Santa Fe County Adopts Health Action Plan for FY 24-26
Santa Fe, NM- On April 30, 2024, the Santa Fe County Board of County Commissioners adopted the FY 2024-2029 Health Action Plan which guides the County in incorporating new health priorities for the County and community providers. The plan includes new programming and policymaking plans in the areas of health, behavioral health, and senior services, as well as increasing capacity to provide support during crises.According to HPPC Chair Steven Berkshire, "Santa Fe County has paved the way in establishing groundbreaking programs such as CONNECT and La Sala that now serve as...
Possible Quorum of Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board Expected at Citizen Police Academy Training
Albuquerque, NM - April 29, 2024A notice has been issued by the Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board regarding a potential quorum at the upcoming Citizen Police Academy training session to be held on May 2, 2024, at the Albuquerque Police Academy. The board members may be present at the event, although no official business will be conducted during the training.The advisory states, "A quorum of the Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board may be in attendance at the Albuquerque Police Academy, 5412 2nd Street NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87107, regarding the Citizen Police...
NMSU Learning Games Lab Receives 2024 Intellectual Property Award
The Learning Games Lab team at New Mexico State University has been honored with the 2024 Intellectual Property Award presented by NMSU’s Arrowhead Center and the Office of Research, Creativity, and Economic Development. During a ceremony held at the Bobby Lee Lawrence Wine Academy at Gerald Thomas Hall, the team was recognized for their outstanding work in developing intellectual property that brings societal, industrial, and commercial benefits.“Our team was surprised and honored to be recognized by Arrowhead with this award,” said Amy Smith Muise, Innovative Media...
Business
Nusenda Credit Union Receives Platinum Level Family Friendly Business Award
Nusenda Credit Union has once again been recognized for its outstanding workplace policies, earning the prestigious "platinum level" distinction in the New Mexico Family Friendly Business Award. The credit union has received this accolade for the seventh consecutive year, showcasing its commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment for its employees.Michelle Dearholt, Nusenda's Executive Vice President of Operations, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the well-being of their team, stating, "At Nusenda Credit Union we believe that taking care...
Albuquerque Business First Honors Nusenda’s Nikki Bunch as 40 Under 40 Recipient
Albuquerque, N.M. – Nikki Bunch, Senior Vice President of Member Experience at Nusenda Credit Union, has been named a 40 Under 40 Honoree by Albuquerque Business First. Michelle Dearholt, Nusenda’s Executive Vice President of Operations, highlighted Nikki's dedication to member relationships, stating, “Nikki is dedicated to cultivating a relationship-based experience for the Credit Union’s more than 260,000 members." Dearholt expressed pride in Nikki's achievements, emphasizing her positive impact on members, employees, and communities.Nikki's journey at Nusenda began...
Nusenda Credit Union Honored as Top Workplace in the United States
Nusenda Credit Union has been named a top workplace in the United States, receiving the 2024 Top Workplaces USA Award for the third consecutive year. The award, issued by Energage, celebrates organizations with 150 or more employees that have established positive and uplifting workplace cultures."Nusenda strives to be an employer of choice, and we know taking care of our team allows them to take care of our members," stated Nusenda President and CEO Joe Christian. "We are very grateful to be recognized by our employees as one of the best credit unions to work for locally...
Nusenda Credit Union Completes Acquisition of Western Heritage Bank
Nusenda Credit Union has officially finalized the acquisition of Western Heritage Bank, marking a significant milestone for both financial institutions. The acquisition was completed on March 12, 2024, following approval from the National Credit Union Administration.In a statement, Joe Christian, President/CEO of Nusenda, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "On behalf of our board of directors and entire team, I am pleased to welcome Western Heritage customers and employees to the Nusenda family!" Christian highlighted the alignment of values between...
UNM's Cosmiac honored with inaugural Space Valley Diversity in Business Champion Award
The University of New Mexico (UNM) recently revealed that the inaugural Space Valley Diversity in Business Champion Award, sponsored by the New Mexico Minority Business Development Agency, was awarded to COSMIAC. This organization is a space-related research center situated within the School of Engineering. In addition, IDEAS-TEK, a company specializing in embedded system design and software development, received recognition as the Minority-Owned Company of the Year.
Education
Albuquerque, NM - April 29, 2024A notice has been issued by the Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board regarding a potential quorum at the upcoming Citizen Police Academy training session to be held on May 2, 2024, at the Albuquerque Police Academy. The board members may be present at the event, although no official business will be conducted during the training.The advisory states, "A quorum of the Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board may be in attendance at the Albuquerque Police Academy, 5412 2nd Street NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87107, regarding the Citizen Police...
NMSU Learning Games Lab Receives 2024 Intellectual Property Award
The Learning Games Lab team at New Mexico State University has been honored with the 2024 Intellectual Property Award presented by NMSU’s Arrowhead Center and the Office of Research, Creativity, and Economic Development. During a ceremony held at the Bobby Lee Lawrence Wine Academy at Gerald Thomas Hall, the team was recognized for their outstanding work in developing intellectual property that brings societal, industrial, and commercial benefits.“Our team was surprised and honored to be recognized by Arrowhead with this award,” said Amy Smith Muise, Innovative Media...
2022 New Mexico Election Study Reveals Key Insights on Voting Patterns
The recently released New Mexico Election Study (NMES) for 2022 sheds light on the successful general election in the state, emphasizing strong security measures and voter access opportunities. The study, conducted by University of New Mexico (UNM) Professor Emeritus Lonna Atkeson, now Director of the LeRoy Collins Institute at Florida State University (FSU), along with UNM Political Science Professor Wendy Hansen, supported by New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver, delves into the changes and advancements in election administration.Atkeson, one of the key...
Government
Santa Fe County Adopts Health Action Plan for FY 24-26
Santa Fe, NM- On April 30, 2024, the Santa Fe County Board of County Commissioners adopted the FY 2024-2029 Health Action Plan which guides the County in incorporating new health priorities for the County and community providers. The plan includes new programming and policymaking plans in the areas of health, behavioral health, and senior services, as well as increasing capacity to provide support during crises.According to HPPC Chair Steven Berkshire, "Santa Fe County has paved the way in establishing groundbreaking programs such as CONNECT and La Sala that now serve as...
Santa Fe County Urges Residents to Participate in Broadband Survey for Improved Infrastructure
Santa Fe, NM- The Santa Fe County Economic Development Division, in collaboration with the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Division and the County’s Broadband Working Group, is urging all residents to take part in a broadband survey aimed at enhancing infrastructure and ensuring reliable access to high-speed internet for all County residents.In a statement, the Santa Fe County Economic Development Division expressed their commitment to understanding the community's internet needs, stating, "We aim to understand the speed and reliability of existing connections to...
Santa Fe County Seeks Health Policy and Planning Commission (HPPC) Members
Santa Fe, NM- The Santa Fe County Community Services Department is currently in search of dedicated volunteers to join the Health Policy and Planning Commission (HPPC). The commission, comprised of nine members, aims to bring together individuals from various backgrounds to contribute to the improvement of healthcare services within the County.According to a recent announcement, the primary focus of the HPPC is to offer counsel and suggestions to the Community Services Department and the Board of County Commissioners regarding the delivery of health care services in Santa...
Santa Fe Film Office Announces NYU Tisch Graduate Film Summer Workshop for Aspiring Pueblo and Indigenous Director-Writers
Santa Fe, NM- The Santa Fe Film Office has unveiled an exciting opportunity for aspiring Pueblo and Indigenous Director-Writers to partake in the tuition-free NYU Tisch Graduate Film Summer Workshop. As reported by the office, this initiative, in collaboration with Santa Fe Community College and the Institute of American Indian Arts, aims to empower diverse storytellers and elevate Indigenous voices within the film industry.The workshop, scheduled to run for three weeks at Santa Fe Community College, will be led by esteemed faculty members from NYU Tisch's Graduate Film...
Lifestyle
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) is emphasizing the significance of infant immunizations during National Infant Immunization Week, which runs from April 22 to 29, 2024. Andrea Romero, Immunization Program Manager at NMHealth, stressed the importance of families keeping their children up to date on vaccinations. Romero stated, "NMHealth encourages families to discuss staying up to date on childhood vaccinations with a health professional. Together we can raise awareness and spread the importance of timely immunization. On-schedule vaccinations play a...
SANTA FE — In light of April being national Alcohol Awareness Month, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has approved $2 million to establish the Office of Alcohol Misuse Prevention (OAMP) within the New Mexico Department of Health. The OAMP is aimed at mitigating alcohol-related harms through coordinated prevention efforts across state agencies, promoting FDA-approved treatments for alcohol use disorder, and supporting communities in reducing excessive alcohol consumption.NMHealth Secretary Patrick Allen emphasized the importance of addressing alcohol-related issues,...
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) has confirmed the presence of xylazine in three fentanyl samples tested through the state’s Adulterant Checking Program.Secretary Patrick Allen of NMHealth emphasized the seriousness of this discovery, stating, “The identification of xylazine puts us on notice that an already dangerous drug supply has gotten that much more deadly.”The Adulterant Checking Program, initiated in November 2023, allows individuals to have substances tested before use as part of the Harm Reduction Program. Joshua Swatek, NMHealth Hepatitis and...
Events
Bosque Redondo Memorial to hold Fiber Fair
The Bosque Redondo Memorial at Fort Sumner Historic Site will host a Fiber Fair on Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
UNM hosts 2nd Annual Health Equity Summit
UNM Health Sciences recently announced that the University of New Mexico's 2nd Annual Health Equity Summit drew in 300 stakeholders from across the state. The event, held at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, saw participation from UNM faculty, leaders, officials from the New Mexico Department of Health, non-profit organizations, and community leaders who exchanged diverse perspectives.
Museum of Art to feature 'Ways of Seeing: Four Photography Collections'
The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs has unveiled an exhibition titled "Ways of Seeing" at the New Mexico Museum of Art. The exhibition features nearly forty photographs, showcasing a diverse range of art collecting approaches.
David Arkenstone to perform holiday concert in Albuquerque: ‘I set out to capture the feelings I get when winter comes around’
Grammy-nominated composer David Arkenstone is playing in Albuquerque as part of his three-state "A Winter’s Eve with David Arkenstone and Friends" concert tour. According to Arkenstone, at this concert he will try to create meaningful memories of winter with the audience.
NMSU to host 41st annual jewelry sale
New Mexico State University (NMSU) is set to host its 41st annual jewelry sale, featuring unique, handmade jewelry crafted by art students. The event aims to not only provide students with an opportunity to showcase their skills but also to raise funds for the metalsmithing program and acquire new equipment for the metalsmithing studio, according to a press release by NMSU.
Politics
Nella Domenici, a U.S. Senate candidate for the state of New Mexico, stated in a post on X that the southern border is "lawless and out of control." This comment was made in response to a video depicting a group of individuals illegally entering El Paso and subsequently knocking down several Texas National Guard soldiers.
Manny Gonzales announces U.S. Senate run as Republican
Former Bernalillo County Sheriff, Manny Gonzales, has announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate. After years of membership in the Democratic Party, Gonzales is now running for New Mexico's senate seat as a Republican.
Nichole Rogers wins District 6 runoff election
In the recent runoff election for Albuquerque City Council District 6, Nichole Rogers narrowly defeated Jeff Hoehn to secure the city council seat. The margin of victory was approximately 200 votes in a district that encompasses both the International District and Nob Hill.
Real Estate
MFA launches Home Improvement Program in eight counties
The New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA) has announced the launch of the Home Improvement Program, a scheme designed to provide direct home rehabilitation services in eight counties. The initiative is intended to fill gaps in service provision left by the HOME Rehabilitation Program and will be operational in Guadalupe, Harding, Los Alamos, McKinley, Rio Arriba, Quay, San Juan, and Union Counties.
MFA allocates $5.5m for FirstDown Plus program
The New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA) has unveiled the FirstDown Plus loan program, with an allocation of $5.5 million from the New Mexico Housing Trust Fund. The initiative is designed to offer financial support to homebuyers in need.
MFA greenlights three service providers for ROC program
The New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA) has announced that its board of directors has approved three service providers for the Restoring Our Communities (ROC) program. Alongside this decision, the board also endorsed a modification to the ROC Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), allowing experienced service providers to undertake up to five projects concurrently. This announcement was made on January 8th.
MFA approves $2.8m for Encino Gardens
The New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA) has announced that its board of directors has approved $2.8 million for the acquisition and refurbishment of Encino Gardens, an affordable senior housing community in Albuquerque. The proposed rehabilitation encompasses the entire building, including residences, hallways, mechanical systems, interior common rooms, plumbing and lighting fixtures, and external common areas.
Sports
New Mexico State University (NMSU) is set to host the STTE Foundation's Southwest Collegiate Cup, sponsored by Microsoft, bringing together students from six universities in the Southwest. According to a press release by NMSU, the participating universities include Colorado State University, NMSU, New Mexico Tech, Texas Tech University, the University of New Mexico, the University of Texas at El Paso, and the University of Texas Permian Basin.
New Mexico State University (NMSU) recently held a 5K Color Fun Run organized by the Office of Experiential Learning. The event, which took place on September 9, aimed to promote community engagement among NMSU students and the broader Las Cruces community. According to a press release, the run successfully raised over $4,400 to support Camp Hope through the annual Tents to Rents Campaign.
BetMGM announced it has inaugurated a new retail sportsbook at Isleta Resort & Casino in Albuquerque, marking its entry into the sports betting market in New Mexico. The BetMGM sportsbook at Isleta, spanning 4,900 square feet and equipped with 35 television screens, also includes two VIP sections. This milestone happened as BetMGM continues to expand its footprint across the United States.