During the month of October, the American Red Cross will be providing free smoke detectors to the residents of Santa Clara. Representatives from the organization will personally install the devices in homes that need them. Residents interested in receiving a smoke detector can either call or visit Santa Clara City Hall to sign up. This initiative aims to enhance community safety and ensure that every household is protected from fire hazards.  

Western New Mexico University (WNMU) is experiencing notable growth, with a 5% increase in first-year student enrollment for fall 2024 compared to the previous year. This rise, along with a record number of first-year applications, indicates a growing interest in WNMU among high school graduates. As a Hispanic Serving Institution, WNMU is also seeing a nearly 2% increase in its Hispanic student population, reflecting its commitment to expanding educational opportunities. Additionally, the university has welcomed a 20% increase in international students, attributed to collaborations with global institutions and the establishment of dual degree programs to help serve as a community college, workforce training hub, and traditional university, attracting a diverse student body that includes many nontraditional students.

In September, the Deming Police Department’s bike team conducted several operations focused on reducing racing on West Pine Street. These initiatives were launched in response to the concerning levels of racing, traffic violations, and vehicle crashes reported in the area. Throughout three five-hour operations, officers issued a total of 115 citations, highlighting the extent of the violations. Additionally, the team made one warrant arrest during this enforcement period. The efforts aimed to improve safety and promote responsible driving within the community.

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The PNM Resources Foundation recently announced the 44 nonprofit recipients in New Mexico for its Reduce Your Use Grant, which includes the Cliff Gila Grant County Fair Association. These grants aim to help nonprofits reduce their electric costs, enabling them to allocate more resources toward essential community assistance. Each year, the foundation contributes over $1 million in grants to support various organizations that provide vital services throughout the state. For the past 16 years, the Reduce Your Use Grants have served as a crucial resource for New Mexico nonprofits. This ongoing support underscores the foundation’s commitment to enhancing community well-being across the region.