For the past three years, Manny Gomez has been the acting City Manager of Hobbs following the retirement of J.J. Murphy. On Monday, April 19, the Hobbs City Commission voted unanimously to appoint Gomez as the official City Manager based on his dedicated service and his vision for the community. “It is an honor to…

A former lawman is free pending appeal of a conviction of petty misdemeanor last month. Disgraced cop Christopher McCasland was given six months, the maximum sentence, after being found guilty for possessing of stolen property. “Deputy McCasland has violated the trust placed in him. It is a betrayal of the community and the oath that…

Even though Easter has already been celebrated and Spring is here, it’s not too late in the year for a freeze. Parts of Lea County may be in for one on Wednesday morning. The National Weather Service has issued a “Freeze Watch” for Northern and Central Lea County. The watch is effective Wednesday morning, April…

After two previous continuances, the murder trial of Bishop Henderson, 20, has been set back once again. Henderson is the only person charged in the August 2019 backyard shooting in Hobbs. Three people died and four were injured. Dead at the scene were Khalil Carter, 18, and Kristal Avena, 24, both of Hobbs. Lamar Lee…

Commencement ceremonies are a significant part of the college journey, marking the successful completion of degrees and certificates following earnest hard work and a commitment to academic rigor. At New Mexico Junior College (NMJC), this year’s commencement will follow in the example of last year by being held virtually to assure the safety of students…

A new park will soon serve as a community gathering place and location to honor and remember veterans in Hobbs. The park’s approval was received at the April 5th meeting of the City Commission, reversing an earlier vote in February during which it was rejected. Those voting in favor of the park changed their vote…

Lea County Legends has announced the official beginning of the summer session of the Special Olympics for area athletes with special needs who wish to demonstrate their prowess at competing in a variety of events. The summer games will continue to follow the recommended format of the Special Olympics New Mexico (SONM) organization with all…

Local lawmakers split their votes on adult-use marijuana legalization in the special session among party lines, but the bill passed the state’s Democratic-controlled legislature. Governor Lujan Grisham signed the law on April 12, making New Mexico the third state this year to approved adult use. Arizona approved recreational sales last November. The adult-use law allows…

Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) funding is now available to New Mexico residents who qualify. Federal aid in the amount of $170,000,000 has been granted to the state to provide “…rental and utility assistance to households experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 outbreak.” This assistance can make a big difference for those who have…

On Monday, April 12th, First Term Congresswoman Yvette Herrell (R-N.M.) organized a hands-on New Mexico/Mexico border outing for herself and eight members of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform. Herrell’s congressional district includes all of New Mexico’s approximate 180-mile long border with Mexico. The Congresswoman’s goal in assembling the delegation was to illustrate first-hand…