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

In an announcement made yesterday, February 17th, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has lifted the requirement for face coverings to be worn in most indoor spaces, effective immediately. The indoor mask mandate remains in effect for congregate settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities and detention facilities. The decision on masking in schools will be left up to governing school bodies, which may elect to keep or suspend masking requirements. According to a news release, “the number of hospitalized New Mexicans dropped by 37% since the end of January.

According to Mometrix Test Preparation, a college planning resource, Western New Mexico University has been ranked as one of the most affordable nursing school programs in the southwest. In an analysis of over 100 nursing schools in Texas, Oklahoma, Arizona and New Mexico, research experts identified the 30 most exceptional programs, specifically cataloging programs with high graduation rates, top National Council Licensure Examination pass rates and low tuition costs. The WNMU School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association and specializes in community and rural health.

The Daughters of the American Revolution Jacob Bennett Chapter in Silver City recently awarded the “Excellence in Historic Preservation Award” to Cecilia Bell. The award recognizes outstanding individuals who promote historic preservation in many ways including: restoration of buildings; saving collections and significant objects; monuments, cemeteries, and other important artifacts. Locally, Cecilia Bell has worked tirelessly promoting the preservation and restoration of Fort Bayard and is a founding member of the Fort Bayard Historic Preservation Society serving as President for many years. In addition, she is also the recipient of the Bradford Prince Award for Historic Preservation from the Historical Society of New Mexico.

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