Here’s a look at some local news:
The largest law enforcement agency in the country, which is U.S. Customs and Border Protection is in need of hundreds of new officers to be placed nationwide and especially in El Paso, Columbus and New Mexico. As of 2017, the agency employed 19,437 Border Patrol agents and 23,079 Customs and Border Protection officers at airports, international bridges and border crossings. The Trump administration wants to add an additional 5,000 agents on the Southwest border.
The Silver City Fire Department celebrated 143 years since its inception and 50 years as a paid department during a special event in the Silver City Museum courtyard last Saturday. Current and previous firefighters and their families gathered to listen to the history of the all-volunteer department from 1875 up until 1968 when the department became a paid department and beyond when they relocated to the Public Safety Building on Hudson Street. Six new firefighters were sworn in which included: Vincent Gomez; Colton Allen, Justin Wombacher, Jacob Andazola, Jesse Blair, and Jason Davis. Several firefighters were recognized for achievements and promotions were: Kylle Marshall; Roger Cruzan; Aaron Seavers; and Paul Ortiz. In addition, Tim Heidrick was awarded a “silver ax” for his 20 years of service and retirement, and Jerry O’Neill was named “Firefighter of the Year” for 2017.
Deming MainStreet President, Christie Ann Harvey, has been awarded the “Golden Whip Award” from New Mexico State MainStreet. Since her time at the helm, according to a release, “partners are on board, funding has increased, community relations are at an all-time high, and visible projects are being completed in the area.” In addition, Harvey organized teams to complete the Leyendecker Park and water fountain, including the updating of many business store fronts. Congratulations, Christie Ann Harvey!
Women military veterans are invited to stop by a special New Mexico Department of Veterans Services “women veterans outreach” visit to the agency’s Las Cruces office tomorrow, from 12:00 to 3:00 P.M., at 2024 E. Griggs Avenue. DVS Women Veterans Program Manager Amanda Somerville, will be there for discussions answering questions about the many VA and state veterans benefits available for veterans—including several VA benefits exclusively for women veterans. No appointments are necessary. Women veterans are encouraged to bring their DD-214 separation papers to help facilitate any immediate assistance with benefits claims and can also apply for damaged, lost, or stolen DD-214’s. For more information, contact Ms. Somerville at (505) 383-2431.
