Good morning, Las Cruces.

On May 2, the Really Really Free Market was held at Peace Lutheran Church where 200 to 300 locals exchanged donated items in a no-cost event—showing its growth from an outdoor setup to an indoor gathering.

Organizers say the event reflects strong community spirit.

Middle school students from Camino Real showed courtroom skills in a mock trial held in a real borrowed courtroom in Albuquerque (including teams like Marcus Li's group), where practice turned nerve into confidence and led to a state championship win.

Nicola Roath is studying biochemistry at New Mexico State University after overcoming addiction while raising four children.

Awarded the Live Your Dream Award by Soroptimist International of Las Cruces, she uses the scholarship to advance her education and research natural medicine for addiction recovery.

Centennial High School's FFA teams won state championships in Nursery Landscape, Forestry, and Floriculture this weekend and will compete at nationals in October.

Students practiced for months while balancing school, and advisor Amber Ortiz said the win boosts their confidence.

Nick Clark has taken over as head coach for Organ Mountain girls’ basketball with plans to use strong defense and fast breaks—hoping to lead the team to a district championship while most of last year’s experienced players remain to shore up the squad for state tournament play.

Gadsden High and Rio Grande Prep competed in state esports championships held April 23 to April 25 at the Berna Facio Professional Development Complex in Albuquerque; Gadsden finished first in Rocket League and second in Madden while Rio Grande Prep achieved its deepest playoff run in Mario Kart.

Four Las Cruces teams are set to compete in the 5A state softball tournament starting Friday, May 8 at the Field of Dreams.

Mayfield+Centennial will share a pod, Organ Mountain will host its own group, and Las Cruces High will travel to Alamogordo to begin play.

Blessing of the Fields - 26th Anniversary

10-11 a.m. — New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum — Free entry — Celebrate tradition with a vibrant procession at the annual Blessing of the Fields.

2026 Memorial Day Weekend New Mexico Wine Festival

Noon-6 p.m. — Southern New Mexico State Fair & Rodeo — Cost varies — Celebrate Memorial Day with local wines, food trucks, and live music.

LCR Fest

2-11 p.m. — The Destination: Sports and Arts Complex — Benefit event — Enjoy 18 bands across three stages while local vendors showcase their offerings.

Las Cruces In-Person Networking Event

3-5 p.m. — The Game Sports Bar & Grill — Order your own food/drinks — Connect with local business owners and foster collaborations in a supportive atmosphere.