Here’s a look at today’s headlines:
Last Tuesday, the Board of Regents at Western New Mexico University, voted unanimously in favor of the positive results of the annual performance evaluation for University President, Dr. Joseph Shepard. Several community leaders representing local government as well as area businesses and organizations, delivered remarks in support of Dr. Shepard, for the work he has done since beginning his tenure in July of 2011. In addition to many campus improvements including, new student apartments, on-campus movie theater, indoor swimming pool, renovated fitness center, and The Gardens area that has been the site of several outdoor concerts and events, it was said that Dr. Shepard greatly improved the relationship between the university and the town of Silver City.
Beginning Friday, September 1st, the intersection at Bullard & Broadway Street in downtown Silver City, will be changed from a signalized intersection to a 4-way stop. Motorists are urged to be alerted of the change and aware of pedestrians crossing. If you have any questions or need further information about the intersection, please contact the Public Works office at 575-388-4640.
Two area high school graduates have each received $500 scholarships from the Grant County Association of Education Retirees. Hayleigh Drozda, Valedictorian of the Cliff High School 2017 graduating class, and Rebekah McCarty, who ranked first in her Reserve High School class of 2017, were both honored for their scholastic achievements. The scholarships are being given this year in memory of Murray Ryan, who was a great supporter of education.
At a preliminary meeting last Wednesday at the Luna County Courthouse, representatives of Luna County, Columbus, and Deming in addition to the Deming Luna County Chamber of Commerce, local businesses and a Department of Health representative from Grant County, met to discuss the possibilities of being certified by the Continental Divide Trail Coalition as a “Gateway Community”. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail extends across 3,100 miles and five states that include Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico. It is also deemed an economic development project, drawing hikers from around the world to local communities.
The Gila Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees approved a contract with Dr. Preston Maxim, to join the Medical Executive Committee. This committee position pays $110 an hour and typically meets for 10 to 20 hours a month. Dr. Maxim, currently serves as the new manager for the Gila Regional emergency room. There was further discussion on whether physicians should be compensated for serving on certain boards and committees that have been created for the betterment of the hospital. CEO, Taffy Arias, announced that she plans an overhaul on how contracts are negotiated at Gila Regional, including the agreement between the hospital and the town of Silver City for ambulance services.
