Last week, results from the Las Cruces Bulletin's "Best of the Mesilla Valley 2026" contest started to roll in, showcasing the top picks from the community in various professional categories. According to the City of Las Cruces, this local competition draws nominations and votes from residents who wish to recognize their city's stalwarts, with public safety personnel featuring prominently among the nominees.
Indeed, numerous figures from the City of Las Cruces's Fire Department and Police Department have managed to secure their places in the Winner's Circle of their respective subcategories. They include Lieutenant Ray Diaz and Driver/Operator Eric Palma for EMT, Firefighter Josh Calzada from Station 3, Driver/Operator Cason Carter from Station 1, and Lerame Barela from Station 4 for Firefighter, and Traffic Investigator Adrian De La Garza with Police Chief Jeremy Story for Law Enforcement Officer. The community's votes are not just mere tallies; they represent a testament to proudly and bravely serving the people of Las Cruces day in and day out.
The awards gala, set for November 19, is expected to draw a crowd at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, where winners will be officially announced. Until then, anticipation hangs as the community holds its collective breath, while the pages of the Las Cruces Bulletin will soon reveal the cream of the crop in local excellence once the contest concludes.
