Here’s a look at some local news brought to you by Silver City Radio.

At the time of compiling this report, COVID-19 cases have increased in New Mexico to 1971 individuals. There is a total of 58 deaths in New Mexico from COVID-19. For our area, we have 14 positive cases of COVID-19 in Grant County with 403 tested, 1 in Catron County with 44 individuals tested and 3 in Luna County with 215 tested. Statewide, there are 116 current hospitalizations, 58 deaths, and 501 totally recovered as of the New mexico Department of Health.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is temporarily deferring payment for borrowers participating in the USDA Community Facilities Direct Loan Program due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. An essential community facility is defined an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area. Provided services do not include private, commercial or business undertakings. Examples of essential community facilities include:

  • Health care and Public facilities
  • Community support and Public safety services
  • Educational services
  • Local food systems
  • Utility services such as telemedicine or distance learning equipment.

Borrowers with direct loans will be allowed to request payment deferrals in writing due to cash flow problems during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Silver City Museum has coordinated a plan that provides online lectures, Silver City quizzes, bedtime stories, virtual exhibits and downloadable activities for the public to engage in during the COVID-19 shutdown. The Museum’s newly redesigned website can be found at http://www.silvercitymuseum.org/, and visitors can sign up for the email list that will supply links and reminders of upcoming events. The Museum’s first virtual Lecture will take place via Zoom on Saturday, April 25th, at 11:00 A.M. featuring local historian and physician, Dr. Twana Sparks, who will speak about the historic pandemic that brought TB patients to the area from far and wide, and what sort of treatment awaited these health-seekers.

Please do your part and support our local businesses by shopping local and make sure to visit silvercityradio.com for a listing of open business in Grant, Hidalgo and Luna counties.