Community News

Photos and video below courtesy of HMS

Silver City, NM — On Saturday, June 13th, Hidalgo Medical Services (HMS) hosted its sixteenth annual Jump Into Summer event. The event saw an impressive turnout with over 400 registered children and more than 750 anticipated attendees.

Attendees had the opportunity to engage with various local healthcare system participants, including HMS' Behavioral Health, Dental, Family Support, Human Resources and Credentialing, I.T., Medical, Mobile Unit, Nursing, and Transportation divisions. Participants also had the opportunity to engage in hands-on education led by the HMS nursing department on "Stop the Bleed," diabetic education, and dehydration prevention.

One of many new acquisitions at the WNMU Museum: Seri/Comcaac BasketSILVER CITY, NM — The Western New Mexico University Museum announces a significant expansion of its permanent collection following a successful transfer of objects from the Museum of Northern Arizona.

The strategic acquisition brings a diverse array of Casas Grandes pottery and ethno-historic Indigenous Mexican objects to Silver City, effectively growing areas of the museum's holdings that were previously underrepresented. The transfer originated when the MNA deaccessioned objects that no longer aligned with its mission. The two institutions collaborated to ensure these culturally significant materials remained in the public trust.

Danielle Romero, Ph.D., director of the WNMU Museum, noted the importance of finding a permanent home for these specific styles of artistry.

"The opportunity to bring these pieces to Silver City allows us to fill critical gaps in our Casas Grandes collection," Romero said. "By working with the Museum of Northern Arizona, we are ensuring that these pre-Hispanic vessels, specifically the Madera Black-on-red style, are preserved in a setting where they can be properly studied and appreciated by our local community and visiting scholars alike."

Officers and Trustees (L to R): Carolyn Peckham (Treasurer), Lorraine Anglin (President Elect), Carolee Cross (President), Joni Miller (Trustee), JoAnn Turner (Trustee), Connie Shivner (Secretary), Vicky Jensen (1st Vice President), Kathleen Schuster, and Alisa Estrada.On Friday, June 12, 2026, the SCWC held its installation ceremony for the 2026–2028 officers and trustees. The ceremony was conducted by past local and state presidents Kathleen Schuster and Alisa Estrada.

Active since 1910, the SCWC is a community service organization dedicated to meeting local needs through initiatives such as our annual Veterans Day Dinner, school backpack drives, and vision and hearing screenings for children.

We are also pleased to announce that the SCWC, located at 411 Silver Heights Blvd., will host a Children's Fun Fest on July 25th from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This event is free for families and features activities for children aged 1–10.

SILVER CITY, NM — The Expressive Arts Department and the Francis McCray Gallery of Contemporary Art at Western New Mexico University recently celebrated the culmination of years of rigorous studio practice with the Spring 2026 Expressive Arts Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibition, which concluded its run May 7.

The works on display spanned a sophisticated range of mediums, reflecting the multidisciplinary nature of the WNMU curriculum. The collections explored complex regional, personal, and contemporary themes, demonstrating the students' ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with deep visual commentary.

COLLEGE PARK, MD – June 11, 2026 – National History Day in New Mexico is proud to announce the teacher honored as New Mexico's 2026 National History Day Teacher of the Year Award nominees. Lee Wilson from Silver High School in Silver City was selected to represent New Mexico in the high school, or senior division. Lee has taught multiple NHD national finalists in his 11 years teaching NHD, and has continued to strengthen a world-class program during his tenure while engaging with and gaining support from his community. 

 "Lee Wilson is one of those teachers who quietly goes about his work every day and changes lives without ever asking for recognition. For nearly 30 years, he has challenged students to think, ask questions, and look beyond the surface of history to understand the people and stories behind it," said Dr. William Hawkins, Superintendent of Silver Consolidated Schools. "What I appreciate most about Lee is that he has always put students first. This recognition isn't something he chased. In fact, if you know Lee, he'd probably rather talk about his students' accomplishments than his own. Whether it's in the classroom, through National History Day, on a committee, or simply helping a student who needs encouragement, he shows up and does the work. This recognition is well deserved because it reflects what so many of us have seen for years: Lee is an outstanding teacher, a respected colleague, and someone who has made a lasting difference in the lives of generations of Silver High students. We are proud of him and grateful for all he has done for our school and community." 

the30something celebrates 2026 nonprofit awardees

The Whiskey Creek Zocalo was the setting for the 2026 the30something awards party this year. As the party started, members mingled in the landscaped grounds near the recently completed Slade Stage, partially funded with an award from the30something last year. The stage looked spectacular and is now ready for outdoor concerts and events. Meanwhile, inside the zocalo, the main stage room was filled with long-time members socializing and welcoming a bevy of new members. 

Photo 1   Janey Katz, David del Junco, Christine Rickman and Trish Kirchhoff, the30something.

Silver City, NM – Hidalgo Medical Services (HMS) is proud to announce that Amanda Barrett, RN, has been recognized with the New Mexico Primary Care Association (NMPCA) Outstanding Team Member Award. This honor recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to advancing community health. Amanda was one of only two healthcare professionals across New Mexico selected for this recognition.

Amanda was recognized for her remarkable contributions to HMS, where she serves as a Clinical Data Analyst & ECW Super User & Trainer with expertise in health information systems, data analytics, and clinical training. Her unique ability to bridge frontline patient care with operational and technological innovation has made a lasting impact on both staff and patients throughout the organization.

SILVER CITY, NEW MEXICO: The Silver City Jacob Bennett Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and rodeo attendees joined in celebrating America's upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with the 2026 Wild, Wild West Rodeo in Silver City. In addition to the United States and New Mexico flags, the America 250 flag and the DAR Chapter flag flew proudly on mounted horses as they ran the rodeo arena in the opening ceremonies to honor the patriots who valiantly fought for our freedom and independence during the American Revolutionary War.