New Mexico Sun


Proposed charter amendments spark controversy in city government

A faction of City Councilors is proposing a series of charter amendments, purportedly to streamline city government procedures for hiring and elections. However, critics argue that these amendments undermine transparency and efficiency. In the face of pressing issues such as crime and homelessness, some have expressed disappointment that certain councilors are focusing on political maneuvering rather than providing tangible solutions.


County in New Mexico Seeks Applicants for CRRUA Board

Doña Ana County seeks applicants to serve on the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority Board which oversees CRRUA. The Doña Ana County Board of Commissioners, BOCC will accept applications through June 5.


NMSU Agricultural Field Days Commence at Leyendecker Research Center on May 22

New Mexico State University’s Agricultural Experiment Station is set to launch its annual field day season at the Leyendecker Plant Science Research Center on May 22. The event will offer attendees the opportunity to delve into various research areas, including long-term soil health, guayule crops, chile breeding for mechanization, and agrivoltaics to safeguard chile crops from curly top.John Idowu, NMSU Extension agronomy specialist, highlighted that scientists at the center will be on hand to address inquiries related to ongoing research. He mentioned, "Information and...


County in New Mexico Seeks Applicants for Animal Services Center Board

Doña Ana County seeks two applicants to serve on the Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley Board and will accept applications through June 5. The Animal Services Center is governed by the ASCMV Board of Directors which will consist of eight members, four appointed by the County and four appointed by the City of Las Cruces. Four appointees will be elected officials, two from each entity. The other two board members will be members of the public who reside in Doña Ana County. The ASCMV Board meets at 9 a.m. on a Thursday, quarterly at the City of Las Cruces City Hall,...


UNM Spring Commencement to Feature U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland

The University of New Mexico is gearing up for its Spring Commencement ceremony scheduled for May 11, 2024. This year's commencement will see nearly 3,000 students graduating from various degree programs across different campuses. The event will take place at University Arena, The Pit, starting at 9 a.m.In a statement, it was emphasized that "Commencement is a time for celebration, recognition and reflection. It’s a tradition that marks the intersection of the past and the future." The ceremony will honor students receiving doctoral, master’s, bachelor’s, and associate...


Monica Etsitty-Dorame: A Tale of Tenacity and Achievement

Monica Etsitty-Dorame, an inspiring graduate, has defied odds and embraced challenges to achieve her dreams. With roots in Diné culture, Etsitty-Dorame embodies the saying, ‘T'áá hó'ájitéégóó, t'éiyá,’ emphasizing self-determination and hard work as key drivers of success.Having worked at Zimmerman Library for 35 years, Etsitty-Dorame's journey to earning a Doctorate in Philosophy in Organization, Information, and Learning Sciences (OILS) is a testament to her perseverance and dedication. Reflecting on her accomplishments, she acknowledges the importance of persistence,...


UNM Health Celebrates Health Care Workers Week

In a show of gratitude and appreciation, The University of New Mexico Health System is commemorating Health Care Workers Week from May 6 -12, 2024. The week is dedicated to honoring the tireless efforts and invaluable contributions of the healthcare professionals within the UNM Health System.Expressing his admiration for the diverse team at UNM Health, Doug Ziedonis, MD, MPH, EVP of UNM Health Sciences and CEO of UNM Health System, stated, “I am so humbled and honored to work with such a diverse group of learners, educators, providers, collaborators, researchers,...


UNM College of Nursing: Celebrating our Nurses

The University of New Mexico College of Nursing, in celebration of National Nurses Week, highlights the dedication and passion of nurses in various facets of the profession. Dean Carolyn Montoya emphasized the importance of recognizing nurses year-round, stating, “Nurses are foundational to health care in both New Mexico and beyond. It is vital that we support those dedicated to this field, whether they be active professionals, students, educators, retired, or a combination thereof.”Sharia Betsoi, a student in the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at UNM...


Notice of Possible Quorum 05-09-2024 Citizen Police Academy

The Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board has announced a possible quorum for the Citizen Police Academy event on May 9, 2024. The event will take place at the Albuquerque Police Academy, located at 5412 2nd Street NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87107. The board members will attend the training session, which will start at 6:00 p.m. No official board business will be conducted during this event.


Santa Fe County Encourages Residents to Apply for Backyard Composting Program

Santa Fe, NM- The Santa Fe County Sustainability Division is excited to announce an opportunity for residents to participate in the annual backyard composting program. This program is an ongoing commitment to support County residents in implementing sustainable practices in their homes and strive to become zero waste."In 2018, over one third of municipal solid waste in the United States consisted of food and yard trimmings," stated the Santa Fe County Sustainability Division. The goal of the Santa Fe County backyard composting program is to divert organic material from...


New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department Warns Taxpayers of Fraudulent Letters Threatening Property Seizure

The New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department is warning taxpayers about fraudulent demand letters going out to property owners who are delinquent on their taxes. The department emphasized that "The letters are not from the state Taxation and Revenue Department."The department also advised that "Anyone with an outstanding property tax debt should work directly with the treasurer’s office in the county where their property is located or with Taxation and Revenue at 505-827-0883 if the debt is three or more years past due and has been turned over to the state for...


2024 Inspiring Graduate | Ashlyn Black, Doctor of Medicine

In a crowded room at The University of New Mexico, medical students and their families gathered for Match Day, a significant event for Doctor of Medicine (MD) students. Among them, Ashlyn Black, a Native American student, faced this momentous day not just for herself but also for her community.Speaking proudly in Navajo, Black shared her heritage, "Shi ei Ashlynn Black yinishye. Kinlichii’nii nishli. Kinyaa’aanii bashishchiin. Tachii’nii dashicheii. Kinlichii’nii dashinali." She explained her clans, highlighting her roots and identity within the Navajo Nation.Black's...


Honoring Legacy: Ruth Adams Health & Social Service Center Renamed

City leaders in Albuquerque gathered yesterday evening to rename the East Central Health & Social Service Center after late City Councilor Ruth Adams. The initiative, called “Stories of Us,” aims to honor impactful leaders in the community. Mayor Tim Keller expressed, “Ruth Adams made a lasting impact on our community.”


Albuquerque Police Department Graduates 24 New Police Service Aides, Bringing Total to 82

Albuquerque Police Department now has 82 Police Service Aides following the graduation of 24 individuals. Chief Harold Medina expressed the department's satisfaction with the growth, stating, "We nearly tripled the number of PSA’s, which makes a huge difference in what we can accomplish as a department." The expansion of the PSA program has allowed for greater effectiveness and efficiency within the department.Police Service Aides are crucial members of the police force, involved in various tasks such as assisting with traffic crashes, traffic control, report writing, and...


Learn like a Jedi: NMSU Global Campus features VR courses this Star Wars Day

New Mexico State University Global Campus is embracing the essence of Star Wars Day by offering exciting virtual reality (VR) courses designed to expand learners' horizons. The courses aim to provide interactive and engaging experiences, guiding participants in mastering the latest VR technologies. According to Andrew Sedillo, the director of Microcredentials Instructional Design at NMSU Global Campus, "By tapping into Star Wars Day, we can align our VR microlearning courses with the spirit of innovation and futuristic exploration that both our programs and this day...


NMSU Regent Meeting Update: Regular Meeting Canceled, Special Meeting Scheduled

The New Mexico State University Board of Regents has announced changes to their upcoming meeting schedule. In a recent statement, the board revealed that the regular meeting, initially planned for Thursday, May 9, has been canceled. Instead, a special meeting has been arranged for the same day.According to the board, "The regents will instead hold a special meeting at 10 a.m. May 9 via Zoom." The decision to switch to a special meeting format indicates a shift in the board's agenda and priorities for the scheduled date.In compliance with regulations, the online meeting...


Enjoy Mother's Day in Old Town with Free Entertainment and Dancing at the Gazebo

Old Town in Albuquerque is gearing up for a special celebration this Mother's Day, May 12. The day promises free entertainment from talented performers, delicious food options, and fun activities for all to enjoy.The centerpiece of the event will be the Gazebo, where various local artists will showcase their talents. As mentioned by the organizers, Nathaniel Krantz will kick off the entertainment at 1 p.m., followed by Baila! Baila! at 2:45 p.m., and Picoso at 3:30 p.m.Visitors can also indulge in a variety of culinary delights, with restaurants serving their signature...


KRWG wins New Mexico Press Women awards, advances to national contest

KRWG Public Media staff has been recognized for their exceptional work at the 2024 New Mexico Press Women (NMPW) Conference, with nearly two dozen awards received. The team's achievements have earned them a spot in the national contest, with eight first-place winners set to compete at the national level.Adrian Velarde, KRWG general manager, expressed his pride in the team's accomplishments, stating, "These awards are a testament to our content team's dedication, talent, and commitment to producing high-quality, impactful content for the entire region."Among the...


National Bike Month Celebrates the Benefits of Bicycling

May is National Bike Month, an annual celebration promoted by the League of American Bicyclists since 1956. The event is observed in communities across the United States, aiming to showcase the numerous advantages of biking and encourage more people to take up cycling.According to the League of American Bicyclists, "Whether you’re riding for fun, fitness, or with family, or taking essential trips to work or shop, you are part of our movement for safer streets, connected communities, a healthier planet, and happier people."As part of the celebrations, various events are...


APD Releases Details of Officer-Involved Shooting on West Side

ALBUQUERQUE - The Albuquerque Police Department has provided information regarding an officer-involved shooting that occurred on the West Side. The incident involving suspect Alijah Archuleta unfolded following a series of events that led to a confrontation on March 30, 2024.According to reports, Archuleta was involved in a domestic dispute on March 29, where he exhibited threatening behavior towards his girlfriend and child. Subsequently, a warrant was issued for his arrest the following day, encompassing multiple charges related to the previous incident.On March 30,...