Here’s a look at some local news:

The NM Health Secretary has amended the COVID-19 Public Health Order as it pertains to restaurants, bars, eateries and other food establishments. All such establishments are ordered to operate no greater than 50 percent of maximum seating occupancy. In addition, all occupied tables and booths must be placed at least 6 feet apart and may seat no more than 6 people each. Locally, many Mainstreet Restaurants and others are offering take-out and curbside options.

Silver City Town Manager, Alex Brown, has ordered the temporary closure of the Public Library, Silver City Museum, and the Recreational Center to lessen the opportunities of the virus to spread. In addition, the Murray Ryan Visitor Center will be closed through Sunday April 5th. The Visitor Center has information relevant to tourists posted on the windows and visitors will be able to call for information.

Although the COVID-19 health issue is taking up much of the news, the 2020 Census has gone live online for the first time. Some residents have received an invitation in the mail with a personal census I.D. Whether individuals have received it or not, they can still complete the census online. Residents that receive their mail in a P.O. Box, will not receive a post card with a census I.D. In any case the census can still be completed in about 10 minutes online. Completing the 2020 Census is very important because it will determine the amount of funding Grant County will receive from the federal government for many valuable needs and programs. Go to grant county census dot com.

The State of New Mexico is adjusting its business-loan guarantee programs in order to make capital more available to business owners whose operations are severely impacted by the COVOD-19 health emergency. The NMEDD has created a program to assist businesses by a guaranteeing a portion of a loan or line of credit up to 80% of principal or $50,000. For more information, visit go nm dot biz or call 505-469-6204.

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The New Mexico Department of Health has set up a Coronavirus hotline that can be accessed by calling 1-855-600-3453. New Mexicans that have non-health related questions or concerns can call the Non-Emergency Hotline at 833-551-0518. For more information, visit cv dot nm health dot org.