power, ego & the impact of public discourse: an analysis of the IV data center controversy (part 1)

edited by sarina e. guerrawebsite by justin orsino What began as a policy discussion about a proposed AI data center in Imperial County has evolved into something far more revealing. This is part of a series that examines not only the project itself, but the breakdown in public discourse surrounding it—the competing narratives shaping perception, … Read more

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data centers: elections have consequences

The controversy surrounding the proposed Data Center on county land near Imperial and El Centro is more than a single land-use dispute—it is a reminder of how deeply local government decisions shape our communities for decades to come. Years ago, after speaking at a public hearing, a friend once asked why I regularly attend county, city, special district, and planning commission meetings. My answer was simple but sincere: the votes cast in those rooms determine what our communities will look like five, ten, twenty years into the future.

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dead presidents: an indigenous critique of american capitalism

written by linda martinezedited by sarina e. guerraformatted by justin orsino Currency, Capital, Dough, Silver, Loot. It’s all one and the same. It is “paper” constructed out of 75% cotton and 25% linen. A green textured sheet with pictures of dead presidents. Money. One of the essential elements necessary for human survival. Since the beginning … Read more

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dear local politicians: why cut ribbons when you could cut rent?

written by sharon burns, regular contributoredited by sarina e. guerraformatted by justin orsino Politicians in Imperial County and the border region really seem to love a good ribbon-cutting. Whether it’s a new park bench, a mural downtown, or an “economic development” announcement, you’ll see them in crisp shirts and hard hats, scissors in hand, posing … Read more

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vile or virtuous: evangelical pastor speaks on kirk

edited by sarina e. guerraquestions/formatting by justin orsinoanswers by chris nunn 1. What was your immediate reaction to Charlie Kirk’s death, and what do you think that reaction reveals about today’s political climate? The first I heard of the shooting in Utah, I was in a board meeting. It was difficult to proceed with the … Read more

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