Columbus Electric Cooperative, Inc. has announced a scheduled power outage in Columbus on Saturday, May 10th, from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The outage is necessary to facilitate critical repairs to a transmission line located near a heavily trafficked highway crossing. Residents are encouraged to make appropriate preparations in advance. For those in need of assistance during the outage, Columbus Fire will provide shelter services. Individuals with questions or concerns are advised to contact the cooperative’s office at 1-800-950-2667.

As of this morning, May 9, the Gila Las Cruces Type 3 Management Team has reported that the Iron Fire—located approximately 38 miles east of Glenwood—is now 45 percent contained. With suppression objectives successfully completed in the Snow Lake and Willow Creek areas, firefighting resources are being reassigned to support initial attack operations on other incidents or are returning home for rest and preparation for future assignments. An Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) is currently assisting the response by providing infrared imagery to help fire managers identify remaining heat sources, particularly along the fire’s perimeter where they may threaten containment efforts. As a result of improved conditions, the Snow Lake area—including the Dipping Vat Campground, Snow Lake Boat Launch, and the Snow Lake Trailhead—has reopened to the public.

Lordsburg community members in need of food assistance are invited to attend a free pop-up food distribution tomorrow, May 10, at Lordsburg Municipal Schools, located at 401 W. 4th Street. The distribution will begin at 9:00 a.m. and will follow a drive-through format. Attendees are encouraged to follow directional signage and instructions provided by on-site volunteers to ensure an efficient and orderly process.

In Other News:

The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) is now accepting applications for its NEW MEXICO—Taste the Tradition® Chef Ambassador Program. This initiative offers chefs a unique opportunity to advocate for local agriculture, engage with consumers, and highlight New Mexico-grown products both within the state and on a national stage. Selected ambassadors will represent and promote New Mexico agriculture through culinary presentations, media appearances, and live events. The application deadline is Friday, June 20. For more information and to apply, visit website.