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

The Federal Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has recommended lifting the pause on the use of the Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine. According to a release from the NMDOH, “Federal officials recommended a pause on April 13 following six cases of a rare blood clot in combination with low platelet counts. Since that time, nine new cases have emerged, for a total of 15 – or one for every 500,000 J&J shots administered in the United States. All the cases have been among women, and 13 of the 15 have been in women between 18 and 49 years old.” When Federal health officials formally recommend the pause to be lifted, New Mexico will resume distribution of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. New Mexicans can register for vaccine and schedule their own appointments at vaccineNM.org. In addition, the vaccine is currently available to all New Mexicans 16 years and older, and it is free of charge.

The Western New Mexico Board of Regents met last Friday and accomplished many agenda items that included, approving the upcoming fiscal year’s budget, agreeing on new degree programs, and ensuring the university is ready to receive anticipated Federal funding for capital projects. Some of the propose new degree programs include: an associate degree in wildland fire, a bachelor’s in political science, and a bachelor’s to master’s program in special education. Another of the now-approved associate degrees is in Applied Liberal Arts and Sciences, the passage of which will help launch a new program designed to provide every degree-seeking WNMU student with a credential that could support their entrance into the workforce and empower them to obtain sought- after internships while completing their studies. Members agreed to move forward with a $1.5 million demolition of Regents Row and a $2.5 million Harlan/Fleming Hall commons and 10th Street infrastructure program.

In additional WNMU news, they will be holding a Virtual Career Fair tomorrow from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. via Zoom. Students will be able to learn about career opportunities and meet recruiters. For more information and the Zoom meeting link, visit http://wnmu.edu/events/virtual-career-fair

This has been a look at some local news. Thank you for listening to Silver City Radio.