Contributors
The El Paso Journal
Luis Ybarra Jr.
Bio: Luis Ybarra Jr. is a lifelong member of the Widefield community, having graduated from Widefield High School. He serves as an at-large board member for Widefield School District 3. He also works in public health with the Security Water and Sanitation District and serves on the El Paso County Board of Adjustment.
Hon. Stan VanderWerf
Bio: Stan VanderWerf is a 28-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force who served as an El Paso County Commissioner from 2017 to 2025. After completing two terms on the Board of County Commissioners, he announced his candidacy for Mayor of Colorado Springs in June of 2026.
Mary Elizabeth Fabian-Redding
Bio: Mary Elizabeth Fabian-Redding is a Colorado-based communications strategist, small business owner, and community advocate dedicated to strengthening families and communities through education, storytelling, and public service. With experience spanning strategic communications, education, nonprofit leadership, and survivor advocacy, she brings a practical, people-centered perspective to the issues shaping Colorado
Representative Rebecca Keltie
Bio: Rebecca Keltie is a retired U.S. Navy veteran who served her country for 21 years before being elected in 2024 to represent Colorado Springs - based House District 16 in the Colorado General Assembly. The daughter of a Korean War veteran and a German immigrant, she brings a lifelong commitment to service and advocates for public safety, affordability, parental rights, and commonsense leadership for Colorado.