On August 4, Hidalgo Medical Services (HMS) formally notified the Grant County Manager and Commissioners of its decision to terminate the Tu Casa agreement. This decision was driven by multiple factors, most notably recent public statements from the County Commissioners expressing consideration of alternative service providers for Tu Casa, as well as their dissatisfaction with current services. While HMS will cease operations at the Tu Casa facility, it remains committed to delivering the same behavioral health outpatient services across its network of 12 other clinic locations.
The Gila National Forest has lifted area closures for the Trout Fire and Goose Fire, as fire operations are now largely complete and the threat to public safety has been significantly reduced. All motorized routes designated on the current Motor Vehicle Use Map, as well as designated trails, recreation sites, and National Forest System lands within the affected areas, have been reopened. However, areas that experienced high-intensity burning, along with downstream locations, remain susceptible to flash flooding during and after rain events. Visitors are advised to remain alert and exercise caution when traveling through recent fire perimeters.
Hidalgo County 4-H members recently represented their community at the 102nd New Mexico State 4-H Conference. The event provided valuable opportunities for both personal and professional development, as well as a platform to celebrate notable achievements. Skyla Strain was selected to serve on the 2025–2026 New Mexico 4-H State Leadership Team as a State Livestock Ambassador. Haidyn Barnard earned first place in the Vocal category of the State 4-H Talent Show and was honored with an invitation to perform the National Anthem at the Awards Banquet. Additionally, the Agronomy Team—comprising Journey Sheehan, Adaleta Haught, and Heidi Miller—achieved a third-place team finish. Congratulations to all the participants and winners.
In other news:
The Crisis Text Line is providing a range of mental health resources to support students as they return to school. These resources address critical issues such as gun violence, anxiety, bullying, depression, and suicide, and are available to anyone facing these challenges. In addition, students can connect with a trained Crisis Counselor—free of charge, confidentially, and at any time, as the service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information and access to these resources, visit website.
