Here’s a look at some local news:

With hunting season less than a month away, the Gila National Forest is reminding the public of a few important safety tips. The Gila National Forest is 3.3 million acres with numerous entry and exit points, and most of it has very limited cell service. According to a release from the Forest Service, visitors should be aware of the following: If possible, travel with a companion. Leave a copy of your itinerary with a responsible person that you know; Wear appropriate clothing for the season and be aware that the Gila National Forest ranges from 4,200 – 10,900 feet in elevation; Bring enough water for your trip; Learn basic first aid so that you know how to identify and treat injuries; If possible, travel with a companion; and leave a copy of your itinerary with a responsible person that you know. In the event someone you know is missing call the New Mexico State Police Dispatch. That number is 575-382-2500. All search and rescue incidents in New Mexico are coordinated by the New Mexico State Police.

WNMU hosted its annual “Back to School Bash” on Saturday that kicked off with a State of the University speech by University President, Joseph Shepard. Topics discussed included completed landscape projects, LED lighting, and the new Aldo Leopold Charter School location on campus in Ritch Hall. The event continued in the Hub with fun activities for adults and children and a giveaway of vouchers for meals as surrounding restaurants.

In the Village of Santa Clara, Phase 2 of the Bayard Street reconstruction is underway. According to the Silver City Daily Press, the work is funded by a $750,000 Community Development Block Grant. The project includes LED street lighting and new sidewalks from Viola Stone Park and surrounding area to Highway 180. The village is seeking funding for a 3rd phase of improvements that include sidewalks by the pedestrian bridge.

A non-partisan election will be taking place in Grant County on November 5th. Declaration of candidacy for the offices have to be filed between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM on Tuesday August 27th at the County Clerk’s office. Declaration of intent to be a Write-in candidate needs to be filed between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Tuesday September 3rd. The offices open for election are in the Town Hurley, the Cobre and Silver Consolidated School Districts, and Soil and Water Conservation Districts.