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CFFF Newsletter - December 7, 2023


Buenas Dias CFFF Members, Families, and Allies,


I hope this message finds you well and in good spirits and health during this Holiday Season. For those of you who may not know me, my name is Manny Crespín Jr., and I am the Founder of the Coalition for Fire Fund Fairness. As a proud native of Northern New Mexico, a proud West Las Vegas High School and NMSU Graduate, my roots are deeply tied to the land that has recently been scarred by the Hermit's Peak-Calf Canyon Fires. Below is an update of the important work that we have been doing. It has been a rewarding experience working with all of you. The phone calls, the emails, the in person interactions, the town hall meetings, and seeing and feeling all the heart and soul that you all have for this cause. It is truly unmatched because we are Norteños and we are strong and resilient! ¡Adelante!

I have included photos and scattered them throughout the sections so you can have something to look at visually. I enjoy a good email update with photos and I hope you enjoy them too!



Section 1: Happy Holidays to You and Your Families

As we enter this Holiday Season, I want to extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you. May your upcoming days be filled with joy, peace, and the comfort of your loved ones. During this special time of year, I encourage you to share the message of the Coalition for Fire Fund Fairness with friends and family. Your well-being and the well-being of your family are of utmost importance to us. Please know that we sincerely care about you, and we are here to support you in any way we can. May this season bring you moments of tranquility, connection, and renewed hope.



Our commitment to advocating for everyone affected by the Hermit's Peak-Calf Canyon Fires remains unwavering. My passion for this cause is fueled by personal connections to the region, and as Founder, I am dedicated to ensuring that FEMA does what is right for the victims. In recent months, I've had the opportunity to speak at Town Halls, providing insights into our ongoing efforts to hold FEMA and government officials accountable. Being an activist and advocate for HPCC Fire victims is not just a role but a responsibility to ensure that CFFF fights for victims and that they are compensated for both economic and non-economic damages under New Mexico law.



Section 2: A Soaring Testament to Unity - The EcoFlight Experience

I am thrilled to share our experience of an Eco-Flight, made possible by the generous sponsorship of the Heirs to the La Merced de Santa Gertrudis de lo de Mora (Mora Land Grant). This unique perspective from the sky provided a stark and devastating view of the scars left by the HPCC Wildfires and fueled my passion even more. The aerial vantage point highlighted the extensive damage that might not be visible from the ground, emphasizing the urgency of our advocacy work.



Section 3: Shining a Spotlight for FAIRNESS - CFFF in the News


The Coalition for Fire Fund Fairness has been making waves in the media. Our presence on Northern NM Radio Stations, publications, and coverage on KRQE News have been instrumental in spreading awareness about our cause this past month. This exposure has been crucial in reaching out to affected communities and organizing successful Town Halls.


Other articles:


Section 4: Solidarity and Support - Elected Officials Join the Cause


On Tuesday, December 4, 2023, CFFF, and elected officials, and an email to the White House representing you all was sent and is being received. I have sent the story to news outlets throughout the state and have already heard back from several. We're grateful for the overwhelming support from elected officials in affected counties and leaders in New Mexico politics and fierce ecological advocates for this cause. Together, we've let our voices be heard! In the letter to DC, CFFF, Elected Officials, and advocates are urging FEMA to take immediate action and accountability. Please see the Letter to DC as well as our Press Release showcasing our collective efforts.



Section 5: Your Voice Matters - Sharing Personal Stories


We encourage everyone affected by the HPCC Wildfires to come forward and share their stories. Your experiences could be the catalyst for change in the FEMA process. Do not hesitate to reach out, and we are here to support you in getting your Op-Eds published and connecting with news outlets to tell your story.



Section 6: Staying Positive Amidst Adversity


In the face of adversity, I want to express sincere gratitude to each person for maintaining faith and positivity during these challenging times. Your resilience inspires us to continue our fight for justice and reform.

This fight is far from over, but we will fight until we are heard, justice is served, and economic damages and non-economic damages are honored under New Mexico Law!



Section 7: Two Upcoming Town Halls


Please mark your calendars for two critical town hall meetings. The first town hall meeting is with our friends at Singleton & Schreiber and it will be held today, Thursday, December 07, 2023 at 5:30 PM at Luna Community College IPC Cafeteria located at 366 Luna Dr., Las Vegas, New Mexico, 87701. The second town hall meeting is with FEMA and it will be next Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at 5:30 PM at Mora High School Lecture Hall located at 10 Ranger Road, Mora, New Mexico, 87732. Your presence is crucial at both of these meetings as we work towards the change we want to see in the FEMA claims process.



Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or if you need assistance in navigating resources and information. If your friends and family don't know about the Coalition for Fire Fund Fairness, please forward them this email and encourage them to sign up at

Thank you ALL for your unwavering support.

Together, we can make a difference.

¡Juntos, lo podemos hacer!

Respectfully yours in service,





Manny Crespín Jr.

Founder of the Coalition for Fire Fund Fairness

575.621.5683



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