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

At the time of compiling this report, New Mexico Department of Health officials announced a new total of 174,550 New Mexico COVID-19 confirmed positive cases statewide, an increase of 487 new cases. In addition, COVID-19 cases recorded locally are as follows: Grant County has increased 5 new cases for a total of 1,292 positive cases; Luna County has increased 5 new cases for a total of  2,942 positive cases; Hidalgo County has increased 4 new cases for a total of 323 positive cases; and Catron County has remained at a total of 71 positive cases.

Silver City Mainstreet has been awarded a $10,000 “Brighter Future Award” by the New Mexico Gas & Oil Association. The funds will be directed towards the Downtown Business Assistance Program. According to a release from Silver City Mainstreet, “the Downtown Business Assistance forgivable loan program is one of the programs Silver City MainStreet has been facilitating to help downtown businesses challenged by the Covid-19 pandemic.” The Town of Silver City also funds the program in partnership with Mainstreet. The program, in its second year is geared to help business through the pandemic and beyond. In addition, last year 22 businesses received funds for projects ranging from installing sneeze guards to new windows.

The Forest Service, Gila National Forest has announced that the Quemado Ranger District is in the process of transitioning sites in Juniper and Pinon Campgrounds to an online reservations system available through Recreation.gov. Starting this season, 7 electrical sites in Juniper Campground and two groups sites in the Pinion Campground will be listed for availability on Recreation.gov. Online reservations will be available beginning April 1st and both campgrounds are scheduled to open May 7th, possibly without water. In addition, the two group sites in Piñon Campground may remain closed this season, due to concerns with group gatherings and COVID-19.  If they are opened reservations will be through Recreation.gov.

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