The Mimbres Hand Crew is working toward achieving elite hotshot status by undergoing intensive evaluation and training to become an Interagency Hotshot Crew, one of the highest designations in wildland firefighting. Through peer-reviewed assignments, the crew is being assessed on complex skills such as line construction, firing operations, and coordination with air support and other teams on large-scale wildfires. If successful, the crew would advance from a Type 2 initial attack unit to a Type 1 hotshot crew, joining a select group of elite wildfire teams in the United States.
National History Day in New Mexico has named Silver High School teacher Lee Wilson as the state’s 2026 National History Day Teacher of the Year nominee for the senior division. Mr. Wilson, who has led National History Day programs for 11 years and guided multiple students to national finalist recognition, was selected for his dedication to history education, student success, and community engagement. Mr. Wilson was praised for his nearly three decades of service, noting his lasting impact on generations of students through his commitment to learning, mentorship, and putting students first.
During a special meeting, the Hidalgo County Commission voted not to move forward with a proposal to sell and vacate 15.7 miles of Cloverdale and Foster Draw Roads in the Bootheel. The proposal, which supporters said could have leveraged up to $500,000 in potential border wall-related funding for nearby road improvements, also raised concerns over lost state reimbursements and impacts to public access. After public hearings, committee review, and an executive session, commissioners ultimately decided against pursuing the road closure at this time.
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The Sixth Judicial District Court is warning residents in Grant, Luna, and Hidalgo counties about a scam involving fake text messages claiming recipients must appear in court for overdue traffic violations. Court officials said the messages are fraudulent and emphasized that local courts will never request payments or threaten legal action through text messages. Residents are urged not to click any links, send money, and to contact the court directly if they have questions about any outstanding court obligations.
