Every Saturday morning, Carolina Belmares Ortega wakes up early to head over to UNM to mentor students who are in the Simon Scholars Program. Ortega dedicates her time to being a model to other individuals.
Ortega is finishing up her MA in Counseling in May. She will be the first female in the family to complete a higher education degree.
“One story that captures my whole present being is my family, and all the hard work they have done for me and my siblings.”
Ortega’s parents came from Mexico during the Reagan Reformation hoping to create a better life for herself and her siblings.
“As difficult (as it was) for them, we are starting to see the fruits of their action to change,” said Ortega.
After graduating, Ortega hopes to “continue spreading the seed of hope to my community, which I will continue to serve my community through advocacy in the social, educational and personal components. In addition, I will continue to remain focused on promoting personal growth for those I serve through support and leading by example.”
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PHOTO STORY: Albuquerque No Kings march draws several thousand
March 29Major intersections were shut down for Albuquerque’s third No Kings protest, which drew approximately 50,000 participants to Montgomery Park and hosted multiple speakers, including former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams. Chants criticizing President Donald Trump, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the war in Iran echoed throughout the crowd. Some participants highlighted Blackstone’s proposed acquisition of energy supplier Public Service Company New Mexico, chanting “Our home is not a sacrifice zone,” and carrying banners that read “Back off Blackstone." Radiance LaJeunesse, who marched with the crowd, said she attended because of “all injustices,” including (the Trump Administration) “pulling children away from their families and killing American citizens.” “It's got way out of hand, this little science experiment that Trump wants,” LaJeunesse said. “I won't lie. I do believe that Democrats are a little spineless. I am a Democrat. But because that's the only way I can vote in every single election, so I make sure to do that.” Leila Chapa is the social media and photo editor for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at socialmedia@dailylobo.com or on X @lchapa06 Paloma Chapa is the multimedia editor for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at multimedia@dailylobo.com or on X @paloma_chapa88
PHOTO STORY: Treasures of the Earth Expo
March 23The Treasures of the Earth Expo, presented by the Albuquerque Gem and Mineral Club, welcomed visitors of all ages with vibrant displays of minerals and engaging activities. From Friday to Sunday, March 20-22, at the Expo NM State Fairgrounds, guests were warmly greeted by volunteers. After buying their tickets, they could cast their vote in the gemstone display competition and entered a raffle for a chance to win prizes. Among the organizations competing for the standout displays were the San Juan College Sherman Dugan Museum of Geology and the New Mexico Mineral Museum. Their booths showcased gems and minerals accompanied by informative pamphlets containing historical and scientific facts. This year’s expo drew a lively crowd eager to explore the wide variety of gemstones, jewelry, fossils and unique mineral-themed products. In addition to the marketplace and display competition, the event featured a daily silent auction where attendees bid on coveted stones and gems to take home. Beyond raw gems and decorative jewelry, vendors offered mineral lamps, wine caps adorned with polished stones, gua shas, dinosaur teeth and an array of intricately carved figures including dragons, skulls, pirate ships, mushrooms and moon shapes. For those needing a break, The Taco Guy provided food options, and tables and chairs were available for guests to relax and recharge. Paulina Acosta-Marta is a freelance photographer for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at photo@dailylobo.com or on X @dailylobo
