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 495 individuals. There is a total of 10 deaths now in New Mexico from COVID-19. For our area, sadly we have more than one positive cases of COVID-19 in Grant County and one in Catron County. The New Mexico Department of Health and the City of Albuquerque reported today of an outbreak of COVID-19  at the La Vida Llena long-term care facility in Albuquerque where two residents have died, and 19 residents and three staff members have tested positive for COVID-19 with additional test results still pending. During a press conference this afternoon, the Governor’s Orders to stay at home are officially extended through April 30th. On Monday, big box stores will be metered, which means restricting number of employees and customers in the store.

In addition, on the local scene, Silver Health Care will not be holding their COVID-19 drive-thru clinic today April 3rd, tomorrow April 4th and Sunday, April 5th.

The Commons Center for Food Security and Sustainability office in Silver City is closed, although their food pantry will remain on its normal schedule for drive-thru food. Food distributions for areas that include Silver City, the Mining District, Gila, Cliff, Buckhorn, and Redrock are scheduled throughout the month and residents must bring their food pantry card or ID and separate proof of a physical address. The next drive-thru only food pantry for residents of Silver City, Tyrone, Arenas Valley, and Pinos Altos is scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday April 4th at the Commons, 501 East 13th Street in Silver City from 10:00 A.M. to 12 noon. Individuals are requested to stay in their vehicles on Swan Street facing south and prepare to turn Right on 13th Street, the corner where Knights of Columbus is located. Volunteers will collect the necessary information and place a food box in each vehicle. A full list of schedules and locations are available by visiting online at https://www.tvcgrantcounty.org/calendar/ or call 575-654-0860.

The Gila National Forest has closed their developed campgrounds and restrooms due to protecting the public in accordance to state and local measures already in place to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. A current release from the Forest Service refers to “dispersed camping opportunities”, a term used for camping in the National Forests outside of a developed campground. Dispersed camping is free and there are no services such as trash removal, tables, and fire pits. The Gila National Forest recommends that individuals download a copy of the “Motor Vehicle Use Map” in addition to “Tips for Dispersed Camping” and a hiking link located in the Gila National Forest website.

The Town of Silver City will be turning off water on Monday April 6th from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. along Ridge Road and surrounding areas beginning south of Mountain View Drive to the Grant County Detention Center. Utilities Department crews will be tying-in the new 12” water main currently under construction. For any inquiries, residents are advised to contact the Utilities Department at (575) 534-6365.

During this time of the COVID-19 health emergency, shopping local is more important than ever and crucial for our community. Please do your part and support our local businesses and make sure to visit silvercityradio.com for a listing of open business during this time.

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