February 3, 2026
Kids at Artesia Rec Center give the greatest gift: Love
They made their Christmas wishes known to Santa Claus, but also wanted to brighten the days of nursing home residents by making 88 Christmas cards for them.
The road to statehood for New Mexico on Jan. 6, 1912
New Mexico with Arizona had the longest waits for statehood – some 64 years.
Around Town
A look at community happenings around Artesia.
Carlsbad adds monument to Pecos River
The display, completed in September, was the work of a group of six women attending Leadership Carlsbad from September 2023 to May 2024.
Hattie Harrison adjusts to college life
Harrison told the Artesia Daily Press that the there are differences between high school and college, but the differences are subtle.
Otero County Prison gives holiday gifts
Throughout the month of December, Otero County Prison donated hand-crafted blankets, quilts, beanies and scarves to several organizations across New Mexico, Texas and Mexico, helping bring warmth and comfort to those in need during the holiday season.
Trout didn’t take a holiday in New Mexico
The Christmas and New Year’s holidays did not impact trout fishing across New Mexico as ideal conditions were cited in late 2025 and early 2026 in lakes and streams across the state.
Padilla signs with Western Colorado University
Artesia senior Kailee Padilla plans to continue her playing career after signing a letter of intent to attend Western Colorado University and continue her education and volleyball career.
Opinion: There’s plenty of good news to report for 2025
In the spirit of the season, I’m devoting this week’s column to good news. Despite the dark times we think we live in, there’s a lot to buoy our spirits.
Keithley’s Korner predictions: Hello AI, bye-bye Jimmy Fallon
Raise a glass to 2026 with a bright outlook for peace, prosperity and happiness.