Congratulations to Caesar Jacquez, a seven-year veteran of the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Department, who has been named Deputy of the Quarter for the first quarter of 2025. This recognition is based on a comprehensive evaluation of his performance, including the number of citations issued, arrests made, reports submitted, and the quality of his engagement with the community. In addition to this honor, Mr. Jacquez recently achieved a professional milestone by securing his first major jury trial victory as the primary investigative officer on the case.

In Grant County News:

The Gila National Forest is reminding the public that if you are heard to the woods this Easter weekend, that fire danger is currently classified as very high to extreme, and Stage I fire restrictions are in effect. As a result, campfires, stove fires, and the use of charcoal are prohibited, except in designated developed recreation sites. Additionally, the use of confetti-filled eggs is not permitted. These measures are in place to protect the forest, its wildlife, and downstream resources, as well as to support the efficient operation and maintenance of recreational areas. 

At last Thursday’s regular meeting of the Grant County Commission, District 39 State Representative Luis Terrazas and District 28 State Senator Gabriel Ramos provided an overview of recent legislative accomplishments and challenges impacting the county. Some of the highlights included the allocation of more than $4 million in project funding, along with legislative efforts aimed at supporting veterans and curbing anti-consumer insurance practices. Among the funded capital outlay projects were $225,000 for renovations at the detention center, $220,000 for resurfacing the airport parking lot, and $60,000 for accessibility improvements at Fort Bayard.

The National Center for Frontier Communities (NCFC) has entered into a 15-year lease agreement with the City of Bayard to re-establish the Bayard Community Garden—an important milestone in enhancing food security, education, and community resilience throughout the Mining District. In collaboration with the Cobre School District, the initiative also supports “Journey Through the Food System,” an innovative program that unites more than nine local nonprofit organizations to help students understand the full cycle of food. By 2027, the center is expected to significantly strengthen the Mining District’s capacity for local food production, while also providing education, workforce training, and employment opportunities.