Here’s a look at today’s news:
A student from Deming High School was arrested last week for allegedly sending a note to the school librarian that contained a threatening message involving other students. School administrators and resource officers detained the 16-year old boy and discovered he was in possession of several objects including Leatherman tools, box cutters, and a screwdriver. The unnamed student was placed under arrest and charged with six felony counts of carrying a deadly weapon on the school property.
Air Force Secretary, Heather Wilson, has been voted in by the University of Texas Systems Board of Regents to serve as president of the University of El Paso. Wilson served as a congresswoman from New Mexico from 1998 to 2008 and was confirmed by the U.S Senate in 2017 to serve as Air Force Secretary. Wilson will be replacing Diana Natalicio, the school’s first woman president who is retiring after leading UTEP for 30 years.
The Catwalk Recreation Area has issued an Area Temporary Health and Safety Closure Order. The closure is due to recent rainfall and rapid snow melt. The Whitewater Creek has been running very high and the low water crossing just before the Catwalk parking area continues to flood. This location along the road dips down to the level of the stream channel. Due to large amounts of water and debris are coming down Whitewater Canyon. According to a release, “Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into or near flood waters. People underestimate the force and power of water and many of the deaths occur in automobiles as they are swept downstream. A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car, while 2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles. This closure order is effective immediately and is in effect until December 31, 2019, or until rescinded, whichever occurs first.
The Student Research and Professional Development Funds Committee has announced the third year of the “Summer Scholars” program for WNMU students. The program funds students wishing to pursue research, initiate creative works, or create an original scholarly project over the summer months. The “Summer Scholars” program offers up to $3000 stipends for students, equipment budgets, and up to $500 mentor stipends. Proposals must be submitted by March 22nd. Visit the wnmu.edu/summeropportunityforstudents website for more information.
