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

Effective this Friday, August 12th, Acting Gila National Forest Supervisor Michael Martinez has terminated Forest Order # 03-06-05-22-004 and reopened the Black Fire area to the public. According to a news release, Martinez stated: ““We know how important it is for people to access the Forest and employees have worked diligently clearing debris, fixing culverts, patrolling the area and installing hazard warning signs to reopen. However, lifting the closure does not mean there are no hazards remaining. There are specific hazards associated with recreational activities in a burn area such as landslides, falling trees (even green ones) and flooding.” A significant rainfall trend is expected to continue into September and visitors are cautioned to stay informed of local weather conditions.

The new three-digit National Suicide Prevention & Crisis “Lifeline” phone number, 9-8-8, now offers a military and veteran feature. Veterans or service members facing a crisis can simply dial 9-8-8, and press option “1” to be immediately linked to the same U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) support system featured with the old phone number. The old number will remain active and will reroute calls to the new 9-8-8 system. Mental health advocates are hoping calling 9-8-8 will replace emergency calls to 9-1-1 for mental health crises. In addition, New Mexico has joined the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans, and Their Families, a collaboration between the states to develop plans to implement the “National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide.”

Literacy Link Leamos, a non-profit organization working to raise literacy levels in Grant County, is seeking volunteer tutors who would like to work with adult and elementary students at the Bayard Public Library. In addition, volunteer tutors are needed to teach English as a second language, basic reading, high school equivalency preparation, and basic computer skills. Contact Kim Godfrey at the Silver City Public Library for more information.

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