Here’s a look at today’s news:
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is proposing to increase entrance fees beginning in May 2018. Currently the Gila Cliff Dwellings charges $5.00 per person age 16 and older for entrance into the Monument. Gila Cliff Dwellings is proposing to increase the per person rate to $10.00 per person age 16 and older, and introduce an Annual Gila Cliff Dwellings Park Pass for $20.00. Persons 15 years old and younger, and holders of any America The Beautiful- The National Parks and Federal Recreational Passes (Annual, Military Annual, Senior, Access, Volunteer, or 4th Grader) are not charged entrance fees. Superintendent, Kevin Tillman explained that they are committed to keeping the park affordable, but also want to provide visitors with the best possible experience. The money from entrance fees is used to improve facilities, trails, infrastructure, and visitor services. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is a strong economic engine for the surrounding area. In 2016, more than 41,500 people visited the 500-acre site. In 2015, there were more than 31,000 visiors and in addition to supporting 24 jobs in the local area. Those persons wishing to comment on the proposed fee increase may do so through the park’s Facebook page, the Planning Environment and Public Comment site, or by contacting the park before January 31st.
The Hurley Pride Committee announced its 11th annual decorating contest winners last weekend. First place was awarded to the Muniz family at 403 D Street, second place went to the Martinez family at 217 Nevada, and third place was given to the Encinas family at 609 E Street. The “Best Fence of the Year” award went to the Woffard family at 11 Patty Street, and Honorable Mention went to homes located at 13 Santa Rita Avenue, 104 B Street and 43 Lea Drive. The final award titled “Most Spirited and Decorated Street”, was bestowed upon D Street. A special sign is proudly displayed in the street announcing the honor.
Historic Downtown Silver City has opted to utilize energy efficient LED bulbs for more effective street lighting after comments submitted by visitors this past year. The lighting is brighter but still dark-sky compliant. The project cost $13,000 to complete and with PNM’s rebate program, and the Town of Silver City only had to pay $7,000. In addition, it is estimated that the LED bulbs will create an energy savings of $3,200 per year.
The Silver City Gospel Mission has again opened for homeless individuals in need after last Saturday’s snowfall. After staffing the needed volunteers, several people spent Sunday night in the building in order to escape the freezing temperatures outside. Gospel Mission Board President, Marsha Bowman, stated that if there are enough volunteers to staff the shelter, they will be open any night that the temperature is below 26 degrees. Volunteer “greeters” can be from either gender and work from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m., whereby “overnight awake” volunteers must be male and will be paid a stipend of $25 per night. For more information about volunteering at the Gospel Mission shelter, email the manager at silvercitygospelmission dot org.
In Deming, a Bataan Elementary School fourth grade class led by teacher Joslynn Garcia, organized a service project to benefit the Deming Animal Shelter. Students collected donations of pet food, blankets, old t-shirts to be made into puppy toys, kitty litter and pet beds. The group also obtained cash donations and learned how to manage and budget the money to purchase laundry soap for the shelter. The project was so successful that another will be planned for next year.
