen Irby, Ronnie and Kathy Wilbanks, Ray and Karen Westall, Johnny and Rose Mary Knorr, Cooper and Judy Henderson, Dennis and Betty Maupin, Frank and Robin Morgan, Joel and Karen Carson and Glen and Delia-Cortez Collier.