This spring, Western New Mexico University gave a total of 565 degrees and certificates to 510 graduates, with several students earning multiple credentials. The university awarded 116 associate degrees, 192 bachelor’s degrees, 143 master’s degrees, 27 graduate certificates, six undergraduate certificates, and 26 fast-track certificates. Among the undergraduate recipients, 158 students graduated with honors, reflecting their exceptional academic achievement. Congratulations to all the graduates. 

Seventeen youth from Luna County 4-H participated in the 2025 New Mexico State 4-H Championship, competing in three categories: archery (compound bow), clay target precision, and a skill-based marksmanship event. In the marksmanship category, Luna County’s Team 1 earned third place overall, with individual honors going to Monte Offutt, who placed second, and Joshua Wilkinson, who finished fourth. Two Luna County teams competed in the compound bow archery division, with Team 1 securing a fourth-place finish. In the clay target precision event, Team 1 placed sixth, while Team 2 finished in 17th place. Congratulations to all the winners.

The Cobre District recently recognized Lucinda Valencia from Bayard Elementary as the 2024 Teacher of the Year for her dedication to student success and excellence in education. In addition, Desirae Amador from Hurley Elementary was honored as the District Staff of the Year for her outstanding support and commitment to the school community. Congratulations to both ladies for your hard work and dedication to the Cobre School District. 

In New Mexico News:

The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) is alerting residents to a widespread scam involving fraudulent toll road payment demands targeting New Mexicans. Scammers are attempting to create a false sense of urgency by threatening license suspension or legal action in order to pressure individuals into making payments. NMDOT officials stress that New Mexico does not operate any toll roads within its state boundaries and will never request toll payments from residents or visitors. To protect against this scam, individuals are advised to ignore all unexpected messages regarding unpaid New Mexico tolls and to avoid clicking on any links contained in suspicious texts or emails related to toll violations.