Here’s a look at some local news:

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, provided the public with an update on the status of COVID-19 in New Mexico. The amended order contained further restrictions on non-essential businesses and additional clarification on other issues.  All mass gatherings are prohibited being in groups of more than five people.  Although non-essential businesses and non-profits are not able to conduct business with the public in retail, office or other public locations, they can still conduct daily business via telework and online commerce. Lodging properties that include hotels, motels, RV Parks will not be able to operate beyond maximum occupancy of 50%. In addition, medical workers or New Mexico residents using the lodging for temporary housing or extended stay will not be counted for determining maximum occupancy. Restaurants are still able to do business through takeout and delivery only in addition to Breweries and distilleries continue to provide service through curb side pickup only.

The New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department Secretary has announced that New Mexico residents will have an extra 90 days to file and pay their 2019 personal income taxes. This extension is to aid the economic hardships that New Mexicans are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The extended deadline for taxpayers and corporate income taxes is July 15th. In addition, taxpayers that take advantage of the extension will not be assessed penalties if payment is received by July 15th. However, interest will accrue on any unpaid balances from April 15th forward as per New Mexico law. Detailed information is available at new mexico dot gov on the agency updates tab.

The NMSU Extension Service is making good use of stay at home during this beautiful Springtime through it’s “I-CAN” (Ideas for Cooking and Nutrition) program, that offers an online training for beginner backyard gardeners.  The course is free and self-paced for all New Mexico residents.  To get started, visit the NMSU Grant County CES page on Facebook and click on the link for the Seed to Supper Online course.