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

At the time of compiling this report, the New Mexico Department of Health, announced a total of 32,983 New Mexico COVID-19 confirmed positive cases with 18,680 tested as recovered. In addition, COVID-19 cases recorded locally are as follows: Grant County has risen to 146 total cases with 57 recovered; Luna County has risen to 492 total cases with 215 recovered; Hidalgo County has risen to 108 total cases with 76 recovered; and Catron County remains at 9 total cases with 5 recovered. Statewide there currently 120 COVID-19 hospitalizations.

New Mexico Small Businesses that have been hard hit by the COVID-19 health emergency are urged by the Governor’s Economic Recovery Program Council to apply for an emergency loan program currently available through the New Mexico Finance Authority. Businesses may be eligible for loans of up to $75,000. The loans do not require a personal guarantee or collateral and carry an interest rate currently set at 1.625 percent, fixed for the life of the loan. The loans can be used to cover rent, payroll, and other expenses. Applications are being processed on a first-come, first-served basis. To learn more and to apply, go to the New Mexico Finance Authority website at www.nmfinance.com.

The Gila National Forest has moved into “High Fire Danger” status caused by warmer temperatures and high winds. According to a release from the forest service, a fire danger rating of “High” is defined as “all fine and dead fuels ignite readily, and fires start easily from most causes. Other factors in a high fire danger rating include:

  • Unattended brush and campfires are likely to escape
  • Fires spread rapidly and short distance spotting is common
  • Fires become serious and control is difficult unless they are attacked successfully while small
  • Outdoor burning should be restricted

The public is requested to report fires and abandoned campfires to the Silver City Interagency Dispatch at 1-800-538-1644.

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