Non-Local News Releases
This category will feature news releases from out-of-area government agencies and representatives, as well as events that are not taking place in the four-county area of Grant, Catron, Hidalgo or Luna. For local events please visit Local News Releases.
NMSU regents, chancellor announce mutual separation; Gogue named interim chancellor
- Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
- Published: 07 April 2023 07 April 2023
At a special meeting Friday, April 7, of the New Mexico State University Board of Regents, the board agreed to a mutual separation with Chancellor Dan Arvizu. The board also announced the selection of former NMSU President Jay Gogue to serve as the university’s interim chancellor, starting Friday. Gogue will lead the NMSU system while the search for the university’s next permanent chancellor takes place.
During the meeting, Arvizu said he believed accelerating this transition will allow the university to put its full focus on finding the NMSU system’s next permanent chancellor.
“This separation is truly mutual,” Arvizu said. “For the past five years, my only motivation has been to do what I believe is in the best interest of NMSU, and transitioning now will allow the university to devote the time and effort needed over the next several months for a successful search.”
“The Board of Regents appreciates all Chancellor Arvizu has done for our university,” said Ammu Devasthali, chair of the NMSU Board of Regents. “As we thank him and wish him well, we, at the same time, welcome Jay and Susie Gogue back to Las Cruces.”
New Mexico Receives Positive and Stable Ratings for 2023 General Obligation Bond Series
- Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
- Published: 07 April 2023 07 April 2023
Moody’s assigns Aa2 and S&P assigns AA/AA
SANTA FE – The State of New Mexico received Aa2 and AA/AA bond ratings from Moody's Investors Service and S&P Global Rating on the upcoming New Mexico General Obligation Bond Series 2023, with an estimated issuance of $233.3 million. Both rating agencies assigned a stable outlook, providing confidence in the state to bond investors.
“New Mexico bonds continue to be attractive to investors,” said DFA Secretary Wayne Propst. “Our reserve levels continue to near historic highs, the state has maintained moderate debt levels throughout the year and reforms related to pension obligations, have moderated past concerns expressed about the state’s two pension plans.”
Moody's Investors Service assigns an Aa2 rating to New Mexico's General Obligation Bond Series 2023. Following this issuance, the state will have $550.9 million of general obligation bonds outstanding, all rated Aa2.
NMDOT Traffic Report for week of April 9 to 16, 2023.
- Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
- Published: 07 April 2023 07 April 2023
In all construction zones, motorists are asked to reduce speed, obey posted signs, and use extreme caution, as well as continue to be cautious of heavy equipment and construction personnel in the area. PLEASE NOTE: Conditions are subject to change without notice. Double fines for speeding in work zones may be in effect.
White Sands Missile Range Notification
For information regarding closures, you may call WSMR at 678-1178 or 678-2222 for updates.
Interstates:
Date St. Business Loop Roundabout Project, T or C
State provides update on in-person wellness checks for disabled clients
- Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
- Published: 07 April 2023 07 April 2023
Multiple state agencies involved in wellness checks
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) reports progress in completing health and safety wellness checks for clients receiving services from the states’ Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver programs.
As of 12 p.m. on Friday, April 7, 4,654 in-person wellness visits have been completed statewide for the 6,815 individuals receiving services from Developmental Disabilities Waiver programs. These visits identified 68 sites with possible concerns. Every one of these incidents is being fully investigated.
Of those 68 sites:
- 42 sites resulted in reported allegations of potential abuse, neglect and exploitation.
- 26 sites had concerns that primarily revolved around home repairs, damages or other environmental concerns.
Wildfire Preparedness Is Year-Round: Get Your Home in Condition to Resist Wildfire Ignitions
- Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
- Published: 06 April 2023 06 April 2023
Santa Fe, NM – It is important for residents to evaluate their homes and structures for resilience from wildfires. The 2023 Wildfire Preparedness is Year-Round campaign provides monthly wildfire preparedness tasks that follow the changing seasons.
In conjunction with Southwest Wildfire Awareness Week, the April message from the Energy, Minerals & Natural Resources Department, Forestry Division, along with our partners, agencies and non-governmental organizations is, “Get Your Home in Condition to Resist Wildfire Ignitions.”
Most homes ignited by wildfires are caused by embers or small flames. Homeowners can minimize property damage and protect firefighters by taking steps on and around buildings in the short and long-term.
Governor Signs Package of Broadband Bills which Break Down Systemic Barriers to Better Internet
- Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
- Published: 06 April 2023 06 April 2023
SANTA FE- This legislative session Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and the state Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) pursued legislation to create smoother pathways for the development of broadband infrastructure in order to facilitate better, faster Internet for all New Mexicans. Due to modern advancements in technology outpacing state laws and regulations, OBAE developed a legislative package intended to break down inherent barriers through changes to existing statutes. It was a successful session for broadband initiatives, for which a slate of bills passed both houses, and the legislation was signed into law by the governor.
According to Broadband Director Kelly Schlegel, “In the several months since my appointment, it’s become imminently clear that the key to making universal broadband a reality in New Mexico is breaking down some of the systemic barriers that exist in the form of complicated Rights of Way processes, cumbersome, multilayered grants procedures, and limitations on the state’s ability to procure services for critical infrastructure projects. We are exceedingly grateful to Governor Lujan Grisham and the legislators who spearheaded the successful passage of our legislative agenda, which gives us the tools to overcome some of these challenges.”
18th annual J. Paul Taylor Social Justice Symposium to focus on journalists
- Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
- Published: 06 April 2023 06 April 2023
“Justice for Journalists” is the theme of the 2023 J. Paul Taylor Social Justice Symposium April 12-13. The event is free and will be open to the public both in-person and via video conferencing at New Mexico State University. The symposium will feature panels of journalists bringing to light national issues impacting treatment of journalists.
This year’s theme of 'Justice for Journalists' honors journalists for keeping us informed, providing an outlet for our voices, and functioning as a cornerstone of our democracy,” said Spencer Herrera, chair of the symposium and NMSU Spanish professor. “Their work is essential to social justice and we invite the community to learn more about journalism in the borderlands region.’
The symposium will offer a special tribute to the late J. Paul Taylor, a revered New Mexico legislator and longtime educator who founded the symposium. Taylor recently passed away after celebrating his 102nd birthday last August. NMSU’s College of Arts and Sciences established the symposium in 2005 when Taylor suggested bringing resources of the university and community together to address areas of concern for underserved populations in the region.
48-Hour Film Challenge and film workshops return to upcoming Las Cruces Film Festival
- Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
- Published: 06 April 2023 06 April 2023
Showcase what you can create in just two days with the Las Cruces International Film Festival 48-Hour Film Challenge. Presented by the Creative Media Institute of New Mexico State University and LCIFF, the challenge aims to push your creativity to the limit and see what your team can do in a short amount of time.
Filmmakers from Las Cruces, El Paso and Juarez are encouraged to participate in the challenge. There is no age requirement or size limit to participating teams. Those interested can register now at no cost.
A mandatory safety meeting will kick off the challenge. Teams will meet at 6 p.m. Friday, April 7 in the Milton Hall Lobby. Participants will have 48 hours to write, shoot and edit a short film.
Once the 48 hours are up, teams will have to return the short film on a flash drive no later than 6 p.m. Sunday, April 9.