The Scott Michlin Morning Program

Aztec Schools: September 2026 Update: Superintendent Lauren Laws.KSJE is a community-supported public radio station!Join us today at http://www.KSJE.com/supportDid you like this program?  Share it! :-)  See how you can support KSJE here: http://www.KSJE.com/support (Some music is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ )Watch other "visual radio" programs:"The Cop Shop with FPD" every 2nd & 4th Friday at 12pm

The interview with Tim Gibbs of Four Corners Economic Development highlights the ongoing efforts to strengthen economic development in San Juan County and the Four Corners region. Gibbs discusses business recruitment, workforce development, housing shortages, international opportunities, and the importance of developing industrial sites and infrastructure.He emphasizes using data, understanding local resources, and building public-private partnerships to attract new businesses while supporting existing industries. Overall, the discussion presents a positive outlook for regional growth while recognizing challenges such as housing affordability, construction costs, and workforce needs.

Today's interview highlights New Mexican musician Delbert Anderson and his successful career as a jazz performer with the Delbert Anderson Quartet. Anderson discusses his upcoming free performance in Kirtland, a community that played an important role in inspiring his musical journey. He shares how local mentors, his upbringing, and the peaceful surroundings of the Four Corners have shaped his unique musical style and encouraged him to develop his own voice. The interview also emphasizes the importance of community support, hard work, and inspiring young people to pursue their passion for music.

This interview highlights the important work of Sean McTavish, Central Sterile Processing Manager at San Juan Regional Medical Center, and his team’s role in keeping surgical instruments safe and sterile. Sean explains the detailed processes involved in cleaning, inspecting, sterilizing, tracking, and preparing medical equipment for procedures throughout the hospital and surrounding clinics. He also discusses the department’s recent national certification, commitment to continuous improvement, staff education, patient safety, and environmental sustainability. Overall, the interview provides insight into the behind-the-scenes work that helps ensure patients receive safe, high-quality care in their community.

The Farmington Regional Animal Shelter is highlighting several dogs available for adoption this week, including Marvin, Trouble, and Temptress. Marvin is a playful one-year-old with lots of energy and a fun personality, while nine-month-old Trouble and Temptress are playful littermates looking for loving forever homes. The shelter is currently at full capacity for dogs and encourages people to visit or check 24PetConnect to see the many dogs available for adoption. The community is also encouraged to share information about these animals on social media to help them find caring homes.

Today's interview with Jamie Church of the Farmington Chamber of Commerce highlights the many community events and business activities taking place throughout the fall season in the Four Corners region. Jamie discusses upcoming Chamber events, including Fall Crawl, Business After Hours, Focus on Farmington, and a 50th-anniversary celebration, while emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration and supporting local businesses. She also shares insights from a recent economic development summit, focusing on emerging technology, small-business growth, and opportunities for the region. Finally, Jamie talks about her new book, Over a Cup of Coffee, which encourages people to build stronger communities through meaningful, face-to-face conversations and finding common ground.

The interview features archaeologist Paul Reed discussing his concerns about recent changes to federal policies affecting historic preservation, public lands, and Indigenous cultural resources. He explains how changes to national monuments, including Bears Ears, and shortened public comment periods have created uncertainty for archaeologists, tribes, environmental groups, and local communities. Reed emphasizes the importance of public participation, tribal consultation, the rule of law, and congressional legislation in protecting culturally and environmentally significant places. The conversation concludes with a call for greater public engagement and discussion about the future of preservation in the United States.

In this interview, Jenny Lee Ryan from the Farmington Public Library highlights the many free resources, programs, and events available to the community throughout September. She discusses Library Card Sign-Up Month, digital services such as Hoopla and Libby, and upcoming activities including Dungeons & Dragons, Pokémon Go, Twilight trivia, and a Dolly Parton celebration. The library will also host author Anne Hillerman and offer educational programs on Medicare, wills, trusts, and personal finances. Listeners are encouraged to get or renew their library cards and take advantage of the wide range of resources and events offered by the Farmington Public Library.

San Juan College FA 2026 Student Rush:Students learn about student clubs and other activities they can take part in during their time at San Juan College.KSJE is a community-supported public radio station!Join us today at http://www.KSJE.com/supportDid you like this program?  Share it! :-)  See how you can support KSJE here: http://www.KSJE.com/support (Some music is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ )Watch other "visual radio" programs:"The Cop Shop with FPD" every 2nd & 4th Friday at 12pm

This Adopt a Pet Tuesday segment on KSJE highlights several dogs available for adoption through the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter. Amber Francisco introduces Nyla, Zara, and Magnolia, each with unique personalities and needs, while encouraging families to find the pet that best fits their lifestyle. The shelter is currently nearly full of dogs and welcomes community members to consider adoption and help give these deserving animals a loving forever home. Listeners are also encouraged to share the segment with friends and family to help spread the word about the pets in need.

This Adopt a Pet Tuesday segment on KSJE highlights several dogs available for adoption through the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter. Amber Francisco introduces Nyla, Zara, and Magnolia, each with unique personalities and needs, while encouraging families to find the pet that best fits their lifestyle. The shelter is currently nearly full of dogs and welcomes community members to consider adoption and help give these deserving animals a loving forever home. Listeners are also encouraged to share the segment with friends and family to help spread the word about the pets in need.

The interview highlights the upcoming Healthy Living Expo 2027, organized by the San Juan Health Council and supported by local community partners. Julie Smith discusses her pottery business, Clay Smith Pottery Designs, and explains how creativity, hobbies, and community involvement can contribute to healthy living and overall well-being. The expo will feature up to 125 free booths showcasing businesses and organizations connected to physical, mental, creative, and community health. The event will take place on Saturday, February 20, 2027, at McGee Park, offering community members an opportunity to explore local resources and participate in interactive activities.

The interview highlights the National Day of Service held in San Juan County to honor and remember those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. Seth Bingham discusses the many volunteer projects organized throughout the community, including maintaining local parks, painting at McGee Park, supporting Childhaven, organizing clothing and hygiene donations, and building accessibility ramps. The event encourages people of all ages and abilities to volunteer their time and give back to the community. Through service, the organizers hope to honor the spirit of the first responders and volunteers who demonstrated courage and selflessness on 9/11.

This morning's interview highlights the launch of the new San Juan Youth Coalition, an after-school program designed for youth ages 13–18 in San Juan County. The coalition will be completely youth-led, allowing participants to choose activities such as art, playback theater, community service, and learning projects focused on local issues like bullying, peer pressure, and substance use. The program aims to give young people a safe space to express themselves, build leadership skills, connect with others, and have their voices heard. The San Juan County Partnership is currently recruiting youth, schools, counselors, and community organizations to participate in the program beginning in September.

Chili Fest is a community event returning to Farmington, hosted by Come As You Are Ministry to revive a local tradition and bring families together. The event will feature chili tasting and a friendly cooking competition with categories including red, green, pozole, and an open chili category. Attendees can also enjoy live music, vendors, face painting, a bounce house, and a mechanical bull. Proceeds and community support will also help Come As You Are Ministry continue its faith-based recovery work.

The interview with Farmington Schools Superintendent Cody Diehl highlights several exciting developments at the start of the new school year. Topics include student achievements, improvements to athletic fields, community support, the district’s new website, new school leadership, and upcoming construction projects. Diehl also discusses declining enrollment and the district’s efforts to provide students with more opportunities through academics, athletics, fine arts, and extracurricular programs. Overall, the conversation showcases the progress, accomplishments, and ongoing changes within Farmington Schools.

This interview discusses Title IX compliance in Bloomfield Schools, focusing on providing equal athletic opportunities for male and female students. Ben Tensay explains the three-part test used to measure compliance: proportional participation, expanding opportunities, and accommodating student interests. He also highlights Bloomfield’s strong athletic participation, community and family support, and efforts to expand programs such as girls’ wrestling and golf. The conversation also touches on plans to build new school facilities and combine two elementary schools with a new middle school campus.

The interview highlights San Juan College’s strong enrollment growth and its continued efforts to improve student success and retention. Dr. Toni Hopper Pendergrass discusses expanded dual-credit courses, career training, internships, transfer opportunities, and support services designed to help students graduate and enter family-sustaining careers.She also outlines new campus improvements, student housing plans, technology initiatives, and a proposed $7.5 million general obligation bond for future projects. The conversation also celebrates San Juan College’s 70th anniversary and its ongoing commitment to serving the local community.

The interview with Senator Ben Ray Luján focuses on healthcare, support for family caregivers, stroke research and rehabilitation, and the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA). Luján discusses his personal experience surviving a stroke and explains his efforts to improve stroke prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services. He also highlights the importance of RECA benefits for New Mexico families affected by nuclear testing and uranium mining, emphasizing the approaching 2027 deadline. Finally, he discusses protecting sacred sites and public lands such as Chaco Canyon and Bears Ears, advocating for bipartisan cooperation and community involvement.

The program features an interview with Tim Gibbs of Four Corners Economic Development about economic growth in San Juan County. They discuss the region’s housing shortage, the newly forming housing coalition, support for local businesses, and efforts to attract new companies and investment.Gibbs also highlights the need for better industrial sites, infrastructure, and workforce development to make the area more competitive. The segment emphasizes proactive economic development and the importance of building on the strengths of local businesses and the community.

This episode discusses the second annual Summertime Family Fest at San Juan College, taking place on August 29 from 4–8 p.m. The free community event will feature food, live music, games, a cornhole tournament, face painting, a foam machine, fossil activities, a firetruck, and a bike course. Organized by Dugan Production with support from the San Juan College Foundation, the event also raises awareness and funds for student food-security programs. Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation, while all food and activities are provided free of charge.

The interview features Audra Winters from the San Juan Medical Foundation discussing the organization’s year-round efforts to support local healthcare and community members. She highlights programs that help men with medical expenses, women facing cancer-related costs, and patients and families staying at the Connelly Hospitality House. The conversation also covers several upcoming fundraisers, including the annual Walk-a-Thon, Off-Road Prom, side-by-side raffle, and cancer awareness luncheon.

The segment highlights three pets available for adoption at the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter: Zach, a sweet and slightly nervous dog who gets along well with other animals; Haddock, a playful pup who loves water and adventure; and Candy, a loving one-year-old tabby cat. The shelter is currently very full, especially with dogs, and encourages people to adopt or visit if they have lost a pet. Amber Francisco reminds listeners that the shelter has animals suited to many different lifestyles, from relaxed couch companions to active runners.

The interview features Aztec School District Superintendent Lauren Laws discussing the start of the new school year and the district’s goals for students and staff. She highlights the success of the first annual Tiger Summit, which brought families, schools, and community organizations together before classes began.Laws also discusses the district’s focus on improving math, reading, science, graduation rates, attendance, and positive classroom culture through programs such as Capturing Kids’ Hearts. She emphasizes community involvement, student engagement, extracurricular activities, and creating a consistent, positive learning environment for all Aztec students.

The interview discusses the start of the new school year in the Central Consolidated School District, including teacher recognition, student activities, and efforts to improve attendance. Superintendent Steve Carlson also addresses rumors about school closures and explains that the district is expanding career and technical education programs rather than eliminating them. A major focus is the launch of Eagle Peak Career Academy, which replaces Career Prep and offers students more career-focused pathways such as health science, business, and welding. The interview also highlights apprenticeship opportunities, FFA achievements, and the district’s plans to support students’ success throughout the school year.

The Aztec Museum in Pioneer Village is hosting a free presentation on Sunday featuring author John Wallace and his book, The Sheep Industry of Territorial New Mexico. Wallace will discuss the important role sheep played in New Mexico’s economy, culture, foodways, clothing, and history from the territorial period through statehood in 1912. The event highlights how New Mexico became the first major sheep-producing region west of the Mississippi River and how the industry helped integrate the Southwest into the national economy. The Pioneer Village and museum exhibits open at 4:30 p.m., followed by Wallace’s presentation at 6:00 p.m.

San Juan County is updating its Growth Management Plan and developing an affordable housing plan to guide development, housing, transportation, economic growth, and land use over the next 5–20 years. County officials and consultants are seeking public input through a survey and community outreach to identify where and how development should occur while protecting agricultural land, improving infrastructure, and addressing housing affordability.

The interview focuses on keeping children healthy as they return to school, with an emphasis on handwashing, healthy eating, hydration, physical activity, and limiting screen time. Meredith Justice of San Juan Health Partners Pediatrics also discusses the importance of consistent sleep routines, noting that adequate sleep supports children’s mood, concentration, and overall well-being. The conversation covers common back-to-school illnesses, sports physicals, vaccines, and ways parents can help children stay healthy and safe. Justice also encourages parents to pay attention to changes in their children’s behavior, sleep, eating habits, or interests, particularly when it comes to teenagers’ mental health.

The annual Dining with the Dead event, hosted by Rio Del Sol Kiwanis, returns for its 13th year on September 12. The event brings local actors to life as historical figures, sharing fascinating and sometimes wild stories about pioneer families and individuals who helped shape Farmington and San Juan County. Along with a historical cemetery tour and dinner, the event raises money to support local children through programs providing clothing, coats, shoes, and other necessities. Tickets are $30 and are expected to sell out quickly. 

This Tuesday morning KSJE segment features Amber Francisco from the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter discussing several pets available for adoption. She highlights Opal, an energetic 1½-year-old who would thrive in an active home; Bashful, a shy but loving 5-year-old who needs patience; and Miles, a 3-year-old recovering from heartworm treatment who is looking for a caring forever family. The shelter is currently at full capacity for dogs and encourages community members to consider adoption and help spread the word about the animals in need.

This interview explores the Pueblo Revolt of 1680, a significant Indigenous uprising against Spanish colonial rule in the Southwest that successfully reclaimed Pueblo independence for more than a decade. Archaeologist Paul Reed discusses how Pueblo communities coordinated the revolt, resisted Spanish reconquest, and returned to traditional cultural and religious practices during this period. The conversation also examines archaeological discoveries, changes in settlement patterns, pottery traditions, and the growing contributions of Indigenous scholars to understanding this history. 

This morning's segment features Jennifer Lee Ryan of the Farmington Public Library reflecting on the success of the library’s summer reading program, which drew nearly 3,000 participants and logged more than 42,000 books. She also previews upcoming library events, including the annual Foundation Book Sale, book discussion groups, and a Pokémon GO workshop, while highlighting how these programs foster literacy, community engagement, and lifelong learning. 

The KSJE "Adopt a Pet Tuesday" segment features Amber Francisco from the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter introducing three adoptable dogs: Marvin, Harley, and Gaspacho. Each young, energetic pup is described as playful, affectionate, and well-suited for active families looking for a loyal companion.Amber also shares that the shelter is currently at full capacity and encourages the community to visit, meet the animals, and consider adoption. The segment concludes with a reminder to support local animal shelters by adopting and sharing information about pets in need of homes. 

#AztecNM Museum & Pioneer Village rain/flood damage update: Joan Monninger.KSJE is a community-supported public radio station!Join us today at http://www.KSJE.com/supportDid you like this program?  Share it! :-)  See how you can support KSJE here: http://www.KSJE.com/support (Some music is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... )Watch other "visual radio" programs:"The Cop Shop with FPD" every 2nd & 4th Friday at 12pm

Farmington Schools: July 2026 Update: Cody Diehl, Casey Kelly, Jennifer Bowles.KSJE is a community-supported public radio station!Join us today at http://www.KSJE.com/supportDid you like this program?  Share it! :-)  See how you can support KSJE here: http://www.KSJE.com/support (Some music is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... )Watch other "visual radio" programs:"The Cop Shop with FPD" every 2nd & 4th Friday at 12pm

This week on Adopt a Pet Tuesday, join hosts Amber Francisco & Scott Michlin as they discuss the most recent shelter picks. Featured this episode Odessa, a playful heeler puppy, Widow, a chill dog with a distain for cats & Molly, a playful & curious 10 month old puppy!

This transcript features two honors public speaking presentations by students from San Juan College, broadcast on KSJE. The first speech explains how regular exercise improves mental health by reducing stress and anxiety, boosting mood, and supporting long-term brain health, using research from reputable health organizations. The second speech highlights the extensive fundraising efforts that support the Aztec High School wrestling team, emphasizing the importance of community donations and volunteerism in helping student-athletes succeed. The program concludes with the host thanking both students for sharing their informative and inspiring speeches. 

This interview highlights Four Corners Musical Theater's upcoming production of Shrek the Musical at the Farmington Civic Center, featuring director Randy West and members of the cast. West discusses the show's themes of acceptance, friendship, and self-confidence, while also sharing insights into the collaborative rehearsal process, the importance of community involvement, and the theater company's welcoming environment for performers of all ages. Cast members reflect on preparing for their iconic roles, and the interview concludes with performance details, a preview of future productions, and the company's ongoing commitment to growing musical theater in the Farmington community.

This transcript is a live broadcast of the 2026 Connie Mack World Series Parade in downtown Farmington, featuring hosts Scott Michlin, Jenny Lee Ryan, and Devin Neeley as they introduce parade participants, community organizations, local businesses, and visiting baseball teams. The broadcast highlights the excitement surrounding the Connie Mack World Series, celebrates Farmington's 125th anniversary, and recognizes the volunteers, sponsors, and city departments that make the event possible. Alongside parade coverage, the hosts share event information, interviews, lighthearted commentary, and baseball-themed humor, creating an engaging and festive atmosphere for viewers both in person and online. 

The interview highlights the San Juan County Partnership's 35-year commitment to improving community health and well-being through prevention, education, housing assistance, and collaborative programs. Amanda Evans and Julie Smith discuss the organization's growth, the importance of grant funding and private donations, and the launch of a special 35th anniversary fundraising campaign to address unmet community needs. They also share information about upcoming outreach efforts at the San Juan County Fair, youth vaping and alcohol prevention initiatives, and the Art as Prevention program that uses creative activities to help young people build confidence and make healthy choices. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the value of partnerships, community engagement, and data-driven programs in creating a stronger, healthier San Juan County.

During KSJE's "Adopt a Pet Tuesday" segment, host Scott Michlin highlights three adoptable dogs—Coco, Daffy Duck, and Lucky—from the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter. Although technical difficulties cut short his interview with shelter representative Amber Francisco, Scott shares each dog's personality and encourages listeners to consider adoption. He also reminds viewers about the Bissell Pet Foundation's Empty the Shelters event, which offers waived adoption fees for eligible pets. The segment concludes with a call for the community to share the featured animals and help them find loving forever homes. 

Mayor Brett Lanier joined KSJE for his first interview since being elected as Aztec's 60th mayor, discussing his priorities for the city and his vision for its future. The conversation covered current water restrictions due to drought, progress on the long-awaited Aztec Arterial Project, and the city's efforts to fill key leadership positions and improve infrastructure. Lanier also highlighted the importance of supporting local businesses, strengthening regional partnerships, and expanding community-focused projects such as the BMX track and downtown events. Reflecting on his lifelong ties to Aztec, he emphasized preserving the city's small-town character while encouraging thoughtful economic growth and long-term planning. 

This interview features Kathy Price, co-coordinator of 100% San Juan County, discussing the organization's mission to improve the well-being of local families through collaborative, community-driven initiatives. She highlights several new and ongoing programs, including the "News & Chews" family resource campaign, school gardening projects, parenting cohorts, youth development opportunities, and an upcoming housing summit focused on affordable housing solutions. Throughout the conversation, Price emphasizes the importance of partnerships, volunteerism, grant funding, and connecting residents with essential resources to help families overcome challenges and build long-term stability in San Juan County.

This interview covers two major issues affecting San Juan County: high gasoline prices and innovative approaches to addiction treatment. Commissioner Sandra Lanier discusses her request for the New Mexico Department of Justice to investigate why gas prices in San Juan County remain consistently higher than neighboring areas, emphasizing the need for transparency and answers for residents. The second half features Alternative Sentencing Director Jennifer Mitchell, who explains the county's evidence-based treatment programs for individuals with substance use disorders and introduces a new pilot program designed to help people experiencing homelessness and addiction transition from jail-based treatment into long-term recovery services.

In this week's Adopt a Pet Tuesday segment on KSJE, Amber Francisco from the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter introduced three adoptable dogs—Odin, Timothy, and Coral—each with unique personalities and ready to find loving homes. She also highlighted the Bissell Foundation's Empty the Shelters event, which has been extended through August 1 and waives all adoption fees, including spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchipping. Amber encouraged prospective adopters to meet dogs outside their kennels to see their true personalities and invited the community to visit the shelter and help more animals find forever homes.

Jamie Church of the Farmington Chamber of Commerce joined KSJE to recap the Chamber's successful Tees & Tunes golf tournament and Music by the Pond, while previewing several upcoming events, including Business After Hours at Lauter Haus and the annual Professional Women's Summit. She highlighted new additions to this year's Women's Summit, including a breakout session led by keynote speaker Sarah Elkins, and encouraged attendees to purchase tickets early when they go on sale August 3. Church also discussed the Chamber's ongoing advocacy efforts, member resources such as its business blog and networking programs, and emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses and staying engaged with the Chamber throughout the year. 

This interview highlights Presbyterian Medical Services' expanded early childhood education offerings, including new wraparound care that provides free, high-quality childcare for children ages six weeks to five years. Children's Services Manager Shannon Evango explains how the extended 10-hour program supports working families while maintaining nationally accredited educational standards, play-based learning, and comprehensive family support. The conversation also covers innovative programs that promote children's social-emotional development, parent engagement, and the organization's ongoing efforts to recruit qualified staff as it expands services in the Farmington community. 

Tim Gibbs, Executive Director of Four Corners Economic Development, discusses the organization's annual meeting, new leadership, and priorities for the coming year, including supporting the San Juan County rail project, expanding housing opportunities, and strengthening organizational funding. He highlights ongoing efforts to address the region's housing shortage through public-private partnerships and nonprofit initiatives while also sharing updates on international business recruitment efforts aimed at attracting new companies to northwest New Mexico. Gibbs explains how relationship-building and strategic outreach are helping position the region for long-term economic growth. The interview concludes with a discussion of his recently earned doctorate and how his research on workforce participation will inform future economic development efforts.

This interview features Robbie Donald, Director of Emergency Transport Services at San Juan Regional Medical Center, discussing the hospital's ground and air emergency transport programs. Donald explains how ambulance, helicopter, and fixed-wing aircraft teams provide rapid, lifesaving care across the Four Corners region, emphasizing the importance of quick transport for trauma, cardiac, and other critical emergencies. He also highlights the specialized training required for flight crews, ongoing collaboration with first responders, future plans to expand emergency transport services, and the hospital's commitment to advancing emergency medicine through education and innovation. 

During this week's "Adopt a Pet Tuesday" segment, Amber Francisco from the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter introduced three adoptable dogs: Charlie, a gentle 90-pound companion; Sweet Tator, a loving three-year-old ready for a home after raising her puppies; and Burley, an energetic dog who would thrive with an active family. She also announced that the BISSELL Empty the Shelters adoption event has been extended through August 1, waiving adoption fees for all eligible shelter animals. Amber encouraged the community to visit the shelter, meet the animals, and take advantage of the promotion to give a pet a loving forever home. Host Scott Michlin closed the segment by reminding listeners to consider adopting from local shelters and rescue organizations when adding a pet to their family.