Morning routines are often routine but a northeast Albuquerque volunteer group's routine includes an important stop.

There is an old adage that if March comes in like a lamb, it will go out like a lion.

News comes days after US Fish and Wildlife OKs shooting of wolf in Catron County

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —A suspect was arrested in southwest Albuquerque after an apparent bomb threat was made.Your neighborhood:Local news from KOAT Action 7 NewsAdvertisementAn Albuquerque police spokesperson said a suspect, identified as Mario Ahumada, 38, was taken into custody for a felony warrant out of California along with a local arrest

Defense manufacturer AeroVironment, Inc. plans to expand its Albuquerque campus and more than double its workforce in the next decade, the company announced alongside New Mexico Economic Development Department officials Tuesday morning. Company officials said they would expand the footprint of their Albuquerque hub near Kirtland Air Force Base with

A Farmington man is being held without bond in the San Juan County Detention Center after three February criminal incidents, including a weekend machete incident that led to a lockdown at the Animas Valley Mall and nearby schools. Eric Lacy, 42, has a lengthy criminal record that includes charges of

2-year-old Weimaraner suffers from behavior disorder

By JUNO OGLE Daily Press Staff Three of the five finalist candidates for Western New Mexico University’s 16th president will be on campus this week, and their visits will include opportunities for them to meet with the public. Public meet-and-greets will be from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and

Venezuelan national was arrested by federal agents a year ago in Las Cruces

US Attorney's Office for South Carolina files notice against Jaremy Smith in death of EMS worker

Ruling means gubernatorial candidate remains on track to appear on June primary election ballot

Roughly 50% of New Mexico’s state revenue comes from taxing oil and gas sales in the Permian Basin

Towman still faces charges after 55-mile chase, gunfire

The Hurley Town Council hired Aaron Ordoñez for an open patrolman position during a special meeting Wednesday, but tabled consideration of Marcus Salas for a second open patrol position until their regular meeting on March 10. Police Chief Kevin Vigil said that he was the only officer in the department

SANTA FE — Four federal inmates held in southern New Mexico detention facilities have tested positive for measles, bringing the number of 2026 measles cases in the state to five.

Bernalillo County deputies are seeking help to find a missing retired major general from Kirtland Air Force Base.

Jonathan Strickland sued the city, officers for 'reckless' lethal force

SANTA FE — Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced on Friday that the Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) has officially ended the pr…

Pair allegedly fired on New Mexico State Police sergeant, carjacked motorists and hid for two days before arrest near Fort Sumner

Project confirmed after decades of calls for suicide deterrents from public safety advocates, victims' families

Gonzales sisters return to reclaim podium, upholding family tradition in homegrown winter sports event

Lincoln County and federal officials are finalizing a program that will enable the county to buy hundreds of Ruidoso-area homes at acute risk of floods stemming from New Mexico’s 2024 South Fork and Salt fires. The buyout operation, which Lincoln County officials have dubbed the “Rio Safe Program,” represents a

Police say argument preceded killing in the Northeast Heights

Speaking to reporters Monday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said the U.S. war in Iran is set to continue with no plans set on a timeline or exit strategy.

Lawmakers appropriated $95 million for project in capital outlay bill awaiting final approval

Students from across New Mexico are gathering in Albuquerque for the 72nd annual DECA conference and championship.

AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ:AVAV), known as AV, has announced a $30 million investment to expand its defense manufacturing campus in Albuquerque.

New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler has announced his retirement effective March 13, 2026.Weisler served with New Mexico State Police for 23 years.AdvertisementWeisler was appointed as the chief of state police in 2023.Weisler began his career with State Police as a patrol officer in Deming and Moriarty in 2002.

Property on East Second Street, slated to be the location of a Community Solar Project, is being considered for an industrial revenue bond of up to $4.8 million to ass…

New Mexico’s recently departed Department of Transportation secretary has stepped into a new role as deputy state treasurer, the State Treasurer’s Office announced Monday. Ricky Serna will replace Deputy Treasurer Janice Barela, who’s retiring after 25 years on the job. Serna previously was the acting cabinet secretary for the Department

Hospital expects nearly 3,000 babies to be born in 2026, Presbyterian spokesperson says

Law enforcement and loved ones on what would have been Sgt. Michael Schlattman’s 53rd birthday gather to remember his life after he was killed during an I-40 traffic stop

'We are coordinating closely with local authorities,' according to Kirtland Air Force Base

A year after Brion Teel-Scott was killed by fellow airmen, his father says Kirtland’s silence and lack of answers have shattered his faith in the Air Force

Former Interior secretary would raise minimum wage, ban rent fixing and invest in renewable energy if elected

About 100 people attended the Daddy/Daughter Dance on Valentine’s Day on the McCurdy campus. The event was sponsored by several area businesses and offered dads and their daughters a chance to spend an evening together. Sixto Aguirre and his daughter Mia take a spin on the dance floor. Aguir…

Former NM congressman was nominated to lead Bureau of Land Management in November

Hikers strewn about on the San Vicente Trail below the N.M. 90 bridge cried out in pain as first responders tended to them Sunday afternoon. While the injuries and ailments were not real, the experience the students gained was. The mock mass-casualty incident was the culmination of a Wilderness First

The Albuquerque City Council unanimously passed a proposal to create an African American Advisory Board aimed at addressing minority issues.

By MARCELA JOHNSON Daily Press Staff The Bayard City Council approved a resolution supporting an application to the state’s Colonias Infrastructure Fund for the survey and design of several streets during their regular meeting Wednesday. City Clerk-Treasurer Martha Salas highlighted why particular streets were chosen for this application cycle, saying

By JUNO OGLE Daily Press Staff Serving a community means getting out to meet with people to understand them and help them understand the mechanisms available to meet their needs, the second candidate for Western New Mexico University’s 16th president said during his campus visit last week. Carlos Rey Romero,

Temperatures will remain mild, with lows 15 to 25 degrees above normal. Winds will stay elevated overnight in higher terrains.

A New Mexico Highlands basketball player, Jaelyn Bates, was arrested for allegedly driving drunk after deputies found her car damaged on I-25.

The total lunar eclipse is set for late Monday night and Tuesday morning in New Mexico so here's when exactly you can see it.

By MARCELA JOHNSON Daily Press Staff Lt. Gov. Howie Morales and District 39 state Rep. Luis Terrazas reflected about this year’s 30-day legislative session as a whole after its conclusion last Thursday. Terrazas, a Republican, told the Daily Press that he was focused on addressing roads, the state’s doctor shortage,

New Mexico made strong progress in its goals to reform its troubled foster care system last year and is ready to start work on another set of goals, the state and plaintiffs in a landmark child welfare lawsuit said Monday. The New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department, Health Care

World-renowned French composer's emails detail close ties with disgraced financier

The service will feature a 30-seat jet and one round-trip flight per day

Sgt. Michael Schlattman was killed during traffic stop on Interstate 40 on Monday

RIO RANCHO, N.M. —Residents of Rio Rancho are casting their votes today to elect a new mayor, judge, and several city councilors, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. across the city.The city clerk reported strong early voting turnout, with 6,733 ballots already cast and hopes to exceed

Diagnosis is New Mexico's first confirmed case of 2026

New Mexico’s push to curb litter gained momentum in Farmington over the weekend as 36 volunteers joined Young Ambassador Sosonia Nezwood for a cleanup along the Animas River Walk. Nezwood hosted the event Sat., Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. as part of the New Mexico Department of

State Police say a 16-year-old faces second-degree murder and other charges after he killed a 30-year-old man in Buena Vista

Policy will grade prospective corporations on how much they give back to the community

Unseasonably warm, dry weather breaks decades-old highs across New Mexico and brings fire danger warnings even as a brief cool-down looms later in the week.

A group of former Peace Corps volunteers met March 1 at Three Rivers Pizzeria to kick off Peace Corps Week in America. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed a proclamation establishing the week of March 1-7 as a time to recognize the Peace Corps and the many volunteers who have served

New Mexico voters are not shifting left or right – they are walking away from the two major parties, giving rise to “purple voters.” These residents, who are not affiliated with either party, now make up more than a quarter of the state’s electorate a new analysis by New Mexico

President touts a booming economy and new health care plans, as NM lawmakers boycott his address

National Science Foundation cites years of reduced operations and 'recent safety concerns' tied to mercury leak

The new cases at southern New Mexico detention centers raise state’s total to five in 2026

Outpost Ice Arenas sees ‘massive’ increase in first-time adult skaters

Cannabis entrepreneur still faces one other petition focused on residency requirement

US-Israel attacks on Iran trigger deadly counterstrikes, rising death tolls and grounded flights across the Middle East.

A federal court has, for the third time, ordered the U.S. Department of Education to continue mental health grants to schools, but the superintendent of Silver Consolidated Schools isn’t ready to declare a total victory. A three-judge panel in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals on Tuesday denied the Education

During the “Taking Out the Trash” event in March, city residents can get rid of their spring-cleaning large-item trash free of charge.

FAA responds by closing more airspace near El Paso

Friends and family gathered in Rio Rancho to bid farewell to Bernalillo County Sergeant Michael Schlattman, who died in the line of duty.

Delisting lifts special federal rules to avoid disruptions to the birds' habitat, which includes New Mexico

A local salon is helping people feel good about themselves by offering more than just a fresh, new look.

$4.5 million gift will fund 10 full-tuition scholarships 'in perpetuity'

Projection for FY26 marks second-consecutive year in the red as one-term mayor seeks reelection

One of the five finalists for Western New Mexico University’s 16th president is no longer in the running. A Tuesday afternoon press release from WNMU said Cameron Wesson, provost and vice president for academic affairs at La Salle University, has withdrawn from consideration. He had been scheduled to make a

Residents of the neighborhoods around Juniper Street pleaded with the New Mexico Department of Transportation to further consider the traffic and safety ramifications of proposed changes to U.S. 180 that would cut off direct access to their homes during a public meeting on the project Thursday night at the Grant

15 states say the CDC's new childhood vax requirements unlawful

Agency disputes misspending allegation, but says it's implementing new internal controls

GOLDEN, Colo. — For the second year in a row, Ivan Smith is headed to the big stage. The New Mexico Highlands 165-pounder secured his spot in the NCAA Division II Championships on Saturday, leading the Cowboys to a ninth-place team finish at the NCAA Super Region VI Tournament hosted

Rio Rancho voters are set to elect a new mayor and decide several key measures Tuesday in one of New Mexico's fastest growing cities.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —Water officials are responding to a broken waterline in Albuquerque, near Interstate 25.The Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Authority said repairs are underway after the break on Pan American Freeway Frontage Road, near Montano Road and the interstate.AdvertisementThe water line broke around 6:40 p.m. Monday, March 2. This has

Governor will choose replacement for embattled prosecutor to rebuild DA's office

They were arrested in Fort Sumner, authorities said

Zachary Clay, 41, accused of holding up bank with a hatchet

State still ranks among the bottom nationwide despite gains

A walking tour of the Pinos Altos Creek trail on Monday afternoon brought attention to some needed improvements to bridges — both the literal and figurative kind. Members of the town’s Trails and Open Space Committee walked the trail, which has been improved in some places, and viewed the bridges

Spokeswoman: Heinrich never met with Epstein or approved the lunch invitation

Mescalero Apache consider deal for land west of Las Cruces

The New Mexico health department on Friday reported four more measles cases among state inmates, bringing the total number of cases so far this year to five. Officials reported the first case of the year on Feb. 24: a federal inmate held in the Hidalgo County Detention Center with an

Notes and tidbits from Monday's meeting

But it may be worse than that

Corridor to strengthen supply chains, reduce congestion at coastal ports, according to Bernalillo County

Roundabout would address traffic flow and safety concerns at N.M. 333 and N.M. 217 intersection, according to NMDOT

Longtime administrator and educator will help advance high school financial literacy goals, manage budget

Many got a chance to see a total lunar eclipse Tuesday morning, allowing viewers to watch all its phases, a rarity compared to other times.A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow on the moon and giving it a reddish hue.

New photos offer a glimpse inside Jeffrey Epstein's Zorro Ranch, revealing its vast size and numerous structures.

CAPITAN, N.M. —U.S. Highway 380 was closed and an RV park evacuated due to a grass fire east of Capitan Monday afternoon.The Lincoln County Fire Service said Hailey Hill RV Park was evacuated just before 3 p.m. Forward progress on the fire was reportedly been stopped around 3:05 p.m.AdvertisementThe grass

About $1.3 billion could flow to infrastructure projects across New Mexico, including Chaves County, under a bill approved by lawmakers in the final days of this year’…

From crime bills to child care and road funding, here’s what lawmakers passed — and what got left on the Roundhouse cutting-room floor

By JUNO OGLE Daily Press Staff Two new town advisory committees will be looking at solutions for economic development and recycling after the Silver City Town Council approved their creation at the council meeting Tuesday night. Resolutions forming the Economic Development Research Committee and the Reuse and Recycle Committee were

By MARCELA JOHNSON Daily Press Staff A civil rights lawsuit filed Feb. 13 alleges that a former Bayard police officer sexually abused, coerced and inflicted violence on a 16-year-old girl while in his professional capacity. The lawsuit, filed by Singleton Schreiber LLP and co-counsel Daniel Marquez for a plaintiff referred

Former AG Balderas: Cooperation between state and federal investigators was 'one-way'

A total lunar eclipse will happen early in the morning on March 3 and it could be seen in New Mexico.What is a lunar eclipse?AdvertisementA lunar eclipse happens when the Earth moves between the moon and the sun, casting a shadow on the moon. When the moon is in the

Feds dismiss case after officer's credibility questioned

Quick decision finds Nathan Rivas, 18, guilty of first-degree murder in 2025 Las Cruces shooting

Heinrich says attack broke Trump campaign promise ‘to end wars, not start them’

The following individuals were booked into the San Miguel County Detention Center between February 24 and March 2, 2026: Loriann Garcia, Bench Warrant FTA/FTP. David Salazar, Bench Warrant FTA/FTP. Jennifer J. Cruz, Breaking an Entering, Criminal Damage to Property, Criminal Trespass (Unposted). Richard R. Tafoya, Bench Warrant FTA/FTP, Shoplifting (Over

Teens and seniors are bridging generational gaps through manicures at a local senior center, fostering connections across ages.

Amid concerns of federal election interference in the upcoming midterms, U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM), along with state and county Democratic elections officials, offered assurances Friday about their efforts to protect New Mexico voters. At a roundtable event at the Santa Fe Community College, Heinrich and New Mexico Secretary of

AAA issues parking lot driving recommendations that include being more attentive to drivers and pedestrians

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Department of Justice (NMDOJ) announced that Bernadine Martin has resigned from her position as District Attorney fo…

Deb Haaland Is the debate over debates over? It seems so.After weeks of chiding from Sam Bregman for not agreeing to debates, Deb Haaland's camp has clarified that there is one debate scheduled and she will take part:The announcement comes after Haaland agreed to the debate in September 2025. The

New Mexico State Police: Officer is OK

Measles is back in New Mexico. A federal inmate held at the Hidalgo County jail in southwestern New Mexico has tested positive for the virus, the state Health Department announced Tuesday. It was the state’s first confirmed case of measles in 2026, though it follows an outbreak last year that

The New Mexican recently submitted several questions to the new board chair for the group that organizes Indian Market.

The collision killed Landon Crossley and driver Jordan Dwyer, both 26 years old, and injured two others riding with them.

Despite their lack of retail experience, Rachel Manera and Jeff Schoen have taken like fish to water to running their shop.

RIO RANCHO, N.M. —Family, friends and members of the community gathered at the Rio Rancho Event Center to honor fallen Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Sgt. Michael Schlattman, who was tragically killed in the line of duty during a traffic stop in the East Mountains last month.Hundreds of loved ones and colleagues

A grass fire near US Highway 380 has consumed 10 acres, prompting evacuations and road closures.

Candidates will try to secure at least 20% of the vote from party delegates to earn a spot on the June primary ballot.

Nearly 3,000 women nationwide were named to the list of best women wealth advisers, according to a news release.

The venue is designed to be a community gathering place in addition to serving as a movie theater, owner Bill Banowsky says.

Alberto Aldana has officially taken over as the new chief of the Roswell Police Department.

The senator's announcement comes days before a committee is expected to vote on Pearce's nomination by President Donald Trump.

A significant climate shock could contribute to a global recession, affecting savings, pensions and national economies.

An op-ed penned by Javier Martínez, Reena Szczepanski, Day Hochman-Vigil and Raymundo Lara and published in the Albuquerque Journal and the Los Alamos Reporter paints a glowing picture of the 2026 Legislative Session. But New Mexicans say the self-congratulatory tone ignores a glaring reality: meaningful crime reform once again died

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —A firearm was taken from a student on campus at Mitchell Elementary School, according to a letter sent out by Principal Kristina Yar.School police responded and the firearm was seized, according to the school district. Yar wrote the student found with the weapon said they did not express

Pact lays out updated and new requirements, including refreshed recruitment goals and enhanced foster family supports.

If you need a good laugh or just a fun night out, this is your week – the Albuquerque Funny Fiesta is coming up.

Co-owner Malek Belghiti Alaoui is hopeful Yalla Shawarma will reopen its doors in Santa Fe within three to six months.

Local governments, municipalities, Tribal Nations, and Pueblo governments in New Mexico are now eligible to apply for a new state-supported initiative aimed at helping communities develop arts and cultural economy projects.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —Late Friday, the principal of Mitchell Elementary informed parents via email about a student bringing a loaded gun to school, sparking concerns over safety protocols and communication.A parent, who wished to remain anonymous, said, "Luckily, I found it. It was in my spam, but apparently, all the other

Friday's dismissal of a second lawsuit challenging Duke Rodriguez's right to be on the June 2 primary ballot sets the stage for the next big moment--Saturday's GOP preprimary at Ruidoso where delegates from across the state will vote on placing candidates on the ballot. Insiders don't expect Rodriguez, nicknamed the

Israel closed all crossings into the territory of over 2 million people in the wake of its new strikes on Tehran.

The game can't replace formal training, but developers said it can be a good starting point for food safety lessons.

A San Miguel County rancher is accusing the Livestock Board of pushing wrongful charges against him after a 2023 incident.

There's a new airline taking off and landing at the Albuquerque International Sunport.Contour Airlines, a regional airline based in Smyrna, Tenn., has signed a four-year contract with the Sunport to provide daily nonstop service between Albuquerque and Carlsbad, with one roundtrip flight each day.AdvertisementContour joins the other airline partners at

A triceratops skeleton that once greeted visitors at a Wyoming museum is heading to an online auction as dinosaur prices keep soaring. The Joo…

“Today” show host Savannah Guthrie and her sister returned to their mother’s home outside Tucson in their first sighting at the house since Na…

Sunday kicked off Meteorological Spring and Mother Nature celebrated with record-breaking high temperatures around New Mexico.

Above-average, late-winter temperatures are set to continue this week in New Mexico, accompanied by wind that will create critical fire weathe…

Meg Whitman, former U.S. Ambassador and business executive, joins "Conversations Different" to talk about what investments she sees as New Mex…

Moderate Democrats are pushing back on the party’s progressive energy. They say winning elections means “winning the middle.”

KOAT health expert Dr. Barry Ramo says this year's flu is different. In fact, he says it's "the worst one we've had in about 20 years.""So it's important if you get the symptoms of thge flu, particularly if you're in a high-risk group. You start having shaking chills, cough, muscle

The Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. has been honored in South Carolina by lying in state at the Capitol in Columbia.

Get outdoors and walk, bike or hike, ride a horse and help a great cause while you're at it, with the Miles for Mustangs benefit.

City officials held a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday at the Prince-Carter Ranch for a new water well and well house.

The state claims the company's social media platforms violate the state's Unfair Trade Practices Act by exposing underage users to sexual predators.

U.S. first lady Melania Trump is presiding over a U.N. Security Council meeting that will focus on children in conflict, one of her signature issues.

University of New Mexico Police are looking for a vehicle from which someone was allegedly shot with an Airsoft pellet gun near the UNM campus Sunday night, a UNMPD news release said.The vehicle police are looking for is a white Mercedes SUV last seen driving south on University Boulevard Northeast,

Tehran and its allies hit back against Israel, neighboring Gulf states and targets critical to the world’s energy production.

According to WalletHub’s 2026 “Best States to Live In” study, New Mexico ranks dead last in the nation — a sobering distinction that underscores years of troubling trends in education, health, and public safety. The annual analysis compares all 50 states across 51 separate indicators, including affordability, economic performance, education

A fashion show Sunday evening helped people get experience on the runway to support students in-need every day.

The U.S. and Israel are pounding targets across Iran, dropping massive bombs on its ballistic missile sites and wiping out warships.

A story published on Page E-1 of the Sunday, March 1, 2026, edition with the headline “It’s a buyer’s market — but not for all” was mistakenly…

Oil prices have jumped as U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran and retaliatory strikes against Israel and U.S. military installations around the G…

Ian Wald is also on track to be named valedictorian of Santa Fe High School's class of 2026 with a cumulative GPA of 4.6.

Santa Fe Restaurant Week, which begins Monday and continues through March 11, has more participants in 2026 than it has in years.

Epstein purchased thousands of acres from the family of former Gov. Bruce King to build Zorro Ranch in Santa Fe County in 1993.

Jeffrey Epstein purchased the ranch in 1993 from the family of former New Mexico Gov. Bruce King and built a 26,700-square-foot mansion.

In the 1990s, the American economy surged as businesses became more productive, unemployment tumbled and inflation remained in check.

The FBI says the shooting that left 14 others wounded is being investigated as a potential act of terrorism.

A mock mascot election, rising graduation rates, STEM scholarships and more Northern New Mexico education news and notes.

The vast majority of organ donations once came from people who were brain-dead. But last year about half of the deceased organ donations came …

Every Lunar New Year for the past 14 years, a Southern California Buddhist temple has displayed what it calls the “10,000 Buddha Relics.” Acco…

Violations of the New Mexico Food Code are often corrected on-site during an inspection. Some require a reinspection within three business days.

The fire did not threaten any buildings or result in any injuries.

Michael B. Jordan won best male actor, upsetting the category favorite, Timothée Chalamet, and handing the 39-year-old Jordan the most signifi…

She served in the state House of Representatives for 26 years before a rare challenger returned her to private life.

Items for Northern Briefs may be submitted by sending them to jgarcia@riograndesun.com Submissions must be received no later than noon Monday for publication that week.

Cross-border fighting between Pakistan and Afghanistan is at its most severe between the neighbors for years.

LAS CRUCES — A researcher at New Mexico State University known for his saffron research projects in Northern New Mexico is exploring how the crop fares in central and southern parts of the state, as well as how well the crop will grow alongside other New Mexico crops such as

One of the first recipes I ever wrote for a cooking column, including for this series, was my oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.

Warm weather is expected to continue Sunday with potential record highs. Albuquerque could reach near 80 degrees by Sunday.

The Albuquerque BioPark celebrated International Polar Bear Awareness Day by honoring its own 29-year-old polar bear, Kiska.

The community has a chance to pay its respects to Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office Sergeant Michael Schlattman, who died in the line of duty after being hit by a semi-truck.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico released its weekly immigration and border crime enforcement statistics Friday, outlining a significant number of federal charges filed over the past week as part of ongoing border security operations in the state. According to the report, in the one-week period

Sean McDonald, with NNSA's integrated plutonium program, said the agency is trying to overcome a "risk-averse culture."

Bregman is going to have to keep counting until the June 2 primary because his debate challenge is set to go unanswered.

In statements, New Mexico's senators and representatives condemned the Iranian government while also opposing being dragged into war by Trump.

The telehealth booths are now installed at libraries in Aztec, Bayard, Columbus, Fort Sumner, Gallup, Hobbs and the Mescalero Apache Reservation.

Meow Wolf has grown from a small Santa Fe art collective to a national entertainment company with locations in major cities across the West. H…

Santa Fe is the only place where a stranger, a likely drifter, challenged me to a fight. At lunchtime on a sunny day.

Albuquerque - We are recapping the top five stories from the week to make it easy for you to catch up on Albuquerque news. We covered a sergeant with the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Department was hit by a semi-truck during a traffic stop, a Russian man driving a semi-truck blows

Dozens gathered at the former Epstein ranch Saturday to remember victims and demand further accountability from officials.

Now 10 years old, Meow Wolf's House of Eternal Return, an instant success, has become an integral part of Santa Fe's creative scene.

State has pushed go-live date of New Mexico Impact another six months but says it feels confident it will meet it this time.

Feb. 14, 2008: Megan Burns, Vince Kadlubek and Matt Smith, co-founders of new artist collective Meow Wolf, open an all-ages art and music venu…

Michelle Morrison, left, and her husband David Brown are set to perform and share their knowledge of belly dancing and world music at the Plaza Hotel on March 14. Michelle Morrison, left, and her husband David Brown are set to perform and share their knowledge of belly dancing and world

Pacquiao is a 4-year-old black-and-white heartthrob with a champion’s comeback story. He got his name the day he arrived, front paws wrapped up from injuries, looking exactly like he was wearing the tiniest pair of boxing gloves. Life had clearly gone a few rough rounds, but thanks to the sh…

By JO LUTZ Daily Press Correspondent Grant County Sheriff Raul Villanueva used his report at Thursday’s County Commission meeting to bring attention to recent online and phone scams that have bilked residents out of thousands of dollars. He encouraged the public to educate themselves and the elders in their lives,

Love‑uary. Friendship month. Kindness month. Self‑care February. The month of love.

Honoring area writers and historians of New Mexico

State Police will be conducting sobriety checkpoints, saturation patrols, including registration, insurance and driver's license checkpoints in all New Mexico counties…

On Presidents Day, scouts from The Conquistador Council Troops 2, 7 and 72 participated in a flag raising at Trinity United Methodist Church to replace an old worn-out…

SANTA FE — According to a news release from the New Mexico Department of Wildlife, the Mexican Wolf Interagency Field Team has completed the annual population count an…

CHICAGO, Feb. 27 (Reuters) — Bird flu has wiped out 7.4 million chickens in Pennsylvania in the past month, a swift and devastating loss that veterinarians and industr…

By JUNO OGLE Daily Press Staff The first of four candidates for Western New Mexico University’s 16th president spoke of his own academic journey and how the values of the institution mirror his own during a public meet-and-greet Wednesday afternoon. Jose Coll, a first-generation college graduate and military veteran, told

A plan to provide much-needed behavioral health resources for Roswell continues moving forward this past week after being recommended by members of the city’s Legal Co…

Albuquerque - Benjamin Chase of Albuquerque is accused of fatally shooting his brother during an argument at a Northeast Albuquerque apartment, according to police. Albuquerque Police Department officers were dispatched around 6:55 PM on Feb. 26 to 2800 Palo Verde Drive NE after a caller reported a shooting. The caller

Front page of the Feb. 23, 1889 issue of the Las Vegas Optic. Front page of the Feb. 23, 1889 issue of the Las Vegas Optic. The East side Elks’ soliciting committee, composed of H.G. Murphey, Dr. C.S. Losey and M.M. Padgett, was out today disposing of tickets to those

Reports first surfaced in October and work began in December, but a January test revealed two problem areas

Chama Valley Superintendent Anthony Casados is on paid administrative leave following a Feb. 17 vote by the Chama Valley School Board to investigate him and itself.

An Escalante High/Middle School teacher and football coach said false allegations of inappropriate conduct with a student left him on leave from his job, despite multiple investigations finding the claims are false.

Multiple Española City Councilors openly disagreed with the findings in a $20,000 organizational assessment of the city, presented at the Jan. 27 council meeting.

SANTA FE — Members of the public will have opportunities to provide input as the New Mexico Department of Wildlife shapes its proposals for potential changes to severa…

Albuquerque - In a recent email update, the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the Schlattman family, shared details regarding the visitation and memorial services honoring Sergeant Michael Schlattman. BCSO stated they "are grateful for the overwhelming support and compassion being shown to the family and to our agency

LAS CRUCES — The New Mexico Department of Agriculture’s (NMDA) Standards & Consumer Services (SCS) Division and State Metrology Lab recognize Weights and Measures …

Earlier in the month, the Conquistador Council Scouts, city of Roswell team members and everyday citizens came together to raise the flags for the Roswell 250 Field of…

A Santa Fe district judge on Friday dismissed a legal challenge seeking to remove Republican gubernatorial candidate Duke Rodriguez from the 2026 primary ballot, marking the second court ruling this week rejecting claims about his eligibility. State District Judge Matthew Wilson determined that the most recent complaint, filed by fellow

SANTA FE — The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals sided with New Mexico and 15 other states on Tuesday in the latest court victory against the U.S. Department of Education…

ALBUQUERQUE — A Carlsbad man is facing federal charges after allegedly firing a rifle at an Eddy County Sheriff’s Office deputy responding to a call last fall.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has chosen Roswell as one of the cities taking part in research about the physical well-being of the nation’s…

Albuquerque - Before 9:55 PM, officers from the Albuquerque Police Department were sent to the 200 block of Espanola St NE for a shooting. Officers found a man with a single gunshot wound to the abdomen. Albuquerque Fire Rescue provided medical care at the scene and transported him to a

ALBUQUERQUE — The statewide gas price average in New Mexico is $2.80 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA New Mexico Weekend Gas Watch. That pri…

Albuquerque - Around 6:57 PM, a caller reported a shooting in the 2800 block of Palo Verde Dr. NE. The caller told dispatchers they had found a person who had been shot and was lying face down in a driveway. Officers from the Albuquerque Police Department's Foothills Area Command were

Romero and Stansbury in DCWhen ABQ Dem Rep. Melanie Stansbury invited Santa Fe state Rep. Andrea Romero to be her guest at the State of the Union Tuesday night the Alligators started splashing. Like many other Dems, the pair boycotted the actual speech and instead joined Epstein survivors to mark

'All-clear' issued for Taos Plaza Officials issued an "all clear" for the Taos County Plaza area at 8:40 p.m. Wednesday (Feb. 18), after public safety departments and law enforcement personnel responded to a shooting and bomb threat Wednesday...

The New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management is now accepting applications from residents for the latest flood-related financial assistance …

The first Council Connection, a series of public forums organized by the city of Roswell, drew a sizable number of residents early Monday evening. And quite a few of t…

Far-left New Mexico Democrat Teresa Leger Fernandez is drawing sharp criticism after making what many are calling an insane claim about voter ID laws, asserting that Republicans support voter identification requirements because “they don’t want women to vote… they don’t want working families to vote.” New Mexico Democrat Rep. Teresa

Eastern New Mexico University–Roswell (ENMU-R) recognized two outstanding faculty members with the prestigious National Institute for Staff and Organizational Developm…

100 years ago

Students at Roswell High School (RHS) eagerly took advantage of the opportunity to sample what career paths are available in Roswell, Chaves County and around the stat…

The photograph, provided by Bonita Estates resident David Pascale, shows dust being dispersed at a construction site near his residence. Several residents of Bonita Estates near Storrie Lake raised concerns about the site. The photograph, provided by Bonita Estates resident David Pascale, shows dust being dispersed at a construction site

By JO LUTZ Daily Press Correspondent A Gila National Forest spokesperson confirmed that Pinos Altos Exploration/Ivanhoe Electric withdrew their plan of operations to explore 642 mining claims staked around Pinos Altos, covering 13,264 acres from Signal Peak in the east to Our Lady of Guadalupe Monastery on the west. Ivanhoe

The 10 teams that competed in Sunday’s Knowledge Bowl showed off their trivia skills by answering questions across several categories.

In the past year, plans for two gargantuan data centers have been announced in New Mexico, and electric utilities have come to see data center development as a driving force behind growth and need for increased generation. With several data...

Holy Cross Medical Center will assume management of Taos Orthopaedic Institute beginning Saturday (March 1), according to a press release. The hospital said the move will keep existing orthopedic care in place while expanding specialty services...

Kevin Whitefeather (Cordova) of Taos Pueblo — former Tribal official, founder of Whitefeather Native Cultural Tours and cofounder of Recovery Works! — has died, leaving behind a legacy of bringing people together at the Pueblo, in the Taos Valley...

The New Mexico Environment Department’s Emerging Contaminants Program launched an interactive dashboard Feb. 20 that allows residents to view PFAS testing results for their local public water system. The dashboard, which may be viewed at...

Designed to be a “one‑stop shop,” the BRIC is poised to strengthen small businesses, nurture start‑ups, and streamline access to essential services, according to a press release from Taos MainStreet. Located at 115 Civic Plaza Dr., the BRIC...

The following is a condensed list of reports made to Taos Central Dispatch within the Town of Taos from Feb. 18, 2026 – Feb. 22, 2026. Feb. 18 1:23 a.m. Disturbing the Peace, Weimer Road — Caller said someone kept knocking on their door, then...

A pilot program that places naloxone rescue kits in public locations across Rio Arriba County has coincided with fewer overdose-related 911 calls and fewer overdose deaths, according to a press release from Rio Arriba County Health and Human...

As 2024-2025 NM Vistas data shines a spotlight on student outcomes across New Mexico, charter school leaders from across the Enchanted Circle have formed a coalition designed to strengthen public education for students in rural areas. The...

Perched atop Outlaw Hill, The Stakeout is a restaurant, bar and wedding venue overlooking some of Taos’ most striking scenery, including the Rio Grande Gorge and Georgia O’Keeffe’s mesa-turned-muse...

A Colfax County jury returned a verdict Tuesday (Feb. 17) in favor of the New Mexico State Ethics Commission in a civil case, "State Ethics Commission ex rel. Village of Angel Fire v. Lindsey, et al.", finding that Angel Fire Mayor Barry "B.J."...

The Town of Taos increased funding for winter air service routes due to lack of snow in their regular meeting Tuesday (Feb. 24). The town provides a minimum revenue guarantee for Contour Airlines and JSX Air to operate our of the Taos Regional...

A drug trafficking arrest executed by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in the parking lot of Walmart in Taos Wednesday morning (Feb. 18) drew an anxious crowd who mistook the arrest for a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement...

A man who claimed to have stabbed someone and planted two pipe bombs in Taos County Plaza Wednesday night (Feb. 18) — forcing the closure of the historic square until officials issued an “all clear” at about 8:40 p.m. — is still at large,...

After high winds swept through the Village of Taos Ski Valley last week, downing a tree and causing lift holds and closures, the VSTV councilors revisited the urgency of undergrounding electrical lines, a project that started 13 years ago. Downed...

The following is a summary of activity at Stray Hearts Animal Shelter from Feb. 16 –Feb. 22, 2026. Animals currently in care: No report Total intakes this week: 12 Transfers this week: 1 Animals in foster: 15 Pounds of food: 425 Number of...

From left, Adelita Michelle Medina, Susan Seymour and David Montoya tour what is known at the United World College castle Monday morning. Medina, Seymour and Montoya helped establish Escuela Antonio Jose Martinez at the site in the 1970s. From left, Adelita Michelle Medina, Susan Seymour and David Montoya tour what

SANTA FE — The Bureau of Land Management on Feb. 20 opened a 30-day scoping period to receive public input on 32 oil and gas parcels totaling 21,181.2 acres that may b…

Yay or nay?

A crane operator placed two columbarium structures at South Park Cemetery on Monday.

The Lovington Leader hosted a retirement party for John and Jeanine Graham on Feb. 13. Friends, family and community members turned out for the event. The Grahams owne…

In April of 2025, voters approved a General Obligation (G.O) Bond in the amount of $7.3 million. The Mora Independent School District (MISD) Board of Education along with our staff, students, and administration are very grateful to the community and will never tire of expressing our gratitude. In September 2025

CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. – February closed with a familiar headline for Cibola County: the drought map still hasn’t moved, even though winter weather has been…

The Cibola Citizen is inviting hunters across Cibola County to submit photos and short write-ups from the 2025–2026 hunting season for possible publication.The…

This week's Athletes of the Week are Antonio DeVargas who placed fifth in 4A in the 215-pound weight class and Paizlyn Turley who placed sixth in the 135-pound…

Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Milan Gym will no longer be open for morning walkers due to lack of participation. If you have any questions regarding this or…

SANTA FE — Senate Bill 104 (SB 104) was unanimously accepted. It creates a new removal process for commissioners on the New Mexico State Wildlife Commission, an indepe…

Diego Lopez, EditorCIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. - With late February arriving and winter starting to ease up, local fishing is shifting back toward access and…

CatarinoHernandezCatarino Hernandez, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away on February 23, 2026, in Milan, New Mexico. Born on…

Duke Rodriguez successfully jumped over one legal hurdle Tuesday. Now he has one to go before he is free and clear to make his run for the '26 GOP gubernatorial nomination. . ..A state judge dismissed a court challenge filed against the Republican gubernatorial candidate. But the question of whether

GRANTS, NM – This last year, several local students at Grants High School performing arts students had the chance to attend MJ: The Musical – a reminder of…

This February, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is conducting prescribed fire operations in Chaves County. Specifically, the operations are planned to take place on…

Nancy Casper, right, is the new interim director of the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire Claims Office. The longtime FEMA official is pictured in 2022 receiving a certificate from former FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell recognizing her for achieving the agency’s highest level of emergency management expertise. Nancy Casper, right, is the

Updates will be posted throughout the week

Members of the Memorial Middle School BPA chapter recently participated in the 2026 New Mexico BPA State Leadership Conference in Albuquerque, held February 19–21, 2026. Students competed in a variety of business and leadership events, demonstrating excellence in workplace skills, professionalism, and industry knowledge. There were over 620 student members

The following individuals were booked into the San Miguel County Detention Center between Feb. 17 and 23, 2026: Amity Francine Maes, Shoplifting ($250 or Less), Criminal Trespass (Unposted), Bench Warrant FTA/FTP. Dominick Quintana, Driving While License Suspended or Revoked (Revoked For DWI), APO Arrest Order, Bench Warrant Failure to Comply.

For some, ice hockey draws to mind high-speed collisions, yelling and knocked-out teeth.

“American Heart Month, which is February, is a critical public health initiative designed to combat the leading cause of death globally,” said Dr. Eric Cohen, Eastern …

Marijuana magnate and GOP gubernatorial hopeful Duke Rodriguez didn’t just want legal weed in New Mexico—he was willing to pay for it. A decade of campaign finance records reveals an unabashed pattern of financial support for the very Democrats who made legalization a reality.Records from the past ten years show

The New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) commemorates the 135th anniversary of its founding, marking more than a century of leadership, discipline and service to the S…

The 2026 New Mexico Legislative Session concluded with a sharp partisan divide over public safety, taxes, healthcare, immigration policy, and government expansion. While lawmakers advanced several significant measures, dozens of high-profile proposals were defeated, leaving both sides claiming victories and frustrations. Among the most notable bipartisan wins was HB80, which

Sen. Lujan Can the GOP take advantage of an obscure state election law to reverse their historic failure to field a candidate against Dem US Senator Ben Ray Luajn in the November general election? That's the question now that the GOP's only candidate--Rio Rancho's Christopher Vanden Heuvel--failed to submit enough

Lawmakers tackled several big public education issues in the 30-day session, and approved legislation changing how math and literacy are taught in public schools, along with standards for teacher preparation. Lawmakers also passed a bill to codify the Office of Special Education under the Public Education Department. Two bills also

A tragic Monday unfolded across New Mexico as two separate law enforcement incidents shook communities from Albuquerque to Fort Sumner — including the heartbreaking line-of-duty death of a veteran sergeant with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office confirmed late Monday evening that one of its sergeants

SANTA FE — The 2026 legislative session delivered the fiscal year 2027 (FY27) budget, which totals $33.4 billion — including more than $11 billion from the general fun…

A 19-year-old Ohkay Owingeh man, originally charged with two felonies for a drunk driving car crash into a tree with his underage girlfriend, pleaded down to a single charge of drunk driving.

Margot is 25 pounds of beagle brilliance. She’s a true “nose-forward” dog who lives for a good sniff and would likely excel in scent work or nose games. When she’s not busy exploring the world one smell at a time, she’s happiest being close to her people and occupying laps,

A student's perspective on the meaning of Black history and culture

Content warning: This article contains descriptions of child sexual abuse and rape that some readers may find deeply upsetting. Discretion is advised. Editor's Note: An earlier version of this story stated John David Lee Jr. had been released from custody on house arrest. This is incorrect. The San Miguel County

Prosecutors dropped felony domestic violence charges against a Hernandez man after his ex-wife “made it clear she will not cooperate with the prosecution of this case.”

Items for Northern Briefs may be submitted by sending them to jgarcia@riograndesun.com Submissions must be received no later than noon Monday for publication that week.

SANTA FE — On Thursday, the New Mexico Department of Justice (NMDOJ) announced its formal support for a motion before the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC)…

With the 1981 anthem “Celebrate Good Times” by Kool & the Gang blaring in the hallways, members of the University High School (UHS) Student Council and advisor Deb…

The Chaves County Federated Republican Women (CCFRW) held their February meeting on Wednesday with a full house. The event began with an opening prayer and the Pledge …

A relatively short agenda for the Chaves County Commissioners meeting this week allowed time for a presentation about an array of ongoing construction and repair projects.

A Colfax County jury returned a verdict Tuesday (Feb. 17) in favor of the New Mexico State Ethics Commission in a civil case, "State Ethics Commission ex rel. Village of Angel Fire v. Lindsey, et al.", finding that Angel Fire Mayor Barry "B.J…

SANTA FE — On Sunday, the House of Representatives passed two critical pieces of legislation to grow the state’s public safety workforce and expand support for victims…

Front page of the Feb. 18, 1963 issue of the Las Vegas Optic. Front page of the Feb. 18, 1963 issue of the Las Vegas Optic. St. Michael’s College will provide the opposition for the Highlands Cowboys tonight when the two quints square off at 8 o’clock in Stu Clark

ALAMOGORDO — With help from the Forest Service’s National Stream and Aquatic Ecology Center (NSAEC) and partners, the National Forest Foundation and Rio Grande Return,…

SANTA FE — A bill that would ensure New Mexico students receive high-quality, research-based literacy instruction aligned with the science of reading has cleared both …

Shortly before the New Mexico Legislature ended its 2026 proceedings at noon on Thursday, some members of the Chaves County Commission talked about this 30-day session…

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Senate passed a bill to protect affordable health care coverage for tens of thousands of residents facing the loss of federal support, sendin…

Upon reviewing information recently released by the U.S. Department of Justice, Attorney General Raúl Torrez has ordered that the criminal investigation into allegatio…

Income-eligible seniors can now apply for farmers’ market benefits that provide $30-50 in fresh produce benefits this summer, part of a state program that connected nearly 28,000 New Mexicans with local farmers last year. A Feb. 11 New Mexico...

Seven New Mexico Democratic state senators on Wednesday sided with their Republican colleagues and voted down legislation that would have codified emissions reduction goals into state law. In a 19-23 vote following just over an hour of debate,...

Taos County said in a press release last week that Phase I of construction at the Taos County Detox Facility is complete, and announced the county has entered into a lease agreement with facility operator Rio Grande ATP, a local nonprofit...

Almost a year after the towering grandstand was leveled from view, dozens of construction flags flutter on a flattened expanse of dirt — evidence the redevelopment of the old Downs at Santa Fe property is underway south of the city. Officials...

A man who claimed to have stabbed someone and planted two pipe bombs in Taos County Plaza Wednesday night (Feb. 18) — forcing the closure of the historic square until officials issued an “all clear” at about 8:40 p.m. — is still at large, acc…

Municipalities of Taos County will continue to receive GRT distributions from the county for EMS and Fire Services after a controversial two month pause. The commissioners voted to reinstate the distribution in their regular meeting Tuesday (Feb....

New Mexico Supreme Court upheld a Taos County woman’s convictions of accessory to first-degree murder and other crimes connected to the killing of a man on Thanksgiving Day in 2020, the state Administrative Office of the Courts said. In a...

Northern Arizona braced for continued snowstorms and high winds that caused school closures in Flagstaff and snowfall at the Grand Canyon.

Healing trauma – at an individual as well as at the community level – is the focus of a free event that welcomes mental health professionals and locals who are open to learning more about their wellbeing. Transforming Trauma: Healing Our Community Together will take place March 13 from 9

According to a press release by the city of Roswell, the intersection of West Hobson Road and South Sunset Avenue/West Earl Cummings Loop will be closed for an estimat…

Illegal street racing has become a big issue in Roswell, according to Chaves County Undersheriff Charles Yslas. The participants of these races range from teenagers to…

Religious meaning of the tradition

SANTA FE — New Mexico has nearly doubled its registered apprenticeship programs since 2019, adding 35 new programs that are now training 2,607 workers in careers payin…

Speaker Javier Martinez"The House ran circles around the Senate." So declared a weary Senior Alligator traversing the Roundhouse halls on the last night of the 30 day legislative session. Their analysis was not fatigue-induced but an apt summary of the continued shift in the balance of power toward the 70

SANTA FE — It’s no surprise that accessing healthcare in New Mexico’s sparsely populated and geographically isolated communities is difficult. There is a vast health a…

Construction will begin Summer 2026 on a new water treatment plant that will nearly double the City of Las Vegas’ water capacity and ensure safe drinking water for generations to come. The City of Las Vegas’ new water treatment plant, designed in partnership with the New Mexico Environment Department, will

In the final stretch of New Mexico’s legislative session, two sweeping gun control measures championed by progressive Democrats have effectively collapsed — a major victory for New Mexicans’ Second Amendment rights. Senate Bill 17, the so-called “Stop Illegal Gun Trade and Extremely Dangerous Weapons Act,” was rolled indefinitely in the

Roy Arnold GordonRoy Arnold Gordon a beloved father grandfather brother uncle's best friend went to meet the Lord and his savior Jesus Christ on January 20…

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Deb Haaland listened to concerns about New Mexico Highlands University’s claim with FEMA during a campus tour on Feb. 12. Haaland is one of two declared candidates in the race for governor; the other candidate is Sam Bregman, who is currently district attorney for Bernalillo County. Haaland’s

An often bitter battle over medical malpractice reform ended late Wednesday with the Senate approving a House bill that for the first time caps punitive damages in malpractice cases.The victory was especially sweet for reformers, including House sponsor Rep. Christine Chandler, coming as it did after attempts by Senate Judiciary

Angela G SanchezAngela G Sanchez, born on September 6, 1933, in Grants, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026, in her beloved hometown. Angela…

Instead of death by a thousand cuts, its more like a dozen when it comes to the hotly contested medical malpractice bill. The measure is now limping into the final hours of the 30 day legislative session after being whipped like a rented mule Monday by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman

The following individuals were booked into the San Miguel County Detention Center between February 10 and February 16, 2026: Taran Dragon Franklyn-Atman, Kidnapping (Second Degree) - Attempt, Aggravated Burglary (Deadly Weapon), Armed Robbery - Attempt, Aggravated Battery, Child Abuse, Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle (First Offense) - Attempt, Battery,

Hobbs boy surrounded by love after loss Chrstina Holt/News-Sun DALLAS, Texas — The 10-year-old Hobbs boy who lost his mother, Megan Runnels, in a fire last month is now living with the Cardona family in the Dallas, Texas, area – a decision made by his mother in her final moments.

Earthquakes spike by as much as 700 percent in Permian Levi Hill/News-Sun The ground …

Earthquakes spike by as much as 700 percent in Permian Levi Hill/News-Sun The ground is starting to shake in the Permian Basin and those who live in the region are beginning to take notice even as scientist watch the number of earthquakes in the region skyrocket. The sheer number of

Senator Ben Ray Lujan is assuring New Mexicans that his head isn't too big for his britches in light of the historic turn of events that has left him virtually unopposed for re-election this year. He says in a message to constituents: I will never take the trust of New

Ideas on what a new animal shelter in Las Vegas may have – such as twice the dog kennel capacity, a community cat room and a retail shop – were discussed during a public meeting at the City Council Chambers on Feb. 6. Speaking to a group of about 20

The state Supreme Court today reversed a Pecos man’s convictions for first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder during a shooting after a night of drinking. The justices ordered Mark Valencia’s case back to the San Miguel County District Court for a new trial on the murder and attempted murder charges.

Air Commandos with the 27th Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron and Clovis firefighters conduct a simulated aircraft fire exercise on Aug. 14, 2015, at Cannon Air Force Base. Proposed legislation at the 2026 New Mexico Legislature “reflects the reality that firefighters are regularly exposed to carcinogens while working to keep

Front page of the Feb. 12, 1892 issue of the Las Vegas Optic Front page of the Feb. 12, 1892 issue of the Las Vegas Optic Now for prompt official action on the construction of Las Vegas’ modern sewer system. Tomorrow night the city council will receive the complete report

Two of the most hotly debated bills of the session — one targeting emissions policy and the other unconstitutional sweeping gun regulations — triggered marathon hearings, sharp partisan divides, and dueling victory statements this week at the Roundhouse. On Wednesday, the Senate rejected Senate Bill 18, the so-called “Clear Horizons

Nearly four years after the federally caused Hermits Peak–Calf Canyon Fire devastated northern New Mexico, a new independent economic analysis confirms that New Mexico Highlands University sustained between $209 million and $277 million in damages as a direct result of the disaster—losses the University continues to carry while awaiting full

Jay Mitchell, director of the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire Claims Office, is on administrative leave, according to an email Source New Mexico obtained Feb. 12, 2026. Jay Mitchell, director of the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire Claims Office, is on administrative leave, according to an email Source New Mexico obtained Feb.

Body camera video footage provided by the Mora County Sheriff’s Office confirms that a teacher with the Mora Independent School District was hurt during a physical altercation between students. The incident, which took place Dec. 11 at Mora High School, resulted in the teacher having to be airlifted to a

Amy BarelaFor the first time in state history a major political party will not have a candidate running for a United States Senate seat. This epic fail of the NMGOP was revealed this week when Christopher Vanden Heuvel, the lone Republican running in the June primary failed to submit enough

Pete Rock, owner and operator of Love Letter Tattoo, has created several tattoo designs to choose from during a fundraiser event at his shop on Friday, Feb. 13. The fundraiser is in support of a potential skatepark in Las Vegas. Pete Rock, owner and operator of Love Letter Tattoo, has

A Las Cruces woman is behind bars after police say she gave birth to a baby girl inside a portable toilet and left the newborn in the holding tank, resulting in the child’s death. According to authorities, 38-year-old Sonia Jimenez was arrested following an investigation that began late Saturday night.

Police arrested a Las Vegas man early Tuesday morning after he allegedly broke into a relative’s home and kidnapped a 9-year-old girl at knifepoint. Prosecutors filed multiple felony charges against 24-year-old Taran Dragon Franklyn-Atman after arresting him in the 500 block of Socorro Street around 3:30 a.m. on Tuesday. Police

A sign outside of Las Vegas’ new Toy Lending and Resource Library, which had a grand opening event all day Monday. The library is located inside the Victoria D. de Sanchez Teacher Education Center on the New Mexico Highlands University campus. A sign outside of Las Vegas’ new Toy Lending

Water efficiency is the smart use of our water resources through water-saving technologies and...Read More

A long-running effort to overhaul how New Mexico oversees its public schools came to an abrupt halt this week, leaving the governor with even greater control over an education system that continues to rank last in the nation — behind all 50 states and the District of Columbia — according

A sweeping gun control proposal that critics say represents one of the most extreme assaults on the Second Amendment in New Mexico history is now headed to the Senate floor. Senate Bill 17, which would ban the sale of a broad range of semi-automatic firearms and impose heavy new mandates

In a move critics are calling reckless, ideologically driven, and economically devastating, New Mexico Democrats have fast-tracked House Bill 9 (HB 9)—the so-called “Immigrant Safety Act”—through the Legislature and toward the governor’s desk, setting the stage for what opponents warn could be mass job losses, municipal insolvency, and a collapse

Permian Basin in dire need of power Levi Hill/News-Sun The Delaware Basin of Southeast New Mexico is starving. Every economic development opportunity that could possibly come to New Mexico — from nuclear facilities, including upgrades at Urenco USA, to data centers — all need one thing: Power. And it is

Turning investment into impact: Reflecting on JF Maddox Foundation’s 2025 funding initiatives From past experiences, we know when we work together and form meaningful partnerships, our community thrives. 2025 was no exception. This past year, the JF Maddox Foundation had the honor to collaborate with community partners across the county

Gallegos makes ballot for Lt. Gov. Levi Hill/News-Sun Sen. David Gallegos, R-Eunice, made the ballot for the June primary in the race for New Mexico’s next Lt. governor, facing off against two other Republican candidates. Gallegos needed, 2,351 nomination signatures by Tuesday. He told the News-Sun he had more than

New Mexico lawmakers are poised to consider two sweeping and dangerous constitutional amendments that would permanently upend how the state Legislature operates — and critics warn the proposals would crush transparency, overwhelm citizen legislators, and ram through controversial policies with little public input. House Joint Resolutions 6 and 7, sponsored

Sunday, Feb. 1 *Arno Bornkamp guest saxophone recital – 2 p.m., Buchanan Hall, ENMU Music...Read More

A sweeping and highly controversial piece of legislation that critics warn could devastate rural New Mexico communities is now headed to the New Mexico House floor, where it will be debated today beginning at noon, with a live webcast available on the Legislature’s website under the “Webcast” tab. House Bill

January 22, 2026 By Shaun Banther Eastern New Mexico University’s Department of Theatre and...Read More

Far-left Democrat Gabe Vasquez is once again drawing sharp criticism after publishing an incendiary op-ed that demonizes Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), echoes open-borders talking points, and casts federal law enforcement as rogue actors—while downplaying the real consequences of lax border policy on New Mexico communities. In the Albuquerque Journal

We are pleased to announce that Curry County has been awarded the 2026 Summer Internship Program!...Read More

On Thursday, January 22, at 1:30 p.m. (or 15 minutes after the House floor session, whichever is later), the New Mexico House Consumer & Public Affairs Committee will meet in Room 317 to hear House Bill 9 (HB 9)—a sweeping, far-left proposal that would effectively shut down Immigration and Customs

NMJC to buy former hospital building for $1.75 million Levi Hill/News-Sun Pending an environmental study and approval from the New Mexico Higher Education Department, New Mexico Junior College will soon be the owners of the former Lea Regional Medical Center campus. NMJC Board of Directors voted unanimously Thursday to approve

In her final State of the State address Tuesday, Michelle Lujan Grisham laid out an expansive agenda for the 30-day legislative session, pitching it as a call for bipartisanship while reviving some of the most divisive proposals of her two terms — including a renewed push to restrict firearms in

President Donald Trump sharply criticized New Mexico’s election system on Friday, calling the state’s elections “so corrupt it’s incredible” during a White House roundtable focused on rural health care. Trump made the remarks in response to a question from a woman who identified herself as a nurse practitioner and a

The Annual Chamber and RCCDC Banquet was a night to remember, and it came together because of an...Read More

EXCLUSIVE — The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) is launching a new paid digital advertising campaign targeting far-left Democrat Gabe Vasquez, accusing him of voting against millions of dollars in federal funding for southern New Mexico communities—then attempting to take credit for the very projects he opposed. According to the

A radical environmental advocacy group with a long track record of using the Endangered Species Act (ESA) as a litigation weapon is once again targeting New Mexico’s water, energy, and agricultural sectors—this time over a freshwater turtle. According to Source New Mexico, the Center for Biological Diversity filed a federal

Long John Silvers demolished, but company promises return to Hobbs Levi Hill/News-Sun A decades-old staple at the corner of Turner and Bender is gone. The Long John Silver’s restaurant has been demolished. But the fish and chicken eatery isn’t giving up on Hobbs. If anything, it’s doubling down, rebuilding the

Nor-Lea gets $600K for diabetes health Levi Hill/News-Sun LOVINGTON — It’s a silent killer that often goes unnoticed, but in Lea County, diabetes is a growing epidemic. Thanks to state funding, Nor-Lea Hospital will soon be helping fight this silent killer and helping Lea Countians stay healthier. Nor-Lea recently received

Tatum first grader rings bell after cancer battle Denise Marquez/News-Sun Forget Santa’s sleigh bells. For one Tatum first-grader, the most meaningful Christmas sound was a bell she rung signaling the end of her cancer battle. Adalee Torrez, age 7 of Lovington and a first grader at Tatum Elementary School, rang

I see stupid people And Their Anti-Science Fearmongering Could Cost This State Everything John R. Grizz Deal/CEO, IX Water I see stupid people. Not the harmless kind who get lost in the Walmart parking lot, but the ones who descend on public hearings like a flock of caffeinated pigeons, clutching

When Rosalva Zuniga spoke at a recent Deming Rotary Club meeting, she never thought her words would spread like wildfire. Transplanted from San Diego,...

Two Deming City Council members made a final appearance as members of the council at Tuesday’s regular meeting at City Hall. Irmaisela Rodriguez, the ...

Two new recruits have received badges and are ready to serve and protect. Yeimi Bustos and Ryan Gigante come from different backgrounds, but have a co...

With only seven days until Christmas, everyone is looking at their holiday menus, including a certain local nonprofit. Silver Linings, which assists t...

An amendment to the fleet service agreement between two bus companies will be considered tonight at the Deming Public Schools board meeting. The board...

The votes have been tallied, the die has been cast, and unofficial results for local elections have been released. Laura Parra and Catherine Gutierrez...

With only one week until the polls open on November 4, many local candidates are in the crunch time of their campaigns. One candidate for School Board...

Benny Jasso experienced the inner workings of City Council in Deming. The former mayor of the city says the local government branch does a lot of posi...

When voters go to the polls on Nov. 4, they will have an opportunity to do something about city streets. The General Obligation Bond will be up for ap...

Tiffany Coleman is one of five candidates that are running for the District 2 seat on the DPS School Board, and may just be the newest to the area to ...

With the weather getting chilly, one program at Red Mountain Middle School has partnered with the local Elks lodge to kick off their second annual coa...

First responders of the Village of Columbus handle 35 to 40 emergency calls a week. Luna County officials recognized that the Columbus Fire/EMS Depart...

Joe “Butter” Milo calls himself an advocate for the north side of the city. “I remember when the north end of town had no street lights, street signs,...

Luna County was presented with a prestigious award last Thursday at the board of county commissioner’s meeting. County Manager Chris Brice presented t...

1975 brought about the end of the Vietnam War and the fall of Saigon. The year also marked the beginning of the Hollywood blockbuster age with the rel...

People from across Luna County packed themselves into the Train Depot Tuesday night to hear candidate campaigns and agendas in one of the best attende...

Kickin’ it at the Deming Luna County Animal Shelter may seem like a resort for the homeless pets that are residents at the facility, but according to ...

Red Mountain Middle School music teacher Gerard Flores will be before Judge Jennifer DeLaney in New Mexico Sixth Judicial District Court for a Detenti...

The Southwestern New Mexico State Fair has officially returned to Deming, and cowboys around the area are itching to get into the saddle. From Youth e...

Improvements to Columbus Elementary School are inbound after last Thursday’s school board meeting. The board approved two high ticket items, including...