Here’s a look at some local news:
New Mexico Governor, Michelle Lujan Grisham has appointed a new secretary of the New Mexico Public Education Department. Ryan Stewart, was introduced by the Governor yesterday during a news conference. Stewart, is an educator with experience in public education and education reform, according to release from the NMPED. In addition, he has served as “executive director of the Partners in School Innovation mid-Atlantic region, based in Philadelphia, and previously served as executive director of the Office of School Improvement and Innovation at the School District of Philadelphia, the eighth-largest school district in the U.S., where he also served as special assistant to the superintendent. Stewart replaces former secretary, Karen Trujillo, who held the job for six months before being removed by Governor Lujan-Grisham.
The first human case of West Nile virus infection in New Mexico in 2019 has been confirmed in a 42-year-old woman from Doña Ana County. The woman required hospitalization and is recovering from the disease. According to a release from the New Mexico Department of Health, West Nile virus is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can sometimes be fatal. In New Mexico, has had cases of West Nile virus every year since the virus migrated to New Mexico in 2003. The NMDOH is urging New Mexicans to take precautions that include using approved insect repellent, regularly drain standing water outside, and by wearing long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. There are no medications to treat or vaccines to prevent West Nile virus infection. People 50 years of age and older and those with other health issues are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill or dying when they become infected with the virus. If people have symptoms and suspect West Nile virus infection, they should contact their healthcare provider.
Over one thousand residents of Deming and Luna County attended “National Night Out” last Thursday at Luna County Courthouse Park in Deming. The free community event helps form positive police-community partnerships and encourages interaction with first responders and various organizations. The three-hour event featured music, food, and giveaways.
