IMMIGRATION-BORDER CROSSINGS
Number of children traveling alone at border eases in April
SAN DIEGO (AP) — The number of unaccompanied children encountered on the U.S. border with Mexico in April eased from an all-time high a month earlier, while more adults are coming without families. Authorities encountered nearly 17,200 children traveling alone, down 9% from March but still far above the previous high in May 2019. Family encounters were also down. Overall, Border Patrol encounters topped 173,000, the highest level since April 2000. The numbers aren't directly comparable because many are expelled from the country under federal pandemic-related powers. Being expelled carries no legal consequences, so many people try to cross multiple times.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation reports 9 new COVID-19 cases, but no deaths
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation on Tuesday reported nine new confirmed COVID-19 cases, but no additional deaths for the second consecutive day. Tribal health officials say the latest figures pushed the total number of cases since the pandemic began more than a year ago to 30,642 on the vast reservation that covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. The known death toll remains at 1,285. Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez says more than half of the reservation's adult population has been vaccinated, but people still need to stay home as much as possible, wear masks and avoid large gatherings. 

NEW MEXICO GOP-TEXAS
GOP convention moved to Texas to avoid coronavirus rules
LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) — The New Mexico Republican Party is moving their three-day convention this weekend to Amarillo, Texas, after speakers had concerns over New Mexico's COVID-19 restrictions. Party Chairman Steve Pearce says that hundreds have registered to attend the event, dubbed "Operation Freedom." Gatherings in New Mexico are still limited to 150 people or less in most counties. The state is planning to fully reopen once 60 percent of eligible residents are fully vaccinated. Meanwhile, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott lifted the state's mask mandate and other restrictions in March. Pearce said the event's workshops will look past the pandemic toward local organizing and problem-solving.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NEW MEXICO
New Mexico reinstates requirement for jobless to seek work
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico is joining several other states that have reinstated the work search requirement for people who receive unemployment benefits. Starting this week, state labor officials say people seeking the payments must verify that they have made at least two work search contacts per week in order to continue receiving the money. The requirement was waived during the pandemic as unemployment rates surged due to businesses closures and cutbacks. The change comes as all but two New Mexico counties now operate in public health safety categories with the least COVID-19 restrictions. The latest state data also shows 48% of residents over 16 are fully vaccinated.

NEW MEXICO UTILITY MERGER
Firm's record spurs concerns about New Mexico utility merger
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The track record of global energy giant Iberdrola's U.S. subsidiary Avangrid has sparked concerns among utility regulators as the company seeks approval for a multibillion-dollar merger with New Mexico's largest electric provider. A hearing examiner with the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission said Tuesday that utilities owned by Avangrid have been assessed a total of $25 million in penalties and disallowances for poor customer service in three states in the past 16 months. The official said Avangrid failed to provide information about the enforcement as New Mexico regulators consider its proposed merger with PNM Resources. An attorney for Avangrid said the company will provide the information requested by the examiner. 

NOROVIRUS-NEW MEXICO
State health agency cites multiple outbreaks of norovirus
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico public health officials say they're investigating multiple outbreaks around the state of a highly contagious disease often called the stomach flu. The Department of Health said precautions such as frequent handwashing are advised to prevent norovirus infection. The department noted that hand sanitizer does not work against norovirus. According to the department, it's important that precautions be taken around the very young, the elderly and those at any age with weakened immune systems because those people are at risk for more serious illness from norovirus infection. The department said norovirus can spread easily among people and symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

MIGRANT CHILDREN-SHELTERS
Migrant children held in mass shelters with little oversight
The Biden administration is holding tens of thousands of asylum-seeking children in an opaque network of some 200 facilities. The Associated Press has learned that those facilities are spread across two dozen states and include five shelters with more than 1,000 children packed inside. Confidential data obtained by the AP shows that the number of migrant children in government custody has more than doubled in the past two months and that this week the federal government is housing around 21,000 kids, from toddlers to teens. A facility at U.S. Army post Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, had more than 4,500 children on Monday.

CONGRESS-NEW MEXICO
Capitol siege, immigration issues mark congressional debate
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Republican congressional candidate Mark Moores went on the attack against a Democratic opponent in a final pair of network television debates ahead of the June 1 election to fill an open seat based in the Albuquerque area. Moores on Monday denounced a "radical agenda" from Democratic congressional nominee Melanie Stansbury on immigration, policing, the minimum wage and more. Stansbury rarely engaged in direct retorts as she defended her support for a $15 minimum wage, reforms to address police misconduct and systemic racism, and a more humanitarian approach to immigration. In his only televised debate opportunity, independent congressional candidate Aubrey Dunn Jr. cast himself as an alternative to partisan bickering.

BIDEN-ECONOMY-NEW MEXICO
New Mexico awaits $1.75B in federal pandemic relief
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico's state government will receive $1.75 billion in pandemic relief from the federal government under the Biden administration and Congress' economic recovery plan. The Treasury Department on Monday announced new details of the the relief along with new guidance on eligible expenses. The funds can be delivered to New Mexico on a faster schedule than most states to counteract lingering unemployment. Specifically, the guidance allows states to replenish unemployment insurance trust funds to pre-pandemic levels. New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham wants to rebuild the state's unemployment trust fund, add revenue for state agencies and spend more on behavioral health, broadband and the hospitality industry.

​CONGRESS-NEW MEXICO
Capitol siege, immigration issues mark congressional debate
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Republican congressional candidate Mark Moores went on the attack against a Democratic opponent in a final pair of network television debates ahead of the June 1 election to fill an open seat based in the Albuquerque area. Moores on Monday denounced a "radical agenda" from Democratic congressional nominee Melanie Stansbury on immigration, policing, the minimum wage and more. Stansbury rarely engaged in direct retorts as she defended her support for a $15 minimum wage, reforms to address police misconduct and systemic racism, and a more humanitarian approach to immigration. In his only televised debate opportunity, independent congressional candidate Aubrey Dunn Jr. cast himself as an alternative to partisan bickering.

TOSS NO MAS
New Mexico revives anti-litter 'Toss No Mas' campaign
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico transportation officials say roadside litter is an issue so they're reviving the "Toss No Mas" campaign. State Transportation Secretary Mike Sandoval says his agency has nearly 900 boots on the ground picking up trash and debris year-round. The day after a stretch of road is cleaned, he says new trash shows up. He says the problem seemed to get worse during the pandemic. The campaign will include the message "Tie it. Tarp it. Pick it up." Officials say they found that the largest litter accumulations come from people not tying up their garbage bags, tarping their loads or picking up dropped debris or litter.

ENDANGERED WOLVES-TURNER RANCH
Wolves to find new home at Ted Turner's New Mexico ranch
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — One of Ted Turner's ranches in southern New Mexico will be home for a pair of Mexican gray wolves and their pups. The Ladder Ranch is teaming up with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the project. It will mark the first time a translocation of the endangered wolves has been done on private land. Officials say the aim is to boost genetic diversity among the wild population roaming parts of New Mexico and Arizona. Federal officials had faced a deadline this month for rewriting the rules that govern management of the species. However, a federal judge has agreed to give them more time.

EDUCATION-KINDERGARTEN PREP
New Mexico invests in prekindergarten literacy software
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico officials are training educators on a new platform that will track progress among preschool children to better prepare them for kindergarten and make it easier for parents to keep tabs. The move follows an exodus from the public school system by kids 5 and under. There are 20% fewer prekindergarten students enrolled this year and 12.5% fewer in kindergarten. State education and early childhood officials hope a $875,000 contract with early learning organization Waterford can help them bounce back. Come fall, parents can access 15-minute lessons and view progress data logged by teachers.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation reports 30 new COVID-19 cases, 1 more death
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation on Monday reported 11 new confirmed COVID-19 cases and no additional deaths. Tribal health officials also say there were 19 new coronavirus cases and one death Sunday, but the numbers weren't immediately reported due to the Mother's Day holiday. The latest combined figures pushed the total number of cases since the pandemic began more than a year ago to 30,620 on the vast reservation that covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. The known death toll now is at 1,285. Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez says more than half of the reservation's adult population has been vaccinated, but people still need to stay home as much as possible, wear masks and avoid large gatherings.

PEDESTRIAN KILLED
Man fleeing Albuquerque police fatally hit by car on I-40
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Albuquerque police say a man trying to flee from officers was killed after being hit by a car on a highway. Police spokesman Gilbert Gallegos said the encounter began around 10:45 p.m. Sunday when officers working outside a hotel were informed someone was hurling rocks at cars in the parking lot. Responding officers located a suspect and tried to detain him. Gallegos says the man left on foot and circumvented several fences before reaching I-40. According to investigators, he tried to cross the freeway but ended up getting struck. Gallegos says paramedics tried to treat him but his injuries were too great. The man's identity has not been released. 

BABY DEATH-ARRESTS
Mother, boyfriend facing charges in death of New Mexico baby
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Authorities say a Mesquite man has been arrested in connection with the death girlfriend's 5-month-old daughter last month. Doña Ana County Sheriff's officials say 23-year-old Israel Ramirez is facing one count of intentional child abuse resulting in the death of a child under 12 and one count of intentional child abuse resulting in great bodily harm of a child under 12. Both charges are first-degree felonies. The Albuquerque Journal reports that child's mother _ 23-year-old Danielle Lujan _ is facing charges with child abuse resulting in great bodily harm, also a first-degree felony. Ramirez and Lujan were arrested Thursday and being held without bond at the county jail.

BABY DEATH-ARRESTS
Mother, boyfriend facing charges in death of New Mexico baby
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Authorities say a Mesquite man has been arrested in connection with the death girlfriend's 5-month-old daughter last month. Doña Ana County Sheriff's officials say 23-year-old Israel Ramirez is facing one count of intentional child abuse resulting in the death of a child under 12 and one count of intentional child abuse resulting in great bodily harm of a child under 12. Both charges are first-degree felonies. The Albuquerque Journal reports that child's mother _ 23-year-old Danielle Lujan _ is facing charges with child abuse resulting in great bodily harm, also a first-degree felony. Ramirez and Lujan were arrested Thursday and being held without bond at the county jail.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation reports 12 new COVID-19 cases and 1 more death
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation has reported 12 new COVID-19 cases and one additional death. Tribal health officials say the latest numbers released Saturday night push the total number of cases since the pandemic began more than a year ago to 30,590 on the vast reservation that covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. The known death toll now is at 1,284. Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez says more than half of the reservation's adult population has been vaccinated, but people still need to stay home as much as possible, wear masks and avoid large gatherings. 

MARIJUANA-NEW MEXICO
New Mexico releases list of applicants for marijuana panel
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico officials have released the names of dozens of people who are vying to be appointed to the state's new Cannabis Regulatory Advisory Committee. The list of 161 people was posted online Friday. State officials said they're committed to ensuring a transparent process as the state prepares for recreational marijuana sales. Under state law, the advisory committee needs to be established no later than Sept. 1. The panel will be charged with advising the Cannabis Control Division on the development of rules covering best practices and the promotion of economic and cultural diversity when it comes to licensing and employment opportunities.

PRETRIAL DETENTION-NEW MEXICO
High court upholds no-bail release in serial burglary case
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The state Supreme Court has upheld a lower court decision allowing the no-bail release of an 18-year-old with no prior criminal history who is accused of a string of residential burglaries in Albuquerque. The Friday ruling rebuffs public prosecutors who say risks to the community can't be mitigated by electronic tracking devices and supervision. Justice Michael Vigil announced the court's decision following oral arguments and brief private deliberations. Prosecutors say community safety should be a higher priority in New Mexico's no-cash bail system. The case against releasing Jesse Mascareno-Haidle is the latest challenge by law enforcement to that system. He has pleaded not guilty.

NEW MEXICO UTILITY MERGER
New Mexico regulatory staff seeks hearing on utility merger
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The staff of New Mexico's Public Regulation Commission is calling for a hearing on a proposed merger between the state's largest electric utility and a U.S. subsidiary of global energy giant Iberdrola. The staff reiterated their concerns in a filing Friday, saying the hearing should be scheduled for June 1 so regulators can hash out whether the deal is in the public's interest. The filing notes that significant opposition still exists. Some critics have said a proposed agreement between PNM Resources and Connecticut-based Avangrid doesn't go far enough when it come to customer benefits or funds to support economic development in the state.

CHILD WELFARE-TRANSPARENCY
State agency drops use of messaging app that raised concerns
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) —  The New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department has stopped using a secure messaging app. That's in response to concerns that material might not be preserved for investigations and for disclosure under the state's public records law. The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that Cabinet Secretary Brian Blalock said Thursday the department stopped using the Signal app in late April. Blacklock said CYFD started using Signal early in the pandemic after officials realized they lacked a safe and secure platform for working remotely. Blaclock said CYFD has preserved the records as required but dropped use of Signal to avoid weakening the public's trust in the agency. 

NEW MEXICO DRUG BUST
New Mexico bust nets fentanyl, other illicit drugs
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — An Arizona man is facing charges in New Mexico after authorities found a cache of illicit drugs while serving a search warrant. The Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office said Friday that Terry Ingram of Phoenix is accused of violating parole and has been charged with multiple counts of trafficking and possession. Authorities say deputies and members of an FBI task force seized about 18,000 fentanyl pills along with meth, heroin and other substances after getting a tip that Ingram regularly traveled from Arizona to New Mexico with narcotics and would distribute them in the Albuquerque area. Court records indicated an attorney has not yet been appointed for Ingram.

PRESERVATION-FRONTIER TOWN
New Mexico to preserve historic sites from Billy the Kid era
LINCOLN, N.M. (AP) — A major preservation project is underway in southern New Mexico. The state Department of Cultural Affairs says the work is focusing on an area that was once the stomping grounds of Billy the Kid and Sheriff Pat Garrett. The Lincoln Historic Site is home to some of the most significant Territorial Period structures in the state, many of which are under the protection of New Mexico Historic Sites. One of the six buildings included in the project is the Lincoln County Courthouse, best known as the location of Billy the Kid's final escape in April 1881. The total cost for the work is $395,000.

MARIJUANA-NEW MEXICO
New Mexico releases list of applicants for marijuana panel
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico officials have released the names of dozens of people who are vying to be appointed to the state's new Cannabis Regulatory Advisory Committee. The list of 161 people was posted online Friday. State officials said they're committed to ensuring a transparent process as the state prepares for recreational marijuana sales. Under state law, the advisory committee needs to be established no later than Sept. 1. The panel will be charged with advising the Cannabis Control Division on the development of rules covering best practices and the promotion of economic and cultural diversity when it comes to licensing and employment opportunities.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NEW MEXICO
Many Las Cruces municipal employees back to in-person work
LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) — Many municipal employees of New Mexico's second most populous city who have worked remotely during the pandemic are back at their regular work sites. Most city workers were deemed essential and worked on site during the pandemic, but up to 40% of the work force had been working remotely. The Las Cruces Sun-News reports that changed in the past week when employees were ordered to return to in-person work under a phase-in approach that has returning employees working on site at least three days a week. The city cited Dona Ana County's declining daily coronavirus case numbers and increasing vaccinations.

PRETRIAL DETENTION-NEW MEXICO
High court upholds no-bail release in serial burglary case
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The state Supreme Court has upheld a lower court decision allowing the no-bail release of an 18-year-old with no prior criminal history who is accused of a string of residential burglaries in Albuquerque. The Friday ruling rebuffs public prosecutors who say risks to the community can't be mitigated by electronic tracking devices and supervision. Justice Michael Vigil announced the court's decision following oral arguments and brief private deliberations. Prosecutors say community safety should be a higher priority in New Mexico's no-cash bail system. The case against releasing Jesse Mascareno-Haidle is the latest challenge by law enforcement to that system. He has pleaded not guilty.

NEW MEXICO UTILITY MERGER
New Mexico regulatory staff seeks hearing on utility merger
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The staff of New Mexico's Public Regulation Commission is calling for a hearing on a proposed merger between the state's largest electric utility and a U.S. subsidiary of global energy giant Iberdrola. The staff reiterated their concerns in a filing Friday, saying the hearing should be scheduled for June 1 so regulators can hash out whether the deal is in the public's interest. The filing notes that significant opposition still exists. Some critics have said a proposed agreement between PNM Resources and Connecticut-based Avangrid doesn't go far enough when it come to customer benefits or funds to support economic development in the state.

CHILD WELFARE-TRANSPARENCY
State agency drops use of messaging app that raised concerns
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) —  The New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department has stopped using a secure messaging app. That's in response to concerns that material might not be preserved for investigations and for disclosure under the state's public records law. The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that Cabinet Secretary Brian Blalock said Thursday the department stopped using the Signal app in late April. Blacklock said CYFD started using Signal early in the pandemic after officials realized they lacked a safe and secure platform for working remotely. Blaclock said CYFD has preserved the records as required but dropped use of Signal to avoid weakening the public's trust in the agency. 

NEW MEXICO DRUG BUST
New Mexico bust nets fentanyl, other illicit drugs
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — An Arizona man is facing charges in New Mexico after authorities found a cache of illicit drugs while serving a search warrant. The Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office said Friday that Terry Ingram of Phoenix is accused of violating parole and has been charged with multiple counts of trafficking and possession. Authorities say deputies and members of an FBI task force seized about 18,000 fentanyl pills along with meth, heroin and other substances after getting a tip that Ingram regularly traveled from Arizona to New Mexico with narcotics and would distribute them in the Albuquerque area. Court records indicated an attorney has not yet been appointed for Ingram.

PRESERVATION-FRONTIER TOWN
New Mexico to preserve historic sites from Billy the Kid era
LINCOLN, N.M. (AP) — A major preservation project is underway in southern New Mexico. The state Department of Cultural Affairs says the work is focusing on an area that was once the stomping grounds of Billy the Kid and Sheriff Pat Garrett. The Lincoln Historic Site is home to some of the most significant Territorial Period structures in the state, many of which are under the protection of New Mexico Historic Sites. One of the six buildings included in the project is the Lincoln County Courthouse, best known as the location of Billy the Kid's final escape in April 1881. The total cost for the work is $395,000.

XCEL ENERGY-SOLAR OPTION
Xcel Energy offers solar option for New Mexico customers
ROSWELL, N.M. (AP) — Xcel Energy says customers in New Mexico now have the option to purchase electricity from a new solar power plant near Clovis. A typical residential customer would pay about $10.80 a month more to participate in the utility's solar program. The charge includes the cost of the energy delivered from the solar facility, the cost to integrate that energy into the grid and the cost to market and administer the program. Customers also would get a credit for the avoided energy costs from using traditional fossil fuels. Xcel has a goal to serve customers with 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050.

DRY NEW MEXICO
Persistent drought makes New Mexico parks shut boat ramps
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico's reservoirs are shrinking because of a persistent drought, and that has forced the State Parks Division to close boat ramps throughout the state. Officials said Thursday water levels at many state park lakes are extremely low and ramp closures are in place to address public safety concerns and to prevent property damage during the launching and loading of boats. People are still allowed to hand launch paddle craft or small vessels from the shorelines. The latest drought map shows much of the southwestern U.S. mired by the worst categories of drought, including Mew Mexico.

MIDDLE SCHOOL EVACUATED
Albuquerque police: No gun brought onto middle school campus
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Police in Albuquerque say a report that a student was seen entering a middle school with a gun has proved to be inaccurate. The Tony Hillerman Middle School was evacuated classroom by classroom Thursday morning while police canvassed the campus. Police say no weapon was found and it's been determined that a gun was not brought to school. According to police, three students were speaking in a courtyard when one student pointed a cell phone at the others as though he was holding a gun.  A teacher reportedly saw the encounter and believed she saw the student holding a gun. The school went on lockdown and police from several agencies responded.

PRESERVATION-FRONTIER TOWN
New Mexico to preserve historic sites from Billy the Kid era
LINCOLN, N.M. (AP) — A major preservation project is underway in southern New Mexico. The state Department of Cultural Affairs says the work is focusing on an area that was once the stomping grounds of Billy the Kid and Sheriff Pat Garrett. The Lincoln Historic Site is home to some of the most significant Territorial Period structures in the state, many of which are under the protection of New Mexico Historic Sites. One of the six buildings included in the project is the Lincoln County Courthouse, best known as the location of Billy the Kid's final escape in April 1881. The total cost for the work is $395,000.

XCEL ENERGY-SOLAR OPTION
Xcel Energy offers solar option for New Mexico customers
ROSWELL, N.M. (AP) — Xcel Energy says customers in New Mexico now have the option to purchase electricity from a new solar power plant near Clovis. A typical residential customer would pay about $10.80 a month more to participate in the utility's solar program. The charge includes the cost of the energy delivered from the solar facility, the cost to integrate that energy into the grid and the cost to market and administer the program. Customers also would get a credit for the avoided energy costs from using traditional fossil fuels. Xcel has a goal to serve customers with 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation reports no COVID deaths for 4th time in 5 days
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation on Thursday reported 13 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, but no deaths for the fourth time in the last five days. Tribal health officials say the total number of cases since the pandemic began more than a year ago now is 30,565 on the vast reservation that covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. The known death toll remained at 1,282. Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said more than half of the reservation's adult population has been vaccinated, but people still need to stay home as much as possible, wear masks and avoid large gatherings.

OIL AND GAS-OZONE POLLUTION
New Mexico proposes more rules to curb oil and gas emissions
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Oilfield equipment that emits smog-causing pollution would be targeted by New Mexico environmental regulators under a new proposed rule. The state Environment Department released the proposal Thursday, marking the next step in a process that started nearly two years ago to curb emissions across the oil and natural gas sector. State oil and gas regulators adopted separate rules earlier this year to limit venting and flaring as a way to reduce methane pollution. New Mexico Environment Secretary James Kenney touted the rules as the most comprehensive in the U.S. New Mexico is home to part of the Permian Basin — one of the world's most productive oilfields.

FUNGUS-NEW MEXICO BATS
Biologists find disease-causing fungus on New Mexico bats
ROSWELL, N.M. (AP) — Federal land managers say a disease-causing fungus has been found on hibernating bats in two eastern New Mexico caves. The fungus that causes white-nose syndrome also was found on the walls of the caves during routine surveillance conducted last month in De Baca and Lincoln counties. The Bureau of Land Management says a team of biologists observed a white powdery growth consistent with the fungus on numerous bats. Laboratory testing confirmed their suspicions. White-nose syndrome has been confirmed in 36 states, including neighboring Texas and Oklahoma, and several Canadian provinces.

MARIJUANA-NEW MEXICO
New Mexico to end taxes on medical pot, revise grow limits
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico cannabis regulators says they will stop charging taxes on limited amounts of medical marijuana and begin revising tight caps on pot cultivation come June 29. That is the first deadline under a new law that legalizes recreational marijuana possession and, eventually, public sales. Two Cabinet secretaries made the announcement in a letter Wednesday to licensed medical marijuana business that have voiced concerns about a potential run on pot supplies and shortages. Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham enacted legislation last month that outlines the oversight, licensing and taxation of the recreational cannabis sector and sets an April 1, 2022, deadline for the first nonmedical marijuana sales.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA-NEW MEXICO
Judge: New Mexico medical cannabis rules overstep state law
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A judge has ruled that the New Mexico Department of Health overstepped intentions for a medical cannabis program by limiting who can get marijuana in the state. The Santa Fe New Mexican reported that the ruling by Judge Matthew Wilson on Monday came after a complaint was filed by New Mexico Top Organics-Ultra Health. It's the state's largest medical cannabis producer. The state statute allows people with authorization in medical cannabis programs in other states the ability to buy medical marijuana in New Mexico. Ultra Health argued that more than 5,000 people mostly from out of state were wrongly denied access. 

FUNGUS-NEW MEXICO BATS
Biologists find disease-causing fungus on New Mexico bats
ROSWELL, N.M. (AP) — Federal land managers say a disease-causing fungus has been found on hibernating bats in two eastern New Mexico caves. The fungus that causes white-nose syndrome also was found on the walls of the caves during routine surveillance conducted last month in De Baca and Lincoln counties. The Bureau of Land Management says a team of biologists observed a white powdery growth consistent with the fungus on numerous bats. Laboratory testing confirmed their suspicions. White-nose syndrome has been confirmed in 36 states, including neighboring Texas and Oklahoma, and several Canadian provinces.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NEW MEXICO
New Mexico officials says 60% vaccination goal within reach
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Top state health officials say New Mexico is on track to meet its goal of a 60% vaccination rate for people 16 and older by the end of June that would allow the economy to reopen fully. The statements Wednesday come amid new strategies aimed at breaking through hesitancy toward immunization. About 57% of eligible New Mexico residents have received at least a first vaccine shot. The University of New Mexico may require students and staff to be vaccinated for COVID-19 to return to campus in the fall.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation reports no COVID deaths for 3rd time in 4 days
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation on Wednesday reported seven new confirmed COVID-19 cases, but no deaths for the third time in the last four days. Tribal health officials said the total number of cases since the pandemic began more than a year ago now is 30,550 on the vast reservation that covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. The known death toll remained at 1,282. Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said more than half of the reservation's adult population has been vaccinated, but people still need to stay home as much as possible, wear masks and avoid large gatherings. 

INDIGENOUS-MISSING AND MURDERED
Vigils, rallies mark day of awareness for Indigenous victims
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Family members, advocates and government officials gathered across the U.S. on Wednesday to commemorate a day of awareness for the crises of violence against Indigenous women and children. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland attended an event in Washington. Female motorcyclists took to the streets in Phoenix. Family members and other gathered in Helena, Montana. And advocates used social media to raise their voices. As part of the Washington ceremony, a red memorial shawl with the names of missing and slain Indigenous women was draped across a long table to remember the lives behind what Haaland called alarming and unacceptable statistics. More names were added Wednesday.

AP-US-SCI-SPACE-ANNIVERSARY
60 years since 1st American in space: Tourists lining up
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — Sixty years after Alan Shepard became the first American in space, everyday people are on the verge of following in his cosmic footsteps. Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin company used Wednesday's anniversary to kick off an auction for a seat on its first crew spaceflight in July. Elon Musk's SpaceX will use its newly returned capsule to launch a billionaire in September, along with a pair of contest winners and a hospital worker. Shepard rocketed from Cape Canaveral on May 5, 1961. To date, 579 people have flown in space. That number is expected to soar with upcoming tourist flights.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation reports 12 new COVID-19 cases and 1 more death
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation on Tuesday reported 12 new confirmed COVID-19 cases and one additional death. Tribal health officials say the total number of cases since the pandemic began more than a year ago now is 30,543 on the vast reservation that covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah with 1,282 known deaths.  Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said more than half of the reservation's adult population has been vaccinated, but people still need to stay home as much as possible, wear masks and avoid large gatherings. 

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NEW MEXICO
New Mexico urges registration of younger teens for vaccine
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The New Mexico Department of Health is urging parents to register children ages 12-15 for eventual access to coronavirus vaccines when shots are approved for lower age groups. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expected to authorize Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for kids aged 12 and older next week, setting up shots for many before the beginning of the next school year. Health Department spokesman David Morgan says the agency encourages parents to register children right away with the state's vaccination website to help ensure access later. The latest state data shows more than 45% of residents 16 and older are fully vaccinated.

CONGRESS-NEW MEXICO
Candidates clash in New Mexico congressional election debate
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A special congressional election is underway for an Albuquerque-based seat that has been dominated by Democrats since 2009. Early voting by absentee ballot began Tuesday as major party candidates clashed in their first public debate. Six candidates are vying for the 1st Congressional District post to succeed Deb Haaland after her departure from Congress to lead the Interior Department. Democratic state Rep. Melanie Stansbury and Republican state Sen. Mark Moores are at the forefront of the contest that includes a Libertarian contender and an experienced independent. Republican Party leaders believe they have a rare opportunity to flip the district with the possibility of low turnout.

​INDIGENOUS-MISSING AND MURDERED
Families, advocates mark day of awareness for Native victims
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — From the nation's capitol to Indigenous communities across the American Southwest, top government officials, family members and advocates are gathering as part of a call to action to address the ongoing problem of violence against Indigenous women and children. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland is expected to commemorate the day Wednesday as a caravan of female motorcyclists take to the streets in Phoenix, New Mexico's task force presents its latest findings, and advocates use social media to raise awareness. The first Native American to lead a U.S. cabinet agency, Haaland called May 5 an unfortunate tradition and said she feels "we are ready to solve this crisis."

SPACE ANNIVERSARY
60 years since 1st American in space: Tourists lining up
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — Sixty years after Alan Shepard became the first American in space, everyday people are on the verge of following in his cosmic footsteps. Jeff Bezos is using Wednesday's anniversary to open ticket sales for his Blue Origin company. Elon Musk's SpaceX will use its newly returned capsule to launch a billionaire in September, along with a pair of contest winners and a hospital worker. Shepard rocketed from Cape Canaveral on May 5, 1961. To date, 579 people have flown in space. That number is expected to soar with upcoming tourist flights.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation reports 12 new COVID-19 cases and 1 more death
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation on Tuesday reported 12 new confirmed COVID-19 cases and one additional death. Tribal health officials say the total number of cases since the pandemic began more than a year ago now is 30,543 on the vast reservation that covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah with 1,282 known deaths.  Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said more than half of the reservation's adult population has been vaccinated, but people still need to stay home as much as possible, wear masks and avoid large gatherings. 

OIL AND GAS-RECORD REVENUE
New Mexico oil and gas royalties set highest monthly record
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico has set a record for the highest monthly royalty earnings from oil and gas leases. The State Land Office says the nearly $110 million that was earned in April was more than any month in state history. Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard said Tuesday that the revenue boon will benefit public schools, hospitals and other state programs that are funded by drilling, development and other activities on state trust land. The previous record for royalty earnings was nearly $109 million in February 2020. That record was set before a global price war and pandemic market forces disrupted the oil industry.

STATE SENATOR-LAWSUIT NOTICE
New Mexico senator to file lawsuit over ethics complaint
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A senator in New Mexico has filed a tort claim notice against New Mexico Health Secretary Dr. Tracie Collins in response to an ethics complaint that was filed against the senator after he requested public records related to the state's coronavirus pandemic response and federal spending. The Santa Fe New Mexican reported that Democratic state Sen. Jacob Candelaria filed the notice of intent to sue Monday to expose the alleged retaliation he faced after filing public records requests with the governor's office last year. Nora Meyers Sackett, a spokeswoman for Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, says no retaliation occurred.

ALBUQUERQUE POLICE-MONITOR
Monitor's report finds Albuquerque Police Department lacking
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — A federal monitor's latest report says the Albuquerque Police Department is making some progress on use of force but falling short in other ways. KRQE reports that monitor James Ginger's report said that years into reform efforts there are still too many instances of officers using unnecessary force and that the department apparently lacks "an appetite for taking serious approaches to control excessive or unwarranted uses of force. Police Chief Harold Medina said the department does take use of force seriously but faces a backlog of old cases that makes it difficult to review some matters promptly.

LEGISLATURE-NEW MEXICO
Legislators announce return to in-person committee hearings
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico legislators have announced a July return to in-person committee meetings amid evidence of retreating coronavirus infections. Democratic House speaker Brian Egolf made the announcement Monday to a panel of leading legislators. Committee hearings have been conducted largely by videoconference since the spring of 2020. Democrats appointed a new task force on rural economic opportunity and shuffled top committee posts. First term Sen. Siah Correa Hemphill of Silver City and state Rep. Candie Sweetser of Deming will together lead the new task force to identify barriers to rural prosperity and bring forward proposals to ensure universal access to full indoor plumbing, electricity and internet service.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation reports 3 new COVID-19 cases, but no deaths
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation on Monday reported three new confirmed COVID-19 cases and no additional deaths again. The tribe had six new cases and three coronavirus-related deaths on Saturday and six new cases and no deaths Sunday. Tribal health officials say the total number of cases since the pandemic began more than a year ago now is 30,522 on the vast reservation that covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah with 1,281 known deaths.  Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez says more than half of the reservation's adult population has been vaccinated. But people still need to stay home as much as possible, wear masks and avoid large gatherings. 

AP-US-INTEL-NEW-MEXICO-EXPANSION
Intel: $3.5B investment is critical to microchip future
RIO RANCHO, N.M. (AP) — Intel will be investing $3.5 billion in its New Mexico plant to manufacture what executives say will fuel a new era of advanced computing as demands increase for the tiny microchips used in nearly all modern devices. Intel executives were joined Monday by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and other politicians at the plant in the Albuquerque suburb of Rio Rancho as they shared details of Intel's global strategy. Most of the world's chip manufacturing happens in Asia, but the company is looking to reclaim the top spot in the semiconductor sector. Expansions also are underway at the company's sites in Arizona, Oregon, Ireland and Israel.

AP-US-IMMIGRATION-SEPARATED-FAMILIES
US begins reuniting some families separated at Mexico border
SAN DIEGO (AP) — The Biden administration says four families that were separated at the Mexico border during Donald Trump's presidency will be reunited in the United States this week. The families represent what Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas calls "just the beginning" of a broader effort. Two of the four families include mothers who were separated from their children in late 2017, one Honduran and another Mexican. Exactly how many families will reunite in the United States and in what order is linked to negotiations with the American Civil Liberties Union to settle a lawsuit. But Mayorkas says there are more to come. ACLU attorney Lee Gelernt says he's happy for the four families but their reunifications are "just the tip of the iceberg." 

SHIPROCK-BRUSH FIRE
Brush fire chars estimated 120 acres northwest of Shiprock
SHIPROCK, N.M. (AP) — Crews are still battling a brush fire that has charred an estimated 120 acres 5 miles northwest of Shiprock and led to some evacuations. Authorities say the fire broke out Saturday afternoon in Shiprock and its cause is unknown. It remains zero percent contained. At least one structure has been burned and multiple outbuildings are threatened or burning.  Authorities say the fire is burning brush, grass and salt cedar. Among the agencies fighting the fire are Navajo police, San Juan County Fire Rescue,  Navajo Nation Fire Rescue and Farmington Fire Rescue.

FATAL FREEWAY CRASH-WRONG WAY DRIVER
Wrong-way driver is killed in freeway crash in Albuquerque
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Authorities say a driver who was going the wrong way on Interstate 40 is dead after crashing into the back of a semi-truck. Albuquerque police say the crash occurred early Sunday and closed part of the freeway for hours. They say the wrong way driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The name, age and hometown of the driver haven't been released yet. It was the second fatal crash on an interstate in the Albuquerque area involving a wrong-way driver in about 24 hours. Bernalillo County Sheriff's officials say an off-duty officer with the Cuba Police Department allegedly caused a head-on crash around 2 a.m. Saturday that left two people dead and another person hospitalized.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation reports 6 new COVID-19 cases, 3 more deaths
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation has reported six new confirmed COVID-19 cases and three additional deaths. Tribal health officials say that as of Saturday, the total number of cases since the pandemic began more than a year ago now is 30,508 on the vast reservation that covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah with 1,281 known deaths.  Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said more than half of the reservation's adult population has been vaccinated. But people still need to stay home as much as possible, wear masks and avoid large gatherings. Last week, the Navajo Department of Health loosened some virus-driven restrictions and transition to "yellow status."  

BC-US-BOOK-REVIEW-SECOND-PLACE
Review: Latest Rachel Cusk novel honors Mabel Dodge Luhan
Rachel Cusk's latest novel, "Second Place," was inspired by a 1932 memoir by the legendary arts patron Mabel Dodge Luhan about a visit to her Taos, New Mexico home by the British writer D.H. Lawrence. The novel is narrated by a woman writer, who recounts what happened the summer she invited a famous artist to stay in her guest house on the remote coastal marsh where she lives with her family. Things don't go well, and their relationship never quite adds up. But Associated Press reviewer Ann Levin says that in the end, it doesn't matter because Cusk is such a wonderful writer and storyteller.

​DEMING – All students attending Deming Public Schools will be in a remote learning setting this Friday. 
     Reportedly, the one-day switch to remote learning is to accommodate a high number of teachers and substitutes who will be attending Western New Mexico University’s graduation. 
     A media release said the students will complete asynchronous learning in the CANVAS learning system. 
     Also, grab-and-go meals will be available from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Friday at Bataan, Bell, Chaparral, Memorial and Ruben S. Torres elementaries, the central cafeteria, Deming Intermediate School, and Red Mountain Middle School. 
     Questions about the remote learning model should be directed to your child’s school. 
     Again, all Deming Public Schools students will be remote learning this Friday, May 7th, 2021. 
     Students will return to in-person learning Monday, May 10th, 2021.