May 21st, 2014: Local Headlines

Here’s a look at the local headlines:

Containment of the Signal Fire has risen to 85% since yesterday, and the fire is estimated at 5,484 acres.  With the threat of wind lessened, crews have started to be released from the fire to be available for other incidents.  Management of the Signal Fire is expected to be returned to the Gila National Forest Silver City Ranger District Thursday evening, and a Burned Area Emergency Response team has begun work on post fire rehabilitation of the area.

In other news, as part of the national Blue Star Museums Program, New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs’ 16 state-run museums and historic sites will once again offer free admission to active duty military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day 2014. All state-operated museums will participate.

The Silver City Museum is pleased to announce the opening of their new Gila Wild Exhibit that will celebrate the 90^th Anniversary of the Gila Wilderness, as well as the 50^th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act.  The exhibit opens this Saturday, and was made possible by support for the Gila National Forest.

In other news, President Obama recently proclaimed the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks situated around Las Cruces as a National Monument.  The lands encompass nearly 500,000 acres of unique vegetation, diverse geology, and ancient historical discoveries.

The USDA announced that the department is accepting applications for loans and grants to support community development projects, business expansion, and job creation.  Assistance is being provided through the Rural Microentrepeneur Assistance Program, and the Intermediary Relending Program.  Details for how to apply may be obtained from any USDA Rural Development State Office.

Finally, there will be a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Gila Regional Medical Center’s New Linear Accelerator on June 24^th.  The Linear Accelerator will be used for radiotherapy treatments at the GRMC Cancer Center.

This weekend is the Blues Festival.   This year there are two great festival workshops on Sunday.  To book your space, check the MRAC office in Wells Fargo Bank or check out their website for all the latest on the Blues Festival.

On Friday morning, starting at 8am, at Fort Bayard National Cemetery, flags will be placed on gravesites.  Then Monday at 10:00, join in special remembrance services at Fort Bayard National Cemetery.