Front Page News

Courtesy photo of one of the bees

The woman in Hurley attacked by bees, Maureen "Moti" Costello, wanted to expand a bit on the bee attack the other day to warn people about the location, so others aren't harmed.

She also expressed her appreciation for the police officer who aided her and the police chief who sweetly brought her another dog after her dog Snoop died from the bee attack. She also thanked the neighbors who found her dog Snoop "although he was 'completely covered' in the bees. Which is why he died."

By Roger Lanse

On Friday, July 5, 2024, at about 7 p.m., A Hurley Police Department officer responded to an unwanted subject call at 13 Cortez Avenue in Hurley. The responding officer was advised that a woman was reported in the back yard of the residence swimming in caller's kids' pool at the corner of Diaz Street and Chino Blvd. However, according to HPD Chief Chris McGuinness, the officer reported he couldn't get to the woman because of a swarm of bees which were attacking the female and the officer.

According to Chief McGuinness, the female was walking on the sidewalk when the bees attacked and forced her to find refuge in the "kiddie's pool, no more than two inches deep."

By Lynn Janes

The town of Bayard held a regular meeting June 24, 2024. Attendance included Mayor John L. Ojinaga, Pro Tem Eloy Medina, councilors, Eloy Gonzales, Frances Gonzales and Gilbert Ortiz. Martha Salas, city clerk/treasurer also attended.

The council approved the consent agenda. It included attendance to the municipal officials leadership institute, police report May 2024, first line supervisors course for Trevor Jensen, wastewater treatment report May 2024, accounts payable June 24, 2024, and minutes for meeting June 10, 2024.

Old business

Photos and collage by Mary Alice Murphy

QUEMADO, NM, ?July 9, 2024 – The Lolo Fire transitioned to a type 3 incident management team on Monday and is estimated at 378 acres in the Quemado Ranger District. The fire is located between Escondido Mountain and the Continental Divide Trail, roughly 6 miles northeast of Quemado Lake.

"Currently, there are no area closures in place for the fire," said Quemado District Ranger Randall Chavez. "But for the safety of the public and crews, we would appreciate it if they would avoid the immediate area for firefighting efforts."

?MIMBRES, NM, July 9, 2024 – The Ridge Fire is approximately 1,100 acres burning in the Gila National Forest, Wilderness Ranger District. One to two-foot flames lengths were observed yesterday as the fire burns in an old fire scar, moving through grass, needle cast, and dead and downed logs. Crews began assessing private residences as they plan for potential structure protection yesterday. Gusty winds and lightning in today's weather forecast may hinder crews who have been conducting prep work on trails and roads that will be used as holding features in future operations.

"Currently, there are no area closures, but we anticipate some areas being impacted when the Complex Incident Management Team assumes command in the coming days," said Silver City District Ranger Elizabeth Toney. "As always, firefighter and public safety is our top priority, and we advise the public to avoid the fire area both on the ground and in the air."

Two photo shows and a video by Mary Alice Murphy

Many vendors, information booths and food sellers, such as the Silver City Kiwanis offering breakfast and lunch set up in Gough Park. Performers entertained the crowds of residents strolling through park ?checking everything out after the parade. ?

The the next stop for many, including this photographer, was the annual Fourth of July Ice Cream Social at the Silver City Museum in the courtyard. Games for kids, information on the museum, and of course, food, including ice cream and the ever popular cake walk provided activities. Some sat in benches and on the ground enjoying the music around them. One of the groups entertaining was a female barbershop quartet in the parking lot where art and crafts were set up for attendees. ?

By Roger Lanse

According to Silver City Fire Marshal Eloy Vasquez, the fire was located at 471 Lance Drive and was caused by a BBQ grill. However, the sequence of events leading up to the blaze, and the complete loss of the residence, is still under investigation.

Firefighters from the Silver City Fire Department, and the Tyrone, Whiskey Creek, and Fort Bayard volunteer fire departments assisted in fire suppression. Several engines, water tenders, and brush trucks from the various departments were on scene. Gila Regional Medical Center - EMS personnel treated some firefighters for fatigue and dehydration, according to Vasquez. Silver City Police Department officers and Grant County Sheriff's Office deputies provided traffic control.