NMSU students earn scholarships from National Retail Federation
Two students from New Mexico State University, Hai Chau Le and Natalia Ochoa, both undergraduate students in NMSU’s Fashion Merchandising and Design program, have been awarded scholarships by the National Retail Federation. The scholarships include all-expense paid trips to New York City to attend the NRF’s annual conference and participate in its student program.According to Kelley Coffeen, an associate professor in the Fashion Merchandising and Design program at NMSU, "Hai and Natalie applied for these scholarships and competed against college students around the...
Sandia Labs’ 20-year Economic Impact Reaches $140 Billion, Officials Announce
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Sandia National Laboratories has announced a significant milestone in its economic impact over the past two decades. According to two studies commissioned by Sandia and the National Nuclear Security Administration, the lab's work has contributed a staggering $140 billion to the economy since the year 2000.The announcement was made during a news conference where key officials shed light on the findings. Deputy Labs Director and Chief Operating Officer David Gibson, along with Senior Manager of Business Development Mary Monson, among others, discussed...
Initiative in New Mexico Aims to Empower Indigenous Communities through Data Sovereignty
A transformative initiative led by a team at The University of New Mexico is working to ensure that the real stories of Indigenous communities in New Mexico are accurately represented. The Tribal Data Champions (TDC) Fellowship is a yearlong training program designed to empower Indigenous people in New Mexico by enhancing their skills and knowledge in data, evaluation, and research.Rebecca Rae from the UNM College of Population Health emphasized the community-driven approach of the TDC Fellowship, stating, "We're not just teaching methods; we're also fostering a...
Business
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.
Nusenda's statewide toy drive benefits children across New Mexico
Nusenda Credit Union has recently announced its partnership with the UNM Children’s Hospital and Jardin de los Niños for a two-week toy drive. The credit union's members and employees have contributed toys and funds, amassing a collection of over 1,500 toys this year.
NeoVolta expands to New Mexico
NeoVolta, a home solar power storage provider, announced its increased expansion in New Mexico through a six-figure agreement. This deal involves installing NeoVolta NV14 batteries in newly constructed homes throughout the state. The company's foray into New Mexico forms part of its broader expansion strategy across the United States.
Education
Two students from New Mexico State University, Hai Chau Le and Natalia Ochoa, both undergraduate students in NMSU’s Fashion Merchandising and Design program, have been awarded scholarships by the National Retail Federation. The scholarships include all-expense paid trips to New York City to attend the NRF’s annual conference and participate in its student program.According to Kelley Coffeen, an associate professor in the Fashion Merchandising and Design program at NMSU, "Hai and Natalie applied for these scholarships and competed against college students around the...
Initiative in New Mexico Aims to Empower Indigenous Communities through Data Sovereignty
A transformative initiative led by a team at The University of New Mexico is working to ensure that the real stories of Indigenous communities in New Mexico are accurately represented. The Tribal Data Champions (TDC) Fellowship is a yearlong training program designed to empower Indigenous people in New Mexico by enhancing their skills and knowledge in data, evaluation, and research.Rebecca Rae from the UNM College of Population Health emphasized the community-driven approach of the TDC Fellowship, stating, "We're not just teaching methods; we're also fostering a...
Sleeping supermassive black holes awakened briefly by shredded stars
A team of researchers, led by Caltech, has made significant discoveries about an obscure class of galaxies known as Compact Symmetric Objects (CSOs). These active galaxies host supermassive black holes at their cores, from which two jets travel at high speeds in opposite directions. Contrary to previous beliefs that CSOs are young galaxies whose jets evolve over millions of years, the team's findings suggest that CSOs lead relatively short lives.Greg Taylor, a Distinguished Professor of Physics and Astronomy at The University of New Mexico, highlighted the unusual...
Government
Santa Fe County Assessor Extends Notice of Valuation Deadline and Enhances Services for Residents
Santa Fe, NM- The Office of the Santa Fe County Assessor has extended the official mail-out of Notice of Valuation (NOV) for all County residents to May 1, 2024. This extension was granted by the Property Tax Division (PTD) in response to significant improvements and changes made to the NOV process, aligning it with statewide standards and enhancing service to constituents.The Assessor's office has also implemented several key initiatives to improve services, including the valuation of short-term rentals, in-office workflows, and enhancements to its website for better...
EL Rancho Senior Center to Temporarily Close for Facility Upgrades
Santa Fe, NM- Effective April 1, 2024, the Santa Fe County Senior Services Division will temporarily close the El Rancho Senior Center to commence Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) facility upgrades. These renovations are aimed at enhancing the center's facilities to better serve the needs of our senior citizens."The indoor upgrades will be completed over a short duration of 7 weeks, after which seniors can return to the facility while outdoor improvements are finalized."To ensure the safety of our seniors and minimize disruptions to services, grab and go meals for...
Small Businesses Can Apply for Storefront Repair Grants Through New Program
The Small Business Storefront Repair Program has recently been launched, offering small businesses the opportunity to apply for up to $2,500 in grant funding to assist with repairing storefront property damages. The funds are specifically designated for damages that occurred on or after January 1, 2021, providing support for businesses to address both current and past damages out of pocket. Applications are now open for businesses that have been operational since May 11, 2023.ABC Printing on Main Street is among the businesses that have already benefited from this...
Doña Ana County Administrative Offices to Close on March 29 for Spring Holiday
Doña Ana County has announced that its administrative offices will be closed on Friday, March 29, for the Spring Holiday. The closure is to thank employees for their dedication and service to the residents of the county throughout the year.In a statement, the county stated, "County administrative offices will be closed for Spring Holiday, Friday Mar. 29 to thank employees for their service and commitment to the residents of Doña Ana County, year-round."While the administrative offices will be closed, first responders for emergencies, such as fire and law enforcement, as...
Lifestyle
Students from Albuquerque’s Native American Community Academy recently had the opportunity to immerse themselves in history at the Coronado Historic Site and Kuaua Pueblo. According to a statement from the Department of Cultural Affairs, the students engaged in learning "about the old ways of corn grinding on a metate, irrigation of crops, and water management" during their visit.The educational experience allowed the students to gain insights into traditional practices and historical methods of living off the land. By interacting with the Department of Cultural Affairs...
SANTA FE – Many people have heard of diabetes but may not know their own risk of developing the disease. The New Mexico Department of Health’s (NMDOH) Diabetes Prevention and Control Program estimates here, in a state of just over two million people, around 255,000 New Mexican adults had diabetes and over 587,000 New Mexican adults had prediabetes in the years 2020 through 2022. Small lifestyle changes can help people delay or avoid diabetes or prediabetes and it begins with knowing your risks. NMDOH joins the American Diabetes Association in recognizing Tuesday, March 26...
Albuquerque, NM – New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science (NMMNHS) Bioscience Curator Dr. Jason Malaney, a key contributor to the research, revealed the startling findings of high levels of chemical contamination in wildlife near Holloman Air Force Base in Southern New Mexico. The study, published in Environmental Research, uncovered dangerously high concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as 'forever chemicals,' including perfluorooctanosulfonic acid and perfluorooctoanoic acid.Dr. Anthony Fiorillo, NMMNHS Executive Director,...
Events
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.
New Mexico Business Coalition to host heroes banquet: ‘This is a great opportunity for New Mexicans to learn about our local heroes’
The New Mexico Business Coalition and Rebound New Mexico will host a heroes banquet at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Albuquerque on Nov. 2. Carla Sonntag, president of the New Mexico Business Coalition, believes that this event will allow her fellow New Mexicans to honor heroes such as veterans and first responders.
Politics
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.
Controversy surrounds ABQ Mayor Tim Keller's alleged political assistance in District 6 race; Candidate Nichole Rogers under scrutiny
In the run-up to the Dec. 12 runoff election for District 6, Mayor Tim Keller is facing allegations of backing specific candidates through his political apparatus and influencing city employees to support his chosen contenders.
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.