Western New Mexico University is working on a “WNMU Master Plan” to become a carbon neutral university. In 2022, the university added a parking structure with photovoltaic panels next to the Fine Arts Center Theatre and recently added additional panels near the WNMU Museum to help generate solar power. The university is currently working on retrofitting 8,500 light fixtures to LED technology, optimizing the ventilation system in the university kitchens, remediating air leakage from buildings and installing 17 new high-efficiency HVAC units to help reduce the university’s annual energy consumption. The goal is to make Western New Mexico University carbon neutral by the year 2030.
New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax Holiday is happening this weekend at retail stores in New Mexico. During this time, the state will be suspending collection of gross receipts tax on sales of qualifying items, therefore the items purchased will be tax free. The tax holiday begins today, August 4th and will end on August 6th at midnight. For more information on what items qualify as tax free, visit the website.
The Gila Cliff Dwellings will be having an event for community members who are interested in learning about the unique history of the Dwellings and its surrounding areas. This event will take place on August 5th at 6:00 p.m. and all participants are to meet at the Silver City Visitors Center.
Congratulations to Joshua Villegas of Silver High School and Whitney Cuellar of Cobre High School who were recently awarded scholarships from the WNM Communications scholarship program. The program is aimed to provide financial assistance to deserving individuals pursuing higher education, equipping them with the tools and resources needed to excel in their chosen fields. Mr. Villegas and Ms. Cuellar were both recognized for demonstrating exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities and a strong commitment to their communities.
Resources have responded to two new fires on the Quemado District 2 that occurred Thursday evening due to lighting. The Malpais Fire, which is located southwest of Gribble Place near Spur Lake Draw, is estimated at ½ acre as of last night. The current strategy will be to check fire activity and develop a plan to confine and contain the fire. The Trough Fire, is a single lightning-struck tree and one engine has been assigned to suppress the fire. For more information, visit the website.
